Volume 47 Issue 7
April 2014
Freedom High School - 3149 Chester Avenue - Bethlehem, PA 18020 - www.fhsforum.com - @fhsforum
Uncovering No Place for Hate Separating the facts from the fiction By Elyse Sanford Fyniss Frazier The Freedom Forum
No Place for Hate “aims to reduce bias and bullying, increase appreciation for diversity and build communities of respect,” states the No Place For Hate website. “I don’t think it’s impacting the school because no one knows what it is,” said Sarah -Jayne Freitas, senior. Although students do not realize it is present, the No Place for Hate program is still taking place at Freedom High School. “Is it like a club?” said Alyson Picione, senior. No Place for Hate is not a club at Freedom, but a district-wide program that is completed each year in the elementary schools, middle
schools, and high schools. “It’s a program that the school runs, but I don’t specifically know what it is because no one does anything with it,” said Freitas. Students often misinterpret No Place for Hate as just a sticker a door or a banner in an obscure hallway, which not many students use. “Just because they put posters up everywhere doesn’t mean we know what it means,” said Taylor Lezak, senior. What most students do not realize is that in order for a school to be considered a No Place for Hate environment, certain criteria must be completed. “Every year we have to do three activities that affect everyone,” said Mrs. Carol Lee, guidance counselor at
FHS. Some students, such as Jaiden Coyne and Tara Hathaway, freshmen, question which No Place for Hate activities have taken place this year. In fact, The Freedom Forum has taken a small role in bringing awareness to the school through numerous articles in each edition that deal with issues such as body image, diversity, religion, cyber-bullying, anxiety, and stereotyping. But is that enough? “It needs to go out to all students. Just virtue of the fact that it’s the school newspaper, every student has the opportunity and access to the school newspaper. If they don’t wish to read the newspaper, it is not going to help them out that much,” said Mr. Michael DiBilio, Freedom High School assistant
principal. When asked if No Place for Hate is publicized enough, Mr. DiBilio said he does not think it gets enough attention from the school. In fact, the organization’s website and requirements are so vague that it may be difficult for schools to determine what activities to do and what works for their students. “This is something that a club could really generate. Maybe once a week or once a month, they could have something on [the announcements] to just remind the school and the students of the initiative that we're in,” said Mr. DiBilio. In addition to the newspaper, what activities have taken place this year?
“Well, the first project was by means of a newsletter that went out to parents. [The next] project [was] through the newspaper. The next project is actually going to be a lot of word of mouth and a lot of posters and advertisements around the building,” said Mr. DiBilio. The final project this year involves having a No Place Hate month, which is April 15 through May 13, 2014 . See the ad on page 2 for all of the events that will be happening each week.
The S.T.A.R.s are among us Two FHS teachers win tech awards By Samantha Lutz Editor-in-Chief
Chromebooks. Flipped classrooms. Google docs. Technology has progressively become more evident in classrooms all over the world, and Colonial Intermediate Unit 20 (CIU20) has recognized this. Mr. LaPorta, principal at Freedom High School (FHS), nominated 5 faculty members from FHS for the CIU20 Superior Technology Achieve-
ment Recognition (S.T.A.R.) awards. Mrs. Amber Chiafulio, Mrs. Jennifer Cierech, Mrs. Karla Erdman, Mrs. Donna Roman, and Mrs. Evon Zundel were the nominees. From the nominations, the CIU20 chose finalists based on their classroom submission who were then invited to the sixth annual S.T.A.R. Awards dinner and ceremony on Tues., Apr. 1. The evening continued with the theme of technology as the keynote address was given virtually. Two FHS teachers were
chosen from finalists of 13 school districts to receive a S.T.A.R. award. Mrs. Chiafulio won the “Best Use of Technology in the Science Classroom” award. Mrs. Chiafulio has introduced the concept of a flipped classroom to her honors biology class this year. Students watch pre-recorded lectures and take notes at home, so that the knowledge can be immediately applied the next day during class. This approach to teaching and learning allows Mrs. Chiafulio to spend more time
in class doing labs. Interactive whiteboards are also used in order to keep her students engaged in the lesson. Additionally, Mrs. Erdman won the “Best Use of Technology in the English Classroom” award. Mrs. Erdman is one of the two first teachers at FHS to teach an online course. Her website has been adapted for these online students to use as their tool to the class. In order for students to stay on top of things, Mrs. Erdman uses Remind 101, a one-way communication tool. Also, Chromebooks have
been piloted in Mrs. Erdman’s classroom this year. These tools allow students to sign in with a unique BASD email so everything is secure. Both Mrs. Erdman and Mrs. Chiafulio use Google docs in order for students to work collaboratively and for quicker teacher response to questions. Technology has come a long way in the past decade, and Mrs. Chiafulio and Mrs. Erdman have successfully demonstrated and been recognized for their accomplishments.
Logging into online learning Seniors are the guinea pigs of an integrated online learning experience By Alyson Picione Journalism Student
Independence is something that most teenagers strive for throughout high school. With online classes, students are given the chance to work independently and manage their own time. There are 2 cyber courses offered at Freedom High School (FHS), Online English 12 and Online Human Anatomy. For entry to the class, students need to be in
12th grade and have access to a computer with Internet connection. Through the use of a teacher webpage, blog, and Google documents, students complete module assignments based on the curriculum of the course they have chosen to take. Students are given a due date for their module assignments and work at their leisure to complete the tasks. “I enjoyed the freedom of doing the work on my own time,” said Cole DiGuiseppi,
senior online student. This year, the online classes take the place of a 4th block class, so instead of going to 4th block students are able to go home and work on their assignments for the week. A hidden beauty of the online courses offered at FHS is that it gives students their first taste of independent learning. “Cyber classes help prepare you for college because you are working alone,” said Kasey Gallagher, senior. Time management is an important piece of the puzzle to succeed in a cyber course. (Continued on page 2-“ONLINE”)
The S.T.A.R. award winners including Mrs. Chiafulio and Mrs. Erdman (center). Photo: Colonial Intermediate Unit 20 ciu20.org
Inside This Issue Principals Corner (p.2) #FHSselfie (p.6/7) Autism Awareness (p.8) Moe’s vs. Chipotle (p.10) “Frozen” (p.11)
2 News The Freedom Forum A Publication of Freedom High School, Bethlehem Area School District 3149 Chester Avenue Bethlehem PA, 18020 (610)867-5843 www.fhsforum.com
Editor-in-Chief Samantha Lutz News Editor Noah Gonzalez Editorial Editor Jack Ogozaly Pates’ Post Editor Logan Handwerk Entertainment Editor Faarah Ameerally Sports Editors Mitchell Coriell Chase Hoover Centerspread Editor Erin Heaney Web Editor Anissa Vasquez Columnist Fyniss Frazier Tweeter Steven Singer Adviser Mrs. Karla Erdman Principal Mr. Michael LaPorta Superintendent Dr. Joseph Roy
The Forum
What happens every 15 minutes? By Alyson Picione The Freedom Forum
Every other year for upwards of 9 years, Freedom High School (FHS) has hosted the Every 15 Minutes program the week before prom for junior and senior students. This year the program will not be running, and as of right now, it will not be brought back. According to Mr. Laporta, principal at FHS, the Bethlehem Township Police Department writes a grant to run the program and that grant enables a police officer in conjunction with Freedom’s SADD team to put the program together. “All of the coordination that Officer Wilson used to do with the county, hospitals, courthouse and all of that kind of stuff, he just doesn’t have time to do it anymore. There is no other officer at the township who was willing or interested in picking up the slack for that, so there is no Every 15 Minutes program this year,” said Mr Laporta.
For our editorial statement and corrections policy, please go to www.fhsforum.com/about.html Any photo that is not directly credited is from Microsoft Office. Follow us on Twitter, send us an email, and visit our website! @fhsforum, #fhsforum fhsforum@gmail.com www.fhsforum.com
FHS Forum Animal Shelter Drive Throughout the month on April, The Freedom Forum will be collecting supplies to donate to the local no-kill animal shelter.
The Bethlehem Township Police Department could not be reached for comment. FHS has no plans for a supplemental program this year. All students are asked to make good decisions, and parents are asked to have conversations with their children about making smart decisions. The program is said to have a big impact on students. Although the effects in the days following the assembly are not as emotionally riveting, students are believed to remember that assembly when someone is on the fringe of making a dangerous decision. “There’s not a weekend that goes by that as principal I don’t say I hope our kids do good things. Are there certain weekends in the course of the school year that make me more aware than others? Yes. You hope kids make good decisions at homecoming, the night of the prom, senior week, and the night of graduation because those are the nights that everybody lets their guard down to some degree and you just keep your
-Used blankets, towels, pillow cases, and sheets -Dry cat and dog food (no color) -Canned cat and dog food -Paper towels, laundry detergent, and bleach -Cat toys -Buckle collars
fingers crossed,” said Mr. LaPorta. Every 15 minutes someone is killed due to an alcohol related crash. The Every 15 Minutes program puts this statistic into action by involving not only the students, but also the entire community, including a local hospital, the township police, the county coroner, and the county courthouse. This emotionally, wrought one-day program happens in 3 steps. First, a student is pulled from class every 15 minutes and an obituary for him is read to the class where he will later return with a painted face, which symbolizes his death. After lunch, students gather outside around a mock crash scene where students are injured, arrested, and
killed. All of that comes together at an assembly the next day where the students and parents speak about their experience. Even though the program will not be running this year, Mr. Laporta has faith in FHS’s students. “I have a lot of faith in our kids. I’m not so naive to think that our kids don’t do dumb things. I think we have kids though who do make good, courageous decisions and so from that stand point, we weather it. I don’t think that one assembly is the be all end all. It’s just a piece to the fabric of we have a pre-prom event, and there’s post prom stuff that goes on, and I think that we’ve cultivated that over time,” said Mr. Laporta.
Photo: every15minutes.com
Improving the SAT College Board updates its test beginning in 2016 By Anissa Vasquez Web Editor
Starting in the spring of 2016, the SAT will be adopting a new and improved standardized test. Changes are focused towards making the test linked to what is actually being taught in high school. College Board, the creators of the SAT, have recreated the test that college admissions officers look at in the decision process. According to College Board, it will be “more focused and useful than ever before.” Unfortunately, there are not any practice questions or book formulated for the new test yet. However, by April 16 of
2014, there will be clearer and full specifications of what one may see on this new test. In print, and even in approved locations on the computer, students will be tested in evidence based reading, writing, math, and essay forms. The time allot for each section will also experience alterations. According to the College Board, the test will be about three hours, and fifty minutes for the essay. The biggest change is not the timing of the test, but the content. The new questions will be sure to apply to what research shows will determine college readiness. Going back to a 1600 point scale instead
Here is the shelter’s wish list: -Cat Litter
April 2014
of the 2400 point scale is one major change in scoring. Also, there will not be any penalty for wrong answers. “It is unfair that they tell us about the new SAT but do not give the changed test to us. It is just a tease on how easier it will be for the younger grades,” said Sierra Kalamar, a junior who will not be taking the new SAT. For the vocabulary and reading portion of the test, there will be a change in the difficulty of words. Instead of a “wall of obscure words,” like College Board president David Coleman describes, there will be words used in high school, college, and the rest of everyday life. The math portion of the test “ONLINE” -- continued from page 1
WEEK 1:
WEEK 2:
NP4H banner/pledge in Positive Quotes Display. library for students and Students and teachers will be teachers to sign. Current able to add positive quotes to events on cullying and the display as well. violence
WEEK 3:
WEEK 4:
LGBT issues.
Diversity.
Multimedia display.
Diverse clubs from college visit.
It is too easy to procrastinate and put off all of the work until the last minute. For the first time, a teacher is not constantly reminding the class of due dates. “Time management is important because no one is pushing you to get your work done,” said Devin Blattner, senior. All in all, taking online courses is a great benefit offered to students at FHS. All students should have the opportunity to experience the independence of cyber course be-
will focus on three specific areas: Problem Solving and Data Analysis, the Heart of Algebra, and Passport to Advanced Math, according to Collegeboard.com. Some parts of the math exam will not allow calculators. College Board is also attempting to include other areas of learning by incorporating historical and scientific contexts in answering questions on math, reading, and writing. “I think pairing the curriculum to the test is going to be much more of a better indicator of how students will do in college which is the purpose of the test. I think it will help students,” said Ms. Mikitka, a reading and writing SAT prep teacher at Freedom. cause it gives them a taste of what the future holds. “Everyone should take an online course because it prepares them for the challenges ahead,” said Brian Burke, senior. Photos on page 5 of this issue.
News 3
The Forum
April 2014
Mission impossible: searching for flight 370 Missing Malaysian plane MH370 By Erin Heaney Center spread Editor
A frightening search has turned up nothing in the search for the Malaysian Airlines Flight MH370 that was carrying 239 people from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing. The plane disappeared on the morning of March 8, 2014. Since then, the search has expanded North from the Caspian Sea and South towards west Australia. The multi-national search team has tossed around many theories, terrorism not being
ruled out. Focus has now began to look at the cockpit. A mysterious message that is said to have been spoken by co-pilot, “alright, good night,” after a system called ASCARS, a maintenance computer that relays data on the plane's status, said reuters.com, shut down. Investigators believe the disappearance was deliberate and the plane could have been thousands of miles off course. As the search for evidence continues, people are skeptical of the truth about the MH370 flight. UK's Air Accidents Investigation Branch (CNN) has found the last
location of the plane to be in the Southern Indian Ocean. A Chinese plane has found
enced while looking for this plane is it being mistaken as floating garbage. The gar-
On March 24, families of the passengers on board were informed through a text message that all lives were lost. Many families want proof of the wreckage before they reconcile with the statement made by Malaysian airlines. (New York Daily News) The search will continue until sufficient evidence has been discovered.
Photo: SANKOFAONLINE.COM
"parts" floating in the ocean. (CBS News). Another trouble experi-
bage has made the search difficult to locate fragmented plane parts.
Mayhem in Manhattan shakes city Gas leaks levels two buildings By Cassie Sedler The Freedom Forum
On Mar. 12, in the East Harlem community of Manhattan, an explosion rippled through two apartment buildings, killing eight people and injuring more than thirty. “We do not determine the probable cause until the very, very end,” Eric Weiss, a board spokesman of The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), told ABC News. Although investigators are hesitant to declare a set
Photo: rt.com
reasoning behind the sudden eruption, they believe it could have been caused by a gas leakage from a pipeline that was located not far from one of the apartment build-
ings. “Plumes of thick smoke engulfed the area like fog around the building at 116th Street and Park Avenue.,” said ABC News. Prior to the
explosion, some residents of buildings nearby reported having smelled gas. However, it was only a matter of minutes before an explosion was heard from the adjacent buildings. Others from the East Harlem neighborhood could feel the building shake, see glass shatter, debris flying everywhere, and smoke filling the air around them. The gas leakage destroyed the apartment buildings, both of which contained about fifteen residential units, according to ABC News. Despite the physical destruction the explosion
caused, it took the lives of eight people, severely injured at least thirty, and left heartbroken loved ones behind in its rubble. According to the Chicago Tribune, "The agency [NTSB] said that preliminary tests had indicated a high concentration of gas," despite having the gas pipelines pass inspection without any problems just one month earlier. At this writing, there is still no official word on the exact cause of the explosion, and the pending report will not be disclosed as America waits for the completion of the investigation.
Principal’s Message Nearing the end
April 1-6
“Crazy For You”
Michael LaPorta, Principal Special to The Freedom Forum
April 25
Spring Orchestra Pops Concert
April 26
BASD Mini Thon
As we approach the end of our 3rd marking period (April 1), I am anxiously awaiting many events approaching our students and faculty. Please allow me to list these exciting days ahead.
May 1
French Night
May 6-16
AP Testing
May 7
Spring Band Concert
May 13
FHS Academic Awards Ceremony
May 16
FHS Spring Choral Concert
May 22
FHS Art Show
May 22
The Freddy’s
May 27
FHS Athletic Awards Banquet
May 27-28
Senior Exams
June 4-5
Underclassmen Exams
June 4
Graduation
These events for many of you are the pinnacle to your high school careers and are the preamble to the greatness that lies ahead of you. As we get ready to close this chapter in the history of Freedom High School, try to remember those who made these events and your accomplishments possible. Thank them at some point in time. For those of you who will be spending more time with us over the next year or so, reflect upon our school and your experiences and figure out a way to become better. Over the next few months ahead, that is how I get ready for our next year. Think of this, figure out how to become a positive influence,
Block 1 & 2:
Block 3 & 4:
Make-ups:
Mon. 5/27
Tues. 5/28
Wed. 5/29
expect success, and as our school motto states, expect “Excellence in All Things.” Thank you all for the great year!
Photo courtesy of Christmas City Studios
4 Editorials
The Forum
April 2014
Pay your class dues! $40 per student This pays for: Graduation, Cap & Gown, and Senior Breakfast
Room 210 or Room 114 Cash or Check made payable to Class of 2014
Fighting for the kids everywhere By Jack Ogozaly Editorials Editor
Freedom High School has a wonderful ability to be able to raise thousands of dollars each year for charity. BASD MiniTHON is one of the leading examples of students working together to raise money for a worthy cause. But how worthy of a charity is THON? Now, before I start this article, I want to clarify that just because someone has opposing views to THON, it does not mean that he or she is opposed to helping children with cancer. During 2012, only 6 percent of The Four Diamonds Fund was spent on research
to finding a cure; however, 7 percent was spent on administrative expenses. This does not sound that bad, but for the last 2 years, Four Diamonds has not released a detailed report of their finances. Since Four Diamonds organization is under the umbrella of Penn State, it is not required to release this information. “Neither THON nor The Four Diamonds Fund files a 990 form with the IRS. That form is typically filed annually by charities that have a 501c3 tax-exempt status, and includes detailed information about where the money is coming from, and more importantly, how it is being spent,” said Anna Orso,
journalist for PennLive.com. This is a big deal since no one is here to verify the information The Four Diamonds is putting out about its organization. This is not my biggest problem with THON, although not releasing expenses is a very suspicious way to run a charity. My biggest problem is not actually THON; instead it is the other charitable organizations working to save lives that have a definite cure. Kids in Africa must walk miles each day to grab a drink of water; this water is impure and leads to casualties. By devoting more time to a disease that affects a minority of people, we are ne-
glecting millions of people who need help. “About 4,000 children die each day due to sickness stemming from unclean water and the inability to practice proper hygiene. Approximately 2 to 5 million people per year die due to diarrheal diseases contracted by ingesting contaminated water,” said Nadria Tucker, author of “How Many People Die Due to Polluted Water”. The problem is that when people in THON say FTK (For The Kids), they are forgetting about the kids who die every day of completely preventable diseases. This is not saying that kids with cancer are not important, because they are. But
when trying to make the world a better place, people would want to naturally start with the ailments that affect most of the world. “I would say that although there are probably diseases on a more gruesome level, these are children,” said Evan Anthony, senior and captain of BASD miniTHON. Fighting pediatric cancer is a commendable cause, but when there are children dying of completely preventable diseases, we should start there. Just because the problem is not in our own backyard does not mean that it does not exist.
Networking a different kind of connection By Caitlin McCadden The Freedom Forum
It is a known fact that allowing children to spend excessive hours on technology is harmful to their health. It can not only cause psychological difficulties, but recently it has been causing more problems than socially awkward teenagers. Using social media websites has become a daily routine for most Americans, including adolescents. However, the websites children are going on are not always healthy environments for them. “Social media has created a sense of immediacy. Students
feel they can retrieve information immediately without any questions asked.” said english teacher Mr. George Ziegler. Everyday thousands of kids sign onto Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or Vine, and witness thousands of stories about sex, violence, and drugs. Kids are being cyber bullied on a daily basis, but who is really responsible for these actions? Certainly not only the ones posting and sharing the information. “Schools need to teach students how to use social media appropriately. The blame isn’t only on the kids, but also parents and teachers. It’s like learning to drive a car.
There are guidelines, rules, and supervision that is required.” said Ziegler. In recent years, the way the world communicates with one another has dramatically been changed. It’s no longer common to send a message on pen and paper, instead we email, or text each other. If a message needs to be delivered, it is not done so in person, but over voicemail. All this technology is available to society at the touch of a button, so it is impossible for kids to be filtered from it. “Being exposed to drugs, sex, and violence on social media can’t be prevented. The cat’s already out of the bag. If kids are going to earn
about this stuff, it will happen regardless whether it’s from their parents, movies,
video games or anything else.” said Tommy Archer, senior.
Photo illustration by Caitlin McCadden
See Mr. Bachman in 810 for details & forms Note from the editor-in-chief: The viewpoints presented in editorials are not necessarily the viewpoints of the newspaper.
How much homework is too much?
Editorials 5
The Forum
April 2014
If homework could kill
By Ka’yon Ross Journalism Student
How much homework is too much? This question undoubtedly has crossed over every students mind. “Researchers say that american students have just the right amount of homework,” said Mariam Wilde from greatschools.org.
However, not everyone has the same opinion as Wilde. “The bottom line is this; students have too much homework and most of it is not productive or necessary.” said Tony Herring, an attorney and mother of 3. But what constitutes as an appropriate amount of homework? For this question we can go to coopers 10-minute rule, which is endorsed by the National Education Association. Coopers 10-minute rule calls
for 10 minutes of homework a day per grade. “Enough homework to help you learn the concept, or to help you research it on your own. A lot of the time you learn better when you research for yourself.” said Dr. William Feigley, guidance counselor at Freedom High School. So is learning a concept a good thing? Why would anyone question that? “When it takes up any of
my free time, it’s overwhelming” said Steven Wisniewski, a 12th grade student at Freedom High School But when asked a similar question Freedom teachers have a different way of seeing things. “I like homework, Its a way for kids to learn what they weren't paying attention to in class, it really helps” said Mr. Wiltrout, a Freedom High school teacher.
Freedom’s first online classes. Top Left: Mrs. Erdman and Mr. Ayre’s online English 12 and Anatomy classes. Top Right: Mr. Ayre’s fall semester online Human Anatomy class: Christina Scheetz, Nate Deely, Mr. Ayre, Devin Blattner, Alyson Picione Left: Mrs. Erdman’s spring semester online English 12 class. front left: Kasey Gallagher, Devin Blattner, Alyssa Saggio, Alyson Picione; back left: Cole DiGuiseppi, Mrs. Erdman, Brian Burke. Not pictured: Victoria McCaslin Right: Mrs. Erdman’s fall semester online English 12 class. front left: Jessica Newman, Victoria Posivak, Samantha Lutz, Christine, Myers; back left: Sam Liparini, Mrs. Erdman, Steven Singer. Not pictured: Cristina Haller, Logan Handwerk
What do you want to learn from the news? By Alyssa Grube The Freedom Forum
The Bill of Rights was written to protect the people of the United States of America from the government; it it is supposed to prohibit the government from overstepping its allocated power. This does not always stop the government from trying to make laws that violate the Bill of Rights. One such action was by the Federal Communications Commission, or the FCC, labelled as the “MultiMarket Study of Critical Information Needs,” or CIN. First revealed by Ajit Pai in an article titled, “The FCC Wades into the Newsroom,” a commissioner of the FCC, CIN is one of the boldest
moves the government has made to try to control the press, which is specifically prohibited by the First Amendment. CIN is a plan to control what stories the press covers. To do this, the FCC first created a list of eight categories, which include things like the environment and the economy, they feel the public needs to learn about through the media. Pai explains the way he believes the FCC will ensure the media covers their “critical” topics. In his article, Pai writes, “Participation in the Critical Information Needs is voluntary-in theory… The FCC’s queries may be hard for the broadcasters to ignore. They would be out of business without an FCC license, which
must be renewed every eight years.” This implies that the FCC will revoke broadcasters’ licenses if refuse to cooperate with their plan to spoon-feed information to the public. It is also insinuated that the press will be prevented from airing stories that the public should have the option about which to learn. If the American people allow the FCC to violate a basic right of our country, what other rights will the government try to overstep in the future?
A student will understand a concept better if he has time to work on five problems and struggle, and then race through twenty. Homework isn't a bad thing, but too much of it can be overwhelming. So teachers should consider what their students feel is a reasonable amount, but students should never pressure their teachers to stop giving homework. Learning can be fun, inside and outside the classroom.
A few of Mr. Baltz’s APES students
Mrs. Erdman and her journalism stu-
Students take a selfie with an octopus
Mrs. Cierech’s AP Spanish students
Mr. Young, the boys’ tennis coach,
Mr. Safranek and his students take a
Dr. Roy smiles for a not-so-selfie selfie with some juniors.
Lexi Keyser takes a selfie with Pi-
Some of Mr. Bothwell’s students
Popular selfie hashtags
Mr. Baltz and his AP Environmental Science students snap a selfie together on their last day of the
Selfies Selfies have have taken taken the the sosocial cial media media world world by by storm. storm. Selfies Selfies are are not not only only taken taken to to show show what what you you look look like, like, but but also also to to tell tell your your story. story. At At Freedom Freedom High High School School (FHS), (FHS), we we use use selfies selfies to to document document moments moments in in time time with with our our classmates, classmates, teachteachers, ers, and and teammates. teammates.
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The boys’ tennis team snap a selfie
Caitlin McCadden takes a selfie with
Peter Frey and Tommy Archer snap
Students in Mr. Baltz’s Anatomy class
Ka’yon Ross snaps a selfie during
Selfie [sel-fee] noun Informal. Mrs. Erdman and her English students show their MLB gear on opening day.
A selfie is a type of self-portrait photograph, typically taken with a hand-held digital camera or camera phone. Selfies are often
Mr. LaPorta smiles for a selfie with
Jason Hall takes a selfie of Joseph
n Degeneres en Degeneres weet’ weet’ record record eets eets of of aa selselOscar’s Oscar’s while while y celebrities. celebrities. nt Obama ent Obama e with with British British David David CamCammark’s mark’s Prime Prime ee Thorning Thorning on on Mandela’s Mandela’s Photo: quasysnews.net
8 Pates’ Post
April 2014
The Forum
Doing it all with a smile An interview with Michael Brandle, Student of the Month By Josh Christiansen Journalism Student
This month’s student of the month is Michael Brandle, sophomore. He is actively involved and invested in many aspects of our school. “Manage your time,” said Brandle. As a student, one should be involved in both his or her school and community. For Brandle, managing time can be a hassle, but he believes it is very vital to being successful. He is a very studious individual, taking all honors classes: Honors Chemistry, Honors English 10, Honors Algebra 2, and Honors US History 3.
Since his freshman year, Brandle has been participating in multiple extracurricular activities. He is heavily involved in various school musical, choral, and theatre clubs and organizations. Such clubs and organizations include the Band, where he plays the drums, the Choir, which he is the president of, Les Chanteurs, Corale, and the Theatre Company, where he is an actor and prop liason. Brandle is also involved in Helping Hands Committee of Bethlehem Area School District’s Mini-THON and Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) here at Freedom. Active in the community, Brandle sings as part of the Lehigh Valley Harmonics, plays drums for the Lehigh Valley Iron Pigs Drumline,
and he is involved with “Relay for Life,” an organization devoted to funding the
ing with. For those trying to get active in their school and commu-
Photo: Josh Christiansen
fight to find a cure for cancer through multiple fundraisers, including a walk-athon, which Brandle is help-
nity, Brandle says, “Pick three things you would enjoy doing...and do them.” For many, this advice would
prove worthy, especially for those not involved at all in their schools and communities, or in special cases for those over-involved in various activities. If you are just starting to get involved or you are interested in getting more involved, picking three things to do is a great way to start. If you are involved in too many things, try to pick only three things to do. Being over-involved can be disastrous and will eventually lead to failure in your academics and extracurriculars. Brandle offered two excellent tips about managing time and getting involved, which we can all apply to our lives. We can all learn a thing from this excellent well-rounded student.
April is for Autism awareness By Carly Pfaff The Freedom Forum
Did you know autism is the fastest-growing serious developmental disability in the U.S? According to autismspeaks.org, autism now affects 1 in every 88 children and 1 in every 54 boys. Autism spectrum disorder affects over 2 million individuals in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide so what is it exactly? According to autismspeaks.org Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and autism are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized in varying degrees, by
difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors. Autism is defined as a “spectrum disorder” because it affects individuals differently as well as in varying degrees. With autism affecting millions across the nation, it is important to recognize the presence of autism from young children to even adults. In order to highlight the growing need for concern and awareness about autism, the United States recognizes April as National Autism Awareness Month. Because their is no known single cause of autism, the increased awareness and fund-
ing greatly helps families directly affected. According to the National Autism Society, Autism appears to have its roots in very early brain development. Characteristics usually become obvious during early childhood. Autism Speaks continues to fund research as early intervention has proven to improve outcomes. So what can you do to make a difference? Aside from donations, autism walks take place across the nation. The next autism walk in the Lehigh Valley takes place on April 25, 2014 at Dorney Park. Walknowforautismspeaks.org declares, “Walk Now for Autism Speaks is a fun-filled, family
friendly event that is our single most powerful force to fund vital research that will lead us to the answers we need.” The national symbol of autism is represented through a ribbon of puzzle pieces because of the complexity of the autism spectrum. As well as this, the brightness represents hope according to the Autism society. It is believed that in increased awareness of autism, and through early intervention and appropriate treatments, people with autism will lead fuller, more complete lives. As March comes to an end and those around us “spring” into April, remember April is for Autism Awareness. Au-
Photo: Wikimedia commons
tism speaks, it is time to listen.
Final steps against cell phones By Logan Handwerk Pates’ Post Editor
Students have been in an uproar about the new protocol coming to Freedom High School. Say goodbye to using your cell phone in class because new devices are going to stop that for good. In the past decade, cell phones have created a huge distraction in classrooms. Administrators, along with teachers, have since been trying to figure out how to control it. Due to a grant
awarded to the school, funding for small cell phone blockers will begin to be installed into all classrooms starting in May of 2014. Cell phones work off of a series of waves that transmit information between your phone, a satellite, and another phone. Cell phone blockers scramble those waves. So, when a person tries to use his or her phone within the blocker’s range, a network connection error will arise. This is the final step to eliminate the distraction of cell phones, but what do the students think?
“Obviously, no one will be happy about this. I guess, in the end, it’ll force students to pay attention,” said Samantha Lutz, senior. Lutz’s reaction is similar to others, but she is quite forgiving with it. Other seniors that were interviewed are extremely angry. “Cell phone blockers? What’s next, a buddy system in the hallway? I think it’s unnecessary,” said Faarah Ameerally, senior. High school is supposed to be a preparation for college, but it seems like administration just wants to treat us like children. It is called Freedom
High School, but where is the “freedom”? “I get anxiety when I walk away from my phone for a second. I really don’t know how I’m going to get through a whole school day without it,” said Alyson Picione, senior. Picione is more concerned for her mental well-being than anything else. This new protocol may be the solution to this separation anxiety many young people get from being without their phones. There will be no “safe zone”, even the cafeteria will have cell phone blockers installed. Looks like students
will be forced to actually talk amongst themselves while enjoying a break from class. If you have yet to lose your temper over this or start a debate in class, you should know something: April fools!
Editor’s Note: The above article is an April Fools’ joke.
Foolish idea about cell phones
Pates’ Post 9
The Forum
April 2014
Freedom gets “bromantic” By Caitlin McCadden The Freedom Forum
Fried is no stranger to the concept of a “bromance.” He and Doug Leeson, senior, can almost always be seen together. “Doug and I do a lot of activities together and [we] worked together; we have
ing “poker nights, being cosection leaders for band, and playing tennis toHe is your best friend, you gether.” However the brotwo do everything together, mance does not stop there. you share common interOften, Matt Henninger and ests, and things are personal Evan Anthony, seniors, can between you two. I know be seen tagging along with what you may be this dynamic duo. thinking; however, this “Bromances” have beis not your normal, come a popular concept everyday relationship. in the 21st century and This is a “bromance.” can commonly be seen A bromance is deeven in tv shows or fined as a close relamovies. Characters such tionship between two as Spongebob and Patmen that is typically rick, Harry Potter and non-romantic. This can Ron Weasley, or Turk occur from the two of and JD, from the popuyou playing a sport lar medical-comedy together, sitting next in drama “Scrubs,” have each in class, or living become icons of the in the same neighborword itself. However, hood. Typically, a broviewers and women mance is easily identieverywhere still wonder fied from the behavior what makes a bromance of two male friends so strong. towards each other; “At the end of the day Doug Lesson left, and Jack Fried, right, they act like the have are co-section leaders for FHS saxo- if you have no one else, known each other their phones. you still have your bro’s entire lives. Photo submitted by: Doug Leeson no matter what. They get “A bromance is a weird sometimes, but brotherly bond that can not bonded through high nothing else matters over be broken,” said Jack Fried, school,” said Fried. friendship,” said Fried. junior. “They form over When asked, Leeson time from many years of agreed that he and Jack friendship, dedication, and spend a large amount of love.” time together including hav-
Prepare to succeed for the AP exams How everyone can do well on their tests By Hannah Young Journalism Student
AP exams are on the minds of many students. If the score is good enough, the exam can count for college credits. When asked about her AP exams, junior Morgana Wallace, who is taking AP Comparative Government and AP Language and Composition exams this year, said, “I’m not nervous unless I think about how close they are. Like, if they’re ‘at the end of the year,’ I’m fine. If they’re ‘in ten weeks,’ I get a little tense.” AP tests are going to be here soon, and each student should know what to do to be as prepared as they can be. Preparing for the exams starts in class. Teachers can
help go over the formatting of exams and example questions. Madame Pazzaglia who teaches AP French said, "In class we speak in French and listen to French in different contexts." She went on to say that the class does many cultural activities to prepare for the exam. Outside of school, students have many opportunities to prepare. College Board offers past free response questions--also known as FRQs-and practice questions for students to use on their website collegeboard.org. "I keep all the stuff from my classes so I can look over it. My English class even assembled test prep binders specifically for studying key concepts. Beyond that, both College Board and Kaplan offer resources for test prep," said Wallace. Kaplan even offers free
online flash cards for some of the AP exams at kaptest.com/ap. During the test, it is also important to carefully read all of the directions, take notes where possible, and organize thoughts as quickly as possible, according to Pazzaglia. Start preparing now for the AP exams to be able to succeed and score well, and make sure to go through the AP booklet everyone received when registering. Most colleges want to see students with the score of either a four or a five.
Photo collegeboard.com
Enjoy writing? Taking pictures? Conducting interviews?
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Ask The Forum By Fyniss Fraizer Anissa Vasquez The Freedom Forum Web Editor
Dear The Forum, My family and I do not go to church and do not identify with a religion, and we do not know if we believe in a higher power. However, there are a lot of my friends and classmates who do, and are very faithful. I feel like I am an outsider and that I have to believe, or else I am in the wrong. -Praying For Assistance Dear Praying For Assistance, We honestly understand where you are coming from since religion is a very touchy subject for everyone. We personally do not like discussing it either, but we understand you are trying to get a better feel to help your friendship. Not all people are in touch with a higher power, and that is okay. In our school, there are people of all different religions such as Christian, Catholic, Jewish, Buddhist, Hindu, Mormon, and more. No matter, what one believes, the values are the same. Family, love, and respect are core beliefs in all religions because they are morals that everyone believes in. Even if you do not go to church, practice in prayers, or participate in religious activities, what you have in common with those who do is morals. In the end, that is
what matters and what brings everyone together; regardless of what higher power you praise or do not praise. In America, because of the First Amendment, every citizen has the right to religious freedom. Also, in public school schools, we can be taught about religion in relation to its history, per se, but teachers cannot force or persuade a student into a certain religion. However, at Freedom, there are clubs that one can join if he or she is a part of a religion. There is the Bible Club run by Mr. Jones and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes run by Mr. Dunstan. In the end, acceptance is key. Even though many students in our school are of different religions, we all accept, respect each other and come together.
Investigating our air By Princess Newman Journalism Student
In science class, there are a lot of hands on things to do while learning new concepts. Students in Mr. Eric Baltz’s science class get to do labs and try new experiments. Recently, Mr. Baltz did a really interesting lab with his second block class, an air pollution lab. The air pollution lab is when students place dishes around the school to see what kind of particles they can collect that are floating in the air. Before placing the dishes around the school, students drew circles in the petri dish by tracing a quarter on the plate and then put vaseline in it. Students placed the dishes throughout the school and left them out for about 48 hours. “They found that there was a lot of fuzz and small pieces of dirt, but there was nothing unusual found,” said Mr. Baltz. Doing hands on things like
labs and experiments is really good for students because if they are just sitting there listening to the teacher ,they are not really going to learn as much; however, if they are doing hands on activities, they can actually do it independently and learn more.
10 Entertainment
April 2014
The Forum
Are reality TV shows going too far By Mitchell Coriell Sports Editor
Over the past few years, many of the more popular shows have been all about exploiting other people's lives on low quality reality television, but the question is, how much is too much? Everyone knows at least one reality television show. Some enjoy what they see and watch it for the trashy content while others
completely stay steer clear to the television craze. The obsession with reality television shows started with shows like “American Idol” and “Survivor”. This was only the start as shows such as “Jersey Shore” and more recently “Toddlers & Tiaras” and “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” stole the spotlight. Some of these shows involving younger people are setting them up for future mental issues and lacking a sense
of reality. “Most of the shows are just watching dysfunctional people live, it’s pointless,” said Max Smith, sophomore. A new show entitled “Friday Night Tykes” got a few coaches of a youth football team in trouble for being too rough on the kids, who are in elementary school. Also it showed the coaches telling the kids to deliberately hit other players in the head. Both coaches are now
suspended. seems reality TV is no where “It takes control of their near its way out. lives and some of the shows are completely scripted,” said Smith. The rise of reality TV show the decline in television quality. Due to the shows’ r a t i n g s Left: American Idol; Right: Toddlers and Tiaras. however, it Photo simdb.com
Battling for the better burrito Photo logos.wkikia.org
Moes vs. Chipotle By Erin Heaney Centerspread Editor
Both Moe's and Chipotle specialize in burritos and in tacos. Also, both restaurants serve in The United States with a few locations outside of the country, but what makes these different? "I like the way [Chipotle] handles themselves ecologically and they're also very environmentally friendly. I
feel as though their food is fresher," said senior, Kelsey Clark. Currently, Chipotle's website features a section with a description on what they are doing to help the environment. They use beans that are
40% organic and although they believe organic food has tendency to be smaller, they believe the food helps people and the environment. "The overall atmosphere and [Moe's] quality of food is comparable to that of a big
name store like chipotle but overall is cheaper," said senior Steven Singer. While visiting Moe's you can expect complimentary chips and salsa, as at Chipotle you need to pay extra. Add on another $2 for Gua-
camole at Chipotle also. Both Moe's and Chipotle offer delicious Mexican style food prepared fast and to your liking. At both places you are able to choose the meat, beans, and all ingredients that go on your taco or burrito. With burrito joints popping up all over the Valley these two appear to be the winner in the better burrito battle.
Singing and dancing with the Muppets once again A review of the new Muppets film, “Muppets Most Wanted” By Jack Ogozaly Editorials Editor
They have danced and sung their way into all of our hearts, a group that certainly needs no introduction; it is the Muppets! Yes folks, it is the “Muppets Most Wanted,” and adjusted for inflation with two talking frogs. The “Muppets Most Wanted” of course is the sequel to “The Muppets.” The movie starts off with all
the evil frog Constantine has escaped from a maximum secuthe Muppets rity prison, and singing a is teaming up song about with Dominic doing a seBadguy to bequel, we then come the greatmeet Domiest criminal of nic Badguy all time. (Ricky GerThe viewer is vais) who taken on a jourconvinces ney of prison the muppets escapes, movie Photo imdb.com to go on a cliches, musical world tour numbers, and the starting with Europe. Muppet humor we have Through this we learn that come to love over the years.
The best part about this movie is that you do not need to have watched the Muppets before in order to enjoy this movie. However long time Muppet fans will enjoy this movie more. Although this movie is good, it is far from perfect. In order to achieve some stunts in the movie the Muppets had to be animated. This took away from the experience of the Muppets since it did not look like puppetry. Another disappointment in this movie is that the musical numbers are not as good as they were in the previous
films. The songs aren’t terrible but they are missing that charm that Muppet songs usually have. Reviewing a Muppet movie could not be complete unless you added some of the guest stars, those including Ricky Gervais, Tina Fey, Ty Burrell, and Lady Gaga to name a few. Overall this movie is good; however, I would only recomend this movie if you are a Muppet fan.
Monday June 2:
Tuesday June 3:
Wednesday June 4:
Senior breakfast
Day 2 of practice @ FHS
Day 3 of practice @ Stabler Arena
Day 1 of practice @ FHS
The Forum
April 2014
Entertainment 11
Having fun in the sun…finally Things to do in the spring By Aeisha Gauba Journalism student
Spring is upon us, and students could not be any more excited. With this warm weather approaching, you may ask yourself, what are some things you can do in the Lehigh Valley area? “I love spring because it is like you’re taking a little bite of summer,” said Amy Rehnert, junior. With all the different sports underway, there will be a variety of games you can at-
tend. FHS spring sports include baseball, lacrosse, track, volleyball, softball, and tennis. The warmer it gets, the more open toed shoes we will wear so why not go and get a nice mani and pedi while you are out. Spring is a good time for a new spring wardrobe and some spring cleaning. You can take some time to clean out your closet and even your car. When all your stuff is cleaned and you are finding things you do not need, there is always the option of a yard sale. Date nights. With love blos-
soming in the new season, couples may wonder what you could actually do in the Lehigh Valley, but there are many things. Try going on a nice date to Rita’s or even mini golfing. Even a walk down Main Street is a nice thing to do in the spring. In the Lehigh Valley, there are different nature resources that are enjoy- Jimmy Lutz, freshman, takes a cruise to start off Spring able like taking a drive up with his friends Photo taken by: Jon Corcoran to the lookout and taking a nice view of all of Bethle- down and listening to music," hem. said Gia Erie, junior. "I like driving up to the One of my personal favorlookout with all my windows ites would be a hike up to
The Knob, it is a beautiful view and a nice workout! Another spring festivity is fishing. "I get so excited during the spring because I can finally go down to the Lehigh Valley River and fish for hours," said Travis Galasso, junior. The warmer the weather gets, the more there is to do, "I like walking up to the park by my house and swinging on the swings, pretending like I'm five again," said Sierra Kalamar, junior. Happy Spring!
A “Frozen” treat warms hearts Golden Globe winning animated comedy Just months before captured the Bethlehem experihearts of young enced a frigid winter, and old alike. Disney’s “Frozen” “A sisterhood hit theaters on Nov. saga loosely 27, 2013. It seemed based on Hans as though Elsa, Christian Anvoiced by Idina dersen's ‘The Photo: imdb.com Menzel, trapped not Snow Queen,’ only Arendelle in an eternal it is filled with heart and winter, but the entire North- heart-stopping action,” said east. Betsy Sharkey of the Los The Academy Award and Angeles Times. By Samantha Lutz Editor-in-Chief
No spring break(down) By Elyse Stanford The Freedom Forum
Spring break is right around the corner; however, there is a problem. It is only three days long, due to the snow days this year. The important thing is to make the most of it, without focusing on how short it is. Students at FHS are doing different things to make the most of the three-day break. “I’m going to catch up on my work,” said Destiny Rivera, sophomore. A great way to be productive is by finishing homework and projects. Catching up on work will help students be prepared for when they return back to school. On the other hand, some students are doing just the opposite and using their spring break as a way to relax and forget about school. “It will still be a nice break from school,” said Megan Palmer, sophomore. Another way students are enjoying their spring break is by getting outside of the house and enjoying the
warm weather outdoors. “I’m going to go fishing,” said Travis Galasso, junior. Other students are spending their break with the people who matter the most, friends and family. “[Spring Break] is good because I’ll be able to spend time with my family,” said Scott Rader, sophomore. Students that are involved in the FHS Band are going to Boston, Mass. over the spring break. “We’re going to Six Flags for the band trip this year,” said Sahitya Mandalapu, freshman. Normally, the band students do not miss school for the trip because it is scheduled during spring break, but this year, it was cut short, due to the snow days. “Even though we lost so many days, I’m still going to make the best of it,” said Rader. So, whether you spend your days catching up on some school work or outside adventuring, be sure to make the most of your spring break!
Spoiler alert: This is not another story about how true love’s kiss will save the day. The true love that thaws Anna’s heart is found between sisters, Anna and Elsa. Throughout the movie, comedic relief is found within a talking snowman named Olaf (Josh Gad). A peculiar camaraderie between Kristoff (Jonathan Groff), and Sven, a reindeer, is introduced. The pair helps Anna (Kristen Bell), in her quest to stop the winter Elsa has created in the
middle of Arendelle’s summer. The catchy tunes, written by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, had people singing along in the theaters, and now at home. “Frozen” was released on Blu-ray and DVD on Mar. 18. “I couldn’t help but dance in my seat when I saw ‘Frozen’. Although, I did get a little embarrassed when my friend started singing along proudly,” said Logan Handwerk, senior.
According to broadway.com, Bob Iger, Walt Disney CEO and Chairman, wants to take “Frozen” to the stage. There is no time frame announced yet for the Broadway version of the $398 billion box office hit. Beloved fans of “Frozen” can sign up to be “among the first to receive news about the stage adaption of ‘Frozen’ as it becomes available” at frozenthemusical.com.
Taking a look at NFL free agents By Roland Cash Fyniss Fraizer Journalism Student The Freedom Forum
The NFL free agency happens every off-season when players get release or traded to different teams. This happens to players who have contracts that are up and have completed four or more seasons in the NFL. These players are free to sign with any franchise and if undrafted these players are eligible for the NFL Draft. The number one pick for the NFL Free Agency is Alex Mack who was recently released for Cleveland Browns. Mack is being looked at by the Baltimore Ravens, Indianapolis Colts and also his recent team the Cleveland Browns who are looking to resign him. He needs to sign to the Indianapolis Colts because they have a great quarterback, Andrew Luck, who will be protected at all times if Mack
signs to the Colts,” said Joey Smith, sophomore. The number two pick of the NFL Free Agency is Jermichael Finley who was released from the Green Bay Packers. Finely who plans to sign with the Seattle Seahawks is waiting for his medical clearance to come through
Allen who recently signed to the Chicago Bears to a 4years contract. “ He should sign to the Dallas Cowboys” , said Joey Smith. Superstar Jared Allen was expected to sign to the Cowboys after their fear Defensive End Damarcus Ware went to Denver Broncos. Jared Allen would be a good fit for the Bears after Julius Peppers went to the rivals Green Bay Packers. The number fourth pick of the NFL Free Agency is Pat Sims who patiently waiting to go to a different team like the TenPhoto: insidethehuddle.tv nessee Titans. “ Pat Sims will not but until then he is in a hold- do good as Titan because they ing pattern. got no future as team”, said “Finely should go to Seattle Alkiohn Duncans, sophobecause it will be good for more. Pat Sims had 54 tackles the team. They will possibly and 2 sacks last season by go to the super bowl once playing Defensive End. Sims again,” said Alkiohn Dun- maybe perfect for the Titans cans, sophomore. next season if the Titans sign The number three pick of him. the NFL Free Agency is Jared
Volume 47 Issue 7
April 2014
The Forum
Profiling Durant for M.V.P. By Wil Cacciatore Journalism student
Spring time is award season, especially for basketball. The Most Valuable Player (M.V.P.) race is almost coming to an end, and it is already in the process of being decided now. “The M.V.P. decision is a tough one this year, but I think Kevin Durant has it sealed,” said Richard Cacciatore, of Bethlehem, an avid basketball viewer. ESPN is recording Kevin Durant number one overall in the M.V.P race. On
NBA.com they have a ranking system on different players in the league, who are getting the most votes. The players are receiving votes by the top notch sports and basketball reviewers on every sports channel in America. “I really think that they should just pick Kevin Durant for the M.V.P. Lebron James has no chance, and he should just face reality, and also face the facts.” said Tyler Muniz of Bethlehem, another basketball fan. The most important thing for Durant this season is just to finish the season and make
the playoffs. “I would really be happy if I won the award, but I wouldn’t really mind too much if I didn’t win it.” Durant said. Durant said that Lebron James isn’t getting enough praise either, and he feels he is working just as hard. Most of the people in the NBA are keeping a close watch on Kevin Durant, making sure he keeps up his performances, such as scoring, passing, defense and basically keeping that number one spot on the M.V.P. list. “Kevin Durant should win,
because he had consecutive 20+ scoring games, and being a more dominant player than Lebron James,” said Roland Cash-Mabry, a sophomore at Freedom High School. ESPN is going to announce the final standings on their website when the award is presented to the player, and put up the player’s stats when the playoffs are starting. Photo: Flikr Creative Commons
What to expect from the NFL Mock Draft By Roland Cash Fyniss Frazier Journalism student The Freedom Forum
It is that time of year again for the Nation Football League (NFL) mock draft, where over 100 college athletes attend the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. These athletes look forward to attending the NFL Combine to show their skills to the NFL scouts and also have a possible chance of getting
recruited into the first round of the official NFL draft. The top five teams that are in dire need of players are the following: Houston Texans, St. Louis Rams, Jacksonville Jaguars, Cleveland Browns, and the Oakland Raiders. The Houston Texans suffer from not having a Defensive End alongside JJ Watt. The Texans possible pick is Jadeveon Clowney out of South Carolina. Clowney did a splendid job at the NFL Combine by running a blaze
4.5 official forty time. “Jadeveon Clowney should be first because he has the most potential in the draft”, said Nigel Long, senior. The St. Louis Rams have the second pick in the draft and should pick up an offensive lineman. For consecutive years, Rams rushing was one of the worst. To step it up, offensive lineman Greg Robinson is the man for the job. Robinson is 6’5 , 332 lbs and went to college at Auburn.
The third pick goes to the Jacksonville Jaguars who are desperate to get a quarterback. The Jaguars in the past always needed a key figure to win the game. Now that guy is Blake Bortles of the University of Central Florida. Blake passed for 25 touchdowns for a season and also passed for 3,581 yards. “Jacksonville should get Blake Bortles because he has the most potential out of the quarterbacks,” said Nick Sharpe, senior.
No one can be sure of what will happen in this years draft, but there is no denying that it will be an eventful one.
Boston Marathon: running away from the memories City of Boston trying to forget the past By Christa Eaton Journalism student
It was one of the most historical events in sports history which turned into a tragedy. A city turned upside down for days. Now, the city of Boston is trying to forget the past and move on. On April 21, 2014 it will be the one year anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombing. Boston is working to move past the tragedy and make this year’s marathon a success. On April 21, last year, terror was brought to the marathon. Two bombs exploded near the finish line and the city went into mass hysteria. Jack Foley, who is part of the medical staff in the athletic department at Lehigh University, was working at the marathon when it all went down. “Upon the first blast (the boom was felt by us at the finish line) approximately 30 yards away just past the grandstand. I initially thought a transformer had blown, noting a cloud of smoke visible
as well (as we had timing troubles with the clock at finish line in past few hours), yet within seconds, there was a second blast further now down on Boylston street,” said Foley. “At this instant it became very ‘surreal’ for me as chaos unfolded directly in front of me with the elder runner or gentleman named Bill having fallen in full view and police now around him with guns high. There were sounds of fright, pain, disbelief, and a smell pervading as I ran first toward the fallen runner to offer simple advice to both Bill now looking dazed yet without visible injury and the race official standing with him while just off to my near right was Boston's finest motioning to me while yelling l oudl y and disti nctl y ‘medical, medical......need you now’ at which point I quickly took off to the scene of the first explosion,” said Foley. Brienne Smith, the head coach of the women’s soccer team at Moravian College,
was also at the Boston Marathon when the bombs went off. “I am happy to report that we had crossed the finish line moments before the blasts and we were far enough away to escape any harm. We did however, witness the horror that unfolded in the aftermath. Words cannot express how were are feeling at this time. We are
so thankful for our safety and the safety of all of those that came out to support us on Monday, but we are grieving for those who were not as fortunate,” said Smith. For this year’s Boston Marathon, many things will be changed. The city of Boston is going to double the amount of police and also have over one hundred security cameras throughout the
Picture of the Boston Marathon during the bombing Photo: Creative Commons
race course. The public is warned not to bring any large carrying items or more than one liter of liquid to the race. Col. Timothy Alben, who is the commander of state police, talked to USA Today about why it is so important to report anything suspicious to the police. "In this world, you never eliminate risk, you never bring it down to zero," he said, "but we are working very hard at reducing that risk level and managing it to the best of our collective abilities." Things will be different for the Boston Marathon this year, but the city of Boston is confident that they can make this historical event just as successful as it is every year.