October 2020 Issue

The

October 2020

Bell

Volume 97, Issue 2

Liberty High School lhsnews.net

Contents

Letter from the Editor

Staff

Editor-in-Chief & Ads Manager

Regan Johnston

Managing Editor & Copy Editor

Emma Stauffer

Online Manager & InDepth Editor

Paige Hodges

Opinion & A&E Editor

Derek Katzer

News, Asst. InDepth & Co-Sports Editor

Caty Franklin

Asst. Copy, Features & Co-Sports Editor

Sarah Blankenship

Spotlight Editor Reporters

Ethan Atkins

Lejla Aganovic Shane Bass DJ Binns Lucas Kilgore

Alex Klein Ari Revella Lucia Umbreit Sadie Watkins

Charlene Nguyen Emma McDonald Hattie Ludwig Katie Glasford Julissa Balderas Jenna Berry Kendin Bittiker Richard Burns Grace Bushroe Chloe Gerardy Jadyn Chapman Nicholas Dillon Kalea Faubion Claire Hamilton

Santana Hiatt Bianca Jackson JP Ngugi Brynna Namanny Tianna Owens Brenna Oxley Collin Parker Dhanita Patel Henley Schmalz Erynn Sly Aidan Thieme Emra Tmusic Aidan Waggoner

Photo Jay

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The Bell

October 2020

There are many activities and opportunities to look forward to in the month of October: the weather is finally getting cooler, Halloween is coming up and another issue of The Bell.

The Bell believes, now more than ever, it is important to support one another in the community because of the recent struggles brought on by COVID-19. The staff plans to show their support by covering all aspects of the school and community in order to keep staff and students informed.

After all, a paper can only thrive because of its community.

After two weeks of training, the staff finally got to the fun part of the Newspaper class: putting together the first official issue of the school year. Every staff member searched the halls of the school and the community to see what was going on for October. Many ideas were found, but unfortunately, the staff could only fit so much into one issue.

While choosing which stories to write, the staff had to consider what ideas would be most important to the community during this month. Updated construction to the school was considered, as well as how students were adjusting to online school. But the staff wanted to choose what would be the most relevant.

With promises to use story ideas in a later issue, the staff set out to write. There were some challenges and a few setbacks, like having trouble finding people because of the new school schedule and teaching the new reporters how to interview and write stories, but the staff was not discouraged. With help from friends and a little creativity, reporters and leadership were able to make a great newspaper for students and staff.

This issue will take readers through the many moods of the school throughout this month, including the celebration of the school’s National Merit Semifinalists (page 6), anticipation of the upcoming Presidential Election (page 8) and the excitement of the Blue Jay’s football team and their 7-0 winning streak (page 22).

Along with the shifting moods, this issue also focused on how the school district is trying to promote diversity (pages 16-19) and the success of local small businesses in the community (pages 24-26).

Thanks to the hard work by staff and administration, students can find ways to thrive. From academic to athletic success, students are reminded it’s a great day to be a Blue Jay.

On the Cover

Hope he’s worked on his cardio. Sophomore Anthony Wenson sprints for the endzone at the Sep. 11 game against Lee’s Summit North as his team cheers him on. Members of the opposing team were hot on his heels. Each member of the Blue Jays football team worked hard to protect their 7-0 winning streak.

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

Contents

Contents

Features

06

Testing the Limits the Blue Jay Way

Reported by Derek Katzer

News

08

Every Vote Counts

Reported by Sarah Blankenship and Sadie Watkins

06 Photo by Charlene Nguyen

Spotlights

15

Photo by Erynn Sly

12

Freshman Bella Barber

13

Sophomore Frank Fuentes

14

Junior Malia Fuller

15

Reported by Lucas Kilgore

Reported by DJ Binns

Reported by Ari Revella

Senior Jalen Weston Reported by Lucia Umbreit

Contents

lhsnews.net

3

Contact Us Design by Aryonna Straws

Want more stories? Check out The Bell’s online newspaper at lhsnews.net or scan the QR code below.

Liberty High School 200 Blue Jay Drive Liberty, MO 64068 Editor-in-Chief Regan Johnston (816)-448-1272

rjoh3357@lps53.org

Adviser Jamie Gumina (816)-736-5353

jamie.gumina@lps53.org

Twitter @TheLHSBell Online lhsnews.net

Questions, Comments or Concerns?

If you have questions, comments, concerns or a topic you want The Bell to respond to, write a letter to the Editor.

Your letter must be a maximum of 250 words and appropriate for an underage audience.

Writing a Letter to the Editor does not mean it is gaurenteed to be published.

Submit your letter to:

Opinion Editor

Derek Katzer dkat7119@lps53.org or

Editor-in-Chief

Regan Johnston rjoh3357@lps53.org

Newsbrief

The football team has a winning streak, an award-winning head coach and fans couldn’t be happier.

Reported by Paige Hodges

The football team has defeated every team that came their way this season.

With a current record of 7-0 it’s hard for people not to take notice.

During the first few weeks of the season, the Chiefs announced the Missouri and Kansas ‘Coach of the Week’ recipients.

The awards went to LHS’s very own head coach Chad Frigon, and Lansing High School’s coach Dylan Brown.

“I was happy to receive the award,” Frigon said. “Mainly because it recognizes the accomplishments of our team getting off to a good start, which was important, especially after coming off of quarantine and other challenges we faced over the spring and summer.”

At the time, Liberty was off to a great start, winning against Blue Springs, rival team Liberty North and Lee’s Summit North. But the Blue Jay team’s momentum didn’t stop there. They continued racking up wins and eventually became the number one team in not only the Missouri area, but also the Kansas City Metro area (Missouri and Kansas combined).

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October 2020

Aside from the honor of having a coach acknowledged by recent Super Bowl Champions, both teams received a $500 player health and safety grant from the Hunt Family Foundation. And both coaches were gifted with footballs autographed by Chief’s head coach Andy Reid, along with a certificate describing their award.

On top of everything mentioned, the coaches are now considered contenders for the Eric Driskell Coach of the Year Award, an annual award granted by the Kansas City Chiefs. The award is a commemoration of three-time Chief’s Kansas Coach of the Year, and former Blue Valley High School coach: Eric Driskell.

With a great start to their season, and an award winning coach to lead, the Blue Jays are on their way to more success.

Contents

Photo by Santana Hiatt

Contents

InDepth

16

Respecting Differences, Promoting Equity

Reported by Caty Franklin

Opinion

20

Stressin’ that Election/ Mask Up

Opinions by Regan Johnston & Emma Stauffer

21

Catch Me at the Polls/ Feline Happy

Opinions by Paige Hodges & Derek Katzer

16

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

Sports

22

Tackling the 2020 Season

Reported by Shane Bass and Alex Klein

A&E

22

24

Back in Business

Reported by Lejla Aganovic and Ethan Atkins

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

Contents

lhsnews.net

5

Features

Testing the Limits the Blue Jay Way

LHS’s four National Merit semifinalists take another step towards their peak.

Reported by Derek Katzer

Design by Sarah Blankenship

lllThe fieldhouse is familiar with many sounds. The roars that come from friends and family cheering on the Bluejays and the cries of passion heard after scoring a point. On Oct. 16th, 2019, it was full of people, but it heard a sound it was not familiar with: no sound. It was silent, with only the faint scratching of pencil on paper.

“Beforehand, I was kind of nervous because you go into the big gym and there’s tons of tables and everyone is sitting there,” senior Logan Parco said. “There’s a bit of apprehension, but once I was in there and taking it, I was pretty relaxed taking the test and getting it done.”

lllParticipating students took the PSAT/ NMSQT (Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test / National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test). Out of the many students taking the test, four turned in a test that qualified them to become National Merit semifinalists. The four students: seniors Katie Baughman, Lily Baughman, Logan Parco and Harrison Wheeler.

These four became National Merit semifinalists by scoring high above a NMSQT score of 214.

“For determining if you are a National Merit semifinalist, they take your PSAT score in the three different categories

Photo by Erynn Sly

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October 2020

Features

they test for and turn it into a NMSQT index,” Wheeler said. “Based on that index score, they determine whether you are a National Merit semifinalist. I knew it was a possibility I could be a semifinalist because we found out our scores during the last school year. The NMSQT cutoff this year was 214, last year was 216, so I knew it was a possibility that I could get in. It was still really awesome to find out. Sept. 9 was the exact date I found out.”

In order to score high enough, students did a little bit of prep work beforehand.

“There’s a little online stuff to prepare for it on CollegeBoard or PrepScholar,” Parco said. “You can pull past questions to prepare for that. I did a bit of that. I didn’t do too much prep for it, when I was taking the test, I felt prepared for it.”

Taking a big test like the PSAT might bring out the nerves in some people, but Wheeler found it to be quite the opposite.

“For me, taking a test is a fairly calm experience,” Wheeler said. “The good thing about the PSAT, it’s not a test that affects your grade. It’s a low-risk test. There are some things that can go well if you do well on the test, like becoming a National Merit semifinalist. But, if you don’t do well, colleges aren’t going to see that, it doesn’t affect your grades. As far as tests go, it’s pretty easy to stay calm and give it your

Photo courtesy of Logan Parco

Features Fun Facts About the PSAT The PSAT is taken during sophomore year There are 16,000 semifinalists in the nation Photo by Charlene Nguyen

best shot.”

Becoming a National Merit semifinalist was important for Parco, for he wanted to live up to his brother’s legacy.

“My older brother was a semifinalist as well,” Parco said. “I was hoping I got it so I didn’t break the chain and have my older brother get it and not me. From past years, you can tell what the cutoffs are and I was above the past years cutoffs, so I was positive I was going to get it, but it still felt good that I was a semifinalist.”

Semifinalists have the opportunity to go through an application process.

“I didn’t think I did well on the test when I took it, so it was cool to find out that I had the opportunity to get scholarships from it,” Katie Baughman said. “We have to write an essay and get a letter of recommendation and then submit that. If you end up getting chosen based on the essay and letter of recommendation, either schools will give you scholarships or the people running the National Merit will give you scholarships.”

After filling out an application, the semifinalists have a chance to receive scholarships from colleges, businesses or the PSAT corporation.

“The National Merit corporation gives out $1,500 for scholarships, but if you put on the application what school you want to go to, sometimes they will give you half-scholarships or full scholarships, which is cool,” Lily Baughman said.

“It’s something to add to a college application or something to add for other scholarships, it just shows that you tried hard on a standardized test.”

The path the four seniors are walking on does not abruptly end at becoming

semifinalists. They continue forward as they work to become finalists.

“For the application to become a finalist, you need a recommender and another recommender,” Parco said. “One person writes a letter of recommendation and another rates how you are academically, how you are outside of school with extracurriculars and stuff like that.”

Semifinalists also have to write an essay on a topic. They have to go through the equivalent of a college application and put in their extracurriculars and awards they have received. Semifinalists also have to put in their personal information, such as what colleges they want to go to, what major they want and what career they want to go into.

“For example, if you want to go into tech, Microsoft could give you a scholarship to go into engineering school,” Parco said.

Counselor Trilaina McCallum helped these four students understand their role as semifinalists and helped them in their application process to become finalists.

“LHS Counselors and administrators encourage all students to challenge themselves, and engage in a rigorous course of study,” McCallum said.

“Challenging coursework definitely helps with being prepared for such tests. The fact that we have four semifinalists this year is a testament to all the dedication this school community has on rigor and deeper level learning. We all play a role in encouraging students to step outside of their comfort zones.”

Low-risk test, doesn’t count as a grade A great opportunity to get scholorships Good way to challenge yourself and help the way you study You can prepare for the test using CollegeBoard or PrepScholar Look on the LHS website for more information

Features

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News

Trump Every Vote Counts

Attended New York Military Academy, Fordham University and the University of Pennsylvania Began in business, real estate and economics "President for all Americans" Ran for president and won in 2016 Accepted the Republican nomination on Aug. 27, 2020

Young votes are vital in this election, and new voters could make a significant impact.

Reported by Sarah Blankenship and Sadie Watkins

Design by Caty Franklin

lllMany students would agree that 2020 is a huge year for politics. With passions running so high, nowadays some members of the US see this election as one that will make or break American legislature.

a lot more than we might think,” Cotton said. “Younger people will be the ones responsible for this election. I truly believe that. Now more than ever it’s time to stand up for something.”

Many younger generation voters don’t understand the impact they can make.

AP Government teacher Ronald Ludwig expressed the importance of student votes.

“If you’re going to be politically engaged, and you care about what happens to this country: You should engage, and try to make decisions that are best for the community,” Ludwig said.

Senior Kyler James from Young Republicans wants to make it known to every student that their voice and opinion matters.

“Politics are in everything we do,” James said. “Even if you can’t legally vote, you should use your voice. Try to motivate those who can vote.”

Senior Olivia Cotton noticed the decline in younger generation voters and how it’s taking a toll on a student’s ability to voice their opinion in government.

“The voting power a student holds is

Member of Young Democrats and senior Cole Bower believed the most impactful part of the election will be what happens after one of the candidates is officially president.

“It’s going to be very dirty, as we saw in the debate on Tuesday night (Sep. 29th),” Bower said. “These candidates were going

Why Student Votes Matter

What to Expect

Want to read more about the upcoming election?

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

Seniors Alexis Fishel, Olivia Sherman, junior Bela Sullivan, sophomore Olivia Mackenzie, seniors Aryana Yazdi, Cole Bower and Ian Wooldridge get together on Wednesday mornings at 11 a.m. for their Young Democrats meetings.

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October 2020

News

Most of the people that I associate with, we usually agree on the bigger stuff, but I’ve never met anyone that’s 100% eye-to-eye with me. I think it’s important to have people that have opposing views around you.

”

- Young Republican and senior Nick Porter Photo by Collin Parker

at each other’s throats and trying to gain an advantage over one another and on the merits of policy. So, I think that is something that is illuming over all of this right now and the aftermath is a grey area.”

Republicans and Democrats aren’t the only ones who can run for office. Member of Young Republicans and senior Nick Porter kept an open mind to the idea of voting third party.

“I think we will see a lot more people voting third party,” Porter said. “The biggest thing people are going to realize is that the two party system is flawed because both parties picked bad candidates. More people will vote third party and I’m considering it.”

Nagivating Information

Cotton believed mixing multiple types of media and hearing one another out is important to making an informed vote.

“The key to thinking rationally is knowing that everything you hear or see is not going to align with your personal viewpoints 100% of the time,” Cotton said.

“Recognize the points of view you see and acknowledge the differences.” lllFeeling overwhelmed when reading

146

the news is a common issue. Junior Isabela Sullivan tuned in to watch the first presidential debate.

“I watched the first debate with some friends and I got overwhelmed,” Sullivan said. “I felt uninspired. You don’t have to think about politics 24/7. It’s alright to take a break. It’s still important to stay informed and up to date, but it doesn’t have to consume your life. That helps me get through things. I try to stay optimistic.”

How to be Politically Active

Many students believed they could still be politically active even if they can’t vote.

“You can get out and help with the campaign and make your voice heard on social media,” Bower said. “I share a lot on my Twitter and my Instagram related to the news of the day and what I think about it.

You may not be eighteen, but you can still donate.”

Porter beleives a way to be politically active is to be educated on the subject.

“Being informed and having discussions with each other is important,” Porter said.

“Because in our age group, people have opinions and are loud and those are the people that get heard.”

News

Biden Attended Archmere Academy, University of Delaware and Syracuse University Served as a U.S. Senator "Tough on crime" Vice President for two terms Accepted the Democratic nomination on Aug. 18, 2020

In a poll conducted by The Bell in September 2020, 228 students responded to the following question

Can you be politically involved even if you are not old enough to vote?

44

Yes, completely

Yes, somewhat

26 Unsure

5 No, not very

7 No, not at all

News

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Fall Parent/Teacher Conferences What? Fall parent/teacher conferences take place around the half-way point of first semester. They are an opportunity for parents to meet with their children’s teachers and dicuss their student’s progress in their classes.

Schedule your meeting today

When? Oct. 20 and Oct.21 Where? Conferences will take place over the video conferencing resource Zoom. Parents will schedule their conferences through My Conference Time, where they will select an eight minute time slot for their meeting.

FIND THE FALL WORDS LEAVES PUMPKIN HALLOWEEN HARVEST CIDER FOOTBALL SCARECROW AUTUMN

StaffEd

Do students at LHS understand the importance of voting?

Reported by Sarah Blankenship

Design by Derek Katzer

Staff Vote Yes: 5 No: 10

“

I was told my opinion doesn’t matter because I can’t vote.

I think if you get yourself involved, and want to be involved, then your opinion does matter.

- staff member of The Bell

”

The majority of the staff agrees that everyone should be politically involved and represented, even if they cannot vote.

Vote

2020 is an important year for voting.

With the Presidential Election coming up in November, now more than ever, it is the time to vote. With this in mind, do students know why they need to vote? Are students educated enough on politics to get themselves involved?

In order to vote, students should be educated about what they want to see change for the better of their community and country. They can get their information from credible, non-biased resources instead of their friends or family.

The Bell staff talked about how students are influenced by their peers and mainly social media. If students want to be properly educated, they should stay away from social media because more than likely, the information is often biased. Focus on the professional online sources like The Washington Post or The New York Times.

While every source of information will contain some sort of bias, professional sources, like these, are credible and will use logic and evidence to support their claims.

It’s important for students to be critical of what they are reading, “fake news” is common and publications will often use catchy headlines to evoke emotion, in order to gain readers and money.

When student’s opinions are influenced by their peers, they get a biased opinion.

Recently, especially with the Presidential Election, people let their passions cloud their judgement and not for the right reasons. If they really dislike a certain candidate, they would purposely vote against them without having factual evidence to disagree. The phrases “vote blue no matter who” and “vote red or we’ll be dead” have become common. The public, including students, are often voting

only because the candidate is affiliated with their party, not because they agree with the candidates viewpoints and opinions.

Students need to develop their own opinion based on statistics and facts, not biased catchy headlines.

Everyone’s vote matters and students might not understand that. Because they are a part of the younger generation, students feel like only the adults’ opinions matter. Students have heard the phrases “you’ll understand when you’re older” and “you’re too young to understand” often from adults when talking about political issues. The staff believes many students share the same opinions and viewpoints of their parents. Perhaps it is because they feel as if they are not smart enough to make a political decision, so students adopt the opinions of their parents. The impact of a student’s vote can be beneficial to their community or their country. There have been more than a dozen races decided by a single vote or ending in a tie over the last 20 years. It’s up to the students to have their voices heard and to stand up for what they believe. The issue is that the younger generations don’t participate in general when it comes to politics. The younger generation tends to not engage in politics because those conversations can be messy. People can be very opinionated and it can be difficult for people to express their opinions if no one thinks they’re right.

Because of this, students find it hard to voice their beliefs since talking politics is a hot topic.

The staff believes students may know that voting is important, but they don’t understand how it can directly affect them and why it’s impactful to them.

Opinion

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Spotlight Freshman

Bella Barber

A look at some of Barbers interests and talents.

Reported by Lucas Kilgore Design by Ethan Atkins

Confidence, commitment and competition. It’s almost mathematical on the court. Freshman Bella Barber knows what it’s like to pour her time into refining a skill.

Although Barber enjoys normal teenager activities like watching Netflix, she also spends a large chunk of her time practicing her favorite sport: volleyball.

“I usually practice three to four times a week for a couple of hours,” Barber said.

Barber practices very specific skills during practice time.

“Coach sections practice off, that way we have certain things we work on,” Barber said. “We do a lot of serving because we miss a lot of our serves in games.

Sometimes we section off where someone is on the other side of the court serving at you and you pass the ball to the setter.

They rate your pass between one, two and three. If it’s three that means it’s a perfect pass. I feel like it helps a lot with the games that we play.”

On top of being an outside hitter for the school, Barber is also an outside hitter for Highland, a club volleyball team.

“Club usually starts right when school volleyball ends in November,” Barber said.

“It’s about as competitive as our school volleyball is.”

On top of a busy practice week, games are a big time commitment.

“We have two games every week and it goes from September to the end of October,” Barber said. “It goes for a bit, and we play every school twice.”

Barber is committed to continuing her volleyball career throughout high school.

“My plan is to play volleyball all four years,” Barber said, “I will try to go for JV and the varsity after that. I’m focused on my position and the whole team.”

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Photo Courtesy of Bella Barber

Despite her prowess on the court, she enjoys other typical teenage activities just as much.

“I like watching shows on Netflix,” Barber said. “My favorite is You. I think it’s entertaining, and besides that, I also like Grey’s Anatomy a lot.”

Barber’s friend and teammate freshman Macy Bartlett has many good experiences over the years with barber.

“She’s always loyal,” Bartlett said, “She’s

Spotlight

always been there for me when I need it the most. She’s just a nice human being and anyone would be lucky to meet her.”

Barber has had a great start to the year, and has both feet planted in high school.

Luckily, she is a freshman and has plenty of time to walk through everything high school has to offer.

Sophomore

Frank Fuentes

Fuentes talks about soccer and his everyday life.

Reported by DJ Binns

lllSophomore Frank Fuentes enjoys playing guitar and going to car meets during weekends with his cousin. He also likes to go to parties and hangout with people.

Fuentes is definitely a night person.

He enjoys staying inside during the day, causing him to have more free time.

“I get everything that I need to get done, done at night,” Fuentes said.

When Fuentes is not getting stuff done during the night like most kids, he plays soccer in the day. He has played soccer for roughly 10 years now.

“It was fun and I liked spending time with my friends,” Fuentes said. “It was also a way to spend time with my group.”

He plans on playing soccer this year; he

Spotlight

doesn’t know how much longer though.

Fuentes is not sure what will happen in soccer this year, because of COVID-19.

“We have a great team this year and are going strong,” Fuentes sais. So if I could change anything I wouldn’t.”

Fuentes doesn’t play any other sports. He wants to, but never got the chance.

Outside of soccer Frankie likes to hangout with his pets.

“I do have pets, I have a English Bulldog whose name is Choncho which means chubby and a lazy cat,” Fuentes said.

Fuentes has a plan for the future, which includes attending Kansas State University.

“I plan to be an architect or a mechanical engineer,” Fuentes said.

As well as planning for the future, Fuentes has already accomplished his greatest achievement.

“My biggest achievement was three years ago, we went to national soccer and I got the best 11 in the nation.” Fuentes said.

He says his ideal is to have a good paying job, be able to lay back, have a wife, and probably some kids.

If Frankie could change the world, he knows how he would do it.

“I would say the way people treat others,” Fuentes said.

Fuentes has advice.

“Stick to your gut and you can achieve anything,” Fuentes said.

Want to learn more about the Blue Jay Soccer Team?

Photo by Claire Hamilton

Spotlight

lhsnews.net

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Spotlight Junior

Malia Fuller

Fuller talks about the importance of diversity and trying new things.

Reported by Ari Revella Design by Ethan Atkins

When thinking about junior year, people think about harsh stress or the stereotype of the hardest year in school. For junior Malia Fuller, it’s a year of keeping tradition under an angry world.

While the wrath of COVID-19 goes on, Fuller continues to do what she loves most, just at a safe distance.

Diversity Council has been a part of LHS for a long time, and Fuller has been participating in the club since the very beginning of her freshman year. Fuller has taken a leadership role in the Council, and while it looks different this year, she continues to make sure things go smoothly.

“In middle school, there was a club, kind of like the Diversity Council, it was called Common Ground, but it was less formal,” Fuller said. “I heard about Diversity Council from a couple of high schoolers, so I joined when I first got to high school, and I really liked it.”

Fuller believes that Diversity Council is something students need in this school.

It teaches students to have an open mind and share their stories with others. This will help with being able to be open with others, and to learn about the world around us from other students’ experiences.

“I guess you just walk in with an open mind and you just have to realize that you’re going to learn a lot in this club, and I hope that interests people,” Fuller said. “But I think that’s just something our generation has been very good at, becoming more educated at what’s happening around the world.”

Counselor Trilaina McCallum met Fuller through Diversity Council, and she had a lot to express about their time together in the club.

“Malia is one of the most dedicated

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October 2020

Photo by Chloe Gerardy

members and has been since the beginning,” McCallum said, “She has been at just about every event, actively participates in group discussions and activities and has always been welcoming and inviting to other members. The fact that she has been such a devoted member, and an integral part of the leadership team says that she is committed to the mission of the group. She values all people and believes in the importance of equality and is a voice against injustice.”

Fuller also uses this energy for Student Council, another big pillar in her high school career. She’s been in Student Council for five years, and she’s currently a Junior Class Representative.

Close friend of Fuller’s junior Sierra Robertson thinks Fuller wants to make sure students at LHS have representation.

“She’s always talked about wanting to join StuCo so she can have a say in what goes on in the school,” Robertson said. “So that shows that she wants to be a leader and she wants to make sure that we have representation in our school, and, not that just she has a say, but what she thinks has a say in what we should be doing in our school and what should change.”

Outside of Diversity Council, Fuller also

Spotlight

plays tennis. She started playing tennis freshman year, now she uses the sport as a way to relieve stress and to have an outside activity. Her older sister, who graduated a few years ago, got her into the sport due to her playing it during her high school career.

“I definitely don’t think I want to take it to a professional level,” Fuller said, “But having a sport is a good outlet. Especially freshman year, when I was just getting a grip on high school. I was able to meet a good group of friends, and that helped me not really think about school. It’s a good stress relief.”

Right now, Fuller plans on getting into the STEM field and going out of Missouri for college.

“I’m not exactly sure where I want to go, but I would like to get out of the Midwest and probably go to the West Coast or North-West Coast most likely,” Fuller said.

“The idea of going out-of-state is cool, I wanna just dream big, if it doesn’t work I can always come back. Reaching far is kind of my goal.”

Fuller is a hard-hitter on diversity, confidence, common ground and staying innovative. In the current world, Fuller isn’t backing down from making a change in LHS.

Senior

Jalen Weston

Jalen Weston speaks on adversity and his of football.

Reported by Lucia Umbreit

ll This time of year, one can find senior Jalen Weston under the stadium lights, starting as a hybrid safety and the linebacker positions for the football team.

Weston has been a key component for the team since earning his spot on arsity his freshman year.

“I worked really hard every single practice and finally they decided to pull me up,” Weston said. “In the mornings I would practice with the freshmen, and then right after that, I’d do it with varsity. I’d end up having two practices back-to-back which got pretty rigorous, and they eventually brought me up, and I started playing with the big guys.”

This year, Weston is hoping to break the all-time tackle record set by Joseph Barnes, who was a senior when Weston was

a freshman.

“It was cool that I saw him break the previous record when I was a freshman, and now I’m a senior trying to break his record,” Weston said.

Weston has been tracking his tackles throughout his high school career and is now only about 45 tackles away from the 296 needed to reach his goal. However, he is quick to note that the team is what’s most important.

“I don’t necessarily look to try and break that record. I wouldn’t say that’s my goal,” Weston said. “My goal is to execute and do my job every single week, those tackles come with that.”

Specifically in this 2020 season, where the Blue Jays are currently undefeated, the team has been a big focus for Weston.

“We’ve just focused hard on being able to control everything we can in order to make ourselves better,” Weston said. “If we’re doing what we’re being told to do, and what we’ve practiced, winning and losing will take care of itself as long as we do our job and we’re in the right position to make the correct plays.”

Aside from football, Weston’s work ethic and humility shines through in school.

Advanced ELA teacher Serena Comegys recognizes this about Weston.

“Jalen is one of the hardest working students I have ever had the privilege of teaching,” Comegys said. “One of the most impressive things about Jalen is his ability to remain positive and focused even in the

Spotlight

midst of controversy and struggle. He has very high expectations of himself, both personally and academically, and anyone who knows him can see that he lives every day working to achieve his goals.”

One goal of Weston’s has been to attend the University of Missouri-Columbia, where he earned an academic scholarship. He hopes to play football in college, whether receiving a football scholarship or possibly preferred walk on for football. He plans on studying Psychology, something that stems from his love of science.

“When COVID-19 hit, I kind of fell in love with psychology when it comes to just seeing how people work, how they think about things and how people have different things going for them that have effects in the long run,” Weston said.

Weston’s friends, including senior Javin Shaw, recognize how committed he is in school and out.

“Selfless and dedicated is how I would describe Jalen,” Shaw said. “He is quick and always willing to help someone in need and if there’s something that he wants, he will commit himself to it 100%.”

Whether in school or football, Weston has always focused on working hard in the face of adversity. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on the things he can control rather than the things he cannot, which he says helps him to make the best of any situation he finds himself in.

“I feel like the things that have happened in my life that have been a setback or hard time, I’ve been able to build off of and overcome the adversity that I’ve faced,” Weston said. “I don’t really get flustered very often with anything that comes my way. I just take it and understand that another day or another time or another moment is going to come.”

Humility is also important to Weston, who prefers to let his accomplishments speak for themselves. He prefers to keep things under wraps, and he is more comfortable with few people knowing about his achievements.

“I’m not a very outspoken person,” Weston said. “I don’t really talk or post a lot about the things that I do and the things that are happening in my life. I pride myself on working hard at everything that I do in my life so that I can come out the best that I can.”

Weston’s message to others is the importance of not giving up in the face of adversity, something that he utilizes both on and off the football field.

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

Spotlight

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InDepth

Respecting

The push for equality and how LHS staff is ensuring safety for all students.

Reported by Caty Franklin

Design by Paige Hodges

Respec

t

A school is defined by its students. Supporting all types of students, including racial minorities, is important to LPS. Over the past five years, the district has made a more conscious effort to ensure equality for all students.

All students should feel safe and included.

The question then becomes, what is LPS doing to ensure that?

The district began emphasizing equality in the past five to six years through school programs, district programs and staff changes.

“We started this school year having really crucial conversations about recent unrest in our world and in our nation,” Dr. April Adams said.

Over the summer, a series of protests began across the nation in response to multiple cases where police killed black men and women seemingly without due cause.

“We had a lot of great conversations about how to be safe and keep other people safe when somebody’s not acting in a safe way,” Adams said. “We are giving teachers

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InDepth

some tools in their tool box so they can feel ready to have crucial conversations and feel safe in that environment.”

Over the summer, issues with police violence arose when George Floyd, an unarmed black man, was killed by police officers. The Black Lives Matter movement surged in response; a poll from the New York Times suggests that 15 million to 26 million people in the United States have participated in demonstrations. Many other instances of police violence, including Breonna Taylor being shot in her apartment and Elijah McClain being shot while walking home.

“People are realizing that there is a lot of momentum to really create change, and [Liberty Public Schools] wants to be a part of that,” LPS superintendent Jeremy Tucker said in an interview conducted over the summer. “But we can’t do it alone, so that is where the conversation piece comes into play. We want to hear about parents and students’ experiences. The good and bad.

Our students are watching these events play out in real time, and we must come alongside them as teachers and parents to not only speak against racism and injustice, but to equip them with the tools they need to process and navigate these critically important matters.”

Chasing Equity Chief Equity Officer Andrea DixonSeahorn has a new role in the district to focus on maintaining an inclusive environment district-wide.

Dixon-Seahorn began her work as Chief Equity Officer over the summer, but has worked in the district for the past four years. Her role has become increasingly important in light of the racial tension across America. Both the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement and the increase of racial minorities at LPS created a greater need for Dixon-Seahorn and the position of Chief Equity Officer.

InDepth

Differences “We must be honest y with ourselves-- there uit q is always room for E improvement in this area. There is more work to be done in ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities for all students-- but especially those who are underserved, underrepresented, marginalized and disenfranchised-this is an ongoing issue that will require all hands on deck from board governance to school leadership, all the way to the classroom teaching level,” DixonSeahorn said. “In order for us to truly ensure equitable access to educational opportunities, LPS staff must confront our own biases that we have about certain student groups.”

Her role is working with schools across the district to ensure equity.

“My job entails serving as an advocate and champion for diversity, equity and inclusion across all programs associated with the school organization,” DixonSeahorn said.

What LHS Students Think In a poll conducted by The Bell, senior Blake Conkling share his thoughts.

“Compared to other schools in our area, it seems like we have quite a bit of ethnic diversity,” Conkling said. “I think this is great though! All kids deserve a good education, safety, and inclusion.”

Conkling believes that while LHS is doing some, they could do more to support the minorities in our school.

“I feel LHS shows good support, but could always do more. That of course isn’t to say anything bad about the school,” Conkling said.

He also believes LHS cares about

students, regardless not simply the diversity.

“It’s not only about increasing racial diversity, but making sure we have a community who loves and supports all ethnic groups. Everyone should see them, and love them as people. Not just a number,” Conkling said.

Grow Your Own Teacher One of the ways LPS encourages diversity in its staff is the Grow Your Own teacher program: a college-support fund encouraging all students, but especially minority students, to go into education and to return to teach within LPS. One of the main objectives of the program is to encourage diversity in staff district-wide so all students feel represented.

Continued on Pages 18 & 19 InDepth

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17

“We try to create, for all of our students, a sense of belonging,” superintendant Dr. Jeremy Tucker said. “Sometimes it’s more difficult, if you’re a minority student and you’re not surrounded by students with similar backgrounds, or you don’t have staff that reflect your cultural background or perspective.”

The program works through a loan, given to students for part of their college education. If the recipient chooses to come back and teach at LPS, the loan is then forgiven, encouraging the recipient to come back and teach in the district.

Assistant Principal Bridget Herrman is one of the overseers for the Grow Your Own program at LHS. Herrman wants to help students discover what they’re passionate about because of people in her own life that helped her discover how she wanted to make a difference.

“When I joined STUCO, the assistant principal was our sponsor,” Herrman said.

“He believed in me and tapped into the leadership part of me that was kind of dormant.”

Applying for the Grow Your Own Program requires that students maintain a 2.75 GPA, obtain letters of recommendation, and generally show themselves to be a good student. Herrman loves the program because of how attainable the requirements are.

“I don’t think anything should be elitist,” Herrman said. “I think you should be able to choose and I don’t choose for you. I think that’s how I feel about this Grow Your Own Teacher program. It’s not unattainable.”

Another big part of the program is utilizing staff members to support future educators. A mentor is assigned to every student accepted into the program. That mentor then checks in on students to ensure academic success.

“We’re not going to just accept you and then you’re done. We have mentors too,”

Herrman said. “While you’re in school, someone mentors you to make sure you’re okay. It’s typically the teacher who they mention in their interview, that made a difference.”

Adams also emphasized the importance of having a school body represented by their staff.

“We do a lot of recruiting to see if we can get more diversity within our applicant pool,” Adams said. “That’s another feature that Dr. Tucker is very passionate about creating an employee structure that is equally represented to what the community looks like.”

The Point The Point, a LHS group of staff members, is another way of encouraging inclusion in the classroom.

called Teaching Tolerance, where they learned strategies for encouraging equity in schools.

“Our goal is to lead all of our staff to create a connecting point for people to reflect and learn new strategies and ideas for fostering diversity, inclusion and equity in our school,” assistant principal Sara Wickham said.

The Point has encouraged and put on many education services to encourage teachers to help students feel better represented through leading book studies, weekly staff professional development and giving teachers more strategies to help their students.

“We’ve tried to be a part of some of the district work that’s happening, such as the Diversity Festival that happens every year,” Wickham said.

The group was created two years ago in response to student situations with the goal of helping teachers and staff create a more inclusive environment for students.

The group trained with an organization

Top: Students walk quickly down halls of the school during passing period. Bottom: Students walk together to their next class of the day.

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Photo by Charlene Nguyen

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

“Here in the building our most popular event series is that last year we did what we called Tuesday Talks. We would just explore and address different topics related to diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

The Point began when staff members at LHS were trying to ensure all students had what they needed to succeed and to educate teachers to help students succeed.

“We really just started researching and decided that we wanted to not do something that was one time, but rather pull together some people for ongoing work,” Wickham said. “We all have to be continuously reflecting about ourselves; where we come from and how that impacts the school environment.”

Ongoing Work Even though LPS has implemented programs at the district and school levels over the past five years, they realize that this is work that will never be completed.

“You don’t ever reach a point where the work is done,” Tucker said. “It’s not a destination, it’s not a checklist. It’s ongoing, everchanging, and evolving.”

Adams is proud of the programs in place, but also believes that it’s an ongoing process.

“It’s always been a part of a lexicon, but I think the intentionality of it really came because we had a fantastically active diversity council that really got us thinking as adults about if our students are telling us that we need to do more.What more do we need to do,” Adams said. “We’ll never arrive, because our students change, our community changes, our population changes and our world changes.”

Are racial minorities supported by LHS?

Students were sent a poll including various questions about ethnic diversity at the school. The following is responses of Sixty-five students.

“LHS is pretty welcoming place for everyone.”

- Freshman Abigail Steelman

“The school does well putting posters around the school to show people of different ethnicities.”

- Junior Jason Schuele

28 out of 65 students said “I’m not sure”

9 out of 65 students said “No”

28 out of 65 students said “Yes” “I wish more action would be taken when it comes to harassment and racism.”

- Freshman Skyelar Reno

InDepth

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Opinion

Stressin’ that Election

I wake up and it is 2024, 2020 was just a terrible dream.

Column by Editor-in-Chief Regan Johnston Photo By Charlene Nguyen Design By Derek Katzer ‘Grab your torch and pitchforks’, this man is about to talk about politics. Listen closely, if he says the wrong thing we can burn him at the stake.

That’s the train of thought that crosses my mind every time I discuss politics with others.

Is anyone else just completely exhausted?

Every time someone mentions the upcoming Presidential Election or turns on the news, my brain goes down a rabbithole-of-terror and anger.

There’s just no escaping the frustration, especially after watching two senile old men scream insults at each other and call it a campaign.

But as much as the passionate, egotistical side of me wants to rant about why I’m right and other people are wrong when it comes to politics, I will refrain. I know that many already have their mind made up when it comes to politics and there’s no

Mask Up

other out. It’s a democracy for a reason and, unfortunately, some people who have the right to vote do not agree with me. I might as well sit down and listen to what they have to say. As my dad likes to say, in the end, all we owe to each other is respect.

Learn how to register to vote here:

force on Earth that’s going to change it.

So I have set a goal for myself that I hope other people try to achieve as well for this upcoming election: be kind, and hear each

Just do it. Please.

Column by Managing & Copy Editor Emma Stauffer Masks. Are they fun to wear? No. Are they particularly stylish? No. Is it enjoyable when they fog up your glasses? I don’t wear glasses, but I am assuming, no.

Should we still wear masks? Yes. According to the CDC, “masks are recommended as a simple barrier to help prevent respiratory droplets from traveling into the air and onto other people when the person wearing the mask coughs, sneezes, talks or raises their voice.”

On June 27, the mayor of Kansas City issued a mandate requiring people to be wearing a facial covering in public places.

Including schools, grocery stores and movie theatres. Up until that date, mask wearing was simply a recommendation, not a requirement. That mandate has been extended to January of 2021.

While there have been people who I have talked to who are displeased with the mandate and the inconveniences it causes for them, I have honestly been very impressed with people following the mask mandate properly.

In a scary world where people are dying

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Photo By Emma McDonald

from COVID-19 everyday, I think it is important that we do everything we can to help stop the spread of the virus. If it has been scientifically proven that the simple act of wearing a mask can help keep others safe, I am going to do it.

I will not deny that masks do come with some inconveniences, but my family

Opinion

and I understand why wearing a mask is important to the safety of ourselves and those around us. I have often heard the argument that wearing a mask should be the individual’s decision, and that requiring a mask is an infringement of their rights. Many others support masks, feeling similarly to how I do: that it is important, and worth the inconvenience.

The practice of wearing masks is most effective when everyone, who is able to, participates. By choosing to wear a mask, you are choosing to care about the health of others and, ultimately, yourself.

If one person wears a mask, not much good will be achieved, but if many choose to wear masks, it has been proven the spread of the virus decreases. We must all work together and make sacrifices if we wish to slow the spread of the virus and contribute to trying to return the world to some type of normalcy.

Please wear a mask.

Opinion

Catch Me at the Polls

I’ve been waiting to vote since Kindergarten, and now the time is coming.

Column by Online Manager and InDepth Editor Paige Hodges Call me weird, but I’ve been waiting to vote since Kindergarten. Of course, like most Kindergarteners, I was too young to understand the concept of voting, or its importance. But I know how I felt when I saw its effect on the people around me.

Growing up I saw voting as a privilege; one that black people died for, and women had to fight for. Now that I am 18, and able to vote in the upcoming presidential election I am frequently reflecting. Usually about my first experience; when former president Barack Obama was first elected.

I vividly remember the joyous shrieks of my aunts, and tears streaming down their faces as election results were broadcasted.

“History is being made in the country today,” the news anchor said as the electoral results flashed across the screen.

My little, five-year-old jaw dropped as I saw the beautiful, black family walk across the blue carpeted stage. That day all I could

Feline Happy

think about is my grandpa and the poll tax receipts he showed me. Most of all, what he said: “black people laid down their lives for our rights, so never give them away.”

Photo Courtesy of Paige Hodges Since Nov. 4, 2008, I have practiced voting like history is going to be made.

Whether it was elementary classroom elections, Student Council dance themes, what restaurant the family should go to or The Bell’s monthly staff-ed question, I see each decision as significant, and a chance for mine or others’ voices to be heard. I consider how everyone will be affected. I also see how I want to be recorded when people look back on history. I take time to collect information about both possible options, weigh the pros and cons, then choose with conviction.

I don’t have any experience with an election as vital as the presidential, however I am beyond ready. So if you’re wondering where I am Tuesday morning on Nov. 3, 2020. Well, just go to the nearest voting booth, because I will be there.

My two cats, in their own way, remind me to smile everyday.

Column by A&E Editor and Opinion Editor Derek Katzer For those who don’t know, I have two cats: Buttercup and Sugar. Both of whom are the love of my life. Buttercup is your typical cat. He loves taking naps, eating his favorite treats, drinking water from the sink and, of course, attention. Sugar is the polar opposite, a black cat who dislikes loud sounds and people. In such a chaotic world, it can often be a challenge to find a reason to smile and move forwards. But my cats remind me how to smile everyday, for who wouldn’t smile in the presence of such a creature.

Since I’ve been going to soccer practice in this warm weather, I get really hot and sweaty, it is honestly a little disgusting. But, Buttercup loves it.

Buttercup really loves being warm, often taking naps in the sunshine or laying near a vent blowing warm air, so I’m sure my cat is in cat heaven when I pick him up after getting home from practice. My body acts as a heater of sorts and I’m rewarded with the sweet sounds of his purrs.

This started occurring sometime during summer, after I would come home from

Photo Courtesy of Derek Katzer

workouts. I didn’t like workouts and it was embarrassing to be one of the weakest and slowest out of the upperclassmen, but it was worth getting up at 6AM if it meant I could hear the purrs of Buttercup. It can be tough to move forward on the rough path, but what better outcome can there be, making yourself and someone else happy?

Sometimes, while I am at my desk and working on homework, I will hear a little “meow” and find Sugar, paws on the chair, wanting to be pet. Since she prefers to be alone, it puts me into a better mood, knowing she wants my attention and love, and allows me to tackle my homework with renewed vigor.

During the Stay-At-Home Order, the lack of companionship made me feel like dead weight. It was hard to see how my presence affected anyone. Even now, it’s hard not being able to see someone’s warm smile and it is difficult trying to talk to a classmate six feet away from me.

That is why, right now, I find the best feeling in the world is laying down in bed after a long day and having 15 pounds of fur jump on me and snuggle up next to me.

Nothing makes me happier than falling asleep, knowing someone, in this case Sugar, is happy because of my presence.

Opinion

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21

Sports

Tackling the 2020 Season

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

Teams keep trying to tear them down, but LHS won’t give up the win.

Reported by Shane Bass and Alex Klein

LHS’s football team has a record of 7-0 so far during this season, but the team’s winning season didn’t come from nowhere.

It came from hard work and dedication to the sport, even in the midst of COVID-19.

“We have really changed our outlook on game planning,” head coach Chad Frigan said, “We’re really taking and breaking down and analyzing our game film on Saturday morning’s just as a coach and grading players, then taking a full 28 hours watching the opponent’s film.”

It’s not only the coaches who are working hard to make this season better, the players are also putting in the work.

“I have been working out, working on my explosiveness, my speed and footwork skills,” wide receiver and sophomore Ricky

Liberty Blue Jays

Design by Caty Franklin

Ahumaraeze said.

However, winning isn’t everything when it comes to the games.

“One of our teams goals is to remain humble and treat every game the same and play every game the same,” outside linebacker sophomore Nchang Ndifor said, “My goal for the season is to make memorable plays and help give the seniors a good season they deserve.”

“I just want each and every team to live up to their ability and do the best that they can, I feel like we are doing a good job of that and we definitely have room to improve with this team,” Frigon said.

There are many ways to still improve before this season ends.

“For our kickoff team, we have to do a better job on that. We’re giving up a lot of yards on that,” Frigon said. “We’re gonna look at everything, from the personnel, to the scheme, the drills and how we’re teaching it to try to improve in that area,” COVID-19 is affecting the football team in more ways than simply wearing a mask and washing their hands.

“We’ve had to cut down on our team Photo by Charlene Nguyen

Top: Varsity athlete junior Wentric William III dashes around the opposing Lee’s Summit West team on his way to the end zone during a game on Sep 18. Bottom: Senior Luke Smith practices his throws with a teammate before the Varsity game against Lee’s Summit North on Sep 11.

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Sports

Sports

meetings so we’ve had smaller meetings,” Frigon said. “We have also had to limit the amount of people that we dress to travel to certain games, those are challenges that go above wearing a mask using hand sanitizer and social distancing so those are all challenges we’ve been facing.”

COVID-19 has also given players time to work on things in their own time.

“With Corona being here it shut down a lot of off season camps I would have gone too, so it gave me more time to train by myself,” Ahumaraeze said.

Although COVID-19 has affected the football season in many ways the team is still working hard and has had a great season so far.

“I’m proud of how we are all playing together and how well the season is going so far,” Ahumaraeze said.

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

Student Section

The school’s football student section has been muffled by COVID-19, but spirits are high with the students and parents no matter the circumstances.

“I’m sorry that it’s not the same as every

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

Photo by Charlene Nguyen

year because I look up at a lot of games and wish the stands were full, but I’m trying my best to make sure everyone is there in spirit,” senior and spirit leader Kage Lenger said.

The games might be quieter, but the players are giving out tickets for the students and parents to have more spirit.

Each cheerleader, Sapphire, marching band member and player on the field gets two tickets to give to anyone of their choosing.

“I think it has been the same group of upperclassmen in the front because they are able to get tickets from the football players and freshmen aren’t going to have those connections like they are,” senior and varsity cheerleader Kaley Hamilton said.

“They will have their chance in the future football games. It’s just a weird year where the upperclassmen are really going to the game this year.”

Parents have supported their players, cheerleaders or Sapphires in the student section. The stands have been more abundant in parents then it has been in students.

“More parents come to see their athletes to perform and stuff like that,” Lenger said “The parents are a lot more bought into the chants and they want to give their athletes much more of a normal game as possible.”

“I think just a quieter student section since people aren’t allowed to come,” Varsity cheerleader junior Maya Klemme said.

Although the games are still going on the people on field are socially distancing when not active and keeping up with regulations.

“We only wear a mask when we aren’t actively moving on the sidelines and when we walk in and during warm ups,” Hamilton said.

Although circumstances at LHS football games are not ideal, like wearing masks and keeping socially distanced, many schools are not allowing spectators at all.

“It depends on their rules because their bleachers could be smaller,” Lenger said.

The football season is wrapping up but COVID-19 is not. Before people go to the games for football or any upcoming winter sports, they need to be sure to follow guidelines. If this isn’t kept up the upcoming seasons could be in jeopardy.

Top: Varsity Cheerleaders watch the marching band play during halftime at the September 11th game against Lee’s Summit North. Bottom: Varsity Cheerleaders pump up the crowd with their pyramid stunts at yet another winning game against Lee’s Summit North.

Sports

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A&E

Back in Business

How some of LHS’s favorite small businesses have been affected by COVID-19.

Reported by Lejla Aganovic and Ethan Atkins

The COVID-19 pandemic has greatly impacted countries around the world. The United States government instituted a national lockdown that began in March of 2020 in order to control the spread of the virus. As a result, businesses around the country were forced to close down.

As reported in The New York Times, on July 13, “it was estimated that nearly 100,000 small businesses across

Liberty Nutrition

Design by Derek Katzer

the country had decided to shut down permanently between early March and early May....”

Over the last seven months, states have started to open up again. However, there are still many recommendations and guidelines that businesses have to follow.

The CDC reported on Sept. 6, “Change restaurant and bar layouts to ensure that all customer parties remain at least 6 feet apart (e.g., marking tables/stools that are

Liberty Nutrition is well known among students by providing health-based smoothies, energy drinks and meal replacements for all kinds of people to enjoy.

Freshman Tianna Owens was introduced to Liberty Nutrition by her friends and has loved the place ever since.

Owens likes Liberty Nutrition because of the environment but the drinks are a big reason too. When she goes she always has one specific drink in mind.

“I get the piña colada smoothie.” Owens said. “I really enjoy piña colada things and it’s the only thing I’ve ever gotten. They

Photo by Brenna Oxley

Ginger Sue’s

Ginger Sue’s is a casual, family-friendly restaurant, according to freshman Sloane Jurgens. They serve breakfast and lunch. In Jurgens’ experience, everyone is welcome in the quaint atmosphere of the local diner.

Jurgens has dined at Ginger Sue’s her entire life. She feels more people should support them because they have a variety of food and a welcoming environment.

“I like their breakfast potatoes, their pancakes and their bacon,” Jurgens said.“The staff are usually really friendly, but sometimes the environment can be loud. Other than that, I really like the environment here.”

In a poll sent out by The Bell on Sept. 24, 58 LHS students responded to a question asking about their favorite small businesses around the city. Six out of 58 students who responded said that they prefer Ginger Sue’s to any other small businesses.

Ginger Sue’s has had several changes due

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October 2020

Photo by Brenna Oxley

to the COVID-19 pandemic. These include encouraging social distancing of six feet and requiring guests to wear masks.

As it states in Clay County Public Health Emergency Order, published Aug 21, “The

A&E

not for use).”

Small businesses in Missouri have had to incorporate these guidelines and discover new ways to reach out to people.

According to the Liberty Courier-Tribune, “Eight in 10 business owners reported that they have made adaptations in response to COVID-19, including safety changes in the form of new procedures or physical modifications, while others have adopted work-from-home policies.”

also do energy drinks and fitness stuff, and I’m not into other smoothies because of the sugar in it, but I love their smoothies because I feel like they have a lot less sugar.”

Owens believes that Liberty Nutrition is a small business that deserves support in these times.

“I personally think that they’re family friendly, anyone is allowed to walk in and get service or call in and order and you should always support small businesses because they need the help during this difficult time,” Owens said.

wearing of a face mask/face covering by patrons and employees to the greatest extent possible may allow businesses to remain open while protecting the health and safety of the public and employees and enabling the local economy to move forward....”

Ginger Sue’s has modified the look and environment of their business in order to remain safe.

“The table layout is different,” Jurgens said. The tables are definitely more spaced out, I would say. They also have signs on doors that say masks are mandatory and all the workers are wearing masks.”

Small businesses are constantly updating their operations and policies. They learn new information every day and adjust the standards of their workplace as best as they can to work with COVID-19.

A&E

J&S Pizza

J&S Pizza is a business where people come to enjoy freshly baked pizzas. They make pizzas with all kinds of toppings to serve everyone’s personal taste.

Freshman Megan Boteler has been coming to J&S pizza since they’ve been open and enjoys their service a lot.

“They usually have fast service, the food is good, the waiters are really nice and it’s a really clean place,” Boteler said.

One of the more important aspects of J&S Pizza to Boteler is their amazing staff. She loves them and thinks they do a really good job.

“They’re quick and very polite, if you’re having a hard time ordering they will give you recommendations if need be,” Boteler said.

Boteler likes J&S Pizza more than other pizza places for a few different reasons.

“It is definitely fresher, unlike other places where you would just get it out of a

Photo by Brenna Oxley

box, at J&S Pizza it’s fresh out of the oven and everything about it is better,” Boteler said.

Boteler has not seen a huge effect on J&S’s business from COVID-19 and they are operating well.

Lamar’s Donuts

Lamar’s Donuts offers a wide selection of donuts and welcomes all customers.

When customers walk in, the big, colorful display of donuts instantly catches the eye.

Freshman Annalise Vogelaar has gone to the shop with her family for as long as she can remember.

“They have some of the best donuts that I grew up here eating,” Vogelaar said.

“They’re always really welcoming. It’s just a nice environment. It’s warm and small.”

Vogelaar has a family of five and believes the shop is the right place for families who want a donut for each member.

“I usually get the Maple Long John that’s cream filled,” Vogelaar said.

Lamar’s has adjusted to the changes caused by COVID-19 as effectively as possible. Lamar’s published their official response to the pandemic on Lamar’s Donuts and Coffee website.

“Lamar’s is stressing to employees the importance of using hand sanitizer and directing them to minimize personal contact, avoid in-person meetings, take work breaks outside dining areas open to the public, and increase frequency of cleaning surfaces with an industrial disinfectant.”

Lamar’s follows the CDC policies of

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Photo by Brenna Oxley

maintaining a healthy environment by constantly keeping cleaning and disinfecting work surfaces. They also avoid situations where there is a chance of spreading COVID-19.

Customers don’t actually eat inside of the shop, but they wait in line, get their donuts, and leave. While this may seem disappointing, it is beneficial to the staff and customers. They do not have to worry about the layout and cleansing of

J&S Pizza have had to institute the new rules and regulations into their business.

“They always have masks on, the mask policy stays the same for everyone,” Boteler said. “Also, the customers are good at staying socially distanced because all of the tables are far apart.”

Boteler agrees supporting small businesses helps keep them afloat and strengthens the community. Supporting them during the pandemic is very important because they are affected more greatly than a bigger business that can support itself financially.

“There are a lot of pizza restaurants, but they are a small business and family owned so it can be harder now, most people usually just go to a big restaurant but should support small ones,” Boteler said.

the tables.

Now that Lamar’s Donuts is operating during the pandemic, they also have to follow CDC and Clay County guidelines.

“They have less people in the lobby, around 10 people at a time,” Vogelaar said. “Everyone else has to be outside, and everyone has to wear masks.”

The employees of Lamar’s also wear gloves and wax paper while preparing the food.

In Lamar’s official response, it states,”Under standard policy, LaMar’s employees are ordered to handle donuts for each customer with a fresh, clean sheet of wax paper.”

Using both wax paper and gloves helps provide the best cleanliness and sanitation possible. Social distancing is also enforced, which affects the wait time.

“During the weekday, Lamar’s usually has short lines,” Vogelaar said. “On the weekends, the line will be out the door.”

Through all of the changes, Vogelaar believes that Lamar’s Donuts has still been running successfully.

“I think Lamar’s is never going to go out of business if they keep making donuts as good as they do,” Vogelaar said.

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LHS’ Businesses The Spirit Stop

Small businesses at school have also been affected by COVID-19. One of them is The Spirit Stop, the little shop in the cafeteria that sells spiritwear. FACS teacher Marla Badalucco has been running the store for three years. The pandemic seems to have caused many significant changes to this business.

The Spirit Stop has not been able to sell at enrollment and football games, which are some of their biggest sellers.

Additionally, preparations were not completed at the end of the previous school year. This year, Mrs. Badalucco and her staff have had to work harder in order to keep making profits “It’s been different. Even last semester, typically we get the store ready, ordered and prepared for the next year. We didn’t get that done last year. This year we’re kind of playing catch-up.”

The Nest

Juniors David Stark, Ali Marshall and senior Zachary Hargiss are Nest staff members who can’t wait for their opening, but due to the pandemic, the Nest must change the way it runs to make sure that they are doing what they need to do to stay healthy and clean.

When the Nest is not closed, everyone has different jobs that contribute to the business running at its best.

“My favorite would be the iced coffee station,” Hargiss said.

The staff members love working at The Nest for a few reasons. For Marshall it is the people.

“I love making drinks for other people, it makes me happy,” Marshall said.

With the Nest being closed right now, the staff members are waiting patiently, so they can get back to what they love to do.

“As far as the Nest, we were all a little sad at first,” special education teacher Jessica King said. “I think we all came into

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The Bell

March 2020

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Although the pandemic has affected profits and business, Badalucco has noticed that teachers and students have been buying

Photo by Emma McDonald

knowing we weren’t gonna be able to get into it at the start, but it helps knowing that it isn’t completely off the table.”

There are many things in the way of the

more spirit wear at designated times and ordering online.

“We’re doing okay because teachers have a more casual look this year and have been buying more spirit wear,” Badalucco said.

“It’s almost like on an appointment basis.

People email me and say, ‘I want to come shop’, or ‘Do you have this size?’, or ‘Can I come look around?’”

While shopping during an appointment, students are expected to maintain social distancing of six to eight feet. It is kind of like a personal shopping time because there are usually only one or two students there during an appointment.

Students and staff can buy spirit wear in-person or order online through the website. It is linked on the LHS website, under the Student Life tab, and titled, “The Spirit Stop (School Store)”.

Nest opening. King, who also helps run the Nest, helps give an idea of when they’ll be back up and running.

“At this moment in time, we were just given the OK to start cleaning and organizing the supplies in there because there has been construction,” King said.

“We have to make sure we are safe and comfortable with that and the new guidelines, implement what we need to and maybe then we can set a date. We might do it in phases first, like letting staff go first then eventually letting students in.”

The Nest can not wait to open back up to the public again.

“I’m optimistic that people will want to come and support us and we try to give back everything we make to the school in some capacity,” King said. “I would hope that when we open, students will choose to support us instead of going to Dunkin Donuts or Starbucks.”

Chinese Teacher

Last but Not Least

Shianguu Hsieh

“

Sophomore Andrew Hand

He is a good teacher because he really engages his students.

He will explain or break down sentences for you. He just loves to engage with everybody and does a good job relating to students. He makes the class fun because he is a very fun man himself. He has a lot of great catchphrases, very outgoing and is just a very fun guy. Other teachers won’t break it down when you don’t understand.

He will break it down to the simplest level to make sure you understand. Not all teachers do that for students.

“

Junior Malia Fuller

”

He’s really good at interacting with students and making personal connections. In class he takes learning seriously. He wants each one of his students to succeed. He asks each student about their lives. He makes personal connections so he can figure out how each student learns. His overall attitude about learning Chinese is the reason the class is fun. He is very excited to teach us. He wants us to succeed. He is able to work one-on-one a lot with students because the class is very small.

He is able to make a curriculum for what his students need.

”

Photo by Emma McDonald

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