Eagle's View February 2022

Eagle’s View Eagleís

Nor th High School Liberty No rth

Volume 12 12 Issue Issue33 Volume

Febuary 2022

MARCH 2020

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Table of Contents

NEWS 4-5 Breaking News

EAGLE’S LIFE 6-10 Styles of North, BSA and Black History Month, Females Empowered, ACT prep

CULTURE 11-15 As seen on TV, Ferris Bueller Spring Break, MMEA, Food Review

INDEPTH 16-20 The New Normal

SPOTLIGHT 22-25 Black History Month Spotlights

OPINION 26-27 Bell Schedules One Semester Review, PG vs R-Rated

SPORTS 28-31 Courtwarming, Men’s wrestling, Kate Grundy Spotlight

FUN & GAMES 32-35 Jokes, Sodoku, Crossword, Codeword, and other Puzzles

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designed by: Ava Henry

Table of Contents

LETTER the EDITOR from

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ello Eagles! Though a nationwide toner shortage has prevented us from printing this issue, I’m happy to introduce our third issue, and our first paper of 2022. Even with a few setbacks and speed bumps along the way, we have done our absolute best to bring you stories relevant to students here at Liberty North.

With winter starting to end and spring fast approaching, we’re starting to see temperatures increase and the snow melt, even though the wind is still going strong.

This issue, we have decided to focus on our “new normal”; how students have adjusted to the new “normal” of COVID-19 and how it has influenced social media, relationships, jobs, and thoughts about our future. We also have stories spotlighting Black History Month, the upcoming ACT, members of the Black Student Alliance, and the results of the Courtwarming game.

Both the newspaper team and myself hope you enjoy our third issue, and we hope you will continue to look forward to our next one coming this spring! - Ian Toney

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On the Cover

Gayle Krieger Kevin Scott Pamela Scott

Graphic designer Madelyn Hartman creates cover with the focus of a young girl who represents humanity and shows the many struggles we are dealing with as a society with a change in social media use, COVID-19, and mental health.

designed by: Ava Henry

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Eagle’s View Staff Editoral Board

Ava Henry Sami Binning Ian Toney Morgan Griffin Makena Dickens

Graphic Designer Madelyn Hartman

Designers

Madison Tucker Ava Wilson Justin Scott Kate DeGarmo Bryson Prindle Justin Scott Maia Gaddis Alexis Helms Kaitlyn Von Gunten Trinity Mueller

Reporters Caitlyn Scott Lyndsey Cooper Vivian Seley Ava Powers Ava Wilson Alison Engelage Gianna Elizalde Mak Morgan Violet Richards Jack Bendure Justice Wiliams

Photographers Rorey France Brieanna Green

Adviser

Jennifer Higgins

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News

February NEWS

Reconsidering

Wordle Craze

the Rooney Rule

written by: Sami Binning

S photo from: AP Newsroom

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n early February, Brian Flores, an Afro-Latino coach who was recently fired by the Miami Dolphins, filed a lawsuit against the National Football League for charges regarding race and equity. This has called attention to the Rooney Rule, an ordinance instated in 2003 which requires teams to interview people of color for vacancies in its top coaching and managerial ranks. While made with the goal to promote diversity, NFL employees and civil rights leaders are calling into question if the rule should just be done away with. Chief executive of the National Urban League, Marc Morial, commented that “However well-intentioned, the effect of the Rooney Rule has been for team decision makers to regard interviews with candidates of color as an extraneous step, rather than an integral part of the hiring process,” along with the executive director of the N.F.L. players’ union, DeMaurice Smith, adding “How important is a rule that has no consequences?”

ince its creation in October, the web-based game Wordle has quickly taken the world by storm. The game is simple: the player is given 6 tries to guess the 5-letter “wordle” of the day. If the player guesses a letter in the word, but it’s in the wrong spot, its box will turn yellow.

If the player guesses the letter in the correct spot, it turns green. Despite its guess-and-check simplicity, many players have become hooked on Wordle. “I live to play Wordle now. I appreciate how a new one appears every 24 hours as it is a great motivation to get up and get going and start your day with a fun brain exercise,” Google reviewer Karen Neff said. Some players have developed strategies for the game, such as finding the “perfect” first word to guess. Common first words are crane, biker, or audio. Wordle was bought by The New York Times in late January, raising concerns from fans. As of February 15th, Wordle remains free for all players, but many foresee the game being put behind a paywall in the near future.

written by: Ava Henry

graphic by: Sami Bining

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News

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Olympic Scandal

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written by: Morgan Griffin

ussian figure skater Kamila Valieva, who was nominated for a gold medal, failed a drug test recently. For most athletes, this would mean disqualification but Valieva is 15 years old. This changes the situation because the rules for drug tests say that athletes under 16 are not to be made responsible for situations like the one Valieva is in. As of February 10th, the Russian Olympic Committee is saying that this information is untrue and that Valieva is not under Olympic suspension.

Valieva also has been seen back in training and is ready to continue the season. This isn’t the first time coach Eteri Tutberidze has appeared in a Russian Olympic “scandal”. Tutberidze has been accused of overworking many of her students and being the cause that they retire quite young. Some of her students defend how she trains them and that it is the best way to make champions. “Sometimes you need to make kids do something, especially when they fail to execute elements. This is the only way to achieve success. If the coach always pats you on the back, you will never succeed,” Tutberidze’s former student Viktor Adonev said. photo from: AP Newsroom

Ukraine and Russian Conflict

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ensions flared in Eastern Europe this January, when the Russian government began to build up an immense amount of troops and weapons on the Ukrainian border. The conflict has steadily grown in intensity ever since 2014, when the Russian government sent unmarked soldiers into the Ukrainian peninsula of Crimea, capturing key sites and annexing it into their territory. Now, it seems as if open conflict is once again photo from: AP Newsroom likely. Starting in March and early April of 2021, Russia began to position large amounts of soldiers and munitions on the border with Ukraine, totalling up to about 150k troops in total. Russia’s primary reason for the buildup is to pressure Ukraine away from attempting to gain NATO membership, although German Chancellor Olaf Scholz claimed that Ukrainian NATO membership “is not on the agenda -- everyone knows that very well.” As Russia continues to amass its army around Ukraine, President Joe Biden has tried to pursue a diplomatic path to avoid war, but many NATO member states are prepared to fight back if necessary. “Two paths are still open,” Biden said. “But let there be no doubt: If Russia commits this breach by invading Ukraine, responsible nations around the world will not hesitate to respond. If we do not stand for freedom where it is at risk today, we’ll surely pay a steeper price tomorrow,” Biden said, according to AP news. written by: Ian Toney

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Eagle’s Life

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Styles of

LibertyNorth

written by: Gianna Elizalde and Justice Williams

Delaney Schoo

Sophomore

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ots of people at North choose to oaccessorize their style with jewelry and other items of clothing, this is a unique and creative way to make the outfit fit more to their style.

“I’d personally love more earrings in my collection, I definitely want to get more piercings like a septum piercing, double helix, or industrial. My earrings are such a great way to make my outfit more personalized to me,” Schoo said.

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ost of our Eagles who play sports often dress in athletic wear while going to school, but some chose to dress apart from the after-school activities they take part in.

“I’d say my style is casual athletic wear, my closet is a lot of athletic clothes because of the sports I participate in, but I won’t hesitate to throw sweats on if I can,” Lagud said.

Jakoby Lagud ev

Freshman

designed by: Justice Williams

Eagle’s Life

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here is plenty of diversity when it comes to Liberty North’s students and their own personal styles, each with their own inspirations and aspects to them.

“I get a lot of inspiration from my coaches at the dance. I enjoy going out and finding things at thrift stores: it’s kind of like a scavenger hunt,” Bledsoe said.

Keegan Bledsoe Sophomore Junior

Joey Travis

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hile some of our Eagles wear simpler styles every day, people like Joey choose to go all out when going to school.

“A lot of famous people and bands have inspired my style over the past few years, people like Little Peep, Avril Lavigne, and Nirvana gave me the style that I walk around with today,” Travis said.

photos by: Justice Williams

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Eagle’s Life

Black History Month: The BSA Way written by: Kate DeGarmo

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iberty North has a wide array of clubs and activities for everyone to join.

There are several clubs focusing on inclusivity and education. One such club is the Black Student Alliance. BSA has four executive members: Seniors Ashi Jose, MJ Cullum, Gloria Lukadi, and junior Santina Juma.

“BSA is Liberty North’s Black Student Alliance, where students - both Black and non-Black - join together to converse over topics and issues concerning the Black community, as well as celebrate the achievements of Black people. We want to create a safe space for Black students to join together and share their stories while also learning about the history we are seldom taught in school. It is also a time for nonBlack students to learn more insight into questions they have regarding the Black experience,” Juma said.

As Black History month comes into focus, it is natural for Liberty North’s BSA to have activities planned. In the past, the club has had an assembly towards the end of the month, but this year the club decided to do something different.

“We are focusing on ‘celebrating’ Black history. It’s easy to get wrapped up in the topic of slavery & segregation, which are important but we want to expand and highlight the amazing people in different areas that have impacted Black history,” Jose said.

As a way to celebrate Black history, the club is focusing on Black culture. Each week will have a different focus. Each club member can choose to participate in any of the activities this month.

“So far we have had our support Black business week, we just got done with our

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HBCU week, and for the last 2 weeks we will be doing Black culture and focusing on how it has impacted the arts,” Cullum said.

photos by: Brieanna Green

designed by: Kate DeGarmo

Executive members of Black Students AllianceAshi Jose, MJ Cullum, Gloria Lukadi, and Santina Juma.

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Females Empowered: For Women, By Women written by: Lyndsey Cooper

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emales Empowered is an all-girl club that focuses on empowering women, being kind to others, and making a difference.

Alyssa O’Hare, 2019 Liberty North alumni, founded Females Empowered from her passion for empowering girls in her school. She then passed the legacy down to her younger sister, senior Makenna O’Hare, who is the current president of Females Empowered.

“So far this year, we have collected donations to make Happy Kits for Childrens Mercy Hospital patients, we held a movie night, an end-of-the-year holiday party, and a wrapping party, where we wrapped all the presents we got for our Adopt-A-Family families. We have done community service activities such as volunteering at Kyleigh’s Gift Run/Walk, KC Dream Factory, Liberty Parks and Rec canned food sorting, and more. We hold meetings every month to share new information and upcoming plans, and have group bonding activities to get to know one another,” O’Hare said.

Along with doing community projects and activities outside of school, Females Empowered also focuses on the women they are surrounded by daily.

“We also do Big Sis/Lil Sis, where we have a ‘sister’ from the club whom we get to know and spend time with. At the end of first semester, we made holiday goodie bags for the female staff at Liberty North and held a cookie decorating activity at our last meeting,” O’Hare said.

Expect to see plenty more from Females Empowered as they start their ‘senior projects.’

This is where each member of the club who is a senior plan, organize, and execute a project they are passionate about. These projects can vary from hosting an event to volunteering somewhere, making cards for hospital patients,

or simply showing kindness around the school.

Females Empowered has about ten senior projects planned for the upcoming months.

“Along with senior projects Females Empowered also plans to do some fundraising,” O’Hare said.

Females Empowered also started a new tradition at the beginning of the school year called ‘Female Spotlight of the Month,’ where they dedicate each month to and spotlight an inspirational female in our world, community, or history. The club’s main goal is to create a more positive and empowering environment for girls in the school.

“Empowered Women, Empower Women,” O’Hare said.

photos by: Lyndsey Cooper

designed by: Kate DeGarmo

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Eagle’s Life

Need to Know: ACT

The ACT is a test used for college admissions, and it covers four academic skill areas: english, mathematics, reading, and scientific reasoning. Counselor Josh Ehrhard and senior Nathaniel Paul talk about how they prepared for the test and some tips to help you be prepared as well.

Counselor Josh Ehrhard

written by: Ava Wilson

Q: What do you think helped you the most when taking the act?

A: “Taking practice ACT tests/questions helped me the most. People preparing for the ACT can find them online, including from the official ACT website, and in ACT prep books,” Nathaniel said.

Like he stated there are plenty of websites to help you train and get prepared for the ACT which will help you extremely with getting used to the type of questions they may ask.”

Q: What is something you wished you knew before taking the act?

A: “I was fairly well prepared for the ACT, but I guess I wish that I’d been more familiar with the types of questions that would be asked and strategies to approach them.”

Q: What are some tips you have?

A: “During the ACT, first, do not leave a single question unanswered. Even if you haven’t looked at it, bubble a random choice in because there is no penalty for wrong answers. Second, use the test booklet as scratch paper. Jot important information down, work out math problems, underline, and so on. Just don’t do the same with the answer sheet. Third, focus your attention on questions that are easier for you.”

Senior Nathaniel Paul

Q: What are some tips that helped you prepare for the act?

A:“I would definitely recommend an ACT prep class, or looking into prep books or other material.”

Q: What are some things that people should do to prepare for the act?

A: “Beyond taking some prep courses, practice tests help. As I mentioned, for me, just having familiarity with the format of the test can be huge. The prep class help you with understanding” Mr. Ehrhard states.

Q: What do you think helped you the most when taking the act?

A: “When I was in high school, what helped me the most was taking the test once to get a feel for the format and types of questions. I took it twice, and increased my score the second time by 2 points without any additional prep.”

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Culture

Turning Back Time: High School Films

Dive into the thoughts of both students and teachers of Liberty North to see how high school movies and TV shows have adjusted through the years.

written by: Maia Gaddis

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“I wish they show the dynamic of what a igh school is a topic that has been positive or negative relationship may look like. It portrayed in both movies and TV shows would be good to know how to identify whether alike. The recent series, Euphoria, has or not that friendship or relationship is positive been gaining popularity along with showing or negative. It’s good to know ways to get out of it audiences a new point of view on the theme of that are realistic. Relationships are really big for high school. From happy to sad, terrifying to students and it would be beneficial to promote exciting, nerve-wracking to calming, films strive what they look like,” social studies teacher to connect with their audiences on a deeper Callene Farrel said. scale. The only thing that may Having insight on what be lacking is the realism students may be getting “Maybe people are between these popular into is good but that films and the real world. nostalgic about high school may not be the film “I think that high school producer’s goal. vs. the films can be pretty ‘cause it’s the last time in their The producers different because I feel life that they get to dream,” may have certain like there is much more aims for how the drama in high school Euphoria actress Sydney Sweeney said. audience should be films than there is in real feeling by the time these life. How the actors portray films reach the screens. the characters and showing what “I don’t think these films have gotten they are going through can be similar to what more realistic over time. High school films are people might be going through in actual school,” supposed to portray a fantasy of what school can sophomore Lia Nickel said.

While some films are hitting the genre of drama, be. It allows little kids to believe what high school is going to be like. It can be a big fake out when other themes may be missing. One of these you actually get to high school though,” junior includes realism and how TV shows and movies Sophie Volk said. may present the issues we encounter in real life.

High School Films Over the Years

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)

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Euphoria (2019-Present)

Freedom Riders (2010)

The Breakfast Club (1985)

Girl Meets World (2014-2017)

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LEISURE RULES

AVA POWERS’ PRESENTING

DAY OFF

One girl’s struggle to take it easy.

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A MADELYN HARTMAN GRAPHIC FEATURING AVA POWERS AS HERSELF

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LIFE MOVES

PRETTY FAST Read freshman Ava Powers’ account and reflection of her day of adventure inspired by the film Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.

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written by: Ava Powers

ne of the most quintessential movies of the ‘80s is Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, starring Matthew Broderick as rebellious teen Ferris Bueller. In the 1986 film, Ferris decides to skip school to have an adventure with his friends, Cameron and Sloane. Ferris said it best: “How could I possibly be expected to handle school on a day like this?”.

Ferris Bueller’s Day Off teaches us that sometimes the adventure outweighs the potential consequences. That being said, you probably shouldn’t steal a Ferrari, but if you crave adventure as Ferris and I did, you can steal some notes from my book of how I lived a day like Ferris Bueller.

While it may be tempting to be as iconic as Ferris and mastermind a way to cut school without getting caught, it’s not the 80’s anymore and the Eagle’s View does not condone skipping school. My absence is purely for research purposes. So, instead of skipping school, try utilizing your weekend or upcoming spring break to have your own “day off”.

It can be hard to cure the disease of boredom, but sometimes the coolest things can be found right in your backyard, metaphorically speaking.

I took a trip down to Kansas City’s Nelson Atkins Museum of Art and was entranced by beautiful sculptures and artwork. My favorite piece was Claude Monet’s Water Lilies.

Even if museums aren’t for you, try exploring the city to find some cool spots around town.

Who knows, you might end up finding a parade, a cool cheese store like The Good Cheddar, which I spent a lot of money at, or a super tall building like the Kansas City Power and Light Building, which lights up in awesome colors at night!

Any good day trip needs a good meal afterward.

Ferris takes a daring trip to a high-end restaurant in downtown Chicago, and similar to Chez Quis, Cafe Provence is an amazing French restaurant here in Kansas City and one of the top 100 restaurants in America, as ranked by OpenTable.

I experienced a beautiful ambiance and amazing food like salad, seafood, gourmet pasta, and drinks like Orangina and espresso. Cafe Provence can be found in a little corner at 3936 W 69th Terrace, Prairie Village, Kansas. Remember to reserve your table for Froman!

The specific things you do aren’t important, but if you get out and explore like Ferris and I did, I guarantee you will have a good time. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is such a fun movie, and I had such a memorable experience on my day off! As the wise Ferris once said, “Life moves pretty fast.

If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it,”.

Scan to watch Powers’ recreations of iconic Bueller scenes titled “Ava Powers’ Day Off” filmed by: Ava Powers edited by: Cidney Kirkendolph graphics by: Maddie Hartman

designed by: Maia Gaddis and Sami Binning

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culture

M M EA MA S T 4 E R Y 4 written by: Mak Morgan

Coleman Sisters Since Liberty North opened in 2010, only one student has been selected for All State Orchestra.

This year, however, has gone great for musicians of the Liberty North orchestra. Specifically, the All-State champions, sisters Natalie and Emily Coleman.

“I was really not expecting to get in, but I just played my best and did what I could. I’ve been playing for almost eight years now, so I felt pretty confident I just had no idea what it took to get in,” freshman Natalie said.

While both sisters play in Liberty North’s Chamber Orchestra, Natalie plays the viola while junior Emily plays the violin.

“As sisters, getting into All-State orchestra together hasn’t necessarily brought us closer. However, since it was a new experience for both of us, it was nice to be able to face it together. That way, we got to share a hotel room and just have someone familiar around while we got to know the area and everyone else there,” Emily said.

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ach year at Liberty North, there are a few important competitions that many fine-art students participate in. Two that are talked about the most are the AllDistrict and All-State competitions run by the MMEA. “MMEA stands for Missouri Music Educators Association and its both our sort of governing body for all music teachers in the state ands what people refer to as our state convention which is whats happening next week we go to MMEA annual convention in TanTarA or what’s now Margaritaville in Lake of the Ozarks. At the convention there are a series of clinics designed to help elementary music teachers, orchestra jazz vocal band conductors performers, so a series of clinics designed to help people based on what they do as well as concerts from some of the top bands orchestras choirs all around the state from elementary to college.” Band Director Justin Doss said.

Liberty North had nine students make the All-State Band, as well as many alternates and honorable mentions which was the most students from one school to make it.

In the past the highest amount of students to make AllState band was five to seven.

“All the time I spent practicing to make the group made me a much more skilled musician and I’m sure I will learn a lot and gain experience with difficult music at MMEA,” says trombone player junior Will Elling.

Elling does extra band outside of just normal band for sure, All-District; All-State; Jazz Band; Solos; as well as the trombone ensemble that performs every basketball game and football game. Another member of the band, sophomore Grace Flener made honorable mention for the All-State band.

“The audition process included packets that we had to perform, for all district we had a blind audition in November. It was difficult because we’re in one of the most competitive districts. I learned that you should work hard, the reward is so much greater,” Flener said.

designed by: Madison Tucker

culture

The Great Chicken Sandwich Debate of 2022

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written by: Madison Tucker

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iberty, MO is known for many things.

Most notably, Bluejay/Eagle rivalries, an abundance of community parks, and chicken places. From KFC to Zaxby’s, your chicken cravings are sure to be satisfied in our fair city. One day while going through a respective chicken shop’s drive thru, however, a dilemma arose. Which chicken place reigns supreme? Thus, Eagle’s View embarked on the most important journey of its existence: The Great Chicken Sandwich Debate of 2022!

Five respective sandwiches were chosen from a range of chicken shops: Raising Cane’s, Slim Chickens, Chick-fil-A, KFC, and Zaxbys.

The sandwiches came as normally prepared, certifying no special modifications were made.

The judging panel was then selected from the Liberty North student body. Ultimately, Hailey McDowell (Freshman), Kate Degarmo (Junior), Dylan Pursley (Senior), and Josh Wilson (Senior) took up the charge. Judging day, the sandwiches were placed in a line and numerically labeled for identification purposes. In addition, all sandwiches were placed in front of the panel unmarked, so the restaurants had minimal influence on their decisions. The esteemed panel was then handed criteria sheets, outlining the importance of presentation, taste, and texture when determining sandwich placements.

After 20 minutes of munching, crunching, and deliberation, the judges recorded their

thoughts fervently, ultimately ranking the sandwiches from best to worst (1-5). With a unanimous decision, the winner of the Great Chicken Sandwich Debate of 2022 was (drum roll please)... Raising Cane’s (1)! The panel enjoyed having Canes’ world famous tenders on the sandwich, not to mention their of the same name sauce. At the other end of the spectrum, Zaxbys (5) was unanimously ranked the worst chicken sandwich in Liberty.

The judges were not impressed with Zaxbys consistency, noting the texture was “slimy” compared to the other competitors. The middle ranks varied, but were ultimately decided at Slim Chickens (2), ChickFil-A (3), and KFC (4).

Notably, conversations revolved around ChickFil-A’s “square shaped patty,” Slim’s “oozing sauce”, and the “pickle type” taste of KFC. While each person’s individual taste buds played into the ultimate rankings, their message was unified. Cane’s is truly ruffling feathers in the sandwich community.

Key: 1-Caines 2-Slim Chickens 3-ChickFilA 4-KFC 5-Zaxby’s *sandwiches not in rank order

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“At the beginning beginning of Covid, I thought At the that it would last and that we’d be quarantining for years, and forat atleast leastfour four years, now with everything goinggoing on, I do and now with everything on,not I know it willifgo away,” do notifknow it will go away, junior Keira Green said.

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Indepth

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‘New

graphics by: Madelyn Hartman

Normal’

Compared to the last decade, people living in society today have started to face a ‘new normal’, with a heavier influence of social media, the presence of COVID-19, and the different impacts those things have on teenagers’ mental health.

written by: Makena Dickens photo by: Brieanna Green

Plugged In The influence and popularity of social media has varied over the years, causing many to feel its effects.

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ince its start in 2005 with the introduction of Youtube, social media has been an integral part of young people’s lives. Recently, social media use has escalated with 90% of people saying that social media use has been essential in the last year, according to Pew Research. With the increase of usage, the effects of social media on teenagers are more prominent.

“There has been more awareness on issues like what is happening in society now. On top of that there are also negative

effects, like unrealistic standards set for teenagers, and just lowered self-esteem,” sophomore Delaney Schoo said.

Social media is part of our ‘new normal’ because of how much people use the different platforms, and how much people are impacted by their use of it.

Because of social media being an innate part of people’s lives, more companies are seeking to use influencers to promote their businesses, and many platforms have started giving creators profit for their content, causing some

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designed by: Makena Dickens

Social media’s impact did not used to be as prominent as it is today. “We have incorporated the use of it into our daily lives,” sophomore Delaney Schoo said.

to raise speculations over the content that will be produced.

“I feel like all the way across the board with everything with with people making a profit off of what they are putting out there,

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it loses its meaning because people start to make things for the money, and not just for their audience,” junior Camille Parker said.

With the emergence of ‘influencers’, people are beginning to be more heavily affected by the content that is put out there. According to medium.com, the term “influencer marketing” has increased by 325% in Google searches.

“I feel like most people take the critiques of people online more into consideration than their own ideas. On top of that, if profit is dependent on the audience’s engagement with the content, then that will influence the creator’s future decisions,” Schoo said.

The dynamic between social media creators and social media users is one of the many facets of people’s dependency on the internet. Creators depend on users for views, likes, and engagement while users depend on creators for entertainment, advice, and an overall sense of belonging.

“Since our generation has grown up with social media unlike the other generations, we have incorporated the use of it into our daily lives, and since we are so used to it, we are more impacted by the influence of it,” Schoo said.

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It Keeps Going COVID-19’s ‘never ending’ cycle has led to a state of constant change which has affected students.

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COVID-19 changed the course of many people’s lives. It continues to affect the mental health of students. “There are a lot of people losing hope on their favorite activities,” senior Blue Robinson said.

he two-year anniversary of COVID19’s presence in the US is coming up, and with the ever-changing mandates concerning masks and vaccination status, students have had to adjust to the constant state of change.

“It is like we are all constantly adapting to it, so any new things that have been thrown our way, I feel like we can manage it. I would like some form of consistency, but I try to stay consistent with wearing masks, getting vaccinated, just staying safe,” junior Aubrey Prindle said.

Currently, at Liberty Public Schools, masks are required for all students and staff. Some students original thoughts on the length of the pandemic were extremely underestimated, while others think that COVID-19 will be around for quite a while, “At the beginning of COVID-19, I thought that it would last and that we’d be quarantining, for at least four years and now with everything going on, I do not know if it will go away.

The mandates are very stressful as I believe ourlawmakers have no intention of keeping their citizens safe.

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photo by: Brieanna Green

Even recently they were going to drop the mask mandate in schools even though the Omicron variant was ravaging our nation,” junior Keira Green said.

Due to the circumstances brought about by COVID-19, some students are feeling lost, hopeless, and overall losing their sense of control. With increasing levels of social anxiety, apathy, and hopelessness, many teens are feeling effects on their mental health.

“There are a lot of dark spots, people losing hope on things like their favorite activities like social gatherings. I think though, we have started to lean on each other and accept help from other people,” senior Blue Robinson said.

Some students have struggled with the many transitions of

switching from being in-person, to having school completely online, to then going back in-person. The aspect of mental health has

“It kind of feels like it is the new normal. It is like we are all constantly adapting to it, so any new things that have been thrown our way, we can manage it,” junior Aubrey Prindle said. been affected in some people, causing an overall sense of ‘losing control’.

“I feel like it is complicated, but COVID has made me feel like I have less control in the end because the pandemic forced me to mature quicker. I have to prioritize what to do to stay successful without the help of everyone. It also had a huge toll on my mental health so I am still learning to cope with that on top of all of the other responsibilities I have,” sophomore Delaney Schoo said.

With an increase of mental health issues compared to the past, there is more awareness of it. “I think mental health issues have increased a lot in the last two years” senior Lila Brandeberry said.

All across the board, there has been an increase in mental health conditions. According to Banyan Mental Health, suicidal thoughts and outcomes have increased 47% and the rate of depression has increased 52% since 2008.

“Personally, I think that mental health issues have increased a lot in the last two years, and I definitely see it a lot in teens because our world is not normal. It is not how our older friends had it, it is not how our parents had it. It is a lot of change. I feel like the mental health issues are just increasing because of COVID,” senior Lila Brandeberry said.

HOW DO YOU THINK WE WILL BE

remembered?

freshman

“I feel like COVID-wise it will be something that will be taught in schools. That is cool because when I am 85 or something, I can be like ‘hey kids, I was around when that was happening’. It will be something that will be timeless, it will be in history forever.”

Caden Barner ev

“I feel like us being in quarantine and having to go through the pandemic will be remembered, also us speaking out for things like BLM and politics. I also think the music during this time will be remembered for a long time.”

designed by: Makena Dickens

sophomore

Lily McRorey

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22

Spotlight

Warren Bennett

written by: Ian Toney

T

he security team at Liberty North is important to keeping everyone safe and secure. One of the many staff members that do this is Coach Warren Bennett, a security specialist that helps keep the school running in any way he can.

“Here at Liberty North, this is my third year and counting, and there are hopefully many more to come. My title is ‘security and safety team; however, I do whatever is needed wherever I can fit in. I run the office whenever they need it, I substitute teach whenever we’re short, and I help secure the premises,” Bennett said.

Prior to coming to Liberty North, Bennett worked a variety of different teaching jobs all across Missouri.

“Before coming to Liberty North I started my educational career at Faxon elementary. I was the computer teacher first and then an opportunity arose to be a P.E. teacher. I then taught at Faxon and Garfield elementary school. My next job was at Central High School as an ISS Specialist and a 3 sport coach. This role wasn’t fitting for my personality so I applied to Liberty North High School,” Bennett said.

Bennett can frequently be found patrolling the halls of the school, searching for anyone or anyplace that needs a helping hand. No matter what they might need, he will do his best to provide.

“Black History Month means a lot to me and my culture. Everyday in February I’d write fun facts on the board about a different African American inventor and the students would have to research these people and participate in a class discussion. This was very informative and helpful because it provided them with passion and pride. It helped them understand they could be whatever they wanted to be in life,” Bennett said.

photo by: Brieanna Green

Three Fun Facts 1) I played in the Little League World Series

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2) I am a four year all-state track runner

3) I played college football

designed by: Alexis Helms

Spotlight

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Santina Juma

antina Juma continues to be an involved student even into her junior year at Liberty North, participating in theatre, speech & debate, track, choir, and is executive for the Black Students Alliance.

While she has always had an interest in music and the arts, freshman year set alight the flame for her love of theatre.

“Freshman year I really delved deep into the world of theatre, and I felt safe. It felt like home. I’ve carried that feeling with me since, and it inspires me to continue to pursue this passion that allows me to flourish and grow in doing what I love”’ Juma said.

In the musical theatre world, Lin-Manuel Miranda is one of the people Santina looks to for inspiration.

Putting members of the BIPOC community in roles they were denied for so long encourages Santina to follow her dreams.

“It is a world that many of us need, but a world that hasn’t always needed us. He shows that this world not only needs but thrives on marginalized communities”, said Juma.

Santina believes that celebrating one’s achievements is important, especially to the Black community.

“In my eyes, Black History Month embodies acknowledging and celebrating the growth and achievements of African-Americans. There is so much time spent focusing on slavery and the things done to African-Americans, but Black History Month allows for an opportunity to explore the humanity within the Black community. This month gives people an insight into who Black people truly are and that there is so much more to learn about than what is taught in history classes,” Juma said.

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written by: Caitlyn Scott

photo by: Brieanna Green

Three Fun Facts 1) I have four brothers

3) Spiderman is 2) I am my favorite hero extremely picky with food

designed by: Alexis Helms

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24

Spotlight

Ashi Jose

written by: Vivian Seley

S

enior Ashi Jose has spent her school career at Liberty North providing leadership and creating positive change. She has dedicated her school career to becoming a role model for younger students like her by being the President of Black Students Alliance and Executive of Kindness Club. Jose also partakes in a few other clubs.

“I am in Student Council, The Navy Leadership, DECA, and FBLA,” Jose said.

Jose has an older sister who went to Liberty North, Eka Jose. An inspiration for Jose was her sister and just like Jose, Eka participated in many activities which made Jose wanna do the same.

“I really look up to my sister because she went to North, and when she was in high school, she really excelled in everything she was in and she was recognized for a lot of those things and made a mark on this school, even when she left. I want to give back to the students and make my mark on the school. I want to be remembered for something good,” Jose said.

As well as looking up to her sister, Jose looks up to other past and present black activists and uses them as inspiration to uplift and impact students through being the president of BSA. “So, for Black History Month, I celebrate the people that came before me and even the people who are still around now. I have seen a lot of things like the culture shifts and how so many things have been brought to attention and I wanna be an example for other black kids in the school and in the community. I want to show that you can be involved. It is cool to celebrate your history and learn about it so I just want to pay that back,” Jose said.

photo by: Brieanna Green

Three Fun Facts 1) I have had one MBA client for my photography business

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2) I was born in Nigeria and moved to KC when I was three

3) I can explain the whole Marvel Cinematic Universe in one sitting

designed by: Alexis Helms

Spotlight

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MJ Cullum

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written by: Ava Powers

f asked to describe senior MJ Cullum in one word, one might say “busy.” Despite there being only 24 hours in a day, Cullum appears to work for 25.

Liberty North’s Courtwarming King is involved in many activities.

“I’m involved in student council, Network 53 internships, A+ program, vice president of the BSA, Kindness Club, on the varsity speech and debate team, dance captain for this years musical, chamber and concert choir, Fresh Club, Readers Theater, the blackbox show, past shows, and I’m the first male varsity cheerleader,” Cullum said.

One of Cullum’s main focuses is the BSA. The Black Students Alliance has some big things planned for the future. As Vice President of the club, Cullum is very involved in planning events, including the upcoming celebration of Black History Month.

“For me, the most important part about Black History Month is educating people about black history, and shedding spotlight on those who paved the way for us.

Education and empowerment of our black students is one of our main focuses. Currently the BSA is planning to do trivia at lunch, KNET fast facts, HBCU representation, and promoting black owned businesses in honor of Black History Month,” Cullum said.

Before Cullum graduates, he hopes to make an impact within the Liberty North community.

“I just want to change the culture and outlook of the student body and staff so they are more welcoming and encouraging. I loved my time at Liberty North, and I hope I was able to leave my mark around the school,” Cullum said.

photo by: Brieanna Green

Three Fun Facts 1) I started doing theatre in 8th grade

2) I can play the piano

3) I was asked to play on a national team for football

designed by: Alexis Helms

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26

Opinion

Flex Reflex With the changes between last semester and this semester, the fewer flex spots and the bells back, adjusting can be a bit of a stuggle. written by: Alison Engelage

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here has been talk about how everyone feels about flex spaces being taken away and the bells being added back. At the beginning of the year the bells were taken away so students could get the college experience and do better with time management. The bells did end up coming back in semester and everyone has their own opinion about it. Personally, I like that the bells have come back. For the most part I do think the bells help students and teachers out so they’re not looking at the clock every five minutes. The only thing about the whole situation that I do not like is that we had to go a whole semester getting used to the bells being gone, and now we have to adjust to them being back again. In addition to the bell changes, flex is new to the school this year and personally, I think it’s working out great. Giving students a free hour to work on homework, study for a test, leave to go get food or whatever the student

photo by: Brieanna Green

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wants to do during their flex hour they get to do. There are different flex spaces students are allowed to go to and sit, but through the year flex areas were taken away. Some flex hours have more students in them than others so areas seem to get crowded.

As of now they’re only three flex spaces left, but before there were five spaces.The only ones remaining are the library, cafeteria, and the learning stairs. The library and learning stairs are more of a quiet space, a place for you to work on anything you need to work on in a quiet area so you’re able to focus. The cafeteria is considered the “social zone” , the space that’s provided for students to be more social with their friends without disturbing other students.

The two spaces that were taken away were the eagles nest and eagle point. Those were the most popular spaces to be used, the spaces with the most freedom to talk and move around.

photo by: Brieanna Green

designed by: Trinity Mueller

Opinion

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PG vs Rated R Students opinion on whether Disney channel, the childhood shows, and Euphoria being the realilities of the world.

Euphoria

Violet Richards

E

uphoria is one of the biggest TV shows in the media, and rightfully so. With amazing actors, an etheral soundtrack featuring a collection of songs by Labrinth, stunning videography, and award winning story lines, this show has taken the world by storm. Euphoria’s mature topics have caused quite the controversy, but I believe it is a masterpiece. The creators weren’t afraid to show the disturbing realities of modern teenhood, drinking, doing drugs, having sex and partying, which we rarely see in mainstream media. We’re used to High School Musical, and Victorious. But the world has changed, and teens along with it; those shows just aren’t realistic anymore. Sure, no one goes to school dressed like Maddy, but teens all over the media have related to Euphoria and its characters, and feel validated by their experiences and character devleopment. Although Euphoria is made for mature audiences, the meaning behind Euphoria isn’t just about the sex, drugs and drama, but as Zendaya said: “It’s a raw and honest portrait of addiction, anxiety and the difficulties of navigating life today.”

Ava Powers

photo by: Rorey France

Disney Channel

I

f I had to pick, I’d choose Disney Channel for one reason: campy fun. Euphoria’s gritty and coarse worldbuilding, tense and at times pugnacious subject matter works well as an unfiltered look at the reality of high schools today. Even the soundtrack brings an underlying sense of tense paranoia leading to full anxiety ridden mania as the story rides through epic highs and fathomless, carnivorous lows . But like the much maligned 13 Reasons Why, it sometimes glamorizes the harsh realities of these very real issues for the sake of episodic drama. At times, it uses these issues solely to advance the romance and shallow angst, instead of as the tragedies they are. While Disney is cheesy and predictable, enough young kids can see what they want to see. After watching three movies/shows for this piece, they have a very campy, ridiculous nostalgic sort of backwards charm. In a Disney channel original, literally anything can happen, unlike Euphoria’s tired story beats.

Teenage Zendya cackling as she mind controls hormonal acne-stricken man-boys with dog collars?

Check. Programming a military murder robot into the perfect prom date and general cinnamon roll?

Check. Female-centric storylines with heroines as the main plot progressors? Check. And… prepubescent Jake Paul. Nevermind. Oh, and you’re watching the Disney Channel.

photo by: Rorey France

designed by: Trinity Mueller

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28

Sports

“Seeing everyone there and having the support of the fans was really awesome,”

sophmore Trey Snyder said.

photos by: Justin Scott

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designed by: Justin Scott

Sports

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CourtWarming Basketball Celebrates Courtwarming written by: Justin Scott

C

ourtwarming is the pinnacle of high school winter sports and the second semester homecoming equivalent. This year Liberty North’s Varsity Basketball team faced off in a matchup against the Blue Springs Wildcats on Friday, January, 21 in the 2022 Courtwarming Game.

The Eagles trailed early against the Wildcats, who scored consistently from beyond the arc.

After halftime, the Eagles tried to battle back but could not get past a fast Wildcats offense, leading to a final score of 51-39 in favor of the Wildcats.

During Halftime of the JVbasketball game that preceded the Varsity matchup against Blue Springs, MJ Cullum was crowned Courtwarming King.

Cullum is North’s first male cheerleader, a member of both Concert and Chamber Choir, and much more. When chosen, Cullum didn’t even realize he had been selected.

“I was blacked out kind of, because I didn’t even hear them say my first name but I heard Cullum and I was like, Oh, that’s my last name,” Cullum said.

But Cullum wasn’t the only one to be crowned into Courtwarming royalty. Later Friday night, during halftime of the Varsity basketball game vs Lee’s Summit North, Kayley Lenger was crowned Courtwarming Queen. Lenger is a member of the varsity women’s basketball team, varsity softball team, and is committed to the University of Missouri to play softball.

“Whenever they first said my name I was really excited just to be out there and I just kind of started smiling,” Lenger said.

After winning, Lenger was thankful to the student body for electing her.

“It was really nice to see all the support that everyone had for me and just getting all the texts and the hugs and just everyone coming out to me.

And all that support makes you feel really loved after all of that,” Lenger said.

MJ Cullum and Kayley Lenger were crowned Courtwarming King and Queen. Both Cullum and Lenger are grateful for their Courtwarming experiences. “It’s a cool feeling. It’s a proud moment.

I’m really grateful for the experience,” Cullum said.

designed by: Justin Scott

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30

Sports

On the

MAT written by: Jack Bendure

T

he Liberty North Eagles Men’s Wrestling is State Bound. Earlier this season head Coach Logan Searle said he wanted to qualify at least three wrestlers for state, now Micheal Domino, Dylan Alft, Nathan Sola, Trevor Thorn, Jacob Stockard, and Elmotie Williams are headed to the class four wrestling State Championship at Mizzou University. These six athletes doubled the original goal of qualifying three athletes set by Searle at the beginning of the season.

“Our greatest accomplishment as a team has been our victories at the Greater Kansas City Suburban, Grain Valley, and Lee Summit North tournaments,” Searle said.

Even after battling through struggles with sickness and many injuries, the Eagles still more than tripled their wins compared to their losses with a final team record of 10-3 with one more competition at the State Championship. Three of those wins came at big tournaments with numerous other schools.

This season more than ever there have been a higher number of freshmen competing at the varsity level.

“My biggest challenge this year has definitely been going up against juniors and seniors,” freshman wrestler Elmotie Williams said.

ev

photos by: Rorey France

Williams will be up against athletes with 3 years of experience over him in the state championship this season.

“My favorite memory of this season is definitely my first win at home, it was cool getting a big dub at home,” said Williams.

This season has been a year of firsts for Williams, his first highschool meet, win and state championship as a freshmen. Out of his final match record of 20-11 most came from dual matches. A dual is a competition between only two schools but they also happen to be Williams’ favorite thing about the sport.

“What I enjoy the most about wrestling is duals. duals are just so fun and you get to watch your team and have your team watch you and duals are amazing,” said Williams.

Senior Dylan Alft has wrestled for Liberty North for three years, qualifying for State each year.

“It feels pretty good. If I wrestled my freshman year it couldve been four but it could to set expectations for the school and have everyone beat that hopefully one day.” Alft says.

Currently, Alft holds the school record for most tech falls.

“I think I’m sitting at 40 tech falls. I think the record before was 14 all time tech falls. So that record I think I crushed, in my opinion. I feel pretty good about it. I’m hoping no one will ever touch [the record],” Alft said.

designed by: Kaitlyn Von Gunten

Sports

31

Young Wonder Wonder Young

Varsity women’s wrestler Kaydence Grass makes history as the first freshman to advance to state.

F

written by: Vivian Seley

reshman Kaydence Grass participates in Varsity wrestling in weight class of 115. Despite being a freshman, Grass has had quite a bit of success in her short period of time of being in high school wrestling.

“I have been in wrestling for just about three years, I started at the end of sixth grade. My dad wrestled all of highschool and even now he does cage fighting so I have been surrounded by the sport for a pretty long time,” Grass said.

Grass was the first freshman girl to go to state for wrestling. This accomplishment is not only a personal win for Grass, but for the relatively new womens wrestling program at Liberty North.

“It’s super exciting. Wrestling is a huge part of my life and this big of an accomplishment is super cool,” Grass said.

Grass is looking forward to what the future holds for her and the girls wrestling program, as it is newer and grass still has three more years to participate in this program.

“I was shocked and honestly really proud of myself. I know our girls program is super new and I’m really excited to see how much it grows and how many more girls will see that wrestlings not just for boys and anyone can join and get really far in it,” Grass said.

Grass has spent lots of time with her teammates and coaches, after school practicing or competing in matches while simultaneously making memories.

“My favorite moment from wrestling is my semi-consolation at districts. It was the match that determined whether I made it to state or not. The stakes were high, but I pinned my opponent in the second period and it was just like instant relief. I will never forget the look of pride on my coaches faces, the tears of joy that my dad cried and the big hugs I got from my teammates,” Grass said.

Kaydence Grass advanced to state for women’s wrestling. She has been wrestling for multiple years and is currently on the North varsity team. “Wrestling is a huge part of my life and this big of an accomplishment is super cool,” Grass said. photo from: LN Athletics

designed by: Kaitlyn Von Gunten

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32

Fun and Games

WITS WITS &GIGGLES In need of a good laugh? Here are some "pun"- ishibly bad jokes that will hopefully bring a smile to your face.

Do I look like a sorority? No? Then don’t rush me.

What do you call a fish wearing a bowtie?

So-fish-ticated.

Where do you learn to make a banana split?

Sundae school.

A guy walks into a bar … He was then disqualified from the limbo contest.

It takes guts to be an organ donor.

I once got fired from a canned juice factory.

Apparently, I couldn’t concentrate.

I’m thinking about having my ashes put in a glass jar. Remains to be seen.

How was Rome split in two? With a pair of Caesars.

Did you know the first french fries weren't cooked in France? They were cooked in Greece.

I used to play piano by ear… now I use my hands.

Got any good jokes you want to share? Send your best puns, dad jokes, or quips to us on Twitter or Instagram @LN_EaglesView

SUDOKU ZONE Easy 5 2 3

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Fun and Games

test your logic Oh no! There's been a mix up with some of the records in the library. Use the clues below and help the librarians unscramble the information about the books each student checked out, such as the due date and cover color.

CLUES

- The four students are Millie, the one who checked out the green book, the one reading the sci-fi book, and the one with the March 17th due date.

- Conner is reading the mystery book.

- Emma’s book is due either on March 23rd or on April 6th.

- The fantasy book has a blue cover.

- Emma is not reading the fantasy book.

- The purple book is due before the historical book but after Conner’s book.

- Robin’s due date is before the due date for the historical book but after the due date for the book with the blue cover.

Due Date

Sci-Fi

Fantasy

Mystery

Genre Historical

Red

Green

Purple

Blue

Cover Color Conner

Emma

Millie

Robin

Student

March 17 March 23 April 1 April 6

Genre

Historical Mystery Fantasy

Cover Color

Sci-Fi Blue Purple

Due Date

Green

March 17

Red

March 23

Student

Cover Color

Genre

April 1 April 6

designed by: Sami Binning

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34

Fun and Games

CROSSWORD 1

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ACROSS 5. Senior MJ ___ was crowned

Courtwarming King at the men's Varsity Courtwarming basketball game.

6. This issue's InDepth section title: Our New ___.

8. Wordle is a ___-letter word game that has quickly gained popularity.

9. ACT stands for American ___ Testing.

DOWN 1. Russian figure skater Kamila ____ is

currently involved in a doping scandal.

2. Senior Ashi Jose is president of the ___.

3. Ferris Bueller's Day Off was directed by John ___.

4. Females ___ is a club here at North focused on uplifting women.

6. The Coleman sisters, Emily and ___, have been selected for All State Orchestra.

7. The four ACT sections are English, ___, reading, and science.

HINT: All answers can be found by reading this paper!

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designed by: Sami Binning

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Fun and Games

WORD LADDER

Share a photo of your completed Fun and Games section on Twitter and Instagram @LN_EaglesView to be entered in a raffle for a prize! Don't forget to tag us in your posts to be entered!

After the prize is claimed, we will post the answer key, so make sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram!

Make your way from BACK to FIRE by changing just one letter each step to make a new word

BACK

cryptogram cryptogram

FIRE * See if you can do it in only 3 steps

What happens if you slap Dwayne Johnson's butt?

Y 2

1

23

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T 17

R

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A B C D E F G H I J K L MN O P Q R S T U VWX Y Z 25

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FEBRUARY

2022