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Back to Articles Editorial Back to Sections New Music in our Hallways? Express yourself! By Stephy Varughese Volume 3 Issue 2 December 23, 2022 Image provided by Elaine Ching For years, Valley Stream North High School has been playing music in the hallways for special occasions such as spirit week. Our student body and teachers do not necessarily favor or notice the chosen music being played in the hallways. The music selection is generally lackluster and not loud enough to be heard. The current random selection of songs does not provoke the interest of the students, nor does it uplift the students emotionally. A student-based music committee, responsible for selecting the music that should be played in the hallways, may resolve this issue. The committee should follow basic school guidelines, such as the nonuse of inappropriate language and acceptable innuendos. However, multiple students regardless of their class status, should have an influence on what music should be played in hallways and classrooms. Music is an art form designed to evoke emotion in whoever is listening and the music in the hallways should reflect that. Students should listen to music that makes them feel energized and confident when going to class. Studies show that listening to music can have a positive impact on a person’s mental health. It can also lift the mood of the person who listens to it. When listening to the current songs in the hallways, students often feel unenthusiastic because it holds no significant resonance to them. Why not give our fellow students the self-confidence they need to face their next class with the help of the music they love? Our international students should also be able to express their opinions on the music selections. It is better to listen to authentic cultural music of different backgrounds rather than Disney songs in different languages that are currently being played. Let's face it, we are all not fans of Disney music. A better variety of music would generate a greater understanding and interest in music that people of various cultures are accustomed to. This isn’t limited to traditional songs. If students can listen to modern songs from other countries, then they can get interested in the cultures of other ethnic groups and enjoy the new variety of music. ____ I interviewed several students to ask what they think about the music that plays here at North. Commentators are left anonymous per their request: “There should be a designated group of students that will monitor the music played. There are many times where there are difficulties or poor music choices throughout our current process.” “I think a music committee should be established in North because it can help and further connect the students of North by choosing enjoyable songs for the students to listen to in the hallways. I feel that it is best for fellow students to pick these songs out because it allows for proper song choices that students will actually enjoy, rather than having an older staff member pick a song choice that students wouldn’t find enjoyable. Students will listen to these song choices picked up by their peers and feel better motivated while walking to their next class.” “Music is cool, and I love music and we should open up everyone to all genres to appreciate music as it is.” “There should be a designated group of students that will monitor the music played. There are many times where there are difficulties or poor music choices throughout our current process.” “I believe that we should create a music committee because it allows music from other cultures to be played which makes people feel more included. Also, I think that the speakers in the hallway were too quiet so barely anyone can hear the music.’ ___ Of the students I interviewed, 92% agreed that the music in North needs improvement in the choice of music and the need for a music committee. Most students say that they would like to hear better pop songs, rap, indie, K-pop, and other types of music. It seemed to agree that “less cringy” music, such as songs from movies and musicals, should be played in the halls. What can be done: The music committee shouldn’t be a club or part of a club, but an optional meeting for students interested in deciding what music should be played. Discussions, polling, and active communication would be beneficial to unite students and introduce new songs to them in the process. All music can be filtered through the teacher/advisor’s approval process and can be decided/voted upon what top music students would like to hear. This way, both teachers and students have a firmer acceptance of the choice of songs. Do you want a music committee in North High school or does the current music not affect you? Let us know! E-mail: varughes@vschsd.org BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Sports Back to Sections Damar Hamlin’s Astounding Recovery By Aleeza Dhillon Volume 3 Issue 3 February 24, 2023 Image provided by CNN Damar Hamlin, a professional American football player, suffered an injury during a game in the 2022 season. The injury was a major setback for both Hamlin and his team because it prevented him from playing for multiple weeks. Hamlin is a talented safety who was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2022 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as a key player for the team making a significant impact on the field with his speed and agility. However, during a game in October 2022, Hamlin suffered a knee injury that forced him to leave the field. The extent of Hamlin's injury was initially unclear, and there was concern that it could be a season-ending injury. However, after undergoing tests and evaluations, it was determined that he had suffered a sprained knee and would be out for several weeks. The loss of Hamlin was a major blow to the Steelers. Despite the setback, Hamlin remained positive and focused on his recovery. He was determined to get back on the field as soon as possible and help his team in any way he could. With the support of his coaches, trainers, and teammates, Hamlin worked tirelessly to regain his strength and get back in playing shape. In his first game back, Hamlin made an immediate impact, recording several tackles and interceptions and helping the team secure a much-needed win. From that point on, he was a key contributor for the rest of the season, helping the Steelers reach the playoffs and make a deep run into the post-season. Damar Hamlin's injury was a challenging experience for both the player and his team. However, it also demonstrated the resilience, and strength of the player, as well as the support he received from those around him. Hamlin's return to the field was a testament to his hard work and dedication, and he remains an important player for the Steelers as they look to build on their success in the coming years. BACK TO TOP

Back to Artwork Black American Artists Back to Sections Blue Blood By Martin Puryear February 12, 2021 Volume 1 Issue 5 Medium: Polychromed Pine and Red Cedar, Courtesy National Gallery of Art, Washington

Back to Articles Editorial Back to Sections Political Violence: An Editorial Leah Ally Political violence is defined as acts of terrorism by individuals or groups to display public distaste for opposing viewpoints. Typically, those committing such violent acts have an agenda or political goal in doing so. Whether they are world wars or individual conflicts, political violence has unfortunately proved itself to be very prevalent in history and does not show signs of stopping today. The most recent and prominent example of political violence was the Charlie Kirk shooting that occurred on September 10th, 2025. The right-wing political activist was shot while making an on-campus appearance at Utah Valley University. Immediately, social media sparked controversy surrounding the assassination. Some mourned the death of the 31-year-old, while others expressed their widely differing views with Kirk. Differences in political opinions strongly contributed to the quite strong reactions expressed by individuals online. I strongly believe that this expression of political violence is less about politics and more about ethics. When I discuss ethics, I am referring to morality or behaviors that are typically regarded as good or bad. In this case, I believe that supporting political violence is no better than the act of committing political violence itself. To be clear, this opinion does not only apply to Charlie Kirk’s assassination but also large-scale political violence such as those led by oppressive governments. We are living in a world that wants to censor beliefs and quickly shut down opinions without the opportunity for debate. When I refer to debating, I am not referring to the idea of winning an argument, but rather open-mindedness between and among parties. While this may seem contradictory, the idea behind debates is to express one’s beliefs and support it with evidence in hopes of persuasion. However, effective debate requires the participants and the audience to consider every statement or idea expressed, even if that means not agreeing with the opposing party at all. Either way, the ideas behind debates exemplify the first amendment of the United States Constitution, the freedom of speech. This is significant to the context of political violence, especially when considering the long-lasting impacts such conflicts bestow upon the future of humanity. Political violence not only contributes to censoring politicians or activists, but also to children. This is because political violence becomes more than politics; it unfortunately serves as an example of the cruelty that an individual may be faced with when on the opposing end of a disagreement. Allowing politics to reach this amount of discourse and determine life or death is precisely why people are less likely to share their opinions. Therefore, political violence unfortunately teaches our youth that disagreements are dangerous and should be avoided. However, without differences in opinions and disagreements, there will be no advancement in our country moving forward. We cannot rely on constant agreement and consensus to survive. This not only goes for politics but also science, mathematics, the medical field, creative pursuits, and innovation. As a society that runs on humans, functional stagnation and lack of creativity will not serve the future well. Now that a societal implication of political violence has been identified, let us not forget the human side of political violence. It is a simple concept, yet a struggle for many to grasp when dealing with politics. It is the idea that we are all humans with families and loved ones, regardless of our political opinions. Contrary to widespread belief, empathy is not an on and off button, used whenever it is most convenient. Instead, empathy is a concept that individuals should constantly strive to achieve even in challenging contexts, in this case, politics. Regardless of the political party, group, or organization we adhere to, we are of the same species. We are all human. If this statement appears to imply that humanity is more important than political opinion, then that is the correct interpretation. Humanity is our foundation while politics and social life are merely building blocks that have bolstered themselves off humanity. While, yes, these building blocks are crucial, we cannot disregard the foundation nor sacrifice it. After all, without the foundation, in this case, humanity, our building blocks or politics would also crumble. While this interpretation may appear philosophical, it is currently in effect without many being aware of it. There are solutions. The most effective solution is to lead by example. This solution implies that current politicians, everyday adults, and those in powerful positions hold the responsibility of demonstrating the benefits of differing opinions. Classroom learning may appear to be another effective method; however, it does not compare to education from real life events. We must make it a safe world to ethically argue and debate if our hope is for our country to succeed. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Polaris Back to Sections Echoes of You Navrosedip Kundlas Volume 5 Issue 2 November 25, 2024 Image Provided by Elaine Ching In quiet moments, shadows cast, A laughter echoes from the past. Cousin, friend, with spirit bright, Now lost to us, like stars at night. Memories linger, bittersweet, In every smile, in every heartbeat. The games we played, the dreams we shared, In every corner, your spirit’s bared. Time moves on, yet still I stand, With heavy heart and empty hand. Your voice, a melody in the breeze, A whispered comfort, a gentle tease. Though distance stretches, love remains, A bond that time can’t break or change. In every tear and every sigh, You live within me, never goodbye. So here I hold your memory dear, In every moment, you are near. Though we must part, this truth holds fast: Love knows no end; it ever lasts. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles News Back to Sections North Star Club and Mrs. Byrne By Jeselys Vazquez Volume 2 Issue 3 January 14, 2022 Original photography by Christy Mansfield Hello, my name is Jeselys Naylana Vazquez and I’m in 10th grade! I’ve recently joined North Star. It is club where you write new articles about different topics of the month or your choice of what you decide to write about. I’ve always wanted to join a club but never made the time to manage my schedule to make time for it. I feel like a lot of people have the same issue or just forget about it, until at the worst times it comes to mind. My 8th period teacher Mrs. Byrne, the lovely, sweet lady in room 113, assigns her students a quick assignment on watching a video or reading an article and explain our personal thoughts or ideas about it. Sometimes in class on Fridays, she tells her students to check out the North Star page, choose an article we’d like to read, and tell her what we learned or what we got from it. I enjoyed the times we read the articles from our smart and inspiring writers. It really helps and educates readers in a variety of subject areas. Every time she read my response or called on me to tell her what I learned about the article I read because she was pleased with my answers. She asked me why don’t I join the Poetry Club or the North Star ? I said, I’ll think about it”. I asked the leader of the club if I could still join, and she said, “Yes!” Here, I am writing my first article for the North Star and starting to pursue more of what I love, which is writing. Thank you, Mrs. Byrne! And thank you North Star. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Sports Back to Sections Interview With the Seniors of Varsity Boys’ Lacrosse Team Rehmat Kaur Volume 5 Issue 5 July 5, 2025 Image Provided by mediabymarky on Instagram The district Boys’ Lacrosse team had officially started their season, featuring many of our dedicated North athletes. Among them, the senior players stood out, not only for their exceptional skills on the field but also for their commitment to the sport. Over the years, they have demonstrated leadership, perseverance, and a deep passion for lacrosse, inspiring many young players, and have contributed greatly to the team's overall success. I had the opportunity to sit down with some of these seniors to learn more about their experiences, both in lacrosse and beyond. We talked about their journey with the sport, their goals for the season, and even a little about who they are off the field. It was great to talk to them and get a glimpse into their lives as both athletes and individuals. Here is what they had to share: Imran Paul Paul plays as a short-stick defensive midfielder (SSDM), but he also takes on the offensive middie position when needed, making him, as he describes, “more like a two-way” player. What initially drew him to lacrosse was “the contact, because I wanted to do something in the offseason that involved contact. I didn’t wrestle because I ran track in the winter, so I started playing lacrosse.” Even before joining the team last year, Paul was already familiar with the sport, having grown up on Long Island, where lacrosse is widely popular. “I started picking it up just from being around it,” he says. Paul admits that when he first started playing, he “wasn’t definitely as confident, especially with the stick work,” but over time, with more practice and game experience, he felt himself improving. “Once I started practicing more and got used to playing in games, I definitely became more confident. And now I’m pretty excited for the season!” Looking back, he wishes he had known just how much stick work matters, rather than relying solely on physicality. “You can’t just try to run through people. You also have to use your stick work and kind of have it as an extension of your body,” he explains, noting how mastering this skill was a game-changer for him. When it comes to handling nerves, especially in high-pressure moments, he focuses on staying locked in. “During close games, you kind of have to keep playing and not let the nerves get to you—just find your state and stay within it.” One of Paul’s favorite memories on the field was last season’s rainy game against Freeport. “It was great for lacrosse. We were sliding all around, and we won, too. I did pretty good in that game—I think I had like three goals and one assist. Yeah, so it was definitely a fun game!” As an athlete, he takes pride in his physicality and strong work ethic. “I’m a pretty physical player in terms of contact sports, and I also think my work ethic stands out. When I get tired, I’m really good at keeping myself going and not giving in to that.” If he could give his freshman self any advice, it would be to take chances and step outside his comfort zone. “Be open to trying new things. When I was a freshman, most of the stuff I did was because my sisters did it. It wasn’t until last year that I started playing lacrosse, and now I realize I would rather play lacrosse than do anything else. So definitely try new things.” Looking ahead, Paul hopes to make this season one to remember. What is your favorite type of play or move in lacrosse? Imran: “Roll dodge, it’s pretty effective.” What is one part of your training routine that you think helps you the most? Imran: “Probably dodging drills and ground ball drills because especially as a D-Meddie a lot of your roles picking up ground balls and especially in a scrum. The ground ball drills we do like in the beginning of games or in the beginning of practices really help a lot and gets me ready to play.” Do you prefer practice or games? Why? Imran: “Definitely games because in practice we are still told to go 100% but like you don’t want to go full force on your teammate like try to knock them down but in games it’s definitely more fun cause you could be more physical.” What is your jersey number and why did you choose that number? Imran “My jersey number for all numbered sports is #5 and it’s because my mom and I were born on the 5th.” Who is your favorite athlete? (In general, and for lacrosse) Imran: “In general Saquon Barkley (football running back) and for lacrosse I will definitely say Lyle Thompson (lacrosse attacker), he’s really good.” What is a non-sports-related activity that you enjoy? Imran: “Making bracelets is fun.” Favorite TV show? Imran: “Naruto: Shippuden, that show is life changing.” If your team had to compete in a different sport, which one would you guys do well in? Imran: “Football, because a lot of us are football players.” What is your definition of success? Imran: “Being happy with yourself; with who you are. As long as what you are doing is good for you and everybody around you. Just not being comparative and figuring out what’s best for you.” Leden Sarmiento Sarmiento plays attack and takes on the role of a FOGO (Face-Off Get-Off), explaining, “FOGO is basically face-off, and then I switch my stick and move to attack.” He first got into lacrosse through his older brother, who’s three years older, and even had the chance to play alongside him during his freshman year. His brother played a big role in getting him to join the team, and since then, lacrosse has become a big part of his life. When he started, he didn’t pick it up right away, but the more he played, the faster he improved. As he puts it, his progress came naturally over time, and with more experience, his skills developed at a much quicker pace. When it comes to nerves before a game, Sarmiento does not let them affect him. He rarely gets nervous, and even when he does, he does not focus on it too much. Instead, he just goes with the flow and stays in the moment, making sure to enjoy the experience rather than overthink it. If he could give his younger self any advice, it would be to put in the effort year-round. “Work hard in the offseason. Don’t slack—that’s how you get the starting position.” It is a mindset he still follows today, always looking for ways to improve and grow as a player. As for what makes him stand out as an athlete, Sarmiento credits his speed and agility. “I’m small, so I don’t really have strength. I have to make up for it by being faster and more agile,” he explains. He also believes his ability to stay composed before a game gives him an edge. Over the years, lacrosse has taught him the importance of discipline, especially the value of staying committed during the offseason and always putting his best effort on the field. Do you have a favorite meal or snack before or after a game? Leden: “After the game, our home field is right by a bagel shop. I usually get a bacon, egg, and cheese after the game.” What is your jersey number and why did you choose that number? Leden: “#2 or #18 ; Number 2 just because I have always worn #2 , and #18 for Peyton Manning (Football quarterback) but officially #2 .” What are your favorite drills or plays? Leden: “My favorite drill is the usual 6 on 6 halfcourt or half field. We don’t have plays but another one of my favorite drills would be downhill attacking and passing and shooting.” Do you watch NCAA or PLL games? Any favorite team? Leden: “From PLL my favorite team is Atlas, obviously because of New York. Who is your favorite professional athlete? (In general, and for lacrosse) Leden: “I don’t know any lacrosse players, but my favorite athlete is Daniel Jones.” What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you? Leden: “Probably that I like it paint, the models (from Dungeons & Dragons).” If you could live in any fictional world, which would it be and why? Leden: “How to Train Your Dragon, 100%” What is your favorite movie and TV show? Leden: “Favorite movie is The Sandlot and favorite tv show is Gravity Falls.” What is your definition of success? Leden: “Achieving your dreams, as long as you achieve your dreams, you’re successful in life.” Luke Tartamella Tartamella plays an attacking role for the team, where his main responsibility is to "pass the bowl around and keep it moving." His journey in lacrosse began at a young age, around four years old, thanks to the encouragement and support of his parents, who introduced him to the sport and signed him up. Reflecting on those early days, he shares, "I enjoyed playing it, so I stuck with it," adding that he quickly caught up and developed his skills. One of the aspects Tartamella values most about his lacrosse experience is the camaraderie and fun he shares with his teammates, especially the moments spent "messing around after practice" that help create lasting memories. Although nerves can sometimes creep in before a game, he reminds himself to "have fun" and to always give his absolute best when stepping onto the field. Among his greatest strengths as an athlete, Tartamella cites his confidence, particularly his willingness "to try something new. As he enters his final season with the lacrosse team, his goals are clear: to enjoy every moment, build lasting memories with his teammates, and "win a bunch of games" before his time with the team ends. What is your jersey number and why did you choose that number? Luke: “I chose #20 and it’s just a good luck number that I have been using since I was 4 or 5 years old.” Do you watch NCAA or PLL games? Any favorite team? Luke: “I don’t watch a lot of games; I do watch college, and my favorite team is Navy.” What is your favorite movie and TV show? Luke: “My favorite movie is Epic, and my favorite TV show is SpongeBob.” Who is an athlete that you admire? (In general, and for lacrosse)? Luke: “From any sport, I’d say Matt Ryan (football quarterback) or Julio Jones (football wide receiver) but for lacrosse Paul Rabil.” If you could have dinner with any famous person, past or present, who would it be? Luke: “I’d have dinner with Tom Brady” If you could learn a new skill outside of sports, what would it be? Luke: “I’d learn how to do a backflip; I think that would be pretty cool to do.” What is the most random fact you know? “I might be wrong, but I think Genghis Khan got rid of like 70% of carbon emissions.” How would you describe lacrosse to someone who has never heard of it? Luke: “It’s like a mix of soccer, hockey, and football I'd say. It’s the physicality of football and then the conditioning and athleticism of soccer and hockey.” What is your definition of success? Luke: “If I had fun, if it was a good day and I consider it successful! I think just getting what needs to be done, done.” Thank you so much to these wonderful athletes and I hope they make North proud! Go Spartans! BACK TO TOP

< Back About the Course This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. Want to view and manage all your collections? Click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left. Here, you can make changes to your content, add new fields, create dynamic pages and more. Your collection is already set up for you with fields and content. Add your own content or import it from a CSV file. Add fields for any type of content you want to display, such as rich text, images, and videos. Be sure to click Sync after making changes in a collection, so visitors can see your newest content on your live site. Your Instructor Ashley Amerson This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. To manage all your collections, click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left.

Back to Articles Feature Back to Sections North's Hidden Gems Rachel Ezeadichie Volume 5 Issue 4 April 8, 2025 Image Provided by Rachael Ezeadichie While most students at North High School are engrossed in their studies, academics are not the only opportunities children have access to here. Students can always join one of the many clubs at our school, whether it’s B.S.U. or S.T.O.P., or something else that interests them (acronym optional). One of the lesser-known clubs at Valley Stream North is the Weightlifting Club. Recently, I have started to attend their meetings and have found a welcoming community and an opportunity to improve my strength and health. The Weightlifting Club at VSN meets every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in the weight room (which has been moved to the wrestling room) from 2:45 to 3:30. Despite its name, the Weightlifting Club is not just for lifting weights, but for anyone who wants a place to work out after school without having to commit to joining a sport for the semester. When I first started going in early December, I was nervous as I was not used to working out using the equipment there, and I had never been in that “gym environment” outside of Phys. Ed. But, after just one session, I had already started feeling more comfortable with working out on the machines and accepting help when it came to correcting my form and technique. While I was there, I had the opportunity to interview Coach Dias, the club’s advisor, and ask him some questions about the club and its community: Who is welcome to join the club? Dias: Everyone is welcome. There are no restrictions. What characteristics and activities do the club promote? Dias: It’s a fitness and weightlifting club, so it promotes fitness, people lifting weights to get stronger for either a sport or just to look better and feel better. Do you enjoy being the club’s advisor? Dias: I think, for the most part, there’s a nice comradery among all the people that come here, it’s a good group. Everyone helps each other. Obviously, I tried to help people with how they’re doing their exercises, but it really is a nice group. What would you say to someone who is hesitant or debating joining? Dias: Well, if you’re hesitant or debating whether to join because you feel self-conscious, it’s a very good group. Everyone helps each other; there’s nobody here that’s super-advanced to where you would feel inferior. So, I think everyone should give it a chance. You’re going to feel better, you’re going to look better, and you’re going to have more confidence in everything else that you do. The Weightlifting Club is one of North’s hidden gems, a part of the school that I am glad to have discovered. Even if you’re only slightly interested, consider visiting and see if it is a community right for you. BACK TO TOP

Back to Artwork Heckscher Back to Sections Heckscher - Anonymous - 2 Entry 8 April 14, 2022 Watercolor Volume 2 Issue 6