Back to Articles Advice Back to Sections Ask Ala: Valentines Day: Two Years Since the Start of COVID-19 By Alicja Paruch Volume 2 Issue 4 February 10, 2022 Image provided by The Sun Hello Ala! What can I do for Valentine’s Day this year? It has been two years since covid-19 initially shut down most of the world. Many activities, including Valentine’s Day gifting, have drastically shifted, for many from in-person to online. Many had to send gifts to their loved ones directly before vaccines became widely available. Now, with more opportunities, these special occasions can become exciting again. If you are planning to celebrate Valentine’s Day, I recommend going back to the traditional activities, and putting on a little twist if necessary. In order to relate to the traditional part of Valentine's Day celebrations, I recommend dining out or seeing a movie at the theatre. Though, as times progress and knowing that every relationship is different, you can consider other options! You can go to the mall, try to pick out outfits for each other, or buy matching jewelry. You can also try baking cookies or some type of dessert (check out the National Baking Month in North Star ’s last issue for some yummy recipes). In my mind, Valentine’s Day can definitely be celebrated around traditional activities, but in your relationship, you should make it about yourself! Do something that you enjoy, so that you have fun! Feel free to think outside of the box and enjoy your day together! BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Sports Back to Sections Break Dancing to Become Olympic Sport for the First Time in 2024 By Carolina Grace Figueroa Volume 1 Issue 7 April 22, 2021 Image provided by ABC News The Olympic Games are international multi-sporting events that feature summer and winter sports competitions during which thousands of athletes from around the world participate in a variety of competitions. More than 200 nations take part in this global athletic sports festival, with the ultimate goal of cultivating people and contributing to unity and world peace through sports. The Olympic Games are normally held every four years, alternating between the Summer and Winter Olympics every two years in the four-year period. The Summer Games were scheduled for Tokyo, Japan in July and August 2020, but were delayed for a year due to the Covid pandemic. They will now take place in July and August 2021 and will not allow spectators from overseas. The International Olympic Committee (IOC), which oversees the global sporting competition, has chosen three new sports to enter the Tokyo 2021 Olympic Program, which are surfing, skateboarding, and sport climbing. In addition, the IOC has announced that break dancing (also known as “breaking”) has been named an official Olympic sport and will first appear at the 2024 Summer Games to be held in Paris, France. Breaking was the only new sport chosen to make its debut in 2024, hoping to attract and appeal to younger audiences. Breaking is an athletic style of street dance that originated in New York in the early 1970’s. It is a full body activity and a high-energy dance, also known as “B-boying” or “B-girling”, that involves moving to hip hop music. It looks like a combination of dance, gymnastics, acrobatics, and martial arts. Break dancers do hand glides, head spins, and back spins using fluid athletic moves and stylized fast footwork. Breaking mainly consists of four kinds of movement, which are toprock, downrock, powermoves, and freezes. There are bursts of flips, spins, kicks, and freezes. Two very famous break dancing moves are known as “the moonwalk” and “the worm”. This cool form of dance was created as part of the early hip hop movement. Break dancing is popular all over the world, highly creative, and has always included a competitive element, with dancers trying to outdo each other in one-on-one dance “battles”. The next step is for break dancers from around the world to start preparing for 2024. Those dancers with dreams of winning an Olympic medal can train, plan, and prepare their break dancing routines, which will be judged in six categories: creativity, technique, variety, performance, musicality, and personality, There is no system in place yet to decide who will be chosen for the Olympics, but many founders of the break dancing movement are expected to help younger competitors prepare and motivate to train those who are gearing up to compete at the Olympic level. Break dancing will attract more youthful athletes and is a more urban dance style sport that will guarantee high levels of entertainment and much competition at the Summer Olympic Games in 2024. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Feature Back to Sections Juneteenth Leah Ally Volume 5 Issue 1 September 20, 2024 Image Provided by Elaine Ching Also known as Emancipation Day, Freedom Day, Black Independence Day, and Jubilee Day, Juneteenth has only become recognized as a national holiday within the past three years. However, it has a rich, complex history that has been around since 1866. But why was Juneteenth only made a national holiday recently? And why is it celebrated? Celebrated on June 19th, Juneteenth celebrates the emancipation of slaves in the United States following the Civil War. It was first celebrated in Galveston, Texas where on June 19th, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger announced the following, “The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free” (Associated Press, 2023). This meant slavery was no longer permitted and African Americans were ensured personal rights. Celebrations immediately began with parades and readings of the Emancipation Proclamation. This marked a second Independence Day as African Americans gaining their inalienable rights were compared to 1776 when the U.S. gained independence from Great Britain. Not only were African Americans and formerly enslaved people now free but they had more opportunities than ever before. For instance, some worked for more social reform or even attempted to run for office. It is crucial to understand that without the 13th Amendment, this social change would have never been possible. Even though Abraham Lincoln began the movement by declaring the Emancipation Proclamation during the Civil War, it only freed slaves in Confederate states, while the 13th Amendment freed slaves nationally (Taylor, 2024). As stated by Abraham Lincoln, “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.” However, this amendment did not prevent a new form of slavery that would soon emerge. Law enforcement took advantage of the phrase “...except as a punishment for crime” and would arrest or hurt African Americans for small inconveniences. Regardless of the long history that Juneteenth has in the United States, it only became a national holiday on June 19th, 2021. It stems from the protests against police brutality in 2020 with the most well-known example being George Floyd’s death. During this time, the Black Lives Matter movement also known as BLM was prompted and as a result, sparked conversations concerning racial justice and equality. Prior to Joe Biden signing Juneteenth as a federal holiday, it was a lengthy process. It began with 96-year-old Opal Lee, a dedicated activist who was the first to begin a campaign advocating for Juneteenth to be a national holiday. After rallies and support for the holiday by many citizens, The United States House of Representatives officially voted on the bill and received over 400 votes in favor of it (Taylor 2024). It was then implemented and effective immediately. Similar to Juneteenth celebrations in 1866 and other current national holidays, festivities include processions and community events with food and games. However, it is important to recognize that Juneteenth is more than a day off work or school, it is a celebration of freedom and equality for all. Since Juneteenth was declared as an official holiday, it has created more public awareness and education for all. By bringing attention to this news especially for young people that are continuously getting the opportunities to learn more about the struggles and challenges their country has faced and are still facing. Historical figures such as Martin Luther King Jr, Malcolm X, and many others have spent their lives working for not only African American equality but also the chance for recognition and celebrating black individuals. Juneteenth is only a small example of the many ways the United States has progressed in enforcing remembrance and reflection that paves the way for a more inclusive society. Juneteenth stands as a powerful symbol of freedom and resilience, marking the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and the ongoing quest for equality and justice. It deserves to be commemorated not only because of its significance in history but also because there are over 40 million African Americans in the United States who make contributions to politics, the economy, and society every day. Sources: Juneteenth: The History - The New York Times ( nytimes.com ) The Story Behind Juneteenth and How It Became a Federal Holiday | Chicago News | WTTW 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is Passed | National Museum of African American History and Culture ( si.edu ) Juneteenth | National Museum of African American History and Culture ( si.edu ) BACK TO TOP

Back to Artwork Back to Sections Quinn O'Connor By Quinn O'Connor Volume 3 Issue 1

Back to Articles Polaris Back to Sections Easier Times Elaine Ching Volume 4 Issue 4 May 29, 2024 Image Provided by Annie Diep I often find myself wishing for “ the easier times ”. Older Simpler Happier “ easier times ” When things weren’t as hard Earlier bedtime. Less homework. Longer playtimes. When you didn’t find yourself wishing for peace as much Blissful ignorance of everything going on. Not a care in the world. Nothing really mattered to you. When responsibility wasn’t automatically passed into your hands A bigger hand to hold onto. The safety net of someone older helping you. The knowledge that you weren’t completely on your own. When you weren’t anywhere close to growing up 18 seemed millenniums away. Forever 10. Meant to be a child. Yet here we are. One year away from being “an adult” Trying to check off all the “serious, adult, big kid, grown up” to do’s College, SAT, ACT, “Prom!”, etc. All the “You’ll understand when you’re older.” things We may be older now, but I still don’t think our maturity is “were” it’s supposed to be. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Polaris Back to Sections Morning Roast By Erin St. Angelo Volume 1 Issue 4 January 20, 2021 Original artwork by Kimberly Shrestha The sun awakens from its slumber As the sky changes from black to blue. The birds sing and dance, For they are joyous to fetch food. A quiet ranch lay on a sloped hill, Basking in the sun’s glory. The smell of fresh, steaming, hot Coffee fills the man’s nose. The sheets were cold beside him, His wife's whereabouts are unknown. He leaves the warm, cozy King-sized mattress to make breakfast. The bittersweet decadent beans become Fragrant as they brew. The man and woman share their 'Good mornings', cherishing each other's presence. Their first sips of the roast burns down their Throats, a satisfying burn. Their senses becoming more alert. The man sighs in comfort and enjoyment, Now ready to start his day. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles News Back to Sections The Kennedys Have Just Lost Their Winning Streak By Logan Balsan Volume 1 Issue 4 January 20, 2021 Image provided by TIME The Kennedy Dynasty has lost its power in government. Recently, Representative Joseph P. Kennedy III, a Democrat from Massachusetts, lost his bid for the United States Senate against incumbent Democratic Senator, Ed Markey. With running for re-election to the House of Representatives impossible, he would be the last Kennedy in Congress, after a record of 59 years in which a Kennedy served in Congress. How did the record begin? Young Senator John F. Kennedy of Massachusetts had beaten Vice President Richard Nixon for the Presidency in the closest election of that time in 1960. Once sworn in, he catapulted his brother, Robert F. Kennedy to the Chief Executive of the Department of Justice as Attorney General. Also, once JFK resigned to be sworn in as President, his Senate seat went to a special election. Do you know who ran for the seat? His youngest brother, Ted Kennedy, who would be the only Kennedy to serve in Congress up to his death in 2010. In 1964, after his brother’s death in 1963, RFK ran for the United States Senate from our own state, New York, beating Republican incumbent Kenneth Keating. Unfortunately, he would also be assassinated on the 1968 Presidential Campaign trail. Many of the brothers’ children and other family members would later serve in government. JFK’s daughter, Caroline, was an Ambassador to Japan during the Obama Administration. Sargent Shriver, husband of Eunice Kennedy, was the 1972 Democratic Vice Presidential Nominee. Amy Kennedy, wife of former Representative Patrick Kennedy, the son of Ted Kennedy, ran against incumbent Republican Representative Jeff Van Drew for the House in 2020. They are a very popular family still to this date. After Representative Joseph P. Kennedy III lost in a tense primary to Ed Markey in 2020, he would be the first incumbent Kennedy to ever lose an election to a congressional position. Will there be another Kennedy in Congress ever again? Only time will tell. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Advice Back to Sections Single Sally Aamna Raja Volume 4 Issue 4 May 29, 2024 Image Provided by Elaine Ching “I'm scared that I'll be alone for the rest of my life. No one has ever been romantically interested in me. I think I'm going to die single... What should I do?” -Single Sally Hi Single Sally! First of all, it's completely normal to have concerns about your future, especially in high school where social dynamics can feel overwhelming. Everyone wants to be appreciated and loved, and you are! Maybe not romantically, but I’m sure your friends and family love you and care about you as well. Remember, your worth isn't defined by whether someone is romantically interested in you. You have so much to offer beyond romantic relationships. If you want a healthy outlet to express these feelings, I’d recommend focusing on building your self-confidence and focusing on your interests and hobbies. This is great to help you feel better and you may find someone with similar interests this way! Friendships often develop into romantic relationships, so focus on fostering meaningful connections with others. Remember, don't rush things. High school is only the early stages of your love life, and there's plenty of time for romance to grow in the future. Stay open to new experiences and opportunities! You are worthy of love and companionship, no matter your relationship status. Hang in there, Sally, and every other person reading this. You're not alone, and there's an entire world of possibilities waiting for you beyond high school. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Feature Back to Sections I Will Always Write Back by Caitlin Alifirenka, Liz Welch, and Martin Ganda By Manal Layachi Volume 2 Issue 2 November 19, 2021 Image provided by I Will Always Write Back I Will Always Write Back by Caitlin Alifirenka, Liz Welch, and Martin Ganda is an inspiring true story about a girl from the United States who writes to a boy in Zimbabwe, in Africa. Caitlin and Martin are very different. Martin comes from a poor family. He can barely afford basic necessities, let alone school. On the other hand, Caitlin comes from a wealthy family. She can afford basic necessities and go to school. For example, she has plenty of food, clothes, shoes, and clean water. In the book, Caitlin is supporting Martin by sending him money for school and necessities. At first, she sent money to Martin by mail, but that wasn’t a good idea because the money kept getting stolen. Caitlin and her mom made Martin a bank account so that it would be easier to send money to him. There are many themes that are shown in the story. First, we should not judge a book by its cover. We don’t know what people are going through or what their life is like, so we should not judge them very quickly. Second, a little bit of kindness and generosity can go a long way in changing someone’s life forever. Caitlin helped Martin turn his life around and now he is successful. Third, we should not take what we have for granted. When Caitlin found out that Martin was poor, she realized that she was lucky that she had all these things. It is important to be grateful for what we have. Finally, friendship is forever. Caitlin and Martin’s friendship stayed strong for their whole lives. That is a magnificent example of a long-lasting relationship. Caitlin felt like Martin was her “brother”. Martin felt like Caitlin was his “sister”. This book would be interesting and memorable for people who have liked books like Out of My Mind by Sharon M. Draper. I would recommend this book to people who like non-fiction and reading about true stories. The authors did an amazing job describing what their characters’ lives were like and how writing to each other changed both of their lives forever. I like how they included real pictures because it added a nice touch to the story. As I was reading, I felt happy, upset, concerned, cheerful, nervous, amazed, inspired, hopeful, and motivated. All in all, I loved most everything about this book, and it changed my perspective of life and relationships. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Feature Back to Sections CHESS By Augustine Magapan Volume 3 Issue 3 February 24, 2023 Image provided by Wikipedia Pieces in white, and pieces in black; they form a social hierarchy to win the game of chess and must surround the opponent's king. Play games with your friends, grandmasters, or even your younger siblings. People of any age can learn to play this game if they put in the effort. Chess, a board game dating back to the sixth century, is regaining popularity. Before delving deeper into the game, for those of you who are unfamiliar with it today, chess has many complexities. The first step in learning chess is understanding the board and the pieces. Place the white square on the bottom right to set up the board. After putting the board in its proper place, pawns should be on the second row from the bottom, protecting the other pieces... hence the name “pawn.” The rooks should go in each corner, followed by the knights, or horses, next to each other. Then there's a bishop next to each knight, followed by a queen and king. If you're playing white, place the queen on the white square and the king on the dark square. We can discuss the pieces after everything is ready. A pawn is a weak, helpful piece of equipment for blocking or attacking the board. Pawns can only move one square forward in their first turn; if they have yet to be moved, they can move up to two squares forward in their first turn. To attack, the pawn should only move diagonally against the opposing-colored piece. Another method of attack, revolves around the opponent's first move with their pawns. You may attack diagonally if your opponent moves their pawn two squares forward, and it stands right next to your pawn. That is known as “ en passant.” The rook, which can move in straight, vertical, and horizontal lines, is typically used as a defense piece to protect the king. Then there's the knight, a horse-like figure who can jump over other parts and move in an L-shaped pattern. The bishop can move in straight diagonal lines, and the queen, the most powerful piece, can act as both a rook and a bishop. On the other hand, the king is similar to a queen but can only move one space at a time. Once you've figured out how to move the pieces correctly, you must checkmate your opponent's king based on the placement of your army. When a piece attacks the king directly, the king is exposed, but it can move away or defend. In this scenario, white's bishop is "checking," or directly attacking, the king in this position. Unfortunately, there is nowhere for the king to flee. As a result, Black can move its knight or queen to counter the attack. In this scenario, using the knight rather than the queen is preferable because the bishop could capture the queen after Black uses it to stop the check. White would have the upper hand because Black would have lost his or her most influential piece! It's a fascinating concept, but it wasn't always like this. Even before the 6th century, people in India created the first version of chess, Chaturanga. The term "four-limbed" or "four-arms" refers to an army's various components, including infantry, cavalry, elephantry, and chariotry. Because the game is so old, it needs proper rules, particularly regarding how the pieces move. Some theories about the game can be related to modern chess. The game board was not checkered, but historians believe it was used for other games because it had markings irrelevant to the game itself. One fascinating aspect of the game was how their soldiers could promote it. The idea of promotion is still being determined where. In modern chess, some thought the soldiers could be upgraded to minister or queen, and some speculated that the soldiers would transform into whatever was originally on the board. Furthermore, there were various theories about how to end the game, with people believing that checkmating was not the way to win, which meant that even the King had to be captured. Chess.com has created a chart of the different pieces and a description. Like a pawn in modern chess, the foot-soldier moves only one square forward. As a result, the foot-first soldier's move must be at least two squares ahead. The elephant was similar to a bishop because it could move two squares diagonally. In modern terms, it is still unknown whether the piece can jump over details such as the horse or the knight. A chariot moves like a rook, and the minister can only move one square diagonally. Finally, the king... the most crucial piece in chess, moves like any other king today. The game influenced various nations in Asia and Europe before evolving into the game we knew today in the 16th century. Many people have theorized multiple ways to start their games or create strategic positions to gain an advantage since the 16th century. These are known as openings. The chess theory is a fantastic concept in which millions of people demonstrate their creative abilities and logical reasoning to gain an advantage by creating a solid opening. The player can win the endgame when the opening has done its job, and the player has achieved an advantage. An endgame occurs when the two players have few pieces remaining and must perform a checkmate as soon as possible. Chess does not have to be played on a board, and many people can play it online at lichess.org and chess.com . Students are becoming interested in the game due to the popularity of social media and the use of laptop computers in school. Tournaments and competitive chess play continue to grow as people strive for a specific ranking to demonstrate their skill. You can improve your cognitive thinking skills of logistic reasoning on real-life problems by studying or thinking about chess. Remember that "having the next move is the most powerful weapon in chess." BACK TO TOP