THE PULSE | NOVEMBER 2023 ISSUE
FROM HOBBIES TO CLUBS:
FOSTERING FRIENDSHIPS & COMING TOGETHER By Annissa Khanna
“I LOVE GETTING TO TEACH PEOPLE SOMETHING THAT I LOVE TO DO. I VALUE THE ARTS AND WANT TO GIVE IT TO OTHER PEOPLE.” — LENA BOYCE, FOUNDER OF THE CROCHET & KNITTING CLUB
The Pulse was fortunate enough to interview junior Benji Cutler, founder of the Cinema Club, and sophomore Lena Boyce, founder of the Crochet & Knitting Club. Benji shared his love of film with The Pulse: “In my opinion, cinema is so special because it is something that we can all gravitate toward and form opinions about, and that’s why I fell in love with movies.” Students in the Cinema Club are discussing a movie they viewed on their own time, critiquing the plot, and sharing thoughts. Benji enjoys the healthy arguments that are created, meeting new people, and hearing about their interests. He said,“This club allows people’s opinions to be heard on any film out there and for healthy and engaging arguments to be created.” He added, “To put the cherry on top, I get to continue checking movies off my watchlist and share my opinions with others.” The first movies the Cinema Club is planning on discussing are “Scream” (1996) and “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” (1966).
Lena Boyce leading the Crochet and Knitting Club Photo by Ms. Allan.
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Benji shared that his favorite part of the Cinema Club is “bonding with other students and even my history teacher, Mr. Morse, the faculty advisor for the club, through film.” During the same club time, Lena Boyce is running the Crochet & Knitting Club. Her experience in crocheting dates back to the first and second grade, and she has been pursuing it on and off since then. Lena shared, “Last year, I even started selling my work when people would commission me to crochet, and it was enjoyable because I never really thought it was possible to make money off something like that. People saw me doing it, and they wanted to learn but were never taught, so I started the club.”
“PERSONAL HOBBIES AND TALENTS ENRICH OUR SCHOOL EXPERIENCE AND BRING SHARED INTERESTS TOGETHER THROUGH ART.” The Crochet & Knitting Club begins with the simplicity of scarves. As Lena explains, “It’s the simplest thing you can do – a single crochet.” The club’s future plans include moving on to creating hats and collaborating with the Art Club to make projects for donation to hospitals, benefiting individuals fighting cancer. “We’ll see where everyone gets to in the future,” she said. Lena’s favorite part of the club is the chance to teach others the art of crocheting and to share with fellow students something she deeply loves. For her, it’s all about spreading the joy of the arts and fostering creativity wherever we can find it.
The most meaningful part to Lena about starting her club is “getting to teach people something that I love to do.” She added, Crocheting should be relaxing. I value the arts and want to give it to other people.” In the bustle of high school life, these student-initiated clubs, the Cinema Club and the Crochet & Knitting Club, exemplify the beauty of pursuing hobbies and connecting with like-minded individuals. As we’ve heard from Benji Cutler and Lena Boyce, these clubs are more than just interests; they are platforms for fostering friendships and bringing people together. Benji’s Cinema Club celebrates the art of movies, and the upcoming discussions on “Scream” and “It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” promise to bring enjoyable conversation among members. Lena’s Crochet & Knitting Club introduces students to the world of handcrafting, and her dedication to teaching and her desire to spread the joy of the arts provides an avenue for creativity, but it also aims to give back to the community by collaborating with the Art Club on projects for hospital patients fighting cancer. The Crochet & Knitting Club and the Cinema Club, inspired by personal hobbies and talents, enrich our school experience and bring shared interests together through art. “CINEMA IS SO SPECIAL BECAUSE IT IS SOMETHING THAT WE CAN ALL GRAVITATE TOWARD AND FORM OPINIONS ABOUT ... THAT IS WHY I FELL IN LOVE WITH MOVIES.” — BENJI CUTLER, FOUNDER OF THE CINEMA CLUB
THE PULSE ACKNOWLEDGES the conflict in the Middle East. Our thoughts are with all those who are affected. We hope for peace.
THE HARVEY SCHOOL | 260 JAY STREET, KATONAH NY
TABLE OF CONTENTS From Hobbies to Clubs Page 1, Annissa Khanna
OP/ED Page 2, Logan Kreisberg
Dorming After Dark Page 3, Cindy Wang
Legendary Lionel Messi Page 4, Dylan Gueli
The Fastest Formula One Page 4-5, Tessa Walsh
Rodgers Down, Jets Done Page 5, Dylan Gueli
Cormac McCarthy Page 6, Olivia Barsky
Meet Me in Margaritaville Page 6-7 Connor Harrington
30th Anniversary of “In Utero” Page 7, Connor Harrington
A Family Tradition of Fine Dining Page 8, Annissa Khanna
Travel Back in Time Page 8, Olivia Barsky
Go For the Ride Page 9, David Trueba
Meow Parlour Page 9, Tessa Walsh
Time to Kill Page 10, Logan Kreisberg
Tennis and Travel Page 10, Cindy Wang
PASSION FOR LEARNING. RESPECT. INTEGRITY. DETERMINATION. EXCELLENCE.
OP/ED THE PULSE | NOVEMBER 2023 ISSUE
HARVEY’S FALL PRODUCTION
SHOULD EARN ARTS/SPORTS CREDIT By Logan Kreisberg
DEAR EDITOR, Each September, students return to a vibrant Harvey campus in full swing. The weather is warm, the leaves are still on the trees, and you can find student-athletes practicing and playing games outdoors on the various fields around campus. An activity not as visible, however, is the band of students who gather in the Lasdon Theater each afternoon to begin rehearsals for the fall musical. This year, Harvey is putting on “Beauty and the Beast,” a tale as old as time about letting go of physical appearances and finding true love. Throughout the fall trimester, student performers are required to memorize lines, learn difficult songs and harmonies, and practice complicated choreography. The goal is putting together a seamless work of art in November for parents and the entire Harvey community. Despite all the effort these young thespians put into the show, you may be shocked to find out the fall production does not count for any arts or sports credit. After observing the musical’s rehearsal process, The Pulse acknowledges the amount of artistic creativity and physical energy that is required for students to effectively put on the best show possible. I believe that students in after-school theater productions deserve an arts credit for their daily dedication to performing and storytelling. Furthermore, students participating in the musical should also earn sports credit, as the production demands plenty of vigor.
The Pulse Staff, Fall 2023
According to Harvey’s student handbook, one of the requirements to graduate is two years, or six trimesters, of arts classes. Additionally, every year, students must engage in at least one term of after-school sports. If a student can provide evidence of commitment and completion to an outside physical activity, they are also able to earn credit on a case-by-case basis.
“STUDENTS ARE ESSENTIALLY LIVING AND BREATHING THE VARIOUS CHARACTERS FOR WEEKS ON END.” I would argue that participation in the musical requires just as much physical activity as any other sports team Harvey represents. In “Beauty and the Beast,” for example, my mind immediately goes to the performance that actors are working on for the iconic song “Be Our Guest.” In this number, students tirelessly dance for five minutes. Of course, when practicing, we are moving constantly for an hour and a half, dancing, passing props, and literally running from one end of the stage to another. Typically, the performers are sweating from head to toe by the end of practice. (Just ask my mom, who has the pleasure of picking me up from school.) If Harvey were to grant a sports credit to students participating in the fall production, they would not be the only independent school in the area doing so. Rye Country Day School’s website states, “Students in the Winter Musical also receive P.E. credit for the winter trimester, regardless of the role they play.” Moreover, RCDS students can also obtain up to one arts credit for work in their school’s musical.
To gain a better understanding of the topic, I spoke to Ms. Mahony, veteran Harvey teacher and former chair of Harvey’s performing arts department. Not only does Ms. Mahony agree that students should receive a sports credit for their work in the musical, but she also shared with The Pulse that she was able to award them when she was chair. Ms. Mahony stated: “It's very demanding, physically. Dance rehearsals are usually pretty fierce. To sing and dance at the same time, it takes extraordinary physical stamina.” By the end of rehearsals, she recalls most performers would be “drenched in sweat.” Participation in a theater arts production should count for arts credit. This concept seems almost self-explanatory. When students are in a play or musical, they are essentially living and breathing the various characters for weeks on end. They are literally embodying these stories and bringing them to life. While it is vital to study the arts during the school day, in the after-school program, you are actually able to create art on a much higher and deeper level. Now, some might argue that awarding art credit after school might lower some of the enrollment in the arts classes offered by Harvey during the day. I believe these students will continue to further their passions both inside the classroom and in the after-school program. In fact, many actors I know desperately want to participate in the winter or spring productions, but are unable to do so because they need their sports credit. While I personally love and enjoy playing tennis in the spring, that experience has taught me that being in an ensemble is just as much a “team sport.” These changes would give students more flexibility in their schedules, allow them to try new things, and possibly attract a larger talent pool for the after-school productions. Furthermore, the hard work that student performers put into every scene, song, and dance would be validated. I hope my thoughts are considered. Thank you for reading!
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THE HARVEY SCHOOL | 260 JAY STREET, KATONAH NY
Sincerely, LOGAN KREISBERG
PASSION FOR LEARNING. RESPECT. INTEGRITY. DETERMINATION. EXCELLENCE.
HARVEY NEWS THE PULSE | NOVEMBER 2023 ISSUE
DORMING AFTER DARK
THE PULSE STAFF
By Cindy Wang
DO YOU WANT TO KNOW WHAT DORMERS DO AFTER CLASSES? THIS ARTICLE WILL ANSWER THAT BURNING QUESTION. First, there are additional activities after school. As a dormer myself, I chose art and observed that in addition to this program, there are also interesting afterschool activities such as crosscountry, basketball, and the musical. In after-school art, students usually draw, and some people chat with their peers. If students need a break from their art projects, they can work on homework, too, especially if there is a big assignment or test the next day. This class has a relaxed learning atmosphere and is very fun, especially watercolor painting. I saw Cici Feng's artwork featuring watercolor figures and some birds on houses. She paints people very beautifully. I also saw Joy Chen’s work featuring scenes from West Lake in Hangzhou. Her architectural drawings are very complex and impressive. From the Arts Center, one can see people on the cross country team running outside, and they are training very hard. They run around the tree area next to the library. Two international students who chose to take part in this training are Steve Shi and Grace Xue. They also wear specialized running clothes.
I often hear instruments and sounds during after school art, too. After an hour of after-school activities, there will be some relaxing music. When we hear that song, we know we have finished all the studying in school, and we can return to the dormitory. The dormitory opens at 5 p.m., and we will take a little break there. This can be a time when students can take a quick nap, talk with friends, become organized for the night, or simply do nothing and relax. After a short period of time, we are ready to eat. Some of my favorite foods at Harvey are ribs and lemon chicken, which are delicious with sweet chili sauce or soup.
The dormitory is locked at around 9:30 p.m., so you cannot go upstairs or downstairs at this time. You need to return to your dormitory before 9:30 p.m. We need to go to bed around 10 p.m. My roommates usually sleep late, but we turn off the lights very early. We sneak a peek at our phones in bed for a while, but then it’s time to finally go to sleep. This is our daily life after school. We wake up at 6:30 a.m. the next morning and prepare to start a new and vibrant day. The Pulse hopes that this article has shed some light on the life of dormers.
The dormitory also has a monthly shopping trip, which is my most anticipated activity. We usually go to Target. During the holidays, there are also some interesting activities in the dormitory, and, occasionally, there are additional organized activities, such as rock climbing. When we finish dinner, we will return to the dormitory for evening self-study. The self-study may be in the library or in our own dormitory, usually for one to two hours. During this period, we are not allowed to enter or leave the dorm rooms of others at will. The dormitory parent will say, 'Study Hall is starting!'
Dormers After Class Photo by Cindy Wang
After the evening self-study, we will have some time to wash clothes, take a shower, and brush our teeth. During this time, we can also chat with friends or make video calls with parents. It's a great leisure time.
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THE HARVEY SCHOOL | 260 JAY STREET, KATONAH NY
Editor-In-Chief & Layout Annissa Khanna
Sports Editor Dylan Gueli
Olivia Barsky Logan Kreisberg Connor Harrington David Trueba Tessa Walsh Cindy Wang
Faculty Advisor Virginia Holmes
PASSION FOR LEARNING. RESPECT. INTEGRITY. DETERMINATION. EXCELLENCE.
SPORTS NEWS THE PULSE | NOVEMBER 2023 ISSUE
You might not know Lionel Messi, but he is blowing up soccer in America. Messi is a soccer player from Argentina who has been one of the greatest players since he started.
LEGENDARY LIONEL MESSI By Dylan Gueli
“THE TEAM CAME TOGETHER SO Messi also has a show on Apple TV describing his WELL THAT THEY ENDED UP TAKING HOME THE CHAMPIONSHIP journey. According to Apple TV, the show was released Oct. 11 and is called “Messi Meets America.” THAT SEASON.”
He always played in Europe for his professional teams, but he recently received an offer to play in Miami, Florida. He actually had another offer for a This show will feature highlights of Messi on InterAccording to FOX Sports, Messi was team in Saudi Arabia, but according to Miami and behind the scenes of what he does in subbed in at the 53rd minute of his first FoxSports.com, he didn't want to accept that offer America. Even though he took a pay cut to go here, it game and ended up scoring a goal off a and wanted to play in America. seems like he is going to receive more money with the free kick with three minutes left in the show, jersey sales, and other factors. game. This goal was impressive as he Inter-Miami wasn't doing very well as a curved it across the wall into the back of professional soccer program, as they were not Inter-Miami gave Messi a pretty hefty contract, but the net, making the whole stadium go nuts. it is the least amount of money he has made per year winning and fans were not attending matches. But on a soccer team. According to The Sporting News, then Messi decided out of nowhere to sign with When Messi came to Inter-Miami, he Messi was offered $50-60 million per year. He also has them, which shocked a lot of people. had a spectacular season, dominating all a signing bonus with part ownership and equity of the the competition. Helping his team reach an team. Once he arrived in Inter-Miami, the ticket undefeated season at 10-0-1, Messi even prices rose instantly, as everyone wanted to go scored 11 goals and also had eight assists to Saudi Arabia offered him $1 billion, which is a watch Messi play. Even celebrities flew in to watch set up other teammates with goals. The massive amount of money, but he decided on a lesser his first game in the United States. team came together so well that they contract to play for a better team in a popular city of ended up taking home the championship Miami. that season.
Messi Pointing to the Sky During his Game at Inter-Miami. Photo Courtesy via Goal.com
Formula One (F1) is known as the fastest sport in the world. People from around the globe have been influenced by F1, and it’s extremely popular in Great Britain, Italy, and Western Europe. Racing began in 1950 and is still thriving today. Although F1 races cars, it takes a lot more physical and mental skill than most people think. In F1, there are two people on each of the 10 teams, which means that there are 20 drivers in total. Each team races two cars, and at the end of the season, the individual and team with the most points is named champion. F1 races with openwheel vehicles, which are cars that have wheels out and space between the actual car. F1 racing spots include the United Kingdom, Monaco, Italy, and Belgium every season, but F1 has recently come to some new areas like the Netherlands and Singapore.
Messi previously played for Paris Saint-Germain Also, right before he switched and (PSG), a program in France. He played with some of ended up joining the new team, he won the the other best athletes in the world, such as Mbappé World Cup with Argentina. Winning this and Neymar Jr., but recently they all left PSG, moving trophy helps settle a debate over whether on to new teams looking for a new opportunity to win. he is the greatest player of all time.
THE FASTEST
IN FORMULA ONE (F1) By Tessa Walsh F1 has been known as an extremely dangerous sport throughout its 70-year history. Safety in Formula 1 has improved significantly, though, by putting a halo over the car to protect the driver. As an avid fan who has been interested in F1 for many years, I rate the top three drivers right now as Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, and Lando Norris. When Max Verstappen first started driving professionally, he was F1’s youngest driver, competing at just 17 years old. At 18 years old, he became the youngest winner in F1 and is now 25 and still thriving. Ever since Verstappen was young, he has been around engines. Verstappen drives for the Red Bull team with his teammate Sergio Perez. As reported by therace.com, when he was about 4 years old, his father put him in a go-kart, so he could learn how to steer.
Other than his natural gift for driving cars, Verstappen has a very good mental capacity, as he thinks about everything like weather conditions, tire wear, and the rival drivers. Verstappen has 48 wins, 92 podiums, and has won two championships, according to redbullracing.com. Verstappen has a strong dynamic with his teammates, as they are precise and give great feedback to each other. Verstappen stated, “I just want to do the best I can every time.” There are, however, many video and audio clips of him complaining about the race, but some may say that these clips simply show how passionate he is about the sport.
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THE HARVEY SCHOOL | 260 JAY STREET, KATONAH NY
In all the different leagues he has played for, Messi has received a high number of awards. According to Messi.com, when he played in the Champions League, he won four awards. In LaLiga, a different league that he played for earlier in his career, and he won his most awards at 10. With all the other leagues he played for, he racked up 24 awards, making him one of the most accomplished soccer players. “EVEN AT A LATE AGE, HE IS STILL OUTPLAYING ALL THE YOUNGER PLAYERS HE COMPETES AGAINST.”
Messi has been one of the best players throughout his whole career. Even at a late age, he is still outplaying all the younger players he competes against. Most players regress when they grow older, but it seems that Messi can’t lose his skill.
Lewis Hamilton is one of the greatest drivers of all time, from winning many podiums, championships, and races. Hamilton is an influential philanthropist and a seven-time world champion. In 2008, he won the World Championship, overtaking another driver on the last lap of the season’s last race. Since signing with powerhouse Mercedes-AMG Petronas team for 2013, Lewis has claimed the World Championship in six of the seven following seasons, tying the career record for Formula 1 titles — and breaking dozens of other records along the way.
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PASSION FOR LEARNING. RESPECT. INTEGRITY. DETERMINATION. EXCELLENCE.
SPORTS NEWS THE PULSE | NOVEMBER 2023 ISSUE
RODGERS DOWN, JETS DONE By Dylan Gueli Aaron Rodgers, one of the best quarterbacks of all time, had been a Green Bay Packer his whole professional career. But this offseason, he didn’t want to play for the Packers any more, so he requested a trade to another team. The New York Jets traded for Rodgers, as they thought that he had the potential to carry them to victory. In the preseason, Rodgers got some passes in, showing off his spectacular talent with his new wide receivers. He played only a couple of snaps in his only preseason game and found his star receiver Garrett Wilson for a touchdown. Every fan was so excited to see him play so well in a new uniform.
“A BUFFALO BILLS DEFENDER CAME IN FOR THE TACKLE AND BROUGHT HIM DOWN.” The Jets opening game was at MetLife Stadium against the Buffalo Bills, a top team in the National Football League (NFL). The game opened slowly, but then Aaron Rodgers took the field for the first time in a Jets uniform. Their first drive began with the Jets running back Breece Hall breaking away for some big yards. Aaron Rodgers attempted his first two passes, but they both ended up being incomplete. Then, finally, he dropped back looking for one of his receivers to get open, but a Buffalo Bills defender came in for the tackle and brought him down.
Rodgers rose up for a second, looking like it was just a minor injury, but after he took a step, his leg gave out, making him fall to the ground. The Jets training staff helped him get off the field. The game continued, but Rodgers never returned. However, the Jets still earned the win in honor of Rodgers. The next day, everyone was waiting for the report to see how major his injury really was.
“WITHOUT RODGERS, THE SEASON IS PROBABLY OVER FOR THE JETS.
He has been in the NFL since 2005, which was his rookie year. Each year, he developed more and more and was even the MVP and won one Super Bowl back in 2011. All these statistics are the reason the Jets traded for him, as they expected a Super Bowl run. But those hopes ended after Rodgers’ injury. The team is now in a hole, not being able to do anything and trying to find an answer. Without Rodgers, the season is probably over for the Jets, and they will have to wait until next year. That is, if Rodgers wants to and is able to come back and play.
All social media platforms were extremely active when the report came out. Other NFL players, such as Garrett Wilson, tweeted prayers for Rodgers as it was extremely sad to see. Many believed that Rodgers would make the Jets a Top 5 team, so seeing him go down this early ruined hope for Jets fans. In the hospital, Rodgers showed smiles when his surgery was done, indicating to everyone that he was doing well. He even told his star receiver Garrett Wilson he was sorry that it had happened. Rodgers really wanted to play with Wilson, as they had a very strong connection as soon as they started practicing together.
Aaron Rodgers and Garret Wilson at practice together; Aaron Rodgers on left and Garret Wilson on Right. Photo Courtesy of Newyorkjets.com
CONTINUED: THE FASTEST IN FORMULA 1 (F1) By Tessa Walsh
When Hamilton was young, he showed natural talent in racing, so his father, just like Verstappen’s, bought him a go-kart to pursue it even more. Throughout his career, no one has won more. Hamilton stated, “The crazy thing is I’m in my 17th year of this sport […] I’m still grafting. I’m still having to chip away. I’m still having to work like never before to be able to excel in a sport that’s constantly evolving.”
Lando Norris is an Australian F1 racer who joined F1 in 2019 but has been racing all his life. Norris is so talented that, at only 23, he became McLaren's senior driver. Lando has been in the racing industry since he was 7 years old, but it was the only time in his career he’s been the older driver.
With many years after winning many races, he wasn’t short of experience. Norris remains the youngest driver ever to set a pole position at a national meeting. According to McLaren.com, Norris became the Formula Kart Stars champion in 2012. He participated in Europe’s open-wheel races. He won two important series championships and then moved onto GP2 racing. He also won the GP2 race in 2016, which was the start of his time being a part of the McLaren team. Norris participated in open-wheel races in Europe, and he took home two major championships before moving into GP2 racing.
F1 is an extremely fun sport to watch, and if you’ve never checked it out before, you should! The sport is filled with passion from the fans, to the drivers, and the team. F1 is so exciting, especially once you’ve found a favorite driver or two to root for while you watch.
2022 Japanese Formula 1 Grand Prix Photo Courtesy of Getty Images
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THE HARVEY SCHOOL | 260 JAY STREET, KATONAH NY
PASSION FOR LEARNING. RESPECT. INTEGRITY. DETERMINATION. EXCELLENCE.
REPORTS THE PULSE | NOVEMBER 2023 ISSUE
CORMAC MCCARTHY:
LOOKING BACK ON THE LIFE OF A GREAT AMERICAN WRITER Cormac McCarthy, author of books such as “The Road” and “No Country for Old Men,” died at age 89 of natural causes this past June in New Mexico. While this literary giant may be gone, he has left us with his riveting novels and screenplays. Born in 1933 as Charles McCarthy in Rhode Island, he spent most of his upbringing in Knoxville, Tennessee. He attended college, dropped out to join the U.S. Air Force, re-enrolled in college, and dropped out again; at which time he published his debut novel “The Orchard Keeper” in 1965. McCarthy’s books span many genres: thrillers, westerns, and dystopian stories.
“MCCARTHY BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATES HOPELESSNESS AND DESPERATION.” After experimenting with screenwriting in the 1970s, McCarthy was awarded the MacArthur Fellowship, otherwise known as the “genius grant,” in 1981. This grant was used to do the appropriate research needed for his first “Western” novel “Blood Meridian, or the Evening Redness in the West.” The creation of this tale is often seen as a significant turning point in his career: a shift from writing about the American South to writing about the West.
By Olivia Barsky
McCarthy’s words were projected onto the screen through movie adaptations of his books such as “All the Pretty Horses” and the Oscarwinning “No Country for Old Men.” What is often regarded as McCarthy’s most successful work, “The Road,” was gifted to the hands of the public in 2006. The novel follows a nameless father and son as they struggle to survive in a postapocalyptic America. “The Road’s” lack of characters does not do any detriment to the plot. The relationship between this father and son is explored deeply on each page, unraveling a beautiful story about a parent who wants nothing more than to keep his child safe. The emotional rawness of “The Road” is emphasized by McCarthy’s unique voice. In his novels, he tastefully abandons proper grammar and punctuation and often implements polysyndeton—the repetition of conjunctions. These conventions, or lack thereof, add a level of authenticity to his stories. Several passages within “The Road” are examples of McCarthy’s strong wordsmithing skills. Quotations from the novel such as “Ten thousand dreams ensepulchred within their crozzled hearts” demonstrate the way McCarthy beautifully illustrates hopelessness and desperation.
In a rare 2008 television appearance, McCarthy sat down with Oprah Winfrey to speak about writing. When asked if he is passionate about writing, McCarthy honestly replied that he, of course, likes it, but it provides its challenges. He stated that it is impossible to perfectly achieve this goal that a writer has set for themself, yet it simultaneously serves as “your signpost and your guide.” He even admitted that when he began his process of writing “The Road,” he “had no idea where it was going.” For most of his career, McCarthy avoided any interviews or interactions with the press. In fact, his interview with Oprah was his first television appearance. McCarthy seems to have not believed that he had much to share or offer, but a 1992 New York Times interview with Richard B. Woodson, titled “Cormac McCarthy’s Venomous Fiction,” gives crucial insight into his outlook as a writer. The New York Times was able to get in touch with his ex-wife who said that they would go hungry because McCarthy would refuse to lecture at conventions or universities about his books, claiming everything he had to say was already on the page.
Conducting a proper interview with McCarthy proved difficult for The New York Times journalist, as McCarthy seemed to be only interested in talking about Mojave rattlesnakes and not at all about himself. However reluctant he may have been to voice his thoughts, in this interview, McCarthy divulged one of his beliefs about literature that any reader or writer can appreciate. He shared, “The ugly fact is books are made out of books… The novel depends for its life on the novels that have been written.”
Cormac McCarthy Photographed by Kurt Markus
MEET ME IN MARGARITAVILLE: A Sailor’s Farewell Jimmy Buffett, singer, songwriter, and businessman, recently passed away. He was in his home in Sag Harbor, Long Island after fighting for four years against Merkel cell skin cancer, as reported by his official website. He was 76.
“NOT ONLY WOULD FANS OF BUFFETT ADORE THIS TROPICAL DREAM OF A SONG, BUT SO WOULD THE REST OF THE COUNTRY.” Buffett was born in Pascagoula, Mississippi, but he grew up in Mobile, Alabama. Buffett graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a degree in journalism in 1969. He would go on to work for Billboard magazine as a reporter until he landed a recording contract with Barnaby Records to make two records.
JIMMY BUFFETT — DEC. 25, 1946/SEP. 1, 2023 By Connor Harrington
Buffet began his recording career in 1970 with his debut album “Down to Earth.” His debut release was a flop. The tapes for his follow up, “High Cumberland Jubilee,” were mysteriously lost, only for the fulllength LP to later be released when his career began to take off, according to MississippiEncyclopedia.org According to The New York Times, a trip to West Key, Florida would prove to be beneficial for his career. Buffett would develop the signature style that he is known for over this period of time. His next three albums, which would become favorites among fans, would see a shift in style. “A White Sport Coat and a Pink Crustacean,” “Living and Dying in ¾ Time,” and “A1A” would be the records that would launch his career forward. Buffett’s recording career lasted over 40 years, with his most commercially successful record being his greatest hits album, “Songs You Know by Heart,” released in 1985. It would make over 7,838,000 sales, according to BestSellingAlbums.org, overtaking his previous highest selling LP by over 6 million.
Despite a recording career spanning nearly five decades, Buffett would only have one Billboard top 10 song. “Margaritaville” from his album, “Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes,” would peak at No. 8 in July 1977, according to Billboard. This song would be the epitome of Buffett’s success. The song perfectly captured the laidback vibes and tropical environment his fans have come to love. Not only would fans of Buffett adore this tropical dream of a song, but so would the rest of the country. Buffett gained traction with his follow-up albums to his debut in more niche communities. However, “Margaritaville” is what cemented his legacy as a tropical rock icon.
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THE HARVEY SCHOOL | 260 JAY STREET, KATONAH NY
With his success from “Margaritaville,” Buffett would go on to open a hospitality company under the same name. The company would become incredibly successful, raking in $2.2 billion in gross revenue last year, according to The New York Times. The first Margaritaville store would come in 1985 in the form of a retail store.
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Musician Jimmy Buffett performs onstage at Jimmy Buffett & Friends: Live from the Gulf Coast, a concert presented by CMT on the beach on July 11, 2010 in Gulf Shores, Alabama Rick Diamond/Getty Images for CMT
PASSION FOR LEARNING. RESPECT. INTEGRITY. DETERMINATION. EXCELLENCE.
REPORTS THE PULSE | NOVEMBER 2023 ISSUE
CONTINUED: MEET ME IN MARGARITAVILLE: A SAILOR’S FAREWELL JIMMY BUFFETT — DEC. 25, 1946/SEP. 1, 2023
Buffett would not limit the success of the Margaritaville brand to just a retail store. He would make large amounts of capital from opening a Margaritaville-themed restaurant in 1987 in West Key, Florida. He would continue the success with a line of different hospitality services ranging from resorts, casinos, and even a cruise that was opened in 1991. While the company is not owned by Buffett himself, he did have a stake in its profits.
“HE HAD ONE OF THE BIGGEST FANBASES IN POPULAR MUSIC,” Buffett entertained fans for more than 50 years, and his music has spanned generations. He had one of the biggest fanbases in popular music, similar to that of the Grateful Dead. Like the Deadheads, Buffett fans call themselves Parrotheads.
Raw, noisy, dirty. “In Utero,” the classic Grunge record by legendary band Nirvana, has recently turned 30 years old since its release in 1993. Nirvana was founded in 1987 in Aberdeen, Washington, the hometown of frontman Kurt Cobain. The original Nirvana lineup was composed of vocalist and lead guitarist, Kurt Cobain, bassist, Krist Novoselic, and drummer, Aaron Burckhard, according to Rateyourmusic.com. The band would have a few lineup changes leading up to their debut full-length, “Bleach.” The band would struggle to find their grungy sound on their debut as a result of an inconsistent line up. The record would credit two drummers and a second guitarist as a result. The finished result was messy but showed a lot of potential. The LP took inspiration from the sludge metal scene in Seattle, specifically Melvins, as well as some inspiration from hardcore punk bands such as Bad Brains. “THE ALBUM WAS MUCH EASIER TO CONSUME DESPITE ITS HEAVY SOUND, WHICH WOULD LEAD TO NIRVANA BREAKING INTO THE MAINSTREAM.”
On their follow-up, “Nevermind,” Nirvana would develop their grunge sound further while taking more influence from hardcore punk with less sludge influences. The band would finally come into their own with the addition of drummer Dave Grohl on “Nevermind.” The album was much easier to consume despite its heavy sound, which would lead to Nirvana breaking into the mainstream. The album would go on to be considered the essential grunge album and would sell more 24 million copies worldwide, according to Rolling Stone. According to the book “Come as You Are: The Nirvana Story” by Michael Azerrad, Nirvana was initially proud of the album when it was first released. However, the band would soon become embarrassed of the LP.
By Connor Harrington Similar to the Dead, fans of Buffett would develop a personal feeling with his music coming to love him in their early adolescents to young adulthood. In an interview with Ms. Beth Visintainer, the assistant head of the Upper School and a self-described Parrothead, The Pulse asked when she started listening to Buffett’s music and if it holds significance in her life. She recalled, “I started listening to Jimmy Buffett when I was about your age, and I saw him in concert when I was in college.” When asked about her feelings on Buffett’s passing, she shared, “I feel Jimmy Buffett is undervalued as a musician. When Jimmy Buffett passed away, I thought about the concerts I went to see, which were filled with joyful dancing and Jimmy-Buffet type music.” She continued, “There's music going on, and it's going to take us where it takes us. We’re going to sing, and we’re going to dance. It’s not highly scripted like some other concerts.”
When asked to elaborate on the vibe of the show, Ms. Visintainer responded, “It was beachy. He came out in his bare feet. They were all just in this music space, and it’s a really big hall, but they made it seem small. It was just that relationship with the audience.” The Pulse asked Ms. Visintainer if Buffett’s shows felt personal, and she responded, “Yeah, he was chill. He would be there by himself in his bare feet with his guitar.”
By Connor Harrington
“In Utero,” Nirvana’s final studio album, would focus on darker themes and take heavy inspiration from what is called noise rock to make their grunge sound more abrasive and therefore less accessible. The record was made to strip down the “glossy” sound from “Nevermind” and was produced whether or not the record company enjoyed the record. Even before the record was released, it was surrounded by controversy because of DGC’s, Nirvana’s label, unwillingness to release the album. The album would spark even more controversy upon its release in September 1993 because of its risqué album cover depicting an angel figure revealing the anatomy of her body. The song “R*pe Me” would also garner controversy because of its title, even though it is an anti-rape anthem to show the band’s support for women. The record does not stop at this one taboo topic. The album has a theme of depression and isolation throughout to convey what frontman Kurt Cobain was experiencing in his personal life with his wife, Courtney Love. Before his relationship with Love, Cobain would struggle with substance abuse, and his relationship with Love would only heighten his addictions.
— Ms. Beth Visintainer, Assistant Head of Upper School
Timeless. That’s what Jimmy Buffett truly was. Even though he never reached an artistic or cultural peak like Hendrix, Pink Floyd, or even the Grateful Dead, the Buffett songs we know by heart will always be there on a tropical beach as we soak up the sun.
She concluded, “Music is there for joyful times. It’s there for times when you’re reminiscing. Whatever it may be. I just think he captured a time and was able to craft some tunes that might be timeless.”
30TH ANNIVERSARY OF “IN UTERO” Famously, Kurt Cobain felt that, because of the commercialization of the album, the LP was closer to Motley Crue rather than grunge or hardcore punk. The band would purposefully either butcher their most famous songs off the album in concert or not play them at all, most notably, “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”
“THERE’S MUSIC GOING ON, AND IT’S GOING TO TAKE US WHERE IT TAKES US. WE’RE GOING TO SING, AND WE’RE GOING TO DANCE.”
Throughout the record, we are thrown into Kurt Cobain’s unhinged world. Cobain’s vocals range from soft sung vocals to shrieking the vocals on songs like “Scentless Apprentice” as a way to depict his mental state. Cobain’s guitar skill is also on full display throughout the LP. The guitar mimics his vocal parts, as it can go from these chugging power chord rhythms to completely disoriented. Grohl's drumming manages a very harsh beat throughout with some impressive drum fills during breaks on each song. Krist Novoselic’s bass supports Grohl’s heavy rhythm throughout to keep tempo, while Cobain’s guitar is the driving force of the disoriented sound on the record. The first track on “In Utero,” “Serve the Servants,” opens with a harsh power chord, disoriented guitar riffs, and Cobain's nasally vocals. On the second cut of the record, we are treated to more distorted guitar as Grohl puts everything into the drums. Cobain continues his nasally vocal style and even speeds up the tempo of the track with his grating scream. The third track, “HeartShaped Box,” takes a much darker turn in subject matter. While the topic of the song is sometimes debated, it is most commonly interpreted as Cobain’s and Love’s toxic relationship. The song references Cobain not feeling as strongly for Love in the line, “I’ve been trapped inside your heart-shaped box for weeks.”
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The album progresses in a similar fashion to “Nevermind.” The album explores parts of Cobain's inner workings as well as some hardhitting grunge tracks. As we reach the conclusion of the album, the intensity and abrasive nature gives us time to rest. The final track, “All Apologies,” closes out the album on a softer note. Cobain continues to sing in his raspy vocal style as the drums play in the background. The song does pick up a bit, but compared to the rest of the album, it feels meek and quiet. Cobain rarely talked about the song, only saying that it was dedicated to his wife and daughter.
In Utero album cover. Courtesy of Nirvana's Official Website.
“All Apologies” is often viewed as Cobain's final farewell, as his mental state would continue to deteriorate. The band would record one more album, “MTV Unplugged in New York,” two months after the release of “In Utero.” In April of the following year, Kurt Cobain was found dead. He was 27. The album accomplishes everything that Nirvana set out to do when it was conceived, as it encapsulates everything grunge was and became throughout the short time grunge was relevant. Despite only being active for a few short years, Nirvana has left its mark on music and will continue to inspire artists.
PASSION FOR LEARNING. RESPECT. INTEGRITY. DETERMINATION. EXCELLENCE.
REVIEWS THE PULSE | NOVEMBER 2023 ISSUE
SPACCARELLI’S
A FAMILY TRADITION OF FINE DINING IN MILLWOOD, NEW YORK By Annissa Khanna
Spaccarelli’s in Millwood, New York, is a small, warm, and classy Italian restaurant known for its quaint atmosphere and delicious meals. My family has been dining at Spaccarelli’s for almost 40 years, and it has become our home away from home for celebrations and family gatherings for generations. The servers have been employed there for decades, know how to serve their diners with courtesy, and are a familiar face welcoming you every time you return.
The first time my grandfather visited, he was enjoying a meal with his neighbor upon moving to New York. Since then, he has brought our family there, along with executives and chairmen of his company for the fine dining Spaccarelli’s offers.
“TO THIS DAY, THE MENU AT SPACCARELLI’S IS EXTENSIVE AND SEASONAL, WITH EXQUISITE PRESENTATION AND FINELY COOKED MEALS.”
Upon opening in 1986, Spaccarelli’s dining was popular, but it was in a smaller location in the shopping center across from its current location (238 Saw Mill River Rd, Millwood). After speaking with my grandfather, Dan Gupta, a longtime patron of this restaurant, I learned how Spaccarelli’s came to be the place my family knows and loves. Back in ‘86, when the wait time for dining began to exceed a half-hour, the owner, John DeNardis, had to expand the restaurant. Mr. DeNardis considered relocating to another location, but at the time, Spaccarelli’s was receiving high demand, and the town of New Castle had the highest median income in all of Westchester County.
Dining at Spaccarelli’s is not merely a meal; it is a grand, elaborate experience, complete with delicious courses and desserts worth dreaming about. From the savory delights of Italian cooking to the excellent service, family and friends are sure to make memories here for a birthday, anniversary, or any special occasion. Some personal favorite meals include the Eggplant Rollatini and Caprese Salad, complete with our family’s favorite cheesecake for dessert. Eggplant can often be a hit or miss — perfectly crisp or flavorless. However, Spaccarelli’s does it right every time. As for the cheesecake, I can’t begin to tell you how many conversations I’ve had about Spaccarelli’s that begin with “Did you try the cheesecake?” You simply cannot leave without it. Everything is perfect from the consistency of the filling to the crust. It’s a once-in-a-blue-moon type of treat. You won’t look at dessert the same way again.
In 1997, Mr. DeNardis approached a real estate developer, asking to become the primary tenant of a newly developed shopping plaza. He acquired two more shops out of five and opened the new Spaccarelli’s restaurant in 2000, which was complete with excellent service, high ceilings, a bar, and an open terrace for outdoor dining.
“Absolutely, the best Italian restaurant in the area. The food never disappoints. The staff are very friendly and always professional. The meals are always spot on. If I could come here once a week I would.”
What they’re saying on Google Reviews:
“SPACCARELLI’S WILL ALWAYS BE OUR ‘FAMILY RESTERAUNT’ TO FREQUENT FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS. I CAN’T WAIT TO BE BACK THERE AGAIN.”
“SPACCARELLI’S IS MY FAVORITE ... THE STAFF IS HANDS DOWN THE MOST ATTENTIVE, LIKE OLD FAMILY. LOVE THIS PLACE.”
“My family has been going to Spaccarelli’s for well over 30 years. My parents had their first date there and have been together for 25 years. Over the decades the quality of experience and food has never differed. The waiters are excellent, and there are always familiar faces because this staff has been there forever. The food is excellent, and I mean excellent.
The menu is a testament to culinary artistry, offering an extensive selection of seasonal dishes, each exquisitely prepared and meticulously presented. What sets Spaccarelli’s apart is its commitment to customization, allowing diners to tailor their choices based on personal preferences. The servers, true artisans of hospitality, ensure that only the finest ingredients find their way into the dishes, resulting in a symphony of perfectly balanced flavors that never fail to delight.
“The physical space is beautiful with high ceilings and tables that are spaced so that you don't have to listen to other conversations while you eat. There is a separate bar area and plenty of free parking available.” At Spaccarelli’s, tradition meets modernity, and every trip feels like a visit home. For information and reservations, you can call (914) 941-0105. The outdoor patio is open Sunday from 1p.m. to 9 p.m., and from Tuesday through Saturday, 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
“DINING AT SPACCARELLI’S IS NOT MERELY A MEAL; IT IS A GRAND, ELABORATE EXPERIENCE, COMPLETE WITH DELICIOUS COURSES AND DESSERTS WORTH DREAMING ABOUT.” 2011, Annissa Khanna (Age 5) & Family Spaccarelli’s Italian Resteraunt Millwood, New York Photographed by Server
TRAVEL BACK IN TIME
Located at the tip of Manhattan in the lush Fort Tryon Park, The Met Cloisters sits atop a hill, watching over the city below. The Cloisters is not just any museum. It is the only museum dedicated solely to medieval art in the United States. Originally an artist’s personal collection, the museum has changed hands over the years and was officially ordained a branch of The Met in 1938.
WITH THE HELP OF THE MET By Olivia Barsky However, the true stars of the exhibit are the large-scale wooden sculptures that once donned the exterior of merchant Henry Hamlyn’s Exeter house. These carved creatures take on the forms of jesters, club-wielding peasants, squabbling lovers, and more. Although their primary purpose was architectural support, they were also comedic figures that help characterize medieval humor.
Effigies of aristocracy, doorways with reliefs of French Kings, and original marble colonnades transported straight from European monasteries to New York are all features of The Met Cloisters. Most, if not all, the pieces within the collection were commissioned by the medieval wealthy class. Yet, the middle class of the Middle Ages is rarely heard from.
The museum’s new exhibit “Rich Man, Poor Man: Art, Class, and Commerce in a Late Medieval Town” (March 6, 2023–Feb. 4, 2024) explores the lives of middle-class citizens in 16th century England. Through observing pieces focused almost exclusively on these everyday citizens, one can fully immerse themselves in this world of the past.
“THE OBJECTS WITHIN THE EXHIBITION EACH OPEN A WINDOW INTO A DIFFERENT ASPECT OF THIS LIFE.” A jug in the shape of a human face allows one to imagine the fun-loving creativity of English potters. A spoon with a handle in the shape of an apostle, typically gifted from a godparent to a newly christened godchild, gives insight into medieval tradition.
After visiting this exhibit, do not feel rushed to leave the museum, as there is always more to see. Stop by gallery 17 to visit the world-renowned Franco-Flemish Unicorn Tapestries. While exactly for whom the tapestries were commissioned remains vague, they detail the life and death of a unicorn—whether it is a religious allegory or not is for you to ponder. For something a bit different, journey down to the Gothic Chapel and take in the final resting place of a crusader and the newly acquired tomb of a 14th century Count of Urgell in Catalonia, Spain. If the tombs seem too grim, the Gothic Chapel also has vibrant Viennese stained glass that beautifully catches the park’s light.
Visit the Treasury where the more rare and delicate pieces are displayed. Among these pieces are intricately carved 11th century liturgical combs, one of the first sets of playing cards, gilded reliquaries, and luxurious illuminated manuscripts. The Treasury is one of the more quiet and peaceful places within The Cloisters. Between the dim lights and quiet observers, a trip to the Treasury can be very tranquil. Museumed-out? Not a problem. The Trie Cafe has a wonderful selection of snacks, drinks, and sandwiches to be enjoyed while looking out on the beautiful garden through a pointed Gothic archway. This is not the only garden The Cloisters has to offer. The museum prides itself on its immaculate horticultural displays — each garden’s opulent vegetation is grouped based on its properties and medicinal uses, as it would have been in the Middle Ages.
“Architectural Support with a Peasant Holding a Club” Courtesy of the Metropolitan Museum of Art
And, of course, you can finish off your visit by perusing the museum gift shop. The shop has mementos such as books, canvas tote bags, jewelry, reproductions of iconic works of art, and postcards. As you drive or stroll through the park to embark on your journey home, do not forget to take in the beautiful scenery and view of the Hudson River. While it may be called The Cloisters, this is not a museum to be cloistered away from the public eye. One of New York’s most underrated museums is ready for you to come visit soon.
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The Met Cloisters, Bonnefont Cloister Photo by Olivia Barsky
PASSION FOR LEARNING. RESPECT. INTEGRITY. DETERMINATION. EXCELLENCE.
REVIEWS THE PULSE | NOVEMBER 2023 ISSUE
The brilliant director Carla Rodriguez's “Gran Turismo,” which took audiences on an exciting journey through the world of competitive racing, premiered in the summer of 2023. As a car enthusiast and movie fan, I was nervously anticipating this film, hoping it would increase my excitement and provide an adrenaline-inducing experience. “Gran Turismo,” starring Archie Madekwe, arrived on screens with the promise of fusing the excitement of fast racing with a fascinating narrative. Hoping to replicate the spirit of the well-known video game brand of the same name, which has become famous for its realistic racing simulation and iconic car lineup, the movie was released in July 2023. The visual spectacle that was taking place on the screen caught my attention right away. Rodriguez didn't hold back when it started providing a visual feast. The racing moments had cinematography that put me in the driver's seat and were a symphony of speed and accuracy. It was absolutely stunning how carefully the film captured the drivers' intense expressions, the sparkling tracks, and the clean lines of the cars.
There are many cat cafés located throughout New York City, but one in particular that stands out is Meow Parlour. Most people don't know what a cat café is, but it is basically a regular café with all different breeds of cats that customers can interact with during their visit. People can say it sounds like a silly concept, but for a person who loves cats, it’s certainly not! A cat café is a place where you can purchase some good food and hang out with cats. You can imagine enjoying your morning coffee with cats all around. A cat café is the cats' foster home. It's a safe place for them to stay until they are adopted. And while they're here, they are happy because they are being played with and petted. The address for Meow Parlour is 47 Hester Street, New York, NY 10002 between Essex & Ludlow. The subway lines that you can take are: F, M, J, B. There is one-hour parking near Meow parlor, which is perfect, because the maximum time you can stay there is 50 minutes.
“A CAT CAFÉ MIGHT BE YOUR BEST WAY TO ACQUIRE SOME CAT COMPANY.”
GO FOR THE RIDE
A REVIEW OF “GRAN TURISMO” By David Trueba
While barely ground-breaking, the movie's storyline established a solid foundation for the high-stakes world of competitive racing. Set against the backdrop of a major racing championship, it followed the journey of two competitive drivers, played by seasoned actors Alex Turner and Mia Rodriguez. The film did a good job of showing the individual interests each character had in the competition, and the rivalry was evident. Every turn and move seemed like an attempt for dominance as a result of the tension between them, which provided another element to the racing sequences. The movie's sound design was one of its most notable characteristics. An immersive atmosphere was produced by the noise of the engines, the scream of the tires on the pavement, and the drumming soundtrack. It was a sensory attack that captured the primal thrill of being on the racetrack, and it wasn't just a movie. “Gran Turismo,” however, fell a little short when it comes to character development. The supporting cast felt a little underdeveloped, despite the fact that the rivalry between the two-star drivers is well-established. There were times during my viewing when I wished I had known more about the backgrounds and motives of the other participants. A greater understanding of these characters' private struggles and wins would have given the audience an improved understanding of the racing scene.
The Porsche GT3 RS emerges in “Gran Turismo” as an energetic and symbolic force, representing the highest level of highperformance automotive quality. The GT3 RS transforms from a simple vehicle into an attractive character in the movie because of its attractive look, expert engineering, and powerful engine. Each image of the GT3 RS is a visual spectacular that perfectly demonstrates the heart-pounding adrenaline of speed and the obvious elegance of automobile design. Every scene involving the GT3 RS is an exciting honor to the beauty and power of fast cars because of the choice of this classic Porsche model, which elevates the movie and gives it a real sense of excitement and elegance. “IT’S A WONDERFUL FILM FOR BOTH AUTO FANS AND THOSE LOOKING FOR A DEEP CINEMATIC EXPERIENCE BECAUSE OF THE GREAT ATTENTION TO DETAIL.”
MEOW PARLOUR
THE PURRFECT CAT CAFÉ By Tessa Walsh I can enjoy coffee and a sandwich while playing and petting some new furry friends. If you love cats, but for some reason don't or can't have one yourself, a cat café might be your best and only way to acquire some cat company. Personally, I love going to cat cafés because I enjoy being around cats since I can’t own one myself.
“YOU CAN DO YOUR HOMEWORK, READ A BOOK, OR JUST SIT AND RELAX IN ALL THE COMFORT OF CATS. In order to go to the café, you have to book the visit for your time online at their website https://www.meowparlour.com. If you are under 18, you must come with an adult. Patrons pick a particular time to arrive, and you register for 50 minutes. You can do your homework, read a book, or just sit and relax all in the comfort of cats. There is no payment specifically for visiting and being with the cats, but there is an expectation that you will purchase either a beverage or some food.
The emotional excitement of seeing the Porsche GT3 RS in action, as well as the movie's bigger celebration of the automobile industry, are two reasons why I would recommend “Gran Turismo.” It is a wonderful film for both auto fans and those looking for a deep cinematic experience because of the great attention to detail, the easy incorporation of high-performance cars into the story, and the visual power of each scene. “Gran Turismo” is more than simply a movie; it is a tribute to the creativity, innovation, and adrenaline of the high-performance motor industry.
It’s important to Meow Parlour that everyone who visits the café signs up because safety for the cats is vital, and management needs to know who is coming and going. If you look on Meow Parlour’s website, you can look at different cats they have for you to adopt or foster. You can check out the attributes, the name, gender, age, and breed along with pictures of them. You can also find adorable cat merch on their website.
“THERE IS NO ‘BEST TIME’ TO VISIT, BUT THE CATS ARE USUALLY THE MOST PLAYFUL AROUND THE FIRST TWO HOURS AFTER OPENING,”
Porsche 992 GT3 RS from the Film Gran Turismo Photo Courtesy of Pinterest
Cat cafés can differ in terms of rules and times you can be there. Before you go to a cat café, it would be best to check the offerings before visiting to ensure that it aligns with your interests and expectations. According to Meow Parlour’s website, there is no “best time” to visit, but the cats are usually the most playful around the first two hours after opening. I encourage you to adopt a cat from the café because there are many benefits for you and the cat. In conclusion, going to a cat café is usually a fun and wonderful experience. There are so many playful and adorable cats to hang out with. If you love cats, I strongly encourage you to at least go to a cat café at least once in your life.
Not all cat cafés are the same, and the quality of the experience can vary. Ethical cat cafés prioritize the well-being of the cats and the comfort of their visitors, ensuring that both cats and humans have a positive time. Meow Parlour sets rules and regulations for the guests and the cats. Front of the Store Photo Courtesy of Meow Parlour
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PASSION FOR LEARNING. RESPECT. INTEGRITY. DETERMINATION. EXCELLENCE.
REVIEWS THE PULSE | NOVEMBER 2023 ISSUE
Fresh off the train bus, many Harvey students are faced with an important question every day after school: How should I “kill” time before the train comes? For some, this can be an overwhelming issue because of the countless decisions that can be made. Rather than spending this valuable time waiting, The Pulse has compiled a short list of places for students wondering what to do with the precious half hour they experience every day after school.
TIME TO KILL
VILLAGE MARKET
BEFORE THE TRAIN?
Village Market is a convenience store in town offering up simple yet delicious snacks and sandwiches. The market is a quick, fast, and affordable option whenever you are looking for an easy bite to eat. There is just enough time for students to JAY STREET CAFÉ Jay Street Cafe is another local business The Most often when I am there, I tend to visit the Reading Room before the 5:35 p.m. Pulse recommends checking out. Although Jay purchase a bag of chips and, train. The store closes around 10 minutes occasionally, a soda. Sometimes, I Street Café was originally established in 2019, after the train departs on school days, so there is plenty of time to pick out a few treats the restaurant has only recently stayed open for even grab a chicken cutlet sandwich if there is extra time. Overall, the all three meals of the day. and goodies for your journey home. store is more for a quick bite than a “IT’S GREAT TO VISIT ONCE AND A full meal. The Reading Room’s menu is constantly THE KATONAH READING ROOM WHILE FOR A SPECIAL TREAT.” changing, as they add new items into their Village Market is a great option While it only opened in 2015, The rotation daily. No matter what day you walk when you need flowers or snacks for Katonah Reading Room is partially When you first arrive in Katonah, it will into the store, basic pastries such as inspired by the businesses that inhabited already be around 5 p.m., which coincidentally an advisory slot. The Pulse highly croissants and muffins will be sold. recommends checking out the the building in the past. According to the Additionally, there are always sandwiches and marks the beginning of Jay Street’s dinner market. When interviewing 10th Reading Room’s website, the building was salads to choose from, but the ingredients hours. In the evening, Jay Street offers a wide used by Katonah’s first library in the late gradually shift in correlation with the season. variety of plates from appetizers to entrees. In grader Olivia Barsky, she explained her go-to choice. Olivia stated, “At 1800s. However, the library was forced to addition to its traditional menu items, tthe the market, I think if I bought one move for New York City’s new reservoir restaurant still serves the majority of its Despite the many options the Reading snack, like a bag of chips or system. Decades later, owner William breakfast items throughout the day. Room has to offer, whenever I am there, I crackers, I don’t think I would spend Nicholas moved his gourmet store into the tend to only purchase a croissant and iced over $5.” This number might seem building. In some ways, the Reading Room tea, which comes to $8.75. The Reading Room In terms of breakfast items, I highly high, but compared to the Reading is a hybrid of these two places, as they recommend ordering The Perfect Plate. A might be a little pricey compared to other Room or Jay Street, where you could bring together both ideas of the past: options (For example, an iced tea at Tazza will combination of soft eggs, crispy bacon and selling books and food! potatoes, and fresh bread with jam, this dish is easily spend over $10, this is a run you $3.25), so it is not ideal to purchase reasonable price. goods daily. Nevertheless, the store is great to the “perfect” balance of protein and visit every once in a while for a special treat! carbohydrates. For dinner, The Jay Burger is a must try, and it comes with a side of crispy fries.
Tennis and travel. It’s hard to imagine how these two concepts are connected, but after reading this article, I think you will find that there is an interesting correlation. I have been playing tennis for eight years. Tennis is one of my father’s passions, too, and he has encouraged me to play this sport all over the world. Three of the countries where I have played tennis include Japan, France, and the United States.
“THE FUN OF TRAVELING WHILE PLAYING TENNIS LASTED FOR A MONTH AND A HALF.” First of all, I want to discuss Japan, which is a very interesting place and a dazzling spot for anime culture. During my tennis training there, we couldn’t go out from Monday to Friday. Every Saturday, though, we would go out to buy all kinds of items. At that time, I always bought games and novels full of anime culture with my friends from tennis training.
By Logan Kreisberg
TENNIS AND TRAVEL By Cindy Wang In early summer in Japan, it always rains. During these times, we would play on indoor hard courts. When the rain stopped and the land dried slightly, we would play on a clay court. The clay court in Japan was very different from what I had experienced before. Some fake grass was on the ground, but upon close inspection there was some fine sand that needed to be level after playing, so I classify it as clay. The fun of traveling while playing tennis lasted for a month and a half.
“TENNIS AND TOURISM WILL CONTINUE TO DEVELOP IN MY LIFE.” Next, I went to Nice, France. I had signed up for the Mouratoglou Academy's one week vacation training, and I visited various parts of France in advance. France has beaches, including gravel ones. I like to watch seagulls flying around by the beach. I would buy some bread, tear it up, and throw it away for these cute little birds to eat. I arrived 15 days before the tennis program began, and I wandered along the coast and lived in a small attic that had a retro atmosphere.
My leisure days lasted until the training week. After a week of school, my parents suddenly thought of paying a year's tuition for me to go to school in France, so I had more than a month and a half of playing and learning until the outbreak of COVID-19 when my parents asked me to return to China. Then, because the pandemic continued, I did not return to that school, and my trip to France came to an end. Finally, there was the Rocky Mountains in the United States, which was a six-month exchange activity organized by Chinese schools. I participated in after-school training, four times a week, for eight hours of tennis training. Most of the time I attended classes and tennis training, but the school took us on to travel destinations on Saturdays. Toward the end of the semester, I also went to New York City and Orlando, Florida. Disney World, located in Orlando, is very interesting. There are cast members in costumes dressed as the princesses and characters from the various movies. There are also wonderful parades throughout the day at Disney. Regarding attractions, though, unfortunately it takes a long time to wait in line, as some lines take multiple hours to reach the ride.
After a long day of school, sometimes you need a little pick-me-up before the train. Luckily, Katonah has many delicious and affordable options to choose from. The Pulse hopes you’ll check out some of these stores the next time you need to “kill” time without “murdering” your wallet.
Fresh breakfast items from Jay Street Cafe Photo by Logan Kreisberg.
In New York City, we went to the American Museum of Natural History and learned about space and the solar system and many machines. There's a gift shop that sells science- related items, including a stone from the moon, and it looks expensive. In New York, we walked many city blocks, but I really was amazed by what is on display in this museum. My visit to the Natural History Museum was my favorite part of my trip to New York City. After we walked all day, I felt tired, but I had so much fun on this part of my travels. I believe that the process of traveling while playing tennis brought many experiences. Although this article has come to an end, tennis and tourism will continue to develop in my life. I encourage readers to take advantage of any opportunity to see the world.
Cindy Wang (Age 10) Rocky Mount Championship Photo Courtesy of her Coach
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THE HARVEY SCHOOL | 260 JAY STREET, KATONAH NY