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Back to Articles Polaris Back to Sections Alana By Nora Chery Volume 2 Issue 6 April 14, 2022 Image provided by Rodeny Stewart Is this real life Or is it my radiant fantasy? My mind flooded to a landside, To escape from reality. I unlatched my tight eyes, Looked down at the crib to see, I’m a cruel girl, God will give me no sympathy There’s no chance for an easy life, an easy home A little life, nor a little home. The winds blow, Against the full yet silent crib, Does it matter to me? Alana, Just took you back, Put a pillow against your head, cut your breath And now you’re dead. Alana, a lily sprout that bloomed, I’ve gone and ripped it from the dirt. Sweet Alana, I hated your cries, But now I’m sure I’ll hear them again tomorrow I’ll carry on, carry on, as if what I did, hadn’t mattered at all. It’s too late, midnight had just begun The moonlight sends shivers down my spine, Hands been shaking all this time. Goodbye, my Alana, though you’ve gone so soon Kicked you out and faced the truth. BACK TO TOP

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 Editorial Back to Sections Delete, Delete, Delete… Ban? By Shinedip Kundlas Volume 3 Issue 3 February 24, 2023 Images provided by Tech Crunch For the past several years, the social media app, TikTok has taken over the globe with its popularity. For many, TikTok seems like a harmless app, where one can create content about music, makeup, books, college, and much more. However, TikTok is viewed by many policymakers as a symbol of totalitarianism and illegal surveillance. Gen Z's favorite social media service is in danger because of its parent company Byte Dance’s relationships with the Chinese government - and what happens next could have even broader effects. One solution is to completely ban the app, or to delete it off your phones. My question is, what good would that do? If a ban on the social media app could be enacted, some may argue that it would solve our national security concerns. This ban, however, could ultimately put our national security at risk and would also sidestep a broader issue — the fact that our nation has not addressed the massive amount of data we collect about ourselves digitally, especially when that information could be misused by external adversaries. There are some valid concerns that TikTok may collect personal information from U.S. citizens. There was a recent report by Forbes about a plan to target journalists who have reported critically on the Chinese regime's ties with the company. In an internal investigation, TikTok corroborated all allegations and terminated all involved. Congress was right to ban the installation of TikTok on federally issued devices because the app could target users with special power, knowledge, or both. TikTok collects a lot of information about its users, such as their political inclinations, their locations, and likes and dislikes; however, it’s important to understand that anyone can buy such information on the public marketplace for consumer data or get it from elsewhere. Biographical data is consistently scoured from social media by intelligence agencies without owning TikTok and other social media platforms. While TikTok presents online privacy risks to Americans, it is not the first or most excessive one – and it’s improbable that outlawing or banning TikTok will solve the issue. Other nations won't see TikTok's banning as notably different from what China has done to its citizens by banning it under the same grounds. All Google products, Twitter accounts, and other apps are prohibited in China for its own citizens. It is more important to recognize the symbolic value of this irregularity than consider it unfair: The US triumphs when it demonstrates to the globe that it is a free and democratic nation. It is unclear whether the federal government can even impose a ban on the use of significant communications platforms or control online content to prevent disinformation under the First Amendment. I think the issue with banning TikTok ties back to the fact that many Americans would feel like banning the app infringes upon their rights. I believe that TikTok has its advantages and disadvantages. Our generation is growing up in the world of social media and is being influenced by these apps. However, I also think it is crucial to understand that at the end of the day, it is an individual’s choice to decide if they would like to delete TikTok. From a very young age we are taught that we have the right to certain freedoms: speech, religion, press, assembly, and the right to petition the government. The U.S government does not have the ability to ban speech, and posting on TikTok is protected by the First Amendment since it’s a form of speech. This makes banning TikTok not an easy option. Letting the individual decide whether they would like to keep or delete the app would be the appropriate action. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Feature Back to Sections Culture Fair: Culturally Diverse Cuisine By Christina Ossa Volume 3 Issue 4 May 18, 2023 Image provided by Christina Ossa On Friday, March 17th, North High School’s Language Honors Society and Culture Society hosted North’s annual Culture Fair! A night filled with dance, food, and community, the culture fair was a huge hit with families and students alike. And part of the reason was, of course, the wide selection of food available at the fair. We’ll delve into the delicious creations provided by North’s very own students and families as well as local restaurants in the Valley Stream/Long Island community. Greek Corner (281 Franklin Ave, Franklin Square, NY 11010): Located on Franklin Avenue, this restaurant serves primarily Greek food, which is delicious! They provided a delicious Greek salad and Souvlaki skewers. Capo (700 A Franklin Ave Suite A, Franklin Square, NY 11010): Located also on Franklin Avenue, Capo is a restaurant that serves both American and Italian cuisine! Here they provided mac and cheese balls which were a hit at the fair. Il Corso (121 Rockaway Ave, Valley Stream, NY 11580): Located on Rockaway Avenue in Valley Stream, Il Corso serves primarily Italian pastries. Here they provided an assortment of Italian cookies. Kumo (434 Dogwood Ave #3349 , Franklin Square, NY 11010): Located on Dogwood Avenue, Kumo is a Japanese restaurant known for its delicious sushi. Here, they provided an assortment of sushi which everyone at the fair quickly ate! Verdi’s of Westbury (680 Old Country Road, Westbury): Located on Old Country Road in Westbury, Verdi’s is a restaurant that primarily serves Italian food. Here, they served delectable servings of Penne Ala Vodka and Chicken Frances. And thanks to food not featured from Prince Umberto’s (721 Franklin Ave, Franklin Square, NY 11010), Tessa Bakery ( https://www.instagram.com/tessa_bakery/ ), DaQueen Cupcake Cafe ( https://daqueencupcakecafe.com/ ), and The Sweet Life Bake Shop (988 Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin Square, NY 11010)! Also, a huge shoutout to everyone else who brought in food not featured for the culture fair from cultures all around the world. The culture fair could not have been such a success without these contributions from our student body and their families! A night to remember, the Culture Fair ran smoothly and was a huge success again this year. Featuring multiple dishes representing a variety of cultures, you could even try at it to recreate some of your favorite dishes from the event! And of course, a huge shout out to the restaurants that participated in food donations for the event. The event was spectacular, and if you attended or not you should definitely give a visit to the featured restaurants. Support our community by visiting these restaurants, and revel in the cultural diversity that North’s community exults! BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Sports Back to Sections The Benefits of Running Manal Layachi Volume 5 Issue 2 November 25, 2024 Image Provided by Mother of Manal Layachi I have been on North’s Cross Country and Track and Field team since seventh grade and enjoy running every day. Whenever I feel stressed or just need to clear my mind, I go for a run, and I feel amazing and energetic like I just drank forty cups of coffee. Running not only improves your mental and physical health, but it provides individuals with important life lessons. I have learned over the years that it is important to be on time, persevere when facing obstacles, remain “hungry” for opportunities in which I can reach full potential, have a winner’s mindset, build self-confidence, and most importantly have fun. Firstly, running improves an individual’s physical and mental health. For example, running improves cardio health and lowers the risk of having cardiovascular diseases. Even if it is for just fifteen minutes a day, a little can go a long way. It also lowers an individual’s resting heart rate, thus leading to them having a more efficient heartbeat. Furthermore, running can improve sleep, knee health and back health. Running helps lower stress and clears the mind, which leads to better sleep and relaxation. It can even lead to a lower arthritis rate and improved back health as runners must have good running form, which includes keeping your back straight and relaxed. Lastly, running can help lower the odds of someone obtaining upper tract respiratory infections and leads to a better mood and energy. After every run, I always feel like a new person and become excited for the day. I also feel more productive when completing homework and am in a better mood. Additionally, running also improves academic performance and learning ability. In other words, exercise increases circulation throughout the body and enhances brain function, thus leading to academic achievement. For example, students that perform aerobic exercises daily may have higher test scores than those who do not exercise. I have seen this in my life as well because as a junior in high school and take multiple AP classes. Running after school helps me deal with stress and the workload of junior year. Coming home from school without running does not help me complete my homework, as I feel unmotivated and my brain overflows with thoughts from the school day. On the other hand, running after school helps me clear my mind, have fun, and prepares me for the schoolwork ahead. The next day, I ace my exams and get the grades that I want. In essence, running is a lifelong sport. Whether you are 13 or 45, running is for everyone. All you have to do is put on your shoes and start running. It is not a sport that requires a lot of equipment. If you decide to start running, start off easy, be sure to hydrate (Trader Joe’s Alkaline water is my favorite), eat foods heavy in protein and fruits and vegetables, and most importantly have fun and run with close friends or relatives. All in all, being on the team has brought me closer to the North community and I have made many friends that I would not have made had I not joined cross country and track. I would like to thank my brother and my coaches for motivating me to join Cross Country and Track and fight through the pain of running. I will miss running for North when I graduate; however, I cannot wait to see what we can accomplish in the 2024-2025 season. References: How Does Running Improve Your Health? ( webmd.com ) The Correlation Between Running And The Classroom ( coachweber.org ) BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Polaris Back to Sections This Body of Mine Madisen Dubose Volume 4 Issue 4 May 29, 2024 Artwork Provided by Madisen Dubose BACK TO TOP

Back to Artwork Prism Back to Sections Victoria Scarpa - Prism By Victoria Scarpa November 24, 2020 Volume 1 Issue 2

Back to Articles Sports Back to Sections Interview with Volleyball Star Alessandra Llubit By Argelina Jeune Volume 2 Issue 4 February 10, 2022 Original photography by Alessandra Llubit Alessandra (Ally) Llubit is a senior and has played volleyball for all four years of high school. It has taught her how to be a teammate and friend. Not only has it helped her grow physically but mentally as well. North Star interviewed Ally to understand her perspective on her experience over the past four years. What do you like about your sport? Volleyball has always sparked an interest in me. This is a sport that involves teamwork and I have a lot of love for my team. Compared to the other sports I play, volleyball comes more naturally to me. Since I have also played volleyball for around seven years, I have gained a lot of confidence and experience. In my opinion volleyball is satisfying to watch and play and will always be my favorite sport. What has your sport helped you learn about yourself? Playing volleyball has helped me realize that I love being a part of a team. This year's season in particular was so special, and I believe it had to do with the bond that my teammates and I created. I have learned how to pick my teammates up and to never give up on them through playing this sport. If even one player is down and not performing at their best, I was able to comfort them while giving them a pep talk and get their head back in the game. How has this sport shaped your life and you as a person? I believe throughout the years of playing volleyball I have gained a lot of leadership skills and I have become more vocal. I feel that playing sports in general can help you communicate better with others, especially with team sports such as volleyball. As I have played more games, I have become stronger mentally, allowing me to focus and relax during nerve-racking moments, such as playing this year's playoff game. What will you miss about playing at North? What I will miss the most about playing at North is definitely the team aspect. I have gained many long-lasting friendships playing volleyball. Especially this year's team, there are many sophomores and juniors and I never expected myself to become so close with them. Because of the bond we all had between us, we gained plenty of trust while learning from one another, and it all showed in the fact that we won conference champions. In addition, I will miss the guidance and encouragement that Coach Parisi provided all these years and Ms. Parisi plays a big part in my success as a volleyball player. What do you look forward to in college? College has caused me to experience a variety of emotions, such as excitement and stress. Throughout the application process, I have felt the most pressure and stress I have ever experienced in a while. However, wondering what my future may hold is still very exciting and anticipatory. In addition to being more independent and being able to make new friends, I am looking forward to having more freedom. The college experience overall is quite thrilling, and I cannot wait. Do you plan on continuing to play this sport? Although I have thought about playing volleyball in college, I decided not to play division volleyball, but instead to play club volleyball. Volleyball is not something I plan to play seriously, but only for fun, since I know I will still be drawn to the sport. In general, I enjoy playing the sport, so I don't plan to completely give it up. North Star would like to thank Ally for the time she spent answering the questions for this interview; we wish her luck in her future endeavors. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Sports Back to Sections The Amazing Kayla Santo By John McCarthy Volume 1 Issue 5 February 12, 2021 Original photo by Kayla Santo Today, we are featuring one of the most incredible athletes at North and beyond, Kayla Santo. She is a three-sport varsity athlete, and has played sports all of her years at VS North. Not only is she a three-sport varsity athlete, she has been a varsity athlete for four years already, and she’s only in 10th grade. Many athletes only start playing varsity sports in 10th or 11th grade. For Kayla, she played Varsity Softball in 7th grade: he only one to do so, ever. Moreover, her talent at an early age doesn’t stop at softball; she started playing Varsity Girls Volleyball and Varsity Girls Basketball in 8th grade. In a virtual interview with the amazing Kayla Santo, she gave inspiring answers to my questions. Here were her responses: Q: How do you balance your schoolwork with practices and games? A: “In the past I’ve learned to make a schedule to help me get through the day with less stress. My normal routine that I follow now is I do my homework right after school and try to get it all done, then I will go to practice or my games and if I don’t finish my homework before I have to leave I will finish it before I go to bed.” Q: From what I understand, you played Varsity Softball in just 7th grade. How did playing with older students make you feel, and how do you think it has affected your athletics later on? A: “At first I was really nervous and excited because it was a whole new experience with people I’ve never met before, but as the season went on I became super close with them and created great friendships. Playing with the seniors especially has taught me a lot. I believe playing with them made me stronger mentally and physically because they always pushed me to be my best as well as learning to understand and trust new people that I’ve never played with.” Q: How much of your personality do you think can be explained by sports? A: “I believe a lot of my personality contributes to sports. With my team in practices I would definitely say I’m very energetic (even in the mornings) and I absolutely love to hype my team up. When it comes to game time I get really competitive mostly because I am kind of a sore loser but I think that benefits me and helps me get through the game strong.” Q: Is there any advice you would like to give our young athletes at North? A: “For anyone who wants to branch out and try new sports, now is definitely the time to do so. Playing another sport or a new hobby can teach you so many interesting things that you never knew and can really bring a light into your life.” Q: Finally, favorite sport? A: “I would say my favorite sport is definitely softball. I’ve played softball since I was 6 and It has shaped me into the person that I am today. I wouldn’t give it up even if I was offered $1,000,000.” As you can tell from her answers, Kayla is a dedicated student-athlete and has great passion for all the sports she plays. A true inspiration for young athletes looking to defy the odds, only a sophomore, Kayla still has much left in her sporting career. Whether it is on the court or outside on the field, she will continue to do amazing things. Go Spartans! BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Science & Technology Back to Sections What is number theory? By Alyssa Garufi and Hannah Lee Volume 2 Issue 3 January 14, 2022 Image provided by Interesting Engineering Anyone who has ever fallen in love can tell you it is the little things about the other person that make them attractive: the way they do their hair, the peculiarities of how they write, the way they sing a certain part of a song out of key every time... Such details come to define us. They trace the outlines of our personalities, and, to the observant eye, they illuminate true beauty. In the eyes of some, there is no finer beauty than that found in mathematics. Some look at numbers and, just as you’d never define your beloved human solely based on their eye color, the math lover sees beyond the mere function of numbers. The likes of 1, 2, and 3, turn into something more sublime than simple carriers of information. The math lover looks for questions, patterns, and proofs as to why simple equations like 1+1 equals 2. This is essentially what number theory is: the study of subtle and radical relationships between and among numbers. Euclid of Alexandria was a key contributor to the foundation of number theory. He developed and proved the concept of infinite primes, which eventually became a key notion in the field of number theory. As most of us know, prime numbers are integers that are greater than one and have only two factors - one and themselves. Euclid hypothesized that there was an infinite number of primes, which he then sought to prove. He did this through a method known as proof by contradiction. Essentially, Euclid assumed that there was a finite number of primes, and disproved that concept, which leads to the conclusion that an infinite number of primes exist. This concept of infinite primes would become one of the most foundational ideas of number theory. While number theory may seem like an abstract concept that is only used by those who work in the math field, it has many practical applications. For instance, many companies use encryption to protect their data, which is a concept that stems from the number theory. Oftentimes, encryption is done using basic primes of a very large number. The basic primes of a number are obtained when the integer is broken down into its prime factors, which you may know by its other name: prime factorization. Each number has a unique set of prime factors, and by using the basic primes of large numbers, companies can ensure that their data is safely protected. Now that you know the basics of number theory, try it out yourself. I will give you a sequence of numbers and you have to try and find a pattern, formula, or some sort of relationship between the numbers in order to figure out what the first term of the sequence is. Remember: think creatively, not everything is so black and white. Example: what is the first term in the sequence? ….11, 24, 75, 304 5 8 9 10 Explanation: Alright, so you decided to take on the example problem and have come searching for the answer. The answer is *drum roll* 10! I hope you got it right. If not, it is okay. Let me explain to you how I went about it. I noticed that the second term, 11, and the third term, 24 could be formed by taking the second term and multiplying it by two and adding two. However, this equation of (n*2+2) does not work for the third number, 24, into the fourth sequence, 75. The equation that does work for these two transitions is, however, (n*3 +3). Taking 24 times 3 and adding 33 to that gets you 75! Therefore, it is visible that there may be a pattern forming in the equations from each preceding number. I finally checked to see if 75 times 4 plus 4 (n*4 +4) gets you to 304, and it did! There you go! You figured out the pattern. Using this pattern, you worked backward to find out that the first term is 10 since 10 times 1 plus 1 (n*1 +1) is 11! Good job, VSN! BACK TO TOP