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Nov 2014
eagles view Liberty North High School | Volume 5 | Issue 3
ev table of contents
letter from the editor
our staff Editors-in-Chief Becca Saffier Olivia Brown
Section Editors
ith all the new seasonal changes happening, we had no trouble finding many subjects to cover this issue. From winter fashion to the coffee shop regulars, we have managed to cover all of your fall to winter necessities. In Lifestyle we found alternative, delicious foods and treats for Thanksgiving Day to avoid gaining the typical holiday season weight. Along with the holiday season cute new clothes are required and easy gift ideas for your significant other. In Eagle’s Life we recognized the school’s EIP program and the kids who frequent the Birds and the Beans. We also made sure to include a whole spread on how to survive the end of the semester finals season. In Spotlight we chose Eagle Stepper Bria Rice and Communication Arts teacher Greg Wickham. Our In Depth and cover story is all about students, faculty and families giving back and getting involved with volunteer work. In our Arts and Entertainment section we discussed the new TV shows students are buzzing about and battled over the better music app. We have a boys versus girls face off on Black Friday shopping in Opinion. In Sports we have a football season wrap up and an introduction to the winter sports, including which Eagles to watch out for!
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Baileigh Arant Savannah Failer Kala Hughes Alex Kampman Douglas Martin Dylan Morgan Keara O’Brien Shelby Prather Hannah Richardson Taylor Thompson
Reporters
Frank Anthony Kaelin Bemis Brooks Casel Brandon Ditsch Madi Eklund Kennah Evilsizer Catherine Hemenway Maile Johnson Michaela Jordan Isaac Keller Alma MacDonald
MacKenzie McNeill Kelsey Runge Madelyn Seley Gabrielle Smith Alex Snavely Jaycie Standing Kendall Steinmetz Anthony Whalen Sean Wooten Lindsay Young
Web Editor
Jaxson Freeman
Photographers Dillon Erwin Olivia Prather Hailey Wasser
Ads Manager Mitchell Warne
Advisor
Jen Higgins
OUR VIEW Our mission for the 2014-2015 school year is to produce a quality magazine that informs our readers as well as provides a professional journalism experience for all members involved. The Eagle’s View is a public forum of student expression.
table of contents ev
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eagle s view november 2014
on the cover
“I like volunteering because it helps others and ultimately makes me feel good,” sophomore Calynn Gray said.
LIFESTYLE
4 Tame the Turkey Temptation Helpful advice on staying balanced and healthy during the holiday season
EAGLE’S LIFE 8 Study Smart, Not Stressed
With finals just around the corner, read up on the latest stress-free study tips Page 16
11 The Daily Grind
Read about North’s coffee shop regulars and why they love The Bird and the Beans
INDEPTH 16 We Can Make a Difference Students volunteer in and outside of school; find out how you can help
A&E 21 I Love That Show
Check out which new shows North students are currently obsessed with
OPINION 24 Black Friday
Does it have a dark side?
25 Staff Editorial
The staff’s consensus on Christmas’s early start
SPORTS 30 Winter Sports Preview
Ready for North winter sports? Prepare to be previewed eaglesviewonline.com | November 2014
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lifestyle “Scarves keep my neck warm therefore are cozy and much needed in the awful cold. Also a good accessory for outfits,” senior Layne Blank said.
Scarves come in many different sizes and styles. They can help complete the outfit with minimal effort.
winter
Favorites
Top fashion picks for guys and girls this winter season Military style jackets with a plain tee are a great option for the cold weather. They help keep warm, while still looking stylish.
Story by Kennah Evilsizer Photos and Design by Baileigh Arant Jeans are always a go-to. They can be worn to make a cute outfit, and are also comfortable. There are so many unique styles to choose from.
“I prefer to have some holes in my jeans because I think it just looks more stylish and gives it more character,” sophomore Taylor Nead said.
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Leg warmers are a great way to add character to an outfit. They can add a pop of color and help keep warm.
November 2014 | eaglesviewonline.com
Boots are the number one shoe girls wear in the winter. They are stylish, and can keep the snow out.
healthy T Holiday habits
Helpful tips to keep Thanksgiving day happy and healthy
“Eat slowly, then you know when you’re full. Avoid eating fast and overwhelming yourself,” senior Reid Walters said.
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Scan this QR code for a mashed sweet potato recipe!
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hanksgiving only comes once a year, and most people indulge until they cannot take in any more food. Overeating during the holiday season is not exactly unusual. Most people pack on a little extra weight during the holidays, but there are healthier alternatives and better habits to keep control of food intake. “Eat slowly, then you know when you’re full. Avoid eating fast and overwhelming yourself,” senior Reid Walters said. People tend to eat really fast, and the food does not have time to settle. This is causing people to eat more food than what they actually want or need. By the time people actually feel full, they should have stopped a couple servings ago. “Try and get more vegetables into your meal by replacing a lot of the breads and meats,” Walters said. Improving unhealthy holiday habits could mean replacing all those fatty, high calorie favorites with something healthier. Little things, like switching from a piece of cornbread to a half cup of fruit or vegetables could easily make a healthier meal. “My mom has this vegan butter, it sounds nasty but it’s actually really good, and we avoid putting any breading on our green bean casserole, just little things like that can really improve your meal overall,” senior Mykayla O’Reilly said. People tend to feel better once they have a healthier meal, rather than an unhealthy meal. There are many great ideas and recipes online that give healthier versions of all the wonderful holiday foods, even healthier versions of everyone’s favorite:, mashed potatoes.
Story and Photos by Hailey Wasser Design by Baileigh Arant
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lifestyle
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for a boyfr iend
“I’ve gotten a couple necklaces that I like to wear everyday and they really mean a lot to me,” senior Caitlin Myers said.
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An easy yet sentimental gift would be a stuffed animal. Pick out her favorite animal or add a handwritten letter for the animal to hold.
Gather up his favorite candy, snacks and drinks and put them all in a basket. Add his favorite movie or TV show and his lazy night is made.
Perfect
GG ui ifd et
The perfect gift forthat special someone for every budget Story by Madi Eklund Photos by Hailey Wasser Design by Baileigh Arant
A girl can never have too many shoes, so let her pick out one or two, and this will ensure she will actually like them.
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November 2014 | eaglesviewonline.com
Consider buying tickets to a concert or game that he likes. Having a night with his friends completely paid for is something he would definitely appreciate.
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Nearly every high school boy plays video games, so getting him one that he’s been wanting would be a great option.
“Usually I get clothes or shoes, but if I’m lucky I’ll get a video game, and those are always a nice surprise,” senior Ross Strada said.
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Jewelry makes a great gift considering all the many options and price ranges. Ask her friends or family if you aren’t sure what she will like.
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ev eagle's lIfe
s t u d ys m a r t With finals approaching, here are some ways to survive the chaos Story by Frank Anthony | Photos by Madi Eklund | Design by Alex Kampman
hen it comes to studying for test, studying can be very stressful. There are many ways to make studying easy. “One good thing to do is minimize distractions and study in a calm environment,” psychology teacher Doug Davis said. There are ways to limit distractions and work in a place where the person studying can focus and not be interrupted. “I like to go to the library to study because there are less distractions and I remember what I was studying. This helps me get what I need to get done and not forget,” senior Chelsea Larabee said. Finding a quiet space to work makes it easier to study or do homework. “It’s smart to get a head start when studying. If you study in advance you will remember more, even if you only study a little at a time,” Davis said. Studying a week or two in advances helps get the information memorized. “It helps to study the middle when doing vocab, because when you study the thing that you
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remember is the first and last part so it helps to pay extra attention to the middle,” Davis said. This can also apply to things other then vocab. This does not mean it will be easy to remember the beginning and last perfectly so remember to review those words a few times as well. “A good studying habit to have is to connect what you’re learning to your life,” Davis said. No matter what is being studied there are ways to connect it to the studier’s life, and by doing so it will help make it easier to remember. “I like to put my phone down to study and limit my distractions,” senior Tyler Windsor said. When it comes to limiting distractions turning off the TV and putting down the phone helps. Being in a room with the TV on and a phone can be very distracting and make it hard to focus and remember what is being studied. “Try to study when you are awake and not tired. Whenever I study when I am tired I always forget what I went over,” Windsor said.
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tips & tricks for finals ark d t Ea ate l o c cho a test re befo
Find a per s o exa n mpl al can e conn that wha e t yo ct to stud u are ying
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Eatin gag ood brea k fa help s ret st wha rieve ty stud ou ied
Have hing t e m o s s emon l h t i w while ing study
Stud y in ad weeks v and anced in lit t bits le
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ev eagle's life
Future Teachers of
merica Story by Jacyie Standing | Photos by Becca Saffier | Design by Alex Kampman eaching is a popular career to pursue, but most people do not know the difficulties that come with it. EIP (Educational Internship Program) is an entry level college course, accepted as a dual credit at UMKC to help high school students learn what it is like in the field of teaching. “It is taught as an introductory college-level course. Students learn about the foundations of education and learning theories and analyze various educational issues. They also work with a master teacher at the elementary level throughout the
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year,” EIP teacher Melissa Taylor said. This course is for seniors only. They will work with a teacher and help with the students and teach them some lessons. “My plan was to be a Kindergarten teacher, then I realized that a lot of what they learn is kind of in your hands. You have to teach them how to count, and the alphabet which is kind of a lot to take on, so I switched to first grade,” senior Kaitlin Engel said. The program allows students to see if they are actually interested in being a teacher and if they can handle everything. Also it allows students to see what grade level they might want to teach. “Mrs. Zicarelli was my Educational Intern when she was a senior in high school; she worked with me at LMS every day, I currently work with 16 students,” Taylor said, “The Educational Internship Program is an excellent opportunity for students who are thinking about becoming teachers or working with children.” The EIP program does more than just prepare students for teaching; it allows students to interact with children and consider many possible fields working with children. “I love the program, it is my favorite thing to do in my day. I love little kids and helping them and being in the environment in my teachers classroom. I’ve learned so much already with only being there for 2 months, EIP is such a great program for A+ hours and having a great preview of what it is like being a teacher. I even get to teach lessons to the class,” senior Ellie MacDonald said.
Above: Liberty North seniors in EIP work with their students. “I have learned a lot about how much work teaching really is and how many different places and ways you can teach,” senior Jenna Crain said.
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eagle's life ev
the daily
Grind
The coffee shop offers a relaxing atmosphere for North students
Story by Isaac Keller | Photo by Dillon Erwin | Design by Alex Kampman veryday the coffee shops opens at 7:45 am in the right corner of the library. Customers varying from students to teachers rush in to get their favorite coffee. Favorites differ from steaming hot chocolate to french vanilla cappuccino. Regardless of the desired morning beverage, the amount of regulars has increased dramatically since the years have gone by. One thing is for sure, the regulars keep coming back for more. “There’s a group of kids that really like to sit in the coffee shop and interact, listen to music or whatever they want to do in the morning. It’s a great environment for the students to work or hang out in,” Special Education Teacher Dennis Bunch said. The effort and hard work is specifically for the students and teachers at Liberty North and is probably the reason for coffee shop regulars to “hang out” right next to the shop and the workers. “I love the great vibes and all my friends that sit in the coffee shop. I can’t get enough of sitting right next to the shop, we get to experience the workers and how friendly they are and the great smell of coffee every morning,” sophomore Isabelle Allen said.
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The coffee shop staff works hard to ensure the students and staff get the coffee they ask for every morning, they have countless jobs that all go into the $0.50 cup of joe. “The workers are extremely nice and always seem to get my order just right. They are really nice, funny and just a lot of fun to be around. I especially love the chocolate cappuccino; they make it for me almost everyday. I love being a regular and enjoy the friendly faces and warm environment,” senior Danielle Meyers said.
Above: A core group of students gather each morning in the coffee shop.“ "I come down here because my friends do. We enjoy the morning pick-me-up and relaxing atmosphere," junior Jinah Smith said.
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ev spotlight Did you know... He coached Little League baseball
He was in a band called “The Hadacol”
He taught at Truman High School
Greg wickham or most teachers, coming to a brand new school can be overwhelming and take quite a bit of adjusting. This is what Communication Arts teacher Greg Wickham felt when he came to Liberty North for his first year. Mr. Wickham moved here from Truman High School at the beginning of this year. “I underestimated what it would be like to not know anyone, because even when you teach year to year in the same building, even if you have new students, you always see people you know in between classes,” Wickham said. Wickham loves to travel and has been to many places all over the world. He takes his students to Europe every other year. He also got to see a majority of the United States while touring with his alternative country band, The Hadacol. “Since the band shut down and I really do not have time for it anymore, I periodically do world traveling; it is amazing. Absolutely incredible to go out and see the different cultures of the world, and it is a huge part of my life now,” Wickham said. The students and staff at Liberty North have assisted throughout Wickham’s quick transition. He loves the school spirit and the amount of enthusiasm the students have for Liberty North. “The school spirit that is here at Liberty North has been almost overwhelming to me. I am shocked at how everyone seems to be behind and happy to be at Liberty North, which is really a great feeling to walk into that kind of environment. Everyone here has been so welcoming to me, both staff and students,” Wickham said. Wickham, has enjoyed being a part of this Liberty North teaching staff, and continues to make a difference in the lives of students. He strives to know kids individually and is always open to sharing about himself and his hobbies to anyone.
Story by: Brandon Ditsch | Design by: Kala Hughes | Photo by: Brandon Ditsch
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spotlight ev
bria rice
Did you know... Rice has traveled to Europe
Rice is interested in photography
Rice enjoys collecting shoes
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Story by: Maile Johnson | Design by: Kala Hughes | Photo by: Hailey Wasser
any students are involved in extra activities outside of the typical school day, and senior Bria Rice is no exception. Rice is involved in the Liberty North’s Step Team. The school’s step team is a group of students that dance, clap, stomp, and makes noise to create a beat for the entertainment of others. “I joined the school’s step team because I thought it would be a good way to meet a bunch of girls and have fun while getting to laugh and talk with each other and share stories,” Rice said. Although there can be many bumps in the road when it comes to other group activities, Bria Rice still enjoys being apart of the Eagles Step Team. “Besides the arguing, we do get a lot of work done. We all collaborate with different ideas and moves so that’s something that is fun with the step team,” Rice said. Being apart of any extra activity can be a bit of hard work, especially when most students aim for their best. This may require a little more work than just a few practices here and there. “I practice Mondays, Wednesdays, and if we learn a new step, I will go home and practice it,” Rice said. The step team has done quite a few things this year as a group, so it is not unusual that Bria would have a favorite memory of being a part of the Eagle Steppers. “My favorite memory would be our first performance in the cafeteria when we did our flash mob,” Rice said. As a senior in high school she will be leaving behind the step team in the following year, but she hopes her underclassmen friends will remember her. “I will miss everyone dearly and I hope I left my legacy here with them as a senior,” Rice said. eaglesviewonline.com | November 2014
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oftheissue This issue, we published Instagram posts from students showcasing their favorite fall and holiday season activities.
photooftheissue
Earth and Space shot rockets in class. “It was really fun. I didn’t know just water pressure could send a rocket that high into the air. It made me think about the real NASA rockets and how every detail is important,” senior Matt Richards said.
eaglesview online.com
Our online newspaper is an easily accessible, interactive way for students and faculty to stay well versed with our school’s news.
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eagle
chat
A couple of our favorite selfies sent in via Twitter to enter our Hunter Hayes tickets using #EVHunterHayes and our winner Luke Kernell.
November 2014 | eaglesviewonline.com
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202 N 291 Hwy, Liberty, MO
(816) 792-2428
Buy one buffet, get one free! One per person, per group, per visit
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Photo by Becca Saffier
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hen it comes to voluteer work, FCCLA and Key Club are two examples of clubs who spend their time striving to help others. “I want the students to understand that there are others out there that need help and their work doesn’t get unnoticed. It is also important that they do the volunteering because it makes them feel good knowing they are helping out. If volunteering is forced, the reason behind it is lost.” guidance counselor Jill Brock said. Helping others gives some people growth as a human being and helps
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demonstrate that volunteering is a great way to make a difference in one’s community. “I am actually currently serving as the President of Key Club and have served on Lead Team all through high school. Key Club is actually one of my favorite clubs. It’s filled with amazing people and great opportunities! Our main projects this year are Homeless Awareness, Mr. North, Adopta-Family, and quite a bit more,” senior Emily Vandel said. When everyone participates in just a little help it can make a huge difference not only to the
Novemeber 2014 | eaglesviewonline.com
people that volunteered, but also to others in the community. “I enjoy volunteer work because it gives me an opportunity to help the less fortunate and those in need. It’s also a lot of fun. In FCCLA, we do a lot of community service. Some of the bigger organizations we support are Harvesters, Unicef, and Highway Pick-ups. I joined FCCLA because it looked like it would be really fun, which it is. All the things we do are so enjoyable,” junior Kaylee Kappler said.
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“I want the students to understand that there are others out there that need help and their work doesn’t get unnoticed,” Jill Brock said.
An overview of which clubs and organizations are giving back this holiday season and why they love it
season for giving back Story by Alex Snavely Design by Keara O’Brien
Photo courtesy of FCCLA
“We took a field trip for a regional meeting where we got to hear speakers talk about leadership and how we can improve our voluteering skills,” sophomore Emily Niec said. eaglesviewonline.com | Novemeber 2014
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how to get Involved
Story by Kelsey Runge | Photos by Keara O’Brien and Becca Saffier hristmas is just around the corner, and many are getting in the spirit of helping others. “Help is always needed at Harvesters in Kansas City and Hillcrest here in Liberty. Those are great food banks,” senior Hannah Gooding said. Along with organizations outside of school, many clubs within the school participate in volunteer work. Key Club, FCCLA, and NHS frequently visit Harvesters, participate in highway cleanups, and take advantage other community service opportunities around liberty. “Me and two other girls, Rachel Kirch and Paige Heldenbrand, started an Alex’s Lemonade Stand at school to raise money to help cure childhood cancer. The stand goes on during Eagle Hour. I also help teach a religion class at my church, Holy Family,” Gooding said.
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The counselors have many connections and can help anyone wanting to get started with community service. If a student wants to find opportunities to get involved, the counselors are a good resource. “The counselors always know what’s going on,” senior Robert Trout said. Many are giving to those in need to kick off the holiday season, and it has benefits on both ends. Those who participate in volunteer work have found it just as rewarding for them as it is for those who need their help. “I think being able to see people’s faces when they’re happy about getting things from us and seeing how happy they are is my favorite part,” sophomore Brynne Davis said.
Senior citzen members of Liberty Terrace Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center explain the ways volunteers have impacted them. “I remember a talented group of high school kids that came up here and sang Christmas songs in Spanish to us during the holidays,” Connie Wente said.
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“I enjoy when people come in and visit. I especially love to play bingo with vistors. Having someone around always makes my day better,” Gary Claus said.
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youCAN make a difference
Photos courtesy of Jill Brock
“I like volunteering because it helps others and ultimately makes me feel good,� sophomore Calynn Gray said. Top left: Key club makes posters to hang around school. Top right: Key club members take time out of their night to get together. Middle right: Key club members purchasing goods at local stores for those in need. Bottom left: FCCLA participates in a highway pick up.
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o be honest, I never really thought all that much about Stephen Hawking until I saw “The Theory of Everything.” I knew that he was one of the most brilliant minds ever, but I didn’t really give much thought past that. I’m 17 years old so people like Mr. Hawking don’t much cross my mind, especially since he isn’t involved in the entertainment business. After watching “The Theory of Everything,” though, I have a newfound respect for him. He has overcome so many struggles and doesn’t let his illness define who he is and how he lives his life. That is very admirable. “The Theory of Everything” tells the story of Dr. Stephen Hawking and his relationship with his now ex-wife, Jane. It deals with their marriage, his diagnosis of ALS and his success in the field of physics. It is a truly beautiful, if not tragic story, and sheds light on things that you never get to see/ understand about Mr. Hawking’s personal life. The actors did a wonderful job playing these complex characters; I wouldn’t be surprised if Eddie Redmayne (Hawking) was nominated for an Academy Award. I loved the movie and I would highly recommend it. It has a great message: You can overcome any obstacle if you put your mind to it.
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Movie Review: The Theory of Everything
Review and Design By Taylor Thompson Photo Courtesy of Working Title Films
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What TV Show Should You Watch Next? 5 of the Hottest Series of the Season Story by Alma MacDonald | Design by Taylor Thompson
1 The Walking Dead .
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“I like the Walking Dead because it is really suspenseful. The producers are always throwing twists and turns that make it so interesting,” sophomore Emily Schonemann said.
2 The Big Bang Theory .
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“I like the Big Bang Theory because it’s funny and the characters are a great mix of personalities, but somehow they all work and are great together,” sophomore Andrew Stockmann said.
3 American Horror Story .
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“American Horror Story is my favorite TV show because it is unique from other TV shows. It is kind of strange, but I think it intrigues and shocks viewers in a way that keeps them wanting to watch more,” freshman Hannah Minor said.
4 Supernatural .
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“I enjoy Supernatural due to the mysticism that is involved in it. I have always liked mythology and this show puts it into a format that is engaging to many other people,” sophomore Austin Katzenberger said. . Once Upon A Time FWT “I like really like how the show incorporates as many princess characters as possible. I also like how they put the characters into a more modern day settings. The show keeps you guessing and surprises you at every corner,” senior Savannah Culver said.
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What To Expect While Watching:
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SBA
CCM
Zombie Overload
Sheldon Being Annoying
Crazy Clown Murderers
DMG Demons and Monsters and Ghosts, Oh My
FWT Fairytales With a Twist
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Story by MacKenzie McNeill | Design by Taylor Thompson
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opinion ev
short and proud netflix is life
Column by Hannah Richardson
Column by Dylan Morgan
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ou’re so short,” are three words I am required to deal with on a daily basisway to state the obvious, folks. My latest response to this awesome compliment has simply been silence with a touch of eye roll. I have lived with my height for 17 years now, so yes, I understand I am no Shaq. Although it would be extremely satisfying to dominate in basketball, I was obviously born to go a different direction in my life- one which does not rely on height whatsoever. Maybe I could go the route of a kindergarten teacher; I would hardly have to squat down to reach their level- using my smallness to better children’s education sounds pretty darn good to me. Although when people mistake me for a sixth grader, that is when I draw the line. No, I did not just graduate elementary school, and yes I can see over the steering wheel- thanks for trying to boost my self-esteem though. I am now the shortest in the family, and it comes off as very humorous to many of my peers. My thirteen-year-old brother is skyrocketing, and I just sit, pathetically waiting for a massive growth spurt to magically appear- I have a feeling I may have to wait a while. The odds were obviously not ever in my favor while hanging out in my mom’s womb, soaking up all of the short genes, but so far I have managed to make due. Aside from the fact that I basically get trampled walking down the hallway, I feel as though short people could someday rule the world- one tiny step at a time.
etflix is the greatest thing in the history of ever. Not only did Netflix tear down the horrid Blockbuster and their cruel late fees, but Netflix has revolutionized online streaming for the better. With just an $8.99 monthly fee, you have instant access to over 300,000 titles. This alone gives you reason to never come out of your room. While some people may prefer other streaming programs such as Amazon Prime, Netflix knocks those out of the park. Not only does Netflix offer some of the best shows and movies out there, such as “Friday Night Lights”, “Good Will Hunting”, and my personal favorite, “The Office”, but it also offers a variety of Netflix originals such as “House of Cards” and “Orange is the New Black”. Netflix is the ultimate time waster. While watching Netflix, “just one episode” can turn into 3 seasons. It has that type of power. While other people are out running marathons, you can sit inside and watch marathons. Instead of wasting your time going outside, working out, or enjoying the many sites of Kansas City, you can watch hours of TV from the comfort of your own home. If I had the choice between stopping Stalin and watching Netflix, I would chose Netflix every time. My first born child’s name will be Net Flix Morgan. I have already started on making my very own Netflix church, all worshippers will be known as Netflixians. Good luck convincing me that Netflix is not the definition of the greatest thing in the history of ever. Netflix is love, Netflix is life.
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ev opinion Story by Sean Wooten
tried to think of words that put into perspective how I feel about Black Friday, but nothing really did it justice. I guess the word that fits my opinion best would be atrocious. I hate shopping as it is. The thought of a grocery store just grinds my gears. The thought of thousands of people crammed together in a store, fighting each other to buy low priced gifts because they do not care enough about their kids to pay the full price for it makes me sick. It might seem like I am coming off a little strong, but that is only because I do not think this is a joking matter. It is time for action. Now is not the time to stand by and continue allowing the injustice that is Black Friday to continue. My family has always taken the liberty to go out and get our Christmas tree together on Black Friday. I know it is weird, spending time with family during the holidays rather than frantically shopping for things you could easily buy the next day. Crazy. So keep it classy Liberty North, and stop that pointless Black Friday shopping.
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gals
Story by Kaelin Bemis
he greatest time of the year has officially arrived and along with it comes what are simply the best deals ever. The biggest, craziest, most exciting day of shopping is almost here, and I am giddy just thinking about it. Do not get me wrong, I love getting to spend Thanksgiving Day with family, but what I especially love is bonding with the fam while shopping ‘til we drop on Black Friday. With Christmas coming and everyone expecting gifts, there is no better time than this day to find the best deals on Christmas essentials. Desperate times call for desperate measures, long lines, insane people, and lots of noise. It would simply be a shame to miss out on a day stores all around the world put so much effort and time into; just a shame. I am a girl who loves to get her shopping on, so there is no way I will miss but one second of what I consider to be “the most wonderful time of the year”. So, for the ones seeking a thrill or maybe just a hint of insane, Black Friday shopping is a must. Bring on the crazies!
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Articles on these opinion pages do not reflect the opinions of LNHS or LPS. Please feel free to comment, criticize, or condemn anything you see on these pages in a letter to the Editor at eaglesview@liberty.k12.mo.us. Please limit to 150 words or less.
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November 2014 | eaglesviewonline.com
opinion ev
everything is awesome Column by Becca Saffier
t is probably the last movie I expected to fall in love with, but when I rented it last month, it became my new favorite animated feature: The Lego Movie. I expected quirky, childish humor at best; granted, since I had heard it was a movie made for kids but written for nostalgic adults, I had my hopes set high. I was not disappointed; it was downright hilarious. Witty, imaginative, original; by the end, I was in stitches. I am usually embarrassed about admitting childish guilty pleasures to peers outside my friend group, though I cannot imagine why; practically everyone has them. In fact, we seem to enjoy them more the older we get. I imagine it is because we generally attach good memories to elements of our childhood, so why not dwell on them in our teen years as well? If there is one thing I have learned as a teenager, it is that there is nothing wrong with being a kid every once in a while. Personally, as I grow up, I intend on getting wiser, but not much older. Is that impossible? I do not think so. As long as I can still find the joy in things, especially childish things like The Lego Movie, I believe it will really make the adult years sing.
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staff editorial:christmas
very year right after Halloween, Christmas songs and specials slowly begin to appear onto radios and televisions to get people excited for Christmas. People are out decorating their houses and putting up Christmas trees way before Thanksgiving comes around. There are so many things to do to get filled with Christmas spirit; for example volunteering, because it is the season of caring. Some people think that Christmas starts too early and should only be celebrated in December, when the actual holiday occurs, and therefore get annoyed with Christmas. Christmas also means many seasonal activities will start to appear and marks itself as a fun holiday for people to enjoy and get involved with, but do some of these joyful traditions start too early? From the jolly seasonal music to the Christmas lights, the majority of the Liberty North newspaper staff agrees that Christmas traditions can never start too early because it is the best time of the year! About half of our staff can agree to this, along a fifth of us that can say that we can include ourselves into that group that celebrates early. Only as little as 12% of our staff dislikes these early traditions and agree that it starts too early. Christmas is obviously more on the favorable side as more than half of our staff enjoys listening to the jolly music of this special holiday early on. Maybe it is because we are young, but overall we love Christmas and believe the holiday happiness should live on forever.
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student poll Does Christmas Come too Early?
30% 28% 42% Yes!
I don't care
No way!
*According to an EV survey of 285 students.
eaglesviewonline.com | November 2014
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ev games page
Happy Thanksgiving
North Carrots
Pie
Casserole
Potatoes
Cornbread
Pumpkin
Cranberries
Rolls
Delicious
Stuffing
Family
Thankful
Gravy
Thanksgiving
Ham
Turkey
Handling auto accidents, personal injury, and all traffic and criminal matters. 26
November 2014 | eaglesviewonline.com
sports cover e v
“To win, you can’t be afraid of failure or to lose. You just have to leave it all on the mat,” senior Dakota Grizzle said.
ev sports
football in review T
home openers Date
Opponent
Location
Men’s Basketball
12/9
LN Invitational Tournament
LN Fieldhouse
Women’s Basketball
12/8
LN Invitational Tournament
LN Fieldhouse
Wrestling
12/3
Staley and St. Joe Central
LN AUX Gym
12/9
Liberty and RayPec
Women’s Swim and Dive
Column by Douglas Martin
he Journey did not start on the field against Raytown. Nor did it start on the first day of school. The vision of the District Championship was in sight long before that. After finishing the 2013 season on a very high note while losing some key players the team did not make that an excuse for them. Instead, they pushed themselves even harder and earned their way back to the spotlight. This was not one or two players leading the way, it was the whole team putting each other on their backs and having the will to be their best. This motivation and intensity carried them past a feared and talented Staley Falcons team. Back to back years in a District Championship is no easy task and the journey there takes more than just pure talent. It takes heart and that is what was shown this year. A group of athletes wanted to make their mark on North’s history and that they did. Though they did not bring back a State Championship, they made a name for Liberty North football and had a great year.
Liberty Community Center
athletes to look for:
As one of the team captains and returning starters, Kroge looks to lead the team to a great season. Kirch, a fourth year swimmer and state qualifier has shown she’s the real deal. Hughes, part of the twin towers last year looks to take over the paint and add to his 94 career blocks.
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November 2014 | eaglesviewonline.com
Senior Rachel Kirch
Senior Laken Kroge
EAGLES in motion
Junior Micheal Hughes
Sport
sports ev
the unnoticed mvp
Athletic Director Bob Kernell plays an important role in North sports Story by Douglas Martin | Photos by Olivia Prather | Design by Douglas Martin tremendous amount of work goes into putting a season together. A coach must develop their players and prep them for games. A player must put in hours of hard work and bust their butt in hopes of making a state championship run. But there is more to it that most of us take for granted. Who manages the buses and away travel schedule? Who coordinates with the referees and umpires to make sure that each game has the proper amount and they are on time? Who even schedules these events? The answer to that would be our athletic director, Bob Kernell. “The month of September is off the charts crazy. The only days with no events or games is Sundays and most days have many different things going on,” Kernell said. The road does not end there, either. As the fall sports wind down, the winter sports pick up, and it is the same with the spring sports. “It’s a roller coaster ride with all these events through the year,” Kernell said. Adding to this demanding workload is his son, Luke Kernell, a junior here at Liberty North. “Weekdays he’s not home that much because he’s at a lot of sporting events. He tries to make every event so he’s very busy and always on the move attending those and making sure everything pans out as planned. I try to make it to as many games as I can and it is pretty cool seeing him there too,” Luke said. Luke also explained what it is like seeing his dad everyday at school and how he’s adjusted to it. “I’m used to seeing him at school and instead of seeing him as dad, I see him as Mr. Kernell. When he sees me in the halls, he sometimes messes with me or tells other coaches to mess with me too, but I’ve gotten used to it,” Kernell said. Being a fan at all the games, everything goes unnoticed and fans are unaware of everything that goes into it. Even athletes take these things for granted. Our athletic director takes care of everything and helps make our sporting events the great experience that they are.
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Kernell spends a great deal of time coordinating with coaches and other directors. “I don’t know everything that he does, but I know he has a lot on his plate and he always has games and events planned and ready to go with no problems,” senior Luke Jackson said.
eaglesviewonline.com | November 2014
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winter sports
ev sports Girls Basketball asketball season is coming up, and the women’s basketball team is ready for action in the new season. With last years experience behind the team, they look forward to building off of last season. And like any team, a new group of freshman recruits will be essential to the new season, bringing in new talent and lots of potential. Freshman Coach Joe Morgan is also confident with the new additions to the team. “They are doing good, they have potential and are showing a lot of work ethic. Its been a fun three days,”. Morgan said. With the new group of players, the seniors are helping out, from technical skills to teamwork. “The upperclassman are really helping out, showing them the ropes, and teaching them really well,” Morgan said. WW The team’s first game is on Friday Night Madness on November 21 at Liberty North, along with the men’s team.
B
5
Seniors
3
Tournaments
Seniors
17
5
Regular Season Games
Boys Basketball
ith last year’s District Championship win behind them, the men’s basketball team has started practice and is confident in another great season. The team does have a couple holes in its varsity team after seniors like Brinkley Jolly, Ian Sanderford and Ryan Crisman graduated, but team members believe in the squads ability as a whole to recover. “I feel like we will be able to fill the holes up, and have another really good season,” sophomore Dominic Fragola said. Fragola, playing on both Varsity and Junior Varsity last year, will play for his second year on the team. With tryouts ending and practices starting up, the team is now focused on getting ready for their first game, Friday Night Madness, on November 21 at Liberty North.
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Sophomore Lizzie Stark prepares to take a shot at the Players on the basketball team take a break while conditioning during practice. free throw line.
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November 2014 | eaglesviewonline.com
takeoff What to expect from athletics this winter
Wrestling inter is starting, and along with it is the winter sport of wrestling. The wrestling squad is hard at work towards another successful season. Last year’s team gave three wrestlers recognition at the last Suburban Conference. However, many senior teammates graduated and left the team. Returning wrestlers, such as sophomore Daterraion Richardson, are very confident in the freshman wrestler’s ability, and the team’s ability to build up these new teammates. “I believe that the freshman coming in will be able to learn a lot from the players on the team now, and it will only make us better as a team,” Richardson said. With their first meet at Park Hill on December 5, the team has been practicing every weekday to get prepared for the first tournament of the season.
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sports ev Story byAnthony Whalen | Photos by Olivia Prather and Hailey Wasser | Design by Shelby Prather
Swim and Dive
Seniors
16
Regular Season Matches
3
Coaches
13
Regular Season Meets
Seniors Derrick Haxton and Dakota Grizzle wrestle during practice.
omen’s swimming will be starting up this December, and they are excited for 2015 season. “We are really excited, and with a good pool of upperclassmen who are dedicated and having a lot of fun, they are ready to be able to help the underclassmen swimmers to get another great season,” assistant swim coach Jill Brock said. Coach Brock is also confident in the overall quality of the team as well. “Not only do we have a lot of excellent members on the swim team, but we also have great members of the dive team as well,” Brock said. With the title of conference champions from last year, the Women’s swim and dive will be attending their first meet of the season on December 9 at RayPec.
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A member of the Swim and Dive team pushes through a race. eaglesviewonline.com | November 2014
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NORTH TRIVIA TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE Name How well do you know North? Complete this trivia by Wednesday, December 3 and bring to Room 804 for a piece of candy and a chance to win a $25 North Nation Station giftcard.
Grade 9 10 11 12 Staff 1
What year was Liberty North founded?
2
How big was North’s first graduating class?
3
What is the name of our head custodian?
4
What was North Nation Station’s original name?
5
Which subjects are represented on the totem pole?
6
What was the first play performed in the PAT?
7
Who wrote our school song?
8
What was the first team to receive a state title?
One Day Sale!
Get your holiday shopping done at the North Nation Station! Thursday 12/11 25% off entire purchase & no sales tax! Follow us @LNHStation