The Bell May 13

LHSNEWS.net

Volume 89, Issue 8 Liberty High School May 17, 2013

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Table Of Contents on the cover:

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Senior Arty Tuggle works to maintain his healthy lifestyle by lifting in the weight room. Take a look at some other health trends on page 10!

Stuco welcomes in the next generation of leadership. Come and see who will represent the student body next year.

Photo by Sarah Andrews

Photo by Taylor Jackson

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page 10 High school students have began taking their health to a whole new level. Find out what some of the most popular health trends are around town.

Senior Max Miller finishes off his high school baseball career with a bang. Check out his stats!

Photo by Jordan Wheelhouse

the bell

the bell staff Editor In Chief Madi Denton Design Editor Diana Timmermans Features Editor Aly Copp Sports Editor Nick Palmarine Opinion Molly Meeks A&E Editor Meredith Crouch News Editor Zach Kilgas Ads Manager Sarah Hartley Online News Manager/ Managing Editor Madi Hayter Website Technical Support Tyler Eggleston Adviser Lori Oyler Photo Journalism Photo Editor Sammi Novak Assistant Photo Editor Breann Koch

Departing Seniors Nathan Hunt Editor in Cheif Michaela Lamb Features Editor Shelby Curtis Ads Manager Mat George Sports Editor Jake Boese Online News Manager Lauren Kenney Reporter Alix Messer Reporter Haley Vickers Reporter

Photo by Kristen Poe

our mission Our Mission for the 2012-2013 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.

COntact us Address 200 Blue Jay Drive Liberty, MO 64068 Email thebell@liberty.k12.mo.us Phone (816) 736-5353 Twitter TheBell_LHS

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news

jays’ jabber the Hennings have heart On May 7, The Henning Foundation raised money to purchase and donate 100 Automated External Defibrillators to youth organizations around the Kansas City area. Sheridans sold concretes for $3, children could run the bases after the game for $3, and donations were welcome. The fundraiser occurred during the Jays home game against Liberty North.

ProStart brings the heat The ProStart Culinary Arts Team attended state and received outstanding rankings.

Being led by Emily Bryant, students Melanie Kieffer, Riccardo Dainese, Brian Gosa and Nobian Henan were honored by the Board of Education. The Board also recognized chef Herrah who volunteered her time to mentor

Hide and seek!

A group of students has coupled with teachers around the building to aid Renna and her family in purchasing a new electric wheelchair. This power chair will stand her upright, making her more independent around campus. They are hosting a bake sale, and they also have a website for direct donations. They are also planning a movie night at B&B in the near future. www.crowdtilt.com/campaigns/rennas-fund

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Surprised Patrick loves a good laugh, and thought it would be funny to pop out of a random spot in The Bell! The first person to spot Patrick hidden in this issue and point him out in room 513 at the beginning of seventh period will receive a prize courtesy of The Bell Staff.

Baking for renna

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Officially officers

Photos by Sarah Andrews

Story By Madi Hayter and Sarah Hartley

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“There was just a really solid Executive Council this year. Alex was brilliant and Nathan, Tyler, and Jessica all work really well and the communication between all of them is really good. When you have good, strong people leading everyone, everything else becomes a lot easier and more people want to get involved. With that said, I don’t really want to promise monumental changes,” senior executive president Hannah Goodwin said.

“My goals as executive vice president, are to create a good environment for next year with all the new changes, mainly to help integrate freshmen and sophomores in smoothly, those are some of my bigger goals,” senior executive vice president Kaylee Botello said.

“Last year, I was involved in football and that took up a lot of my time and I found that it wasn’t exactly what I wanted to do. I had a couple friends in StuCo and they really convinced me that it was an amazing opportunity so when I signed up, got an interview, and was in it I knew there was no way I was ever going to stop. I loved it,” Ray Pottios said.

“I’ve always loved being a leader and I love doing behind-the-scenes stuff for different things and helping our school. I love the people and our sponsors are awesome. We have fun,” executive treasurer Addison Moore

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news “Well first, it’s mildly worrisome knowing that I’m the person who is going to be representing all the juniors next year, but overall I’m ecstatic to have this position. Not only is it a great opportunity, but it allows me to be around people that I love and who love Liberty High School as much as I do. I want to represent my class in the best possible light. I really want to be the person that everybody can come to get help from,” junior class president Zach Kilgas said.

“It’s a great feeling because I really love representing a great group of seniors next year. It’s a great opportunity to have. I really want to be the best representation of everyone that I could be. I’m in sports, academics, in all areas I really want to know where everyone is coming from,” senior class president Jakoby Swanson said.

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The 2013-14 LHS Student Council officers, left to right: sophomore Mary Mwaura, junior Hannah Goodwin, junior Emily Moore, junior Serena Baker, sophomore Zach Kilgas, sophomore Joe Kretsinger, junior Kaylie Botello, sophomore Cheyanne Jackson, junior Jacob Shipley, junior Jakoby Swanson.

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news

Linked Together Story by: Sydney Perkins

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Link Crew will be premiering just in time for the 2013-14 school year in order to aid in the monumental transition for new students.

For the past three years, LHS has been on a search for a freshman transition program. As a result, a new club has been created: Link Crew has been assembled. Assistant Principle: Penny Holm and Counselor, Scott Gillespie will sponsor this new club. Their goal is to make the incoming class feel welcomed and help them understand the important role they will play as Blue Jays.

“Link crew is a freshmen transition and support group, designed to have students leading students,” Holm said.

The club offered two informational meetings, one before school and another after school. In addition, numerous flyers were posted around school. A whopping 257 students attended the meeting and 207 of the students continued on to apply for Link Crew.

“People are either paying attention or somebody is getting out there and doing a good job getting the word out and they’re all very, very positive things that are really going to build the school culture and connect kids,” said Holm.

“I was interested in the Link Crew because I’ve always liked helping get people adjusted to situations” junior Hannah Goodwin said. “I think it will help the overall climate of the school, just be better for this big transition.”

Out of the 207 students who applied, the club plans to accept around 100 students, which is no easy task.

“I don’t even know how we’re going to do it! Every one of them are absolutely worthy of student representation,” Holm said.

To become a member of this club, students had to fill out an application and sign up for an interview. After all 207 kids have been interviewed, the decisions will be made of who will be in the club.

“The mantra in this whole program is that Link Crew leaders need to be kind.” Said Holm. “The kids you’re looking for need to be completely and totally representative of all your populations, not just your smartest, brightest, most involved.

It needs to be every single walk-of-life that can be a role model at some point.”

Link Crew will give incoming freshmen and sophomores the opportunity to get extra guidance around the high school towards the beginning of the year. Whereas, in past years,

students were not always offered personal help.

“I was really lost and we didn’t really have anyone to help us and show us around so, it was really intimidating.” junior Mikaela Vittoria said. “I think that with the program, people will be less intimidated and scared.”

“I wish I would have and someone helping me out my first year here, because I did not know anybody going into it and it would have been nice to be able to walk through a big school and meet some new people,” sophomore Kyle Tomc said.

Link Crew leaders will have a lot of responsibilities throughout the school year. Over summer, there will be two mandatory training days a link leader will have to attend in order to learn how the orientation days will run. They will participate in both the sophomore and freshman orientation days before the official first day of school.

Members of Link Crew will wear official Link Crew t-shirts on the first day of school so an underclassman can recognize them, and ask for help.

Link Crew leaders plan to be very involved with the underclassmen advisories. Four Link Leaders will be assigned per advisory and meet with them once a month to teach lessons and catch up throughout the year. Link leaders will not only help students on a teaching and learning level but also, on a social level.

“If a kid is having an issue they can text you and say, ‘Hey, can I meet you for a minute during Liberty Hour?’ and you’ll say yes, and say what’s the deal? And they will say some issue they may have, it may be a boyfriend broke up with me, my mom is mad at me or I failed a geometry test, who is the best tutor?

That kind of stuff. It gives them a chance to meet them on a social level,” Holm said.

Link Crew will take over starting next school year in hopes to make a difference in the student body.

“We would just like to thank the whole student body and the teachers for pumping this whole thing up and making this a pretty incredible, overwhelming opportunity for so many kids,” Holm said.

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News

Taking a stand and taking back 4/20.

Story by: Diana Timmermans The week of April 15, LHS Peer Helpers took a stand against a “holiday”. In cannabis culture, 4/20 is a known day that glorifies the consumption of marijuana. The LHS Peer Helpers decided to “take back” 4/20 by making a positive campaign against marijuana use in the high school called “An Ounce of Truth.”

The goal of this campaign was “to give information that was factual and countered the misconceptions and some of the myths out there about marijuana, there is a lot of information that is provided by promarijuana sources, which are inaccurate,” Crisis Prevention Coordinator Amy Tuso said.

The “Ounce of Truth” campaign explained marijuana myths, misunderstandings, and ways to get naturally high without the use of drugs or alcohol.

“There wasn’t negative messaging, there wasn’t any direction in terms of what you should and shouldn’t do, and it was just information,” Tuso said.

Some students questioned the information posted for the campaign. Some of the posters said, “Cocaine, heroin, poison ivy, and hemlock come from plants too. #Doesn’tMakeItHealthy #AnOunceOfTruth” or catch phrases like, “You Only Live Once, So I don’t waste it getting wasted” and “be a stud” along with the many more natural high posters like “working out”, “receiving a compliment”,

Photos by Lauren Pouliot

“bonfires”, “yoga”, “singing as loud as you can”, and “seeing a rainbow.”

With a campaign named “Ounce of Truth” Peer helpers expected there would be people who still oppose the campaign.

“We anticipated some negative backlash, we know any time that information is provided that goes counter to what some people believe, especially right now when there’s so much misinformation about marijuana,” Tuso said, “but I was personally surprised by the level of backlash and how hurtful and disrespectful some of it got.” For instance, the anonymous Twitter account @PearHalpers.

Other students weren’t affected by the campaign.

“It didn’t affect me, I thought it was a bit aggressive, but it didn’t help or hurt anything,” senior Victor Bissonnette said.

“Some of the posters were nice but some of the others I didn’t care for them,” junior Sydney Frost said.

Many students, however, fully supported the campaign.

“They changed my opinion on drugs in a positive way,” senior Mikayla Pullen said.

“I liked it a lot,” junior Ian Langford said, “It was fun and I would compare the natural highs and if I thought the highs were actually a natural high, like jumping in a puddle it depends on how big the puddle is.”

High

on

Life

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Leaving Legacies “Mr. Greely is a very entertaining person and he really knows how to get the class motivated to work.

He keeps class fun and he will be missed,” senior David Crump said.

“I have had the pleasure of working with Harold for the past five years,” Para Professional teacher Harold Hascal Jessica King Retiring said. “He has been a wonderful para professional in the ESC program at Liberty High School and will be greatly missed by the students and staff.”

Para Professional Peggy Chase Retiring

Assistant principal Eric Greely Sr. Moving to Louisiana

“Mrs. Chase is the sweetest person I know.

I have helped her with the Ten Cent Store, which helps elderly people.

She is a nice reminder that you should help everyone no matter their situation,” sophomore Shaley Baker said.

“Mrs. Stolwyk always wanted us to understand what we were learning in order to brighten our future in Spanish, rather than to just get a good grade in the class,” junior Sania Lodhi said.

Spanish Teacher Gabrielle Stolwyk Moving to Spain

“He is a really good band teacher and he was always able to make the band sound awesome. He will be missed by everyone,” junior Phil Dunlap said.

“It was really cool to have Mr. Mallams as a coach because he was younger than TLC Teacher the other Marcus Mallams coaches so Armed Forces we were able to connect and look up to him,” junior Daniel Evans said. “It will be hard to replace him as a coach next fall.”

Math Teacher Jim Gravina Retiring

Band Teacher Paul Warnex Retiring

“Mr. Gravina is a really cool guy as well as a really cool teacher. He teaches math very well and he will truly be missed by everyone at the high school,” senior Nick Ellermeier said.

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Features

Health is wealth Story by: Zach Kilgas

The Bell

Juniors Alexandria Weekley, Meredith Crouch, and Kaitlynn Norton all eat their healthy packed lunches.

Photo by Kelsey Buehler

Americans are passionate about their health trends. From the Atkins Diet, to the grapefruit diet, to the Abs Revolution 3000, there is always a new infomercial claiming that this new diet, or exercise video can help you get your ideal body quicker than ever.

For some LHS students, certain health trends have become a part of their life, however they could all mention a few trends that went overboard.

Students and teachers agree that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is highly important.

“It’s very important to stay healthy, to live the very best possible lifestyle that you can,” Coach Roger Stirtz said.

“It’s not fun being sick or injured, or having an illness that you could have controlled by staying healthy,” Each student interviewed has made choices to alter their lifestyles in order to live a better life.

“I eat pretty healthily, and I try to get as much exercise as I can,” junior Amy O’hare said. “For me I like knowing that I feel good about what I eat. It’s all

Senior Arty Tuggle lifts weights to stay healthy and fit.

Photo by Taylor Jackson

about balancing to me.”

It is easy to acknowledge the fact that America has an over consumption issue.

“For me diet is important,” Stirtz said. “In America we have excess of everything. What gets us in trouble is the excess amounts of food that we can find everywhere. I try to limit my intake. I try to burn more calories than I take in, and recently I’ve been cycling.”

For vegetarians, diet goes beyond just eating for health.

“I think eat healthily, and I am a vegetarian, because I believe in animal rights,” senior Annie Doyle said.

However with each positive health trend there are three that follow it that are outlandish.

“I don’t believe in a magic pill that fixes everything or anything that claims to fix everything,” Stirtz said.

Diet and exercise are an important factor when trying to get healthy, and no one thing is going to make you super healthy.”

“I think some diets especially like the Special K diet it’s just ridiculous,” O’hare said. “Really all you eat is cereal all day.”

The school nurses offered their personal advice to students before they participate in a new health trend, and explained the dangers of over-dieting “Over dieting can start affecting your entire body,” school nurse Karla Hausman said. “In worst case scenario your organs can completely shut down. I’m a firm believer that you should consult a doctor before changing your diet.”

“What happens with extreme dieting is that it becomes a psychological thing,” school nurse Michele Kist said.

“Then all of a sudden your perception of your body image is destroyed. You can be as thin as a pen but your body will keep telling you to exercise. Diets are good, but it has to be a balanced one. So before you do any type of health trend talk to a doctor first.”

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t s e N e h t Leaving Story by Aly Copp

olers of d so are the pre-scho an te ua ad gr to y ad Seniors are re

With the 2012-2013 school year coming to an end, there is a lot of talk about the seniors graduating. Contrary to popular belief, the seniors are not the only ones graduating this year.

While roaming the halls, you may have come in contact with the smiling little faces of the preschoolers from the Early Bird learning center in our high school. Several of these little birdies are graduating from the learning center this year, and moving up to the elementary school to start kindergarten.

“This year the preschoolers are called the fresh beak birdies, which is a play off of the fresh beat band; a TV show they watch,” senior Mikayla Witt said.

Many of the preschoolers are excited to graduate.

“I’m excited because I’m going to a new school, and I’m going to be a kindergartner,” graduating preschooler Liam Pierson said.

The kids have been preparing for the graduation by practicing dances, and they are all really excited to preform on stage in front of an audience. The ceremony is in the little theatre on May 29 at 6:30 and should last for about 45 minutes, and then refreshments and snacks are offered afterwards.

“There are nine preschoolers graduating, and there are 19 in the preschool program that will also show up. Even the students that aren’t graduating will be in the program as well,” Witt said. “They’re going to sing two songs, dance to two songs, and then they will do an interactive freeze dance game.”

ng Center. the Early Bird Learni

All of the students in the Early Bird Learning Center have parents who work in the Liberty School District; several of the preschoolers have parents at LHS. Gary Pierson-the Principles of Engineering teacher and the robotics coach-is the father of Liam Pierson who is graduating this year.

“I really enjoyed bringing him to school with me everyday, and of course taking him home and having him come hang out with me,” Pierson said. “The education he has gotten here, and the convenience, is going to be sorely missed. But it is time to move on.”

The little birdies are going to have to switch from a preschool environment, to riding the bus and going to school with people much older than them. Graduating for the seniors is an exciting yet scary feeling, just like it is for these preschoolers.

Regardless, it is almost time for the little birdies take flight towards the great future ahead of them.

Page 12 left to right Shaylee Dorzweiler, and graduate Jillian Taney.

Below graduate John Knowles and Holden Wilkins.

Right graduate Liam Pierson and his father and engineering teacher Gary Pierson.

Photos by Jaileen West

Left to right Holden Wilkins-father and history teacher Jeff Wilkins, graduate Liam Pierson-father and engineering teacher Gary Pierson, Shaylee Dorzweiler-mother and special education teacher Shannon Dorzweiler, graduate Lucy Oshel-grandfather and science teacher Tim Block, graduate John Knowles-parents and science teachers Maria and Rick Knowles.

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Features Hannah Knapp Senior Hannah Knapp, was always busy.

Getting good grades wasn’t the only thing that was important to her; she was also involved with the school and community.

“I was in Fellowship of Christian athletes, National Spanish Honors Society, and National Honors Society,” Knapp said. “I was very involved in Broadcasting/KLHS. Also, I played volleyball all the way up until last year. I received the cum laude, magna cum laude, and summa cum laude awards for maintaining a 4.0 each year with certain requirements to attain it.”

Throughout high school she took college chemistry, honors chemistry, honors biology, biology 2, AP biology, advanced communication arts 1 and 2, AP literature and Spanish 5.

“It has been a pleasure to work with Hannah and get to know her over the past few years in Spanish class,” Spanish teacher Mrs. Stolwyk said. “She not only has a gift for learning Spanish, but she also is fun, hardworking and inquisitive.”

“This combination of traits has made her a real gem of a student,” Stolwky said. “I will always remember her dedication

story by Lauren Kenney Photo By Sarah Andrews to mastering the language. I am so excited to see what her future holds and hope that she is able to use Spanish in some way in her life endeavors.”

Every other Sunday she helps lead the St. James youth and praise band, and she’s an active member of the youth volunteer corps of Kansas. Knapp received the citizen award a few years back.

“I will be transferring over 33 credit hours to KU,” which is where she will be attending college, with the possibility to test out another 9 credit hours for her Spanish aptitude test.

“Right now I plan to pursue the biomedical engineering track with a possible pre-med emphasis while double majoring in Spanish,” Knapp said.

Joining the Peace Corps has been her dream since she was seven. She is hoping to make those dreams come true in the near future. Hannah is leaving with great memories, from sophomore to senior year. Although she is going to miss her teachers, friends, and most importantly, her sisters, she said.

“I’m ready to start my own life,” Knapp said.

Senior Spotlights

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Logan Floersch Logan Floersch is a well-known senior.

Friends know him for his charm and his ability to be kind to everyone. There are many words that might describe him as a person, but to him, there’s only one that truly can. Extraordinary.

“Logan is fearless. He’s always willing to do whatever. He skateboards and snowboards and is good at everything,” senior Kathrine Kuhlmann said.

Logan has made many friends throughout high school who agree that he is one of that he is very talented.

“He outshines us all. It’s kind of embarrassing, but we keep him around because he’s funny,” Kuhlmann said.

Logan has accomplished many things throughout his life.

“One of my biggest accomplishments this year was when I sold my whale tea pot that I made in sculpture for 25 dollars,” senior Logan Floersch said.

Looking back on high school life, Logan regrets a couple of things that he did or didn’t do.

“I really regret not playing sports in my high school career,”Floersch said. “I took the easy route throughout high school.”

story by Mat George Photo By Sammi Novak Logan is known as an all around good guy. He’s there for people when they need him and doesn’t complain much when things are asked of him.

“He’s the one who’s the softy. If I really need someone to take photos, then he’s the one who does them for me,” photojournalism teacher Karen Johnson said. “He’s really good about going with another photographer if they want someone to go with to make them feel more comfortable. The cherry on top is that he’s funny.”

With graduation right around the corner, Logan thinks about what he will and will not miss about high school.

“I’m going to miss my friends the most,” he said. “I’m happy that I won’t have to deal with the crowded hallways anymore because they made me late to class and then I would get detentions.”

Starting next fall, Logan will be attending Maple Woods to take advantage of his A+ hours.

“I don’t really know where I’ll be in ten years but hopefully, between now and then, I’ll figure it out,” Floersch said.

Features Lindell Watkins Lindell Watkins is known as many things but two things stick out, his humor and his track talents. His athletic abilities have set him up for a bright future by helping him get scholarships to the University of Central Missouri, where he will be running track.

“I am going to UCM and I am going to major in marketing,” Watkins said.

Outside of classes, Watkins plans on building on his track successes.

“I am going to run the 200, 400, and 400 hurdles,” Watkins said.

Watkins is ahead of schedule when it comes to plans for the future, even on the subject of children.

“I want to do something in sports marketing after college and I don’t want kids,” Watkins said. “In ten years I hope to have a career in sports marketing and be living in Miami.”

Watkins has his sights set on college for his most immediate and important goal.

“I would give anything to graduate college,” Watkins said.

15 story by Jake Boese Photo By Spencer Hausman Watkins has enjoyed his time in high school and has one specific memory that sticks out to him.

“My favorite moment was winning 4 by 4 at state because it could have gone either way, but we came out on top,” Watkins said. “I immediately wanted to cry tears of joy.”

Watkins has grown close to his track teammates.

“I’m proud to call Lindell my teammate,” Watkins said. “We always push each other and when I get down on myself he’s always there to pick me up. He gives his all in everything he does. He’s very competitive and will do anything to win and hates losing more than anything and that’s what makes him so good.”

Watkins has some odd things on his bucket list that describe him perfectly.

“Before I die I want to meet Rihanna, because she is a goddess,” Watkins said.

Senior Spotlights Sam Ngyuen

Photo By Jaileen West in mind.

“I plan on going to Maple Woods and taking my two free years of college. Then going to a University to study in a history major,” Ngyuen said. “It is the classes I took in high school that made me really love history and learning how people worked together back then.”

Through her hard work and effort with the theater department, Ngyuen has been a great help to director Don Johnson over the years.

“I think Sam will be successful with whatever she decides in life that she wants to do, because she gets it in her head what she wants to accomplish and she goes forth until she achieves it,” theater director Don Johnson said.

Whatever Ngyuen decides to do, she has one parting word for the students and faculty of Liberty High School.

“I am probably going to miss the after-school musicals and plays that I do. I want to say goodbye to everyone I know, all the teachers, and all the underclassmen,” Ngyuen said. “The teachers, all the people around me helped me create what I am right now.”

THE BELL

Trying to feel the sense of belonging in high school is a quest many students partake in. Finding a niche is easier for some than others, it can be journalism, Student Council, Choir or Theater. For senior Sam Ngyuen, finding a niche in the theater department came easily.

“I have been involved with all the musicals and I am now starting to work on the plays for the costumes,” senior Sam Ngyuen said. “Just working with and meeting these people and having fun was my favorite part.”

Creating a play or musical, helping it come to life, is more of a feat than some might think. There are many aspects to making a play jump off the stage than just having a nice set or good actors; one must set the scene with creating realistic costumes.

“Sam is really helpful when it comes to costumes,” senior Sarah Andrews said. “She does whatever they ask her to do and is always really nice.”

With all the help that Ngyuen has given to the plays and musicals over her high school career, one might think that she would venture further in fine arts. She has other interests

story by Nathan Hunt

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Features Helen Alpern In the world of cupcakes, Helen Alpern has earned a special place. As the founder of LHS’ Cupcake Appreciation Club, one of her ‘greatest achievements’, Alpern has brought a new esteem regarding the ‘petite dainties.’ But there is more to Alpern than simply harboring great respect for pastries.

Alpern is well known in the academic sphere, especially in the realm of debate.

With several awards and honors bestowed upon her, she has become a well-known name in Liberty and the surrounding districts, however she attributes many of her successes to her teachers and peers.

“I feel very privileged to have had such fantastic teachers and a good variety of classes, but mostly because I have been surrounded by students who really want to learn and understand things,” Alpern said.

With a strong academic base, Alpern is poised for a

story by Michaela lamb Photo By Summer Turner collegiate career at the college of her choice.

“I’m going to college in California, and then we’ll see. I don’t really have much of a ten year plan or anything,” Alpern said.

Like most outgoing seniors, Alpern is ready to leave the world of high school behind and take the next steps in her life, even if those steps may not have a certain direction yet.

“The world is [Helen’s] oyster,” debate teacher Tim Baldwin said. “With her skill set she is going to be able to pick any academic field and really excel at it. She not only has natural talent but also has acquired the knowledge and skills needed to succeed. Regardless of where she is for college she is going to be one of the best in whatever she chooses to do.”

Senior Spotlights

THE BELL

Andi Tulipana “Andi is such a talented girl. She has so many honors and has been working hard all year long, we are so lucky to have her.”

Choral director Dr. Rika Heruth said.

It is rare for someone so young to show exceptional dedication in everything they do, as well as excel in what they are truly passionate about. Not only was Andi Tulipana in the Concert Choir, she has also actively participated in; Chamber Choir, Kansas City All-District Choir, Missouri All-State Choir, the Simon Carrington Chamber Singers-Master Ensemble, the Ginger-Frost High School Honors Artists, and was the winner of the Liberty Symphony Young artist competition.

While all of that is impressive, these accomplishments were only from her Choral experience. She has many other honors she has received in Orchestra, Speech, and Debate. So what fuels this young artist to strive for her best?

“I love music because it is my outlet when I am upset or stressed. I can always turn to music. Not only performing it, but listening to it whenever I can,” Tulipana said.

It is easy to see that Andi has outstanding qualities, which

story by Shelby Curtis Photo By Summer Turner is exactly why she is a section leader in Concert Choir.

“I am a section leader with Andi, she is basically the brains of our section. She and I work really well together because she knows when to take charge and when to have fun and relax. Andi exemplifies the kind of leader we need at this school.”

Senior Magdalena Bronakowska said.

There is a lot that goes into picking someone who can manage to inspire their peers. Being a section leader means setting an example, being helpful when someone is struggling, admitting that you make mistakes too, and bettering your team with encouragement. There are many people who have influenced Andi to be such a leader. Dr. Rika Heruth and Mary Lou Jones are Andi’s inspirational teachers that have pushed her to do her best. It takes profound encouragement and exceptional teaching skills to spark something in young people, and they have done a wonderful job.

Andi Tulipana will be attending Butler in the fall, pursuing a major in Vocal Music performance and a minor in Violin. We all wish her good luck in her next steps.

Features Madison Allshouse Madison Allshouse moved to Liberty from Southern California her sophomore year of high school, and she has flourished as a Blue Jay. “I’d describe Madison as a source of sunshine,” College Level Composition teacher Victoria Jones said, “she is always positive, cheerful, and genuinely happy, even when facing stress. Her smile is contagious.”

Madison has always been involved in many school activities including NHS and girls varsity soccer. “It’s been an honor to play with some of the most talented girls in the country! Soccer is such a great sport,” Allshouse said.

Madison is attending William Jewell College next year to play soccer and will continue to enjoy her life in Liberty.

“In the fall I plan to attend William Jewell College where I will study nursing and play soccer…can’t wait!”

Allshouse said.

“It is no accident that I’m a Blue Jay…LHS has not let us down,” she said. “This is a great town and an amazing school with awesome kids and teachers. I’m so glad to just be moving down the street for college.”

Looking back, Allshouse says she will miss LHS. “I will miss

17 story by Haley Vickers Photo By Taylor Jackson the friends I’ve made, the great atmosphere, activities, and sports, and all of the good teachers I’ve been blessed to have.”

Allshouse also has many good soccer memories. “There are life’s lessons contained in every soccer practice and game…plus we have a blast and our team loves Lady Jay gear so my t-shirt drawer is stocked!” Allshouse said.

This will also be her first summer where she is taking a break and taking some time off.

“This will be my first summer without soccer camps since I was about nine, so I’m going to enjoy the extra time and go to Colorado and Iowa on a few church youth trips,” Allshouse said.

“Madison is one of the sweetest people I have ever met. She’s always nice to everyone and is such a great friend! I’m very blessed to have her in my life,” Jessie Adams said.

Senior Spotlights Tyler Hannsz

how it is described, Hannsz rocks the viola.

Not only does this senior excel in orchestra, but in choir as well; being a part of the school’s top choir. He is also part of Student Council as vice president of the senior class and seasoned helper at the StuCo summer camps.

“My favorite high school memory is definitely when I received a letter informing me that I was chosen to be a Junior Counselor for the Missouri Association of Student Councils Summer Leadership Workshop. It was probably one of the happiest moments of my life,” Hannsz said.

But Hannsz also recognizes that music is his way to show who he is: each note, each rhythm, each dynamic level is a way to put forth and show character.

“Music is a way for me to express myself, and it’s something I love,” Hannsz said.

THE BELL

He is first chair violist in the Kansas City Youth Symphony and he finished eighth in state for the All-State Orchestra. He is Tyler Hannsz, musician extraordinaire. As a senior, he hopes to go to the University of Missouri and double major in viola performance and psychology.

“Tyler is an outstanding violist and orchestra member. He exemplifies qualities we would all like to attain: excellent musicianship, diligence, commitment, determination, leadership skills, and a thoroughly pleasant and positive personality,” orchestra teacher Mary Lou Jones said. “It has been a privilege to be one of his teachers.”

With all his talents, how did he choose orchestra?

“My family is pretty musical, but they all did band,” Hannsz said. “I decided to be rebellious and picked orchestra instead.”

This rebel also chose the viola because “the teacher played Harry Potter on it, and I thought it was super cool.” It is not the classical choice of an orchestra instrument, especially when it must be explained as a small four-stringed instrument, which is larger than a violin, but a smaller than a cello; but no matter

story by Alix Messer Photo By Shawna Kingston

18

arts & entertainment

what’s trending?

Hey, Batter Batter!

by Molly Meeks “Maybe tomorrow we’ll all wear 42,” the movie 42 was by far one of the most inspirational movies I have ever seen, and I mean that in the least cheesy way possible. I went into the theater expecting the movie to be another subpar, “inspirational story” about how hard life was during segregation. I can wholeheartedly say, after watching the entire movie, I was so impressed that I would consider Jackie Robinson one of my heroes.

42 tells the story of Jackie Robinson, the first negro baseball player to be brought into professional baseball. Throughout the movie, I was taken through his entire journey, being chosen, all the way to becoming number 42 on the Dodgers baseball team.

We start off with the Dodgers owner, ready to bring a negro baseball player onto his team.

They go through the numerous requirements for the player that would be brought up to the Dodgers. Not only did they want someone who could play, they needed someone tough enough to stand against all the hatred.

The movie was fun to watch, but it also taught me just how rough Robinson and his wife’s lives were. Learning about integration during school and by visiting the negro baseball museum here in Kansas City, I always knew that people didn’t just wake up one morning and think “Let’s treat all colors

equally,” but I did not realize how much the entire Dodgers team, along with Robinson and his wife went through, to integrate baseball. There were petitions by Robinson’s own teammates, death threats not only for him, but also for his wife and baby, and sadly physical and emotional pain inflicted by people across the nation. But Jackie was built to last, and as corny as it sounds, anyone who sees the movie will agree, seeing Jackie last urges viewers to last too.

Throughout the movie the Dodgers team, proved that not everyone is ever going to agree or be accepting. However, they also proved that having each other’s back could change lives and being a team is more than just wearing the same name on their chests.

Don’t get me wrong, 42 was heartwarming and full of opposition, but the two hours spent watching included smiling and laughing. Almost every player on the team, including the owner, was a comedy relief. Telling friends about the movie I had to restrain myself, so I didn’t leak every detail of the movie.

Although my ears were numb from hearing the “N” word used so many times in one movie, I would definitely recommend 42 and will, without a doubt, watch it again myself.

the bell

New on the big screen “I went to see GI Joe. I found it disappointing because, I thought Channing Tatum was going to be in the whole movie and when he wasn’t I almost walked out of theater,” junior Caroline Craven said.

“I want to go see Iron Man 3.

Based on how wonderful the first two movies were, I have to go see the third.” History teacher Zach Werner said. photos by Meredith Crouch

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20

opinion a paper or just relaxing with the yearbook, photoj or newspaper staff. I want to thank everyone in the Journalism department, You know that feeling after finishing a really good book? from Oyler to Johnson, you both have inspired me to follow in the field of journalism.

You instantly want to read it again, because the Student Council is another activity I was story was so fantastic; it had ups, it had downs, happily involved in. I would go as far as stating it was magical. But you know that it won’t be that StuCo was my life. This club has been an the same, reading it another time, because you outlet for me to express myself freely, it helped already know the story. Upon reflection, I can me sculpt my leadership skills in a way that is confidently say my high school career was a not possible anywhere else. The one goodbye I book I would read again, given the opportunity, dread saying is goodbye to my adviser, Melanie regardless if I already knew the story.

Prince.

I cannot say thank you enough, for Liberty High school is my home, I can say the times I’ve vented to you, came in balling without a doubt. People may look at me with my eyes out to you or just laughing alongside questioning facial expressions when I say this, you at a highway clean up.

You are truly an but it is the absolute truth. This building was, inspiring woman.

You are who I aspire to be and will always be, a safe haven for me. From when I grow up. the first day of sophomore year to my last day I dedicate this column to every person in as a senior, I woke up excited for a new school LHS. Your smiles have gotten me through day. I’m not saying that I loved every course I Nathan Hunt my worst days. One thing you all have taught was enrolled in, it was mostly because of two Editor in chief me during my high school career has been organizations I was involved in. to smile on until the end. With optimism UMKC Newspaper was a life changing experience. A comes opportunity.

Liberty has given me the group of kids could not grow closer than my opportunity to explore my dreams, and I’m staff of newsies. We are one, giant family of 21. The JLab is my doing that just for you. home inside Liberty High. Any day, any time, you could find me

smile on

in this room, painted neon green, either busily working away on

Senior sendoffs me wrong, not every moment this year was my greatest. But, as a whole, it was a year I will never forget. Through out my life, I This year, something embarrassing happened to me, shocker, have been known as the goodie-two shoes, shy, smart girl. This I know. And when I say embarrassing, I mean embarrassing. I year though, I have really become the person I always wanted to was in the middle of the lunchroom, getting some salsa for my be. I’ve transformed into a social butterfly.

I’ll be honest, being a part of The Bell staff taco, and what did I do? I dropped the whole has been one of the best parts of my senior cup of salsa. And where did that salsa go? The year.

I learned to write better, I made new front of my pants, of course. I was mortified. friends and I got a new perspective of this I was blow-pop, cherry red in the face. And cliché high school life. I don’t wake up every in that moment, when everyone is staring at morning and dread going to school like I “the girl with salsa pants” I realized something used to.

And I honestly look around and see important, everyone has an individual life. I good people walking through the halls of this mean, we have friends and family that try to school.

I wish I could have connected with understand us and help us. But not one person these people at some point, but unfortunately, in this school has gone through the exact same out paths never crossed.

And I’m sad to say things you have this year. No one knows how that this journey is over. the kid sitting alone at lunch feels and nobody As I leave this high school, I just have one can understand the way that quiet art kids feels wish.

I wish that as students of Liberty we try on a day-to-day basis. And no one has the rush to understand each other, and not be so harsh that the soccer team experiences when they to one another. win a game. No one could understand what Because, trust me when I say, you’re senior Haley Vickers was going through my head as I stood there year will be over before you can say “turtles.” in the lunchroom, frozen, with salsa dripping Reporter I wish I had more embarrassing moments down my leg.

Northwest to look back on, because those moments are If I could choose one word to describe my what make high school, high school. When senior year, it would be: irreplaceable. Not one I walked back to my table after the salsa incident, I couldn’t person in this whole entire school had the same experiences I help but laugh.

Yes, that was embarrassing, but yes, it was had this year and changed and grew the way I have. Don’t get irreplaceable and my moment.

the bell

salsa pants

21

opinion that be cool? My life would be 100 times more interesting.

Anyway, this story has a metaphorical meaning to it. It Zoom in to a girl, snap brim fedora tipped low over her face. represents the twists and turns I had to make in newspaper to She carries a bag of sand at her side. Cut to a wide shot of the get that golden newspaper, to make a good story. But even at the girl creeping towards a pedestal that has a golden... a golden end, there was sometimes a catch. But we, the staff of the Bell, helped get each other through each issue. newspaper? Close up shot of the girl eye The staff has been like a second, though level with the golden newspaper. She slowly slightly dysfunctional, family to me and I’ve reaches out her hand toward the newspaper. grown to love them. Through all the weird She hovers the bag of sand above the dance crazes and YouTube videos (that poor newspaper. She snatches the newspaper and Girl Scout), we have grown close. drops the bag of sand into place. A pause.

And just as I’ve grown close with the Nothing happens. She smirks and flicks her newspaper staff, I have grown close with fedora back. the school. I know every hallway and room Yeah, that’s me, the girl who was after the like the back of my hand, and I know every golden newspaper. It was a long and hard teacher as well. After disrupting many journey; I had to trek through dense jungle classrooms, I know what it’s like to put my and risk getting ambushed by natives. But life on the line. There are risks that come that’s not the worst of it. with newspaper as well as rewards.

Suddenly, a rumble sounds and rocks start It has been a good journey with the Bell to fall. A giant boulder drops down from gang and I’ll miss them along with all of my the ceiling and starts rolling. Wide shot. The Alix Messer friends who aren’t going to college with me. boulder is rolling toward the girl. She gapes reporter It’s hard to put all of your feelings into for a moment before sprinting through the words. So here’s me, the girl with the snap college only exit. She crashes through a cobweb and brim fedora, riding off into the sunset like goes rolling out into the jungle, the boulder Indiana Jones. Thanks, LHS, for giving me stops in the tunnel behind her.

Back to reality. Did that really happen to me? No, but wouldn’t some very memorable experiences, and here’s to the future.

the Golden newspaper

Senior sendoffs better lunches! When I go to my EIP kindergarten class and see they are picking between pancakes, lasagna, and a three course steak dinner, I get frustrated. I heard at the end of junior year, student council members were sampling new lunches like sushi. I was so happy to finally have something different, something tasty in the lunch room, even if I did not quite trust cafeteria sushi. To my dismay when I returned in August, it was the same old gruel. I am pretty sure when Michelle Obama banned salt, that pools of grease should have gone as well. Going on college visits was the best part of my year. It was heaven seeing their amazing cafeterias with Chick-Fil-A, McDoanlds, and Taco Bell, oh my! The moral of the story is, do not be afraid of the Freshman 15. And with that, I bid you adieu. I guess with all of my Shelby Curtis once upon a time columns, this is my Ads Manager final, my happily ever after. So this is me, wishing all of you a happily after…

Maple Woods/Mizzou filled with delicious food.

Happily Ever After

the bell

Once upon a time, I went to high school. It was a strange and confusing time, but also a very entertaining time.

There were heartbreaks, fights in the commons, awards and achievements, but mostly, there was school lunch.

The one thing I will not miss about high school is the lunches. Do not get me wrong, the lunch ladies work hard and I appreciate it, but what people need to understand is, my whole life revolves around food. I love food, and when you are hungry after a long day of learning, the last thing you want to look at is mystery meat. Is that turkey on my salad or is it ham?

Who knows! The worst part is, there is nothing to choose from. You either get undercooked “chicken” nuggets, greasy pizza, or mystery cubes of meat product on your salad. I thought in high school you were supposed to get

22

opinion An adventure’s end Writing this senior send off is probably the most difficult assignment I have ever received in Newspaper. Not because it’s a hard hitting, factriddled story, but because I have been focused on getting out of this school for the last two years, at least. Everything that I thought was exciting and cool when it happened now seems trivial and boring when I compare it to my grad plans for college.

For me, high school was just a required steppingstone: a platform to prepare me for the rest of my life. For the first time, I’m regretting not slowing down and taking the time to enjoy the simplicity of my high school career. I wish I would have taken a few more blow off classes, gone to more school functions, and branched out of my social sphere a little more. When you take five AP classes in three years and the rest are either dual credit or honors level you tend to be in the same classes with the same people.

Michaela Lamb Features Editor mizzou

Don’t get me wrong, I still can’t wait to get on with the rest of my life, but I can’t help but feel a little nostalgic about what so many people describe as their ‘glory years’.

I’ve made some really great friends here, and I’ve gone through all of the drama that comes with being a high school student, but I’m ready to move on. I feel like there are bigger and better things out there waiting for me. I can’t wait to explore the world around me and discover new places and people at Mizzou.

Maybe someday I’ll come back and visit, reminisce with old friends at a reunion. For now, I’m looking forward to the future.

Senior sendoffs

the bell

i love nachos During the end of the summer right before my sophomore year of high school, I (along with what seemed like 100 other people) got a message from a junior telling us a bunch of information and helpful hints about the high school. At the time, I thought it was kind of lame but looking back now, I’m so grateful that she sent it. It helped throughout all of high school. I feel like now that I’m leaving, it’s time that I share with all of you everything I know.

The first group of people I’m going to address is next year’s seniors. Do not; I repeat DO NOT, let senioritis get the best of you. It definitely got the best of me. I was feeling this disease since the first month of my senior year. As hard as it is, just finish off strong and don’t do anything stupid.

To all of next year’s juniors: don’t just take the easiest classes. Some of the hardest classes are the ones that I’ve had the most fun in. The teachers always think that we’re so mature so they take us on these awesome field trips.

The next pieces of advice are to anyone who’s bothered to read the story thus far: • The nachos at the school are awesome.

• Do your homework as soon as you can.

Mat George Sports Editor undecided

Don’t just save it up for the last minute.

• Never eat something you’re allergic to. The teachers will freak out.

• Do talk to strangers if they don’t look sketchy. They just might become your best friend.

• The nachos are so delicious.

• Join lots of clubs. You’ll get to go on a bunch of field trips.

• Get teachers to really like you because you’ll be able to do whatever you want in their classes.

• Don’t be the only kid to not have an iPhone. It sucks.

• Play sports even if you’re terrible at them.

• The nachos will make your mouth water.

• Follow @matchu_chutrain on Twitter and Instagram.

• Pick a college early on instead of waiting till the end of the year.

• Don’t let people peer pressure you into anything you don’t want to do.

• Ask questions in class. There’s no such thing as a stupid question.

Basically all you need to know going into high school is that the nachos are good. Bye.

23

opinion Offcially a Tiger My journey to Mizzou began three years ago when big news hit the NCAA scene: realignment. It may seem like caring about conference makes no sense coming from a non-athlete. But, here’s the issue- I grew up in a family full of Nebraska fans.

It may not seem relevant to most people in this school, who only pay attention to the Mizzou-Kansas rivalry, but Mizzou was one of Nebraska fans’ most hated teams.

When I was younger I always told myself I was going to Nebraska, but then reality set in sophomore year when I first really learned about out of state tuition. This is when it dawned on me that there was no way I was going to Nebraska. So it meant I was probably going to go to my parents’ alma mater, Missouri State.

Then conference realignment began.

Nebraska left the Big 12 for the Big Ten with Mizzou not far behind on their way to the SEC. What did this mean? The rivalry was

over; therefore Mizzou was now a college option in my eyes.

The first choice was still Missouri State when I started to gain interest in journalism. After doing research I found out Mizzou was one of the top journalism programs in the country. At that point, in my mind, it was pretty much settled that I wanted to attend the University of Missouri but the final decision was in the hands of my parents because they were the ones who will have to pay.

After months of deliberation by my parents and anticipation by me, it was finally revealed to me on Christmas morning when I saw a Mizzou keychain and candy bar in my stocking; it was the best present I ever received.

So that is the story of how I, a diehard Nebraska fan, will end up at the University of Missouri. But do not think I will stop rooting for my Huskers Jake Boese or forget that 24 game win streak the Huskers had over Mizzou, just because Online News Manager I am now officially a Tiger.

Mizzou

Senior sendoffs I’ve learned that you can keep going long after you think you can’t. So much has changed for all of us since we walked through those door the first day of sophomore year from the classes we’ve She was staring out the window of their SUV, complaining’, taken, to what we want to be when we grow up, to teachers, to saying’, “I can’t wait to turn 18” she said, “I’ll make my own money boyfriends, to friends, to enemies. and I’ll make my own rules, Momma, put the car in park out there We started from the beginning and began to build, falling down in front of the school” sometimes, but getting right back up because we are never alone.

And she kissed her head, and said, “I was just like you.” You’re As time slowly comes to an end for the seniors here at Liberty gonna miss this, you’re gonna want High, I’m leaving with some of this back, you’re gonna wish these the greatest memories. From days hadn’t gone by so fast. These are the funniest inside jokes we some good times so take a good look have in class all the way to around. You may not know it now, getting advice and learning But you’re gonna miss this. something new from teachers.

These are lyrics from a song called In this journey I started out You’re Gonna Miss This by Trace small, but with each year I Adkins. Some of us were ready for learned to grow. It’s been 3 long graduation since the first day of years. We have all overcome freshmen year, while others were obstacles, but all the hard work excited to finally be the top dogs over is about to pay off. From here the 8th graders. It was easy back then on out we’re on are own. Some when all we worried about was when people can’t wait, while others Lauren Kenney-Reporter - Northwest the next heritage hall dance was. are scared. My advice is use I never believed anyone when they your voice for kindness, your said high school would go by so fast, but they were right. eyes for compassion, your hands for charity, your mind for truth Throughout the years I’ve learned that a smooth sea never made and your heart for love. We will always and forever be Blue Jays. a skillful sailor. The struggle is part of the story. I’ve learned that This is just an ending to a new beginning. Put a smile on your face we are responsible for our actions, no matter how we feel. I’ve seniors, because it’s our time to finally say we did it. learned that you should never ruin an apology with an excuse.

an ending to a new beginning

the bell

ATHLETES OF THE MONTH

by Preston McConnell

Max Miller

Lauren Holm “Lauren is a multi-talented athlete, sprints, high jumps and also does hurdles. And she excels at all of them. Not to mention she is playing colligate volleyball next year.” – Coach Marquardt

“Max Miller is the vocal leader of our team.”

–Coach Armillio

“Max always has a good attitude, works hard, a good leader and he’s a good anchor for our team.” –Jacob Schwandt

“She’s a great leader and I have also never seen her get mad at anyone. She’s also a fantastic runner and very supportive of everyone involved.” –Sharee Zombo “My high school track career has been a great learning experience. I’ve learned a lot ablut what i can do physically as well as what i can do mentally.”

-Lauren Holm

“Being a senior you put yourself into position to be a leader of the team and demonstrate to the young guys what the need to be doing.”

-Max Miller

Height: 6’1”

Favorite Food: Steak and Chicken Hibachi

photo by Taylor Jackson

Position: 2nd and Left Field

photo by Nicole T h rockmorton

Height: 5’8” Events: 100 Meter Hurdles, 4x1, 4x2 and High Jump Favorite Food: Mashed Potatoes

25

Sports

Sprinting to glory

by Grace George The track team is racing towards State. most about the seniors is their talent and their humor,” Zombo said. “They always know how to put a smile on my face.”

Fritson has some other ideas about what he will miss.

“Anytime you coach a group of students for their entire high school career, you kind of grow attatched to them. This year’s group is no different,” Fritson said. “My seniors, Lauren Holm and Lindell Watkins, have run for me all four years. Both of them are immensely talented. That’s going to be really hard to replace in the coming years.”

Senior Danielle Coffer and Junior Caitlin Van Vleck race to the finish line. Photo by Nicole Throckmorton

“More than that though, I’ll miss getting to spend time with them as people,” Fritson said. “Sure, they’re great athletes and leaders, but over four years, you end up forming good friendships with your athletes. I view coaching as way more than simply teaching an athlete how to be better at their even or sport. Like every year, it will be sad to see them graduate.

They’re both going to be athletes in college though, so I’ll still get to cheer them on from afar.”

As athletes move on, Liberty will always be in the back of their mind.

“What I will miss most about track at Liberty is the support you get from everyone on the team,” Holm said. “Every year I’ve been lucky to be surrounded by some pretty great teammates that constantly push me and support me. I know I can count on a number of them to shout my name on the side before I race or while I’m racing and I don’t think that’s something you see in every team so I’ve lucked out and I’m very appreciative for the teammates I’ve gotten so close to over the years.

We call ourselves the “track fam” so you know it’s real!”

“Honestly I’m really going to miss high school track,” senior Lindell Watkins said. “I’m going to miss the coaches and all of my homies.”

Both Watkins and Holm agreed that Tim Fritson is their inspiration to keep going.

“I’ve grown to really find my event in hurdles and I give all the credit to him as he taught me just about everything I know,” Holm said. “He’s a role model for a lot of students at our school and I’m so lucky to be able to call him my coach. I’ve gained more than just track knowledge from him, he’s taught me a lot of things that apply on and off the track.”

“Tim is my idol because he is an amazing runner and an even better coach,” Watkins added in.

There is so much to learn from track. It gives runners an opportunity that isn’t common, you can be on a team, but compete as an individual.

“My favorite thing about track is that I get to compete against other schools as an individual,” Jimenez said. “I get to see how I do against other runners like myself.”

Whether it’s team building, inspirational coaches, family bonds or even humor on the team, track offers everything Fritson wants for his runners.

THE bell

“It’s most important to have fun, but it’s a whole lot more fun if you win.”

This quote Liberty hurdle coach Tim Fritson lives and breathes by.

The Liberty track team works toward their high expectations each year as they continue to grow as a squad. The team has previously won the sprint medley at the KU relays, showed multiple appearances at state, and even won a district title.

For a lot of people, track is not the ideal sport. Running laps over and over again seems tiring. Falling over a hurdle and on to the hard ground seems painful. The difference between champion and last place by a tenth of a second just seems unfair. For a select group of people from our school, these are the things they live for.

“I love track,” sophomore Sharee Zombo said. “I can see myself doing it in college and maybe even as a career.

In order to run in college, I need to get my 200 in under 25 (25.1 now) and my 400 in under 58 (58.01 now).”

Even with all the love they have for the sport, track is not an easy thing to do.

You have to push yourself to achieve what you want and to get to where you need to be.

“Every time before I race I tell myself ‘you decide’,” said senior Lauren Holm.

“Basically, I’m the only one who can determine how I do and it’s up to me to decide how to do it.”

Not only can track get you in great shape, but it can also teach you life lessons you will carry with you forever.

“Track has taught me a lot of things,” junior Alex Jimenez said. “It has taught me that if I push myself and I work hard, I can meet and exceed the goals I set for myself. There is a lot of humor throughout the team so we have a great time.”

With the senior class leaving, the humor they bring will be missed.

“I would say the thing I will miss

At the Ole Ball Game Story by Amanda Kovac Design by Nick Palmarine

The baseball boys are working hard to get back to State for the third year in a row.

Junior Ross Juliana delivers a pitch to a batter. Photos by Lauren Pouliot

Blue Jays baseball is now in full swing. After a tough start, due to having only two returning position players, the team is back on their feet.

“We started out a little slow. We had a lot of new players so it took us some time to gel as a team,” assistant coach Vince Armilio said. “We have been playing better lately, especially against some very good teams and pitchers.”

Despite the team’s rocky start, they pushed through to success.

“We just won a northland tournament,” sophomore Ethan Griswold said. “And that was pretty exciting.”

This year was not the first win in the tournament for the Jays. “[We won] the Northland tournament for a third consecutive year,” Armilio said. “It has never been done in the tournament, so it was a great thing for our players to be a part of.”

Even with the achievement of the team’s third win, other moments stick out to junior Zach Hoeflicker. “[Our most successful moment was] probably our win against Winnetonka, because most of our guys that hit and play the field got a lot of hits and we ended up winning 17 to 1, which allowed us to see our potential with what we can do at the plate.”

His most exciting moment was a big recovery.

“We had a huge comeback after like, two innings of being down,” Hoeflicker said. “It just showed that we’re able to accomplish things when we need to, and that in the crunch time we can beat almost anybody.”

The group uses moments like these to motivate them until they reach state.

“We are following the same process we have had for the last two years,” Armilio said. “Prepare to win every game, give maximum effort and see what the scoreboard says at the end of the game.”

“We have been in every game we have played and that is all you can ask for,” Armilio said.

Some players go above and beyond to be the best.

“I practice everyday. I’ll go home and hit my cage in my backyard if I have time,” senior Nathan Winfrey said.

The season may have had a rough start with so many new players, but now that they are familiarized with each other, things have improved.

“Our team has very good chemistry with each other,” Armilio said. “You get a sense that they are all friends and enjoy being around each other. This makes coaching a lot more enjoyable because we have not had to deal with issues between players.

They all work well with each other.”

With all the team spirit they have a great season ahead.

“We’re getting better every game,” Winfrey said.

Senior Nick Hertzog gets ready to make a play.

Photo by Ashley Van Black

Above: Senior Nathan Winfrey prepares to swing at a pitch. Photo by Logan Floersch Below: The players gather just before warming up before the game. Photo by Jaileen West

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Great convenient hours: Mon-Thurs 7am-10pm Fri & Sat 7am-7pm Sun 10am-6pm

152 Hwy & N Brighton Next to the Brass Rail 4920 NE 81st St

Kansas City, MO. 64119 816-436-2901

FOR LIBERTY STUDENTS ONLY