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

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Back to Articles News Back to Sections January 2026 Winter Storm Leah Ally Volume 6 Issue 3 June 8, 2026 Image Provided by Unsplash With winter at its peak, it is no secret that the January weather is bound to bring frigid temperatures and harsh weather. However, on Sunday, January 25th, 2026, Americans nationwide were hit with record-breaking winter storms. Around 30 states were hit with what is regarded as Winter Storm Fern and suffered its heavy impact. It had roughly a 2,000-mile range and 175 million Americans affected, which is being noted as not only unique but also detrimental to numerous communities. While winter storms are often noted for their heavy impacts, it is crucial to understand their origins. Generally, winter storms form when warm, moist air is forced over a cold air mass, causing this moisture to rise and eventually form clouds and precipitation. While this sequence of events does not necessarily guarantee heavy snow, this atmospheric collision mixed with dangerously low temperatures makes for the perfect recipe for the formation of snow. Usually, these temperatures are below freezing (below 32 degrees Fahrenheit), adding to the winter chills that are felt during blizzards or lake-effect storms. Regarding the recent winter storm, according to The New York Times , New Mexico was deemed the state with the largest snowfall with a total of 31 inches. Some other notable states that suffered from the storm the most include Maine, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. Contrary to popular belief, many believe that the frigid weather is a result of global warming. This is referred to as supercharging, in which the warmer atmosphere that is being caused by greenhouse gas emissions results in more moisture being held, hence more snow and extreme weather. This does not apply only to snow but also to floods, hurricanes, and, on the other end of the spectrum, heat waves. This once again brings even greater awareness of the consequences of global warming. Snow is not the only worry when it comes to winter weather, but also the risk of freezing rain, known as sleet. According to the National Weather Service, sleet is defined as “frozen raindrops and occurs when the layer of freezing air along the surface is thicker.” In other words, the snow melts, then freezes all before it reaches the ground. As it can be inferred, sleet poses severe risks, which becomes obvious as it is also referred to as “ice pellets.” Not only are these ice pellets prone to making travel more difficult because of creating low visibility, but also because sleet quickly accumulates, which, as a result, creates icy roads and walkways. With the recent winter storm, the majority of the country fell victim to extreme inches of sleet, especially in the southern states. This included areas such as Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas, which accumulated as much as six inches of sleet. According to ABC News, the vast amount of sleet warranted the “biggest-ever deployment of ice-melting chemicals” in Mississippi. This indicates that icy roads posed a major concern among civilians, hence the record-breaking numbers. While the causes of sleet and snow have been covered and their effects on the different regions of the United States, it is crucial to understand how the home of Valley Stream North High School, New York State, has been affected. As stated by New York Mayor, Zohran Mamdani, “Nearly a foot of snow accumulated in parts of our city,” indicating the accuracy of the previous weather reports made regarding the snowfall the city would receive. One part of the city that proved most notable in the amount of snow it received was Central Park, with a whopping 11.5 inches. Additionally, Washington Heights reportedly received a total of 14.9 inches. In the Valley Stream area, snowfall ranged from 8 to 12 inches, where it was regarded as a state of emergency. These record-breaking numbers made for New York’s greatest snowfall in 5 years. This, of course, prompted state-wide school closures with many schools participating in remote learning on Monday, January 26th. Furthermore, many public transportation systems came to a halt, including flight cancellations from John F. Kennedy Airport and unsafe buses. Within this time, New York City was regarded as deploying more than 2,000 plows and more than 700 salt spreaders while also employing the use of snow melters. With such immense preparation, the streets of New York City were plowed in under 24 hours, ensuring the safety of its citizens. As for the following few weeks, the snow is predicted to be slow to melt, considering the frigid temperatures that the state will continue to endure as winter continues. Nonetheless, “the city that never sleeps” is back in operation. Regardless of the obvious struggles that the country endured due to the recent winter storm, it is no secret that the snow served as quite a relief to many. Whether it was out of need for a day off from work or school, or just relief that there could be such a pause in life. Sources: Winter Storm Dumps a Foot of Snow in at Least 19 U.S. States: See the Snow Totals - The New York Times Snowfall Tracker: Which U.S. cities were hit the hardest? | Reuters January 24-25, 2026: Massive Winter Storm Brings Multiple Inches of Snow With Notable Lake Enhancement Winter storm pulls away after dumping heavy snow on NYC, New York, NJ and CT | Latest forecast - ABC7 New York Winter storm updates: Dozens dead across US in wake of massive snowfall, deep freeze - ABC News BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Art Back to Sections The Art of Photography By Sahar Ali Volume 2 Issue 4 February 10, 2022 Original photography by Rehan Kumar Photography is the art of capturing light to create an image. It’s a form of visual art, which includes art forms that are mostly composed of visual images. It may not seem like it, but photography adds a lot of value to our lives. Photography gives us the ability to record special events, people and places and helps us make memories. Photography is a hobby that provides individuals with many possibilities for creative expression, which is being able to use our minds and our imagination to create something that portrays ourselves. A freshman at Valley Stream North, Rehan Kumar has a passion for photography. Thanks to him, I was able to interview him. Below are his responses to the questions. Q & A: Q: Why did you start photography? A: “I started photography because I was bored.” Q: At what age did you pick up photography? A: “13.” Q: What are some of your favorite things to photograph? A: “Cars.” Q: What type of camera do you use? A: “Sony a7c.” Q: What are some tips you would give to anyone who wants to start photography? A: “Equipment doesn’t matter.” Q: Why do you have a passion for photography? A: “The photos look very cool.” Go check out some of Rehan’s photos! You can visit his Instagram page: @photos_by_ree, where he has posted some of his amazing photos. There is no specific age to start a new hobby, so if you have an interest in photography, give it a shot. Simply start off by taking photos with your phone. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles News Back to Sections This Spring’s Solar Eclipse Leah Ally Volume 4 Issue 4 May 29, 2024 Image Provided by Elaine Ching On April 8th, an awe-inspiring phenomenon crossed a swath of the United States, captivating millions of Americans in hopes of experiencing it. Referred to as a total solar eclipse, this rare event occurs during a new moon phase when the sun is blocked by the moon, or in other words, the moon’s shadow falls on Earth. This spectacle reminds so many of the vastness of our universe and what makes our solar system special. While it may seem simple, there are numerous scientific, cultural, and spiritual significances surrounding this extraordinary phenomenon. As previously mentioned, a total eclipse occurs when the Moon completely covers the Sun, plunging an area referred to as “the path of totality” into darkness for a brief but special moment. The alignment of these celestial bodies creates a visual display with the sun’s corona shimmering around the edges of the Moon’s silhouette (Zeiler, 1). This allows scientists and astronomers to study the Sun’s outer atmosphere and to gather data on solar activity and magnetic fields. Regarding cultural perspectives, solar eclipses have been viewed as powerful omens, symbols of transformation, and cosmic events that bridge the earthly and celestial realms. Ancient civilizations often interpreted solar eclipses as signs of divine intervention, heralding changes in leadership, fortunes, and the world’s natural order. In modern times, solar eclipses continue to captivate our imagination, inspiring awe and wonder of the universe. For many belief systems, solar eclipses hold spiritual significance, symbolizing moments of introspection, renewal, and spiritual awakening (Whitcomb). The alignment of the Sun, Moon, and Earth during an eclipse is often seen as a potent symbol of unity, balance, and cosmic harmony. Some cultures view solar eclipses as opportunities for meditation, prayer, and connecting with the divine energies that permeate the universe. The April 8th total solar eclipse path occurred from about 2:27 p.m. to 3:35 p.m. Eastern time. The predicted path of the eclipse was from Mexico through the U.S. to the coast of Canada. Some states in the path of totality include Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine (Dixon, 1). This recent solar eclipse was compared to the 2017 “Great American Eclipse” with a path of totality that spanned from the Pacific to the Atlantic Coast and was the first to do so since 1918. Those who planned on viewing the eclipse had to take necessary actions to get the best views possible while staying safe. Foremost, acquiring eclipse glasses is mandatory. They have special filters that block out harmful ultraviolet and infrared radiation from the Sun, as well as intense visible light. These glasses protect your eyes from potential damage and allow someone to directly look at the sun safely. It is safe to say many viewers were looking to seize the phenomenon on camera, however intense light is extremely harmful even for a camera lens which is why special-purpose solar filters should be purchased to avoid irreversible damage. It is best to purchase ISO-certified-safe equipment to ensure reliable gear is used. Astronomers predict that a total solar eclipse will not occur until at least 2044, which explains the rarity of seeing such an event unfold. This year’s solar eclipse was bound to be the most viewed astronomical event in American history thus far. Whether witnessed or not, it is fascinating to learn about why certain events occur, especially cosmically; it is important to understand the many significances of an eclipse and what it means in a spiritual, cultural, and scientific context. Sources: Solar eclipse 2024 is next week: Everything you need to know ( freep.com ) Total Solar Eclipse 2024 US — Great American Eclipse 'Zeus made night from mid-day:' Terror and wonder in ancient accounts of solar eclipses | Space BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles News Back to Sections LIVE Inauguration Updates By Craig Papajohn-Shaw and Logan Balsan Volume 1 Issue 4 January 20, 2021 Images provided by CNN Politics and Wall Street Journal, edited by Craig Papajohn-Shaw Latest Update: Thursday, January 21 [3:58 PM] Within the first couple of days in the new presidency, the Biden Administration has solidified its commitment to addressing the COVID-19 pandemic and economic crisis, climate change, and racial inequality through executive orders. The White House will have to balance its Democratic priorities with bipartisanship in its effort to pursue President Biden's ambitious agenda in the next 4 years. [2:25 PM] Pete Buttigieg, President Biden's nominee for the Secretary of Transportation is testifying at the Senate confirmation hearings. Buttigieg, the former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, and former 2020 Democratic Presidential candidate, is likely to be confirmed later today with bipartisan support. Wednesday, January 20 [7:43 PM] In a bipartisan effort, the Senate confirmed President Biden’s first cabinet nominee Avril Haines for Director of National Intelligence. The vote was 84-10, with 6 senators not voting. Joe Biden will only receive one cabinet nominee on his first day in office. This is unprecedented as past presidents received more nominations on their first day in office; Mr. Trump received 2, Mr. Obama received 6, and Mr. W. Bush received 7. [7:27 PM] In the first White House Press Briefing, Press Secretary Jen Psaki reiterated the goal of rebuilding trust in America through “truth and transparency." Ms. Psaki discussed the private letter Mr. Trump wrote to President Biden: she said the President will not discuss the specific contents of the letter, but Biden did say it was a gracious letter. A key contrast in the new administration: they will hold press briefings Monday-Friday. Additionally, to prepare the White House for the Biden Administration, $500,000 was spent to deep-clean. Lastly, she focused on the 100-day mask "challenge" as well as the rejoining into the World Health Organization (WHO). Both were implemented by executive order. The final event tonight will be the Inauguration Special where artists such as John Legend will perform live at 8:30 PM. [5:50 PM] In his first actions as President, by Executive Order, Mr. Biden rejoined the Paris Climate Accord, a program former President Trump ceased participation in during June of 2017. The Paris Climate Accord is one of the major action groups focused on overcoming the issues involved with global warming. This is one of many orders he is expected to sign on his first day in office. Guide: Link here to NY Times's [ Biden's 17 Executive Orders and Other Directives in Detail ] [5:07 PM] Georgia Senators-elect Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock attended Biden's Inauguration. At about 4:45PM today, Democrats took control of the Senate. Both Georgia Senators, along with Vice-President Harris's replacement, Alex Padilla, were sworn this evening, in a Senate Session where the Vice-President was in the chair, performing her role as President of the Senate. This would cause a shift in power in Congress and will affect Joe Biden's overall agenda as he begins to propose new legislation in his first days in office. [2:46 PM] President Biden and Vice President Harris kept on with tradition by laying a wreath at Arlington National Cemetery. They were accompanied by the former Presidents. [1:43 PM] Senator Amy Klobuchar is delivering remarks to the First and Second families. She is presenting custom made Lenox crystal vases in commemoration of their Inauguration. President Biden’s vase features the White House and Vice President Harris’s vase features the United States Capitol. [1:31 PM] Republican Georgia Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene tweeted after Biden’s unifying speech, “#impeachbiden.” For the last week, the Representative claimed that she will bring papers of impeachment to the house floor on Joe Biden’s first full day in office. [1:10 PM] The Institution White House Twitter accounts including, @POTUS have been transferred over from the Trump Administration to the Biden Administration. Additionally, a new Twitter Government account was activated: " @SecondGentleman " [12:48 PM] In his inaugural address, now President Biden focused on how "democracy has prevailed" in the 2020 election. [12:14 PM] Joe Biden cites in his Inaugural Address, "The work and prayers ⁄ Of centuries ⁄ Have brought us to this day ⁄ What shall be our legacy? ⁄ What will our children say? ⁄ Let them say of me ⁄ I was one who believed In sharing the blessings ⁄ I received ⁄ Let me know in my heart ⁄ When my days are through ⁄ America ⁄ America ⁄ I gave my best to you" from the song American Anthem by Nora Jones as a message to the country. [12:00 PM] Joe Biden has been officially been sworn in by Chief Justice Roberts. He is now the 46th President of the United States as of 12:00PM. Joe Biden, the former senator and Vice President from the small-town of Scranton, Pennsylvania, starting a career in politics at the young age of 30, is now the new leader of the free world, alongside his Vice-President Kamala Harris. Joe Biden is expected to sign many executive first orders during his first day in office. Biden will now give his inaugural address. [11:58 AM] Biden asks the nation to join him together in one cause: unity. [11:50 AM] President-Elect Biden is now President, and Donald Trump now joins the list of single-term Presidents. [11:45 AM] Jennifer Lopez is performing "This Land is Your Land." [11:42 AM] Vice President-Elect Harris is being sworn in right now by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, making her the first person of color and female to take the oath of the vice presidency. [11:39 AM] First African American female, Andrea Hall, to be named Captain in her Georgia fire department recites The Pledge of Allegiance. [11:34 AM] Incoming First Lady Dr. Jill Biden is wearing a stunning ocean blue Markarian dress and overcoat to the inauguration. Designer Alexandra O’Neill, also made the complimentary blue mask. [11:30 AM] The Pledge of Allegiance is being recited and the National Anthem is being performed by The United States Marine Band. [11:26 AM] Republican Senator Roy Blunt of Missouri is next to speak as Chairman of the Joint Committee on the Inauguration. [11:21 AM] Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar is the first to speak at the 59th Presidential inauguration. [11:19 AM] President-Elect Biden is about to walk out to the outside platform where he will be inaugurated. House and Senate Leadership is currently being introduced. [11:17 AM] Former Vice President Dan Quayle from the H.W. Bush Administration is also in attendance. [11:14 AM] In a historic moment, Vice President-Elect Harris is seen having a quick chat with outgoing Vice President Pence. It also appears to be snowing in a small flurry. [11:04 AM] Mike Pence has officially chosen to attend the Inauguration, instead of going to Trump's own planned send-off to Florida [10:57 AM] The nine Supreme Court Justices have taken their spots on the inaugural stage. Chief Justice Roberts will read the oath of office to former Vice-President Biden. Vice President-elect Harris selected Justice Sonia Sotomayor to read the oath of office to her. In an effort to show a sign of unity, Former Presidents Obama, W. Bush, and Clinton are attending the inauguration, and have taken their spots on the stage. [10:36 AM] Both the President elect and Vice-President elect have just arrived at the Capitol for the inaugural ceremony. Replacing the large crowd in front of the capitol, a sea of flags cover the grounds symbolizing those Americans who cannot attend the ceremony. To date, 400,000 have lost their lives to the coronavirus pandemic. [9:31] Although President Trump has broken from many traditions when it comes to a peaceful transfer of power, advisors have said he did uphold one norm: leaving a note for the incoming President. The contents of the note are unknown at this time. [8:49 AM] A large, closely-packed crowd of supporters came out to Joint Base Andrews to watch Trump's last expected speech as President, which ended at 8:45 am. He focused on his successes as President such as the economy, the stock market, and how his great relationship with Congress allowed for the passage of successful legislation. Mr. Trump stated to supporters: “this is just the beginning." He thanked all of his administration, including the Vice-President, and wished the incoming administration "the best of luck." [8:31 AM] Mr. Trump has left the White House for the last time as President this morning around 8:00 AM . He will be traveling to Palm Beach, Florida with the First Lady. Trump will still travel with the nuclear football (the satchel with the nuclear codes); however, at 12:00 PM, Joe Biden's nuclear football in D.C will be activated and Trump's will be deactivated. Because Trump will not attend the inauguration, two nuclear footballs were required during this historic transfer of power. [7:53 AM] Before the inauguration ceremony at the Capitol at noon, President-Elect Biden along with Speaker Pelosi, Senate Minority Leader Schumer, House Minority Leader McCarthy and Senate Majority Leader McConnell are attending a morning service at St. John's Cathedral in Washington. [6:57 AM] Washington D.C is on lockdown this morning. Over 25,000 National Guard Troops are overseeing the inauguration in order to provide high security. Additionally, the FBI is on high alert due to threatening information posted online. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Sports Back to Sections Haikus for North's Athletes By Aleeza Dhillon Volume 2 Issue 6 April 14, 2022 Image provided by Long Island Herald Track Harsh wind in your hair 300 meters left, go! Adrenaline rush Coaches (dedicated to all our loved coaches) Rough on the outside Pushing you to do your best But deep down they care BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Sports Back to Sections Kobe Bryant’s Lasting Legacy By Alain Deen Volume 1 Issue 1 November 1, 2020 Image provided by NBC News On January 26th, 2020, NBA legend Kobe Bryant, along with his 13-year-old daughter Gianna unfortunately passed away in a helicopter crash. Seven others also passed away: Gianna’s basketball teammates, their parents, coaches and pilot, Ara Zobayan. Kobe Bryant’s passing left the world in shock, primarily due to his heavy influence on basketball and society as a whole. Bryant certainly left a lasting legacy to the world, one which will be remembered for generations to come. Kobe Bryant entered the NBA soon after high school, to then lead a successful 20-year career with the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers, led by Kobe Bryant, won five NBA championships, and Kobe was a two-time NBA finals MVP. On top of that, Kobe was the 2008 NBA most valuable player, and a two-time scoring champion in 2006 and 2007. Although his remarkable statistics classify him as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, Kobe did not let his statistics define who he was. Bryant had multiple interests besides basketball. He enjoyed watching soccer (“football” in Europe) and was a fan of FC Barcelona. Kobe was also friends with Barcelona legend Lionel Messi. Kobe also founded the Mamba Sports Academy, where many young athletes developed their skills using Kobe’s winner mindset. After retirement from the NBA, Kobe Bryant focused on being a good father to his children, raising them to be successful young women. Kobe also wrote several children's books, as well as a short film. Kobe’s drive toward versatility emphasizes that he was much more than just a basketball player. That same short film, “Dear Basketball” went on to win an Academy Award in 2018, breaking boundaries. In the film, Kobe told of his early roots which developed his love for basketball. He explained his mentality, as well as his mindset which pushed him to strive for more. Kobe’s message and drive inspired many current NBA players, like Lebron James. As for Kobe’s daughter Gianna, she was an avid basketball player, expected to join the WNBA when she got older. Gianna, along with her teammates Alyssa Altobelli and Payton Chester, played on the Mamba Basketball team together, with hopes of making it big one day. Kobe Bryant’s inspiring legacy will leave an imprint on all future generations of basketball players, filmmakers, athletes, authors and philanthropists. Kobe emphasized when you stick to your dream with hard work and dedication, you can achieve anything, which is the Mamba Mentality, In the words of Kobe, “Mamba out.” R.I.P Kobe Bryant 1978-2020. R.I.P Gianna Bryant, Alyssa Altobelli, John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli, Payton Chester, Sarah Chester, Christina Mauser and Ara Zobayan. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Entertainment & Media Back to Sections VSN Drama’s Production of The Addams Family By Lia Frederique Volume 3 Issue 3 February 24, 2023 Image provided by Vanity Fair With the second semester underway, Valley Stream North’s Drama Club has begun preparing their production of The Addams Family musical. The release of Netflix’s Wednesday brought attention to the Drama Club and influenced the decision of the VSN Spring musical. The new directors, Kyra Lamberti and Anya Hixon, are looking forward to their first musical in a unique fashion. Specifically, the directors are implementing dynamic choreography, engaging dialogue, and nuanced crowd-interaction to create an ambient environment for the seniors’ last show. Additionally, new props will be employ, underscoring a captivating production. While casting, the directors carefully chose the correct actors for roles which best suited their vocal range and acting ability. In terms of leads, Alain Deen and Marco Alvarez are dually cast as Gomez. Gianna Perlaza will play Morticia, with supporting roles such as Quinn O’Connor as Wednesday, Augustine Magapan as Lucas Beineke, and Rachel Ezeadichie and Isabella Mascetti dually cast as Uncle Fester. The Addams Family is the first musical since Once On This Island held here at North. In contrast to the last musical , The Addams Family presents a more macabre, ghastly vibe. Buy tickets for the show being performed here at North on March 31st and April 1st. The tickets are available on MySchoolBucks from opening night to the final performance. BACK TO TOP

Back to Articles Entertainment & Media Back to Sections A James Bond Review: A Journey Jasmine Roberts Volume 5 Issue 2 November 25, 2024 Image Provided by Max Ching James Bond will always have a lasting impact on film culture. With its iconic intro illustrating the silhouette of the titular Bond walking across the screen as a gun barrel tracks his every stride, ready for the kill. Only for the masterful 007 to pull from his person, his very own smooth, black Walther PPK to hinder the perpetrator, nothing but scarlet blood dripping down a fuzzy screen. Most can recognize the phrase “Shaken, not stirred” uttered by the suave debonair that is Sean Connery, or if one is a fan of all that is Bond. Maybe they wished for an exact replica of the silver Aston Martin DB5 driven by Bond in Goldfinger. Some might desire to gallant with 007, as a beautiful, yet savvy, Bond Girl or as a siren to entrap him and kill him for SPECTRE, the terrorist organization after Bond. During the Summer, my mother and I found ourselves driven to obsession by the Daniel Craig Bond movies, the British actor being one out of seven who have played the secret agent. Amongst the quiet hours of night, we could be found in amazement at the quick wit of sardonic British humor and the profound family of MI6 shared by Bond, Moneypenny, Q, M, and even the eclectic villains orbiting the franchise. Or the way the filmography falls deeply in love with the elegant and traditional environment of James Bond’s England, forming a lush and utterly beautiful film to watch. We could also be found crying at the struggles faced by Daniel Craig's Bond. Never have my eyes felt more underwater than when Bond sacrificed himself for who he loved and subsequent lighting a guiding will-o’-the-wisp for a new Bond to emerge, as is tradition. Yet, the exploration of Bond began to tickle a certain curiosity in me. I have always had a love for the unlabored sophistication of Bond, no matter his era. Dreams lingered in my mind of Cuban cigarettes and aged wine, bespoke of suits, and legacy sports cars. When I decided to begin my journey through Bond by beginning at the first of the twenty-five movies, with Dr. No, I knew from there, my ability to turn back was forever gone from me. I finally understood, I would conquer Bond to its pinnacle. I would not consider Dr. No my favorite of the films I have watched. It has a multitude of issues, such as plot progression, unnecessary behaviors, and nullified thrills. Despite this. it was a good start in Jamaica, where the original Ian Fleming novels were written. I understood where the adaptation was planning on taking me, and I certainly liked it. But I must say that Goldfinger , the third of the films, has shown why it is the most beloved and highly rated of the Bond Films, as it is the exact opposite of my problems with Dr. No. This article was not only a review of the Bond Films, but an explanation to understand why I love them so much and my thought process in dissecting further films. Nonetheless, if all I have said entices you in anyway, then I think it would be most prudent to quickly watch the films from Connery to Craig, as James Bond is a busy man on a mission to save the world. BACK TO TOP