Senior Issue Distributed
By Karla Erdman, adviser
June 1, 2012
The senior issue of The Freedom Forum was distributed to all graduates this morning at the first graduation practice at Freedom High School.
The Forum editors and staff congratulate all graduates.
Graduation will be held on Tues., June 5 at 7 p.m. at Stabler Arena. Tickets are needed in order to attend the ceremony.
Correction in the Senior Issue:
Shana Peterson is incorrectly listed as the NHS vice-president. Peterson was an officer of NHS for 2011/12 school year; however, she held the position of secretary. Luisa Marin held the vice-president position of NHS for the 2011/12 school year.
June 1, 2012
The senior issue of The Freedom Forum was distributed to all graduates this morning at the first graduation practice at Freedom High School.
The Forum editors and staff congratulate all graduates.
Graduation will be held on Tues., June 5 at 7 p.m. at Stabler Arena. Tickets are needed in order to attend the ceremony.
Correction in the Senior Issue:
Shana Peterson is incorrectly listed as the NHS vice-president. Peterson was an officer of NHS for 2011/12 school year; however, she held the position of secretary. Luisa Marin held the vice-president position of NHS for the 2011/12 school year.
High School Students: Pick up a Book and Put Down the Remote!
By Andrea Miller
June 1, 2012 To be able to come home from school, plop down on the sofa, and click on the television with a simple remote and watch mindless sitcoms does not sound like a half-bad idea to any teenager. After a few hours of schooling, why would they want to put their minds under any more intellectual pressure? These average teenage children do not think of the benefits of seemingly educational activities, especially that of reading. Students who read widely and frequently are higher achievers than students who read rarely and narrowly. In childhood, they learn an average of 4,000 to 12,000 new words each year as a result of book reading, and as they continue to grow, reading never ceases to be an important activity. Reading helps the cultivation of imaginations, whereas the constant playing of video games does nothing for the development of analytical and intellectual skills. It is dire that high school students read more frequently and of texts that can challenge their abilities. High school English teachers highly recommend the hobby of reading for numerous reasons; it can bring you a form of travel without having to buy a plane ticket, and it can higher your levels of understanding, resulting in benefits that can last a lifetime. “Why read? Well, I’ve been a voracious reader since first grade. One reason to read is to learn cool words like ‘voracious.’ But without reading, I can’t imagine who I would be. By reading, I’ve traveled to Mars; I’ve lived in Morocco; and I’ve walked the streets of Victorian England. Without books, I ‘d scarcely know what it means to be human, and I’d be largely ignorant of what it’s like to walk in someone else’s shoes – including a poor child in Calcutta. Reading is my life,” said David Kleist, an English teacher at Freedom High School. Reading takes people on adventures and at the very same time stimulates their minds in a way that it cannot be with technological advances. It is important for students to read all they can, including magazines and newspapers. Students who do this regularly for enjoyment also tend to be better readers than those who do not. In recent years literacy rates in the U.S. have plummeted. Forecasters have predicted that if static literacy levels continue, then by 2030 the entire Literacy Level distribution of the U.S. population will have decreased, creating an American workforce that is unequipped and unskilled to work in the demanding global market. If students were to lose themselves in a novel as opposed to movie, then the literacy rate of America can start to slowly make its way back up to par. This can only be successful if high school students take use of a library card rather than a television remote when they return home from school. Sources: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/03/22/top-reading_n_1373680.html http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/11/18/12th-grade-reading-scores_n_785442.html?1332530428 http://www.scholastic.com/readeveryday/facts.htm ( The Annie E. Casey Foundation ) (Educational Testing Service) ( Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) ) (Scholastic: Classroom Libraries Work!) |
Is the Death Penalty Right?
By Matthew Kluska
June 1, 2012 Imagine being strapped to a chair, your family watching through a glass window; they see you, but you cannot see them. Officers ask for your final words, and with that they administer a drug that ends your life. Your eyes shut and you slip away from life. That is what is happening when criminals are facing their death after committing a crime. The death penalty is currently making the headlines in the Lehigh Valley, Pa. George Hitcho Jr. was sentenced to death for killing police officer Robert Lasso in 2011. But, is the death penalty the right thing to do? Currently 35 of the 50 states have the death penalty. Since 1976 there have been 1226 executions. The average cost for 1 death penalty case is $2.4 million. That is a lot of money that could be going somewhere else. The price to keep criminals in jail for the rest of their lives is cheaper than putting them to death. “It is a tough thing to comment on...As for George Hitcho, I think he will not be put to death, but [will] sit on death row until he dies of natural causes. It takes too long for them to get the appeals done,” said Officer Jeremy Anderson, resource officer at Freedom High School. According to the website deathpenaltyinfo.org, since January 1, 2012, 3,189 people are sitting on death row. The truth is that many will die of natural causes and will not get what they are sentence. Additionally, death row cells cost more because of better and more security. “Taxpayer money is what funds the death penalty,” said Officer Anderson. In the end, it takes too long to put the convicts to death, and it costs the public too much money. For these reasons alone, the death penalty should be abolished from the United States. |
And the Freddy Goes to...
"Thoroughly Modern Millie" actors during the production's jail scene. Photo By: Willem Ytsma
Written By: Zachary Ward, Managing Editor of Digital Media and Mrs. Karla Erdman, Advisor
May 25, 2012
Thirty-five percent on a test is failing, however, 35 percent at the Freddy Awards is winning.
The “Year of Greatness” continued Thursday night with Freedom High School’s Theatre Company being highly recognized for its production of “Thoroughly Modern Millie.”
Out of 17 nominations, the highest any school has ever received, Freedom walked away with 6, including the top award of Best Overall Production.
“It was an amazing night. I was so proud of our kids, both as performers and people,” said Ms. Jennifer Wescoe, Freedom High School Theatre Company director.
In addition, Hannah Arnold won best performance by a lead actress for her role as Millie Dillmount.
“She’s an actress that takes direction extremely well and is helpful to all members of the cast and crew,” said Ms. Gail Nagy, FHS English teacher, who assists with the company’s productions.
Last year Freedom was nominated for 16 awards and won none of them. This year turned out to be a year of redemption, as Freedom captured the most nominations and actual awards.
“It was nice to see that the committee involved with choosing the winners recognized the talent and hard work of Freedom High School’s Theatre Company. The kids are very deserving of the awards. In fact, they probably should have won even more,” said Mr. Michael DiBilio, assistant principal.
Freddy Awards List:
Overall production: Freedom, "Thoroughly Modern Millie"
Performance by a lead actress: Hannah Arnold, Millie Dillmount, "Thoroughly Modern Millie," Freedom
Production number: "The Speed Test," "Thoroughly Modern Millie," Freedom
Chorus: Freedom, "Thoroughly Modern Millie"
Lighting: Freedom, "Thoroughly Modern Millie"
Costumes: Freedom, "Thoroughly Modern Millie"
For more information go to Lehigh Valley Live
FHSTC Grabs Astounding 17 Freddy Nominations
Written By: Zachary Ward, Managing Editor of Digital Media
May 11, 2012
Channel 69 announced the yearly nominees for the Freddy Awards on May 10, 2012 ; a prestigious awards ceremony to honor the thespians from 29 local schools. Freedom paved the way by grabbing a school-record 17 nominations and for beating out other powerhouses by a five nomination tally. Make sure to note that the awards ceremony itself will take place on May 24 at the State Theatre in Easton. Hats off to FHSTC on a prolific year and best of luck in the upcoming weeks.
May 11, 2012
Channel 69 announced the yearly nominees for the Freddy Awards on May 10, 2012 ; a prestigious awards ceremony to honor the thespians from 29 local schools. Freedom paved the way by grabbing a school-record 17 nominations and for beating out other powerhouses by a five nomination tally. Make sure to note that the awards ceremony itself will take place on May 24 at the State Theatre in Easton. Hats off to FHSTC on a prolific year and best of luck in the upcoming weeks.
Year of Greatness Ends with
the Most Important Day of the Year
Written by: Jordan Lewis
May 9, 2012
Graduation is the most important day for a senior.
Freedom High School’s graduation will take place on June 5 at Stabler Arena.
Nobody really knows how much work, time, and effort goes into setting up for this important day.
Mr. Bryan Callahan and Mr. Joseph Stellato, health and physical education teachers, are in charge of making sure that graduation runs smoothly. They help with rehearsal, the seating order of the seniors, how they walk in and walk out, where they stand and how the kids are supposed to act on this important day. Most importantly they are in charge of the timing because 10 seconds off can make a big difference.
“Rehearsal is much needed because you spend 12 years in school and want this day to go right,” said Mr. Callahan.
Ms. Jennifer Wescoe, English teacher and advisor for the FHS Theatre Company and SADD, has the task to work on student speech presentations. The speakers read their speeches to her, and she helps them speak clearly and properly.
Additionally, SADD puts messages about Teen Safety Driving every year in the diplomas.
Ms. Anna Marmaros works with senior speakers and picks a theme. She has multiple rehearsals and revisions to make it perfect. During rehearsals, Ms. Marmaros makes sure all students are present, and she passes out caps and gowns.
Mrs. Terry Jacobs, a secretary in the main office, is responsible for putting the program together, and she makes sure that everyone is seated properly on stage. She makes sure Mr. Michael LaPorta, principal, has his book at the podium to keep him organized. Mrs. Jacobs works together with Mrs. Joanne Carraghan, another secretary in the main office, to get the diplomas ready and have the names and awards on them.
“It’s like preparing for a wedding. You have to make sure you cross your t’s and dot your i’s,” said Mrs. Jacobs.
With all these wonderful people coming together and many more, let’s hope Freedom can end the year of greatness with the best graduation in Freedom High School’s history.
May 9, 2012
Graduation is the most important day for a senior.
Freedom High School’s graduation will take place on June 5 at Stabler Arena.
Nobody really knows how much work, time, and effort goes into setting up for this important day.
Mr. Bryan Callahan and Mr. Joseph Stellato, health and physical education teachers, are in charge of making sure that graduation runs smoothly. They help with rehearsal, the seating order of the seniors, how they walk in and walk out, where they stand and how the kids are supposed to act on this important day. Most importantly they are in charge of the timing because 10 seconds off can make a big difference.
“Rehearsal is much needed because you spend 12 years in school and want this day to go right,” said Mr. Callahan.
Ms. Jennifer Wescoe, English teacher and advisor for the FHS Theatre Company and SADD, has the task to work on student speech presentations. The speakers read their speeches to her, and she helps them speak clearly and properly.
Additionally, SADD puts messages about Teen Safety Driving every year in the diplomas.
Ms. Anna Marmaros works with senior speakers and picks a theme. She has multiple rehearsals and revisions to make it perfect. During rehearsals, Ms. Marmaros makes sure all students are present, and she passes out caps and gowns.
Mrs. Terry Jacobs, a secretary in the main office, is responsible for putting the program together, and she makes sure that everyone is seated properly on stage. She makes sure Mr. Michael LaPorta, principal, has his book at the podium to keep him organized. Mrs. Jacobs works together with Mrs. Joanne Carraghan, another secretary in the main office, to get the diplomas ready and have the names and awards on them.
“It’s like preparing for a wedding. You have to make sure you cross your t’s and dot your i’s,” said Mrs. Jacobs.
With all these wonderful people coming together and many more, let’s hope Freedom can end the year of greatness with the best graduation in Freedom High School’s history.
Peterson Wins Writing Contest
Submitted by: Marie Guido Peterson
May 3, 2012
Shana Peterson, senior at Freedom High School, entered an essay in the Teacher of the Year Contest sponsored by Barnes and Noble that won round one in the local contest and will now go on to compete for regional winner in round two. Peterson and Ms. Amber Zehner, science teacher, each won $15 and first edition books for the school. Round two is a regional contest and if won, the school would win $500 and a Nook for the teacher. The final round, national winner, could mean 5K for the teacher and 5K for FHS. Congratulations Shana and Ms. Zehner!
May 3, 2012
Shana Peterson, senior at Freedom High School, entered an essay in the Teacher of the Year Contest sponsored by Barnes and Noble that won round one in the local contest and will now go on to compete for regional winner in round two. Peterson and Ms. Amber Zehner, science teacher, each won $15 and first edition books for the school. Round two is a regional contest and if won, the school would win $500 and a Nook for the teacher. The final round, national winner, could mean 5K for the teacher and 5K for FHS. Congratulations Shana and Ms. Zehner!
Keeper of the Files
Krystal Domin / Web Editor
By Sergio Flor
As a secretary in office 101, Mrs. Alicia Cruz makes the environment in the office less threatening for some students, while aiding the
assistant principals in their daily duties. As a result, the workplace is enjoyable for all.
Read more . . .
As a secretary in office 101, Mrs. Alicia Cruz makes the environment in the office less threatening for some students, while aiding the
assistant principals in their daily duties. As a result, the workplace is enjoyable for all.
Read more . . .
We Believe in Freedom Varsity Gabby Spadaccia, special to the Freedom Forum
By Kaelee Alpha
The Freedom Varsity Cheerleading Squad traveled to Disney World this past week in order to compete in Ameri-Cheer International Championships. They placed 2nd overall. Read more . . . Freedom vs. Liberty Varsity Basketball: I Believe That We Have Won! Tyler Alicea / Editor-in-Chief
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Wrestling into the New Year
Freedom High School's wrestling team finished 1th place out of 26 teams in the Hurricane Wrestling Classic. This tournament is one of the most competitive wrestling tournaments in the Nation.
Read more. . . |
Dancing with Color:
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This is a piece by Simona Topuzovska, inspired by her love for dance; she placed her collection of her and her friend's point shoes.
Photo by: Andrea Miller.
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Students Excellence Recognized at Student Luncheon
By: Brenna Webb (4.26.12)
Recipients of the National Merit Scholarship gathered at a luncheon at Freedom High School on April 20 to celebrate their high achievements. An estimated 1.5 million students take the practice SAT tests. The top 50,000 students with the highest scores are finalists for the National Merit Scholarship. At Freedom High school this past Friday those students that qualified for the National Merit Scholarship celebrated at a quaint luncheon at the school. The students all accepted their awards on a small stage in the Freedom Black Box Theatre. The students each invited a teacher that has supported them and encouraged them throughout their academic journey to the luncheon to also be honored for their teaching and academic support. Courtney Barrow, a senior at Freedom High School, was one of the seven students being honored for her achievements. She plans on attending Penn State Main Campus to major in broadcast journalism. “I was at Barnes and Nobles buying a book when my parents called to tell me the news I bought myself a coffee to celebrate,” said Barrow. There were many proud parents among the room enjoying the luncheon as well, all with proud smiles on their faces as their children accepted their awards from Principal Michael Laporta, Jr. “Yes, my parents are very proud. I wouldn’t be here without my parents,” said Barrow. From guidance counselors to teachers to proud parents, the room was full of excitement to celebrate the achievements of these exceptional students. Overall the students hard work and dedication to their education paid off and were honored at this luncheon. |
Courtney Barrow displays her award as she sits with her teacher, Ms. Amber Zehner.
Photo by: Andrea Miller
Tom Nguyen receives his merit award from Mr. Michael LaPorta, principal. Photo by: Andrea Miller
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2011-2012 Articles
 Jerry / flickr.com
On March 28, the student council is teaming up with Miller Keystone for the annual blood drive here at Freedom. Students who are eighteen may participate without a parent consent form while students who seventeen need a parent or guardian consent.
Read more . . . |
Where is the Spirit? from zieak / flickr.com
By Abby Deely
During the course of the Holiday season everyone is the giving mood. Why not be during throughout the whole? There are numerous charities that are in need of donations. Read more . . . |
Making a Difference Through The TTYL Project (2012)
This past week Ms. Jennifer Wescoe (left) and senior Navea Frazier (center) traveled to Washington, DC to meet with the other "PI Top Teen Schools." Frazier met with Mr. Michael Brown, Director of Office Impaired Driving and Occupant Protection, at the US Department of Transportation (right) and gave Frazier valuable information about his position and about distracted driving.[Courtesy of Ms. Jennifer Wescoe]
Congratulations to Freedom and Liberty Musicians
2012
Congratulations to FHS student Priyanka Koti and LHS student Colin Worrich who participated in the PMEA District 10 Band Festival held at Nazareth High School. Also congratulations to Freedom students Ed Milisits and Kelsey Ko and LHS students Marrissa Guarriello and Victor Neumann who represented Freedom and Liberty in the PMEA District 10 Orchestra Festival held at Parkland High School. LHS student Colin Worrich participated in the PMEA Region 5 Band. FHS student Ed Milisits has also made the Region IV/V Orchestra Festival which will be held at Williamsport High School next month. Congratulations again to these fine BASD musicians!
