Volume 92, issue 8 by Liberty Public Schools

The Bell May 6, 2016 Volume 92, Issue 8

Visit us at LHSNEWS.NET

Table of Contents When the Stars Go Blue........................................................07 Battlin’ the Ballot..............................................................08-09 And the Crown Goes To....................................................10-11 A Faithful Farewell..................................................................13 This Year in 365..................................................................14-15 Senior Spotlights................................................................16-19 Teacher Sendoffs................................................................22-23 The Foreigner.........................................................................24 Niki’s Corner...........................................................................25 Senior Sendoffs..................................................................26-28 Athletes of the Month..............................................................31 Jays in the Outfield..................................................................34 Fired Up!................................................................................35

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Photo by: Madison Ray

Photo by: Brieann Wynn

Photo by: Malissa Pennington

Page: 24

Page: 08-09

Page: 17 Photo by: Hanna Davidson

Page: 14

Page: 34 Photo by: Morgan McNea

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On the cover: Senior Carlos Valencia pitches for varsity baseball.

Photo by Morgan McNea

LHS took a victory against LNHS in the MSHSAA Class 4 District 15 Scholar Bowl Tournament, which was held at LNHS on April 16. The Blue Jays will now face St. Joe Central on April 27 in the Sectionals Tournament at St. Joseph. The winner from that tournament will advance to the state playoffs held in Columbia on May 7. Individual medals were awarded to the top six leading scorers comprising the All-District Tournament Team, given by The Missouri Academic Coaches Association (MACA). Congratulations to third place winner Roman Accardi with an average of 107 points per game, and sixth place winner, Jackson Witt, averaging 77 points per game.

Staff

Mission

Adviser --> Lori Oyler Editor-in-Chief --> Tara Prindle Design Editor --> Alex Wilson Opinion and A&E Editor --> Emily Johannes InDepth Editor --> Teresa Parra Features Editor --> Lacy Williams News Editor --> Hannah Leonard Sports Editor --> Kati Benhardt Ads Manager and Cartoonist --> Daryl Gichui Online Manager --> Erica Schmitz Reporters --> Sol Kim Niki Benhardt Kamden Bernard Teegan Saunders Jenna Spence Riley Kelley Caleb Lautenschlager Katie Moon Joey Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Kelly Tommy Roseman Haley Stephenson Delaney Tarpley Paige Twenter Meg Whipple

Our mission for the 2015-2016 school year is to unite a diverse group of people and ideas to compose an informative and entertaining magazine using articles, photographs, and commercial messages. As journalists in training we endeavor to give the best representation of the community of Liberty High School. The Bell student newspaper is a public forum for student expression.

Contact

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Liberty High School Address --> 200 Blue Jay Drive Liberty, MO 64068 Phone --> (816)-736-2827 Email --> loyler@liberty.k12.mo.us Twitter --> @TheLHSBell

Jabber “I think my behavior goes from a sixth grader to a freshman in college...there is no in between.” -@rachel_backs

“drove off with my shoes on top of my car and they flew across the road with people driving them over. that’s how my day is going” -@AbbeyOveron

“I haven’t even started college and I already feel in debt........” -@Hannah_Lilly98

“Humbled to say that I am officially a Razorback cheerleader” -@aloa016

“How am i supposed to go to college w/o @moflem22 .......” -@rayyhenn

“My future Scenic Shop #FutureBearcat #SetBuilder #Techie #Actor #College”-@JoshMunden “I’m at that point in the year when I’m using one pencil I found on the floor and one notebook of paper for 7 differnent classes” -@AbbsMaloney

“Can I just wear a tshirt to prom?........” -@Haleyngrimes

Jabber 05

Alex Wilson Alex, What an amazing young man you have grown up to be! I am so very proud of you and all that you have accomplished despite the obstacles you have had. You have kept that incredible heart of gold and sense of humor. Keep working hard and you will go far in this life. God has great plans for you Alex! Congratulations on your graduation, son! Much love and many blessings, Mom

Madison Parry

Brandon Colner Congratulations, Brandon! It is truly amazing how fast the last four years have gone. What a blessing it has been to watch you accomplish so much. Your ability to never give up no matter the challenge is one of your greatest gifts. Always stay true to you! Love, Mom

Congratulations! Look how far youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve come, from kindergarten to graduation. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re so proud of you! Love, Dad, Mom, Davis, Savannah and Caroline

Jared Islas

Congratulations, Jared! We are so proud of your accomplishments. The future is all yours. Love you, Mom, Dad and Jake

When the Stars Go Blue Students put in effort to prepare for Prom. Story by Joey O’Kelly

Photos by Malissa Pennington

Prom is a time where creativity and beauty comes out. Some see it as a romantic evening with a date, while others see it as a night to remember with a group of friends. Either way, promposals are made, dresses are purchased, dances are designed and preparations are made for a milestone in the life of an average high school student. The 2016 Prom theme is “When the Stars go Blue.” It will be held at Arrowhead Stadium. It will take place Saturday, May 7, from 8:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m. Junior class president, Kamryn Downing, has been working hard in order to make this night special for everyone. “We’ve been holding a lot of meetings with the class officers. I’m the Junior Class President, so one of my main responsibilities is to plan Prom. It’s one of the big things we have to do. Emily Azpell, Brynn Badders and I have been working closely together on that,” Downing said. “We’ve been deciding the little things, like centerpieces and lighting. One irritating and frustrating thing about Arrowhead is that you can’t hang up a lot of things. You can’t have any tape. It all has to be ground decorations. That’s kind of been a struggle for us, but it’s making us think and work for it.” While this year’s Prom is at the same

venue as last year, there is one delicious change being made that can be looked forward to – a dessert bar “The venue’s the same, we’re always at Arrowhead. The only major difference is the theme. Also, this year we’re doing dessert. We’ve never done that before. I think there are brownies. That’s kind of fun,” Downing said. Aside from StuCo, students have been preparing as well. There have been many creative promposals from LHS students. Senior Antonio Estrada, asked his girlfriend to Prom Frozen style. “It was a Frozen theme. The poster said ‘I would be frozen if you didn’t go to Prom with me because you are worth melting for.’” Estrada said. “I had an Olaf piñata that said yes on it, so if she wanted to say ‘yes’, she would hit the piñata. I had a little tiny square that said ‘no’. It was hidden so that she wouldn’t know where no was. She hit it, she said ‘yes’. I’m looking forward to how she looks. I know she’ll look beautiful, so I can’t wait to see that.” Another student, junior Derek Karr, took a very creative approach, using goats that he got from a family friend to ask junior Abby Weekley to Prom. “I just got the idea. I was just thinking about how to do something unique. I had to think goats. No one else is doing goats,

so I got goats and went over to her house with flowers and asked her,” Karr said. “I don’t think she was expecting it at all. I don’t think anyone expects to get goats for Prom.” Junior Max Wittman asked his girlfriend, junior Jessica Maschino to Prom by using one of her favorite television programs, One Tree Hill. “My friend Elizabeth and I were supposed to hang out on a Saturday. We were going to go to Longboards, but she said that her brother was working at Heritage Middle School and she had to take something to him. She said ‘I’ll pick you up and we can go together,’ and I said that was fine,” Maschino said. “We get there and as I’m walking up to the school, I notice that there’s a person at the basketball court. I said ‘oh no, we’re crashing someone’s promposal, we’re in the way, Elizabeth.’ As we walk up there I say, ‘wait a minute, that’s Max, that’s my promposal.’” The night is bound to be full of excitement, happiness and energy. Memories will be made. But don’t forget to document those memories. “Take lots of pictures. It’s always fun to look back when you’re all dressed up and you look nice, so just take a bunch,” Downing said.

Left: Senior Satchel Manley asks senior Teresa Parra to Prom at the Mr. Liberty pageant. Right: Senior Josh Munden holds a poster to ask sophomore Katie Waterman to Prom.

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Battlin’ the Ballot

StuCo members run campaigns during the elections for 2016-2017 class officers. Story by Paige Twenter

Photos by Katie Lamb

Typically when discussions of politics pop up in school, it’s either in a safe environment like debate class or in a chaotic setting at lunch. When it’s the latter, people tend to duck and hide when the argument gets too heated. However, when it concerns the StuCo elections, it’s a healthy and fun competition. “I really love StuCo, I love to be involved,” junior Emily Azpell said. “I’m the Junior Class Vice President right now so StuCo is something that I love to be involved in. I love making the school better and Senior Class President has a lot of roles that encompass that.” High Standards To be running in the election for the following school year, candidates had to meet a certain number of standards. “There are different regulations to be in StuCo, but to be on executive or have an officer position you have to have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0, a 95 percent attendance rate and you can’t have any disciplinary issues that require ISS, OSS, or arrests or anything illegal,” sophomore Hannah Berry said. “Each office has their own requirements as to

News 08

duties and what they do.” Out With the Old, In With the New Like a real government, there are differing positions with distinct obligations and functions in the office altogether. “There are four class officer positions for the sophomore, junior and senior class,” StuCo adviser Melanie Crawford said. “The freshmen class doesn’t have officer positions, we consider that a learning year. When students that are currently in eighth grade come up as freshmen they’ll be representatives. Sophomore, junior and senior all have four officers that are President, Vice President, Secretary and this year we’re changing the title to Historian.” Previously this position was the treasurer, but because of changes the historian position is in charge of documenting all events and meetings for purposes in the future. From Posters to Posts In addition to the new historian position, new and innovative methods of campaigning are making way this year for the candidates.

“They’re placed on the ballot, they maintain their campaign and they can hang posters throughout [the school],” Crawford said. “This year we asked them to make their own video and in years past we’ve just had them show up and we videotape them in a room doing a little introduction. This year we allowed the students to do that and kind of have their own creativity and make their own videos on their own and submit those.” Since mostly everything is digitalized now, students in the election have found a creative outlet to get their word out and spread their campaign. “My campaign is #teamtalati. It’s kinda like the Royals, ‘let me help the class of 2019 raise our pennant.’ We have posters, but I’m taking a lot of it to Twitter having me posting for it or having friends. It’s just a lot of making sure everyone gets the word out. Sometimes you can’t do that in person, so social media really comes in,” freshman Khushi Talati said. To have a successful race between the candidates, the main key is to keep a positive spirit no matter what happens during the election.

Left: Sophomores Amos Mwaura and Hannah Berry participate in the meeting. Right: StuCo members take a vote during a weekly meeting.

“I think there’s an opportunity to make a difference and feel involved at whatever thing you’re in. I think I have a much more relaxed tone about elections, not in a bad sense, but just that it’s not the end of the world if I don’t make it or it’s not me. I can still make a difference whatever position I am in,” Berry said. The election doesn’t only effect the candidates, but the entire school as well. Even though you might not be running in the election, your voice and ideas are vital to how LHS runs. “My main focus is just to try to get people involved, because people are always in other clubs and they can’t be on StuCo. You don’t have to be in StuCo to be involved in school, so that’s why I want to get people’s opinions and bring it in StuCo to know that this is what they want and this is what students want to do so they can have fun. StuCo can’t really happen without students wanting to have fun,” freshman Tiffanny Huynh said.

“The events wouldn’t be a good turnout if students don’t like the events.” All in All The election is a chance for the student body not only to elect new officers, but to also say thanks to the former officers that have made past events enjoyable and memorable. “We aren’t just the people that make posters, We have a lot of responsibilities,” Downing said. “This year we were responsible for the Homecoming parade, powder party, Homecoming dance, BIONIC week, a week of community service, Spike it Up, the glow dance, Prom, Mr. Liberty, graduation, the list continues.” Among the candidates that have run for office positions in previous years, resilience is an important trait to possess. “For me it’s a little bittersweet because last year I ran for Junior Class President and I lost in a very close race from what I’m told,” junior Sarah Parrott said. “It’s

bittersweet because I almost let that stop me from running again because I thought ‘oh I don’t want to lose again’ ‘I don’t want to go through that again’ but I didn’t let that stop me so hopefully good will come out of it.” For students interested in joining StuCo next year and/or being involved in the election process, there are a few qualities that would be beneficial to acquire. “Basically we’re just looking for students who are committed, who are willing to work hard and put in the effort to make all the things that we plan to go well and to represent the student body,” Crawford said. StuCo not only represents the student body, but the students who choose to be apart of it. “I genuinely love what I do on StuCo. It’s my thing, just like band, or baseball, or theatre is someone else’s thing,Student Council is mine,” Downing said.

2016-2017 StuCo Officers Exec Pres: Kamryn Downing Exec VP: Brynn Badders Exec Secretary: Hannah Berry Senior Class Pres: Emily Azpell Senior Class VP: Boone Evans Senior Class Secretary: Rachel Ingram Junior Class Pres: Amos Mwuara Junior Class VP: Teegan Saunders Sophomore Class Pres: Khushi Talati Sophomore Class VP: Erin Manis

Top: Executive president candidates Parrott and Downing in a meeting. Bottom Left: Freshman Addie Morgan hangs homemade posters featuring Kid President for her campaign. Bottom Middle: Azpell’s creative posters for her campaign. Bottom Right: Lesson leads the council through a meeting.

News 09

And the Crown Goes To... Eight senior boys compete in the annual Mr. Liberty pageant. Story by Lacy Williams

Photos by Brieann Wynn

What’s better than seeing eight senior boys strut their stuff? Add that with silly questions and talents and you’ve got yourself a Mr. Liberty pageant. Mr. Liberty is an annual pageant hosted at LHS in the Little Theater. This year’s show was on April 14. The proceeds went to a fundraiser for the Liberty Local Scholarship Program. Mr. Liberty’s continuation is due to the students’ interest in putting on the show and participating in it. “I had been wanting to do it since my freshman year,” senior Orrin Donaldson said. “I had seen my brother when he did it, so I always had wanted to do it.” The preparation for the show took about two weeks, longer than any of the previous Mr. Liberty shows. “We had an extra four days to work on it,” senior Seth Langford said. “We had two practices to work on the choreography and had a dress rehearsal.” There were many parts to the show itself. It started with a group dance set to a mash-up of popular songs, which the boys thought was difficult. “During the dance we had to jump and

News 10

do a toe-touch, that really hurt,” senior Paul Ambrose said. The next component of the show was “formal wear.” The boys dressed up in suits and were escorted by one of the senior StuCo girls. The boys were all in traditional black suits or a nice dress shirt with black pants. The two boys that stood out the most were Ethan O’Hair wearing a white suit jacket and Langford wearing a yellow dress shirt to represent his favorite color. Next, the boys had to perform their talent. Senior Aaron Easley lip-synced “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood wearing jean shorts, a cowboy hat and a t-shirt. Despite his personal concerns about embarrassing himself, he decided fun of the show outweighed the possibility of public shaming. O’Hair stacked cups while he sang Anna Kendrick’s version of “The Cup Song.” He was dressed as an Olympic Cup Stacker. Senior Jared Rohm performed a talent he had done since elementary school: fast hand clapping.

“I can clap my hands really fast,” Rohm said. “I thought it was a funny talent that’s not too serious.” Senior Landon McKee juggled for his talent. “I’ve been doing it for a couple years,” McKee said. Donaldson performed “Soft Kitty” on the ukulele from the TV show “The Big Bang Theory” and sang along. Ambrose named the capitals of countries all over the world. He had people from the audience shout out countries for him to name. His escort, Rachel Backs, checked them online as he said them. “I can name the capitals,” Ambrose said. “I can’t pronounce them.” Senior Satchel Manley rapped Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss. He wore a Thing One t-shirt with the Green Eggs and Ham book at the front of the stage. “The most difficult part was trying to rap Green Eggs and Ham to the Panda beat,” Manley said. Langford lip-synced “Lips Are Movin” by Meghan Trainor.

Left: Mr. Liberty contestants dab before exiting the stage. Right: O’Hair sports floaties and an intertube during the swimsuit portion of the pageant.

Left: Easley sings Carrie Underwood while sporting cowboy boots and a cowboy hat. Top Right: Rohm is crowned Mr. Liberty. Bottom: Contestants pose in their swimwear.

After the talent portion, the boys answered interview questions that they came up with themselves. The questions ranged from “what do you do to help the community” to “who is your celebrity crush.” Manley was the only candidate to be asked two questions, the second being, “if you could ask any girl to Prom who would it be?” He looked out into the audience and pondered for a bit, then pulled senior Teresa Parra on stage and someone off stage handed him a bouquet of roses and a poster that said “T: Will you accept this promposal?” For the last three years, there has been a tradition of promposals during the show. It’s a neat and unexpected way of asking a date to prom. “I have the most beautiful and caring girlfriend who deserves to be treated like that,” Manley said. The next part of the show was the

swimwear competition. The swimwear varied from Speedos to swim trunks. O’Hair wore swim trunks with an inner tube and floaties to add a special touch to his outfit. An eating contest followed. The boys had 60 seconds to eat two cupcakes. Escorts held their hands behind their backs while they had to figure out how to eat it with just their mouths. The first place winner was Easley, the second place winner was Rohm and the third place winner was Langford. In between the swimwear and the eating contest, the audience was asked to text in and vote for Mr. Congeniality. Langford won Mr. Congeniality and received a yellow crown and one Prom ticket. “To be honest, I didn’t expect to get voted for and it made me feel really appreciated,” Langford said.

The judges who decided on Mr. Liberty were Astrid Ruiz, Emily Simpson, Amanda Derryberry and Zach Werner. They judged each candidate for their overall performance in each category. Rohm was announced Mr. Liberty and received two Prom tickets along with a blue crown. Ambrose was the runner up. “I wasn’t expecting it and it felt pretty cool because I got to keep the crown,” Rohm said. “I thought it was going to be me, Satchel or Ethan. I felt like we had the coolest talents and the best dance from the group dance.” The audience enjoyed the show and the seniors encourage students to be apart of it in future years. “I’m really glad I decided to do it and I think next year kids shouldn’t hesitate to sign up,” Donaldson said.

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Tara Prindle

Tara, you are a gift, a rare, exquisite gift. As a family we are very aware of what a gift we have in you. You are a daughter we are very proud of and a sister who is loving and loyal. It has been such a pleasure to watch you grow. I still remember watching you at Exchange City working as the editor of the newspaper and I knew I was watching the beginning of something wonderful. Tara there are so many beautiful and fierce sides of you. From the brilliant writer to the strong athletic pitcher, you are the whole package. Like your Dad says all the time, “There’s nothing you can’t do.” Now, as a family, we share the gift of you, Tara Prindle, with the world. Your words will change this world for the better. I am certain, because they already have.

We love you, Tara! Mom, Dad and Laura

A Faithful Farewell

Graduating seniors come together for one last celebration before graduation. Story by Riley Kelley

Photos by Joey O’Kelly

Baccalaureate is a Liberty blessing on the graduating class. The celebration will be held on May 13 at 7:00 pm at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church. While the date and time are set in stone, many seniors may still find themselves asking, ‘what is baccalaureate?’ “Baccalaureate is the prayer service for the seniors who are graduating,” senior Jordan Cowger said. “It’s optional, but I think that it is an important tradition and another celebration of reaching the end of high school.” Senior Jay Butler has first hand experience with baccalaureate services. “I went last year because I was in chamber choir and we sing at the ceremony,” Butler said. “It’s somewhat a celebration of seniors graduating. I think it will be a nice experience with the rest of the class.” Preparations have been made for baccalaureate to make the seniors’ experience the best it can be. “The baccalaureate service will involve several ministers from local churches, hymns, prayers and a sermon,” Reverend Nikki Cooley from First Presbyterian Church said. “To prepare, a location big enough to hold everyone must be selected, ministers are selected-especially those who have children graduating or a close relationship with graduates are asked to participate. Music, speakers and scriptures

are selected and the program for the order of service is created.” Graduation can be a hectic time and anticipation for the big day can be stressful. Baccalaureate may help provide some relief by allowing seniors to get together and celebrate. “It’s a really good religious experience,” senior Madison Perry said. “It relaxes you before the big day. It’s a good time for the senior class to get together and do something.” Getting together to celebrate graduation holds value for many seniors. Going off to college often separates students from friends. Baccalaureate is an opportunity for seniors to see those faces one more time and reflect on their time in high school. “Baccalaureate is a time where you celebrate high school. After that you’re graduating and looking forward,” Butler said. “It’s that final step of high school before you move on. It’s the final remembering of what you did in high school with the the people that you’re with. After that it’s graduation and college.” Baccalaureate has been celebrated by many senior classes. Students attending recognize that the tradition is one that needs to be kept alive for future classes. “It’s a valuable tradition because religion plays a big part in a lot of people’s lives,”

Perry said. “It’s something that a lot of us have in common and even if not all of us have the same religion it’s good to get together and celebrate.” Senior Bailey Eddy agrees. “I think it’s valuable for people who find value in spiritual services,” Eddy said. “I’m glad that it’s an addition to the traditional graduation ceremony for people who wish to have a church service.” Although baccalaureate is not put on by LHS, the celebration will feature a performance from LHS students. “I was invited by the choir director to perform,” Eddy said. “They will have music, performances and prayer services.” The 32 chamber choir members have been hard at work rehearsing their music to prepare for the performance. “The songs being performed definitely have a religious message and usually they have some kind of positive message of sending students forth in their next phase of life,” Heruth said. “The Liberty-Area Ministerial Alliance organizes the service. The pastoral staff of many denominations are represented and lead or participate in the service. ” Baccalaureate is the time when the Liberty community gives its final blessings to seniors. “It’s one last celebrations before the big day so you can celebrate graduating and going out into the real world,” Perry said.

The Bell asked 427 seniors: Are you going to the Baccalaureate? 130 responded. 23.1% What’s a Baccalaureate?

15.4% No

44.6% Yes

16.9% Not Sure

Left: Senior Veronica Howland. Right: Seniors Jay Gordon and Michael Barreca.

Features 13

This Year in 365 Review the highlights of the 2015-2016 school year.

Story by Kati Benhardt Boys rugby placed

1st

RUGBY

at districts. Going to state! Girls soccer placed

2nd

TEAM events sent to state

Choir events sent to State

2nd

3rd at Districts

Softball placed

3rd 7 at State

Girl swimmers sent to state.

Features 14

Boys basketball placed

Girls rugby placed

at State.

Girls basketball placed

at State.

at Districts.

One act placed

at District semifinals.

1st

2nd

at Districts.

3rd

Robotics placed

22 20

Volleyball placed Orchestra events sent to state

Band kids sent to state

Morgan Fleming scored

1,642

points to become LHSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; all time leading scorer and won the DiReena award

Girl tennis players sent to State.

3rd 1 8 3 at Districts

Wrestler sent to State.

Boys swimmers sent to State. Girls golfers sent to State.

October

Sapphires Win State Royals Win World Series

“I felt so excited after the Royals won the World Series. I was so heartbroken after the outcome of the 2014 season when we were ninety feet away from winning. But I think that loss made the win in 2015 so much better,” junior TJ Persell said.

“My favorite memory from state was coming off of the floor after both routines and feeling so confident in what we all had done. We were focused from start to finish and gave everything our all. It was also super cool when they announced Liberty as All-Academic and 1st place state champions.” senior Jessie Fullinwider said.

WWII Veterans

“I know the value of hearing a WWII veteran speak and want as many students to experience this as possible. In a few years, we will not have this opportunity. Current students are the last generation that will get to hear in person the voices of our WWII vets,” Doug Winkler said.

February

Cara Filler

“We brought Cara Filler to our school, because we liked her message about safe driving, and we thought the students here can take her message to heart. I think Cara impacted the students at LHS in a positive and emotional way,” junior Alyssa Hamline said

March

Photo by Joey O’Kelly

Photo by MaryAnn Johnson

Photo by Hannah Davidson

Photo by Kelsey Baldwin

Photo by Carlos Valencia

“We liked his look, we liked his message, we liked that he was a little raw, but also that he was so caring and that he had this really tender part of him, it was kind of like a juxtaposition,” administrator Bridget Herrman said.

February

Photo by MaryAnn Johnson

Davey Muise

November

H.O.P.E. Awards

“What I thought when I first heard, was surprise. I was surprised because I wasn’t doing anything too special. All I was doing was taking some time throughout my day to talk to the Room 100 kids. I know plenty of kids that do what I do and are worthy of the award as well, which makes me feel even more honored to actually get this award,” senior Matt Gastner said.

April

Top (left to right): Senior Josh Munden and Davey Muise, Seniors Adam Pouliot and Colton VanVleck, Senior Jessie Fullinwider. Bottom (left to right): World War II Veterans, Cara Filler and freshman Aly Criscione, Senior Matt Gastner, junior Jacob Sellhorst and sophomore Daryl Gichui

Features 15

Senior Send-offs Phoebe Alpern

Senior Phoebe Alpern is passionate, driven and involved. She is a member of many clubs, organizations, sports and in her free time, volunteers at a local women’s shelter. While most students just take the classes offered in the course catalogue, Alpern decided to expand her options and created an independent study class with teacher Patricia Kurtz.

Anthony Butler

All throughout history, mankind has fought to survive with only one tool. The mind. Whenever a challenge has faced us as a species we created a solution. Thanks to students in Liberty Robotics like senior Anthony Butler, this tradition continues, but of course, with robots. “[Robotics is] the hardest fun you’ll ever have. It’s like working any other job but with your friends instead of coworkers,” Butler said. “We start upstairs

Story by Meg Whipple

Photo by Corben Phillips

“[My favorite memory] would probably be the class I have gotten to do this year,” Alpern said. Alpern’s independent study is formatted like an Oxford Tutorial and is focused on different types of literature, where she has covered poetry by T.S. Eliot to non-fiction by Henry David Thoreau. ““Phoebe was in my AP English last year,” Kurtz said. “She was phenomenal in terms of her perceptive reading and analytical writing so when she asked about an independent study to further her education in literature, I agreed and we worked our schedules to make it happen. I decided an Oxford-style tutorial would challenge her amazing intellect.” Alpern will attend Pomona College in California and has great plans for the summer that will impact her future. “This summer I’ll be spending six weeks in Amman, Jordan with a State Department scholarship to learn Arabic,”

Story by Alex Wilson

Photo by Lacy Williams

and have our beginning meeting, after that we go our separate ways. Everyone does something, whether it’s spirit, graphic design, making projects, cleaning up or inventory. After that we put everything back in the shop and go upstairs to finish anything we missed.” Butler has dedicated many hours to the robotics program, eventually becoming the Chief Logistics Officer. “I’m in charge of about seven other people; Safety, Drive team, Inventory, Scouting, and Pit and Field,” Butler said. With Butler’s leadership and the skill of everyone on the team, they won big during build season. “This year at robotics we won The Chairman’s award,” Butler said. “We were supposed to win safety award too, but they didn’t want to give us two awards at once.” Like every senior in high school, Butler has to face the pressure of his future. Fortunately for Butler, he has a plan. “I’m hoping to go into electric

Senior Spotlight 16

Alpern said. “I’m really excited to be able to take that with me to college and hopefully continue studying Arabic.” Alpern looks back on her time at LHS with fondness. She also looks back on how her relationships have affected her. “I have just tried to involve myself with things and people that I think make me a better person and are going to make my life after high school better,” Alpern said. “Phoebe is very passionate about her beliefs,” senior Abby Hill said. “She is always willing to learn new things and embraces challenges and discussion for productive debate and interaction with other people.” Alpern’s advice to underclassmen is simple: “Don’t procrastinate! That’s my biggest advice and I wish I could go back and punch my sophomore year self and tell myself that.”

engineering and have my minor as automotive engineering,” Butler said. “[I’m going to] Maple Woods for two years then I’ll transfer to UMKC. I have a full ride through college because of A+, a robotics scholarship and a Ford scholarship.” Many teachers have noticed Butler’s talent and ambition, like Industrial Technology teacher Gary Pierson. “Anthony is very curious and he is not afraid to use trial and error to learn new things,” Pierson said. “ I see a lot of kids who are tentative about trying something if they don’t know what’s going to happen in the long run, but with Anthony, he’ll try first and then learn from mistakes that happen, he’s not afraid to do that.” Outside of school, Butler is like every student, he has his hobbies, talents and is a true artist if given a yo-yo. Senior Jakob UphamTubbs is one of his closest friends. “He’s one of my best friends, he’s cool, unique, very funny, smart and he knows a lot. Nothing more needs to be said.”

KJ Stahl

Service is an intangible commodity. The natural perception of it involves doing something that will truly serve others in need. For senior KJ Stahl, making a difference and helping others is one of his greatest passions. Becoming a firefighter is just one of the ways he plans on helping others. “Every little kid wanted to be a firefighter at some point,” Stahl said. “An opportunity arose for me to take classes at

Anne Accardi

Senior Anne Accardi is an involved student, to say the least. Anne is the Vice President of National Honors Society, in concert and chamber choir, is soprano section leader, involved in environmental club, active in Speech and Debate and a part of the mock trial team this year. On top of that, she has a part time job at Woodneath public library as a page, while also doing a story center internship there. She also enjoys volunteering at Martha

Story by Sol Kim

Photo by Hanna Davidson

the Career Center and I ended up loving it.” Before he graduates, Stahl will travel to Jefferson City, MO to take a test over firefighting. “If I pass that, it will be one my biggest accomplishments,” Stahl said. He will attend College of the Ozarks and plans on majoring in fire science. During his time there, he will be working towards receiving his paramedics certificate and EMT certification. Along with his passion for saving lives, Stahl has traveled to Haiti three different times over the course of 12 months. “On my third trip, I remember our car broke down right before we got to the compound we were supposed to stay at and there was an orphanage nearby,” Stahl said. “So we’re walking up, and one of the biggest things I remember is just hearing the kids yell my name because they remembered who I was and it’s one of those things that sticks with me.” Music is another great passion of Stahl’s. “I drum at Pleasant Valley church,” Stahl said. “Pretty much, if I’m not at school or

Story by Teresa Parra

working at Best Buy, I am at the church drumming.” Senior Spencer Clubine plays alongside Stahl. “KJ and I have gone to church together since freshman year,” Clubine said. “He plays the drums and I play guitar in our youth worship band at church and it’s a lot of fun getting to play music together. He is very kind, a good listener and respectful.” Even his teachers agree that Stahl is a great person. “KJ is a great student and intrinsically motivated to do well,” German teacher Cindy Biermann said. “He is a self-starter and I never have to tell him what to do.” Stahl has proven his willingness to serve others and only wishes to make others happy. “Firefighters and paramedics get paychecks, but they really don’t expect anything in return,” Stahl said. “It’s really cool whenever you have someone show gratitude and they’re so thankful for what you’ve done to help them.”

Photo by Madison Parry

Lafite on a semi-constant basis. Throughout her busy high school schedule Accardi has had a great support system to help her through. “My twin brother, Roman, is one of my biggest supporters,” Accardi said. “We’re really good friends. It’s kind of ridiculous, we have five classes together this year. We have AP Chemistry, AP Statistics, Choir, AP Psych, and AP Language together. He is really supportive of everything all the time, which is super nice.” Although Accardi has been successful academically, her favorite part was not the grades she has earned but the people she has met and the friends she has made. “I really loved, especially this year, being involved in a bunch of different stuff and getting to know people from all sectors of the high school,” Accardi said. “My favorite part of high school has been making friends with people who do all kinds of different activities from all different kinds of backgrounds.” There are many things to know about

Accardi, but there are certain things in particular that are unique. “There are a lot of things that I am going to remember. I think one of the things I am also a little surprised at is how practical Anne is and I really appreciate that but I am definitely going to miss her quirky sense of humor,” AP psychology teacher David Fulkerson said. Currently Accardi is undecided in the path she wants to take after high school. She is deciding between either Washington University in St. Louis or Truman State University in Kirksville. She does know she wants to pursue a path in becoming a book editor or publisher. Although Accardi may not have everything figured out, her friends know she will accomplish great things in the future. “She loves certain things about the world, but I think most subtly she’s going to make the world a better place in the future,” senior Kaeli Helmich said.

Senior Spotlight 17

Favour Oribhabor

It’s a rare thing for someone to show dedication to five high school activities, but for Favour Oribhabor, it’s a common thing. Being involved in Diversity Council, tennis, swim, Environmental Club and Spanish Honors Society has helped give her an upper hand for her future.

Paul Ambrose

“My overall opinion of my high school career would be sad, disappointing and regretful,” senior Paul Ambrose said. Ambrose, of course, is kidding. He has a

Story by Tara Prindle

Photo by Mikayla Hill

Though she’s involved in quite a bit, it’s Oribhabor’s future goals that set her apart at LHS since she’s going to Princeton University in New Jersey next fall. “Princeton was probably the biggest plot twist of 2016 because I was just so surprised that I got in,” Oribhabor said. “Now that I know I’m going to this amazing college, I’m going to sleep in a castle because all the dorms are just gorgeous. I want to be an automotive engineer or an astrophysicist and Princeton has a really great program for that.” Oribhabor has a dream to help save the world by making it a cleaner place in which to live. Since she’s from Nigeria, she has ambitions to fix discrepancies between countries. “For automotive engineering, I think it’d be great to design some more because I also really like the planet,” she said. “I just think it’s terrible the way cars affect it so negatively and just all the different resources that we’re using up because of that. Automotive engineers also find

Story by Tommy Roseman

alternate ways to make them, so they’re actually sustainable and are not going to ruin the planet for grandchildren. I think I’ve always just wanted to save the motherland.” Oribhabor has had many supporters throughout her high school career. “She’s going to achieve all her goals,” Spanish teacher Astrid Ruiz said. “She’s going to make her mark on the world a positive one. Whatever she puts her mind to, she’s going to be successful.” She has also had great friends to help her since the very beginning. “I’ve been friends with Favour since elementary school,” senior Brittany Bruns said. “Favour is honestly one of the most genuine people that I know. Even though she’s super smart, she never flaunts it and is just a really chill and positive person to be around. She also has a quirky sense of humor and is freaking hilarious. I’m so proud of her for getting accepted into Princeton.”

Photo by Madison Parry

very successful four years of high school and is seen by his peers as one of the most dedicated students at LHS. He has been a part of a variety of clubs including Cross Country, Mock Trial, NHS and most notably, the debate team. Ambrose has been to dozens of debate tournaments and even made it to the finals at the National Speech and Debate Tournament. “We were in Dallas for the debate nationals,” debate coach Tim Baldwin said. “Paul was the first of my students to break to finals. We were all really pumped. I told him he could choose anywhere he wanted to go to eat, and he says he wants to eat at this place with a cartoon taco with a speech bubble off to the side that said ‘Eat me.’ That’s where he wanted to go, I thought that was so funny.” Ambrose has put countless hours into

debate and has made a lot of friends through it. “He works hard and does a lot of work outside of class. He is definitely known for spending too much time on things he likes,” senior Max Cronin said. As one of the many seniors graduating this year, Ambrose doesn’t have everything planned out. He plans to attend Colorado University in Boulder, Colorado but after that he isn’t sure. Ambrose is known by his friends as an all around interesting person who is fun to have a conversation with about anything from current events to Katy Perry. “I will miss his personality, his character, what he brings to the classroom,” Baldwin said. “He is an incredible young man and is going to do some incredible things at the University of Colorado next year and the rest of his life- what a talented individual.”

Senior Spotlight 18

Jay Butler

“I want to be remembered as a guy who went out and worked for the things that I want, a guy who was kind to everyone he met and treated everyone with respect. Though I may slip up every now and then, I want to be remembered for that.” senior Jay Butler said. Butler’s life has been a whirlwind these past few years. Not only has he dedicated his time to theatre, he also has spent many hours with choir. “Theatre is a mix of everything we learn in school, from math to history to art. It

Story by Alex Wilson

Photo by Corben Phillips

takes a mass collaboration of different people to put on a big project and perform in front of an audience,” Butler said. “Choir is very similar to theatre in that an ensemble is putting on a performance, but is very different in the way we go about performing. We spend our days learning music and working on technique. We focus more on the musicality rather than the acting.” Butler’s work has not gone unnoticed. Over his highschool career Butler and his fellow classmates have received awards for their work at the high school. Inside the school many staff members have also noticed Jay’s work and have plenty to say, like performing arts teacher Don Johnson. “Jay is a conscientious, hard working and dedicated student with an excellent work ethic,” Johnson said. “I want him to know he has made a difference here at LHS. I have learned so much working with him. When he leaves there will be some pretty big shoes to fill!” Butler’s passion clearly has astonished the staff at LHS, but he has also been

noticed by fellow students on and off the stage. “I have known him for a long time, since junior high. He is one of the kindest people I know,” senior Jennifer Jennings said. “I think he is very kind and is very passionate for what he does. Overall I think he is a great person. I think he puts forth a lot of effort in all of his activities even though he is involved with a lot of things.” Butler shows no signs of slowing down. Much like the spotlight, Butler’s future will certainly be bright. “I will be attending Missouri State University for a degree in Digital Film Production. I have been awarded the fouryear Multicultural Leadership Scholarship for my dedicated involvement in multicultural and extracurricular activities, only one percent of the incoming class at MSU receives this recognition.” Life can be rocky and unpredictable, even for a performing arts savant like Jay. But no matter what the future holds for Butler, the show will go on.

Not All Superheroes Wear Capes Editorial by Hannah Leonard

I have always had a fascination with superheroes, particularly Superman. Something about the super powers, secret identities and saving the day has always been appealing to my imagination. I joined The Bell newspaper staff my sophomore year and during that first week I met one of my real life heroes,

Photo by Lacy Williams

Tara Prindle. She doesn’t have any superpowers… that I know of, but that doesn’t keep her from saving the day durring a newspaper crisis. I was so excited to join the staff, I felt like Clark Kent on his first day working for the Daily Planet. Everything about room 605 was an immediate home for me; from the hilariously decorated wall of shame, to the wonderful people. I had found my place in high school. I remember the editors introducing themselves and giving summaries of their positions and I immediately knew that I wanted to be Editor in Chief one day. Tara was paired with me that first week to show me how to conduct interviews and has been teaching me something new ever since, from editing to being a leader. Tara is my Editor in Chief and because of her guidance, tough love and friendship, I will be following in her footsteps and

fulfilling my dream. Superheroes are known for their sacrifice and witty comments, both of which Tara has expertise in. I have a lot to live up to as I become the Perry White of The Bell. I also owe my success to my adviser, Lori Oyler. Without her guidance and valuable lessons, the entire staff would be lost and there wouldn’t be a Bell. Because of Tara and Oyler, I am thrilled for the late night deadlines and stacks of stories to edit. I am a better writer thanks to my fellow staff members. They are my newspaper family, my very own Justice League. Leading them is going to be such an honor. I’ll miss my best friend but it’s my time to step up and be the hero for the staff as Tara has been before me. The only thing that could make becoming Editor in Chief any better is if it came with the power to fly because it certainly gives that sensation.

Senior Spotlight and Editorial 19

Jay Butler

Story by Alex Wilson

Photo by Corben Phillips

Not All Superhereos Wear Capes Editorial by Hannah Leonard

Photo by Lacy Williams

Senior Spotlight and Editorial 19

Anthony Bengimina Anthony, We are all so proud of you. You have worked very hard all through school. Congratulations, we know you will do great things in life. Eva wants to tell you, “I love you bubbas”! Good luck, Love Dad, Mom, Joe G, Mikaela, Anthony G, Rosie, Nicholas, Eva, Lucy & Effie

Taylor Ann Gerstner We can’t wait to see what the future holds for you at Truman State! We are so very proud of you! Love you, Mom, Dad, Alyson & Evan

Veronica Howland Through all the smiles, tears, and laughter you have kept us on our toes. You are a blessing to us and everyone you meet! Love, Mom and Dad

Meredith Malone

Mattie Elizabeth Davis Mattie, Congratulations on your high school graduation. We are so proud of you and excited to see how your life unfolds. Take a moment to enjoy this time. Love, Mom and Dad

We are so proud of you, Spacegoat, and all of your accomplisments. Don’t take any wooden nickels while you are studying ceramic engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology. You will at least have to come home for Ren Fest and Comic Con. The Future is Yours!

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Teacher Send-Offs

Along with graduating seniors, six staff members say goodbyes to LHS. Story and photos by Emily Johannes and Haley Stephenson “She is fun, but she knows how to be serious and interact with the kids. “[I will miss] her style of teaching. It’s a little different, she’ll incorporate videos and then she’ll draw on the whiteboard and it helps you out. She explains really well and breaks it down for us.” –senior Hal Tyson

ELA Teacher Rebecca Burnett “What I like about Mr. Hammer is that he’s not like most teachers; he doesn’t find it necessary to follow the curriculum 100 percent. He gives us real world examples and talks to us and tries to help us understand things rather than fly through what he’s supposed to teach. I think he’s really interested in his kids and help them find ways to learn and understand the subject as well as teaching them life lessons.” – senior Ben Kunkel

Social Studies Teacher Mike Hammer

“He’s got a great personality; we’re going to miss his witty humor. He’s very talented as far as graphic design, has designed shirts for us and has just been a go-to person about anything art-related. “We’re going to miss his personality and seeing him around the halls.” –SPED teacher Jessica King

Indepth 22

SPED Teacher Cameron Brenton

“I’ve always loved my students. I drive almost forty minutes a day [to school] and people always ask ‘Why do you drive that far for work?’ and I say it’s because I love my kiddos. I just think that kids have changed and people are more accepting since I started working here, which is a really positive change. We are more accepting than we used to be. [I would tell kids to] be kind to each other, work hard and have fun.” – Rebecca Burnett

“I haven’t really thought about [my legacy], but I would like to be remembered as someone who loved what they were doing. The compliments I’ve gotten over the years have been that kids believe that I’m glad to be here or more importantly I love to teach and interact with the kids. [I would tell students to] be patient. Do what you can to make things happen, but sometimes you need to sit back and let things develop.” – Mike Hammer Retiring after 18 years at LHS

“I have really enjoyed building a program from the ground up. Offering the facilities to my students that are often not offered in public schools is a great statement about LPS. I have greatly enjoyed building relationships with the other staff and administrators in the building. A lot of work has been done to look at and start answering some really hard questions that have not been addressed before. Partnering with other staff and administration throughout the whole process has been a great learning experience for me.” –Cameron Brenton

“I remember when I first came in, like parent teacher conferences, my dad and I walked in and saw how tall she was and it just caught both of us off guard. The rest of the year she would stand on her tip toes by my desk. She was always laid back. She always made sure that we had fun and she always had a system so we always knew what to expect with her. Everybody turned in the homework the day before the test and we always had time to do homework at the end of class.” -junior Janai Simpson

Math Teacher Joyce Gilmore “Mrs. Johnson has really made the J-Lab a second home for me, I’m always in here. I just hope that the next teacher can make the J-Lab a home. When we have editor nights we always get food and she just knows that we either want pizza or ChickFil-A. It’s not even a question. “She also tells me that I can do it. Even when you think you can’t, you can as long as you put your mind to it.” -senior Alex Russell

ELA Teacher Karen Johnson

“There are multiple memories of Dr. Camp’s phenomenally coached Scholar Bowl team completely beating our own! She’s also a really fantastic person, she hosted a scholar’s night out and I thought it was a really fun time! “I hope that her replacement carries on the dynamic personality and teaching style that she brings to that role.” -senior Roman Accardi

Administrator Dr. Rosemary Camp

“I’m going to miss my colleagues and the students. I’ve gotten to know a lot of the students here really well and it does make me sad to have to leave them. I’ll be able to devote more time to my students because I won’t have to worry about getting home to my family, so it’s just a good move for our family. They’ve taught me a lot about my patience, about my compassion. They’ve shown me how very much I can care about them by the number of sleepless nights that I’ve had, worrying about them. They show me something everyday. If you believe that you can do it, you can do it. If you believe that you can’t do it, you’re probably right. Don’t settle for that.” - Joyce Gilmore

“I have some great students in the program here, I’ll definitely miss them. There have been a lot of great opportunities here that I’ve enjoyed. I have accepted a position at Kearney High School as a full time journalism teacher. Working with the yearbook and photo journalism students here has taught me how important it is to build relationships with others and how much work can be accomplished if those relationships exist. One of my favorite memories that we get to make each year is when we go to J-Day (Journalism Day) and the kids get to have that experience of having their work honored and realizing how big a deal it is.” - Karen Johnson

“Thank you for being such a tremendous and fabulous group of students. You all work hard, you guys have a lot of school spirit. You do a lot of great things and I’m proud to have been a Blue Jay and come back and be a Blue Jay again this year. I’m leaving because my position has been made full time at Liberty North. I’ve seen a lot of things over the years; Liberty has performed very well at Scholar Bowl. I love seeing the entire school come together and support one another. It’s not just the one time, but it’s the way that we do things. That sense of family and pride is one of my favorite things about Liberty.” - Dr. Rosemary Camp

Indepth 23

The theater department wraps up the year with a comedy. Story by Delaney Tarpley

Photos by Madison Ray

“Blasny blasny,” is one line that perfectly describes the spring play. The Foreigner took the Little Theater’s stage on April 28, 29 and 30 and laughter could be heard loud and clear throughout the entire audience as the characters came to life. This two-act comedy play follows the character of Charlie Baker, who has an active fear of conversation. He pretends to be a foreigner and that he cannot speak any English while staying at a fishing lodge. Hilarity ensues as all attention is centered around him, causing a little bit of conflict and confusion, but some good times. “We [Mr. Turpin and I] chose the show because it’s a show that we thought LHS was ready for,” assistant director Don Johnson said. “I think that it’s funny. It has very unique characters and I think it centers around a topic that is very prevalent in today’s society. I think it’s important that we spread that ignorance is still around us and it’s not acceptable.” The show process began with auditions that lasted two days before the cast list finally went up the next day. A lot of thought went into making the final decision for who would make the cut. “We casted who was best for the role,” Johnson said. “It was difficult because we have so much talent here. It was also

A&E 24

difficult because the show has such a small cast.” However, having a small cast can have some positives according to sophomore Katie Waterman, who played Betty in the show. “My favorite part is having a small cast because you get to know everyone. It’s also nice having only two girl leads because you really get to bond with the other girl,” Waterman said. The rehearsal process started soon after auditions and lasted seven weeks. While the cast was working hard trying to make the story and the characters come to life, the crew was hard at work trying to make sure the show would be the best it could be. “The most challenging part of putting together costumes for this show was pleasing the director,” senior Jennifer Jennings said. “Also, the department hasn’t done a show in the 80s recently, so that was difficult especially with finding costumes that fit the character as well.” Technical aspects of the show were also difficult to achieve, especially with some of the special effects. “Figuring out how to do special effects can be difficult,” senior Emma Davis said. “In the show we (blew up) a car, so it was difficult having to figure out how we were

going to make a car look like it’s being exploded back stage without destroying something. It’s figuring out how a strobe light would look versus how a birdie light would look with this in order to give a realistic effect.” Despite some of the challenges the show presented, the cast and crew all agreed that the best part of working on the show was being with each other. “It’s just so much fun going there after school each day because I love being with the cast and crew,” sophomore Dekayla Craigg said. “The script itself is funny, but then the way the cast brings it to life is even more fun. We all have our own side conversations while we are working and we all bounce ideas off of each other which is a lot of fun.” Jennings agreed. “My favorite part about working on The Foreigner is just working with all my friends and building closer relationships with all my friends because I’ve been working with them for so long.” Although the LHS theatre season is drawing its curtains for this year, the shows for the coming year will be released in May.

Left: Freshman Jake Kane runs through his lines. Right: Sophomore Katie Waterman rehearses with senior Roman Accardi.

Nikiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Corner Photos by Niki Benhardt

Spring is here and seniors cheer because they are graduating! Top left and clockwise: Seniors Michael Barreca and Isaiah Brisbin; Marissa Baker, Silas Johnson and Taja Dotson; Jennifer Vu and Hannah Dipoto; Brisbin, Barreca, Dipoto, Riley Payne and Vu.

A&E 25

Tara Prindle - Maple Woods Editorial by Editor-in-Chief Tara Prindle

It all started with a typewriter. With its old keys, dusty from lack of use, I started publishing my own newspaper: The Neighborhood News. In my ten-year-old hands, it was the most precious gift I was ever given from my grandparents because it was the start of a career. Making up random stories with no context, I made copies for my fifth grade class and tried to push them onto

my neighbors to take. However, seven years later, only one person kept those copies: my mom. I discovered those long forgotten yellowed pages amongst the plethora of The Bell newspapers, which has held the main focus of my high school years. I knew then, that I owe my athletic journey and strong, leading character to my dad, but I owe my writing career to my mom. She’s always listened to my story ideas for novels, rants about deadline night and is always ready to receive a copy of the latest issue of The Bell. This job may have started because of a typewriter, but it thrived from the love of my mother. However, I wouldn’t be the writer I am today without the encouragement I received when I first started in ninth grade. It started with Mr. Failla listening to wild stories I would recant about my day. Then it was Mr. Wilkins listening to my lyrical test god prayers and soliloquies before tests. Finally, it was with Mrs. Ahart for whipping literary form into my mind. It’s

because of their support and guidance that I was able to become a strong writer. It was also because of Mrs. Oyler that I stand where I am today. Starting my sophomore year in newspaper, I knew that I wanted to be EditorinChief and she helped me reach my goal. She’s been like a second mom to me and has `seen me at my lowest and highest points these past three years. I wouldn’t be on the road to Missouri University and a future in journalism if it weren’t for her. My mom told me something that will stick with me forever and with every story I write: “You’re such a profound writer, Tara. I need you to remember this: writing... it can change lives, the world. You and your sister have your gifts, but this... this is big. Don’t you ever forget that.” And mom, I never have and never will. It’s because of you, a typewriter, the strength of a father, a newspaper advisor and countless teachers that I am the writer and person I am today.

Alex Wilson - Maple Woods

Editorial by Design Editor Alex Wilson

Well this has been a fun year. A year filled with very obscure Jack White references that unsurprisingly no one has gotten. And a year full of a few obvious Led Zeppelin references, which again, no one has gotten. Which, you could say, has left me thoroughly dazed and

Opinion 26

confused. I have enjoyed these columns because they have given me a “soapbox” of sorts to talk about things that matter, like polos, sage and the various, but mild irritations, that are scattered about my life. For me, these past few years have been a blur. Every school year for me kept feeling shorter and shorter. I remember fifth grade feeling like three years, but this year only felt like three months. Of course I have learned a lot these past few years from many teachers. There are too many teachers to list but the one teacher that has affected me the most would have to be Mrs. Knowles. I took her Zoology class my sophomore year and I enjoyed that class every day. Mrs. Knowles began my highschool career on a positive note. If I’m going to be entirely honest, I have no idea what I am going to do after high school. I will attend Maple Woods

for a couple years to give me more time to think. As far as I know I could end up driving through Kashmir in a Smart Car for a few years, or even end up exploring my people’s land of Poland. Worst case scenario I’ll fly to Europe, sell illegal cheeses and eventually control the entire Casu Marzu industry. No matter what I do, I just want to be happy and make others happy. Even if I choose the wrong path, in the long run there will still be time to change the road I’m on. This is my final paragraph, in my final column, in my final issue. I am very excited to see how the paper improves next year and I have full confidence in the new staff. I firmly believe they will improve the design and content of our paper next year. I am also much obliged to all who have read the paper. I could keep rambling on but I’m going to bring it on home one final time, thank you.

Teresa Parra - Missouri State Editorial by InDepth Editor Teresa Parra

Graduation is not a goodbye. It is, however, a celebration of four years of hard work. It is the hardest work you have ever done so far in your life and it deserves to be acknowledged. In your senior year of high school you experience a lot of “lasts” but there’s

one big first to experience too and that’s graduation! That’s getting to know you made it through the class that challenged you everyday or getting to compete on the same sports team, debate team, theater team, etc. for four years. You get to celebrate the fact that you have grown an immense amount since you were a little fourteen-year-old with braces and a haircut you will regret forever. High school has now prepared you for the next step in life. The next step is not something to be afraid of; it’s something to be excited for. You will always have the people, experiences and memories from high school that have made you who you are today and that will carry you through the next step in your life. I couldn’t be more grateful for Mr. Armilio or Mr. Stirtz because teachers like that made me look forward to coming

to class. They may not even know it, but their attitude and sense of humor is something I admire and hope I can give off to people as well. My experiences throughout high school have been unexpected to say the least. I joined the tennis team my junior year and it was one of the best decisions I’ve made. Everyone on the team got along and I looked forward to practice everyday after school. It challenged me to become a better athlete and take on skills I had never used before. There’s only a handful of days left of high school and the rest of my life around the corner. While classes, teams, relationships and this journey we call high school is coming to a close, it does not feel like goodbye. It feels like I get to say, “Hey I did this, I experienced this and I learned from this. Now I have the rest of my life ahead of me.”

Tommy Roseman - Maple Woods Editorial by Reporter Tommy Roseman

There are three things I’ve learned never to discuss with people: religion, politics and the great pumpkin. High school was pretty uneventful. Growing up they told us it would be this crazy place with lockers and girlfriends and showering in gym class. If they still

enforced that last one- then maybe some people wouldn’t walk around with half a can of Axe all over them. The tests weren’t that hard, but that’s coming from a guy who never took hard classes. I never wanted to take the AP or college classes. I stand by my decision too. While my friends were stressing out about turning in the twelfth set of AP World notecards, I was coasting. If I had any advice to the underclassmen, it would be something very simple: take it easy. You can take the hard classes if you want, just make time to have fun. With high school comes stress and it’s best to learn how to deal with it sooner than later. Write that paper… but watch the game too. Read the assigned reading, but play half an hour of Violent Video Game: Soldier at War. Find what makes you happy and use it to relieve your stress. Also, join some clubs! It will make going to school more fun and it can help you make a lot of friends. Marching Band, Newspaper and Creative Writing club

are all important to me. I learned more than just where to put commas because I reached out to teachers. Mrs. Jones and Mr. Zavos come to mind because they were always there for me. Teachers can be there for you. It’s easy to give advice. Now is the hard part. Student loans, ramen for every meal and -God forbid- responsibility! I’m not ready for this! Something tells me it won’t be that bad. Just like high school got built up in our minds, I think college will be the same. I’m excited to see what comes next. I plan to do two years at Maple Woods and two years at a university. I want to major in anthropology with a focus on archeology and a minor in journalism. Until then, I’ll keep writing, making friends and listening to Led Zeppelin. I’ll be taking it easy. I recommend you do the same.

Opinion 27

Sol Kim - Creighton University Editorial by Reporter Sol Kim

When I think about graduating from high school, I get a knot in the pit of my stomach. There are a lot of uncertainties and expectations up in the air and I suppose that’s what makes it so exciting and equally as frightening. I am about to board the scariest rollercoaster at the amusement park: “Destination Unknown.” Many of my fellow peers are aboard as well and as we fasten our seatbelts, we can

only hope for the best ride of our lives. Most of my time spent at LHS was thinking about college. Instead of relishing in the present, I could only think about the future. During class, I would be shamelessly checking different universities and their cost of tuition, average GPA, acceptance rate and other statistics. Naturally, after being accepted to a few schools, my mind was immediately centered on finishing high school and moving forward. My mother emailed me an article one day that a college senior had written about looking back at her days in high school. In the article, she talked about how it’s impossible to go back and relive your days as a high school student. As seemingly obvious as it sounds, she had a point. I spent so much time focusing on the future and not enough time appreciating the moments I’ve had in high school. As I say goodbye to my fellow peers, classmates and teachers, I look back and value all the memories I have shared with

them. I am grateful for spirit days, high school dances, sporting events, open-book tests and an outstanding school faculty. Sadly, I can’t take those things with me to college. I can only cherish those memories and remember how purposeful of a high school experience I have had. I encourage those students who are like me and centered on finishing high school to look back and recognize those who have made a significant difference in their high school career. Whether it is your best friend, a coach, a teacher or a classmate, remember to thank them because realistically, they won’t be there to help aid you in your future endeavors. Yes, I am ready to graduate, but alongside receiving my high school diploma is a handful of fantastic friendships and memories I’ve made over the course of three years. “Destination Unknown” is slowly departing and through all the loop de loops it has in store, there’s a light at the end of this tunnel.

Meg Whipple - Arizona State Editorial by Reporter Meg Whipple

I feel like writing this column is kind of like writing an acceptance speech for a glitzy award show. “Oh wow, this is so unexpected. I’d like to first thank my mom and dad, my dog, my cat…”

Opinion 28

It is kind of like that in a way. I’ve been asked to sum up my three years at LHS in only 300 words before they cut off my microphone and pull me off the stage. The only difference between this column and an awards show is that this is not unexpected and I am wearing jeans while writing it. So without further ado, there is a list of people I want to thank. First, my teachers for guiding me and helping me prepare for college. I’d like to thank my golf coaches for their wittiness and willingness to take twin pictures with me, even when they clearly didn’t want to. I want to thank the girls at my lunch table for always being a great source of entertainment, friendship and gossip. You girls have been so supportive and uplifting and I am glad to know you

all. Thank you to Mrs. Oyler for your guidance and support in the two years I have known you. Your endless joy, character and encouragement have helped me become a better person and a better writer. (Fair warning, I will still probably send you essays to edit while I am in college). Lastly, I would like to thank my parents and siblings who have shaped me to be who I am and have driven me to succeed and do what is right for me, and Aidan, be glad you made it through your first year of high school relatively unscathed. Well, the orchestra just started playing so it is time to start wrapping this up. My three years at LHS have been a great experience, but I am ready to go on to Arizona State and start the rest of my life.

Kelsi Garrett

My dearest daughter, You are my pride and joy! I am so proud of you! I love you and pray for your continued success! Mom

Hayley Grace Johnston Hayley, We are so proud of the young lady you have become. May each day bring wonderful opportunities your way! Love Always, Mom and Dad

Meg Whipple Congrats Meg! We are proud of you!

Paige O’Leary

It’s hard to believe our “Paigey Pooh” is graduating high school. We couldn’t be more proud of your individuality, independence, maturity, contagious smile, welcoming personality, positive attitude, hard work and all of your accomplishments which have made you the strong young woman you are! Love, Dad, Mom and Meagan

Chandler Jon Jacobs

Love, Ryan, Courtney and Aidan

Congratulations Chandler! Your family couldn’t be prouder. Looking forward to seeing what the future has in store for you. Love you always, Dad, Mom and Ian

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Athletes of the Month Kellan Campbell Story by Katie Moon

Photo by Morgan McNea

“You get to meet a lot of people and they are all so different. Recently we went to a tournament down in Columbia. There were a lot of really good players there and we took third. That is the highest we have ever placed as a team. The toughest competition there was Rockbridge because they are the most stacked team that I know of.” -Kellan Campbell “He is always putting in 100 percent and he is relentless. If it looks like he is unable to get to the ball, he will sprint to it and usually slide. He is on the ground a lot during the game, diving for balls. He is also consistently putting in hard work. Every single match you know that he is going to get to every single ball. Kellan is crazy, man.” -Senior Aaron Burson

Grade: Senior Height: 5’11’’ Ladder Position: #2 Favorite Food: Chinese

Story by Katie Moon

“My favorite memories of Kellan as a player are of him outlasting his opponent. When Kellan is at his best, he will not be outworked in a match. He works harder in a match than anyone I’ve ever coached. I like Kellan’s energy. It is extremely infectious. I admire Kellan’s tenacity, both on and off the court. He has made himself into an outstanding tennis player through sheer force of will.” - Assistant Tennis Coach Kevin Goodwin

Emily O’Hair Photo by MaryAnne Johnson

“I think getting to play with a different array of players is cool. There are so many players that have gone on to play after high school that I have been able to play with. I like to watch them after they graduate to see how they do at the next level. Also playing against other teams that you know the players because you have played against them before is also pretty cool.” -Emily O’Hair “I have known Emily O’Hair since junior high, freshmen year. We have also been playing together since freshmen year. She is a lot of fun to be around, on and off the field. She is outgoing, she is fun and she is competitive. It is good to have a teammate like that. She is also a natural leader; I know that I can go to her if I need anything. I know that she will take charge and contribute to the team as much as she can.” -Senior Hillary Protzman “I would like everyone to know how big of a part Emily plays on this team. She defines what I want in my athletes and will be a huge loss for our program, not just as a player, but as a person. She has made a lasting impact on this program and is one of few to play and compete at the varsity level all four years. She has continued to push our team at practice and will remain an important part of our program for years to follow. She has been a powerful role model for the younger athletes and a pleasure to coach.” -Head Varsity Coach Tyler Nash

Grade: Senior Height: 5’9” Position: Forward Favorite Food: Ice cream

Sports 31

u Gichui

Connor Hudgins Life is like an ocean. It’s time for you to catch some waves! You’re ready. Congratulations!!

Desirae Leeson From pre-school graduation to today, you’ve made us so proud! Can’t wait to see where life takes you next! Love, Mom, Brian, Tucker and Lily

Jessie Fullinwider

As you write the next chapter of your life story, always stay true to yourself, follow your heart and know you can always come home.

Jordon Colner Congratulations Jordon! I am so proud of your many accomplishments. I have been so blessed to watch you achieve the goals you set for yourself, letting nothing stand in your way. This is just the start to great things in store! Love you so very much, Love, Mom

Sunday, April 3, 2016 at 10:21:47 AM Central Daylight Time

84:38:35:3f:ca:32

Cameron O’Connor

We are so proud of the person you have become. You are creative, funny, hardworking, and incredibly talented. Reach high, be kind always, great things are ahead, go for it! Love, Mom, Dad, Danny, Brittany, Rachel, Jenny, Caleb and Keaton

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Jays in the Outfield

The Jays baseball team has gotten off to a hot start in the 2016 season. Story by Caleb Lautenschlager The 2016 baseball season is in full swing. Liberty is coming off an extremely good season, finishing last year with a 28-5 record. Last season came to an unfortunate end with a loss to Liberty North in Districts. Despite the tough loss the team is back this year with the same core of players and the same goals. “We had five seniors last year and this year we have 14. All of us played varsity last year,” senior Matt Gastner said. “We know exactly what we’re going into and what we need to do to win.” With 14 seniors on the team this year, it has created a camaraderie and chemistry that’s hard to come by. “We have a group of guys that play well together, know their rolls and are genuinely friends with each other,” varsity coach Vince Armilio said. “To have a group of guys that hang out at the field and off of it is unusual.” The Jays opened their season with a strong beginning as they have only dropped two of their first 20 games. The

Photos by Morgan McNea team’s only losses were to Blue Springs in very close games. “So far we’ve started off really strong,” junior Clayton Adams said. “We got off to a 5-0 start in conference which is really good to start off with. We still have a long way to go.” The team has been able to overpower most teams so far this season as they held a +121 score differential through the first 20 games of the season. “We know how to hit the ball. Our defense is also really good along with our pitching, that has come around,” Gastner said. “Our pitching was something we were a little iffy about, but they’ve come around phenomenally as five or six games they’ve gone out and taken care of business.” Despite the strong start, the Jays are still taking the season step by step as they hope to finish the season strong. “We’re just trying to take it game by game and see how far we can make it in the postseason,” senior Colton VanVleck

said. Along with the talent and game by game mentality, the Jays also attribute part of their strong beginning to their efficient practices. The motto of the Jays practices is “eliminate reasons to lose.” With this in mind during every practice, the team has been able to do just that throughout the season. “Practices are long a lot of the time,” Adams said. “We get a lot done but they’re intense and can still be a lot of fun.” The Jays 2016 baseball team is unique and talented ranging from their young pitching staff to their 14 strong core of seniors. The current season is full of promise as the team is determined to go as far as they can. “We all care about the game, play 100 percent and want to grow the team,” VanVleck said. “None of us are about ourselves, we’re just about the team.”

Left: Senior Matt Gastner runs the bases. Right: Senior Craig Straws is up at the plate as he contributes a triple to the 10-0 win over Truman.

Sports 34

Fired Up!

The Lady Jays soccer team shoots for first place. Story by Jenna Spence

Photos by MaryAnn Johnson

There’s a new team in town. The Lady Jays Soccer team’s 2016 season is underway and there has been a lot of change. The team’s new head coach, Tyler Nash, has brought a new atmosphere and a new vibe to the program. “It feels as though our team is starting fresh,” sophomore Hailey Smith said. “Nash is very dedicated and has high expectations for us.” It has always been a goal of Nash’s to be a varsity coach and he is enjoying every minute of it. “I love the opportunity of being able to mold and shape a successful program like Lady Jays soccer,” he said. “Coaching is so much more than just soccer. It is having the opportunity to impact lives in ways that you never could without; you create bonds and friendships that can last a lifetime.” The Lady Jays lost some players this year, but they have gained new players as well. The team gets along great on and off the field and work hard at every practice. “We have a lot of fun,” junior Kasey

Allshouse said. “I don’t think there is a lot of grade separation. We’re all just a big family.” The ‘family’ has been producing great results on the field. At the beginning of the season, they played in a hard tournament against some top-notch teams from both Missouri and Kansas. After that tournament, the Lady Jays played a doubleheader against Ruskin and a game against St. Joe Central. Winning all three games, the Lady Jays scored over thirty goals. “I have told the girls from day one that we will not measure our success with wins and losses,” coach Nash said. “My goal for the girls is simple; to become more than what you thought you could be. The girls have continually gotten better each game.” The Lady Jays were recently ranked close to the bottom in the list of metro high school women’s soccer teams and the team was not happy with these results. The lower ranking shows the team what they have to prove to themselves and to the community.

“Some teams that we are better than ranked higher than us and that’s not fair to us,” Smith said. “It fires us up.” Senior Hillary Protzman agrees. “We need to work together as a team,” she said. “We need to believe that we can succeed and trust in each other.” The Lady Jays talk and research a lot of game films. They break things down with what worked well and what needs to improve. This helps the team correct their mistakes and understand what works. “I have been proud of the effort that these girls have made,” Nash said. “Overall, I am very pleased with the girls and feel that they have continued to try and make each other better.” The team’s goal is to finish conference strong. After Conference comes Districts, which is at the end of May. The expectations are high for Districts play. The Lady Jays got second for the 2015 season. “The team that got first last year isn’t doing as well this year,” Smith said. “I hope we can win it all.”

Left: Junior Allie May and sophomore Tara Cookson battle for the ball while preparing for their next game. Right: Sophomore Hannah Berry dribbles the ball down the field.

Sports 35

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