February 2023

FEBRUARY 2023

VOLUME 99 | NO. 6

Cover by Sam Brusven

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

t’s the season of love (p. 17) , but also a season of remembrance (p. 27). From trying food from new, local restaurants (p. 21) to the weighted GPA change (p. 5), this issue is full of the latest updates. 12% of gym sign-ups happen in January. Reporter Brodie Jobe considers the reasons for this statistic in teens in A Journey to Beneficial Health (p. 6).

While freshman Scarlet Langhorst discusses her experience in dance (p. 12), junior Noah Schuette talks about how taking classes in computer science are preparing him for his future (p. 14).

The Chiefs were a lineup for Super Bowl Ⅶ and won, but while most people focus on reposting their win, innocent lives are still being lost. Read Editor-in-Chief Kaiya Lynch’s opinion about it in The Hate We Create (p. 30).

As February comes to a close, it’s important to remember being mindful and kind should extend past the month. To quote author Kierstin White, “If you always let yourself love others, you’ll get back more than you give.”

Lynch

Editor-in-Chief, Copy & Design Editor |

Kaiya Lynch

Managing, A&E & Online Editor |

Lucy Boyle

News & Sports Editor |

Brodey Hutton

Spotlight Editor & Photo Jay Equipment Manager | Victorya Wilkinson

Opinion & Features Editor |

Jenna Shores

Photo Jay Managing Editor |

Ethan McMenemy

Photo Editor |

Sam Brusven

Reporters

Brodie Jobe

Chloe Franklin

Mary Biesemeyer

Brookelyn Jadwin

Bianka Mancia Castillo

Connor Rizek

Hadley Cotton

On the Cover: Union Station in Kansas City, Missouri is often seen with various colors illuminating the outside in the spirit of events and holidays. Currently lit shades of red and blue in support of the upcoming 2023 Super Bowl, Union Station received lighting renovations outside the front of the building in Aug. 2022, taking two years to install and costing a total of $200,000. “I find it very neat Union Station is making attempts to incorporate the bigger picture of what’s going on in the city,” Assistant Principal David McDorman said.

Photo Jay

Richard Burns

Lizzy Garr

Madison Remley

Designed by Kaiya Lynch

BY JENNA SHORES

BY CHLOE FRANKLIN

BY BRODIE JOBE

BY VICTORYA WILKINSON

BY BIANKA MANCIA CASTILLO

CONNOR RIZEK

Photo by Victorya Wilkinson

VALENTINE’S DAY IN DIFFERENT WAY NOT ALL STUDENTS CELEBRATED THE DAY TRADITIONALLY.

WRESTLING WITH THE ODDS

WOMEN WRESTLERS AND WRESTLING COACHES DISCUSS THE IMPORTANCE OF FEMALE ATHLETES.

OPINION

26

CARS ON CAMPUS WHAT ARE STUDENTS’ MOST MEMORABLE STORIES BEHIND THEIR CARS?

BY KAIYA LYNCH

INDEPTH 27

MORE THAN A MONTH UNDERSTANDING WHAT THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY HOLDS WITHIN.

BY BRODEY HUTTON

BY BRODEY HUTTON

BY BROOKELYN JADWIN

OPINION COLUMNS

THE HATE WE CREATE & STATEMENT PIECE

BY KAIYA LYNCH & LUCY BOYLE

Designed by Kaiya Lynch

Students check PowerSchool on their phones during eigth hour to compare grades with each other. The new addition of weighted GPAs is based on certain AP, Dual Credit and college courses. “We didn’t realize when we’d surveyed this question (about weighted GPAs) in the past that so many colleges were using the weighted transcript for money, so we wanted to give our kids the benefit of getting the most money,” registrar Lois Magnuson said.

GPA TO STAY

Liberty decides to instate the weighted GPA system.

iberty High School has launched the new weighted GPA system midway through the school year on January 3rd as an opportunity for seniors to have their academic achievement recognized in regards to college admissions.

“There are certain classes such as AP that are given an extra weight because they’re on the college level for students who participate in early college; they get an extra weight,” registrar Lois Magnuson said. “So, the primary reason for us to do it now is because when students are applying to colleges, they are able to receive scholarships based on a weighted GPA.”

Students who take more challenging classes will be awarded by receiving an extra point on their overall GPA. This helps students by giving them an extra point on their overall GPA if they have chosen the route of those certain classes.

“I think it’s really going to just encourage greater academic achievement as people will be willing to take more advanced placement and college classes,” junior Mary Jo Guarino said.

According to Albert.io, weighted GPAs

indicate to colleges that the student has chosen to take advanced classes throughout high school and will be more prepared in college for those more difficult classes.

“I think it would be better if people had more advance notice of it. So, they might have changed their classes differently this year, they would have had that opportunity,” junior Mary Jo Guarino said.

In a recent poll of 20 students, 89% of which believed this system was very helpful and moving forward felt it would be very beneficial to students of all grade levels.

“It’ll be helpful for students throughout their high school years,” Magnuson said.

All grades will benefit from this system by crediting their academic achievements and it will help towards earning scholarship money for that student’s college.

The majority of schools use the weighted GPAs as a way to recognize student’s accomplishments and give them the most opportunities available based upon those.

It isn’t a requirement for students to take those advanced and AP classes but going forward it will be a personal preference on what is needed for them at the time.

“This is basically a reward to those who go above and beyond,” sophomore Elliot Vogelaar said. While the new system can be confusing, students will benefit greatly from this system after it is in place. Weighted GPAs provide more scholarship and learning opportunities than school has ever had before.

On Tues, Jan 3, 2023 the Liberty Public School Board of Education approved a proposal to include a weighted GPA on student transcripts for all students in the Class of 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026. “People would be more encouraged to take harder classes, to have a higher GPA and be more competitive,” junior Mary Jo Guarino said.

Reported by Chloe Franklin | Designed by Brodey Hutton | Photos by Ethan McMenemy

A JOURNEY TO BENEFICIAL HEALTH

Gen Z turns over a new leaf and finds a beneficial and healthy new passion in physical activity.

Reported by Brodie Jobe | Designed by Kaiya Lynch | Photos by Ethan McMenemy & Richard Burns

rom New Year’s Resolutions to social media influences, over 50% of Americans are hoping to exercise more in the new year. The gym can be a way to improve physical and mental health by improving brain, bone and muscle health. It also helps ease depression and anxiety that can enhance a sense of well-being.

“I originally started going to the gym because I wanted to gain more muscle, and I had friends that had been going, so I thought it would be fun,” junior Dawson Harmon said.

According to the Center of Disease

Control (CDC), “Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Being physically active can improve your brain health, help manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve your ability to do everyday activities.”

“When I go to the gym, I’m able to release stress, get stronger and grow as a person,” Harmon said.

Harmon goes to Genesis in Liberty. All gyms can be beneficial, but it is hard to find the rigth environment which creates a positive environment.

“Everyone is there with different short and long term goals. Everyone there is always looking to help others with their progress in any way they can,” Harmon said.

While Harmon joined the “gym life” organically, junior Ava Hood did so as a New Year’s resolution.

“I had a close friend that has been going for a couple months now and she invited

me to go one day, and I fell in love with it,” Hood said.

Like Harmon, and many other gym-goers around the world, Hood found a positive gym environment to be incredibly beneficial.

“I GO TO the gym because my parents pay for my gym membership, so that’s another added on pro of going,” senior Layton Brier said. “It

“THE GYM IS an outlet for my stress and lets me work on myself physically,” senior Allie Collier said. “Physical activity connects to so many health benefits, and you just feel better when your more physically active.”

“I ENJOY THE feeling of being able to get stronger and grow into something big,” sophomore Taylor Anderson said. “Being physically active can improve your brain health, help manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and muscles and improve your ability to do everyday activities.”

“Everybody in the gym is in a different place in their fitness journey. It is great to have someone you know, or even a stranger give you tips to help boost you in your journey, or to even help you progress in something you have struggled,” Hood said. To get involved in the physical activity trend, check on gyms like Genesis for $62 a month open 24 hours a day. Eagle Fitness has a membership of $30 a month and open

$58

Average cost of a gym membership in the U.S.

Liberty High School students exercising at the Liberty Community Center on a Thursday night. According to lesmills.com, a new study found that Millenials and Gen Z make up 80 percent of gym-goers. “I go to the gym to better myself and gain more muscle. I sometimes have friends motivate me which is really great. The gym is such a safe environment to get better mentally and physically,” junior Ava Hood said.

from 4 AM to 11 PM. Also, Planet Fitness membership is $10 a month and is open 24 hours.

ACCORDING TO THE IHRSA, 12% OF ALL GYM SIGN-UPS HAPPEN DURING JANUARY

16.1% ofgymmembershipsare ownedbypeopleunder theageof18. ofnewgymmembersquit within6monthsbecause ofalackofmotivation

50%

A&E.

Designed by Kaiya Lynch

WHAT SONG 2023? SCREAMS

STUDENTS SHARE THEIR TOP PICKS FOR WHICH SONG SHOULD REPRESENT THE NEW YEAR.

DREAM SWEET IN SEA MAJOR

“THE DRUMS AND continuous twist of the main guitar riff are always amazing to hear. ‘The Four Horsemen” was my #1 listened-to song this year. I listened to it 57 times and for 6 1/2 hours.”

BRAEDEN SHRIVER JUNIOR

“DREAM SWEET IS chaotic and bounces around randomly.”

KAIN BRANDENBURG SENIOR

TO SUNSHINE FOREST

THE FOUR HORSEMEN

“THE SONG IS chill but clearly panicked at the same time.”

CHARLOTTE REYNOLDS FRESHMAN

TAKING OVER THE WORLD

Taylor Swift never goes out of style.

Reported by Victorya Wilkinson | Designed by Jenna Shores

ccording to Forbes.com Taylor Swift has been named one of best-selling music artists of all time having won 10 Grammys with a networth of over 360 million dollars. Those who listen to music might have a song of hers on their personal playlist. It could be a soft melody from her ‘Folklore’ or ‘Red’ album or maybe something more upbeat like a song from her ‘1989’ album, perhaps the listener doesn’t like either of those and want to listen to songs from her country days such as her ‘Taylor Swift’ album. Music listeners are destined to hear a Swift song, even if it’s not from their own playlist as she has been on Billboard Hot 100 for 14 weeks. Currently she is in 3 place with the song ‘Anti-Hero’ from her newest album ‘Midnights.’

Starting in Pennsylvania then moving to Tennessee to pursue her dream of becoming a musician Swift’s rise to stardom started in 2006 where according to Britannica she released her first single ‘Tim McGraw’ which charted

on Billboard Hot 100 in the top 40 where it stayed for 20 weeks. According to adelphi.edu Swift has been nominated for over 500 awards and has won 324.

“I love her style of music, and since she puts out so much, there’s always something to listen to,” sophomore Riley Huyser said.

Swift has had five concert tours and will be going on another this year, her ‘Eras Tour’ which according to variety.com broke the record of most tickets sold by an artist in a single day with 2.4 million tickets sold. This caused mass chaos, due to the continuous problems with the ticket site.

“It was extremely difficult. My mother had to wait on Ticket Master’s website for seven and a half hours before she could purchase tickets. There was an hour delay and the site kept crashing,” sophomore Aisha Diallo said.

During her concerts and performances Swift enjoys

“TAYLORSWIFTISTHEMUSICINDUSTRY,” AMERICANBRAODCASTERBARBARAWALTERSSAID.

leaving easter eggs as clues to new albums or songs.

According to a statement to The Washington Post, “It’s really about turning new music into an event for my fans and trying to entertain them in playful, mischievous, clever ways,” Swift said.

According to Forbes.com a major reason behind her fame is the way she shows love and appreciation to her fans. Freshman Addison fung has been a Swiftie since she was very young first discovering her from the radio. “I like how down to earth she is. She doesn’t seem fake ever, she always seems so authentic,” Fung said. For some of her fans, it’s about more than just her personality. To senior Calvin Wager, who has been listening to her since he was two, she is someone he can relate to through her lyrics.

“My favorite thing about Taylor is she writes songs which makes [people] feel a part of her music,” Wager said. “My favorite song is ‘You Belong With Me’ because I’ve always tried to ask someone out but it’s not always easy for me.”

Swift has released 10 studio albums and over 100 songs in the 17 years she has been making music. According to Spotify, Swift has 78.9 million monthly listeners from her fans (Swifties) as of 2022. Swift has a vast variety of music which allows for any listener to find a song in their style.

“I love her new and old music because she has all different kinds of genres, and I think she does it so well, anyone who listens to her knows it doesn’t matter which genre because it will always be great,” Wager said.

Rolling Stone has named Swift as one of the greatest songwriters of all time and many of her fans, including Diallo, agree.

“My favorite song by Taylor Swift would definitely have to be ‘My Tears Ricochet’ because she wrote it by herself and I think it shows great lyricism,” Diallo said.

The love Swift’s fans have for her is not one sided.

According to an interview with Good Morning America Swift said, “the fans are amazing. I can not believe how dedicated they are, how thoughtful. I

can’t believe how much they care. It makes it more fun for me to create music, to create music videos, knowing they’ll care about little clues or easter eggs or hints. You have no idea how fun it is to make stuff for people [who] care about it [so] much.”

FRESHMAN SCARLET LANGHORST

From Stars Unlimited to JV Sapphires.

Reported by Bianka Mancia

T he moment is finally here and all the sweat and tears came out at the end of 3 hour practices. All the motivation put into each sharp moventment, coordination and expression culminated in spirit. As these 8 dancers eagerly went up on stage all making sure each leg, arm and body movement are equally aligned as they go down into starting position waiting for the cue of the music to begin so they can finally show everyone all the hard work they’ve done.

Freshman Scarlet Langhorst is a member of the Sapphires. Their Varsity team is 3x UDA National Champions and 11x Missouri State Champions, At the time of this article the Sapphires were out of town at nationals.

“It looked really fun, and I thought it would be a cool experience,” said Langhorst. Langhorst has been participating in dance since she was 3 years old. When a glowing opportunity appeared during her 8th grade year to audition for the Liberty High School JV Sapphires team she took it eagerly.

Langhorst strived to be on the team and was placed on JV, She shared the news with her father Eric Langhorst as well.

“I knew it would be a great opportunity for her to participate on the team, and to be able to

perform and learn a lot of good skills. I was very excited for her,” Social Studies and ELA Edge Teacher Dr. Eric Langhorst said.

Langhorst also enjoyed showing off her intelligence and talent academically, by applying to Edge the spring of her eight grade year.

“I thought it would be really fun to have a flexible schedule and get to work around certain activities, which I think are interesting,” said Langhorst.

E. Langhorst watched his daughter grow in the Edge program, as he teaches. He had a unique perspective as a teacher and parent.

“It’s interesting to see her growth and just talking about world topics and things that are happening in current events, and see her develop as a thinker and dive into deep things, While she continues to talk about it outside of class,” E. Langhorst said

Langhorsts has signed her Edge commitment form for next year and has plans to stay throughout her four years Edge has helped Langhorsts academically to become stronger

“I think it’s made me a better learner. I think it’s a lot harder to learn in Edge because you’re with seniors through freshman, so [since] it’s combined, it has grown my learning a lot.”

Langhorst said.

Freshmen Katherine Ornelas has been friends with Langhorst since kindergarten and they have stayed friends throughout elementary, middle and now high school.

“She’s extremely loyal. She will always support you, she is the nicest person you can meet. She always has good things to say about people, and she’s always supported me academically, in debate and in sports,” said Ornelas.

Langhorst hopes to follow the origins of her family and go into a four year university in the Nebraska Missouri area. Langhorst’s family is from Nebraska originally, and she wants to be able to stay near her family and friends. “I’m

Castillo | Designed by Victorya Wilkinson | Photos by Lizzy Garr and Courtesy of Scarlet Langhorst

Freshman Scarlet Langhorst actively participates in JV Sapphires. Starting from the local dance studio Stars Unlimited, she has been dancing for many years. Langhorst also participates in the Edge Micro-School. “We just had a competition and that was really fun, it was also a good team bonding time,” Langhorst said.

Dance FACTS

73.4% of dancers are women.

In 2021, women earned 99% of what men earned.

10% of dancers who actively pursue a career in dance become professional.

Dance also fits the definition of a sport because it requires skill, physical prowess and being competitive. Dance requires skills on and off the stage.

JUNIOR NOAH SCHUETTE

How a student’s knowledge of computer science helped him in through highschool.

Reported

ights off, computers on, junior Noah Schuette types away lines of code. His eyes start to turn red from the lights, forgetting to blink every so often because of the concentration. He is working hard on the school project he started two hours. He is intrested in the new technique he just learned and is excited to finally test it out.

Schuette’s love of computer science has him looking forward to expanding his knowledge with a major at an undecided college. He has support from fellow students and his teachers in his career path.

“Originally, I only took computer classes my freshman year because I didn’t see anything else that looked interesting, but after my freshman year, it grew my interest in the field. Computer science gave me a new hobby and new ideas for what I want to do for my future,” Schuette said. Schuette has taken classes to fuel his desire to learn about computers and technology. Because of this curiosity, he has been invited to tour college campuses for his computer, technology, and problem solving skills and has many choices on what he can do in his future.

“Computer Science has given me a different view of things. It’s not mathy or sciency, it’s cut and dry. It’s given me a very linear view of things, not

just in learning but in my all-around life,” Jackson Zimmer, a close friend of Schuette, said. Computer science hasn’t only helped Schuette with his career choice, but it has also helped his friends and teachers. Zimmer has taken computer science courses. The classes offered are Computer Science, Computer Technology, Computer Hardware & Operating Systems, and AP Computer Science.

“Noah is a phenomenal student, always working hard, and instead of doing the work to get it done, he’s doing the work to understand it. Then, figure out where his learning can go from there,” computer science teacher Shannon Winkler said. Schuette’s perseverance has helped him gain many skills with technology and learning can be used with college classes and future job opportunities.

“There will always be jobs opening up, especially with the big tech layoffs that have happened in the past month. There are just so many available jobs out there, and it’s expanding so much that getting into that field will guarantee that you have a possible future,” Schuette said.

Schuette has hundreds of job opportunities. He has the ability to make new websites, build games or construct a new search engine.

“I believe he’s going to college for something

in the computer science field. He’s very talented and very passionate. I wouldn’t question that,” Zimmer said.

Schuette’s friends have supported him with his computer science journey. The support has helped him become more intrigued with technology and computers, which has led him to want to make a career with his knowledge.

“The whole aspect of how they’re built, how all the servers run and how it connects the world is super intriguing to me,” Schuette said.

Schuette wants to figure out what all technology can do today and what it can do in the future. His future career plan will help him figure that out.

“The computer job field is growing like crazy so any little foot in the door he gets, while in high school, will set him apart when he gets to college,” Winkler said.

Schuette works hard in his classes to not just finish the work but also learn and use what he learned to better understand it. He will use this knowledge to excel in his future academic career and his future career.

“Even if you don’t want to major or get a career in anything computer related, having basic knowledge of how a computer works will always be fundamental skills that you’ll use in your life,” Schuette said.

by Connor Rizek | Designed by Victorya Wilkinson | Photos by Richard Burns and Lizzy Garr

Junior Noah Schuette diligently works on his next programming project after school earlier this month. Schuette can often be found learning and experimenting on his next coding project, constantly pursuing knowledge of the topic. “I’m considering majoring in software engineering in the future,” Schuette said.

Problem-solving skills are useful for every job you do. Schuette uses skills he has learned from computer science to figure out problems when he’s working, or in his day-to-day life problems. Schuette goes above and beyond when it comes to understanding what interests him. He advertises learning more about computer science and having many career opportunities for the future, not to mention knowledge about computers look good on a college application or resume.

Junior Noah Shcutee participates in multiple computer science classes and AP Calculus AB, he intends on taking AP Calculus BC his senior year. Schutee participates in these classes to further his learning in order to go to college for computer science. According to Data USA, “2.06 million people have joined the computer science workforce for a growth of 5.06 percent.”

in the future of software engineering,” Junior Noah Schuette said.

in the future of software engineering,” Junior Noah Schuette said.

“I’m considering a possible major

“I’m considering a possible major

sports.

SPORTS UPDATES

RECENT WINS AND EVENTS FOR

THE VARSITY CHEER team competed in the UCA National High School Cheerleading Championship

Prelims at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex from Feb. 8-10.

VARSITY MEN’S BASKETBALL played against Liberty North on Feb. 3 and won 41 to 30.

VARSITY SAPPHIRES PLACED second in Medium Pom, third in Medium Jazz and third in Medium Game Day at the UDA National Dance Team Championship on Feb. 3-6.

DID WE MISS A TEAM? SCAN THE QR CODE TO SUBMIT YOUR STORY REQUEST.

VARSITY COLOR GUARD placed first in the Scholastic A division for Battle High School on Jan. 31 and third at the KC Regionals on Feb. 11.

Designed by Kaiya Lynch

The Taste of Liberty

New and local eateries around Kansas City.

Reported by Jenna Shores | Designed by Lucy Boyle | Photos by Victorya Wilkinson

Cover by Sam Brusven

he smell of sweet honey hitting you as soon as you walk into Fat Bees Cafe. Followed by a “welcome” as you make your way to the counter and browse the numerous choices of boba, tea, slushies and waffles. I ordered a passion fruit slush and a cinnamon sugar creoffle coming to a total of around 14 dollars. One thing I liked about this cafe is that all the drinks are one size, and that size was more than enough and was even more than the popular brands like Starbucks and Dunkin Donuts. When taking the first sip of my passion fruit slush I got hit with an explosion of passion fruit flavor-that wasn’t artificial. That cinnamon sugar creoffle came hot, with banana slices and cinnamon sugar on top. With a crispy outside and fluffy inside it made for the perfect after school snack.

HomeGrown TOP

Home Grown is the definition of a homestyle brunch restaurant. Upon walking in, I was greeted and seated almost immediately, with glass bottles of water set at the table and coffee cups ready to be filled-adding to the local feel of the place. First I ordered their hazelnut iced coffee and was pleasantly surprised by how well balanced the flavor of hazelnut and coffee turned out. Then, shortly after I ordered their avocado toast with an over-easy egg and fruit. It was given to me quicker than I thought. The fruit bowl included green apples, grapes, blueberries, pineapple and strawberries, and each piece of fruit wasn’t soggy. They were nice and refreshing. The avocado toast was served on a thick piece of their great grains Farm-to-Market bread with crushed red peppers and grape tomatoes on top. With one glance, it would seemed the ratio of bread to avocado was off, but when taking that first bite, my doubts went away. Not too mushy, not too chunky, just the right amount of seasonings to make it one of the best pieces of avocado toast I’ve ever eaten. Home Grown is open daily from 6:30 am to 2:30 at 201 S Stewart Rd Liberty, MO.

Upon first walking into Nautical Bowls, located on 8250 N Oxford St, it’s like stepping into a relaxing beach. Surfboard tables with connection jars-jars that hold slips of paper to help you connect with other peopleare great conversation starters, surrounded by beach leaves, buoys, rope lights and a wall mural of a beach scene completes the feel of the entire place. Greeted with a “welcome in” by the employees and ordering a sunset bowl among their many pre-made options, or a choice of building your own acai bowl. The three sizes, dingy which is 12 ounces and $10, cruiser, 16 ounces and costs $13 and finally the yacht size which is 24 ounces and $16.

When receiving my sunset bowl, the presentation was pristine, granola on top of the two bases; blue majik and pitaya, with a whole sliced banana spread across the side with strawberries piled on top. Honey was drizzled on top of it all. Taking the first bite was one word: refreshing. The cool taste of the two bases, the crunchiness of the granola, the soft bite of banana and then the cool strawberry juice, made it the perfect bite. Nautical Bowls makes their bowls soy free, plant based, with no refined sugars, with organic ingredients, gluten and dairy free.

Resturants

Nautical Bowls

A&E.

Designed by Kaiya Lynch

LOVE IN THE AIR

VALENTINE’S DAY WAS FEB. 14. HERE’S WHAT STUDENTS DID TO CELEBRATE.

“I LOVE VALENTINE’S Day. I love hearts so much and pink everything is cute. I’m celebrating with friends and my boyfriend I’m going to buy or make them some gifts and me and my boyfriend might go on a date.

KAILI SYVORAVONG SOPHOMORE

“I’LL BE DRIVING around and listening to Juice Wrld.”

CARSTEN PENNINGTON SOPHOMORE

“I PLAN ON chilling with friends and possibly going out. I personally like Valentine's Day, even though I'm single, because of all the stuffed animals and chocolate I can buy myself.”

CATHERINE RETZLAFF FRESHMAN

Valentine’s Day in Different Ways

Not all students celebrated the day traditionally.

Reported by Brodey Hutton

Designed by Lucy Boyle

Photos by Victorya Wilkinson

Cover by Sam Brusven

alentine’s Day is often celebrated by showing love and affection to a significant other or someone who they care about. But what about the people who currently aren’t in a relationship? How do they spend their Valentine’s Day and how does it compare to people who spend the day with a significant other or a group of friends?

“I think having a relationship is important so that you can have someone to support you and be your biggest fan, and you be yours,” senior Victoria Bartlett said.

Valentine’s Day, as it is currently celebrated, has occurred since the 14th Century with the holiday gaining traction in North America during the 18th Century. However, it took until the 1840s for valentines to be mass produced and sold like they are today.

“Some pros of being in a relationship are that you have someone who gets you and is able to connect with you and love you,” Bartlett said. “However, I would say a con of being in a relationship would be that you’re probably not as independent as you would be if you’re single.”

According to a poll sent out by The Bell, nine out of 20 responses said that they would be spending this Valentine’s Day with a significant other while the other 11 responses said that they would spend the day with friends instead.

“This Valentine’s Day, I hope to be able to spend time with friends and definitely my family,” freshman Rayne Chapman said. “We usually have a meal together with the whole family, decorate the house the day before and have a delicious breakfast at the table together.”

Social worker Beth Schroeder said the biggest benefits of being

around friends can be that they positively reinforce the best aspects about yourself but it takes the right group of friends to achieve this. However, Schroeder cautions against spending too much time with people who are not their authentic self and do not truly value their friendship.

“We know that people need communication or social experience,” Schroeder said. “Whether that be on a video game or having an in-person conversation with someone, we know this is important to us developing a real sense of self-love and self-value.”

Schroeder said although time alone is needed in order for the mind to process things, people still need something tangible to think about. She said that too much time alone can lead to an influx of negative thoughts about one’s character and identity. For this Valentine’s Day, maybe think about spending the day with friends or family, if there isn’t a significant other to spend the day with, and remember to take some time out of the day for yourself.

According to Entreprenuer, Half of the American population identifies as single on valentines day.

Photos by Victorya Wilkinson

WRESTLING WITH THE ODDS

Women wrestlers and wrestling coaches discuss the importance of female athletes.

Reported by Kate Biesemeyer | Designed by Brodey Hutton | Photos by Lizzy Garr

This year alone, the women’s wrestling team gained more traction around the school by winning more tournaments and gaining awards. The women’s wrestling team consists of nine women with two dedicated women’s coaches. Last year alone, the women’s team sent two wrestlers to the State.

“It’s just a sport that a lot of people see as a guy sport,” senior Alexis Ritchie said, “It’s fun to be a girl wrestler.” This year is Ritchie’s second year with the women’s team, at their previous tournament, Ritchie got third in the 115 weight class. “All my brothers wrestled,” Ritchie said, “so I thought it would be fun.”

Although the men’s and women’s teams are separated, there are not many notable differences between them. The teams both practice every day after school and both put in hard work and dedication to getting better.

“There’s no major differences other than weight classes,” men’s wrestling coach, and math teacher Kellen Laws said, “when they get into college, girls wrestling is what is called Freestyle, which is a form that is common at the international and Olympic levels.”

According to collegewrestlingrecruiting.com, only about 6% of wrestlers are women while 96% are men. “There are currently 48 programs in the Women’s Collegiate Wrestling Association,” collegewrestling said.

So far, the women have made it to the George Hoover invitational with freshman Lilly Breeden placing first in the 100 lbs weight class, freshman Sandy Breeden placing first in the 105 lbs class, junior Jaden Breeden placing first in 110lbs weight class, senior Alexis Ritchie placing third in the 115 lbs class and senior Izzy Tali placing second in the 170 lbs weight class.

In another tournament, Queen of the North, freshman Lilly Breeden at 100 lbs, won first in her weight class with a record of 4-0. Freshman Sandy Breeden, at 105 lbs, got first in the 105 weight class with a 3-0 record.

Junior Jaden Breeden, at 110 lbs, got first in her weight

class with a 3-0 record. Senior Alexis Ritchie, at 115 lbs, got sixth in her weight class with a record of 3-2. Senior Izzy Tali, at 170lbs, got third in her weight class with a record of 3-1.

During the normal season, which falls between October and March, the women go to six tournaments, which lead to Districts and State, and you can watch them live on their facebook @LJaysWrestling

The women had a home dual against Liberty North where the two tied for the overall winner. Freshman Sandy Breeden won her match in the 100 lbs weight class. Junior Jaden Breeden won her match in the 115 lbs weight class. Senior Alexis Ritchie won her match in the 120 lbs weight class.

To keep up with the women’s wrestling team, follow them on Twitter @LadyJaysWrestle, on Instagram @ladyjaywrestling and if interested in joining the team, contact Coach Gage or Coach Motis via email, at caroline.motis@lps53.org and at gage.harrison@lps53.org.

“It’s just a sport that a lot of people see as a guy sport,” senior Alexis Ritchie said. “It’s fun to be a girl wrestler.”

Senior Alexis Ritchie practices for the team’s upcoming District tournament. Ritchie has been on the wrestling team for two years and recently won student-athlete of the month in December. “The team is a close-knit group, and they have a lot of fun but they know when to get serious,” wrestling team coach Dustin Brewer said.

OPINION.

“I NAMED IT Granny Smurf because it’s bright blue,” senior Gillian Goetz said.

year. The rear air suspension malfunctioned and blew up, leaving pieces of the suspension on the ground. It was incredibly loud, and almost lifted the back of the car off the ground,” senior Isaac Chow said.

ON CARS CAMPUS

WHAT ARE STUDENTS’ MOST MEMORABLE STORIES BEHIND THEIR CARS?

“MY STEP-DAD BUILT this car with his dad when he was 11. They built it with authentic parts

“I WAS HEADING home from school after a golf tournament and my friend rear ended me,” junior Libby Hearst said.

Designed by Kaiya Lynch

Reported by Brookelyn Jadwin

Designed by Lucy Boyle

Cover by Sam Brusven

eelings such as: anger, empowerment, unity, chaos and fear are all too familiar for those who protested in July of 2020, one of the many well known and noteworthy Black Lives Matter movements around the nation. As the upcoming Black History Month approaches, it’s important to be educated on the history of the month as well as the people involved. Many may think it’s just another month, but to others it means so much more.

“I just want people to know I’m Black, and I’m here. The month helps me as well as others recognize what we go through, even on a daily basis,” freshman Bindi Chale said. History of Black History Month

Black History month originated as a single week, occurring during the second week of every February in order to educate people, who weren’t aware of Black history. Even though it started as a week, it grew into so much more as people began to recognize the importance of it. This week was chosen because it included the birthdays of both Frederick Douglas, social reformer who sought to end slavery and racism, and Abraham Lincoln, the president who led the U.S through the Civil War.

The week-long event officially became Black History Month in 1976 when U.S. president Gerald Ford extended the recognition to, “honor the too-often

neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

While the month is used to highlight the injustices the Black c ommunity experiences, it’s also a time to celebrate people who deserved to be recognized. There are many authors, actors, scientists and many more who should be researched and given attention through this month for all of their accomplishments.

“It shows awareness to Black people and who we are as a culture, as well as what we’ve gone through as a whole throughout the years,” senior Bianca Jackson said.

Black History Month Celebrated All Over the Globe

The month allows Black people to be seen and heard as a whole. People all over the world come together to learn and recognize the month, as it has received official recognition from governments in the United Even though it started as a week, it grew into so much more as people began to recognize the importance of it. This week was chosen because it included the birthdays of both Frederick Douglas, social reformer who sought to end slavery and racism, and Abraham Lincoln, the president who led the U.S through the Civil War.

The week-long event officially became Black History Month in 1976 when U.S. president Gerald Ford extended the recognition to, “honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”

While the month is used to highlight the injustices the Black community experiences, it’s also a time to celebrate people who deserved to be recognized. There are many authors, actors, scientists and many more who should be researched and given attention through this month for all of their accomplishments.

“It shows awareness to Black people and who we are as a culture, as well as what we’ve gone through as a whole throughout the years,” senior Bianca Jackson said.

Black History Month Celebrated

All Over the Globe

The month allows Black people to be seen and heard as a whole.

“The month affects mainly Black people but also affects everyone. It gives them an opportunity

to educate themselves on things that we, as a whole have gone through. It just lets people be aware of what’s going on around them,” Jackson said.

While the month continues to empower and recognize the Black community, it also affects the rest of the world too. Showing support and educating is just as important, as it lifts up the people who continue to go through daily struggles.

“I usually wear shirts, read about it and reeducate myself on the month and why it’s important,” sophomore Dana Southall said. There are many different opinions on the month. However, no matter what opinion someone may have, it’s important to remain respectful to both sides.

“I think the month is great, it’s a great time to express the Blackness of everybody. We get to enjoy being free,” Southall said.

How Do I Support Black History Month?

“I protested in a black lives matter movement. It felt very empowering, while I was with other protestors. It felt very safe even though we were not in a safe environment,” Jackson said.

While protesting is one of the ways to support the cause, there are also many others. According to salesforce.org some of the import ant ways to support or recognize include:

While protesting is one of the ways to support the cause, there are also many others. According to salesforce.org some of the important ways to support or recognize include:

1. Support Black Owned Businesses 2. Learn About Noteworthy Black Figures and Their Contributions

3. Donate To Charities That Support Anti-Racism Equity and Equality

Published by Black Authors

4. Purchase, Read and Share Books

5. Support and Learn About Black Women

6. Participate in Online Events

7. Attend Virtual or In Person Black History Month Events.

During the month, there are many brands as well as businesses who broadcast the month through social media and campaigns. Brands such as Under Armour, Peloton, Spotify, Bombas, Old Navy and Banana Republic have all launched campaigns in, spotlighting the work of Black artists, creators, photographers, etc.

“It just shows importance to the people that did stuff for us, it shows and appreciates what the past did for us,” Southall said.

From reaching out to local businesses to educate on the month, making posters, or just showing respect, any way of support or recognition is appreciated by the Black community.

The Hate We Create

Why are black lives glossed over in today’s society?

he U.S. prides itself on diversity, but there’s still a line in the sand when it comes to racial equality. I have seen it time and time again, when a black person is apprehended by the police and ends up beaten or dead–while the white cop often goes free in the name of “self-defense.”

When Black History Month (BHM) is simply glossed over by mass media and our local community, there’s still room for growth. Hearing the argument broached that BHM is not a “thing” anymore, caused me to take note and counter with: “if we don’t know where we came from, how do we know where we’re going?” Teaching about the importance of diversity and working with students to truly understand why there are days or months dedicated to a cause is something our society has become desensitized about.

According to Greater Good Magazine, being around diverse people makes us more creative, diligent and hard-working. So why then, when Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) Day came around on Jan. 16, was it basically ignored by my peers–with some students and teachers claiming they “earned” the day off? The holiday was designed to celebrate MLK’s work toward desegregating the U.S. It’s true meaning should be celebrated–not circumvented.

The same happened when Tyre Nichols was murdered on Jan. 7. Instead of advocating for black voices, people cared more about posting about Super Bowl ⅬⅤⅠⅠ on their social media accounts. I saw two posts about Nichols and 23 about the Chiefs that day.

The painful truth is black people are still being killed because of the color of their skin. It’s still not safe for people like me to go about our day, in fear of facing the same fate as Breonna Taylor or Tyre Nichols; George Floyd or Karon Blake.

By continuing to ignore or refute certain identity groups, our society will continue to dwindle. I truly believe one’s education plays a crucial role in the perception of the world around them. By taking off the blinders and educating ourselves, we can continue down a path of peace–rather than one littered with the carnage of innocent lives.

Statement Piece

Fashion has taken a toxic turn with new trends.

The world of fashion is always evolving. Always a new color in season, new shoe that are more popular or a must have top. These trends bring to attention that we may not wear the clothes we wear because we like the, but that there popular. In this time, where its popular to wear what’s trendy, many of us are at fault for following these constantly changing trends but not adhering to our own personality and likes.

This cycle in trends creates short-term trends which become widely popular within months. With this pattern, following trends can become expensive and environmentally harmful. On top of this, some people may just be buying clothes to fit in to the stereotypical standard, but never truly liking what they’re wearing. I have found from experiences where I followed a trend just because everyone else was, and not because I actually enjoyed it.

According to TZR, “It would not have such an immense platform and such incredible popularity if not for the ‘everyday’ people who are using social media as a powerful instrument of self-expression.”

But, with social media platforms, and influencers and celebrities, we have become easily influenced by this toxic cycle with this constant reminder of what everyone else is wearing. This create a deeper desire for us to buy these products.

According to Heuritech, “The life cycles of fashion trends today have changed; technology and social media have rendered them much shorter and less predictable than in the past.”

Some may argue we are not manipulated to what’s trendy, and we just wear the clothes we but, When people wear the clothes they want to wear, it gives us a chance to express our identity visually and tactilely.

According to The Objective Standard, “Way beyond functions of protection or warmth, we recognize the power of clothes to proclaim or augment individual and collective identity.”

While there may not be one specific solution to this problem, trends can become toxic and short term ways to follow others instead of expressing yourself.

Reported by Kaiya Lynch | Photo by Madison Remley | Designed by Jenna Shores

Reported by Lucy Boyle | Photo by Madison Remley

Designed by Kaiya Lynch

A&E.

by Madison Remley and Lizzy Garr

WHAT’S AT LHS? TRENDING

FROM PREPPY STYLE TO STANLEY CUPS, STUDENTS SHARE THE TOP TRENDS FOR THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY.

“STANLEY’S ARE IN because of social media influencers,” sophomore Sydney Rogers said.

“PEOPLE REALLY LIKE how Lululemon products look and feel,” freshman Sadie Brier said.

IN A POLL OF 15 STUDENTS, 46.7% SAID AIRPODS ARE TRENDING THE MOST RIGHT NOW.

“VSCO GIRLS

WALKED so preppy girls could run,” freshman Bella Mota said.

| Photos