November Issue

THE BELL November 2023

Volume 100 Cover By Madison Remley

About the Cover COVER BY MADISON REMLEY Junior Raelin Reeves, the new mascot, danced with the Sapphires at the Homecoming football game on Oct. 13. “Jack” is the newest addition to the Sapphires and will be working along side the team for the rest of the season. “It’s been really fun, and a new experience working with a mascot. I hope they can see that collegiate and professional look from us,” senior and Sapphire Riley Willis said.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR N

ovember is a time to be thankful for all we have. As Editor-In-Cheif, I am thankful for a wonderful staff who have been working hard on this paper.

In celebration of Homecoming, leadership put on an assembly (more infomation can be found at www.lhsnews.net). The new mascot was introduced at the assembly (see pg. 7). There are also changes in the school, with the cancellation of Connect 30 (see pg. 11 ).

This month is National Homeless Youth Awareness and the counselors are getting involved (see pg. 23). We look at the similarities and differences with varsity and JV teams (see pg. 9).

There are events to look forward to this month with the Addams Family Musical in the works (see pg. 21 ) and the new Taylor Swift Eras movie in theaters (see pg. 19).

Seniors and Juniors participate in Assasin, a game which has been a tradition for years now (see pg. 8). Counselors touch on the use of support dogs and their affect on students (see pg. 13).

Senior Madi Barnes and Sophomore Colin Mckenna excel in cross country and golf as well as with clubs and extracurriculars ( see pg. 15 and 17 ). Member of The Bell staff talk about their opinions facing beauty standards on social media and teacher salaries (see pg. 26).

Our behalf of The Bell Staff, Happy Holidays!

Lucy Boyle

STAFF Editor-In-Chief | Lucy Boyle Managing Editor, Ads Manager, InDepth Editor, Copy Editor | Victorya Wilkinson Online Manager, A&E Editor, Design Editor | Jenna Shores News & Sports Editor | Connor Rizek Spotlight Editor | Brookelyn Jadwin Opinion & Features Editor | Chloe Franklin PhotoJ Managing Editor | Madison Remley Reporters Brodie Jobe Brodey Hutton Addison Fung Kora Smith Avala Freire JaiDynn Sargent

Follow us on our social media platforms

@thelhsbell @thelhsbell www.lhsnews.net

Katelyn Eriksen Madeline Jones Quinn Campbell PhotoJays River Cotton Hannah Thompson

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TOC

4

NOVEMBER 2023

07

New Bird in Blue

08

Aiming for Victory

09

What is the Difference

11

Connecting Outside of 30

13 15

Reported by Jenna Shores

Reported by Kora Smith

Reported by Brookelyn Jadwin

Reported by Addison Fung

Comforting Canine Comrades Reported by Avala Freire

Senior Madi Barnes Reported by JaiDynn Sargent

TOC

WHAT’S ONLINE?

17 19

Sophomore Colin Mckenna Reported by Quinn Campbell

26

Opinion Columns Reported by Lucy Boyle and Victorya Wilkinson

The Movie Industry Reported by Katelyn Eriksen

21

Setting the Stage

23

We Can Help

Reported by Chloe Franklin

Reported by Madeline Jones

LHSNEWS.NET

5

NEWS

Assassins Aiming for Victory Upperclassmen participate in a tradition of elimination.

Designed by Connor Rizek Photos by Madison Remley and Connor McLain Reported by Kora Smith

Photo by Connor McLain

Photo by Madison Remley

Assassins is a game put on each year by upperclassmen starting in September going through November. Players come up with intricate strategies to get their partner out, hoping to win the cash prize at the end of the game. “My person tried getting me out at the gym and my friend let me know before I got there to not show up. It’s kind of challenging trying to work around it,” senior Alex Biscari said.

D

ating back at least five to ten years, upperclassmen had the opportunity to take part in a game known as Assassins.

Starting in September, juniors and seniors who wished to participate were assigned another student as a target, and had to assassinate that person within two weeks of being assigned. If failing to assassinate the target or getting caught, player were eliminated from the game. This game usually ends in November, only when one player is left standing.

Assassins is made possible by using water to eliminate targets. The player must record a video of the attack to send to the students in charge of Assassins which, was handed down to

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seniors Dawson Harmon and Alex Biscari from Anthony Wenson and Devin Wallace, who ran the game last year. These two seniors figure out targets by putting names into a random generator, then each player receives a personalized text message that contains the assigned target. The act of assassinating can not take place during school hours, or while a student is clocked in at work, which adds a challenge to the game.

“It is something that upperclassmen are able to be involved in. I thought it’d be cool to involve myself in it,” junior Ariana Ruiz said.

Reasons such as having different experiences, a interactive challenge and being able to test competitiveness

are all examples of why students decided to participate.

“I try to avoid places where people would think I’d be. It’s kind of like my strategy to change up my schedule which people typically know that I’m at. I also try finding out who they’re friends with, to figure out like, where they’re at,” Whether its trying to assassinate or defend, it is all about strategy.

Students have their tactics to forging their way to a win.

“My strategy was to turn off my location for everyone on snap maps and don’t trust anyone,” Junior Jaeger Hicks said.

However hardships are difficult to avoid, the game can still be very challenging.

“My person tried getting

me out and my friend let me know before I got there, so I feel like it’s challenging trying to work around my own schedule,” Ruiz said.

As the battle of the upper-classmen continues, victories are achieved and eliminations take place, but most importantly new memories are being made.

Assassins 2023 will come to a end this November, with one player left standing. However, this tradition will continue to provide fun experiences and new friendships over the next few years.

NEWS

New Bird In Blue New mascot debuts gameday dance with Sapphires.

Designed by Lucy Boyle Photos by Madison Remley and Jenna Shores Reported by Jenna Shores Photo by Madison Remley

J

ack, the new Blue Jay mascot, made his debut at the Homecoming assembly on Oct. 13 with a skit with the old mascot, signifying the new change.

Jack also performed with the Sapphires and again at the football game. The decision was made in May 2023 junior Raelin Reeve would be the face under the bird, with coach Maggie Willis choosing her for the role.

“I wanted to be the mascot because the girls are so much fun to be around, and I knew that I was going to have a blast,” Reeve said.

The responsibilities include many sports games and assemblies.

Reeve plans to perform with the dance team during their game day routine.

“It’s been really fun and a new experience working with a mascot,” senior Sapphire Captain Riley Willis said. “Raelin does an

Photo by Jenna Shores

“Jack” the new mascot danced along with the Sapphires (teammate Sara Pfannenstiel can be seem in left photo) at the Homecoming football game and was announced at the assembly by junior Jamie Johnson and Addison McLaughlin (right photo). “It was so fun to work with the Sapphires. They are all joys to be around and seeing the way they practice was so cool,” junior Raelin Reeves said.

amazing job of showing up and not only knowing where she stands; but also the dance. This is a lot, especially when you’re in a big suit that you can barely see out of.”

Performing as a mascot is both physically and mentally demanding, according to olympusmascots.com.

You have to maintain constant motion; entertain and interact; be funny and spontaneous; all the while trying to give your character a lovable personality. It’s also fun, rewarding, and if done well, valuable to your team, company, or brand.

“To prepare, I’ve been going to practices once a week, and we run through the dance a few times,” Reeve said. “I’ve watched a lot of college mascot

videos to get inspiration.”

This is the first time LHS has seen a new mascot since being established back in 1890. This is also the first time the mascot has participated in a dance with the sapphires.

“I think people are going to be just a tad confused mainly because they aren’t used to seeing this,” Willis said. “A mascot is definitely more dominant when you look at a college game day, and that’s what we’re trying to mimic and recreate. I hope they can see that collegiate and professional look from us.”

For more information and a better look at the mascot performance go to the Sapphires instagram @ lhssapphires. Go to https:// lhsathletics.lps53.org/ for updates on football games and fall sports.

LHSNEWS.NET

7

SPORTS

Photo by Femi Nilson

Photo by Harrison Graham

What is the Difference?

JV and varsity teams have different experiences.

Designed by Jenna Shores Photos courtesy of Harrison Graham and Femi Nilson Reported by Brookelyn Jadwin

J

V and varsity teams are constantly grouped together, but no one talks about the big differences between the two teams.

Many consider varsity to be a hard atmosphere for a developing athlete, but on the other hand it’s argued that JV isn’t necessarily challenging enough for these young players.

Get Sporty What are the Most Popular High School Sports?

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“A lot of times being on varsity isn’t necessarily just about you and your talent. It also can be who’s ahead of you at certain skills and aspects of the game. It’s very hard work to be on Varsity or JV, and to continuously play there,” Girls Softball Head Coach Scott Howard said.

In terms of skill, the most noticeable aspect between the two teams would be the speed of play. This is mostly due to the fact the majority of varsity players are upperclassmen.

“There are a lot of bigger kids on varsity, it’s a lot more physical and faster paced. When we scrimmage each other you can usually tell the difference. The JV definitely works hard to prove themselves during those times,” senior soccer player Nico Rivera said.

According to Bradfords News Publication, most players go from the freshmen team to junior varsity and then varsity as an upperclassmen. As the more mature you are

1.

the more development a young athlete is able to have. However, every year a small percentage of especially gifted freshmen make varsity from the start. This allows them to compete with athletes who are often several years older.

“Varsity level, has a lot of juniors and seniors on it, so you’re playing against 17 and 18 year olds. Where JV, a lot of times, is the younger age group. So it’s just that level of experience,” Howard said.

JV has been considered to be the developing team, as many young athletes use their opportunity on JV to advance their playing style. This team can often be seen as a less stressful time for developing athletes, taking the pressure off their shoulders and giving them an opportunity to figure out what works for them in their sport.

According to Coach Up Nation, “Since the junior varsity team is typically used as a place

Track and Field 1,093,621 total participants

2.

Football 1,008,417 total participants

SPORTS to develop player’s skills, strategies, and knowledge, it’s the perfect place for somebody to try out new techniques or learn how certain nuances of the game work. The varsity level can be demanding and unfair, particularly to younger athletes. And, if they get much playing time at all, a single mistake or giveaway can lead to a quick substitution and return to the bench. The junior varsity squad will offer more freedom to try a new flick, spin, or swing without any repercussions.”

A recent study from the National Institutes of Health has shown that over 60% of highschool athletes develop stress from the sport they play. Mainly over them stressing over their performance level.

“The more experience you have and the more work you put into it, the better chance you have at advancing in level. You can’t necessarily move up in levels just by doing the bare minimum. Being on JV this year has really helped me develop skills for the long run,” sophomore volleyball player Madeline Philips said.

Experience helps deal with the pressure of the games, consistency, abilities and overall playing style. Skills can be learned with time, and athletes can’t expect to be good at everything they do every time. It takes time to master anything and perform it well.

“I think there’s a little bit of competitiveness there because if you’re on JV you want to move up and if you’re on varsity you want to stay there. There’s some competitiveness between

3.

Photo by Harrison Graham

Volleyball, soccer and softball varsity teams make it to the final stretch as most teams end in November. Teams like softball made third in State last year they have high hopes to make it this coming year. “I think there’s a little bit of competitiveness there because if you’re on JV you wanna move up and if you’re on varsity you wanna stay there,” Head Coach Scott Howard said.

the teams, but I think we do a pretty good job of keeping everybody together and unified as a team,” Dryer said.

While the two teams may not be exactly alike, they’re still united under one school. Athletes on both teams count on each other to push them and make each other better. Each team has their own benefits, as well as their weaknesses, and this brings them together as a whole.

Basketball 939,836 total participants

4.

Soccer 853,182 total participants

5.

Volleyball 516,371 total participants According to Stadium Talk

LHSNEWS.NET

9

FEATURES

COMFORTING CANINE COMRADES Emotional Support Dogs assist students in need.

Designed by Chloe Franklin Photos by Hannah Thompson Reported by Avala Friere

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hey are the Emotional Support Dogs; Bear and Bentley play a crucial role in providing comfort and assistance to students in need of emotional assistance.

These four-legged companions have an ability to create a positive and inclusive environment that benefits the overall well-being of our students by providing a calm and relaxing presence.

Support dogs have a calming effect on students experiencing anxiety or other emotional

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challenges. Both Bear and Bentley are specially trained, they can sense and feel the anxiety of individuals they’re around.

“Bear and Bentley are certified Facility Dogs so they can be in the building all day. Their training took about two to three months,” their handler, Kris Boyle said.

Petting or interacting with an emotional support dog can release endorphins and

natural mood boosters which could help students feel more relaxed and at ease. Additionally, emotional support Dogs can enhance social interactions among students. Dogs are proven to break down barriers and encourage socialization.

Students who may be shy or have difficulty connecting others can find solace in the presence of these dogs.

“Bear has helped some

FEATURES

Emotional Support Dogs, Bear and Bentley, are available for all students struggling with mental health. Both dogs went through training for two to three months to prepare them for their jobs, because of this, they are able to sense when students are anxious or need support. “The students and staff enjoy having support dogs in the building because the dogs bring love and joy to the building.

Spending even a short time with Bear or Bentley can relieve stress, lower heart rate and make you smile,” Handler Kris Boyle said. students improve their attendance. He has also helped get anxious students into the building.

Bear will choose to sit by the most anxious person in a meeting or go to them in their moment of need,” Boyle said.

Moreover, emotional support Dogs can assist students with special needs or learning disabilities. These dogs can be trained to provide specific support, such as guiding visually impaired students or alerting individuals with medical conditions.

According to the American Kennel Club, a dog’s presence can help students feel more independent and

confident as they know they have a reliable companion. In addition to their emotional support role, these dogs can contribute to academic success.

“Bear has helped some students improve their attendance. He has helped get anxious students into the building. Bear will sit by the most anxious person in a meeting or go to them in their moment of need,” Mrs. Boyle said.

The companionship of dogs in educational settings can improve focus and concentration. Students who struggle with attention span or

have difficulty staying engaged in class can benefit from an emotional support dog’s calming and soothing presence. This can lead to increased productivity and academic achievement.

“Spending even a short time with Bear or Bentley can relieve stress, lower heart rate, and make you smile,” Boyle said.

It’s important to note that emotional support dogs in schools benefit students, teachers, and staff. Educators face numerous challenges in their profession, and the presence of These dogs can provide muchneeded stress relief

and emotional support.

Teachers who feel supported and nurtured are better equipped to create a positive and engaging learning environment for their students.

For more information, visit the Liberty High School website: https:// www.lps53.org/lhs or head to X (formally named Twitter) Bear@ LHS (@BearLHS1) / X .

Follow Bear on instagram

LHSNEWS.NET

11

CONNECTING OUTSIDE OF 30

FEATURES

New clubs, up in the air, due to changes with Connect 30.

Designed by Chloe Franklin Photos by River Cotton and Femi Nilson Reported by Addi Fung

Photo by River Cotton

Sophomore Liam Pierson and Junior William Duncan work together as they engineer new designs, in ACE Mentorship, a club which met during Connect 30, before changes were made to the schedule. ACE Mentorship focuses on architecure and structural engineering and has approximately 1,450 members. “I joined ACE and was taken to multiple ACE end-of-year competitions which we call charrettes. During those I watched as older students sat down and just put together an entire stadium. That really inspired me and after every one that I went to,” sophomore Liam Pierson said.

T

he smell of gas burning off the engine as the go kart speeds past the crowd. The taste of delicious foods from all kinds of cultures. Feeling hope for new opportunities to learn about all aspects of building, designing and learning about economics and architecture.

Connect 30 has officially been cut from the schedule on Oct 17 due to lack of participation and now

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find a time to meet before or after school.

Statistically, clubs play a big part in students’ participation in school. Prior to the change, there were around fifty active clubs. Now, theres is at least 10 of those clubs cut. However, there is a reason for these changes.

Administrators came up with a plan to see if just over 1000 students would sign up.

Only 900 students signed up and it didn’t qualify.

The transition to the new schedule was set in place Oct 25.

With the new changes to Connect 30, clubs are up in the air, with several decisions still left to be made about the status of the students’ favorite clubs.

Go Kart Club is new and different from anything else but ther has been no confirmation on if it will take place. Originally, the club was going to get together

FEATURES

Photo by Femi Nilson

and begin raising money for their kart. It would have taken nearly a year to craft the vehicle by only getting the chance to build twice a month.

The club consists of four freshman students who are working towards building their first go kart.

The first meeting was set to take place at the next available connect 30 but is undetermined at this point.

“We just thought it would be a different and entertaining club,” Co-founder freshman Karl Lehnardt said.

According to Omella, “Clubs offer a sense of belonging, stress reduction, self-esteem boost, skill development, social support, opportunities for leadership, and a sense of accomplishment.

For students who are

struggling with mental health challenges, clubs can provide a supportive environment and a healthy outlet for stress.”

Although the Go Kart club may not end up taking place due to the impacts of connect 30, there are other clubs remaining intact. Diversity Council is discussing whether to continue to meet and is sponsored

by Adviser Cali Kliewer.

“Last year Connect 30 was helpful because we were able to have a designated time for clubs during school. The new changes are not going to benefit us,” senior Club President Madison Nguyen said.

The main goal is to educate people on diversity and different phenomenons that happen around diversity Nguyen got involved with the club her junior year and saw the importance of the club.

Last year, there was a cultural enrichment festival at Liberty North and the members would like to see that happen again to promote the club even further. The group is still deciding on whether to meet but Nguyen brought up the idea of collaborating with the Asian American Pacific Islander club.

“Specifically, for underclassmen, I think that it is a disadvantage because they aren’t able to get here on time because of bus transportation and have to rely on someone else to take them. It doesn’t help students. It’s limited to the

people who have available transportation,” Nguyen said.

Last year, there was a cultural enrichment festival at Liberty North and the members would like to see that happen again to promote the club even further. The group is still deciding on whether to meet but Nguyen brought up the idea of collaborating with the Asian American Pacific Islander club.

According to IES NCES, “Indicators of successful participation in school include consistent attendance, academic achievement, and aspirations for continuing education beyond high school.”

ACE mentoring is another club which will proceed with their meetings despite the last minute changes to Connect 30. ACE stands for Architecture, Construction and Engineering.

Sophomore Liam Pierson joined the club as soon as he got to high school.

“At ACE, I enjoy attending mentored meetings where we have an activity and almost a lecture about a specific component of ACE,” Pierson said.

While these clubs may not have final decisions on whether to stay or end, updates can be found on their Instagram or on the club list in the QR code below.

Scan this QR code to find more information about clubs.

LHSNEWS.NET

13

SPOTLIGHT

SENIOR MADDISON BARNES Student juggles a life of sports and school while maintaining positivity.

Designed by Brookelyn Jadwin Photos by Harrison Gram and Madison Remley Reported by JaiDynn Sargent

S

un beaming on the back of the neck, the smell of fresh cut grass in the air fills the nose as the golfer takes aim. The wack of a ball sounds in the air. And as the ball rolls down the green, it lands straight in the cup.

Senior Madison Barnes is everywhere, participating in sports like swimming, track and advanced classes like KLHS and EIP. But most recently, she made the varsity squad for her third and last season on the golf team.

“Madi has been playing golf with us for three years, and she has an unbelievable attitude towards the sport, an amazing work ethic and she brings a positive energy to practice everyday,” Head Golf Coach Jason Carr said.

Even Barnes’ newer teammates see her positivity and friendliness on and off the course welcoming them with open arms making the transition easier and smooth.

“She’s very positive and likes to talk a lot so it’s very easy to be friends with her,” JV Lady Jays Golf player freshman Electra Loney said.

This will be Barnes 4th and final year swimming with the highschool. This year is her last chance to make it to state after narrowly missing the cut last season.

“Madi really developed into a sprinter last year, so I know she will be pushing for varsity this year,” Head Swim Coach Christopher Murphy

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said. “She has always been super-positive and she makes the people around her better.”

Although Barnes has played three sports during her time including Track.

Every day during the second and third hour she goes to DMS and helps the middle schoolers with anything they need with schoolwork as well socially.

“It’s really fun and it brightens up my day and the kids are great. Overall it just makes senior year a little less stressful,” Barnes said Barnes has had success in school with a GPA of 3.9, “Academics are something my family has always pushed. It’s easy to get distracted by sports and use them as an excuse, but I really just want to prove I’m smart.”

With all of her extracurriculars Barnes has a lot of friends but her closest friends are some of her biggest drivers and most inspirational in her life.

“Being able to see my friends every day is just one of the best things, I love people so getting to be around my friend and peers is amazing, if someone is struggling, or something good happens and your peers aren’t there to tell you, you did good it doesn’t feel as good but when your friends and teammates support you it makes everything just better” Barnes said Barnes was interviewed for KLHS and was accepted as a package reporter and coanchor on Mondays. KLHS started with assignments and class work over the summer and requires working games and outside of class work.

SPOTLIGHT

Photo by Harrison Graham

Photo by Harrison Graham

Photo by Madison Remley

Photo by Harrison Graham

Senior Madi Barnes competes in track, swim and varsity golf, while also maintaining a 3.9 GPA. Barnes has been involved with athletics since freshman year. Barnes’ teammates (Jaelyn Harrison, Avery Branson, Mia Olsson and Libby Hearst found on top left photo) and coaches commend her for her positive attitude, work ethic, and the energy she brings to every practice. “If you are struggling, or something good happens and your peers aren't there to tell you you did good it doesn't feel the same, but when your friends and teammates support you it makes everything better,” Barnes said.

“The best part about this class is even when we mess up, it’s easy to laugh and learn from those mistakes,” Barnes said.

“You just gotta be happy, you have to have a good attitude even when you don’t feel it because it brings people together, so I really just try to be happy, I think life is a gift and you can’t waste it my goal is to live a fun happy life,”

Barnes said.

After graduation Barnes hopes to continue her academic journey at Mizzou to study broadcast journalism.

Follow Madi on Instagram @barnes.madi or at https://instagram. com/barnes.

“You just gotta be happy, you have to have a good attitude even when you don’t feel it because it brings people together, so I really just try to be happy, I think life is a gift and you can’t waste it my goal is to live a fun happy life,”Barnes said.

LHSNEWS.NET

15

SPOTLIGHT

SOPHOMORE COLIN MCKENNA Colin McKenna excels on the varsity cross country team this season.

Designed by Brookelyn Jadwin Photos by River Cotton and Harrison Graham Reported by Quinn Campbell

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he air is chill. The runner has labored breathing.

His lungs burning as each foot pounds against the ground. He feels pain everywhere, putting all of his energy into each step as the race drags on and on.

Sophomore Colin McKenna is all too familiar with these feelings. McKenna is only a sophomore, yet is already the fifth fastest on the varsity cross country team.

“When I run, I try to stay relaxed and keep my breathing steady. It starts off tough but becomes easier once you settle in,” McKenna said.

“Sometimes I zone out and just think about random songs or other things like that.” Using these strategies, McKenna is posting times like a 16:13 on the five kilometer run, a 4:50 mile, and 10:15 on the two mile.

McKenna started running in middle school. Inspiration plays a massive role in why he still runs. “I started because both of my brothers ran. I wanted to follow in their footsteps,” Mckenna said.

Head cross country Coach Jordan English sees McKenna as a crucial team member. “Colin has been a

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really good addition to our team for the last couple of years. He was a strong and highly committed runner as a freshman and finished last season with a five kilometer personal record of 17:59.

Through hard work and dedication, he has made the jump to Varsity and is a scorer for us as we are one of the top teams in Missouri. His personal record this season is 16:13 and all of his races have been well under 17:00,” “Colin’s toughness and competitiveness are his greatest strengths as a runner. You can tell in his

workouts and races that he wants to be the best he can be for himself and for his teammates. I think he’s able to dig deeper and hurt for longer than most runners and this shows in his workouts and races,” said English.

McKenna runs with the team six times a week, either before or after school depending on the heat.

There are scheduled meets at courses around the Kansas City metro area every Saturday.

Cross country may seem like an individual sport, yet

“When I run, I try to stay relaxed and keep my breathing steady.

It starts off tough but becomes easier once you settle in. Sometimes I zone out and just think about random songs,” Mckenna said.

Photo by River Cotton

SPOTLIGHT collaboration, chemistry and teamwork all contribute to McKenna’s success.“Colin pushes me to be my best, because he’s the only other sophomore on the team, and he’s one of the best on varsity,” sophomore Henry Langhorst said.

“The team is really good this year, and we all hang out a bunch. Once and a while we have a team party,” McKenna said.

“A team bonding party is just as important as a productive practice. Some of my favorite memories with the guys are the after-meet sleepovers.” McKenna said.

Colin’s hard work on the course and with his teammates also translates to in the classroom. He maintains his grades even with advanced courses.

“A leader is only as good as their team,” Business Leader and Coach Marshall Goldsmith said.

Leadership is something Coach English says Colin excels at and will continue to improve through his high school years.

“I’ve seen Colin grow as a positive force on our team over the last couple of years.

He adds to the culture we strive to achieve and sets the tone for what it looks like to show up every day and work hard,” English said. “The next challenge for him will be to continue growing as a leader and helping develop the next group of athletes.’’

McKenna will continue running through the spring during track season, competing in the 1600 meter, and 3200 meter races.

For more information on the Liberty cross country team, follow the official twitter, or visit the Athletics tab on the LHS website.

Photo by River Cotton

Sophomore Colin McKenna is the fifth best runner on the Blue Jays cross country team this past season. He ran an astounding 4 minute 50 second mile time, being one of two sophomores on the team.“I think it takes a strong mentality. Constantly showing up and putting in work every morning requires a lot of perseverance,” McKenna said.

Photo by Harrison Graham

LHSNEWS.NET

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A&E

shows. The one where she showcased the music video,” Frye said.

According to CBS, the movie also brings creativity as some people are showing up in their outfits from the tour, or just doing comfort. As a freshman, Jazmin Rodriguez plans to go to the movie more Music Icon Influences comfortably than all dressed out. When sophomore Abigail Teens Around The World.

Kuhlman goes to see the movie she plans on wearing something that stands out.

Designed and illistrated by “I have a gold sequence Jenna Shores bomber jacket that I’m gonna wear,” Kuhlman said.

Photos by Lucy Boyle Cups and Popcorn buckets Reported by Katie Ericksen are available to purchase at all theaters, these being represented with the different eras.

According to Psychology wiftes gathered in theaters, Today, Swifties have huge sitting through pre-views for connections with Taylor’s upcoming movies. The lights albums, because new dim and Taylor takes the screen. generations have grown For Swiftes the recently released movie, Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour has consumed their lives.

Across all grades, students were excited for a chance to see Taylor without spending thousands of dollars on concert tickets. Fans got a chance to see the movie at all theaters, including the Liberty B&B. Most of the theaters have been full since she announced the movie would be worldwide on October 13.

According to The Washington Post, Taylor is said to make $4.1 billion just off her tour. This includes merch, tickets, etc.

Lots of creativity has been put into these different eras with students handmade clothes inspired by Taylor. Junior Barron Frye had a handmade Fearless inspired t-shirt, having a white horse on it inspired by the songs.

“I spent four hours on my outfit because I painted the shirt, and went to the first night of the KC

THE MOVIE INDUSTRY S

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up around these albums.

“Fearless” was the first album re-released on April 9th, 2021. Frye said Fearless was his all-time favorite album.

“I watched all the music videos when I was little with my neighbors,” Frye said.

“And I loved The Best Day.” Swift is pushing to rerecord her albums and give them to the public after her first five albums were stolen back in June 2019

by Scooter Braun. “1989 (Taylor’s Version)” will be available Oct. 27, the same date the original album was released nine years ago.”

With the upcoming release of the 1989 Taylor version coming this October, fans are excited to see Taylor claim another one of her next and upcoming albums.

“I really like how she ranges from the hit pop songs to

A&E Taylor Swift, The Eras Tour came out Oct.13. Swift’s movie was created as a way for fans, who were unable to go to the concert, to experience it in a different way. Fans were encouraged to dress up, dance and sing along to the movie. “I really like the cinematography. I feel like the Eras tour was so big, and I’m really interested to see how they translate it into a big screen,” sophomore Abigail Kuhlman said.

love songs. The love songs are sad but they’re still pop. I feel like the album still tells a amazing story,” sophomore, Abigail Kuhlman said.

The Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour movie has benefited the people who attend the tour. As most people weren’t on the Floor because of the price range between $1000-2000.

Going to the movie allowed fans to see the details in Taylor’s outfit, set designs and lights on the stage. ”I really like the cinematography. I feel like the Eras Tour was so big, and I’ve seen so many clips. I’m really interested to see how they translate into a big screen,” Kuhlman said.

According to Forbes, Taylor has changed the touring industry as she performs a total of 131 shows, She has also added 15 more nights to her tour. Taylor fans are excited to see what she will do later in the year, as she has yet to release her last re-records.

As her tour continues, her fans waited for the release of 1989 (Taylor’s Version). Swiftes are excited to see where she goes next, how she surprises people, and how she goes forward. If interested in listening to the setlist scan the QR code. You can buy tickets for select theaters, such as B&B or AMC by going to their website. Tickets at AMC can start at $19.89 to see the movie. For more info about Taylor, visit her Twitter or Instagram.

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A&E

SETTING THE STAGE Set design class prepares for the upcoming musical.

Designed by Jenna Shores Photos by Jenna Shores Reported by Chloe Franklin

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alking past room 813 during eighth hour, one may peer through the doors and see saws cutting wood, completed pieces being carried to stage and directions being given to fellow classmates. Voices debating different ideas on the layouts, paint and design.

The Addams Family set is being created.

Stage design and preparation crew are hard at work creating the dark and innovative set of The Addams Family to bring the director’s, cast and crew vision to life. Led by student directors Madigon Reynolds and Raelin Reeve, they have started building their set designs this month in preparation for the production which will take place Nov. 16, 17 and 18.

“I like that the design is very hands-on. I’m always up building something or designing something so it’s just really fun and interactive,” senior Scenic Head Designer Megan Boteler said.

The set will consist of backdrops and moving pieces which will come on and off the stage throughout the production as the scenes change. As for the house, it is a two- story interior which will always be locked into place on stage.

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“I’m most excited to have live portraits of ancestors from the Addams Family that get stuck in the current time period, so think Harry Potter live portraits, our goal is to have several of that type of portrait within the Addams Family house,” Gehrlein said.

Directors have some original ideas which have never been seen before such as designing a very dark and mechobe set instead of the colorful productions they have put on in the past.

“We got to read through the script and just make our own designs first, and it’s exciting to see your own designs going up on stage. It’s just a really cool experience,” Boteler said.

A work environment, like the one in stage design, must be inclusive for all.

Everyone must make their own decisions and directors, Katherine Gehrlein and Mick Turpin, make sure no student feels unheard or left out.

“I really like the independence that we get in this class because it’s nothing like I’ve ever done before, and it’s my first year in tech theater,” senior stage manager Avelyn Dickerson said.

Dickerson is a stage manager even though it is only her first year. All of the

A&E set design crew are new to production this year but have had the help of directors and senior cast members to guide them along the way.

“Every decision has to go through me for approval and has to fit the overall vision, so my job is to guide my student designers through creating a cohesive design and implementing it safely and effectively,” Gehrlein said.

The Addams Family design’s greatest challenge is to make sure everything is safe and secure. They also ensure it isn’t dangerous for the actors interacting with it on stage.

“I’m am most looking forward to the outcome of the set when it’s all put together and put on stage.

It is all just going to be so beautiful,” Dickerson said.

The Addams Family production will take place Nov. 16, 17 and 18 in the Performing Arts Center and tickets are available for 5-10$ at the LHS fine arts website.

The theater department created the show and set of The Addams Family to be available to see Nov16th-18th.

They put in hours to create a set that they believe to fit the dark and eery theme compared to last year’s set which was under the sea. The student designers work with each other and meteor Katherine Gehrlein to create and connect ideas to get their ideal set. “I like that it’s hands-on. I’m always up building something or designing something so it’s just really fun a interactive,” senior Megan Boteler said.

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GAMES

Thanksgiving WORD SEARCH

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NOVEMBER 2023

INDEPTH

WE CAN HELP Homeless Youth Rates Negatively Impact Local Communities.

Designed by Victorya Wilkinson Photos by Madison Remley and paid for by AP Membership Reported by Madeline Jones

Photo by AP

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INDEPTH

Photo by AP

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n 2023, as homeless youth rates increase, the need for national and local resources to aid in assistance has grown as well. In Missouri, the percentage of homeless youth and unhoused families continues to be a problem with their growing numbers.

According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, “Each year, an estimated 4.2 million youth and young adults experience homelessness in the United States, 700,000 of which are unaccompanied minors—meaning they are not part of a family or accompanied by a parent or guardian.”

Although there are multiple ways a child can become homeless, it’s most often caused by family conflicts, such as abuse or neglect.

Homeless Youth and Mental Illness “Mental illness can be, abuse, their caregiver being homeless, juvenile delinquency, or even substance abuse. Those can all be leading

Photo by Madison Remley

Key Club participates in snack pack the first Monday of each month in the teachers lounge for Liberty Academy High School.

This program is meant to help provide meals for students in need. “This impacts them because not every family is fortunate enough to have food for themselves at home, so we are happy and proud to provide this,” senior Cadence Brier said.

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NOVEMBER 2023

Photo by Madison Remley

factors to homeless youth,” Licensed Clinical Social Worker Joy Jones said.

According to the Nuffield Foundation, over the last 30-40 years, teenagers reporting to be anxious or depressed has nearly doubled.

The development of behavioral problems has been correlated with youth homelessness.

Issues within the family home are connected to a plethora of mental health disorders.

“I see a wide variety of mental health issues, some include major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, autism and ADHD. I’ve seen self - harm behavior, suicidal attempts, eating disorders, bullying, I see this often and one of the major issues I see are related to family dynamics,” Jones said. “The suicide by age, has increased over for the age group of individuals less than 18. Suicide rates have increased from ages 15 or 16 to maybe mid twenties, so it’s one of the main factors. Age is connected to the suicide risks increasing here in the US.” According the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, suicide is the second leading cause of death in children and young adults. Suicidal thoughts can be connected to a stress in their life, self-doubt or financial instability. Since the teenage brain is still in the process of developing, teenagers respond differently to stress and their coping mechanisms can have negative implications on an individual already struggling with anxiety or depression. Conflicts such as an unexpected

INDEPTH pregnancy or a child coming out as gay to their family can all lead to potential runaways.

“LGBTQ+ youth are 40% more likely to be unhoused because they’re asked to leave their houses or kicked out of their houses when they get outed by someone to their family or when they out themselves,“ Social Worker Beth Schroeder said.

Actions According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, “To end their homelessness, youth and young adults need stable housing, supportive connections to caring adults, and access to mainstream services [which] will place them on a path to long-term success.”

The Missouri Balance of State Continuum of Care has continued to gain funds for multiple homeless services throughout 101 counties in the Missouri area. HUD’s Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program (YHDP) has donated 6.8 million dollars to this organization, which will support transitional housing, rapid rehousing, and host homes. These funds are made to directly address the needs of homeless youth.

“I think we need more transitional housing to teach youth how to budget money, how to make sure they get their education, and how to prepare them more for the future,” Schroeder said.

Key Club, an organization dedicated to creating a positive impact through various service projects, created a program called Snack Pack. Snack Pack collects food donations for a group of LPS students, in order for them to be able to eat over the weekend.

“This impacts them because not every family is fortunate enough to have food for themselves at home, so we are happy and proud to provide this,” senior Cadence Briar said. “One of my favorite parts about this is it directly impacts our school and I enjoy the satisfaction after knowing I helped make a difference.”

The Effects of Homelessness on Students Education is one of the challenges homeless youth face. The lack of a stable home, reliable transportation and the ability to complete all homework. The stigma, in which, homeless

Each year, an estimated 4.2 million youth and young adults experience homelessness in the United States, 700,000 of which are unaccompanied minors Accoding to National Conference of State Legislatures Illustrated by Victorya Wilkinson

youth don’t have the ability to complete coursework and graduate in a regular class setting do great things in life because of how and where they were raised.

According to the Unity Parenting and Counseling Inc, these stigmas can arise from a place of misunderstanding and can cause the establishment of stereotypes, prejudices and narrow-minded discrimination. Phrases such as, “homeless people are dirty” or “homeless people deserve to be homeless, these phrases contain a bunch of misunderstandings. The right to shelter is a basic biological necessity, along with the access to food, clothing and water.

“Homeless youth are incredibly passionate.

We tend to think because they’re unhoused, they’re lazy, come to school dirty, they don’t have a pencil in their backpack, they forgot their book again or they’ve left their laptop at home, so we get into this cycle, especially in public education. We believe these youth are less passionate about their education when in all actuality they tend to be the ones more passionate,” Schroeder said.

There are resources who offer help to homeless youth and mental illness in this area, these resources can be found on the sidebar below.

RESOURCES Liberty High School Counselors: taylor.barker@lps53.org brooke.dorr@lps53.org brenda.wiederholt@lps53.org Restart Inc: https://www.findhelp.org

Liberty High School Social Worker: kris.boyle@lps53.org Dipoto Counseling Group Contact: 816-268-8501 & https://www.dipotocounselinggroup.com Hillcrest Hope: www.hillcresthope.org Synergy Services: https://www.synergyservices.org

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OPINION

LOOKING THROUGH THE SCREEN Toxic beauty standards on social media result in low self-esteem among young women.

Designed by Chloe Franklin Photos by Hannah Thompson Reported by Lucy Boyle

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crolling from post to post seeing beautiful, seemingly perfect women with perfect lives document every minute. But yet, every imperfection is noticed looking in the mirror and comparing yourself to those we see online. With the rise of social media and the advanced technology of filters, young women are thrown unrealistic and toxic beauty standards.

I feel it can be hard to compare yourself to the models using filters. You start to carefully choose the best photo to post.

Influencers have a tendency to display themselves to be perfect on social media, setting an unrealistic and unhealthy standard to look the same as the women we see on social media.

According to Dove, “Over half of girls say they can’t live up to the beauty standards projected on social media.”

Social platforms are a prevalent resource used constantly by viewers starting at a young age and with teens.

According to CNN, “80% of all teenagers (ages 13-18) in the group had their own social media account, compared with 23% of all tweens (ages 8-12).”

This constant need to look the way people on social media do makes it easy to compare and have negative self talk towards ourselves. This can result in low self esteem and the constant need to be perfect.

“Everyone looks the same on social media… and it makes it hard to not compare myself to them,” junior Shae Simpson said.

While influencers and celebrities can use their power as a force of bad, some use this power to uplift others. These platforms can be used to help young women love their bodies.

According to Psych Central, “[Social Media] can be a platform for promoting body positivity, where people share images of their bodies as they are, promoting self-love and acceptance.”

Comparing each other on social media can become problematic and toxic to young women. At the end of the day, it may be worth it to unfollow a toxic influencer and follow someone who’s body positive instead.

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NOVEMBER 2023

OPINION

RAISE THEIR WAGE Teachers deserve to be paid more.

Designed by Chloe Franklin Photos by River Cotton Reported by Victorya Wilkinson

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very day the bell rings at 8:10am and then again at 3:15pm. Every day our teachers are here before me and leave after me. Yet these same instructors are earning an average income of $54,537 per year in Missouri.

According to livingwage.edu the considered a bare necessity liveable wage in Missouri is $46,528 with two adults who both work. This is only $8,009 more than what is considered a liveable wage, without the added factors of children, student loan debt, family emergencies and more. Though it is great teachers at Liberty are given free healthcare and get 80% of their pay when they retire this does not give them the necessary funds they need in current time.

“My mother is a kindergarten teacher at Lewis and Clark Elementary which means I get to see the ins and outs of the job,” junior Ellen Sheeley said.

“She and all her co-workers work so hard. Not only do teachers have to teach curriculum but they are also a benefactor in every kid’s life.”

According to The Edvocate, 18% of teachers in the United States had side occupations in 2015–2016 and are 30% more likely to work a second job. Though these statistics are present some still believe the skill level necessary to become a teacher is not high enough to be earning more than they already do.

According to fee.org, “About half of teachers majoring in education among the least-rigorous fields at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.”

The tenth percentile of teachers in Missouri are earning only, $37,349. If change can start with all teachers at minimum making the current average income it could begin improving the schools in areas where teachers are making significantly less. This would affect more than just the lives of the teachers as it would attribute to the well being of the students as well.

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