The Official Newspaper North Salem High School

TIGER TIMES

Page 1 March 2021

has managed to find a silver lining through all of NS Musical: A Grand this. “I have enjoyed having a Zoom set up,” re- flects Ms. Bruckner. “There are lots of schools in Night for Singing this country, particularly on reservations and very The show WILL go on poor inner city places where children do not have access to equipment or the internet. I am very By Delia Ciamei aware of our privilege, and very grateful.” Similarly, Doug Coates, director of Golden Stage Society and chorus teacher at North Sa- “It’s a grand night for singing. The moon is lem High School, has been able to find some flying high,” cries the cast of A Grand Night for positives in this new environment because he is Singing during rehearsal. Virtual rehearsal, that thankful that “the actors have been able to exer- is. Amidst the COVID- cise their own creativity 19 pandemic, numerous to create some of the aspects of life have scenarios and stories to Inside this issue: changed, especially for interpret time-honored North Salem News 3 the theater community. songs in a different Despite this, The Gold- way.” Dr. Coates emo- en Stage Society, a club tionally adds, “It’s been North Salem Opinion 9 at North Salem High a joy to develop this School that performs piece with Ms. Bruckner North Salem Arts 10 annual spring musicals, and the actors, and to was fortunate enough to get to create our own have a 2021 production. timely story.” North Salem Sports 11 This year’s production In previous of A Grand Night for Some of the cast of A Grand Night for Singing rehearsing over Google years, the Golden Singing has exclusively Meets Stage Society has put Highlights been rehearsed over on musical productions such as Cinderella, The Google Meet and Zoom, and the cast never per- Drowsy Chaperone, Damn Yankees, Footloose, Testing Update formed on stage like they had in previous years. Beauty and the Beast, and The Sound of Music. Even though the Golden Stage Society’s This year’s production will be different because Page 3 production of A Grand Night for Singing is far “A Grand Night for Singing isn’t a traditional from what we are used to, Michelle Bruckner, ‘book’ musical,” expresses Dr. Coates. “In fact, it choreographer for the Golden Stage Society and is a musical review, centered on the music of COVID College host on The Showgirl Tip of the Day Podcast, Search Musical continued on page 2 Page 4 to life, the organization began working with P.S. I Love You Day schools in the tristate area and asking them to NSHS Club News NSHS students participate in suicide encourage students and others to wear purple prevention cause on the second Friday of February each year. Page 7 They chose purple because it's soft and warm By Gabby Pelosi and beautiful, yet still a very powerful color. Ad- Need Advice? Ask ditionally, the event culminates in one day be- cause sometimes it only takes one person, one For the second year in a row, North Sa- Gigi message, or one day to impact a person’s life or lem School District participated in P.S. I Love to wake up and turn your whole life around. You Day. This event is Page 8 This year’s 11th meant to promote kind- annual event centered ness, encourage people to Op Ed: Immigration around the slogan stand up against bullying, “Together We Will Rise,” Page 9 bring awareness to mental which was inspired by the health issues, and ulti- increased difficulties Varsity Basketball mately help prevent sui- brought on by the COVID- cide. We are one of over 19 pandemic and how iso- Page 11 200 schools that celebrat- lation has impacted us all ed this important event, in varying degrees. Unfor- Turf Field Update held on February 12th, up tunately, the pandemic from 164 last year. and the hybrid-learning Page 12 The holiday was models provided some created by two sisters from challenges for the event West Islip, Long Island, Editors: A picture from last year’s P.S. I Love You Day itself, because not every- New York whose lives one could celebrate in the Lily Guiliano changed forever one day building on February 12th. when they were teenagers. On April 23rd, 2010, Gabby Pelosi Nevertheless, we pushed forward and put to- their father tragically committed suicide. Seven Jake Yoel gether plans that were plausible under the months later, the two sisters reflected on what COVID restrictions and that would include as they were experiencing, and the struggles others many members of the school community as we faced. Remembering their father’s last words to Advisor: could. For starters, we created two days for fac- them, “I Love You,” they created P.S. I Love You Dr. Popken ulty and students to wear purple to accommo- Day. To bring their overall message and vision P.S. I Love You continued on page 2 PAGE 2 North Salem News Musical were rehearsing, I was hearing more and attest to this because she misses “seeing more stories about the Coronavirus and everyone in person! I miss the cast parties, Continued from page1 there was a great deal of fear.” dinners, getting ready for a show, rehears- Although many positives have als, trying on costumes and even the hor- Rodgers and Hammerstein, who wrote emerged from this production, some chal- rendous tech week!” Ms. Bruckner also classic musical theatre pieces like Oklaho- misses seeing everyone, and recognizes ma! and The Sound of Music. Reviews how “This is not the same as a live perfor- don’t have a book, so there is no prescribed mance. But we can edit and put our best story line.” Even though this may seem work together and still create art.” challenging, Dr. Coates acknowledges how A Grand Night for Singing will not be “The benefit of a show like this is that we a live performance. Instead, the final prod- can create our own story around the mu- uct will be a pre-recorded video. Cast mem- sic. The story that Ms. Bruckner and I de- bers will be performing from their house, veloped centers around five students tiring and there will be no backdrops or beautiful of learning through Zoom meetings, wear- sets like there were on stage in the past. An ing masks and social distancing, and how innovative solution to this is green screens. they are lured into a dream where COVID “We purchased 6 10’x 12’ green screens doesn’t exist.” and stands so the actors have a little room Once the 2021 musical was deter- to move while they are performing and film- mined, Dr. Coates, Ms. Bruckner, and the ing,” informs Dr. Coates. This will be inter- cast were able to start rehearsing. It has esting in that we can place each song or been strange for everyone to adapt to this scene in a different location without having new rehearsal environment, and there was to build a set for each place. The opening definitely a learning curve. Dr. Coates notes to the second act, for example, centers on how “Rehearsing this show has been chal- a wedding, so we can use a church back- lenging, to say the least. I’ve had to learn to ground for the ceremony, and then find a trust the actors to do what they do. One of ballroom for the reception.” The production the goals I set for myself as an educator is will be edited with Final Cut Pro, and Mr. to guide students' development into inde- Pedane, music teacher at North Salem pendent musicians - in this case, independ- High School, has been helping Dr. Coates ent performers. This new rehearsal format Ms. Bruckner’s dining room transformed into a rehearsal space navigate the editing program. Additionally, has accelerated that process.” the stage crew is interested in helping with Fortunately, Dr. Coates’ goal of help- lenges were encountered along the way. A the editing process. ing students become independent musi- crucial part of theater is the community and While the production will not be per- cians has been successful despite their ac- connection that is built among the cast formed live on stage, people will be able to celerated timeline. Amanda Collins, a soph- throughout the rehearsal process. That was purchase tickets and view the show at on- omore at North Salem High School and not easy to come by this year because in- thestage.com and patrons will receive a member of Golden Stage Society, reflects, person rehearsals were a possibility this password-protected code to access the dig- “I’ve learned so much throughout this expe- year. Dr. Coates acknowledges this in say- ital recording of the production that cannot rience about my own talent and what it ing, “We’ve had to sacrifice so much of the be shared. The production is estimated to takes to be an independent performer. It community-building that is so important not be available for access by late April or early has been a great opportunity to learn even only to the production, but to the members May. Everyone should go watch the show more about technology and put together of the Golden Stage Society. For all the because Dr. Coates proudly asserts how something that can never be erased.” Even hours we spend during tech week, and all “The members of the Golden Stage Society though this year’s production is a drastic the stress involved in working through that have proven themselves to be flexible, re- change, Ms. Bruckner has “simply enjoyed week, those are the hours that we get to silient, and most of all, caring to each oth- being ABLE to work” with everyone this know each other as a family.” As a member er. They are survivors and will weather this year. She recalls how “Last year as we of the Golden Stage Society, Collins can storm triumphantly!”

P.S. I Love You played an instrumental role in putting together the day, and others in the Continued from page 1 district. In a normal school year, it will hopefully include additional activities date both cohorts of students. that will further engage the student Last year, high schoolers were body, including selling kindness able to visit classes at PQ and lead grams and bracelets to support local activities with the elementary school mental health advocacy groups. Our students. This year, we put together hope is for more people to under- and dropped off packages of kind- stand the significance of P.S. I Love ness centered activities for multiple You Day and to actively wear purple classes, which then in support of foster- cut out purple ing an inclusive hearts, wrote let- and understanding ters to someone community regard- special in their lives ing the mental well- and hung up kind- being of our stu- ness “quilts” of pur- dents. It will, hope- ple sticky notes. In fully, continue to the middle/high spread kindness school, we decorat- and remind every ed the buildings person in the build- with purple stream- ing that they are ers, sticky notes, and flyers. The never alone. posters and painted windows seen Raising awareness of mental around the building were thanks to health issues and improving the so- the National Art Honor Society and cial environment within the North Sa- art students who took the time to cre- lem District has never been more im- ate them with messages about men- portant. It is both a mission and a tal health awareness. journey that needs days like P.S. I What next year holds for P.S. I Love You Day and the further educa- Love You Day is limitless, thanks to tion and destigmitization of this local, the ongoing support from the Warri- national, and global issue. ors Club, whose members have North Salem News PAGE 3 sensus for what most students we polled different ways: the first being the normal, in- Regents, AP Exams had to say. It would be unfair to both stu- person, paper and pencil exam. Using this dents and educators to prepare for what testing model, students wouldn’t have to Still Scheduled would have been a normal exam in what worry about the technological difficulties became an unfamiliar learning environ- that come with uploading or taking a virtual for Spring ment. test, and we would still be more than 6 feet Standardized tests remain a re- With a new and ever-changing learn- apart, satisfying the CDC’s social distancing quirement despite objections of ing environment this year, most would ex- requirement. The downside of this exam educators and students pect that NYS cancels the Regents exams format versus the others is that the testing again this year. With some students across date is slightly earlier, taking place within the state being fully remote, some going in the first two weeks of May. Another test for- By Jake Yoel & Matt Renda just two days a week, and others being mat offered this year is a hybrid model-it will back full-time, it seems unjust that fully re- contain online multiple choice, and paper After the latter half of the 2019-2020 mote students will be taking the same exam and pencil FRQs. This allows for students school year was cut short due to the global as fully in-person students. Unlike the Col- to not have to upload any of their work, pandemic, students in every grade rejoiced lege Board, while taking a at their canceled finals and Regents exams, NYS is actively good portion of but not AP students. The College Board, working on try- the test online. the organization that runs the AP Program, ing to cancel This test does decided to continue giving AP exams last standardized occur at a later year as they wanted students to be able to tests, but the date, however, earn credits for their hard work over the first US Department you cannot skip two-thirds of the year. What followed after of Education back and forth could only be described as a train wreck: (USDE) has not between the mul- 45-minute, all-online FRQs were not only yet granted a tiple choice stressful because of the smaller question complete waiver questions-you and time, but on a much more glaring issue, for all Regents must pick an an- students around the country and globe exams this swer and move were plagued with internet outages, upload- year. While on. The third ing issues, email failures, and just general NYSED will model is a 3- failures due to the lack of planning. Many push to reject this proposal, the USDE is hour, fully online AP exam. This opens up students in our own school even had to suggesting that only a few Regents exams an even bigger opportunity for those dread- take the exam twice when they were unable will be administered this year. This in- ed technological failures, while retaining the to upload their answers because of techno- cludes: Algebra I, English Language Arts, inability to skip between questions. Stu- logical shortcomings that were no fault of Living Environment, and Physical Set- dents and teachers throughout the building their own. After learning that this year would ting/Earth Science. The following exams were all ecstatic to hear North Salem will be be a hybrid or remote learning model, the are being pushed by NYS to be cancelled, using the first option for testing this year, question on every student’s mind was: e? as they are not federally mandated: Algebra paper and pencil. Not only does this option Dozens of students in the mid- II, Geometry, Physical Setting/Chemistry, present the least amount of technological dle/high school were thrilled last year to Physical Setting/Physics, Global History & difficulties, it puts us back into a comforta- hear that the June 2020 Regents exams Geography, and United States History & ble environment that we have all been in would be cancelled. Despite the hard work Government. According to NYSED itself, before, and takes a lot of stress off of our of both teachers and students, New York “The spring 2021 State assessments can- plate. State deemed Regents exams unsafe and not be safely, equitably, and fairly adminis- With all the craziness that this school unreasonable in a new and unusual time of tered to all students across the State given year has been, the return of normal AP Ex- remote, but mostly asynchronous, learning. how severely the pandemic is impacting the ams will at least present some display of One student reflected, “Throughout the delivery of instruction to students and ad- normalcy. While the exams themselves are spring of last year, being asynchronous was versely affecting their social and emotional stressful, the lack of new features this year really tough. I don’t think it was possible well-being.” will hopefully take some stress off of the that we covered everything that the Re- Recently, the College Board re- student’s plates, and let our AP students gents would have expected, so I’m glad that leased their plans for AP testing this year. study their hardest to get their hard earned it was cancelled.” This is the general con- They would be releasing the test in three AP and Regents credits.

start since student performances have ap- ty of spreading germs will definitely stick COVID Keepers peared to be better. The extra sleep makes the around. Mr. Chisholm brings up the fact that Masks, virtual meetings likely to challenge of a typical school day a little less people will begin to appreciate the simple joys brutal. in life. Many people fell victim to missing sports, stay post-pandemic The question of asynchronous days still typical after school activities, and just hanging remains, as they out with friends. By Amelie Zamora & Robert Moia have also proven to Once we are able to have a positive im- get these things back The physical and emotional beat- pact on both stu- for good we will most down from COVID-19 continues as we con- dents and teachers. likely never take stantly have to adapt to its ever changing The midweek break them for granted. conditions. As a school there are definitely to refresh and catch Mrs. Drumm ad- some permanent changes to the learning up relieves the dresses some of the process, that we once knew so well, that this stress and anxiety normal interactions pandemic will bring. These changes will students and teach- we have with people probably follow other states and countries as ers face on a daily and if they will con- well. basis. Taking a day tinue to be used dur- North Salem schools will probably keep to focus on assign- ing our post- programs like Zoom and Google Meets around ments that still need North Salem students meeting virtually pandemic lives. “For because they’ve proven to be useful and bene- to be turned in and be- example, across Eu- ficial. Although online learning has been a chal- ing able to plan out our time gives us a chance rope, the disappearance of “la bise” (kissing lenge for both students and teachers, the con- to regroup. each other on the cheek upon greeting) has venience of these platforms will likely still be Not only will North Salem schools be been discussed.” Things like shaking hands implemented in schools for future years. They making permanent changes, but other “new could disappear from our typical society. might be best used for extracurricular meet- normal” things will continue into the post pan- COVID-19 has made a vast impact ings, that way students can still attend meet- demic world. Masks will definitely continue as a on the way we live, and will continue to do ings from a car or any other place without hav- societal norm; for example, when people may so. It has been a challenging adjustment, but ing to miss it altogether. be feeling sick or have flu-like symptoms they as a whole, we’re adapting to it. It's safe to The topic of changing the typical school will likely wear a mask. They have been proven assume that some of the changes we’ve had schedule comes into question as Mrs. Drumm to be effective as germs spread less and they to make will follow us in the years to come. It explains, “We can start considering perhaps a keep people safe. Masks will definitely be more may be overwhelming now, but the hardest later start time, since we’ve seen the benefit common for air-travel, as airports and airplanes part is already over, and as time goes on, extra sleep has for our students.” Hopefully we are very common places where people manage some of these changes will become second can begin to implement a slightly later school to get sick. Keeping masks around for the safe- nature to us. PAGE 4 North Salem News destination for her and her friends’ weekly birthday mission. After driving to each Social Protocols rendezvous. She expressed, “Whenever we house, the birthday girl would be greeted get together on the weekends safely, it outside by a friend who would engage her During a Pandemic brings me so much joy! We have the best in their interactive scene. Meaghan clari- North Salemites get creative to time just sitting at Bobo’s, chatting and en- fied, “...we could dress up as something maintain social connections joying our coffee/chai. I’m so grateful that that one can do now that they are 18. Mine we have somewhere so close to go to and for example was joining the Secret Ser- By Kylie Staebler we have the freedom to be outside safely.” vice... (the birthday girl) had no idea what But for some, socially-distant “cafe any of (us) were going to be and we had to dates” aren’t limited to places that charge make it clear by how we spoke, our outfit, “Alright folks, nice knowing ya. Sayo- for their drinks- they take place a little clos- and the like. It was super funny.” The cele- nara until COVID’s over and the world goes er to home. Within their home, to be specif- bration may not have been the typical cake- back to normal!” ic. Cailin Maloney, a seventh grader at and-presents party that many are used to, Like a groundhog seeing its shadow North Salem Middle School, shared that but Meaghan acknowledged, “It definitely and deciding to go back into hibernation for she and her family have converted their was something that I will never forget being six more weeks, many at the onset of the garage into the latest hangout-hotspot, a part of. Despite the circumstances, it’s pandemic believed they’d be able to “wait “Cafe Maloney.” She described how it came really nice seeing what unique plans people the problem out.” Give it a few about: “One weekend, my dad have come up with in order to stay in touch weeks, cut out socialization, and decided to clean out our garage and make milestones special!” Birthday cel- soon, the world would go back because it was a huge mess. ebrations continue- even if the candles this to normal, right? That was not Once it was cleaned out, he year have to be blown out by battery- the case. As of a few weeks brought our furniture from our operated hand-fans! ago, the coronavirus officially screened-in porch down to the The stories continue to roll in. When celebrated its one-year mark garage...we got string other celebrations flew by over wreaking havoc across the lights...and hung them this past year and social- globe- an anniversary party few all the way around our distancing protocols remained, others wished to attend. Its garage.” Fully adorned, holidays began to evolve too. stubborn continuation has it was time for “Cafe Jack-o’-lanterns popping up in forced people to change their Maloney” to open its stores a few months ago set the mindsets and learn how to func- doors to the public. stage for an in-person gathering The infamous “Cafe Maloney” tion in a world so very far from awaiting its customers Cailin continued, “We one ghost-length apart. A group “normal.” would have friends over of North Salem students once And what is one area that’s undoubt- with the garage door open. Even again took charge: “We decided edly evolved in the craziness of the past though we were partly inside, it we wanted to do something fun year? Socializing. What would the world still was very cold, so we decided for Halloween while being mind- look like if everyone had let the initial to invest in a heater...It is a place ful of COVID regulations….(one “abstain from all social contact” idea persist that I would’ve never thought I’d of the friends) had the idea to until the coronavirus was declared “over”? be spending so much time in, but set up a movie projector in her Would everyone have gone mad? Being I oddly enjoy it,” she confessed. backyard so we could all watch human beings, people need socialization to With burning desires to socialize, something together while re- Meaghan Sabino as a survive. As Mayo Clinic psychologist Dr. this type of ingenuity has allowed member of the Secret Ser- maining distant. We brought our Sawchuk detailed to the Mayo kids to stay connected in vice, surprising 18th birth- own candy and drinks and alt- day girl Lexi Staebler in a Clinic News Network, "We are the open-air, even as door-to-door, skit-oriented hough it wasn’t similar to any social animals by nature, so we temperatures plunge. celebration! other Halloween we spent to- tend to function better when Individual innova- gether, it was still fun to do we're in a community and being tion hasn’t stopped at garage something with them,” senior Andrew Cos- around others." People aren’t cafes. In response to COVID-19, tas described. And it’s not just the student meant to go months on end people are coming up with new population that’s gotten creative when try- without seeing each other. It's surprises for another in-person ing to stay connected- teachers are show- unnatural, and it’s what COVID- event: birthday celebrations. Un- ing just as much initiative. North Salem’s 19 threatened when typical in- fortunately, gone are the days Nicole Murphy detailed, “Over the past person socializing became a where one could invite 50 of their year, our family has come up with different health risk. friends and family members over ways to stay connected or celebrate special Currently, the Center for to party until they events. We have made dozens of Disease Control (CDC), a na- dropped. But instead signs and have been a part of car tional public health institution in of letting the corona- parades to celebrate birthdays or the United States, advises peo- virus blow out the can- events in our family and friend's ple to “stay at least six feet Julia Maloney and friend dles on all of their cel- lives.” The imagination has seen Cece Delarco enjoying an (about two arm lengths) from afternoon at Cafe Maloney ebrations, people no end, and in true North Salem other people who are not from have unwrapped ways spirit, problem-solving continues the same household in both indoor and out- for birthdays to take new to remain at its finest. door spaces.” This advice is also to keep forms. In a world where the cur- gatherings outdoors, as the natural air- Among North Salem rent pandemic chaos seems like it circulation that occurs lowers the risk of High School’s student popula- will never reach an end, being COVID transmission. But these precaution- tion, a group of seniors went to able to see friends and family in- ary restrictions don’t have to mean the end extreme efforts to make sure person makes it that much easier Nicole Murphy and her daugh- to social contact- it just means it’s going to that even within COVID precau- ters Madison and Charlotte for many to get out of their bed look a little different. And while technology, tions, their friend had an 18th participating in a drive-by each morning. It provides people birthday celebration of course, has played its part in keeping birthday celebration she’d nev- with a sense of “normal”- whatev- family and friends together in virtual formats er forget. Meaghan Sabino, one of the birth- er that word has come to mean these days- during the course of this pandemic, there’s day-rescuees participating in the celebra- and satisfies human nature’s craving for another side to this socialization story that tion, explained, “Since 18 is a big birthday, interactions with other people. COVID-19 hasn’t yet had its turn in the spotlight: the to make it special a bunch of us got a mes- social-distancing safety-protocols have unique ways people are coming up with to sage…” This message was from the birth- made the typical “let’s get together and see each other in-person (while prioritizing day girl’s mother, television writer/producer hang” statements more than a bit compli- safety, of course). Blair Carney. A natural celebration master- cated. Nonetheless, people have proven Right here in North Salem, students mind, she was planning an “18-part, door- they won’t let the new obstacles put an end have proven they won’t let the new sociali- to-door, skit-oriented, birthday celebration” to fulfilling their socializing needs- while zation-obstacles deter them from staying for her daughter. As COVID precautions making sure to do it safely at the same connected. Many have turned to meeting prevented her daughter’s friends from being time. The pandemic has put up thick walls their friends outside of local establishments able to celebrate all together with her on to keep people separated, but individuals to grab a cup of coffee together and catch that same special day, Carney turned it are breaking them down with a tool it can’t up. For sophomore Amanda Collins, the around and brought her daughter to each of match: creativity. nearby “Bobo’s Cafe” has become the go-to them, while including them all in one giant North Salem News PAGE 5 additional information along with it. The schools you have and have not applied to COVID Complicates guided virtual tours are a great way to see so far. You can also specify your college the school and get the whole experience as preferences on Scoir by answering a few College Search if you were there in person. questions and it will give you a list of colleg- Juniors and seniors forced to rely Scoir is a website that has been in- es that fit with them, making the process on college databases and virtual troduced to us through our guidance coun- even easier. visits to make important decisions selors. It is a great tool to help you find col- Naviance, while very similar to Scoir, leges and make your list of desired schools. is also a very helpful tool in the college Using Scoir is surprisingly simple and it search process. It provides you with all the By Claudia Rusinowski gives you all the information you can imag- information you can imagine about any uni- ine about a certain school. You can search versity or college. Naviance also offers an I know this is not what ‘Advanced College Search,’ any of us imagined our col- which is a very detailed quiz lege-search experience you can take specifying would be like. I imagined what draws you to a certain seeking out advice from up- college. Once you take the perclassmen, and going on quiz, Naviance presents college visits over spring you with a very extensive break. Unfortunately, that is list of colleges that fit into not possible for us right now. your preferred criteria. Thankfully, colleges have There is also a ‘Super adapted quickly to our new Match’ option on Naviance online world and there are that is very similar to the many resources to help us ‘Advanced College Search.’ with this big decision. Virtual However, it still can open college tours are available for your eyes to colleges that almost every school, and you probably didn’t know programs such as Scoir and about before. Naviance will help you get In these tough times, your list in order. Covid-19 has put us Most college web- A screen shot of Scoir, a website designed to assist high school students research colleges through the college search sites will likely include a vir- process can seem impossi- tual tour. Virtual tours allow prospective stu- ble and overwhelming. Participating in virtu- dents to view the campus on their computer for a college you are interested in and it will al tours is the next best thing to doing an in any order they like. They show some show you the average SAT and ACT score, actual campus visit. Naviance and Scoir are highlights of the campus, the athletic cen- acceptance rate, tuition, number of under- extremely helpful in determining what col- ters, the classrooms, and the on-campus grads, and more. When you find a college leges fit best for you and your preferences. housing. Guided virtual tours are also avail- you are interested in, you add it to your list Although it is not what any of us imagined, able. The guided tours are Zoom calls that and Scoir keeps the list on your dashboard there are tools that make the college- are led by current students who walk virtual for you. When the time comes to apply to search process from home a lot less over- visitors through a campus our and provide schools, you can keep track of which whelming and confusing.

“seeing friends at school without masks.” Khalid, Doja Cat, and many others. Many NS Students Miss Many people miss seeing their friends students had plans to see their favorite art- smile and laugh. ist in concert over the summer. At the time, Concerts & Travel Besides seeing friends without many people believed COVID would have Many looking forward to favorite masks, Ruby Molina, been over by summer. How- activities lost during pandemic another eighth grader ever, since COVID still exist- says that she looks for- ed over the summer, con- By Anna Cooney ward to, “going to certs were not able to be at- tended. This was very disap- school and other places without masks.” While a pointing to many people, but Since last March, teenagers have now that people are unable been deprived of living “the best years of year ago, seeing peo- ple and going places to go to concerts, it’s another their lives.” Although many people are thing to look forward to after struggling with staying positive during this without a mask was COVID. time, we can look forward to all of the normal and taken for things we will be able to do again, or for granted, now we have it The last thing that the first time, when the pandemic is over. to look forward to in the people answered to this When asked “what are you most looking future. question was to “be able to forward to when we return to normalcy,” Sophomores at North Salem High travel anywhere.” Circling back to the first many North Salem students had similar School, Kylie Staebler and Jules D’Amato, answer, many people have not been able answers. have said that they look forward to going to to see family or friends who live across the country. Many people cannot travel due to The most popular answer to this the movie theatre. More specifically, Kylie Staebler says that she misses “crowded COVID restrictions in their region, health question was to “be able to meet with peo- issues, and even anxiety due to COVID. ple without having to wear a mask.” Ac- movie theaters, being able to sit with a huge Slurpee, and a Sierra Fitzgerald, a freshman at North Sa- cording to Delia lem High School, says that she looks for- Ciamei, a junior at box of popcorn.” While people can still watch ward to being able to have “less anxiety North Salem High about being around people/getting sick.” School, she is most movies at home, going out to places like the Due to COVID, many people are too anx- looking forward to ious to be around people, let alone travel. “social gatherings and movie theater have a remarkably different Once the pandemic is over, people can no more masks.” feel safe around their friends and feel safe Events like weddings, ambiance that many to travel. parties, and even reg- people miss. ular school have been The second Once COVID is over, people can cancelled, resched- most popular answer take part in all of the things they’ve uled, and altered be- to this question was to missed. While many didn’t expect the pan- cause of Covid-19. Many people have not “be able to go to concerts.” It is apparent to demic to last this long, people were led to been able to see their families during this many of us that many of our favorite artist’s be disappointed when plans were still can- time, let alone see them with masks. Anoth- concerts have been cancelled. Some of the celled. Prior to COVID, we took most of er response from Josalyn Escalara, an popular artists whose concerts have been these things for granted. Now, we can look eighth grader, expressed that one of the cancelled or rescheduled due to COVID forward to taking part in these activities many things she looks most forward to is have been Harry Styles, Justin Bieber, and develop a new appreciation for them. PAGE 6 North Salem News

influenced by Covid-19, not the virus itself. I 15 minutes just to make sure you don't NS Faculty Eligible think the school has done a good job fol- have a reaction. The waiting area that you lowing guidelines -- social distancing, go to has chairs set up six feet apart with for Vaccinations masks, and, of course, quarantining when snacks and mental health counselors avail- need be. However, I am aware that my per- able. I found this really important because Teachers provide insights on what spective is not everyone's perspective and there were clearly a lot of people for whom students can (eventually!) expect that some staff, faculty, students, and par- this was a very emotional moment. I think ents have their own concerns -- and I un- for some, it was the lead-up to this that had derstand those too. led to catharsis. The counselors were ra- By Lena Ard ther busy. Am I nervous about finding a vaccine ap- As vaccines are becoming more ac- pointment -- in short, no. But I am frustrat- Were you given any specific guidelines to cessible throughout New York State, it is ed. I am grateful pharmacies are expanding follow after your appointment? important to hear from those who have al- availability to those who are 65 and older (I ready gone through the process. I decided want to be clear that is NOT my age brack- Mrs. Drumm: After the first appointment, to interview three North Salem High School et (haha), but it is the bracket in which my I received an information packet about Pfiz- teachers to dive into their feelings and ex- parents fall. So I am happy they are able to er, which also explained that I still had to periences during this stressful time. Hope- get theirs, but appointments are still lim- follow Covid-19 guidelines and could still be fully in the next few months, teenagers will ited). I am hoping, perhaps by the publica- infected. You still need to be extra cautious be able to receive their own doses. Sharing tion of Tiger Times, that the Johnson and until ten days after your second dose when anecdotes and learning more about the Johnson vaccine will help states meet the it takes on its full effect. vaccines are two great ways to feel more demand for the vaccine. I am comfortable and prepared. I spoke with Ms. totally happy that so many peo- Dr. Popken: They indicated McCarron, Mrs. Drumm, and Dr. Popken ple want to get it -- so there is that I might feel some flu-like individually to hear their stories regarding that good news. symptoms, but I didn't really feel the Covid-19 vaccine. any symptoms after either of my Which vaccine did you receive? doses. Most of the people I know How was the process of signing up for the had felt side effects, so I guess I vaccine? Mrs. Drumm: I received the got lucky. Pfizer vaccine. I was a little Ms. McCarron: It is impossible. I have nervous about the waiting peri- Have you felt any symptoms after still not been able to get an appointment, od because I didn't know if I receiving your vaccine? but not from lack of trying. I check the New was supposed to sign up for my York State site almost daily and the only second appointment on my Dr. Popken teaches English Mrs. Drumm: After the first, I available appointments are mainly in Syra- own. In reality, they book you at NSHS had a sore arm, but after the sec- cuse and Plattsburgh, which is too far for for your second dose during ond I felt very run down the next me to travel. I definitely want the vaccine, your first appointment. day. I took a nap and went to bed very ear- but the Dutchess County waiting list is so ly at 7:30. I didn't have a fever or feel sick full that when they get vaccines, they just Dr. Popken: Moderna. The only differ- per say, just exhausted. But I knew that this choose randomly. As teachers, we had the ence that I know of is that the time between was just the vaccine working. I was ready availability to go to hospitals near Vassar the first and the second dose is four instead for whatever came my way. Even the fol- and Kingston, but they were so inundated of three weeks. lowing three or so days, I was feeling more they had to close it off to everyone except exhausted than usual with less energy. healthcare workers. What did the vaccine center look like? Were there a lot of people there? Dr. Popken: Most of the adults I know Mrs. Drumm: I got lucky. Mary Rhuda felt achy or had chills, but I had none of sent two links out to the staff and I used Mrs. Drumm: It was like Disneyland in that. I heard some anecdotal stories about those links to get to the Westchester Coun- the winter. I got there February 6th and it people being knocked out for a couple of ty Center sign up, but it was rap- was a really cold day. It took me days, but I was fortunate to not really have idly filling up. After some time about 45 minutes and when I ar- any side effects. I was at school the next waiting, I scrolled down the site rived I found parking to be slightly day. to find an available appointment tricky. Once I went back for my for Saturday February 6th and second dose parking was more How are you feeling? Physically? Emotion- thankfully landed that appoint- clear and obvious since I had been ally? ment. I think I had one of the ear- through the process already. The Mrs. Drumm: I am physically totally fine liest appointments, even though I parking lot was in a zig-zag pattern thought at the time it seemed far with people waiting outside six feet and back to normal. Emotionally, I feel so away. However, once I started apart. I was really impressed with energized in terms of there being a light at the end of the tunnel. I truly just want eve- asking other teachers, they were the presence of the National ryone to get vaccinated. I'm the first person shocked to learn I had an ap- Guard and military there who in my family to receive the vaccine, so I pointment set up. The site was checked appointments, answered want everyone to have the same reassur- great, but the appointments were Mrs. Drumm teaches questions, and provided wheel- French at NSHS ance and relief that I feel with my vaccine. rapidly filling up. chairs for those who could not stand during the waiting period. It was Dr. Popken: It was rather difficult be- freezing that day. I was outside for 45 Dr. Popken: I'm relieved and excited to cause when you attempt to sign up for a minutes before I got in the building, but it eventually get back to normal life. I cele- vaccine, you could end up on a notice list. was so worth it. I would've waited three brated getting my vaccine by going out to Once on this list, it will inform you when hours if necessary. My second dose visit dinner a couple weeks later when the dos- vaccines are available via email, but it turns was the polar opposite. It was a sunny 45 es became fully effective. I hadn't been out into the hunger games when the available degree day with easy parking, less traffic, to dinner in over a year and I felt safe do- appointments get booked up within a mat- and no line. I was able to walk right into the ing that. I also felt relieved in school, but I ter of minutes. I actually had a couple of building and there was no wait. They were never felt unsafe there anyway. I think the appointments set, but they kept getting a well-oiled machine with so many volun- students are great at handling social dis- cancelled, until I finally found one that teers. The energy in the air was great and tancing and wearing their masks, so I've stuck. so many workers had positive attitudes. never felt much anxiety being in school. I have even been able to switch the mask I How do you feel about continuing in-person Dr. Popken: I went to Goshen, New York wear to school. I went from a K-95 mask to teaching without the vaccine? Is it more at a county facility. It was one large room a regular surgical mask. I wore the K-95 for stressful? Are you nervous about finding an with tables around the perimeter. When I close to a year and it's somewhat uncom- appointment? walked in, they had me fill out some brief fortable, so the lighter surgical mask works paperwork and then sent me to one of the for me. I feel safe in my new mask since I Ms. McCarron: I am not more stressed tables to wait. The amazing thing was that am fully vaccinated . about in-person teaching regarding the vi- n a matter of minutes I had already been rus. I am stressed about managing the hy- vaccinated. The process was very quick. brid model, but that is a structural system Then they ask you to stay there for about North Salem News PAGE 7

able to co-advise with Mrs. Vara, we continued raffle. If we are unable to fundraise, another Making a to focus on human rights awareness and action technique we like to do is to spread awareness and let students on the different is- Difference: NS drive the club’s sues in the world. direction depend- In recent years, the ing on what they club has helped Chapter of Amnesty found most bene- many different local ficial,” described and global organiza- International Mrs. Oliver. The tions. Amnesty has Passion for causes fuels club’s respect that fundraised to help the success these two have California wildfires, for each other Choose Love Foun- spreads to the dation, Friends of By Siena Bertolino, Sequoia Soto, & rest of the club’s Karen, Spreading the Delaney Perlongo morale and helps Word to End the us to help others Word, Dream Come Amnesty International is a club offered everyday. True, and many to all North Salem High School students. Fo- Ms. Oliver more. Mrs. Oliver cusing on fundraising, we help many organiza- emphasized her says, “Choose Love tions both globally and locally. Many of our ac- love for the club was definitely one of tivities are human rights-related or help current when asked about what her goals were for the the most memorable.” Mrs. Vara agrees, say- issues around the world and in our own com- club and what it was all about: “I love the group ing, “Choose Love fundraiser was awesome.” munity. If you are passionate about helping of students Amnesty brings together. They are Speaking on this fundraiser and its purpose, those in need, this would be the perfect club for a kind group who really care about our commu- Mrs. Vara describes, “The magnet is a remind- you to join. nity and helping others. I especially enjoy see- er for people to be kind - and choose love.” The The club ing students in- work that our Amnesty club did for this organi- wouldn’t be nearly crease their involve- zation was outstanding, so much so that it was as successful ment throughout recognized. Mrs. Vara explains, “Our work for without our won- their high school Choose Love was during Westchester county’s derful advisors, years. One of our Upstander Week - and it was so awesome that Mrs. Vara and goals is to help instill HHREC invited us to be guests at their gala.” Mrs. Oliver. They the qualities of an Another highly memorable fundraiser was the have been dedi- ‘upstander’ - coura- Penny Wars that we set up to raise money and cated leaders of geous, action- awareness for Dream Come True. All of the the club since oriented, leaders.” club’s fundraisers greatly help those in need 2010. Ms. Vara Ms. Oliver and Ms. and every organization appreciates the money describes how Vara have high that is raised for them. she took over the hopes for the future If you have any questions or interest in club when she of this club and be- joining this fantastic club to help make a differ- first started teach- lieve it’ll only grow ence please contact either: ing here at North and foster more Salem by men- compassionate stu- Advisors: tioning, “Dr. Cy- dents. Mrs. Vara- [email protected] ganovich (former Some issues NSMSHS Principal) asked me if I was interest- we have encountered due to COVID are being Mrs. Oliver- [email protected] ed.” She then explains how Ms. Oliver became able to meet as well as finding the times, and a co-advisor alongside her. “I asked Ms. Oliver means, to fundraise. Despite these minor set- Presidents: to advise with me because I thought she was backs we have been able Siena Bertolino- so awesome.” The two took the club in the di- to persevere and continue this club. We [email protected] rection that it is in now. meet on Google Meet after school once or Working on many fundraisers that help twice a month to discuss our new fundraising Delaney Perlongo- human right issues is something that the advi- ideas. Despite the hybrid school model, we [email protected] sors have gravitated towards. “When I was hope to do a fundraiser such as a food drive or

world that need to be resolved, like climate learning experience members from our NS Model UN change and terrorism in foreign countries. club gained a greater understanding of At Yale’s Virtual Conference, students par- how to run a conference. Participants, just Remains Active ticipated in seven committee sessions like Yale’s virtual conference, were at throughout four days to debate modern- home because of Covid-19 restrictions. Despite Pandemic day issues. Representing countries from Having this be the first year helping a Attends 47th annual Yale Confer- all around the world, delegates expressed school in the area run a local conference, the views of their particular country on the members thoroughly enjoyed running the ence using virtual platform predetermined topics. Being at home might conference alongside Brewster students have put a damper on the social aspect of and afterwards were hopeful that someday By Matt Buchanan being at one of these conferences, but North Salem would be able to host our overall, it was another success for the own conference. Senior Gabby Pelosi Despite the ongoing pandemic, Model UN club. said, “The Brewster MUN conference this North Salem’s Model UN club has past weekend provided a sense of been more active and operational than normalcy during an unusual year ever before. Usually, the club heads to where our annual activities like going a conference at an Ivy League univer- to Yale had been canceled. Despite sity every winter after months of prep- some initial technological issues, the aration. This year, the club’s members conference was a fun, fast-paced had the privilege to yet again be part event and reminded me of my favorite of Yale’s 47th annual Model UN con- past Model UN experiences. I also ference on a virtual platform. Due to enjoyed interacting with the Brewster the high volume of participants, only students in my crisis committee, some North Salem students are nomi- where we monitored chat rooms and nated to go to these conferences North Salem’s chapter of Model UN conducts a virtual club meeting caused chaos for our delegates. For each year. However, thanks to the me, this was a great way to end my online platform and no space limits, any While the North Salem Model UN four years as a Model UN student!” student that’s part of the club had the club has participated in many conferences, While this school year has certainly chance to be a part of this conference. this was the first year where we helped run been different from others, it hasn’t With a great turnout, even on a vir- a conference with a local high school. In stopped North Salem’s Model UN club tual platform, students from North Salem early March, experienced members went from continuing to push forward and gain and around the globe had the opportunity to Brewster High School to help run the new experiences that will continue to ben- to debate and argue over issues in the fourth annual BrewMUNC. Through this efit each club member. PAGE 8 North Salem Advice non-profit organization created in 2013 internet. Translators Without Borders has Ask Gigi: aims to help our elders feel less alone dur- their volunteers translate texts for other hu- ing isolation with letters of love created by manitarian organizations. In working for this Community Service volunteers. Creating the letters is simple organization, volunteers must be fluent in at and rather fun, especially for those who are least two languages—it is perfect for bilin- Hours During a creative or like writing. After writing a letter, gual students. Volunteers for Project Gu- the website gives clear instructions on how tenberg are tasked with transcribing books; Pandemic? to mail it and a form for verified community they can scan and/or proofread materials Sought after advice from Tiger service hours. This type of community ser- before they are added to the organization’s Times’s newest sage vice work does not heavily involve technol- digital library. For students that enjoy read- ogy, so it presents itself as a break be- ing and writing, volunteering for such com- By Gianna Leidich tween blinking computer screens and mo- panies can help grow their knowledge and notonous virtual meets. Of course, there passion for literacy.

are other organizations like Love for Our For many students, in-person tutor- For many students, earning commu- Elders, but in my experience, Love for Our ing has been ruined by the pandemic. How- nity service hours during the ever, online tutoring through pandemic is difficult and frus- Google Meets or Zoom is still trating: in-person work is lim- an option and easily accessi- ited, services are closed or ble to many with our new em- unable to run under the cir- phasis in using these plat- cumstances. With many clubs forms. Although we do not and honors societies still de- have the ability to set up manding the same number of Google Meets, we are able to hours during a regular school set up meetings via Zoom, this year, students are feeling way tutors are able to work more and more stressed with students in different co- about finding work. However, horts or all-virtual students. And while the solution to this problem is rather simple, Elders is very well organized and does learning online is not particularly ideal, one- and it’s the same solution we created for great work. on-one tutoring could still be very helpful to continuing school: doing work or finding re- Another great option for earning those of us who are struggling. For stu- sources online. Although spending more community service virtually is translating or dents who enjoy teaching or excel in a par- time on the computer is not idealistic for transcribing books online. Although each ticular subject, virtual tutoring can be enjoy- most students who are burnt out from tech- organization varies, most typically aim to able and a great experience. nology, many great community service op- create some sort of digital library through Earning community service during portunities are offered online. The following transcribing handwritten journals or books, the pandemic can be stressful, but turning services are ones that are the most reward- or translate documents from English to oth- to online organizations or platforms provide ing and relatively easy for students to ac- er languages, or vise-versa. This work is worthwhile solutions. Students have the op- complish during the pandemic. intensive and demanding, but extremely tions to work with companies they might not The first organization that I discov- important in our digital age and making have heard or before or use particular skills ered is called Love for Our Elders. This more resources available to others over the they might not have been asked of before.

a great way to stretch and “I have been doing crafts To Do…While reduce stress. I have gone and painting.” Painting and for walks in my neighbor- crafts are always great to Quarantined During hood and gone for runs. do. All you need is paper And you can always find and paint and your imagina- a Pandemic exercise videos to do tion. Also, some other ideas Healthy, productive, and relaxing online. include origami or making ways to pass the time Also, many activi- string bracelets or coloring ties have become popular in a coloring book. There By Meghan Ledley to do during quarantine. are many arts and crafts to For instance, do in this pandemic. baking. One Next, watching televi- Even though we student said, sion has also been a way to are in a pandemic, “I like to bake pass time. According to one there are still activities so I bake student, “I watch Netflix and that you can do to enjoy once in a watch movies all day.” yourself. I, myself, have while”. It can be very relaxing There are many streaming networks to partaken in many of and delicious. And it is a very choose from like Hulu, Netflix, Apple TVor these activities. good way to spend time with Disney +. I have been watching a lot of First, exercise is your family. You and your fam- Netflix. Another student says, “I watch really great to do during ily could make brownies to- movies and binge shows''. It is also great quarantine. It gets your gether or just to watch all endorphins flowing and something that will your favorite makes you happier all bring you closer. If shows. And around. Luckily, there are many ways to you do not want to make since you exercise. For example, according to one something that will take you a can get mov- student, “I was taking walks around my long time, you can always use ies at the neighborhood, playing with my dog, riding box mixes. They are delicious touch of a my bike.” Another student said, “I play soc- and easy. button, cer outside.” Additional- Puzzles watching ly, running is a great have also be- movies can source of exercise. You come popular. be easy and can go for runs in your It is a great fun. It is also neighborhood, on the way to keep a nice way to treadmill or on the track. your brain working. And, it spend time with your family, like having If you cannot do that, is a great way to spend family movie nights with popcorn. you can always run in time with the family. I have The pandemic has had many nega- place in front of the tele- done a few puzzles and tive effects but we have to stay positive. vision. It is a good way have done a lot of baking. There are still some activities you can do to get your heart rate up. Doing yoga is al- Arts and crafts are always fun to do, to have fun and enjoy yourself with. So so a spectacular activity to partake in. It is especially in quarantine. One student said, give them a try and have fun. North Salem Opinion PAGE 9

board immigration reform legislation, con- represent minors, along with other vulner- Op Ed: Immigration sisting of the priorities laid out in the immi- able groups, which will make it more sta- gration bill that President Joe Biden pro- tistically likely for immigrants to be able to Reform Long posed on his first day in office. This bill finish out the court process. Another aim Overdue features a pathway to citizenship for un- of the legislation is to work to improve documented immigrants by allowing them conditions and lessen corruption in coun- President Biden’s ‘Path to Citi- to obtain a new type of temporary status tries that are common origins of illegal im- zenship’ just first step for five years, and then allow them to be- migration. By using $4 million over the come citizens after another three years. It next four years, many dangerous jour- also makes undocumented youth who neys up north can be prevented by set- By Alexia Zamora were brought to the U.S as children (also ting up refugee processing centers in known as Dreamers) immediately eligible Central America. The bill expands trans- “Our border is now totally out of for green cards, along with those who national gang task forces in the region as control thanks to the disastrous leader- qualify for Temporary Protected Status well. The bill emphasizes the importance ship of Joe Biden. Our great Border Pa- (those who are from countries suffering of increased security at ports of entry, fo- trol and ICE agents have been disre- from war and natural disasters, and farm cused on detecting drugs and other illicit spected, demeaned, and mocked,” former workers who can prove they have a work objects. President Donald Trump wrote in an history). This makes it easier to gain citi- In addition to the new path to citi- email from his 45 Office account. Presi- zenship, rather than locking people away. zenship, the protection of the DACA pro- dent Joe Biden’s press secretary, Jen “My path to citizenship was long, painful, gram, and humane yet effective border Psaki, did not hesitate to snap back, say- expensive, stressful, and I wish I would’ve control, the bill would remove the word ing, “We don’t take our advice or counsel had the same deal as Biden’s proposed “alien” in the immigration code, and re- from former President Trump on immigra- path to citizenship,” an anonymous Gua- place it with “noncitizen.” This move has tion policy, which was not only inhumane temalan immigrant states, recounting his been applauded by immigrant advocates but ineffective over the last four years. own experiences. and immigrants alike, as the word is de- We’re going to chart our own path for- Along with granting young immi- rogatory, and dehumanizes immigrants. “I ward, and that includes treating children grants green cards, Biden signed a mem- never liked the word, it always felt like out with humanity and respect, and ensuring orandum that directs the Secretary of of this world, no pun intended,” an anony- they’re safe when they cross our bor- Homeland Security to take actions at mous immigrant states about the use of ders.” the word directed towards him- While former Presi- self and other immigrants. It dent Donald Trump was in would also end the 3 to 10-year office, the most significant ban against undocumented im- drop in U.S immigration migrants who voluntarily leave during his term came dur- the country. Furthermore, the ing COVID-19, making it bill reforms legal immigration seem as though Trump processes by spouses and chil- would have never gotten dren not being counted against the rates so low if not for a country’s share of allocated the worldwide pandemic. In visas. This also means that the fiscal year in 2019, the LGBTQ+ relationships would be U.S managed to detain treated equally under the Immi- over 500,000 people in gration and Nationality Act. Ad- over 200 jails run by ICE ditionally, the number of diversi- (Immigration and Customs Enforcement), “preserving and fortifying” the Deferred ty visas issued for countries with low rates many of whom were documented, did not Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) pro- of immigration to the U.S. will increase have updated immigration statuses, or gram. Another executive order was from 55,000 to 80,000. their statuses were under review. A ma- placed to annul Trump’s travel ban This legislation is the most deter- jority of these immigrants had already against people from majority-Muslim and mined effort to counter the Trump Admin- been living in the U.S for years, and had African countries from entering the U.S. istration’s intractable border policies thus become established members of their The former ban not only excluded individ- far, but it appears to not have enough Re- communities. The U.S. locked up Visa uals from entering the country based on publican support to pass. Unveiling an holders, asylum seekers, people who their religion or home country, but loop- ambitious legislative proposal and achiev- have been granted the permanent right to holed Christians from majority-Muslim ing it are very different, and Biden knows remain in the U.S, and torture survivors. countries into being able to travel to the that better than anyone with his front-row With ICE’s disturbing record of abuse, the U.S. Higher education groups praised this seat to Former President Barack detainees have been stripped of their lib- annulment, as students who sought high- Obama’s failure to deliver permanent erties, separated from their children, de- er education in the United States are no change to the immigration system. Of nied access to lawyers, and subjected to longer stranded abroad, and welcomed course, along with the lack of Republican medical neglect. Biden’s commitment to the DACA pro- support, Obama’s administration failed Yandy Bacallao, a 34-year-old Cu- gram, which provided protection against due to the delaying of the matter, and the ban immigrant, spoke about how when the deportation of certain Dreamers, lack of priority that they gave it. Clearly, the detainees at a Torrance county facility which include many high school and col- Biden is hoping to avoid these mis- in New Mexico went on a hunger strike, lege students, and young alumni. “We ap- steps. “...they (the officers) just started gassing plaud President Biden for acting swiftly to Unfortunately, negotiating with the us. You could hear everyone screaming protect the Deferred Action for Childhood Republicans can lead to a watered down for help.” At least one person collapsed, Arrivals (DACA) program and propose bill, ergo, a less powerful and effective others had been shouting for air. “The of- legislation making the program perma- bill. If the Democrats decide to continue ficer sprayed me directly on my face and nent and Dreamers eligible for citizen- alone, it would contradict Biden’s mes- on my body, and I ran,” Bacallao said. “I ship,” Ted Mitchell, president of the Amer- sage of unity. Then again, if they do wait felt like I was going to drown.” Another ican Council on Education stated. for Republican approval, they could be Cuban detainee who came to the U.S The path to citizenship only applies setting themselves up for another failed seeking political asylum stated, “It felt like to those who have been in this country attempt at reforming the immigration sys- I had been burned with gasoline. My since January 1st, 2021. Anyone who en- tem, as putting it off had proven unsuc- throat closed, and I just fell on the floor. I ters illegally after that would not qualify. In cessful for the Obama administration. The couldn’t speak. I couldn’t breathe. I felt order to provide continued support for im- lawmakers suggested willingness to com- like I was going to die.” This is just a part migrants as they enter the country after promise further down the road if the bill of a series of many similar, or worse cas- the given date, a measure will be en- does not gain support, but in the end, it is es under the Trump Administration. forced that provides funding for more im- all a matter of priorities. But on Thursday, March 4th, Congres- migration judges and staff. Additionally, sional Democrats unveiled across-the- the bill provides funding for lawyers to PAGE 10 North Salem Arts & Entertainment “Blue,” “BOYSH**,” and “Follow The White Rabbit.” The song Music Review: Top Female “Good in Goodbye” is about saying goodbye to a toxic relationship but explains that she still cares for them. The song “Blue” sounds Performers Release New like a Lana Del Rey song as it talks about getting out of an emo- tional relationship. Next up, we have “BOYSH**.” This is about Albums how one does not have time to deal with petty or childish argu- ments. Finally, “Follow The White Rabbit,” which is about trying to Get the scoop on some great new tracks find and “ see the truth.” Make sure you check her newly released al- By Alex Gogo bum now!

Ariana Grande Billie Eilish Positions (Deluxe) When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? Ariana Grande, an American singer, song- writer, and actress, is back with her sixth Billie Eilish, an American singer- studio album. She released Positions on songwriter, is a global phenomenon October 30th, 2020 and it included 15 stunning the world with her accom- tracks. Now, she is back with Positions plishments at a young age and her (Deluxe). The deluxe version of the album brilliant talent. Eilish released the was released on February 19th, 2021, and highly-anticipated debut studio album When We All Fall Asleep, it comes with four additional tracks making Where Do We Go? back on March 29th, 2019. The album con- an album filled with 19 songs you can vibe with. The exquisite al- tains an astonishing 14 tracks- including a track called “!!!!!!!” to bum contains songs in genres ranging from R&B to pop with trap welcome the listeners to the album. My personal favorites off of inflections. Some personal favorites of mine include “West Side,” the album are as follows: “All the Good Girls Go to Hell,” “Bury a “Nasty,” “Worst Behavior,” and “Six-thirty.” In “West Side” the song Friend,” “Ilomilo,” and “When the Party’s Over.” The song “All mostly centers around the idea of true love. Then, “Nasty” is about Good Girls Go to Hell” can be seen as a song about climate Grande sharing a mutual romantic interest with another individual. change. The lyrics “Hills burn in California, my turn to ignore ya, Next up, we have “Worst Behavior,” which deals with her own life don’t say I didn’t warn ya” spreads awareness about the forest experiences. She’s mixing a bit of trouble-maker behavior, but is fires that take place in California and how we have been warning not asking for any forgiveness. Instead, she is glad to be free. “six officials that it will not be getting any better without any measures thirty” is a song talking about if both partners committed to one being taken. When she says, “once the water starts to rise, and another and down for anything life throws their way. If you see a Heaven’s out of sight,” it talks about the current water levels ris- clock at 6:30, both hands are down. See what she did there! ing. Coming up, we have the song “Bury a Friend,” which has a twist on perspectives. Eilish asserts that the lyrics are supposedly Madison Beer coming from “the monster under” her bed. The next song is Life Support “Ilomilo,” named after the Windows game but based on the game’s plot: to reunite two separated friends. This comes after Madison Beer, an American singer- one of Billie’s fears is “separation.” The final song is “When the songwriter, has finally released her Party’s Over,” which is about a relationship. She uses the meta- well-anticipated debut studio album. phor “I’ll call you when the party’s over” to let him know that she Beer released Life Support on Febru- has better things to be worrying about. The lyrics “once we both ary 26th, 2021 with 17 tracks. The said our goodbyes, let’s just let it go, let me let you go” reveals excellent album contains songs in that they have to end a relationship. Although this album has been both the R&B and pop genres. Four out for a while, it remains a masterpiece and is ready when you personal favorites from the debut al- are for listening. bum include “Good in Goodbye,”

is Nick Jonas. Blake has the crown with best singers. Television Review: most wins at 7, and Kelly reeling in second You may recognize some past win- place with 3. Lagging behind is John Leg- ners, Cassadee Pope, Danielle Bradbury, The Voice end, with only 1 win and Nick Jonas, who and Jordan Smith. Cassadee Pope won the Everyone’s favorite competitive has yet to win a season. Voice season 3 on Team Blake in 2012. The show features four stages of re- Since then, she has released two albums, reality show welcomes back Nick cruitment and battle. It starts out with the Frame by Frame and her latest, Stages. She Jonas as a judge blind auditions. The judges create their is recognized as the most popular singer to teams. The next stage is come out of The Voice. the Battle rounds. Here, The Voice first premiered in By Rosie Binette judges pair two members 2011 and is often compared of their team together to to American Idol, which Once again, the popular and recur- sing a duet. At the end of came out almost 10 years rent TV show The Voice is airing on NBC. their performance, they before, in 2002. Both shows The first episode aired on March 1. are forced to choose have proved to hold worthy If you’re unfamiliar with the concept of which singer they would contestants, but it all de- the show, here is how it works. The main like to bring onto the next pends on what you are inter- goal of the show is to find and sign Ameri- round, and which one ested in. The Voice is some- ca's top talent of artists. This show differs they will be sending times criticized for being too from other singing and talent shows because home. “gameshow-like” with the real battle among the judges cannot base their decisions on Next is the Knockouts. Artists will be the coaches looking for the win, not the tal- anything but the voices of the singers. Liter- personally coached by their judge in order to ent. American Idol is all about the contest- ally, because their backs are turned. Should prepare. At the end of these performances, ants. a judge decide they like what they hear, they polls open up to America to decide who will Regardless, The Voice has more than press a button and their chair is turned to advance to the final stage. Upon this stage, proved to be a show worthy of its hype. Polls see where the voice came from. The singer LIVE weekly recordings will be broadcasted have shown that last year The Voice viewer- now has a chance to be on their team. across the country and it is up to the televi- ship surpassed that of American Idol, ac- If multiple chairs are turned for one sion viewers to vote to keep their favorites. cording to TV Insider. Surprisingly, American singer, the singer gets to choose with which In the final week, one artist will be crowned Idol’s viewership is the lowest that it has ev- coach they want to proceed the rest of the The Voice. er been. The Voice is steadily rising. show. This is where it’s up to the coaches to The winner of The Voice receives the So next time you're sitting on the battle it out with each other and come up grand prize of a recording contract. Not only couch on a Monday or Tuesday night, tune with the most convincing argument to per- are the artists fighting for the chance to win into NBC. You will not be disappointed as suade the singer to join them. this prestigious show, but the judges want you hear the angelic voices of the contest- The coaches/judges for Season 20 of the clout and credit of bringing these artists ants and comedic conversations amongst The Voice that are returning are Blake Shel- to the top. Sit down to watch the show, and the judges. Watch it long enough, and you ton, Kelly Clarkson, and John Legend. Re- you will hear trash talk among the judges will get a say on the one singer who will be claiming his chair, after leaving for a season, and brawls over who will get some of the crowned The Voice at the end of season 20. North Salem Sports PAGE 11 this season our spotlight is on our very own, school experience. What we have missed Varsity Boys Class of 2022, junior Roger Squire. Squire since the season is so short is the oppor- #15 gave us an outstanding performance tunity to really practice much. We lost two Basketball each and every game. Roger has not only practices over the Winter Break to snow, been recognized by his North Salem team- and a third practice when we returned to Completes mates and coaches, but he has also been school to a snow day. It seems like most of recognized by The Journal News, best the season consists of just playing games. Abbreviated Season known as Lohud. Roger can be found on As a coach, I love practice because it gives Tigers played competitive sched- Lohud.com quite a few times as he was the team a chance to improve and get bet- ule, honored graduating seniors acknowledged for his performance on varsi- ter, but that has been mostly missing in this ty last year as a sophomore and now this shortened season. year as a junior. Roger can also be found By Gia Sanda featured on Lohud’s Instagram page, web- Q: What are your predictions for the rest site, and Twitter with his most recent accla- of the season? Although COVID-19 has caused an mation of an astounding unusual turn of events upon North Salem dunk from a game against A: The week of March and our sports teams, we have been fortu- Croton Harmon. Squire is 8 is the last week of the nate enough to keep our sports and have best known to be our 6’5, season. We entered the pleasure of continuing our boys basket- starting power forward, and last week at 5-5. We ball season. It has been one crazy ride is now the boys leading scor- play a really good Alex- when it came to constant petitions and er giving us an insane perfor- ander Hamilton team meetings with Governor Cuomo about allow- mance of 28 points against on Monday March 8, ing high-risk winter sports, like basketball, Croton Harmon. then an opponent to be but in the end, it was worth the fight. With determined on the boys’ season coming to an end after a Q&A WITH COACH REGAN Wednesday March 10 short, but most definitely memorable experi- Q: How would you say that in a mini-Regional ence, it gives us as spectators, a chance to your season is going so far, Tournament. We want look back upon their season and recognize any setbacks, or maybe to finish strong, but we some highlights as well. things that have helped the also will embrace the Both varsity and JV boys basketball boys get a boost on their experience for our sen- seasons lasted for about five weeks with performance? iors knowing this is the about, on average, three to four games per last week of their high week. Despite a slow start for the varsity A: We have been very for- school basketball ca- team with a tough first couple games, our tunate to have the opportuni- reers. boys came together as one and conquered ty to have a season, even in their next week of games. With some tough an abbreviated form, in Q: What team would losses like our home opener against Hal- 2020-21. Throughout the you say has given you dane (42-63), Briarcliff (56-64), and a tight winter it did not look like it Roger Squire nabs a lay up in a Senior Night victory the toughest competi- play against John Jay (52-55), our boys would happen, but beginning over Pawling tion as well as the were able to improve their performance and in mid-January there was a closest games? have some great games against Putnam real push from state politicians, local coach- Valley with scores of 63-56 and 53-45. es, athletic directors, and communities to A: We have played a really competitive Along with that, they absolutely dominated ease some of the COVID restrictions in re- schedule so far. In our five losses, three Croton-Harmon with a whopping score of gards to high-risk sports. For most of Febru- have been to teams that have yet to lose a 59-46 the next week. Our boys put up a ary and the first part of March it has been game (two games with Haldane and one great fight against each team and every wonderful to get back in the gym to hear the with Briarcliff). The other two losses were to week made improvements on a day to day sound of basketballs bouncing once again. John Jay, a school that has a student popu- basis as their hard work showed every sin- We have been lucky to have made it this far lation three times the size of our school. gle game. unscathed as far as COVID spread impact- Hamilton (our game on Monday March 8) ing our tram. ─ I feel really happy for our would have been the favorite this year to VARSITY SPOTLIGHT 2021 seven seniors that they have had an oppor- repeat as Class C champions, and they For our “Varsity Spotlight 2021” in tunity once again to have a competitive Var- have yet to lose a game either. So our non- honor of our boys varsity basketball team, sity basketball season be part of their high league schedule has been really tough. Our second game against Haldane, our 3-point loss to John Jay, and our loss to Briarcliff have all stood out as games where we really played well as a team despite ending up with losses in each game.

Q: What players would you consider to be most im- proved so far?

A: Junior Roger Squire has become a real force for the team this year. He has grown quite a bit in the off season and plays with a great deal of swagger and confidence. Seniors Antho- ny Foglia and Christian Norberto were both solid contributors on last year's team and have continued their fine play this year. Fi- nally, Seniors Shane Wal- dron and Jake Torres have stepped-up into more promi- nent roles this season and have done quite well also. North Salem honored its graduating players on Senior Night. Clockwise from standing left: Varsity Coach Chris Regan, Jake Torres (Sr.), Shane Waldron (Sr.), Eric D’Amato (Sr.), Anthony Foglia (Sr.), Christian Norberto (Sr.), Paul Lulaj (Sr.), Aidan Houlihan (Sr.)., Michael Lulaj (Jr.), Zach Major (Jr.), Ryan Baer (Jr.), Roger Squire (Jr.), Jake Popken (Jr.), and Ish Appiah (Jr.). North Salem Sports PAGE 12 “Although most of our teams are consistently lighting, perimeter security fence, ball stop Turf Field Proposal Up competitive, this would help us even more netting, a scoreboard and bleachers. Four for Community Vote when playing against other schools who con- unisex toilets will also be installed on the sistently play and train on turf.“ The lack of a campus, centrally located so that they can 2021-22 budget vote will include turf field has been a clear disadvantage in serve the new field, as well as the existing turf field proposition the past, according to longtime Varsity Boys’ baseball and field hockey fields and the Soccer Coach Ron Hendrie. “This past sea- gyms. The project will also include fixing the By Cassie Pelosi son alone, we needed to play one of our playing surfaces on the grass fields and im- home games at our opponent's turf field be- proving the drainage system at Tompkins Will North Salem finally get the long- cause ours was not safe to play on. Other field. Finally, general repairs will be made to awaited for turf field it so desperately needs? years we have given up the higher seed ad- the PQ baseball field. The high school remains one of a small num- vantage of a home game and needed to play The cost to build it there and to do all ber in the area that has solely grass playing a Sectional game at our lower seeded oppo- these improvements is estimated to be ap- field. Looking at all the schools competing in nent's turf field or at a nearby school's field. proximately $6.9 million. When asked if the Section One (composed of schools in Put- Several times we have suffered close over- school has approached any wealthy benefac- nam, Rockland, Dutchess and Westchester time losses in Sectional final matches tors in town, Freeston stated, “When we counties), 70% of 69 schools have at least against teams who play and practice on turf pushed pause, we were seeking a variety of one and some have at least two, according and who had the distinct advantage over us grants and private donations. If we move to North Salem’s athletic director Denise because the finals are played at neutral sites ahead, we will work with the Foundation for Kiernan. and on turf fields. Five of those times our op- Learning and the Boosters on fundraising. The first time North Salem seriously ponents went on to become State Champi- Donations are welcome.” considered putting in a field was when it was ons - and in four of these five, we actually Regardless of this hefty price tag, the originally proposed in 2004; at the time, there defeated them on our grass field during regu- school could benefit financially should a turf was immense support. Unfortunately, the dis- lar season play.” Ultimately, having a turf field be installed. “Some savings can be trict took its time moving forward with the field will help North Salem athletes improve achieved by using the field for activities. plans, and when the economy collapsed in their game, and as a result bring pride and which are currently held off campus such as 2008, the plans of construction of a turf field attention to the program. practices that are held at the Danbury Dome ceased. The conversation rose again recent- If and when the field gets built, the and Graduation held at Caramoor,” said ly, and the turf field was all set to be added to plan is to distribute time using it among varsi- School Board President Deb D’Agostino. the budget vote in 2020; however, according ty, JV and modified (when available) teams, A community conversation regarding to Superintendent Ken Freeston, “Because of and amongst boys and girls soccer, field the plans to proceed will be held on March the Covid pandemic we "pushed pause" on hockey and boys and girls lacrosse. It might 15, and a vote will be taken by the Board of this work last spring. Now, as we begin work- also be used as a practice field for softball. Education on March 17 whether to put the ing on the budget for the 21/22 academic There will also be no gender discrimination issue of the turf field in front of the public to year, we are evaluating if it is feasible to re- when it comes to this field. Title IX ensures vote on. If approved by the board, members start this important project.” that both boy and girls teams will get equal of the community will be asked to vote on What many players, coaches, and opportunity to use this field. whether they are in favor of the proposition in fans alike, agree upon is that this field is cru- Current plans for the turf field show it May 2021, and at the same time they are cial to the performance of many North Salem being installed behind the school. A section asked to vote on the school budget. Building teams. “It would eliminate the cancellation of of the woods would be cleared out on the a turf field will help future athletes at North practices and games due to poor field condi- west campus, where the cross country trail is Salem to prosper, develop leadership skills tions. Our fields are notorious for flooding located. A new trail will be designed on or and enjoy their middle school and high after the slightest bit of rain,” commented JV around the same area. In addition to the turf school experiences. Boys’ Soccer coach Michael Valenti, field, the project budget will include: field

Want to write for the paper? Speak to the faculty advisor, Dr. Popken, or editors Jake Yoel, Gabby Pelosi, and Lily Guiliano for info on meeting dates. New members are always welcome!

Contributing Writers: Cassie Pelosi, Robert Moia, Amelie Zamora, Delia Ciamei, Alec Verdi, Alexia Zamora, Lena Ard, Alex Gogo, Gigi Leidich, Matt Renda, Jake Yoel, Gabby Pelosi, Anna Cooney, Claudia Rusinowski, Meghan Ledley, Rosie Binette, Kylie Staebler, Sequoia Soto, Siena Bertolino, Delaney Perlongo, Matt Buchanan, and Gia Sanda