The Northridge Reporter September 2019

Northridge High School 2901 Northridge Road Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35406

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THE SEPTEMBER 2019

NORTH RI D GE

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REPORTER

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VOLUME 16 ISSUE 1

The ‘Evans Era’

Meet the school’s new principal, Dr. Tygar J. Evans

RYAN ROBINSON COVER/BEAT EDITOR

A new era has begun under Northridge’s new principal Dr. J. Tygar Evans.

Evans is the fifth principal at Northridge since the school’s 2003 opening. He hails from Lake Wales, Fla. and graduated from Lake Wales High School in 1980.

Evans attended the University of Alabama where he majored in Educational Administration, marched in the Million Dollar Band for six years, where he was a member of the drumline.

Evans has two daughters; Gillian, 30, who is a teacher, and Sydney, 23, who works at UA Press, the publishing entity of the University of Alabama. He has been married to his wife Kim for 31 years.

“We [Kim and I] met at Oakdale Elementary School,” he said. “She was a kindergarten teacher, and I was teaching fifth grade.”

Even with 35 years of education experience, Evans admitted Northridge is a new experience for him.

“It’s smaller than what I’m used to,” Evans said. “I like the diversity that I saw since that was familiar to me in my former administrative positions.”

Evans came to Northridge from the Trussville City School System where he was Director of Federal Programs, and he isn’t afraid of a little hard work. His very first job was at a golf course in Central Florida.

“I mowed traps, laid sod, and did that for a couple of summers,” Evans said. “And then I got a job at Publix until I left Lake Wales.”

He then started his teaching career at Moundville Elementary School in 1984 while he was still enrolled at the University of Alabama. After

two years of teaching in Moundville, Evans then moved to the Tuscaloosa City Schools System for four years. During his time with TCS he taught at Oakdale Elementary and Stillman Heights Elementary.

After leaving Tuscaloosa City Schools, Evans

“I’m never one to believe that I can help just one child; I want to help everybody. No matter where they come from, no matter where they live, no matter what they look like.” DR. TYGAR EVANS then started his administrative career at Rome Middle School, located in Rome, Ga., in 1993 where he was the assistant principal for two years. In 2004, he became principal at Rome High School where he stayed until 2015.

“They moved me to the high school because I was so good looking,” Evans chuckled. “We [Kim and I] retired from the State of Georgia after teaching 30 years.”

Evans and his wife then moved to Trussville where he became principal at Paine Elementary for three years before being moved to Trussville City Schools Central Of-

fice.

While Evans works long hours, he has fun in his spare time.

“I was into bodybuilding and powerlifting at one time,” he said. “I can’t powerlift anymore obviously because of my shoulders and hip, but I still like to lift.”

While he is a fan of all sports, Evans prefers hockey and baseball in particular.

“I used to go to Atlanta Thrasher games quite extensively, but they moved away,” he said. “Of course I went to the University of Alabama so I follow a lot of Alabama sports.”

Evans also has a chocolate lab named Coco, who turned 10 at the end of July.

“Every birthday we give her a cupcake, she likes that,” he said. “We’ll probably get more labs. Good to have around the house, great dogs.”

Overall, Evans brings to Northridge a “can-do” attitude and a mindset to help all students succeed.

“I’m never one to believe that I can help just one child, I want to help everybody,” he said. “No matter where they come from, no matter where they live, no matter what they look like.”

He said he has one wish he hopes all Northridge students would know, understand, and live by while at school.

“We are going to make mistakes, but it’s important to learn from those mistakes.

If we all did that, could you imagine what our school would be like?

Let’s work together, let’s get along, let’s enjoy each other’s company, and let’s help each other out. Man that would be one heck of an environment.”

NEW LEADERSHIP Dr. Evans prepares for his first year at Northridge by meeting with students and teachers to learn more about the school.

AT A GLANCE TRAVELING THE WORLD

SEE PAGE 4

Photo by Ryan Robinson

COLORADO RIDE

LANA DEL REY ALBUM

SEE PAGE 6

SEE PAGE 3

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OPINION

[ Are Northridge athletics inclusive enough?

OUR THOUGHTS

CAROLINE FERRY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Not all students are being given the same opportunity that I, and many others, have been given to participate in Northridge’s athletic teams. Let me begin by saying that I do love our school. I’ve participated in lots of clubs and programs that Northridge offers, and have always had a great experience. This includes athletics such as cross-country and bowling (yes, I do define it as a sport). I don’t think it’s a malicious thing or that our students and faculty don’t want to include everyone; however, to be truly inclusive often requires that we are all intentional.

I grew up next to Hank Poore, a very unique experience that I would highly recommend to anyone. Being Hank’s neighbor means always having a friend to play outside with, especially if it involves racing. Because whether he’s driving his newest wheelchair, his golf cart, or riding his bike, Hank is always faster. It also means hearing him singing outside your window late at night as he rides around the cul-de-sac blasting his favorite music.

THE NORTHRIDGE REPORTER SEPTEMBER 2019

staff members...

AGREE.....4 DISAGREE.....1

It means occasionally being pranked.

Because of these things, I’ve always known Hank to be more capable, talented, and cool than anyone else our age, but unfortunately, the world we live in wasn’t made for people with cerebral palsy.

If we’re honest with ourselves when looking at Northridge athletics, they aren’t made for people with disabilities either.

While I do think that it is understandable, considering the size of our school, I believe there is still cause to make an effort. Simply starting a conversation with some of these students who may feel ostracized from our athletics would be a big step. Another step towards inclusivity could include amping up our participation in Special Olympics, forming paralympic leagues, or making small adaptations to our current teams that will include more eligible students, at least in practices. Each athlete has their own specific needs or requests which I cannot speak to, but just making all students feel like participation in Northridge athletics is an option available to them would do a lot for our entire student body. Being part of a team is an invaluable learning opportunity for

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Want to submit YOUR letter to the editor? Stop by room 109, or contact one of our editors or Mrs. Lane!

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any child or teenager. It teaches hard work and collaboration and forms unique bonds between peers. All students at Northridge should have this chance to learn and have fun through athletics at our school. Even if it means making new, more casual teams or simply adjusting the structure of the teams we have, those efforts could be beneficial for all students. In this case, equity is more important than equality.

There are lots of people who have trouble thriving in the logistics of our current society. The reason for this circles back to a lack of intention, not necessarily malice.

Ramps to improve accessibility don’t just appear; someone has to build them.

Similarly, high school sports aren’t feasible for all students, simply because no one has reached out to those athletes to make adjustments possible. I hope to see someday see a future where not just Northridge

High School, but the whole world, is intentional. I know that we all can be.

ing to go inside of the building, I have to quickly put away my earbuds because I’m nervous that an administrator will demand that I give them my earbuds. I don’t think that it is fair that I have to have my moment of music before school for a certain amount of time before having to hide them.

I understand what the administrators are trying to accomplish; it is a realization that students can be distracted with their headphones and that headphones are some of the reasons why students can not focus or pay attention during class.

Administrators limit headphones because they can be a hindrance for important announcements, class exchange bells, lessons, instructions from teachers, faculty, or administrators. However, if earbuds are needed for class, both students and teachers have to ask for permission.

I propose that students should be able to have earbuds out at the same time as

phones, but only to a limited point. I think that it would benefit everyone if the students have one earbud in their ear and one out. This way, students will be able to converse and listen to the bells to know when it is time to get to class. As of now, my opinion remains that I want the right to headphones back in Northridge High School.

“Simply starting a conversation with some of these students who may feel ostracized from our athletics would be a big step.”

Earbuds: Why I don’t agree with the no headphones policy TORY POLION OPINION & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

The new policies that have been given to the student body are generally justifiable, such as the rule about phones and how they can be used during class exchange, lunch, and before and after school.

However, one of the newest rules about headphones, earbuds, and airpods are too harsh.

Administrators have given the students the right to be on their phone for limited times during the day, which I think are quite easy to follow. However, I don’t agree with the fact that students are not allowed to have any listening devices on them at anytime. Last year, when I was a freshman, the headphones rule was somewhat strict, but we could have them out at certain times throughout the day.

Earbuds were allowed before school in your waiting area before school started.

Sometimes, the administrators would even allow us to have earbuds during lunch periods as well. Students were comfortable with having phones and earbuds out at the same time. This year, there are constant complaints about the new earbud policy.

Personally, I don’t agree with the rule that we are not allowed to have earbuds out during lunch or before school starts.

When I sit in the gym, I normally don’t do anything, which for me is the definition of boredom. It is good to talk to your friends and laugh, but have you ever been in a mood where you only wanted to listen to music or watch funny videos?

I know that I have felt like that before.

Even during lunch, if we want to listen to anything on our phones, we can’t even ask to do that, because we all know the answer to that question.

When I am dropped off in the morn-

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Rules about headphones, earbuds and airpods are too harsh.

est. 2003

THE

NORTH RI D G E

REPORTER

The student voice of Northridge High School

est. 2003

Northridge High School • 2901 Northridge Road • Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 • (205) 759-3590 ext. 3432 Editor-in-Chief Caroline Ferry Managing Editor Addison Taylor Feature Editor Caroline Ferry & Addison Taylor Sports Editor Patrick Johnson

News Editor Josh Ellis Entertainment Editor Tory Polion Opinion Editor Tory Polion Cover/Beat Editor Ryan Robinson

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.

Business Manager Tory Polion Head Photographer Ryan Robinson

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.

Visit us online at northridgereporter.wordpress.com Follow us on Twitter @NHSReporter Follow us on Instagram @northridgereporter Visit our Facebook page, ‘The Northridge Reporter, 2015-16’ Check out our YouTube channel, ‘The Northridge Reporter’ See our paper ONLINE at issuu.com, ‘The Northridge

ENTERTAINMENT

THE NORTHRIDGE REPORTER SEPTEMBER 2019

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Students purr-form in ‘CATS’ the musical

JOSH ELLIS NEWS EDITOR Six Northridge High School students recently appeared in a production of “CATS”, an iconic Broadway musical, at the Bama Theater: Sam Allen (senior), Reagan Branch (junior), Josh Ellis (junior), Meredith Link (junior), Jonathan Hamner (freshman), and Sarah Moore (freshman).

The production, which ran Sept. 6-9, saw over 3,000 people come to see the show, a huge reaction for the show. Reagan Branch was thrilled to see the show achieve such success.

“It was incredible to see the response for this show,” Branch said. “‘CATS’ is a very different show than most things done in Tuscaloosa, so I think it surprised the audience in a good way.”

The show tells the story of a group of cats who meet once a year to have the “Jellicle Ball,” where, after much song and dance, they choose which cat will be reborn and live on in a different feline life.

Each actor in the show played a different cat, through the help of hand-painted costumes, wigs, and make-up. Branch played Jemima, a young and innocent red and black kitten, while Meredith Linkplayed Cassandra, an exotic, short haired cat.

BREAK A LEG NHS students perform in in the classic musical. Photo by Michael J Moore The show is known especially for its high-caliber choreography, combining elements of dance from ballet, musical theater, jazz, hip-hop, tap-dance, and gymnastics into riveting musical numbers, some of which last for over ten minutes, all the while singing and acting. To handle the wide range of requirements the show has, the cast of the show is comprised of a diverse group of artists, including trained dancers, talented singers, college theater majors, and many others.

“We all had our strengths and weak-

nesses in the show - some of us were more singers and some more dancers and we all helped each other in whatever we needed,” Branch said.

Another student in the production was Sarah Moore, who had taken dance classes for 11 years. Learning to sing and act on top of the dancing was an exciting challenge for her.

“My favorite part of the rehearsal process was getting to learn how to sing, dance, and act all at the same time,” Moore said. “I am used to dancing for a

long period of time, but adding singing to the mix was very challenging for me, and a very fun learning experience.”

Sarah did say the dance for the show presented a unique challenge for her.

“In ‘CATS’, there is a ton of heavy back arching, flexibility tricks, and full out/cardio intense dance numbers,” Moore said, “Making sure that my muscles were warm before every performance was crucial to not getting injured.”

The dances were a challenge for all members of the cast, including Jonathan Hamner, who has done choir school for years but had no dance training prior to this show. However, Hamner still says he had a great time with the show.

“I think it’s just amazing that I had the opportunity to be apart of this show,” Hamner said. “When I saw it on a trip in New York I fell in love with it but I never thought I’d actually be in it.”

Jonathan believed the show was a testament to the talent that can be found at this school.

“It’s really cool that Northridge students were able to play such a big part in the production,” Hamner said. “Many people may not realize that we have such good dancers, actors, and singers within our school.”

‘It Chapter 2’ fear factor fails PATRICK JOHNSON SPORTS EDITOR

As the Halloween season quickly approaches, interest in horror movies rises from the grave. Luckily for all of the Stephen King fans, the second part of his book, “IT,” has finally been produced into a movie a long two years since the first film was released. As anyone who has seen the first movie or read the book would know, “IT” is about a terrifying clown named Pennywise (Bill Skarsgård) who terrorizes children in the small town of Derry, Maine.

“It Chapter Two” actually begins 27 years after the group of kids known as the Losers’ Club initially face Pennywise; however, the movie does incorporate flashbacks of the original Losers’ Club in order to add the underground clubhouse scenes that were left from the first part of “IT.” The movie begins by quickly introduc-

ing the actors and actresses who portray the Losers’ Club 27 years later. The group of friends all return to Derry in order to finally defeat Pennywise after Mike (Isaiah Mustafa) lets them know he has returned to terrorize the town once again.

The majority of the group returns.

As the movie progresses, you realize that the film is not like most horror movies.

“IT Chapter 2” contains a much deeper plot than many other horror movies. It is almost as if the movie is a thriller, and a very good one at that. As I watched I could not keep my eyes off of the screen.

To add to the not so typical horror movie theme “IT Chapter 2” displays, one of the members of the Losers’ Club, Richie (Bill Hader), is an actual comedian in the movie. Naturally, throughout the movie Richie puts his talent to work and creates scenes that left the whole movie theater dying in laughter.

On the flip side of things, the movie

includes scenes that are far too morbid.

Stephen King took some of the sickest dilemmas that actually caused my stomach to hurt. The worst part about it is that many of them had nothing to do with Pennywise, such as the flashback to Beverly’s ( Jessica Chastain) childhood when her dad alluded to taking advantage of her.

As the movie progresses, Mike discusses an earlier conversation that he had with a Native American tribe. The tribe discusses that the only way to kill Pennywise is through a sacred ritual. The ritual, known as Ritual of Chüd, states that every member of the original Losers’ Club must retrieve an item from their past.

Beverly, Ben, Bill, Richie, and Eddie of the Losers’ Club individually retrieve items that were actually portrayed in the first film, which allows you to get to know each member better. Of course each member encounters Pennywise while retrieving

Pure and unadulterated Americana: Del Rey at her finest ADDISON TAYLOR MANAGING EDITOR

After hearing singles which were pre-released as a precursor to the album, fans had high expectations for the singer, Lana Del Rey’s, long-awaited fifth album, “Norman [expletive] Rockwell.” Titled

Christopher Taylor, D.M.D Brant Gentry, D.M.D Phone: (205) 750-8008 Fax: (205) 750-8152

after the painter, Norman Rockwell, who was famous for his depiction of idyllic American life, the crudeness of the title comes from Del Rey’s wish to convey the twisted state of the country. On Aug. 30th, it was released into the world.

The album consisting of 14 songs, is beautifully nostalgic yet haunting, paint-

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ing scenes inspired by the old American dream and the romanticism of California in a way which tempts the listener to question the sincerity of this lifestyle. Del Rey’s languid yet dreamy vocals dance through the instrumentals, while classic guitar riffs and somber pianos embrace her voice to create a melancholic scene reminiscent of her classic sound from previous albums such as “Born to Die” and “Ultraviolence.”

The album also pays homage to soft rock legends of the past that have, for better or worse, helped to emphasize vulgarity of Hollywood and the death of the American dream in pop culture.

She references John Lennon in the song, “California,” with the line, “War is over if you really choose.” She also includes a reference to the rock band, The Eagles in the song, “The Next Best American Record,” with the lyrics, “We play the Eagles down in Malibu, and I want it.”

The album was met with overwhelmingly positive reviews from critics. The most notable review comes from Pitch-

their item. Unfortunately, the individual encounters do not bring the same scare that the group encounters brought in the first movie.

Overall “IT Chapter 2” was a truly nerve-racking film, although the horror aspect did not live up to “IT Chapter 1.”

The director heavily focused on jump scares rather than having a truly horrifying plot like the original. Although, “IT Chapter 2” was a much better thriller because of the depth within the plot. I have not seen a movie over two hours that has kept me interested the whole time until now. It is almost as if the movie could be classified as a drama, comedy, horror, and thriller film. However, seemingly constant flashbacks to the past only side tracked from the main plot and caused you to forget details. Although “IT Chapter 2” did not live up to the original, it is truly worth the visit to the movie theater, if you have three hours to spare.

AMERICAN DREAM Lana Del Rey’s new album is a possible contender for the Grammy’s Album of the Year.

Photo by Ondrej Hajek/MCT campus

fork, an online music magazine, who scored the album at 9.4, cementing its place as one of the best albums of 2019 so far, praising Del Rey as a songwriter and for her ability to create a piece of work that seems to encapsulate the modern American experience of accepting the often harsh realities of life and embracing them head on.

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THE NORTHRIDGE REPORTER SEPTEMBER 2019

FEATURE

Where in the world are northridge students?

Students take their summer plans international

Europe

Carsyn Waldrop ADDISON TAYLOR MANAGING EDITOR

WHEN IN ROME Carsyn Waldrop poses in front of the Colosseum in Rome, Italy. Photo by Carsyn Waldrop.

Sister Cities Exchange CAROLINE FERRY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF In June, 11 Northridge students participated in the Tuscaloosa Sister Cities trip to Germany, along with students from Central and Bryant. The trip focuses on connecting high schoolers from the two countries to form international friendships and teach the value of diverse cultures.

Seniors, Sage Sneckenberger and Reagan Christian, were excited as they prepared for the trip. Christian even took a German class and researched the area’s culture.

“I really love culture so it was interesting to read about it then actually experience it first-hand,” Christian said.

Quickly, the trip brought Northridge students closer together in a way that a school setting can’t.

“I really didn’t know Sage very well

before the trip. We really got to know the guys at the hostels because for the first week we were all together,” Christian said.

“The bathrooms echoed. That was fun,”Sneckenberger added.

Beyond their relationships with Americans, the students got to know German teenagers as well, and will even get the chance to host them in Tuscaloosa this fall.

“I miss my boy, Tim,” Sneckenberger said. “Yeah, I miss Paulina,” Christian said.

During their stay, the two learned how to adapt to travel as well as the conditions of a new country.

“The biggest takeaway is how different everything is. You have to adjust,” Christian said. “It got me thinking how crazy it is to be an American in a foreign country.

I mean everyone in Germany knows English very well.”

The students had to persevere in other

Poll by Caroline Ferry

From shopping at Florence’s historic Gucci store to sightseeing at the picturesque Amalfi Coast along Italy’s Sorrentine peninsula, you could say that senior, Carsyn Waldrop, had a very memorable summer.

“I went to Germany, Italy, and the Czech Republic,” Waldrop said. “We went

there to visit our friends that live in Germany, and then we just went on vacation in the other countries.”

As an experienced traveller, this summer’s excursion wasn’t Waldrop’s first time traveling out of the country. In the past, Waldrop has visited other European countries like France, Lichtenstein, Austria, and Switzerland. “I’ve been to Germany before so I kinda knew what to expect,” she said. “But I was excited to go to Italy.”

During this trip she visited many cities; Stuttgart, Prague, Rome, Florence, Positano, and Pisa, to name a few. All of which are famous European cities known for their architectural and natural beauty, and of course their rich culture.

She was able to share this experience with her mother. “It was fun, just me and my mom,” she said. “We went on one of those girls’ trips, so we did lots of shopping.”

Next summer, Waldrop plans to visit London and Paris. But if she could travel anywhere, she would go to the mediterannean. “Like Greece,” she said. “Santarini and Mykonos, and places like that.”

EXCHANGE Senior, Sara Ghulamani poses with fellow seniors, Sage Sneckenberger, Ellen Williams, and Carson Ledbetter in Germany. Photo by Sara Ghulamani. ways too, especially because their visit fell during Europe’s heatwave this summer.

Germans don’t use air conditioning, but they had their own methods for dealing with the extreme weather.

“Oh and everyone there wears Speedos.

That was the fashion. Nudity isn’t a big deal in Germany,” Christian said.

Both seniors recommend the trip to rising juniors and seniors, who are eligible to apply this year.

“Sign up for the exchange program! It is a wonderful program. Mrs. Lisa is amazing,” Christian said.

This summer’s trip to Europe only left the two yearning for more exposure to the cultures of the world.

“I would go to Spain next. I love art.

It’s a cool, cultural place,” Christian said, which Sneckenberger agreed with. “I would love to go to Barcelona. There’s this market there that’s really cool that I like,” Sneckenberger said.

Still, no other trip will be able to replace the bonds and experiences they gained this summer during the first part of their exchange.

“I want to go back to stay with my host

family,” Christian said. “They’ve invited me back if I ever come back to Germany, and when Germans invite you back to their house and say ‘Come over whenever you want,’ they mean it.”

Senior Sara Ghulamani also participated in the exchange. It was her first time travelling outside of the United States, and as a first-time international traveller, she definitely went big: travelling to two separate continents, first going to Europe.

Before the trip to Germany, she found herself more excited than nervous. “I was going with all my friends,” she said. “And it’s Europe, so that’s amazing.”

The plane ride took around 10 hours, a much shorter duration of time than it took to reach Asia, the other continent she visited.

Of the trip, her favorite part was staying with her host family. “[I enjoyed] getting to spend time and meet with everyone in a new culture,” she said.

Her biggest takeaway from the trip and the exchange as a whole is to always enjoy other’s cultures. “Take away something because everything is so different,” she said.

THE NORTHRIDGE REPORTER SEPTEMBER 2019

FEATURE

Sara Ghulamani ADDISON TAYLOR MANAGING EDITOR Along with a trip to Europe, Sara Ghulamani also travelled to Karachi, Pakistan over the summer. “I wanted to see my family,” she said.

Karachi has a population of 20 million, making it the most populous city in Pakistan, and the fifth most populous city in the world, serving as Pakistan’s primary financial hub.

Karachi is also known for its many museums celebrating Pakistani culture and its beautiful beaches along the Arabian Sea. Before the trip, she admits to having cold feet. “I was a little worried because it’s three weeks, and that’s way too long,” she said laughing. “And it’s like very, very hot over there.”

To even get to Pakistan, she had to endure painstakingly long flights and a few layovers, making the time it took to reach the country total to around 24 hours.

But the trip ended up being a nice experience. Her favorite part was being able to see her family and stay with them. “I’ve never seen some of my cousins before,” she said.

Asia

Next summer, she plans to go back to Pakistan to visit her family. And for her senior trip, she hopes to go to Europe.

“Probably like Italy or France,” she said.

Anabelle Brewer

along the Pearl River in Southern China, along with a trip to Macau, across the Pearl River from Hong Kong. “My favorite part was probably going to see all the balloons in Macau that my grandma took us to see,” she said. “And all the malls and shopping.”

An experienced traveller, she has visited Beijing and Canada in the past. As of now, Brewer plans to return to China next summer to visit her grandparents again. But if she could, she would love to visit New Zealand. “I think it’s really pretty there,” she said.

But by far, the best part of her trip to China was being able to experience a different culture. “For me it was nice to see the big city compared to how small T-Town is,” she said. “And to see my relatives on the other side of the world, and how they live compared to us.”

ADDISON TAYLOR MANAGING EDITOR For senior, Anabelle Brewer, her summer trip to China was a homecoming of sorts. “[I went] to visit my grandparents who live there and their family,” she said. “I went with my mom and both my sisters, and it was a lot of fun.”

During this trip, she went to China’s largest city, Shanghai, located on the central coast. This global financial hub, although quite industrial, is known for the sprawling Yu Garden which serves as a serene escape from the bustling city life.

Built in 1577, the garden features traditional Ming dynasty pavilions, along with charming scenic ponds and arched bridges.

She also visited Hong Kong, a region

SIGHTSEEING Senior, Anabelle Brewer poses in front of a traditional temple in China. Photo by Anabelle Brewer.

Josh Deck

CAROLINE FERRY EDITOR IN CHIEF

Africa

Senior, Josh Deck, took two trips this summer, first visiting Egypt, then Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

“I went to Egypt with my parents and my Mom’s parents because they’ve always wanted to go and invited us to join,” said Deck. “Then my Dad had a conference in Asia, so my Mom and I got to be tourists.”

Deck knew his duties as a tourist and did his research before visiting to make sure he didn’t miss out on the most exciting sights.

“These were places that I’ve always

TIPS FOR FUTURE TRAVELERS

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“I should have recorded everything in a journal and I didn’t because I was so busy, but I suggest recording everything. Write down everything you do, take pictures, and just really appreciate what you have while you’re there because you’re tempted to go through your phone or just shut down and sleep... but try to stay awake and appreciate every single moment.”

-Reagan Christian

wanted to see, like the Great Pyramids and Angkor Wat, so of course I read up on them,” Deck said. “I knew what I wanted to see.”

However, these trips aren’t Deck’s first international endeavors, and they won’t be his last either. He has been to over fifteen countries from Austria to Australia and plans to visit Italy for spring break.

“I have been very fortunate to travel to so many diverse places,” Deck said. “Being able to experience so many cultures has given me a deep appreciation for the dif-

“Just keep an open mind about the culture, because it’s different than ours. And just because it’s different doesn’t mean it’s wrong.”

-Carsyn Waldrop

“Read up on what you want to see, try to blend in with the culture as much as you can, and try to go off the beaten path a little bit. And if you’re flying internationally, keep your toiletries in a clear Ziplock bag.”

-Josh Deck

ferences, but more importantly the similarities, that we all share.”

For Deck, travelling allowed him to experience, first-hand, some sights he has been hearing about for his whole life.

“Getting to see the Great Pyramids in Egypt was really cool,” Deck said.

“They’re this monumental sight, one of the oldest

“Pack light, because you always pack more than you think you need.”

-Sara Ghulamani

“Make sure you get up and pee on flights because if not at the end of the flight you’re going to have to pee super bad and the people in front of you are going to be walking super slow and it takes forever.”

-Sage Sneckenberger

MONUMENTAL Josh Deck, senior, rides a camel in front of the Great Pyramids of Giza located in the outskirts Cairo, Egypt.

Photo by Josh Deck. things you can possibly see.”

He also found the Egyptian culture to be very unique, differing from those of the other countries he has visited in many ways.

“I thought it was very interesting in Egypt seeing just how reliant their economy is on tourism,” Deck said. “That’s what they have to offer, and they were very protective of the tourists because if there was one incident, their entire economy could collapse.”

Even with all of this experience, Deck still has hopes to see even more of the world and soak up as much education and culture as he can.

“I would like to go on another African safari, maybe in Kenya,” Deck said. “I’ve been on a safari before but Kenya seems like a cool place.”

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All graphics from Adobe

6 NEWS

THE NORTHRIDGE REPORTER SEPTEMBER 2019

OLD AND NEW

New office secretary a familiar face JOSH ELLIS NEWS EDITOR

The energetic Michelle Crouse has taken over the Northridge High School front office as the new secretary.

Crouse is a familiar sight for most students and teachers alike, having frequently worked as a substitute teacher at Northridge for about the last six years.

However, over the summer, when she was asked to be the new office secretary by former principal Kyle Ferguson, Crouse first asked her two children at Northridge, Charlie, a senior, and Gretchen, a sophomore, what they thought.

“I was minding my own business . . . and Mr. Ferguson called and said, ‘Would you apply for the secretary job?’ and I was like, ‘OK, really?’” Crouse said. “I asked Gretchen and Charlie, and they said that I’m up there all the time anyway, so I might as well be paid to do it!”

Crouse said she keeps very busy with her job, between verifying check-ins, calling for check-outs, entering attendance, teachers calling the front office with issues, and countless other responsibilities. Nevertheless, she said her biggest joy comes from

FAMILIAR FACE Michelle Crouse joins the NHS staff full time after working part time for a few years.

Photo by Josh Ellis the students.

“My favorite part, hands down, are the students,” Crouse explained. “I’ve subbed for so long; I just love being in high school.”

Crouse said that having two of her children at Northridge this year helps her to connect more with the students that she interacts with in the front office. In the case of Charlie’s class, Crouse has subbed

for them since they were in sixth grade and was their football booster club president in both middle school and in high school, which, she said, gives her a special connection with them.

“I feel really close to that class of 2020, so it’s really nice to watch them have their senior year,” Crouse said.

In addition to working in the front office, Crouse is involved in a number of charitable organizations in her free time, including working as a lead volunteer for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

“I run a leadership team in the Southeast of which I coordinate volunteers who advocate for diabetes funding, diabetes research, all things type 1,” Crouse said.

“Curing type 1 diabetes is what I do in my spare time!”

On top of this part-time volunteer work, Crouse has also served on the PTA and on the strategic planning team in charge of rezoning the Tuscaloosa City Schools, and immediately prior to joining Northridge, she was a director for Eagles Wings, a non-profit organization committed to helping adults with disabilities.

“And I’d like to consider myself the football team’s biggest fan!” Crouse said.

First year teacher joins staff RYAN ROBINSON COVER / BEAT EDITOR

Mary Gaston, one of Northridge’s newest English teachers, is holding her expectations high for the coming year.

“Before I had interviewed, I had already heard it was a really good school,” Gaston said. “My first impression was that it was huge if you want me to be completely honest. Kinda like a culture shock.”

Gaston hails from Camden, Alabama and is a recent graduate of Huntingdon College, a private Methodist liberal arts college in Montgomery which hosts just over 1,100 students (about the same as here at Northridge).

Fresh out of college, equipped with a bachelor’s degree, and starting her first year teaching, Gaston has taken on the role of teaching 9th grade English (and 9th grade Honors English) for the 2019-2020 school year. However, that isn’t all she is involved in.

“I’m a really big outdoors person. Probably my most favorite thing to do is to hike,”

Gaston said. “I also like to travel,” Gaston said. “I love seeing new places, new things, new culture, in my spare time that I can get.”

Although she has yet to find somewhere to hike in Tuscaloosa, she says she will be checking out the hiking trails at Lake Lurleen State Park soon.

“I played sports [in high school]. I played basketball, and softball, and did track so I guess you could say I was an athlete.” Gaston said. “In high school I wasn’t as driven as I should have been. I was a lot more capable at doing things than I did. I could have done better.”

Gaston is a graduate of Lowndes Academy, a roughly 235-student independent school located in Lowndesboro, Alabama.

Since Gaston is new to Tuscaloosa, she is still getting to know the town.

“I like Tuscaloosa,”Gaston said. “I’m still learning my way around, obviously. I’m learning coming back and forth to work,

and running to the store.”

Gaston is one of 19 new faculty and staff members to join the Northridge team this school year.

was not a good student, and I was not a good Spanish student, especially,” he said.

But since moving to Tuscaloosa after having taught in Spain for a few years, he has definitely proven his younger self wrong.

In Spain he worked with students, teaching them elementary school English. “I taught in a small town outside of Madrid,” Battistelli said. “It was a bilingual school.

We had three classes in English and three classes in Spanish for all the students.”

While he was in Spain, he and his wife, who is currently a graduate student, traveled whenever they could and spent time at church with their friends. Now that he is in Tuscaloosa, he and his wife hope to meet new people.

“We don’t have many friends here yet, so when we get some, we’ll be sure to spend time with them,” Battistelli said.

So far, since moving to Tuscaloosa

from Spain and beginning a new job at Northridge, his experience has been very welcoming.

“Everybody’s been incredibly inviting,” he said. It’s been a positive place to work.”

In his free him, he likes to watch Netflix with his wife.

“We’re watching “Boy Meets World” right now,” he said.”I grew up watching it, so I’ve been so excited to find it and introduce it to her. We spend time at Heritage House, too. We found that place, so we sit around to do some studying.”

He also enjoys music, something he was passionate about when he was younger.

“I was incredibly musical, so I spent all my time locked in my room practicing my band instrument or my guitar or whatever,“ Batistelli said. “I like to do it whenever I can, but I live in an apartment now, so I try not to bug my neighbors.”

THE GRADUATE Mary Gaston recently graduated college and is now beginning her first year teaching at Northridge.

Photo by Ryan Robinson

New teacher moves from Spain ADDISON TAYLOR MANAGING EDITOR

New Spanish teacher, Matt Battistelli, admits that his situation is a bit ironic. “I

SPANISH TEACHER Matt Battistelli begins his first year back in the United States with a new job at NHS. Photo by Addison Taylor

Student bikes 158 mile race

GRINNING EAR TO EAR: Hank Poore smiles during the race with Helen Gardner Photo by Kathy Poore

CAROLINE FERRY EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Hank Poore, senior, biked 158 miles through Colorado mountains at the end of August. Poore has completed races in the past, but this experience has been the most challenging yet.

Poore said that going into a race like this was intimidating, but his training with a local bike group prepared him for the challenge.

“I felt really nervous, especially the day before but I knew that I would be okay because I knew that I prepared,” Poore said.“I was worried about biking up mountains passes. I was excited about the Colorado views.”

He also had a partner who completed the race with him. Poore’s friend, Helen Gardner, lives in Colorado and asked Hank if he would like to participate.

“It’s an incredible experience to be able to share four days of really physically and emotionally hard work with someone else who, at first glance, may not appear to be able to complete anything like this,” Gardner said. “It was a true partnership with Hank.”

The two met through the Kyle Pease Foundation, an Atlanta-based organization which helps athletes with disabilities participate in races.

“The Pease Brothers are incredibly inspirational to assisted athlete teams,”Gardner said. “I’m lucky to call them both friends.”

Poore has cerebral palsy, a disorder which affects muscle tone and movement.

He specifically has difficulty controlling his hands, walking, and speaking clearly.

“The biggest obstacle I’ve had to overcome is my speech,” Poore said. “It is difficult for me when people can’t understand, or don’t try to understand, what I have to say.”

Even so, Poore is incredibly strong, in many ways.. His work ethic and optimism make up for any obstacles which his CP may impose.

“There are some really steep sections of that ride,” Gardner said. “I couldn’t have gotten up some of them without him. I lend him my engine, and he lends me his go-getter spirit ,and that makes us a great team!”

Poore also has a support system of friends and family to encourage and assist him in his athletic endeavors.

“My family knew that I could do it and they push me to challenge myself,” Poore said.

“They were invaluable,” Gardner agreed.

“They cheered for us, kept us fed, kept us safe, and experienced all the hard and good times with us.”

Even though that may be enough for most people, Poore won’t stop at 158 miles.

He plans to participate in Ironman challenges within the next few years.

“I want [Northridge students] to know that I do the things that I want to do, even if I have a physical disability,” Poore said.

SPORTS

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Northridge welcomes new volleyball coaches in anticipation to turn around program for the 2019 season PATRICK JOHNSON SPORTS EDITOR

The volleyball team has welcomed two new coaches, Danielle Stephenson and Ryan Gravlee, in order to improve the program.

“The coaches have turned our entire volleyball program around,” said Charley Drain, senior and varsity volleyball co-captain. “They have created a new competitive atmosphere, which has helped us do things we did not know we could do before.”

While Stephenson coached high school volleyball before, this is Gravlee’s first year coaching a high school team.

“Coaching at Northridge has been challenging because it’s my first year over an entire program, so I am learning a lot,” Gravlee said. “Growing close to the team we have had a lot of bumps and obstacles, as expected. You are changing a culture here and many of them are not use to being super competitive.”

Stephenson and Gravlee obtained years of experience playing volleyball and have continued their volleyball careers into their adult life.

“I played volleyball throughout high school and was offered scholarships,” said Stephenson. “I rejected after deciding I was burned out. My first semester into college I played intermural volleyball for my sorority. Of course we won all of my four years. Ryan and I actually also play on co-ed teams together year-round.”

Both coaches hope to instill the teamwork that they have learned from playing the game in all of the players.

“I hope to teach the athletes what it is to work as a team because you can carry that over into adult life,” Stephenson said.

“Learning teamwork helps you to work with coworkers, administration and a boss.”

The new level of competitiveness the coaches have brought to the team has helped the team grow on and off the court.

“Playing and beating these difficult schools in tournaments we have never

been able to play in has helped our team’s confidence like never before,” Drain said.

“We have become more accountable for our actions on the court and off.”

While coaching is never an easy task, Stephenson and Gravlee have figured out a dynamic that works best for them.

“Ryan and I have to play good cop bad cop,” said Stephenson. “I do not really have it in me to be mean per say. Sometimes I need to calm him down, and sometimes he needs to tell me you need to get on these girls.”

Improving self-confidence and mental stability throughout the team is a goal that Stephenson and Gravlee are focusing on.

“Us playing in the harder tournaments where they are competing against these ranked teams will help build their confidence,” said Stephenson. “They can even see how much they are improving, but they still do not realize how good they are.

When they realize it, they will get to the next level.”

“The team needs to improve their mental stability in that they need to be able to move on from one play and go to the next,” Gravlee said. “A lot of the times they get stuck on a bad play, and it causes them to lose the next 5 points.”

While the improvement has already been evident, it has not been an easy process for the coaches or the players.

“Some of the players have not always gotten along in the past, so as coaches we are having to break that down so that they can work better together on the court,” Gravlee said. “Luckily they have shown to us that they can do it, and it has resulted in growth in the team.”

As the players adopt the new competitive mindset Stephenson and Gravlee have incorporated into the volleyball program, Drain is confident the team will make it to state.

“As our team becomes more competitive, it results in improvement that is noticeable in every practice,” Drain said. I know that if we keep it up, we will make it to state this year, which would be awesome since I am a senior.”

LIKE MOTHER, LIKE DAUGHTER Danielle Stephenson hopes that her daughter will follow in her footsteps and play volleyball.

photo from Danielle Stephenson’s Twitter

EXPERIENCE Volleyball coach Ryan Gravlee (yellow) continues his volleyball career playing for Boston ECB, an international volleyball league. photo by Larry Barthel

Girls’ golf team in need of new players for the upcoming season PATRICK JOHNSON SPORTS EDITOR

SPECIAL THANKS TO

Dr. April Lane WE APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT OF THE NORTHRIDGE REPORTER

After claiming the 6A state Championship title, the women’s golf team loses 5 out of 6 players.

“5 of the girls on our golf team graduated last year, which left us with only one returning player,” said Richard Nowell, Northridge women’s golf coach. “Although, we are focusing on growing and finding a group of people who are willing to play.”

The lack of attention golfing has received within females in middle and elementary school plays a factor in the scarcity of players the women’s golf team currently faces.

“This year we are only getting one player from the middle school that has played golf,” said Nowell. “The lack of recognition golf has received causes the girls to not even be aware of it in high school.”

While having experience in golfing would be ideal for new players, it is not something Nowell sees as a must.

“As a coach, I am looking for new players, especially freshmen, who have only played the sport once or twice and want to learn how,” Nowell said.

Ideally, Nowell would like to target freshmen who are interested in playing the sport.

“New freshmen players will be a great four year investment, which can even be enough time to become good enough to play in college on a scholarship,” Nowell said.

Golfing is one of the most unused financial means in paying for college, which makes it a desirable sport for those interested in saving money on college tuition.

“If you want to excel in a sport and get a college scholarship, over 60 percent of all female scholarships go unused,” Nowell said.

Not only does golfing help one afford a college education, studies show it helps in the workforce also.

“Research shows that if a female can go out on the course with their male colleagues and play golf with them on their time off, they receive more raises and promotions than those who do not,” Nowell said.

Joining the golf team allows for females to participate in a sport that has many opportunities.

“Our golf team allows you to travel to a lot of different courses,”Nowell said.

“This gives you the opportunity to meet a lot of new friends. It also gives you time to be able to walk around in nature. It’s for anyone who loves to be outside in the fresh air.”

THE NORTHRIDGE REPORTER SEPTEMBER 2019

Photo by Tory Polion

LEFT “My mother is the most influential person in my life, right now because she’s a great mother. She runs around with me and the rest of my siblings on a regular, still goes to work, still does what she has to do while my dad is on the road.

She’s a hero.”

ABOVE “I wouldn’t trade moving to Tuscaloosa for the world. I probably hated it more than anything before I came. The thought of leaving where I already was living- I really just did not want to go at all and I hated it for a year.”

Photo by Caroline Ferry

ABOVE “It’s crazy how it is already senior year. I remember coming to Northridge as a freshman. I didn’t think I’d enjoy it that much because middle school wasn’t the best but I have enjoyed it here, and I find it crazy we are all about to graduate. This senior year I’m going to make the most of my last few months in high school.”

Photo by Patrick Johnson

Photo by Addison Taylor

ABOVE “I stand out from everyone else because I don’t like to conform to the norm. When I walk through the door, people notice how I dress and present myself. I don’t believe in gendered clothing and wear whatever makes me happy.”

A GLIMPSE INTO THE LIVES OF STUDENTS

HUMANS OF NORTHRIDGE

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BEAT

A NEW ERA

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SEPTEMBER 2019 VOLUME 17 ISSUE 1