February 2017

Volume 50 Issue 5

February 2017

Freedom High School builds new turf field

Bringing the festivities of the Mardi Gras celebration to Freedom High School. Theresa Maresca (left), Brandon Wright (middle), and Tara Murray

What does February mean to you?

“Cold weather and snow days” Anthony Maffea fr eshman

“Believes February has a holiday that means nothing” Justin Doncsez, sophomor e

“Birthday month and family. The month goes by fast” Mr. Christian Lynde, guidance counselor

Photo: Gabriella Greenhoward

Celebrating the Mardi Gras festival A celebration for the books Destiny Panik The Freedom Forum

Celebration through alcohol, music, parades, and other forms of fun are used to enjoy Many people are familiar with the this cultural-filled time. Beads, famous celebration of Mardi Gras and cups, and other objects are the joy it brings to people around the even thrown off famous floats world. This famous event is celebrated as they take the streets to crebecause it reflects the last night of eat- ate a loving and sharing ating rich and fatty foods before fasting mosphere. Colors of purple, during Lent. Lenten season is a time green and gold are everywhere where Christians observe a period of as the famous King of Carnifasting, repentance, moderation, self- val chose the scheme in 1892. denial, and spiritual discipline. This is The King of Carnival is known to reflect Jesus Christ and his sacrific- as Rex, which stages one of es to his people. It begins on Ash the most celebrated parades on Wednesday Mardi Gras. Rex and ends six is Latin for King, weeks later, “Celebration through therefor Rex is traditionally known as “The alcohol, music, parades before Easter King of the CarniSunday. val.” The most and other forms of The first time famous colors all fun…”

Mardi Gras symbolize things, was celebrated as purple repretook place on sents justice, March 3, 1699 when French explorers green for faith, and gold for landed in Louisiana and held a small power.

One of the many floats that are used in the Mardi celebration. This small event later Many people dream of going Gras celebration started the celebration around the to the legendary party session in Photo: Keith Hull world.

New Orleans. Many hope when they In New Orleans, Louisiana, Mardi turn the legal drinking age, twenty- People everywhere visit carnivals for Gras stretches from the twelfth night one, they will be able to. the culture experience and the everuntil Ash Wednesday. Celebrations “My mom goes and says it's beauti- lasting affect the celebration leaves on take place in Brazil, France, Belgium, ful. I can't wait to go,” Tessa everyone who is lucky enough to exand other regions.

Dell’Apa, junior. perience it.

Women’s march in Washington DC

Revealing the Mandela Effect

Celebrating the Chinese New Year

FHS Athlete personality profile

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Freedom High School - 3149 Chester Avenue - Bethlehem, PA 18020 - www.FHSForum.com - @FHSForum

Celebrating 50 years of serving the Freedom community

2 News

The Forum Sub headline

What does February mean to you?

Focus on flossing this February National Children’s Dental Health Month Joshua Christiansen Editorials Editor

“Snow days.”

Jasmine Dowell, junior

“Love and flowers” Karina Ojeda Mendez, senior

February 2017

The tooth fairy is not the only one making children aware of good dental health and hygiene. As a matter of fact, the American Dental Association (ADA) has named the month of February as National Children’s Dental Health Month.

According to its website, the ADA held the first Children’s Dental Health Day on February 8, 1949. In 1955, this single day observance became a week-long event. Then in 1981, the program was launched into a month-long event, which today, is known as National Children’s Dental Health Month.

The awareness program went from a two city event to a nation-wide event; from Cleveland, Ohio to the entire United States. Across the country, the message of increased dental care for children is being spread.

“Developing good habits at an early age and scheduling regular dental visits helps children to get a good start on a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums,” said a webpage on www.ada.org, ADA’s website.

This is essentially the goal of this awareness month. Making sure that the children of America have healthy mouths means focusing on issues like keeping up with regular hygiene and fighting back against tooth decay.

Despite the fact that it is almost entirely preventable, tooth decay is the most common long-term disease in children, according to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR).

However, there are safe and effective preventive measures that can protect teeth.

The NIDCR also states that good oral hygiene practices such as thorough brushing with a fluoride toothpaste can help keep children from getting cavities. In addition, dental sealants and Dr. Mary Beth Mihalakis operates on a patient. community water fluoridation Photo: Joshua Christiansen are two other strategies that can help prevent tooth decay.

Dentists, parents, and educators are Mihalakis of the Lehigh Valley the running force behind the ADA’s Center for Dental Excellence, gave a child-focused month. In order to unique and interesting point promote this specific program the regarding the fight against tooth ADA has free online resources that decay and protection of enamel can help with oral health through fluoride-use. presentations, ideas for the “For the kids, what I want them to classroom, and activity sheets that do is to brush daily, but after can be used as handouts. They also brushing, spit out; spit until you have booklets, videos and other don’t taste toothpaste and walk away, materials available for purchase not rinse out after they brush. Get through the ADA Catalog, available into the habit of brushing. For the on their website. parents, they need to bring their kids Local dentists are a great outlet for [to the dentist],” said Dr. Mihalakis. any interested parent or child to start So this February, readers should their dental health care journey. find a local dentist if not already For instance, when asked about any visiting one, and learn more about specific tips besides the usual daily how to care for their dental health. dental maintenance, Dr. Mary Beth All it takes is awareness.

Marching for women’s equality The never ending fight for equal rights Sydney Hoover The Freedom Forum

aimed to send a bold message to the new administration on its first day in office-as well as the rest of the

that crowd scientists estimate that the Women’s March was three times the size of the crowd at the Trump inauguration.

“Trump has failed in trying to divide our country by race, religion, gender, and nationality because the only thing that accomplished has been us all being brought closer together to fight for the same cause… equality,” said Quinnlyn Burger (an attendee at the Women's March in Washington D.C.).

No matter what the marchers were protesting for, they all seemed to share the same animosity towards Trump. There was no doubt that the marchers’ voices were heard, considering worldwide there was a participation of about 4.8 million participants.

“I will forever be thankful I was able to be apart of such a powerful and peaceful movement. Never before have I felt such proudness in being a woman,” said Tessa Dell’apa (marcher on the Women's March in Washington D.C.).

The Women’s March was a worldwide protest that took place on January 21, 2017- the day after the inauguration of 45th president of the United States Donald Trump. The flagship march was held in Washington, D.C., and is known as the Women's March on Washington. A variety of well know figures spoke before the march including Freedom students protesting for equality in all areas of Gloria Steinem, America life.

Ferrera and Scarlett Johansson. world-that women's rights are human There was an official record of 408 rights. sister marches in the US and 168 in The goals of the march varied from 81 other countries. Sister Marches are protecting legislation policies regardsolidarity events inspired by the ing human rights, women's rights, Women’s March on Washington and immigration reform, healthcare organized by volunteers around the reform, LGBTQ rights, racial world for people who are not able to equality, freedom of religion, attend the flagship march on Wash- and worker’s rights. ington D.C. so they join a Sister “I’m not marching as ‘a man’. I March closer to their homes. am marching as gender irreleThe rhetoric of the election came vant. I’m marching as a human across as insulting and threatening to being. That’s how we should all many women's, immigrants, diverse be seen - with equal rights and religious faiths, the LGBT communi- opportunities for all,” said a ty, people with disabilities and many male marcher. others. The march was organized and The New York Times reported A broad view of the protest going on in D.C.

One of the signs being held in the protest

It is the largest single-day demonstration in United States history. Following the march, the organizers of the Women’s March on Washington posted the “Ten Actions for the first 100 Days” campaign for joint activism to prevent the momentum from the march dying. The campaign is promoted on the Women's March website where it provides ten different actions to help get your friends, family, and community together and make history as the new year begins.

All photos: Sydney Hoover

February 2017

The Forum

News 3

Bringing in the new year with a bang Saying hello to 2017 Keri Kipp Pates’ Post Editor

2017 has finally arrived after the long wait for it to make its debut. A new year means new things for everyone. There will be new television and music releases, brand new technology, breaking news stories, and new clothing lines. However, things that all can look forward to are not only within society, but in personal lives as well.

As the new year has begun winding up, everyone has set up their New Year’s resolutions. Whether they are related to weight, school, relationships, etc., anything that feels like it needs to be improved could be a potential resolution.

When someone sits down and simply prioritizes, everything will become more clear to them. The new year is a time to improve life in small ways that could turn into large changes.

As for music releases, there is a great number of artists who will be releasing their albums in 2017. These

artists include Katy Perry, Drake, around to see any eclipses besides a Lorde, The Chainsmokers, Fergie, and lunar eclipse. Finally, this is the opeven Iggy Azalea. portunity to see something amazing “I can't wait to hear the new Chainsmokers album. Their first one was so good, I just know they have some great ideas to come,” said Amanda Large, junior.

For those people who claim to have “no life,” and who are movie fanatics, there are also new spin offs, remakes, and releases that are going to hit theaters this year. Movies such as “Fifty Shades Darker” (released Mia Broughton’s pair of Crocs that she on February 10), “Beauty and the wears on the daily.

Photo: Mia Broughton Beast” (released on March 17), and “Blade Runner 2049” (released on October 6) are like this, it is going to be so cool,” expected to be popular. There has said John Harvey, Freedom High not been a solar eclipse visible to the School Astronomy teacher. human eye since 1918. However, on As far as fashion goes, 2017 is August 21, 2017, there will be a total bringing a fresh list of trends. First, solar eclipse that will be seen across brands such as Céline, Valentino, the whole United States.

Gucci, and many more have sent out “I am so excited to be able to see lines for the spring season that include something like this. I haven't been an array of bubblegum pink clothes

and accessories.

Designers have also picked up the idea of slogan tops with empowering messages printed on the front of them.

Designer Maria Grazia Chiuri believes that feminists should “let the shirts do the talking.”

As we all know, Crocs have made a comeback to the world and yes, they are still going strong. Christopher Kane, the designer to bring these shoes back into the light of day, has introduced bedazzled Crocs, which will require a brave soul to take them on into 2017.

Since everyone always needs the newest technology in their collection, here are a few products that will be hitting the market. New iPads, the iPhone 8, the Google smartwatch, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox Project Scorpio.

2017 has definitely started out with a bang and has plans of successful development throughout the year. Be sure to keep an eye out for new and intriguing things that are soon to be released.

Highlighting President Trump’s Inauguration President Obama passes the baton to President Trump Bridalia Tatlow Assistant Pates’ Post Editor

Donald J. Trump became the 45th president of The United States of America on January 20, 2017 after winning the 2016 presidential election against democrat Hillary Clinton. The inauguration is the formal admission of someone to office, in this case the office of the President. The ceremony was held in the west lawn in front of the capitol building, as is tradition.

As usual, the day started off with a church service at “Saint John’s Episcopal Church,” the church of the Presidents. The service was attended by President Trump, Melania Trump, Michael Pence, Karen Pence, and the cabinet members.

Before the swearing in, President Trump and his wife attended a White House tea reception which was hosted

by President Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama.

The inauguration music was provid-

ed by the United States Military Band, protect, and defend the Constitution matter what color or race, all Ameriwhich has been providing the music of the United States of America. cans bleed the same patriotic red. He since 1801.

Following the swearing in, President spoke to the middle class and lower At approximately class Americans when he said 11:30, Vice President “You will never be ignored Michael Pence was again.” sworn in by Supreme After President Trump’s reCourt Justice Clarmarks Jackie Evancho sang the ence Thomas, using National Anthem, accompanied the Reagan Bible. by the United States Marine Separating the Vice Band. Evancho was first discovPresidential swearing ered, like many others, on in and the President’s “America’s Got Talent.” Altswearing in was a hough, unlike many others, she performance by the accepted President Trump’s reMormon Tabernacle quest for her to sing at the cerePhoto: Getty Images Choir, a choir that Donald Trump’s arrival at the Capitol. mony. has performed at a toPresident Trump made many tal of seven presidential inaugura- Trump addressed the American peo- promises throughout his campaign as tions, being dubbed “America’s ple for the first time as President. This well as during his inaugural address, Choir” by President Ronald Reagan. address was greatly focused on the all that is left to do is wait and see After the choir’s performance, Presi- American people and his vision for what happens. One thing is for sure, dent Trump was sworn in by Supreme America. He called for unification this is The United States of America, Court Clarence Thomas, using the when he said, “A new national pride “the land of the free, and the home of Lincoln family bible. Here is where will stir our souls, lift our sights and the brave.”

President Trump pledged to preserve, heal our divisions.” He said that no

4 Editorials 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 Gabriella Greenhoward News Editor Maya White Editorial Editor Joshua Christiansen Pates’ Post Editor Kerilyn Kipp Entertainment Editor Hayley Guzzo Center Spread Editor Juliana Maffea Analisa Jeffries Sports Editor T.J. Schaeffer Web Editor Juliana Maffea Analisa Jeffries Assistant Editors Bridalia Tatlow Bryce Kollar

Chuck Tichy Adviser

The Forum

February 2017

Revealing the Mandela Effect The Mandela Effect theories exposed Juliana Maffea Web and Centerspread Editor Gabrielle Rader The Freedom Forum

What is “the Mandela Effect?”

It all started with Nelson Mandela, late President of South Africa, who was sentenced to prison because of his resistance to the white military during a protest. Mandela was imprisoned for three decades, but many people believed he died in that time. Mandela was actually released from jail in 1990, and died in 2013.

The Mandela Effect is when a large group of individuals all believe something has happened when in reality, it never did. Many people believe that the Mandela Effect is caused by someone going back in time to change history, which is why different people believe different things.

Here are some examples of the Mandela Effect: Mirror Mirror on the Wall - Magic Mirror on the Wall - One of the many lovely princesses, Snow White, known mainly from the animated feature, “Snow White and the seven Dwarfs,”

by Walt Disney has recently been added to the long list of conspiracies about the Mandela Effect. Many believe that the evil queen said the famous quote, “Mirror Mirror on the Wall,” yet the real quote is “Magic Mirror on the Wall.” For this reason many believe it is apart of the Mandela Effect.

We are the champions doesn’t end with “of the world” - We are the Champions by Queen is famously known for

it’s ending line, “we are the champions of the world.” However, the ending line does not end in “of the world.” In videos on YouTube, the last few seconds of the song does not include that quote, yet many believe that the song includes the line. Since such a large group of individuals believes this, it is included in the many theories of the Mandela Effect.

Chic-fil-a, Chik-fil-a - Chick-fil-a One of the best places to get chicken from is Chick-fil-A. Chick-fil-a is a popular fast food restaurant among teens, yet people of all ages disagree with the spelling of the name. While some people think it is spelled “Chic-fil -A,” others believe it is spelled, “Chikfil-A.” However, both sides are wrong, thus leaving many of people confused.

Chick-fil-A is another surprising theory on the Mandela Effect list.

Darth Vader does not say “Luke, I am your father” - “No, I am your father” Many people either love “Star Wars” or they hate it. In the series Darth Vader reveals one of the most plot twisting events in the movie industry. There are large groups of people who believe that in the iconic Star Wars film that Darth Vader said, “Luke, I am your father,” but really he said, “No, I am your father.” This surprised many, even those who may not be the biggest fans of the space series.

C-3PO isn’t all gold - One leg is silver - Some of the hardcore “Star Wars” fans believe that C-3PO is full gold, but they are mistaken. C-3PO has a silver leg, yet nobody remembers him with it. Throughout the series, he had a

Photo of a Curious George children’s book.

Photo: Juliana Maffea

silver leg, however, not many people noticed it. No matter how much one loves an iconic decology, it’s easy to forget details.

Curious George does not have a tail In the classic children’s book, Curious George, the “little monkey,” does not have a tail. This was very shocking to people of all ages, for they remembered him having a tail. Some things they remember Curious George doing was picking things up with his tail and hanging from trees and different places.

In pictures, Curious George is seen without the tail some thinks he has.

These are just some of the many examples of the Mandela Effect and other theories. There are many other different examples on the internet, social media, and more. The examples provided are more common than some of the other theories.

Karla Erdman Principal Mr. Michael LaPorta

Black History Month Re-evaluated

Superintendent

Taking a closer look at February

Dr. Joseph Roy

Gabriella Greenhoward Editor-in-Chief

For our editorial statement and correction 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

L-R: Mr. William Cecchini, Mrs. Holly DeNofa, Mr. Michael LaPorta, Ms. Maureen Leeson, and Mr. Michael DiBilio

Photo: Christmas City Studios

29 days. There is no argument about the fact that black men and women laid down the foundation of this country and yet the celebration of their achievements is put in a 29 day window?

29 days. February is the shortest month of the year. How can anyone squeeze the glory and radiance of black culture into such a short month?

It may be very easy to think “shouldn’t you be appreciative to get a month in the first place?” The answer is no. Is there one month a year when we celebrate the success of white Americans? Is there one month a year when we highlight the things they have contributed to America? No. They are celebrated and respected all year long and the same should go for the accomplishments of black Americans.

Everyday around the country, there are students studying the history of America in textbooks. Studying the brilliance of people such as George Washington, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson. While their contributions to society are numerous and valuable, it is preposterous to believe that they are the only ones. It is time that people like Malcolm X and Frederick Douglass get a chance to be spotlighted.

said Brittney Campbell, sophomore.

It is a time for the rules to be unwritten. It’s time that some proposes a change. It’s time for the history curriculum students have been following since elementary school to change.

Let students have the chance to learn about Malcolm X, a revolutionary black power movement leader, who was bold in his ideas and views on the tense social situations of his time and was not afraid to speak up about it.

Let students delve into the life of Frederick Douglas, a young man who taught himself to read in a time of slavery and used his wisdom and experience to craft “speeches and editorials” that “he levied a powerful indictment against slavery and racism, provided an indomitable voice of hope A mural of a young black woman taken in for his people,” as stated on histoPhiladelphia, Pennsylvania ry.com.

Photo: Gabriella Greenhoward Things are not going to change overnight and its important to under“I think the history of black people stand that. Change requires not only should be celebrated and taught year time, but also persistence in the face of round and not just in one month. I feel adversity that seems impossible to overlike it’s just one month out of the year come. With enough time and consistent that teacher decide to teach black histo- effort, it is not impossible to make the ry other than the small chapter you achievements of black America shine in learn on black history in history class,” textbooks around the country.

February 2017

The Forum

Editorials 5

Barely hanging onto New Year’s Resolutions A new year does not mean a new resolution Madison Walther The Freedom Forum

A new year's resolution by definition is a tradition in which a person resolves to change an undesired trait or behavior, according to dictionary.com. People think just because it is a “tradition” they have to participate. However the whole situation is a mind game.

For many, starting a new year is one of the busiest times of the year. This gives them an all-or-nothing mentality. Usually new year resolutions are just something one says to feel good about themselves. In all reality, people do not take time to recognize the little things that build up to the end result of their resolution. They just want it to

happen over night. And in most cases, it can not.

“To me, a new year's resolution is a personal goal that is set to keep a person motivated, it's a change, a fresh start,” said Addison Streeter, junior.

Most people have their head wrapped around the idea that a tradition has to stay for generations to come. Despite all these positive beliefs on how a new year has to be treated, no one really keeps up with their resolution. “ I think if you have a goal at anytime of the year, you do not need to wait until Jan. 1,” said Tara Murray, sophomore.

Waiting until you receive a new calendar to start a goal is just an excuse

one gives themselves. Most people do not understand that if you are not motivated at a certain time during the year, you will not be motivated once a new year starts. Additionally, people tend to make unrealistic, pressure filled A planning spread for 2017.

Photo: Madison Walther goals that are less likely to be accomplished.

Now there are some people that truly lie to yourself. It could be a good stick with their resolutions. However, thing if you were to stick with it, on it is very rare, and their resolutions are the other hand most know they truly applicable. will not.

All in all, new year's resolutions con“New year, not new me,” said Murtrol people to think that it is okay to ray.

Celebrating leaders from the past President’s day is approaching once again T.J. Schaeffer Sports Editor

In 2017, Americans will once again celebrate, for the 132nd time, President’s Day, a holiday that celebrates the famous people who have decided to step forward and lead the great country known as the United States.

The holiday, which is celebrated every year on the third Monday in February, was originally created to celebrate George Washington’s birthday, which is February 22nd, according to History.com. The holiday, created in 1885, is still formely known as “Washington’s Birthday” by the government. At the time of its creation, Washington was considered one of the most influential people, and the centennial celebration of his birthday

ment in 1848 played major factors into the creation of the holiday.

Then, as part of the 1971 Uniform Monday Holiday Act, “Washington’s Birthday” became a three-day weekend instead of just a single day in order to create more break time for workers. As a result, the holiday became well-known as “President’s Day,” which is ironic considering it is now a whole weekend.

“It gives us a chance to really remember our history and honor past presidents,” said Alex Pantaleo, senior.

Photo: Flikr A snapshot of Mount Rushmore Overall, regardless if a president had a successful or unsucin 1832 as well as the start of the con- cessful term, President’s Day was struction on the Washington monu- created to celebrate all the men who

have decided to take control and help lead the our country forward.

“Even if a president was considered good or bad, they still deserve the recognition that they took over as our leader. It takes a lot,” said Mrs. Jo’Ann Kristofic, social studies and economics teacher.

Even though the holiday celebrates such powerful and impactful figures in American History, it is a very small holiday compared to the largelycelebrated ones like Christmas and Easter. Thus, many people do not know when President’s Day is celebrated or why it is celebrated.

“I wish people knew more people knew the meaning behind the holiday.” said Mr. John Wallaesa, history teacher.

Being overly affectionate in school Couples in every corner of FHS something every couple does, and it is not too inappropriate for school. However, making out in school is another Walking through the halls at Free- story. For some, it is not a big deal dom High School can sometimes be a and just seems like an everyday thing bit of a hassle. From the students who at Freedom. But for others, it gets unwalk as slow as a snail der their skin. to the others who stop to “I try to ignore it; it’s talk to their friends as disgusting,” said you are walking right Amanda Large, junior. behind them. However, Some may ask why there are always those people even care if couples that tend to take couples are showing their affection to the their affection or not next level in between because love is a classes. beautiful thing. HowIt is no secret that Freeever, school should dom has its fair share of not be the place for those couples who just couples to show evedo not know when the Keri Kipp (junior), and ryone else what they appropriate time and Ryan Sandt (senior) showdo in their personal place to make out is. It ing the appropriate way to lives. almost seems like every act in school as a couple “I really do not care, hallway you walk but if they are just Photo: Keri Kipp through, there is a coustanding in the middle ple kissing or touching each other of the hall then it’s annoying,” said nonstop. This does not concern hold- Melanie Linares, sophomore. ing hands because holding hands is Other members of Freedom High Hayley Guzzo Entertainment Editor

School who do not tend to care are teachers. It seems pretty crazy how some teachers will be standing outside their classroom and basically just watch students hug and kiss for ten minutes straight.

On the other hand, with the way some kids listen these days, there is not much teachers can do in that The wrong way to act like a couple in public places like school Photo: Wikimedia situation other than to just ignore it and hope the students go to class. friends very uncom“If I was a teacher, I would just try fortable. Overall, the topic of making to ignore it,” said Linares. out in school should be the last thing Most students who see couples mak- on anyone’s mind during the school ing out in the halls would like to say day. something like, “go It is certainly not just a Freedom somewhere else” or “that’s disgust- thing. Students in high school are not ing,” but most know that will not do unfamiliar with seeing overly affecanything or it could even break into a tionate couples in the halls, and there fight, which teachers hate seeing even really is not any way anyone can stop more than overly affectionate couples. couples from doing what they want in “If kids say something, a fight school. Unless there is a teacher down breaks out,” said Large. every hall in the school that will say Probably one of the biggest reasons something, and the odds of that hapwhy most people hate seeing couples pening are slim to none. Seeing couhugging and kissing all the time in the ples make out in school is not somehalls, is not because it is disgusting, thing students can escape, but the best but it just makes kids who are trying way to get out of that uncomfortable to get to class or just talk with their situation is to just ignore it.

People often say there is nothing to do in the Lehigh Valley, but in reality there or with friends, there is an activity for everyone. Go outside, enjoy the fresh air

A great place to eat dinner or dessert is the Melting Pot. It is the place to go. For some girls, getting dressed up to go out to eat is the definition of a fun night. The Melting Pot provides a cook-it-yourself dinner, which allows you to prepare your food the way you like it. As well as serving dinner, they also provide two different types of fondue; chocolate, and cheese.

As the weather gets colder, going outside can be tough, but there is always one activity that guarantees fun; ice skating. Gliding around the ice rink with your friends is an ideal Friday night. Be sure to visit the Municipal Ice Skating Rink with your friends and family for a fun day.

Nobody can ever have enough clothes, so shopping is always a great idea if you are bored. The Promenade Shops not only have clothing stores, but they have a movie theater and different restaurants. There are also fire pits and two Starbuck’s, so in the winter, people can stay warm.

One of the most popular festivals in the Lehigh Valley is Musikfest, a festival filled with concerts, food stands, and tents filled with miscellaneous items you can buy.

Musikfest takes place August 4th through the 13th, a perfect time to have fun before school starts. Main street is filled with people of all ages having fun, eating, and dancing. Musikfest is like the Coachella of the Lehigh Valley.

e is always something to do. Whether it is trying to find an activity to do alone r in downtown Bethlehem, or take a look at art in a local art gallery.

If you are interested in any outdoor activities, adventuring around the Lehigh River is the thing for you.

You can go canoeing with your friends and family, or you can take a walk on the trail. Going outside for a breather is a great way to relieve stress.

For those interested in just having a nice meal, either with family or friends, going out to a diner is always a great option. Five diners in the Lehigh Valley area that offer friendly service and fairly inexpensive meals are Billy’s Diner, Diner 248, The Nazareth Diner, Spiro’s, and Borderline.

The Crayola Experience in Easton, Pennsylvania is a fun trip for younger kids and their families. There are different activities, a cafe, and a store inside. Kids get to see the world’s largest crayon, Big Blue, and they can create their own design for a crayon’s wrapper. Not only is this attraction for kids, it is also for adults.

There are cafes and stores for the parents to get coffee and t-shirts.

Everyone of all ages will enjoy this fun family trip.

If you are a thrill seeker, you will enjoy Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. There are different rides for different times. Not only does Dorney Park have the basic roller coasters, they have water park rides and different rides for Halloween. Also, Haunt is a popular attraction Dorney Park holds during the Halloween season, where they have scary rides and walking zombies to scare the guests.

8 Pates’ Post

February 2017

The Forum

Dear Gabi: Feeling weighed down

How weight can affect everyday life Gabriella Greenhoward Editor-in-Chief

Dear Gabi, I am a 15 year old guy that weighs over 200 pounds. My weight is something I have been battling with since I was a small child. When I was young, I was always the chubbiest kid in the class, but now to the average doctor in America, I am considered obese. It is an insecurity that I cannot avoid. It’s with me at home, when my siblings tease me, at school, where girls never look my way, and in public, where I can’t even walk the mall without being stared at. This marking period I have gym and I always feel so uncomfortable. It’s so embarrassing to change in front of a whole bunch of athletes, with my stretch marks and extra weight. After many years of observing social interactions in school, I have noticed that all different kinds of guys connect through sports. I know it may seem silly but it’s true. Take some of our sports teams here at Freedom; they all consist of diverse groups of athletes from all different social circles. And yet on the court or field, none of that matters. They all serve a common purpose. I want to be apart of that. But, how can I even dream of playing a sport at this weight? I want to shed some pounds, really I do. But believe me, it is not as easy as it sounds. After all these years of eating this way, it’s nearly impossible to cut back. What should I do?

Feeling weighed down

all, have you ever considered playing football. They always need some Dear Feeling Weighed Down, strong and solid guys out there playing different positions. If you chose to Let me start by saying how incredible try this sport, your weight would actuit is that you are willing to make some ally work on your side. This is defimajor lifestyle changes. I know what a nitely something you should look into. heavy burden insecurities can create However, if football does not seem to in your life. During my freshman be your thing and you are serious year, I had awful acne. Every time my about trying to lose weight, I have a face would break out, my confidence few suggestions. Number one is unwould slowly disappear. Every time I derstanding that you can still eat the talked to somebody, I foods you like, as imagined what they were long as you do evesaying in their head rything in modera“...you should be about my skin. It haunttion. You want your confident in who ed me for a long time. I diet to reflect a vatried tons of products riety of food groups you are…” and tried my best not to such as proteins, be discouraged when veggies and starchthey did not work out. However, after es. Since starches turn to sugar in your almost a year I read this article that body, you may want to eat smaller said using a whole bunch of expensive sized portions of them. On the flip perfumey face washes is not the an- side, you want to up the amount of swer. Instead, it said, try washing your fruits and veggies in your diet to enface with a mild soap twice a day and sure you are getting all of the nutrients immediately follow the wash with a you need. I have a serious sweet tooth. gentle moisturizer. Every morning, Dessert is easily my favorite meal of even when I was rushing to get to the the day. However, since I play a sport bus, and every night, even was I was and need to stay in shape, I strive to so exhausted that I could barely move, eat a healthy dinner followed by a I washed my face. At first, I did not reasonably sized dessert. Key words see any results, but after about a week are reasonably sized. This means that or two, my skin started to clear up. I even though I can probably eat three was amazed. My point in telling this slices of apple pie, I opt for one, and story is to say, even when it feels like even though I can eat five cookies, I everything is going wrong, eventually opt for two. This system works for me you will find a way that works for you because I get to enjoy the sweets I and produces the results you desire. love and not ruin my efforts at staying Now, onto your questions. First of healthy.

The second part of this process is working out. The summer before my freshman year, I realized I needed to start working out to be ready for my first high school tennis season. In the beginning, I always dreaded going to the gym. Working out on the machines could get to be so boring. Then I had a friend recommend that I buy an armband for my phone, and listen to music when I work out. I found some really upbeat playlists on Spotify and Pandora made to keep you pumped up while you are working out. It really helped. I also joined a spin class, which is when you work out as a group on the bikes, at the Bethlehem Township Community Center. That was so much fun because being in a group kept me motivated and I had fun talking and listening to music while we burned calories.

I hope that all my tips help, but there is something I want you to remember before I close. At the end of the day, hard as it may sound, you should be confident in who you are, which goes much deeper than your external appearance. Also, as you begin to start eating better and working out, do not focus so much on losing weight as leading a healthier lifestyle. Honestly, that is what truly matters.

Good luck in your future endeavors.

Warmly, Gabi

Discovering the “pointe” of dance Meet The Forum Student of the Month David Shively– Ertas ever, ballet is not the only infinite possibilities because there are Maya White News Editor

This month’s issue of The Freedom Forum spotlights David ShivelyErtas, freshman.

Shively-Ertas is unique in several ways, one of which being his involvement in ballet.

“I’ve been performing ballet for the last 10 years,” said Shively-Ertas.

He first began dancing at age five, when his parents put him in a class.

“I hated it at first, [but] then I just kept doing it because I couldn’t find a reason to stop. Now I absolutely love it,” said Shively-Ertas.

Ballet is an artistic dance form performed to music using precise and highly formalized set steps and gestures. Recently calling attention to the dance form is the 2010 movie Black Swan, which highlighted the difficulty and precision of the sport.

Ballet originated in the Italian Renaissance courts in the 15th century, and later developed into a concert dance form in France and Russia. It has since become a widespread, highly technical form of dance with its own vocabulary based on the French language, a fact Shively-Ertas finds “fascinating”.

“In ballet you essentially talk about combinations and moves in French, and I’m also taking French as a language in school”, said Shively-Ertas.

Each Christmas, he performs in the Nutcracker at Zoellner Arts Center, in addition to varying spring shows. He has also performed in “Carnival of the Animals” and “The Four Seasons”, both works of original choreography by the artistic director of Pennsylvania Youth Ballet.

His passion for dance shows as he speaks about his performances. How-

thing he seems passionate about. infinite positions in space,” said Shively-Ertas.

His varied interests do not come as a surprise, as his mother is an anthropologist who studies religion and teaches at Kutztown University, and his father is a physicist, and works for Exxon-Mobil. Shively-Ertas, influenced by both his parents’ vastly different professions and his own strengths, is deciding to keep his future career options open.

“I will probably pursue dance as a Photo: Maya White career if being a mathematician or a physicist doesn’t end up working out.

Shively-Ertas not only loves the act I feel like I have two very different of dancing, but also its relation to options for career paths, and they are math. both ones that I could potentially en“Each combination is made up of joy. I am just really fascinated by adcertain moves, and it’s not only the vanced mathematics, so a career as a order of the moves that matters, but mathematician would be my go-to,” specifically how you go from move to said Shively-Ertas. move. If you do the math, there are

Celebrating 50: from student to faculty Reflections from Freedom faculty alumni Mrs. Patricia Whirl A Special to the Freedom Forum

Ms. Jennifer Maholick, Spanish teacher As a student, I was very involved with Band and the Fife and Drum Corps. My junior year I studied

abroad in Venezuela – so my experience in high school wasn’t a typical one. With that said, being a member of the Band gave me multiple opportunities to show school spirit and be involved in various school activities.

As a teacher, I try to attend various school events to support my students in all areas (athletic, arts. music, academics, etc.). The experience as a teacher is unique and I enjoy having the opportunity to give back to a school that partakes in so many wonderful endeavors.

Whether it’s attending a play, a

Freedom /Liberty sporting event, or shaving my head For The Kids – it’s worth it as long as my kids benefit from my participation.

Photo: Spirit of 2000

February 2017

The Forum

9 Pates’ Post

Students see an Albright future transportation to and from work. families that do not have everything These students are given the op- they need. “All anyone needs is someLiberty. This lasted about one that cares,” 10 years. He also taught at said Mr. Albright.

East Hills for about 5 To me, that is the years. most selfless thing While his extensive that anyone can knowledge of facts is imever say. measurable, there is one He loves to talk thing that Mr. Albright is to people, and said the most passionate about, “Making connecand that is the work traintions is the most ing program. Do you important thing.” know what that is? I sure Mr. Albright and his family at the beach.

Photo submitted by: Mr. Albright Being able to put did not. The work training yourself out there program is a program that helps spe- portunity to meet new friends and and talk to people is what he strives to cial education students make positive receive employer evaluations that al- teach these kids to do. transitions from school to work. lows the student to improve on their “Making a difference in students Many of these students will go to working habits. lives with the help of the job coaches school for two blocks and then work Focusing on just Mr. Albright him- and the support of the BASD makes a the other two. The list of opportuni- self is not even in the slightest, less huge difference to these students ties is extensive. From Northampton interesting. He is married and has two lives,” said Mr. Albright when asked Community College and Lehigh Uni- kids. He loves to spend time with his about what his favorite part of teachversity, all the way to nursing homes, family. Mr. Albright loves the out- ing is. People who do not know Mr. these students follow a three step pro- doors. As I mentioned earlier he lived Albright, truly are missing out on a gram to transition into life long jobs. in his cabin for a whole month with- lot of valuable information. He is an This program teaches balance and out any electricity. During his free amazing person and truly cares about responsibility to these students before time, he enjoys working with the the wellbeing of others. If you ever they get thrown into the real world. homeless and less fortunate in gen- get a chance to speak to Mr. Albright, With this, the students involved are eral. He helps with the donations of take advantage of the opportunity. given support and help with finding food and clothes and providing for the

With help from Mr. Albright, students achieve success Lauren Abel The Freedom Forum

Mr. Albright is a teacher here at Freedom. Some of you may know him as the man that lived in a cabin for a whole month without any electricity, well maybe that is just me. Mr. Albright lived in Northampton growing up and attended Northampton High School. Yes, he was a Konkrete Kid. Personally, I never understood what that meant, but Mr. Albright told me all about it. Northampton students are called Konkrete Kids because of the large amounts of limestone deposits in that area which are used to make concrete. Makes sense now right?

Studying at Muhlenberg for college, Mr. Albright planned to major in business, however; senior year he switched to major in education. He received his Master’s degree at Lehigh University while still teaching graduate classes. He has been teaching for the Bethlehem Area School District (BASD) for 29 years now.

Mr. Albright started his career at Liberty and then was the work training/ STEPS coordinator for Freedom and

Rader’s Rants: love is in the air Reasons why Valentine’s Day is overrated Gabrielle Rader The Freedom Forum

unconditional love, people go out to dinner at an overpriced fancy restauThe only day out of three hundred rant or buy big boxes of chocolates. and sixty five days of the year you Some want teddy bears as big as beds, can show people you love them: Val- but what are they good for? They are entine’s Day. So, what about the other days during the year? Do people not love each other any other day than on February 14?

Valentine’s Day seems to be mostly for those who are in relationships, and it is a huge deal since they need to impress their boyfriends/girlfriends. But, if you care about them as much as you say you do, then why celebrate how much you love and cherish them so deeply on only ONE day?

Those in relationships use this day to celebrate their undying love for one another. Even Comic: Ashley Adames though this should happen daily, since life is way too short. If you are just going to take up space and make in a relationship with someone you clutter. Flowers are given as a token should not only be showing them how of love, but they will eventually die important and how much you value over time. So, is this foreshadowing them only on this one holiday. Your the death of the love and romance? special someone should be treated Love these days is mostly about malike royalty all the time. terial items and what they are worth.

To show their massive amount of People care more about what they are

given instead of quality time being spent with someone special. Love is just thrown out there by people, and it has lost its meaning in today’s world shown by the divorce rates. I know I would choose a few hours of alone time with someone I liked over being given a designer handbag.

Some people may feel like it is an obligation to celebrate Valentine’s Day, but in my opinion it is not necessary. People can be crazy today expecting so much from someone. If you truly love someone you should not need them to host a huge extravaganza only on one day. If I was in a relationship, I would just want his love and attention, not dozens of roses or gross chocolates (not gonna lie though I would not mind it so hmu).

What about those who are not in a relationship, they do not have someone to shower with love, gifts, and affection on this lovey-dovey day. At least they are saving their money for themselves. This way they can go out and buy themselves something nice.

No one wants to listen to the stereotypical girl who cries because she has no one to celebrate Valentine’s Day with. Stop complaining, you do not need someone just so you can celebrate Valentine’s Day. People may

Photo: Gabrielle Rader

say they do not care that they have no one to celebrate with and reiterate it constantly; but I hate to break it to ya, you do care.

So those of you alone this year for Valentine’s Day, join the club. Maybe next year will be our year to shower someone we love with gifts and cherish them for one whole day! Those who do have a special someone, lucky you and remember that it’s the little things in life that matter the most.

Reflection on four years at Freedom

Meet Luis Anaya Lauren Abel The Freedom Forum

Welcoming the new year with open arms, seniors, it is finally 2017. Luis Anaya is just as excited as the rest of us to graduate. Luis’ favorite high school memory was cheerleading tryouts freshman year.

Luis spent all four years at Freedom making friends and new memories. In the future, Luis looks forward to attending the University of Central Florida. He also looks forward to being a pediatric dentist.

Throughout high school Luis has made many friends and hopes that they will continue to be apart of his life.

“They are great people that I hope to keep in contact with and grow with,” Anaya said.

We have all learned valuable lessons during our time at Freedom, some more than others. It is good the realize that our lives are just beginning.

“High school can only teach you so much until there’s nothing left to learn in this place. Some things are learned

through experience,” said Anaya. I can only hope that the everyone in the class of 2017 is living up the rest of their high school careers Photo: Lauren Abel because I know it is not just me who is counting down the days until graduation.

10 Entertainment

February 2017

The Forum

Valentine’s Day favorites for singles Warning: these movies may make you cry Bailey Navin Journalism Student

These movies are not the ones you see on every other Valentine’s Day movie list, but certainly these movies will make you wish you are living in them.

This movie is a blessing.

“One Fine Day” (1996) Melanie (Michelle Pfeiffer), Jack (George Clooney)

Magazines are not always right.

“How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” (2003) Andie (Kate Hudson), Benjamin (Matthew McConaughey)

You will cry; I swear.

“Jerry Maguire” (1996) Dorothy (Renee Zellweger), Jerry (Tom Cruise)

Every teen girl’s daily dilemma “Sixteen Candles” (1984) Samantha (Molly Ringwald), Jake (Michael Schoeffling)

Your mom enjoys this movie.

“Overboard” (1987) Annie (Goldie Hawn), Dean (Kurt Russell)

Heartache city with this movie “10 Things I Hate About You” (1999)” Kat (Julia Stiles), Patrick (Heath Ledger)

What you would call “Relationship Goals”.

“Mr. & Mrs. Smith” (2005) Jane (Angelina Jolie), John (Brad Pitt)

Opposites attract in this movie.

“It’s A Boy Girl Thing” (2006) Nell (Samaire Armstrong), Woody (Kevin Zegers)

This will mess with your brain and your heart.

“Comet” (2014) Kimberly (Emmy Rossum), Dell (Justin Long)

Do not, I repeat do not make bets on girls!

“She’s All That” (1999) Laney (Rachael Leigh Cook), Zack (Freddie Prinze. Jr)

Watch when you get sick of your mom moving you around.

“The Perfect Man” (2005) Holly (Hilary Duff), Jean (Heather Locklear)

You could try to get your ex back with this movie.

“Get Over It” (2001) Kelly (Kirsten Dunst), Basin (Mila Kunis), Bentley (Shane West) Photos: IMDB

“Insta”times bring new ways to “Insta”shop How social media outlet Instagram supports small business Maya White News Editor

ing a clothing store is their dream and it’s important to support people who Most people use Instagram to keep work hard and love what they do. up with friends and expand their own When I shop at small businesses I feel profile online. But an abundance of better about myself because I know Insta-users are unaware of the fact that that they carry clothes for realistic the website can be used for much women,” said Melanie Porter, senior. more than that. So, what are we missOnline shopping began around 1994 ing? when familiar businesses like Pizza Small businesses are using Insta- Hut, Amazon, and eBay began selling gram’s international platitems on the interform to reach a wider aunet. Since then, web dience, which is bringing sales have skyrockproduct awareness to Ineted, with 244 milternet-savvy consumers. lion consumers “It’s just an easy, conbrowsing or buying venient way to do all your online in 2015. With shopping in one place,” the growth of mosaid Jessica Taylor, senior. Products from Copper Theory bile phone screen Screenshot: Maya White Larger companies- such size and improved as American Eagle and Pier 1 WiFi connection, Imports- are already well-known, and shopping online is easier than ever. often overshadow shops that offer Instagram has jumped on the trend, similar items but are lesser-known. even adding an optional “contact” butThis is especially prominent on the ton for a business’s profile.

Internet, where a Google search for Heather Ferguson is the owner and “women’s overalls” yields results founder of Madeline’s Box, a baby from top stores like Gap and Levi’s accessory retailer. She started the (more popular brands as a result of business, which is named after her their financial ability to advertise to a daughter, when she was unable to find larger audience) whereas results for pacifier clips online that she liked. smaller businesses are left to the less“I rely heavily on Instagram to marthan-loved second and third pages of ket my products. [It] has been an the search engine. amazing platform for marketing and “I think it’s important to shop small advertising our products. Not only do because for many store owners, hav- our own followers see our products,

but our customers, influenc- personal photos, letting users peer into ers, other brands, and blog- their world through social media. gers tag us in their “You can see photos with our their story, and products and that sometimes they also brings in cuspost pictures of tomers.

I truly their family on the wouldn’t be where I Instagram page, or am today without the process of the Instagram,” said [business], so it Ferguson. just makes the In about two years, whole experience her page has collectmore personal,” ed over 45,000 folsaid Taylor. lowers, with 90% of Instagram’s newScreenshot: Maya White her sales coming est feature, stories, through Instagram. can be used to give followers an inClicking the blue “follow” icon on side look at what it takes to run a the shop’s profile makes its posts ap- small business. Other times, businesspear instantly on a user’s page. This es will even use it to publish funny way, when sales and new arrivals are moments with their kids, or get in posted, the user will be notified as front of the camera to speak directly soon as he or she checks their feed. to the audience.

“The majority of my Instagram “I am all about connecting with my [feed] is all websites [of shops]. It’s customers on a personal level, and really cool to see what they have just Instagram is the best platform for that. come out with, especially with the Most of my following are young start of new seasons,” said Taylor. moms like me, and I feel my brand is Some of these businesses even con- relatable to them. They can reach out nect with one another to offer givea- and ask questions, see me or my kids’ ways, doubling the deal and calling faces and get to know the owner bemore attention to places one might not hind the brand,” said Ferguson. even be following at the time. In addiThe good ole’ world wide web is tion to the attention small businesses changing the way consumers shop, can attract by having an Instagram and Instagram is next in line. The next account, there is some creative license time you find yourself looking for a allowed with the posting of photos. new brand, search on Insta and you Often, small business owners will post might be surprised.

February 2017

The Forum

11 Entertainment

Remembering celebrities who have passed away Saying goodbye to great people champion of the world. In addition, he playing “Willy Wonka” in Prince was considwas a very important social icon and “Willy Wonka and the Chocoered one of the civil rights leader. During the Vi- late Factory”. His first film was greatest pop stars The year 2016 has seen a number of etnam War, he was drafted to be a the movie “Bonnie and Clyde”. ever. He rose to celebrities pass away. These celebri- soldier but refused to go into the war He also won an Academy fame in the 1980’s ties have left an imbecause he did not believe in Award. and 1990’s with the pressive legacy and nonviolence. He appealed Nancy Reagan was the First songs “1999” and will never be forgotthis in court and he Lady of the “Purple Rain”. He ten. Muhammed Ali, later won.

United States won seven GramFidel Castro, Nancy Fidel Castro was and was mar- Gene Wilder my’s in his career.

Reagan, Alan Thicke, the dictator of Cuba ried to Ronald Alan Thicke Gene Wilder, and from 1959 to 2008.

Reagan. She was played one of the most beloved sitPrince will always be He overthrew the prealso a hollywood com dads on the show “ Growing remembered. vious dictator.

As actress and model Pains”. He is the father of Robin Muhammed Ali was soon as he took over before she became Thicke, and won three Emmy Awards considered one of the as dictator he implefirst lady. While in for some of his acting performances. greatest boxers of all Mohammed Ali mented communist office, she was a big All of these people will have a long time. He revolutionized ideas and harmed anyone contributor of the “ lasting legacy, expression on the how boxing was played and added his who tried to oppose his rule.

Just say no” cam- world, and the people they have afNancy Reagan own swagger and charisma to the Gene Wilder was a famous acpaign. fected.

Photos: Wikipedia sport. He was also Heavyweight tor and his most famous film was Prince Nelson Rogers, also known as

Jalen Stewart Journalism Student

A rooster calling in the Chinese New Year 2017 A look into the traditions of the Chinese New Year Analisa Jeffries Web and Centerspread Editor

On January 28, 2017, the Chinese New Year celebrated the arrival of the year of the rooster. 2017 is specifically known as the year of the fire rooster, and the certain type of animal changes every time the animal appears in the cycle. The cycles have 12 total animals that represent the year such as a dragon, rabbit, or tiger.

Since they repeat names, they also have other signs like fire, earth, water or gold for the rooster to decipher the certain year.

The Chinese year 4715 began on January 28th, but this date may vary as it is based off of the lunar calendar.

It could be well into February before the New Year begins.

“One of my favorite parts about Chinese New Year is the red enve-

dumplings, rice cakes and rice balls. lope, hongbao. The children offer The Chinese New Year puts an emgood wishes for their elders' health phasis on eating dinner with family, and fortune, and in return, they give and having a large feast, which Mao the children money in a red envelope,” said Linda Mao, junior.

Along with the tradition of the red envelope comes many others that are meant to bring good fortune into the New Year, such as setting off firecrackers, buying new clothes and worshipping the ancestors. According to Jenna Souto, junior, sweeping the home from the front to the back will allow the new to be A colorful dragon from the Photos: Wikipedia Chinese New Year Parade. brought in and the old to be swept out.

“Never cut your noodles or you will compares a little bit to Thanksgiving. have bad luck,” said Souto. On the Many people still abide to this traother hand some foods that are said to dition and fly back to China to celebring good luck are fish, spring rolls, brate with their families, which re-

sults in the world’s largest migration of humans, according to CNN. While back home, they may attend wooden dragon boat racing and the Lantern Festival on the last day of the celebration. The lanterns are lit and released into the air, bringing light to the future. Lanterns come in different shapes and even animals like the dragon or goat.

At this festival there is also lion dances that ward off evil, and bring luck. Lastly, of course is the dragon dancing. The dragons are made from bamboo and cloth; they must have an odd number of joints according to tradition. The dances assist in the worship of ancestors, and when they are done dancing the head, and tail will be burned. The dragon’s body will return to a temple to be reused again the next year.

Google competes with Amazon for smart devices A comparison review of the Okay and Alexa command.

Okay Google has many commands, and it searches for the most accurate answer. Sometimes, Okay Google Google has the Okay Google device does not have all the answers even if and Amazon has the Alexa device it is asked the simplest of questions. either in an Echo or the Dot. Both Google continues have capabilities of responding to to update more voice commands, searching incommands, so the formation on the internet, and device provides even controlling devices in your more accuracy. home. They truly transform a There are a lot of regular home into a smart home. secrets to make Marcus Pinkowski’s family purthe voice of Okay chased the Okay Google for Google sing or tell Christmas, while Karla Erdman’s jokes. I find this family bought the Echo Dot. very useful as long Photos: Wikipedia How do the devices matchup? as it keeps getting When my family got the new A front view of the Okay updated. It is realGoogle device Okay Google for Christmas, it ly handy to ask was a great gift, so we decided to Okay Google a test it out. My family waited for my question then just searching it up on a father to setup the device. It is a small phone or computer. It works well round device with the speaker all even if the WiFi is not strong. around the bottom. It has one button On the other side of the technologito mute it. It lights up on the top when cal realm, Amazon has the Echo, or as someone says “Ok Google.” Then the many know it as Alexa. This device device makes noise until it is given a has a lot of capabilities. There are two Marcus Pinkowski Journalism Student Karla Erdman Advisor

devices the larger Echo that is a full items such as televisions, lights, and speaker and runs over $100 and the other appliances to turn them on and Echo Dot, which is smaller in size, off with voice commands. Additionalhas a smaller speaker, and runs at ly, the apps that work with the Echo about $50. for these devices The Erdmans purchased make it possible to the Echo Dot, which has schedule lights on all of the capabilities of the and off or even turn larger Echo for half the off appliances when price. The Dot can be conone is not home. nected via Bluetooth to a However, all of the larger speaker, but it is not accessories to make necessary unless someone The Amazon Echo Dot one’s home into a wants music in a different smart home are exScreenshot: Mrs. Erdman location than where the Dot pensive. For example, sits. one smart light bulb runs for $15. The Set up for the Dot was easy and starter kit with a couple of light bulbs there is an app for smartphones that and hub that links with the Echo costs helps to continuously update and between $80 and $120 depending upmake the voice commands stronger. on white lights or colored lights. A Anyone speaking to the Dot in the standard home could run off of one house will be recognized, but utilizing hub as it can handle up to 50 different the voice testing strengthens the accu- devices. racy.

All in all, these are neat tech items Similar to the Okay Google, the that make life fun. People can use Echo will search many different them as toys to just play with or move things on the internet, making people into the realm of smart homes. even lazier than they are now. However, if one purchases the equipment, the Echo can connect to household

February 2017

The Forum

12 Sports

Patriots take Falcons into overtime Recapping an eventful Super Bowl Zak Boncher Journalism Student

could mount a comeback.

During halftime, Lady Gaga put on a stellar performance singing After a long NFL season, it came several of her notable songs, indown to two teams on Feb. 5 in Hou- cluding “Just Dance” and “Poker ston, Texas for Super Bowl 51. The Face”, making sure not to disapAtlanta Falcons, who went 12-4 in the point the fans. regular season, and the New England After halftime, the Falcons came Patriots who went 14-2, line-up to be out and scored again, extending crowned the best team this year. their lead to 28-3. In the history of The game started out in Atlanta’s the Super Bowl, no team has ever favor. They came out of the gates fast come back from a deficit of more and went up 21-3 going into halftime. than 10 points. At this point, footMatt Ryan, the Falcons QB who was ball fans around the world counted recently named NFL MVP, was all Brady and the Patriots out. over the Patriot’s defense. Many peoComing into the fourth quarter, ple counted Tom Brady and the New down 28-9 after scoring off a Brady England Patriots out of it, but a few TD pass, the Patriots were not giving still had faith the future Fall-of-Famer up. In this quarter, Brady showed

to force the first overtime in Super Bowl history.

Going into overtime, the Patriots got the ball first for a chance to win the game. They drove down the field and scored a touchdown, leaving every fan in the stadium with their mouth hanging open in such unbelief.

Brady who was named Super Bowl MVP, showed sports fans around the globe to never give up regardless of the challenges faced.

All in all, the Patriots were Tom Brady celebrating his 5th Super Bowl able to mount what many conPhoto: David Solar sider the greatest comeback in football fans why some the history of the Super Bowl. consider him the greatest quarterback Was this an epic collapse for the Falof all time as he mounted a 25 point cons, or was it an epic comeback for comeback as he tied the game 28-28 The New England Patriots?

Highlighting Freedom’s Winter Sports Zooming in on basketball, wrestling and swimming Chuck Tichy Assistant Sports Editor

Photo: Bob Yurko

So far, the winter sports season has been a blast. Win or lose, athletes have put everything they have onto the court, pool, or mat. Now let’s take a look at each individual team and highlight key players and victories.

First off, arguably the most successful winter sports team, the Freedom Girl’s Basketball team. The girl’s qualified for districts on Jan. 28 for the first time since the 2009-2010 season with two key victories over Liberty. Some key players who helped attain this accomplishment are junior Hailey Silfies and seniors Kaitlyn Swint and Meckenzie Herman.

Look for them to carry on their success from the regular season during

Valley Live, “The Patriots are the meet against East Stroudsburg South. the district tournament. most-improved team Ward was also given On the other hand, the boys’ basket- from December to now honorable mention ball team have also had a successful in the area.” Now, the for this award for her year, thus far as their record hovers return of senior Evan performance during around .500. They have heavily relied Callahan, a Harvard this meet. on Nick King for scoring this year, as commit who wrestles at The boys swimhe averages 21 points per game. After 220 pounds, will defiming team began on a midseason 7 game losing streak, the nitely help them. Howeva rough note as they Patriots came back on the winning er, the improvement is started with a 1-4 track with a win over Nazareth. On not entirely on the return record, but since then Feb. 6, the Patriots clinched a district of Callahan, as the team they have definitely playoff berth with a victory over as a whole has been turned their season wrestling better. around. Their record Their record is like almost all other hovering a little Fallon Tatlow diving into Freedom Winter above .500. Look the water. sports teams hovers a Photo: James Quartararo Jr. for wrestlers like little above .500. Keep seniors Ryan Deloach and an eye out for Brian Seitz, Colin BurThomas Bonilla to represent nette, and Al Bell as they look to the Patriots in the individual make noise in the individual district district tournament. tournament.

Finally, let’s take a swim Ultimately, this winter sports season with the Freedom Swimming has proven to be widely successful for team. The Girls team unfor- all Freedom teams, regardless of wins Photo: James Quartararo Jr. tunately didn’t perform the or losses. Teams were able to put Pleasant Valley. way they were hoping to when the aside any differences and work toNow, let’s go to the mats. The Patri- season started. They are led by wards a common goal and fans were ots season started out a little rough, Rileigh Ellis and Reilly Ward. On there every step of the way, cheering but since December they have defi- Feb. 3, Ellis was awarded the on the best school in the Lehigh Valnitely turned it around. Brad Wilson, “Lehighvalleylive Girls Swimmer of ley. a wrestling analyst said on Lehigh the Week” for her efforts during a

Meeting Alasdair Bell outside of the pool A personality profile on one of Freedom’s star athletes to make it to the state competitions, will be able to swim.

Robert Roth Journalism Student

Photo: Robert Roth

There are almost 2,000 students at Freedom High School, so it is challenging to stand out in the crowd. However, someone who deserves to be recognized is

Alasdair Bell.

Bell is currently a sophomore and most people know him for being on Freedom’s varsity swim team.

More commonly referred to as “Al” by friends and fellow classmates, Bell

is a hard-working honors student. He describes himself as a fun, yet shy person, but once someone gets to know him, he will make people laugh with his goofy jokes because of his great sense of humor.

“I love meeting new people,” said Bell.

Most of Bell’s friends are on the swim team, a close-knit community.

“We always talk about the pasta parties and how much we look forward to them,” said Bell.

Most of his life revolves around swimming, which is something he very much enjoys and is his passion.

At one point he was ranked 9th in the entire state of Pennsylvania. One of his goals by the end of the season is

which will take place at Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA. “You have to be willing to work hard and put in the time to give effort and if you do that you will have fun doing it. It just requires a lot of work,” said Bell In his free time, Bell tries to get his school work done and likes to meet up with friends and hang out or even go golfing every once and awhile.

One of Bell’s favorite places to visit are beaches up in New England.

Bell can be very competitive whenever he is given a challenge at hand, whether it be sports or anything else.

“I love to stay positive,” said Bell.

Eventually Bell would like to win districts. In his future, he wants to go to a good college where hopefully he

Bell considers himself a leader because he thinks for himself and does not let anyone make decisions for him. He tries to set an example for the younger swimmers as he leads by example by working his absolute hardest every day.

“I don't know if I really look up to anyone famous. I look up to my friends and coaches because they are the ones who guide me,” said Bell.

In Bell’s future, he plans on studying something involving sports, whether it be sports management, sports medicine, or even physical therapy. Bell’s main focus right now is his school work and swimming, and he is doing a great job balancing the two out, setting an example for all student-athletes.