Volume 44, Issue 5 (February 2009) - The Rampage

Environmental Club: The New Initiative Page 3

How Bout Them

One-on-One with Michael Abramson Page 15

Sophomores

Page 14

Color War Styles Page 14

Brand New Harriet Potterstein Page 6

the rampage Volume XXXIV Number 5

The Ramaz Upper School

February 2009/Adar 5769

Poland Trip Conflicts with AP Prep & Basketball

Habitat for Humanity: Bonding through Chesed

By Ellery Kauvar‘09

Raquel Wildes ‘11 Over Presidents Weekend, eighteen Ramaz students, accompanied by Ms. Benel and Rabbi Beer, ventured to York, Pennsylvania, a mere ten minutes away from the Amish country. In the bitter cold, the students painted, sanded and molded the walls of new construction sponsored by Habitat for Humanity, an organization that aims to shelter the less fortunate.

In order to qualify for a “free home,” each adult household member must contribute 250 hours of sweat equity and prove the family’s capability of sustaining the financial burdens associated with homeownership.

In addition to the hard labor, the students had a chance to bond and interact with other teens who partake in a unique program in York called Quantum Opportunities Program.

This program was designed to provide low-income teens with an outlet to stay out of trouble, while increasing their intellectual and social development.

True to Ramaz style, each participant of the QOP group received a complementary Ramaz choir recording as a token of appreciation. Significantly, this CD is themed based on the narrowness of the world and the responsibility of each human being for one another, featuring “The Whole Wide World is a Very Narrow Bridge.”

At the first of many meals eaten over the course of 48 hours, Rabbi Beer spoke about the importance of each student finding individual meaning as to why he or she volunteered to partake in this remarkable experience.

Handwritten on the wall of one of these Habitat Houses was the quotation, “Life is not a destination; it’s a journey.”

This epigram inspires the Habitat volunteers to continue doing their good deeds as they repair the world and strive to bridge communities together.

Battle of the Grades 2009!

Photo Spread Pages 8-9 Expert Committee Educates Ramaz Community on Economic Crisis David Baruch ‘09 On January 25th, in front of a packed auditorium, the Ramaz community addressed the present and future confronting our community as a result of the economic recession. The meeting took the form of a panel discussion, including members weighing in on the financial, communal and emotional impacts of the crisis.

“Our goal is to respond as a community…to understand this crisis at every level of its impact,” said Dr. Ester Fuchs, the moderator of the panel.

The panel included members who could discuss and simplify the crisis from across the board. Dr. Phil Wilner explained the emotional impact, Robert Kapito and Scott Shay both explained the financial impact, and Rabbi Lookstein and Ms. Judith Fagin, the head of the school, explained how the community intends to handle the recession.

“What has occurred here is the breaking of the bonds of trust,” said Scott Shay on the impact of the crisis. “No amount of regulation can fix what has happened…business is down an unprecedented 20 to 30 percent in sales over the past year,” he continued.

Mr. Shay continued to address the ominous signs ahead

“Reply All” Raises Eyebrows

and talked about how the Jew- Avi Grunfeld ‘10 Many Ramaz students agree ish community needs to reexamine itself on a personal note that a problem has developed regarding the overuse and misas well.

While he did seem to be less use of the Ramaz email serthan optimistic, he did end on vice, an issue that is relatively new and has not been a cona positive note: “We have to march forward cern in the past.

This problem has escalatand succeed; if we work hard and make good choices we ed to cases of identity theft, content in emails considered certainly can,” he said.

Mr. Shay spoke about his inappropriate by many, and own personal success which has revealed issues about the occurred amidst a recession school encroaching on student several years ago. He believes privacy.

Some students who recthat we, as a community, can cope and overcome these trou- ognize the issue are annoyed that their time is being wasted bles.

“We are in a world of eco- looking at emails that are only nomic hurt,” said Robert Kap- related to certain groups, but are sent to large recipient bodito.

Mr. Kapito elucidated the ies. In addition, some students effects and causes, pointing to inadvertently or deliberately press “reply all” to emails sent some startling statistics.

“We have taken on more out to the entire student body. mortgages than in the past Many recipients of such emails 224 years combined,” he said. find their content irrelevant.

“I have noticed a pattern He also reduced it to simpler terms. “‘Family Inc.’ is worth this year of students sendless than it was five years ago,” ing out inappropriate emails to entire grades or the entire Mr. Kapito added.

“The government is now student body, and it’s getting our partner,” he said, point- worse and worse as the year ing to the government’s recent goes on,” said Uri Segelman bailouts of the various banks ’10. “It bothers me because I don’t want to read emails that around the country.

While this certainly did don’t apply to me.”

Students and administraraise ominous implications, he assured the community that it tion alike are unsure what has sparked this phenomenon. would get better and that we Continued on page 2 Continued on page 2

The Poland Experience, considered one of the staples of the Senior Year, was moved from May to March to save money due to the distressed economy.

Unfortunately, this new time has created other significant conflicts, academically and athletically.

The trip is scheduled for the last week in March, which overlaps with nearly one quarter of the AP prep courses, a hefty amount of time for those taking the APs in May. “These courses only last a couple of weeks and that is a lot of lost preparation time,” said Dr. Warshall. “For Spanish especially, it’s a very significant amount of time, because the students can’t practice the language and there are sections of the AP that haven’t been covered yet that we are planning on reviewing during the AP prep classes.”

“When I was first scheduling the Poland trip for March, I went to the general studies teachers who would be teaching APs,” said Rabbi Goldmintz, the trip coordinator. “I was assured by my colleagues that it would not make a significant difference.”

The other major conflict involves the Boys Varsity Basketball team.

Sarachek, hosted by Yeshiva University, is one of the most important basketball tournaments held during the year, bringing together sixteen teams from across the country.

When the five seniors realized that they would be missing the tournament, potentially crippling the team, they considered skipping Poland.

“The basketball team is my major commitment and missing this tournament would be huge,” said Michael Reich ’09.

Rabbi Goldmintz told them that they had to choose since he was forced to make the final commitments for Poland. In the end, all five decided to skip the basketball games and go on the Poland trip.

“I didn’t expect that so many students would want to take the AP exams for credit,” added Rabbi Goldmintz. “It comes down to choice.”

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February 2009/Adar 5769

The RamPage News

Financial Committee Addresses Economic Crisis Continued from front page are not alone in facing the crisis.

“People are not very fragile,” said Dr. Phil Wilner on the emotional capacity of people in these trying times. “We are resilient. You can be ordinary and you do not have to be extraordinary,” he continued.

Dr. Wilner raised the morale of the large and likely pessimistic audience at the discussion.

He also raised the issue of perspective: “We need to be precise in our words. Not every problem is a crisis; we need to accept change as part of life,” he said.

He urged parents to engage in dialogue with their children and he cautioned all to look out for signs of emotional distress.

“Instead of getting angry, we have to direct our energies toward helping those who need help. This situation warrants extra giving,” said Rabbi Lookstein.

The rabbi advocated for helping the community and not criticizing those who may be responsible for the situation we currently face.

Photo provded by Google Images

“The number of families that need financial aid is extraordinary,” said Ms. Judith Fagin.

In fact, the school set aside $3.2 million for financial aid at the beginning of the year, already a generous amount.

“We were asked for $500,000 more of financial aid recently, and it was from families that do not usually need it,” said Ms. Fagin.

Ms. Fagin also discussed how the school intends to handle the situation in other ways.

“We are working towards a multi-year programming at cost-cutting,” she said.

She also spoke about summer programs the school in-

tends to begin implementing to save money for parents wary of sending their children on costly flights overseas.

“Guidance lines are obviously longer than usual at the moment, but that is expected,” she said.

There certainly was a silver lining to an otherwise murky night. The words of Dr. Phil Wilner should certainly be taken into account as we confront this—for lack of a more appropriate word—crisis.

“Reply All” Feature Abused by Students Continued from front page “I imagine things grow with use, and then it becomes an attractive nuisance in some way and then walls break to abuse,” said Mr. Miller.

The administration may not be aware as to how many cases there are of unimportant or irrelevant emails being sent to large email groups, since many of these emails do not reach administrators.

Even so, Mr. Miller acknowledges the issue, and he has been working with the GO to “figure out a different way of going forward.”

“It bothers me in the sense that, as I said to the school on Friday [January 16] when I spoke about it, there is a grandiosity and narcissism there intruding on people’s consciousness and being insensitive to them,” said Mr. Miller.

Mr. Miller and Rabbi Stochel both agree that this is an unresolved issue at the moment and it should be dealt with by SFAC. The topic of using the Ramaz email service has been put on the agenda for SFAC’s next meeting.

“Students should have a certain sense of what is appropriate,” said Mr. Miller. “It’s

something we don’t need rules for because it’s just about understanding.”

Mr. Miller feels that the issue of clubs sending their emails to the entire student body is one “you can argue back and forth,” but the section regarding “Ethical Behavior of Computer Users” of Preludes does state that “the sending of unwanted [e]mail…will result in the cancellation of the offending user’s account.”

Heshy Kaufman, the Director of Information Technology at Ramaz, agrees with Mr. Miller that the administration should not limit communication.

“The idea of restricting people on who they can correspond with doesn’t really make any sense to me,” said Mr. Kaufman.

“Assuming that people are using their own email account and not hiding who they are, then let them send whatever they want,” said Mr. Kaufman. “If it’s inappropriate, then they’ll face the consequences.”

Further Coverage Page 4

Seniors Chillin’ Out, Maxin’, Relaxin’ all Cool Aaron Wilson ‘09 With the arrival of second semester, seniors, flaunting new schedules filled with shaded boxes, have found more time on their hands than they ever could have imagined during the past three years. In fact, it is not uncommon for seniors to have more free periods than classes on a given day.

While these free periods occasionally coincide with the beginning or the end of the day, allowing students to sleep in or depart early, the frees often plant themselves between classes in the middle of the day.

Though nearly all welcome the influx of free time, some feel that the schedules should have been created with a greater degree of foresight for the sake of convenience.

“There are times when I have two classes a day, and since I don’t live in the city it’s not like I can go home,” said Andy Apple ’09, playing “Balloons” on AddictingGames. com in the library.

The vast majority of seniors, however, have embraced the free time, finding creative ways to fill the shaded boxes in their days, and engaging in experiences that they might

With an excess of free time, Seniors stop to watch a traffic altercation on Lexington Avenue not have explored otherwise.

“I’ve started writing a historical fiction book about WWII now that I have all this free time,” said Michael Abramson ’09.

Others have been less ambitious, but equally creative in choosing how to spend their time.

“I’m not gonna lie; when I’m not catching up on or starting TV shows in the library, I

go shopping between classes,” said Jennifer Tenenbaum ’09, watching Privileged in the back of the library.

Others have found more social means of entertainment.

“Molly Zimmerman plays Apples to Apples every day in the library,” said Noah Kolatch ’09.

“I spend a lot of time eating lunch and then I usually go see if people want to play Apples

to Apples in the library,” said Molly Zimmerman ’09. “A lot of times I check if my friend in Israel is online, and I’m working really hard on getting past level eight in The World’s Hardest Game.”

Many seniors say that they have begun seeing movies during the day, whether it be in theaters or at a city-dwelling friend’s house. Others have been going out for leisurely

lunches at peers’ homes or at one of the fine kosher establishments in the school’s vicinity. When not taking advantage of life outside of the building, plenty of seniors still enjoy time in the nook or cranny in the third floor lounge and the library.

While seniors may be enjoying their extra time too much to think about the stress of yesteryear, underclassmen have mixed feelings regarding the distribution of free periods throughout the four years at Ramaz.

“I think it would make more sense to have more frees when there’s more work, like at the end of junior year and the beginning of senior year, as opposed to when there’s hardly any work,” said Abigail Golden ’10.

Others, however, feel that the free periods and lack of excessive work are part of the experience and tradition of senior year.

“Senior year is really all about chilling and finally not having to work,” said Stephen Dabah ’10. “Ninth, tenth and eleventh [grades] are really work-heavy and that’s just the way it is; we accept that.”

February 2009/Adar 5769

Students Admire Valmadonna Library: A Tribute to Jewish Scholarship

“The best trip they have ever taken us on,” was how one student described Ramaz’s recent excursion to Sotheby’s auction house. The purpose of the visit was to give students an opportunity to view the Valmadonna Library, the fifth largest collection of Jewish books in the world. The history of the collection, however, supersedes its size.

The Valmadonna Library belongs to the Valmadonna Trust. The library’s caretaker is Jack Lunzer, the Count of Valmadonna, Italy, the place for which the collection is named.

Mr. Lunzer is beyond a simple caretaker. He has hunted down ancient Jewish texts since the days of the Second World War. His collection includes medical textbooks

from ancient Persia reprinted into Hebrew and the first ever compilation of the entire Shas (known as the Bomberg Talmud).

Mr. Lunzer is a prominent member of the Hampstead Garden Suburb Jewish community in London, and until recently, the collection resided at his home there. He has traversed all over Europe to track down these great masterpieces of Jewish Hebraica. Of course there are many stories behind the acquisition of each individual book.

However, telling all those stories could fill nearly as many volumes as the library contains, which is roughly 11,000. These tales include trips to the Vatican library and travels through post-war Amsterdam. Mr. Lunzer even

managed to acquire the tractate of Talmud that Henry VIII had sent to Westminster Abbey during his reign.

“My favorite work in the collection is an edition of Aesop’s Fables,” said Mr. Lunzer. Mr. Lunzer was referring to the Hebrew translation of the famous collection of children’s stories.

Mr. Lunzer’s work and passion for his work was not lost on the students.

“I thought it was amazing,” said Noah Kolatch ’09. “The handwritten books were the coolest.”

Many students praised the administration for taking them on such an educational and enjoyable trip.

“I thought it was a wonderful idea from the administration. I think it was one of the best educational experiences,” said Jake Wilner ’09.

As a people, the Jews have always valued the power of literacy. This library is more than just pages and bindings; it is our history and the essence of our people. Through those pages we can find everything that we as Jews hold dear. It is this very reason that should cause one to stand back and appreciate the Valmadonna collection and its rich history.

Ms. Malamy Models Samantha Sharon ‘10 Ms. Malamy’s style screams different; it’s eclectic and unconventional. Still, we were all surprised to see her featured in national high-fashion magazines in an ad campaign for a major fashion company, Liz Claiborne.

But Ms. Malamy was exactly what Liz Claiborne was looking for. According to an article in the February 12th issue of the New York Times, business has slowed at Claiborne recently, forcing the company to rethink and update their image. For their new collection, the company chose to look past the standard model type and showcase everyday women ranging from their 20’s to their 60’s in hopes of arousing new interest in their decades old company.

We at Ramaz know that Ms. Malamy is always one to make a statement. Her presence never goes unnoticed and we admire her for being unique and interesting. These same qualities are what a fashion stylist that Ms. Malamy met at her cousins’ baby shower three years ago found intriguing as well. “She liked my look,” explained Ms. Malamy. And the rest is history.

Ms. Malamy began getting calls from stylists who requested her to come to their studios and take pictures for fashion ads. Two years went by and Ms. Malamy never got hired. But this October, Ms. Malamy got a call to come in for an audition to shoot an ad for Liz Claiborne.

“It was the most exciting

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The RamPage News

experience I’ve ever had! It was an adventure,” exclaimed Ms. Malamy. She and the rest of the “models” shot over a two-day period in November in downtown New York across the street from the studio of the designer of this new line, Isaac Mizrahi. In one ad, Ms. Malamy and the others are wearing bathing suits, loading up a white convertible with beach toys. “My bathing suit happened to be very tznius,” assured Ms. Malamy.

“I don’t think all the pictures are good, but it’s me,” said Ms. Malamy.

Environmental Club: The New Initiative Sandra Rubinchik ‘09 The recent Environmental Club initiatives have hit the school by storm. Over the past two weeks, the club has successfully begun a paper recycling program by installing new blue bins in each classroom and office in the Upper School building. Additionally, the club raised almost $200 for the Jewish National Fund (JNF) to help clean Israel’s water supply.

Despite all of these accomplishments, Environmental Club is nowhere near finished with its mission to make Ramaz a greener place.

“Katie Wachsberger ’10 [copresident] just found a great organization that collects used cell phones and iPods and then gives schools money for every item they turn in,” said Melanie Gersten ’09, co-president of the club. “We plan to start the collection next week and use the money for more green programs in the future.”

In an attempt to promote eco-friendliness, the club has also planted several bulbs to decorate the school with greenery and has updated its fifth floor bulletin board.

“It’s exciting that students

feel such a commitment towards the environment and making the school green, because we really haven’t been doing enough,” said Mr. Miller. “It’s nice to see the initiative coming from the students.”

The sixth floor battery collection has proven to be successful as well. Members have already loaded several suitcases with batteries and have properly disposed of them in one of New York City’s designated deposits.

“I think it’s nice to see a real global concern with huge implications being seriously addressed by the students at Ramaz,” said one sophomore.

“It’s true; the whole world’s becoming more environmentally conscious, and it’s only fitting that Ramaz does the same,” said Josh Bierman ’11.

Environmental Club urges students to continue bringing their used batteries to the collection bins in the office and in room 504. Members and administration alike also encourage students to make a conscious effort to properly recycle paper (like the RamPage in your hands right now).

Chess Players Brawl with Flatbush Ethan Plaue ‘11 The score is tied and time is quickly running out. One move can decide who wins and who loses. A crowd forms and claims of cheating are made, but the game continues.

Ramaz takes the lead and Flatbush refuses to finish the game.

This is the intensity of the Yeshiva League chess club.

During Ramaz’s last chess tournament with the Yeshivah of Flatbush, a yeshiva chess fight ensued. As one may have guessed, a yeshiva chess fight consists of arguing loudly and bringing proof to support a well-devised claim.

Ramaz had won three games and Flatbush had won three games, so it all came down to the last match. The competition was coming to a close and it looked like Flatbush was going to win. However, the Flatbush contender then accused

our player.

After the Flatbush opponent realized that the disputed move changed the outcome of the game, he refused to finish and accept the defeat. The Ramaz chess club members and the Flatbush ones crowded around and began yelling and accusing each other of cheating.

The Flatbush coach, seeing the rising intensity of the match, told everyone to leave and went on to interrogate the players. After some deliberation, it was decided that since Flatbush continued to play the game after Ramaz was accused of cheating, that Flatbush had forfeited the claim. Ramaz would receive the win.

Despite the accusations, the chess club stood their ground, fought back, and stayed together.

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February 2009/Adar 5769

Changes in Test Calendar Procedure Affect all Departments Avi Grunfeld ‘10 With their recognition of the test calendar becoming too busy and cluttered when individual teachers schedule their own tests, Rabbi Stochel and the department chairs have been working with the faculty to have every department give tests to each section in a certain grade on the same date.

“There are days when we don’t allow tests for good reasons,” said Rabbi Stochel.

“The result is that there are a limited number of days [to give tests], and if individual teachers place different tests, quizzes and papers that are due, scattered along different days, then it becomes harder for other teachers to schedule their assessments.”

In an attempt to solve this problem, Rabbi Stochel and the chairs were interested in having department-wide tests within each grade, and they have decided to implement

this modification.

Chairs can submit their testing plans for their entire department, but some departments prefer to allow individual teachers to submit their own testing days after the department comes to an agreement on the dates.

According to Rabbi Stochel, there is no new system and there is no new official school

policy with any new rules. It is merely the administration encouraging departments to come up with testing dates for their department and have teachers test on these days.

“The only interest here is simply for the students, to make sure it’s fair and to make sure there are enough days for these different assessments to take place,” said Rabbi Sto-

Choir Pays a Visit to SAR for Nashir Aaron Marans ‘11 Photo by Davida Herschkopf ‘10

On February 4th, the Ramaz High School Choir attended Nashir, a festival of Jewish high school choirs.

Choir presidents Danielle Deluty ’09 and Adriel Koschitzky ‘09 agreed that Nashir was “a great event.” Present at the event were choirs from SAR, Heschel, Flatbush, Solomon Schechter of Essex and Union, and North Shore.

Students participated in various sessions that were intended to help them cultivate their singing abilities.

“The workshops were interesting and the people who led them seemed passionate about what they did. Of the two I went to, one was actually interesting,” said Shira Grosman, a sophomore at Solomon Schechter.

Some students also saw these sessions as a social opportunity.

“Even though there is no

allotted time for mingling, the sessions that Nashir runs are split up by the specific students’ preferences and not by school. So if you're at all affable, chances are you'll be talking to the people standing on either side of you,” said Matan Skolnik, a sophomore at Heschel.

Mr. Henkin said Nashir was an overall positive experience, adding that it is “a nice event Jewishly; it gathers students from a variety of Jewish backgrounds.” He continued to say that these students find shared interests that cross denominational boundaries.

However, Mr. Henkin said that the program was a bit brief and “there was no down time built in.” He added, “I would like for it to be a little longer,” saying that because of the time constraints, the event was not as focused as he would have liked.

Alec Weinstein, a freshman at North Shore, shared the sentiments of Ramaz’s choral director. “There was, to some extent, a lack of organization and professionalism that I wish was present in order to enhance the holistic experience.”

Danielle Deluty ’09, copresident of the choir, said that she felt that her musical abilities were definitely enhanced at Nashir. At the end of the event, all the choirs came together and performed. “It’s always nice to see other choirs perform,” said Deluty. Adriel Koschitzky ’09, also co-president, described the event as “a really unique, great get together.”

“I liked Nashir because we got to show off our own school choir, listen to other great Jewish choirs, and meet students from other schools,” said Scott Greenberg, also a sophomore at Solomon Schechter. Scott added, “Ramaz was definitely one of the best of the six choirs there.” Skolnik of Heschel added on that subject “I already knew a few of the Ramaz students there from camp and through mutual friends.

They were as friendly as anyone else, and their choir was, as usual, incredible.”

Mr. Henkin said that despite the fact that Nashir was too rushed, he’s “always looking for new music” and feels that “the program should be maintained and continued”

chel.

Rabbi Stochel feels that with the collaboration of department chairs, class presidents and grade coordinators, who are all responsible for monitoring the test calendar, this slightly altered system will help avoid test clutter, allow students to know their test schedules long before the tests are given, and ensure that teachers have enough days to assess students.

“I feel that it is in the students’ best interest to have department-wide test dates,” said Dr. Koplon. “It cuts down on the potential for doubling up.”

In fact, according to Dr. Koplon, the math department has already “been working with a departmental test calendar for the past couple of years.”

The modifications in the test calendar as a whole, in particular the favoring of department dates, has upset and frustrated some teachers.

“I think the new system takes away from the faculty a sense of ownership to give out their own curriculum, and as a result, they don’t take their own curriculum as seriously as they might otherwise,” said Dr. Gaylord.

Rabbi Stochel acknowledges and appreciates the educational problem that Dr. Gaylord is expressing, but he feels that focusing on the needs of the students by making sure their schedules are not too cluttered and that they are aware of tests well in advance are the most important issues when working with the test calendar.

“At the heart of the supervision of the test calendar by grade coordinators lies the goal of enabling students to manage their studying in a reasonable manner and to make sure that learning in all subjects proceeds in an effective way,” said Rabbi Stochel.

Students Concerned about Administration’s Ability to Monitor Emails Avi Grunfeld ‘09 The fact that the administration can monitor students’ computer history has bothered many.

“I find that the administration’s ability to see a lot of our computer history very intrusive on our privacy,” said Josh Lewittes ’10.

Still, nearly all students questioned on this issue are unaware of how much the administration can in fact see.

According to Mr. Kaufman, who is the only person who has direct access to student computer history, if a student uses a school computer, by searching through the server logs the school can find out “who logs in, what time, what the machine has been used for, what websites it accessed, what time a user logs off” and more.

“Outside of school, every time you just touch the Ramaz website, I can see who you are,” said Mr. Kaufman.

This particular set of information derived from looking through the school’s server logs does not show actual emails sent by students using their Ramaz accounts. However, the school does have access to this information by accessing the email boxes.

In an attempt to assuage the potential discomfort this knowledge may awake within some students, Mr. Kaufman assures that the information

is only retrieved when the administration has a reason to be looking for something, which he says occurs “very infrequently.”

In addition, information retrieved by looking through students’ computer history can only be used against a student if the evidence is concrete and irrefutable. Furthermore, this ability is not special to Ramaz and comes standard with any organization that runs the Windows Server System.

“You will find similar policies employed at just about every school and business that uses technology,” said Mr. Kaufman.

Both Mr. Kaufman and Mr. Miller agree that while many students are unaware of their privacy rights, it is not something the school is intentionally trying to hide. In fact, the extent of computer privacy is lucidly stated in Preludes: “Users can expect only limited privacy in the contents of their personal files or e-mail on the network.”

“If you read our ethics of computer use it’s clear that everybody who registers in the school agrees to abide by these guidelines,” said Mr. Miller.

“And the school, because it’s our system, has the right do whatever is needed to protect the integrity of the system.”

February/Adar 5769

The RamPage Sophomore Feature

Page 5

Sophomore Update Not Just Sticks and Stones?

Caroline Koppel ‘11

Thursday February 12th started off as a great day.

Kids walked into school excited about the President’s Day weekend vacation and surprised to see it was an AM Assembly day with advisory periods. Although advisory may not be everyone’s favorite, it is a good break during the day. Each grade had a different planned advisory, and the sophomores were scheduled to talk about “bullying”.

Most of the sophomores were aware that select boys from the grade had been spoken to by the administration about this behavior. Certain teachers had reported that the kids in the grade were acting inappropriately towards one another. Despite the very small percentage of the grade that is involved in this “bullying,” the administration felt it was necessary to address the issue publicly.

Each advisory group had different discussions depending on the types of kids present in each class.

Regardless, most had the same outcome: arguments between boys and girls. The girls felt disrespected, that it was unconscionable, and that the bullying had become more than a joke. On the other hand, the boys thought the administration should not have gotten involved because it was just friendly banter. After heated arguments between the girls and boys, no solution was agreed upon, and some advisors were shocked that they were not aware of the things that were going on in the grade. Many in the sophomore grade did not take the meeting seriously. However, there are a few students who think it is a real problem.

After strongly expressing their ideas during advisory meetings, some kids were accused of telling the

Sophomore SAT Stress Raquel Wildes ‘11

administration and causing the problem. Although advisory is supposed to be a place to express what you are feeling, some who spoke were judged and made fun of for what they said. The advisory was all about bullying, which the 10th grade is trying to minimize, but the result of the advisory meeting itself is a clear indication that there is a problem. Maybe all teenagers in every school react to each other this way, but that does not mean it is okay. The boys may not have meant to bully, and when it comes down to it everyone may be friends, but there appears to be a line that has been crossed.

Because we are teenagers, the seriousness of bullying and sexual harassment is not understood. However, according to EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) guidelines , being “constantly felt or pinched, visually undressed and stared at, surreptitiously kissed, commented upon, manipulated into being found alone,” are just some forms of serious sexual harassment. Although these guidelines are meant for the work place, the same acts in schools by teenagers are also not acceptable. The cases in school may be less intense, and lawsuits will most likely not be filed, but that does not mean that what goes on is to be taken lightly.

For a long time, sexual harassment was a problem that people ignored, but a study shows that “verbal and physical harassment begin in elementary school, and 4 out of 5 children experience some form of sexual harassment or bullying.” The issues among the sophomores may not seem so important, but many feel that this is not the case and that they should be looked at even more intensely.

High school sophomores are starting to get worried, and rightfully so. It’s that time of year again: seniors are anxiously awaiting their acceptance letters and juniors are apprehensive over the upcoming SATs and ACTs. Underclassmen are fully aware of the stress related to applying to college, and knowing that soon they will be under the spotlight, tension has started building.

In response to the increased pressure, some yeshivot, specifically Kushner and SAR, have instituted a new approach to college preparation. In order to alleviate the stress of junior year, these schools have decided to get an early start on the college process with an optional college night offered for sophomores.

Similarly, nearly all the students in every other private or public school take the PSATs during sophomore year as well as junior year.

“I feel that by not taking the PSATs sophomore year, we are falling behind in comparison with other schools,” says Dan-

iella Sakhai ’11.

Although most students remain in denial until they are forced to cope with the magnitude of their future, college admission is still an omnipresent shadow. Considering this, advocates for early college prep believe that it would be beneficial for Ramaz to begin this process as early as sophomore year.

Traditionally, Ramaz offers PSATs for juniors at the beginning of the year and college guidance a little further down the road. In reality, a handful of sophomores have already begun to prepare for the impending exams.

“Ramaz should offer sophomores the opportunity to sit for the PSATs, as most other schools do,” said Alec Goldberg ’10. “This allows the student to better asses the individual preparation time required prior to taking the SAT or ACT’s. This would also enable more students to be ready for the January exam, known to have a better curve.”

The philosophy of Ramaz college guidance suggests that it is vital to enjoy the learning in high school for learn-

ing’s sake, and when the time is right, to embark on the next leg of the educational journey.

“Perhaps one meeting for the parents or students of the sophomore grade would be valuable, but anything beyond that,” believe Ms. Bloom and Dr. Honig, “is unnecessary and counterproductive.” Moreover, the college guidance advisors do encourage students to take the SAT Subject Tests in Biology and Chemistry prior to their junior year and have stated that they have an open door policy to all students, not just the juniors and seniors.

Another simpler approach to this topic of discussion, proposed by Daniel Robbins ’10 states, “One sophomore advisory meeting should be set aside to specifically talk about general knowledge concerning college.”

The bottom line of this dispute is whether or not knowledge early on creates more or less stress in the long run. This issue was discussed at length at the parent liaison meeting last month, where both sides were strongly advocated and no final conclusion was reached.

Small Sophomore Class Sorrow Sarah Emmerich ‘10 and Danielle Wildes ‘10 This October, during a bus emergency on the sophomore Shabbaton, the entire sophomore class was able to fit on one bus with the absence of only 15 students. This showcases the abnormally small size of the sophmore class.

At the start of freshman year, the current sophomore grade consisted of 93 students.

Since the start of high school, this grade has been continuously decreasing in number and is now left with only 87 students.

Is it possible for the 10th grade to get even smaller?

A survey conducted with the entire grade revealed that 30 percent of the 87 students have considered leaving Ramaz to the extent that they spoke to their parents, got an application, or even toured another school.

“I got a cold vibe when I came to school and I just didn’t enjoy myself,” said Sophia Altholz who transferred out of Ramaz in her freshman year. “I

left for the bigger picture and not for the individual grade,” she continued. This criticism is a common one among students switching or thinking of switching out of Ramaz.

One criticism not so commonly heard among students is that of the particular grade itself. After interviewing another Ramaz student who is

thinking of switching out of Ramaz, it is apparent that not all sophomores want to switch because of the administration and the other commonly heard reasons.

“I don’t feel like [my grade] is connected; I feel like the grade is really split,” said the student. It was then asked whether this sophomore

felt the other grades were more connected. To this she responded that she didn’t really know, but it seems as though the other grades have a better relationship and connection to one another than the sophomores do.

“It really just depends on the year. There is no particular difference about the class of 2011,” said Ms. Krupka, the grade advisor.

When asked why she believed such a significant number of sophomores have considered leaving, she replied that 10th grade is generally the time when students feel more compelled to consider others schools.

Unlike freshman year, in which high school is just beginning, and junior year, when friendships have already “gelled,” sophomore year is more likely to be a time of confusion and social pressure.

Though this may be a valid reason, it still does not fully explain the huge discrepancy in attitude, happiness, and numbers between the sophmore grade and the rest of the school.

Page 6

The RamPage Features

February 2009/Adar 5769

Educational Spotlight: The Other Side Ethan Plaue ‘11 In the ongoing Israel-Gaza Conflict, the side of the ProPalestinians must be understood and confronted in order for students to understand the

of rockets being shot into Israel, the IDF was called in to stop the attacks.

The main criticism of Israel is the moral and humanitar-

situation as a whole and for them to be able to address the issue in a sophisticated way.

The conflicts directly began when Hamas refused to extend the cease-fire that had expired on December 19th, blaming Israel for not adhering to some of its terms including the lifting of the blockade. Hamas then resumed their rocket and mortar attacks on the Negev.

Due to the increased amounts

ian aspects. At the moment, the number of dead Gazan civilians is hard to estimate because of the lack of independent sources in the region.

Gaza officials have numbered the amount of civilians casualties around 900, 400 of whom were children, women and the elderly. This number is almost certainly a large exaggeration.

Israel officials put the number closer to 250 dead. Soon in-

dependent assessments and the UN will release a more accurate amount of civilian casualties.

Certain events during the war have been under scrutiny due to questionable ethics. On January 15th, the IDF shelled the UN headquarters where many civilians were taking shelter. Israel used white phosphorus ammunition, which is illegal in a civilian populated area, and three people were severely injured and hundreds of tons of food and fuel were destroyed. Israel apologized for the “very sad consequences” of the attack.

Two days later, Israel tank fire hit a school run by the UNRWA that was sheltering 1,600 civilians. Two children were killed and another fourteen were wounded.

The UN may charge Israel for war crimes because the Israeli government has not been able to show that the attacks on these shelters were warranted.

Israel is still conducting an investigation into this strike and others to show reasonable necessity. The government has maintained that these buildings probably housed weapons. More explanations, however, will be sure to arrive.

Richard Falk of the United Nations Human Rights Council has accused Israel of war crimes for targeting civilians.

The Human Rights Watch and UNRWA also assert that Israel is still occupying Gaza because they control its land borders, air space and territorial waters.

International law dictates that occupying powers have certain responsibilities over their occupations.

The UN states that the situation in Gaza is a crisis and there has been "a massive destruction of livelihoods and a significant deterioration of infrastructure and basic servic-

es". 80 percent of the population can’t support itself and must rely on humanitarian organizations. More than 50,800 Gazans are now homeless. It must be understood, however, that Gaza was not exactly a wealthy place before the conflict to begin with.

Most of the western world has condemned both sides for negligence of civilian life and excess violence. It is no doubt a brutal war that hurt both the Israeli and Palestinian populations, but now hopefully one can see the other side of the conflict.

Faculty Friends Liana Abadi ‘10 Fact: Many teachers are good friends with each other outside of Ramaz.

Myth: Most of those teachers became friends at Ramaz.

Take Dr. Stone and Dr. Jucovy for example. “We met in September of 1972 right at the first second, of the first minute, of the first class in graduate school,” said Dr. Jucovy.

They became friends instantly because of their many similarities and shared passions.

For one thing, they both were the youngest in the City Uni-

versity Graduate Center, dubbing them the nickname “the kinder.”

There is quite a bit of competition in their friendship as well. Dr. Stone and Dr. Jucovy constantly challenge each other to various board games.

According to Dr. Stone he was up one game some time ago so they decided to play in order to settle the score, but he won’t budge on who won that game.

Both remember, one more fondly, handing in their dissertations. Dr. Stone’s car broke

down and he ended up getting to the school in the nick of time. As he was running in, he spotted Dr. Jucovy who remarked, “What took you so long?”

They both claim to not bring their competitive nature to their classes, but each one is secretly wishing the other’s extracurricular clubs, like mock trial, model UN , and college bowl, do really well this year so each can have a chance to get ahead of the other. Dr. Stone is famous for looking a little more at ease on the day of any trial.

While Dr. Stone and Dr. Jucovy met in graduate school, there are some teachers that knew each other as far back as high school.

Ms. Krupka and Ms. Sheinbein both went to Bruriah high school in New Jersey. Ms. Sheinbein was a senior while Ms. Krupka was a freshman, but they did know of each other because Ms. Krupka’s mom was assistant principal of the school.

“It was not as easy at Bru-

riah to become friends with kids in other grades, not like Ramaz,” said Ms. Sheinbein suggesting that they probably would not have been able to become such close friends in high school. Their friendship really developed into what it is now at Ramaz.

It is nice to see how these friendships blossomed at different times; one in graduate school and one here at Ramaz.

We never know whom we might cross paths with in the future. “So many times in life you meet up with people from

your past. Lives can become intertwined easier than you think, and [the fact that Ramaz has a tendency for grade-wide bonding] makes us special and proves that we can form bonds that last forever,” said Mr. Miller.

February 2009/Adar 5769

The RamPage Features

Page 7

Word Has it They’re Funny Daniel Robbins ‘10 It’s lunchtime.

You’re sitting with your friends during your only free time of the day to talk freely about anything in your guarded yeshiva. That’s when you forcibly swallow your pasta con salsa y queso and begin the conversation, “The funniest thing happened in class today…”

If the previous words leave the barrier of your teeth on a consistent basis then you are one of many students with the privilege of having a funny

even more time to this one than, “Is it true that the Thursday lunches are made specifically for Señor Couillard?” or “Why is my Student ID so useful?” or “Did the librarians choose a book this year that everyone read for their 7th grade book report knowing that nobody reads the books?”

I spent long nights in my bubble bath mulling over this burning question, “What makes a teacher funny?”

Mark Rappaport ‘10 believes it’s “someone who casts a rel-

Or is using impeccable impersonations, or explicit humor that’s superficially clean, or is it high school satire?

After reviewing these traits and talking to several students, I assembled a list of teachers that best fit the title “Funniest Teacher in the School.”

102 students were polled and Mr. Deutsch took the title with 27 votes. Dr. Gaylord came in second with seventeen, Dr. Jucovy had sixteen, Rabbi Stechler picked up eleven, Mr. Markowitz received nine and others receiving votes were Mr. Dulny, Rabbi Sklarin, Mr. Kuck, Rabbi Beer, Rabbi Hindin, Dr. Seigel, Dr. Hanon, Ms. Slonim, and Ms. Rosen.

These are the reasons: Mr. Deutsch – Very witty, thinks on his feet, and is adept at making fun of people discreetly but offensively. Being an avid TV watcher, namely “Gossip Girl”, allows for useful digressions into hilarious conversations. He has an arsenal of Jew jokes along with a plethora of ethnic imitations that compliment his class very well. And to ‘top’ it off, he matches his hat to the subject he's going to teach that day.

teacher.

But who is the funniest teacher in the school? This is perhaps the question Ramaz students ponder more than any other. Perhaps students devote

atively bright shadow on our gloomy school.”

What characteristics, though, create that bright shadow? Is it being unconventional, energetic, clever, sarcastic?

Dr. Gaylord – Vast knowledge of student, faculty, and human routines combined with his envied position as the library of student gossip allows him to effortlessly pinpoint comical quirks in Ramaz life.

Also known for his tendency to lighten up a gloomy day by “singing” (if that’s what you

would like to call it) random tunes that are so dissonant to the point that they are pleasing.

And once the singing doesn’t stop after 10 seconds one cannot help but laugh along.

Dr. Jucovy - Politically incorrect does not resonate with him. The quote, “The funniest thing happened in class today…” doesn’t apply due to the fact that stories in his class may not be repeated because of taboo material. Hysterical is an understatement for his collection of personal stories.

He is most certainly a storyteller savant which helps enhance the humor of his explicit tales. Almost as amusing as his legendary stories are his views and superstitions. The Jews’ fate, for example, is inversely related to the Yankees success (there is proof).

Mr. Markowitz – Often

compared to comedian Mitch Hedberg, his dead pan humor makes Computer Literacy a pleasant class. He has the knack to single out one student and consistently intertwine him/her into his jokes and after a couple of references it becomes hilarious. “His excess quietness is proportional to his funniness,” said Dan Blas ’10.

Dr. Hanon – Has the hilarious tendency to threaten to throw kids out the window if they don’t bring their books to class. And on occasion she breaks out into ballet.

Thank you to all the teachers for brightening our otherwise sometimes gloomy days.

Why Me? YU! Kaitlin Waschsberger ‘10 For a modern orthodox yeshiva high school, the percentage of Ramaz students seriously considering attending Yeshiva University for their college educations is surprisingly low.

Many Juniors in Ramaz are not even considering YU as an ideal choice for college, rather, they see it as no more than a back up: a place that will accept them regardless of their academic performance.

“Stern [the women’s undergraduate college of YU] is not the place I would ideally want to go,” said Jackie Oshry ’10.

“I mean, if I couldn’t get in anywhere else I wouldn’t mind going there. It really doesn’t seem so bad.”

What many people do not know is that YU is the 50th best college in the country, which is way before University of Maryland, Boston Uni-

versity, Rutgers, Miami University, and many more that some students consider to be more prestigious.

“Of the students applying to

have to be before students stop viewing Yeshiva University as a backup?”

For some students, YU is not an option for other rea-

President of Yeshiva Univeristy, Richard Joel our honors program, the average SAT was 1454 and the average GPA was over 95,” said YU President Richard Joel.

“How high do our standards

sons.

“I don’t want to go [to YU] because I feel like it would be four more years of high school,” said Nathan Shams

’10. “It’s important to have a Jewish education in high school but I want to expand my horizons.”

Many students feel as if they cannot really get a true college experience in a place like YU and that they would like a college with “diversity [which is] to me more important at this point in life than keeping up rigorously with Jewish studies,” said Jake Goldstein ’10.

President Joel, in his speeches, makes it clear that YU is not for everyone, but so many students are unaware of the fact that YU may have what they are pursuing in other schools, such as diversity.

“Every Thursday night at our weekly soccer game you could find students from Russia, France, Iran, Israel, Mexico, Venezuela, Chile, and Brazil,” said Ramaz alum and former YU student Marc Fein

’03. “What we share, however, is a serious commitment to pursuing the highest level of academic and religious studies, and living lives as proud Jews who can thrive in the modern world.”

It is possible that the thrill of leaving a Jewish institution and entering the secular world can cause one to momentarily neglect the concept of religious growth.

“I wanted to explore a range of options that could meet my social, religious, and academic needs,” said Marc Fein ’03 about the range of universities he initially applied to as a Ramaz senior. In the end, he decided on “Yeshiva University as a school that could advance both [my] academic and spiritual growth.”

C O L O R W A R

good thing we didn’t put any tape on the walls...

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C O L O R W A R 0 9

Page 10

The RamPage Opinions

Lamenting the Loss of the Shock Factor Aaron Wilson ‘09

Remember that feeling of reading something shocking– something gory, something sexual, something unimaginable–with your heart pounding and your eyes racing across the page to reach the next scandalous line? The more you read, the more you were shocked and the more you wanted to know. And subconsciously, it was nice knowing that the pages of a book could have such an effect on you. It was thrilling, knowing that there were things out there that you didn’t know about, or at least that you never thought you’d see on the pages of a book.

But then something happened. You grew up: you heard the older kids talking on the bus, you went to see There’s Something About Mary, you read Forever by Judy Blume, you saw things, and suddenly it began to take more and more to shock you. Your heart rate

Samantha Sharon ‘10 There are few Ramaz vacations where Ms. Benel does not send out an email requesting volunteers for one of her chesed missions. Be it Succot, Thanksgiving or Presidents Weekend, there are students who immediately sign up, those who save the email in their inbox to think about, and those who delete the email right away.

For the Habitat for Humanity mission over this past Presidents Weekend that took place in York, Pennsylvania, I fell into that middle category.

When I got Ms. Benel’s email, I read it, didn’t delete it, but didn’t respond yes right way either. After trying to talk my friends into going on the trip with me to no avail, I was barely considering going anymore. Call it bravery or boldness, after going back and forth about a million times in my head, I surprised myself and decided to participate in the mission even though I

would hardly jump at the sight of an on-screen kiss and your eyes would hardly bulge during the Final Destination sequels.

Soon you began high school and the first book you read had some sexual undertones, about which you were shocked to hear your teacher speak so openly. And then the second book you read also had something peculiar going on; as did the third, fourth and fifth. If, at some point, you had Dr. Gaylord, you learned that in virtually all literature, scandal lurks just beneath the surface. And soon enough (sorry to ruin the surprise, freshmen) you ceased to be shocked by most everything. Even quite blatant homosexual acts in literature, hardly hidden in metaphor, no longer fazed you.

While the tragic loss of the shock factor is something that each of us experiences on a

personal level, we, as a generation, have what to lament as well. A few weeks ago Mr. Miller was discussing D.H. Lawrence’s classic novel, Sons and Lovers, with his senior Honors English class. When Mr. Miller revealed that the description of the male protagonist pushing the female protagonist on the rope swing was a bit metaphorical, he did not receive quite the reaction that he had twenty years ago, when he last taught the book.

It doesn’t come as much of a surprise that it is so difficult to shock us, considering the onslaught of shocks that outlets such as the media deliver to us on a daily basis. And even the images and scenes that actually surprise us, deliver only cheap, shallow shocks that play off of the temporary emotion that wells up in the mind, only to subdue minutes or even seconds later.

I miss that real shock, that sense of astonishment that would stop me in my tracks and force me to stop reading and let my mind wander for a few minutes in an attempt to grasp what my eyes had just processed. The kind of shock that wouldn’t just temporarily provide me with a rush of emotion, but awaken parts of my mind that I did not yet know existed and force me to explore those places. I miss that.

February 2009/Adar 5769

Report Cards: Not Public Documents Daniel Blas ‘10

I almost expected it this semester, as it has almost become a tradition each year around report cards time. Approximately thirty seconds after the report card notification email is sent by Mr. Miller informing the student body, everyone somehow knows that grades have been posted. Those not privileged enough to own an iTouch, or those unfortunate enough to be stuck in a room that has poor connection to the infamous RAMAZ%NY%US network ID, are forced to make a mad dash to one of three working computers in the library, kick off the oblivious freshman, and check their “quarter 2” results. In front of everyone. Without privacy.

It is always awkward as you stand in line and pretend that you don’t notice the girl sitting at her computer, eyes blinking rapidly in order to avoid the approaching tears. It is even more awkward when you are

that person, eyes moist, brain in shock, from checking the status of your lifeblood— I mean grades.

Which is why I was shocked, when checking my Ramaz email late one night, to see a note from the principal informing me that my “first semester grades are now posted.” Sure enough, to my utter disbelief, my grades were sitting under the “my courses” section of the site.

I was quite pleased with the possibility of NOT having thirty of my friends, all eager to check their own grades, crowding around me as I read through my report card. In other words, the administration must be commended for having the courtesy of sending us our grade reports late in the evening, when no one but we can read them.

Being Part of the Core

would be the only junior girl attending.

These missions are about actively stepping out of your comfort zone and trying some-

thing new – and that’s exactly what I did. They are about going beyond the social boundaries one makes for themselves within the school building just

as much as they are about helping those less fortunate.

Most students don’t have too many of their friends with them on the trip, and while

that may discourage some from signing up, I learned firsthand that it should really be the opposite. The atmosphere of these trips is actually very conducive to making new friends, especially with students in other grades.

On this past trip, only 18 students from the entire school attended. Out of 450 students, 18 is but a mere percentage.

However, it is almost better that only a small group went as it made it easier for the 18 of us to bond and get to know each other.

After having been on two of these missions, I have learned that they are a defining part of the Ramaz experience. Venturing outside of the Ramaz world really put things into perspective. It made me realize how lucky I am to have the education and other luxuries that I do. The world is full of adversity and it is our job to do our part in trying to overcome it.

February 2009/Adar 5769

The RamPage Opinions

Page 11

Israeli Elections Pass Through Ramaz Unnoticed Rafael Schulman ‘12

A Good Choice?

Liana Abadi ‘10 Book Day should be an opportunity for Ramaz students to learn about other cultures and different parts of the world, as well as historical events that have a significant impact on the world. Accordingly, the books chosen for Book Day should be ones that the average student will never have read.

This year, The Chosen by Chaim Potok has been picked.

The story is about two Jewish Boys growing up in Brooklyn, New York at the end of WWII. The book is popular amongst elementary school students, especially Jewish day school students. Most kids, if not everyone, have read The Chosen at some point during their elementary school years.

Yes, the lessons of the book are important. One can learn about the different types of

Jews there are and also learn about the love many Jews have for the land of Israel.

However, there is no reason to have this novel as the basis for Book Day. Even if many students have never read the novel, which is considered a rite of passage by many, the one thing Ramaz kids know about is being Jewish. We learn about the challenges Israel faces each and everyday, and we understand that there are different views about Israel, the Jewish people and the religion.

I liked that on Book Day we read about different historical moments that we might not have known so much about. It was a good way to broaden our horizons. I feel that the selection of The Chosen won’t give us the same opportunity as previous books did.

Over the years, Ramaz has cultivated its reputation as a pro-Israel, actively Zionist school. The administration works hard to maintain that image and has shown relentless support for Israel by taking the school to countless rallies, assemblies, and gatherings.

At the beginning of this school year the whole school attended a rally outside the United Nations supporting Israel and protesting the Iranian acquisition of nuclear weapons technology and the continuing capture of Israeli soldiers.

Just one month ago, speakers visited the school to explain the situation in Gaza and we recently had a tzedakah drive to buy clothes and toiletries for Israeli soldiers. There is no doubt that the school has a commitment to the support of

Israel and works hard to keep the students informed.

Recently though, the election in Israel passed without a blink of an eye at Ramaz. The elections held on February 10th were one of the most important in Israel’s history. With Lebanon and Hezbollah in the north, a conflict in Gaza, and Iran threatening to the east, it is a pivotal time for the nation.

But at Ramaz we continued with regular classes and in the weeks leading up there was little discussion of the upcoming election. In early February, the juniors were called to an assembly and briefly taught about the situation in Israel, learning summarily about each of the primary candidates. The rest of the school, however, was not involved.

After the election, a speaker was brought in from a polling company in Israel to describe

the deep political, religious and ethnic divides that make up Israeli politics. Yet, almost no time was actually spent on the results of the election and its consequences for the coming years.

The school should have actively engaged the students about the process and the nuances involved. But it’s not too late. The government of Israel is still unformed, and is still unresolved. In keeping with the Ramaz tradition, I hope the school continues to educate us about Israel and continues its strong support. The administration should take a small portion out of one day, and let us, the student body, know about what exactly is going on in the Jewish homeland.

The Virtual Play Date Danielle Deluty ‘09

Photo by Ethan Stein ‘09

I’m sure it is safe to say that I am not the only student in this school who has had one of my parents walk in on me—video chatting, that is. Frequently, a parent will storm into my room and begin a tirade on my lack of responsibility when it comes to clearing off the

dishes after dinner. The parental diatribe is more often than not, cut off after the third word with “Mom… I have a friend here…” and the swiveling of the slim laptop to introduce my parent to the pleasant virtual face of a friend.

Teenagers like myself make

fun of our parents for not being accustomed to the ubiquity of Mac’s futuristic advent of video chat, but we too have needed time to adjust to the new method of communication. Gone are the days when we could talk on the phone after a sweaty hockey practice, and not have to worry about our appearance. On a more positive note though, we are no longer subject to talking to a faceless phantom over a telephone line; we now have the ability to see the facial expressions of the person we are talking to.

Though we are now able to keep someone company, without physically sitting next to the person, there are still noteworthy discrepancies between live conversations and virtual play dates. Video chat has significantly diminished the value of eye contact. When I am en-

gaged in a video chat, it is rare that I am able to focus all of my attention on the person I’m talking to, for it is impossible to stare straight into the person’s eyes (since the built in camera is placed at the top of the monitor, whereas the virtual image can be moved anywhere on the screen).

Video chat has enhanced our generation’s multitasking abilities, but it has abated our attention span. When someone calls you to tell you big news, your attention is focused on your conversation; your brain must focus intently, because it is depending on only one of your six senses: hearing. Video-chat is misleading; it gives us the false impression that because we can see the face on our computer screen out of our peripheral vision, that face is listening to us. But who knows how much of your venting ses-

sion your friend has actually heard? He could be playing the highest level of tetris. Or Brickbreaker.

Here is where the old-fashioned sentiments in my personality shine through my teenage veneer: though this marvelous new way of communication is convenient and fun, it would be most unfortunate if it significantly decreased the value of live conversations. After all, video chat can’t really provide an authentic shoulder to cry on, or a real hand to slap five.

Page 12

The RamPage Letters to the Editor/Editorials

February 2009/Adar 5769

THE RAMPAGE

Guest Speaker:

Editors-in-Chief

Joshua Henkin ‘82

Ellery Kauvar Aaron Wilson David Baruch

Associate Editor Hannah Rubin

Copy Editor

Celebrated Author and Brother of Mr. Henkin

Sandra Rubinchik

Photography Editor Melanie Gersten

Faculty Advisor Dr. Steven Milowitz

will be speaking about the writing process on Monday, March 2nd.

Room 603-604 5:00 pm.

He will also read from his critically acclaimed novel, Matrimony.

Project Cicero Donate your new and gently used books to Project Cicero WHY? Because kids in underresourced New York City schools need books in their classrooms WHEN? Monday, March 2 through Thursday Morning, March 5 WHERE? In the designated Project Cicero boxes located in the lobby and library WHAT KINDS OF BOOKS? New and gently used hardcover and paperback books for children and young adults, including picture books, early readers, reference books, fiction, nonfiction and biographies (no textbooks, library discards, or reference books more than five years old)

Program Sponsored By RamPage and Parallax

Mystery Maccabee Defended

And You Say Talking is Distracting???

To the Editors:

To the Editors:

I am writing as the Senior Vice President of the G.O. in response to Russell Mendelson’s troubling Letter to the Editor, printed in the January issue. In his letter, Mendelson claimed that the Mystery Maccabee activitiy was inappropriate due to its similarities to another holiday ritual, Secret Santa. While the two festivities share many qualities, one does not invalidate the other as an exciting holiday game. Mendelson’s main argument was that the concept of this anonymous gift giving has “its roots in Christmas.” While yes, Secret Santa is based off of Christmas lore, those were not the same intentions for Mystery Macccabee. Furthermore, gift-giving is a staple of modern Chanuka celebration! This tradition is derived from our attempts to make the holiday time more joyful and enjoyable.

The significance of buying gifts for your friends does not stem from Christian religion, rather it is a social convention of our times, something that has its roots in friendship, community, and holiday spirit.

Especially this year, Mystery Maccabee was extremely appropriate and relevant. First, by giving a gift to a person selected at random, students have the opportunity to interact with new faces and make new friends. This not only fosters school spirit but also contributes to a sense of grade unity, two things the G.O strives to promote. More importantly, due to the financial crisis that has swept through our nation, gift-giving was understandably less extravagant than usual. The Mystery Maccabee ensured that everyone in our school received some form of gift this past holiday.

On behalf of all the members of the G.O., I would like to apologize to anyone who may have been offended by our project. Our intention was only to make the Chanukah season a little more fun, and it was a goal that I believe we accomplished.

-Adam Werner ‘09

As most of the students at Ramaz know, a new policy has recently been established by administration to further improve the decorum during davening. Rabbi Goldmintz first announced this new idea to the sophomores and juniors during davening one day in the first week of finals.

He said that davening was being disrupted by ceaseless talking, and was further compounded by the increase in people arriving late to school. From now on, if you get three unexcused late notes, you will have to serve a detention after school in a supervised room.

While detention is one method of enhancing the respect during davening, there are other solutions.

All noise, not just people talking instead of praying, should be considered disruptive. In Ashkenazic minyans, the congregation says the prayers in an undertone, and the only “loud” portion is when the Chazzan recites the last lines of certain prayers.

Why then is it appropriate for certain people who are not leading the congregation to start shouting out what they are currently davening? I have noticed that in the middle of a paragraph during services, some members of the Ramaz faculty pray, not in an undertone, but sometimes louder than normal speaking volume. Explain to me how this can be any less distracting then whispers from students. If someone is praying and then they hear someone suddenly shouting out what they just said or what they are about to say, they can lose the concentration and the focus that the new rule just established is trying to maintain. At least when people occasionally whisper the whole congregation does not hear, but I can guarantee you that when some start to pray at full volume, everyone hears.

I am not perfect myself and fully admit that occasionally I whisper to the person that is seated next to me. Recently, a member of the Ramaz faculty yelled at me for doing so and then shortly after began to pray at full volume, which I can guarantee you many more people heard than my quiet whisper.

I think that the davening of some people can be just as distracting, if not more so, than the average conversation between students in the morning.

-Russell Mendelson ‘11

February 2009/Adar 5769

The RamPage Arts

Page 13

RamArts J. Everett Edelman ‘09 If you’re a senior with one too many frees, a junior who could use a break, or an underclassman who still has time for leisure, a quick movie with friends is always a good idea. The late winter and early spring, however, are usually pretty light on quality films.

Here are some recommendations and warnings for your next cinematic adventure.

Watchmen: Based on what is repeatedly hailed as the “greatest graphic novel of all time,” this film could cross the ever thinning boarder between comic book movie and film. Directed by visionary director, Zack Snyder, Watchmen doesn’t bring the usual cops and robbers superhero scenario to the table.

This dystopian film is filled with ambiguous characters and dark souls. After legal battles galore, this film is finally set to hit the silver screen this March.

In theatres 03/06 I Love You Man: Jason Segel and Paul Rudd unite again for this comedy.

Rudd plays an engaged man who realizes he has never had

Spring Movie Preview: What to Catch and What to Skip

a male best friend before, and eventually stumbles upon Jason Segel. Will this film be this year’s Forgetting Sarah Marshall or Drillbit Taylor?

We’ll have to wait a few weeks to find out.

In theatres 03/20 Monsters Vs. Aliens It looks like DreamWorks may have done it again with its most anticipated animated film since Kung Fu Panda. Filled with a star-studded cast that includes Reese Witherspoon, Stephen Colbert, and Seth Ro-

gen, the film plays off of some 1950’s style invasion films and features monsters who try to save the world from alien invaders.

In theatres 03/27 Observe and Report: Seth Rogen plays a mall security officer. Don’t worry, its nothing like Paul Blart. Rogen’s cop is a swearing, violent individual, who has to take on a man who is flashing the mall shoppers. Rogen’s crude and abrasive humor should help bring about winter’s thaw a bit

Harriet Potterstein and the Standardized Tests Sandra Rubinchik ‘09 HARRIET POTTERSTEIN

Harriet Potterstein was still recovering from her midterms when she stumbled into the library only to find a horde of 11th years poring over a large pile of books and flashcards.

“Plethora,” one boy announced to the crowd.

“Oh! Overabundance, excess, surplus,” replied another.

“Dr. Peaceskarf’s Spanish exams cover a plethora of grammar and vocabulary,” stated a priggish Advanced 4th Year Spanish student.

Noting Harriet’s utter confusion, her know-it-all friend, Herman Grangerbaum, explained. “They’re studying for the SATs (Systematic Ancient Torture) or the ACTs (Another Cruel Torment). You’ve got to

take these tests and do well if you mean to do anything with your life—particularly, succeed.”

Harriet nodded in amazement and made her way to Ronda Weasleburg who sat between two broken computers.

“Did you know about these tests?” asked Harriet.

“Of course,” said Ronda.

“My sisters Frieda and Georgina failed them last June.

Now they live in a box.”

“Really?” gasped a wideeyed Herman.

“Well, boxes. Technically, there are two. I meant that they each respectively live in a box.”

Harriet rolled her eyes as tears welled up in Herman’s.

Much like mint gum, sarcasm was very popular at Shlamaz.

Unfortunately, Herman’s idea of humor was a Talmudic contradiction. “She’s kidding.”

“Oh right,” said Herman straightening himself out in an effort to regain his pride. “Because I know your sisters are

the 12th years who keep hiding Ms. Oldboy’s grandparents’ statues…”

“Yeah, Ms. Scubadiver has permanently kicked them out of the library,” added Harriet.

“That was because they jammed the magic machine when they tried to make 100 copies of their b—” “Arduous,” said an 11th year.

“Oh! Difficult, rigorous, strenuous!” replied another.

“Mr. Sproutenthal assured me that colleges are aware of Shlamaz’s arduous and challenging curriculum,” said the pompous Advanced 4th Year Spanish student. “…their black magic notes,” finished Ronda.

“Black magic?! Well it’s no wonder they were banned from the library! Who in their right mind would teach students black magic?” asked Herman in horror.

“It’s their independent study with Dr. Alcovy,” said Ronda.

quicker.

In theatres 04/10 State of Play Russell Crowe and Ben Affleck are the perfect pair for this film. Crowe plays a D.C. based journalist who is best friends with a congressman, played by Ben Affleck. Crowe then uncovers murder and conspiracy within the congressman’s office. Based on a BBC mini-series, this film is a promising political thriller.

In theatres 04/17

The Soloist Robert Downey Jr. is in top form these days. From saving the world as Iron Man, to tickling our funny bones in Tropic Thunder, Downey Jr. can do anything these days. In The Soloist, he plays a journalist who stumbles upon a talented, mentally handicapped musician, played by Jamie Foxx.

Will this be the next A Beautiful Mind or I Am Sam? In theatres 04/24 Skip These: Hannah Montana: The Movie: If you’re above the age of ten and still think this is cool, you should probably not be in high school.

Obsessed: A woman stalks the man she loves and tries to ruin his life.

Oh yes, this came out a few years ago, but back then it was called Fatal Attraction. No Glenn Close this time.

12 Rounds: Man is told to go through tests to save his girlfriend’s life. It’s not the 1990’s anymore; you can’t recycle old action movie plots and just add CGI.

Dr. Gaylord’s Debut Novel Licole Paroly ‘10 Set amidst the drama of an all-girls school on the Upper East Side, Hummingbirds, Dr. Joshua Gaylord’s debut novel, depicts the relationships between students and teachers at the fictional Carmine-Casey School.

"I've always been fascinated by student-teacher dynamics, both when I was a student and now that I'm a teacher," said Dr. Gaylord. The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie also influenced Dr. Gaylord in his writing.

The writing of the book, as Dr. Gaylord revealed, was not the artistic fairytale most people have in mind when they think of the effort involved.

"It's like any other job—not fun," he said. "I set myself a quota to do every week".

Dr. Gaylord has wanted to publish a book since the

ninth grade. He disclosed that he had a "fabulous English teacher" who encouraged and inspired him. Since then, Dr. Gaylord has been writing a lot, but has never published his works. "I have many books sitting in the drawer," he said. Until now.

Dr. Gaylord does not plan on teaching a class on his book.

Nevertheless, place your orders and clear a space on your shelf for a home-grown novel that "positively glistens with erudition and insight," as Jonathan Tropper, author of How to Talk to a Widower, describes Dr. Gaylord's book.

And don't forget to slip down to the bookroom to get your copy signed!

To read the first chapter of Hummingbirds, see joshuagaylord.com.

Page 14

The RamPage Arts

February 2009/Adar 5769

RamArts The Most Unique Book

Kings of Leon at MSG Gabriel Merkin ‘10 The Tennessee-born rock quartet, Kings of Leon played their biggest show in the US on January 29th, when they performed at “The World’s Most Famous Arena,” Madison Square Garden. Despite much popularity in Europe, especially the UK and Ireland, the band has struggled for years to gain popularity in the US. This show was a significant breakthrough for the band. The Kings steamrolled through a 21-song set in front of an exhilarated sell-out crowd.

Kings of Leon consists of three brothers: lead singer and guitarist, Caleb Followill, drummer, Nathan and bassist, Jared, as well as first cousin, Matthew. The band was visibly excited to be playing to such a large audience, as Caleb made sure to note, “This is one of the most exciting moments of my life.”

Just hours before the show, it was still unclear whether or not they had over-estimated their popularity in Manhattan, because the show had yet to sell out. Fortunately, those remaining tickets were scooped up at the last minute by some lucky fans. The band had played to such a sizeable audience in the past, only in England, where they achieved immediate suc-

cess with their debut album, six years ago. After three albums, they had yet to hit mainstream success on their home turf. However, this summer’s single, “Sex on Fire,” was a smash hit that propelled them onto many previously unaware music fans’ radars.

Opening with the rocker, “Crawl,” the energy only increased from there. Playing a mix of songs from their new album, Only by the Night, and their previous three albums, KOL thrilled the crowd with each bellowing chorus.

Whenever he was not playing a riff, guitarist Matthew Followill had an astonished expression on his face as he looked at the 15,000 adulating fans, singing along to every

lyric. At times, the deafening singing of the crowd overpowered Caleb’s voice. From the opening fuzzy bass note of “Crawl” to Caleb’s last high pitched note on the set closer, “Charmer,” the crowd was energetic and the band clearly cherished every moment of the night.

While the band may not yet have achieved the same level of success as other alternative rock bands such as The Killers or Coldplay, selling out Madison Square Garden was a large step in the right direction. The band is embarking on a massive North American tour this spring which may determine whether these Kings will finally conquer America.

Color War In Style Hannah Rubin ‘09

Along with the cheering, screaming, and athletic entertainment, Battle of the Grades brings the students of Ramaz an additional excitement: the fashion challenge.

Every girl (and guy, though they rarely admit it) feels the pressure to dress their brightest and most creative during the two-and-a-half day span of Battel of the Grades. For the past few days, we have seen extremely unique concoctions strutting the halls of Ramaz.

Some of our favorites include: Claudia Oshry ‘12 shone, literally, with an orange paint-

You’ll Read All Year Aaron Wilson ‘09 “Most bottled water in hospitals has 5% dextrose.

This is to prevent the phrase ‘Liter of plain freaking water: $35’ from appearing on your bill.”

If you're wondering where to find this in Josh Bazell’s thriller, it's right after the part where a mobster pushes our protagonist into a tank of sharks on Coney Island.

I can say with a certain degree of confidence that Beat the Reaper is the most unique book you will read all year.

For a debut author, this Columbia med student with a writing degree from Brown does quite an impressive job.

Bazell writes the fictional autobiography of Peter Brown, an ex-mobster turned doctor who encounters a former enemy as a patient on this unfortunate day. Bazell’s writing is characterized by unparalleled creativity and a style that seems so genuine you often forget that the person writing the book has yet to meet a mobster in his life.

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the novel is the amount that you've learned

by the end about medicine, the mob, and just about everything else under the sun.

If you have any interest in random facts like why sharks are brown on top and white on the bottom, you will likely find Bazell’s footnotes both fascinating and hilarious.

Don't expect anything too deep here, but if you're looking for a quick read that is interesting, thrilling, and often comical, pick up a copy of Beat the Reaper by Josh Bazell.

Rascal Flatts Review Kaitlin Wachsberger ‘09

ed face, a sparkly orange pom pom headress, and feathered orange boa.

Mikey Berg ‘10 painted his body blue and walked through the halls with his smurf appearance, branding his samurai sword.

Purple-tastic sophmores went on an American Apparel shopping spree, buying purple sparkle leggings, headbands, T-shirts, wristbands, belts, leg warmers, and skirts.

Jackie Greif ‘09 got creative with the senior’s brown color and sported a leopard print sweater, shiny gold leg-

gings, and a woven brown belt as a headress.

Daphna Weinstock ‘10 took advantage of the cold weather by layering on the blue. It is safe to assume that every article of blue clothing in her entire house found some way onto her body.

Sam Gersten ‘10 got Hawaiin by sporting a coconut bra, blue grass skirt, blue Hannah Montana flip flops and a “ferosh” lei.

So congrats to the fashionable students of Ramaz, who worked the Color War runways of 78th Street.

A little bit of the South came up North two week ago, when Rascal Flatts, a multi-platinum country rock band, sold out Madison Square Garden.

This winter’s Bob That Head Tour was not the first time the band played for a sold out Garden; 2006’s Me & My Gang Tour as well as 2007’s Still Feels Good Tour also sold out the world’s most famous arena.

The Band, comprised of three vocalists and guitarists, has a very spicy southern sound combined with an appeal to pop music fans.

Before the band came on, the crowd was relatively relaxed and calm. Even while Jessica Simpson, the opening act, was performing, the crowd remained relatively subdued.

It wasn’t until Rooney, DeMarcus, and LeVox floated in from a smoking platform lowered from the ceiling, that the audience exploded. Nearly the entire crowd was up on its feet, waving trucker hats, clothing,

and even other body parts in the air.

Country, whether it fits one’s taste in music or not, is one of the most lively genres of music. The energy only grew, and soon, the spectators seemed more like a rodeo crowd than concert-goers.

The band utilized the entire rectangular cut-out stage, running around the electrified fans in the middle while jamming, playing tricks on the audience with spotlights, and even using it as a stage for some comedy.

Once the band exited the stage, the main screen displayed a Guitar Hero character playing classic rock songs at extreme volumes in absurd settings, and the tone was set for the encore. Rascal Flatts came back onto the stage wearing NYC apparel while hundreds of balloons and confetti were released from the ceiling, as they played their most popular song at the moment, “Me & My Gang.”

February 2009/Adar 5769

The RamPage Sports

Heschel Volleyball: Fair Or Foul?

“One-on-One” with Michael Abramson

Sammy Major ‘11 The Heschel Girls Varsity Volleyball team has become a hot topic in the Yeshiva League this year. The team is at the top of the league, and some say that they play on a higher level than any other team.

Heschel has been able to elevate their game, in part because they play in a second league apart from the Yeshiva League. This other league plays year round, so Heschel’s team has more practice and games than any of their competitors in the Yeshiva League.

Some coaches of other teams are upset that Heschel plays in both leagues, claiming that the extra play and practice makes them a dominant force in the league, and any other team a distant second. Many teams want Heschel to no longer compete in the Yeshiva

League this season, claiming that they are too strong of a team to be challenged, and they compete in another league with better competition anyway.

Heschel, and some other teams, believe they have no reason not to play in the Yeshiva League. They say that if the Heschel team practices and plays more often than any other team, their commitment and dedication is an earned and just advantage.

“I understand both sides,” said Coach Dulny, “more practice is definitely an advantage, but, if other teams think that is why they are so good, why don’t the other schools do it?”

The debate continues, as the Heschel Girls Volleyball team continues to dominate.

Playoffs are here!

Come root on all of our teams as they attempt to make a championship run!

Upcoming games: March 3rd: Varsity Volleyball at HAFTR March 4th: Varsity hockey at Rambam

JV Hockey Playoff Report

Page 15

Reporting by Jake Saracheck ‘12

Rampage Staff: What did it take to have another undefeated regular season?

Michael Abramson ’09: It took a lot of practice and hard work. The talent was there, and without sounding cocky, we expected it. But without coach D’s preparation, it wouldn’t have happened.

RS: How has this team matured since the 2007 JV Championship?

MA: I was actually just comparing the pictures of us right after we won the ’ship that year to the pics we took after our last game of this season, and we’re definitely a lot bigger now, in addition to our hair being shorter and our facial hair being more pro-

nounced. On the court, we’re all a lot smarter, commit less turnovers, and didyou-see-that plays are more common.

Our chemistry has increased tenfold, and we play together like we’re an NBA team that has been together for 15 years. It sounds cliché, but we’re also a lot closer than we used to be.

In my experience, I’ve never seen a team as close as ours, and I probably never will.

RS: How big of a difference does it make to have home court advantage in the playoffs?

MA: Home court advantage is everything, but unfortunately we only have one home game in the playoffs, since we have a bye for the first round, and the semis and finals are played at neutral sites. This year we’re gonna make a big deal about Ramaz students coming to our playoff games (especially the ones at home), because in the past and during this season, attendance has been despicable. I love Ramaz,

but I am ashamed of the lack of school spirit among the student body. Luckily, the families of the kids on the team are very dedicated and come to all our games, because other than a group of about ten junior girls and Sam Chetrit, we have no fans. It’s frustrating because our team is so heralded and exciting to watch that kids from other schools come just to see us play, and if we played for somewhere like Frisch, the gym would be packed every game. I don’t think our student body deserves to have our team represent them, mean as that sounds. Hopefully they’ll prove me wrong in the playoffs.

RS: What would it be like to end your senior year with a championship?

MA: I have to admit I’m pretty spoiled, considering I’ve won the past two years.

But it’s something that never gets old. It’s more than just a trophy or a story. That trophy represents an entire year of practice and an entire year of memories and friendships, silly as that sounds. There are kids on this team that you meet once in a lifetime, and I swear they’ve changed my life.

Varsity Hockey Playoff Preview Jake Sarachek ‘12

Jake Saracheck ‘12 The Ramaz Rams JV Hockey team is attempting to do something no team has done this year: beat the DRS Wildcats.

This would be a difficult task alone for the 4-4-2 Rams, however they will have to try to do this at the Greenhouse, DRS’ homecourt where the fans are loud and the visiting team rarely ever wins. In order for this to happen, the Rams top two offensive lines consisting of sophomores Brett Hoffman ‘11, Sam Lassner ‘11, Alex Kluger ‘11, and Jonathan Scherzer ‘11, will have to be at the top of their games, while their defense must make it an easy game for goalie Ariel

Katz ‘11.

The players’ attitudes ranged from very relaxed, like that of sophomore phenomenon Jonathan Scherzer who simply said, “Playoffs, you want to talk about playoffs?” to very focused like freshman defensive stalwart Josh Marks who said, “It’s gonna take a lot of focus and team chemistry on our behalf. These guys are good but it’s all about the mental game in this one.”

If the Rams win this game, it could be one of the great upsets in school history. Do you believe in miracles? We’ll have to wait until Thursday night to find out.

Ram Sports Trivia What number appears on the back of Michael Abramson’s basketball jersey?

?

Many teams in the MYHSHL with an 8-6 record are complacent. However, the Ramaz Rams varsity hockey

to go 11-3 beating the tougher teams at least once.” While this did not happen leading to an average regular season for

team isn’t quite satisfied. “At the beginning of the season we knew we had a relatively easy schedule and going 8-6 was pretty much guaranteed” says standout player Josh Dachs, “However many of us were optimistic and hoped

the Rams. They are, however, confident they can rise to their potential by learning from experience in these tough games, as Dachs continues “I think our team has the capability to rise to its potential. However, it will have to be revealed

in the playoffs because we couldn’t show it in the regular season. When asked what the team would need to improve most in order to make a deep playoff run, Dachs said that while the defense, offense and goaltending would have to improve, it would simply come down to whether the team is able to correct the mistakes that they made throughout the regular season. In a deep playoff field Dachs also said that the team they the Rams need to prepare the most for is Magen David because “they gave us a rough time uring the regular season and were able to play to our team’s weaknesses.”

Throughout all the challenges that happened in the regular season, if the Rams get strong defensive play and Dachs and senior captain Michael Reidler make the plays that they need to make, this team can make a big playoff run because it can click for any team at any time and if that happens with this Ram team the rest of the

February 2009/Adar 5769

The RamPage Sports

Page 16

The Battering Ram Ready to Succeed: Varsity Basketball Looks for the Repeat Gabriel Merkin ‘11 This season the Ramaz Boys Varsity basketball team is headed to the playoffs after winning their division with an impressive record of 14-0. The undefeated Rams are led by a group of experienced seniors who handled every opponent in their way, with stingy man defense and a new innovative zone trap put in by Coach Dulny late in the year.

“The only record that matters is at the end of the season,” said Coach Dulny. He does not want them to be satisfied because the true goal has not yet been reached. The team will use its strengths to finish the season undefeated and bring home a championship for a second straight year.

Perhaps this year’s team most important strength is its versatility. With capable point guards in Michael Reich ’09 and Jeremy Bannon ‘09 who

can come in and lead the team at any time, the offense always seems to run smoothly whether in the half court set or a run and gun mentality.

Also in the backcourt is superb scorer Max Feldstien ’10.

With a deep team Ramaz does not miss a beat when Coach

Varsity Soccer Preview Ben Ascherman ‘10 The Boys Varsity Soccer Team has recently begun practicing more frequently in preparation for the upcoming soccer season. Coming back from a great season last year, the

team has big shoes to fill. After a 6-2 season brought them to the playoffs where they played and beat Frisch, only to lose against TABC in the second round of playoffs, they expect to be good again.

The team's success last year was in large part due to David Debash, who was without doubt the best goalie in the

Dulny goes to the bench. Dulny likes the versatility of his frontcourt as well praising, “All our bigs can play small” which allows the Rams to stay with any team defensively.

With Zack Cooper ’09 and Stephan Sakhai ’09 who can both make it rain from beyond

the arch and the post up abilities of Michael Abramson ’09 and Benji Hartman ’09 inside, the team this year was a tough match for any lineup the league threw at them. A deep bench allows Coach Dulny to trust his substitutes and go use them frequently, keeping his

JV Basketball Gets Ready for Playoffs Sammy Major ‘11

league, and Daniel Volterra, who had one of the most powerful and accurate shots in the league. The two Italians, along with former players Sam Englander, Jeremy Ascherman, and the Bryer twins, are tough losses to deal with.

“This year is a promising one; we will undoubtedly fly this season,” said Jordan David about this year’s soccer team.

Playing smart, good stamina, and getting down the basics, such as passing, shooting, and positioning, are all important skills that will be crucial to a successful season. “We're in the rebuilding stage. Since we lost valuable seniors and the Italians, we are training freshmen to lead the team to victory in the coming years.

At the same time, we're very optimistic about the season to come,” said Daniel Marks '10.

With so many players gone from last year, this year the team received a record high amount of new players. It's up to the veterans, such as seniors Josh Arbit and Ike Greenstein, to provide leadership and pave the way for a successful season.

players fresh.

A tight group of players create “A lot of Franks” says Mike Berg ’10.

The big victories this year have mostly come on the road where Ramaz came back from 14 down at half time to a talented MTA team, and battled two tough teams in Flatbush and former Ramaz coach Kevin Flynn’s Heschel team.

The confident Rams will look to continue their superb play in the postseason where the experience of the team helps a lot with the pressure of having to play your best basketball against teams you have already seen before.

“No matter how good you are or think you are, on any given day someone can beat you,” said Coach.

We will see if anyone really can, as the defending champs look to win a second consecutive championship.

The Boys JV basketball team has fought its way to the top of the league, and looks ready to make another run deep into the playoffs. With a 9-1 record at the end of the regular season, they find themselves with a second seed in the division.

They trail only Heschel, who shares the same 9-1 record, but who Ramaz lost to earlier in the season. Besides the defeat at Heschel, the season has been a smooth ride for the JV team, and the team is very confident as they near the playoffs.

“We don’t really have a weakness,” said starting sophomore Willy Jemal, 11’. “As

long as we play our game, we will win.”

The team prides itself most on their dedication and aggressiveness.

“We play together on offense and defense, force turnovers, and run out on the break,” Jemal added.

The team is confident that their superior starting line up can carry them to the title.

“We have the best back court in the league, in Andrew [Aryeh], Willy [Jemal], and [John] Heller, and we have one of the best front courts in the league in myself and Henry [Medine],” said Captain Gabe Merkin, 11’, who also gave credit to their “deep bench

with experience,” for their success.

The team has hopes, but understands the challenge that lies ahead.

“I’m confident, but the playoffs will not be like the regular season. We will be facing serious competition,” the captain added.

It is likely that the road to the championship will have to wind through strong teams like Flatbush and Heschel, but the team is confident that they can go all the way.

A recent blowout of MTA proved that their defense is strong as they limited MTA to less than ten points in the first half. The frontcourt was also very dominant as Henry Medine ’11 rebounded well and provided great offense in the paint. Merkin continued his consistent rebounding and defense and contributed well to holding down MTA. We wish them good luck in the playoffs.