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Northern Star

Northern Illinois University’s student media since 1899

 

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The Student News Site of Northern Illinois University

Northern Star

The Student News Site of Northern Illinois University

Northern Star

NIU Penguin Players raise their arms and sing the pickleball song during their performance on Sunday inside the Cavan Auditorium at Gabel Hall. NIU’s Penguin Players is a group that provides adults with disabilities the chance to perform a musical. (Tim Dodge | Northern Star)

Penguin Players show what it means to be a hero

By Brynn Krug, Lifestyle Editor | December 8, 2024

The NIU Penguin Players took to the stage to perform a lighthearted, comedy musical alongside adults with disabilities and showed NIU that anyone can be a hero. “Totally Awesome” is the NIU Penguin Players’ 19th show performed at 1 p.m. Sunday...

Cynthia Erivo (left) and Ariana Grande pose for photographers upon arrival at the premiere of the film "Wicked" on Monday in London. "Wicked" tells the story of what happened before Dorothy arrived in Oz. (Photo by Scott A Garfitt/Invision/AP)

Something ‘Wicked’ this way comes

By Rachael Swinson, Copy Editor | November 21, 2024

After a little over two decades, the Broadway musical “Wicked” has finally gotten its long overdue adaptation on the silver screen.  Directed by Jon M. Chu, “Wicked: Part One,” which releases Nov. 22, tells the story of unlikely friends Elphaba,...

Plush toys with creepy doll faces sit on a table. The Dark Art and Oddities Con took place in Altgeld Hall. (Yari Tapia | Northern Star)

Get eerie with Dark Art and Oddities Con

By Yari Tapia, Lifestyle Writer | November 18, 2024

Vendors were ready at their booths with eclectic and macabre art pieces at the Dark Art and Oddities Con from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday in Altgeld Hall. There were a variety of vendors and artists with different styles at the convention. Some...

Cooking With the Star: Four-cheese mac and cheese

By Brynn Krug, Lifestyle Editor | November 18, 2024

Mac and cheese: a crowd pleasing pasta staple. Whether you need a Thanksgiving side dish or just want to enjoy a cheesy meal, this dish is sure to hit the spot. MAC AND CHEESE Prep time: 25 to 30 minutes Serves 4 to 6 people INGREDIENTS 3...

A painting hangs inside the Transgender Day of Remembrance exhibit in the Holmes Student Center. This piece from a trans student represents hope and resilience. (Marco Alvarez | Northern Star)

Gallery walk honors Transgender Day of Remembrance

By Caleb Johnson, Lifestyle Writer | November 14, 2024

Students, staff and community members received a chance to view a multimedia gallery walk in the Holmes Student Center Glass Gallery Lounge, dedicated to honoring the lives and experiences of transgender Huskies.   The display features a variety...

Cooking With the Star: Ukrainian garden salad

By Sofia Didenko and Brynn Krug | November 12, 2024

On a hot summer day in Ukraine, you might find someone tending their garden, harvesting tomatoes, cucumbers and plenty of dill to make a simple yet beloved summer dish: a garden salad. With Ukraine's fertile soil, it's no surprise that gardening is...

Naomi Langley, a sophomore psychology major, looks at her phone while walking down Normal Road. This winter, fashion trends should be practical and fun. (Northern Star File Photo)

Winter 2024 trend predictions

By Brynn Krug, Lifestyle Editor | November 11, 2024

Winter fashion serves two purposes: style and warmth. As the temperature drops, new trends will emerge to merge practicality with new creative inspiration.  Whether NIU students are wearing them or they only show up on your TikTok “For You” page,...

This cover image released by Columbia Records shows "CHROMAKOPIA" by Tyler, the Creator. While the album has its highlights, it doesn't compare to Tyler, The Creator's previous releases. (Columbia Records via AP)

‘CHROMAKOPIA’ album is underwhelming

By Eddie Miller, Assistant Sports Editor | November 6, 2024

On Oct. 28, Tyler, the Creator released his highly anticipated album, “CHROMAKOPIA,” which is his eighth studio album. “CHROMAKOPIA” had its high points, and I enjoyed the album but was left slightly underwhelmed.  As a self-proclaimed rap...

An Owala and Stanley water bottle sit next to each other. These popular water bottles each have their pros and cons. (Brynn Krug | Northern Star)

Water bottles go head to head: Stanley vs Owala

By Yari Tapia, Lifestyle Writer | November 4, 2024

Trends come and go in the blink of an eye, but something that hasn’t changed is the need for hydration – and the desire for the coolest water bottle in town. In every place, there will be someone with a water bottle in tow.  There are countless...

A sign for “Machinal” is adorned with flowers and small stones. This play tells the true story of a woman sentenced to execution via the electric chair. (Brynn Krug | Northern Star)

‘Machinal,’ a physical performance of mental instability

By Brynn Hussemann, Lifestyle Writer | November 3, 2024

Trembling, shaking, gasping for air on a subway train on the way to work, Helen Jones suffers a panic attack. This opening scene of “Machinal” shocks the audience immediately.  The School of Theatre and Dance flourishingly illustrated mental health...

A rack of clothing sits in SommsVintage, located at 866 W. Lincoln Highway. The store has a designated $5 to $10 rack for more affordable clothing. (Brynn Krug | Northern Star)

SommsVintage clothing store comes to DeKalb

By Brynn Krug, Lifestyle Editor | October 23, 2024

A new local business brings vintage clothing and community to DeKalb. SommsVintage will have its grand opening from noon to 7 p.m. Oct. 31 at 866 W. Lincoln Highway. Founded by co-owners Jordan Sommers and Adam Sexton, this shop offers a variety of...

Books and Halloween decorations sit on a shelf. To get in the mood for Halloween, read some spooky books. (Brynn Krug | Northern Star)

Books to fall into this season

By Sarah Rose, Managing Editor | October 21, 2024

As we near the ghoulish Halloween season, the cold wind and gloomy skies are forcing students to stay indoors, allowing for the perfect time to start reading books that represent all the best things about fall.  Curling up in bed or on a chair or...