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The student news site of Bernards High School

The Crimson

The student news site of Bernards High School

The Crimson

The student news site of Bernards High School

The Crimson

Ava Highland

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief

Ava is a Senior at BHS, and in her fourth year of Journalism! Ava is one of this years Editors in Chief and runs the Crimson Instagram account! Ava enjoys playing tennis for the school team, and is the chair of the advertising committee for the Pinnacle. She is also in Yearbook, Book Club, and Key Club!

All content by Ava Highland
FenceSitter Films hosts its first festival at the Bernardsville Cinema

FenceSitter Films hosts its first festival at the Bernardsville Cinema

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
May 13, 2024

From April 18 to the 21st the historic Bernardsville Cinema was home to the first annual FenceSitter Films festival. Kyle Schickenet at FenceSitter hosted the 4 day event, welcoming everyone to celebrate...

Instagram privacy settings do not always create safe media conditions

Social media creates an unsafe environment for its users

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
April 11, 2024

In a time surrounded by technology, it yields many pros yet still has great detrimental effects. People of all ages are often found scrolling through social media platforms on a routinely basis. However,...

BHS host its first St. Baldricks head shaving event

The Crimson covers the first St. Baldrick's head shaving event in honor of Campbell Hoyt.  Watch one of our own get his head shaved for a great cause.

Two iced coffees pictured inside of the Barrister Coffee House

Basking Ridge welcomes new small businesses

Gianna Galesi and Ava Highland
February 25, 2024

Two iced coffees pictured inside of the Barrister Coffee House

Changes to community service at BHS

Changes to community service at BHS

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
March 2, 2024

As the 2023-2024 school year is nearly halfway through, the recent changes to the community service have seen much excitement and involvement. Sophomores and freshmen are now required to complete 20 hours...

Taylor Swift performs live in concert

Taylor Swift announces new album “The Tortured Poets Department”

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
February 29, 2024

The typical unlucky number 13 was once again favorable for Taylor Swift at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards. Attending with 12 Grammys under her belt, fans anticipated an announcement from Swift, should she...

The Crimson and the Bernardian Staff receiving awards for the yearbook and the newspaper. From left to right: Matt Mariani '24, Rose Costello '24, Abby Medina '24, Madison Ferruggia '24, Ava Highland '24, Claire Taylor '25, Ari Rosen '25

The Crimson’s fall GSSPA conference awards

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
December 12, 2023

On Monday, October 30, 2023, the Garden State Scholastic Press Association (GSSPA), hosted their Fall Press Day at Rutgers University’s Busch Campus Center. The GSSPA welcomes high school newspaper and...

'1989 Taylor's Version' played on a record player

[Photo] Taylor Swift releases the much anticipated ‘1989 (Taylor’s Version)’

Neve Meiner, Staff Writer
December 11, 2023

'1989 Taylor's Version' played on a record player

The cast and crew for Julia Schnarr's "Relentless Refection"

Ridge alumni Julia Schnarr creates short film “Relentless Reflection”

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
December 8, 2023

Hidden within an 80s inspired horror story, the upcoming short film “Relentless Reflection” will tackle themes of trauma, abuse, self-discovery, and introspection. Director and Ridge High School...

The credits for "Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour" shows appreciation for fans and viewers

[Photo] “Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour” allows all fans the concert experience

Madison Ferruggia, News and In-Depth Editor
November 21, 2023

The credits for "Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour" shows appreciation for fans and viewers

The Care Solace website, where Bernards High School students and families can access all of the Care Solace materials provided by the program.

Bernards High School introduces Care Solace

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
November 10, 2023

As of October 1, 2023, Bernards High School officially partnered with Care Solace. The organization provides service to families in finding a personal counselor, substance or addiction treatment programs,...

Taylor Swift performing in her nationwide "Era's Tour"

[Photo] Taylor Swift’s private jet use sparks environmental controversy

Madison Ferruggia, News and In-Depth Editor
November 3, 2023

Taylor Swift performing in her nationwide "Era's Tour"

Landscape of the field where the horses race at the Hunt

[Photo] Far Hills Race Meeting drives family traditions

Ava Jean, Staff Writer
October 31, 2023

Landscape of the field where the horses race at the Hunt

A student listens to songs by Taylor Swift on Spotify

[Photo] Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce presumed relationship sparks controversy in the NFL

Rajan Gandhi, Opinions Editor
October 17, 2023

A student listens to songs by Taylor Swift on Spotify

A photo taken by a student viewing the film in theaters

[Photo] Taylor Swift: “The Eras Tour” comes to theaters

Rose Costello, Opinions Editor
October 20, 2023

A photo taken by a student viewing the film in theaters

Chef David Burke stands out front of the Bernards Inn

Renowned chef David Burke partners with the Bernards Inn

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
October 5, 2023

Since 1907, the historic Bernards Inn has been a staple destination in Bernardsville. With staircase posts, railings, and balusters that came from the original Plaza Hotel in New York City, the inn has...

Allen Thurlow and Jim Goodwin with their album "Songs From Home"

Local teachers create an album of inspiring messages

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
May 25, 2023

On June 10th, Bedwell’s beloved Allen Thurlow, alongside friend and fellow teacher Jim Goodwin, will be releasing their 6 song EP, “Songs From Home.” Being written in the midst of a difficult...

April issue of the Crimson that was worked on very hard by the entirety of the staff

[Photo] Crimson staff Seniors

Jane Holmes, Editor-In-Chief
May 4, 2023

April issue of the Crimson that was worked on very hard by the entirety of the staff

Scotti's Record Shop in Summit, New Jersey, taking part in Record Store Day

Annual Record Store Day celebration returns

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
April 25, 2023

On April 22, 2023, music fans and record collectors lined up outside of their local record store in hopes to purchase different artists exclusive vinyls. This year’s Record Store Day releases ranged...

Lyrics from Taylor Swift's "Paris" on her recent album "Midnights."

Taylor Swift entitled to privacy following her breakup

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
April 20, 2023

On April 8 rumors quickly spread that singer-songwriter, Taylor Swift, and actor, Joe Alwyn, had broken up. Entertainment Tonight was the first to report on the news, and CNN quickly followed up with...

Jon Hart, a "New York Times" featured author, releases his debut novel

Jon Hart’s debut novel sends an important message to high school students

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
April 20, 2023

As high school seniors approach “Decision Day” and juniors continue exploring schools that interest them, a stigma over choosing which school to attend still lies: The idea that you must go to a college...

Taylor Swift’s post on Instagram for night one of her tour

Taylor Swift begins her “Eras Tour”

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
March 20, 2023

On Friday, March 17th, Taylor took to the stage in Glendale, Arizona, for the opening night of “The Eras Tour.” Swift performed for just over three hours with a setlist that included 44 songs. Each...

Lobby of new local coffee shop, located on Claremont Road.

New coffee grounds hitting Bernardsville grounds

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
March 15, 2023

Lobby of new local coffee shop, located on Claremont Road.

Website lobby for BookSmiles, the nonprofit organization that the book club is supporting

Book club works to raise for BookSmiles

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
February 6, 2023

Website lobby for BookSmiles, the nonprofit organization that the book club is supporting

Ellen DeGeneres' post on Instagram as a tribute to tWitch

tWitch’s death sparks concerns and conversations about mental health

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
January 30, 2023

Ellen DeGeneres' post on Instagram as a tribute to tWitch

An episode of season two of "Ginny and Georgia" on Netflix

[Photo] “Ginny and Georgia” returns for a second season

Rose Costello, Opinions Editor
January 8, 2023

An episode of season two of "Ginny and Georgia" on Netflix

Bernardsville's Bagel Bin announces official closing of business in November of 2022.

Bernardsville Bagel Bin closes business

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
December 12, 2022

For the past 30 years, Bagel Bin has been a staple in Olcott square. Now, however, because of “downtown revitalization” Bagel Bin has officially closed its doors to the Bernardsville community.    On...

The Crimson's Journalistic Awards from the The Garden State Scholastic Press Association's Fall Conference

The Bernardian and Crimson bring home awards

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
November 29, 2022

The Crimson's Journalistic Awards from the The Garden State Scholastic Press Association's Fall Conference

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome back Bernards Alum Shane Rich, co-creator of The Crimson Podcast, for an interview.

[Photo] Interview w/ Shane Rich

Matt Lesnik, Spencer Saltz, Matt Mariani, and Ari Rosen
November 23, 2022

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome back Bernards Alum Shane Rich, co-creator of The Crimson Podcast, for an interview.

Showing of the fall play, performed on November,  Friday 18th and Saturday, the 19th

[Photo] Review of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” Play

Emma Swope, Entertainment Editor
November 19, 2022

Showing of the fall play, performed on November, Friday 18th and Saturday, the 19th

The trailer of "Avatar: The  Way of Water" on Youtube

[Photo] Finally; Avatar: The Way of Water and more!

Victoria Brothers, Staff Writer
November 21, 2022

The trailer of "Avatar: The Way of Water" on Youtube

The Bernardian and the Crimson won a total of 11 awards between individual and overall.

The Crimson and Bernardian staff attend GSSPA

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
November 7, 2022

The Bernardian and the Crimson won a total of 11 awards between individual and overall.

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome Bernards quarterback Connor Laverty on the show for an interview.

[Photo] Interview w/ Connor Laverty

Matt Lesnik, Spencer Saltz, Matt Mariani, and Ari Rosen
September 29, 2022

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome Bernards quarterback Connor Laverty on the show for an interview.

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, Mr. Simoneau, the head coach of the Bernards football team, comes on for an interview.

[Photo] Interview w/ Coach Simoneau

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, Mr. Simoneau, the head coach of the Bernards football team, comes on for an interview.

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome on Hope Kaczynski, goalie of the Bernards Field Hockey team, on for an interview.

[Photo] Interview w/ Hope Kaczynski

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome on Hope Kaczynski, goalie of the Bernards Field Hockey team, on for an interview.

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome on Pat Griffin, captain of the boys Cross Country team.

[Photo] Interview w/ Pat Griffin

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome on Pat Griffin, captain of the boys Cross Country team.

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome on Enzo Britez, one of the captains of the Bernards football team.

[Photo] Interview w/ Enzo Britez

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome on Enzo Britez, one of the captains of the Bernards football team.

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome on Syd Incarnato, captain of the Bernards girls soccer team.

[Photo] Interview w/ Syd Incarnato

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome on Syd Incarnato, captain of the Bernards girls soccer team.

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast the guys welcomed on Annie Kaczynski, captain of the Bernards Girl's Cross Country Team.

[Photo] Interview w/ Annie Kaczynski

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast the guys welcomed on Annie Kaczynski, captain of the Bernards Girl's Cross Country Team.

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome on Jake Ballard, RJ Bubnowski, Josh Kutakoff, Gabe McKinlay, Tim Pagonis, and Logan Ritchie on for a group interview.

[Photo] Interview w/ the Mountaineers Offensive Line

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome on Jake Ballard, RJ Bubnowski, Josh Kutakoff, Gabe McKinlay, Tim Pagonis, and Logan Ritchie on for a group interview.

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome on Mrs. Samson, coach of the Bernards girls cross country team.

[Photo] Interview w/ Coach Samson

On this episode of The Crimson Podcast, the guys welcome on Mrs. Samson, coach of the Bernards girls cross country team.

Swift's new "Midnights" album premiers on Spotify on October 21st

The release of Taylor Swift’s “Midnights” album pleases fans

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
November 3, 2022

Swift's new "Midnights" album premiers on Spotify on October 21st

A collection of popular novels, including those which were restricted

Schools and libraries deserve greater freedoms with book selections

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
October 11, 2022

In 2012, attorney and activist, Reshma Saujani founded the company Girls Who Code. On the company’s official website Saujani explains that she “visited local schools and saw the gender gap in computing...

Trisha Paytas' Instagram announcement about her daughter, Malibu Barbie's birth.

[Photo] Internet star Trisha Paytas has her first child

Lucinda Putnam, Staff Writer
September 16, 2022

Trisha Paytas' Instagram announcement about her daughter, Malibu Barbie's birth.

New episodes of "The Handmaid's Tale" on Hulu every Wednesday

[Photo] ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ releases it’s new season

Morgan Sikes, Staff Writer
September 16, 2022

New episodes of "The Handmaid's Tale" on Hulu every Wednesday

Johnny Depp's statement  posted on Instagram following the release of the verdict.

Johnny Depp & Amber Heard Verdict

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
June 3, 2022

Johnny Depp's statement posted on Instagram following the release of the verdict.

Part of the Supreme Court's leaked draft

The overturning of Roe v. Wade could effect more than just abortion rights

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
May 14, 2022

On January 22, 1973, the Supreme court case Roe v. Wade “struck down a Texas statute banning abortion, effectively legalizing the procedure across the United States,” according to HISTORY.com. The...

Photo of Bagel Bin building in Olcott Square in Bernardsville.

Downtown redevelopment threatens Bagel Bin closure

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
April 8, 2022

Located in Olcott Square, the beloved Bagel Bin has been serving the community for the past 30 years, as their doors first opened on December 15, 1992. Now, with plans for redevelopment in downtown...

The "Little Shop Of Horrors" cast performs their finale song

BHS theater program presents “Little Shop of Horrors”

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
March 14, 2022

On March 4, 2022, the BHS Theater program returned for a production of, “Little Shop of Horrors.” The opening performance was followed by three additional shows; Two on Saturday March 5, and the final...

Snoop Dogg's half-time show performance at the Super Bowl

[Photo] Super bowl LVI’s halftime show brings fans back in time

March 7, 2022

Snoop Dogg's half-time show performance at the Super Bowl

Night of the Stars promotional poster

Night of the Stars returns after COVID absence

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
January 25, 2022

The beloved senior class event, Night of the Stars, has returned for the 2022 graduating class. As explained by Lis Loeb, a chair member of Project Graduation, “the Class of 2020 attended Night of the...

View of the Media Center

Media Center reopens for after school use

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
December 20, 2021

After having almost no use in the 2020-2021 school year, the media center will now be open for use after school. Dr. Neigel says that in previous years, it was “typically a quiet area for students...

Taylor Swift releases "Red (Taylor's Version)"

Taylor Swift releases “Red (Taylor’s Version)”

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
November 15, 2021

After releasing “Fearless (Taylor’s Version)” in April of 2021, Taylor Swift has moved on to the next album in her re-recording process, “Red (Taylor’s Version) was released on November 12, 2021. The...

"Winter Break" coming to you soon

“Winter Break” coming to you soon

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
October 29, 2021

The young actors and actresses of Bernards High School have returned for the 2021 Fall Play. This year's show is Winter Break, by Joe Calacro. Maddie Bozack, playing a leading role of Brett, describes...

Ellen DeGeneres show to end in 2022

Ellen DeGeneres show to end in 2022

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
May 26, 2021

The daytime talk show host, Ellen DeGeneres, has announced the end to her show after the upcoming 19th season. On her show and in a recent interview with Savannah Guthrie on the Today show, DeGeneres explained...

Preview of the Met Gala 2021

Preview of the Met Gala 2021

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
May 12, 2021

While it is typically held on the first Monday of May, the Met Gala 2021 will instead be held on September 13. And, as opposed to being its usual large event, this year it will be more intimate.  With...

Taylor Swift Releases Re-Recorded Album "Fearless"

Taylor Swift Releases Re-Recorded Album “Fearless”

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
April 29, 2021

The singer/songwriter Taylor Swift has done it again. She has both shocked her fans and made them proud. Swift has recently begun the process of re-recording and re-releasing her first six albums. Starting...

Freshman becomes NJ.com girls fencer of the year

Freshman becomes NJ.com girls fencer of the year

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
April 12, 2021

Brianna Ho, a freshman at BHS, began devoting her time to fencing almost 7 years ago. Her and her older brother Ryan began fencing at the same time, and it has been a big part of their lives ever since....

#RespectTaylorSwift Trends on Twitter After Netflix Show Makes Degrading Comment About the Singer

#RespectTaylorSwift Trends on Twitter After Netflix Show Makes Degrading Comment About the Singer

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
March 16, 2021

It is no secret that the singer-songwriter Taylor Swift has had a lot of past relationships, since she has famously used these experiences to write some of her most popular songs. She received backlash...

Are students able to complete the curriculum?

Are students able to complete the curriculum?

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
March 4, 2021

As we approach the middle of the third marking period, members of the school community might start to wonder, are students able to complete the curriculum? With shortened periods, school days and half...

How the Fall Play Will Look During the Pandemic

How the Fall Play Will Look During the Pandemic

Ava Highland, Editor-In-Chief
February 18, 2021

During a typical school year the fall play at BHS would consist of singing, dancing, costumes, set pieces, and of course acting. However, this is not a typical school year. So, in addition to this unusual...

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