Eagle's View: Volume 2 Issue 7

(VIEW Volume 2 Issue 7 April 5, 2012

(

Liberty North High School Eagle’s

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TABLE OF CONTENTS EAGLE’S VIEW

CONTENTS 16

Health Challenges Students overcome the challenge of balencing school and overcoming rare health challenges

12

Parents as Teachers Some Liberty North students express their opinions about having their parents as teachers

19 16

Telethon Liberty North’s Brodcasting class prepares to put on it’s 11th annual telethon

12

6 Easter Egg Dying

Students offer creative ways to dye Easter Eggs

19

6

OUR STAFF Haley Richardson Dylan Sanchez Ceci Kuron Kevin Page Savana Morrison Cassidy Warne Bailey Reardon Kelsea Graham

Editor-In-Chief Editor-In-Chief Photographer Photographer InDepth Editor Student Life Editor Spotlight Editor A&E Editor

Arianna Skindell Summer Prather Timmy Falleri Mark Oyler Katelynn Downey Shelby Grego Jessica Griffith Chris Kandlbinder

OUR MISSION

Opinion Editor Sports Editor Sports Writer Fun Editor Reporter Reporter Reporter Reporter

Emily Rhew Ally Payne Madi Saunders Cortney Snyder Benjamin Whalen Payton Wolff Katelen Permenter Brock Mitchell Jennifer Higgins

Reporter Reporter Reporter Reporter Reporter Reporter Online Editor Webmaster Adviser

Our mission for the 2011-2012 school year is to create a quality magazine that informs our readers as well as provide a professional journalism experience for all members involved. The Eagle’s View is a public forum of student expression.

OUR WEBSITE

www.eaglesviewonline.com FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER!

JUST FOR FUN 04/05/12

JUSTFOR FUN TRINIDAD’S TRIVIA

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SUDOKU PUZZLE

Mrs. Trinidad returns with another tough trivia

question of the month.

Education is something that is valued by the American public. Many great opportunities open up for those who continue on to higher education after high school and many jobs offer better pay for those with higher education rather than dropping out of high school. Yet does this advantage also affect lifespan?

True or False? Americans who receive higher education live 6 years longer than those who don’t continue their education after high school?

Guess the right one and be the first to report it to Trinidad and win a HEALTHY SNACK FOR THE DAY! The answer to last issue’s question was No. No matter who you are, or how flexible you are, it is not humanly possibly to kiss the tip of your elbow.

Provided by dailysudoku.com

COACHES CLASH

for

CHILDHOOD CANCER

Liberty North vs. Liberty Football coaches from both schools will compete in a softball game Raising money for childhood cancer research

Liberty North April 25th, 6pm

ON THE COVER

On March 27 Liberty North competed in the William Jewell College Quad track meet. “It was a good feeling just to get the first meet out of the way. It let us know what we all needed to improve on this season,” senior Mason Caywood said.

FOOD AND LIFE 4 ( ) EAGLE’S VIEW

TONED,TAN,FIT, READY

&

Anytime Fitness open

24/7

3 $30 treadmills 4

tanning beds

at Eagle Fitness Membership

at Anytime Fitness

at Liberty Community Center

Photo by Bailey Reardon

STORY BY KATELYN DOWNEY magine being pool-side with bright blue skies, the hot sun browning skin, and the

I

taste of summer in the air. With summer coming around the corner which means it is time to get in swimsuit season shape. Getting a head start on sculpting the

desired summertime body is the first step to success. With a handful of tips and the right moves, a body will look great in that swimsuit.

“I eat healthy and make sure that I get all my runs in every day. I normally run about four to five miles a day. I’d tell people who are trying to get fit to eat fruits and vegetables and make sure you drink lots of water,” Cross country and track runner sophomore Beth Hemenway said.

Although not everyone may like to lace up their shoes and go running for miles on end, there are other things people can do in order to get in shape.

“When I was younger I played sports. I played basketball and soccer so those always were fun and kept me active. You can always join a gym. A lot of gyms offer class for their members. Find a class you really enjoy and go with your friends! If you can’t join a gym then just exercise; play a game with your friends or go on a walk,” JV softball and basketball Coach Angelina Finazzo said.

Anyone and everyone can exercise in order to get ready for swimsuit season. Even the simplest tasks can be turned into a way to burn some calories.

“I ride bikes to get fit. I ride my bike to places that are within a few miles of my house. It’s a fun and eco-friendly plus you know… the wind in your hair, the ring of the bells and streamers flying is a great feeling,” Communication Arts teacher Abby Saverino said.

Of course different people enjoy doing a variety of things in order to get in shape.

It is best to find something enjoyable to do in order to exercise.

“I go to TITLE Boxing Club. I work out three to four times a week. It works out not only your arms, but your legs too. It is also important to make sure that you eat the right foods when you are trying to get fit,” junior Danny Blackwell said.

When getting in shape for summer, the most important thing to remember is to stay motivated.

“I try to spend as much time as I can outside. Whenever I have nothing to do I try to do something physical instead of lying around and watching TV. Just remember, even if you don’t see results right away, realize that everyone is different and it takes different amounts of time for people to see their results. Just don’t give up!” senior Macy Angle said.

EXERCISE #1: FALLEN TRIANGLE

FOOD AND LIFE 04/05/12

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Start on the ground in a push-up position, balancing hands and feet with arms extended, body a straight line from head to heals.

Move into a side plank, shifting body weight to left hand and rotating body to extend right arm directly up, palm forward, extend the left leg under torso and to right. Pulse left leg up and down 1 inch 5 times.

Return to start to complete 1 rep.

Do 3 reps. Switch sides; repeat. Do 2 sets.

WORKS YOUR:SHOULDERS, ABS, OBLIQUES, INNER THIGHS

EXERCISE #2:LOOKOUT LUNGE Stand with feet hip-width apart and extend arms over-head, palms facing each other.

Lunge forward with left leg bending knee 90 degrees, right leg extended behind.

Hinge forward from hips 45 degrees, keeping back flat, so that torso and arms point diagonally up.

Rotate palms out and lower arms to sides, then raise arms again, turning palms in.

Marinating lunge, lower and raise arms 8 times. Switch legs and repeat. Do 2 sets.

WORKS YOUR: SHOULDERS, BACK, BUTT, QUADS, HAMSTRINGS

EXERCISE #3: SWINGER Start on the ground on all fours; for extra support prop your left hand up on your fingertips.

Extend right leg behind you at hip level, bring it directly out to side.

Hold for 1 count; return to start.

Do 8 reps. Switch sides and repeat. Do 2 sets.

WORKS YOUR:BUTT, HIPS

EXERCISE #4:SPIDERMAN PRESS U P Start on the ground in full push-up position, balancing on hands and feet with arms extended, body forming a straight line from head to heels.

Bring bent right knee out to side at hip level as you bend elbows 90 degrees, keeping arms tucked close to ribs, so that right knee and elbow touching.

Press up and return to start.

Do 8 reps. Switch sides and repeat. Do 2 sets.

WORKS YOUR: CHEST, TRICEPS, ABS, OBLIQUES, BUTT, HIPS

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FOOD AND LIFE EAGLE’S VIEW

EGGSTRAVAGANZA

Festive Technique on how to decorate extravangant eggs for Easter STORY AND PHOTOS BY EMILY RHEW

COLORFUL SALT SWIRL What you need: Salt Food Coloring White Glue Blown-Out Eggs

1 2 3 4

Make shades of salt by adding a couple drops of food coloring to a cup of salt. Mix it together until it is combined.

Place layers of the different colors of salt on a plate. Make sure it is in a swirled pattern.

Brush egg with the non-toxic white glue until egg is fully covered.

Apply the pastel shades of salt.

RUBBER-BAND

What you need:

White Vinegar Food Coloring Mugs for Each Color Spoons Hard-Boiled Eggs Rubber-Bands

1 2 3 4

Wrap multiple rubber bands around boiled egg.

Dye the eggs as one normally would. Let the color dry for a couple of seconds.

After the color has completely dried, remove the rubber bands.

Once the rubber bands are removed, dip the egg in another set of color dye and let dry.

MARBELIZED What you need:

Hard-Boiled Eggs Food Coloring 1 Tbsp. Vegetable Oil

1 2 3

Add 1 tablespoon of oil to each color that is going to be marbelized.

Dye the eggs as one normally would.

Remove the eggs and see the marbleized look.

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SPOTLIGHT EAGLE’S VIEW

MR.& MRS.

Liberty North teacher and assistant principal share their relationship story from their start STORY BY KATELEN PERMENTER

B

asketball is one of the things that led Chris and Melynda McCabe together.

“Just as best friends share interests, we do too. She is my best friend

While Chris was an assistant coach at K-State for three years, Melynda was

and basketball is one of the many things we can share,” Chris said.

head of the marketing and promotion department. This led to the couple

Although both Chris and Melynda work at North, they do not see

spending more time together and eventually a relationship forming.

each other as much as one would think. They are each on different

“From both of us spending so much time at K-State, we were always seeing each other. It was nice to have Chris there,” Melynda said.

schedules, but do make time to say ‘hi’ to one another throughout the day.

“It is nice to know that if I need something Melynda is right down the hallway,”

Melynda was enrolled in grad school in Oregon and Chris proposed by surprising

Chris said.

her at her home when she had graduated. The couple was married in July 2009

From working with each other, the McCabes know the same people. This is nice

at Beaver Creek in Colorado. It was a small wedding with only thirty people.

when it comes to spending time with friends due to the fact that they are use to

After the wedding, however, K-State pulled up the floor in the basketball arena

being around the same people.

and allowed a large party to be thrown in celebration of the newly wed couple.

Basketball

is

one

of

the

many

things

that

both

McCabes

love.

Watching basketball is an activity done during much of their free time.

“It is nice that we have the same coworkers. When spending time with friends it is never a struggle to decide who to invite,” Melynda said.

SPOTLIGHT 04/05/12

CHRIS McCABE

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Chris McCabe is known as the head basketball coach, assistant principal, and husband, depending on who you are at North.

McCabe has inspired the basketball team to become a family. He has taught the team how to work together and to give all they have no matter what. In order to motivate the team to become a family, each day he showed them what a family looks like by how the players and coaches were treated. They had to be consistent with the family idea through good and bad for everyone to really buy into it.

“No matter what the score is I always want the boys to do their best because at the end of the day that’s what matters. They have to hold each other accountable and always be there for each other just as a family would,” McCabe said.

After falling short of a district championship and placing second in the 2011 basketball season. The boys came out strong into the 2012 season hoping to make it all the way. After a tough season coached by McCabe, the boys finished third overall in Class 4 District 15.

“It feels great to have coached a team third in the state. It’s a very cool honor, but the guys deserve the credit for it,” McCabe said.

When not watching or playing basketball, McCabe can be found spending his free time playing with his schnauzers, Jax and Bella, at a sporting event, or spending time with family.

“I probably need to find a hobby, but I really do not have much free time,” McCabe said.

Before becoming the assistant principal of Liberty North, Chris worked as a student assistant at Johnson County Community College for one year. He also spent three years as a student assistant at K-State. He then was an assistant coach at Liberty High School for the mens’ basketball team.

“I feel like even though I have a job, I have never worked a day in my life. I am able to enjoy and love what I do,” McCabe said.

PHOTO BY: CECI KURON

TOGETHER SINCE: JULY 4TH, 2009

MELYNDA McCABE At North, Melynda McCabe is referred to as the head of sports marketing, teacher, advisor of Key Club, and

wife.

As head of the sports marketing class, Melynda has a lot of personal job experience to help her students.

After working as the head of sports marketing for all sports at K-State for six years, she also worked over the summer for the Chief’s production company.

In the sports marketing class the students are taught to completely run the basketball games. The students help promote the sports at North. Through the things that they do, they bond the athletic and technological part of the game.

“I feel that sports marketing really helps different kids get involved with the sports. The students also help promote the basketball team and are able to gain experience of what it’s like to run things like the field house.”

McCabe said.

McCabe is also the advisor of Key Club, which promotes community service.

“The students in Key Club work really hard on the services they do to help others in our community,” McCabe said.

When McCabe has free time it is spent traveling, spending time with family, and at sporting events.

“I really do not have a lot of free time. When I do, I enjoy mostly spending time with family,” McCabe said.

Not only has McCabe had an abundance of job experience, she has also had many special events occur. She has been to China and met with the Chinese Basketball Association, met David Stern (head of the National Basketball Association), and met the Bejing Olympic Committee.

“I would say the most interesting thing about me is everywhere I have been due to my past job experiences,” McCabe said.

PHOTO BY: BAILEY REARDON

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STUDENT LIFE EAGLE’S VIEW

A WHOLE

NEW

WORLD

L A G

U T OR

P

GERMANY

DE

NM

STORY BY SHELBY GREGO t is easy to forget the uniqueness of other countries because life in America has become the “norm”

I

for citizens. However, when other cultures are brought to America, the vast contrasts are brought to attention. With differences such as laws, education, sports and food; it is hard to overlook society’s

distinct variations. Three students; Natalia Johannesen of Denmark, Dominik Lange of Germany, and Filipa Valentim of Portugal have overcome the culture shock of the U.S. in many unique ways.

AR

K

STUDENT LIFE 04/05/12

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FILIPA VALENTIM-PORTUGAL Filipa Valentim is a foreign exchange student from Portugal. Though Filipa has spoken English since she was five years old, nothing could have prepared her for life in America. She departed Portugal last August and headed for the Barros’ family home in America.

“I love so much about America. I have really enjoyed getting to know the people here. I appreciate the way that everyone has welcomed me to this new country,” Valentim said.

Though many people in Portugal speak English, there are many distinguishing factors between the two countries; a major aspect is the education.

“In Portugal we spend a lot more time at school. We go from 7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. It is also a lot less fun because we don’t have sports or clubs; we only have the necessary classes,” Valentim said.

An additional difference between Portugal and America is the foods.

“In Portugal the food is much healthier. American food has a lot more salt and sugar and is served in huge portions. But I do enjoy eating the food here in America, there is so much flavor, like ketchup and mustard. We don’t have those in Portugal,” Valentim said.

PHOTO BY KEVIN PAGE

Filipa has made many memories while staying in America. Some memories hold a very special place in her heart.

“My host family took me to Colorado. That was a lot of fun, and was very different from Portugal. Other things I love to do in America is go to Worlds of Fun, and also go to football games. Both are very unique from Portugal,” Valentim said.

Over the past seven months Filipa has taken part in the opportunity of a lifetime, and for the next three months, until she returns to her home in Portugal, she will continue to make more memories in America.

DOMINIK LANGE- GERMANY

Senior Dominik Lange is a foreign exchange student from Germany. He arrived at Nathaniel Smith’s home last August.

“I’m from a small town in Germany. It is between the cities of Frankfort and Stuttgart,” Lange said.

Not only has Dominik traveled across the world to get to Missouri, his host family has also taken him across the country to experience much of what America is about.

“My host family took me to Tennessee. It was a lot of fun and I saw a lot of unique things. We went hiking and we even went inside of a cave. It was very different from other things I have seen before,” Lange said.

Aside from all of the sights Dominik has gotten to see during his stay in America, he has also experienced many different types food.

“The food at home is very different than food in America. At home, the food is much healthier; nothing is fried like it is here. But I’ve grown to like the food here. My favorite is barbeque,” Lange said.

Food is not the only thing Dominik has grown to love.

“I love the people here. Everyone seems to greet me with open arms and they are all very interested when they find out I am from

Germany. I also really like school here. It is much more fun than back home,” Lange said.

Although Dominik enjoys many things here in the U. S, there are also many hobbies that are very different.

“In America the hobbies are sort of boring, people do a lot of relaxing. But in Germany it is legal to drink at age 16, so the hobbies of PHOTO BY KEVIN PAGE

teenagers is very different from America,” Lange said.

Though Dominik will be leaving his host family this June, he will be returning to Germany with countless experiences to share with his friends and family.

NATALIA JOHANNESEN-DENMARK Senior Natalia Johannesen is a foreign exchange student from Copenhagen, Denmark. She arrived in America last August to stay with her hosts, the Manglos family in America. There are many things about the U.S that have affected Natalia in a positive manner.

“I just love the size of things in America. Everything is larger than back at home. Another thing I have come to love is how outgoing the American people are, everyone seems so friendly,” Johanneson said.

Laws in other countries vary greatly from American laws. This can take much getting used to for people who are not American citizens.

“The legal driving age in Denmark is 18 years old. Another law that is very unique is our drinking age. We are allowed to drink at age 16, so teens party much younger in Denmark,” Johanneson said.

In America, sporting events are very significant to some individuals. However, in other countries, sports are viewed in other ways.

“In Denmark we play a lot of handball. A lot of people also play soccer, but it isn’t really considered a big deal. However, there is no cheerleading and there’s also no American football,” Johanneson said.

Natalia has faced many adventures in America, however will be returning to her home in Denmark this coming June.

PHOTO BY KEVIN PAGE

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STUDENT LIFE EAGLE’S VIEW

TEACHING (LIFE) LESSONS

“I love having my mom at school. If I ever need something, she is always there when I forget to ask before school,” junior Kylie Callura said.

Many students around Liberty North have their parents with them every day STORY BY MADi SAUNDERS

T

eenagers all over Liberty look to school as a great escape

“She [Mrs. Callura] is always there to check up on me. If I

from their parents from 7:40-2:50. However, for some

were to get into trouble, she would know right away. It’s kind

students here, their parent comes to school with them

of annoying sometimes,” junior Kylie Callura said.

as a teacher.

“I love having my son, Clay, at the school I teach. I feel a deeper connection to the school, students, and community because our family is invested emotionally and financially,” art teacher Chablis Brendel said.

Having a parent at school could be stressful and a blessing at the same time. Students know that there are pros and cons to having their parent as a teacher.

“It definitely has its ups and downs. On one hand, she [Mrs. Trinidad] finds out anything I do wrong. On the other hand, she is able to keep food for me if I am hungry,” sophomore Harrison Trinidad said.

As teachers, they have easier access to all of their child’s teachers, friends, and information.

arise conflicts of interests. However, this has not been an issue.

“In class, I strive to maintain a teacher-student relationship,

The parents agree that the best advantage of being at the

even though he [Jonathan Thomas] gets to call me “Mom.”

school is being able to know what is going on in their child’s

I try to take into account all of my students’ intelligences,

life.

strengths, and weaknesses, and push them where they

“There are a lot of little things that are my favorite part about

need pushed. I provide support where I know they aren’t as

going to the same school. When we talk about school, I can

skilled. The difference is that I’m even more keenly aware of

better understand what she [Kylie Callura] is talking to me

Jonathan’s strengths and weaknesses because I’ve lived with

about her day,” athletic secretary Heather Callura said.

him for over 16 years,” communication arts teacher Kimberly

With their parents at the same school, they are able to get what they need; which allows the parent to see their child more often throughout the day.

Brownlee said.

There is an agreement that just because their parent is a teacher, they do not get to catch a break during school.

“If I need anything, I can go to him [Mr. Kernell]. I can have

“I don’t think that she [Mrs. Brownlee] treats me differently.

him give me money or go home real quick to get something for

She tries as hard as possible to treat me the same as the other

me,” junior Zac Kernell said.

students,” sophomore Jonathan Thompson said.

With teachers having their children as students, there could

SPRING FASHION FOR THE FASHIONISTAS

STUDENT LIFE 04/05/12

A students’ quick guide to fashion for less

STORY BY PAYTON WOLFF Warm weather , sunshine, rain, antsy for summer... All of these bring to mind Springtime. Spring brings along many changes, one of them being a wardrobe change. It is time to switch out jeans for shorts, sweaters for tank tops, and sneakers for sandals. Spring is a time to transition attire for summer weather. Junior Mckenzie Simon and junior Jase Willhite model the perfect outfits to enjoy some sun.

Available at Kohls Approximately $25

Available at Pac Sun Approximately $16

Available at Forever 21 Approximately $7 Available at Abercrombie and Fitch Approximately $50

Available at Journeys Approximately $75

“I love to wear this outfit during the spring because it is super fresh.

It is perfect for the weather,” junior Jase Wilhite said.

“This outfit is perfect for the spring weather and an even be adjusted for summer weather. It is easy to mix in colors and prints,” junior Mckenzie Simon said.

Available at Buckle Approximately $98

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INDEPTH EAGLE’S VIEW

defy

INDEPTH 4/05/12

ying

theODDS STORY BY CORTNEY SNYDER

(15)

A stressed student walks into class and starts complaining about how hard their life has been lately, not aware that the person next to them has had an abnormally hard life since birth. A bad grade or a shattering heartbreak does not compare to hospital visits every six weeks or daily check-ups from the school nurse due to the life threatening medical condition.

Whether it is an extremely rare allergy to Greece’s favorite fruit, the olive, or a bone rattling disease that makes its victim more prone to breaking their skeleton during the simplest activities; life is a bigger challenge for a selected few students.

The Eagle’s View held a round table discussion on Wednesday March 7th and 14th during advisory with Cameron Hellrich, Alex Westhues, Taylor Bennett, Austin Salmon, and Ian Lane to interview them about their medical conditions and how it affects their everyday life.

Five Liberty North students defy the odds by overcoming their unique medical conditions Photos by Kevin Page.

defyingtheodds

What is your condition?

Cameron Hellrich: Osteogenisis Imperfecta or brittle bone disease is a kidney condition. While in the womb calcium was not distributed to my bones correctly causing them to grow hollow and break easily.

Alex Westhues: Amniotic band syndrome is a congenital disorder caused by entrapment of fetal parts (usually a limb or digits) in fibrous amniotic bands while in utero.

And I have an “empty” spot on my brain I don’t know how to find a legitimate definition for. The amniotic band wrapped around my arm and cut off circulation and I don’t know if it just never grew or it just fell off before I was born.

Taylor Bennett: I have a severe food allergy to olives and olive oil. My olive allergy started freshman year, they say my proteins changed which caused me to have asthma, and risk of liver and kidney failure.

Ian Lane: I had a brain tumor that was in my body since birth. At 14 it burst inside my body. It really affected the left side of my brain and caused me to have a stroke. The right side of my body is still recovering from my stroke.

Austin Salmon: Chrones disease affects the intestines and digestive tracks. They don’t know how I got it, it’s a hereditary disease, but no one on either side of my family that we know of has it. It causes a lot of pain though, especially without the medicine.

What do you want people to know about your condition?

CH: There is a lot of in-depth info about to my condition. So if people want to know, I just give them the basics. But most people know, “oh, that’s the kid who breaks bones.” I prefer to tell people in a group so I don’t have to repeat it 20 times.

AW: As far as accepting my condition, it was easy to accept for me because I’ve had it all my life. But for others, I always get the same question, “where’d your arm go?” I’ve noticed that kids who didn’t go to school with me or are new, they just kind of stare, and I’m like, “if you want to know, come over and ask, I don’t really care.” Whenever people say “oh that’s the kid that has one arm,” it makes me more known and so people know e by that, but I don’t know them. I want them to come introduce themselves to me so I’m not like, “I don’t know you.”

TB: When people acknowledge me about it, they just say, “oh that sucks,” and it’s like, “ya trust me, I know.

AS: When there’s a bunch of people asking questions and they put you one the spot, it’s weird. To be honest, I don’t know as much about Chrones as I probably should, so I don’t always know what to say.

Has there ever been any close calls or very stressful moments that have happened?

CH: When I broke my sternum I was out of school for like two months, I was on oxycontin like three times a day, I got pretty depressed and it was tough. It’s kind of hard to talk about it; it helped change me as an individual.

AW: The empty spot in my brain that causes seizure. They thought it was just a phase, like they only thought it would last until I was 14, so they took me off the medication, but I had to be put back on it because I had a seizure, and I couldn’t drive for six months. I’ve had 6 or 7 seizures in my life, but they usually happen right before I wake up. It’s weird because I don’t remember the seizure, I just remember waking up.

TB: I was diagnosed sophomore year, and I was in the hospital all the time, it was awful. I couldn’t eat anything. There was one time I was in the ambulance with my mom and she started crying. You can only take so many drugs, and I was already on steroids.

IL: Each day is a challenge for me. My condition does not follow any patterns, therefore my body may suddenly give out on me and I have to patiently wait for the control to return to my limbs.

AS: The close call I had was 7th grade when I first got sick and they didn’t know what was wrong with me for a month. I didn’t know what would happen to me, so it would make me really nervous.

Are there any side effects to your medicine?

CH: One side effect was that when I was five, this medicine deteriorated my jaw.

TB: I take steroids if I have a reaction, and those can make you feel really mad and upset. The Epinephrine can make you really shaky.

AS: I was put on medicine that made my cheeks puff up for a while. It was kind of embarrassing.

IL: I have to take medicine that is so powerful that I will have a seizure if I don’t take it.

What are the advantages/benefits of your condition?

CH: I benefit from handicap parking.

TB: It makes me unique, it’s weird because I’m the only person known in the United States to have an olive allergy. People at the hospital recognize me and know who I am.

AS: I feel unique, especially since the doctors do not exactly know how I got Chrones.

The students discuss the difficulties of their medical conditions at the round table dicussion held by reporter Cortney Snyder.

Photos by Ceci Kuron.

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INDEPTH 04/05/12

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Any funny stories?

CH: One time it was snowing really badly and I was running home. I had my hood up and I had my head down because the wind was blowing in my face. And I ran into a parked car. What’s so strange is that I can run into a car and not break anything, just have a sore knee that temporarily was blue. But I break bones from the simplest activities.

AW: This one time when I was in 5th grade, I went to the hospital and for some reason they had to prick my fingers for blood. But the doctor said that my pointer finger wasn’t good. So she pricked all five.

TB: There was this one time I was at the hospital, and I was on a ton of medicine. So I was a little loopy you know; well apparently, though I don’t remember it, but I was playing with the oxygen thing and I was like, “look mom, I’m a blowfish!”

IL: When my body took on a mind of its own I accidently kicked Mrs. Trinidad very hard in her left quad.

When someone complains about a headache or something petty, what comes to your mind?

CH: I think it’s funny when people will be complaining about jamming their fingers and then I’ll be like, “well um…I broke my sternum.”

AW: Whenever people are like “I can’t do that,” and yet I can, I’m like, “look at your hands, and look at mine.”

TB: When people complain or become really picky about their food like “Oh I don’t like this/that food,” it’s like; well at least you can eat it. People can be really inconsiderate and unappreciative.

AS: Mainly for me, it’s when people complain about their stomach hurting. I’m like really? You don’t know stomach pains. I mean, I kind of mumbed myself to it, so what hurts to them is probably minor to my pains.

Which is worse, when people give you pity or judgment?

CH: I really don’t like the pity. I can handle myself and I know what my limits are.

AW: With me, the reaction is like…how do you react? I mean, I’ve lived with amoebic bonding syndrome all my life and I’m over it. You can’t do it anything about it so just leave it alone.

AS: I personally don’t like the pity. It’s unnecessary. My condition is not life threatening, so I don’t need their thoughts, I’d rather them just keep their opinions to themselves.

How is your lifestyle different or the same as others?

CH: I have to take nerve pills and not do any physical activity. Every three to six months I visit the hospital for a bone density test. I’m allergic to morphine so that limits my food intake too. I’ve broken so many bones I lost count of them after 80.

AW: I don’t really have anything different in my routine. The biggest issue is that I can’t drive a stick shift.

TB: I take a lot of medicine; my medicine changes throughout the seasons and I have to read everything before I eat it. I also have to carry an Epipen everywhere I go.

AS: I can’t stay anywhere without my medication. Morning and night I take it and every six weeks I get an infusion to make sure it’s in check.

Does your condition define you as a person?

CH: I don’t think it really defines me. I mean I can do just about anything that I want to. But I want to be an orthopedic surgeon, so it helped me chose what I want to do.

AW: I want to do sports medicine; it might be a little hard for an athlete while I’m wrapping them up though.

TB: I don’t see it as a limitation, and I don’t think anyone is held back by his or her limitations. It defines me but it isn’t going to hold me back in the future.

AS: The main thing for me is I really want to travel around the world. But I don’t know how realistic that is because if I’m in some remote place and run out of medicine, I could die. I think my disease defines my lifestyle, and myself. I just don’t want it to and I try not to let it.

Do you ever wish you didn’t have your condition? What would you do without it?

CH: I wish I could play basketball; I want to play sports without worrying about breaking anything. I’m really tired of taking pills and only being able to play basketball for a half hour before my feet start to hurt.

AW: I’d like to be able to bench press normally and drive a stick.

TB: I would enjoy not having to read everything I eat and not having to go to the hospital constantly.

IL: I am very aware that my condition limits my social and classroom access. I would much rather start and end my day without all the physical limitations in between.

AS: I wish I didn’t have to take medicine everyday. I just want to go a week and not worry about it.

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alexwesthues

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A&E EAGLE’S VIEW

DIFFERENT ERAS, DIFFERENT MUSIC Regardless of generation, music lives on STORY BY JESSICA GRIFFITH

T

he desire to be up close and personal with a favorite musician is timeless. Going to concerts is an experience that can open up a new world for many individuals. It can be surprising to see different concerts that teachers and students have attended.

“I think it is weird when teachers go to concerts that I would not expect them to go to. I know that

Mrs. Hoff went to a Taylor Swift concert with her daughter, I think it is weird because I didn’t know teachers liked that kind of music like a lot of students at our school,” senior Kathryn Surprenant said.

Many students are seen going to concerts like Drake, Lil Wayne, Demi Lovato, Tim McGraw and many other contemporary singers, while teachers taste in music is from a different genre and generation than what many students appreciate.

“My favorite concert I have gone to is the Red Hot Chili Peppers, but I have also been to concerts like U2, Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, Fleetwood Mac and Sting. I like some new alternative music but some lacks imagination,” culinary advisor Jody Fowler said.

When students and teachers go to concerts they may have a hard time finding reasonably priced tickets. Yet, it can be worth the extra bucks to see a concert they would enjoy.

“I went to the Autumn of Apologies concert and it only cost me five dollars, I try my best to look for good deals so I don’t spend a ton of money. Concerts are fun because you can be who you are without being judged,” junior Jordan Corcione said.

When teachers were in high school and college many had favorite bands from the seventies, eighties, nineties and some going further back in time.

“One of my favorite concerts was Metallica because I had liked the music it was in the early nineties when I went to their concert. I have also been to U2, Paul McCartney, and different Festivals concerts that hold more than one band,” math instructor Mark Warner said.

Music favorites can range from the early seventies of rock and roll, to eighties big hair bands and as of today the twenty first century contemporary music. The type, era, or culture of the music is personal but being in the presence of a favorite musician is a timeless matter.

UPCOMING CONCERTS MIRANDA LAMBERT FRIDAY, MAY 11 AT THE SPRINT CENTER

VAN HALEN TUESDAY, MAY 22 AT THE SPRINT CENTER

BIG TIME RUSH FRIDAY, JULY 22 AT THE SPRINT CENTER

NICKLEBACK, BUSH, SEETHER, & MY DARKEST DAYS TUESDAT, JUNE 5 AT THE SPRINT CENTER

Many students saw Taylor Swift last September when she came to Kansas City, “The concert was good. The backgrounds were also really good. She was better live than I’ve ever seen in a video. Everyone was holding up the number 13. There was a tree in the middle of the audience that she walked out to in the crowd and sang “You Belong With Me”. I would definitely see her again if I had the opportunity to,” sophomore Haley Allen said.

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A&E 04/05/12

GOING LIVE

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2

1

Liberty North’s broadcasting students prepare to host their second Telethon STORY BY CHRIS KANDLBINDER

T

he KLPS-TV Channel 18 Telethon is an annual Television event hosted once a year in Liberty. This year will feature a new segment called Liberty’s Got Talent. The segment will be similar to one last year titled Liberty Idol. The difference, however, is this segment will

BROADCASTING BY THE NUMBERS

2 events 2 student producers 7 advisors 13 computers 24 hours

reach out to people of all skills instead of just singers. This year the Telethon will be hosted on Friday, April 13th.

It takes lots of people and time to produce something of its quality.

“This event takes the skills of multiple students, and makes them collaborate with each other to produce something that brings the community together,” Broadcasting teacher and general manager Ann Bertoldie said.

“The Telethon has two producers, me and Brock Mitchell, but there are tons of people behind the scenes working on it effortlessly,” Associate Telethon Producer senior Kelsey Taylor said.

This will be North’s second telethon and the first to ever be hosted at North. The broadcasting masterpiece is composed of a 24 hour live broadcast. Some of the content is pre-prepared, but this year the broadcasting team is promoting the use of more live segments. It has been planned and worked on since September of last year and ideas for it have been thrown out since last May. “It’s all about knowing what people want to see on the Telethon,” Taylor said.

This will be the 11th annual telethon and its producers think it will be the best. It will also feature various events. The admission to exotic animals sponsored by Exotic Animals R Us will be one dollar. This will let allow everyone to see a variety of exotic animals. This will be followed by the hantis tournament in which teams will face off, which will be six dollars per team, and Liberty’s Got Talent, which will be three dollars. To finish off the night will be a concert which will have

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Preparing for the Telethon is a bonding experience for all of the students. “My favorite part about the Telethon is how we are all a family.

It’s like having a family away from family,” Sophomore Nick Jenness

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Broadcasting can be an opportunity for students to decide what they want do do with their future. “Broadcasting is inspiring and I kind of want to go into it in the future because it is this fun and interesting,”

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What seperates broadcasting from most classes is the experience students recieve. “Broadcasting is the best. There is always something new and entertaining going on. Especially in preparing for the Telethon,” Junior Kylie Calura said.

a five dollar admission. This is supposed to be the most anticipated event. The concert lineup includes Powerslide, Helen Keller Sex Fiasco, and Boy in a Bear Costume. Students planning on going to all three live events can purchase a special ticket for seven dollars.

“I’m looking forward to the concert the most. I’m in the dark for the most part though. I know there’s a concert and animals and that’s all I know. It’ll still be awesome though,” sophomore Emily Spittler said.

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A&E EAGLE’S VIEW

AGAINST ALL ODDS

STORY BY ARIANNA SKINDELL

D

espite having spent the premiere contending with hordes of middle school girls

idea that these people really are evil—they truly believe that killing children is the answer

touting Team Peeta and Team Gale shirts and giggling, I found “The Hunger

to Panem’s problems.

Games” movie to be satisfying. The film version of the popular dystopia novel

Plenty of fans seem to be griping about the film adaptation’s lack of attention to detail,

offers new insight into the inner workings of the evil Capitol and makes changes to the

but their qualms appear to go no deeper than protesting the omission of pointless details.

original material in advantageous ways.

Sure, Madge is not the person who gives Katniss the Mockingjay pin in the film, but in

What struck me most about “The Hunger Games” movie were the performances given by

the grand scheme of things, isn’t it a little more moving to see our hero’s beloved younger

the highly attractive Wes Bentley (Seneca Crane) and acting veteran Donald Sunderland

sister offer some hope in a dark and dangerous time? Ultimately, “The Hunger Games”

(President Snow). Although Suzanne Collins’ book limits these characters’ depth and

movie makes excellent use of cinematic embellishment, sometimes conveying emotion in

instead revolves solely around Katniss Everdeen’s struggles, the film lets viewers get

ways even Collins couldn’t. It might not be what you remember, but it’s still just as good.

better acquainted with the overconfident Gamemaker and the psychopathic President.

Ever since “Harry Potter” ended, I couldn’t imagine another “book movie” worthy of

In fact, the dialogue exchanged between the two during the film-exclusive scenes in

being a cultural phenomenon. Somehow, “The Hunger Games” film has coaxed me into

Snow’s rose garden actually makes the Games seem more sick and diabolical: as Snow

suspending disbelief. This film is modern, intense, and profound—but, more importantly,

tells Crane to “contain” hope in the arena, the viewer is forced to come to terms with the

it touches your heart in all the right places, even when the book doesn’t.

Promotional photo provided by Lionsgate Films Inc.

IS NBC’S SHOW A SMASH HIT? STORY BY ALLY PAYNE

I

s it just me or do half the people on this show have British accents? I am not complaining, though. Despite all the rumors that “SMASH” is an “adult version of ‘Glee’”, I find it to be nothing like “Glee” whatsoever. While “Glee” tends to randomly break into song and dance, using hit songs and semi-attractive characters to draw people in.

“SMASH” is the exact opposite; it is a show about music, but the only reason there is song and dance is when it is necessary for the plot, such as when the cast is rehearsing a scene for the musical.

The episodes seem to start off interesting and draw you in, but the middle of each tends to get boring. I like how there is still some conflict and drama between the families as a side-story; however, the middle does not hold my attention. Every episode seems to end with a bang or something that leaves you questioning what exactly is happening, so you are forced to watch at least the beginning of the next episode.

Another thing I really like is that even if you miss an episode of “SMASH” or you start watching it after missing the first few episodes, you are not hopelessly lost. They seem to highlight the main points about what is going on at the start of the show so you can basically figure the rest out for yourself.

Overall, the show is not awful, however it isn’t something I would recommend nor is it something I will be continuing to watch. It could not hold my interest and that is something that I have to have in order to keep up with a series.

Promotional photo provided by NBC-Universal, 2012

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A&E 04/05/12

HOOKED ON HOUSE OF NIGHT STORY BY MADI SAUNDERS

A

s I decided to submerge myself into the first book, “Marked”, in the “House of Night” series, I had no idea that the book would keep me hooked all the way until the end. This again happened to me as I read the next eight books in the series: “Betrayed”, “Chosen”,

“Untamed”, “Hunted”, “Tempted”, “Burned”, “Awakened”, and “Destined”.

The “House of Night” series is about a young girl Zoey Redbird who is turned into a vampire fledgling. Not only is she going through the transition of being a “vampyre”; she is also Marked to be a Priestess with the ability to control all five elements: water, fire, earth, air and spirit. On top of all that, she has to balance being a teenager, in love, betrayal, evil, and plenty of more drama.

Before I started the series I thought to myself, another vampire book? However, the books are cleverly written and are not like any of the other vampire books in circulation. These books actually have a significant plot. Each book indulges in many twists and turns that keep the reader emotionally invested. The writers do an incredible job of making the readers feel like they are in book as they are reading it.

I quite enjoy the series as a whole, although as the series continues the books get more and more captivating. My favorite book so far is the last one, “Destined”, because it keeps you guessing about what is going to happen next. My least favorite book is “Burned”, but that is only because it is mainly about my least favorite character, Steve-Rae, Zoey’s best friend. Do not misunderstand me, it does have a few interesting parts.

Authors P.C. and Kristin Cast are currently writing the rest of the series. The next book, “Hidden”, is to be released on October 16, 2012. Truthfully, the only problem with the series is the time between each book is released. The wait is excruciating because I want to continue to see how the characters progress because I am completely obsessed with the “House of Night” books.

Promotional photo provided by St. Martin’s Press, LLC.

AN ALL-AMERICAN ALBUM STORY BY ARIANNA SKINDELL

T

he particularly poigniant title of a Cobra Starship song tells us that “Pop-punk is sooo 2005.” Now that we have successfully escaped junior high school, I think every student at LNHS can agree that those words ring very true. Pop-punk is dead. And, while I admit that I am the wrong person to ask about the validity

of the mid-2000s pop-punk scene (I still listen to Fall Out Boy), I can assure you that it is going to stay that way. With the release of their new album, “Kids In The Street”, the last vestige of the pop-punk genre-- also known as The All-American Rejects-- has sealed up their genre’s coffin and buried it so deep within the earth that no one even cares to dig it back up.

“Kids In The Street” opens with one good song, “Someday’s Gone,” a morbid little ditty about a tarnished romance that includes some interesting “freak-out” guitar moments. It’s rugged, quirky, and passionate-- some of the things pop-punk fans love best. But, as fate would have it, the rest of the album finds itself dabbling in anachronistic genre-bending (track 2, “Beekeeper’s Daughter”, channels ska in a way that would make Goldfinger slit his own throat, while track 4, “Heartbeat Slowing Down”, shamelessly imitates Fun.) and the quintessential whining that first made critics hate the scene. Most painful to listen to was track 10, “Affection”, which splices singer Tyson Ritter’s trademark high-pitched whining with an instrumental hybrid of a Disney musical love song and Louie Armstrong’s “What A Wonderful World.”

“Kids In The Street” is one project that The All-American Rejects should have kept a “Dirty Little Secret”. If you are feeling some nostalgia for 2006, spare yourself the expense of buying this album and dust off your copy of “Move Along” instead. It’s still whiny, but at least you know all the words.

Promotional photo provided by NBC-Universal, 2012

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A&E EAGLE’S VIEW

STAFF FAVORITES

Liberty North’s Eagles View staff shares their favorite books turned into box office hits

NICHOLAS SPARKS

HARRY POTTER

HALEY RICHARDSON “The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks because the book was very well written and it was just such a sweet story. I really enjoyed the movie too.”

KATELEN PERMENTER “The books just had many exciting storylines with a lot of twists and turns. It was very fun to follow Harry as he grew up from a young boy all the way to adulthood.”

KATELYNN DOWNEY “Dear John by Nicholas Sparks because the book had a heart felt storyline and I really enjoyed it.”

KEVIN PAGE “It was a very interesting series to read and it was very hard to stop reading them and the movies were great.”

BAILEY REARDON “I really like Dear John because the story line is phenomenal and I hope my life turns out like that.”

CECI KURON “The books were really good and the movies didn’t butcher the books like they usually do.”

THE HUNGER GAMES ALLY PAYNE “It looks like they did a very good job of recreating the images I had imagined while reading the book.”

THE LORD OF THE RINGS BROCK MITCHELL “They did a great job of depicting the book in the movie and didn’t cut anything from the book out.”

PAYTON WOLFF “The books were very suspenseful. I just wanted to keep reading them. It’s a very imaginative book and it put me in a different world.”

DYLAN SANCHEZ “The movies were some of the best ever made and they did a great job of following the storyline of the book.”

COURTNEY SNYDER “It was a very action packed series and they just kept you wanting to read and I can’t wait to see the movie.”

KELSEA GRAHAM “Both the movies and the books were suspenseful and kept me reading.”

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OPINION EAGLE’S VIEW

A “SOAPY” SITUATION For as long as I can remember, I have been anti-soap-opera. My

This being said, I have not yet entered the realm of the daytime

hatred for these drama-loving shows has driven me into many

soaps. Instead I have been sucked into the incredibly crafted drama

heated rants. Never have I understood why someone would willingly,

that channels like ABC Family and the CW have concocted. Whether

and even excitedly, watch hours-upon-hours of fake slapping, bad

it is twins searching for their estranged mother, the crazy lives of

acting, and ridiculously fabricated, murderous plots. Despite this

four Pretty Little Liars, or any of the sob stories on One Tree Hill, I

hatred, something unbelievable has happened. I have become a

love (and am borderline obsessed with) it all.

“soapy”. Granted, I am not even entirely sure if there is a technical

Part of me believes that I was lured into these shows purely as

term for our kind, but considering the horrifically embarrassing

an unconscious reassurance that I am incredibly lucky to not live

implications involved in loving this genre, I do believe a “soapy” fits

amongst complete psychopaths (well, mostly). Or that somehow

the humiliation quite well.

by watching episode after episode of ruthless drama I could learn

I cannot remember the first time I realized I had become “that girl”: the one who anxiously awaits the next episode, the one who

important life lessons (i.e. do not walk into an abandoned house alone at midnight while scary music plays in the background).

sits mesmerized by the sheer entertainment of every twist and turn

However, the realistic part knows otherwise: drama is something

my television presents, the one who analyzes everything until I am

I secretly, and shamefully, am quite fond of. Luckily for me, this

sure I have discovered all the juicy secrets. It sickens me really, being

madness has a cure, albeit temporary. My beloved shows have ended

“that girl”. She is not quite the drama free, relatively tasteful girl I

for the winter and will not be back for a very long while, leaving me

once knew.

with a drama-less pit in my soul.

HALEY RICHARDSON EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

HIS HEART WILL GO ON It is no secret that I am a huge movie fanatic. I watch movies

nostalgia of it, something that I latched on to and continued to love

constantly and usually stay fairly up to date with recent releases.

just to revisit my childhood. Who knows? But it happened. Even the

However, while plenty of people are intently focusing on “The

first pets I owned, two little goldfish, were named Jack and Rose

Hunger Games” or “Breaking Dawn Part II” right now, I have

after Leonardo DiCaprio’s and Kate Winslet’s characters in the film.

my sights set on only one major release. It helps that I have seen

The story of Jack’s and Rose’s romance aboard the Titanic became

the movie countless times before, so I already know I will love it.

a fascination and just watching them come alive on the screen was

That movie, of course, is the 3D re-release of the 1997 masterpiece

almost like some sort of emotional catharsis for me. Not that six year-

“Titanic”.

old-me had any clue what it was like to be in their predicament—two

Ever since I was a child, I remember “Titanic” being one of my favorite movies to watch. Even to this day, I still feel the same bond

DYLAN SANCHEZ EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

young lovers separated by class aboard an ill-fated ocean liner in 1912—but I liked to pretend I did.

with that piece of film and its characters; it is a bond that’s been

So on April 4, when “Titanic 3D” is released into theaters, you can

there since I first saw it on the VHS set my family owned, which I

guarantee I will be in the front row. To witness “I’m the king of the

remember had to come in a box of two tapes because the movie is so

world!” and “I’ll never let go, Jack” up on the big screen rather than

long it could not fit on one.

on my home television is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that I

Still, I cannot put my finger on exactly what it is about this movie

could never let pass me by. The actual 3D conversion does not mean

that I fell in love with. I mean, as a child, there was no way I would

much to me—honestly, I could really do with out it—but that is just

have understood the historical significance of the sinking of the

a minor detail. “Titanic” really became, and still is, a piece of my

Titanic, and the romance at the heart of the story would never have

childhood. This piece of cinematic history will forever be something

caught my interest if it were any other movie. Maybe it was just the

that I love and a work of art that I could never appreciate enough.

OPINION 4/05/12

PRO

UN-weighted?

For those students who partake in AP and college-level classes, you can relate to my pain: the extra note taking that amounts to almost three hours of work at times, the weekly tests and the endless lectures that put us ahead of the rest of our grade on the educational path. Despite our hard work, our grades may still suffer from these higher-level classes.

The Liberty Public School district

KATELYNN DOWNEY REPORTER

grades all classes on a 4.0 scale instead of on a 5.0 scale for AP and college classes. Higher-level classes should be on a 5.0 scale, no question about it. Not only is it not

fair to those students who give extra effort in taking harder classes, but also it is also not fair when you consider students who maintain a 4.0 by taking non-challenging elective courses.

Whenever you log onto PowerSchool and four “A’s” and three “B’s” in AP Biology, College-Level Composition and AP Physics are revealed, that 3.45 GPA is looking pretty good. If the schools allowed us to be on a 5.0 scale, you would be graciously be viewing a 4.0 with 3 college-level classes. It is ridiculous that we are not on a 5.0 scale.

Non-weighted GPAs could possibly be taking scholarship money away from our students. If our school allowed for a 5.0 scale while being enrolled into collegelevel classes, it would help provide seniors with the chance to get more scholarship money for college. When students apply for certain scholarships or programs, the highest GPAs are normally admitted first. Students who have 4.3 GPAs might be chosen over a LPS senior because you cannot have over a 4.0 GPA in the Liberty Public School district.

When students who are enrolled in a large amount of AP classes and have shaky grades, it is sometimes difficult for them to be able to explain their sinking GPAs to their parents. I would know first hand. Though I was once a 4.0 student, being enrolled in college-level classes has definitely taken a toll on my GPA although I have been working just as hard.

In real life situations, LPS students who are enrolled in “higher-level” classes are still sent trudging along the path of AP and college-level courses with negative repercussions. For every note or test taken, every lecture sat through, every lab completed, our “higher-level” skills are viewed in the same light as any other student’s average skills. To take advanced classes is a good choice for students; reward them for challenging themselves by using a weighted grading scale.

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CON

After painting your heart out on the most difficult acrylic painting you have ever done, you get the A+ you are proud of. Unfortunately, that high grade in your art class will not affect your GPA near as much as the C you received on your AP English paper. Weighting grades makes this difficult core class seem more important than your art class, no matter how much effort you give.

A weighted grade system means that a different grading scale is used when a student takes an advanced class. An AP-level class

ALLY PAYNE REPORTER

is graded based on a 5.0 scale instead of a 4.0 scale, meaning that a B in an AP class would be worth the same as an A in a grade-level class. So, if you are taking all AP classes one year and get all As, you would have a 5.0 GPA instead of a 4.0.

If a weighted grading system were implemented, many students would use it to their advantage and take as many high level/AP classes as possible just to bring their GPAs up. That is a heck of a lot of work to do and a huge amount of stress to manage. AP classes come with higher expectations in addition to more work and effort than grade-level classes, and that is something that many students are not prepared for.

With students focusing all their attention on AP classes and getting the highest GPA possible, they would have no room in their schedules for creative classes. Courses like newspaper, choir, and sculpture will be considered too low-level of classes, so students will refrain from taking them. Deterring students from participating in fine arts programs would lose our school district a bunch of revenue. Furthermore, high-level art, music, and writing classes actually look the same, if not better, on a transcript as AP classes, especially if the student is looking to pursue a career in one of those areas.

It has been shown that fine arts actually increase students’ test scores. Students do better on creative writing/thinking parts on standardized tests, and they tend to have more active social skills and be happier over their high school career. If students are pressured to take only high-level classes to raise their GPA, they will be missing out on these opportunities.

Weighting grades just puts added stress on teenagers who are already stressed out enough. I would much rather take classes I enjoy and that will help me in the long run, rather than take difficult classes just to make my grades look better. GPAs should be kept the way they are now, instead of basing them off of how difficult your classes are.

( SHOULD LPS IMPLEMENT WEIGHTED GPAS? )

(26 )

OPINION EAGLE’S VIEW

POKéMON, I CHOOSE YOU! Honestly, I thought that strategy was well-played on her

ideology, but also because there wasn’t a single other

part; those pictures might as well have been captioned

candidate who would quote lyrics from songs featured on

“Virginity, I choose you!” Unfortunately for Mom, I only

the “Pokémon: the First Movie” soundtrack.

find myself attracted to guys who don’t mind that sort of thing. Needless to say, her plan failed miserably.

ARIANNA SKINDELL OPINION EDITOR For years, my mom tried to break me of my Pokémon obsession. Reminding me that making friends would require prying my eyes away from the screen, she once made the mistake of grounding me from my special edition Pikachu Game Boy Color. Once.

When I entered high school and remained obsessed, veracious Mom just kept on trying. She even threatened to show the “secret” pictures of seven-year-old-Ari in a Pikachu costume to all of my prospective prom dates.

As it turns out, I’m not alone; high school kids love Pokémon. I’ve had plenty of people I don’t know strike

I’m almost eighteen now, and I still can’t go to school

up conversations with me about the topic, compliment

without bringing a Pokémon game along. My boyfriend

my Pikachu hat (you know, the awesome one with the

happily enables my addiction, and my eternal goal to

dangling Pokéballs), and even finish the verse when I

“Catch ‘em All” has made me quite a few friends over

randomly sing out, “I wanna be the very best/ that no

the years. I might have grown up, but I definitely haven’t

one ever was!” Maybe it’s because we all grew up with the

grown out of my favorite childhood obsession.

cultural phenomenon, or maybe it’s just that everyone

To call my love for Pokémon obsessive might be a little

I know is a total nerd. Regardless, there’s something

euphemistic; my entire world revolves around those

socially acceptable about being a Pokémon-loving

magnificent little monsters. My favorite is Dragonite,

teenager, so I have no qualms about embracing that.

whom I find simply adorable because his tiny wings defy

My one fear is that being a Pokémon-loving adult isn’t

laws of physics everyday by holding up his giant, bulbous

so okay. If college kids shouldn’t wear their high school

body. My plush version of the cuddly dragon sleeps with

letterman jackets on campus, then why would it be a

me every night and even travels to debate tournaments.

good idea to carry around a Game Boy? For all I know,

When I’m not spending my time curled up with a stuffed

I’m setting myself for epic ridicule this autumn. Still, I

Pokémon or playing a video game from the series, I’m

have high hopes that collegiate life will accommodate my

finding ways to connect my obsession to the real world.

Pocket Monster friends. I’m already off to a good start:

For instance, after Herman Cain dropped out of the GOP

Mom has actually agreed to throw me a Pokémon-themed

candidate race, I cried. A lot. Not just because I was

graduation party. I know she’s secretly excited for it, too.

totally on board the “Cain Train” when it came to political

( CONCUSSIONS: LAUGHABLE OR LETHAL? ) To the most dedicated student athlete, sitting on the bench or missing the big game might as well be a death sentence. When you live to play the game you

athletic programs to deal with concussions more seriously have been drafted in response to these terrible events.

love, why would you ever take a backseat and risk missing out on the best season

As it turns out, these laws might be incredibly necessary. Despite the danger

yet? Unfortunately, this mentality can result in terrible consequences: injuries

of returning to the field with a serious head injury, many schools do not require

understated by students, coaches, and parents despite their ability to cause

full treatment of concussions. In fact, the Center for Injury Research and Policy

severe damage and even death. A concussion is one of the most common and

at Nationwide Children’s Hospital said that, between 2005 and 2008, about 40

dangerous injuries sustained by student athletes, yet it is also one of the most

percent of athletes with concussion were allowed to play again too soon. Most of

down played. The Eagle’s View staff believes that concussions pose a real threat

the problem stems from lack of education about the severity of concussions, so

for student athletes and should be treated seriously.

educating coaches and parents should be a priority for school athletic programs.

Most people would never think that a high school football game would lead

In response to growing concerns about teen athletes and concussions, team

to the death or permanent injury of a player, but concussions have been known

physician for the Seattle Seahawks Dr. Stan Herring said, “It’s better to miss

to make that nightmarish situation a reality. For instance, in 2008, a 16-year

a game than to miss a season ... better to miss a game than to miss the rest of

old high school linebacker named Ryne Dougherty died after suffering multiple

your life.” Even if missing the big game might feel like the end of the world for a

concussions, and in 2002, 17-year-old Max Conradt was hospitalized for bleeding

player, an untreated concussion could cost a young athlete much more than one

in the brain, eventually sustaining significant neurological damage that left him

night of glory. When it comes to school athletics, it is much better to be safe than

with the mental capacity of a 9-year-old. Many laws calling for high school

it is to be sorry.

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CONGRATULATIONS LIBERTY NORTH BOY’S BASKETBALL

3RD IN STATE

(28 )

SPORTS EAGLE’S VIEW

MIND MANIA Concussions become a rising problem in high school sports STORY BY TIM FALLERI

K

icking or tripping in soccer, taking a hard

will take the test on a consistent basis until the

hit in football, falling down in cheerleading,

concussion has subsided. If an athlete takes a third

slamming the pad in wrestling or sliding

Impact Training Test, the chances of returning to

hard for the base; concussions are, and have been,

their sport for the season becomes minimal at best.

rampant for some time. Many students who are

“The staff has been well trained and does an amazing

not aware of concussions and their aftermath are

job monitoring their players for concussions and

learning the definition first hand. An article from

other injuries. The coaches are there to monitor

MidMissouri.com (powered by KRCG in Springfield,

practices, but it is equally important that players are

MO) reports 850 Missouri students suspected of

forthcoming when any type of injury occurs,” nurse

having a concussion during the 2011 fall semester

Misty Trinidad said.

alone, a statistic that shows a rise in this traumatic brain injury.

Technology

and

awareness

of

possibilities in high school sports have shown a clear rise as years progress. Athletic trainers, parents, and

around, but as we continue to build bigger, stronger,

school staff members are attempting to lower the

faster athletes concussions are more likely to occur.

risk of this injury, and the precautions further aid

Things that deter concussion are proper technique

in the decline of this injury from occurring. People

for specific sport play as well as properly fitting

making sure all equipment fits properly, playing the

equipment.

athletes,

respective sport properly, and proper technique for

or parents fail to monitor the details that keep

specific sports all contribute to stopping the rise of

themselves or athletes safe, that is when concussions

this injury.

when

coaches,

increase in frequency,” athletic trainer Amanda Andrews said.

“To get my concussion, I was running a play and had the ball, and then I just remember getting hit in

Players walk onto their respective field and do

the head. I had sensitivity to light, and nausea right

not expect to leave with any type of serious injury.

away. It took me at least three weeks to recover,

Football,

and

and it was not a horrible concussion, but it was

baseball are the sports that normally have athletes

my second one,” sophomore football player Brad

who get concussions. With the sports that are open to

Slobodnik said.

soccer,

wrestling,

cheerleading,

head-to-head and knee-to-knee contact, concussions spread even further.

“To get my concussion, I tripped over my foot and

happening.

Students

will

have

head-to-head

and knee-to-knee contact now and in the future.

laying the rest of the game. My head really started

Containing concussions must be the primary goal,

throbbing afterward. I went to a doctor and found

and whether the awareness of this injury has grown,

out I had a concussion and was out for the next two

or the actual injury, the statistics for this particular

weeks. I did not notice my head hurt until it ended

injury are on the rise in Liberty and across the

up hurting really bad later,” junior Katie Wallace

nation.

“We try to prevent concussions by the normal

There is now a very highly efficient method to test

procedures. We make sure helmets are up to date;

the possibility of a student having a concussion from

we provide all safety drills, and practices and

their respective sport. If a coach, parent, or athletic

procedures that we know. I think it is a manageable

trainer believes that an athlete may be susceptible

issue.

to a concussion, then the athlete can be asked to

improve. It will all level out, and we will continue

participate in an Impact Training Test. The athlete

to try to prevent this from happening,” Athletic

will sit down at a computer and take a series of

Director Bob Kernell said.

mental tests to see if they are healthy. The athlete

2. Moves clumsily 3. Is unsure of the game, score, or opponent 4. Can’t recall events 5. Headache or “pressure” in head 6. Balance problems or dizziness

Though concussions can be minimized, there is really no way to prevent these injuries from

afterwards landed on my head. But I still ended up

said.

1. Appears dazed or stunned

concussion

“I believe that concussions have always been

However,

KNOW THE SYMPTOMS

The

equipment

and

identification

will

7. Blurry vision 8. Sensitivity to light and/or noise 9. Confusion 10. Nausea or vomitting Information provided by sportsconcussions.org.

SPORTS 04/05/12

1,100 871 653 81 40 29

(29 )

Missouri athletes suffered a head injury in fall 2011 of the reported head injuries were concussions

concussions happened while playing football

concussions in boys soccer

concussions in sideline cheerleading

concussions in girls’ volleyball

Information provided by sportsconcussions.org. Photo by Ceci Kuron.

( 30 )

SPORTS EAGLE’S VIEW

PITCHERPERFECT “I like the pressure of having the whole defense revolve around you and you feel like a million bucks when you walk away with a win,” senior Blake Starr said.

“The mound is the focal point on the field and everyone’s focused on you,” senior Reed Morton said.

The pitchers of Liberty North’s baseball team play an important role on the field STORY BY BEN WHALEN

I

n basketball the leader is the point guard, in football it is the quarterback, in volleyball it

time. So many factors contribute into their decision: how many base runners, how many

is the setter, in soccer the goalie, and in baseball: the pitcher.

outs, the count, score, and of course the batter. Pitchers have to make important decisions

“I create the pace of the game,” senior Reed Morton said.

based on the situation.

The pitcher can work quickly and keep the pace of the game fast, or he can work slowly

and slow the game down. The pitcher controls the speed of the game and the beginning of each play.

“My mind set is that there is no way this guy is going to hit me. I run the game. There is nothing that will stop that,” senior JD Williams said.

The pitcher has the focus of everyone watching before every pitch. And they touch the ball

“My mind set, no matter what, is to focus on the glove: my target. I’m going to challenge him to hit the ball. I strive to get him out, no matter if he puts the ball in play or I strike him out. My job is to prevent base runners and if there are base runners, then my job is to prevent runs,” Morton said.

on every single play. The pitcher is one of the most important positions in baseball and easily the position with the most pressure.

“Everything I do on the mound reflects the team as a whole. I know I have my defense behind me. Pitching is a huge part of the game and it adds some extra pressure, but you learn

As a pitcher, every single throw matters. It affects the game in so many ways. If the pitcher leaves a pitch up, then the ball could be smacked out of the park. If he loses control of a pitch, it go to far inside and hit the batter. This could cause the opposing team to gain all of the momentum and a base runner. A pitcher has to strategize how they are going to get the result that they want.

to deal with it,” senior Blake Starr said.

The Eagles’ baseball team has high hopes for the upcoming baseball season after another year of experience.

“My goal for the team is for us to win districts and then make a run at state,” Williams said.

In all sports there is that one position the leader on the field. In baseball, it is the pitcher.

“I aim to hit my spots. The goal is to hit the corners and don’t leave anything up,” junior Zach Starr said.

The pitcher is an extremely important player. They control the game, keep the pace, and affect every play.

Pitchers, with the help of their catcher, have to decide which pitch they want to throw every

Senior JD Williams

75-100 65% 1lb

pitches per game

pitches thrown are fastballs

sunflower seeds eaten per week

Photos by Kevin Page

2-3 8 2.30

batters hit per season

games pitched per season current ERA

“My goal for the team is to win districts and then make a run at state.”

SPRING ATHLETE PROFILES An in-depth look at five spring athletes

zach fuller

bailey

kipp

Women’s Soccer

Men’s Golf

Years played: 10 years

Years played: 15 years

Years played: 5

What do you do at practice: Stretch, play catch, go through different situations, conditioning and then hitting practice

What do you do at practice: Warm up, do skill work, then scrimmage

What do you do at practice: Regular days we golf nine-hole game. If it is a day before a tournament we will work on putting, chipping, and other situations

Biggest Influence: My dad

Biggest Influence: My dad

How do you prepare for game day: Just try to focus, listen to music and not try to freak myself out

How do you prepare for a game: Focus and just block everything else out

Goals for this season: Improving my batting average this year

Favorite Food: Steak

marc

Goals for this season: Improving our record, competing in district championship game Favorite Movie: Titanic Favorite Food: Mac and Cheese

Years Played: 5 years What do you do at practice: Challenge matches, agility drills, and a lot of skill work Biggest Influence: My dad

“I love that it is a team sport and you have to really work together to be successful, you can’t just rely on one person.”

“I just like the competition and it is just a sport I enjoy playing.”

Favorite Movie: Wind Talkers Favorite Food: Spaghetti

Track and Field

How long have you been running: All my life

How long have you been running: 4 years

What do you do at practice: Monday, Wednesday, Friday.

We do Cardio Workout Tuesday and Thursday we do jumps

What do you do at practice: Run. Some days we will do distance runs and other endurance work, and then on other days we will do sprints

“I just enjoy the sport as a whole, it’s a very fun and challenging sport to play.”

Biggest Influence: My family.

They are very motivating and they are reason I keep running How do you prepare for a meet: Listen to music and just relax

Biggest Accomplishment: Maintaining a 4.0 while being a varsity athlete

Goals for this Season: Make it to State again and win Districts and Conference as a team

Goals for this Season: Try to letter this year

Track and Field

How do you prepare for a meet: Listen to music, pray, and focus on the meet and running hard

Biggest Accomplishment: Making it to State last year

Favorite Food: Sushi

Biggest Accomplishment: Placing in JV Confrence

Biggest Influence: My mom and a family friend of ours Megen Herren.

How do you prepare for a match: Try and plan what I’m going to do plan my moves and focus.

Favorite Movie: Inception

How do you prepare for a match: Listen to music and just concentrate on doing my best

max julia Taylor parker jobson

Ohlhausen

Men’s Tennis

STORY BY MARK OYLER

Biggest Influence: Grandpa

Biggest Accomplishment: Winning state in soccer Sophomore year

Biggest Accomplishment: Hitting first homerun for North

“I like baseball because It is just really laid back yet at the same time it is a very competitive sport.”

(31 )

barnett Christopher

Baseball

Favorite Movie: Radio

SPORTS 04/05/12

Goals for this Season: Win some races, work my hardest, get a scholarship Favorite Movie: Tangled Favorite Food: Pizza

Biggest Accomplishment: Getting second at State in Cross Country

“I just love running and being able to be around all my friends.”

Goals for the Season: Run fast, run hard, Do my best Movie: Don’t have one Favorite Food: Tacos

“My favorite thing about track is that feeling I get after a hard work out, knowing I worked my hardest.”

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