SEARCH RESULTS

Back to Articles Editorial Back to Sections The Importance of Black History Month Leah Ally Volume 4 Issue 3 March 13, 2024 Image Provided by Texas Public Radio Black History Month is a critical time of the year that allows us to reflect on the contributions, struggles, and achievements of African Americans throughout history. It serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the rich cultural heritage and the immense impact that black individuals have had on shaping our society. However, racial injustice is still prevalent, regardless of how much progress has been made in the past decades. It is important that we take time to explore the importance of Black History Month in promoting education, challenging stereotypes, fostering inclusivity, and advocating for social justice. Black History Month traces its roots back decades to the efforts of Carter G. Woodson, an African American historian and scholar. According to the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People , Woodson initiated Negro History Week in 1926. It was established to ensure the recognition and celebration of the often-overlooked contributions of black individuals in shaping American history. The week was eventually expanded to a month-long observance in 1976, officially recognized by the U.S. Government. One of the primary reasons Black History Month is essential is because it provides an opportunity to educate ourselves and future generations about the often overlooked or marginalized history of African Americans. It allows us to delve deeper into the stories of black leaders, activists, artists, and everyday individuals who have made significant contributions to various fields, such as science, literature, politics, and the arts. By highlighting the accomplishments of African Americans, Black History Month challenges the prevailing narrative that has often excluded or downplayed their contributions. It helps to break down stereotypes and misconceptions, fostering a more inclusive and accurate understanding of our country’s history. This is particularly important for young people who need to see themselves represented and empowered by the achievements of individuals who share their racial or ethnic background. Although more prevalent in the past, racism still exists in our society today. According to Forbes, modern racism can take on different forms, such as racial profiling, microaggressions, and systemic discrimination. It's important to recognize that racism is not just about individual acts of discrimination, but also about the larger structures and institutions that perpetuate inequality. For example, racial disparities in education, employment, housing, and criminal justice continue to significantly impact marginalized communities. It's crucial for us to have open and honest conversations about racism, challenge our own biases, and actively work towards creating a more just and inclusive society for all. One significant aspect is the influence of African traditions and customs, which have been preserved and passed down through generations. From vibrant and colorful traditional clothing to powerful storytelling through oral traditions, these cultural practices celebrate heritage and provide a sense of identity and belonging. Additionally, black cuisine presents a fusion of flavors that have influenced and spread worldwide with rich and varied dishes, spices, and cooking traditions. Black culture is also deeply rooted in the Arts, with remarkable contributions in literature, visual arts, dance, and theater. From the works of author Toni Morrison and poet Langston Hughes to iconic performers, black artists have left an indelible mark on the world of creativity. It's truly inspiring to see how black culture continues to evolve, adapt, and thrive, shaping the global cultural landscape. Honoring Historical Black Figures: 1. Harriet Tubman: As an abolitionist and political activist, Tubman played a pivotal role in the Underground Railroad, leading countless enslaved individuals to freedom. Her courage and determination continue to inspire generations. 2. Martin Luther King Jr.: A prominent civil rights leader, King advocated for racial equality through nonviolent protests and speeches, most notably his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech. His legacy serves as a reminder of the power of peaceful resistance. 3. Maya Angelou: An esteemed poet, author, and civil rights activist, Angelou's powerful writings have deepened our understanding of the human experience and the African American struggle for equality. 4. Katherine Johnson: Johnson was a pioneering mathematician whose calculations were instrumental in the success of NASA's early space missions. Her work shattered barriers and inspired future generations of women in STEM. Furthermore, Black History Month serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the African American community. It honors the individuals who have fought for justice and equality throughout history and inspires us to continue their legacy. By celebrating the achievements of African Americans, Black History Month empowers individuals and communities to advocate for change and to work towards a more just and equitable society for all. Black History Month is a necessary observance that allows us to honor the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and social justice and provides an opportunity for education, celebration, and reflection. By recognizing and celebrating Black History Month, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable society for all. Sources: https://www.forbes.com/sites/paologaudiano/2021/04/05/how-microaggressions-relate-to-systemic-biases/?sh=682c8113fc6f Carter G. Woodson | NAACP BACK TO TOP

Back to Artwork Nostalgic Musings Back to Sections Javoni Roberts - Nostalgic Musings By Javoni Roberts February 10, 2022 Mixed Media Volume 2 Issue 4

Back to Artwork Line Back to Sections Elizabeth Andre - What is Line - 2 By Elizabeth Andre November 1, 2020 Graphite Volume 1 Issue 1

Back to Articles Polaris Back to Sections In Honor of Gina Pellettiere Navrosedip Kundlas Volume 4 Issue 1 November 6, 2023 Image provided by Massapequa Funeral Home In the world of music, a teacher's grace, Gina Pellettiere, a shining face. Dude, was her call, all fun through and through, In her community, bonds forever grew.   In the band that felt like a family's embrace, She built a supportive, positive space. A safe haven where her students could be, Impacting their lives, a legacy to see.   Energetic and full of life's zest, She inspired her students, always their best. Happiest memories, nugget fights and more, Creating bonds that our hearts still adore.   As she played the trumpet, her passion did show, In band camp and karaoke, a vibrant flow. Her love for her students, an unwavering flame, Inspiring a music teacher, in her name.   In her work, music's rhythm, and band's charm, She led with devotion, with warmth and calm. She'd ask about muffins, the weather, and more, Creating moments worth cherishing for sure.   Gina Pellettiere, a teacher so dear, In the world of music, she's always near. Her impact, her energy, her legacy, so grand, In the hearts of her students, forever to stand. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Advice Back to Sections Welcome Back: A Short Guide to the Beginning of the Year at North By Ala Paruch Volume 2 Issue 1 October 8, 2021 Original photography by Alicja Paruch Welcome back North Star Readers! I hope you all had a relaxing summer and a promising beginning of the 2021-2022 school year. With the world, including schools, starting up again, I hope I will help you all accommodate and enjoy it as much as possible! Similar to last year, feel free to send me all of your questions, school or non-school-related, and I will try to help you to the best of my abilities. To kick off a new year, I would like to introduce you to some of the electives and clubs that our school has to offer. Starting with departmental electives, I recommend Drawing and Painting from the Art Department. It can help you get to know yourself better and develop your art skills. Additionally, from the math department, AP Statistics is an excellent choice. Besides changing students’ perspectives on mathematics and the world around them, it teaches valuable skills for adult life. Women’s History , taught by Social Studies Department Chair Ms. Parisi herself, teaches students about the systemic biases towards women in history and the present, making them more self-aware. And lastly, if you have any previous experience in Band , Orchestra, or Chorus , consider joining them again here at VSN. They are great for bringing students closer to the music world and appreciating all types of music. After attending the Club Fair, I can recommend a few of VSN’s clubs as well. Firstly, Senior High Student Council , for grades 10-12, and Junior High Student Council , for grades 7-9, and individual grade councils serve essential roles in moving the school and your grades and leadership skills forward. You can help organize school events and get to know your schoolmates. The Alliance , the school’s club for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies, is also worth joining for diversity, social activism, and fun. Currently, they are preparing for National Coming Out Day, so if you would like to help them, feel free to join! Last but not least, with no bias whatsoever, North Star! North Star , the club in charge of the magazine you are reading right now, brings the North community closer. You can submit an article to us and become a member anytime you would like! Of course, there are many more electives and many more clubs. If you want to find out more about them, contact your guidance counselors or ask your friends who made it to the Club Fair. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Have a great school year, everyone! 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 Artwork Portrait Back to Sections Unconventional Portrait By Marissa Nardone January 20, 2021 Photography Volume 1 Issue 4

Back to Articles Feature Back to Sections Fun Winter Snow Activities By Carolina Figueroa Volume 1 Issue 4 January 20, 2021 Image provided by The Know - Denver Post The core of the winter season is upon us, and what better way to have fun than to play in the snow? We recently enjoyed our first snow day off from school and had 4-6 inches of snowfall in our community. Many students were outside enjoying the excitement of winter activities. Even with the Covid-19 pandemic, we were able to find ways to revel in some outdoor fun while still staying safe. Children and adults raced down hills sleigh riding, participated in snowball fights, made snow angels, created snowmen, went ice skating, played ice hockey, caught snowflakes on their tongues and took long, peaceful walks in the snow. After a long day in the fresh air, many people enjoyed creating their own snow cones using freshly fallen white snow with flavored juices and syrups or drinking some hot chocolate. Some fun winter sports and activities that many people often partake in are skiing, snow tubing, snowboarding, snow shoeing, dog sledding or mushing (with Siberian Huskies or Alaskan Malamutes), building igloos (snow huts) and making ice sculptures (ice carvings). Even the thought of riding in a horse-drawn carriage or horseback riding in dusty, newly fallen snow sounds appealing to me! One magical winter attraction that interests me is seeing the frozen “Ice Castles” which are created and built using hundreds of thousands of icicles that are carefully hand-placed by professionally skilled ice artists to create fairy tale castles. These “Ice Castles” include frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, slides, fountains, caves, icicle-adorned archways and beautiful LED-lit sculptures. It certainly sounds like a winter wonderland to me! Additional outdoor winter sports and activities that are interesting include ice fishing, riding a snow mobile, cross country skiing and bobsleighing. Snow-kiting, or kite skiing, is an activity in which people “use kite power to glide on snow or ice”. The skier uses a large kite to travel across snow and give them power over large jumps in the air. This sport is quite similar to water-based kiteboarding, but with the footwear used in skiing or snowboarding since the terrain is different. Many kiteboarders nowadays use foil or inflatable kites. Another winter sport that captivates me is “curling”, where players “slide stones, or rocks, on a sheet of ice toward a target area which is segmented into four concentric circles”. It is related to shuffleboard and is often called “chess on ice”. One would require precision and accuracy and need four members per team to play this sport. In the winter months, families and friends enjoy getting away at snow-filled mountain villages, staying in rustic log cabins, peaceful resorts, or tranquil ranches. To top it off, if these places are equipped with roaring fireplaces or bonfires, families can enjoy reciting stories as they roast marshmallows or make s’mores, creating many unforgettable memories together. Winter is definitely a great season to have “snow-much-fun”! BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Fiction, Polaris Back to Sections Nature's Elegance By Navrosedip Kundlas Volume 3 Issue 4 May 18, 2023 Image provided by Elaine Ching White flowers in bloom, Grace dark brown branches with poise, Nature's elegance BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles News Back to Sections Signs for Wellness By Aleeza Dhillon Volume 2 Issue 1 October 8, 2021 Original photography by Eva Grace Martinez To kick off Wellness Week, North’s AP Biology and Science Research students made eye-catching signs. Mr. DiSclafani’s students put their creative skills to use by designing signs that promote the importance of mental health. They held their signs high while participating in the “Wellness Walk” on North’s new track. Here’s what Adaobi Okammelu had to say about her experience: “I had so much fun creating the signs to be a representative for 9th grade Science Research for Wellness Day. It was so great seeing others come together for such a nice event!” By combining physical science with mental health, these signs turned out awesome. The opening of the wellness center will allow students of all disciplines to visit and either meet one-on-one with a counselor or participate in group activities, including mindfulness practices. BACK TO TOP