The attitude of Liberty students has been one of much joy since the Hurricanes crushed the Patriots in football 25-7. At the end of the spirit week, where students enjoyed dressing up as many different characters, there was an upset on the annual Red and Blue day.

Due to weather, the final round of the flag football tournament was made into a mat ball game in the Memorial Gymnasium. The junior class team was able to pull off a close victory over the senior team, leaving many seniors up in arms. Junior Peyton Bates was especially excited as his athleticism was leading some juniors to call him the 'spirit week MVP'. However, the pride of the senior class was reestablished when then senior team unleashed a can of hurt in the pep rally relays; they especially sought out revenge in the tug of war.

The whole school, though, was reunited through well-regarded Principal Bailey. This was whether they were laughing in admiration of his attempt at the pie eating contest, or enjoying his rendition of the Liberty chant tradition (Give me an (L-I-B-E-R-T-Y) What's it spell? Etc.). Principal Bailey has truly exemplified the Liberty Spirit; then saying that he had never been more excited for a Liberty game.

With rumors of an appearance by Paul McCartney, no one was more excited than the esteemed Grenadier Band. Though McCartney's secretary was contacted, he did not make an appearance due to a very busy schedule. Nevertheless, the band, with solo performance by senior trombonist Tom Santee, added on to their regular show with an excellent rendition of McCartney's "Live and Let Die." The band, of course, went out with a bang by using specialized fireworks. Fans were in awe as streaks of bright red and blue accompanied the performance.

The members of the band, who recently celebrated the 50th birthday of beloved director Kevin Long, have been working to prepare for the 2014 Pasadena Tournament of Roses Parade. Band members celebrated with a slide show, which was put together by the wonderful new Assistant Director Allen Frank, of embarrassing photos of Mr. Long.

In other news, one of the captains of the cross country team, Alex Fitch, was proud to be able to represent our school by qualifying and running in the State Championships.

Academically, the school is already past halfway through the first semester. Exams are going to be held Jan. 9 and 10.

The Liberty Chapter of The National Honor Society recently inducted one of its largest groups, as 110 students joined. At the induction, students had the remarkable pleasure of listening to retired LHS teacher Judy Smullen who enlightened the audience with impeccable eloquence. A copy of her speech can be found on the school website. At the induction students Nick Gaspar, West Holtermann, Kayla Mulkern, Zach Pendzick, and Jane Rosa were commended for their performances on the PSATS.

The orchestra and the vocal ensembles have been known to be some of the best kept secrets at Liberty and they are preparing for a winter concert for all to come and see on Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m. or Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. Under the new direction of Mark McKenna, Liberty Theatre will be putting on Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol." Please check the Liberty website for date and time.

Liberty extends the warm wishes of happy holidays to all and is excited to continue its tradition of excellence through the New Year!