The Bell 4/21/14

The Bell April 21, 2014 Issue 6 Volume 90

SCAN & VISIT

LHSNEWs.net

Table Of Contents

02

On the cover:

Page Blue Jays Defend Yourself 07

Find out how LHS students are learning to defend themselves while being part of a fun new club.

Page 14 Page 24

A Gatsby Affair

Discover the student’s opinions on everything prom including dresses, cost and atmosphere.

Photo by Margaret Burton

LHS hosts its very own tech night. Read more here to see how you can gain information on technology careers and opportunities.

Photo by Molly Meeks

Techno Hotspot

Blue Jays Batter Up

The Blue jays baseball team competes in the annual KC Metro Lead Off Tournament. Go to page 24 to find out more.

Photo by Kristen Poe

Page 04

Photo by Jordan Wheelhouse

Senior Ross Juliana throws a pitch at the varsity baseball KC Metro Lead Off Tournament. Read more about the results of the tournament on page 24.

Cover photo by Morgan McNea

The Bell Staff Editor In Chief Madi Denton Design Editor Diana Timmermans Features Editor Aly Copp Sports Editor Nick Palmarine Assistant Sports Editor Grace George Opinion Editor Molly Meeks A&E Editor Meredith Crouch News Editor Zach Kilgas In-Depth Editor Amanda Kovac Ads Manager Sammi Siegel Online News Manager Sol Kim Website Technical Support Tyler Eggleston Adviser Lori Oyler

Reporters Alex Wilson Alex Jimenez Jasmine Smith-Marley Address Katie Crouch 200 Blue Jay Drive Kennedy Allison Liberty, MO 64068 Sarah Arns Tara Prindle Email Michael McHale thebell@liberty.k12.

Allie Schowengerdt mo.us Teresa Parra Jeffrey Walters

Contact us

Photo Journalism Photo Editor Kristen Poe Assistant Photo Editor Nicole Throckmorton

Phone (816) 736-5353

Our Mission

Our Mission for the 2013-2014 school year is to unite a diverse group of people and ideas to compose an informative and entertaining magazine using articles, photographs and commercial messages. As journalists in training, we endeavor to give the best representation of the community of Liberty High School. The Bell student newspaper is a public forum for student expression.

Twitter @TheBell_LHS

Jays’ Jabber

03

What’s happening @ LHSNews.net?

The Liberty Academy will host the 15th Annual Bowl-a-thon on April 12 at Retro Bowl. Over the last 15 years, they have raised over $25,000 for the American Cancer Society. Contact Shannon Lawson at 816-736-5470 with any questions.

Design by Daniel Evans

Bowl - A -Thon

State Bound Many students participated in MSHSAA District/Solo Ensemble competition, and are proceeding on to state. Band has 14 solos and four ensembles moving on. Orchestra has 18 solos and ensembles combined and choir has 15 ensembles and 21 solos.

Congratulations to all the students who participated, and good luck at state!

The following FCCLA students participated in the state competiton! They scored as follows: In the Focus on Children category, seniors Morgan Musselman, Addison Moore, and Mikayla Stevens recieved a gold medal. In the Teach and Train category, senior Catherine Holmes recieved a silver.

Junior Michael McHale recieved a bronze in leadership, and seniors Brianna Schweitzer and Erin Kiely recieved a bronze in Entrepreneurship.

As a staff, we decided to throw and Easter celebration! We had an easter egg hunt, but when everyone was finished, we were one egg short! Help us find the last egg. The first person to report to room 605 at the beginning of 6th hour gets a prize!

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Photo credit to Erin Kiely

FCCLA Moves Forward

01011011000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000 00001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000 00001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000 00001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000 04 00001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000 News 00001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000011010000110100001101000 00001101000100000001000000010001000100100000100000010100000101000001010000010100000101000001010000010100000 Tech Night and Hackathon offer a chance to utilise and learn technological skills.

00010100000101000001010000010100000101000001010000010100000101000001010000010100000101000001010000010100000 Story by Teresa Parra Photo by Jordan Wheelhouse 00010100000101000001010000010100000101000001010000010100000101000001010000010100000101000001010000010100000 00010100000101000001010000010100000101000001010000010100000101000001010000010100000101000001010000010100000 0001 The opportunities in the technology field can be beneficial to their kids for more than goal. There are many things you can learn01000001 from Hackathon.

0101 are expanding in the Liberty Public School just a career.

00000101 district.

There was a Tech Night on April 2, “One point of Tech Night is to get people “The perception of what technology really00010100 0100 and students perusing technology or who who are interested out of their shell, is, and what it means, there’s kind of a 0000 are interested can participate in Hackathon because a lot of people are ashamed to misconception among students,” Matthew01010000 0001 on April 26. pursue or admit that they have an interest Barksdale president of Engage Mobile said.01000001 0101 On April 2 there was Tech Night from in technology,” Olivia Clemens said. “At “It’s not about programming, it’s not about00000101 0100 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. at Liberty North High Tech Night they want people to be aware sitting behind a computer, that’s like a small00010100 0000 School. Students were able to meet high that it is cool and there are so many job subset of technology. What technology01010000 school students, college students, and opportunities in that field. There’s so much is really all about is applying knowledge 0001 professionals who are passionate about the you can do with it and we just want those in new and unique ways in order to solve01000001 0101 field of technology.

00000101 people to get out of their shell. If you like it problems.”

0100 “Tech Night is open to middle school then you should try and pursue it.”

The skills the students will take from this00010100 0000 students and high schools students,” junior Another event geared towards technology: experience can help them with many kinds01010000 Hackathon is a telethon where students of job opportunities in the future.

0001 Isebelle Matthys said. “There is a panel of 01000001 high school students; a panel of college from all ages come together to code, hack, “Technology cuts across all industries,” 0101 students and a panel of people from start and work together towards a goal.

00000101 Barksdale said. “So almost any job you 0100 up companies. They are just going to share “Hackathon is a 24 hour programming can think of is going to be impacted by00010100 0000 there high school and college experiences, day. Basically the students will be in groups technology. The thing I’m focusing on in01010000 0001 what kind of stuff they took to get where five or six programming an app or game the speech is that technology is going to01000001 0101 they are. You can get some of your questions that can hopefully go to apple or android impact every job, every industry in some00000101 answered there.” market.” way.”

0100 Other than having lots of people there to 00010100 Hackathon is not just for students who As technology is moving forward it is 0000 help answer your questions, there were also know how to code; it is for all different important students are well aware of what’s01010000 0001 many other activities or booths to check kinds of students.

01000001 happening. out.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the diverse “So you have two choices, ” Barksdale 0101 00000101 0100 “There were also booths there, college amount of kids there from all different ages said. “You can either embrace that and00010100 booths and a couple businesses booths,” and from all different aspects of school,” be proactive with the changes that are 0000 Matthys said. “There were also some junior Tyler Tetens said. “There’s mentors taking place. Or you can just sit back and01010000 0001 hands on activities. Our Robotics team and students of all different ages there to let those changes happen to you. So it’s01000001 0101 will be there and have a booth. North West help too. It’s for all different types students, really important for students to embrace00000101 not just students looking to code; it’s for technology and embrace the change that00010100 0100 Missouri State will be there too.”

Tech Night was an event geared toward students from graphic design, and web are taking place. Because that’s going to01010000 0000 informing 6 to 12 grade kids looking at development also.” create opportunity with both the short term 0001 the possibilities of a technology as career.

01000001 The over all goal of Hackathon is for and the long term.”

0100 The night is also geared towards informing students to work together as team to code, 00000100 0000 parents about how the fields of technology to learn, and to work towards a common 00010010 1000 01001000 000100 10000010000000100000001000000100100001000 001000 10001000100000001000000010000000100000001 010000 00010000000100000001000000010000000100000 000010 00000010100000101000001010000010100000101 010000 01010000010100000101000001010000010100000 001010 00001010000010100000101000001010000010100 000001 01000001010000010100000101000001010000010 101000 00101000001010000010100000101000001010000 Tech Night offered 000101 00000101000001010000010100000101000001010 students and parents 100000 10100000101000001010000010100000101000001 an opertunity to learn 010100 00010100000101000001010000010100000101000 valuable skills.

000010 10000010100000101000001010000010100000101 010000 01010000010100000101000001010000010100000

Techno hotspot

A Masked Bash

05 News

This year will LHS plans to host a dance specifically for under classmen.

Story by Tara Prindle For freshmen and sophomores looking forward to an end of the year dance, Link Crew will have a black and white masquerade in the gym on April 25 from 7:30 p.m.-10:30 p.m. for freshmen and sophomores to enjoy.

“Students can choose to dress up for the dance or they are free to go more casual if they so chose. We just ask that students try to play off the color theme [black and white] in their attire and then get creative with their choice of mask,” guidance counselor Scott Gillespie said. “In addition to dancing, we’ll also have plenty of other activities for students during the event and our upperclassmen Link Leaders are excited to be there, so it should be a great time for everyone.

Our goal with this Black and White Masquerade is not to re-create prom for our underclassmen, but rather we hope to give them something that is solely theirs, an event they can look forward to at the end of the year as they await their opportunity to experience Prom for themselves,” he said.

This dance will continue in the future.

Link Crew wants to make this an annual event.

“We were looking for a social event to do for the end of the year. We are trying to make a new dance and it will for sure be formal,” junior McKenzie Barnett said. “I think they’re setting it up like Prom where [students] vote for the theme. It will be

Photos by Jordan Wheelhouse

around Prom time and it will be in the gym, but it will be a lot cheaper than Prom.”

Link Crew commissioners (leaders within Link Crew) came up with the idea of the event, then the rest of our Link Crew narrowed down the options to several different themes. By popular demand from the Link Crew’s advisory students, the theme is now set as black and white masquerade and whoever has the best mask will get a prize.

“Our hope is that this will be an event that the majority of our freshmen and sophomores will want to attend,” Gillespie said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if we were able to sell a few hundred tickets this year.

Tickets will most likely be somewhere in the ballpark of $5-10. We want it to be cheap enough that students will be willing to pay the cost of admission, but expensive enough to cover the costs of the decorations and music and other special things to make it classy and special.”

The responses from both freshmen and sophomores have been going both ways from very excited to seemingly uncaring.

Some are fearful that if would take away from all the other dances that they get to look forward to during each year, especially Prom.

“I am [going to] go to [the dance] and I’m super excited about it,” freshman Kaylyn Peterson said. “I’m going with my boyfriend from Blue Springs. I’m really hoping [the

Left: Guidance Councilor Scott Gillespie hang a sign advertising the upcoming event.

Right: Senior, Alex Cottman puts the finishing touches on the sign.

theme] will be masquerade. I [also] really hope that they do this [dance] because there wasn’t too many dances this year and no one really came to Sadie Hawkins so I really hope people come to this one.”

The hype on the dance from the students will hopefully keep it in the school year for many years to come, making it a new tradition.

“I am not sure if I’m going to [the dance] because I don’t know the date yet, but I might if my boyfriend asks me,” sophomore Liz Lovesee said. “I think [the new dance] is a very good idea and I think it’ll be a good experience for the freshmen and sophomores.”

“We really wanted our freshmen and sophomores to have one more special event this spring just for themselves, to try and bring everyone closer together and create an even stronger sense of community here at Liberty High School. What better way to do this than a dance?” Gillespie said.

Blue Jays Defend Yourself Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu club teaches students to defend themselves in sticky situations.

Story by: Michael McHale Out of all of the new clubs that have emerged in recent years, Brazilian JiuJitsu is rapidly growing at LHS. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a form of martial arts and self-defense focused on different grappling submission techniques without actually striking one’s opponent. The club enables students to learn about self-defense, practice self-control and gain confidence.

This club is open to students from LHS and from Liberty North, and practices are held every Thursday from 4:30 to 6:00 PM in the LNHS Wrestling Room.

Many practices are spent learning new moves and perfecting the techniques they are taught. “[At practices,] there’s up to 30 guys, and we drill some moves,” senior Alex yates said. “Mr. Wheeler demonstrates for us first, and then we go back with a partner and try to do it ourselves, and try to perfect that move.”

Physical activity and fitness are extremely important aspects of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, but a lot of learning and practicing is involved as well.

“It’s a learning process,”

Photos by: Margaret Burton sophomore Isaac Elliott said. [We] just keep learning different moves, and then after a few weeks you use what you’ve learned and try to spar with other people. It’s really fun.”

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu can be a great outlet for students who are not interested in traditional sports, but still want to be active and get involved in something at LHS. “The club was created so that high school students can learn Brazilian JiuJitsu in a fun, safe environment and do it for free,” Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu sponsor Joe Wheeler said. “It’s an alternative to regular high school sports, and something to participate in [where] they can make a lot of new friends. It helps them be a better person.”

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu’s membership has also sparked the interest in female students at LHS. “The first time I went I was actually the only girl, but now there’s about 10 girls,” junior Justice Thompson said.

Not only are more females getting involved in the club, but also the overall membership of the club has more than tripled in the year it has been at LHS.

Above: Senior Alex Yates slings his competitor in a match.

Right: Senior Neno Bernard tries to escape from a hold in practice.

“We started off with about five kids originally, and now we have over 30 kids at each practice. So the club is growing, and lots of people now know that we have it,” Wheeler said. “Lots of other Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu schools in the community know about us, they come and practice with us and we train with them as well.”

As LHS’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu club continues to grow, members are learning more and more about the art of this unique self-defense system and even more about themselves.

“I’ve realized that I’m a lot stronger than I think I am,” Thompson said.

“In reality, I would never really try something new on occasion, but trying new things is good because I never thought I would like it and I do. And I’ve also learned a lot of selfdefense moves.” Yates agreed.

“I’ve never had to use it in real life” he said. “But I feel like I would be prepared if I had to.”

More information about Brazilian JiuJitsu can be found on their website, www.libertyjiujitsu.weebly.com.

07 Features

8 Spotlight

Addison Moore Senior

Story by Sol Kim

Photo by Kristen Poe

What studio do you dance at? “[I go to] Elite Dance Studio. I’ve been dancing since I was two, so this is my 16th year.”

Why do you enjoy dancing?

“My favorite part about dancing would probably be teaching. I really enjoy the time I get to spend with the younger dancers. Watching them grow as dancers and watching them perform has been my favorite part.”

What do you like about Student Council and what will you miss most when you leave?

“I’ve been in student council all throughout high school. I would say my favorite part is being able to be involved with the school and making a positive difference. I will miss the people the most.

We have all become a little family, and I’ll miss the people and the sponsors.”

Why do you think that leadership is an important trait to have?

“I think it’s important because no matter what situation you’re in there’s going to have to be one person, or a group of people, that have to step up to be the leader, to get things done, to be productive no matter where you are.”

What do you see yourself doing in the next ten years?

Who Addison really is..

Addison is a competitive dancer and is a part of Student Council. She aspires to become an elementary school teacher

“Well next year I’ll be going to Mizzou. And after that I hope to graduate and become a teacher. I’d love to teach elementary school.”

Mrs. Badalucco’s thoughts on Addison: “I have had the pleasure of having Addison in class the last two years.

We have gotten to know each other better since her membership in FCCLA. She did well competing in regionals and is competing at State FCCLA on March 31st. She is a hard worker, strives for good grades, and is determined.”

Austin Cable Junior

Story by Sarah Arns

Photo by Rachel Untch

What experience do you have performing?

“I auditioned last year [for Exit 1-6] and I made it in this year and next year because once your in your in. I started theater in 8th grade and have been in two plays (Tom Sawyer and Macbeth) and I’m currently playing the main character in The Nerd.”

What is your favorite memory while performing?

“The last show that I did because it was my first time hosting. It was really fun to actually get out there and talk to a crowd and be me instead of just improv which is still really fun. That’s why it’s so hard to choose between that and my first show because it was my first time in front of a crowd performing and making comedy up as I went along. It was terrifying and awesome.”

What was your most embarrassing Exit 1-6 moment?

“There was this one time, I think it was the first show of this year, and I was with Josh Anderson. We were doing a scene and I said one line that I thought was really funny and the audience did too but I thought it was so funny that I kept laughing in my head. I thought I was so hilarious that I forgot to say anything else so it was just me staring at Josh while he had to carry on the scene. I blanked.”

Have you made a lot of friends through theatre?

“Yes, pretty much all of them because the theater group is such a big happy family with each other that there’s nobody that hates each other, I think.”

Do you plan on making acting a career for you in the future?

“I want to make my acting into a career as a theater teacher because I want to see more people love acting as much as I do.”

Mrs. MacGee thoughts on Austin: “Austin is a vivacious, enthusiastic, hardworking individual who is a fabulous addition to our class.

He continually participates and is very animated while giving his responses.”

Who Austin really is..

Humor and quick wit come naturally to Austin, who uses these qualites to aid him in improv acting shows with Exit 1-6. His acting talent has landed him the lead in the comedy The Nerd.

9 Spotlight

10 Spotlight

Brooklyn Balsdon Sophomore

Story by Teresa Parra

Photo by Madi Hayter

Where do you go snowboarding?

“I just go to random places, like during spring break I went to Steam Boat, Colorado, at Breckenridge; I haven’t been snowboarding for that long, only like two or three years. My favorite part is the thrill of it and being out on a mountain, feeling free and refreshed.”

Where do you go wakeboarding?

“I go to Lake of the Ozark’s. I have a lake house down there; and I’ve been wakeboarding for probably four to five years. My family likes to teach people how wakeboard, we’ve taught about twenty people how to. It’s a big thing in my family, everyone in my family wakeboards except my mom.”

Which do you prefer, snowboarding or wakeboarding?

“They are both equally fun. You can compare them, but the atmospheres’ are bipolar. Being on the mountain is so refreshing and rejuvenating.

Then being on the water is just like soaking up the sun. They’re just different feelings.”

What do you aspire to be?

“I want to be a makeup artist, I want to have my own makeup line, and I would also like to be a YouTube guru.”

When did you become interested in makeup?

“In 6th grade I never wore any makeup until my friend put eyeliner on me one time. And I thought if she’s doing it then I have to do it. So at first I was god awful at it. But then I don’t know how, but somehow things just clicked and I started becoming really good at makeup. So ever since 7th grade I’ve been practicing, making YouTube videos, and practicing on my friends for dances.”

Who Brooklyn really is..

Brooklyn aspires to be a makeup artist and a YouTube guru on her page SparkleByBrooklyn. She also enjoys snowboarding and wakeboarding.

Mrs. Kleinmeyer’s thoughts on Brooklyn: “Brooklyn is always answering questions, getting involved, and willing to share; I can tell she’s done her work. She’s an intelligent, friendly, social, confident young lady; who always has a positive attitude and it’s great to have her in class.”

Daniel Spielhagan Freshman

Story by Sol Kim

Photo by Sadie Zipsie

What is your favorite thing about LHS? “Liberty Hour gives me a lot of time to get lunch; I like the time we get to use to finish homework, I go to the choir room and practice sometimes.”

How are you adjusting to LHS?

“I miss my old friends. [It was] kind of awkward at first but then I made new friends. [I learned that you need to] turn in all your homework and [try] talking to people.”

How long have you been in choir?

“[I’ve been in choir] since the 7th grade. Sometimes they let me play the piano and play the accompanying song. I’ve been playing [the piano] for about five years. I play while they sing in the concert.”

How does music affect your home life?

“My mom does [play] but not much anymore. [Our piano at home] is not a grand piano but it’s a Kawasaki.”

What are some interesting facts about you?

“I have five older sisters; the oldest is 30 the youngest is 17. [My sisters] pick on me a lot.”

Do you have any quirks about you?

“I have a weird bone and a rib that is not fully attached.”

What do you see yourself doing in 10 years?

“I want to be a doctor after I graduate college. [My top choices] are Northwest Missouri State and William Jewell.”

Dr. Heruth’s thoughts on Daniel: “We are thrilled to have Daniel join us in the LHS Vocal Music Department. He is such a respectful student, and he is a wonderful performer. One day, after choir class, Daniel asked if he could play the piano, and we discovered that he is more than just a talented singer! We were so proud to have Daniel accompany over 100 singers in our March 13th concert in an arrangement of the song ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water.’”

Who Daniel really is..

Daniel, new to LHS, has ‘wow’ed the LHS music department in just a few months with a stellar voice and a talent for playing piano..

11 Spotlight

12 Spotlight

Chad Frigon

Story by Kennedy Allison

Photo by Ashley Covarrubias

Teacher

How long have you been coaching for Liberty?

“This is my 19th season. I taught at Liberty Middle School for 16 years and have been at Liberty High School for three. Next year will be my 20th fall with Liberty football.”

What’s the highlight of your coaching career?

“We’ve had a lot of great games but the one that stands out to me the most is beating Rockhurst this year. It was great that it happened this year because it was a huge milestone for the team, we’ve had a lot of close games, but this is the first time we’ve beat them since 1998 so that was a great win.”

What’s your favorite part about being a coach?

“My favorite part is the connections with kids and being in a community that puts so much value on the success of not only football but all of their sports.”

What do you do in your spare time?

“I spend a lot of time with my kids. I have a daughter who’s nine and really into soccer, we go to a lot of soccer games. I have another daughter who’s 12 and a dancer at Studio 10. I spend a lot of my time with them and my wife, who’s an accountant.”

How do you find the time to tie together your kids’ activities with your own?

“I’m really lucky that both my daughters and my wife really like football so we do have that in common and go to a lot of games.

We spend a lot of time traveling and going on different trips, it’s just something that we enjoy doing as a family.”

What is something different about you?

Who Coach Frigon really is..

Forming bonds both on and off the football field, Coach Chad Frigon finds a balance between his family life and his Blue Jay family life.

“I read a lot. My favorite book is The Testament by John Grisham.

I like watching movies based off of books, I find it interesting to see how closely it compares to the book. I read a lot of thrillers or mystery novels but I also read a lot of sports psychology books, which can help my coaching career.”

Justin Callaway thoughts on Coach Frigon: “Coach Frigon is an outstanding players coach and can develop strong relationships with his young athletes in order to provide them with a better future.”

13 Spotlight

Wanda Gibson Support Staff

Story by Kennedy Allison

Photo by Madi Hayter

What is it like working at a school that your children attend?

“I love high schoolers, I love working with them they are the best. I like having kids that have gone through here because it means I get to know so many of the kids! It’s always nice to see their faces running around the hallway. I had a daughter who was a senior last year and my son (Junior Tim Gibson) goes here now. It makes me sad because as soon as my youngest son comes through I won’t have any more!”

How long have you been a para at LHS? “I’ve been here at Liberty High School for three years now. I was a TAP para, then I worked as a fast forward para for two years, subbed for two years and then now I’m where I am today! I help people here. I do a lot of behind the scenes work, work with computers and find books.”

What is your favorite memory at LHS? “I don’t know that I have a favorite memory. As a para I get to help so many kids all the time and that’s something I really enjoy.”

How many books do you read a month?

“I read about two each month, with my work and the activities my kids have I’m always on the go. I do like movies based on books though!”

What do you like to do in your free time?

“I really like to clean; dusting to me seems almost therapeutic. Although as much as I love to clean my house always seems to be a mess!”

What is your dream vacation?

“My family used to live in Europe so I’d like to go back there and travel a couple of those places. Maybe a Mediterranean cruise!”

Mrs. Adams thoughts on Mrs. Gibson: “I really enjoy working with Mrs. Gibson, she loves working with the students; she knows a lot of them.

She’s very good at her job and makes coming to work everyday a very excellent experience.”

Who Mrs. Gibson really is..

As a librarian at LHS, Mrs. Gibson is thoughtful and enjoys her job working with high school students.

14 Indepth

A gatsby affair Students have already begun planning for the night of prom.

Story by Zach Kilgas and Amanda Kovac One of high school’s oldest traditions is the Prom dance. Year after year, girls attending the dance enjoy flaunting their gowns and heels.

Boys sport bow ties with their tuxedos and accompany their dates. For one night, these students treat themselves to fine dining, dancing and a night full of festivities.

However, for many people, preparations for this grand event begin long before the day of the dance.

What Makes Prom So Unique?

One student explained what makes Prom an amazing event.

“Prom is so important because of the memories it makes,” junior StuCo member Haley Hart said. “It’s typically a night that students never forget and it’s the ultimate high school experience that upperclassmen wait for. It’s a night that most of our classmates look forward to.”

Another student offered her opinion as to why Prom was so revered.

“Prom is important for students because it’s been a part of

Photos by Diana Timmermans high schools for so long,” junior Mackenzie Herrman said. “It’s an experience that you can share with your friends.”

Long before the unforgettable night, or even the preparations, many students fantasize about prom.

“Immediately after homecoming I started to imagine and look for a perfect Prom dress,” Herrman said.

For some, dreams of their Prom began much earlier in the year.

“I started to think about my senior prom at the beginning of the year,” senior Trei Hall said. “I thought, ‘I’m excited about Prom this year!’”

Student Outlook

For students, preparing for Prom includes finding the perfect dress or tuxedo for the night. However, some are willing to pay much more than others. “[My price range is] around $300, because I’m a senior and hopefully my mom will pay for it,” senior Hannah Miller said.

Other students tend to look for deals to keep the costs of Prom to a minimum.

“I spent $39 on my dress at Half of Half,” senior Nyshelle Posey said.

“Personally I think it’s okay to spend $100, but spending $500 dollars on a dress?

That’s two car payments. It’s not a wedding, nine out of ten times you’re not going to marry your date.”

Each student views Prom in a different way. Some will

spend months planning for Prom, while others sit back and let their friends take the wheel.

“Honestly I haven’t thought about Prom, its more of a last minute thing,” senior Kellan Turner said. “If you plan it all year your hopes get higher and higher and higher- then if anything goes wrong you’re really disappointed.”

Some students prefer to be left out of the prepping process altogether and just focus on the fun of Prom.

“I’m not worried about Prom at all,” senior Zach Scheible said. “I’ll leave the planning to the girls. I’m most excited for the after party.”

Prom Planners The juniors of Student Council are the individuals who plan the logistics of the dance. They began prepping for the dance first by choosing a Prom theme.

“I began to think about it early in the year, because we’re planning Prom in Student Council,” junior StuCo Member Teryn Deshler said. “We chose the theme two or three weeks before winter break.”

Planning Prom has provided these students a different outlook.

“I didn’t attend Prom last year, but the good things I hear about the dances makes me proud because Student Council works really hard to make them the best we can,” Deshler said.

For StuCo members planning Prom has been a balancing act.

“I think to plan a successful prom, you need to balance the fun aspects that will make the student body enjoy the dance with the logistics of planning such a huge event,” Hart said. “It’s important to incorporate the not-so-fun things that will make everything run smoothly.”

One StuCo member explained the vision.

“First, I love the theme,” junior StuCo member Madison Jones said. “The vision is for this year’s Prom to be the biggest and the best party that anyone has ever seen. I think it gets the students excited to live up the real Gatsby.”

With the theme of “A Gatsby Affair,” Prom is highly awaited.

“I think it’s cool because the newer movie version just recently came out,” senior Jennifer Harness said.

Livin’ It Up

Some want to enhance their Prom night further, this includes limousines or a party bus with a huge groups of friends to fill it.

“My group of friends talked about if we were

going to get a party bus because we’re seniors and we wanted to go all out,” Miller said.

Most seniors agreed, this was their year reach for the extravagant.

“Well this year, I’m planning on going in a limo,” Hall said. “I’m planning on a fancier dinner than the other years, more eloquent.”

Groups can have a huge range in size.

“Oh gosh, my group has at least forty people... at least,” Herrman said.

However, a large group can lead to potential trouble.

“I think there are pros and cons to [going all out],” Guidance Counselor Melanie Prince said.

“In some ways safety in numbers is better, and having a professional driver is the right choice, but I think the problem can come is when groups mix, and you find yourself in a group of people who are doing things you shouldn’t be. Guilty by association or drawn to it. If you know all the members in the group, and you’re all on the same page it’ll be a good thing, but if not it could turn into disaster.”

For some, their Prom is about being with close friends.

“I didn’t want a huge group,” Hall said. “I have a group with me and my two best friends and their dates.

Six people total.”

As this year’s Prom draws nearer, students anticipate the night, and try to make the most of the night with preparations.

15 Indepth

16 A&E

Let the sushi roll The Bell staff explores the best sushi destinations in the area.

Review by Aly Copp and Sarah Arns

Located by Venetian Tan in Liberty

Design by Meredith Crouch

Wasabi (Rated 4 out of 5 sushi rolls by Sarah and Aly) Sarah - “Wasabi is probably the most wide-ranged sushi place

that can be found near Liberty. Their menu includes Maki (8pc), Tempura (battered and fried foods), Nigiri (special 1pc sushi rolls), noodles (hot and cold), Sashimi (fresh sliced fish), and even Japanese Bento boxes which consist of four pieces of California rolls, steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables and your choice of meat.

Within these categories the selection is endless and unique and I would definitely keep going back to try all the interesting combinations. They also have a lunch special for only ten dollars and a happy hour with reasonable priced combos. I would describe Wasabi as the new-age sushi spot.”

Aly - “Wasabi is a little Japanese restaurant close to the new Price

Photo by Aly Copp

Chopper here in Liberty. The sushi is pretty good, and there is a wide variety of it. My sushi roll came out only about 5-10 minutes after I ordered it. To top it off, they have one of the little bowls on your way out the door full of mints that you are free to help yourself to. The only problem with Wasabi is its size. I would not recommend going to this restaurant with a huge group because it is not very spacious inside.”

KC Sushi Aly - “If you are ever out in the Zona Rosa area and

want some great sushi, travel on down to KC Sushi. I don’t consider myself to be a picky eater, but I know what I like. This is why I am always really appreciative of restaurant employees who answer all of my inquiries about ingredients in their products, and make substitutions or additions that I ask for without a complaint. The staff at KC Sushi was happy to answer any question I had. The sushi and crab rangoon both came out warm and delicious. One other thing I liked about this place was the atmosphere. Although located in a simple looking building, the interior of the restaurant was extremely modern and clean looking. Since the drive to KC Sushi is not the closest venture, I would recommend going if you are already in KC or shopping at Zona.”

Sarah - “After trying an array of sushi, with the spider roll being a

personal favorite, I knew that the longer drive was well worth it. Not only is the interior inviting but also the service is remarkable. Each dish is at a reasonable price during their happy hour and served quickly and neatly, with several check backs from the waiter. For the food itself I found it all above average in taste compared to other sushi restaurants. KC Sushi also has a table grill experience and some more decadent choices on their menu such as fillet mignon and crab tail for a higher price. Overall the highlights of KC Sushi that will keep you coming back for more are their experienced cooks and outstanding hospitality.”

Located by Zona Rosa

Photo by Sarah Arns

Located in the strip by Chipolte

17 A&E

Moonlight

Aly- “Moonlight Sushi was where I had my first ever sushi experience

about a year ago. Ever since I had my first bite of a Yummy Roll at Moonlight I have been hooked. This place is my favorite sushi restaurant, not only because of the excellent sushi, but also because of the stellar service. The other day I placed an order to-go. When I came to pick it up, I asked for additional eel sauce on the side and said I had money to pay for the extra expense. They told me not to worry about it and happily gave it to me for free. Another time I came to dine in.

After finishing my meal, a waiter who I did not know said that he had a surprise for me. Shortly after he brought me out a slice of cheesecake that he said was on the house. I highly recommend Moonlight to anyone wanting amazing sushi and even better service.”

Sarah - “I was immediately impressed by the cleanly, casual atmosphere

that the establishment held. I observed a menu full of choices with reasonable prices. I would highly recommend going straight to the lunch special on the menu any time between 11:00am and 3:30pm for the best deal on a filling meal consisting of either a soup or salad and two rolls of sushi. There wasn’t outstanding service due to open seating and a checklist for your order. There was really no contact with the staff but the slight wait was well worth it for the delicious sushi. If you want reliable, quality sushi in an open atmosphere I would recommend the Moonlight Bar and Grill.”

Photo by Aly Copp

Japanese Steak House Sarah - “When you walk into the

Located by B&B Theaters

Photo by Sarah Arns

Japanese Steak House, you feel an actual Japanese vibe in the air. The decor and low lighting sets a more private mood but the friendly staff knows how to break the ice. My recommendation for the best sushi experience is to go for a special occasion and sit at one of the big tables with the grill for dinner and a show. The food is made fresh right before your eyes and it tastes great.

They also have some good desserts to try and a unique caterpillar roll that I get every time. The only warning I have is not to wear too nice of clothes unless you’re good at catching flying food in your mouth.”

Aly - “Fuji is one of my all time favorite restaurants. I love sitting behind the big Hibachi grill and watching the chef cook

my food right in front of me. This is why I was disappointed when I did not take such a liking to the sushi I ordered there.

To me it just seemed like there was too much seaweed and the rice was too sticky. This little experience however did not ruin my feelings towards Fuji. I still love going there, but I just stick to sitting behind the Hibachi grill and ordering chicken with their delicious fried rice.”

18 A&E

The cast is looking forward to performing a comedy for their final performance of the year.

Preview by Katie Crouch

Photos by Kristen Poe and Arley Emery

Liberty High School’s very own cast and crew of students are putting on The Nerd on May 8-10 at 7 PM in the Little Theater. Tackling a comedy can be a hard task, but this group of talented students is up for the challenge.

“The Nerd is about a middle-aged architect living in Indiana named Willum,” junior Austin Cable said.

“Suddenly his old army buddy comes back into his life because he [Willum] saved his [the Nerd, Rick’s] life and told him that he could always have a place if he needed it.”

When Rick moves in, things start to go very wrong.

“He comes and starts living with him and completely ruining his life,” Cable said. “Basically everything goes wrong.”

This play has a smaller cast, which gives the students a lot of opportunities for character development.

“There’s a lot more room for improvisation and to be a little more outgoing,” senior Roslinde Rivera said.

“And you should do that with every role, but with comedy it just comes easier.”

The comedic aspect of this play is definitely what sets it apart from other plays the high school has put on before.

“Students like to laugh, and it’s a comedy!” Rivera said. “The people we have are just very comedic people. It will be hilarious.”

This particular rendition of The Nerd is especially unique due to all of the talented actors and dedicated instructors.

“I really like how animated this play

is,” student teacher Kelsey Bowers said.

“All the characters are really unique but when they come together they create one huge really cool story.”

Not only will this be a must-see for the comedy, but there are also good lessons to be learned.

“There’s a ton of fun characters and a lot of good lessons,” senior Alex Hemphill said. “It’s going to be a really funny show. There’s some innuendos, kids like innuendos.”

The students involved are very thankful to have such a dedicated director.

“I really appreciate his accountability,” Hemphill said. “Everybody always has to be there.”

Everyone is welcome to purchase a ticket and come support the Liberty High School theater department’s production of The Nerd.

“They take some stereotypical nerdiness that you would expect out of a nerd, but shake it up and put a different twist on it,” Bowers said.

Above: Alex Hemphill is looking forward to the last play of his high school career and playing the lead as Rick the nerd.

Left: Junior Austin Cable has earned the role as Willum who is constantly agitated by Rick’s antics.

19 A&E Below: Directors Don Johnson and Mick Turpin listen during a read-through.

Above: Hemphill rehearses with junior Noah Pozel who is playing Axel.

Above: Senior Ashley Stuck prepares for her role as Thorina during a read-through.

20 opinion

Our Opinion on the Masquerade Some students are uneasy with the idea of an underclassmen dance around the same time as prom season.

But The Bell staff members are not some of those people.

After getting all the details on the Black & White Masquerade, we realized it was nothing more than a fun event Link Crew has been planning this year just like the finals week study nights for underclassmen.

This event was created to give the new incoming class of students a dance experience that is totally their own, planned by our very own Link Crew members.

The reasoning behind having the dance for freshman and sophomores is that this year we welcomed two new grade levels. Next year, Link Crew is

planning on just having a freshman dance to welcome and include the class that is sometimes excluded in the mainstream of high school.

So The Bell staff thinks, why not have an underclassmen dance? Link Crew is doing the dance for all the right reasons; they aren’t

So for juniors and seniors, don’t think Link Crew is trying to steal your thunder by making this Black & White Masquerade, especially because your Link Crew members and also your peers wanted to make this happen and they have!

Also for freshman and sophomores, why not go to the Black & White Masquerade?

These upper classmen have put their figurative blood, sweat, and tears into this dance so you can experience something that t r y i n g they never got to experience to take away from themselves. Plus you don’t want to the prom and upper classmen look back and regret sitting at home experience. They are talking about that night when you could be having a even changing when they put on the ton of fun with your friends. dance for the freshman next year to earlier in the year, making it nothing remotely in the same realm as prom.

photos by Molly Meeks and courtesy of Google Imgaes

The articles on these pages do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the entire Bell staff. Please feel free to comment, criticize, or condemn anything you see on this page in a Letter to the Editor at thebell@liberty.k12.mo.us

Opinion

Everything is Awesome

On June 16, 2016, I will not be making plans. That day will be spent camping outside the nearest movie theatre, counting down the minutes until the midnight premier of Finding Dory. I am not sure what I am more excited for, getting to see one of my favorite animated characters back in action, or being able to channel my inner fiveyear-old.

I am proud of my five-year-old tendencies. My Netflix account doesn’t recommend documentaries or drama films. Rather, my options range from The Fantastic Mr. Fox to The Aristocats. And when I wake up in the morning and enjoy a nice cup of coffee, I always drink it out of my Little Mermaid mug, obviously purchased at Downtown Disney.

Being able to channel my inner-child is important to me. Kids are constantly standing in awe and wonder at the

Editor in Chief Madi Denton world around them. As the Lego Movie stated it; “Everything is awesome,” which is very accurate. Everything is new and exciting, and there is so much to explore. I never want to see the day that I lose that aspect of myself. Life is so much more enjoyable when it can still surprise you.

So I will continue to sing and dance to “I’ll Make a Man Out of You,” and enjoy a princess coloring book or two. Much like Wendy Darling and Peter Pan, I wish to never truly grow up. A part of my life will always be committed to childhood tendencies.

No one says it better than Walt Disney himself. “You’re dead if you only aim for kids. Adults are only kids grown up, anyway.”

My Haitian Spring Break

everyone. When we weren’t playing with the orphans, or performing our drama, we all had a great time laughing together, playing cards, doing team-bonding questions, or learning sign language from kids on the team.

I personally came home with several new friends, not to mention some inside jokes.

Then the work we did, was even better than the people we went with.

We were able to perform the “Freedom Drama” which is pretty much straight gospel. Except it’s full of sword fights (which Mikayla and I were great at, by the way), ending with good conquering evil. The Haitians loved it. Haitians in general have a strange reaction to being uncomfortable, they laugh. Which was hard to get used to, when Satan was being evil and scary, and the audience is laughing.

We were also able to go to a couple nearby villages to perform the drama and just play with the people in the town. We did have quite a few translators, but even when they weren’t with us, we were able to play games even with the language barrier.

Our plans went surprisingly close to how we expected. Usually there are lost bags, late flights, or cancelled activities. This time however, the only issue we ran into was not being able to visit one village, because the waves were too rough to land. Or, when we had more kids than expected show up for our conference, which trust me, no one was complaining about.

And then there are the orphans.

The mission we stayed on had an orphanage on the campus. So every night we went over and put them to bed. They would sing and crawl in our laps and sometimes fall asleep.

During our free time we would go and play games with them or let the girls braid our hair. Once we took them to the beach. For those eight days those orphans were like the team’s children or siblings. Those kids melted our hearts.

I could not have asked for a better way to spend my spring break. This is the short version too, there are numerous stories I could tell, this whole newspaper could be filled with our team’s stories and photos.

Opinion

Summer Here I Come Throughout all of my senior year, it hasn’t really occurred to me that I am really a senior. As funny as that sounds, and I promise to all you underclassmen, it doesn’t feel real until you are three fourths of the way done with the year.

For me, it didn’t hit until the last day of March when Mrs. Ware handed us a bright yellow paper that had a calendar containing everything we will be doing from now until the last day of school.

It surprised me how easily it was to fill up one page with everything we will be doing until May 12th.

With the excitement that rushed in me, it also made me think of the one thing that is one everyone’s mind: summer.

I’ve been so busy with endless piles of homework that I keep forgetting that the weather is finally warming up and summertime is a little over a month away.

So I set aside my homework one night

and I started thinking of all the things I wanted to do this summer with my friends and family. If this year has gone as fast as it has, summer is definitely going to be here in the blink of an eye. To me, there is no shame in buying concert tickets that are in July now and planning road trips that would usually take a lot more consideration than 2 months before we leave.

This summer is worth planning early for though. Things are changing, whether it is best friends from middle school going to a different school or just wanting to try something new.

My summer plans consist of doing anything in my power to make it the best and most memorable summer my life.

No final paper or test can prevent me from thinking about how this summer will play out.

21 opinion

Ads Manager Sammi Siegel

photos by and courtesy of Molly Meeks

While many ran to beaches and other vacation destinations, 16 high school students and I spent our spring break in the Mole St. Nicholas, Haiti on a church mission trip. We spent 8 days covered in dirt, the boys took cold showers, and I had to fly in a plane.

People who know me know that I am not too fond of flying, and I may have squeezed my friend’s hand so hard while flying that my fingers turned purple and she had marks from my hand. But those eight plane rides, two of which took place in a nine-seater, were worth it. These were some of the best eight days of my life.

The team for one was incredible.

Usually there are cliques within the team, but somehow on this trip everyone got along and talked to

By Opinion Editor Molly Meeks

22 Spray opinion

Tan: To Dye or not to Dye By A&E Editor Meredith Crouch

It’s that time of the year again when many girls, and some guys, become concerned with the existence of their tan. The solution for most people is

to go to a tanning bed. Some students may have started tanning months ago or haven’t stopped since summer.

Others are looking to tan for prom or want to get a base tan for summer.

Many students are right to be wary of the negative effects that tanning can have on your skin. Being overexposed to ultra-violet radiation can cause wrinkles, brown spots and other evidences of premature aging. Using tanning beds can also make you prone to skin cancers such as melanoma.

Also, depending on your skin tone, building a tan through a tanning bed can take days or weeks. If you’re looking for instant color, your next best option is to get a spray tan.

It’s also unfortunate that spray tanning often has a bad reputation. You always here of people turning orange or the tan being uneven or streaked. But as long as you know what you’re getting yourself into, it is possible to get great, natural-looking color.

According to the Venetian tan website, it is important to exfoliate thoroughly

before your spray tan. After you’re done, you should wear dark, loose fitting clothing. Venetian and other tanning locations provide a lotion for you to put on before the tan to help it to stay even. You should also avoid showering, sweating or being exposed to any type of water for three hours.

Some people haven’t spray tanned before because they don’t know how it will look with their skin tone and don’t want to risk turning orange. I have always been pale so I understand this fear. If you are super pale like me you may want to consider getting a little bit of a base tan, from either going outside or going to the tanning bed, before you get a spray tan.

For someone like me, trying to go from super pale to super tan, going straight to a spray tan would most likely not be my first choice. But if I were slightly tan already and had an event to go to in the next few days that I would like to look more tan for, I would definitely get a spray tan instead of going to a tanning bed.

Spray Tanning v.s. Tanning Beds photos by Molly Meeks and Nicole Throckmorton

Bed Tanning: Oranges Aren’t Cute

Let’s face it, we live in a society that equates a tan body with health, whether it is actually healthy or not. People spend hundreds of dollars to achieve the perfect tan using natural sunlight and artificial tanning beds, or spray tans.

At one point or another, most of us want a tan. When is the last time you heard someone say that they wanted to stay pale for an upcoming event or vacation? You don’t.

I hear students talking about where they tan and how good their tan is. During the winter you can get sun from a tanning bed.

The warm beds are nice to get into after the chilly walk in the snow. After a long day at school, a relaxing tanning bed is needed.

Many of us students relax and get a tan at the same time. Venetian has also offered great deals and coupons for LHS students only.

I prefer a tanning bed because you can close your eyes and take a fast nap while

By Reporter Allie Schowengerdt

getting a bronze glow. Others choose to do a one-time spray tan. I have gotten a Spray tan and it was tragic for me. I turned out orange and blotchy. On top of that I had to go to school the next day and have everyone stare at my orange face.

Along with the many benefits there are some risks such as the possibility of getting skin cancer. There is a higher risk for skin and eye cancer if you over use the tanning bed.

There are many benefits from a tanning bed. The UV exposure produces vitamin D. Vitamin D can help strengthen bones and muscle strength, and helps build a good immune system. During the colder months a tanning bed is a good way to get vitamin D since we are stuck here at school all day.

Getting a sunburn can be painful and doesn’t look so well. When I tan indoors I get a base tan, and avoid getting sunburn by being in a tanning bed rather than outside.

24 Sports

Bluejays Batter Up The baseball team competes in the annual KC Metro tournament during March.

Story by Grace George The Liberty Baseball team kicked off their season by participating in the KC Metro Lead Off Tournament for the 8th year running. The tournament took place March 24-29 at Legacy Park in Lee’s Summit. 12 teams took part in the tournament with Liberty High School placing 3rd.

The boys went 3-2 throughout the week. They beat out Oak Park (15-4), Lee’s Summit (8-3), and

Come support your Jays this week at the Northland championship held at Oak Park High School on: 4/21 VS. Winnetonka at 4pm 4/22 VS. NKC at 4pm 4/23 VS. PHS at 4pm

Photos by Maddie Hissong, Kristen Poe, and TJ Stansbury Rockhurst (4-3). They fell short to Grain Valley (3-6) and Staley (0-10).

Playing in the KC Metro Lead Off Tournament sets out the path for the rest of the year.

“We’ve got a lot of kids on the team who don’t have a lot of varsity experience so this was very good experience for them,” Varsity Coach Vince Armilio said. “It is good, competitive competition. The teams that we play are great, so it helps us prepare for the rest of the season.”

The turn out of this year’s tournament was one of the better endings in the past few years.

“This years tournament was a classic case of Jeckyll and Hyde,” Armilio said.

“In the games that we won, we played very well as a team. We hit well and played good defense. In the games we

lost, we had some very big problems defensively.”

“This year we went to the championship,” senior Ross Juliana said. “We started off with a loss but came back strong and got a couple of wins.”

Though the boys have started off their season well, they know there is room to grow and they are hungry for success.

“I don’t want to be satisfied with what we have accomplished so far,” junior Jason Volkmann said. “Like every other team around, we want to go to state so we are putting in the work now to prepare to do so.”

With the first tournament behind them, the team hopes to continue and add to their success throughout the rest of the spring season.

Above: Senior Ross Juliana pitches a No-Hitter in the first four innings against number 1 ranked Blue Springs South on March 31, leading the Jays to a 7-2 victory. Left: Senior Jacob Francis throws a baseball from his position at first base.

Senior Brock Dorothy meets with Assistant Coach Vince Armilio before the Jays played in a jamboree against Blue Springs South, Winnetonka, and Platte County on March 15 at LHS.

Bluejays Start Season Strong

25 Sports

The boys and girls track team host the Ron Ives meet at LHS Story by Alex Jimenez

Photos by Allison Schowengerdt

Right: Senior Kyle Gabrielson leads Blue Springs in their relay. Left: Freshman Sarah Parrott carries the baton in a relay.

The pinnacle of all track meets, the Ron Ives meet held at LHS is a great way to open the season for the Jays.

A big meet with 12 teams including: Raypec, Lee Summit, Lee Summit North, Lee Summit West, Rockhurst, Blue Springs, Blue Spring South, Staley, Truman and Oak park.

“It’s a tough race with 12 different teams, so it’s a lot of kids and you get to really see where you stand in your event in kc.” Senior Austin Throckmorton said. “Ron Ives has to be one of my favorite meets of the year.

Its nice to get to run on our home track, especially since its only the second year we have had it and last year it was cancelled because of weather.”

Even with all the talent and many different schools around the city competing, the jays always find a way to be a force to compete for overall first place.

The jays have had much success winning

the three times in the last five years. The speed and determination of this years team could prove for another successful meet and great starting point for the season.

It is not only known as a very competitive meet, but a very entertaining and exciting one as well. With all the teams and their teammates at the meet, the parents, fans, and friends section can reach a stunning crowd similar to Friday night football games.

“Ron Ives, I call it the show out meet because I always go as hard as I can because Im competing in front of a huge home crowd.” Junior Arron Kelly said. “You wanna do you best because this is the only home meet.”

Talking about competing and seeing where you are at race and level wise, this is the meet to show out or get shown out.

For some can determine if you can hang with the dogs and show the coaches you

are ready for big times. The anxiety and the heart-pounding can really build up as the stress before the race starts.

“This is a good test for the kids who have never gotten a chance to run in a meet, or a meet quite this size. It really tests these kids.” Coach Tim Fritson said. “We also get to see what these kids can do and get a good idea of where certain kids can compete and if they can earn a spot on a varsity open or relay.”

A time for friends, excitement and for some a chance to see where they can improve. The Ron Ives meet is the meet you will only experience here at Liberty so come cheer on your jays and see what their hard work as done for them.

26 Sports

A P R I L LIBERTY

“My favorite track memory is our very last meet of the season last year it was freezing cold and was purring rain and we were super behind in the 4 by 2 and I got the baton because I was the anchor and I beat out everybody in my meet. I devote 10 to 12 hours a week for track.”

“Kaiden is a kid who is very talented and a three sport athlete.

He’s a freshman who works really hard, I like how he comes in happy everyday and ready to work hard, and I think he’s going to be a good representative of LHS for the next few years.”

- Coach Chad Frigon “He’s got a lot of potential and I think he will go far. He works hard in practice and listens to what the coaches say so he can get it right and then he can fly!”

- Senior Jackson Redmond

Sydney Offield Sophomore Height: 5’0” 4X4 Time In Track: 3 years Favorite food: Chicken Alfredo

photo by Grayson Osborn

Kaiden Hulett Freshman Height: 5’8” Long Jump Time In Track: 1 years Favorite Food: Sea Food

photo by Arley Emery

B O B B L E J A Y S

LIBERTY

“I’ve been doing track since 8th grade. My dad ran track in high school and so did my uncles so they said I should do it so I gave it a try in 8th grade and I ended up really liking it.”

“I think I’ve seen a lot of maturity from her freshman year to now and just kind of with the group that she has, had to take a leadership role in.She has always had super strong work ethics and I think she’s an all around great reparative for our school.”

-Track Coach Pamela Koch “Sydney is always one of those girls that encourages us even if she finishes before us she on the sidelines clapping and encouraging us to run faster or do something right.

-Senior Jessica Rawie

27 Sports

A P R I L

“Golf is a great game to play. It takes a lot of skill and efforts on your own to master the game and to be able accomplish the things you want to accomplish.”

“Grant continues to work on his game skills but has really improved most in his ability to manage himself on the course.”

-Coach Forrest Bertoldie “Grant is a very hard worker and has become a real student of the game in the last year and it has improved his skills significantly.”

-Junior Braden Coates

Brittany Mueller Height: 5’3” Grade: Senior Position: Center-Mid Time Playing Soccer: 12 years Favorite Food: Mac and Cheese

photo by Summer Turner

photo by Grace George

Grant Perkins Height: 5’9” Grade: Junior Varsity Golf Time Playing Golf: 3 years Favorite Food: Mexican

“Soccer has been a release for me when I need it. I am able to go out and play and forget all the troubles that might be happening in my life. It has also allowed me to meet a lot of people and opened many doors for me.”

“Brittany is an amazing person who is willing to sacrifice for the team. I always know that Brittany will give everything she has in games and practice regardless of where I play her.”

-Coach Thomas Rottjakob “I have known and played soccer with Brittany since we were in kindergarten, we are around each other a lot and she has always carried herself with a very high character and never has a bad attitude about anything.”

-Senior Caleb Taylor

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