SEARCH RESULTS

Back to Articles Entertainment & Media Back to Sections K-pop By Ismaela Andre Volume 2 Issue 4 February 10, 2022 Image provided by Channel Korea Music is always around us. There are many genres to choose from and many to listen to. Many people listen to rap, pop, and R&B. However, more genres are taking the world by storm. One of them is K-pop. K-pop is Korean music that consists of Korean and English or only Korean. This music genre is taking over the music industry. Most K-pop music is made by groups. Some popular groups are BTS, NCT U, 127 and Dream, Twice, Itzy, Enhypen, Tomorrow x Together, Ateez, Stray Kids, Blackpink, and more. Even some solo artists like IU, Kang Daniel, also fit into this category. This musical genre is very inspirational. Most songs send global messages and inspire their listeners to come together as one. At the beginning of the school year, I talked to two seventh graders. They both told me that they liked K-pop, and ever since then, we always say “Hi” to each other whenever we see each other in the hallways. In that example, I connected with two kids that are three years younger than me because of K-pop. This shows how K-pop can bring many people together. Also, K-pop artists aren’t all Korean. Some are Japanese, Thai, American, or French. Musicians of various races sing K-pop, and all races should feel comfortable listening to it. I recommend K-pop to everyone because it is a unique and diverse music genre. You may be hesitant at first because the lyrics are not sung in English; however, you should go for it because it is a fantastic experience. Have fun listening! BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Sports Back to Sections Super Bowl 57 Review By Andrew Lavoie Volume 3 Issue 3 February 24, 2023 Image provided by The Analyst On February 12, 2023 Super Bowl 57 took place with the Eagles and Chiefs representing their conferences. Both teams were coming off big wins against formidable opponents in the Bengals and 49ers. Both conference championship games had some controversy, but all that mattered at the time this article was written was the Super Bowl. First off, let's get into injuries on the defensive side of the ball. According to cbssports.com star chief's cornerback L’jarius Sneed had cleared concussion protocol and would most likely play on Sunday. Another Chiefs player, linebacker Willie Gay was questionable to play (shoulder) but in my opinion whether or not he played would not make a very big impact on the impact of the game. The last injured Chiefs player Defensive Tackle Tershawn Watson would not play Sunday (knee). However, like I said earlier, neither of the injured chiefs players, on the defense at least, would change anything. Similar to the Chiefs, the Eagles did not have any injured defensive players that would make an impact on the game individually. Despite that, many of those injuries were to players on the defensive line, who, despite not being very successful individually, have made this Eagles defensive line a force to reckon with this season. Now, onto the offensive side of the ball. The Chiefs had several key injuries to their wide receiver unit including Juju Smith-Schuster and Kadarius Toney, and both players were questionable to return while Mecole Hardman was on injured reverse and wouldn’t play Sunday. This may have been bad for the Chiefs as these are some of his favorite targets. However, I assumed that Toney would be cleared to play, and Patrick Mahomes still had star TE Travis Kelce to throw to. Not to mention, Patrick Mahomes's high ankle sprain which he would play on had been affecting his mobility in the last two playoff games. On the Eagles offense, there were no major injuries except for a couple to the offensive line. Overall, I think the Eagles won the injury battle with limited injuries on both sides of the ball. Onto to the overall performance of the teams. The Eagles had been very explosive, but so had the Chiefs. The Eagles may have had some struggles with one of their best units, the offensive line, due to injuries. As for the quarterbacks, both had been playing great and, in my opinion, it was up to the rest of the team to decide who wins. The defenses were both good, but the Chiefs have an edge because of the injuries to the Eagles offensive line and their overall play was better with veteran Chris Jones leading the way. In general, I thought that the Chiefs would win because of one, their overall ability, two, their experience on the big stage, and 3: Pat Mahomes's natural ability to finish plays no matter what. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Feature Back to Sections History of New Year's Leah Ally Volume 5 Issue 3 January 14, 2025 Image Provided by Max Ching With the arrival of the new year of 2025 and the passing of 2024, it is a milestone worth celebrating. Whether it’s by watching the ball drop at Times Square, lighting fireworks, or making New Year’s resolutions, there are countless traditions that billions of people around the world look forward to. After all, a new year is often considered a clean slate and fresh start for many. However, why is January 1st considered the “new year” and how was it decided? While many may not think about it, there is a rich history behind New Year’s, its origins, and previous celebrations. To really understand the origins of New Year’s we must go thousands of years back to Mesopotamia. Roughly around 2000 BCE was their first New Year’s celebration, which also marked the beginning of a harvest. However, this holiday acknowledged as “Akitu” took place during the Vernal or spring equinox, where there are 12 hours of daytime and 12 hours of nighttime. While Mesopotamia is credited with the earliest celebration of New Year’s, ancient Rome is believed to have played an even more important role. This is because a change in the calendar was made. The original Roman calendar only contained 10 months with March 1st considered New Year’s Day. However, this calendar was based on the lunar cycle and had become misaligned with the seasons. Therefore, a more accurate system that aligned with the solar year had to be created. Julius Caesar would go on two more months, January and February to have a 12-month calendar known as the Julian calendar. The length of the months was also adjusted during this time to better reflect the Earth’s orbit around the sun, ensuring a more consistent and predictable year. January held a lot of importance as well because it was known to honor a Roman God known as Janus, who represented the past and the future. As a result, January 1st was determined to be New Year’s Day. Nonetheless, even more reforms would be made to the calendar to form what is known as the Gregorian Calendar. This was created by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582. It was based off of the 46 B.C Julian Calendar, only with minor changes made with days. This is when December 31st was officially coined as “New Year’s Eve”. To this day, the Gregorian Calendar is what is globally followed and accepted, with exceptions of Afghanistan, Iran, Ethiopia, and Nepal. The Gregorian Calendar holds significant importance as it is what determines the dates of holidays, days of the week, and months. Now that the origins of New ear’s have been established and could be better understood, it is significant to discuss some popular traditions that people did to celebrate during ancient times. It is crucial to keep in mind that New Year’s was originally often celebrated in a way that incorporated religion, and mythology yet may have similarities to current traditions. For instance, in Mesopotamia festivals and parades were very common, however these celebrations were very focused on the gods and honoring them. This symbolized the gods rising above all to enter the new year. Another interesting ritual is that the current king at the time would have to kneel to a statue of the god Marduk and confirm that he was leading the city and its civilians correctly. While this appears to be humbling for the king, it represents a sense of loyalty to his people and a reminder of his purpose as not only a ruler, but a leader. In terms of denoting religious significance to their celebrations, Rome proved to be very similar. As previously mentioned, January was significant because it served as representation of Janus the god of the future and transition. Therefore, it was common for Romans to make offerings to Janus. Additionally, they prided themselves on generosity and contributing to their society. As a result, people often gave treats and gifts to the people around them and would even work for part of the day. It is clear both Mesopotamia and Rome considered New Year’s Day to be special particularly in terms of spirituality, but they also had their own individualistic perspectives about it. People have always believed the new year to be a chance to restart or be a new beginning for themselves. This belief encourages many people to seek improvement and look forward to their future with hope. In modern times it is referred to as New Year’s resolutions, but the same ideology has been around for ages. New Year’s has a rich history in a variety of contexts that connect to how we celebrate today. From creations of new calendars to rituals, New Year’s has been through a constantly evolving process. It is no doubt that ancient times differ from our modern society, but it is interesting to learn about what has led to our current perspectives and traditions to ring in the new year. So as we celebrate the beginning of 2025, remember that the past continues to shape our future. Sources: Happy New Year 2025: Happy New Year 2025: Why the world celebrates New Year’s day on January 1st and what are some of its traditions? - The Economic Times The New Year’s Holiday, Explained: From Mesopotamia to Temecula, How We Celebrate the New Year The History of New Year’s Eve | How NYE Celebrations Started 5 Ancient New Year’s Celebrations | HISTORY BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Art & Culture Back to Sections A Dominican Bodega That Sells Amazing Food for a Great Price By Benjamin Amirazodi Volume 3 Issue 1 November 7, 2022 Image provided by Jovanny Quiroz The Papo Deli is located on Rockaway Avenue in Valley Stream. Despite being called a deli, it is technically a bodega . For those who do not know, a bodega is a type of store popularized in Puerto Rico where the owners would not only sell food but also anything that they can sell. For example, one could buy cleaning supplies, food, utensils, and about anything relating to taking care of your home or self-care. Some food you can buy in Papo Deli are chicharron which is pork with a tough layer of skin on it, pernil which is similar to pulled pork, and even sodas like Inca Cola, which is a Peruvian soda, spaghetti and sandwiches filled with meat, usually pork, and vegetables. Normally when I go there, I like to get a small or medium plate of pernil, rice with beans and an Inca Kola. This place is also faried-priced; one could get the most delicious, fair-sized portion of lunch, some of which might serve as another meal, for around seven or ten dollars. The workers here are also very kind, especially if you are a regular customer at the deli. The workers will almost always try to make small talk and ask how your day is going, however you should keep in mind that not all the workers speak English fluently, so if you don’t get a response right away ask someone else or if you can speak to them in Spanish. Sometimes you might run into a regular customer, which isn't too uncommon because there are two Spanish barbers nearby, they normally like to greet everyone when walking in and say goodbye to everyone when leaving. Which is always nice and always brightens up the mood. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Entertainment & Media Back to Sections Marvel’s Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings: Cultural Identity Done Right By Alain Deen Volume 2 Issue 1 October 8, 2021 Image provided by Marvel Watching Marvel’s “Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” was both a refreshing and vivid experience. It is a film that dives deep into the roots of Asian American culture, as well as Chinese culture in general. Interestingly enough, I am not a Marvel fan. I know of many Marvel characters, their abilities, and general story lines. However, I classify myself as an average viewer looking only for the occasional Marvel entertainment. This is exactly what the film provided for my friends and me. It serves as an origin story, making the film rather easy to follow. On top of that, I grew attached to the characters with ease. In my book, that is the pinnacle of a great film. A film with intricate fight scenes, themes of familial strife, and a stunning performance by Awkwafina (who played Katy), Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings offers most attributes I look for in an origin story. The film follows Shang-Chi, who also goes by Shaun (Simu Liu), who resides in what is now present-day San Francisco with his friend Katy. While living a rather normal life, Shang-Chi is later forced to face the ramifications of his past. An epic journey ensues, during which we discover more and more about the origins of Shang-Chi as a character. Additionally, we are introduced to a wide range of characters on this epic journey, such as Shang-Chi’s sister Xialing, as well as the loveable Trevor Slattery and his Dijiang pet Morris. The film also has cinematography way ahead of its time. If I were to have a tier list of the best fight sequences of all time, the bus rodeo in this film would be up there. If there was one word to describe it: herculean. Let’s talk culture. I thought this film portrayed Asian American and Chinese culture beautifully. The subtle themes of familial bonding, accompanied with language, love, and sacrifice make the film all the better. On another note, the film was the first to have an entire Asian cast, making it revolutionary in its own sense. Not only that, but it is also the first Marvel film to contain an Asian lead. Because of this, the film has a wider appeal, which allows it to be a box-office bonanza. It has made $364.3 million at the box office so far. Overall, “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings” proves to be a cinematic masterpiece. I highly recommend it. It really is a beautiful showcase of Asian culture, and I am sure that there will be more greatness to come. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Polaris Back to Sections Two Roads By Ella Cason Volume 1 Issue 7 April 22, 2021 Image provided by eLife There are two separate roads ahead which way would you go. On the right there's is one road is the sound of the world, on the left is the silence of the world. The decision depends on your life and whatever you choose is your life. The right road ahead is a road where you can do many different things. Communication to people while others are silent. The movement of words and movement to explore. The left is the silence of the world but connects in other ways. The communication of hands, emotion, and signs rather than ears and mouths So, they mute their ears and shut their mouths and proud of who they are. The two different roads that decide were you go. They may seem different but together in the same world. They value their culture like they value their souls. Everyday people lie on those to roads a head. A decision of life a decision of proudness and culture. and every day a new person is born on the two separate roads ahead. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Art & Culture Back to Sections North’s Student Art Scene: About the Heckscher Entries By Kimberly Shrestha Volume 2 Issue 6 April 14, 2022 Image provided by WILW Recently, many of North’s artists took part in an annual art exhibition hosted by the Heckscher Museum of Art, titled Long Island’s Best . In this gallery, participating students had to create artwork inspired by art showcased in the Heckscher Museum during the ongoing school year. While receiving hundreds of artworks throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties’ schools, only about 80 total artworks usually get chosen for display within the museum. All entries require a written artist’s statement explaining the correlation between student pieces and featured museum artworks. Fourteen of North’s student artists participated in Long Island’s Best this year , creating artwork currently visible in the library hallway display case. While only allowing six entries, each student participating created a beautiful artwork worthy of display in any gallery! Let’s recap the submissions: Entry 1: Inspired by Robert Carter’s Mama Taught Me Piano and Much More” This piece titled My Dream Closeted took inspiration from the idea of collage within art. This artist involves blue and purple elements as a source of comfort within her artwork, illustrating “What [she] imagines [her] future closet to look like” (artist’s statement). Entry 2: Based off of Howard Pindell’s artwork, this piece titled Reflection took inspiration from the depiction of one’s life and the impact words have on others. The artist “conveys love that is felt from the effects of war” and “wanted people to stop and stare and take in the impact of the words [she has] heard”. (artist’s statement) Entry 3: Inspired by Arthur B. Carle’s Nude with Red Hair, this piece titled An Artistic Escape took inspiration from the use of color, shading, and space. The artist mimics “the theme of a human form against a white background” and applies similar concepts of layering, shadow, and light reflection. (artist’s statement) Entry 4: Based off of Emma Stebbins’s Industry and Commerce, this piece titled Aura of David took inspiration from Renaissance art, and the artist’s application of color. The artist mimics “the marble statues made during [the Renaissance period],” incorporating “graphite and a watercolor background to bring life in the aura”. (artist’s statement) Entry 5: Based off of Winslow Homer’s Resting Shepherdess , this piece titled Memory Tree took inspiration from the calmness found within one’s environment. The artist “include[s] items which brought [her] the comfort… the original painting symbolized”. (artist’s statement) Entry 6: Inspired by Risaburo Kimura, this piece titled “Time” took inspiration from the formation and repetition of shape within art. This artist used shapes to create “repetition in Time, with there being multiple clocks, in different shapes and sizes”. (artist’s statement) Entry 7: Based off of Ralph Albert Blakelock’s The Poetry of Moonlight, this piece took inspiration from the feeling of calm at night. The artist creates “a clear night sky with a breeze, the black swirls depicting the wind, the bright yellow spots depicting the stars”. (artist’s statement) Entry 8: Inspired by Robert Carter’s Mama Taught Me Piano and Much More,” this piece took inspiration from the illustration of the feeling of love and security within a homely environment. The artist creates “a homely and intimate ambiance” and uses “space and layering… to create the same effect [produced within the inspiration piece]” (artist’s statement) Entry 9: Based off of Roy Lichtenstein’s Seascape , this photo titled Lake Harmony took inspiration from the depiction of the sea, trying to capture the perfect photographic representation of it. The artist captures “the rugged look that Lichtenstein did with the… blue dots” and implements her own artistic inclinations throughout the carefully taken photo. (artist’s statement) Entry 10: Inspired by Risaburo Kimura, this piece titled St. Basil’s Cathedral took inspiration from the bold and bright colors featured within the artwork. The artist chose to depict “cityscapes, particularly architecture” and focused on the beauty of religious architecture. (artist’s statement) Entry 11: Based off of Rosalia Rosato’s Loneliness, this piece titled Broken took inspiration from the visualization of sadness and emptiness. The artist “attempted to convey [feelings of] stress and anxiety… symbolizing how fragile and weak a person can feel during these moments” (artist’s statement) Entry 12: Inspired by George Grosz’s I was Always Present , this piece took inspiration from the portrayal of chaos through bold application of color. The artist creates a “skeleton figure [that] appears to be surrounded by wealth … and power but remains unhappy” to portray the idea that greed continues to limit and hold back people”. (artist’s statement) Entry 13: Based off of Robert Carter’s Mama Taught Me Piano and Much More,” this piece titled Him took inspiration from the depiction of meaningful people and moments in life. The artist creates “textured strokes of digital paint” to emulate “the applications of medium and illusion of space from Carter’s artwork”. (artist’s statement) Entry 14: Inspired by Joseph Hirch’s Moon Dreamers , this piece titled Breakfast at Kimberly’s took inspiration from the depiction of intimacy within art. The artist “used stylistic choices… to connect to the illusion and idea of landscape” and combines two pieces of paper “to develop the overall artwork”. (artist’s statement) BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Art Back to Sections Meaning of Lines from Different Perspectives By Nehilah Grand-Pierre Volume 1 Issue 1 November 1, 2020 Original artwork by Nehilah Grand-Pierre What is line? Though seemingly a simple question, the answer may vary depending on whom you ask. To the math teacher, line is the geometric building block of polygons, the diameter of a circle, or y=mx+b. To the English teacher, line is the story, or “story line”, that guides a story from conflicts, through climax, and finally resolving in the end. Yet to the history teacher, line is time, or timeline, that we study to learn from the past to develop our future. It is evident that “line” is awfully vague, but the art teacher truly defines line. To the art teacher, line is defined by the artist, able to bend and flex at the stroke of a paintbrush or pencil. To the art teacher, line has endless meaning, and endless masterpieces that can be brought from it. This is the importance of art… exactly what the artist makes it. BACK TO TOP

Back to Artwork Black American Artists Back to Sections Dress Rehearsal #2 By James Van Der Zee February 12, 2021 Volume 1 Issue 5 Medium: Gelatin Silver Print (Photography), Courtesy National Gallery of Art, Washington

Back to Articles News Back to Sections MSA Day of Unity Conference Wardah Khizer Volume 5 Issue 5 July 5, 2025 Image Provided by Afas Aswad and Walt Whitman High School On April 11th, 2025, Valley Stream North High School’s Muslim Student Association (MSA) attended their first Day of Unity Conference at Walt Whitman High School. I had the pleasure of interviewing the President of the MSA, Afaf Aswad, and have her share her thoughts on the experience: How did your MSA first hear about the Day of Unity, and what made you want to attend? Aswad: “Dr. Loper and Dr. DiMaio shared details about the fourth annual Day of Unity Conference, following an invitation from Mr. John Murphy, the principal of Walt Whitman High School. Mr. Murphy extended an invitation to our MSA to participate in discussions aimed at promoting unity, diversity, and overcoming prejudice in schools. We wanted to attend because of this year’s theme of "Acceptance" and the core discussions of the Day of Unity Conference align with the missions and goals of our club. The event promotes creating an inclusive environment for students on Long Island, regardless of their religious beliefs and ethnic backgrounds.” Were there any speakers or activities that really stood out to you? Why? Aswad: “ The speakers and activities that stood out to me were the Huntington Anti-Bias Task Force, presented by Joanne Polichetti and Helen Boxwill, which emphasizes the importance of understanding among community members and addresses instances of intolerance, prejudice, and discrimination. Additionally, The Zen Den, led by Kristen McDermott, advocates for peace, tranquility, and the significance of meditation in daily life. Ms. McDermott led a meditation session that was soothing.” Were there any interesting conversations or moments of connection between your group and others? Aswad: “ I thoroughly enjoyed the group activities that took place after each main presentation. Engaging with fellow Muslim students from various schools across Long Island was a wonderful experience. We were frequently organized into groups based on the color or number of our wristbands. I particularly appreciated the opportunity to draw images representing what resonated with me during those discussions.” What did the Day of Unity teach you about unity, faith, and diversity? Aswad: “ The Day of Unity was an informative experience that focused on themes of unity, faith, and diversity. This event featured five presentations from various organizations, including the Huntington Anti-Bias Task Force, the Zen Den, the Eid Holiday Coalition, student presenters, and the Interfaith Initiative. The presentations emphasized the importance of community members being understanding toward one another, the need for individuals to advocate for peace and tranquility, and the necessity for schools across the United States to provide resources and tools for celebrating various religious holidays. Additionally, the event highlighted acceptance through collaboration among different school districts.” Attendees’ Opinions on the Day of Unity Conference: What was your favorite part of the Day of Unity field trip, and why did it stand out to you? Asra Aftab: “ My favorite part was meeting other MSA members from across the county. It was such a pleasant and inspiring experience to see how many students are working toward the same goal, promoting unity, understanding, and appreciation for all religions. What really stood out to me was how different this felt compared to previous years. It showed me that our school, along with others, is making real progress in recognizing and celebrating all religions. Being part of something that brings people together and encourages respect across different communities meant a lot to me, and it made me proud to be involved.” Naomi Gonzalez: “ I enjoyed the meditation aspect of the Day of Unity because I felt like, especially with AP Exams coming up, this was a very needed and calming activity, not only for me but for a lot of other students who attended. In addition, I loved how Walt Whitman High School included students from Suffolk and Nassau and brought them all together. I thought that was a very nice concept. This was truly a day of unity.” BACK TO TOP