SENIOR POLL INFO INSIDE—PAGE 8 Volume 43 Issue 7 April 2010

Freedom High School - 3149 Chester Avenue - Bethlehem, PA 18020 - www.freedomforum0910.wordpress.com

Freedom to Become Skinny for 2011 By Tyler Alicea, Layout Editor

Freedom has been subjected utes each. ever, it has been made clear to many changes in the past ―We are trying to look for that this would not be a study few years; however, the intervention for enrichment hall. changes administrators have and tutoring,‖ says assistant Principal Michael LaPorta for next year may shock some believes adding a skinny students. It‘s likely that next ―We are trying to look for block will increase productiv- September Freedom will have intervention for ity. Throughout the year he a five block schedule. enrichment and tutoring.‖ has been meeting with every Administrators are strongly - Kim Harper department in the school to try considering adding a fifth and find the commonality in block into the schedule that principal Kim Harper. the successes and failures of will be tentatively known as a The skinny block will be a our school. ―skinny block.‖ The skinny time where students who are ―I take that as a guide for block, unlike other classes, proficient or higher in the our focus,‖ says LaPorta. ―If will be a thirty minute block PSSAs can sign up to go to a this part of our school is bro- that will be used for tutoring specific classroom or activity ken, I need to fix it.‖ and other enrichment activi- for a certain amount of days. Juniors who are not profi- ties. Since another block is For example, the skinny block cient or higher in the PSSAs being added, it is most likely could be used for clubs to the regular four blocks will be meet, gym makeups, and other Continued on Page 2 Photo Courtesy of Neela Saraswati, News Editor shortened by about ten min- productive activities. How-

No More Saturday Mail PSSAs to Succeed? By Alexa Curto, Staff Writer By Luisa Marin, Staff Writer It has been said that nei- Back to back testing is what This year there may be no t- ther rain, nor juniors can expect from April shirts but the pressure to do th th th sleet, nor 12 through April 30 . Read- well is still on for the 11 gloom of night ing, math, writing, and science grade class. Because of low would prevent will all be tested with no test scores the school district the mail work- breaks between testing days. is also under pressure, adding ers of the The Pennsylvania System of further to the necessity of high United State School Assessments (PSSA) is scores from the junior class. Postal Service designed to see how well stu- When j u ni or K evi n from carrying dents are doing in their class- Woodring was asked how he th out their du- room. For high school, 11 prepares for the PSSA he said, ties. However, grade is the only grade that is ―Teachers give us PSSA warm recent finan- required to take them, accord- ups.‖ Many students probably ing to the law in Pennsylvania. have completed these warms cial troubles Photo Courtesy of Sean Cassidy, Photo Editor have left the public wonder- If you were a student at ups as well. The school is try- ing if the business can prevail Saturdays, thus reducing the lost an estimated $2.8 billion. Freedom High School last ing to increase all students‘ in the face of a failing econ- total number of delivery days According to the Postmaster year, you probably saw teach- ability to excel on the PSSA omy. In an effort to save to five. General John Porter, the ser- ers with t-shirts that said ―We by giving students skills that money, the United States Over the course of the last vice stands to lose another $5 Believe.‖ These were meant to are necessary to do well. Postal Service, or USPS, is fiscal year, the Postal Service billion during the current fis- inspire last year‘s juniors to do When English teacher Crys- looking to stop deliveries on cal year ending on September well on their assessments. tal George was asked how she

Continued on Page 2 Continued on Page 3 Inside This Issue...

Steve Jobs to Sue HTC Marijuana Legalization? Countdown to June 4th Wizarding World of Harry Potter

April 2010 NEWS—2 Freedom Forum News Editor: Neela Saraswati

Continued from Page 1—Skinny for 2010/2011 also have the opportunity to pass tors are unsure about the possible ricular activities may be cut. Ex- the Scantron or become in en- budget cuts that could arise in the tracurricular activities were tem- rolled in GAP to meet the require- next school year. LaPorta believes porarily suspended during the ment to graduate. However, it is that some cuts could be made. school year due to budget woes, likely that these students, and ―We don‘t know what the and some extracurricular activities other students who are not meet- budget impact will be,‖ says La- may not be returning in Septem- ing standards, will be placed in Porta. ―[This] could cause us to ber. The possibility of paying a fee mandatory tutoring sessions dur- increase class size and reduce pro- to participate has been considered; ing this skinny block. grams.‖ however, administrators believe Freedom will also become skin- LaPorta has also said that ath- that it is unlikely. nier in the sense that administra- letic programs and more extracur- Editor-in-Chief Continued from Page 1—No More Saturday Mail Lindsey Anderson affected because of the money 30th if no changes are made. An Postmaster Porter is asking Con- they would save. One less day of News Editor approximate $2 billion could be gress to lift the mandate. Not eve- delivery means that USPS would saved by eliminating a day on ryone has been in favor of the need to hire fewer employees and Neela Saraswati which mail delivery is least; Tues- change. Dan Blair, chairman of that they‘d have to allot for one day and Saturday were cited in a the Postal Regulatory Commis- less day of gas. Thomas says that Editorial Editor January USA Today article as days sion, tells USA Today that elimi- customers have been largely sup- with a particularly light mail vol- nating a delivery day ―impacts portive of the change, and a 2002 ume. Recently, it hasn‘t just been everyone,‖ because the frequency poll of the National Federation of Jasmine Ameerally a matter of certain days of the of delivery would drop an esti- Independent Business members week being light on mail; collec- mated 17%. supports her claim; 61% of sur- Layout Editor tively, total mail volume fell by Tammy Thomas, a USPS em- veyors said that eliminating Satur- over 9 billion pieces in 2008, and ployee in a managerial position at day delivery wouldn‘t affect them. Tyler Alicea the trend shows no sign of stop- the Butztown, Pennsylvania Though it still has to go through ping. branch, doesn‘t see the harm in Congress, Thomas says that Features Editor Since 1983, Federal Law has eliminating Saturdays, saying that there‘s an 80% chance that a 5- required the USPS to maintain a ―everyone would benefit.‖ The day mail delivery will soon be- Dhanu Thiyagarajan six-day work schedule; however, Post Office in particular would be come a reality. Entertainment Editor Natsumi Ishikawa FHS Book Drive

Sports Editor Mike McGinty Photo Editor Sean Cassidy Copy Editors Amanda Murphy, Olivia Synoracki Co-Business Managers Mary Harvilla, Abhinav Rangarajan Adviser Karla Erdman

Above: Freedom students Brianna Kays, Emily Liuzza, and Kerry Darragh pose with Mr. Stel-

lato, Ms. Rodriguez, and a member from the Crossing the Finish Line organization. Many Free- dom students helped out during the two day book fair. Bottom left: Mr. Stellato poses with John Lahutsky. Bottom right: The band, Sandlot Heroes, performs.

Visit the Freedom Forum‘s website for more stories, polls, and newspapers in color! freedomforum0910.wordpress.com

Photos Courtesy of Sean Cassidy, Photo Editor

April 2010 NEWS—3 Freedom Forum News Editor: Neela Saraswati

Continued from Page 1—PSSAs to Succeed? Now the big question is: Are FHS Calendar prepares students for the PSSA, asked about what she thought of the juniors ready? Emily Rusack she said that she has them com- the PSSA, she said, ―I feel like says, ―If we are prepared for the plete PSSA warm ups and teaches we don‘t know a lot about them.‖ SATs, we should be for [the test-taking strategies. Freedom Eleventh grader Devon Totani PSSAs].‖ Totani says she‘s not April 12th — PSSA Testing High School is also offering tu- added that she knew ―there‘s a lot ready. Woodring and DiStefano toring after school for students them.‖ The two felt that 11th say they are prepared for the tests. Commences who need more practice. To fur- grade wasn‘t an ideal year to take Most of the juniors don‘t seem ther their comfort when taking the the tests. Rusack said, ―…We worried about the testing. Mrs. April 14th — PTO Meeting assessments, juniors are able to have so many other things to George says, ―I think that as a choose the teacher they want to think about.‖ Junior John DiSte- whole the faculty does an excel- take the tests with. fano was asked the same question lent job preparing the students for April 15th — Senior When Junior Emily Rusack was and laughing, said, ―I love them.‖ success.‖ Community Service Hours Due April 16th — Jazz Festival April 21st — PMEA All- State Festival April 27th — Art Show April 29th — Spring Concert May 4th — Spring Choral Concert May 8th — Prom May 12 — PTO Meeting

Photo Courtesy of Sean Cassidy, Photo Editor

Disasters Strike 2010 Early more formidable building Like many other Americans, codes, which had been en- Freedom students feel much

By Anmol Kaur, Staff Writer A second natural disaster forced for building infrastruc- sympathy for all of the survi- came with the Chile earth- ture after the many earlier vors from both natural attacks, This year, as the world en- ferent tent cities, it is nearly quake of an 8.8 magnitude, earthquakes that occurred in and some students have even tered a new decade, natural impossible to see to all the devastating Chile and leaving the country. organized a coin collection disasters started to take their crime issues because almost behind hundreds of people Though the earthquake in fundraiser to raise money to tolls. A massive earthquake, seven thousand prisoners es- dead and injured as well as Chile lasted for about ninety send to those who need assis- which struck Haiti tance in Haiti. on January 12th, Many Free- shocked the world dom students with its 7.0 magni- feel for the tude and by it leav- survivors of ing 230,000 people the disasters dead and 300,000 but are unsure injured. The earth- of what they quake not only left can do to help. many people with- S o p h o m or e out homes and Courtney Bar- loved ones, but it row says, ―I also left many feel awful hopeless with noth- about what ing to look forward happened to to in the future. the people in Other problems Haiti; no one have been occur- deserves to ring in Haiti as suffer like well. One major that. I just problem is the rap- wish there ing of women. was more I With hundreds of could do to thousands of the help.‖ survivors all living Other stu- in tents, many A photo of the destruction caused by the Chile Earthquake. Photo dents at Free- women are inse- courtesy of flickr.com/people/shelterboxuk/ leaving the seconds, it was an emotional dom feel the same way, but cure after the sun country in moment for all those who ex- those who are especially con- sets because of the many rap- caped during the quake, and rubble. Though this earth- perienced it because they wit- cerned are organizing more ists that lurk around tent cit- there are many more prisoners quake was much stronger than nessed losing those they loved fundraisers to help all of those ies. With U.N. police officers than there are Haitian police the one in Haiti, it left behind right in front of their own who survived these natural trying to patrol the many dif- and U.N. officers. less damage because of the eyes. disasters in Haiti and Chile.

April 2010 NEWS—4 Freedom Forum News Editor: Neela Saraswati NHS Easter Egg Hunt By Stephanie Perez, Staff Writer vice to all BASD donations from different peo- Now what does kids plus employees and their children.‖ ple and businesses, like junior Easter equal? The NHS Easter About three years ago, she Dana Wetmore, who collected Egg Hunt! NHS (National took her two daughters to an a soccer ball donation from a Honor Society) is a student Easter Egg Hunt. One of them place called Quik Goal. She didn‘t get any eggs because says, ―It‘s good to help out the ―It‘s good to help out the other kids nabbed them community and it‘s also good all. So it gave Roman the idea to help other people.‖ the community and to start the NHS Easter Egg The NHS Easter Egg Hunt it‘s also good to help Hunt. took place on March 27th at Juniors and seniors are in- 10am here at Freedom. It was other people‖ volved and their job is to in unison with Mr. Joseph -Dana Wetmore gather donations from family Stellato‘s book drive. members, friends, and/or busi- academic group composed nesses that are willing to help mostly of juniors and seniors out. Another job they have to who do one or two service do is set up everything for the projects to serve the commu- event, including filling and nity. A service project that hiding the Easter eggs. they did earlier in the year Many juniors, like Jacelys was the five kilometer walk to Grant, are helping out with the A Freedom student helps dis- raise money for Via. event. Grant Said, ―It is be- tribute candy for the NHS Mrs. Donna Roman has cause you get to interact with Easter Egg Hunt. Photo Cour- done the Easter Egg Hunt the kids and, in a way, you tesy of Emily Liuzza, Special to event for three years now. She become a kid yourself.‖ the Freedom Forum says, ―I‘m doing this as a ser- They have also been gathering Steve Jobs to Sue HTC In Case You Missed It

By Roshni Desai, Staff Writer By Neela Saraswati, News Editor Apple Inc. accused HTC began to shift its focus toward for the hardware, whereas the Pope Benedict XVI sends a Pastoral Letter to the Corp. of violating 20 patents devices based on the Android Droid is an operating system Catholic Church in Ireland expressing his sorrow con- related to iPhone in a lawsuit operating system. designed to work for different filed against the maker of Both companies make phones. cerning sexual abuse by Catholic priests to minors in smart phones using Google equally effective phones and However, Senior Laura Jo- March of 2010. Inc.'s Android operating sys- these phones are used by sephson disagrees because she tem. many young students and at believes her Droid is more This new operating system Freedom High School, we can customized to her tastes. She Lady Gaga officially releases her much anticipated is becoming an increasing see the iPhone frequently. says, ―I can make my texting video for Telephone on March 11, 2010. threat to the iPhone. Although Junior, Mike Vitoroulis, an screen different from my Apple is a company familiar avid Apple user, claims that home screen. Although it to most people, HTC is the iPhone is a better phone doesn‘t have as many applica- a Taiwan-based manufacturer than HTC‘s Droid. The tions as the iPhone, all of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, in of smart phones. The com- iPhone is more user friendly, most used/needed applications other words, Healthcare, passed the vote in the House pany initially made smart has an intuitive interface, has are also on the Droid. When I of Representatives on March 21, 2010. phones based primarily better applications, and is compare my phone to other on Microsoft's Windows Mo- more stable. In addition, the people who have the iPhone, bile software, but in 2009 it iPhone OS is specifically built the Droid runs faster. Overall, the performance of the Justin Beiber‟s manager arrested for endangering Droid exceeds the iPhone fans in mall on March 24, 2010. because it is a new phone with a different running sys- tem.‖ Ricky Martin admits to being gay on March 21, Although both Mike and Laura have different views 2010. on which company makes the better phone, they both agree that due to Apple‘s American Idol is finally beaten for number 1 watched successful legal team, Apple television series for the first time by Dancing with the will most likely win the Stars on March 30 and March 31. lawsuit. Even though both Apple and HTC are success- ful companies in making innovative technologies for iPad makes its debut on April 3, 2010. us to use, it is essential that each company creates new products to allow some vari- Worst mining disaster in a generation occurs in Vir- ety in the market. As far as the law suit, it will be inter- ginia, with over 25 confirmed dead, on April 5, 2010. esting to find out if HTC can win and overcome Ap- ple‘s immensely successful Tiger Woods returns to golf on April 8, 2010. legal team.

Jon Gossilen sues his wife Kate Gosselin for custody Courtesy of of their 8 kids on April 7, 2010. thefastertimes.com

April 2010 EDITORIAL—5 Freedom Forum Editorial Editor: Jasmine Ameerally

It‟s „Un-American?‟ By Neela Saraswai, News Editor

Imagine if Freedom High direction. I myself opted not But, in the spirit of the we really shouldn‘t; people Now I‘m not saying people School permitted its students to advocate either direction American way, it isn‘t a ques- still smoke pot even though don‘t do stupid things when to chew gum in class. until I had a side to advocate. tion of whether I would jump they ―shouldn‘t.‖ high, because people do. But Many of us, of course, al- Surprisingly enough - I‘m all off the cliff or not (a more In some states (California, I marijuana, while stripping ready do this, even though it for it. appropriate metaphor proba- look at you), obtaining pot is inhibitions, is no more dan- is technically against the Someone in my position bly couldn‘t be found). It‘s about as easy as buying a gerous than alcohol, and alco- rules. However, it is harmless, would usually throw in the the fact that I can that matters. pack of gum. It sure isn‘t hol isn‘t illegal (though when for the most part (though our it was, it sure caused more desks and chairs may dis- problems than worth men- agree). tioning). Now imagine if the govern- Here is where I mention ment legalized marijuana. the medical benefits of mari- Most people would say this juana. It can relieve muscle is completely different. Pot pain, tremors, and even nau- and gum are like apples and sea caused by chemo. In oranges; completely incompa- many states, medical mari- rable. For one thing, you can‘t juana is very much pre- get high while chewing gum. scribed. Not everyone, how- There is no way to advocate ever, is using pot for the legalization of marijuana ―medicinal value.‖ without sounding like you‘re Here in America, we are all acting in your own self inter- for freedom, specifically est. Then again, this is a topic freedom of speech, religion, just as, if not more, controver- and choice. The fact is: some sial than discussing the dis- argument in favor of legaliz- In the same way, it Photo Courtesy of Tyler Alicea, Layout Editor choose to get high. However, crimination in Freedom High ing the drug that, well, every- isn‘t whether every- putting a ban on a drug re- School. one from the President to the one would smoke pot if it stopping anyone. The only stricts freedom. Legalizing drugs is an age homeless guy on the corner of were legal that matters. It‘s thing a ban on marijuana does Essentially: legalize pot. old argument that has budged 7-Eleven has done it. Then that everyone can. is cost us more tax money to Because not doing so is un- about as far as the quality of the opposing side would say, Not that people don‘t do it pay for a narcotics department American. cafeteria food; slowly, and if everyone jumped off a cliff, now. In the same way we all and pay for the jail cells when often not in the preferable would you? chew gum in gym class when these ―criminals‖ are caught. It‟s a Bad Idea Beauty Replaces Talent By Natsumi Ishikawa, Entertainment Editor By Luisa Marin, Staff Writer Cannabis, or hemp plant, time, it‘s increasing the pa- there are regulations that Just because they are called ac- whole movie. If you don‘t agree is still classified as a Sched- tients‘ susceptibility to dispensaries of medical tors doesn‘t mean they‘re good at that she is just a pretty face, then ule I controlled substance other sicknesses and even marijuana must adhere to, acting. Several actors now seem to just ask the Transformers Crew or with no approved medical potentially increasing their but it creates more opportu- get parts for their image, not for read the letter they allegedly wrote usage by the U.S. govern- cancer risk. nities for illegal drug opera- their skills. The reason is, people about what she is like. ment. However, much de- Researchers at Harvard tions, including theft and have a fixation on these actors. It‘s Of course Megan Fox isn‘t the bate has been created in the found that certain carcino- corruption. not surprising to hear ―Oh my only example of Hollywood‘s fixa- recent years over the use of gens in pot smoke could One reason that supporters god ,they are so hot!‖ instead of tion on beauty; there is also Robert marijuana as a medical sub- increase the risk for Ka- of medical marijuana use is ―Wow! Their part was amazing!‖ Pattinson. Sorry Twilight fans, but stance. posi‘s sarcoma, a common that this would be a new Looks seem to play a vital role in the truth is, this actor is only hype. Medical marijuana is said cancer in HIV/AIDS pa- input of revenue for the what part actors are cast. Of His role in Twilight made him fa- to have benefits such as tients, who ironically are United States. However, by course, it‘s easy to say that looks mous because of the fans, not be- relieving pain and amelio- one of the patient groups placing taxes on the drug always play a part in everything, cause of his captivating acting rating nausea and vomiting; that support the legalization that is meant for the sick, but now, more than skills. Now his role in however, these limited of medical marijuana. It wouldn‘t we be cheating ever, looks trample I‟m sure everyone Remember Me seems benefits are outweighed by seems like we‘re back at the wrong people for talent. can find an actor to be a publicity the negative effects that the square one, if not worse. money? It could even push Let‘s take, for exam- stunt. In other words, drug would have on society Some say that drug deal- them to find cheaper alter- ple, Megan Fox. The or actress that because you saw Twi- and the patients that the ers would lose much of natives, like attaining the truth is she is very can‟t act. light and New Moon drug is supposedly helping. their business if medical drug illegally. Am I miss- pretty, but her movie, and now love him, First off, there is little marijuana is legalized in all ing something? In what Jennifer’s Body, isn‘t exactly a you will, as a result, watch his new evidence to support the states, but this idea is a seri- way does this help the sick? show of talent. In the movie, she movie. Maybe his skills have im- drug‘s actual benefits. With ously ungrounded myth. As Sure, many people think plays a cheerleader who gets sacri- proved and he was properly casted, such a murky understand- of a year ago, there were that legalizing medical ficed by a band and then is pos- but since both movies are from ing of the drug‘s effects, it only 300,000 cases where marijuana would be great, sessed by the devil. So, she begins Summit, the coincidence is just too would be far more amena- patients used medical mari- but I think most are sorely to eat the boys in her school and big to ignore. ble to continue in the use of juana. An illegal drug op- misinformed. transforms into a real ―man-eater.‖ I‘m sure everyone can find an legal pharmaceuticals, eration‘s target market is How scary! Oh wait - it‘s a com- actor or actress that can‘t act. It‘s drugs that have actually not focused solely on those edy, too. The comedy/horror film not too hard. However, they are gone through a rigorous with medical motivations, doesn‘t require superb acting. In constantly cast for roles based on U.S. Food and Drug Ad- but more on the 42 percent the Washington Post staff writer their looks or popularity. Having ministrations approval of the U.S. population that Anna Hornaday made the perfect nicknames like ―Dr. Mc process. have smoked marijuana statement for this movie by writ- Steamy‖ (Eric Dane in Grey’s It‘s almost ridiculous to some time in their life for ing, ―Jennifer's Body is about one Anatomy) shows the shift from in- consider that medical mari- recreational reasons. thing and one thing only: Megan credible talent to incredible looks. juana is allegedly helping One of the biggest com- Fox's body.‖ I don‘t think that it is The half-naked actresses and shirt- cancer patients with the plications with legalizing possible to deny it when, at one less actors seem to be more impor- side effects of chemother- medical marijuana is the point, Megan Fox is swimming tant in convincing people to watch apy, when, at the same control of distribution. Yes, naked in a lake, and she is wearing movies than in their actual ability revealing clothes throughout the to act.

April 2010 EDITORIAL—6 Freedom Forum Editorial Editor: Jasmine Ameerally The Open Book By Jasmine Ameerally, Editorial Editor B Lunch – the cafeteria is total of twenty years. Humor- the aggravation that comes filled with the clamor and bel- ously, he tells me his favorite with my classes. lowing of teenagers who are childhood memory was going ―These are the times we do restricted to a meager half to a hill close to home to ride what we have to do,‖ he tells hour break in between their his bike when he five years me. ―So we can do what we third block classes. Some are old because he didn‘t have his want to do [later].‖ seen studying, while others own set of training wheels. Jordan is generally frank and remain quiet, but for the most Jordan began working at straightforward in the way he part, everyone socializes. As Freedom High merely three speaks; admirable traits rarely usual, I walk over to my years ago. He says the craziest found in most people. lunch, sit down, and begin to thing he has seen here was the ―Not being honest [is my peel away at my mini orange; food fight that happened at the pet peeve],‖ he says. ―Stick to except today, I have my pen old gym in 2007, amusingly the choice you made, whether ready to record the thoughts of during his first year at the job. it be right or wrong. Most peo- one appealing character - Out of curiosity, I asked ple lie to get out of the choice Andre L. Jordan. him what he thought of the they made.‖ Jordan fits the part of a secu- students here. ―Some are His optimistic mind-set is rity guard–he‘s tall, hard to great,‖ he responds. ―Some are also an anomaly to what miss; but unlike most tough okay. None are bad, just mis- sometimes can be a gloomy guys, he has a little bit of com- guided,‖ he replies. world. A quote that he swears mentary and substance that Following his arrival at to live by is ―like life, live life, goes behind the surface. His school, Jordan usually begins love life.‖ unpretentious and humble per- the day with a cup of coffee Judging by the profundity of spective on life has pegged and a Sudoku puzzle. From this value, I began to wonder him as our table‘s favorite hall then, he monitors ISS for a if there‘s even more to him, Photo of Andre Jordon. Courtesy of Sean Cassidy, Photo Editor. monitor and is also the main half hour, and then roams the perhaps an underlying phi- reason why I asked to speak hallways for the rest of the losophy that must be delved with him today. day. It is at this time he moni- into to be attained. I ask Jor- ―No,‖ he responds. ―I‘m an Before residing in Pennsyl- tors the cafeteria, and also the dan if there are any more in- open book.‖ vania, Jordan was born and time I get to catch a few words teresting concepts I should raised in Peoria, Illinois for a of wisdom to distract me from know about him. Do You Smell That? 2012: Doomsday? By Kaleigh Birdsong, Staff Writer By Soham Roy, Staff Writer What is the most annoying students are irked. Crowded and Amelia Batcha. During As the year 2010 continues, vive the apocalypse. He not only thing about Freedom? In a hallways and people who the brutal winter months, more people than ever look nerv- believes that the world will end, teenager‘s world, there is walk too slowly in the hall- those in Mr. Young‘s class ously into the future. They specu- but also that ―a completely new seemingly a never ending ways are noticed by juniors experienced just how low late about the year 2012, and if civilization will have to be list of things to complain Lindsay Riley and Jenna the temperature could go. they will still be here when Janu- started from scratch.‖ about, school being one of Lastres. Don‘t even bother Often Mr. Young and his ary 1, 2013 rolls around. In fact, And he is not the only one. the primary targets. Typi- trying to walk past the foun- students would bundle up some rumors have gone so far as Searching ―2012‖ on Google cally, the complaints are tain if you are attempting to like the Michelin Man, don- to end up becoming nonsensical yields 256,000,000 results in less irrational and exaggerated, make it to class on time— ning snow gloves and winter rants of data that simply make the than a tenth of a second, includ- but, every now the herds of coats to shield themselves listener more confused than they ing tens of thousands of You- and then, a jus- “We got a lot of people gath- from the extreme cold. were in the first place. However, Tube videos warning the popula- tifiable argu- stanky people in ering at the Senior Shane Burcaw is there truly a reason for all this tion of their imminent doom. So ment comes water hole highlights a further ―flaw‖ in hype? Let‘s find out. depressing, isn‘t it? along. our school.” make it near the school. ―They no longer The reason 2012 is so infamous People have started taking ad- For example, Quentin Cornelius impossible to serve burritos in the cafete- for its doomsday stories (enough vantage of the situation this al- throw out the get by. Being ria,‖ he laments. Another to have a film named after it) is lows, selling essential items in word ―bathrooms‖ and some in close contact with people change in the Freedom cafe- because December 21, 2012 ―survival stores‖ on the Internet. animated conversation could in crowded hallways can teria that has ruffled some marks the end of a great cycle on Experts around the world have ensue amongst students. often be an unpleasant ex- student feathers is the new the Mayan Calendar. The May- also been contacted to state what Sadly, FHS restrooms are perience because as sopho- policy on borrowing money. ans, who have often been praised they believe will occur in 2012. widely associated with filth, more Quentin Cornelius puts This complaint, however, for their ingenuity and credited Ideas include a giant unseen as- grime, and a general state of it, ―We got a lot of stanky could fall into the unjustified for the invention of the number 0, teroid, a coronal mass ejection stench. Who is to blame for people in our school.‖ arguments category. I dis- are long gone, but they left be- from the sun, frying technology the bathrooms looking like a Walking in the hallway tinctly recall more than a hind a calendar, which dated only that will leave the world without tee-peed warzone? None cannot only be unpleasant, few individuals bragging to December 21st. power for months, the super- other than our fellow peers. but at times downright dan- about how they owed over Of course, such a mysterious massive black hole at the center The culprits are all around gerous! If you even think $100 for lunch. The new end leaves the door wide open for of the galaxy exploding, and a us-- they may be in our class about stepping on some- rule, which may at times Fundamentalist Christians, who religious rapture that will leave or at our lunch table or sit- one‘s ―kicks,‖ expect a seri- seem annoying, really is believe that the world was truly all the non-believers in Christ ting next to us on the bus. ous beat-down. The amount practical and will ultimately created just 2000 years ago, to stranded. How can we stop these of hallway fights has sky prepare us for the ―real begin chanting about the end of However, in the likely case that villains, you ask? The only rocketed in the past few world.‖ Last time I checked, the world once again. Only this none of the above happens, you action we innocent bystand- months. Hair has been it is generally frowned upon time, they have a great date and can always come back and tell ers can take is to avoid con- pulled, vulgar name-calling to ―borrow‖ money from more coincidences than ever. me that I was right all along. That tributing to the problem. (I has occurred, and the use of real restaurants. Patrick Geryl, a Belgian ama- is, if we‘re still alive. In these will let you use your own tazers has become frequent. We are complainers; it is teur astronomer, firmly believes situations, I like to take the ad- big kid logic to remind your- People, can‘t we all just get true. But, if no one was in the end of the world. He points vice of a friend: why speculate self of those rules we along? This is, in fact, no around to complain, how out the fact that Egyptians noted when you can bet? And for clari- learned in elementary school place for hate. would the innovative people 2012 as a year of change, and the fication, I have my entire savings about proper bathroom eti- Although the weather know what to fix? Really, sharp increase in sunspot and down on 2012 being a leap year. quette.) outside is warming up, the our complaints are making flare activity on the sun. Four Beat that. Deplorable bathrooms are classrooms seem to get more our school a better place. years ago, Geryl quit his job and not the only grievance by frigid by the day, so think began preparing the items in his which Freedom High School juniors Amanda Stammherr eleven page list on how to sur-

April 2010 EDITORIAL—7 Freedom Forum Editorial Editor: Jasmine Ameerally America‟s Education System Healthy Obsession?

By Tyler Alicea, Layout Editor the process correctly but get By Jasmine Osley, Staff Writer the wrong problem, the Anyone who watches the the 127,000 seniors who teacher will mark it incorrect news knows that America‘s graduated in the state of without showing them the Over the last few years a new with healthy eating. Her infatua- education is sub-par. Even Pennsylvania had not correct way of solving the eating disorder has been emerg- tion started with restricting her- in our own school district, reached proficiency. That‘s problem. This automatically ing, called Orthorexia Nervosa. self to whole foods, then to 100% where passing the PSSAs is more that 40 percent of the tells the child‘s brain that Orthorexia Nervosa is a patho- organic foods. By college, Rutzel nearly impossible, the edu- seniors who graduated, they are doing the problem logical obsession with food, diet was on a raw-foods diet, eating cation that is forced into our which is an absurd number. incorrectly. This is a prob- and healthy eating. It is related to nothing more than uncooked skulls each and every day is Imagine if 40 percent of lem, because the child is in an obsessive compulsive disor- broccoli and cauliflower. At five not of the highest caliber. the United States was with- fact doing the problem cor- der, which is a mental disor- feet and four inches, Rutzel I‘ve spent my entire edu- out healthcare or if 40 per- rectly, but they aren‘t being der ,that is characterized by per- weighed just 68 pounds. Rutzels‘ cational career in the Bethle- cent of the United States told why they got it wrong. sistent thoughts, obsessions, and doctor and others who are treat- hem Area School District was unemployed. Wouldn‘t These few problems only repetitive behaviors. However, ing patients in similar conditions (kindergarten to sophomore the federal government step scratch the surface on what this disorder is very controversial are distraught over Orthorexia‘s year), and since I‘ve started, in at some point? Sure it‘s is wrong with our education because it is not deemed an offi- absence from the DSM. Until it is I‘ve seen many issues in the only one state, but all of system. I could most likely cial eating disorder in the Diag- listed in the DSM, it will be tough ways students are taught. these failing students add write an entire book about nostic and Statistical Manual of to get treatment covered by Our school district isn‘t nec- up. (This is no longer a the problems in our educa- Mental Disorders (DSM) which health insurance and hard to get essarily at fault, although it problem in our school dis- tion system if I weren‘t too list psychiatric illnesses. So the funding for research. has its own problems that I trict, as it is mandatory to be busy learning about comma main question is, is Orthorexia a Even though Orthorexia is not a won‘t address at this point in proficient to graduate as of usage in high school, when legitimate disorder or is it just an medically recognized syndrome, time. It is actually the fault last year.) it should have been taught it anxiety disorder that leads to it does not mean it does not exist. of a weak education system Another problem that can middle school. School is anorexia or bulimia? Although many doctors view the in our country. severely hurt students is supposed to prepare students Orthorexics are described as disorder with skepticism saying, One thing I have observed troublesome teachers. Every for life, not teach you how people who take healthy eating to ―We don't want people to be mis- would be the absolute focus school has them; (life would to survive a twelve year pe- extremes. They are often perfec- labeled and not get the care they on state standardized testing, be too fine and dandy with- riod of life where you‘re tionists who need everything in need because they're actually on specifically the PSSAs and out them) however, it‘s im- held captive in an education and associated with their diet to the slippery slope to anorexia‖, the Scantron tests in our dis- portant that we realize these prison. be just right. When they stray there is no denying that the be- trict. If anyone pays any at- teachers are hurting Amer- away from their haviors associated with orthorex- tention to our school, many ica‘s youth in the most im- rigid diets they ics can cause serious negative will realize that almost every portant places: elementary are often ex- health consequences. Like other decision revolves around the schools. tremely hard on mental disorders, Orthorexia can fact that juniors are doing In elementary school, one themselves, simi- damage relationships with fam- poorly on the state testing. is taught the basics of read- lar to anorexics ily, and friends, and can interfere Are they to blame? Of ing, writing, simple addition and bulimics. A with daily life, not to mention, it course not; however, at what and subtraction, and basic Time Magazine can lead to other eating disorders. point is the federal govern- analysis skills. However, news article spoke Although it is not an officially ment going to step in and do some elementary school about twenty recognized illness, people with something about all of these teachers don‘t understand seven year old this disorder should seek treat- failing schools? how to work with children. Kristi Rutzel who, ment from a professional to get The BASD is not the only For example, if a student in high school, better and loosen the hold food district doing poorly on the takes a test about multiply- became obsessed has on their lives. PSSAs. In 2006, 57,000 of ing fractions, and they do Cartoon courtesy of Giovanni Saldutti, Staff Photographer Recent Natural Disasters: What Do They Mean? By Kerry Darragh, Staff Writer

Mother Nature has shocked destructive power that many cious amount of casualties, - something to be expected? the disasters that have oc- us all in the first months of people usually take for granted however, makes this possibil- Very possible. Since the be- curred. Debating about why 2010. As we all know, a dev- until a disaster, like the recent ity seem quite harsh, espe- ginning of time, the world has Haiti, Chile, Turkey, and other astating earthquake rocked the g o n e regions of the planet have ex- poor nation of Haiti in January through pe- perienced their respective that left around 230,000 dead. riods of heat tragedies won‘t change the More recently, another earth- and extreme fact that they have already quake hit the country of Chile cold; it has happened. These countries in South America, which played host now need to focus on how to killed over 200 people. Turkey to countless rebuild and regain hope. Some also experienced an earth- v o l c a n i c of them, like Haiti, have a quake in early March, leaving eruptions, more colossal task than other dozens of casualties. t s u n a m i s , nations. Since all of these disasters earthquakes, Without a doubt, however, have happened in such a short fires, bliz- tragedies like the recent earth- period of time, we ask: What zards, and quakes around the world bring could all of this mean? hurricanes. the international community The Apocalypse? Highly The recent together. From what we‘ve unlikely. While these disasters natural dis- seen from relief efforts, the have tragically destroyed the asters could worst of situations seems to lives of thousands of people, it very likely bring out the best in people. does not mean the world is be a re- We can only hope that the coming to an end. Don‘t panic minder of string of natural disasters that - this option is really so ridicu- A photo of the damage caused by the Haitian earthquake last January. Courtesy of the the reality of have occurred in such a short lous that I cringe at even men- International Federation of Red Cross. living on period of time is over for now, tioning it. planet Earth. so that the world can take a Could it be a slap in the face earthquake in Chile, strikes. cially for poor nations like All of this is simply specu- breath and focus on helping from planet Earth, which hu- Maybe it is karma coming Haiti that did absolutely noth- lation, and it could keep go- the victims of these tremen- mans have ravaged to an un- back to bite us for the destruc- ing to deserve it. ing. However, what is more dous tragedies. believable extent? Perhaps. tion of many of the world‘s Or could it simply be just all important now is deciding Nature does have incredible natural resources. The atro- part of the natural cycle of life how we are going to deal with

April 2010 FEATURES—8 Freedom Forum Features Editor: Dhanu Thiyagarajan SENIOR POLL ? Ask Fabio ! By Gianfranco Lentini, Staff Writer Attention all Seniors! Do you know the biggest procrastinator of the class of 2010? 1) I love being with my friends, but sometimes The senior who is most likely to end up on the news being with them too long can be way overbearing, or who is likely to end up on ESPN? especially if we start to argue. What do I do if this Vote for seniors who you think fall into one of the following categories: starts to happen? Biggest procrastinator Most likely to end up on ESPN Everyone wishes they could go home and live with their friends for the rest of their lives, but it does Most likely to end up on the news Next big superstar start to get a little hectic after a while; everyone needs some kind of space from each other. If you Best sense of humor The next Van Gogh guys begin to argue, just back off from each other Craziest style Most entertaining for a litte while (15 mins) and you will most likely be back to normal. If you are not, then I would say Most likely to win the Nobel Prize Most likely to end up on a reality TV show you definitly aren't friends and you are just there to annoy each other. Go to http://surveymonkey.com/s/6pqzng6 2) I am probably the most impatient person you to vote for seniors to appear in the next issue of The Freedom Forum. will ever meet - I HATE waiting in lines. And sometimes, I get the urge to punch people in the face when they walk too slowly. Is this my fault or Freedom High Art Show theirs? By Giovanni Saldutti, Staff Photographer We have all had the urge to trip or punch people who get in our way, especially when we are trying to On April 27th, from 6:30 p.m. to active sculpture, made by walk to class and end up getting there late. Some 8:00 p.m., the Freedom High Theresa Byrnes and a fel- people don't have a sense of priority and would School art department will be low senior art student, rather not make it on time. That being said, hosting their annual art show, Amy Lawrence. impatience isn't a terrible thing, but there needs to be where students‘ works will be on As in past years, the art a limit to it. If you're waiting in a line for five to ten display for the general public, show will incorporate all minutes, then you shouldn't start freaking out; this is students, and their families. These departments: music, ce- a reasonable amount of time to wait. And if there is evening shows have been taking ramics, wood shop, fine an elderly or an injured person in front of you, you place for the past eight years, ever arts, and photography. need to have a little respect and wait. Some people since art teacher Lori DiRenzo Byrnes says, ―We want to are honestly going as fast as they can, but if this is began working at Freedom High use the art show as a plat- seriously not the case, please don't start punching school. ―The art show used to be form for all creative as- faces ... this would be misconstrude as bad, really much [simpler], featuring only pects of Freedom, not just bad. fundamental art,‖ says senior art the fine arts.‖ They plan 3) I'm currently dating the guy of my dreams, student and art club president, to achieve that goal with and I would do anything for him, but when we Theresa Byrnes. ―Today, it has live entertainment from are separated, I crave male attention, and I tend grown into an event the entire student musicians, the to flirt. How can I stay true to my real boyfriend? community can enjoy.‖ Freedom Band, and dis- Every year, the art show fea- plays of pieces from all Staying true to someone you love 100% means tures something new. This year, the other departments. not flirting with other guys. Otherwise, there is no the show will be held in the right These displays will in- point in saying you love the guy you are currently Photo of the 2009 Art Show displaying photo- side of the cafeteria for the first clude works from all with. All it sounds like is cheating, but getting graphs. This years Freedom Art Show with take time ever, which should offer a grade levels and all place on April 27th. Photo courtesy of Sean attention from the opposite sex isn't a terrible thing if different experience entirely. The classes for a truly well- Cassidy, Photo Editor you set limits like just talking or hanging out. show will also feature an exciting rounded experience you Anything that goes beyond hand holding is ―rainy day‖ installation, or inter- are sure to enjoy. something you definitly don't want to do with the person you are not currently with. However, if all you want is to be someone else when you're not with Freedom‟s Talent Show your boyfriend, then you probably do not want to be By Luisa Marin, Staff Writer dating them in the first place. Maybe, it would be a good idea to see other people until you can sort out The diversity found in Freedom that the word of mouth from the Freedom High School students. who is more important in your life. High School is hard to ignore. students should attract more peo- With the talent show, many will Now there is a way to show case ple this year. Also, the fact that see the great talent that students this diversity. there is more time to plan should have. Last year the Cultural Aware- expand the amount of people who With the profits made by this ness club had an idea to expose attend. Already the popularity of year‘s show, Cultural Awareness the diverse cultures found in the the talent show seems to have is hoping to donate to Chile and school. They created a talent increased, because there is a lar- the senior class. Tickets cost five show. As a last minute idea, it ger number of people who will be dollars and remember that you are took a lot of quick planning and auditioning. There are also going helping an afflicted country and help. Ms. Jennifer Wescoe and to be teachers in this year‘s talent your classmates. This means that administrators helped with all the show, and that should bring more you should bring your friends too. planning and auditions. Ms. Sonia spectators and bigger interest. Also remember that you should Photo Strockyj was very happy with the The show is being used as ―a go for your peers. Take this op- courtesy of outcome last year. She said, ―I time of cultural expression.‖ This portunity to show school spirit. If Sean Cassidy, was very surprised about the year there are a variety of acts. you have any questions you can Photo Editor amount of people who came.‖ Those include singing, dancing, a always go to 207 and ask Sonia With the profit earned, the Cul- magic presentation, and skits. The Strockyj. You can also ask any- tural Awareness club made a do- auditions on April 20th and 21st one from Cultural Awareness. nation to Global Grassroots. This will choose the best presentations Use the talent show to show your foundation helps the world‘s most for us to see. Some of these per- school spirit. As Strockyj puts it vulnerable women. formances also include the use of ―Come and support the students.‖ This year, Strockyj expects a foreign language. All of them better outcome. She mentioned demonstrate the cultural aspect of

April 2010 FEATURES—9 Freedom Forum Features Editor: Dhanu Thiyagarajan Teacher Profile: Mr. Ziegler By Kaleigh Birdsong, Staff Writer his ―English clique‖ of friends to get his teaching In Bensalem, PA, an idyllic and former colleagues is certification and suburb just outside of Phila- high school production of the something that Ziegler takes fulfill the ―dream delphia, there lived a boy musical Oklahoma! Being pleasure in. that I have had named George Ziegler. Today, involved in the Drama Club, It may not be shocking to since I was fifteen.‖ we know him as one of Free- ―Changed my life,‖ says know that Ziegler was always ―Live and let dom High School‘s beloved Ziegler. ―My social life went an avid English student., but live‖ is the philoso- English teachers, but just a from zero to sixty. Theatre teaching English was not phy by which few decades ago, Ziegler was really helped me come out of Ziegler‘s first career. ―I Ziegler lives. To his just a student in a small, all my shell.‖ worked in publishing for 15 students, he ad- boys‘ Catholic School. Ziegler‘s interests haven‘t years. I always wanted to be vises, in the words As a youngster, Ziegler was changed tremendously over an English teacher, but when I of Emerson, ―Do a born performer. At around the years— he still expresses got to my early college years, not go where the age eight, ―I used to put on passion for the performing all of the [outside forces] told path may lead, go shows in my grandparents‘ arts and enjoys attending me not to do that. My guid- instead where there basement. This wasn‘t a minor shows in New York, when ance counselor told me that I is no path and leave show—there were programs, possible. Recently, Ziegler has could never make any money a trail.‖ Finally, he costumes, [and] scenery also taken up the hobby of to support a family… so in- poses the question: changes…‖ Later, Ziegler exercising - going to the gym stead I went into business.‖ ―Have you high- took on a bigger stage, receiv- three to four times a week. In That changed ten years ago, fived your English ing the starring role in his addition, spending time with when Ziegler finally decided teacher today?‖ Temple University Photo Courtesy of Sean Cassidy, Photo Editor By Jasmine Osley, Staff Writer Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Health Professions and So- process. They consider Public, 4 year University, cial Work, Beasley School every piece of information Urban Setting (major city) of Law, College of Liberal that a student provides. The 61% applicants admitted Arts, School of Medicine, admissions committee looks Total Undergraduates: Boyer College of Music and for three specific things. 27,045 Total Graduate Stu- Dance, School of Pharmacy, First, they look at a stu- dents: 9,460 School of Podiatric Medi- dent‘s high school record Tuition & Fees: in-state cine, College of Science and which should be strong and $11,764; out of state Technology, School of So- consistent. Second, a stu- $21,044; room & board: cial Work, and School of dent‘s SAT or ACT scores $9,198 Tourism and Hospitality and lastly, a student‘s essay, Average Aid Package: Management. extracurricular activities, $15,722 Most Popular majors: Busi- recommendations, specials First-Year students are guar- ness Marketing, Communi- awards and honors. anteed on-campus housing cations/Journalism, along Temple offers over 300 aca- Colleges & Schools: Tyler with Visual and Performing demic degree programs at School of Art, Fox School Arts seven campuses in PA and of Business and Manage- Special Study Options: three international. ment, School of Communi- Cross Registration, Double Temple is the 26th largest cations and Theatre, Mau- Major, Honors program, University in the United rice H. Kornberg School of ROTC, Study Abroad and States. It is one of Pennsyl- For more information on Tem- Courtesy of temple.edu Dentistry, College of Educa- more. vania‘s three public research ple University visit their web- tion, College of Engineer- Admission: Temple says universities along with the site www.temple.edu, ing, School of Environ- that they take a holistic ap- University of Pittsburgh and www.collegeboard.com, or mental Design, College of proach in their admissions Penn State. www.princetonreview.com . Freedom Shout Outs

“Class of 2011—the HOTTEST class the halls of Freedom High School!!” - Brianna McCullough, Junior “Eat that Chicken!” - Brian Wu, Senior

“I’M AN ATHEIST. Stop saying “Once and for all… PJ stands for Phillip god bless you.” - Haroon Junior.” - PJ Tatlow, Junior Ahmad, Sophomore

“I’m looking forward to summer!” - Lindsay Riley,

Countdown to June 4th Local Summer Jobs By Julie Boylan, Staff Writer Maybe it‘s your parents nagging you to be a hard-working teen like they were themselves at your age, or maybe you just need gas money, but whatever the reason, for many American teens, a summer job is a must on their summer agenda. However, once it‘s established that yes, a summer job just might be a good idea, the next question would be where to go to get this job? It might take a little effort, but summer jobs for teens are all around the area. Remem- ber that the search for a summer job is sometimes difficult, so don‘t get discouraged or give up easily. If you don‘t know where to start your search, here are some places in the area to try for a summer job, to take in some hard-earned cash, and to join the millions of teens in the American work force, if only for three months. Fast Food: One of your choices for a summer job is McDonalds, Burger King, Wendy‘s, or any other burger-flipping, heart-attack-giving, grease- filled all-American fast-food restaurants that dot the Lehigh Val- ley. Maybe this isn‘t the most glamorous job out there, but you have got to start somewhere, and there‘s a bigger chance you‘ll be hired here than wherever your dream job might be. As an em- ployee of the fast-food chain of your choice, possible jobs could include cashier, drive-through operator, or food maker. If you can put up with the visors and the occasional obnoxious customer, this is a summer job to remember, and it will earn you some good old fashioned minimum wage cash. Grocery Stores:

Nothing like a job in the food services! Take the grocery store Giant for example. Here, you can join the many Freedom stu- dents, who already roam the aisles in dashing green polos, stock- ing shelves, moving heavy boxes, bagging customer‘s food, col- lecting grocery carts, and answering questions. Giant has two lo- cations in Bethlehem—Bethlehem Square on Linden Street and on Easton Avenue. Or, you could try Wegmans which is located at 5000 Wegmans Drive. Bethlehem Dairy Store (aka The Cup):

This small local ice cream store is big on character and another possibility for a summer job. The Cup is located on Linden Street, near Liberty High School, and they have another location on the Lehigh University Campus. As a worker of The Cup, your primary job would of course be scooping ice cream or getting whatever else the customer wants. Like with any other job dealing with custom- Photos Courtesy of Luisa Marin, Staff Writer ers, you have to try to make impossible customers happy. But on the upside, scooping all that ice cream could give you some nice arm tone! How Hard Did Senioritis Strike? By Jasmine Ameerally, Editorial Editor

2010 – A year that marks a it‘s the controversy surround- from all the immaturity [of] school. I‘ll miss the teachers new decade, but also a time ing lunch this year. people, to actually meet new and friends,‖ says Joshua that represents the graduation ―The teachers are really friends from all over the place Sims. year of our current seniors. As nice and helpful, but the fact and to have [the] freedom of Ready to leave or not, one they go off to college and be- we didn‘t have senior lunch not being on a strict schedule,‖ thing is for certain – Freedom gin the never-ending journey privileges feels like we got says Becca Jarrel. High will surely miss them. to becoming a ‗grown-up,‘ an ripped off,‖ says Kaitlin Van- Despite some students‘ en- Good luck seniors! obvious question arises – are Buskirk. thusiasm to leave, others re- they glad to be leaving high Some are ready to leave the main complacent of their high school? Unsurprisingly, yes; immaturity that is often asso- school days and a little sad- our beloved seniors are ready ciated with high school and dened to see them coming to to venture off from home and branch out into the real world. an end. find their own little niche. ―I am glad because I'm not ―Don't get me wrong: I've ―It was fun while it lasted, going to be treated like a little really enjoyed high school and but I want to go to college to kid anymore and have whistles will miss my friends so much! become something,‖ says blown at me because they Nevertheless, I'm ready for a Kenya Soul. think I am going to be late to change of pace,‖ says Devon ―[It‘s an] opportunity to class,‖ says Samantha Ho- Mosher. meet new people and start back. ―I am also glad because ―I'm not glad because I've over. I get to be away from it‘s a feeling of accomplish- just begun having fun and get- home and be independent,‖ ment.‖ ting along with people that I says Solmary Zayas. ―I‘m very glad to leave – not probably will never see again Another reason for their only to finally be out of high after I graduate,‖ says Hoback. Courtesy of opencampus.net excitement to leave? Some say school, but also to shy away ―I‘m going to miss high

Countdown to June 4th

School Year In-Review By Alexa Curto, Staff Writer

Freshman Teaming—The School displayed their patriot- Freedom vs. Liberty—On devastating earthquake on cal is set in Salzburg, Austria 2009 - 2010 school year ism with a field of flags to November 7, the Freedom January 12th. Worldwide, indi- and is an adaptation of 1965 marked Freedom‘s foray into a honor those who lost their High School Patriots lost, viduals, groups, and charitable hit film, The Sound of Music. teaming system. The pro- lives on September 11th, 2001. once again, to Liberty. Though organizations have been work- gram, which affects an esti- The day culminated with an the football game was disap- ing together to aid the 3rd FHS hearts books—Between mated 100 freshman, is similar assembly that included several pointing to Freedom fans, world nation. FHS students the daily announcements and to what some students experi- prominent speakers. sportsmanship (on both sides) are doing their best to help. the collection boxes in most enced at East Hills. Students was a vast improvement from classrooms, it was hard to had mixed reactions to the The Boy From Baby House 2008. PMEA Districts—Six Free- miss the evidence of Free- change; many students agreed 10—This year, FHS students dom High School students— dom‘s latest charitable en- that it felt too similar to mid- were moved by John Lahut- But Why Bump off Barnaby? Erica Bechtold, Selena Ben- deavor. Freedom collected dle school. sky‘s inspiring story. Those - The fall play, a comical mys- nett, Diana Jolly, Kristin Lam- over 30,000 books throughout who had the opportunity to see tery revolving around the bert, Ed Milisits, and Terese the month of March that were Budget Cuts—In an era of him speak at an assembly got death of Barnaby at Marlgate Nelson—made it to districts re-sold at a book sale; the financial issues and economic to hear firsthand about his Manor, was a victory for the for the PMEA, or Pennsyl- profits of which will benefit a troubles, the Bethlehem Area early struggles and his journey theater department. Complete vania Music Educators Asso- family affected by cancer. School District was forced to from a Russian orphanage to with fake British accents, the ciation, following a rigorous make budget cuts, which re- the honor roll at Freedom. play‘s ten cast members gave audition process. sulted in the loss of many ex- Those who missed the assem- great performances that con- tracurricular activities. bly can read about Luhutsky tributed to the success of the The Sound of Music—The in The Boy From Baby House show. FHS theater department‘s 9/11 Memorial—This Sep- 10. spring musical proved to be tember, the patriot was more FHS Reaches Out—2010 very popular; an extra per- than just the FHS mascot. The started off on a tragic note for formance was added after tick- students of Freedom High the people of Haiti following a ets sold out. This year‘s musi-

Photos Courtesy of Sean Cassidy, Photo Editor

Top Summer Vacation Spots By Courtney Barrow, Staff Writer Even if summer is a couple of months away, it‘s never far from our minds. With summer comes the three-month break from school, weeks without the daily homework, getting up early, and nagging teachers. But summer is even better when you‘re away from home and at some distant location, specifically for you and your family‘s enjoyment. Students named some of their favorite spots like:

2) HERSHEY, PA Senior Eric Di- Photos Courtesy of Google Images palna says it‘s his favorite spot during the warm summer months because of the world famous Hershey Park. ―It‘s a fam- ily thing; we‘ve been going since my brother and I was young,‖ Dipalna says. ―I‘ll be going twice this year: once with my family and once with my friends.‖ He names Great Bear and Storm Runner as his favorite rides.

1) BERMUDA This Atlantic island is popular for tanning, surfing, and sun. Natalie Grochowski, a senior, says it‘s one of best locations when you need to get away. ―It‘s far from home without [the feeling of] isolation because it‘s such a big is- land,‖ Grochowski says. ―There are a ton of gor- 3) WILDWOOD, NJ One of the top beach towns in geous beaches to choose from, and [the people New Jersey is recommended for any vacation by there] have the coolest accents.‖ sophomore Vince Villani. ―There are plenty of places to shop, and they‘ve got the best boardwalk,‖ Villani says. Wildwood is also known for its numerous piers 4) OCEAN CITY, MD Another popular and great places to eat. beach town on the east coast, junior Mark Sarosky names it as a spot he‘s been going every year with his family. ―I love the beach,‖ he says. 5) MYRTLE BEACH, SC Sophomore Kayla Mor- Ocean City also offers many different venues for gan suggests when searching for a summer vacation golfing, fishing, and boating. town to head to Myrtle Beach. ―It‘s truly beautiful,‖ Morgan says. ―I loved to just curl up with a book and watch the sunset.‖

April 2010 FEATURES—12 Freedom Forum Features Editor: Dhanu Thiyagarajan

went for my official visit," Coccia Signs with New Hampshire Coccia exclaimed. Coccia was also the starting By Mike McGinty, Sports Editor I'm excited; it has center of the Freedom basket- always been a goal of ball team and scored a total of On February 3rd, Mike Coc- opportunity to mine to play college 218 points this year. When cia signed with the University p l a y F C S football. I'm also asked if he would miss play- of New Hampshire, entitling (Division I-AA) really excited to play ing basketball Coccia said, "It him to a full scholarship to football with I-AA football, espe- will be strange. Not playing a play football. New Hamp- cially in a conference high school sport in general is Coccia, who is listed at 6' 4'' shire, a team such as the CAA and going to be strange, but during and 275 lbs., was a three-year that has an over- because New Hamp- the winter at UNH, they have letterman on the Freedom all record of 10- shire is one of the top basketball intramurals. And football team at tackle for two 3 last season and programs in division I for that, each class of football years and received all- has won a game -AA," Coccia said. players have a team. So I will conference honors. He was in the playoffs New Hampshire still be able to play!" also invited to the Big 33 before losing to even has an alumnus, Another thing Coccia wants game this summer, which is FCS Champi- Corey Graham, who to do is make an impact come an all-star game between the ons, Villanova, is in the NFL as a next fall. Sixteen total seniors best players of Pennsylvania in the quarter cornerback with the are leaving the team due to versus the best players of finals. Chicago Bears. Coc- graduation and Coccia hopes Ohio. Coccia was originally Coccia him- cia has numerous rea- to be one of the 16 athletes to an alternate, but he received a self is excited to sons to sign with the sign with New Hampshire that call saying that he would get become a mem- Wildcats as well. "I makes an impact. "Yes, I the opportunity to play in the ber of New liked the coaches and think I can be successful at game alongside Liberty High Hampshire's the players. They UNH. That is one of the rea- School's Anthony Gonzalez football team Coccia was also the starting center of the FHS basketball [New Hampshire] sons I chose to go there be- and Jarrod West and Wilson and play FCS team. Photo Courtesy of Sean Cassidy, Photo Editor. have a great program, cause I think I can make an Area High School's Tyler football. and I just felt like a impact right away.‖ Smith. Now Coccia gets the "Absolutely, great fit there when I

band was again given the op- stressing about our future, and portunity to relax and enjoy Disney made us feel like kids Freedom Band Goes to Disney the theme park, riding roller again for the last time.‖ The By Giovanni Saldutti, Staff Photographer marched through Magic King- coasters and meeting their fa- band returned to Bethlehem dom down Main Street under vorite Disney characters. Jun- late Sunday evening with a On Wednesday, March 10th, cians talked to us about his job some unfavorable weather ior Jamie Deleon describes her bunch of new memories that the Freedom High School and how little things can really conditions. Junior Alyssa experience, ―It was awesome! they will cherish for years to band, under the direction of improve the way you play.‖ Lambert says, "I will always It was a good trip for us upper come. Mike Moran, eagerly boarded Toward the end of the clinic, remember the adrenaline I got -classmen because we‘re a plane to Orlando with their the band members played mu- from marching instruments and uniforms. The sic from the movie Tarzan. down Main Street in students were excited to set This music was recorded and the Magic King- out on their long-awaited trip later matched up with actual dom. Although it to Disney World after months video clips from the movie. was pouring down of practice and preparation. ―I Yeager says, ―It ended up be- rain when we was so excited to travel to Dis- ing really cool, and Mr. Moran stepped off, it was ney,‖ says junior Ashley Wod- and Mr. Lynn were even con- an amazing experi- zicki. vinced to make animal sounds ence." Upon their arrival at Disney to add to the jungle feel.‖ Even though the World, the band members ―We learned… how impor- rain negatively af- went to Epcot, where they tant it is to pay attention to the fected the experi- were given the opportunity to director because… even if ence, it was soon relax and have fun for the first you‘re half a second off, it made up for with a day of their trip. This fun con- throws off everything,‖ com- nice trip to Univer- tinued into the next day as the ments band member Sissa sal Studios. The band members attended a Alonzo. ―[And] Mr. Lynn band was even able clinic that was quite benefi- busted out with a loud and to see a parade and cial. Senior Jen Yeager de- deep moo [while making ani- a subsequent con- scribes her experience at the mal sounds].‖ cert that was clinic. ―The clinic was a lot of On Friday morning, the lengthy, but great. Photo of Freedom students at Disney World. Courtesy of Alyssa Lambert, Special to fun. One of Disney‘s musi- Freedom High School band After Friday, the the Freedom Forum FREEDOM HIGH SCHOOL RELAY FOR LIFE TEEN COMMITTEE presents…

TCBY NIGHT Relay for Life Teen Committee Come enjoy a nice frozen yogurt treat & 5K Walk/Run Event

support the American Cancer Society All Proceeds support the American Cancer Society 25% of all proceeds will go directly to Relay for Life May 2nd 10 a.m. Walk at 10:30 a.m. 3650 Nazareth Pike Bethlehem, PA $10 for Registration th April 13 , 2010 5-8 pm Visit Office 101, the Main Office, or the Athletic Office for Registration Forms

April 2010 ENTERTAINMENT—13 Freedom Forum Entertainment Editor: Natsumi Ishikawa Alice in Wonderland Bamboozle

By Olivia Synoracki, Copy Editor each step that Alice takes in By Mary Harvilla, Staff Writer Wonderland, the audience is For people who enjoy Sports Complex. Single Tim Burton has done it again; help from Johnny Depp, He- captivated by the visual and alternative and punk rock, ticket prices are $57, while he has taken a popular story lena Bonham Carter, and Anne special effects. Karly Kaschak, an annual music festival a Three-Day pass (including and created an enchanting, Hathaway, Burton has pro- a senior, agrees, ―I thought the called Bamboozle will be a kick off show on Friday magical world that people only duced a remarkable film. As cinematography, animation, held on May 1st and 2nd. April 30th) is $116. Addi- dream about. As director of usual, Burton puts a different and costuming was great!‖ The Bamboozle Festival is tional tickets for VIP privi- films such as Edward Scissor- twist to this version, having Although the film has its pe- a two-day event jam packed leges can be found online hands, Charlie and the Choco- Alice dream of a wonderland, culiar parts, like every Burton with musical performances along with more informa- late Factory, and Sweeney only to find out that it was not film does, it does not upset. by the latest artists and tion about the festival. Todd, Burton has created a a dream and that she had been The film includes a variety of bands. It‘s a great experi- This year‘s band line-up reputation for himself. His dark there before. As Alice redis- things to look forward to, such ence for music lovers to is certainly one you won‘t and quirky style has awed covers Wonderland, the audi- as romance, action, laughs, hang out and enjoy some of want to miss. On May 1st, many people across the nation, ence experiences everything friendship, and of course, hap- their favorite bands, as well bands and artists such as and his new film, Alice in Won- with her, from talking caterpil- piness. Each character brings as buy some merchandise Paramore, Angels and Air- derland, is no exception. With lars to disappearing cats. With something to the screen, mak- and have a good time. waves, The Maine, Drake, ing the film even ―I love being able to meet Ke$ha, Four Year Strong, better. Audience the band members. I think Relient K, and many more members are it‘s cool that they‘re there to will be playing. May 2nd likely to walk out listen to the music and en- will have Weezer, MGMT, of the movie ask- joy the bands just like I am. Ke$ha, Say Anything, Mo- ing, ―Have I gone It makes it feel more per- tion City Soundtrack, and mad?‖ As Alice sonal, and it‘s really amaz- more. would say, ―I‘m ing to tell the people that Unfortunately tickets sell afraid so. You‘re sing you to sleep every fast, so get them as soon as entirely bonkers. night how much you enjoy possible! Bamboozle is a But I‘ll tell you a their music,‖ says junior blast and is highly recom- secret. All the best Sarah Harrington. mended for people who en- people are.‖ Bamboozle takes place in joy going to Warped Tour East Rutherford, New Jer- and other concerts for bands sey at the Meadowlands in that genre. Courtesy of flickr.com

Photo Courtesy of moresay.com A Light Over Aspen By Mary Harvilla, Staff Writer music. A Light Over As- iPods of more fans. Former Freedom High School pen‘s music focuses on an ―It seems like every time we student Brian Fulda and his acoustic sound, providing both put up a new song, we get more good friend D.J. Petrusky serene and upbeat songs. and more people listening. I formed a band back in March As of right now, A Light only pray that trend continues. 2009 called A Light Over As- Over Aspen is a low-key local We're going to ride it out as pen. With Petrusky on lead vo- band, but they have some big long as we can. If by some cals and Fulda on lead guitar, dreams to get their name out miracle we get big or some- the duo creates truly amazing there and their music on the thing, we'll probably take a year off from school to go on tour. You're only young once,‖ says Fulda. In order to get A Light Over Aspen to become more well known, Fulda and Petrusky are Croc Rock Concerts working hard to get new songs out on the Internet and play 4/20 - Envy on the Coast, The Fall of Troy some shows as well. ―We've got a pretty big show 4/23 - We The Kings, Cartel, The Maine at The Trocadero in Philadel- phia on Saturday, May 15th. It's 4/24 - AP Tour feat. Never Shout Never, The Cab, a battle of the bands, so we Hey Monday, Every Avenue could really use some support. For something more local, 4/27 - Brand New we've got a show on Saturday, May 29th at The Quadrant in 4/30 - Rookie of the Year, Sandlot Heroes downtown Easton. As for songs, we've got a new one that 5/2 - Angels and Airwaves, Jesse Malin we've been playing at shows that's on the list to be re- 5/6 - We Came as Romans, Four Letter Lie corded,‖ says Fulda. To check out A Light Over 5/7 - As I Lay Dying, Bless the Fall Aspen‘s music and find more information on their upcoming 5/8 - Saving Abel, Sevendust shows, go to www.myspace.com/ 5/11 - Robots in High Tops Tour feat. Cash Cash, ALightOverAspen and show Bamboo Shots, The Blue Pages your support. 5/21 - The Bled, In Fear and Faith Photo By Jim Heine

April 2010 ENTERTAINMENT—14 Freedom Forum Entertainment Editor: Natsumi Ishikawa The Wizarding World of Harry Potter By Natsumi Ishikawa, Entertainment Editor All Photos Courtesy of universalorlando.com/harrypotter/ As anticipation heightens, locations from Harry Potter‘s information is slowly trickling World. into the muggle world. For the Here is a closer look at first time, muggles from all some of the adventures you over will be able to experience can experience in the Wizard- the magical world that has ing World of Harry Potter in enraptured millions of readers the Universal Studios of Or- and viewers of the Harry Pot- lando, Florida.

find a souvenir in this each with its own unique 382 B.C.‖ J.K. Rowling has ter series and movies. hilarious shop. qualities. designed over ten of the Last September, Universal Harry Potter and the For- wands and people can also Studios in Florida officially bidden Journey Honeydukes Three Broomsticks buy movie wands. It is even released information on their One of the main attractions Honeydukes is a shop that The famous Three Broom- rumored that wands will be $250 million project, stating of this theme park, Harry Pot- no visitor can resist. Full of sticks is now open to muggles. able to activate special fea- its opening would be in Spring ter and the Forbidden Journey unique sweets like Cauldron This rustic tavern offers the tures throughout the park. 2010. They also gave the will give visitors a unique tour Cakes, Chocolate Frogs, Acid whole family a variety of tra- muggle world a preview into of Harry Potter‘s world. Soar- Pops, and Fizzing Whizzbees, ditional British fare. One of Dervish and Banges what fans could look forward ing over castle grounds, com- children and adults alike will the most anticipated items is With an assortment of items to in the enchanting Wizard- ing face to face with famous be comforting their sweet the delicious Butterbeer, that such as the Monster Book of ing World. creatures like the giant Acro- tooth. For the first time, fans J.K. Rowling created herself. Monsters, Quidditch gear, Though the specific date of mantula, Dementors, and even can feel the same exhilaration Visitors will also be able to Omnioculars, and Spectre- the grand opening has been the Whomping Willow, fans that Hogwarts students felt on try pumpkin juice and other specs, Dervish and Banges is kept under raps for a while, on can experience the state-of-the their field trip off school favorites of wizards and the place to go for all your March 24th, Universal re- -art technology that will create grounds. witches. Visitors can choose souvenirs that you can‘t get leased the date as June 18th. a magical journey. Visitors from fish and chips, the anywhere else. This magical Only a little over two months will even be greeted by Dum- Dragon Challenge ―Great Feast Platter,‖ turkey instruments and equipment to go! The rabid fans of the bledore himself. After board- In this rare experience, visi- legs and fresh vegetables, and shop also offers Golden Harry Potter series can expect ing the ―magical bench‖ in the tors will pass the Goblet of much more. There‘s even a Snitches, brooms, school uni- Fire and the Triwiz- children‘s menu to fill the bel- forms, and stationary items. ard Cup, then move lies of the younger muggles. You might have to stop at on to choose their Gringotts before you check dragon. After decid- Ollivanders out this store though. ing between a Chi- Ollivanders is a small dusty nese Fireball and a shop that has countless wand Amazingly, the list doesn‘t Hungarian Horntail, boxes lining the walls all the end here; there are more at- those that are brave way to the ceiling. In Olli- tractions to look forward to in enough will fly vanders, ―the wand chooses the park. For more informa- through an aerial the wizard.‖ In this special tion and updates, you can chase that will have interactive experience, the check on visitors twisting and ―Wandkeeper‖ will help the http://www.universalorlando/ looping in this high- wand choose you. With a harrypotter/ and the speed roller coaster. wand stock of over 10,000, MuggleNet on Those that are up to visitors will be able to pur- http://www.mugglenet.com/ the challenge can chase their first wand from the wizardingworld/ attempt both rides, ―Maker of Fine Wands since

to enter the magical realm Room of Requirement, you soon. will also be able to visit an In the Wizarding World of exact replica of Dumbledore‘s Harry Potter, visitors will be office, the greenhouses, the able to experience thrilling Gryffindor common room, rides, sit down for a meal at and much more. the famous Three Broom- sticks, and buy an assortment Zonko‟s of goods from a variety of A joke shop full of novelty stores. Walking into the theme items, Zonko‘s offers bizarre park, the first thing you‘ll see items such as Extendable is a smoking Hogwarts Ex- Ears, Sneakoscopes, Boxing press, then continue onto Telescopes, and Pygmy Puffs. Hogsmeade. A stroll through Magical sweets include Faint- Hogsmeade alone is exciting, ing Fancies, Fever Fudge, but fans are also anticipating Nosebleed Nougats, and much the ride through many iconic more. Visitors are bound to

April 2010 ENTERTAINMENT—15 Freedom Forum Entertainment Editor: Natsumi Ishikawa Night at the 82nd Oscars WINNERS OF By Gianfranco Lentini, Staff Writer The stars were out and look- included in the Horror Genre really haven't seen any of ing bright in Hollywood for slideshow. them." And when asked what THE NIGHT the 82nd Oscars. Not since But the climax of the whole their favorite moment of the 1943 has there been such an night was when Kathryn Bige- night was, Musselman and Writing Documentary Short Oscars that had 10 movies low, director of "The Hurt Totani once again agreed on (Original Screenplay) Music by Prudence nominated for "Best Picture." Locker," became the first fe- Ben Stiller's act, stating, "[He] The Hurt Locker The night got a kick-start male director in film history to was the right person to be an Documentary Feature with a surprise musical per- be awarded the "Directing" Avatar. No one else could do Writing The Cove formance by Neil Patrick Har- Award. it. It was a good idea," while (Adapted Screenplay) ris, along with Precious : Based on the Directing many backup novel “Push" by Sapphire The Hurt Locker dancers and a Kathryn Bigelow catchy tune. Fol- Visual Effects lowing the act Avatar Costume Design was the Oscars‘ The Young Victoria hosts Steve Sound Mixing Martin and Alec The Hurt Locker Cinematography Baldwin from Avatar "It's Compli- Sound Editing cated." The duo The Hurt Locker Art Direction took turns tak- Avatar ing a stab at the Short Film (Live Action) many famous The New Tenants Animated Feature Film actors and ac- Up tresses who Short Film (Animated) were sitting in Logorama Actress in a Supporting the crowd, in- Role cluding George Music (Original Song) Mo'Nique Clooney, who Crazy Heart tried his hardest ―The Weary Kind" Actress in a Leading Role to keep a stone Sandra Bullock face. They con- Music (Original Score) tinued their rues Up Actor in a Supporting Role with spoofs of Christoph Waltz Makeup the very popular Photo Courtesy of ucsdguardian.org "Avatar" and "Paranormal Wetmore really appreciated Star Trek Actor in a Leading Role Activity." the honoring of John Jeff Bridges The night threw many twists When asked what their fa- Hughes. Foreign Language Film and turns at the audience in- vorite movie of the year was, The Secret in Their Eyes Best Picture cluding Ben Stiller's entrance juniors Brianna Musselman (El Secreto de Sus Ojos) The Hurt Locker on stage as an Avatar to pre- and Devin Totani both agreed Film Editing sent the "Best Make-Up" on "The Blind Side," where as Award. And many viewers junior Erika Hughes answered The Hurt Locker were even left scratching their "Avatar," and junior Dana heads when "New Moon" was Wetmore confessed, "[I]

Freedom Forum Sudoku Puzzle Answers to March Issue Sudoku Puzzle

Courtesy of sudokupuzzles.net

March 2010 ADVERTISING—16 Freedom Forum Business Managers: Mary Harvilla and Abhinav Rangarajan

March 2010 SPORTS—17 Freedom Forum Sports Editor: Mike McGinty March Madness

By T.J. Chambers, Staff Writer

The 2010 NCAA Men‘s Northern Iowa winning two Basketball Tournament has games. certainly exemplified the pure, Even President Barack incomparable madness that Obama, who correctly pre- ensues every year as 65 of the dicted the University of North nation‘s top college teams Carolina winning the ―Big square off over a period in late Dance‖ in 2009, had Kansas March and early April to de- going all the way this year. So termine a national champion. far, three of his Elite Eight At the time this article was teams and two of his Final written, the second round had Four teams have already been come to an end. Already many eliminated. (It should be favorites such as Kansas, noted, however, that Obama‘s Georgetown, and Villanova preoccupation with passing had fallen to so-called under- the health care bill may have dogs. In fact, nearly a third of contributed to his disappoint- first round games turned out to ing bracket this year.) be upsets. Overtime drama Ultimately, March Madness and even some buzzer-beaters is one of the most exhilarating added to the excitement of the times of the year for sports thrilling opening round to the fans. No other sport, profes- tournament, precluding what sional or collegiate, can boast was still to come. such a spectacular event filled Perhaps the most surprising with so much passion and ex- upset so far was Kansas, the citement. Between the single number-one seed, losing to the game elimination format, the number nine seed in the Mid- surprise ―cinderella‖ stories west Region, Northern Iowa, that occur, and the tradition of during the second round. cutting down the nets, the Kansas was a favorite to win NCAA Men‘s Basketball the entire tournament and Tournament is quite simply should have easily advanced the greatest, most compelling to at least the Sweet 16. Ac- playoff system to exist. cording to ESPN.com, 42% of As you are reading this, the all brackets filled out on their 2010 National Champion will Photo Courtesy of sportsillustrated.cnn.com website had Kansas winning it have been crowned, but teams be preparing for the madness all, where as only 0.9% had across the country will already sure to come next March.

teams to watch for is the Den- after being held to fewer than ries that I had some rest and at ver Nuggets. The Nuggets 90 in both losses to Los Ange- the same time take some time NBA Update have scored at an even higher les and Phoenix. Carmelo An- off.‖ He will be back to By Grace Mao, Staff Writer rate than usual recently and thony, who scored 30 or more wreaking havoc on the court are looking to continue on in the previous three games, on Thursday against the Phila- their winning streak, having was helped by his teammates, delphia 76ers. The season half over and season, with Utah and Dallas just won their fifth consecu- as Chauncey Billups scored But while many teams are playoffs ready to begin on the also trail close behind. tive game. Denver has aver- 25, Nene had 17 and J.R. doing well, the L.A. Lakers eve of April 17th, NBA bas- Currently, one of the notable aged 117.3 points per game Smith added 15. Now we just haven‘t been feeling their best ketball has recently be- have to wait lately. Though last year‘s come even more excit- and see if they championship team has star ing to watch. can keep up Kobe Bryant to win game af- The final standings their winning ter game for it, the Los Ange- before the playoffs are streak. les Lakers haven‘t been feel- in, and the top eight And where ing great, and are in desperate teams from each confer- has LeBron need of a true boost of confi- ence are going to play- James been? dence. "We need to play offs. Here are the stand- ―The King‖ harder and execute a little bet- ings as of right now: was thrilled to ter," said forward Ron Artest, from the Eastern Confer- hit the practice averaging 6.3 points on 4-of- ence, the Cleveland court again and 24 shooting in the last three Cavaliers, led by LeBron is looking for- games. "Overall, we are not James (undoubtedly one ward to return- playing great." Maybe the of the best players in the ing to action. Lakers can get its game up on world), has claimed the The Cavs' star Friday against the Phoenix top spot with a record of sat out games Suns, a team that has beaten 50 wins and 15 losses. against Mil- them two years in a row. The Orlando Magic is waukee and Now, all the fun just goes second, with a record of San Antonio to uphill from here. Mid-April, 46-20, and the Miami rest nagging the playoffs start and we will Heat, which of course injuries. "I'm watch the best teams battle it has All-Star Game MVP always a guy out for the 2010 championship Dwayne Wade, barely who wants to trophy. Meanwhile, the teams made it with 8th place. play every and players are working hard, Of course, the L.A. Lak- game," James rejoicing in their wins or try- ers (Kobe Bryant, any- said. "Now, ing to overcome their losses. one?) lead the Western looking back Continue to follow them as the Conference with 42 wins on it, it was NBA enjoys another spectacu- and 14 losses. The Den- definitely the lar season. ver Nuggets are having right decision an extremely successful to give the inju- Courtesy of thegamereviews.com

April 2010 SPORTS—18 Freedom Forum Sports Editor: Mike McGinty

Germany. In an inter- view with FIFA, Ver- FIFA World Cup 2010 beek eagerly an- MLB Season in By Soham Roy, Staff Writer their countries and interna- nounced, ―My players fear no

tional media. In 2006, Italy one.‖ Closer to home, France Full Swing Twenty-ten has definitely upset France during penalty kicks coach Raymond Domenech has brought many new and excitement in an eventful game where been fielding much criticism be- -filled events along with it, includ- France‘s star player Zinedine Zi- cause of France‘s struggle to make By Courtney Barrow, Staff Writer ing the Winter Olympics, earth- dane was given a red card for dis- it to South Africa. Although due quakes over the world, and the orderly conduct. The match, partly to the retirement of star Zi- 10,000 book fundraiser dane, the French team Spring has finally arrived, and with the shining devised by Mr. Stellato struggled to get past sun and rising temperatures comes the return of to help cancer victims. Ireland and qualify for America‘s favorite pastime. As fans begin to fill the However, the year is just the Cup for the thir- stands and players take the field, experts have their getting started, and a teenth time in the na- picks for which teams will stand out and go far this major event coming up tion‘s history. Dome- postseason. this summer is the FIFA nech, having come so Of course, everyone‘s top pick is the team that has Soccer World Cup. Less close in 2006, hopes to most recently won the World Series, the New York than three months away, finally snag the trophy Yankees. They‘ve got it all—an outstanding pitch- this year‘s World Cup in South Africa. ing rotation made up of CC Sabathia, AJ Burnett, promises more excite- If the competition Andy Petite, and the newly acquired Javier Vasquez, ment than ever. In an looks good, then the an infield with super stars Derek Jeter, Alex Rodri- attempt to garner more entertainment is amaz- guez, and Mark Teixeira, and a powerful outfield interest, the trophy is ing. This year‘s reper- that includes Curtis Granderson and Brett Gardner. doing a tour of 84 coun- toire features multicul- According to BleacherReport.com, anything less tries. English star Wayne tural artists including that first place in the AL East would be Rooney, who calls it Alicia Keys, Amadou ―disappointing.‖ ―the most iconic trophy Courtesy of FIFA.com & Mariam, Angélique But the Yank‘s big rivals in the division, the Bos- of all time,‖ uses it to inspire him Kidjo, Black Eyed ton Red Sox, have some big time acquisitions from to perform better and lead Eng- which was the veteran‘s last Peas, BLK JKS, John Legend, the off season, including Mike Cameron, Adrian land to victory. game, sparked discussion and con- Juanes, Shakira, The Parlotones, Beltre, and former Angels‘ pitcher John Lackey. This year‘s cup will be held in troversy worldwide for months Tinariwen, Vieux Farka Touré and This is in addition to their intimidating pitching staff South Africa and includes eight afterward. Vusi Mahlasela, who will perform of Josh Beckett, Jon Lester and Clay Buchholz. Big brackets of four teams, including However, each team is looking at the opening ceremony. Overall, Papi and the rest of the team hope to stamp out the Brazil, France, England, Ger- to give its fullest this year as they football has never seemed better, Bronx Bombers hopes of a repeat, but is that even many, Argentina, and the United eye the coveted trophy making its and as the 2 month mark ap- possible? States. As the teams do last min- way around the world. Pim Ver- proaches in the countdown and Over in the National League, the Philadelphia ute practicing to make sure that beek, coach of the Australian fans make plans, the teams anx- Phillies are hoping to make a comeback from their they play at their best during the team, has, in just a few months, iously await the action, which will loss in the World Series. During the offseason they summer, the coaches are also un- converted a relatively novice team decide who brings the ornate gold got the big time pitcher everyone wanted: Roy Hal- der a large amount of stress from into a formidable opponent for trophy home. laday. They‘ve also got pitcher Cole Hamels and the support of Ryan Howard, Shane Victorino, Chase All-Star Classic By Amanda Murphy, Copy Editor will participate. It is an honor to be chosen as one of the top few On March 28, 2010, although Lehigh Valley East versus Moun- seniors of the lehigh valley,‖ says the basketball season had come to tain Valley. The girls‘ games Calabrese. the end, five Freedom High were first, then proceeded by the Calabrese continues, ―I am very School seniors continued to play boys‘ teams after. excited to be playing with all the with a new purpose. The Lehigh Valley East team other senior girls chosen for the VIA, a non profited organiza- consists of senior players from team. It is going to be weird to tion for children and adults with Liberty, Beca, Northampton, play with our ‗rivals‘ at first, but disabilities, held their annual All- Easton, Nazareth, and of course, it will be a fun experience to play Star Classic game March 28. Sen- Freedom. Five of our own Free- with athletes other than the ones ior boy and girl players from Freedom.‖ from the Lehigh Valley Other than the Conference, Colonial game being for a League, and Mountain good cause and Valley League united uniting all the Courtesy of mlb.com together to play four schools, it gives the games against the other players one final Utley, Raul Ibanez, Jason Werth, and more. But divisions. The profits chance. Michael they‘ve got to pull their bullpen together after hav- from the games went to Coccia is gracious ing issues last year; Brad Lidge ended the season the program. for ―the opportunity with an ERA of 7.21. Can they make the comeback? ―We are playing to to play one last Another big power will be the St. Louis Cardinals, raise money and help high school basket- who resigned Matt Holliday to add their tough people who need it and ball game for a lineup, which includes the NL MVP Albert Pujols. that is really rewarding. good cause.‖ Coc- They‘ve also added pitchers Chris Carpenter and We are playing for a cia, who is major- Adam Wainwright. St. Louis will definitely be the good cause, but another ing in special edu- team to beat in the Central division. good thing about this cation in college, Photo Courtesy of Sean Cassidy, Photo Editor Head coach of Freedom‘s baseball team Mr. game is that it is fun for couldn‘t be more enthused to play D‘Amico weighed in on who he thought will make the athletes involved. for the program. an impact this season. ―I think the Yankees will re- Although there is still the desire dom seniors were selected to par- Fortunately, both Lehigh Valley peat this year,‖ he says, ―but the Phillies are going to win, we get to go out and play ticipate including, Ally Wendt, East teams prevailed in their to be dominant with their new ace Halladay.‖ He and have fun for our last game Nicole Calabrese, Michael Coc- games versus the Mountain Val- also said he believes Seattle will be a ―sleeper with athletes from other schools,‖ cia, Michael Prater, and Jon ley Conference. Likewise, the team,‖ meaning people will be surprised when they said Nicole Calabrese, a senior Payono. Lehigh Valley West beat the Co- do well. Mr. D‘Amico is a big time New York Yan- player who was chosen to play. These players were selected by lonial league teams, boys and kees fan and has season seats at the Bronx stadium. On the Northampton Commu- coaches and a committee. girls. All teams were able to unite nity College floor, games started ―Coaches nominate players who together, have fun, and play most at 10:30 am with Lehigh Valley they believe are fit to play in this of their final games for a great West against the Colonial league. game, and then committee mem- cause. Congratulations to LVC- Around 2 p.m. games began for bers choose the final seniors who East and Freedom‘s finest!

April 2010 SPORTS—19 Freedom Forum Sports Editor: Mike McGinty NFL Mock Draft By Mike McGinty, Sports Editor

The NFL Draft takes place from 5. Kansas City Chiefs - S, Eric 12. Miami Dolphins - LB, Rolando 19. Atlanta Falcons - OLB, Sergio 26. Arizona Cardinals - OLB, Sean April 22 through April 24th. For Berry (Tennessee) McClain (Alabama) Kindle (Texas) Weatherspoon (Missouri) some reason it is the biggest NFL event of the year, besides the playoffs and Super Bowl. There are hundreds of thousands of websites that cover the NFL Draft and hundreds of peo- ple whose jobs are to predict what player goes to what team. The Draft may be so big because these players 6. Seattle Seahawks - QB, Jimmy are the future of the NFL. Whatever Clausen (Notre Dame) 13. San Francisco 49ers - OT, 20. Houston Texans - S, Earl Tho- 27. Dallas Cowboys - WR, Arrelious the reason, people dedicate their Bruce Campbell (Maryland) mas (Texas) Benn (Illinois) weekends to the NFL Draft and have draft parties. I've made my own "mock draft" based on NFL Team needs, the College Football season, the Senior Bowl, the NFL Combine, and different Pro Day workouts tak- ing place at colleges across the na- tion. 7. Cleveland Browns - OT, Trent 14. Seattle Seahawks - WR, Dez 21. Cincinnati Bengals - S, Taylor 28. San Diego Chargers - RB, C.J. 1. St. Louis Rams - QB, Sam Williams (Oklahoma) Bryant (Oklahoma St.) Mays (USC) Spiller (Clemson) Bradford (Oklahoma)

8. Oakland Raiders - CB, Joe Ha- 22. New England Patriots - TE, 29. New York Jets - WR, Golden den (Florida) 15. New York Giants - DE, Derrick Jermaine Gresham (Oklahoma) Tate (Notre Dame) Morgan (Georgia Tech)

2. Detroit Lions - DT, Ndamukong Suh (Nebraska)

9. Buffalo Bills - OT, Brian Bulaga 23. Green Bay Packers - G, Mike 30. Minnesota Vikings - CB, Ka- (Iowa) 16. Tennessee Titans - OLB, Bran- Iupati (Idaho) reem Jackson (Alabama) don Graham (Michigan)

3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - DT, Gerald McCoy (Oklahoma) 24. Philadelphia Eagles - DE, Ever- 31.

10. Jacksonville Jaguars - DE, Ja- son Griffin (USC) Indianapolis Colts - C, Maurkice son Pierre-Paul (South Florida) 17. San Francisco 49ers - OT, Pouncey (Florida) Anthony Davis (Rutgers)

4. Washington Redskins - OT, Russell Okung (Oklahoma State) 25. Baltimore Ravens - DT, Jared 11. Denver Broncos - DT, Brian Odrick (Penn State) 32. New Orleans Saints - DE, Jerry Price (UCLA) Hughes 18. Pittsburgh Steelers - CB, Kyle (TCU) Wilson (Boise State)

All Photos courtesy of Google Images. FHS Sports Schedules—Home Games Baseball Softball Girls‟ Soccer MARIA C.

Tues. 4/13 4:00 vs. Central Catholic Tues. 4/13 4:00 vs. Central Catholic Mon. 4/12 4:00 vs. William Allen SANTOS Tues. 4/20 4:00 vs. Nazareth Sat. 4/17 12:00 vs. Poc. Mnt. West Fri. 4/16 4:00 vs. Northampton Sat. 4/24 3:00 vs. William Allen Tues. 4/20 4:00 vs. Nazareth Tues. 4/20 4:00 vs. Parkland Notary Public Sat. 4/24 11:00 vs. William Allen 717 Lynn Avenue Boys‟ Tennis Track & Field Boys‟ Volleyball Bethlehem, PA

Mon. 4/12 3:30 vs. Nazareth Mon. 4/12 3:30 vs. Northampton Thur. 4/15 7:00 vs. Nazareth 18015 Wed. 4/14 3:30 vs. Dieruff Mon. 4/26 3:30 vs. Dierruf; Parkland Mon. 4/19 7:00 vs. Becca Fri. 4/23 6:35 vs. North Pocono 610-867-4548

April 2010

Mac vs. PC Best Way to Rent Movies

Mac Netflix 49% PC Blockbuster 37% 51% 47%

Redbox 16%

Electronic Books vs. Print iPod vs. Zune Zune Books 5%

eBooks 28%

Print iPod 72% 95%

Twitter Facebook vs. Twitter 5% Google Mail vs. Yahoo Mail

Yahoo 29%

Gmail Facebook 95% 71%

Best Video Game Console iPhone vs. Blackberry

Wii 40% Blackberry Xbox 360 27% 44% iPhone PS3 73% 16%

Verizon vs. AT&T Calling vs. Sending Text Messages

Call 21% AT&T 43% Verizon 57% Photos Text courtesy of 79% Google Images