The book begins with a story of a seven-year-old boy named Neftali, who loves to wander in his world and spends most of his time collecting random things that transports him to a world of daydream. He reads books and picks words that capture his attention in hopes of becoming a writer one day so that he can help people who can't speak for themselves.  Neftali is not the only one in his family with dreams and hopes. His older brother Rodolfo, who wishes to become a singer one day, is not allowed to sing, hum, or whistle. His father tells him these actions are a waste of time and will get him and Neftali nowhere. Their father strongly suggests that his children focus on more important things like becoming a doctor and studying medicine one day. 

At thirteen, Neftali asked his uncle, Orlando, for a job at his newspaper office. To get the job, Neftali needed to get his dad's permission first. So he hands his uncle one of his self-written essays and asks him to read it to his dad for approval.; an essay that would be published in the newspaper the next day. The guests loved the writing and congratulated Neftali's father for having such a talented son, but his father didn't think it was writing worth celebrating. He felt that what Neftali had written and done was foolish and an embarrassment. Rodolfo and uncle Orlando vouched for Neftali, and after a long argument, his father finally agreed to let Neftali be employed at  Orlano’s newspaper office. 

However, there was one condition: he must keep up his studies. After two months of working with his uncle, Neftali woke up to Laurita, his younger sister, violently shaking him awake. She alerted him that the newspaper office was deliberately burnt down. His father tried to stop him from running to the office. Neftali later insinuates that his father might be at blame for the fire incident. Uncle Orlando saved a single printer's drawer from the office that night.

Three years later, at sixteen, Neftali was a correspondent for Claridad, a magazine published by a student at the University of Santiago. He was asked to write for them and distribute the magazines to Temuco, where he lives, for their voices to be heard. A few days later, Neftali comes home to find his drawers ransacked and the pages of his notebook all over the floor. His father stands at the doorway of his room, holding a copy of Claridad. He opens it to a page of Neftali's writing stating that he aspires to become a poet. His father angrily collects Neftali's notebooks and sets them on fire.

  A few months later, he was finishing a poem for Claridad. He didn't want to put his legal name under his writings, so he devised a pen name that we now know as Pablo Neruda. He packed his bags to go away to Santiago. He continued to write, despite the hardships of living without food in a cold room no bigger than a cell. He went through heartbreaks and disagreements within himself and his country. He chose to write through it all. He started gaining recognition. His poems became books that people would pass down because they would touch their hearts seeing as he was quite the romantic. His dreams were no longer; they were accomplishments that made him who he was.

Skin care is vital for maintaining healthy and youthful skin, preventing damage and disease, and promoting overall well-being. Proper skin care helps to preserve the skin's barrier function, protect it from harmful external factors, and improve its appearance. Regular skin care promotes hydration, reduces inflammation, and helps maintain a healthy skin microbiome. A daily skincare routine can help to prevent signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, and improve the skin's texture and tone.

Korean skincare, or K-beauty, is a multi-step skincare routine that uses high-quality, natural ingredients to nourish and revitalize the skin. It emphasizes hydration, exfoliation, and protection from environmental stressors, with products such as essences, serums, masks, and sunscreens. Many people incorporate Korean skincare principles into their daily routine for a radiant, healthy-looking complexion. K-beauty has become a global trend on social media platforms like TikTok.

Step 1- oil based cleansing~Cetaphil gentle skin cleanser $14.49

1.    Removes impurities: Oil cleansing effectively removes makeup, dirt, and other impurities from the skin.

2.  Moisturizes: Oils used in oil cleansing are often nourishing and moisturizing, which can help keep skin hydrated and healthy.

3.  Balances natural oils: Oil cleansing can help balance the skin's natural oil production, reducing the risk of breakouts.

4.  Gentle: Oil cleansing is often gentle and non-irritating, making it suitable for all skin types.

Step 2-Toner~COSRX clarifying toner $20.00

1. Hydrates skin

2.  Balances skin's pH

3.  Cleanses skin of impurities

4.  Refreshes skin

Step 3-Essence ~COSRX snail essence $21.00

1. Hydrates and moisturizes skin

2.  Improves skin texture

3.  Firmness Brightens 

4.  Evens skin tone

Step 4 -Serum~Beauty of Joseon repair serum $16.99

Benefits:

1. Reduces the appearance of dark spots

2.  Calms and soothes skin irritation

3.  Nourishes and protects the skin. It helps to repair damage from sun exposure and other environmental factors 

4. Provides anti-aging benefits.

Step 5- water based moisturizer~Soon jung Hydro barrier cream $16.95

Benefits:

1.  Hydrates skin.

2.  Improves skin texture.

3.  Reduces fine lines and wrinkles.

4.  Promotes skin elasticity.

Step 6-Sunscreen~Innisfree sunscreen $16.00

1. Benefits: Protection from UV rays, reducing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging

2. Prevents sunburns

3. Reduces dark spots and uneven skin tones

Step 7-lip mask~laneige lip mask $24.00

Benefits:

Delivers intense moisture and antioxidants while you sleep for visibly smoother, baby-soft lips in the AM.

Yoga has been around for centuries, but in recent years it has become increasingly popular as a way to stay fit and healthy. However, yoga is more than just a physical exercise; it is a powerful tool for healing the body and mind.

Yoga is increasingly being introduced in schools to promote physical and mental wellness among students. Many schools have started offering yoga classes as part of their physical education curriculum or as an after-school activity. At Uniondale High School, yoga is offered to all by choice for physical education. Many high school students feel yoga is healing and peaceful for them, leaving them extra focused and relaxed throughout the school day. The benefits of yoga in school are numerous, including improved concentration, reduced stress and anxiety, increased flexibility and strength, and better overall health.

 Suniyah Rose, a 17-year-old former student at UHS  has been taking yoga for physical education since the 9th grade. Suniyah has struggled with anxiety and stress due to school and out-of-school responsibilities such as working, and late-night studying. Suniyah said, “Due to all these things, I have a hard time focusing on certain school tasks.” 

After going to her yoga class, she says she felt an immediate sense of calmness and relaxation to continue her day and focus more strongly on her responsibilities. 

She said, “The environment feels safe and comfortable and helps to clear her headspace." 

When someone has a clear mind, he or she are less distracted by external factors, such as worries or doubts. This allows one to concentrate on the task and improve productivity. Additionally, clear headspace can enhance  decision-making skills, increase creativity, and reduce stress. Overall, having a clear mind can improve mental and emotional well-being, relationships, and success in life.

At UHS, students taking yoga classes are placed in a comfortable space with soft placements on the floor and yoga mats, feeling relaxed, at ease, and free from physical or emotional discomfort. It is a state of being where students such as Suriya and many more feel comfortable and secure in their surroundings. David Ottaviano, U.H.S.'s yoga teacher, helps students to improve their physical and mental health by demonstrating poses, breathing techniques, and meditation practices. He also plays calming music for the students, even letting some recommend a playlist making the students in the class more interactive. Mr. Ottaviano feels music can be a powerful tool to promote relaxation and reduce student stress and anxiety. Music can be used in various ways throughout your day.

Overall, students at UHS take yoga and feel that it improves their school day and environment, leaving a calming effect throughout the day and increasing mindfulness. Not every school offers it o the attending children; few are fortunate. UHS is one of the many schools offering yoga, leaving many students satisfied and feeling NAMASTE.

     An incredible performance, Hearts & Harmony, was  held on February 9, 2023, by Uniondale High School's band, The Shed.  It was a was a smashing success. They are  a talented group of young musicians that share the gift of music. They encompass the spirit of music with their energy and vigor while playing. This performance was a top-notch performance that truly showcased the immense talent of all the band members.

  Aurorah Spencer, Cadence Peace, Jadon O’Brien, and Amina Walker were at the forefront of the performance with their singing. It was captivating and their voices kept audience members wanting more. 

The percussion was skillfully produced by the talented Aleksa Raymond, Edwin Louis XVI, and Ethan Thomas. Gabe Ramirez was the expert on bass. Jason Robertson played sax so well, the audience applauded louder every time he played. The electric guitar players, Taliyah Crennel, Christian Ortega, and Yahir Argueta, were top-notch during the entire performance. 

Amaya Grier was the mastermind playing the trumpet and, Mr. Barker was an amazing keyboardist. The vibrant atmosphere was set by the singers and instrumental players wearing red and black under purple and pink spotlights.

The set list consisted of the following songs:

1. The Way by Ariana Grande (Ft. Mac Miller)

2. Boo’d Up by Ella Mai

3. Treasure by Bruno Mars

4. Comfortable by H.E.R

5. Antidote by Nao (Ft. Adekunle Gold)

6. Dragonball Durag by Thundercat

7. Never Too Much by Luther Vandross

8. Can We Talk by Tevin Campbell

9. Fine China by Chris Brown

10. Every Little Step by Bobby Brown

11. Mashup: Do For Love by Tupac Shakur/ Finesse by Bruno Mars / Just the Two of Us by Bill Withers, William Salter, and Ralph Mcdonald 

  Of the 11 songs, each singer got to be the lead singer of two or more songs. Each one of them added their own vibrant flare to their songs and their energy was contagious. Every song was memorable and showcased their artistry. It was a timeless event that everyone in the audience could feel. The smooth playing and welcoming attitudes made experiencing their concert completely worthwhile. 

We want to take this time to shout out the members who had solos. Each song warranted a standing ovation with how the crowd was completely enthralled. Louis XVI’s drum solo was positively outstanding and unforgettable. Ramirez’s bass was phenomenal and mind-blowing. Argueta’s guitar solo was beyond breathtaking. Robertson’s sax performance had the crowd so ecstatic that they cheered every time he started playing. Each song had the crowd cheering for more. The audience was absolutely begging for an encore after hearing them. 

The Shed is, without a doubt, an incredible band. Every single song was a hit from beginning to end. Every single minute of their performance was incredible to watch and hear. Their talent is obvious every second they are on stage. We are excited to see where they are going go from here. You should definitely check them out next time they have a show!

Before this school year, walking into the Uniondale High School building at 7 AM was pretty depressing. It was Groundhog's Day every day:  put your belongings away, have your ID card out, place your belongings through the scanner, walk through the metal detectors, grab your stuff, and get to class. BLAH, BLAH, BLAH! Students looked more like robots than they did teenagers. That all changed when Mr. Ross, aka DJ Ross, grabbed a microphone and started playing music. This simple action has changed the entire morning for many students and staff.

Mr. Ross says he began this journey when we returned to in-person instruction after the pandemic. He began coming in early to welcome students into the building. He was excited to see students back in the building, so he decided to greet them as they arrived. The music became a part of it because Mr. Ross said, "music makes everything better." 

DJ Ross gets his playlist from Apple music. His daily selections are often quite eclectic, ranging from R&B, old-school Hip Hop, Reggae, Soca, Afrobeats, and Latin music. He is firm on not taking song requests because his music needs to be appropriate for all audiences. 

Ross loves what he does and believes that getting people to dance, sing and forget about their problems keeps him going. He loves being DJ Ross because he tells students, "Welcome" and "I love you." He gives fist bumps and high fives. Sometimes in life, the little things make the biggest impact.

When he makes students smile, his day is made, and he says the whole thing comes from a place of LOVE. Ross believes all humans want to feel loved and validated and is happy to provide that to those who enter the lobby. 

Kimora Mckay, a sophomore at Uniondale, says walking into the school building with music and a hug from DJ Ross makes her day better. She says it makes her feel more energetic and puts her in a positive mood. 

Mr. Ross has been approached by students thanking him for what he does. They enjoy the silly nicknames he gives them, and he believes that even those who think he is too loud secretly enjoy it. He has even been told that students complain in his absence. He is happy that the security at the poolside has followed his lead by playing their own playlist, as it sets a good tone for students, and he never shies away from some friendly competition. 

Ross thinks it is essential and plans to continue this tradition and make it more extraordinary next year. For now, no one has been named as the possible successor of the tradition, but only time will tell. Mr. Ross said if there were to be someone to take over the practice, they would have to be willing to greet and impact students every morning, giving fists bumps, high fives, and hugs.

Mr. Ross is an example of someone doing a little thing that causes a big reaction. His music and daily affirmations have made mundane daily procedures into uplifting and positive moments for students and staff. 

On February 7th, 2023, Uniondale hosted its annual blood drive. Teachers, students, and staff filled the gym, eager to donate. In the process, individuals had to be 17 years or older to donate or have parental consent if they were younger. Participants had to take a survey; they tested their blood before one could donate. The entire process took about two class periods which is about 1 ½ hours. The Blood Center employees were cautious afterward, providing snacks and drinks to ensure donators were nourished and feeling well enough to return to class. 

Mitchella Simon, a senior, said she decided to donate because she had never done it before and knew how helpful it could be to someone in need. She was nervous because she was not the biggest fan of needles or blood, but she believed it was all worth it. Simon is glad she went through with it; it wasn’t as bad as she thought. She would do it again if she had a chance knowing that it would help someone or potentially save a life. She encourages others to donate as well. 

Another senior, Karla Guevara, says she donated because she has never done it and wanted to try. She was nervous about the amount of blood she was donating at one time. She says she is glad she did it for a good cause. She says she would donate again and encourage others too because she believes everyone should donate at least once.

Jocelyn Diaz is someone who has a passion for fashion. Fashion is a very complex and audience-based career, making it a challenging job. The hard work and dedication to perfect her craft have led her to receive a scholarship to LIM College in New York. LIM is known to be an excellent school for young and upcoming fashion designers such as herself. It has an excellent reputation with over 2,000 companies in its internship and employee pipeline. It is rated one of the Top 10 Fashion schools in the U.S. and the Top 25 worldwide. The numbers speak for themselves, showing that her hard work has not gone to waste. 

I had a chance to interview Jocelyn and ask questions regarding her inspiration and drive for this career. Talking to her helped me understand more about how fashion does inspire people in their way, and it's just like a belief; no one else has to believe in it except you. Fashion is a way to bring people together, and I hope that's what she can do in the future in her career. Moving forward, she plans on making her clothing line called Jdesigns, which is projected to have a variety of styles for a wider audience.

• What would you say motivated you to become a fashion designer?

-What motivated me to become a fashion designer was the fact it felt so natural, even at a young age without realizing it i would love to draw stick figures with dresses and fast forward to quarantine, that gave me time to really start to progress into it. Around this time I got more involved in pop culture and how fashion is very influential.

• Going forward if you were to have a clothing line, what type of audience would you target?

-My target market is mostly teenagers primarily because i feel when you’re at that age you tend to open yourself up to many new and different things like hobbies, sport or physical appearances. With my clothing line I want to start with teens who want to save money but be fashionable and eventually branch out with different lines of clothing.

• After hearing you received a scholarship to one of the best fashion schools in the country ,how did hearing the news make you feel?

-At first glance I questioned if the scholarship was even real, everyone had doubted me even my own guidance counselor, and i already felt like a failure after I lost a scholarship to another school but hearing that I got a scholarship to something I wanted to keep moving forward with, it left me shocked but grateful that my dreams were one step closer.

• Do you take courses for fashion at school or do you mostly work at home?

• I mostly take courses at school, most importantly my favorite class which is fashion and merchandising marketing.

On January 20, 2015, the Broadway play, Hamilton, debuted and took off running. It instantly became one of the most popular musicals of our time. Even now, the buzz over Hamilton has not stopped. 

Although the musical is not historically accurate, it portrays history fun and creatively. 

Some believe they have a better chance of winning Mega Millions than scoring a seat to the musical. Ticket demand is still running strong all these years later. Uniondale students hit the jackpot when Ms. Ginsberg got a block of tickets for just ten dollars. 

Ms. Ginsberg, a U.H.S. social studies teacher, has run the trip in the past and knows firsthand what a great opportunity it is for her students. She secured the tickets through the Hamilton Education Program and extended the offer to seniors. 

Students had to do a creative project based on the periodic time Hamilton took place in. Most students did it easily and considered it a simple cost for something big. 

Even students without prior knowledge of the musical participated in such a privilege. Ariela Genao, a U.H.S. student, said, "The project was super easy and gave us some background knowledge before seeing the play." She then said she was excited once she heard about the opportunity. 

Another student,  Yoselin Polanco, said, "I never heard of Hamilton. The experience was worth it, and I genuinely enjoyed the show."  Another student proclaimed it "senior year's best trip."

Not only did the project allow students to express themselves, it allowed them to dig deeper into history and connect with it. Some students made poems of people in the show, others made skits to show off their acting skills, and many made songs. 

Besides the exciting event of viewing a Broadway musical, many students raved about how "fun" and "enjoyable" everyone on the trip made it. Every student expressed their comfort with one another, and everyone felt connected. The day started with Ms. Ginsberg providing everyone with a simple breakfast. Upon arrival, students could walk around the city and get things to eat before standing in line. Although the line took almost an hour, students passed the time by taking photos and connecting.

Soon everyone was let inside the venue to watch the show. After the show, there was a fun Q&A with the performers. 

The bus ride home was filled with excitement as students raved about the play and began singing the songs from the show.

"My favorite part of the trip was the people who went. I feel like everyone was fully engaged in the show and enjoyed it. Vibes are contagious, and I think a good one allowed us all to have fun." said  Yoselin Polanco. 

Sometimes school is about something other than what we learn in our classroom. Trips, such as Hamilton, expose students to the world outside Uniondale High School's walls. 

Examples of Students' Work

Vale De Chamber

By: Nachurel Mitchell 

Serving alongside General Washington was no other than an American slave 

Mulatto and athletic as he is described 

William “Billy” Lee was bought in 1768  for $73.

Where he lived his life tying up loose ends; hair included

Helping organize papers and deliver messages 

No longer refuted the status of one of Washington's unknown right hand men

Who’s own brown hand held up Washignton’s spy glass lens 

The impact of man whose spirit was made to be bent yet did not 

He took up a space where people like me could not

From Yorktown,  to the House of Burgesses, to the Constitutional Convention 

I pose the question:  If he was present for the birth of America where in the history book is he mentioned ? 

Changing the opinion of a slave holders, *I mean a hero’s mind*

He was able to help a president see that the melanated skin that accompanied him over 20 years, through trenches,  a presidency, two broken knees and a lover that died 

Had a heart, a spirit, and mind. Free at last but forgotten as well, 

Remember me, your humble man servant William “Billy”  Lee as a hidden figure of the Revolution yet “family” of Washington as well

Eliza

By: Yoselin Polonco and Ana Hernandez 

Eliza,

As pretty as the sun rising,

Or was it another that Alexander was hiding.

A founding father to America & his family,

Only to leave his wife unhappily

She remained faithful

Even when he left her name disgraceful 

She remained as bright as the sun

Even when her pain stung 

She took the time to understand him

To feel what he left at whim

She felt his pain

When he didn’t feel hers 

She dived into his past

Even when he passed

She collected funds rather then run

She allowed for kids to play under her sun

Eliza

She didn’t stop fighting

Housed over 700

Raised money in hundredths 

Appointed for directress 

Knew her direction

Remembered for what her husband did,

However, we need to look in

Eliza Schylur, the angel for many

His angel for centuries   

In Room 332, something new is sprouting. Meet Mr. Ouellette, a new science teacher specializing in living environment, biology, and forensic science. Not only does he teach these genres of science, but he also teaches science in Spanish to his ENL students, who have grown to love and respect him for being a fantastic educator. 

The love of science between students is not the only thing growing in Ouellette's room. Mr. Ouellette has funded and created his own hydroponic garden in his classroom that now grows lettuce, kale, and basil. He hopes to expand this garden and introduce new vegetables and plants. Surprisingly, the garden is predominantly built and run by students.

My Brother's Keeper (MBK), a school organization that focuses on mentoring and uplifting male high school students, helped set up and build the hydroponic farm. 

"They built it, and I would challenge them," said Ouellette reflectively. Using problem-solving skills, the students decided where to put the UV lights, the water jug, and the plants themselves. On Thursdays, MBK members help with the upkeep of the garden, but the garden is open to all to enjoy. You can even clone a plant if you ask Mr.Ouellette nicely.

When asked where the inspiration came to start a hydroponic garden at Uniondale High School, he brought up his father's garden and an old coworker from his previous school in Westbury. Brandon Lily had his hydroponic farm and mindset about teaching that inspired Mr. Ouellette. 

According to Ouellette,, " Brandon Lily was so inspiring for me I'll never forget it. . . I don't think I've ever really met someone like him in the 7-8 years that I taught; he looked at every single lesson like it was an art". 

Ouellette's excitement from that experience carried over here, where he established his hydroponic garden and brought his love for teaching with him. 

Ouellette believes gardening and farming would be an excellent science class or after-school activity to add to our Uniondale High School for all students to enjoy. I asked what  gardening has taught him and his students, he said, "Just go for it. . .try new experiences and set a goal for yourself; if you don't like it, you can always pivot into something else."

If you want to check out the garden, stop by Room 332.