September 2017 by The Freedom Forum

Volume 51 Issue 1

September 2017

Freedom High School builds new turf field

Photo: Hayley Guzzo

The new McDonald’s on Linden Street.

Stepping into the future of fast food A look at the new high-tech McDonald’s

osks are where guests can order for themselves as employees walk around to help them and serve as a GEL or a Guest Experience Lead. The new kiosks do not accept cash of any kind, so all cash must be paid at the front counter with a cashier. Nazareth Pike’s store has also been making its way to be known as a dining restaurant as opposed to fast-food, much like the highly popular, Chik-fil -A. After a customer has placed their order either at the kiosks or at the front counter and say that they are dining in, the guest is able to receive a table tent that has a number and a locator showing where that guest has been seated. Once the food is up for that order, a zone between one and four will show up on the screen showing where the guest is throughout the store. The servers are to first take their food to the guest’s table and simply turn the table tent on its side, meaning touchpoint one has been completed. Then as the guest is eating, a second touchpoint must be done by taking the table tent from the guest and asking if eve-

rything is okay. Lastly, the last touchpoint is taking the customers tray and asking them how their meal was. “Rumor has it, that if 191 gets good feedback on the kiosks, our store on Easton Avenue will eventually have a lobby remodeling and we will be adding the kiosks too,” said Boehm. All guests should not feel pressured to use the kiosks just because they are there. Some folks do pick ordering from a cashier at the register over a screen, however, more and more customers seem to be trying out the kiosks every day. Another new addition to the store is the new and improved service that the employees provide to the guests and even towards their fellow crew. All communication while talking to a guest must be performed with a smile on your face and a positive attitude, a smile must be able to be heard through the drive-thru speaker, not just face-to-face at the window, and everything that is shouted out in the back must be closed by a “please” and a “thank you.” ¨I learned that working at McDon-

ald's isn't just an independent working environment. I learned that communication is key when working with others,¨ said Eddie Rodriguez, crew member at Nazareth Pike. With its specific location in the area, McDonald’s on 191 tends to get more of its business in drive-thru. During the revamp of the store, the company decided to do something that no other McDonald’s in the area has done, which is creating two drive-thrus. This system was built to provide a smoother drive-thru experience; not only for the guests, but for the workers as well. Lastly, the final new addition to the restaurant is the fountain. The fountain is located outside of the store, and can be seen before the drive thru. ¨Working at McDonald's not only gave me experience with cooking, but I also met some of the coolest people there,” said Rodriguez.

Advancing Freedom High School

Finding the happy medium of social media

Welcoming new staff to FHS

Falling for autumn fashion

A look at all the new additions to FHS

Balancing life with apps

Highlights of all the new staff this year

Brushing up on fall fashion before fall

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Hayley Guzzo Pates’ Post Editor

McDonald's is one of the most popular fast-food restaurants in the world that was founded in April of 1955. In Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, the McDonald's on 3925 Nazareth Pike, has been around for 37 years. Just this past year the owner, Robert Hughes, decided it was time for a change. The very popular McDonald's that was getting about 70 percent of its business through the drive through, was torn down and prepped for a complete renovation. Expectations for this new technologically advanced store were very high, and even though the renovation project took longer than the company had hoped for, the finishing product is being adored by many today. ¨The store looks really good. I´ve heard that good feedback comes from that,¨ said Kevin Boehm, crew trainer at McDonald's on Easton Avenue. This store features the very first kiosks in the United States. These ki-

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

Celebrating over 50 years of serving the Freedom community

2 News

September 2017

The Forum

BASD helps heal Houston Student Council sells bracelets to raise funds for those affected by Hurricane Harvey. Carson Swick Assistant Editorial Editor Jasmine Figueroa Journalism Student

Hurricane Harvey, the most powerful storm in twelve years, hit the Gulf Coast extremely hard about two weeks ago. Flooding has devastated the area, and polluted water have snakes and other animals. Houses have become uninhabitable. One major problem is managing shelters and housing tents because everything that is low to the ground is flooded. People in Houston have lost their homes, and they cannot get back into the city because it is shut down. Unfortunately, at least sixty people have died already, including Steve Perez, 60, a

Houston police He did not want to waste officer for 34 the opportunity, so he years. has taken a lead role in With everything organizing the fundraisthat has been goer. ing on, Freedom “Doing something like principal, Mr. Mithis is a great opportunichael LaPorta, ty to teach kids about expressed interest empathy and giving,” in assisting the said Mr. Stellato. people of HouFreedom High School ston. He took the is raising money by sellidea to gym teaching bracelets for three er Mr. Joseph dollars each. According Stellato, who then The trendy wristbands fit nicely to junior, Spencer Wilbegan working with with other accessories. liams, the bracelets will be Photo: Carson Swick the student council. sold during all lunches and “Student council came up with the sporting events. idea to sell bracelets,” said Mr. Stella- “We wanted to send money so it’s to, Health/Physical Education teacher. easier for those affected to spend. We

don’t know exactly what they need,” said Williams. The fundraiser, known as “BASD Helps Heal Houston,” will benefit students in the Houston Independent School District. FHS has set a goal to sell six thousand bracelets for the district totaling up to a whopping $18,000. In addition to Freedom, the bracelets will also be sold at all BASD elementary schools. Letters were sent home with elementary school students, so more of the district can contribute. To repair areas affected by Harvey, Hurricanes Irma, Jose, and Katia society should continue to help raise money and care for those in need.

How can a student better Freedom?

“By involving themselves in clubs and activities.” - Harleen Kaur, freshman

“They can join all the clubs.” - Jalen Stewart, sophomore

“It would be nice if everyone could clean up their messes.” - Tommy Blair, junior

“I think that if we all work together and strive to be great like we know we are, and once we realize that, we can make our years here great.” - Leilani Achoe, senior

“Throwing out their garbage, picking up trash they see on the floor, and be nicer.” - Ms. Nora Borger, History Teacher

Advancing Freedom High School The school has put in new additions around the school. Keri Kipp News Editor

As Freedom High School (FHS) opens for the 2017-2018 school year, it takes a huge step into today’s society in regards to technology. Everything in the modern world is so digital and high-tech, it is almost too hard to keep up. However, FHS is up to the challenge. FHS is staying in the game by adding two new 65 inch flat screen televisions—one to each side of the cafeteria; displaying QR codes for promotional purposes; implementing social media to connect to the school; and installing new seats in the planetarium. Televisions for All The televisions were gifted to FHS from the Class of 2017. On the first day of school, students enjoyed a picnic lunch in the cafeteria and outside. This was the perfect opportunity for the televisions to be displayed for all to finally see. “When we first sat down to think about what we wanted to do, we thought about the televisions. They are good for the kids to have at lunch, and Liberty has them so why not,” said Ms. Nora Lorady, 2017 senior

class advisor. The televisions are in the cafeteria because it is the most populated place and FHS wants the students to relaxed during lunch. In the near future, the televisions will be used to display The Freedom Forum’s newscast, announcements about the school, football game replays, and the news channel. Snapchat that QR Code How many students are always on their phones in the hallways or in class taking and posting Snapchats? The answer is: a whole lot of them are. The FHS Varsity Cheerleading Squad incorporated the app Snapchat today into something for publicity purposes by combining it with the use of QR codes. “QR codes are so common to see in today’s day and age and I thought we should hop on the bandwagon and give it a shot,” said Lynn Spina, Athletic Secretary and Varsity Cheer Coach. The new cheerleader shirts have a QR code on the back of them, which links to a website created to bring the school together. In order to use the code, students scan the back of the shirt with the Snapchat camera and click the link that pops up on the

phone. The new seats are state-of-the-art Coach Spina instructed the cheer- quality covered with a nice fabric. The leaders to wear the shirts the first day seats recline back and are tall enough to get the word out about positivity. to support students’ heads. The chairs Although the also contain a desk. squad members Most are on the right have only worn side; however, there the shirts twice, are left-handed desks they have still in certain spots around been able to rethe room for the stuceive some posidents who are left tive feedback handed. from their fellow “The old seats have peers. been here ever since “When the shirts the school first were first worn opened, and I was exby the girls, peopecting maybe a step ple were definiteor two above them. ly curious. How- The new television being displayed When I first saw the ever, we don’t have in cafeteria right.Photo by: Rachel Black room, it totally blew my much feedback expectations out of the yet.... Basically, the jury is still decid- water. I could not be happier with how ing,” said Coach Spina. everything looks,” said Mr. Harvey. Finally, there have been other techSitting to See the Stars The planetarium is used as an astron- nology upgrades at FHS, such as 60 omy classroom by Mr. John Harvey. Chromebook carts with 32 new Not everyone at Freedom has the op- Chromebooks in each cart, document portunity to step inside the planetari- cameras, projectors, and a Padcaster um every day. However, thanks to the system. new additions to the room such as the “The new upgrades have definitely freshly-painted walls, new carpeting, hyped up the school as a whole. I realand reclining seats, students in the ly like all of the new things that the astronomy class will find themselves school brought to us this year,” said very lucky—and comfortable. Sydney Zarzecki, junior.

September 2017

The Forum

3 Editorials

What makes and breaks a concert The things that make a concert a great or horrible experience. Rachel Black Editorial Editor Samantha Corvera Journalism Student

Summer concerts are a valued part of Lehigh Valley culture. Since 1984, Musikfest has brought some unforgettable concert experiences to Bethlehem. The original music festival featured 295 performances, and recently, Musikfest has skyrocketed to over 500 concerts a year. Sometimes these memories are positively everlasting, but sometimes they are horrific. What makes these concerts so awesome or awful? For starters, a performer’s attitude is

very important when it comes to the overall feel of a concert. Senior Hailey Miller explains to the Forum her own drab experience seeing Jason Derulo at Musikfest in August 2014. “It just seemed like he didn’t want to be there,” said Miller. She confides that Derulo did not even know what state he was in during the concert. “He called us New Jersey!” said Miller. She wishes that the arrogant superstar would have been more emotionally vulnerable at the event. “I just prefer a performer who connects to the audience,” said Miller. Elena Spengler, a senior, had a completely different experience from Miller when she saw The Band Perry at

Musikfest in 2017. According to both agree that when choosing a conSpengler, The Band Perry’s down-to- cert to attend this summer, find a perearth stage presence is unparalleled by former who is notoriously kind, inany band she had ever seen. spiring, and humble. Besides the country-pop group’s catchy music, Spengler noted that the band shared a connection with the audience and told them the story of how the band started. “They were genuinely humble people. I would definitely see them again,” said Spengler. The Band Perry performs their hit “If I Die What contrasted between Young” at the ArtsQuest center stage. Photo: Rachel Black Jason Derulo and The Band Perry was eagerness and transparency. Miller and Spengler

Deferred action for childhood arrivals The elimination of DACA Destiny Panik Entertainment Editor

The United States of America holds a sad history of Native Americans slowly losing their territory to an intruder on their land. But the so called intruders, European settlers, had reasonable cause; they wanted a better and brighter future. If this is the case, then why is the land of the free and home of the brave closing its borders to those who want--who deserve--a better life? Why is our newly elected president eliminating any opportunity the children of the future have to prosper? Victims of their surroundings, the children who unwillingly face the fate their parents chose for them are forced out of the land they call home. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) allows certain illegal immigrants who entered the country as mi-

nors to receive a renewable two-year period of deferred action from deportation and eligibility for a work permit according to npr.org, an American privately and publicly funded nonprofit membership media organization. However, this beneficial act created by the former president of the United States, Barack Obama, is being eliminated by the new American president, Donald Trump. According to The New York Times, an American daily newspaper, an estimated 800,000 children will be affected by the withdrawal of this act and will be declared illegal immigrants and forced to leave the country. These children pose no threat to the nation and had no say in their parents actions to illegally come to the country, however face extreme consequences of something that is not their doing. DACA exclusively accepts children who are not criminals and are currently involved in school, according to undocu.berkeley.edu, University of

California-Berkeley’s official website, fail the test required to pass for the and Obama states that ¨these dreamers citizenship. The steps to become a are American in their hearts¨ and pose citizen are completely absurd and take no threat the great an exceptional nation formerly conamount of time, ceived by immiso the so-called grants. solution of “just The hypocritical become an Amernation of the United ican citizen,” is states portrays immialmost as ignogrants as a negative rant as the current feature of society; government. however, if you are No one deserves not pure Native the right to kick a American, you are, in working and edusome degree, an imcated citizen out migrant. The sad of a nation they Bethlehem Area School District’s truth many Americall home. Forced cans ignore is that they superintendent, Joseph Roy, stating here at a young are not as special and the continuation of educating stuage, pledging alleentitled as their all- dents and promise of no alteration. giance, and workmighty leader portrays Screenshot from Twitter ing for a future them. beneficial to not According to citizenship-aei.org, an only them but the nation as a whole, official website on American citizen- victims of the elimination of DACA ship, one-third of Americans would do not deserve this.

Overwhelming pressure of young athletes Jared Jenkins speaks about coping: “try not to worry and trust myself.” Carson Swick Assistant Editorial Editor

When people think of high school athletes, many have similar pictures in mind--gifted and motivated individuals who bond and compete together at a high level. Jared Jenkins (far left) leads the Freedom offense against Northampton on September 15, 2017. There’s no arguing the dedPhoto: Carson Swick ication a student must have to shine on the field and take care of Freedom made a late surge before personal responsibilities. Can all of bowing down to Parkland in the disthe pressure get to them? Certainly. trict playoffs. It was a disappointing An athlete must be disciplined to end to a terrific season for the Patriavoid letting this pressure to succeed ots. get to them. Fast forward a year, and the Patriots Football, the most popular sport at still have a talented team with high Freedom High School, is a sport in expectations. The new season brings which young players are expected to new faces to the field and practice perform under pressure. Last year, squad who prepare to live up to the

expectations for success. Among all of the new players, no one has more reason to feel this pressure than sophomore quarterback Jared Jenkins. Jenkins spent last season as the backup to Joe Young, and he has made great strides in a short time. He was just named the starting quarterback this summer and began the season by leading Freedom to win against Allentown Central Catholic and William Allen. “I’ve had to work really hard and put in extra work to earn the respect of my teammates. I think I’m getting used to it,” said Jenkins. With his performances, Jared Jenkins has certainly proven that he is capable of playing such an important role. Although some would think he would be timid in his first few games, Jenkins has remained calm and relied on his experienced teammates to make plays.

“My teammates have been great. They encourage me when I struggle and tell me to move onto the next play,” he said. High school athletes have more riding on them than perhaps any other athletes. In many cases, student athletes see schoolwork and part-time employment as distractions to their sport. But the student who is willing to work in practice with coaches and teammates shouldn’t be overwhelmed at all. Jared Jenkins’ attitude allows him to look forward to a bright future. His ability to handle high expectations at a young age is essential to his success. “When the pressure gets to me, I try not to worry and trust myself,” he said. Regardless of Freedom’s record this season, Jared Jenkins’ progress will surely be something to watch.

4 Editorials The Freedom Forum A publication of Freedom High School

September 2017

The Forum

Finding the happy medium of social media Mrs. O’Leary and Bryce Mullins Share How They Disconnect to Connect

Bethlehem Area School District 3149 Chester Avenue Bethlehem PA, 18020 (610) 867-5843 www.FHSForum.com

Co-Editor-in-Chief Analisa Jeffries Juliana Maffea News Editor Kerilyn Kipp Editorial Editor Rachel Black

Pates’ Post Editor Hayley Guzzo Entertainment Editor Destiny Panik Center Spread Editor Madison Walther Sports Editor T.J. Schaeffer Web Editor Madison Walther Gabrielle Rader Assistant Editors Carson Swick Adviser Karla Erdman Principal Mr. Michael LaPorta Superintendent

Delilah Oquendo Journalism Student

Being present in a world full of different ways to connect with one another using Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter may feel overwhelming. With the increase of smartphones, phone usage has doubled in the last 5 years. Finding ways to balance social media and offline life are super important for a meaningful and successful life. Three ways to make sure you are up to pace with your life may very well be easy to follow. First, realize and acknowledge how much time you put into social media. Moderate how much time you spend on it. Second, scheduling and planning a thorough, clear schedule that helps you avoid being overwhelmed by school, work and social demands. Third, prioritizing and putting first what will later put you first. Focus on the things that make you happy and successful. What many people don’t realize is the overuse of social media and how it is a huge cause of procrastination. Just think about all the times you’ve quickly checked social media and had ended up passing an hour stuck on it. Bryce Mullins and Ms, O’Leary will tell us how they try to stay focus during the temptations of being on social media while juggling school and life. Bryce Mullins, Freedom senior, explains that managing school and his social life can be difficult at times. Bryce shares that if he isn’t studying, he is working at Wegmans or hanging out with friends. Bryce’s “key to success” is to learning how to manage one’stime

and putting school first. Bryce keeps a set schedule, is determined to focus on school before anything else, and avoids being stressed throughout the day. Bryce currently uses what most teens use as social media which are Twitter having a sample statistic of 27.9k followers, Instagram, and snapchat being

Social media distracts students in the hallway. Photo: Rachel Black

his favorite. Bryce checks social media a few times a day “just like everyone else,” he says. Bryce moderates how much time he spends on social media and makes sure it doesn’t distract him on the more important things in his life like school and work. Negative comments don’t seem to stop Bryce from being focus at school. He claims, “people shouldn’t take negative comments on social media, it’s just a person behind a screen trying to bring me down.” Mullin priorities what's important and focuses on himself. Bryce

has learned to not take social media seriously. “Twitter is just an account that has funny tweets” and doesn’t let it compromise school. Mrs. Kaitlin O’Leary, 10th and 12th grade English teacher, has slowly pushed away some social media to balance out her life. She realized she had been prioritizing the wrong things and people in her life. Consequently, she came to the conclusion to delete Facebook. She felt that she was missing out on a lot of relationships because she was focused on those who were not prioritizing her in return. “Focus on the relationships right in front of you before looking for those who aren't there” she advises. Mrs. O’Leary says to enjoy physical interactions than looking out for people on social media because it's better to have the quality of good people in your life rather than the quantity of people you have on social media. Mrs. O’Leary agreed that she was spending too much time on Facebook and it was eventually going to take over her life if she didn't change. After removing Facebook out of her life, she reflects, “It was difficult and I missed out on knowing what others were doing, but it was more important to me to focus on the [my] actual relationships than virtual ones.” She now only checks on social media 2-4 times a day. Mrs. O’Leary still does use Instagram for family members and the runners’ community. She joined the runners’ community right after deleting her Facebook. Mrs. O’Leary keeps up with running pages and runner brands. Mrs. O’Leary’s message to others is “live in the present, [you] can't experience life if you're worried about people on a screen.”

Dr. Joseph Roy For our editorial statement and correction policy, please go to www.fhsforum.com/about.html

Dear Ani: Becoming a part of Freedom Family

Any photo that is not directly credited is from Microsoft Office.

A student decides whether or no to be a part of Riot Squad.

Analisa Jeffries Co-Editor-in-Chief

@fhsforum, #fhsforum fhsforum@gmail.com www.fhsforum.com

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

Photo: Christmas City Studios

Dear Ani, Many of my friends are considering becoming involved with the Riot Squad. It all seems a little too crazy for me. The whole mosh pit and the psycho football fans scares me. I feel like it would be easy for me to get injured. Just sitting behind the rowdy bunch kind of makes me want to stay as far away from them as possible. They throw things all over, and they get super loud. It seems like a lot of fun, and I would love to join if I did not have doubts about it. I would want to sit behind the group or away from them rather than in with them. I also feel like I would not be included with all of the people. Truthfully, I love the football games, and my friends and I have a great time. However, I really do not know if joining them would be the best option for me. Sincerely, School Spirit Wanted

Dear School Spirit W anted, The Riot Squad represents the study body supporting the sports teams. They are rowdy, but that is what makes it a fun time. Hanging out with friends is Mr. Pierre Morgan is always around just one of the major parts that to stop the craziness when the students makes the squad what it is. It is start throwing things in the air or getalso a bunch of different high ting too wild. Being in the squad is not schoolers coming together as a a requirement, students are free to come group to support their school. and go. It is a great way to make new The idea as a friends, too. whole is a great There are always thing, and this is other clubs to join the second year that it is and to get involved revamped. The Riot Squad with. Getting inhas leaders that make the volved is a great way group enjoyable and a to meet new people welcoming community. and do exciting It is understandable that things. there are reservations Do not be afraid to about joining them bestep out of the comcause of a possibility of fort zone. It can be a injury. As long as you are fun story for later if Photo submitted by: Analisa Jeffries not right in the front and it does not work out. center, there should not be that great of Ani a chance of getting pushed to the ground by a mosh pit.

September 2017

The Forum

Pates’ Post 5

A helping hand around Freedom A deeper look into what Aevidum is and how it affects Freedom High School Isabelle Jabbour and Isabella Scipioni Journalism Students

Aevidum is an after school club founded at Cocalico High School in 2003 in response to a student’s suicide. It is a now nationwide awareness group in schools that helps spread the feelings of comfort and security among students. The club, originally called, “A Helping Hand,” was later changed to “Aevidum,” meaning “I’ve got your back,” in Latin. Aevidum came to Freedom when a student suggested that the school started a peer mentoring program. This began as Freedom Friends and has evolved into Aevidum, a national organization. Along with Aevidum moving to Freedom, the club is a nationwide organization with over 150 clubs in Pennsylvania and beyond. Mrs. Maureen Calvo, Aevidum’s advisor, says that Aevidum is the umbrel-

la over their smaller groups Peer Tutoring and Freedom Friends. “Aevidum’s goal is to create an environment where everybody can feel cared for, appreciated, accepted, and acknowledged,” said Mrs. Calvo, special education teacher. She and the Aevidum members want their program to be one that promotes support and safety for everyone, and that anyone can join to help them complete this goal. The main goal Aevidum wishes to achieve is to become a culture that binds every aspect of our building and to create support to make sure every student feels safe and acknowledged. In addition, Aevidum wants to shatter the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide by showing students that it is okay to ask for help. Aevidum is a safe place where anyone can come to get help with issues they’re having. They connect with students to let them know they’re not alone. Not only does Aevidum connect with students, but the club also con-

nects with the idea of ¨Freedom Fami- If you are interested in joining Aevily,” and Freedom’s theme this year, dum, first consider which section of “Team of Teams.” the program you’d like to join. Free¨Our theme this year is team of teams dom Friends has meetings every and that’s Wednesday what I bein room 302 lieve; Aeviafter school. dum is a Anyone can team,¨ said join or atMrs. Calvo. tend meetWith this ings whenmindset, ever they Aevidum becan. lieves that the To join tutoring team Peer Tutoralong with ing, you The Aevidum sign that was hanging in the main the Freedom will need to Friends team lobby. be referred by Photo: Mrs. Karla Erdman a teacher and can really take the club above will be reand beyond with the help from stu- quired to fill out an application. Howdents around the school. ever, you can contact Mrs. Calvo in “Because we have such a big mission, room 130 for more information on we don’t want to just be Aevidum, we joining. Aevidum is open to anyone would love to feel like Aevidum is and everyone and hopes to see plenty really school wide. Aevidum is every- of new faces this school year! where.” said Mrs. Calvo.

Traveling around the world with our new foreign exchange student Meet Francesca Briaia, student of the month Madison Walther Centerspread Editor

Imagine going to a place far away, leaving your whole life behind you. Hard to believe? Not for Francesca Braia. Braia is a foreign exchange student from Italy. She has been in the exchange program for two years now. She traveled to Brazil and stayed with a family for a month and a half last year. When thinking about traveling around the world, the main concern that comes to mind is the challenge of understanding a different language when one is not fluent. “Making friends is hard, I do not really know anyone here, and speaking english is very difficult,” said Braia.

As most can asFrancesca is already besume, traditions are coming a part of the Freevery different evedom Family. She is on the rywhere around the Varsity Cheerleading world. Italy’s squad. She is very excited school districts do because back in Italy, if not participate in you want to cheer, you school sports. have to do it competitively. However, as most According to Braia, FHS know, Freedom and her school back home High School is have many differences. very involved with Although she did not have after school activito wear a uniform just like ties. Football is a Francesca Braia in her new at Freedom, the school was cheerleader uniform. big tradition to the designed to have 12 subjects Photo: Madison Walther Freedom Patriots. a day. ¨I love football “It is so much better only games. I like the spirit and how every- having four classes to worry about,” one is dressed to a certain theme. I said Braia. love that everyone is shouting and hav- Most would think that leaving home ing fun,” said Braia. is something very hard to do. One

would miss family, friends and more. However Francesca is very excited to start new things and have new adventure. “It is hard to miss anything. I have not been here long and I like new things,” said Braia. Welcoming new students with open arms is what the Freedom Family is known for. Be sure to say hey to our new addition to the family, Francesca Braia, while passing her in the hall.

Protecting the school one kid at a time Support Staff of the Month: Mr. Pierre Morgan Keri Kipp and Ivory Velazquez Journalism Students

When a student goes to school everyday and walks into those doors, each one is probably wondering if they are going to be safe. Here at Freedom High School, Mr. Pierre Morgan, A.K.A. Pierre is our support for doing just that. “The kids here are my number one priority at all times, I could never picture myself doing anything else,” said Pierre, Security Guard. With so much happening in today's society between things like school shootings, terrorist attacks, and bomb threats, students would usually not feel safe going to school. However, Pierre’s job is to protect his fellow stu-

dents and staff, and that is exactly It’s just the little things that make the what he does. biggest impact on someone and that’s “My job is to keep everyone around all I want to do is have a positive imme safe, and I absolutely love my job,” said Pierre. Whenever a student has a birthday during school, or could not afford lunch, or even just feeling down, Pierre has a task that he somehow gets accomplished every time. “I bring the kids what they need to have a good day. If it’s someone’s birthday, I’m going to make sure to make them feel special and bring them some- Pierre helping out some of his favorite students thing like a cake. Or if some- during his lunch duty. one doesn’t have lunch that Photo: Keri Kipp day, I’ll just buy it for them.

pact,” said Pierre. Pierre has been working at Freedom for many years now. With so many years on the job always comes so many memories and Pierre always uses them as his motivation. “My memories are my memories. Although I don’t talk about them, trust me when I tell you I could write a book,” said Pierre. Although the job may be tough at times, he enjoys every second of it. Pierre relies on the students to bring something to the school that no other schools may have. “They are all great. Every student here brings a sense of realness to the school which I feel is something that every school would be extremely lucky to have,” said Pierre.

I Gotta Feeling - Black Eyed Peas

Learn how to laugh at yourself; Nobody is perfect, everyone has their own flaws. Embrace who you are and love who you are. Learn to laugh at yourself and not be

Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Ready - AJR

This bulletin board is outside of Mr. Pa

The purpose is to spread positivity and encouragement to a student who may confidence for that day.

The instructions are posted on the boa do. Be sure to stop by and leave a note

Photo by : Madison Walther

arraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s room 230.

d give y need a boost of

ard saying what to e or take one.

By Rachel Black Editorial Editor It is very easy for one to judge another. We look at their shoes, their hair, and their skin. We are guilty of making assumptions based off of our own observations. We assume that someone wearing beat-up or off-brand shoes is weird and unworthy of our conversation. What happened to not judging a book by its cover? What happened to walking a mile in someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shoes before judging them? At school, we see new people everyday. They come with all different backgrounds, interests, and stories. Some of our classmates have wealthy families, while others do not. Some of our classmates are interested in wearing the latest styles of clothing, on the other hand some are not as interested in their appearance. No matter where a student at Freedom comes from, what brand of shoes they wear, or what kind of music they listen to, every student at Freedom High School deserves the same treatment. They deserve to be treated with respect, to feel welcome among the hallways, and to have a safe place where they can get an education.

8 Pates’ Post

Ms. Breanna Bishamber Health/PE Teacher This year Freedom Family is excited to welcome a new physical education teacher, Ms. Breanna Bishamber. She has taught for three years before joining FHS. Ms. Bishamber was a student teacher at Bangor High School and Wind Gap Middle School. “I’m a twin,” said Ms. Bishamber when she was asked to share a fun fact about herself. She also added that she coached cheerleading at East Stroudsburg South. -AJ

Mr. Robert Webb Special Ed Mr. Webb joins the Freedom Staff this year as a transfer from Liberty High School. This is his twelfth year teaching. He began teaching Special Ed in 2011, he was teaching a different subject prior to that. “I was a semiprofessional cyclist and I used to bike like, all around the world,” said Mr. Webb when asked to share a fun fact about himself. His first race was when he was 13years-old. His wife works with him in the building. -AK Photos and articles by: Amarah Karlick Journalism Student Analisa Jeffries Co-Editor-in-Chief

September 2017

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Ms. Marianna Giercyk Business/Math Teacher Ms. Marianna Giercyk joins the staff here as a first year teacher. She will be teaching computer science this semester and Algebra 2 and Geometry in the spring semester. Ms. Giercyk is Muhlenburg College graduate who was a student teacher at Lower Macungie Middle School and Liberty High School. “I have been to at least a dozen different countries,” said Ms. Giercyk. She also just added a new member to her family, a little rabbit named Nala.AJ

Ms. Charmaine Aguilar Foreign Language Teacher Ms. Charmaine Aguilar joins the Freedom Staff this year. She has been teaching for four years, at a few different places, including La Academia Charter School and Misericordia University. She was a student teacher at Wilkesbarre. “I like to crochet and knit, it is my relaxing method,” said Ms. Aguilar when asked what her hobbies are. FHS is excited to welcome a new member to the Foreign Language department.-AJ

Ms. Jessie O’brien Sheats English Teacher Ms. Sheats joins the Freedom Staff this year. She has been teaching for seven years, at a few different places, including the Delaware Valley School District, Penn Argyl High School, and Easton Middle school. “I’m a Jacksonville Jaguars fan which is kind of strange given we’re in Pennsylvania,” said Ms. Sheats when asked for a few fun facts about herself. She is also a vegan, a huge animal lover, and a big Taylor Swift fan. -AK

Ms. Marissa Kvacky Science Ms. Kvacky joins the Freedom Staff this year. This is her first year teaching. Though, she student taught here last Spring. She added that she loved it here and that she learned a lot from her co-op teacher, Mrs. Amber Chiafulio. “I can only feel half of my tongue When i got my wisdom teeth out they hit a nerve so I can only feel half of my tongue.” said Ms. Kvacky when asked to share a fun fact about herself.-AK

Mr. Nick D’Amico Health/PE Mr. Nick D’Amico returns to Freedom Family once again. He worked here for 9 years and left for about 7 years. He is back now to teach Health and Physical Education. He was a student teacher at Wilkesbarre. Mr. D’Amico has also coached the Freedom Baseball team. He has coached football as well as wrestling at the high school level. FHS is excited to welcome him back.-AJ

Ms. Karina Torres Foreign Language Ms. Torres joins the Freedom Staff this year. This is her third year teaching. She has previously taught social studies. “A fun fact, I love to sing. I actually just started taking vocal lessons this year, because, I’ve always loved to sing, but I’ve never actually taken any courses on how to sing the right way and how to breathe and things like that. So, I’m doing that and I’m actually taking a piano class still,” said Ms. Torres when asked to share a fun fact about herself. -AK

Ms. Breanna Musselman Health/PE Ms. Musselman joins the Freedom Staff this year. This is her first year teaching. Though, she was here as a building sub last year. “I was a gymnast for 10 years and now I coach field hockey here,” said Ms. Musselman when asked to share a fun fact about herself.

Mr. Daniel Starr Math Mr. Starr joins the Freedom Staff this year as a transfer from Liberty High School. He has been teaching for 3 years. “I have a brother named Patrick Starr. We grew up in the 90’s, my brother was born in ‘95, Spongebob came out in ‘99… he has not lived it down since,” said Mr. Starr.

September 2017

The Forum

9 Pates’ Post

Rader’s rants: walking 101 How to walk in the hallways Gabrielle Rader Assistant Centerspread Editor

Welcome back Freedom High School. Sadly, you did not hear the last of my rants. Like Drake once said, “I’m back and I’m better.” In honor of the beginning of the school year, I am kicking off my first rant about how students at Freedom still do not understand the concept of walking-specifically, walking in the overcrowded hallways. Correct me if I am wrong, but this should have been learned during one’s toddler years, or at the very least in elementary school. First and foremost, I know many can agree with me that our hallways get jam packed and make us all feel as if we are a can of sardines. The hallways often can also smell like a can of sardines #gross. The worst hallway to get through is the hallway by the fountain. You know exactly which one I am refer-

encing. For some You should probably reason, many stufigure that out before dents have an you start driving on issue passing the real roads, and if through this hallyou already drive way because othand do not know ers do not know this, well then #rip. how to move. For Now, back to the those of you who hallway issue. I get do not know how that some of us only to walk, you have friends that we simply place one see or talk to when foot in front of at school. So, you the other and promay not have seen ceed forward. them since last year, But let me back and you want to up a moment. I catch up with them would like to ex- A photo of the crowded hallway at in the MIDDLE of press that in middle Freedom. the hallway. I totally school we all get it! Go ahead and Photo: Gabrielle Rader learned to walk on chat away, but move the right side of the hallway, just like out of the way please. Some of us you drive on the right side of the road. have to get to our classes and would If you still do not know your right rather not get lectured for walking in from your left, well, that is an issue. after the late bell.

Also, stopping in the middle of the hallway is super annoying. When you are on the road, do other cars just stop in the middle of the road? No, if there is an issue, the driver pulls to the side. Well, I would need more fingers and toes to count how many times I have run into other students because they just decide to stop in their tracks. . Let’s not act like a deer in headlights and get a move on. Hopefully, everyone can become better walkers, and we can all get to class on time without running into someone or being stopped in the middle of the hallway during a traffic jam. For those of you who are one of the people I mentioned, please do not take offense, but learn how to move. We need to work together to make Freedom’s hallways seamlessly easy to walk through--one step at a time.

Family bonding and chemistry Faculty Spotlight: Mr. Chris Jones Delilah Oquendo spends Journalism student

a lot of quality time with his children. He goes to all of their Mr. Chris Jones was a busy stu- sporting activities. His children are dent in high school. He is a 1984 also very talented; they both play a alumni of Liberty musical instruHigh School. Mr. ment. His Jones has been addaughter, Savanced since he was rah, plays basyoung, as he took ketball and the all honors, and took piano. His son, as many science Peter, plays courses as he could, soccer, basketincluding AP chemball, and the istry and biology. guitar. Besides academMr. Jones is ics, Mr. Jones was Mr. Jones’ two beautiful children, also a church also involved in Peter and Sarah. elder, where he sports. He was #11 Photo submission: Mr. Jones attends meetings on the soccer team, to help those in and he also ran track. He ran his the church. Additionally, he teachway into the ladies, as he went to es Sunday classes. prom with two girls senior year. Mr. Jones said that a perfect day In his spare time, Mr. Jones for him would be “with [his] fami-

ly, someplace nice, like the beach or the lake. Definitely with water and on a sunny day.” Mr. Jones said his children are his greatest accomplishment. “I wasn’t nearly excited when I got my master than when I became a father,” said Jones. Before Mr. Jones was a teacher, he was a staff member of Young Life, a Christian outreach for high school students who were interested in finding their faith. He was a member for five years. In college, Mr. Jones originally wanted to become a doctor, but he became a high school science teacher because he loved the subject. Making fire and blowing things up were another reason as to why he wanted to become a science teacher. Mr. Jones most admires his father. His dad always put his family

first. His father puts a lot of energy into his grandkids, which Mr. Jones loves. Mr. Jones’ father’s birthday is September 23, so shoutout to Father Jones Sr. and Happy Birthday.

Mr. Jones and his daughter kayaking Photo submission: Mr. Jones

10 Entertainment

September 2017

The Forum

A look into the gallery A review of the Banana Factory Chriselis Flete and Chance Moore Journalism Students

Art is an often overlooked subject among students. There are many different kinds of art, including visual arts, music, writing, and even more than meets the eye. The most common type of art, visual art, can be displayed in places like museums or art galleries. However, one art gallery in particular features many different forms of media. The Banana Factory is a place for artists both young and old, creating diversity around the area. This can range from an artists in their 70’s to artists in their early twenties. Moreover, it’s open daily to the public, offering not only a full view of artistic talent, but classes to teach others

about their own talents. enjoying the exciting atmosphere The Banathroughout na Factory their suris just one roundings. part of a The experibigger orence is a ganization fresh take to called explore new ArtsQuest. mediums If that and techsounds faniques, almiliar, it is lowing the also the creativity to same group take many who hosts The front of the Banana Factory. forms. The Musikfest of Photo: Flickr, Stephanie Smith galleries every year! the Banana ArtsQuest is a non-profit organization Factory are fully decorated with beaufocused on teaching art, culture, and tiful artwork, ready to show off for diversity with the help of community any eyes interested! Many breathtakmembers. Joining the community ena- ing programs have taken place for the bles artists to hone their skills whilst purpose of enjoyment and knowledge!

This unique building has open doors for anyone who wants to join in the fun. “The Banana Factory has to offer a lot of different art classes. We do a [lot] of pottery, glass, painting and stuff like that,” said Natalie Flores, one of the front receptionists of the Banana Factory. Even before working there, Flores was familiar with the gallery, often visiting with her family members to take art classes. She and her family enjoy the colorful atmosphere and friendly staff. Along with art, the Banana Factory has partnered up with the public library to bring free book reading every Tuesday of the week. Such a creative outlet like this should not go unnoticed, so take a trip to the Banana Factory, or visit their website!

TV mimics justice for all Law & Order: Special Victims Unit - Drab or Fab?

cally used over Hulu, but switching to Hulu to watch Law & Order: Juliana Maffea not only something to watch to SVU is worth it. Co-Editor-in-Chief entertain oneself, Most shows end their On numerous occasions people but it is also a episodes with happy endfind themselves surfing through show that can be ings, but this show keeps different television shows and used to inform. it realistic. Not every epimovies on Netflix or Hulu. Watch“It’s a very good sode ends with the susing Netflix and hanging out with show to bring pect going to jail, and the friends, or more commonly known awareness about same goes for real life as netflix and chill, is one of the the problems.” said situations. Some cases are most popular hangout ideas, but Mrs. Jo-Ann Krisnever solved, and the how can people Netflix and chill if tofic, criminal jusshow highlights this. they don't have a good television tice teacher. The brutal fights that show? Netflix has Law happen in court to the Law and Order: Special Victims & Order: SVU as a stress the detectives and Unit (SVU) is a spectacular show choice to watch, lawyers feel is very real that provides insight on the every- but it only has the in the show. The actors day lives of detectives who take on last three seasons. Law & Order on the Hulu genuinely look stressed or rape, assault, and child endanger- Hulu has all 18 sea- app. defeated at times, and this ment cases. Law & Order SVU is sons. Netflix is typiScreenshot from Hulu helps to further support the

claim that Law & Order SVU is an amazing show. “It makes people question what’s going on in society. “ said Kristofic. The overall acting from the main and supporting characters is amazing. The main character, Olivia Benson, is played by Mariska Hargitay. Hargitay does a phenomenal job at channeling her inner detective. She plays a strong, female lead who will do anything in her power to ensure that the cases get solved and the victims get their justice.

Falling for autumn fashion Brushing up on the latest 2018 fall fashion trends Nia Campbell Journalism Student

Fashion amongst the students in Freedom High School is always up to par because of the diverse sense of style coming from everyone. However, now that summer has overstayed its welcome this year, most people are becoming elated for the season of boyfriend sweaters, pumpkin scented candles, and halloweenthemed television marathons. Most people would consider autumn to be the best time of the

year for fashion. What is there not to love about trying out oversized sweaters and wool scarves to keep your body warm throughout the windy weather? “I would say that my go-to fall outfit is a jean jacket, black pants, and timberland boots,” said Stacy Felix, junior. The wonders of what Forever 21’s mannequins makes fall one of the displaying what they have most favorable seasons in store for the upcoming of the year for fashion fall season. fluctuates in many ways. Photo: Nia Campbell Perhaps the endless options of outfits for the season. The options often

range from auburn colored chunky knits, warm scarves, and denim styled clothing to loveable fuzzy boots and beyond. ¨For the autumn season, I would say that oversized sweaters, over the knee boots, big sweaters, and fitted shirts.¨ said Arianna Banks, junior. Autumn is looked at as the best season for those who consider themselves to be fashion-savvy. Fall clothing can consist of an endless selection of colors from oranges, brown, black, pink, red, etc. Now that summer is over, clothing stores like Forever 21 have been catching up on the latest fall trends and now have them in stock for everyone to get in the autumn feel. “I prefer fall clothing over summer clothing because of my love for jeans, leggings, and boots.” said Veronica Longley, junior.

Angeline Alonzie, senior, striking a pose to show off her outfit for the upcoming fall weather. Photo: Nia Campbell

September 2017

The Forum

11 Sports

Football Coach: Mr. Roeder Captains: Seniors Last year’s record: 8-5 Quote: “Our mindset is if we believe in each other and work our hardest we can be the best and accomplish our goals,” said Jared Jenkins, sophomore.

Girls Soccer gathers around coach Bob Eaton Photo: Christmas City Studios

Boy Varsity Football last year at the homecoming game.

Photo: Christmas City Studios Boy Varsity Football last year at the homecoming game. Girls Soccer Photo: Christmas City Studios Coach: Bob Eaton Captains: Amber Buck and Julia Ackerman Last year’s record: 8-10-2 Quote: “We’re a really young team, so once we build more chemistry between us on and off the field, we’ll definitely be able to take control of the game and flow very well altogether on the field,” said Gianna Montesano, junior

The boys and girls cross country team. Photo: Christmas City Studios

Girls Varsity Soccer playing against Liberty last year.

The boys and girls cross country team. Photo: Christmas City Studios

Photo: Christmas City Studios

Cross Country Coach: Bob Thear Captains: Boys: Adam Boyer and Kevin Pollock Girls: Elena Spengler Last year’s record: Boys: 12-5 Girls: 8-9 Quote: “We definitely have the talent to be great, but the outcome of our season is based upon whether we put in the time and effort necessary to be great. If we don't do that, then we won't obtain the goals that we set out to accomplish at the beginning of the season.” Kevin Pollock, senior “I love our team this year, they are a strong group of girls who are competitive and loud. This year, our girls xc team is very energetic and shows a lot of promise. With a combination of upperclassman and new freshman , we have a fair chance at winning a few meets in the upcoming season.” said Elena Spengler, senior

Boys Soccer Boys Varsity Soccer from last year. Boys Varsity Soccer from last year. Coach: Matt Reightler Photo: Christmas City Studios Photo: Christmas City Studios Captains: Andrew Youwakim and Will Tichy Last year’s record: 4-12-2 Quote: “With a new coaching staff coming in, it's always difficult but I think we are adjusting extremely well and are a very cohesive unit. We are looking to build off of last year and not concede a lot of goals while still being a big threat attacking as well.” said Will Tichy, senior.

Tennis Coach: Mark Sigmon Varsity Girls Tennis with Coach Mark Sigmon. Tennis girls gather to start their cheer. Photo: Christmas City Studios Captains: Becky Packo, Natalie Sinai Photo: Christmas City Studios Last year’s record: 12-4 Quote: “We’re playing really well as a cohesive team, with strong players in each position.” said Margaret Cavanaugh, junior.

12 Sports

The Forum

September 2017

Golf Coach: Mr. Evans Captains: Justin Kinter, Andrew Knerr, Max Mehta, Kyle Petrone Last year’s record: 4-7 Quote: "Practice doesn't make perfect. PERFECT PRACTICE makes perfect!" Golf can be a frustrating game in which differences in fractions of an inch can produce perfection or disaster. It takes a lot of tedious practice to become as consistent as possible.” said Mr. Evans, History teacher and coach.

The Freedom Girls Volleyball Team last year. Photo: Christmas City Studios

Andrew Knerr playing for Freedom Golf.

Photo: Christmas City Studios Volleyball Coach: Mrs. Roman Shaun McNulty on the Freedom Golf Team. Photo: Christmas City Studios Captains: Hailey Silfies, Morgan Hoffert, Bella Pompa, Caitlin Hornbaker, and Julia Roman Last year’s record: 10-7 Quote: “Our team this year has so much talent and a desire to win. We have already had a lot of emotional ups and downs but our team has more heart and drive to succeed than in past years. We are all competitors and we all work very well together,” said Julia Roman, senior

“This year our team's philosophy is "Dare Greatly!" We started our 2017 season with a 3-1 victory over Southern Lehigh. We continued with a strong showing in our annual First Kill Tournament with victories over Bethlehem Catholic, Archbishop Ryan, and Notre Dame, plus 2 ties and only 1 loss. Our goals this year include finishing with a stronger record, and qualifying for both District and Conference playoffs,” said Mrs. Roman, History teacher and coach.

The JV Volleyball team from last year. Photo: Christmas City Studios

The Freedom Girls Field Hockey Team last year.

Field hockey Photo: Christmas City Studios Coach: Ms. Musselman The Freedom Girls Field Hockey Team last year. Photo: Christmas City Studios Captains: McKenzie Eisenreich, Hailey Miller, Emily Saulino, Lexi Summers Last year’s record: 5-9 Quote: “We have a great group of girls who are all really close and we can have a lot of fun, but when it comes time for it, we can all focus and learn from one another. We started off our season really well with a win in our scrimmage against penn Argyl and our first game against East Stroudsburg North, if we continue this type of dynamic throughout the season and maintain our strong defense, I feel as though we can really succeed as a team,” said Hailey Miller, senior.

Anticipating a busy year Student-athletes of the month Tristan Wheeler and Brenna Ortwein Sydney Zarzecki Journalism Student

Both Tristan and Brenna started by Balancing school work and sports is playing their favorite sports as a child always a difficult task to do; however, and had very supportive parents. Tristan Wheeler and Brenna Ortwein “My parents are very supportive with are managing to push through. my love for sports and are willing to Wheeler is a junior starting his third sign me up for any clinics that can season on the school’s varsity football help me get betteam, and ter,” said Ortwein. Ortwein is a As a freshman on freshman varsity, Wheeler starting her was definitely first season treated differently on varsity by his older teamfor multiple mates. sports. “I was the Ortwein is younger kid that a part of they would always both the pick on, but it defFreedom initely made me High School work harder,” said (FHS) varsi- Tristan Wheeler driving to bring down Wheeler. ty and junior As Wheeler’s love Northampton’s quarterback. varsity volfor football inPhoto Submission: Tristan Wheeler creased, he became leyball and basketball inspired by past teams. She also hopes to become a Freedom players and his strength and member of the varsity softball team. conditioning coach Andre Morales. At

Ortwein, as expected, always has a busy the end of the seaschedule between jugson in Tristan’s gling school and three sophomore year, different sports. his team made it “Being a multi-sport to districts, but athlete makes my sadly lost to Parknights of homework land in a last mivery long, but I do get nute change in it all done to keep up events. my grades,” said “Losing to ParkOrtwein. land definitely Even after many killed us. We got hours of school work so far and worked and practices, Ortwein so hard, but it mostill makes time to see tivates us to push her friends on the even more to get weekend. to the next level Brenna Ortwein shooting the “A lot of my friendof our journey,” ball to score. ships are through people Photo Submission: Breanna Ortwein said Wheeler. that I play sports with, This year, the and my friends from team is determined school understand that to get even further and work harder I’m busy,” said Ortwein. than ever. Both Wheeler and Ortwein plan on “Our team is young but that’s not continuing their sports career in colgoing to stop us from getting far this lege and hope to get scholarships beseason. We are looking good,” said fore they graduate high school. Wheeler.