The Northridge Reporter February 2016 by Northridge Reporter

est. 2003

the february 26, 2016

Northridge High School 2901 Northridge Road Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35406

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The student voice of Northridge High School

VOLUME 13 ISSUE 5

Loved ones remember life and legacy of sophomore Ariel Backstrom

REBECCA GRIESBACH & CAMRI MASON practicing all summer. Backstrom flipped into MANAGING & SPORTS EDITORS the water with calculated precision, flexing her or any old day, it would be difficult I know she is. She understood me more than legs into perfect form. She was always cameraready, but what happened later was not so for one to recount what they were anyone... I really miss her.” doing, what they were wearing, what Though hurt and grieving alongside them, graceful, Barnett said. “When we tried to leave, the gates locked they had to eat or what the weather Akl urges her friends to keep their heads up. was like. But for the loved ones of sophomores “I don’t know man,” she said. “It really hurts us in… I can see her now trying to jump Ariel Backstrom and Brianna Hyche, Thursday, without her here, and I miss her ten-minute- them.... And then she got stuck! I remember Jan. 28 was not just any old day. long Snapchat stories every morning. But I her yelling...” she said, laughing. “When we “I put things together and found out at lunch. know she’s happier where she is... Ariel was were finally able to escape and go back to her I was on the phone with Brianna’s mom and I quite literally the life of the party and I know house, we tried to get Chinese food delivered. just burst into tears alongside her other close for a fact that she wouldn’t want us sad for her, But the bill was 80 dollars, so Ariel screamed and hung up.” friends. They announced the passenger later since she’s up there with The Best right now.” Paige shared a similar memory of a notthat day, and I lost it,” sophomore Jer’Howard Like Akl, the rest of Backstrom’s friends so-agile Backstrom, a girl whose “goofy, funPaige said. cling on to their memories. On a bright, sunny January day that sat right Sophomore Kaya Wilkinson was loving” spirit had quickly made her “become at the tail end of a winter warm front, students Backstrom’s best friend. The two met in the his whole world” despite the short amount of time that he knew sitting in class began to catch wind through Rock Quarry Middle her. social media of a fatal three-vehicle collision School band, where “My favorite on Rice Mine Loop. It was later revealed that Backstrom had just memory of Ariel one of the cars was a 2004 Mazda 6, the same taken up clarinet. was when we were car that Hyche picked up Backstrom in every “One day I at [fellow majorette morning before school. brought up to her Sarah Stephens’] “They’re the last people I’d ever see that I was going to old house, and we something like this happening to,” sophomore start taking baton and close friend Emmie Barnett said. twirling lessons and the BAckstrom fAmily would like to thAnk were going to the the community, families, friends, churches, organizations and she was all like, ‘Cool, businesses for your expression of sympathy during the loss of creek behind there,” 7:40 AM: me too! Where are our daughter, Ariel Sharee Backstrom. The outreach of support he said. “...and like, has been greatly appreciated during this difficult time. we had no way of While traveling their normal route, Hyche you going to take rounded a curve and “lost control of the from?’” Wilkinson A speciAl thAnk you to the Northport and Tuscaloosa Communi- crossing over but by ties, Northridge High School, Northridge High School Band, US Pipe, Marvel wheel,” according to a Tuscaloosa News article said. “And it turned City Mini Mill, Alabama Works, Gordo High School Majorettes, Mayor Bob- walking on a log…” Herndon, Wills Funeral Service, Cornerstone Full Gospel Baptist Church, One might guess published later that day. The car was dislodged out that our moms by Olive Garden, Jalapeno’s Mexican Grill, Chik-Fil-A, Tuscaloosa Career and Technology Academy, First Wesleyan Church, Christian Community Church, what happened into oncoming traffic and suffered a direct had signed us up with Zo’s Nu Yu, Capstone Hotel, First Baptist Church of Tuscaloosa, The Church next. of the Highlands, First Wesleyan Church, Porter St. Paul CME Church, Calimpact to the passenger’s side, “leaving both the same instructor.” vary Baptist Church, Forest Lake United Methodist Church, Publix, St. Peter “And so Ariel was girls unconscious.” Hyche was airlifted to UAB By their freshman AME Zion Church, Ebenezer Baptist Church Women’s Ministry, TuscalooAcademy Basketball Team and Coaches, Tuscaloosa County High School trying to walk over hospital to be treated for multiple fractures in year of high school, saBand Paul W. Bryant High School, Tuscaloosa City School System, and all it, and she thought her ribs and pelvis (See page 5). the two would try community persons who donated time, items and visits. things were going Backstrom was pronounced dead just nine out for Northridge’s May God continue to bless good... And then days before her 16th birthday. majorette line each and every one of you for your overwhelming generosity. she fell on the log “Whenever we hear about tragedies in the together, joined at thAnk you. and was like ‘OH news, we never think it’s going to be about the hip and even MY GOSH!!!’” someone so close to us - until it is. Realizing closer than ever. A Paige tried to stifle back a laugh, but he that is just about the worst feeling in the world. photograph taken a year later shows the two I read the texts and the news reports probably friends on the field, side by side with their couldn’t hold it in. “And I fell to the ground laughing, and I was 20-plus times, but I still didn’t think it was batons mid-toss, frozen in time and reflecting right,” sophomore and close friend Nour Akl off of the Friday night sky. Backstrom quickly like ‘Nope! I’m not going over the log. I’m just said. “I thought it was just a coincidence and posted the photo, captioning it, “And in that going to walk through the water.’” Senior and former majorette Dajah Benson that I was going to see Ariel and Brianna in moment, we were infinite.” the halls after class... No amount of guidance “Ariel.. she could make anyone laugh at any agreed that Backstrom was indeed “very goofy,” counselors or pamphlets really prepare you for time,” Wilkinson said. “She pushed me and but she was also “unique, smart and selfless.” “Ariel didn’t have a judgmental bone in her. the loss of such a beautiful soul and friend.” many others to strive and make bigger and Barnett said she wished others would better accomplishments in our lives. She was I could always talk to her about anything,” she understand that closure is something that does a great role model. She was kind to everyone, said. “Even if she was having a bad day, she not come quickly or easily. was very intelligent and had confidence. And always put on a brave face… She had a way of bringing people together.” “Grief can hit you at the most inappropriate we can’t forget - she always slayed.” And that’s exactly what brought Backstrom or inconvenient times,” she said. Barnett said that she finds it easier to cope For Paige, losing his friend is an everyday when she “focuses on what was instead of what and Hyche together; their shared sense of humor and compassion for others is something battle. could’ve been.” “It is still a struggle,” he said. “A piece of my It was just a normal, hot, muggy day, and that their friends said will live on through heart was taken away. There are days where I Barnett, Paige and Wilkinson decided to cool Backstrom’s legacy. “[Brianna and Ariel] are both so, so funny, want to cry, but I know Ariel wouldn’t want off with Backstrom in her neighborhood pool, m e to. I tell myself that she’s where the gymnast-turned-majorette tasked so I’m sure [when they were] together it was a here with me everyday, and Barnett with recording what she had been riot,” Barnett said.

ASB

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Paige described Hyche as his “twin,” explaining that the two are often mistaken for siblings. “My favorite memory of Brianna was when we were at play rehearsal and this girl was supposed to read the line, ‘When I look in the mirror, I don’t see beauty at all.’ But instead she said, ‘When I look in the mirror, I don’t see booty at all.’ We fell out laughing!” he said, his cheeks sore from chuckling. Paige said that their independent spirits made Hyche and Backstrom friends that he could lean on. “Brianna is a strong, intelligent young woman and she taught me how to never let anyone take away who I am... Ariel lived a beautiful, strong life… she taught me to appreciate the small things and the people around us… she told me my purpose here is something special, so I will find it and live by it,” he said. “Every day I live, it’s for these two special girls in my life. I love them with all my heart and will do anything for them. “Live life while you still have it, people, because every time you breathe, someone is taking their last breath. Stop hating each other and learn to love! Can we be more like Brianna? Can we live more like Ariel? Yes we can, people. Never forget that.”

tephanie Backstrom, Ariel’s mother, will most certainly never forget that. The outpouring of love from Backstrom’s friends and classmates, along with the memories that they hold so dearly, have shown her what it means to live like her daughter. “That’s what me and her father are trying to do right now,” she said. “We’re trying our best to live like Ariel.” Stephanie stood in the family room, now dotted with flower bouquets from local bands, schools, churches and the like, and smiled as she remembered the girl that they were for. There are no words, Stephanie said, that could begin to describe how she felt about her daughter. There was nothing, no novel she could write, that could ever explain the connection, the relationship that she had with her “best friend” and her “one true love.” But a single word written on Backstrom’s mirror did the talking for her. “...Ariel,” she found her words, “...Ariel was flawless... “I feel so blessed to have been honored by God for the last 15 years with an angel. I miss her with all my heart. She brought me joy every day. Nothing will ever replace the love, the friendship, and the care that she showed for me every day. I’m so happy to know that she is in a much better place…. I will always miss her from the bottom of my heart.” Photos from the Backstrom family & friends

”

Don’t worry babes, life is just a coloring book.

Love, Ariel

opinion

election 2016

The Northridge Reporter february 26, 2016 Photo from www.thehill.com

Obama ‘peddles fiction’ in 2016 SOTU

hen President Obama entered the House of Representatives chamber to builds islands in the South China Sea. Russia defies NATO and occupies Ukraine. And deliver his final State of the Union Address Jan. 12, the similarities - and global terror continues around the world. differences - between his entrance to the House, and that of Jesus Christ Bizarre paradoxes continued that evening as Obama somehow compared police to Jerusalem before His crucifixion, were striking. officers “on the beat” to protesters “determined to prove that justice matters” (read: rioters Both were acclaimed as messiahs by a large segment of their respective audiences. burning Ferguson and Baltimore). He implicitly acknowledged his administration had Rapacious, false cheers by desperate, attention-seeking throngs were directed at both of accomplished nothing on the scale of putting a man on the moon, but then gave Vice them. President Joe Biden the task of discovering the cure for cancer. Jesus rode into Jerusalem on a donkey, a wise symbol of humility. But when Obama So let me get this straight: Americans can put a man on the moon, liberate Europe from entered the House chamber, he was the donkey: both the living representative of the the Nazis - heck, even give Joe Biden the job of finding a cancer cure - but for us to build Democratic Party, and a truly asinine President whose policies have been anything but a wall across the southern border is somehow impossible? Weird. humble and wise. Obama then dismissed the very real concerns many have right now about the economy, After smooching his way to the front of the chamber, being assaulted by embraces and flat-out lied about it to boot. “The United States of America, right now, has the and other adorations, and hearing chanted cheering acclaiming his name, strongest, most durable economy in the world,” he declared. “Anyone claiming Obama finally began his “non-traditional” SOTU. “I’ll keep it short,” the that America’s economy is in decline is peddling fiction.” Comedian-in-Chief promised. But of course Obama was the one peddling fiction. How about he says the All too predictably, however, the 2016 #SOTU adhered strongly to United States has the world’s strongest economy to the face of one of the a tradition of defamation and vilification. Nor was it short. In the 16thmillions of workers who no longer registers as unemployed - because he or longest SOTU of the past 50 years, Obama passive-aggressively, or just plain she has given up looking for a job in the current economic state? Says that to aggressively, mocked those suspicious of his never-ending “hope and change” a CEO of any major bank, deeply worried about the wildly fluctuating stock rhetoric; climate-change ‘deniers;’ those terrified of radical Islam; and those market? Says that to any American household, whose average annual income gravely concerned about Russia and China’s rise to superpower status. has declined over $2000 during his administration? Obama brushed off Americans’ foreign policy concerns offhandedly. “The The President wants America to move off of “dirty” fuels? Wonderful. His James Niiler United States of America is the most powerful nation on Earth. Period,” he opposition to coal and natural gas usage has reduced the living conditions said. “No nation attacks us directly, or our allies, because they know that’s Editor-In-Chief of many ex-miners to an often third-world status. The President wants to the path to ruin.” reduce the amount of red tape that hinders economic growth? Even better. So I guess the 9/11, Benghazi, Paris theatre, Fort Hood, Chattanooga, Oklahoma But why has so much red tape been created during your administration, Mr. Obama? beheading, San Bernardino, and other terrorist attacks on our nation or our allies don’t Perhaps most egregiously, there was not one mention - not one - of the 10 American count? Interesting. I don’t see much of a “path to ruin” in ISIS right now, either. sailors who had been captured that day by the hostile Iranian government. No word Despite his claims that America’s international status is higher than when he entered of solidarity, no call for action. Obama’s delusional fantasies about the world have cost office, Obama’s efforts to make the U.S. a non-exceptional nation among nations, and thousands of lives, created one of the largest migrant crises in human history, given loved and not feared according to so-called ‘world opinion,’ has rendered America worthy nuclear arms to an avowed enemy of America, and have turned the majority of his own of neither fear nor love in the world’s eyes. people against him. Radical Islam is one such entity that does not fear nor love America. But to no one’s But all’s well for Barry-O. He’s done quite a bit of “fundamentally transforming” surprise, Obama managed to not say the words ‘radical Islamic terror’ in his address. He America, and if this speech is any indication, he has no intention of stopping. did say America was at war against ISIS - excuse me, ISIL - but only after stating that As for the “rancor and suspicion” between the Left and Right that has worsened during claims of the U.S. being at war against ‘ISIL’ would play right into ‘ISIL’s’ hands. Huh? his presidency? “I have no doubt a president with the gifts of Lincoln or Roosevelt might Meanwhile, as Obama slices the military’s fighting force by 40,000 troops, China have better bridged the divide,” he sheepishly admitted. Sounds about right to me.

est. 2003

the

north ri d g e

reporter

The student voice of Northridge High School

Northridge High School • 2901 Northridge Road • Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 • (205) 759-3734 ext. 295 Managing Editor Rebecca Griesbach Feature Editor Rebecca Griesbach Sports Editor Camri Mason Asst. Sports Editor Jordan Hutchinson

News Editor Destiny Hodges Entertainment Editor Jordan Hutchinson Opinion Editor Rebecca Han Video Editor Seth Cunningham

Opinion disclaimer: The opinions in The Northridge Reporter are those of the students and not of the faculty or administration of Northridge High School or the Tuscaloosa City Board of Education.

Copy Editor Thomas Mullins Art Editor Rebecca Han Head Photographer Camri Mason Business Co-Managers Sumona Gupta, Mayci Hartley Letters to the editor: It is the policy of The Northridge Reporter to publish all non-obscene, non-libelous, signed letters to the editor, regardless of the opinion expressed in them. Submit letters to Rhonda Lane in room 109 or email to rlane@tusc.k12.al.us. The Northridge Reporter reserves the right to edit letters and verify allegations. The newspaper is distributed monthly.

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opinion

The Northridge Reporter February 26, 2016

Education, attendance vital to success

igh school can be hard, as it prepares you for college and pushes you to excel. Some love this challenge, but others feel that school just isn’t right for them. In the U.S alone, over 1.2 million people drop out of high school every year.

However, people decide they don’t want to live for the better things in life and have a well-paying job, because they couldn’t hold out four years of their life to learn new things to better themselves. It’s sad to see someone throw their life away just because learning wasn’t up to par for them. Then, when they are older and they think back and admit that they made a mistake of not completing school, it’s too late. People see successful people like Richard Branson, who dropped out of high school, and think that they could do the same. That is not the truth. The truth is there is a .05 percent chance that anyone will become a millionaire and that is a very, very slim chance. In fact, you have a better chance to be struck by lightning than becoming a high-school-dropout-turned-billionaire. An education is the most important aspect in anyone’s life. It leads to better things.

School time should center on academics

James Niiler Editor-In-Chief

et me get something out of the way: I have absolutely nothing against sports. Nothing. In fact, I’m a proud and fairly decent track and cross-country athlete. So what do I have to complain

about? It’s something rather important and not peculiar to Northridge, and something I suspect most schools across the country engage in: holding athletic practices during the school day. Allow me to rant for a moment. Since when did kicking a ball with a foot, throwing a ball in the air, hitting a ball with a stick, or running another lap amount to intellectual exercise? How is it possible to obtain a class credit for a sporting activity? This makes no sense. Isn’t the entire point of school to learn with the mind? When going to school, I’m supposed to be engaging in studying history, math, art, computers, a trade skill, music—not sweating outside when I could be doing these things, but aren’t. To put it more bluntly: what are taxpayers (read: you, me, our parents) paying for? Somehow I think objectives such as “molding students into good citizens” and “training tomorrow’s workforce” and “inspiring new leaders for the twenty-first century” make the cut, and “domination in the 6A area tournament” and “working on dribbling technique” don’t. I already hear the complaints: “Well, you don’t spend fifth period practicing sports. If you don’t like that, you don’t have to do it!” Well, perhaps we all should be studying in school for an equal amount to our maximum ability. Why should my diploma, which will contain 23 fully academic credits, be equal to someone’s whose doesn’t? Besides detracting from academic learning, in-school sports practices creates fragmentation within the team. During my sophomore cross-country and track seasons, I was often the only person running after school, as the rest of my teammates practiced during the school day. This was both isolating and disenheartening.

But the next year, when the cross-country team practiced together at once, both our camaraderie and ability were built, and we made it to the state meet for the first time in years. Here’s the moral of the story: if coaches want their teams to be truly strong, teams must practice together, everyone at one time and in one place. Now that I’ve offended half my readership, it’s time to offend the other. Some misguided individuals think there is no place in school for sports—at all. That’s just foolishness, if not outright snobbery. Sports are a great leveling ground, and they bring an often-divided student body together. They don’t discriminate on class or ethnic grounds, only ability. They teach lessons that are increasingly unpopular in some circles: Some people are better than you, so you have to work harder than they to succeed. Competition is good. You have to take orders, and look out for others on your team. Dedication to excellence and self-motivation are the keys to success. A healthy body isn’t so bad either, especially in the age of obesity. So stop any oh-so-serious complaining about the “culture of masculinity” overwhelming an ability to learn. So where does that leave us? Here’s my solution: First, do away with PE. With all respect to our coaches—and I mean this sincerely— no one learns anything, or even has to do anything, in PE. (The one exception would be the health class that goes along with it, but that curriculum can be easily combined with that of the actual health course credit.) Second, do away with in-school sports practices. Third, with both PE and in-school practices abolished, this leaves afterschool sports practices to continue unhindered. With this, however, comes the dreaded homework question. Many sports practice very late into the evening. Student-athletes also have homework and other obligations. No one wants to fail a class, but no one wants to give up a sport he or she loves to engage in an often mind-numbing but intellectually necessary activity. Perhaps a compromise is in order. Teachers must think carefully about students’ extracurricular lives, and not simply saddle them with a large amount of homework in a callous, indifferent, “well-it’s-yourproblem” fashion. Coaches, too, should not extend sports practices beyond six o’clock on school nights. Period. It’s ridiculous that many students must stay at school so late, and if sports are truly extracurricular—that is, outside the curriculum—then no athlete or coach who is truly dedicated should mind showing up to practice on weekends. Doubtless this column will be met with howls of protest. But if we as not only a school but a country desire to remain competitive, certain educational reforms must be made. And if I might say so, the ones I propose are a step in the right direction.

“

Since when did kicking a ball

with a foot, throwing a ball in the air, hitting a ball with a stick, or running another lap amount to

intellectual

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CEDRIC BROWN STAFF WRITER

25 percent of them are upcoming freshmen. With these numbers, 78 percent go on to work minimum wage jobs after they drop out. The other 22 percent either do nothing or go to jail. Most of the people that drop out never go back to get their GED or their high school diploma. These numbers show how easily people give up on a pure education. These are unfathomable statistics because they show how many people give up on school because it’s “just not for them.” How can having an education not be “right for you?” The fact that someone would rather spend their life flipping charbroiled patties at McDonald’s than go out, spend a little time, improve themselves and make more money than serving fries out a drive-thru window leaves me speechless. An education can and will lead to better things in life if people just try and don’t give up. In Alabama alone, 14 percent of high school students drop out every year.

exercise?

news

The Northridge Reporter February 26, 2016

Photos by Fallon Evans LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL To bring in the new year, the marching band traveled to New Orleans to perform at the Sugar Bowl. Sophomore Wesley Moman said he was nervous to perform in the Superdome. “It was really nerve-racking,” Moman said. “They couldn’t hear you mess up, but just the fact of messing up in front of every one was a big deal.” When they were not performing, the band took time to explore the festivities and culture of New Orleans. George Ryan, sophomore, said they got to hear live jazz. “ You can only imagine how loud it was, and it was only like six people,” he said. “The whole room was filled with... so much wonderful music. I can only dream to be able to do what they do.”

Marching band starts new year at Superdome REBECCA HAN OPINION EDITOR

On New Year’s Day of 2016, the Northridge High School Marching Band performed before a crowd of 70,000 at the All-State Sugar Bowl in New Orleans, where the Ole Miss Rebels defeated the Oklahoma State Cowboys 48–20. An exhilarating experience for many band members, the trip was an especially memorable yet bittersweet one for seniors. Band director John Cain first received a letter back in February 2015, asking the band to send in a video of a performance along with other information. About a month later, they were notified of being accepted to play at the Sugar Bowl. From there, Cain said, the planning and vigorous practice took off. Arriving in Louisiana Tuesday, Jan. 29, the 70 or so band members able to attend the trip stayed at the Marriott Convention Center Hotel for the duration of their stay. Among the 13 marching bands who performed at

the event, the band was the sole group arriving from the state. “I think there were maybe two [bands] from Florida, several from Illinois and from other states, but none from Alabama,” band director John Cain said. Apart from the Sugar Bowl performances, band members had eventful days, with activities and sights ranging from watching authentic jazz bands play to attending historical museums. Splitting into two groups upon arrival, students made visits to the iconic Café du Monde and Preservation Hall, a music hall dedicated to preserving traditional New Orleans Jazz situated at the heart of the French Quarter. The band gave small performances of its own as well, including one in Jackson Square, and they visited the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, located just along the Mississippi River, as well as the National World War II Museum. At a masquerade ball and awards ceremony held on New Years’ Eve, many relished the opportunity to socialize with students from other bands as well.

Senior Tony Polion said, “It was fun to get to meet new people and converse. Just to see big bands come together and make good music.” With around 1,300 band members and 600 dancers, about 2,000 students and teachers from across the region and country performed at the event. On the day of the performance, band members recounted their own awe and nervousness upon seeing the sheer size of the Superdome. Junior drum major Kayla Stevenson recalled the enormity of entering the stadium and seeing the numerous musicians. “It wasn’t necessarily challenging considering the fact that we had been working on the music, but going into the stadium, just the fact that there’s a lot more people than the high school bands... It was crazy, it was nervous, but it was fun,” she said. “It was big, it was loud, it was overwhelming,” Polion said. Many, including senior majorette Kathryn Versace, echoed that sentiment. “I was trying to calm myself down

when we got into the stadium, but after it was over I felt good about it. The whole time I was trying not to think about it, because there were so many people there,” she said. For a band accustomed to playing before, at most, about a thousand people on a Friday night football game, a performance in front of a crowd 70,000 strong was a “neat experience,” Cain said. “[The band has] obviously never had this kind of experience, so it’s cool they were able to be a part of something so special,” he said. For seniors especially, the trip, while full of excitement, was also a bittersweet one. Versace said, “This is kind of my last hurrah as a twirler. I started twirling in kindergarten, and that was my last performance, because I’m not going to twirl in college. It was a good way to go out.” “This was my last time playing with the band. It was sad, but it was also fun,” Polion said. Fellow senior Jonathan Ruffin agreed; he said, “It was touching, I’m just gonna say that. My last year, to go out like that.”

MASQUERADE Freshman Michael Madison picks out a mask for an authentic New Orleans masquerade ball scheduled the night before performance day. The band also had the opportunity to explore the city. The second night, they followed tour guides throughout the city, learning its history and listening to age-old ghost stories.

news

The Northridge Reporter February 26, 2016

ROAD TO RECOVERY from page 1:

Brianna Hyche’s path to coming home

Thursday, Jan. 28- Airlifted to UAB hospital Jan. 28-31 - ICU Feb. 10 - Moved to Children’s Hospital - moved to recovery unit for three days

One week of rehab Feb. 16 - Returned home

end of

JAN

Teachers will visit Hyche for personal teaching for about six weeks until she comes back to school. She will attend school for half a day and gradually work her way up to a full school day. Her father Keith Hyche said Hyche is expected to come to school before the semester is over.

FEB 8 Photos and information from Keith Hyche

These boots aren’t m a d e f o r walking

Beauty walk canceled due to lack of participants

RESHU CHANDRA STAFF WRITER

Despite the huge turnout last year, the beauty walk has been canceled due to a lack of participants. Student Government Association (SGA) coordinator Kathleen Oatts said it was cancelled because not enough people signed up. “We needed 15 participants and we didn’t have enough [to host a beauty walk],” Oatts said. Last year’s winner Ashlyn Toxey said she wished more people would have signed up. “I tried to get more people to sign up, but I guess they didn’t want to,” Toxey said. Sophomore Carol Johnson, said she would have signed up [for the beauty walk] if she had known about it. “I wanted to sign up but I didn’t even know about it. There’s always next year though,” Johnson said. Sophomore Mary Ruth Tucker, said the beauty walk should have been promoted more. “Nobody really knew about

the beauty walk, because it wasn’t talked about that much. There should have been more posters and more announcements about it,” she said. Tyler Salekin, sophomore, said she did not sign up for the beauty walk because she did not want to be judged based on her appearance. “I didn’t want to sign up and lose, because that would lower my self-esteem and confidence. Nobody wants to be judged by their appearance; they want to be judged by their personality, because that’s what counts,” Salekin explained. Sophomore Santeria Evans, said she did not want to participate because she is not into beauty walks. “I’m not a beauty walk type of girl, I would never sign up for that,” Evans said. Freshman Camrie White, said she was going to sign up, but she was scared to [do it]. “I was afraid I was going to be judged for signing up,” she said. The beauty walk was planned to take place on January 22, 2016.

Photo by Fatema Dhondia

GOGGLES ON Mary Ruffin Moore, biology and English teacher, helps her third period honors biology class performs a lab on Henrietta Lacks’ cells, also known as HeLa cells.

English teacher finds joy in biology FATEMA DHONDIA STAFF WRITER

Biology and English are two very different things, but they have something in common for Mary Ruffin Moore, English and now biology teacher. This semester she started teaching ninth grade Honors Biology. “I love biology. I haven’t taught it since 2011 and am very excited to teach it again,” Moore said. Moore teaches second block Honors Biology and first block English. Teaching biology has its pros, Moore said. “I don’t have to grade any essays—instead I get to do fun thing like labs and other activities,” she said.

Students are happy about having Mrs. Moore as a biology teacher. One of those students is Kendall Reed. “I like her lessons. They are short and to the point,” Reed said. However, having biology in an English classroom can be disconcerting for students. “It’s kind of strange to have biology in an English classroom,” Reed said. According to Moore, biology and English are both very interesting and fun, so having to Photo by Fatema Dhondia choose between both of them is kind of difficult. “I can’t choose between them. I like them both a lot, and it makes it really interesting for me to teach,” Moore said.

feature

The Northridge Reporter February 26, 2016 Graphic by Rebecca Griesbach

PROM Kyle & Sara Ferguson, circa 1985

HIGH SCHOOL SWEETHEARTS

Students discuss ins and outs of 21st century romance

Ferguson couple

proves young love can last a lifetime CEDRIC BROWN & FATEMA DHONDIA STAFF WRITERS

netflix & what? Rise of social media changes

face of the dating game Sumona Gupta Entertainment Editor

As the expression “Netflix and Chill” enters the country’s collective vernacular, like so many other pieces of slang, it seems to have lost its original meaning. Just recently, as Winter Storm Jonas sent massive amounts of snow across the East Coast, many news outlets published similar listicles, claiming they had the ‘Checklist for an Epic Day of Netflix and Chill During Winter Storm Jonas.’ Now, it could be possible that the 20-something writers of these articles knew the true meaning of the saying and used it as a pun (“chill,” because it’s cold, get it?), but it’s also just as likely that the pre-teens reading those articles had no idea what its real meaning is. If you know the saying’s real meaning, you’ll understand its roots in the emerging culture that dating apps bring. They’re not like the paid services meant to help the desperate find love that we saw advertised in commercials, however. They’re now (usually) free, open to anyone with a smartphone and willing to put their picture, name, and approximate location out there for the world to see. Tinder, the most popular of these apps, claims

to have made 9 billion matches as of January 2016. With approximately 10 million active users, according to Tinder’s website, one would wonder if there is some hope in finding a meaningful or relatively long-lasting relationship, if not true love. Proponents of “mobile dating” could claim that with a larger group of people, there is more chance of finding someone you would be truly interested in. Another valid point is that of vetting a match before meeting in real life. Blind dates could eventually become completely obsolete, awkward meetings being avoided altogether when tested before a real-life meeting takes place. While there are people who advocate for new age dating, there are just as many critics. The newfound problem of “catfishing” can be funny when taken lightly, but could be potentially devastating if one doesn’t get the hint when their partner’s webcam is continually broken. The entire concept of “Netflix and Chill” also pokes fun at the uncommitted hookup culture that the app could promote. So what if you’re on the fence, wondering if it’s worth it? The beauty of the new “online” dating lies here; there’s not much of a risk, so it’s your choice whether you take it.

tinder

SLIDING IN YOUR DM’S LIKE... sent

yes no

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46, 48 students polled. Information compiled by Addie Akins and Will Henson Infographic designed by Rebecca Griesbach

As February comes and love fills the air, couples and lovers are all coming together in this intimate month to showcase their love for each other. As most high school students get treats for their loved one, many think the one they’re with is the one they’ll be with forever. But what if it actually worked out between you and your high school sweetheart? Principal Kyle Ferguson and Sara Ferguson were once high school sweethearts. In Ferguson’s senior year of high school he and his wife attended T.R Miller, a high school in southern Alabama, when they met. “I knew that there was something special about her,” Ferguson said. Ferguson and his wife were great friends before they started to date. “There was only one problem,” Ferguson said, “she had a boyfriend.” As the school year went on, Ferguson took her away from her boyfriend, and they had their first date at the school’s homecoming dance. “It was fun, so we decided we’d go on a second date,” Ferguson said. Shortly after high school he decided that it would be better if they separated for a while because he went off to play college football. He felt it was unfair to her that he was miles away from her and she couldn’t be with him. Ferguson knew they were never truly going away as he said. “I always knew she was the one even though we broke up,” Ferguson said. Soon after, they got back together. Ferguson acknowledged that high school love is a great chance for someone to find “the one.” “I mean, I married my high school girlfriend,” he said. As February arrives, Ferguson already has plans for her. “I’m gonna give her a picture of me,” he said with a chuckle. “Really, I’m gonna take her out for a date and give her a charm for one of those Pandora’s bracelets.”

Have you sent or recieved a direct message on social media?

28 Art by Rebecca Han

feature

somebody’s got a SECRET ADMIRER

From crushes to love stories, students tell all. Can you guess who they are?

“

Graphic by Rebecca Griesbach

My crush is sweet, funny, smart, and tall (cause I’m short). He is understanding and helps me with my problems. He can be a baby at times, but it’s ok because I like it. He is the right amount of clingy that you can’t get enough of. He is the most funniest guy and never fails to put a smile on my face. My crush isn’t even my crush, because he’s all mine.

He is tall and plays basketball for the varsity team. He is perfect and so funny. He is a senior. [My crush is] someone who loves me for me, basically has the same views as I do, and supports everything I support. I want someone who is different and can introduce me to new things and isn’t afraid of being themselves. Someone who loves God with all their heart. Someone who wears glasses and is as weird as me. Someone who is intelligent. They like hugs and treat me like they never want to let me go. Someone who appreciates the arts and loves it. Someone who understands what I go through and does whatever it takes to help me. They can’t have nubby finger nails and have to smell really good.

He has to be dark skinned, taller than me and skinny.

She’s slim-thick… He has light, brown skin, brown hair, and has hazel eyes. He also plays basketball and he is in the 10th grade and rides the bus. Also he is roughly 6’1 or 6’2 and cute.

Brown hair, brown eyes, tall… he’s usually quiet in class but turnt outside of class. He’s tall, funny, handsome, athletic and goofy. Well, he’s pretty tall and a huge sweetheart. He has really pretty eyes and a nice smile. It’s fun being around him and even though he talks kind of slow and has a deep voice he’s actually a huge goofball. And I think his blond hair is pretty cute too.

“

He is tall, cute, handsome, and dark skinned. He also plays football! My crush is smart, and short, and the best person out there.

Information compiled by Camri Mason, Jordan Hutchinson, Destiny Hodges, Jabria Coleman and James Niiler

“We took Mrs. Allaway’s biology class ninth grade year, so on the first day of school we didn’t know each other at all. On the second day, we met because I was late, and Jalen Madden sat in my seat, and the only seat that was open was beside her… I wasn’t going to say anything to her and just move the next day, but Mrs. Allaway had us play a game,” he said. “We weren’t speaking at first because I had just moved to Tuscaloosa and didn’t know anyone. Mrs. Allaway had everyone play a string game with their partners to break the silence. We ended up talking and laughing,” she said. “So after school I asked her for her number, and she told me no, so I would ask every day we got in that class,” he said. “He kept trying every day, but I still said no,” she said. “Homecoming was coming up, so I asked her would she go with me, and she said yes… She had to give me her number then. So we go and have a great time, and at the end of that night we kiss and that started us off,” he said. “Time went on while we were still talking, and we were getting a little agitated that we still [were not] official so he said we had to be together before his birthday, or we had to stop... I waited till exactly a week before his birthday and told him yes… We’ve been together ever since,” she said.

Love, anon.

LONG DISTANCE

shhhh........

“I was on vacation, and I had just arrived at my hotel. I went to the lobby because that was the only place they had Wi-Fi. As I was sitting there, a girl ran down and sat next to me. I decided to make small talk. We instantly hit it off; in no time we were walking around town exploring it together. We spent the next five days spending all day together, but eventually she had to move on with her vacation towards the coast. “That night I was laying in my bed and I couldn’t get her out of my mind. I got a text from her saying she felt the same. I then snuck out of my hotel room and got a train to the coast. There we meet up one last night to say our goodbyes on the beach. I snuck back early the next morning without my parents even noticing. “To this day I haven’t met someone as amazing as her.”

“

[We met] through a camp. The least favorite part [of this relationship] is not being able to see her as often, but my favorite part is communication. We talk a lot; it’s easier. We’re really committed - I think it’s less drama than other relationships, because I feel there’s miscommunication with other relationships. But with longdistance relationships, I feel like a lot of those miscommunications can be talked out a lot easier.

“

The Northridge Reporter February 26, 2016

HUNTER HARRIS, SOPHOMORE

entertainment

The Northridge Reporter February 26, 2016

Among the 2016 Academy Award nominations announced on Jan. 15 were fan favorites and critics’ choices alike; the widely loved “Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens” picked up nominations for Sound Editing, Visual Effects, and Sound Mixing, while George Miller’s “Mad Max: Fury Road” garnered ten nominations, including ones for Best Director and Best Picture. Meanwhile, in the acting field, Leonardo DiCaprio hopes to capture his first Oscar for his role as leftREBECCA HAN for-dead frontiersman Hugh Glass in Alejandro G. OPINION EDITOR Iñárritu’s “The Revenant,” while Sylvester Stallone received a nod for his return to the classic role of Rocky Balboa in Ryan Coogler’s “Creed.” The race is one chock-full of newcomers as well, with breakout years for such stars as Brie Larson and Alicia Vikander.

AND THE OSCAR GOES TO...

Han predicts who’ll go home with this year’s gold

The program has not been without its fair share of controversy, either; a recent call to boycott by Jada Pinkett Smith has drawn national attention, as well as attention from fellow stars George Clooney and Spike Lee. For the second year in a row, all of the acting nominees are white, with audiences surprised to see stars such as Idris Elba and Michael B. Jordan absent from the list. Many decry Hollywood itself, saying that the lack of on-screen diversity is a deep-rooted problem arising not from the Academy alone, but from the entire American film industry. In the midst of such controversy, award season always provides an entertaining look back at the best films of the year. Here are my predictions for the winners in the four categories of Best Actor,Best Actress,BestDirector,and Best Picture:

Best Actor : L eonardo DiCapr io, The Revenant

For his turn in the dastardly tale of revenge and survival that is “The Revenant,” Leo pulls out all the stops: sleeping in animal hides, eating bison parts, catching hypothermia. According to director Alejandro Iñárritu, filming the epic was a ‘living hell.’ DiCaprio also said that many sequences were some of the most difficult things he had ever done in his acting career. Such intense commitment is evident in his performance, which is visceral, gripping, and every bit deserving of an Oscar. DiCaprio is the heart of the tale, the tour de force of the film, pushing the story onward and keeping the audience engaged. With the Golden Globe, Critics’ Choice, and BAFTA Best Actor awards already under his belt for the performance, it’s highly probable that Leo will finally nab that Oscar.

Best Actress: Br ie Larson, Room

2015 was child star turned Hollywood it-girl Brie Larson’s year. Her role as Ma in Lenny Abrahamson’s “Room” was not her first time on the big screen, but it was by far her most memorable. Portraying a woman held captive by her kidnapper in a room with her five year old son, Larson brought a level of maturity and skill to the screen reminiscent of established Hollywood talents. Her performance has garnered universal praise, and after winning both the Golden Globe and the Critics’ Choice award, Larson is predicted by many to take the Oscar as well.

Photo from Tribune News Service

THE RIGHT TO ‘BEAR’ ARMS: Leonardo DiCaprio plays Hugh Glass, a frontiersman who is attacked by a bear then left for dead.

Best Director : George Miller, Mad Max: Fur y Road

Photo from Tribune

News Ser vice

FEEL THE FURY: Max Rockatansky (Tom Hardy) and Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron) battle the tyrannical Immortan Joe in “Mad Max: Fury Road.”

“Mad Max: Fury Road”was the second most nominated movie of the night after “The Revenant,” and for good reason, too. The oft-under-appreciated post-apocalyptic action flick brought audiences back to the wasteland realm of Max Rockatansky. Although its presence was rather low-key in previous award shows this season, the Academy seems to have taken notice of the film, which combines heart-stopping action with excellent world building and dazzling visuals. At the same time, it boasts fully fleshed-out female characters, a rare sight in cardboard action films of today, with Max (Tom Hardy) taking the back seat to Imperator Furiosa (Charlize Theron) in his namesake movie. The film was, in my opinion, the best of 2015, and the freshest thing in theaters I had seen in years. George Miller, who helmed the previous three “Mad Max” films, took storytelling in action films to another level, showing and not telling audiences the story. Without any flashback or extended exposition sequences, Miller managed to flesh out a brilliant and truly ‘mad’ world where the characters tell their own tale. Hopefully, it will be at the Oscars that Miller finally sees the recognition he deserves.

Best F ilm: The Revenant

Photo from Tribune News Service

NOT ROOMY: Ma (Brie Larson) looks above at her sole window while held captive in “Room.”

Although I felt that “Mad Max: Fury Road” was the best movie of 2015, “The Revenant” fits the mold of a traditional Oscar-winning film better. With its visceral, gripping action and gritty, passionate performances, the film is a masterpiece of top-notch filmmaking and compelling acting. It has taken the Best Picture honors at both the Golden Globes and the Critics’ Choice; the only other possible contender, in my opinion, would be “Spotlight,” another dramatic nominee.

The Northridge Reporter February 26, 2016

entertainment

O N R G T W S S I I T H E C T R H IS O N E O F E H T

Episode VII of ‘Star Wars’ revamps the decades-old series

THOMAS MULLINS COPY EDITOR

Over the years, I’ve seen many a series suffer from something some call “sequelitis.” This is the tendency of a generally wellreceived work, be it a video game, movie, or book, to spawn many inferior, disgraceful sequels. You find yourself asking, “Is this ever going to end?” It’s very common. After the announcement of “Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens” in 2012, excitement and worry swept across the world. After all, George Lucas’ prequel trilogy wasn’t exactly the best way to revitalize the beloved movie franchise. Episode VII’s hype train sped along for three years, and it finally dropped off its passengers at movie theaters across the U.S. on December 18th, 2015. About 2 hours and 16 minutes after I sat down in the Cobb 16 that night, I was able to safely deem the latest sequel of the Star Wars series sequelitis-free. Episode VII pulled me in the second the first scene started. From the get-go, I was thrust into a firefight between a squadron of stormtroopers and a tiny village, and my eyes were glued to the screen the entire time. The effects, the cinematography, the sound effects; every aspect of this fight took all the great parts of old trilogy action scenes and thrust them into the 21st century, and they did it well. Everything looked real – it looked right – a quality the prequel trilogy never had. But this wasn’t just restricted to the first battle alone. Every dogfight, firefight, and light saber duel kept me on the edge of my seat, focusing on what was really happening, and not how awkward the scene looked. Episode VII’s masterful blend of practical and special effects made everything feel like it was natural and in its right place. There were no uncomfortably CGI-heavy fight scenes, no awkward CGI characters, and what little use of CGI was present was well-placed. Effects-wise, Episode VII was a masterpiece. Despite the greatness of the movie’s effects, they weren’t the centerpiece. What seriously caught my eye were the characters themselves. I genuinely cared for this group of people with vastly different personalities and values. During the first battle, the focus shifts from the whole battle to FN2187 (nicknamed Finn), a trooper of the FN Corps, one of the greatest classes of

Photos from Tribune News Service

AWAKENING THE FORCE: (From top to bottom) Rey (Daisy Ridley) and Finn (John Boyega) form an unexpected alliance in the new installment; series favorites Chewbacca and Han Solo (Harrison Ford) reappear in Episode VII; Kylo Ren (Adam Driver) confronts the protagonists with a duel.

stormtroopers in the First Order. You see him go to his squad-mate during his last moments. As his friend passes, the dying trooper touches Finn’s faceplate, leaving a trail of blood in its path. The emotion in this moment was tangible. I could see through his cold, stark faceplate into the sorrow he felt after his friend’s death. I could feel his doubt as he wandered away, trying to make sense of the situation. I felt his reservations as he was commanded to execute innocent villagers, and I felt the hand of compassion that kept him from pulling the trigger. With nearly no words said, I’ve already formed an attachment to this stormtrooper, and he hadn’t even taken off his helmet yet. This is just a taste of the wonderful character development that happens throughout “The Force Awakens.” Poe Dameron’s recklessness, Rey’s reluctance to follow the path set out before her, and Finn’s transition from coward to hero all drew me in like a fly to honey. It left me excited to see their stories expanded in Episode VIII. The plot itself was also wonderful, however this is the only place I can imagine anyone being left slightly wanting. In a sentence, the story was setup for Episode VIII wrapped up in a nice little package of beautiful character development and a plot line similar to “Episode IV: A New Hope”. The thing is, though, that’s not bad. The story of “The Force Awakens” was a ton of setup, yes, but I came out of it with a working knowledge of what’s going on in this new age, a love for the new characters, and a warm, fuzzy feeling that the heroes won. While a bit of a rehash of Episode IV’s story may seem unattractive, it was done well enough that I found myself drawn into the story and worrying for the characters, not drawing comparisons. It worked, and it left me begging for the next installment. I won’t go any further into the story because I do want you to see it for yourself, if you haven’t yet. It really is good and has some huge surprises waiting on you. All in all, this movie is dang good. Like, really good. It’s so nice being able to watch a new Star Wars movie and not actually know what’s going to happen next, and “The Force Awakens” left me really, really, really wanting to know what’s next. Here’s to hoping that Episode VIII takes this to the next level.

We consign and sell PROM dresses!

Sports

The Northridge Reporter February 26, 2016

Photo By Beth Allaway

Jag style Demarcus Jernigan, senior, dribbles the ball down the court in attempt of scoring in the game against Brookwood Jan.15 at home. Ross Hardin, senior, said that it was a great senior year, although it left him wanting more. “I wish we would have gone further [in the playoffs],” he said.

Basketball team dominates season, loses playoffs The basketball team arrived into this past season coming off a tremendous 14’15’ season with one thing on their mind: winning. With the regular season of basketball over, all eyes are on the basketball team as they run into the playoffs holding a 5-1 record in regional play with an overall record of 21-8. Coach Bob Brantley remarks on this season. “[I’s] unbelievable we hadn’t lost in area this year; we are just getting hot at the right time heading into the playoffs,” he said. “The team is getting ready for a playoff run.” As the team improves and the chemistry grows amongst the players, playoffs arrive and Brantley sees substantial improvement among his players. “All of them learned to play together at the together at the right time,” he said.

With the playoffs underway, the team defense when we really need it” Brantley said. looks to overthrow its local rival Brookwood Leading the team in points, power forward (17-9), a team who Demarcus the Jaguars have Jernigan, beaten twice before. averaging 13.7 To no surprise, points per game, Brantley has him and has had one of his team focusing on the best seasons each game, one at a in his high school time, as they progress career. through the season. “He’s really “If we win tonight benefitting then we get to play for Ross and another - it’s simple,” Shamarkus” Brantley said. Brantley said. With nine seniors With Kennedy leaving the team, this leading the team could very well be the in points, the year that they reach boys pulled off an their goal to win the impressive 62-21 Bob Brantley, 6A state basketball victory against Basketball Coach championship. the local rivals. Averaging 1.9 blocks per game, senior The team was on a roll, continuing to beat center Shamarkus Kennedy pushes the team opponents advancing in the playoffs and as they arrive to the playoff stage. ultimately beating Bryant in a tight 74-73 “[Kennedy’s] great with helping with the win.

“

He’s great with helping with the defense when we really need it.

“

CEDRIC BROWN STAFF WRITER

With wins under their belt, the team prepared to play one of the biggest games of the season, facing Homewood to further advance into the playoffs. Coming into the game with full confidence and fans by their side, the team was looking to pull off an impressive victory against the Patriots. The crowd roaring, giving the team a boost, the hard-fighting Jaguars ended on an impressive half, ending it 32-30 in the Jaguars’ favor. As the game progressed into the third quarter, the Patriots went on a rally, taking the lead from the Jaguars. In the crucial last quarter of the game, the Jaguars fought to pull back the lead from the rival Patriots. but it was too late. The buzzer sounded, ending the game 58-51 in the Patriots’ favor - closing all playoffs hopes for the Jaguars. Although they will lose many seniors, the Jaguars plan to come back stronger and better than ever and achieve their goal of winning the 6A state title next season.

Q & A with Shamarkus Kennedy, senior

Q: How did it feel to play in your last high school game? A: After the game, it was hard to accept that it was my last time ever being able to walk in the locker with my brothers and put on my jersey and play with them.

Q: Are you proud of how you played this season? A: I think it was my best season I have ever had...This year, I think I was a big factor to help out with on the court when they needed it defensively and offensively.

11 Track team excels at state meet Sports

The Northridge Reporter February 26, 2016

Speeding things up The track team traveled to the Birmingham Crossplex to compete in the state meet on Feb. 5-6. Demontae Wilson, sophomore, won third place with the boys’ 4x200m relay team. Wilson said this was his first time competing at the state track meet. “I think I did good for my first time going to state. I was nervous, but I have that feeling before most meets,” Wilson said. “I ran a personal best in the open 400: I ran a 52.88.” Wilson said he was prepared for the state meet. “That week leading to state meet I stayed focused, and I stayed off my feet as much as [I could have],” he said. “During the workout I gave it my all, and when it came down to the 4x4 to score points, I was happy to be a part of it and to finish runner up in the state meet.”

Photo By Julia Jacobs

DESTINY HODGES NEWS EDITOR The AHSAA, Alabama High School Athletic Association, state track meet was held Feb. 5-6. The boy’ team placed second overall and received the runner-up trophy. Senior Jared McBride won third place in triple jump and said the boys did great, but there’s room for improvement. “We did a good job. The workouts were good,” he said. “There were some days when it was cold and we didn’t want to come outside. We did good for second place, but next time we’ll get first.” Seth Gipson, senior, won first place in shot put, and Donell Lewis won second. Gipson said his focus and preparation made him deserving of first place.

“Shot put is for athletes who have a strong upper body, and I’m not one of those, so I mainly focus on my legs. I focus on technique, constantly,” he said. “I feel like I deserved to win due to my preparation. I feel like anyone can win or accomplish their goals if they put their minds to it, so I put my mind to it, and I won. I’m proud of myself.” The boys 4x200m relay team, consisting of senior Ojay Gibson, sophomore Demonte Wilson, senior Tim Richardson and freshman Daquone Johnson, won third place, and senior Tyler Thoennes won third place in high jump. Gibson, who also won second place in the 60m dash, said he’s proud of the boys. “I’m happy to [have come] in second place with these guys. We’re striving for first place, and we’ll do better in [the outdoor season],” he said. “We’re proud, and I wouldn’t want

to do it with anyone else.” The girls team placed fourth overall. Jade Johnson, who won second place in high jump and triple jump, said she is proud of the girls. “For us to come in 4th and not be as prepared as I thought we should be, I am very proud of our girls and what they did at state… We worked very hard,” Johnson said. Angel Horton won first place in triple jump and said she trained hard for the state meet. “I made sure I trained really hard. [I had to do] icing, stretching, heating, massaging, drills, bounds and strides,” she said. “I feel like all my hard work paid off. I feel like everything I did was worth it.” The girls 4x400m relay team consisting of senior Sydney Woods, senior Alexious Cooper, sophomore Qymeshia Mayhew and sophomore Destiny Hodges won third

place. Woods said her hard work is paying off. “It feels good to contribute to the team. [It] makes me feel like my hard work is paying off,” she said. “... I am proud that we are third in the state of Alabama.” Jeff Spark, head track coach, said he is very proud of the track team. “The boys were second, and the girls were fourth in all of 6A schools. We are also one of the top programs in the whole state - not just 6A,” Sparks said. “The girls 4x200m relay, I believe, was the third fastest of the season. Angel Horton was undefeated in the whole season of indoor in the triple jump. We had many athletes finish in the top ten of the state.” Coach Sparks said the track team is just getting started. “We are not done, but we had a very good indoor season,” Sparks said.

to be the best they could be. Mason misses the days when she and Griesbach would go over to Backstrom’s house after school and ask if she could make them hot chocolate. After awhile it became a daily routine and something they always looked forward to. She was always upbeat and on her toes to strive to greatness. Ariel will be missed, but her kindness and genuine personality will never be forgotten.

Art by Meredith Vaughn, sophomore

The Northridge Reporter february 26, 2016

REBECCA’S STORY anaging Editor Rebecca Griesbach knew Ariel as a fellow majorette, a car ride passenger and a best friend. To Griesbach, the memories and the inside jokes are countless. Backstrom was always up for an adventure; her kind spirit and eager attitude made life all the more beautiful. Her smile was infectious - in the majorette world, Ariel was known for being, by far, the friendliest one. And it didn’t matter who it was; Ariel would approach any band member on the opposite team and strike up a

life can end in the blink of an eye. The End, however, does not discriminate between the young, the old, the black, the white, the innocent or the experienced. The End is not measured by the time we spend on Earth, but by how we choose to spend it, the light we choose to shine, and the example we set for others. Time was not on sophomore Ariel Backstrom’s side, but she made the most of a life cut short. Staff members at The Northridge Reporter had the privilege of knowing this lively, beautiful young girl, as did many others, and we can say in confidence that the mark that Backstrom left on the school and her community is one that will never be covered or erased by fate’s design. She was in every sense a model student - confident, committed and charismatic - and she left us with a higher, almost unattainable standard to be set.

CAMRI’S STORY ports Editor Camri Mason knew Ariel as a best friend. To Mason, Backstrom was a breath of fresh air. She would meet up with Mason after third period with the brightest smile and energy, even when Mason was having a terrible day. It was always funny when Backstrom would call her about the most random conversations. Whether it was about chocolate (which she loved) or for Mason to FaceTime her while she was ranting about a random show, their time together was never dull. Ariel would give her last to anyone and encourage others

conversation. The line always joked that she could “make friends with a turtle” if she had to. She kept the majorettes laughing; she was an entertainer; and she loved what she did - even if it meant getting first degree burns from a fire baton or busting her rear end on the gym floor. She’d just get back up and smile that same old smile. “Life’s not as bad as it may seem, if you open your eyes to what’s in front of you...” she’d sing, breaking into a fully choreographed dance at the start of the chorus. “...We’re your Dreamgirls, booooyyyyss!!! We’ll make you happy, yea-eaeah… Dreamgirls always love you and they’ll be true… Your Dreamgirl can only belong to you!” And that’s exactly Ariel Backstrom was and will always be: a Dreamgirl.

DESTINY’S STORY ews Editor Destiny Hodges knew Ariel as a classmate and close friend. To her, Ariel was an inspiration, always generous with compliments and advice. “Don’t worry,” she’d always say. She taught Hodges how to “suck it up” and to go out into the world and to “just be flawless.” Although we all have flaws, Ariel looked past those and encouraged everyone else to do the same. There was one day in chemistry last semester when Hodges and Backstrom bursted out, singing “Gotta Go My Own Way” from High School Musical 2 - taking turns being Troy and Gabriella, of course. They almost got written up, but it was worth it. Looking back now, although that seemed like just a day of fun and games, it meant much more. It represents what Ariel stood for. The song says, “I’ve got to move on and be who I am.” Ariel always said to not worry about anything, and to just ‘do you.’ We’ve all got to go our own

SUMONA’S STORY ntertainment Editor Sumona Gupta knew Ariel as a friend. And she didn’t reach this conclusion over time, but as soon as she met Ariel. Previously, Ariel was a friend of a friend, and when it came time to celebrate that friend’s birthday, Gupta didn’t really have anything planned. Out of the blue, Ariel pulled Gupta out of newspaper class for an ‘interview’ to talk in the hallway (Gupta had never spoken to her before) and said, “So what about this surprise party?” Over the next few weeks, they worked on this surprise party through group text, Ariel buying decorations for it from the dollar store and inviting everyone, and Gupta planning the distraction. Ariel never took time for formalities - she wrote her name in Gupta’s phone as “Ariel ” and then proceeded to act like she’d known Gupta for years. “I’ve come to learn that there are so many stories similar to this about Ariel, whether she was the only friendly face in a crowd or the one smiling and joking through it all,” Gupta said. “She was a friend, and your friend.”

ways and be who we are. She always stressed the idea of just being you, and living your life. “Thanks, Ariel, for giving me endless compliments and boosting my confidence and for always knowing how to handle situations,” Hodges said. “Thanks for being you.”

#LiveLikeAriel: Staff members share favorite memories of Ariel Backstrom

our thoughts

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Photo by T-Town Photos

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february 26, 2016 volume 13 issue 5