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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 to Artwork Line Back to Sections Cianna Nadal - What is Line By Cianna Nadal November 1, 2020 Photography Volume 1 Issue 1

Back to Articles Advice Back to Sections Deodorant: A History of Scents, Smells and Why You Should Use It! Giancarlo Oliveri Volume 4 Issue 4 May 29, 2024 Image Provided by Elaine Ching Disclaimer: If you wear deodorant this does not apply to you, but you are more than welcome to read along! Good morning, Spartans! It is the dawn of a new school year! New classes, new teachers, new friends, and new weather patterns thanks to global warming! Undeniably, this building feels a lot warmer, causing many to sweat, perspire, and swelter, with interesting scents to come about. A sure-fire way to prevent certain odors is deodorant . The colorful history of deodorant dates back to the Ancient Egyptian civilization, where they incorporated oils, fruit, or even aluminum crystals (ouch!) as antiperspirants, effectively masking the stench stemming from the boiling Sun that still wreaks havoc on our building (Oars and Alps, 2013). Similarly, the Ancient Greeks incorporated natural techniques to smell pleasant, bathing regularly in baths scented with fragrant and aromatic oils, even spraying incense in the air (Oars and Alps, 2013). Following their innovation, the wealthiest of upper classes across numerous civilizations such as the Yuan, Ming, or Qing dynasties of Classical China, the Classical Mexica, Aztec, or Incans of South America, or popularly, Marie Antionette and the rest of the Versailles Third Estate in the late 1700s, used deodorant, most typically, in the form of perfume, typically, floral scented. However, contemporary deodorants similar to the ones used today rose to popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, developed and patented by Edna Murphey in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, titled “Mum” (Humble Brands, 2023). Originally, a waxy cream, the packaging differed from modern sticks of deodorant, arriving in a metal tin, and containing zinc, later evolved to contain antiperspirant ingredients such as aluminum compounds to control sweat and odor, connecting back all the way to the Ancient Egyptians (Humble Brands, 2023)! Now with this history lesson adjourned, I beg the question, do you want their work to go to waste? The Egyptians who pounded aluminum into crystals, the Ancient Aztecs who pulverized flowers into fragrances, and most recently, the incomparable Edna Murphey, who revolutionized how Americans would smell for years to come. Do you want their work to be all for nothing? Why neglect decades, even centuries, of human evolution and innovation? It used to be a privilege to smell pleasant, and now, you have the absolute, undeniable, and unbeatable right to every historical figure, and every person in this school to mask the musk! If you want to benefit the rest of humankind, do me, the rest of the student body, and the rest of the human body a favor, and wear deodorant. A Brief History of Deodorant – Humble Brands When Was Deodorant Invented and Why? | Oars + Alps ( oarsandalps.com ) BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Editorial Back to Sections If Aldous Huxley Were a Mathematician By Lucy Wu Volume 2 Issue 6 April 14, 2022 Image provided by High Times *Note: This article contains minor plot spoilers for Brave New World , the satirical novel by Aldous Huxley. If you would like to preserve your initial reaction to this novel, please refrain from reading this article. During quarter 2, the AP Literature classes, were tasked with reading and analyzing Brave New World, one of the most notable (and existentially terrifying) works of Aldous Huxley. Unlike most dystopian books, the society is not inherently horrifying for its post-apocalyptic citizens or war-torn landscapes, but for their docile complacency and unwavering happiness (for the most part, at least). Certainly, ideas abnormal and even taboo to our modern world including a vehement aversion to literature and maintaining non-nuclear family households were plentiful throughout the novel. But while reading, something else was amiss. The thing that bothered me the most was not the artificial duplication of humans or depriving them of flowers when born. It was not even John’s secretive pursuit of Lenina (which was mildly uncomfortable to say the least). Rather, when introducing the social classes, the basis of the World-State and major source of character tension in the book, Huxley utilized Alphas, Betas, Gammas, Deltas, and Epsilons to delineate between the social classes. Alphas are the highest class, followed by the Betas, and continuing until Epsilons, who are the slaves of the society as they are deprived of the most oxygen in the Bokanovsky process (don’t try that at home). Each class has distinguishing characteristics from their cloned appearances to the color uniform they wear, but it is made abundantly clear that being an Alpha is most desirable. Thus, the novel fixates on just a few of the lucid Alpha or Beta men and women of the society. The book piqued my interest because of Huxley’s immaculate attention to detail, unparalleled intention, and hidden meanings peppered throughout the novel. I admired his wittiness like his play on words: instead of “Lord,” the citizens say “Ford” (like the Model T Ford) because technology and automation prevail as their God. Thus, I had anticipated a greater analysis of the classes from Huxley, and not just a quick utilization of Greek alphabet letters. So when he didn’t spend paragraphs and pages rambling on about the ornate class structure, or even scrutinize the viewpoints of each class member closely, I was truthfully, disappointed. For the rest of the novel, this perturbed me: my thoughts ran rampant and my psyche was heightened with unease. I wish I was being hyperbolic (pun definitely intended: get it? hyperbola/hyperbole?) but I’m 100% serious. Ford, the missed potential! What do these symbols really mean? How could these interpretations contribute to the themes present in the overall work? (Sorry, I stole that one from Q3 of the AP Lit exam). Thus, it begged the question: what if Aldous Huxley were a mathematician? But always, permutation matters. In our case, Huxley will still maintain all of his skill as a novelist and philosopher, but his literary choices will be laden with his newfound mathematical skill. peripheral Alphas - Grey Betas - Mulberry Gammas - Green Deltas – Khaki Conveniently enough, in mathematics, there are two forms of the delta symbol: Delta (with a capital D) is the triangle shape, one that symbolizes change over time delta (with a lowercase d) is like a snake, and generally symbolizes a tiny quantity Thus if Huxley were a true mathematician, Deltas would be the instigators for change in the society, as opposed to his fixation on solely Alphas and Betas. He could focus on the plight of the lower classes, Epsilons - Black In my opinion, out of all the social classes, epsilon is perfectly named. In the novel, the epsilons are the bottom of the barrel in society. Trust me when I say you do not want to be an epsilon. They cannot form coherent, independent thoughts, and we repeatedly witness Alphas and Betas mocking them, expressing their gratuity that they were not conditioned to be an epsilon. If that wasn’t enough, they’re even purposely short in stature. But Paul Erdos, the notoriously eccentric mathematician, fondly refers to the small children in his life as epsilons. Thus, epsilons in the novel perfectly match their definition, since they both denote infinitesimal quantities the closest you can approach zero without having absolutely nothing numerically and socially. For the majority of the novel, the classes have minimal intermingling and most do not even talk to each other. But I think Roof deserves a friend, so in terms of proofs, it would have made perfect sense to pair him with a delta, since they are both small forces in an oppressive society. Moreso, -------------------------- As a bonus, I’ll resolve one of our heated debates from class. John, our protagonist in the second half of the novel, is described by Mustapha Mond, the World Controller, as merely an experiment because he enters the World-State as an outsider from the Reservation. This led to the seeds for an analogy; if the society is the overall experiment, is John the independent or dependent variable in the trials that are the different colonies? As a result, John represents Keep in mind, in order to truly quantify the accuracy and magnitude of the effect, there must be a large sample size or n tested. To avoid erroneous conclusions and implications of causation rather than correlation, Mond must repeatedly test John’s presence in nearly identical societies, always checking for confounding variables. Control variable? Control group?? Existential negation In technical writing, we call this proof by contradiction. For instance, (There are many other methods to discuss, but we’d go through the entirety of mathematics before we finished.) I understand my demands are great, given the parameters. After all, Huxley is a philosopher, a constant in his writing, and not a mathematician (but one can dream, can’t they?). And to give credit where credit is due, he certainly gets some things right, such as the epsilons (roof!). However, by happenstance or intention, we may never know. Certainly, I believe peering into the lives of the other caste classes would prove illuminating, but alas, where is the political commentary in that? But my initial question lends itself to asking: what if Huxley were an economist? Or a priest? Or even a genetic engineer? How drastically would his social classes change if so? What does it all mean in the context of the novel? But after exploring the intricacies of mathematical social classes, I think such questions are best not pondered. Instead I suggest, “don’t give a damn, take a gramme” of soma. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Advice Back to Sections Senior Interview with Shubhdip Kundlas By Shinedip Kundlas Volume 1 Issue 8 June 8, 2021 Original photo by Shubhdip Kundlas In this issue I will be interviewing Shubhdip Kundlas, who will be graduating this June. It has been a weird, yet memorable year for the Class of 2021. Today we will be discussing Shubhdip’s tips and advice for the upcoming college freshman. ____________________________________________________________________ What is the most challenging task as a senior? SHUBHDIP The most challenging task is staying on top of college applications while balancing school workload. As a senior, you have the responsibility to complete all necessary components of your college applications while completing schoolwork. It can be difficult at first, but if you stay motivated, it gets easier once you learn what schedule/tactics work best for you. Who has given you the best advice? What did they say? SHUBHDIP The best advice I received was from my mother who said I should always think about the benefits of my future if I work hard now. Every time I feel overwhelmed with stress or work, I think about how it only helps me in the long run. If I work to my fullest extent now, I can enjoy my life when I'm older. Looking back on your high school years, what one piece of advice would you offer to any incoming freshman? SHUBHDIP Always try to do more. Whether it’s schoolwork or extracurriculars or even simple things like being a good student, always try to put in more effort to get the best result. There is always room for improvement. What has been the highlight of your senior year? SHUBHDIP The highlight of my senior year was getting accepted into my dream college with a full ride. It boosted my confidence and provided the premise of my senior year. It validated all my hard work for the past four years and living to see my dreams come true is an experience I will never forget. Where do you imagine yourself 10 years from now? SHUBHDIP I imagine myself to be in a great position working as a full-time doctor and doing what I have planned: building and donating to homeless shelters, leading my community to prosperity, and living a happy yet productive lifestyle. What college/university will you be attending? Why this college/university? SHUBHDIP New York University (NYU) is the college I have always wanted to attend. It is in the heart of NYC and has the rigorous academics I sought. Not only is it close to home, but I am able to work my current job while also pursuing my academic goals. What will you change about yourself in college? Why will you change it? SHUBHDIP I will change my current study habits and schedule. College can be a difficult time if you don’t adjust your high school habits because the life you are used to in high school is very different from the typical college life. Therefore, I plan on adjusting all of my schedules to what will fit best with college. I will also be more forthcoming and be the person to start the conversations with other people. People always told me college was the place where you make lifelong friends and I plan on being the one to introduce myself first because I am eager to meet new people! Is there any additional advice you would like to give?    SHUBHDIP Always think positive. Think about the good things in your life. If you ever feel down or upset about something in your life, think about something you have that others don’t. All you need to jumpstart your career is a home, food, and confidence. Create a mindset where you are always challenging yourself to do better and most importantly, never give up! Thank you so much to my brother for this interview! BACK TO TOP

Back to Artwork Back to Sections Nora Chery By Nora Chery November 7, 2022 Volume 3 Issue 1

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Back to Articles Feature Back to Sections Tales Through Time: Mai Bhago; The Saint Warrior Rehmat Kaur Volume 4 Issue 1 November 6, 2023 Image provided by Medium.com Early Life Mai Bhago was born in 1666 in the Punjab village of Chabal Kalan, India. It is today known as the Tarn Taran district. She was raised in a Sikh household with religious views and values. She lived with four other family members: her grandpa, father, and two brothers. Her mother was said to have died while she was little. Her father, Malo Shah, was a soldier in Guru Hargobind's (Sikhs' 6th Guru) army, and she also braved to be taught in weaponry (Shastar Vidya). Her great grandpa, Bhai Pero Shah, was converted to Sikhism with his consent during the reign of Guru Arjan Dev Ji (the 5th Guru of Sikhs). Mai Bhago was born “Bhag Bhari” which means “fortunate” or “one who is full of good fortune.” After being blessed with Amrit (like baptism), she was named Bhag Kaur. Her family was highly associated with the Sikh Gurus, and she was severely moved by Guru Arjan Dev's (5th Guru) martyrdom, Guru Hargobind's (6th Guru) warfare, and the Mughal army's injustice to the Sikhs. She made two visits to Guru Tegh Bahadur (9th Guru) and went to Anandpur with her father in 1699, when Guru Gobind Singh (10th Guru) established the Khalsa. Her father brought her back despite her wish to join the Sikh army because no women were serving in the Sikh army at the time. Mai Bhago continued studying combat and horseback riding from her father. She then practiced piercing trees with her spear and quickly became a devoted soldier. A couple of years later she married Bhai Nidhan Singh of Patti village near Amritsar. The Mughals The Mughals dominated the majority of India and Pakistan at the time. Aurangzeb controlled the Mughals, yet he was neither peaceful nor understanding. He was especially hostile against Sikhs, partially for religious reasons and partly because Sikhs were opposed to the caste system. In truth, the Sikhs were generally egalitarian and saw women as equal to males. Liberated Sikhs (Chali Mukte) Aurangzeb, the expansionist Mughal Emperor, attacked Sikh territory with an army of 16,000 warriors in 1704-05 and surrounded the Sikh capital of Anandpur Sahib. During this time, 40 Singhs made the decision to leave Anandpur Sahib and return home. They signed a Bedava (document of dissent) declaring that they were no longer Sikhs under Guru Gobind Singh Sahib. This group included Mai Bhago's spouse and two of her brothers. Outraged by this betrayal, Mai Bhago left home with her own horse, armor, and weapons to seek down the deserters. Mai Bhago is reported to have dressed in traditional "male" attire and collected up the deserters. She went to their houses and urged their wives not to provide refuge for their husbands. Mai Bhago and the other women accused them of being cowards and lacking trust. Some of the women armed themselves and joined Mai Bhago, vowing to fight for the Guru if their husbands refused. Shaken by this, the 40 deserters consented to return to Mai Bhago's service. Battle Of Mukatsar When Mai Bhago's band arrived at Khidrana, they fought against Mughal soldiers in what became known as the Battle of Muktsar. So, despite the fact that they were certainly going to die, the forty (chali) men, along with Mai Bhago, charged headlong into the Muslim forces (around 10,000 soldiers) and inflicted so much damage that the Muslims were forced to abandon their attack and retreat. In the end, all 40 men died, but Mai Bhago and Guru Gobind Singh ji survived. Chali Mukte, or the 40 Liberated Ones, was the name given by Guru Gobind Singh Ji to the dead soldiers. Guru Gobind Singh praised the martyred Sikhs, tore the Bedava paper, and re-established relations with the Sikhs who had deserted him here. Mai Bhag kaur was a celebrated Sikh woman and was the first woman in Punjabi history to fight on a battlefield. Aftermath Guru Gobind Singh Ji was proud of Mai Bhago and fulfilled her ambition to be a true saint-warrior by becoming the Guru’s bodyguard until his death. She later settled in Jinvara and practiced Sikhism until her last breath. Her Legacy Her life demonstrated that, while sexism exists in this world, it is not encouraged by the Gurus. Her beautiful journey continues to inspire countless people today. BACK TO TOP

Back to Artwork The Memory Project Back to Sections Zainab- Kimberly Shrestha Kimberly Shrestha February 24, 2023 Volume 3 Issue 3

Back to Artwork The Memory Project Back to Sections Mustapha By Gilana Etame March 28, 2022 Mixed Media Volume 2 Issue 5