Liberty Ledger - Issue 3 - March 2022

The Ledger | Vol. 9 | Issue 3 |March 2022

Table Of Contents News

Earth Club Takes Root 5 WSD Bans Book, Deeming The Selection Inappropriate 6 Meet Your 2022 Board Of Education Candidates 7 Eggsperiment 2022 12 HOSA To Host Second Blood Drive Of The School Year 13 Diversity and Activism Club Celebrate Black History 16 It’s Black History Month 17 Are Businesses Doing Enough To Address Pollution? 20 The Treacherous World Of The Fast Fashion Industry 21

Arts & Entertainment ‘Dawn FM’ Shows Signs Of Becoming Modern Classic 18 Where Did Valentine’s Day Come From? 19 Betty White: 99 Golden Years 20 Grandma’s Cookbook: Spring Edition 23

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Content | lhstoday.org design by: M. Banstetter cover design by: S. Ramesh

Sports

Winter Sports Update 14 Branching Out 14 Soaring to Nationals 15

Feature

Love at Liberty 8 The Throes Of High School Dating 9

Opinion The Importance Of Leading With Positivity 4

In-Depth Down To Earth 10

Interactive Where You Should Live Based On Your Zodiac Sign 24

Letter From The EditorsEditors-In In-Chief Dear reader, Thanks for picking up the newest issue of our magazine! We’re happy that people like you continue to appreciate our hard work. This issue introduces the element of Earth and everything that our wonderful planet offers to us. We are not the only people that feel like our lives are filled to the brim with tension and stress, and therefore this issue is for all of you who feel the same way. But as the year continues, we all continue on with perseverance and diligence. We see you, we feel you and we hope that you can ground yourself for a second and enjoy what this magazine has to offer: from recipes to horoscopes to grounding techniques, this magazine has something for everyone, and most importantly for you.

Volume 9 Issue 3

The Ledger Liberty High School 2275 Sommers Road Lake Saint Louis, MO. 63367 636.561.0075 ext: 28039 jonathanhall@wsdr4.org

Editors-In-Chief Paige Bostic Elizabeth Hamby Reporters Mollie Banstetter (Layout Editor), Sruthi Ramesh (Photo Editor), Ally Schniepp (Sports Editor), Avery Schlattman, Elaine Thimyan, Sean Bruce, Gavin Block, Fiona Flynn, Kay Copeland, Sam Knickmeyer, Abbie Luker, Emily Barnett, and Cody Cushing *Each editor also serves as a reporter

Content | lhstoday.org design by: M. Banstetter graphics by: M. Banstetter

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The Importance Of Leading With Positivity Positive academic leaders are invariably necessary and worthwhile

graphic by Kay Copeland

Success is inevitable when leaders choose to lead with a positive frame of mind.

by Kay Copeland, Reporter Are leaders with a negativity-spreading mindset ever justified? Some may argue that this stubborn and relentless form of leadership is needed for reasons such as discipline. To that I say: rarely.

More often than not, leading with a mindset of positivity is the correct choice to make. Yet there remains a select few in leadership roles, such as teachers, bosses, parents and guardians, whose pessimism proves harmful to those below them.

To be a positive leader includes much more effort than just looking on the bright side. It encompasses empowering and respecting the ones that you lead. Those who practice positive leadership tackle issues headon when they arise, and use their optimistic mindset to move forward in a healthy and professional manner.

These types of leaders look for the silver lining in every situation and are not quick to express anger and disappointment.

Most importantly, these leaders focus on the strengths of those that they lead, rather than the weaknesses.

In professional settings, particularly in schools, positive leadership is more than a recommendation; it is a necessity.

Being a positive leader is the aspect that differentiates between fulfilled students and unmotivated students.

Here’s an example: reflect on your all-time favorite teacher. What made them your favorite? What kind of impact did they have on your life? Chances are, you listed off reasons such as “they always supported me and pushed me towards success,” or “they were really kind and understanding.” You probably walked into class every day with a smile on your face. This teacher most likely had a grand influence on you.

Now, think about your all-time least favorite teacher. Why were they your least favorite? They might have been overly critical in one way or another. They may have lacked compassion or consideration. They could have even insulted you or treated you with little to no respect. I’ll bet that you felt completely drained in this teacher’s class and could not have waited for the bell to ring.

The point is that both your favorite and least favorite teachers had an impact on you, but for completely opposing reasons. This proves that positivity has the power to push you forward and motivate you, while negativity solely has the power to diminish your light. Both spreading positivity and receiving positivity are beneficial in multiple ways. Even with this, it’s been found that negative remarks reign over young minds.

A study conducted by the University of Indiana discovered that praising and encouraging words were perceived by children as more helpful and positive than discouraging words. Additionally, discouraging words were found to be as potent as praising words, and even more potent than encouraging words.

This data tells us that children and adolescents especially require an environment full of optimism and support. When this type of atmosphere isn’t provided (or frankly, when the leader has multiple negative traits not allowing for this atmosphere to exist), there’s potential for a child to spiral into a vortex of self-doubt and self-deprecation.

Leaders, I ask of you to keep in mind that your words, comments, and responses hold a great deal of importance. The manner in which you choose to interact with those beneath you determines much more than you may comprehend.

Those who work with children and teens specifically, please make an effort to treat your students with respect and compassion. When issues arise, don’t fret. Instead, deal with it in a professional manner then move on. When it comes to the realm of discipline, don’t punish for the sole reason to punish; don’t berate your students just because you have the power to. There is an abundance of more effective disciplinary strategies.

When the environment is light, students come to school gleefully ready to learn. A positive classroom culture also allows more time devoted to learning, along with an increase in the enjoyment of teaching.

Positive leadership is by no means effortless. It requires willingness and daily intention to provide enrichment. More than anything, to be a positive leader requires taking into consideration the wellbeing of those that you lead.

“ Leaders, I ask of you to keep in mind that your words, comments, and responses hold a great deal of importance. The manner in which you choose to interact with those beneath you determines much more than you may comprehend. ”

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Opinion | lhstoday.org design by: K. Copeland

Earth Club Takes Root New club focuses on environmental awareness and cleanup opportunities

by Paige Bostic, Co-Editor-In-Chief of The Ledger Liberty offers a plethora of extracurricular activities for the interested student, from athletics to the fine arts to aviation. As more and more student-led organizations emerge, younger students are taking on the opportunity to form their own clubs. The observant schoolgoer may have recently caught flyers in the hallways for the Earth Club, a new club founded by freshman Clara Walker.

The Earth Club seeks to organize fundraisers and cleanup opportunities to promote sustainability and purification of the planet. It meets in room 447, supervised by Mrs. Hall, on Wednesdays during A.I. every other week.

LHS Publications interviewed Walker, club founder and president, on the budding club and what goes on during its meetings.

“I came up with the idea for the club about a month ago, but it took me a couple weeks to come up with ideas and make sure I had everything figured out,” explained Walker. “We had our first meeting last week, [February] 23!”

The club serves as a haven for young environmentalists who are interested in programs that tackle issues like pollution and our carbon footprint. “l knew there were a lot of ways we around the school can improve our waste and footprint, so I figured I’d make a club dedicated to it,” Walker said.

Though the club is just starting out, it seeks to spread awareness about issues such as climate change and global warming.

“I hope that by spreading awareness of global warming issues, how people contribute to them, and how they can improve people will be encouraged and informed,” Walker remarked. The club also seeks to spread awareness on how small everyday tasks can add up to a weighty carbon footprint, which overall adds to higher greenhouse gas emissions, perpetuating global warming.

On current projects, Walker said: “We are working in conjunction with Garden Club to plant in the community garden, plant shrubs in front of school and host a special Earth Day activity on April 22!”

Any student interested in joining Earth Club can visit club sponsor Mrs. Hall in room 447 and find information on the bulletin boards in the hallways.

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Content | lhstoday.org design by: K. Copeland

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WSD BANS ‘THE BLUEST EYE’ ‘The Bluest Eye’ was briefly removed from all libraries within the district

by Sruthi Ramesh, Editor-In-Chief of LHStoday

The Wentzville School District’s Board of Education historically voted to remove all Many community members felt uncomfortable with the principle of the Board copies (physical and digital) of “The Bluest Eye” by Toni Morrison from libraries on Jan. of Education having the power to ban books based on what they deemed “appropriate.”

20. It is important to note that this book, published in 1970, was not required by any Wentzville is not alone in facing a surge in challenged material — this is occurring in curriculum used within the district, and the title is only mentioned as a supplementary districts all across the country. reading for students for one particular course taught exclusively in high schools.

AP Literature & Composition teacher Mrs. Tarrant-Oliphant understands parents’ “The Bluest Eye” was formally challenged by a community member on Sept. 30, citing concerns about the sensitive topics covered in the selection, but feels as though books like themes of pedophilia, incest, and rape. The book is one of eight that have been challenged “The Bluest Eye” are important for young adults (high school students) to have access to and during the 2021-2022 school year. experience.

At the January Board of Education meeting, Director Shannon Stolle originally made “There are difficult and uncomfortable topics that come up in this text, but difficult a motion that night, to “move ‘The Bluest Eye’ by Toni Morrisson to the restricted list for and uncomfortable topics come across our doorways all the time,” explained TarrantAP classes only with parent opt-in requirement.” This would have removed the book from Oliphant. “Insulating people from education is, quite frankly, the first step of oppression. all Wentzville libraries and only allow for Taking literature and books away is what happens when the book to be read upon a parent’s explicit you want people to stop thinking for themselves. It’s approval. In a roll call vote, the motion failed, not right.”

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As referenced in the College Board’s AP 8 books challenged by After more discussion, Secretary Dale Wentzville School District Central, “The Bluest Eye” has previously been used Schaper made a second motion to simply “not as a supplementary text by teachers of “AP Literature constituents: & Composition.” Currently, Liberty High School’s to retain the book.” This motion passed 4-3.

Many who came to watch the meeting teacher of this course, Mrs. Tarrant-Oliphant, does not Lawn Boy, Jonathan Evison the night of Jan. 20 were expecting to see a include this book as a part of her curriculum. discussion about COVID-19, but stayed to On the other hand, many who support the Heavy: An American Memoir, Kiese Laymon witness the district’s first-ever ban on a book. removal of this book are relieved that this title But as indicated by how long it has been since is not available to students anymore. Crawford All Boys Aren’t Blue, George M. Johnson the title was challenged and other national spoke at the October 2021 board meeting and Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic, Alison Bechdel headlines regarding the barring of select titles urged Superintendent Dr. Cain to remove the book from public school libraries, this issue has permanently after she had not heard back from the Gabi, a Girl in Pieces, Isabel Quintero been simmering under the surface for a while. challenge committee.

According to the book’s summary, “‘The “This is in no way appropriate (for) a school Modern Romance, Aziz Ansari Bluest Eye’ is the story of 11-year-old Pecola library,” Crawford said during the public forum portion Invisible Girl, Lisa Jewell Breedlove— a black girl in an America whose of the meeting. love for its blond, blue-eyed children can Community members who were against “The The Bluest Eye, Toni Morrison devastate all others—who prays for her eyes Bluest Eye” being in libraries continued to speak to turn blue: so that she will be beautiful, so at board meetings, leading up to the January 2022 that people will look at her, so that her world meeting where the fateful decision was made. will be different. This is the story of the Vanessa Hagedorn expressed her frustrations nightmare at the heart of her yearning and toward the board at the November meeting, saying the tragedy of its fulfillment.”

“Why, why, why are us parents, who just want to protect our children, jumping through The debut novel by Nobel-Prize winning author Toni Morrison has been continually hoops to get this trash removed?” included in the American Library Association’s list of most challenged books. As of 2020, Even Timberland student Robert Warren came to declare his stance on the challenged “The Bluest Eye” ranks No. 9 on the list, citing reasons such as “sexually explicit” and material and spoke at the December public forum. “depicts child sexual abuse.”

“After I read some of these books, I was grossed out and it made me uncomfortable,” How does a book get removed?: Wentzville community Warren said. member Amber Crawford filed a formal challenge against “The Bluest Eye” on Sept. 30, Beyond Wentzville: The banning of “The Bluest Eye” garnered 2021. As soon as a formal challenge is submitted, the book in question is removed from attention outside of the district, resulting in multiple articles from local and national circulation in both physical and digital form. In the Wentzville School District, the only publications. buildings that had physical copies of “The Bluest Eye” were Holt High School, Timberland The Intellectual Freedom Committee of the Missouri Libraries Association sent a letter High School, and North Point High School. to the board and Superintendent Dr. Cain on Jan. 28 about their decision, encouraging According to the Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning Dr. Keri Skeeters, the Board to reexamine their decision. They went on to express a major underlying issue community members must follow a formal process to challenge any type of media. that seems to plague the multiple challenged materials across the nation: the books contain “There is a form that the community member completes, which asks them to provide perspectives of those who belong to marginalized groups— mainly BIPOC and queer several pieces of information— what they object to, what level they object it for (grade level, communities. course requirements), and then they submit that to the superintendent,” Skeeters said.

The American Civil Liberties Union filed a lawsuit against the Wentzville School Once the board receives the formal challenge, the book is removed from libraries, District on Feb. 15, in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri, on behalf classrooms, and ebook circulation. Within 15 days of receiving the challenge, a committee of two Wentzville School District students. The class-action lawsuit was filed “to stop the made up of nine people is then formed to read the book. During a 20-day process of removal of books that are by and about communities of color, LGBTQ people and other the review process beginning, “the committee shall meet, review the written request for marginalized groups.” reconsideration, read the questioned materials, evaluate, and prepare a written report of Book Is Reinstated: The Wentzville School District Board of its findings and recommendations to the Superintendent of Schools.” (Regulation 6241, Education held a special meeting on Feb. 25 to “revisit the decision to not retain the book BoardDocs) The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison.” The board voted to rescind the decision they made on The committee formed to review “The Bluest Eye” voted to retain the book on Jan. Jan. 20 (which was to “not retain the book”) and then passed a motion to return the book 13. The final verdict was made up of six votes to retain the book, two votes to retain with back to Wentzville high school libraries. Both motions passed 5-1, with Director Dale restriction, and one vote to not retain. The committee’s report cited reasons such as that Schaper abstaining from both votes. “students are not assigned this book, but rather it is a choice that is one of thousands of In response to the book being reinstated in libraries, the ACLU released a statement books in the library,” and that “as part of an AP choice reading list, it is important for the shortly after the school board meeting. library to retain this book so students can have access.”

“This is welcome news, but the fact remains that six books are still banned,” stated “In my time in the curriculum department for about 15 years, we have not had a book Anthony Rothert, Director of Integrated Advocacy of ACLU of Missouri. “…Wentzville’s removed from the library or from classrooms,” Dr. Skeeters said. policies still make it easy for any community member to force any book from the shelves Community Opinion: The removal of the book caused mixed reactions even when they shamelessly target books by and about communities of color, LGBTQ among teachers, students, and community members. people and other marginalized groups.”

The Wentzville School District is aware of the lawsuit but has declined to comment on the matter. It is unclear whether the BOE was inclined to schedule the special board meeting News | lhstoday.org because of the filed lawsuit. design by: G. Block

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Meet your 2022 Wentzville Board of Education Candidates Seven candidates are running ahead of April’s election

by Sean Bruce, Reporter

In the wake of Dr. Curtis Cain’s resignation as our district’s superintendent, concerned families turn to the Board of Education for clarity and a plan of action.

Unfortunately, the Board is also in disarray with constant disagreement about where the Wentzville School District should go from here.

There is hope for our community still. On April 5, the Board of Education election will take place where two seats on the board are ready for the taking. Seven candidates have stepped up to the plate for a chance to make change in our community.

Dale Schaper

Incumbent Dale Schaper is a tenured member of the WSD Board of Education, serving our community for 15 years. Schaper currently serves as the secretary of the board, but has also been the Board of Education president. He extends his community dedication beyond the district, working as a delegate coordinator for the Missouri School Board Association- Region 7.

“I would like to thank everyone in our district for all the hard work, and all the concern you’ve shown for our students during these unexpected challenges. There is still much work to be done, and I humbly ask for your vote so I can continue to serve this community with devotion and respect,” Schaper said.

Dr. Julie Scott is a first time runner for the Board of Education and brings a unique point of view for consideration. Scott has been an active nurse practitioner for 15 years and holds a doctorate in nursing practice. She has lived in the district for 13 years and raised her family here.

In addition to her medical experience, Scott also works as a faculty member at Maryville University.

“We are lucky to have the best teachers and staff working hard to educate our children. I want them to have a safe and collaborative environment in which they feel Julie fulfilled and supported to do their job. I also want them to have confidence that the Board of Education is making Scott decisions based on facts and evidence, in the best interest of the students, staff, and teachers,” Scott said in her introduction on the district website.

John Kaelin

John Kaelin is a veteran who has served as an officer in the Air Force and has also worked as a civilian for the Department of Defense. Kaelin is running this year on a platform that promotes the preparation of students for the world and helps educators make every student’s K-12 learning experience successful. Along with these principles, Kaelin plans to balance his goals on the steady backbone of fiscal responsibility.

“As a military veteran and public servant, I take the obligation to be a good steward of taxpayer dollars very seriously. As a public Board of Education, we have a responsibility to be fiscally prudent when making decisions.

Together, we can lead today so our students can lead tomorrow.”

J.J. Suftko has lived in the district for around 20 years, and has two children who attend Boone Trail Elementary School. He attended Missouri Baptist University and holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Along with his career as a Regional Sales manager, Suftko also donated his time as a youth sports coach. Though he has no teaching experience, Suftko has named himself a lifelong supporter of the classroom and has aimed his campaign toward making sure teachers are successful in their positions.

“I will work hard in bringing the WSD Board of J. J. Education and Administration along, in developing a measurable plan and strategy on attracting and retaining all Suftko district employees. We need to remember these employees long after they take their first steps into our schools. They are a guiding light to developing a culture of excellence.”

Incumbent Sandy Garber has held office on the board on and off since 2012. She served in the 2012-2015 term and was reelected for the 2019-2022 term. Garber is a licensed realtor and an openly conservative member of our community. Garber does not have any children that attend district school but has had two of her three grandchildren previously attend Wentzville’s schools. Director Garber stands on a strong position of opposing mask mandates in district buildings, as well as an opposition of The 1619 Project and Critical Race Theory.

Sandy “We’ve come a long way together....today we have a much better idea of what works and what doesn’t. Do Garber we have more to learn?... I’m sure we do....and we will do it TOGETHER. But one most valuable lesson that we learned is that our kids learn BEST when they are in school 5 days a week in front of their teachers” Garber said in her candidate biography.

Donald R. Looney Jr. ran for the school board last election cycle and fell just short of winning one of the elected seats. Looney has been a Wentzville resident since 1999 when he met and settled down with his wife, Zebrina Looney. Serving as a committee member for the St. Charles Democratic Central Committee as well as serving on and leading several sub committees, Looney has dedicated his life to helping those around him. He has also volunteered for local youth ministries and stated in his candidate biography that his goal has always been elevating the next generation.

Donald R. Don, as he is called by family and friends, “always Looney Jr. appreciated the support and encouragement he received from the educators and coaches he has met throughout his life as a student and wishes to support the students, educators and administrators in his local community. He hopes to bring transparency and inclusion to the School Board as these are unprecedented times and Wentzville continues to grow at an exponential rate.”

Katie Lyczak

First-time candidate Katie Lyczak and her husband have lived in the district for 16 years and have two children who attend Peine Ridge Elementary. She spends her time participating in community events as well and helping out Wentzville’s Connection Theatre Company. Lyczac plans to use her community experience to advocate for children across the district.

“I know board members take an oath to put kids first, but it is just as important for our whole community to have confidence that the district is doing an excellent job educating children, keeping both kids and teachers safe at school, and listening to the concerns and stakeholders have about the culture of our district.”

Read each candidates’ full submitted bios here :

News | lhstoday.org design by: G. Block

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Love at Liberty Take a closer look at one of our teacher couples at Liberty

by Abbiegail Luker, Reporter

Couples everywhere celebrate Valentine’s Day with chocolate, flowers, etc. We have many couples at Liberty, including teachers; one of them being the Sachs’. Mrs. Sachs teaches Basic Skills and teaches a bit in all core areas, and has been working here for seven years. Her husband, Mr. Sachs, is an instructional assistant and moved here from Holt after having worked there for three years.

“He was super familiar with LHS since, as a family, we like to go to and support as many organizations/sports/events as we can as often as we can…so it feels like we are always here even when he didn’t work here,” Mrs. Sachs said. He was familiar with the building and staff before he started working here, so the transition was effortless.

One of the pros of working together is a shorter commute. Mrs. Sachs comments that “We get ‘us time’ on the way to work and on the way to pick up our children that we didn’t have before.” Although they work in the same building, they focus on completely different subjects and don’t see each other too often during the school day.

Getting to work with your spouse is a rare experience that many aren’t able to have, yet many at our school have been fortunate to receive.

“We both love being part of the Liberty family. We are very fortunate to get to be part of the same building,” Mrs. Sachs said.

Other Teacher Couples

McMillens

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Content | lhstoday.org design by: A. Luker graphics by M. Banstetter

Nelsons

Halls

Jolliffs

McFaddens

The Throes of High School Dating What does a high school relationship look like today?

by Fiona Flynn, Reporter

The four years we spend in high school are one of the largest growth periods we experience in our life. From the beginning of freshman year to the end of senior year, we become dramatically different people, whether it is through our recreational activities or our core values. One of the most impactful elements that contributes to this growth are the people we associate ourselves with and the relationships we engage in. Whether or not you support the prospect of high school relationships, such romanticisms are highly inevitable, especially considering the influence of social media’s portrayal of the dating scene.

But with high school being most students’ introduction to dating, there is little experience to make judgments on who they should and shouldn’t be with. Most don’t fully know what they want from life or who they are as a person. For senior Isabelle Grothoff, she has attempted to reflect the image that her parents have modeled through their marriage.

“My mom and dad are best friends and they have a really good relationship with each other.”

However, is the picture of a healthy relationship the same for everyone? Considering the major maturity gap that exists between freshman and senior year, the younger grade carries a similar, but different value.

“Recognizing red flags comes with experience. When you start to get to know someone, pay attention to their behavior, in terms of how they treat other people, even something as simple as how they treat a stranger, or what they say about their friends when they aren’t around,” states English teacher Mr. Schaper.

He has emphasized that in order to maintain a healthy relationship for both parties, communication is the most important thing to pay attention to.

“If you’re willing to listen to what the other person is saying without getting bothered by the fact that they may disagree with you.

Seek the understanding of the other person first before you try to make yourself understood.”

One of the biggest struggles in high school relationships is finding the time to balance school work, after school activities, jobs, and another person besides yourself to focus on. Oftentimes, the endurance of a relationship through all of one’s personal commitments is challenging, notably due to the lack of time there is in a week.

When you are younger, it is easy to believe that your partner at the time may be your one and only. Some may even make the decision to yield their own interests only to fully invest in their significant others in hopes of beginning their life on the right foot. However, Mr. Schaper who has experienced such feelings, has learned otherwise from his past high school dating career.

“You’re the only person that can truly dictate what you want with your life. Be careful about investing parts of yourself in another person, no matter who it is. Understand what you want and what your boundaries are and be willing to communicate that with the other person. It is perfectly natural to break up. Realizing that that is part of life and being thankful for the companionship you had.”

But dating goes beyond the relationship you have with another person; it also involves a lot of self care and love for yourself. Many high school students have learned that if you do not first love yourself, it is extremely difficult to maintain a strong, healthy relationship with another person.

“It is easier to feel like you are enough when you’re with the person you are with if you feel like you are enough for yourself. It is my job to make myself happier, not my partner,” said Grothoff.

Isabelle shares this insight with Mr. Schaper, who agrees that loving yourself is the first, most vital step to being in a relationship.

“If you don’t love yourself or you don’t have a good track record of being kind and supportive to yourself, then it is really difficult for somebody to take care of those aspects of yourself for you. If you are not kind to yourself and you are not modeling that for other people, then they are not going to feel like they need to be kind to you,” says Schaper.

As a high schooler, it can be difficult to know what you want.

Seeking companionship is one resolution that many come to. It is most important to first love yourself, respect yours and others boundaries, and try not to be swayed by Instagram’s picture perfect posts. High school relationships should be fun and about enjoying the bond of another person. But always remember to put yourself first.

Dating Hotlines Love is Respect One Love Call 1.866.331.9474 Call 1.866.331.9474 Text “LOVEIS” to Text “loveis” to 22522 1.866.331.9474* loveisrespect.org joinonelove.org Domestic Violence Support Call 1.800. 787.3224 Text “START” to 88788

Photo by Paige Bostic

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Down To Earth

Grounding techniques for bringing yourself to the present

by Elizabeth Hamby, Co Editor-In-Chief & Mollie Banstetter, Layout Editor When times are hard, and even when they aren’t, it is important to be in tune with yourself and the Earth. Life can get overwhelming but our planet provides us with tools we can utilize to ground ourselves. Grounding can also be referred to as “earthing” as an underground practice to help bring yourself to the present and focus on calming in a troubling situation. We will look at well-known and practiced methods you can implement to ground yourself.

One of the many ways is becoming one with the elements. These may seem like arbitrary things therapists will tell you, but most of the time it’s the little things that help to provide a little bit of calm. So try holding a piece of ice. Go out, find some stones and balance them on top of each other. This requires some concentration and will distract you from your roaming thoughts. Take deep breaths. This is proven to improve your circulation and headspace, so taking a minute and just bringing your attention to your breath can do wonders! If showers or baths are your things, take a hot one and just focus on the way the water feels against your body, and how the steam can help release the tension in your muscles.

Grounding relies on the 5 senses and a common technique that can be used is the 5-4-3-2-1 method that can be done anywhere you are silently in your head or out loud.

First, with the easiest of senses, look around your surroundings and list 5 things you can see.

Then 4 things you can touch around you, this could be the tongue resting on the roof of your mouth or the jeans that you are wearing, maybe even the mask resting against your face. Next, establish 3 things you can hear around you. If you can’t hear anything, that’s your cue to get up and make some noise (of course if appropriate). If you still need to continue, find 2 things you can smell around you, and 1 thing you can taste.

Struggling on finding the senses? Here are some prompts to help you get started.

| lhstoday.org 10 In-Depth design by: M. Banstetter & E. Hamby

Look at yourself in the mirror and list things you like about yourself.

Reciting these affirmations when you’re in a calm mental state can be a routine that keeps you grounded.

Practicing self-love and appreciation is imperative to a healthy state of mind.

Light a candle, close your eyes, and visualize your favorite place. This can be somewhere you have been, or it can be somewhere you dream of being. As you escape to your safe place, breathe in and slowly breathe out. Let your mind relax.

Smell

Sight

Go outside, (no shoes required) and feel the grass against your skin.

Feel the grass, the ground, and the warmth bring your attention to your body. Walk around and give thought to what you are physically feeling.

Touch

Establish a mantra that you say out loud, maybe establishing a foundation of yourself. For example state, your full name, where you are from, where you are, and a reassuring phrase like you will be okay.

Hearing

Taking a drink of water can lower your heart and breathing rate, as well as reduce stress and anxiety.

Drinking water can curate feelings of calmness and relaxation.

Taste In-Depth | lhstoday.org design by: M. Banstetter & E. Hamby All graphics by M. Banstetter

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Eggsperiment 2022 An in-depth look at this years eggsperiment

by Avery Schlattman, Reporter Each year at the start of second semester, Mr. Barker conducts an “eggsperiment” for his AP Psychology classes.

The project’s purpose is to help teach students about the responsibility of parenting.

“I want students to know how challenging it is to be responsible for another life,” Barker states. Students must take care of their egg which includes bringing it to class each day, decorating, taking 10 photos a day with their egg, not leaving it unattended, and most importantly not cracking it. With never before seen carriers, names, decorations, and parenting techniques, Barker considers this year’s eggsperiment to be “top notch.”

With a grand total of five eggs, Sruthi Ramesh wins this year’s title for “Worst Egg Parent.” Ramesh managed to be the first one to break an egg, cracking it after only a half hour.

Ramesh’s eggs broke in a variety of ways. “The first egg was death by lightsaber, the second egg jumped out of my cup and cracked on the ground, the third egg splattered on my driveway and the fourth egg rolled off my desk.”

While all of Ramesh’s eggs were broken accidentally, the same can not be said for senior Amber Stein.

“In a very strange twist of events, she has chosen to murder her egg for theatrical effect,” Barker shared. Stein has gone through 12 eggs, a new record for Barker.

“I’ve never had someone go through so many eggs, nor have I had someone kill their egg on purpose.” Stein’s first egg broke accidentally sending this new egg parent into a spiral “There was no extra credit after breaking the first egg, so there was no reason to keep the rest alive. I was sad.”

Mr. Barker poses with an eggs that he assigned each of his students to take care of. photo by A.Schlattman

In order to keep their eggs safe, students must create a carrier. The contraption can be as simple or complex as they’d like, as long as it follows the rules. The carrier must allow for the egg to be able to “breathe” and the egg must be able to be taken out of the carrier. While most students choose to make theirs quick and effective, senior Tess Roberts chose to think outside the box. “I went to Michaels and bought a wooden bird house, and the doors actually opened up on it,” Roberts said. Roberts’ unique device worked and she was able to keep her egg intact the full nine days. “I actually did end up having to tape my egg by the end, after I took it out of the house and put it in the vending machine.” In an attempt to create the perfect photo op., Roberts placed the egg inside of the vending machine coin slot.

“It actually fit perfectly, but when I went to take it out the shell cracked a little.”

While most students celebrate the end of the project with a ceremonious egg breaking, two students have started a new tradition. Kent Masten and I, Avery Schlattman, have had their eggs for over a year. The two celebrated their “eggaversary” on Jan. 25. “In all my years of teaching, I’ve never had this happen before,” Barker remarked.

Be sure to consider signing up for AP Psych, and get the chance to experience the eggsperiment for yourself!

Tess Roberts protects her egg with a wooden birdhouse bought from Michael’s. photo submitted by T. Roberts

| lhstoday.org 12 Content design by: F. Flynn

Cover design by: S. Ramesh

HOSA and Impact Life worked together again for this school year’s second blood drive on Feb. 8 in the small gym. This was the second blood drive hosted by HOSA of this school year.

Senior Jaden Zelidon, who is the president of Liberty’s HOSA club, encouraged students to sign up to donate.

“There is a national blood shortage at the moment, and a lot of people need blood in order to survive,” Zelidon said. “Donating blood is a great way to be able to help people in our local community and around the world, and it isn’t very hard to do.”

Signing up was available during lunches on Jan. 31 and in the club’s sponsor, Ms. Strathman’s room, during the passing period. It was encouraged for students to sign up with Impact Life as well by scanning QR codes.

HOSA president-elect, junior Amelia Huebbe, explained what goes into the planning of the event.

HOSA Hosts Second Blood Drive Of The School Year _____________________________

Club garnered over 100 sign-ups for joint Impact Life

by Mollie Banstetter, Layout Editor & Kyndall Stubblefield, Reporter

“We need to contact the company, form a committee, and have enough time for people to sign up,” Huebbe said.

Despite a national blood shortage, the students and staff of Liberty stepped up to surpass its goal and reach a new school all-time number in donations.

The goal for the February HOSA blood drive was to have 100 people sign up, and they surpassed their goal with 128 donors.

“Our goal for the blood drive is usually around 80 units,” HOSA sponsor Mrs. Strathman, who organized the drive, explained. At any time, hospitals try to keep a 7-day blood supply, but currently, they are down to a 1-2 day supply. The United States is currently in a national blood crisis.

The Red Cross says it’s the worst blood shortage in more than a decade.

If you are inspired to help, you can donate through ImpactLife.

donation event

Content | lhstoday.org design by: F. Flynn

13

Winter Sports

Branching Out

Athletes have signed to different colleges to play collegiate sports as they set down new roots

by Ally Schniepp, Sports Editor & Cody Cushing, Reporter

Coach Kling What was a season highlight?

The season highlight was the 6 wrestlers who qualified for state. This was the first season in Liberty history where we qualified more than 5 wrestlers.

What did you learn from this season?

We learned from the season that our team has very hard workers and is going to be a challenge for anyone we wrestle against in the upcoming years.

What are you most proud of?

I’m most proud of Caroline Ward for winning her district and Matt Craig for placing 2nd at state.

Coach Sodemann Our season is going pretty well. We are currently 16-8. A big highlight was beating Zumwalt South in early January. I have learned this year the importance of having guys that can make shots. I am most proud of the guys that have stuck together through the adversity we’ve had this season. This seems to be a pretty close group on and off the court and as a result we have found some ways to win close games.

Coach Walterbach What was a season highlight?

Personally for me getting to spend time with everyone. I love coaching basketball and being around the team.

Team wise: I think the Windsor win. It would have been real easy to quit, but we came out ready to play.

What did you learn from this season?

That we don’t have quitters. Some girls left the program, but the ones who stuck through it all showed a lot of character.

Coach Whitmore I am so proud of the girls this season. Many tried a new sport they had never participated in before, and many left the season being able to swim all 4 strokes well. We had many state consideration times as well as state participation this year, which is great considering we were moved to a new division this season! This was my first season coaching for girls swimming in a long time, and I look forward to coaching again next season.

| lhstoday.org 14 Sports design by: A. Schniepp & C. Cushing Cover design by: S. Ramesh

Senior Adrian Lee committed to East-West University Chicago to play basketball. Lee has only been playing basketball for five years, so he’s looking forward to furthering his game in college.

“I just started playing in eighth grade so going to play at the next level after just five years is a great feeling,” Lee said. Lee originally had little to no interest in playing basketball, but a friend of his convinced him to go out for the team in eighth grade, and the rest is history.

“My friend Kevin, me and him got shots up everyday after school. He was the friend that convinced me to play,” Lee said.

East-West is a NAIA school, and Lee plans to use this to his advantage and play as hard as he can to excel his college seasons.

“I’m going there to hopefully put myself at a higher level and play at a university,” Lee said.

Senior Alex Fillner is committed to Missouri Baptist University to further his football career as a receiver. Fillner started playing football in second grade and has been passionate about the sport since the moment he stepped on the field.

“My dad told me I should play a sport, and it was football season. I went out to my first practice and I didn’t really know much about football, but I fell in love with it from day one, and I’ve been playing ever since,” Fillner said.

Fillner’s family has been a major influence on him and his football career.

“Both of my parents have helped me so much throughout little league, middle school, high school, even the recruiting process,” Fillner said.

Fillner’s love for football has motivated him to play for Liberty for four years, getting pulled up to varsity as a freshman. His senior season, he ran 386 yards total even after playing the first few games on the defensive side of the field.

“Start early,” Fillner said as a word of advice. “It’s truly a process and you don’t see results on the first day. It might take a week, it might take a month, it might take three months, you just gotta stay on course and stick with it.”

Because Fillner stuck with football and worked at his skills, he will be able to play at the next level for Missouri Baptist and keep improving his game.

Senior David Richard committed to Division two McKendree University in Lebanon, Illinois. Richard committed to be a receiver for McKendree’s football team after completing a total of 331 yards this season with 190 receiving yards.

“Not a lot of people have the opportunity to play at the next level, so I’m grateful for the opportunity I have to keep playing,” Richard said.

Richard has been playing football at Liberty for all four seasons of his high school career and he was moved up to varsity his sophomore year. Richard caught and scored the only offensive touchdown of the game against Timberland, who the program had never beat before. After this touchdown, Richard found a place on the field for offensive yards and more touchdowns to come in his future years in the program.

“I grew up in a football family, so I’ve known ever since I was a little kid that I wanted to play football,” Richard said.

Richard’s family was a big influence on him and they have supported him throughout every loss and every victory.

“My mother, she’s been with me every single step of the way,” Richard said in regards to who his biggest supporter has been. “She’s been there for my lows and highs and inbetweens.”

Richard is honored to be able to take this next step in his football career at McKendree University and is excited to see where this road will take him.

Adrienne Rockette committed to Missouri Baptist University for cross country and track to run mid-distance and long distance events. Rockette has been officially running since eighth grade, but her love of running started in elementary school.

“Girls on the Run,” Rockette said of how she started running. “They have 5k’s at the end of every year, and I enjoyed running the 5k’s, so I thought cross country would be the same.”

Girls on the Run is a non-profit organization that inspires girls like Rockette to pursue their love for running. Since then, Rockette has competed at state in the 4x800 relay her junior year placing fourth and her freshman year earning the first place award in the event.

Going forward, Rockette is enthusiastic about going to Missouri Baptist and starting her college cross country and track career.

“I’m really excited about it, and clearly I’ve never done it before, but I’m excited to see what will come,” Rockette said.

Soaring to Nationals The Liberty Belles won the Division 5 State Champion title after moving up a class this year

by Ally Schniepp, Sports Editor

The Belles competed in Division 5 Precision Jazz and Division 5 Pom at the state competition this year. Because of Liberty’s size increase, the Belles were moved from Division 4, a smaller division, into Division 5, which puts them with bigger schools. The Belles took first place in Jazz and first place in Pom, but were not expecting to win the title of state champs.

“When they announced second place and we knew we won it was so hard to keep our excitement bottled,” senior Molly Marino said. “When they called us it was amazing. We were all screaming and tears of joy were coming from everyone’s eyes!”

The dancers showed up every day and put in hard work for game days and their competitions. At their other competitions this season, they won first in Jazz around the board, winning the choreography award at two out of three. They won first in Pom twice, but lost to Holt by half a point and got second.

In the Game Day portion, they also won first twice and second once.

“I’m so proud of our team, especially this season,” senior Bella Bahr said. “The biggest challenge was moving up a division because we had no idea what was in store.” Bahr has competed at State for all four years of her high school career and has won the title of State Champions three out of four times.

photo provided by @LHSBelles Twitter

NDA Battle Jazz: 1st Pom: 1st and Choreography Award Game Day: 1st FZN Invitational Jazz: 1st Pom: 2nd Game Day: 1st Mehlville Invitational Jazz: 1st and Choreography Award Pom: 1st Game Day: 2nd Overall highest scoring Division 5

“I can fully say I am so proud of the legacy being left behind,” Bahr said. “Seeing all of the hard work payoff and dancing every day with my best friends is a feeling I will miss, but I cannot wait to support the team for years to come in the future.”

This year’s title didn’t come to the team just because of the outstanding talent of the dancers, but because of the hardwork and dedication they put in every day at practice.

“It is so amazing to win and have people see that all of the crazy stuff we do is worth it,” Marino said. “We work so hard all the time and sometimes with sports like us it goes unnoticed. I love the feeling knowing that all the work we put in was worth it.”

The morning practices, conditioning, and every game day proves the hard work these dancers put in and how much they deserve their title of Division 5 State Champions.

The Belles with their awards after winning the State title. photos by Sruthi Ramesh, Cody Cushing, Monica Reyes, and Emily Barnett

Savannah Kruse has come back to her alma mater to coach both C team and JV for the girls basketball program. Kruse’s positivity and belief in each of her players to do their best every day is why she has made such an impact on the program as a coach already.

Senior Jaden Betton is one of the only players in the boys “My confidence went up a lot when I started being coached basketball program to play on varsity all four years of his high by her,” JV and varsity player freshman Kennedi Brower said. school career. His hard work and dedication to this program is “She makes me feel like I’m doing my best and reaching my full why Betton broke the school record for most steals in Liberty potential.” history.

“I love them, and the fact that they love me back is even better,” “I’m going down in history. My name will be on that Kruse said. With Kruse’s knowledge of basketball and her leaderboard and that’s very big,” Betton said. “Really just positive and genuine personality, the girls she’s coaching have playing and leaving it all out there on the court with my started loving practice and the environment they get to come to teammates is how I got there.” after school.

Practicing hard in the offseason, getting up shots whenever Kruse’s first coaching year at her former high school has been he could, and training everyday brought him this award and is a one for the books. With her experience being a player in the big reason why the boy’s program went 16-9 this season. program before a coach makes the difference to have someone “The leadership role that I take on means everything to who is trying to help her players get better, the same way she had me. I love it,” Betton said about his relationship with his years before them. teammates.

“They’re all positive with me and I am positive with them.

Another outcome of his dedication to basketball is Betton’s They’re positive with each other,” Kruse said. “I really couldn’t relationship with Coach Sodemann. Over the past four have asked for a better first go around, and it makes me want to do seasons, Betton and Sodemann built a connection that pushed it forever.”

Betton to work harder.

Kruse continues to leave her mark on the program at Liberty as “For my coach to honor me, my relationship with him is a coach and will forever leave a mark on the girls she is coaching. everything to me, so to get that award from him and share it As long as Coach Kruse is on the court coaching, she plans to

with my teammates was a huge honor,” Betton said. continue helping players get better each and every day.

Caroline Ward is one of Liberty’s four female wrestlers and one of six wrestlers who went to the state wrestling meet in Columbia. She went 1-2 for the weekend.

Her favorite part of the season was her win at districts.

She won her first match in the state competition in her respective weight class.

Ward is a junior in her first year of wrestling and plans to come back for her senior year.

Ward is a dual sport athlete participating in wrestling and volleyball. Ward thinks that playing volleyball has helped her in wrestling.

She was the only female wrestler from Liberty to go to the State Tournament. She hopes to place in next year’s state tournament.

Ward is very happy with her first year of wrestling and says that she can only get better in the offseason in preparation for next season. When asked about her opinion of her season, Ward said, “I feel really good, but feel that I just need to focus on getting better for next year.”

Sports | lhstoday.org design by: A. Schniepp & C. Cushing

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PARTICIPatE EDUCATE COMMEMORATE PARTICIPATE Diversity and Activism Club celebrate Black History

Clubs hold joint meeting to teach black history through games, art, and discussions

by Avery Schlattman, Reporter Diversity and Activism Club held a joint meeting on Feb. 23 to help their members learn more about black history. There were three stations for attendees to rotate through including a game of Kahoot, a group discussion, and a “creative station” to create art pieces promoting the club theme for the month “Black Health and Wellness.” Arthi Kondapaneni, president of both Diversity and Activism Club, worked to plan the meeting and inform others of topics such as unconscious bias, microaggressions, and stereotypes.

| lhstoday.org 16 News design by: A. Schlattman Cover design by: S. Ramesh

EDUCATE WATCH Many documentaries and movies exist to educate and learn about Black History. On Netflix “13th”, “The Death and Life of Marsha P Johnson”, and “When they see us”

READ On lhstoday.org read a wide variety of stories pertaining to Black History Month including “Reverse Racism: Real Or No Deal?” by Kira Radichel; “My Life As An African American Teenager” by Kira Radichel; “WSD Bans Book, Deeming The Selection Inappropriate” by Sruthi Ramesh.

Talk about it

Listen to black voices

Racism has become a taboo subject, but it shouldn’t have to be. Talking about racial injustice helps provide a better understanding of what’s going on in the world around us. It helps us to stick up for ourselves and each other, creating a stronger community. Talking about racism helps to prepare us for when tough situations arise, and provides you with the knowledge on how to handle them.

In order to grasp a clearer understanding of racial injustice, it is best to listen to those who have experienced it firsthand. There are many resources available to help learn about racism and black history written and composed by black authors and artists.

Remember: While it is not the POC communities job to educate you, it is your job to listen and learn.

commemorate It’s Black History Month Celebrating some of our favorite black heroes

by Emily Barnett, Reporter February is Black History Month and recognized nationally for all Americans to take time and reflect on some of the achievements made by Black Americans throughout U.S history.

The event that we know now today started when Carter G. Woodson and his organization the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History (ASNLH) created Negro History Week in February of 1925. The celebration and response to this creation flourished exponentially. In 1976 the ASALH expanded the event through all of February.

Join us as we learn about important black figures from the past and today. We celebrate some of our most well-known and outstanding athletes such as Kobe Bryant, Michael Jordan and Simone Biles. Renowned scientists who have made remarkable contributions that are now recognized globally include George Washington Carver, Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett and Marie Maynard Daly. In the arts, actors and musicians such as Will Smith, Morgan Freeman, Denzel Washington, Aretha Franklin, Prince and Beyonce have changed the game both on screen and in the studio.

Read more on lhstoday.org Carter G. Woodson

News | lhstoday.org design by: A. Schlattman photo provided Creative Commons

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‘Dawn FM’ Shows Signs Of Becoming Modern Classic The Weeknd’s newest album showcases the artist’s undeniable musicality and versatility

by Gavin Block, Reporter

Dawn FM, released on Jan. 7, serves as a direct follow-up to After Hours. As its title suggests, the album presents itself as an ‘80s-style retro radio station (103.5 Dawn FM), with “radio host” and fellow Canadian Jim Carrey guiding the audience throughout the album.

Dawn FM is a concept album, described by The Weeknd as having the listener set in a state of purgatory. He has said that it is a feeling akin to being stuck in traffic, with one waiting to reach the other side.

Numerous producers contributed their presence and support on the record, such as Max Martin, Calvin Harris, Oneohtrix Point Never and Oscar Holter.Tuneful tracks like “Gasoline” and “How Do I Make You Love Me?” are evocative of predominantly ‘80s synth-pop artists Howard Jones and Depeche Mode.

The lead single “Take My Breath” is especially Michael Jackson-esque, featuring a disco rhythm, keyboards and anthemic vocals from The Weeknd. This could certainly be the type of song that gets the crowd up and moving at a concert.

“Sacrifice” is another song that seems to derive inspiration from Michael Jackson. It has similarities to Jackson’s “Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough,” including the chords and groovy rhythm. “Sacrifice” actually samples the 1981 song “I Want to Thank You” by Alicia Myers. The Weeknd’s stalking vocal performance brings an ominous atmosphere to the song.

Renowned musician Quincy Jones and filmmaker Josh Safdie star in spoken word segments in “A Tale By Quincy” and “Every Angel Is Terrifying,” respectively.

The wistful “Out of Time” incorporates characteristics of vaporwave and lounge music. The resounding synths and backing vocals are exceptional, and they help bring home The Weeknd’s message to his lover that it is too late to go back but he will still be there for her. °Here We Go…Again” is a soft, sensual track that features hip-hop/rap artist Tyler, the Creator. Both musicians recount that although they regret relationships and falling in love, they still end up becoming enamored once more. This song is definitely one for discotheques and high school dances, acting as a more gentle interval between lively numbers.

The pulsating “Is There Someone Else?” is an interrogation, where The Weeknd asks his partner if she is cheating on him with another man. This segues into the dreamlike ballad “Starry Eyes,” which is sonically similar regarding the tempo and tonality.

| lhstoday.org 18 A&E design by: P. Bostic Graphic by M. Banstetter

“Starry Eyes” is a romantic appeal to a love interest, with The Weeknd promising to support and care for her as stellar arpeggios and lovely synths fill the background. The title can be interpreted as expressing the hopeful, nostalgic sentiment that she gives him compared to how he usually feels, which is evidenced by these lines: “Back then I was starry-eyed / And now I’m so cynical.”

The penultimate track “Less Than Zero” is an absolutely glistening song, blending keyboards, guitar, drumming, bass and The Weeknd’s floating vocals. It is fairly reminiscent of the 1982 hit “I Melt with You” by the new wave band Modern English. The Weeknd tells of how he feels as if he has no value in a relationship, initially being his lover’s hero but now metaphorically becoming even less than zero. The final track “Phantom Regret by Jim” is a spoken epilogue from narrator Jim Carrey, reflecting on life and what we will take from our past experiences. It ends the album on a solemn, thoughtprovoking note.

An extended edition of Dawn FM, subtitled Alternate World, includes three more songs: a remix of “Take My Breath” with Agents of Time, a remix of “Sacrifice” with Swedish House Mafia and “Moth to a Flame,” also with Swedish House Mafia.

“I Heard You’re Married” features rapper Lil Wayne. The duo sing about the discovery of being a side lover to an already married partner. The song further concerns the sense of betrayal and deception that they have due to this situation. It is a smooth, wellproduced track with funky, showy percussion that makes it greatly energetic. song, blending keyboards, guitar, drumming, bass and The Dawn FM is altogether a great addition to The Weeknd’s discography. It is full of melancholia and heartbreak, but it also puts forth a glimmer of optimism and the anticipation of a better future behind the apparent veil of nihilism. The instrumentation and production are wonderful, pleasing the ear and making the listener feel lost in the surrounding harmonies. The lyrics, sometimes genuine and sometimes provocative, are mostly romantic and splendidly delivered through The Weeknd’s melodic vocal performances.

Dawn FM admirably upholds The Weeknd’s title of a defining musical artist of Generation Z. The Weeknd will go on his After Hours til Dawn Stadium Tour in the summer of 2022. The trip was originally postponed a total of three times due to the COVID-19 pandemic and arena constraints.

The singer announced in October 2021 that new dates were added, meaning that he will perform shows across North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, and the Middle East.

?

Where Did Valentine’s Day Come From Twisted and mysterious history behind Feb. 14

by Sammy Knickmeyer, Reporter There is a lot of mystery surrounding Valentine’s Day and its origin. What is known is that February has always been viewed as a month of romance. St. Valentine’s Day as we know it today contains elements of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. But who was Saint Valentine and why is he important to this holiday?

Saint Valentine was said to be a Roman priest who performed secret weddings behind the backs of the authorities in the third century.

He was imprisoned in the home of a noble, and healed his captor’s blind daughter. This caused the whole household to convert to Christianity and seal his fate as a martyr. Before being tortured and decapitated on Feb. 14, he sent the girl a note signed “Your Valentine.”

Some accounts say another saint named Valentine during the same period was the Bishop of Terni. He also performed secret weddings and died via beheading on Feb. 14. Valentine was a popular name in ancient Rome, and there are at least 50 stories of different saints by that name. The earliest surviving accounts of the two Feb. 14 Valentines were written starting in the 500s. They have a whole lot in common– almost too much in common. Both were said to have healed a child while imprisoned, leading to a household-wide religious conversion. They were also executed on the same day of the year and buried along the same highway.

While most believe that Valentine’s Day is celebrated on Feb. 14 to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine’s death or burial, others claim that the Christian church may have decided to place St. Valentine’s feast day in the middle of February in an effort to “Christianize” the pagan celebration of Lupercalia.

Lupercalia survived the initial rise of Christianity but was outlawed, as it was deemed “un-Christian.” At the end of the 5th century, Pope Gelasius declared Feb. 14 as St. Valentine’s Day. However, it was not until much later that the day became definitively associated with love. During the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in France and England that Feb. 14 was the beginning of birds’ mating season, which contributed to the idea that Valentine’s Day should be a day of romance.

Another staple of Valentine’s Day is Cupid, usually represented by a cherubic infant wielding a bow and arrow. But Cupid wasn’t always depicted this way. Long before the Romans adopted and renamed him, Cupid was known to the Greeks as Eros, the handsome god of love.

One of the first authors to mention Eros was Hesiod. He described him in “Theogony” as one of the primeval cosmogonic deities born of the world egg. But later depictions of the lineage of Eros vary. They describe him as the son of Nyx and Erebus; or Aphrodite and Ares; or Iris and Zephyrus; or even Aphrodite and Zeus. Eros was armed with a bow filled with golden arrows to arouse desire, and leaden arrows to ignite aversion.

Eros struck at the hearts of gods and mortals and played with their emotions. In one story from ancient Greek mythology, which was later retold by Roman authors, Eros shot a golden arrow at Apollo. He fell madly in love with the nymph Daphne, but Eros then launched a leaden arrow at Daphne so she would be repulsed by him.

While Valentine’s Day is now a widely celebrated commercial holiday, it was once a Roman tale and considered controversial by the Christian church.

A&E| lhstoday.org design by: E. Barnett

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Are Businesses Doing Enough to Address pollution?

Where are we succeeding and where are we falling short?

by Paige Bostic, Co Editor-In-Chief

When one switches on their television, they often come across commercials from corporate giants boasting about the growing sustainability of their companies. Companies make promises that they are taking steps to become carbon neutral or to use renewable energy in far-off years, or to use recycled materials in their packaging sooner than later. But as companies continue to make promises on one topic and fall short on the other, one grows apprehensive about just how much global companies are going to try to protect our world.

Corporate Pledges Several other companies have accepted The Climate Pledge to reach net-zero carbon emissions by the year 2040. The pledge works to “implement decarbonization strategies in line with the Paris Agreement,” both implementing corporate sustainability policies and ensuring that they remain intact.

Companies from Visa to HP to Verizon have accepted the challenge, which emphasizes “regular reporting, carbon elimination, and credible offsets. ” With these programs and pledges, several businesses have promised to contribute to a greener earth.

An Example of Benefits: Paper With more public accountability, industries have begun sustainability programs that promote recycling waste and using recycled materials. The Environmental Protection Agency reports numerous benefits to the use of recycled materials, from the conservation of natural resources to ‘increasing economic security by tapping a domestic source of materials.’ Companies such as Amazon are promising “to make Amazon device packaging 100% curbside recyclable by 2023” which could significantly conserve the materials that go into cardboard boxes; saving on paper and other wood products, thus contributing to the preservation of our trees. This conservation effort has a sort of domino effect: if companies use recycled materials in their packaging, they can fight against climate change by conserving trees, which helps reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions (which trap harmful UV radiation in the atmosphere) by combatting CO2 emissions.

An Example of Shortcomings: Plastics While numerous companies have promised to act more sustainably, their actions can prove incongruent with their words.

A report by the charity Oceana, published a year after Amazon signed onto the Climate Pledge, calculated “up to 22.44 million pounds (10.18 million kg) of Amazon plastic packaging waste polluted freshwater and marine ecosystems in 2019.” PepsiCo, which has also signed onto the Climate Pledge, has also contributed to a monumental amount of plastic as reported by the Break Free From Plastic Organization, making second place in the “top three global corporate plastic polluters since our first global brand audit report in 2018.” The report recorded 5,155 pieces of plastic across 43 countries as a result of PepsiCo pollution, who as per the Climate Pledge have promised to do better.

So Are Businesses Doing Enough?

The benefits of businesses attempting to do their part is undeniable. They have the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that trap harmful UV radiation in the atmosphere, to promote biodiversity by preserving endangered ecosystems and to provide a cleaner environment for all.

Of course, these benefits are theoretical until we start seeing action from companies who have given their word to do better. Companies must live up to their promises on providing a cleaner and more sustainable environment before they earn the right to boast about their sustainability in PR campaigns. The potential for a better world is there, but the incongruencies between actions and words must be addressed first.

Opinion | lhstoday.org 20 Cover design by: S. Knickmeyer and M. Banstetter Graphics by M. Banstetter

The Treacherous World Of The Fast Fashion Industry

Supporting unsustainable brands destroys both the planet and your ethics

by Kay Copeland, Reporter

It’s fairly common to see celebrities, friends, and peers proudly sporting their trendy clothing that came with an unbelievably low price tag. The industry of fast fashion is expected to grow exponentially in coming years, becoming even more widely accepted and attainable. But while these brands provide cheap, stylish clothing and accessories, nothing comes without a price; and the price to pay for fast fashion consumption isn’t worth the outward benefits it presents.

What is fast fashion?

Fast fashion refers to the mass-production of poor-quality clothing that replicates the latest fashion trends. Products are sold at insanely low prices, making up for the insanely low quality.

Some recognizable fast fashion brands are Shein, Fashion Nova, H&M and Forever 21. Unsurprisingly, these are merely a handful out of many brands with harmful production practices.

How is it damaging our environment?

While being the second-highest user of water worldwide, the fast fashion industry is also responsible for producing 20% of water waste globally. This is mainly attributed to the process of textile dyeing, in which toxic chemicals enter and contaminate our water. Often times once the water is contaminated, it can’t be made safe again. Synthetic materials are the leading cause of plastic microfibers polluting our oceans. In order to lower the selling price, fast fashion producers use low-quality materials - such as polyester - which contains plastic and releases more carbon into the environment than that of sustainable materials.

Additionally, the plastic in these synthetic materials is slow to degrade. Once it eventually does, a toxic substance is released that harms marine life and ecosystems. This toxicity also has the potential to end up in the human food chain.

Fast fashion further brings light to the issue of excessive clothing consumption. There were 62 million metric tons of apparel were consumed globally in 2019, and this number has only continued to increase over the years. Such consumption results in 57% of all discarded clothing ending up in landfills.

Discarded clothes are then incinerated after piling up in landfills. This process brings with it multiple public health and environmental dangers. Poisonous gases and toxic substances are emitted during incineration, which in turn attributes to air pollution.

What are the ethical issues surrounding fast fashion?

Fast fashion is notorious for its unethical business practices. Products are made overseas so that companies can avoid regulated high minimum wages. Workers are employed for long hours in unsafe conditions, producing clothing as quickly and inexpensively as possible to keep up with demand. In many cases, children are employed and basic human rights are violated in order to mass-produce clothing.

It’s also probable that workers are exposed to caustic chemicals and dyes, and may work under other dangerous circumstances where safety isn’t a primary concern.

What are some alternatives?

The obvious alternative is to research and purchase clothing from reputably sustainable brands. While it’s true that fast fashion brands are much more affordable, you get what you pay for − unethical and quick production. Make sure that the company you purchase from is ethically aligned with your beliefs before you buy.

Donating and thrifting clothes is another great alternative to supporting fast fashion. This way your old clothes aren’t clogging up landfills, and in turn, you purchase sustainable clothing for an affordable price.

It’s a win-win!

Spreading the word about the dangers of fast fashion is the best jab back at the industry. Start a dialogue with those who religiously purchase clothes from these unsustainable brands. Change starts with the consumer; if there’s no demand for fast fashion, there’s no fast fashion.

Photo by M. Vorel via LibreShot

Photo by Alan Levine via Flickr

Before you buy from a brand, consider...

Has this brand put in the effort to reduce its overall waste?

Does this brand use sustainable materials?

Is this brand’s production rate too high?

Does this brand have ethical labor practices?

Has this brand committed to a sustainable future?

Alternate sustainable and ethical brands to support: Levi’s Adidas TOMS Patagonia Pact Black Beat Co. Fair Trade Winds

Opinion| lhstoday.org design by: S. Bruce

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99 Golden Years Looking back on the life of Betty White

by Paige Bostic, Co Editor-in-Chief

On Dec. 31, 2021, small-screen superstar Betty White passed away at age 99. While the legendary actress is arguably best known for her work as the ditzy yet kindhearted Rose Nylund on NBC’s The Golden Girls, Betty White led a rich and diverse career that spanned a record-setting 79 years White passed away shortly before what would have been her 100th birthday. In honor of her decorated career, let’s take a look back at some of Betty White’s most notable work.

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etty White’s love for performing blossomed when she wrote and performed in a graduation play at the Horace Mann school. After the second world war, she worked as a model and radio personality.

Betty White won the first Daytime Emmy awarded to a woman in

the category of Outstanding Gameshow Host. Just two years later, White started acting in what was arguably her most famous role as “The Golden Girls’” Rose Nylund. Rose was the pride of St. Olaf, her Minnesota hometown. The character was a lovable airhead who was renowned for the loyalty and kindness she showed to her friends. The hite began co-hosting the television show “Hollywood on role earned White an Emmy for Outstanding Actress in a Comedy Television,” a job that earned her an Emmy nomination. The show was Series. a five-and-a-half hour, six-day-a-week live talk show that ran from fter “The Golden Girls” ended, White made several guest appearances 1949-1953. After her co-host Al Jarvis left the show in 1951, White on television shows, winning an Emmy for Outstanding Guest Actress hosted the show alone, resulting in what is believed to have been the in a Comedy Series for her appearance on “The John Larroquette Show “in 1996. he began work on the television show “Life With Elizabeth,” in which she played the titular role. The show was comprised of various comedy sketches that followed various incidents befalling newlyweds Elizabeth and Alvin (as played by Del Moore) etty White earned a Primetime Emmy Award for her role as host on “Saturday Night Live,” as well as setting a record for oldest host. This was her fifth Emmy award, and one of the 22 nominations she received hite began her own talk show, “The Betty White Show.” White during her career. interviewed guests, performed skits, and featured children’s segments within each episode of her show. The show was canceled, but later revived in 1958 and then once again in 1977. he produced the prank show “Betty White’s Off Their Rockers,” which earned three Emmy nominations. In the show, elderly show guests played pranks on young people. The show aired on NBC and Lifetime. hite began her appearances on “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” as the cynically sweet Sue Ann Nivens. The show ran for four years.

White’s character was bold, forward, and driven, White was the complete opposite of how women were expected to behave at the time.

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Don’t try to be young. Just open your mind. Stay interested in stuff. There are so many things I won’t live long enough to find out about, but I’m still curious about them.

| lhstoday.org 22 A&E design by: S. Ramesh

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grandma’s cookbook Food straight from grandma’s recipe box

by Elaine Thimyan, Reporter

Peach Cobbler Ingredients

1/2 cup butter, melted 1 can (15-1/4 ounces) sliced peaches, drained 1-1/4 cups sugar, divided 1 cup all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 cup 2% milk Whipped cream, optional

Directions

Preheat oven to 400°. Pour butter into a shallow 2-qt. baking dish; set aside. Drain peaches, reserving 1/4 cup juice. In a saucepan, bring peaches and reserved 1/4 cup juice just to a boil.

Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine 1 cup sugar, flour, baking powder and salt. Stir in milk; mix well. Pour over butter in baking dish.

Spoon hot peaches over batter. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup sugar. Bake until bubbly and golden, 20-25 minutes. Serve warm and, if desired, with whipped cream.

Cozy Chocolate Chip Cookies Ingredients 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, softened ½ cup sugar One ½ cup of brown sugar 2 eggs 2 tsp vanilla extract 3 cups (12 oz) all purpose flour 1 tsp smallish-medium coarse sea salt 1 tsp baking soda One ½ tsp baking powder 2 cups/ 16 oz of semi sweet chocolate chips ⅔ finely chopped walnuts

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 Cream butter, sugar, and brown sugar until it is nice and fluffy (approx. 5 minutes on medium speed on a KitchenAid Mixer.) Make sure the mixture gets VERY creamy Add the eggs and vanilla and beat for an additional 2 minutes. Add baking soda, baking powder, salt, and flour until cookie batter is fully incorporated. Finally add chocolate chips and the walnuts until well distributed. The cookie batter should be somewhat thick. Drop about 2 tablespoons of dough or use a medium cookie scoop and plop the batter onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake 12-14 minutes until the edges are golden brown. Remove from heat and allow the cookies to stay on the cookie sheet for an additional 2 minutes.

Strawberry Milkshake Ingredients 4 ounces strawberries, hulled 1 cup milk 1 tablespoon honey 6 cubes ice

Directions

Place ingredients and blend until smooth!

Entertainment | lhstoday.org design by: E. Thimyan and M. Banstetter graphics by M. Banstetter

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Where you should live based on your zodiac sign

by Elaine Thimyan Reporter

Taurus is ruled by Venus, planet of love, wealth and beauty. Paris is the perfect place for a Taurus who needs to be surrounded by classy things and people, as well as a place where they can relax and enjoy the beautiful sights.

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Gemini’s mantra is “I think” and what better place to think than the place where the great philosophers once lived.

Geminis can be very social and can be very talkative. Geminis love adventure, and in Greece there is plenty to see and ponder on.

Virgos love security and balance.

They love tradition, and Sweden has many traditions. Sweden has plenty of history for Virgos to analyze and appreciate. They can always appreciate the life around them while also feeling appreciated.

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Libras are considered the social butterfly of the zodiac. Libras love positive energy and San Francisco fuels Libras beautiful creativity. In San Francisco, there’s always new people to meet and unique places to keep Libras in love with the city.

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Capricorns love traditional values and can easily get lost in Germany’s rich history. They can admire it while still living a quiet life. Germany has plenty of beautiful environmental surroundings, so it’s the perfect place for a level-headed Capricorn.

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This humanitarian sign could best thrive in the most progressive country in the world, Norway, where an Aquarius can find lots of work helping the community. They can also pick more urban or rural areas. Aquarius tend to like solace so Norway is ideal.

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New York is the city that never sleeps and neither does Aries. Aries needs constant energy to interact with and new experiences that help bring out their passions. New York is the perfect place for them when it comes to social life and career.

Leos love having the best of everything.

Spain offers many career opportunities that balance business with pleasures.

Spain is as energetic as Leos and it’s a wonderful place for Leos to have a creative outlet.

Sagittariuses are the travelers. There are too many possibilities in the world for them to choose one place to settle.

The world is your oyster and there are plenty of possibilities. Sagittariuses have a constant need to learn about other places and cultures. Try considering van life!

What better place for a Cancer to be than the city made of water. Cancers are emotional signs and care deeply about family and friends. Venice, Italy is centered around friends being a close knit community and walking everywhere can help Cancers live in harmony.

Scorpios are the most mysterious sign of the zodiac and Tokyo is the perfect place for our moody sign. In Tokyo, it’s easy to switch between blending in and standing out. With a variety of small and large places, Scorpios can stay as aloof as they please.

Pisces is the most spiritual sign. With the mantra of “I believe” in mind, Bali has intense spiritual energy. With some of its best spas, the Pisces can stay content and relaxed. Bali’s mesmerizing sights keeps Pisces in a state of whimsy and lets their imagination flow.

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Interactive| lhstoday.org design by: E. Thimyan

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