The Northridge Reporter March 2014 by Susan Newell

northridgereporter.wordpress.com March 31, 2014 • Volume 11 • Issue 6

Northridge High School • 2901 Northridge Road • Tuscaloosa, Al• 35406

iBOSS

Accessibility, privacy concerns arise over program Grayson Lent Staff Writer

Photo by: Susan Newell

Defense: Sophie Fairbairn, senior, Douglas Fairbairn, 21, and Rebecca Griesbach, sophomore, put their hands up in a non-aggressive manner at a self-defense class held at Tiger Rock Martial Arts on March 10. The move is a defensive move and allows for one to not look scared or aggressive while still protecting oneself. “I learned a lot about basic protective moves at my visit,” Douglas said. “I truly believe it’s better to learn a skill like this that could prevent something terrible in the future.”

Attack urges students to consider self-defense person from becoming involved in a self-defense class. Holt teaches men and women of all ages, and said you do not have to be physically fit to protect yourself. “In our personal protection classes for women, it is about keeping it simple. Basic everyday movements such as turning a key, clapping our hands and knocking on a door are used and translated into self-defense moves,” Holt said.

See related story page 6

Do you like iBoss?

Yes

The school was abuzz with talk on Monday, Feb 10, of an attack on a 17 year old female jogger that occurred in Sokol Park the previous day. Emma Jackson, senior, said she was leaving her house to go for a run at Sokol Park right before the attack. “I was in my driveway, about to leave, when I got a group message from the soccer team saying ‘don’t go’ because ‘someone got attacked,’” Jackson said. The news, while alarming to students and faculty, also reached Michael Holt, owner and chief instructor at Tiger Rock Martial Arts in Northport. “[My coworkers and I] are very concerned when people in our community are affected by assaults and other attacks,” Holt said. Holt said he believes better education on the topic of self-defense would help prevent attacks. “The fault is always on the attacker. No one should ever be a victim,” Holt said. “The question is: Are there things that can be done to reduce the chance to someone being a victim? That answer is yes. If someone doesn’t take those steps, it doesn’t mean that they are to blame for the assault. The attacker is always to blame for the assault.” Don McNabb, health teacher, said he believes self-defense is an important skill to learn (especially for high-schoolers, who he said were more at-risk than any other age group). “Teenagers are absolutely more vulnerable because they are not as wary,” McNabb said. “Generally speaking, they have a tendency to trust everybody.”

McNabb’s curriculum does not specifically cover self-defense or protection techniques; instead, he said it educates students on “anger issues” and mental health, which can relate to the problem at hand. “I’m not sure public school is where [students] should learn [self-defense],” McNabb said. “If someone feels the need to protect themselves, there are plenty of places [to learn] around town.” Junior Kayla Lawson attends Taekwondo lessons at her dad’s studio, Strictly Business. Lawson said that although her dad, Harry Lawson, influenced her to take lessons, she has her own reasons for learning Taekwondo. “If I want to survive in life, I have to keep doing this,” Lawson said. Jackson said she thinks self-defense is extremely important, “especially for girls.” “My dad won’t let me run alone anymore,” Jackson said. “But I do have pepper spray for protection.” Holt said survival is a key reason several women seek out his expertise in selfdefense. “We receive phone calls from women after attacks are made public such as the recent Sokol Park incident, but we also are contacted by women who are unfortunately going through a tough divorce or possibly are in an abusive relationship,” Holt said. Holt said taking simple precautions can change a woman’s image of being an “easy target.” “Don’t look like a victim.” Holt said. “Always be aware of the surroundings. Don’t be in a secluded place alone. Walk with [your] head up....not looking down at a phone, etc.).” There is nothing that should keep a

Rebecca Griesbach News Editor

The school board has installed a system known as SecureUs, better known by the students as “iBoss”. Though this may seem like a new program, it is actually the same one that has been used. Dr. Isaac Espy, principal, said, “The program has been in operation for several years now. [SecureUs] monitors Internet tracking. All our Internet and board issued devices are routed through SecureUs, and it filters inappropriate content.” he said. Several students have had frustrating issues with this program because it blocks sites that are needed to do research for homework or projects at school. Other times, it simply blocks out websites it deems “inappropriate” during advisory or class; the biggest case being YouTube. “We have not had problems with SecureUs,” Dr. Espy said. “The central office receives a daily report as well as alerts.” The program has affected students by being active on their mobile devices, and some wish for this to change. “[I want to be able to have] access to YouTube,” sophomore Mary Long said. There has been speculation of the SecureUs software being able to access any files on your mobile devices and Novell accounts, including camera rolls and private information. “That is a breach of personal privacy”, sMarie Elise Norris, freshman, said. “If Internet traffic on your mobile device comes through our system,” Dr. Espy said. “I would not advise inappropriate correspondence.”

Photo by: Susan Newell

Safety: Michael Holt, instructor at Tiger Rock Martial Arts, demonstrates standard self-defense moves like the “pinch and grab” on March 10.

51 students polled. Information compiled by Renu Pandit. Designed by Renu Pandit.

The Birds Page 3

Brumfield’s Page 3

Softball Page 7

2Our Thoughts Opinion

The Northridge Reporter March 31, 2014

Internet filter may be too secure

The new Internet filter, SecureUs, commonly known as iBoss, is extremely effective at blocking access to websites the school board deems inappropriate. However, students who have attempted to access content that is entirely appropriate for an educational setting find themselves unable to do so. Restricted access to YouTube and instructive sites like Khan Academy cause frustration and difficulty for students and teachers alike. The Internet is very convenient in that it provides a vast number of resources that students can access to broaden their learning scope. Similarly, teachers use videos and websites to enhance students’ educational experiences. We at The Northridge Reporter believe that while Internet censoring in schools is necessary, iBoss provides a degree of filtration that is overly broad and that ultimately hinders the educational process. The school board should reevaluate what they consider prohibited and try to be more flexible in regards to the sites that students are permitted to use.

Emma Jackson’s Joke What do you get when you divide the circumference of a pumpkin by its diameter?

Pumpkin Pi!

agree (11) disagree (0) J

Scott Johnson’s Joke

nso n

What is the difference between pea soup and roast That’s bats! beef?

Anyone can roast beef, not everyone can pea soup!

The Birds provides laughs, humorous relatability Sumona Gupta Entertainment Editor

Before attending The Birds on March 1, I did not know anything about the play. With a Google search beforehand, I discovered it was not, in fact, the Hitchcock horror movie, but an Ancient Greek comedy performed thousands of years ago. I was slightly confused, wondering what I was about to see. Luckily for me, the play was not what I expected. When I arrived at the auditorium for the showing, I noticed that the folding seats on the floor were vacant. Instead, audience members were seated directly on the stage, surrounding a raised platform. In the center of the platform stood a rustic throne covered with paper vines and rocks. I had never seen a performance so close to the performers themselves. I wondered how the actors would remain in character, being so near those watching.

Ahhhh first AP Test tomorrow. Where did all my time go? # Starbucks #gottacram 5/4/14, 8:35 PM

OMG it’s SNOWING !!!!! Hey @ TCS Board of Ed, do you wanna build a snowman? ;) 1/28/14, 9:16 AM

HOORAY for no school! Best X-mas break ever! #Santa Rox 1/7/14, 11:02 AM

The lights dimmed and in came two characters climbing the rocky fortress. The audience was introduced to Pithaerus, a sarcastic Greek citizen, and his fumbling friend Eulpides. To my surprise, rather than speaking in incoherent verses, the two spoke in modern language. The plight they faced was simple; they wanted to escape from their stressful lives in a congested city. They were in search of a mythical creature, the King of the Birds, who was named Epops. He soon appeared after hearing his name. He was said to have been human, but was cursed by the gods after cheating on his wife. Crude and vulgar, Epops ruled the fortress dividing Earth and Olympus. He and his snappy wife Procne made an amusing pair. Pithaerus decided to build a wall in the bird kingdom, separating Olympus and Earth, and then charge money from both sides. Continued on Page 3 See The Birds

Art by: Lauren Curtner-Smith Journalist of the Year 2013 • Bailey Thomson Award for Editorial Writing 2013 • Rick Bragg Feature Writing Award 2009 • NSPA 6th Place Best of Show 2013 • NSPA 5th Place Best of Show 2012 • NSPA 1st Place Best of Show 2011 • NSPA 5th Place Best of Show 2008 • NSPA 8th Place Best of Show 2008 • NSPA 9th Place Best of Show 2006 • CSPA Gold Medalist 2005-2011 • SIPA All-Southern 2003, 2005–2012 • ASPA All-Alabama 2003–2011 • NSPA All-American 2004, 2008, 2011 • Best SIPA Newspaper in Alabama 2003–2007 • NSPA News Story of the Year 2005 • SIPA First Place News Story 2007• SIPA First Place Review 2009

northridgereporter.wordpress.com Northridge High School • 2901 Northridge Road • Tuscaloosa, AL 35406 • (205) 759-3734 ext. 295 Editor-in-Chief *Renu Pandit* Feature Editor *James Niiler News Editor *Rebecca Griesbach Opinion Editor *KeamBria Washington

Entertainment Editor *Sumona Gupta Sports Editor *Camri Mason Beat Editor *Renu Pandit Business Manager *Sumona Gupta

Copy Editor *Lauren Curtner-Smith Asst. Copy Editor *Sophie Fairbairn Infographics Editor *Sumona Gupta Art Editor *Sophie Fairbairn

Editorial Policy: 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. 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. Letters must be submitted to Susan Newell in room 109 or emailed to northridgereporter@gmail.com.

Artists *Sumona Gupta, *Rebecca Griesbach Photographer *Camri Mason Web Master *James Niiler Staff Writers KeShaun Byrd, Grayson Lent, D’Aja Patrick

The Northridge Reporter reserves the right to edit letters and verify allegations. The newspaper is distributed monthly. Tuscaloosa City Board Policy: It is the official policy of the Tuscaloosa City Board of Education that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, disability, sex, religion, national origin, age or creed, be excluded for participation in, be denied the benefits of or be subject to discrimination under any program, activity or employment.

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Entertainment Reviewer finds delight in Brumfield dining experience

The Northridge Reporter March 31, 2014

James Niiler Feature Editor

I visited one of Tuscaloosa’s newest restaurants, Brumfield’s, for dinner on March 2, and had an overall pleasurable experience. Established this past winter, Brumfield’s serves all-American fare in a pleasant though not upscale setting. Burgers, homemade chips, sandwiches, salads, and the like comprise the menu, all very reasonably priced. Brumfield’s occupies the storefront that was previously home to several eateries, among

them The Tin Top. Despite the frequent change of ownership in recent years, the decor within has been modified appropriately. The interior design of the restaurant now comprises both tables and booths and several colors of paint on the walls, creating an upbeat atmosphere,.. An arcade room is also thoughtfully provided for young children, as well as a bar for adults. The entire establishment is very clean. I found the staff at Brumfield’s to be pleasant, attentive, and knowledgeable.

They had obviously been welltrained in service and knew what they were doing. For an appetizer, I tried a couple of tangy shrimp poppers.

Photo by: Rebecca Griesbach

Sweets: A sampling of Brumfield’s desserts is shown: key lime pie, New York cheesecake, and a hot fudge brownie.

Served over a bowl of mixed greens, they certainly lived up to their name. The fried, crispy shrimp went perfectly with the somewhat spicy and sweet sauce they were coated in. This whetted my appetite for more good things to come. For my entree, I ordered the lemon-artichoke chicken pasta. The name is self-explanatory, but the dish was delicious. A bed of penne pasta was tossed in a cream sauce, topped with grilled chicken, diced artichoke hearts, and Parmesan cheese. The grilled chicken was well-seasoned and not at all dry, and the lemon lent

the sauce a hint of tanginess. It was a very filling, overall satisfying dish. Unfortunately I was not able to sample any of the desserts, but from what I could tell from the menu, they seemed no-frills but also appealing. Think ice cream with brownies and key lime pie. I have every reason to return to Brumfield’s, which I hope I will do so soon. With its concept of decently priced American fare, and the ubiquitous demand for such, I am certain Brumfield’s is posed to become a community success.

See Dessert Review nhsrecipes.weebly.com.

The Birds (continued from page 2) This get-rich-quick scheme pleased Epops, and he decided to inform his subjects. Keeping to the title, a colorful cast of birds of all species joined the stage, each with a distinctive personality. There was a flighty hummingbird, a violent crow, a dopey dodo and a bat. Their mannerisms showed through their humorous dialogue, and each role was well cast. A gang of citizens, including an investment banker, lawyer, insurance agent, spammer, and activist begin harassing Pithaerus and Eulpides, reminding them of what they had tried to avoid. The pestering they brought reminded me of the pressures of everyday life in a hilarious way. Not only were the humans op-

posed to the wall, but they soon were forced to face the wrath of the gods. The gods, however, weren’t as mighty as they were made out to be. To negotiate, they sent Iris, a minor goddess. The clichéd performance made me laugh especially because of the truth and relatability of it. Although she was 373 years old, Iris drawled and complained like a stereotypical teenage girl. More gods joined the cast, like the paternal Poseidon, the melodramatic Hercules, and the incomprehensible Mgrauchuchuk. The gods, contrary to their image, were surprisingly human, and the result of this role reversal was unexpectedly amusing. Finally, the gods and humans

compromised, letting Pithaerus marry Iris in a not-so happily ever after union. Although the plot was somewhat confusing, the play was very enjoyable. It was a new experience having the actors standing within earshot rather than hearing them from the distance of the stage. They walked around, adding a component of interaction. The actors joked and laughed, sometimes even referencing the audience. The play not only parodied Ancient Greek epics, but made several pop culture references, making the play more relevant. The language used in the play pertained to mature audiences, but the characters’ performances were all very humorous.

Photo by: Mary Margaret Hand

Fly Away: The drama department presented The Birds on March 1. The whiny Iris, the jumpy Prometheus, and the fast-talking investment banker were all relatable. The actors performed well, including the improvisation used by them after a slight hand injury. The performers designed their own costumes, which impressed

me. The actors seemed to fit the characters they played, and it made the performance even better. This timeworn play was revamped in the performance, and the energetic rendition was very entertaining.

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Feature

The Northridge Reporter March 31, 2014

B O N A P P

Foreign students, teacher describe cultural foods Camri Mason Sports Editor Food! Comida! Nourriture! These are some of the ways to say food. Different countries have some of the same franchises as the U.S., but their cultural foods differ from what we are used to. Danish student Asger Rasmussen, 10, said he eats a dish called Frikadeller. “It’s a type of ground beef mixed with eggs and onions,” Rasmussen said. “You put it on a pan and cook it, and you eat it with frikedeller (potatoes), sovs (gravy), and damped gronstager (steamed vegetables),” Rasmussen said. Some cultures can speak the same language, but their food choices can or may be different from each other. For instance, a tortilla in Mexico is not the same as in Spain. Jennifer Canterbury, Spanish teacher, said in Spain a tortilla is an omelet, instead of a corn shell. “Spain features a lot of seafood, like a lot of shrimp, mussels and scallops,” Canterbury said.

Canterbury said her favorite dish from Spain is gazpacho, which is also known as “cold soup,” and made of tomatoes, cucumber, garlic, oil and bits of day old bread. “[It’s] one of the coolest, refreshing things and they eat it a lot [in Spain],”Canterbury said. “When I think of real Mexican food, I think of the sauces,” she added. In Mexico a sauce is made called mole, with ground nuts, dark chocolate, chili peppers, tomatoes and occasionally sugar. Mexican student Maria Barajas said what we call a taco is different from what they call a taco in Mexico “Americans use ground meat, but in Mexico, we use steak meat,” Barajas said. “On top of it, most people like to put onions and cilantro,” she said. Chinese student Amy Liu, 12, said her family eats a lot of seafood and vegetables. “Sometimes our dinners would be completely made up of vegetables,” Liu said. “Just like a stereotype, we eat a lot of rice [too],” she said.

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Eating healthy foods helps the body operate the best it can, and a nourished body not only grows better, but learns better as well. Gail Hill, dietitian, said as teenagers, students tend to skip the fruits in favor of fast food. “My definition of healthy food is food that provides nutrients that the body needs to perform optimally,” Hill said. “These include things like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes and meats; eat less red meats and more while meats, like fish and poultry.” Getting rid of an entire food group is not beneficial. Instead of helping, it is rather detrimental to the body. “Not any one [food] group is better in order to perform best. The body needs all of them. You shouldn’t eliminate any particular foods from your diet,” Hill said. Proteins are vital to the body. And although most prefer to obtain them from meat, foods like beans and dairy can provide just as much protein, she said. Beth Allaway, anatomy teacher, said that a healthy diet has both long and short-term benefits.

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Eating healthfully provides benefits Sumona Gupta Entertainment Editor

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“For the short term, in class you’re more makes people follow ‘fad diets’ that make alert and focused, you have constant en- people think eliminating food groups can ergy to get through the day,” she said. “For help them lose weight quickly,” she said. the long term, you have healthier arteries Adriana Green, senior, said that to stay as a result of not having them clogged with healthy, she eats fruits and vegetables. cholesterol.” “I’m a vegetarian, so I don’t eat meat. I If you’re having trouble concentrating eat green veggies, fruit and lots of water,” in the morning, Allaway suggests you skip Green said. the sugar soaked honey buns and candy, Melody Mills, sophomore, said she eats whether in liquid or solid form. “things like fruits and vegetables and gra“[Sugary foods] give you a burst of en- nola or protein bars [to stay healthy].” ergy for 15-20 minutes, and then you have “I like broccoli and asparagus,” she said. a severe drop in Both Allaway energy that makes and Hill said you sleepy,” she highly processed Not any one [food] group is better said. foods, whether than the rest. The body needs all of Hill suggests eatgrains or sugars, them. ing carbohydrates should be avoid Gail Hill, dietitian and proteins like ed. toast and eggs. Foods should “They stay with be as “natural as you all morning,” Hill said. you can find,” Hill said. Although highlighting America’s obesiIf you find yourself overindulging on ty problems can be helpful in stopping bad your favorite snacks, Allaway suggests exhabits, Hill said that new habits can begin ercising. as a result of them. “Sports help the development of organs, “I think that what it does is highlight what muscles and brain tissue. Because you’re we can do better, like limit fried food and burning more calories, you’re burning fat salty snacks. But it can also make people more efficiently,” Allaway said. afraid of the foods you do need, like dairy Allaway said that being careful about and protein that growing children need. It your eating habits shouldn’t wait.

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What’s Your Favorit Serving Size 1/8th Pg.

Amount Per Serving People 50

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Saturated Fat 0g Trans Fat

Homestyle/American 9 ppl. Ethnic/Oriental 8 ppl. Desserts 14 ppl. Dietary Fiber 11g Sugars 6g

Other 4 ppl.

Vitamin A 1% Vita Calcium 4% Iron *Percent Daily Values are based student school.

Feature

The Northridge Reporter March 31, 2014

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Students, teachers share love of desserts Sophie Fairbairn Assistant Copy Editor In and out of school, teachers and students enjoy a multitude of sweets. Jack Hubner, senior, said blackberry peach cobbler is his favorite type of dessert because his grandmother makes it and “serves it hot with ice cream.” “I love how it’s tangy and sweet,” Hubner said. Hubner said he can eat sweets for breakfast and lunch. “I have Nutella toast for breakfast and Nutella sandwiches for lunch,” Hubner said. Senior Nick Fairbairn said he likes to eat a sweet snack every day after school. “I usually have the option of a piece of chocolate, cookies or cookie dough, a cupcake, or a Nutella sandwich,” Fairbairn said. “It just depends on what is at my house when I come home. My family always has sweets lying around the house, such as cupcakes [from Edgar’s Bakery],” Fairbairn said. “My step dad has a ‘hidden’ stash of dove chocolates in a drawer, but my sisters and I take one whenever we want,” he said with a laugh. Scott Johnson said he eats the most sweets on Thanksgiving, while Hubner said he eats the most on Christmas. “I don’t eat any sweets on Martin Luther King Day, nobody makes dessert for that,” Hubner said. Morgan DeWitt, junior, said she enjoys celebrating her Jewish roots with a small gelt on Hanukkah. “A gelt is a chocolate coin. It’s a thin round piece of chocolate in the shape of a coin, with various Hebrew letters and phrases on it,” DeWitt said. “It tastes great

but it’s annoying to have to unwrap like three pieces to get one bite of chocolate.” Morgan said she eats this little coin with her family during a game of dreidel. “Dreidel is a gambling game,” DeWitt said, “so we have gelt to serve as the gambling bids.” Sarah Gorg who lived in Germany for several years said although she is American, she misses the desserts that were common in Germany. “There are many desserts I wish existed in America such as Apfelstrudel (similar to apple cider), Windbeutel (similar to puff cakes) and my favorite, Bienenstich (similar to a mini cake),” Gorg said, closing her eyes and sighing, as if to remember the taste in her mouth. “Bienenstich is translated to mean ‘bee sting,’” Gorg said, “I don’t know why? I assume it’s because it’s made with honey and nuts.” “Maybe it’s because it has bee stingers inside of it?” Mary Margaret Hand, senior, added jokingly. Hand said she wishes she had the option of eating desserts from all different cultures. “I feel like other countries have more pastries and pastry shops, whereas America has just upfront desserts,” Hand said. Johnson said he misses the bakery and pastry shops that use to be “freestanding” in our area. “It used to be there were more bakeries, freestanding which sold cakes, fresh bread, cookies, etc.,” Johnson said. “Now you can only find bakeries inside places like grocery stores.” Johnson said there are desserts he does not enjoy. “I can’t stand liquorish or anything overly sweet,” Johnson said, “but my least

favorite desert is s’mores. I can’t stand s’mores. They make me sick. I have just always hated when going on camping trips [they always have s’mores]; the smell of the roasted marshmallows makes me nauseous.” Hand said she goes searching for the cultural desserts. “I really like Mediterranean desserts,” Hand said, “and I would recommend fried ice cream, but I think you can fry your own ice cream.” Hubner said the United States has the best options of desserts. “We are a melting pot of cultures, so many influences and dishes,” he said. Johnson said he also thinks the United States has a lot of different dessert options. “My favorite dessert is apple pie a la mode,” Johnson said, “cause it’s American.” Johnson said he eats all kinds of pie on Thanksgiving. “[I eat] pumpkin pie, sweet potato pie, or whatever people bring,” he said. Hand said she eats whatever dessert is supplied to her, especially ‘cookie dough eggroll.’ “It’s made of cookie dough inside an eggroll shell, deep fried and put in a bowl with ice cream on top and chocolate drizzled over it,” she said. “That sounds good,” sophomore on-looker Daren Lewis said. “Are you going to make some for class?” Lewis asked, enticed. “You get it at Jackson’s in Birmingham,” Hand said, “but since my family is cheap, we make it at home.” Johnson recommends going to The Cheesecake Factory in Birmingham for desserts. “They have really good desserts,” Johnson said.

Food allergies cause students problems

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James Niiler Feature Editor For most people, food is something to be enjoyed and can be eaten at will without serious repercussions. For some, however, this is not the case. Sophomore Andrea Nix is allergic to eggs, bananas, all nuts, pollen and cut grass. She also has asthma. “My allergies are out of this world,” she said. Nix said she has had to find “different substitutes” for common foods, as well as make several lifestyle adjustments due to her allergies. “I’ve had to have special breads and buy special milks. I have to find different stores [to purchase these items],” she said. “Before I go to a restaurant, I have to check to be sure I can eat there. I have to taste-test everything; I can tell [immediately] whether I’m allergic to a food or not.” Nix said the side effects from eating allergenic

Ozment said she exercises caution in what she foods can be serious. “If I’m not careful, I’ll swell up and have eats. hives. I don’t have any medicine on me, so I “I have to be careful what I eat and what [restaurants] cook food in,” she said. have to deal with it,” she said. Nix said it can be hard to accept food from Kathleen Oatts, food and nutrition teacher, said food allergies can be challenging for students. others. “I have to pass up on a lot of parties,” she said. “They have to be very careful of who made the “I have to bring my own food [to them]. I have food and what’s in the food. That’s a big struggle to be wary when someone gives me something for younger students. It can also get embarrassing to ask [what is in foods],” she said. to eat.” Oatts said the causes Sally Ozment, 10, is of food allergies and ‘regallergic to tree nuts and ular’ allergies are related. shellfish. “It’s just like any oth “When I was little, I was er allergy. Your body has also allergic to soy,” she an adverse reaction to [the Andrea Nix, sophomore said. food]. Actually, some out Although she doesn’t side allergies are related to have to use substitutes for food allergies,” she said. the foods that she is allergic to, she still experi Oatts said students with a food allergy need to ences frustration due to her allergies. seek medical advice. “Because I’m allergic to seafood, when I go to “Go to a doctor and see what specific needs are the beach, it’s hard. Like, really hard,” she said. required for [your] situations,” she said.

My allergies are out of this world.

News

The Northridge Reporter March 31, 2014

Students discuss their “perfect prom”

Photo by: D’aja Patrick

Just Browsing: Alexie Blunt, senior, scrolls through pictures of potential prom dresses on her iPad.. Sophie Fairbairn Assistant copy editor Prom, one of the most iconic traditions of high school, is around the corner (April 12), and students want it to be the essence of perfection. Reagan Wallace, senior, said she’s been planning prom for a few months now, starting with finding a dress. “Picking out a dress is the hardest part because you want to make sure it is the perfect dress,” Wallace said. “So you need to start looking right away.” Wallace said if you want the perfect prom, you must primp many hours ahead of time on the night of prom. “It takes girls about three hours to get ready because of hair appointments,” Wallace said. “But the boys only have to shower, put their clothes on, order the corsage and pick up the girl.” Even though Wallace said it is important to be fashionably late, when she finally arrives she just enjoys dancing with all her friends. “I think the best part about prom is the friends and the dancing because we are all together,” Wallace said. Jason Snyder, junior, said he is not going to prom because he does not have a date. “If I am not with Ciara [Harris] or Beyoncé [Knowles] I wouldn’t worry,” Snyder joked. “Otherwise, I would plan two weeks ahead.”

Snyder said he thinks it is a guy’s job to go out of their way for their date, including color coordinating with her dress. “A guy should ask a girl in a special way,” Snyder said. “Guys should ask on Valentine’s Day. That would be the perfect day.” Although Snyder is not attending prom this year, he strives for a perfect prom his senior year. “The perfect prom would be being with a girl with a personality and seeing all my friends happy with their own special someone.” Joseph Mohabbat, senior, said it is not important to have a date for prom. “You don’t even dance with your date half the time,” Mohabbat said. “And girls be too crazy about corsages.” Lauren Colburn, junior, interrupted, arguing the importance of a corsage. “I still have my corsage from last year,” she said with a smirk. “It’s going to die in like 24 hours anyways,” Mohabbat rebutted. Abby Allen, junior, said there is no such thing as the perfect prom. “Every girl has a dream of this classy prom night, but it’s more like going to a bar,” Allen said. Mohabbat said prom is not the traditional dance that the media tends to exaggerate. “Movies do not live up to the actual prom; people do not dance like they do in movies,” Mohabbat said. “People are grinding all over each other, and dreams are killed,” Allen said. “I don’t dance anyways,” Mohabbat interrupted. “I am too good at dancing, and I don’t want to release my fury on others.” Madison Frazer, senior, said girls should dress classy and not skimpy on the night of prom. “I think girls shouldn’t wear anything too revealing and should wear long dresses.” Alex London, senior, said he also dislikes specific outfits worn at prom. “Sagging your tuxedo should not be allowed,” London said. Mohabbat suggests having the prom some place other than the gym. “We should have [prom] on the river,

so we can swim after,” Mohabbat said. Colin Hammond, junior, said he thinks prom should be at the amphitheater. “The gym gets really hot, so having the prom outside would be [good],” Hammond said. Charles Lane junior added, “Then we could have an actual band playing on the stage.” Mary Margaret Hand, senior, said she would enjoy a band as well. “I think it would be more fun and livelier than a DJ, but I also want them to play more slow songs,” Hand said. Colburn said she thinks prom should be just like the movies. “We should choose a theme that makes sense,” Colburn said. “I like the prom theme this year because it is a classic theme from the movies.” Sarah Ellis, junior and a member of the prom committee, said they are trying to raise money in order to decorate and make prom appealing for all students. “I hope that people are able to look past their own opinions on the prom’s theme and instead focus on how awesome prom is going to be,” Ellis said. Allen, who is also a member of the prom committee, said they will make sure this year’s prom is elegant. “[We will use] deep blues, silvers and pearls;” Allen said. “[There will be] no fish, no mermaids. We aren’t going for ‘under the sea,’ we are going for mysterious.” Kathleen Oatts, faculty director of the prom committee, said it takes hours of planning to make the perfect prom with multiple days of decoration and fundraising. “I’m excited as always,” Oatts said. She said she hopes everyone makes great memories at prom. “Hopefully, they will have the same thoughts as me and enjoy the memories that they make,” she said. Oatts said prom should be a fun and safe night for the students. “Prom is such a fun time. Every year it gets people to work together and have a good time.”

in brief Book Fair in May

Grayson Lent Staff Writer

Two times a year, the school library holds a book fair at Barnes and Noble. The next book fair is May 1-3. The funds go to the library to purchase books and videos. Students may buy a book or make another purchase, and all they have to do is mention Northridge when they check out. “It benefits…everyone at the school because of the money we get,” Neilann Thomas, librarian, said. “[Students can help out in] several ways: advertising the fair, telling their families to come and working there,” Thomas said. “I think it’s a really good idea,” Jake Cowles, senior, said. “But the fact that you have to mention Northridge hurts the method.” Students can sign up to volunteer a few weeks before the fair by going to Neilann Thomas in the library. Volunteers stand at the door and hand out bookmark-sized papers reminding book fair-goers to mention the school when they check out. A small percentage of those funds are transferred to the school’s library funds. But not many students arrive to take part

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It benefits... everyone at the school because of the money we get. Neilann Thomas, librarian

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in the fairs. “I think it’s affected by the small reading crowd at Northridge,” Thomas Mullins, sophomore, said. Students can also mention the school at Starbucks to help out as well, which is located in the store. “We get a percentage only if [the customers] mention Northridge when they check out,” Thomas said.

Self defense class The Northridge Reporter female staff takes class at Tiger Rock Rebecca Griesbach News Editor Michael Holt, chief instructor at Tiger Rock Martial Arts in Northport, invited the girls of the newspaper staff to partake in a free personal protection class for women at the studio on Monday, March 10. Adviser Susan Newell, assistant copy editor Sophie Fairbairn, her older sister, Douglas Fairbairn and I attended the class . For the first part of the class, Holt invited us into his office for an informational crashcourse in self-defense. He surprised me with his extensive knowledge of the subject. Holt said the incidents like the one at Sokol Park are “rare” because, most of the time, attacks happen in familiar settings between people with familiar faces. “Ninety-seven percent of attackers are ‘bad guests,’” Holt said. “Bad guests are people that you let into your life. The other three percent of attacks are caused by either ‘bad guys’ who live in a life that means nothing to them or by being in a store that gets robbed.” Holt shared several simple techniques with us that can prevent attacks from happening or can help get you out of a bad situation if you are already in one. The first tip he gave us was to “scan

our surroundings.” “When most people walk into public places,” Holt said to us, “they don’t know where the exits are.” Holt said awareness is empowerment; simply being aware of our environment gives us a better chance of survival. Following a disturbing testimony that left our mouths wide open, Holt said to never leave your car unlocked. It’s a simple tip that seems like common sense, but it’s one that can save your life. Check to make sure there is no one inside the car before you get in, and lock the doors as soon as the coast is clear. After the introduction, we were led into an open space to practice physical selfdefense techniques. First, we practiced the “clap” technique. If someone has a firm grasp on your wrist, all you have to do is clap your hands together and pull away. Another variation of this includes pulling up. In this instance, the attacker would have a two-hand grip on one of

your wrists. Next, we assessed what would happen if the attacker tried to grab a hold of our hair. To get out of this, you hold the attacker’s hand to your head and scurry back, getting close to the ground. This hurts the attacker’s wrist to the point of causing him or her to let go. And finally, we learned the magic of the “horse bite,” Sophie’s and my personal favorite. It is a simple pinch-and-pull technique that can move a grown man across a room if done right. If the other techniques are not an option, chances are the attacker is exposing a vulnerable part of his body, such as his or her inner thighs or arms. This is where the horse bite comes in: pinch the skin, pull it away, and twist clockwise back into the area. This causes a reflex that will make the attacker easy to control. I am forever grateful for what I learned Monday night, and I encourage everybody to take a class like the one at Tiger Rock. Hearing the stories Holt told about situations that happened to people close to him changed my perspective. Anyone can be a victim of an attack,

Photo by: Susan Newell

Watch and Learn: Michael Holt and his assistant demonstrate a twohand hold and how to get out of it. whether it is a high school softball player or a middle-aged mother. But, thanks to Holt, I’m prepared to handle a situation should it happen to me. I can say that I am more alert than I was before, and I know now to be wary of the people I let into my life. I always double-check to make sure I have locked my car, and I scan the insides thoroughly before getting in. Although I have incorporated the tips Holt gave us into my everyday life, I hope I never have to use a horse bite on anyone.

Sports

The Northridge Reporter March 31, 2014

Sports Column

Niiler’s track meet James Niiler Feature Editor

On March 1, I ran in the Icebreaker Invitational track meet at Winfield High School. 5:20 a.m. I’ve dressed in my uniform and packed myself some snacks: a Nutri-Grain bar, a granola bar and some Ritz crackers. I have two drinks as well: a bottle of water and some cranberry-grape juice. I eat little on race days and tend to survive on adrenaline. It’s important to remain light and have an empty stomach, and besides, I just don’t have much of an appetite. The snacks I pack are relatively nutritious and will replenish what I will lose racing, but only just. 10:00 a.m. The National Anthem has been sung, and the ninth annual Icebreaker Invitational is underway. The 4 by 800, in which teams of four race twice around the track to hand a baton off to the next runner, is the first event. I find I’m the second ‘leg,’ or runner, on the relay team. We in the relay team anxiously await our turn, and finally it arrives. We are wished good luck, and the race begins. When I am handed the baton, Northridge is in second place out of the four teams racing in our heat. I firmly grasp the baton, and pump my legs and arms forward. I’m going quite fast; I start to wheeze as I pass the one runner in front of me, and for 300 meters I’m in first place. I’m pleasantly surprised at this, and am feeling quite happy when I run the last hundred meters. Suddenly disaster strikes: the runner I passed, previously running quite slowly, has sped up exponentially. He passes me, and I realize there is no way I can catch up with him. Inwardly fuming that I allowed myself to fall into this trap, I exhaustedly hand off the baton to the next runner. All is not lost, however: Northridge maintains its speed, and finishes second. I also find I ran my laps in two minutes and twenty-three seconds which isn’t too bad. I now have some down time before my next two races. My morning has been somewhat rough, but I’m determined to break the rest of my records throughout the day and have as much as a good time as I can. I did in fact break the rest of my records that day. My mile was run in five minutes and six seconds and my two miles in eleven minutes and thirty-one seconds. 9:00 p.m. I arrived home at nine that evening.

Photo by: Rebecca Griesbach

Let It Fly: Junior Jazmine Thompson, Varsity softball player gets ready to hit the ball. The team played home against Gordo on March 13. The team lost 1-0.

Softball team adapts to change in leadership Rebecca Griesbach News Editor

Photo by: Rebecca Griesbach

Batter up: Senior Savannah Buck, Varsity softball player, bats against Gordo. Buck serves as a key player to the team, and she was named “Player of the Game” after the team’s win against Oak Grove the previous week. Carson Vines, English teacher, said Buck recently signed with Hines College, where she will become pitcher next year.

3301 Highway 69 South Beside McDonald’s

After adapting to several changes in coaching, the softball team braced themselves for a new season. “It is different without the coaches we had last year,” Hannah Brandon, sophomore and JV player, said. “We went into the season more unprepared, but in these past few games, we came on top.” With the absences of Denton Bowling and Cody Ingram, there have been new coaches to fill their spots. Carson Vines, 10th grade English teacher, stepped up to become assistant coach, along with Jack Hazelrig, head coach, and Christopher Reeves, JV head coach. “It’s been a new situation for everybody,” Vines said. “But everybody is working together well.” Vines said the JV team made it to finals in the Northside High School tournament on March 1, losing in a “midnight dropdead” game.

After the tournament, Brandon said, “I think we surprised ourselves as a JV team this year.” Senior Kersey Hunt, Varsity player, said the team is “completely different” this season. “It’s better than last year,” Hunt said. “We have shorter practices, but we are able to get more things done.” Junior Morgan Howard, JV player, said Reeves is good at what he does. “We’re winning games, so I guess he’s a good coach,” Howard said. “He tells you what you’re doing wrong and helps you fix your problems,” she said. Several players also contribute to the success of the Varsity team. Vines said players to watch for include seniors Savannah Buck, who recently signed with Hines College as pitcher; Sami Story, 3rd baseman, and Madison Frazer, shortstop. “The team continues to get better and continues to have a great season,” Vines said.

The Northridge Reporter March 31, 2014

Knitting Potts said she knits while she watches T.V. “I can’t sit still. I have to multitask. [Knitting] was hard when I first started because it takes a while to pick up. Once you get going it gets easier. I suggest not using circular needles,” Potts said. Potts normally knits for her sister and herself. Her creations so far have all been scarves. Laura Worley, senior, likes to knit as a stress reliever. “I don’t like sitting still, and it is cheaper than buying scarves,” Worley said. Worley often gives her work as presents to people she loves. She said she has also considered selling her work but would feel bad if she did. “I’ve knitted too many things to count. When I knit presents, it’s a lot for the person I am giving the scarf or hat to, but it is also for me because it was so fun to make,” Worley said She said that beginner knitters need to be patient. “The first thing I knitted was supposed to be a scarf, and it ended up being a hat. Stick with it though. It is fun,” Worley said. Marianne Martin, senior, also says that projects are difficult in the beginning. “The first few projects won’t be that good. Choose easy yarn to work with,”

Beat 8

Martin said. “I can’t knit easily when I’m in the car on long car rides when it’s night or when I’m in bed because I can’t see my yarn and needles,” Martin said. Martin’s favorite thing to knit is infinity scarves that are snuggly, soft and pretty colors. Reagan Wallace, senior, learned to knit because her great grandma likes to knit. “Knitting calms, relaxes and relieves my stress. It’s great,” Wallace said. Wallace knits on the weekends and during school breaks. “School makes knitting difficult. It used to get in the way of my grades, so I had to stop knitting during school all the time,” Wallace said. Wallace has made a total of five scarves. She likes to give them as Christmas presents. “My friends and I have played Secret Santa since sophomore year. Last year, I gave a snuggly red scarf as a part of my present. My person loved it,” Wallace said. Wallace suggests to new knitters to not knit all the time. “Don’t knit 24/7 because like any activity, sometimes people get burned out on it if they do it too much. It teaches patience,” Wallace said

Students drive off boredom with uncommon pastime Lauren Curtner-Smith Copy Editor Knitting, an activity mostly associated with grandmothers, swept across the school as a few of our senior students took part in the not so senior activity. Marla Parks, senior, first learned to knit when her aunt taught her in middle school. “It is a fun and resourceful way to make clothes. It saves me a lot of money because I can make a hat for three dollars instead of playing ten or fifteen,” Parks said. Parks looks for soft, thick yarn when knitting her pieces. She mostly makes hats and scarves. “Holidays, breaks and car rides are the best times for me to knit,” Parks said. “It’s difficult to knit when I try to make a really fancy kitting pattern with fancy tools.” Parks has never sold her creations but has considered charging for her pieces if she could get lots done in a short amount of time. “I also thought about selling my work for a fundraiser or giving the money I raised to a charity,” Parks said. Julie Potts, senior, did knit for charity. She said she learned to knit along with a group of ladies from her church, First Presbyterian Church, as they made hats for babies in Africa.

Just keep knitting: Marianne Martin, senior, smiles while holding up some of the infinity scarves she’s made. “These are only seven, but I have a ton more. Infinity scarves are my favorite type of scarf to knit, since you just have to throw it on, and it falls easily. They’re great for winter when you want to just wear T-shirts and sweatshirts because they dress them up a bit. I wear them all the time, and make more for myself and friends whenever I can.” Martin said she has been knitting since elementary school and plans to keep doPhoto by: Camri Mason ing it.

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March 31, 2014 Volume 11 Issue 6

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