Volume 47 Issue 4
December 2013
Freedom High School - 3149 Chester Avenue - Bethlehem, PA 18020 - www.fhsforum.com - @fhsforum
Taking a different spin on fundraising Teachers and students raise money for BASD MiniTHON through “No Shave November” By Logan Handwerk Pates’ Post Editor
Male teachers were asked during the last week of October by the BASD miniTHON fundraising captains asked to participate in the notorious fundraising event “No Shave November.” This phenomena, also called “Movember,” occurs
with males all around the country to raise money for male health problems. A handful of teachers at Freedom High School participated in this fundraiser for BASD Mini-THON. During the month of November, students may have seen growing facial hair on some of their favorite teachers. After teachers agreed to
donate their faces for the cause, the students donated money towards whom they wanted to see be rewarded with a pink beard at the conclusion of the month. Mr. Bill Safranek, astronomy teacher at Freedom, won the event with flying colors after raising $10,000. He went above and beyond the expectations of participants by reaching out to companies for sponsorships and executing a public planetarium
show for families. Mr. Safranek was joined by BASD Mini-THON captains, his second block astronomy class, and news reporters on Dec. 3, 2013 for his bearddying. It was a great fundraiser which greatly helped BASD MiniTHON in reaching this year’s goal of $30,000. Teachers, including Mr. Safranek and all others involved, are paragons of what faculty should thrive to be.
Mr. Bill Safranek after having his beard dyed pink. Photo: Nick Youwakim
Blending school and the “real world” By Contributing Authors Off Center Ceramics
Often times high school students have the understanding that there is a difference between the “real world” and the world inside Freedom. They do not always understand the connection between what they are doing in their classes and how it will benefit them after high school. As members of Off Center Ceramics, a group of students passionate about making art out of clay, students are
learning that what they do in ceramics class has value in the real world. Since the start of this school year, students have been creating clay bowls, earrings, pendants, rings, magnets, and gift tags to sell to raise money for the ceramics studio. All students in ceramics had a hand in creating these items. Corrine Marchese, senior, was in charge of advertising; other students worked on display, pricing and figuring out the target market--all
things a craftsperson needs to know how to do to make a living off of his or her art. All of students’ hard work paid off with 2 sales on Dec. 6. A pre-sale was held for FHS faculty and staff. There was also a table at the Banana Factory’s First Friday event that same night. When students make projects in ceramics class, often times they do not get to hear what people outside their class, or their families, think of them. Students were excited to hear that people at
Freedom, as well as in the community, were impressed by the work and thought it was beautiful. “I think selling these pieces in school was a great way of showing what ceramics is really like,” said Jaiden Coyne, freshman. “To be able to sell art that I contributed my time into making, next to other artists, was truly inspiring. It has encouraged me to want to grow as an artist and improve on my skills,” said Carly Deichman, senior.
Participating in the sales also opened students’ eyes to the fact that there are many career opportunities in the arts after high school. It also introduced students to artists and art forms that they did not know existed. Ceramics’ students are excited to keep creating and hope to do another sale in the spring. Look for photos of Off Center Ceramics students and their sales and artwork. Photos on page 8 of this issue.
BASD maps future career success The new career pathways implement in the Roadmap to Excellence By Noah Gonzalez News Editor
The Bethlehem Area School District (BASD) has initiated a new academic program that allows students to specialize in their personal career interest. The program is a component of the district’s “Roadmap to Education Excellence 2.0,” which consist of a series of curriculum implementations that are expected to improve a students’ holistic learning, rather than just their test scores.
The new program includes four career pathways that students can use as a guide to choose classes, community service projects, and extracurricular activities that match with each student’s strength and interest. The 4 career pathways are as listed and include core fields: health and social services, STEM (science technology engineering and math), arts humanities and communications, and business finance and law. Each pathway suggest spe-
INSIDE THIS ISSUE ObamaCare (p.2) Marriage Equality (p.4) Giving Back (p.6-7) Nostalgic Toys (p.10) Photography Classes (p.12)
solely undergrad, community college, or only high school. Although students are not held to the pathway they chose to follow, counselors will promote following a pathway to better prepare students for their career beyond high school. “More purposeful students are more successful students,” said Dr. The layout of the plan can be Jack Silva, BASD’s asfound on BASD’s website. sistant superintendent, Photo: BASD Website to The Morning Call. cific plans for students inter“Each of our four pathways ested in advancing their edu- will be as good or better as cation into graduate school, what [students] can get any-
where else,” said Dr. Silva. Exclusively, the STEM career pathway will follow a renowned national program “Project Lead the Way,” that is comprised of a set of electives over 4 years that will ready students in these fields and give them a chance to earn college credits. The “Project Lead The Way” courses will cost over $500,000 for its advanced equipment and materials. The district hopes to receive community assistance through local sponsors.
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
The Forum
Vital assistance arrives to victims Victims of the Philippine Typhoon receives help By Erin Heaney Centerspread Editor
As the long awaited help finally arrives, the death toll of Typhoon Haiyan is already at 3,631. The UN has projected that this number is expected to rise from Typhoon Haiyan. "One week after the storm, food and supplies are now beginning to reach survivors'" according to BBC.com. Philippine government has named this the strongest storm on land. As of November 15, "12,487
Photo Editor Trevor Watlington
Columnist Fyniss Frazier
A summary of the new health plan
Tweeter Steven Singer
By Noah Gonzalez News Editor
Principal Mr. Michael LaPorta Superintendent Dr. Joseph Roy 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
For the record In the “Bullied student speak their minds” article in our past issue, it was insinuated that a student from Liberty High School in Bethlehem committed suicide. A student from Liberty High School did commit suicide, but this high school is located in West Virginia. The Freedom Forum regrets the error.
people are injured and 1,187 remain missing," said BBC.com Aside from the missing, injured, and dead, 1,871,321 Filipinos were displaced from their homes. "Officials said it was likely more bodies would be found as aid teams reached outlying areas," said BBC.com. U.S. helicopters have helped transport supplies to land and specifically to the towns first affected by Haiyan, but a truck shortage has obstructed the delivery of these needed supplies. Philippine emergency services have also been affected
“It is not an exaggeration to say that if the new healthcare system becomes fully operational in a few years it will change the way all of us live.” The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has been the most controversial policy of the last 5 years. It also has been titled as the most important health legislation in history. The bill, consisting of over 2,500 pages of provisions to our current system, was signed into law on March 23, 2010 by President Obama. Surprisingly, the finer points of the law have not been completely written yet, and will continue to be implemented in the next couple years. The main purpose of the Affordable Care Act, known widely as “ObamaCare,” is to fix the current problems in our country's healthcare system. Unlike other developed countries who use a more socialized system of healthcare, America provides a mix of social, private, and employerbased care to its citizens. This has been named unfair to mil-
lions of citizens who are selfemployed who do not receive any tax breaks for their health insurance. The Affordable Care Act focuses on a set of major problems in our healthcare system. One of its main goals is allow American citizens to have a greater access to healthcare through health insurance. In 2010, before the law was im-
offered by the state and government. Additionally, the law hopes to reduce the high cost of healthcare and health insurance. Our country’s spending on health insurance has been rapidly growing and has caused many citizens to face challenges with affording health insurance premiums. ObamaCare focuses more on a quality care and team based approach to medicine rather than quantity of expensive procedures and diagnostics, or “fee-forservice system.” Lastly, ObamaCare was created to provide Americans with benefits and increased protection against health insurance providers. This element promotes Photo: heartland.org improved care from plemented, there were a total health care professional and 37 million Americans who prevents insurance companies did not have any type of from dropping coverage if a health insurance. The law person becomes chronically hopes to reduce this and have ill. In addition, insurance pro95 percent of the American viders will not be able to repopulation insured by 2019. fuse coverage due to preexistThe Affordable Care Act ing health conditions and plans to address this problem charge more for having a by providing financial assis- chronic disease or being oldtance through Medicaid and er. Also, there will be no subsidized health insurance more annual or lifetime limits
BASD & FHS news The Freedom Forum will be collecting jeans until Jan. 10. Drop them off in the offices or room 210.
by the typhoon; in one city, barely a quarter of the police force were present at work. Although the country is stunned by devastation, relief Helicopters, from the aircraft carrier USS efforts such as George Washington, were sent to help with burials and street Photo: bbc.com cleanings have the aid effort. begun. "Many countries have much support is needed to get pledged help in the shape of a country back to being funcfinancial aid, relief supplies tional. Many are making conor emergency teams," said tinuous efforts to assist the BBC.com. Philippines and their affected Other countries know how citizens.
What is ObamaCare?
Web Editor Anissa Vasquez
Adviser Mrs. Karla Erdman
December 2013
FHS sports score reports fhsforum.com updates
on the care that an insured person can receive. Other than the definitive benefits, ObamaCare supports prevention and wellness programs to make the overall population healthier. There will be financial assistance to people with long term needs and programs that promote efficiency and control the cost for healthcare delivery. The disadvantages in ObamaCare have ultimately been disregarded to allow the needed reform to take place. As ObamaCare continues through its yearly stages, the American citizens are likely to accept the burdens for the better of the nation. A portion of ObamaCare’s components have already come into effect such as the HealthCare.gov website that is still being improved. If ObamaCare does happen to be repealed during the next presidential term, the problems that it was created for to fix must be solved in an alternative manner. Ultimately, we the people will have to decide if the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act outshine the tradeoffs as it continues to reform the healthcare system.
News 3
The Forum
December 2013
Destroying or creating? Vandals jailed for destroying pieces of art By Alyssa Grube The Freedom Forum
The Tumblr blog, “thisisyellowism.com,” was created by Marcin Lodyga and Vladimir Umanets, who define Yellowism as, “... not art or anti-art… all pieces of Yellowism are identical in context. Yellowism is forever
expanding homogeneous mass.” The leaders of the obscure movement believe Yellowist pieces can only be shown in a “yellowistic chamber,” which cannot be in an art gallery because they believe it is not art or anti-art, and should not be confused as such. While the fundamental ideal of Yellowism is beautiful in its simplicity, what Vladimir Umanets did to promote the
movement is enraging. Umanets scrawled across Mark Rothko’s painting, titled “Black on Maroon,” the words, “A potential piece of Yellowism,” in black ink. Later, he claimed he vandalized the painting to draw attention to the Yellowist movement, according to the article from The Huffington Post, which is titled, “Rothko Vandal Vladimir Umanets Jailed for Two Years for De-
facing Work at Tate Modern.” It will cost £200,000 ($320,000) and at least twenty months of work to restore the painting to its former glory. According to The Huffington Post, the restoration process will be complicated by the unique painting style Mark Rothko used on his paintings and by the fact that the ink Umanets used has permeated through the layers of paint and has soaked into
the canvas of the work of art. Fortunately, Umanets was apprehended by local law enforcements. Vladimir Umanets pleaded guilty to £5,000 in criminal damage, and was sentenced to two years in jail by Judge Roger Chapple in the Inner London Crown Court, according to The Huffington Post.
New discoveries found in the human body Doctors discover new ligament in knee By Noah Gonzalez and Gavin Johnson News Editor and Journalism student
why countless surgeries have not completely recovered the stability of the knee. The knee ligament could have been discovered as early as 1879, when surgeon Paul
A new knee ligament has been identified in the human body. Orthopedic surgeons from the University Hospital Leuvan in Belgium have recently found a ligament that runs across the anterior portion of the knee, being named the Anterolateral Ligament (A.L.L.). This knee ligament can be the primary reason for
Segond noticed a ‘pearly, resistant fibrous band’ which he believed help prevent the knee from hyperextending. It is located on the outside of the femur and connects to the tibia. However, Dr. Segond did not give this band a name, and it has been forgotten ever Photo: npr.org
since. Through history, doctors have commonly mistaken this band as an extension of the iliotibial band, a tendon that stretches from the gluteus maximus to the knee. However, they soon noticed that this might not be the case after A.C.L. construction surgeries did not completely stabilize the knee. Dr. Claes spoke with The New York Times and said ‘We thought, something is still not right.’ Because of its position in the knee, the ligament is susceptible to tears when the
A.C.L. was injured. If the A.L.L. did tear, it would have gone untreated and result in continued instability in the knee joint. It is still unknown if the ligament is capable of repairing itself and surgeries are being practiced to find the best repair method. “We still have a lot to work to do,” said Dr Caes to The New York Times. Nonetheless, this discover has initiated steps in improving care for current patients with ligament problems and future knee joint care.
Equality wanted in the workforce The low down on the EDNA By Seth Rivas Journalism student
Can somebody be fired for being a lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender? No, but the future verdict is uncertain. The Employment NonDiscrimination Act (ENDA) is a bill that would prevent an employer from firing an employee based on his or her sexual orientation and/or gender identity. ENDA was originally created to protect
lesbians, gays, and bisexuals from discrimination, but was changed to also included transgenders in 2008. There is currently much support for the bill, and was passed by the Senate on Nov. 7 with 64 votes, 10 of those votes being from Republican Senators. President Obama has also confirmed that he would sign the bill if it were to arrive on his desk. The only thing that is preventing the bill from reaching President Obama’s desk is the Republican-controlled House.
House Speaker John Boehner said the bill will not be passed by the House. Boehner claims that the bill would create unnecessary lawsuits and kill jobs if it were to become a law. He also does not plan to allow a vote on the bill. Five Republican House members have signed a letter calling for Boehner to bring ENDA up for a vote. “A boss should not judge you for your sexuality, but by how well you do your job,” said Atticus Rivas, a freshman.
“I would be annoyed [if I were denied a job based on my sexuality], it would be unfair, your sexuality shouldn’t matter at work,” said Rivera. There are some laws in place that prevent employers from discriminating against LGBT members, but those laws are not in place everywhere. Bosses can not ask an employee or potential employee about their sexuality, because it does not matter when it comes to their job performance. However, in 26 states, it is legal to fire an
employee for being gay, lesbian, or bisexual. It is also legal in 33 states to fire a person for being transgender. ENDA would make this illegal over the entire US. It is currently unknown if or when the House will vote on the bill.
No more junk food The FDA has banned trans fats By Alyssa Grube The Freedom Forum
The United States of America is responsible for creating the first fast-food chain, and ever since then, junk food has become a large part of American culture. Almost one fourth of Americans eat fast-food daily. In addition to feeding millions of people every year, the fast-food industry also provides a con-
siderable amount of jobs, even if they are low-paying jobs. Though the fast-food industry is deeply ingrained in American culture, it provides a seemingly limitless amount of extremely unhealthy food. According to the Online Medical Encyclopedia of the University of Rochester Medical Center, the average fast-food meal contains 1,200 calories. One meal from a fast-food restaurant provides almost half the recommended daily intake of calories for
the average person. But is it really necessary for the United States government
Photo: gwyawp.com
to involve itself in American
citizens’ eating habits? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has banned trans fats in American food to protect the health of the American people. According to a quote by the FDA from the Daily Trojan, the ban on trans fats will prevent twenty thousand heart attacks and seven thousand deaths, but the fast-food industry has been removing them from its food in recent decades. Was a ban on trans fats really necessary, or did it simply solidify a direction the industry was
already taking? People worried the lack of trans fats in junk food would change the taste. In an interview from PBS, Doctor Thomas Frieden said, “...it may take some time for the industry to adapt… you won’t know the difference when the trans fat is gone. Only your heart will...” Overall, the FDA’s decision to ban trans fats was to help people get healthier, but the decision will still be viewed as an extreme course of action by some.
4 Editorials
The Forum
December 2013
The impact of television quality TV is negatively affecting teenagers brains By Mitchell Coriell Sports Editor
Too much TV programming will badly affect your brain. It’s altogether well known that an excess of television will be bad for you. Depending on the program, you won’t even need to watch a lot of it to get a bad impact from it. Even Netflix shows where you spend your whole day on the edge of your seat, wasting hours spent watching TV shows. With the current qual-
programs with ease. It’s a little sad to think that “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” is broadcasted on TLC, which is an abbreviation for “The Learning Channel”. The reality show on a trashy family is unfortunately a decent example of the current state of TV shows. TV will badly affect your brain if you “It depends on what watch too much. you watch, some TV Photo: hopkinsmedicine.org programming is bad for you, some is ity of TV, it’ becoming a good.” said John Shay, Sophchallenge to find educational omore.
According to “csun.com”, by the age of eighteen, the average person will see over two hundred thousand violent acts. Also, 79% of people think that violence on TV, precipitate real life violence. The average child will see eight thousand murders before they finish elementary school. That’s children being exposed to thousands of murders before they reach the age of ten. That’s just the average, there are plenty of people on far ends of the spectrum, some who often watch TV, some who almost
never. “It all comes down to moderation, but how can just watching something be bad for you?” said Dong Joo Park, sophomore. There has also been a correlation to weight gain and loss with how much television a person watches. TV can lower your attention span by a viewer having a reliance to be entertained with something new in very quick intervals. That loss of attention reflects real life. People need to drop the remote to keep their brains unaffected.
Why the United States is the World Police Why America need to step up, not step down International Affairs By Jack Ogozaly Editorials Editor
A newly released survey by the Pew Research Center found that for the first time in 40 years fifty-two percent of Americans want the U.S. to withdraw from the world and “mind its own business internationally and let other countries get along the best they can on their own.” As an American, I disagree with the statement that we
should let other nations get along the best they can. Here in America many luxuries are taken for advantage. The fact that we learn with Chromebooks, iPads, and other modern luxuries only furthers my point. We in America are hypocritical when we dislike those who don’t help those less fortunate, but feel no obligation to help the international community. “We have a sort of respon-
sibility to help other nations that do not have access to those things we have,” said Abdullah Jafar, sophomore. Philanthropists like Bill Gates have made it their goal to eradicate polio from the face of the earth. We have had the vaccine for polio since 1952, yet people in poorer parts of the world still suffer from this terrible disease. America has the luxury of deciding whether it wants to help the international community. If you still feel that the international community
doesn’t need us then look back to the 13 original colonies. Without the help of the French during the revolutionary war we would have lost. Think of it this way the superpower of each era holds the torch and passes it when it can no longer maintain the status. Just as the British, French, and Spaniards passed the torch we have a choice. America can step up to the plate where others have not, or let someone else do it for us.
Most importantly during this holiday season it's important to remember all you have.
Fighting for marriage The fight for equal marriage rights between the same sexes By Michael Datz The Freedom Forum
I believe in equal rights for all because of the basic principle of equality for all, no matter the circumstance. There is one equality issue prominent even today; gay marriage. At this point, it seems as if the argument is creating a global discussion; is homosexual marriage wrong? It is an issue that forces citizens to choose a side, in favor or against the
idea. I believe everyone should have to right to marry. If true love exists, why deny a couple marriage because of moral ideals? Technically speaking, marriage is not a right. However, should the opinions and morals of the few nullify the love of two people? No, because homosexuals are still humans, and deserve many marriage privileges such as hospital visitations and parenting roles over a
child. Nonetheless, many people feel that gay marriage is just not right for our society. “The Bible says it’s wrong,” said a junior who wished to stay anonymous. It is a fair statement; gay marriage is against some religions. Many politicians stand by this fact in order to support their stance or position on the legality of gay marriage. However, America does not have a national religion, so gay marriage should become legal regardless. The stance on homosexual marriage is improving,
though. Some states have begun to loosen their policies on marriage, with California and Iowa being two of the states to allow gay marriage, a step in the right direction. In total, 16 states have legalized gay marriage, with 33 states making gay marriage illegal. New Mexico is undecided on the issue. In perspective, Pennsylvania has made homosexual marriage illegal by state law. “Whether right or wrong, it should be legal,” said Charlie Collazo, senior. In conclusion, marriage
Photo: wikimedia.org
should be a freedom that is open to all, no matter the difference. The discussion over gay marriage is making slow progress, and marriage for all must be legal in order to end further argument.
See Mr. Bachman in 810 for details & forms
The Forum
December 2013
Pates’ Post 5
Where are they now? An interview with the former Freedom Forum editor-in-chief By Anissa Vasquez Web Editor
Not only was Alicea a member of the Freedom Forum, he was also the senior class treasurer. Now 19, Alicea remembers joining journalism because of Ms. Reaman, the former journalism teacher, who inspired him to get involved. “I worked my way up through the ranks at the Freedom Forum. Becoming editor
By definition, an editor-inchief is the most powerful person in a publication, the principal editor, and the policy maker. In this case, the publication is The Freedom Forum. And in 2012, just two school years ago, the editorin-chief was Tyler Alicea.
-in-chief really gives you a broad perspective of what it means to be a part of a publication,” said Alicea. Tyler has a younger brother, Justin Alicea, who still goes to Freedom. Out of everything he experienced during high school, he misses his teachers and friends the most. Alicea now goes to Cornell University and is a senior writer for his school’s publication, The Cornell Daily Sun.
“The biggest thing that came from my time at the Forum was that it inspired me to do journalism in college,” said Alicea. For him, going to college was a very different experience. He had to make new friends and adjust to a whole new environment. However, he does have a piece of advice for students still attending Freedom, especially underclassmen. “I’d definitely say to get
involved. Find that one thing you love doing,” said Alicea. You can read Tyler Alicea’s articles at cornellsun.com.
Photo: Forum Archive
Cyber invades the classroom Mr. Ayre is among two teachers at Freedom teaching an online course
sections is given a time frame within which it should be completed. Students in the students’ learning. class do online labs and parBeing in an online class ticipate in discussion boards forces students take ownerto make the course more inship for their work and to teractive. Mr. Ayre meets learn how to work indewith the students occasionalpendently and motily to check in vate themselves. It and mark proalso allows students gress. to work at their own Being in an pace and gives them online class the flexibility to not does not mean have a fourth block. students will Although working by be deprived of oneself for the entire hands-on duration of a course learning. One may seem daunting, of the most Mr. Ayre is available beneficial to provide help for parts of an students if they need Mr. Ayre and his first online human anatomy class. anatomy class Photo: Gabby Wamba is the opporit during fourth block,
By Shaina Palmer The Freedom Forum
Besides dual-enrollment classes associated with colleges, there are other options for students looking to take online courses. Mr. Ayre runs an online anatomy class through Freedom High School that mirrors the same anatomy course students take as a traditional class at Freedom. Mr. Ayre teaches two regular classes during the school day, and spends his fourth block making the online anatomy class website more user-friendly and helpful for
since that time is scheduled for his online anatomy class. Mr. Ayre highlights, “When students do go in for help, they receive individual attention.” The course content is posted in modules, and each of these
tunity to dissect specimens, as it allows visual reinforcement of all of the black and white text overflowing from textbooks. The students enrolled in the online class do not miss out on these experiences, as they still do dissections. Mr. Ayre stresses the benefits of taking an online course, saying that students can “get their feet wet before they have to do it out in the college world.” His current masters class, which is completely online, is an example of the possible usefulness of having experience with online education.
“Now, you’ll never get a job!” How tattoos in the workplace can affect you
about an individual that is relevant to his or her job? Depending on what and where the tattoo is, there may or may not be an issue for employers. The laws are still inclined to support the appearance policies of employers in general and employers retain some flexibility in creating rules that require employees to present themselves in a way that is dependable with the employer's image. But that does not mean that banning tattoos altogether is appropriate. From a business perspective, the issue for many occu-
By Faarah Ameerally Entertainment Editor
Are tattoos in the workplace really as big of a deal as they appear to be? Today, tattoos have gained wider social acceptance and more and more people have them. People with tattoos work in a variety of industries, holding both entry-level jobs as well as top executive positions. So, what can an employer to do? Does having a visible tattoo say anything
pations is to write a policy that draws appropriate lines between jobs in which visible tattoos may or may not be appropriate. According to Forbes magazine, “Even in this tight job market, most companies aren’t going to view tattoos too harshly. Companies have a vested interest in hiring the most qualified candidate.” It has become apparent that times have changed and tattoos are no longer seen as a shameful characteristic. While many people are familiar with the idea that any visible tattoos will end any
possible shot at a career one might have, it is not always the case. Many companies are loosening their previously written policies or removing them completely in order to minimize the chance of missing over a successful worker under wrongful terms. In conclusion, think twice before getting a tattoo that is either visible or questionable in content because it can greatly alter your life.
It is always a great day By Karla Erdman The Freedom Forum Adviser
You know it’s going to be a good day when… You get a free Dunkin Donut coffee Monday morning because the Eagles finally
won. You find a quarter on the sidewalk next to the parking meter. You are running late for school and hit all of the green lights along the way.
You trip on the stairs, catch yourself before you fall and realize no one saw. You think you forgot your assignment at home, but realize you shared it with the teacher on Google docs.
You find a $5 bill in the pocket of the jeans you put on this morning. You wake up thinking it is Thursday, but soon realize it is really Friday.
Photo: Flickr, Creative Commons
Principal’s Message By Michael LaPorta, PrinciThe Christmas season is perhaps one of the most exciting holidays for many of us. The shear excitement of spending quality time with our families and friends among the many gifts we give and receive makes this time special. Personally, I will take advantage of the quiet time along with cheering on our sports teams in their holiday competitions.
My Christmas wish for the entire Freedom Family is to have a relaxing, safe, and wonderful holiday. Please remember those less fortunate and have a kind thought on their behalf. If you have the opportunity to
Changing the world by By Karla Erdman “What did you ever do to change the world?” This sentiment, conveyed by Trevor McKenney (Haley Joel Osmet) to his teacher, Eugene Simonet (Kevin Spacey) in the 2000 movie “Pay it Forward,” sums up The Freedom Forum’s goal for this school year. The staff members and journalism students who write for The Forum wanted to focus on not only supto do good deeds. The first item on the agenda was to make a donation of $100 from the October jeans fundraiser to the Race for Adam event. The money was used to advertise The Freedom Forum on the t-shirts that were given to faculty and staff for the football event, so more money could be raised to help find a cure for Adam Recke’s disease. But the kids wanted to do more. “We could do a Krispy Kreme Doughnut fundraiser, and the money could go to charity,” said Jack Ogozaly, sophomore, about an idea for paying it forward. Thus began the quest in October to
sell doughnuts, which proved very profitable due to a mix-up on Krispy Kreme’s end. In the end, The Forum sent a check for $850 to the United Way of the Lehigh Valley, which will help support ArtsQuest, Easter Seals, Meals on Wheels, and Valley Youth House. The ideas took off from there. “Teens for Jeans is a way to for us to collect jeans for homeless teenagers,” said Samantha Lutz, senior and editor-in-chief of the newspaper. The Forum is now collecting jeans (pants and slacks) until Jan. 10, and then they will be taken to Aeropostale and The Salvation Army. Following that Erin Heaney, senior, volunteered to hepling information to the school and community, but also on ways in which to give back or ad up a collection at the end of January for the local animal shelter. Collection items will include dog and cat food, old blankets and towels, cat litter, collars, leashes, and toys. The offices will also have cans for monetary donations. Finally, the students decided that during their holiday party this month, in addition to doing an ornament exchange between themselves, they
Photos: Karla Erdman and Samantha Lutz
How YOU can give back Angel Tree In America, 2.7 million kids spend Christmas with a mom or dad in prison. For some, it may also include following their parents down the same destructive road to incarceration.
Angel Tree works to deliver presents to children on behalf of the incarcerated parent. This helps the child feel loved and appreciated during the holiday season.
Prison Fellowship’s Angel Tree program is the only nationwide, yearround effort that specifically reaches out to those 2.7 million children.
Coco Lazaridis was diagnosed with juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia at the age of three months in Nov. 2009. After intensive chemotherapy treatments and a successful cord blood transplant, she has been at home in remission for over two years.
Every year, when most of us are running about shopping for our loved ones, we hear the bell that reminds us of the true meaning of the holidays.
cording to their website is “"Doing The Most Good." In these four words, our mission - to feed, to clothe, to comfort, to care.”
Every year, approximately 30 million people receive help from the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army also operates 7,546 centers across the United States.
You help the Salvation my by ther nating
The goals of Salvation Army ac-
Coco Foundation The Coco Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing resources and support to individuals, families, and friends who have been impacted by pediatric cancer.
Salvation Army
affected by pediatric cancer. The Coco Foundation’s 3 main goals are to help fund clinical research aimed at improved diagnosis and treatment of pediatric cancer, to raise awareness about pediatric cancers and the important role of cord blood, bone marrow, and blood product donation in cancer treatment, to provide personalized support and information for children and their families while dealing with pediatric can-
Toys for Tots is a charity helping provide toys for children who are less fortunate. Throughout the months of October, November, and December, they collect new, unwrapped toys. Toys for Tots strives to provide kids with a joyful Christmas that will assist them in becoming responsible, productive, and patriotic citizens.
This is where Mercy Ships steps in. Through free, basic, health-care and transformative surgeries, Mercy Ships becomes the face of love in action.
collection and distribution of toys in the communities in which a Marine Corps Reserve Unit is located,” said the Toys for Tots website. To donate a toy to Toys for Tots, you can drop one off at your local toy
“The principal Toys for Tots activity, which takes place each year, is the
“Give back” articles
Mercy Ships
utz
Areido-
Toys for Tots
The Coco Foundation was founded in Coco’s honor by her mother. Ali, along with family members and friends, provide support for all those
In Africa, more than 50 percent of people have no access to a hospital or doctor. Every year, 6 million vulnerable children die from preventable diseases such as malaria, diarrhea and pneumonia. One child in eight will die before age 5.
can out
Mercy Ship uses a variety of ships to help those in need. More than 75 percent of the world's population lives within 100 miles of a port city.
World Vision World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to working with children, families, and their communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice. World Vision works in nearly 100 countries serving all people, regardless of religion, race, ethnicity, or gender. They provide emergency assistance to children and families affected by
natural disasters and civil conflict, work with communities to develop long-term solutions to alleviate poverty, and advocate for justice on behalf of the poor. You can go to the World Vision’s website and donate to this cause. You
8 Pates’ Post
Do not let winter break be a drab Things Freedom students want to do this break By Nayris Abreu Journalism student
Winter break starts December 23rd and after a few days students get bored and restless which causes them to have nothing to do over the break. A great way to entertain your boredom is to hang out with friends. There’s always a group of friends thats hangs out during break. Have sleepovers or go to the mall. There is always something to do if you just plan. “I would go ice skating and
hang out with friends,” said Miroslava Sheregi, junior. If your friends are busy skiing with family is always a good idea. If you like the mountains and like cold weather you’ll enjoy skiing at blue mountains or any other mountains you can think of. If skiing is too adventurous and bold then imagine the dreams of Alex Pantelo. “If I could go anywhere I would go to the North Pole to meet Santa,” said Pantelo. Even the most ridiculous things that will never happen
will be a good place to go. The most common things are also the most popular things to do over break. Brianna Ford, senior, decided that over she'll do good things to the community. "I would go to a soup kitchen and volunteer," said Ford. Good things are always fun to do, people may think its boring.If you just think about it you are helping others and remember Christmas is the season of giving. Maybe you will decide to take another route and do something different but remember don't let you winter break be a drab.
Reasons to enjoy the season Holiday traditions that will ensure a memorable holiday season By Carly Pfaff The Freedom Forum
The holidays are a special time of the year filled with fun, excitement, and tradition. As the temperature gets colder outside and the aroma of the holidays fills the air inside, there is no question the holiday season
Photo: allthingschristmas.com
is in full swing. With winter break right around the corner, students have the chance to embrace tradition and celebrate the holidays. There is no better way to make the most out of winter break, then to take part in both simple and fun holiday traditions. First, light it up! All it takes are a few strands of
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lights and decorations to make any front yard bright and cheerful. A popular tradition throughout the holiday season are holiday light tours. Just get in the car, turn on a holiday playlist, and find brightly lit houses to enjoy . Another way to experience the lights locally is Allentown’s Lights In The Parkway. The drive- through light display features thousands of lights, and animated holiday scenes. According to Lights In The Parkway, “Lights has become an annual tradition for many throughout the Lehigh Valley and beyond.” The next way to enjoy the season are through food traditions. Making traditional dishes for holiday meals are an easy way to incorporate culture and family food recipes. For dessert, another tradition is baking cookies. It is a great way to gather friends and family during the holiday season. Another way to experience lasting memories during the holidays is to visit New York City. The Radio City Christmas Spectacular of-
fers the audience an experience that will never be forgotten. According to Radio City Christmas, “ Every year, the Rockettes push themselves further to put on a show that’s more dynamic, more challenging and more magical than the last.” More price friendly traditions would include seeing a local production such as The Nutcracker or another holiday-themed show. Other options during the holiday season include ice skating, watching holiday movies, or any other outdoor winter activity. Finally, try “Giving back” holiday traditions. Volunteer, donate to a food drive, or participate in a giving tree to sponsor families or children in need. Helping those less fortunate during the holiday season can certainly create a reason to enjoy the season. Clearly, there are many ways to celebrate the holiday season and winter break. Most importantly, holiday traditions create many reasons to enjoy the season, but also memories that will last a lifetime.
Students from Mrs. Ackerman’s ceramics classes and from Off Center Ceramics sold their work to faculty members, as well as at The Banana Factory. While doing so, they learned how to apply skills they learn in school to the real world. Photos: Lauren Ackerman and Ashley Mease
Ask Fyniss By Fyniss Frazier The Freedom Forum
Dear Fyniss, I have been dealing with a very inconsistent relationship which has taken a toll on my life. I’ve stopped hanging out with my friends because I feel as though I need to be with him all of the time. I’ve also stop doing certain things that I used to love doing because he doesn’t feel as though they’re cool. I feel as though I’ve lost myself in this relationship; it has became emotionally and mentally draining. I just don’t know what to do because I feel as though if I'm not with him. I’m losing a part of myself. Please help. Sincerely, Relationship Problems Dear Relationship Problems, Relationships are sometimes hard, but you should never feel as though your life revolves around one person. You can’t let a single person change the way you think or feel. At one point in your life, you were living without this person, and you were perfectly fine. All
relationships have their ups and downs, but no relationship should be mentally and emotionally draining. Relationships are about growing with a person and having fun. Maybe you should explain how you feel about your relationship and how it’s not what you would like it to be. If this doesn’t work, it may be time to move on or even take a break. By doing this, it gives you two a chance to spend time apart or hangout with your friends again. This will allow you to see if you to are better off just being friends. I can’t tell you that in the end, you won’t be hurt if it doesn't work out, but I can say that you will learn how to find your happiness again. And if it does work out, I wish you two the best. Sincerely, Fyniss
Photo: Freedom Forum
Are you ready to join the Marines? By Jada Blount-Frazier Journalism Student
Marine Corps has motto of Semper Fidelis which means always faithful. They are faithful to their families, to their nation and to the Corps. As we know, the Freedom Forum is informing their students of the U.S Armed Forces. This month is the Marine Corps. Their mission is to protect America, the Marines are usually the first group to the ground in major conflicts. Marines Corps recruit from the age of 18 to 29 also with parental consent for a 17-year-old, but to be recruited one must have a high school diploma. A college degree is not needed. “I think a student should do both,” said Sergeant Jackson. “If college is something that a person wants to achieve.” It is a great idea to go to the Marines and even get an education through the branch.
If you are not the type of person who wants to go to college then maybe you just want to be in the Marines and all you have to be is be a good person. “Overall a good person, good morals and intelligent enough to serve is what I would particularly choose as a candidate,” said Sgt. Jackson. This shows that a student does not have to be the best at everything they just have to try to be the best. When asked why is the Marines different from any other branch? “It is the most challenging branch it depends on the person,, but I keep being it because of the brotherhood, bartitity and prestigiousness,” said Sgt. Jackson. Marines could be the perfect branch for a hardworking Freedom High School student that is ready for any challenge.
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Entertainment 9
Holiday Movie Showdown Freedom’s most loved Christmas films By Miriam Siddiqui The Freedom Forum
Cookies, lights, Christmas trees; all things that transition us into the holiday spirit. But one aspect always makes the holiday feel complete, Christmas movies. “Memorable Christmas movies have heart, soul, and family joy,” said Laura Kurtz, sophomore. Throughout the year, the average teenager makes it a goal to ignore their parents. Christmas is the time of the year that is all about family,
therefore; a movie about family and love always tops the charts during the holidays. Not only does a Christmas classic need family, but humor to make it memorable. Based on a survey taken at Freedom, “Elf’ is named the most loved Christmas/ holiday movie. “Elf is a hilarious movie and anyone can watch it. It puts everyone in a great mood for Christmas,” said Hannah Evans, sophomore. “Elf’ was not the only movie that ranked high for Christ-
mas favorite, but also “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” which also portrays the holiday spirit using comicality. Next on Freedom High School’s holiday favorites are “Home Alone,” “It’s a Wonderful Life” and “Christmas Shoes.” “The Polar Express” is also on Freedom’s favorites bringing the playfulness and whimsicality of the Christmas spirit by using animation. “It is so amazing! It is just such a good movie and the animations are so good. I also love it because it is perfect for any age group,” said
Shayla Peterson, sophomore. Animated holiday movies are always “must sees’ during the season in Freedom. Movies included are “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” “Frosty the Snowman,” and “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Ending the most popular Christmas/holiday movies list at Freedom are “Fred Claus” and “Christmas Shoes.” The holiday is complete with the help of Christmas and holiday movies. The ones named above especially at Freedom High School.
Photo: imdb.com
Winter Fashion for Girls What’s hot when it’s cold By Alexa Reich The Freedom Forum
The temperature is getting colder which means we need to start dressing warmer. Three main things have really stood out as to being the most popular to wear this winter with girls: sweaters, scarves and boots. These things are not only fashionable and cute, but they will also keep you comfortable and warm this winter season. Sweaters are a huge part of winter’s fashion for
girls. They can come in almost any shape, size or design so everyone is able to find a sweater that suits them. “Sweaters are both comfy and stylish. Whether it’s a cardigan, pullover, or knit sweater, they are always appropriate and can make a cute outfit for any occasion,” said Julia Gialanella, junior. Another huge part of winter fashion are scarves. Scarves are great to keep you warm, but are also great to add a little something to a winter outfit. “In the winter months it’s hard to stay warm and fash-
ionable. I like Most people to wear scarfs wrap scarves because, not around their only do they necks twice to allow me to make a circle accessorize shape, but and add a pop you can also of color to my just hang it outfits, but around your they keep me neck in a long warm and cooval or tie it zy,” said Julia in a knot. The Ingarao, sophpossibilities omore. are endless Scarves come with a scarf. in every color Boots are the and every dePhoto: funnfashion.net other huge sign imaginapart of winter ble. There is also many dif- fashion. There are so many ferent ways to wear a scarf. different styles of boots. You
have the classic UGG boots, combat boots, cowboy boots or knee-high boots. Boots can also come with heels or without heels. “Boots keep your feet warm and comfy, but are stylish at the same time,” said Shayla Peterson, sophomore. Boots look good with any outfit and with all the different types of boots out there, you can’t go wrong. So this winter, be a fashionista with these three things. And if you really want to look cute, try pairing all three together. Looking good has never been more comfortable.
In case you missed it...all year long 2013 notable events April 2013 and celebrity deaths -Boston Marathon bombing by month -Texas plant explosion By Karla Erdman The Freedom Forum adviser
January 2013 -President Obama inaugurated for a 2nd term -Flu, Whooping Cough hits U.S. hard -Club Fire Kills 233 People in Brazil February 2013 -Ravens Beat 49ers in Super Bowl XLVII -Deaths: Reeva Steenkamp (model), Mindy McCready (country singer) March 2013 -UN passes more sanctions against North Korea -Deaths: Hugo Chavez (President of Venezuela), Phil Ramone (music producer), Paul Bearer (WWE wrestler)
-Deaths: Annette Funicello (actress), Jonathan Winters (comedian/actor), Roger Ebert (movie critic), Margaret Thatcher (Prime Minister of England 1979-1990) May 2013 -Rhode Island, Delaware and Minnesota legalize samesex marriage -Orb wins 139th Kentucky Derby -Deaths: Dr. Joyce Brothers (psychologist), Cory Monteith (Glee), Chris Kelly (rapper) June 2013 -Serena Williams and Rafael Nadal win French Open -Deaths: James Gandolfini (actor), Bobby Bland (R&B singer), Jiah Khan (actress) July 2013
-George Zimmerman found not guilty of Trayvon Martin's murder -Deaths: Eileen Brennan (actress), Dennis Farina (actor) August 2013 -Bulger found guilty of racketeering, extortion, conspiracy and murder -Manning sentenced to 35 years for leaking U.S. files -Deaths: Gia Allemand (actress/model), LIsa Robin Kelly (actress), Julie Harris (Broadway actress) September 2013 -Gunman and 12 victims killed in D.C. Navy Yard shooting -Deaths: David Frost (British broadcaster) October 2013 -Standoff over Obamacare results in government shutdown -New Jersey 14th state to
recognize same-sex marriage -Nevada school shooting results in 2 dead, 2 injured -Deaths: Marcia Wallace (actress), Lou Reed (songwriter/guitarist), Ed Lauter (actor), Tom Clancy (writer) November 2013 -Gunman opens fire at Los Angeles International Airport -Man opens fire in New Jersey shopping mall -Illinois (15) and Hawaii (16) approve Same-Sex Marriage
Nelson Mandela 2008 Wikimedia Commons
December 2013 -Fatal Train Crash in Bronx -Deaths: Paul Walker (actor); Nelson Mandela (revolutionary, politician) To see more information on celebrity deaths visit Us Magazine online. Paul Walker Wikimedia Commons
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Toys bringing back memories Remembering beloved childhood toys By Logan Handwerk Pates’ Post Editor
Every child looks forward to the holiday season not only for the snow but the toys as well. As high school students, toys are no longer at the top of everyone’s wish lists, but they all have toys that overcome them with a sense of nostalgia. Toys R Us sends out “The
Big Book” every year with pages upon pages of toys and a package of stickers for kids to show their parents what they want. Kelsey Clark, senior, said that her favorite toy as a child was her Barbie karaoke because it had a cassette player that would play all of her favorite Britney Spears songs. Like many little girls 90s, she loved Britney Spears, and every time she hears a song by her it takes her back to time spent with her karaoke machine.
Kelsey grew into a spontaneous and creative young woman, and that could be from the time she spent jamming with Britney Spears and all of her friends. Steven Singer, another senior at Freedom, said, “My favorite toy growing up was Thomas the Tank Engine trains because the options were limitless to what you could do this them.” He also said that they were his parents’ favorite because they kept him occupied for several hours.
It wouldn’t come as a surprise that Singer loved such a practical toy because he is a very pragmatic person. Maybe those countless hours working with the mechanics of the trains and tracks are what got him his natural ability with physics which made him one of Mr. Fierro’s top students. Of course, it is also the time of year for giving, so remember that it feels a lot better to be the reason for someone’s happiness than to only make oneself happy.
Photo: Terrence, Creative Commons
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas” Review of the popular Christmas film By Nayris Abreu The Freedom Forum
Christmas. It is the holiday everyone loves. Not only because of the presents under the tree but Christmas songs and most exciting: the Christmas movies. “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” has been out for a long time now. It's a movie that will never get old because how funny and entertaining it is. In summary of the movie, a green person known as the
Grinch hates Christmas and no one knows why. He tries to ruin it for everyone else by taking anything that involves Christmas away from them thinking that they will wake up crying. It didn't go the way the Grinch wanted it to go and realized that Christmas isn't as bad as he thinks it is. The three main characters of the movie is The Grinch, Cindy Lo Who, and the Grinch's dog. "The Grinch is my favorite character, he's funny," said
Photo: IMDB
Austin Negron, freshman.
The short film directed by Chuck Jones in 1966 "How the Grinch stole Christmas" is still a common movie to watch during the holiday. This short film is mostly for kids because it's in cartoon and not realistic. Even though it came out so long ago it has the rankings of 8.3/10 the grumpy cartoon Grinch may never get old. "Cartoon version is uh, it adds character and fills more realistic picks the actions of the little people," said Alex Pantaleo, freshman. Inside a snowflake, like the one on your sleeve, there
happened a story you must see to believe. This is the famous quote that everyone knows from the newer version of the Grinch. In 2000 a different director named Ron Howard made a new version of the Grinch. It is still the same plot just longer and the voice of the Grinch is Jim Carrey. "The Jim Carrey version is not animated it involves real people," said Gia Erie, junior The oldest movie will always be the best just like the Grinch, and he is humorous.
On your mark, get set… shop! Holiday shopping season By Cassie Sedler The Freedom Forum
The day after Thanksgiving, most commonly referred to as Black Friday, is known to spark a frenzy of people with wallets brimming with cash and credit cards heading towards the malls on a mission to do some serious holiday shopping for their entire family. The term “Black Friday” first got its start in the 1960’s when retailers had to record their losses in red ink, and their profits in black ink. Typically, this coincided with the beginning of the
holiday shopping season, and it marked the time when consumers were offered big discounts to draw them into stores. Today, however, Black Friday is slightly declining in popularity as the official start to the holiday shopping season due to Gray Thursday. Recently, despite some protests, many stores are now open on Thanksgiving Day. Most retail stores in malls around the area opened at around 10:00 p.m., while others opened as early as 8:00p.m. “Although technically a break from the Black
Friday tradition, it is gradually becoming the norm as
Photo: Microsoft clipart
more and more stores across the nation have extended
their Black Friday hours into the Thanksgiving Holiday,” said The Express Times. Along with Black Friday, and Gray Thursday, avid shoppers are also encouraged to do some extra shopping online. “We’re thrilled to be able to provide more options as to when, where and how our customers can conduct their holiday shopping,” Amanda Johnson, director of marketing and business development, said in a statement, according the the Express Times. On Cyber Monday, immediately after the Thanksgiving weekend, the websites of many popular outlets introduce bargain prices on every-
thing including electronics, toys, and even appliances. According to businesspundit.com, “It [online shopping] has also increased dramatically over the past few years and continues to grow in popularity and big earnings. In 2007, online shopping garnered $122.72 billion American dollars. By 2010, this amount increased to $142.49 billion, and just last year, in 2012, it reached $186.15 billion.” With four less days between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year, there is no question shoppers will utilize every resource possible, to get their shopping done just in the NICK of time!
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Shooting for the playoffs A look at Freedom’s rifle team By Chris Cooke Journalism student
The 2013 Freedom High School rifle team’s season starts with a bang! The rifle team consists of twenty-eight members from all grades at Freedom High School. There are five freshmen on the rifle team out of twenty-eight
members. With the help of their new coach, Paul Dorney, the team hopes that they’ll improve over last year’s results. Last season, the rifle team’s coach was Mr. Court, but their season finished with a poor 2-8 record. However, with their new coach, many are hopeful the team will make the playoffs this year. “Last season went worse than expected, but we have
definitely improved since then,” said Ben Lord, a sophomore member of the rifle team. Connor Acevedo, freshman, explained that freshman can still work more on the basic concepts of shooting along with breathing, timing, aiming, and their positioning. Other members have also added that they hope their continued practice in honing
their shooting skills will help the team achieve a better overall season. “Patience and precision
are key” said Joe Zonga, sophomore member. While shooting it is very important to keep still, and
have patience. The rifle team matches are scored on a basis of shooting ten bullets at ten targets, one bullet per target. The rifle team practices their shooting at Liberty High School’s indoor rifle range. The rifle team’s season started Dec. 12 and is hopeful in making it to the playoffs for a successful season.
Previewing college basketball By Chuck Tichy Journalism student
How will Kentucky rebound after a tough season last year? Can Louisville make it two in a row? Will Michigan fall short again this year? Can freshmen, Jabari Parker, lead Duke to a national championship? The Kentucky Wildcats will surely want to forget last years season. After not even making the NCAA tournament (they were in the NIT) Kentucky has several new players that will surely put a spark to their game. Ranked first in the na-
tion in the preseason. One of Being ranked third in the pretheir new freshmen is domi- season rankings, it's not out of nant, Julius Randle. The 6-9 the picture. However losing forward will try and lead a very young Kentucky team to the national championship this year. Everyone probably remembers Louisville for their player, Kevin Ware, who broke his leg in an Elite Eight game last year against Duke. Also, everyone remembers that they won the national championship. Now, the big question Photo: newsobserver.com is; can they do it again?
star guard, Peyton Siva, to the NBA is not making the task any easier. Last year, Michigan lost to Louisville in the national championship game. This year they are ranked seventh in the preseason poll. Losing Trey Burke and Tim Hardaway Jr. to the NBA it's not looking like they will make a long run in the tournament this year. When asked who would win the national championship R.J. Judge, freshmen, said,"I'll say Kansas." Ranked fourth in the preseason polls, the Duke Blue Devils look to be a powerhouse
this year. They are led by freshman sensation Jabari Parker, an explosive scorer. After losing last year in the Elite Eight, Duke looks to go all the way this year. When asked who would win the national championship Teddy Liadis, freshmen, said,"I think UCLA." Prediction—the Final Four: Duke, Arizona, Oklahoma State, and Kansas. The national championship game: Duke against Kansas with Duke winning.
Professional baseball players dabble in other careers By Leonardo Martinez Journalism Student
The Boston Red Sox’s recently named 2013 World Series MVP, David Ortiz is joining up with the Pittsburgh Pirates’ Center Fielder, who recently won the National League MVP, Andrew McCutchen to be executive producers/hosts for a 30episode TV series called “MLB Fan Cave”. “It doesn’t sound like a good place to host it, MTV is
mostly for music and it seems weird,” said Carlos Falcon, Freshman. This TV show is be intended to come out in April 2014. The new series is intended to move game analysis, stats, and highlights beyond the ordinary. It will be mostly focused on the MLB players of the field, offering glimpses into the players’ personalities through interviews, as well as celebrities. Created in 2011, the MLB Fan Cave is a unique event
Photo: mlb.com
space mixing baseball with music, popular culture, media, technology and art. MLB Fan Cave is stated to debut in April 2014. The partnership is told that it will cross all of the MTV networks and platforms, including MTV, MTV2, mtvu, MTV Hits, and MTV Jams, and will integrate MLB players into current shows and events. They will also develop special, weekend programming and other projects. With the Boston Red Sox winning the
World Series in 2013 against the St. Louis Cardinals, and the Pittsburgh Pirates making it to the playoffs but, to lose against the St. Louis Cardinals in Game 5 of the NLCS, David Ortiz and Andrew McCutchen thinking about the future and not the past. With both humorous personalities and talking skills this could be the show of the year of 2014.
Freedom boys’ basketball looks ahead in their journey Success to come for the boys this year
“I feel as though we need more team chemistry. I want to make sure we have each By Gabriella Greenhoward and others back. Once we get to Jada Blount-Frazier Journalism Students
The Freedom Boy’s basketball team is shooting into the new season with their hoops set high. They are working very hard to prepare for the journey that lies ahead of them. In order to do that however, they need to have a cohesive synergy and unstoppable attitude towards their team members.
our highest level than we can
be really successful. The sky's the limit”, said Demond Farely, Junior, JV player There is no ‘I’ in team. Part of being on a team is having a good “team chemistry”. How can you be great offenders and defenders if your team is not acting as one unit. While being a strong team is important, all of the players have important goals that they have set for themselves. “I want to be able to dunk”, said Tyrese Stewart, Freshman, who is on the Freshman team. Setting goals takes a lot of
persistence and dedication so these players have devoted themselves. That means showing up to all things basketball. Being on the team required the devoted time for tryouts. Some would describe the Freedom High School boys basketball tryouts easy. “Tryouts, they were easy, I didn’t have much of a competition” said Deshawn Polk, a Freshman on the Freshman team.
With that confidence and unity, Freedom High School’s Boy’s Basketball team has a good chance of bringing our school a championship.
Volume 47 Issue 3
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December 2013
Mrs. Pasternak’s photography classes show off their work.
“Antlers” by Hannah Young, junior, Photo 3 This photo of hanging antlers was taken at Cabela’s as I stood underneath. The photo is in black and white to bring out the contrast and detail in the antlers.
“Rose” by Courtney Silfies, senior, Photo 3 I took this photo by zooming in close to the flower. I like this picture because I love the color, and it shows the beauty of nature.
“Blue Building” by Haley Nesler, junior, Photo 2 I took this photo while in NYC. I wanted the building to take up most of the picture with little negative space. Since the sky was the same color as the building, it gave me the monochromatic aspect I was after.
“ROTC” by Michael Datz, sophomore, Photo 2 This is a portrait of my brother in his ROTC uniform. For this picture, I tried to put him in front of empty space and off to the side. I like the high contrast, and I feel that it added more to the photo.
“Lamp” by Meagan Ryer, sophomore, Photo 2 I was walking around my house, and the crystals on the lamp caught my eye. I used a shallow depth of field to capture the details.
“Rain Drops” by Alli Singer, freshman, Photo 1 I took this photo on one of the windowsills in the science wing, and I used the flower and leaf from the courtyard while it was raining outside. I used shallow depth of field for this photo.
“The Old Bethlehem Steel” by India Wright, junior, Photo 2 The picture I have taken is of the old blast furnaces right by Steel Stacks. I took the picture of the old blast furnaces in order to try and recreate what was once Bethlehem Steel.