Freedom Area High School's Student Newspaper

FHS Press

Freedom Area High School's Student Newspaper

FHS Press

Freedom Area High School's Student Newspaper

FHS Press

The final countdown

Where would you say the happiest place on Earth is? For people of all ages, that place is most likely Disney World. In addition to a much more desirable climate, Florida’s most prestigious attraction provides a fun-filled getaway for all who go there. Every two years the Freedom Marching Band travels to this haven of happiness to march in a parade for spectators from all over. “The march down Magic Kingdom’s Main Street is a moment that I’ll never forget,” Senior James Kappas said. On April 26, the magical journey will once again begin. The 25-hour bus ride might seem like a drag, but the band sees it as a giant sleepover. For some like Sophomore Taylor Wolff, only two hours of sleep is needed when you have so many of your best friends so close to talk to. “This year, I plan on getting at least eight hours of sleep,” Wolff said. “The breakfast stop at Shoney’s in Georgia is the highlight of my day after being on the bus for so long,” Senior Jordan Cinderich said. During the stay at Florida, the band will be spending their time at Disney World, Universal Studios, and Cocoa Beach. Over the expanse of four non-travelling days, favorite attractions such as Expedition Everest, Mission: Space, Space Mountain, and the all-time-favorite Rockin’ Rollercoaster will be a few pit-stops while in the park. But the most awaited attraction it seems is the newest addition to Universal Studios: Harry Potter World. “I think it is going to be like a magical dream come true and indescribably exciting. I hope I finally get my letter to Hogwarts,” Freshman Desiree Davis said. This year the trip may spark some new, special memories that weren’t possible in the past because of this addition to the itinerary. For many seniors, this may be “their last vacation before going to college and becoming an adult,” Senior Sadie Schweinsberg said. For many eighth graders, freshmen, and sophomores, this year’s Florida trip will be their first. “I’m going to pee my pants [because] I’m so excited,” Freshmen Ally Wolf said. To some band members, the trip is not just a vacation. In Sophomore Veronica Rooney’s eyes, it’s a chance for quality time with her friends, freedom, food, and a good time. While the band is down there everyone has a jolly good time, until day six when each person must pack their bags and trudge onto the bus for the ride home. For most band members, this is their least favorite part of the whole trip. However, the memories made will last a lifetime. These memories will be so cherished that no one will want to go home. One unit member already expresses her disdain for the long bus ride back. “Why would you want to come back to Pennsylvania?” Sophomore Emilee Baker said.