Volume 26, Issue 4 (February & Purim 1994) - The Rampage

The Brun Page Volume XXVI Number 4

The Ramaz Upper School

February 1994/ Adar 5754

School Steals Summer Fun

Rabbi Lookstein Announces August Opening

Two studenls master the moguls on the recent ski trip

Students Seek Alpine Adventure

by Andrew Jakabovfcs

One hundred and seven Ramaz studenlS joined the GO o n its annual President's Weekend pilgrimage to the Sagamore Hotel in Bohon 's Landing for two days of fun and sun on the slopes. It was the largest ski trip yet. requir­ ing two coaches and a van to transpon sludents and seven faculty members and their families. Despite arriving high in the Adirondack mountain range in the wee hours of the morning, few retired to their rooms. Many seniors con­ gregated in one suite and roasted marshmallows in the fireplace. Others panicipated in a late-night snowball fight.

Nearly all were asleep before 4:00AM. Mr. Rochlin and Rabbi Rothschild did not join the ranks of the somnolent because shortly after 4:00AM, two seniors were found on their bal• cony by hotel security. One was found in possession of a pipe and marijuana. For­ tunately for those involved. no legal action was taken. The two studenlS, though, were sent home the next morning. Sun­ day morning, al breakfast, Mr. Miller addressed the skiers and informed them of the serious­ ness of the situation. He ex­ plained that those found in the same room and the adjoining

suites, of the offenders, would not ski on Sunday and would remain in the hotel. This action was taken because there was a possibility that these studencs knew about the substance abuse and neglected to take any action.

Those on plan A, which in­ cluded a lifl-tickcl for Gore mountain. traveled to the slopes that were about 45 minutes from the hotel. Ski conditions were good, and the temperature hit 60 degrees on Sunday. Because of the temperature. though, some areas of the mountain became slushy and advanced skiers (continued on page 5)

by AllzaDzik Have you ever wondered what Ramaz is like in August while you are away having fun in camp or touring Israel? All who spend precious time pondering this, contemplate no longer, for the schedule for tl1c upcoming 1994-1995 school year provides the answer. Yes. orientation sessions will be held on August 30 and 31, and the first day of classes will be on Thursday, September I. For those who arc wondering why the administration has suddenly cul short the summer vacation, the decision was not arbitrarily made. The ad­ ministration feels that school must start before the Yamim Noraim in order lo prepare the students for these special holidays, and, because Rosh HaShanah falls on September 5, an August opening, is neces­ sary.

Now lhal school will be starting seven days earlier than usual, seven days of vacation can be added 10 the school calendar. One day will be

added to the 1banksgiving Day vacation on Monday, Novem­ ber 28, which is the first day of Chanukah. January 30 and 31 will also be vacation days, creating a five day interses­ sion.

When first informed of the changes. some students were perturbed. However. after thinking about the changes for a few minutes, they realized that the scheduling is not so tragic. By the time the first bell rings al 7:55 on the morning of September I, the Rarnaz stu­ dent body will have enjoyed nearly six million seconds of vacation. Sophomore Noam Milgrom-Elcou said, "I would rather start school earlier and have more vacation time in the middle of the year when I real­ ly need it." Others suggested that school be economical and spread days off throughout the year, during more stressful times. One junior echoed this sentiment and added, "I was really stressed out after these past midterms. Another few (continued on page 4)

Inside: Ignoring Inflation: Ramaz and Rising Rates

by Ariel Adcsnlk

Gradeless School

pages

Discussion

pagel

How much docs ii actually cost to attend Ramaz? The Fees and Charges pamphlet sets tuition at $7,900. The ac­ tual cost exceeds $14,000 for many, because of the additional charges !isled in the Fees and Charges pamphlet and some not included there. Among those listed are the school lunch fee ($600) and Parents' Council membership ($25).

Seniors pay an additional $350.

The minimum contribution to the Capital Expenditure Fund (CEF) is $2,000 per child, which is the largest non-tuition charge listed. All in all, $11,600 in fees are requested.

The unwritten extras account for the rest of thc$14,000. For suburban students, busing costs up to an additional $1,750. Seminars and retrealS, which the school encourages that all students attend, cost about $250 per outing. Ap· proximalely $50 to $100 is

spent on English paperbacks and a text for Talmud. Many parents donate upwards of $750 to attend the Annual Din­ ner Dance. In addition, most students participate in GO sponsored events like Chagigot ($5), shows and sports events ($35), and the ski trip ($250).

Compared to last year, the stated fees have increased 6.5%, a difference of $600. In the three years since _1990-91, the cost of allending Ramaz has risen 17%, or $1675. Item by item, the largest increase was in the actual tuition, which is ap­ plied to salaries, benefits, and building maintenance. Tuition rose from $6,350 to $7,900, an increase of almost 25%. The overall percentage of increase, as slated above, is far lower.

Both numbers, though, far out­ strip inflation dwing the three year period, despite the fact that last year's increase was lessened to account for the recession and an agreement by

the teachers to reduce their salary raise.

According to Dr. Shudofsky, the reason that the rates of increase in tuition and inflation are so radically dis­ similar is that health insurance costs have risen rapidly, in-

creasing 400% in the last six years. This affects tuition so heavily because about 12% of the school's budget, or ap­ proximately $1.2 million, goes to lhe benefit of the school's (continutdonpag, 5)

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February 1994 / Adar 5754

TheRamPage

Editorials

Letters to the Editor

Stop Snow Secrecy

Dfnntr Dance Disgust To Jhe editor.

I find ii absolutey appalling that the Dinner Dance was held It ls not too often that these pages praise the administration during the weekend of finals for a job well done. The school and especlaUy the ad­ this year. When I noticed this ministrators should be commended for their snow dissmlsal on the calendar back in Sep­ policy this year. The current policy Is a great Improvement temer, I immediately went to from last years "deluge" fiasco. Common sense early dismiss­ Mr. Miller, hoping that ii was a als and school cancellations have been the rule this year. misprint. He told me that the Foresight was shown when school was canceUed the night dinner is always supposed to be efore New York was hit with eight inches or snow. However, that weekend. and that the Mar­ there are some kinks in the system that stiU need to be worked riot Marquis just booked us for out. the wrong weekend for the past The main complaint or both the students and teachers .is two years. What kind of excuse the "secrecy" rule that seems to go in elTect when it starts to is that? Docsn"t he realize that snow during the school day. Many times there arc "leaks" there are 150 students participt­ and some students know of an early dissmisal before a teacher ing in lhc Dinner Dance?! (The does and vice versa. What is aU the fuss? Why Is an early chorus. dance. band. AV squad, dissmisal notice such a lightly guarded secret? Students and and Service Squad.) Docsn °1 he teachers should be told immediatly when the decision is made. realize that we have to spend Quite often, students must reach parents to inform them of the entire Sunday at the hotel. the lime changes. Why should a teacher have to wait around and that during that day it is while the roads get worse if they have no more classes before impossible to study? Well, we the dissmisal is planned? A prompt early dissmlsal an­ get an extra day off, Monday. nouncement also stops all the rumors that float through the so its OK. NOT QUITE! When building when it snows. It would be to everyone's benefit if our teachers decide how much the administration were to follow through on the improve­ material to put on our history ments that they have already begun to make. finals. they clearly have in mind that we have three days 10 study. Al least I would assume that most teachers don't expect us to memorize two hundred "Semantics is everything" is a favorite saying of Mr. pages of history in two days, MiUer's. He believes that every word has a precise meaning one of them being Shabbal. In and certain c onnotation. It seems, though, that this addition. all of the other SIU· philosophy was not incorporated into the composition of the dents have the advantage of student handbook, Preludes. Recently, students have been more time to study. if not for forced to read bc!f\fttD the lines of the school d,.... code-"nd hjstory t\lan for some other test'... attempt to find rules about certain matters of hygiene that are Having an exciting event the not alluded to anywhere within the rules of the school. A weekend of finals absolutely flurry of male students have recently been ordered to shave makes us lose c oncentration, their beards. The reason behind this new attack on facial hair and really just puts us at an is elusive as besL The argument that beards are slovenly in extreme disadvantage. For next nature and should be avoided is not valid because of the year, the Dinner Dance MUST administration's penchant for facial hair. The main problem, BE CHANGED. Marisa Savitsky though, with forcing people to shave is that the administration FormV is creating a new unwritten rule that is not based on reason,

Fallacious Facial Follicles

student input, Judaism or secular ideas that govern what determines a ppropriate appearance. Students who grow beards do not know that they are doing anything wrong, since no rule against beards exists. Therefore the argument that students are growing beards to rebel is foolish because there is no rule to rebel against. The reason why the no-beard rule is not written in Preludes, and should not be, Is because it is absurd. This rule should not exist, verbally or literally. Ir written, though, it would spark a facial hair growing frenzy­ • true rebellion.

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Dan.I Bend • AndrtwJabOO'lic• ASSOCIATE EDITOR CraisOushey EDITORIAL EDITORS

Holocaust Museum Trip Response To the editor: On Sunday January 30. seventy live Ramaz students. several faculty members, and some students from the Dalton School"s Israel Club traveled to Washington. D.C. to the Holocaust Museum. 39 of the students are members of the Holocaust Oral History Project

and 26 are students who will be participating in this year"s March of the Living trip. We were welcomed by Dr. Michael Berenbaum. Director of the Museum and an alumnus of Ramaz. Dr. Berenbaum's remarks and the dialogue he fostered al the end of the tour enhanced our appreciation and understanding of the museum. its unique structure, and in­

timate presentation of the his­ tory of the Holocaust. Several students wrote their reactions lo lhe visit. I feel that the SIU· dent body would benefit from reading the following Iwo let­ ters:

Dear Mr. Berenbaum.

At the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington. even the smallest detail had much significance lo me. Everything from the steel elevators 10 the hard wooden benches evoked memories and facts that I had previously learned about the Holocaust. Each comer or the museum that I turned taught me something new and valuable.

I began to ask myself some questions as I circled the floors.

Who would have believed that a young Jewish woman would voluntarily enter a cattle car?

Or. who could have believed that years after the Holocaust. I would hungrily feast my eyes on videos of mass murders? I certainly did not know. How­ ever. I knew that if I did not look and strive 10 learn all about it. that would be a greater sin.

I am thankfu I that the

Holocaust Memorial Museum was established. In today"s world. concrete and dollar bills mean more than tattooed num­ bers and emotional stories.

(Historical revisionists are the greatest foes whom we must address.) I wish primarily to thank you for creating an in­ st i I u I ion devoted 1 0 the Holocaust that stimulates the mind with important informa­ tion and the heart with the survivors' stories.

Sincerely.

Cecily Marbach

The Shoah has aJways been a very personal concept for me.

Although neither ofmy parents is a survivor or the child of a survivor. my parents shared what thy knew about their European roots with me and my siblings. I grew up. so 10 speak, with my father's six cousins and with my mother's countless relatives who were killed in the Holocaust, but would have been younger than I am today. To this day. neither I nor my parents knows the names of s o m e of these children. and we most probably will never know. Yet. at least once a year. we take out the album and look at those faces. who. unlike the poem says. have no names by which we can call them.

One object in the exhibit.

"Daniel"s Story." brought back the feeling I have when think­ ing about the Shoah due to my experiences at home. I saw a white enameled p ot in the kitchen in the ghetto, just like the one my mother ••inherited" from her mother-in-law. in which she cooks her fish. I realized. again. that Daniel belonged 10 a family, like mine and my cousins" family. which remains only in photographs.

A completely new feeling,_______'--' developed in me bfler I saw ilic Sifrei Torah on display. per• haps because I spend so much of my time s t u d y i n g t h e Tanach. and thus feel a strong connection 10 the Torah. It was a feeling of inferiority. I think. standing before s omething which was timeless, that had withstood the tests of time. that could only be described as noble. more so after having such an ignoble history. I wanted 10 fall on my knees, 10 somehow atone for what had been done to the Torah. to make it up 10 this scroll, which for me had human characteristics. I wanted to sit in the room and just be there 10 comfort the Scfer Torah.

Shalom E. Holtz

Ramshackles

David NO'tkh ♦ Yoni Slonim JUNIOR EDITORS

COPY EDITOR

Evan K. Fllber

Ariel Adcsn1k

NEWS EDITOR

ARTS EDITOR

Rebecca Z.usmu

DwiiclleDn.d

Owd Bloom

OPED EDITOR

LAVOI/T STAFF

EvMHochbe'1

rlanaD1yme Dahlia Landa

SPORTS EJ>ITOR Alyua Klapper

C::!k�� LauricSk1cl Evan Smith

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Point-Counterpoint:

Final Relief

.

.

A Test a Day...

January exams: a waste of time The status quo protects students

by Evan Hochberg Almost every teacher in Ramaz complains about the lack of time to complete the curriculum. They hopelessly glance at the calendar, asking for an extra period or two.

How about an additional two weeks of learning? Every semester, two weeks of poten­ tial learning are wasted on finals. In addition, a few periods arc spent in most clas­ ses to review for the finol.

After a two-week hiatus, it takes a few days to review the exams and for students to regain the rhythm of classes; more potentially productive school days are thus wasted.

This means that at least three weeks are wasted per semester, six weeks per year, and 1wen1y­ four weeks in a student's four years at Ramaz. Although �te weeks spent on June finals do have their educational benefits, January midterms serve no p u r p o s e a nd should be eliminated.

If the purpose of finals is to give a n .o ppo r t u n i t y for teachers to give tests, then mid­ \cnn& arc ridicu\ous. 1-\a\fwi\y through the y ear, many teachers have enough grades and a sufficient knowledge of a student's aptitude 10 be capable of making an evaluation.

These teachers do not need 10 give another exam, but under

the current system they must give a final. Those who ex­ empt their students from a final are rare 10 find, and ii is dif­ ficull for those teachers to gel the administration's approval.

If the purpose of finals, however, is instead merely to review, midterms arc still pointless. Many teachers review the entire semester's work in preparation for finals.

If this were mandatory, then the finals themselves would not be needed for review. Teachers could easily find ways to force students to review at home before these review classes.

The teachers who do not review in class before an exam under the current system would not mind using a few of the ten newly gained days to review.

June finals arc sufficient to prepare students for finals in college. In colleges. finals are at the end of a course. There­ fore, it would make sense for Ramaz's finals to be only at the end of a course, in June.

Instead of midterms, a better idea is for teachers to simply give one period exams during the four weeks that are currcn\1 y the two-week "no homework or quiz" period and the two weeks offinals. Critics of this plan think that the com­ bination of exams and regular (conrinued on page .5)

by Mindy Eisenberg and Sani chance to do well. Students Honig have a lot of 1ime to study, ena­ Aficr two hectic weeks of bling them to appropriate their midterms, some students began time wisely. The added time to feel that the tests were un­ allows 1hc students to con­ necc ssary and that I hey centrate on areas of difficulty. "wasted two weeks." Others As a result of these conditions were worn out by the constant and the weight given 10 mid­ studying and anxiety. Al­ terms. s1uden1s have a chance though midterms potentially to improve their averages. generate much anxiety and ten­ Finals also help the student sion, they arc actually benefi­ prepare for future exams. They cial to the students. are advantageous to the fresh­ Realistica lly, midterms men who have never taken replace the barrage of tests and finals. Midterms help those quizzes that would otherwise who have never been exposed overwhelm students. If mid­ to finals understand what to ex• terms were eliminated from the pect and how to study. By curriculum, students would eliminating these finals, the probably be tested in each sub­ freshmen who have previously ject, which would contain the taken finals arc given an unfair same amount of material as edge over those who arc new to midterm, but students would the system. Midterms also not have the protections af­ help prepare for tests outside of forded by midterms. They school such as the achieve­ would have little 1ime to study ments. Many teachers take for the tests. Students would questions from the previous remain in school for the entire achievement test and put them nine-hour school day, receive on the midterm as practice for the usual homework, and, upcoming exams. By provid­ therefore, have limited time to ing students with an under­ study for their exams. Mid­ standing of what they need to terms enable students to come review and what they already home early, aUowina: for ample know. mid1cnns CAn also bo study time. The current system used as study aids for cumula­ reduces the unnecessary pres­ tive finals, such as math. One sure of having to do ordinary junior exclaimed that by only schoolwork and study for a dif­ having a June final "the tests ferent exam every night. Fur­ would be cumulative and thermor e. midterms give (continutd on pogt 5) students who are having dif­ ficulty in a specific subject a

Ramaz Gets Mark on Morals in Journalism

by Evan Hochberg On January I 3, Jonathan Mark, the associate editor of The Jewish Week, spoke 10 a roomful ofRamaz students and faculty about ethics in jour­ nalism. Tite issue of ethics in Ramaz journalism has been frequently discussed of fate, and some Ramaz publica11ons have subseque ntly defined their ethical positions.

Mr. Mark, a Ramaz student until the third grade and a cousin ofRabbi Weiser, said a newspaper's role is to enter­ tain, monitor the status quo, and "be the first draft of his­ tory." A journalist must love his readers. and, therefore. he must ex pose wrongdoers, within certain moral restric­ tions, in order to help the com­ munity. The love of his readers should prevent the journalist and editor from printing infor­ mation that would be overly injurous to a single person.

The hun it will cause must be weighed against the helpful­ ness of the anicle. If the point

of a critical article is lo teach a lesson, the criticized person's name should be omitted. Mr. Mark encouraged including a balanced point of view in otherwise critical aniclcs. He said there are articles he would not print on moral grounds.

Rubin Rabbi an noticed alarming trend of " ... total dis­ for regard with Torah Derech Eretz" For example, he would never publish an article claiming the Holocaust did not exist, be­ cause free speech docs not ex­ tend to huning people.

Rabbi Rubin, in a February I 993 letter to the Ram Page, noted "an alarming trend of hostility, abuse, one sided

inaccurate reporting, editorializing, haughty and condescending attitudes and a total disregard for Torah with Derech Eretz from the pages of various school the newspapers."

Rabbi Rubin wanted his let­ ter to "be viewed as opening a corridor of thought and discus­ sion ... " Discussion, letters, and policy changes have fol­ lowed.

In a May I 993 letter to U1e Ram Page, Steven Koppel, the President of Ramaz's Alumni Association, said that standard journalism practices require "that no aniclc is printed about any person without that person being confronted wiU1 any al­ legations or statements made and afforded an opponunity to respond."

In the same issue, Bchir Sabban and Shalom Holtz, editors of The Flame (once again 1itled Likrat Shabat), "ma[d]c clear [their] mission."

The purpose of their publica­ tion is to bring "n taste of Shab-

bat to fellow students." They wrote ..controversy.. is not our purpose ." According t o Shalom Holtz, they will not ac­ cept articles attempting to "win people over to their side."

However, articles that are studies of a panicular topic would be printed.

Rina Bersohn, editor of Toscs, said that Toses articles must only be truthful. Writers write freely and the editors choose the articles to prinL Sophist managing editor.

Emil Klcinhaus, said that since his publication does not deal with school issues. there is no risk of hunimg anyone in the school. He said the Sophist is open to all ideas within reason.

However, ahistorical articles, such as an article claiming the holocaust did not exist, would not be printed.

Ramchops Rama� ever on the cul­ ling edge of technology, will soon have an on-ramp to tlie inforrna11on superhighway.

Unlike users who must Jog in to the Internet through a serv­ er, Ramaz will become a site, enabling students to have ac­ counts at Ramaz.edu. Not only will Mr. Berman's smile be wider, b u 1 this long awaited hookup will mean that all students will be able to access the latesl news and information. Of course. some monitoring will be necessary to prevent students from monopolizing the ter­ minals when they log on to the L'chaim BBS. Sprtading somt Chanuk­

kah cheer, a group of Ramaz students panicipated in a pro­ gram with Russian teens at the JCC in Bcnsonhurst. The attendees sang songs and produced skits to educate the Russia.n immigrants about the importance of the holiday. W hether hailing from R:i.maz or from Russia. everyone c o nsumed that most basic of Chanukkah fare, latkes.

Congratulations to tht

GO Tzedakah committee for their successful drives this year. Through their persist­ ence, they collected over five hundred dollars for two wor­ thy charities. as welt as motivating the student body to respond warmly to their request for clothing for Project Machson. Their ef­ forts have been acknow­ ledged by both Shvut Ami and Project Machson. \Ylrilt slrandtd on lht

comer of 78th and Madison in the midst of a veritable Nor'Easter, students from New Rochelle bumped into Saturday Night Live star Chris Farley and movie actor Alec Baldwin. While some students were content to gawk as a limo pulled up, sophomore Sandy Apfeldorf smiled contently as she patted the sheet in her pocket with their autographs on it.

Tht Compultr Club is well on its way to challenging the Video Club for the top production s tudio in the school. The Computer Club has submitted their proposal to Mr. Miller for a powerful multimedia machine that will include a video capture board, enabling them to edit footage digitally.

Giving "coffee talk" a new meaning, Rifki Zable met with Anna Quindlcn, a writer for the op-ed page of the New York Times. Rifki based her college essay on Ms. Quindlcn's work and subsequ e n t ly sent Ms. Quindlcn n copy. Zable then was invited 10 meet with the writer, who gave her an nutogrnphcd copy of her book.

• The RamPagc

Librarian Leaves for Sabbatical

by Cecily Marbach Jewish members in schools, facilities. Ms. Nussbaum and Another page has turned in synagogues, and libraries all Ms. Wachs arc proud of their the history book of the Ramaz over the United States and to its accomplishments in the library Upper School library. Ms. Es­ 150 international members. and are grateful for the constant ther Nussbaum, head librarian, While on her sabbatical, Ms. support and approval the is taking a sabbatical after 16 Nussbaum docs not plan to for­ school has afforded them. years of work at Rarnaz. Like get Ramaz. She is panicularly Marion Stein, an ex­ many teachers in the past such looking forward to learning perienced and "highly capable as Mr. Goetz, R a b b i about new technology and librarian" is replacing Ms. Goldmintz, a n d Ms. Caroll Nussbaum during her sabbati­ Goldberg, Ms. Nussbaum is cal. Ms. Stein earned her looking forward to a year of bachelor's degree at Goucher rest and renewal. However, resl College for Women. Ms. Stein does not seem to be her main also has degrees in library ojective while on sabbatical. science, French literature, and For several years, Ms. Judaism from various other in­ Nussbaum has contributed stitutions. Ms. Stein has pre­ much time and effon in helping viously been a librarian at the Jewish and library related or­ Solomon Schechter School of ganizations. Biannually, Ms. Westchester, where she spent Nussbaum sumits at least two four years. She has also articles 10 Amit Women's software which she could worked at the Jewish Theologi­ monthly magazine and other potentially acquire for the cal Seminar/ as a music publications. She primarily Ramaz library. Additionally, librarian. Although sfie has writes on the subjects of an and Ms. Nussbaum will join Ramaz only been at Ramaz a few days, literature. These two topics on the March of the Living Ms. Stein said that she thinks h a v e fascinated the head after Pesach.

"Ramaz is an exciting place to The Upper School library be." While working here she librarian for most of her life. In May she will be visiting The has undergone many transfor­ hopes to sift through the Center for Jewish An. While mations since the early I 980's library's supply of books, espe­ there. she plans to accumulate when the library was built. The cially on the subjects of music more knowledge of Jewish an changes include converting and the environment. These from a reference and book two topics are her favorites, and expression.

In the past, Ms. Nussbaum lending library to an advanced and if she finds the Ramaz has co-chaired the acclaimed multi-media center. Without library lacking sufficient Associ ation of Jewish Ms. Nussbaum and the assis­ material in these areas, she Libraries Convention. and for tant Jibra,ian Ms. V(qc� �c .J?l.aµs 1$), recqljJlP?CDd n_� w severa 1 years she has been a transition could never have oc­ books.

Ms. Nussbaum's goals for judge of visual arts at The Na­ curred. Using their persistence and intelligence, these two her year of sabbatical are tional Jewish Books Awards.

Ms. Nussbaum has been women have, for many years, summed u p in her personal elected the Vice President of kept the library organized and poetry: "To pursue the poetry the prestigious Association of up to date. Recently, they in­ and the fun/ To review to Jewish Libraries. This associa­ corporated CD-ROM and the review." tion reaches out to its 1,000 Internet as part of library

'Ms. Nussbaum at submits least two ar­ ticles to Amit Women's magazine

Seniors Sojourn in South Africa

by Ariel Adesnik

Over winter vacation two

Ramaz students, Rebecca Deutsch and Rachel Flax. both seniors, traveled 10 South Africa. Both families have roots there, as Rebecca ·s mother and both of Rachel's parents were born there.

Both Rebecca and Rachel spent time in Capetown, which ison the coast, and Rebecca spent time in Johannesburg.

Both cities have environments

markedly different from each other and from the United States. Even though blacks make up a vast majority of South Africa's population, it is rare to sec one in an upscale neighborhood or a nice res­ taurant, 1dcsp itc the recent loosening of restrictions , Only rarely docs one encounter a black professional. Rachel said that her family knew one black doctor "but they don't consider him black," Rebecca added that many whites look down on blacks because of the fact that so few of them arc well educated. Thal very recently "The <;osby Show" was rhe

highest rated TV program among South Africans seems to reinforce that idea. Although the new government plans to offer free public education to all citizens, the funds necessary to pay for the education of the children of thirty million blacks would be hard to come by even if current tax rates were tripled, according to Rachel.

1l1ere is also a huge gap in the living standards of the white and black populations.

The black population lives in shanty towns near the city or in rural areas, without electricity, gas, or running water. '"They stretched out as far as I could sec," said Rebecca. "They reminded me of The Grapes of Wrath. " Bolh Rebecca and Rachel mentioned how this has lead to the evolution of a son of communist atlitudc among a

good number of blacks, and they have both overheard blacks talking of how this or that villa would be theirs, gratis, once the new govern­ ment is elected. Though many Westerners don ·1 know it, there

February 1994 / Adar 5754

Summer School: Ramaz Opens in August

(Continuedfrompagel) days of vacation, a more real

intersession than the current

reactions were reluctant to

single day would have been much appreciated." Although senior Adam Vogel agreed that the week of summer being taken from the students would

comment for fear of repercus­ sions. One anonymous teacher passionately argued that "stan­ ing school before Labor Day is against [his] American,

time during the year, he thinks that the week should not be in themiddle of the year butal lhe

Willing to move past that though, he added that "at least they could give us the extra

finals in June, most other yeshivas are almost done with their exams. I would rather sacrifice a week at the end of the summer in order to end the school year sooner."

While August 30, the earlies! date that students will have to enter these hallowed halls, allows them to get themselves together in time for the stan of the a new school year, some students and faculty may not have more than a weekend

Presidents' Week in February when many faculty children have off." Anotherteacherwas concerned that this scheduling change would set a precedent for future years. Not to worry, explained Rabbi Lookstein, as this special arrangement is being implemented this year because of the way in which the Yamim Noraim fall. This will not necessarily be made into a penmanent change.

Although students a n d

b e more enjoyed at another

end. "When we walk inlo our

nationalistic conve ntions.··

vacation

days

during

t o change from summer vacalion mode to school mode.

faculty were concerned with the riming of vacations, a few

be "getting off a returning

Ramaz docs much to heighten

This group of people includes the incoming freshman class,

had a different reaction to the scheduling changes. One senior advisors. and faculty. junior noted "we don ·1 need Freshman Orientation will school before the Yamim have to be at the beginning of Noraim in order to prepare the the week of August 28 if it is to students for the holidays. By be scheduled, as in the past, ninth grade, all the students in before regular sessions begin. ,Ramaz know enough about Eighth grader Elana Mandel Rosh HaShanah and Yom Kip­ ,was conce,mcd_that,.she,�o�ld_ putt-. !3c s,_i d�s,, ii;s 11,ot.ji\ce camp bus only to tum right back around lo board a bus for Freshman Orientation."

awareness and knowledge of these days anyway."

While student reactions to the change in scheduling were generally neutral, members of the faculty were not as pleased

see a beach with thousands of blacks but only twenty whites.

Many of the practices and opinions of South Africans would shock Americans in their resemblance to those of Southerners in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

Rebecca described how she was taken aback when one of servants in her well-off citizens surround their the houses with walls and have grandparents' house referred to fancy alarm systems. After her grandfather as "the dark, much as we would call a master." It is still possible to cab, even Joha nnesburg's sec benches, water fountains, braver citizens call for anmed and rest-rooms marked as escorts. Rebecca stated suc­ "black or white." Though cinctly, "You feel threatened there is widespread suppon for when you arc there." She governmental refonms, Rachel described how her grandfather described how often " people would not permit her and admilled to me 'I am a racist."'

Rebecca's mother to drive into While obviously not the town at three in the afternoon pred ominant social issue, for fear that lhey would not be sexism is also much more safe after dark. prevalent in South Africa than Rachel described Capetown in the United States. Both as being more relaxed. white and black men dominate Recently, the beaches there their female counterparts. have been desegregated. Rachel mentioned how her Many whiles, though, avoid the mother had wanted to become beach as they fear 10 be among n lawyer but was prevented so many blacks. Rachel men­ from doing so. tioned that it was possible to is also a third racial group in South Africa, the Coloreds, de­ scended from French and na­ tive stock, who are slightly belier off than the blacks in tenms of quality of life and political rights.

One of the defining qualities of life in Johannesburg is the constant fear of violence. All

w i t h the changes. Most teachers with harshly negative

On April 27, elections are scheduled that will probably give South Africa its first truly representative government.

Despite the occasion's histori­ cal imponance, many whites, including Rebecca's grandparents, will leave the country at1he time to avoid the political violence that might very well accompany the elec­ tions. Amid all of the country's political chaos there is a large, if not well known.Jewish com­ munity descended almost ex­ clusively from South Africa's English colonists (as opposed to the majority of whites, who arc of Dutch, or Afrikaner, origins). There is even a Lubavitch community. Rebec­ ca told of how she went to an Orthodox shul there and had the privilege of meeting the country's Chief Rabbi. Rebec­ ca told of how he described a "secret" plan by which there arc airplanes always ready to evacuate the Jewish population in case of emergency.

,

· 'February 1994 / Ador S7S4

The RaptPage

Page$

Injustice in January (conrinuedfrom page J)

Un-Fair Hike? Tuition Up (continuedfrom page I) employees- social security, pensions, disability, and health insurance- and since insurance com­ prises a very significant pan of that, a large increase is passed on to those who pay tuition.

1be second cause which contributes to the inctease in tuition is Ramaz's history of adding new facets to the curriculum each year. The past year's increase reflects the addition of a full-time health department.

It should be noted, though, that periodic mas­ sive repairs and construction costs arc taken from the CEF, whose $2,000 line has remained steady over the past four years.

In comparison to private schools in the area, Ramaz remains relatively inexpensive. The other schools charge an average of $3,000 more than Ramaz's base price of $9,275 without the CEF and other non-tuition fees. For that price tag, however, students in those private schools generally have smaller classes.

School Abolishes Grades to Lessen Pressure

by Ariel Adesnlk Pressure to get good grades can make a student do almost anything: study during lunch, stay up working past two in the morning. even cheat. When someone suggests that grading simply be discontinued in order to remove the pressure, they arc often mocked. However, \he S\. Ann·s Academy in Brooklyn took the idea serious­ ly. A student there can go from kindergarten to senior year without ever being judged by letters of the alphabet in a report card column, and it works.

The school is located in a twelve story white building on the comer of Pierrepont and Clinton streets in the Brooklyn Heights section of Brooklyn. It has additional buildings for computers, the arts, and AP courses. In addition to gym­ nasiums, the school uses loal parks for athletics. The school is named for the church in which it was initially located, though it now has no religious affiliation. In facl, the student body is three-quarters Jewish, and, like Rarnaz, half the stu­ dents commute, usually from Manhattan. The school day for the approximately 300 students in the high school goes from 8:30 to 4:30. There is also a period like our homeroom, c a l l e d a s s e m b l y, for an­ nouncements and socializing.

The way their grading sys­ tem works is that on report cards, tests, and essays, the teachers write comments in­ stead of tallying points. At the end of each half year, in lieu of letters or numbers, students receive a wriucn reporl. usual• ly more than a page and a half in length, from each teacher.

Other assignments are treated similarly, if more bri cny.

David Huebsch, a former stu­ dent commented that, "What can be expressed in a written

report can't be expressed by a number."

Personalization is an impor­ tant aspect of St. Ann ·s attitude towards teaching. Throughout high school, students choose from a wide variety of courses, even for required subjects.

English could be "'The Road in American Literature." For the math requirement one might take "Math and Humanism."

Electives include theater and

said Dahlia that "all the pressure" that caused her to leave Ramaz is no longer a problem karate. Classes rarely have e v en a d o z e n s t u d e n t s .

Together, the elementary and high schools employ over I 00 full-time teachers. While they do not have a day for student­ teacher conferences, it is com­ mon for students to schedule a p p o i n t m e n t s w i t h their teachers.

Another important aspect of the school is its relaxed attitude towards learning. The dress code only stipulates that you do not come to school barefoot.

Students and teachers are on a f i r st n a m e basis.

Ariel Blumenthal, a senior who spent her firs! two years of high school at the Yeshiva of Flat­ bush, said "Deadlines are ne­ gotiable. You can gel an extra week for a term paper if you need it. Once a student told his teacher that he wasn't oblc to prepare for a test thM day. The teacher took the period to review with 1hc class and gave the test the next day."

classes would be too difficult for students, but t h e y are wrong. I f the prob lem is homework that woul d take away from studying time, then these four weeks can be desig• nated "no homework" weeks.

Without homework, with time to spread out these tests, and with some teachers not giving exams, these four weeks would be significantly less strenuous than the couple of weeks near the end of the first and third quarters. 11,ese tests would be the same size and length as regular class exams, and they would take the same amount of time. Teachers only make finals cover a tremendous amount of material and take a long time because they arc finals.

To avoid as many finals as possible is imporlant, since finals simply are not fair. It is not equitable to the students that finals carry the same, if not

more, weight than worlc for the rest of the semester. Why should a student who works hard and docs well the whole semester, but makes mistakes on the final beca use of pres­ sure, nerves, and exhaustion, to receive a lower grade than someone who docs not pay at­ tention in class, photocopies notes for the final, and docs well on the final. Since so much importance is given to these tests, the pressure on stu­ dents can be overwhelming.

This pressure causes students to score badly on the tests. Al­ though pressure docs not jus­ tify cheating, it is inevitable that the pressure will affect the students.

It is time that Ramaz's ad­ ministration seriously thinks about the educational value that midterms have. When the administrators do so, they will find that midterms are an un­ necessary evil.

Finals Forever

Even so. students arc serious about their work. Dahlia Koz­ lowsky, a junior who spent the sixth through ninth grades at Ramaz, said that the "kids arc (continutdfrom page J) devoted." Ariel added that "you can get through school would therefore increase the without too much work. How­ studying hours of a student a ever, most kids do take extra great deal. The result would be courses, partly to impress col­ twice as much pressure. leges.'' Dalilia even said "II 's Without any gains." fun." Enough students are in­ One of the things that stu­ terested that Chinese and dents like best about midterms Japanese courses are held an is the fact that they have a hour before school starts, at chance to see them once they 7,30. Electives include semi­ nars aner school from 4:30 to 6:15 about subjects as diverse as artificial intelligence and quiltrnaking.

Apparently, the St. Ann's style of teaching also takes the pressure off the students' backs. Dahlia said that "all the pressure" that caused her to have been graded. This adds leave Rarnaz is no longer a the educational value of ena­ problem. Both Dahlia and bling students to see their mis­ Ariel said that they don't have takes and learn from them for long nights of work since their future exams. Furthermore, free periods give them time to this gives the student the op­ finish it. They also noted that portunity to scrutinize the tests arc less frequent and do exam and look for possible ernot cover as much material. In­ stead, "there is more work that teaches you," according to Dahlia. Ariel emphasized the (conrinuedfrom page I) relatively higher number of writing assignments. Even so, complained that the runs were too slow. While some headed David commented that "there straight to the slopes with a full is still pressure at crunch time," liO ticket, others took beginner Ariel c o u n t ered that "he lessons on easier hills. Dr. [David] doesn't know what "Tommy Moe" Stone was in pressure is" as he did not attend the former group and took his a Yeshiva. All three agreed that son down the double black cheating is not a prolem ex­ diamond trails, the most dif­ perienced at St. Ann's. Despite ficult. The conditions on the the atmosphere created by the second day worsened slightly, school, a good number of stu­ since the temperature dropped dents feel the pressure of overnight and only rose to the preparing for standardized mid forties. The snow was tests like SAT's and Achieve­ very icy in some parts. Even ments. with the less than oplimlll ski Evaluating what makes St. conditions and the exhaustion Ann's different, Dahlia ex­ that is inherent in a second day plained, "They care more obout of skiing, there were no major the individual." injuries.

"The first time in the year that I actually saw sunlight ... "

rors that the teacher might have made. Teachers use this time to go over the questions that many students had trouble with, to an,tyze why they got them wrong, and to show them how to improve on future exams. However, if the ad­ ministration were to eliminate midterms from the calendar, students would never be able to learn from their mistakes for future exams.

Students like having mid­ terms not only because i t enables them t o benefit academically, but the y provide a chance t o relax.

Some see midterms as "the first time in the year that I actually saw sunlight", or "my only chance to catch a breath of air."

Though midterms may be a time of intense studying, it gives students a chance to learn, to improve their grades, and to find some time to relax.

because

Students Ski Snowy Slopes Sunday night, Ramaz had exclusive use of the fitness cen­ ter and teMis facility. The rac­ quetball court was transformed into a Wallyball arcnL The game was quite fierce and the banter was lively. Mr. Miller, Rabbi Gordon, Dr. Stone and Dr. Warshall kept the game in­ teresting. Upstairs, students were watching the Ice dancing competition, playing video games and ping-pong. The night culminated in a "make­ your-own-sundaes" event.

There were unfounded rumors that the ski trip would be canceled for next year, and Mr. Rochlin stated that it was unfortunate that one negative event would ruin what other­ wise was a "really nice trip."

February 1994 / Adar 5754

TheRamPogc

s·chool Stats BOYS:

Varsity Basketball 9-4 Varsity Soccer

3-1

Varsity Hockey

4-2

J.V. Basketball

2-6

GIRLS:

Varsity Basketball 7-2 Varsity Volleyball

4-2

J.V. Basketball

3-0

Coach Cuts Girls' Team

Softball coach wants smaller team with more dedicated players

by Cttily Marbach Steve Duman, the girls softball coach. has decided 10 cul the number of players ad• milled 10 the team this season in order 10 foster players' dedication lo the learn. He says "players work helter with a smaller nucleus." This in­ furiated many former softball team members who fell that the cut was not fair. The majority of the girls fell that devoted senior players should not be punished by being cut from the team. They also fell that the cul was a negative reaction to last year's problems. Junior Marisa Savitsky commented "the cul in players may not prove to be the answer."

A few of the players how­ ever, felt that a smaller team could be beneficial. They sur­ mised that with fewer players on the team, there would be more individual instruction, a greater feeling of loyally, and stronger team unity. Junior Debra Kobrin stated "I don't know if ii will solve all the problems. but the commitment

was distinctly a part of Ramaz but also definately apart from it. That is, I experienced the emotion of solidarity with our student body and a sort of school pride that is rarely per• ceived in the daily competitive

The "You were on m y bus during A chva" line was be­ coming a staid greeting Ramaz routine. I found myself turning 10 my friend from Frisch and exclaiming, "Wow, did you see what Rosenfeld just did?! That was a behind the back lay-up!"' or "Did you sec that rebound by Schwalbe?

That was incredible!"

The game got close at limes and Frisch tied the score in the

Junior Tova Shudofsky felt "It was unfair that we had to miss scho_ol, but [it's] also unfair that we the missed games ... "

alternate the two teams every other game. The new system of alternating games did not w o rk, as players often neglected 10 check the list before games 10 see if they were scheduled to play. The division also led 10 a lack of team spirit, which in tum led 10 a greater lack of commitment y the girls involved. One senior said of the new two-learn sys­ tem that "it wasn't much fun anymore. There wasn '1 a real , sense of team. .

Many players claimed that the changes, especially in team size, were justified. Other­ wise, when they did attend games, a larger number of players insured that many would sit on the bench for en• tire games. Some players added that the learn 's general altitude was mirrored by that of the coach. Sophomore Leah

Fang said ..our team wasn't

commiued, so Steve got dis­couraged."

In order to solve the problem of late dismissal, Duman has

we missed the games." Be• cause the learn was not able 10 fill the roster occasionally, the initiated two further changes. team-Wa.c-fore.d..J:0-forfoit First,--tho-toam.&oo0-ff:ic..ia-\l,.,... might be'.enhancod."

Despite this reaction, the games, which hurt morale, be· ---­resigned from the team agreed with Coach cause it made the team ·s record league. non-yeshiva Second, learn meet· Duman that there had been a worse. ings have been scheduled ear• Coach Duman responded lier in the year. lack of commitment Many of the players did not attend that in order 10 "get all the girls numerous games. This was in al games" they would have partly due to Ramaz's late dis- 10 divide lh.e learn in half and

Varsity Basketball: A Fan Speaks

by Danld Benel I auended my first varsity basketball game on Saturday, February 5. That Saturday night was a double-header.

The Ramaz girls game against HAFTR was followed by the Ramaz boys playing Frisch.

The bleachers were pack­ ed, but I was somewhat skep1ical about how interesting these games could be. I missed the girls game, (they lost), but I was there for the boys' tipoff.

From the very start, the game was action-packed and in• credibly exciting.

TI1e fans from both schools got completely involved in cheering for their respective teams. I got caught up in the exhilaration of the game as well-I was chanting "airball" when Prisch was on the foul line and screaming "DE­ FENSE" along with the other Ramaz fans.

For this brief moment, I fell caught up in something that

missal time. As non-yeshiva league games were usually scheduled for 4:00 PM or ear­ lier, a team that was willing.to leave early could not be mustered. Many players felt that ii was unfair to them that they would have to miss so much school time for softball.

Junior Tova Shudofsky felt "ii was unfair that we had to miss school, but [it's) also unfair that

first quarter. But the nearest Frisch got to stopping the jug­ gernaut of the Ramaz onslaught was pulling within three points. Truthfully, I don't remember the final score of the game, but I do remember that we won by a fair margin. I remebcr the Frisch half of the arena chanting, "Waldman, Waldman," in a futile auempl lo distract one of the Ramaz starting five from his on-court duty. I remember the tremen• dous social scene that occurred from the nexus of the three high schools. The "You were on my bus during Achva" line was be· coming a staid greeting. The amount of makeup adorning the spectators faces put many of Tim Burton's acheivments 10 shame. Nonetheless, I ex­ perienced something that pushed some of my cynisicm into the comer of my mind: true school spirit. I never knew that ii was out there.

Boys Blank HAFTR 3-0

by Daniel Donel a defensive battle. One The soccer team, which HAFTR fan exclaimed, "Why many consider the most under- do we have the smallest guys rated team in the school, shut• ever playing offense against out HAFTR 3-0 on Thursday, these beasts!" This jeering, February !0th. The first goal though, seemingly drove the of the game was scored by tl1e already determined Ramaz team's captain, Asaf Elkayam, team 10 score yet another goal. with 4:37 left 10 play in the first Josh Tenzer nailed the ball into quarter. Elkayarn's goal was the comer of the goal with I :46 assisted by Noah Kolodny. left in the second half. The Playing into the---------- score remained late hours of the unchanged until night, the Ramaz the final buzzer team continued was s o u ndedlo pound away at marking another [ [ S the HAFTR S victory for thcnow 2-1 soccer team. defense. With 1:46 left 10 the • E xcellent goal• first quarter. len ding for the Doug Newton Ramaz team was boo ted m -----'------ provided by Eric Ramaz's second Ti schler, who goal. As the small contingent came up with a key kick-save of HAFTR fans cheered, "Kill at 9:47 in the third quarter 'em HAFTR! Move ill", the which ensured the Ramaz shut­ Ramaz team only became more out. determined. There was a scor• In its most recent game, tl1e ing lull for most of the second s occer team defeated Solomon quarter as lho game turned into Schcchlcr 4-3.

"Why do we have the ma e t gu ys pla ying against these beasts!"

February 1994 / Adar S7S4

TheRamPqe

Judaism in the Future: The Rabbis Debate and Discuss

by Danl•II• Druck

Neither rain, nor sleet, nor snow can keep postmen from delivering the mail, but it can, and did keep people from at­ tending the First Orthodox Roundtable Conference. The conference was held in Lincoln Square Synagogue in New York City on February 6, the day on which more than eight inches of snow fell upon the

Tri-State area. There were,

however, more than a dozen men and a handful of women participants from as nearby as the East Side, and as far away as Israel and Canada. Five Rabbis spoke about such varied subjects as intermar­ riage and women Rabbis, but all of the issues addressed af­ fected Orthodox Jews in some way or another.

The conference was spon­ sored by the Orthodox Roundtable, an organization established a few years ago. Its purpose is to present a united front of Orthodox Rabbis' opinions to the community about relevant issues through a periodic journal. It is con­ sidered to be one of the more lefi-wing Rabbinical organiza­ tions. even by other Orthodox Rabbis. Some rabbis have wlthdnlwn from the organlza.­ lion afier it took a number of controversial opinions. and even Rabbi Simcha J. Cohen of California. one of the founders of the organization. resigned for the same reason.

The conference was coor­ dinated by Rama.z and Kehilath Jeshurun 's own Rabbi Adam Mintz. Rabbi Mintz invited

certain rabbis to attend, and opened the day up to non-mem­ bers and lay people of the com­ munity as well, by having it announced at synagogues and advertised in the Jewish Week.

Afier getting off 10 a late start, Rabbi Doctor Jeffrey Wolf, a professor at Bar Ilan University, lectured about whether or not women could make judgments on Halachic problems. Quoting Rabbi Soloveitchik, who said that "Orthodoxy would rise or fall based on how its women were treated," Rabbi Wolf made the point that the time has come to establish a new title for intel­ lectually deserving women.

The title of "Chavera" would enable women lo explain laws to their male and female peers.

Part of the rationale behind this proposal is that women would feel more comfortable talking to other women in areas that arc relevant to them, like kashrul and family purity, as opposed to asking advice from male rab­ bis. Women might also be in­ spired 10 practice more mitzvot, since they know the correct laws and see commined women "role models."

Rabbi Lookstein, who also

attended the conference,

agreed with Rabb, Wolf 1hiu If something isn ·1 done soon for those women who are capable of learning just as well as men, Orthodoxy "will lose human beings and human value" 10 other sects of the religion.

Rabbi Looks1ein also stressed that Orthodoxy can only gain from using qualified women lo the best of their abilities.

Junior Cecily Marbach, Co­ co-chairman of the Orthodox PresidentofWomen's Tefillah, Roundtable, Rabbi Bulka dis­ applauded this statement. She cussed his view on the issue of believes that "as long as a homosexuality in Judaism. woman is doing what she does Often speaking in graphic for the pure reason of being terms, he distinguished be­ closer to God, and not 10 prove tween the act or practice of something to her peers," she homosexuality (not allowed) should go ahead with what she and homosexual "behavior" or orientation (not as bad). After wants to do.

The issue preventing inter­ giving six reasons why marriage was presented by homosexuality is looked at as Doctor Irving Levitz, a clinical an ..abomination" by most Or­ psychologist from Woodmere. thodox scholars, (one of which Or. Levitz opened his speech is that the body isn't built for by discussing the popular this act because the H.I.V. virus misuse of the term "Jewish could be contracted from it,) identity," which is often mis­ Rabbi Bulka urged the takenly used instead of the Roundtable to take a strong phrase Jcwish identification." position against homosexuals.

Of the 52% of American Jews He admitted that they would who interrnany, most still iden­ "get in trouble with [their] tify themselves with Judaism. liberal alliances" for taking a They "take on admired at­ definite stand, but he later even tributes" of the religion in a encouraged the denouncing of superficial way. Or. Levitz non-Jewish homosexuals.

Rabbi Lookstein basically stressed the need to establish Jewish identities in children, agreed with Rabbi Bulka, but commented that while he primarily through values taught at school and at home. "repudiate[s] the act, the Having a Jewish identity people themselves don't neces­ have to be means "internalizing specific sari I y beliefs and values until they be­ repudiated...because w e our­ come part of who we all are." selves are 'abominations· in He believes that the closer one certain aspects." He later feels to the religion, the less declared that he doesn't "have chance one has of intermarry­ a reputation as being a gay ing. All the participants agreed basher. Ir �ything, the con­ with the presenter about the trary. [He] almost g o t severity of the problem of in­ slaughtered last year in the [Is­ termarriage and the importance raeli Day] Parade...But still, of a 12 year Iewish education [the Roundtable] shouldn't to combat it. legitimize homosexuality."

Rabbi Saul Berman from The next speaker, Rabbi Doctor Bulka of Ottawa, New York City thought that the Canada, aroused the most whole issue was irrelevant, and dialogue among participants, that Rabbis Bulka and The author of25 books and the Lookstcin were ..wasting their 04

spit on it" because "kids are being exposed to so many other things, like violence on television," that homosexuality wasn't the first thing on his mind.

W h ile the first three speakers focused on how the Orthodox should deal with cur­ rent issues affecting them, Rabbi Berman, the next speaker, spoke about women and lcfillin from a historical

point of view. He traced the opinions of the Rabbis from the time of the Talmud until today.

The issue is whether women are not allowed to wear tefillin, or simply not obligated. Out of the many opinions. only one Rabbi actually uses the words "not allowed" in reference to this mailer, while others simply say that the females wearing tefillin were "put back by our sages." Biblically speaking, Michal, King David's wife and King Saul's daughter wore tefillin, as did Jonah's wife.

Was the conference success­

ful? The night's lecture was postponed due to the snow, but those who were there during the day seemed to enjoy the interaction of opinions. One woman shared that she came 10 the Conference because

"thought that [shcJ would get

something out of it..." And did she? As she answered with a definitive "Yes, I did," the people sitting around her smiled and nodded their heads in agreement

A Call for Pluralism: Students Send Three Letters

by Evan K Farber

On the day that the Israeli withdrawal was scheduled to take place, many Onhodox Jews and Jewish schools around the area gathered in Times Square to protest Prime Minister Rabin's continued support of peace with the PLO.

But after davc:ning that morn­

ing, Rabbi Lookstein came to the student body to explain why we were not attending. Al­ though the school was pres­ sured to go, he decided against attending because it is not the school's place to protest the mandate of an election by those whose lives arc on the line. Ad­ ditionally. Ramaz's criticism of Israel would be an invitation for non-Jews to do so as well.

However. he fell that we should express our fears to the Israeli government. Therefore. he drafted a letter explaining why we did not a11end the rally. enumerating concerns about the direction peace has taken. and saying that therefore Rabin

should call for a referendum on the treaty or join in a unity government. He presented this lener to the Social Action Com­ mince with the expectation that it would be given to the stu­ dents to sign, then delivered to Colene Avita!, the Israeli envoy 10 the United Nations. Interest­ ingly. Rabbi Lookstein received no applause.

The Rabbi later met with members of the Social Action Commince. They decided that this letter would not be feasible. Co-chairman Emil Kleinhaus explained that "while we very much wanted to present a unified view, we felt that it would be a misrepresen­ tation of the truth to have only one lcncr representing Ramaz as a whole." Therefore. there w o u l d be three letters presented to the student body-one more liberal than the view presented by the Rabbi and one more conserva­ tive. along with the Rabbi's original lcllcr. Emil further

noted that "it is a misconcep­ leners acted as a barometer for tion that there was no unified student opinion. The rightist opinion presented, because in a lencr received the most signa­ cover letter we stated our tures, followed closely by unified view that it is wrong to Rabbi Lookstein's. The leftist publicly dispute the State ofls­ letter got about half as many rael." Rabbi Lookstein ac­ signatures as each of the other cepted this solution, but Rabbi two.

Bakst delivered a O'var Torah Many were surprised a t on Friday morning that attack­ these results, and amazed that ed it-we should present a support for the peace process unified front, he said. had dropped so dramatically.

Rabbi Goldmintz read the Those who drafted the lellers, lellers to the students after said Emil, were "totally davening that Wednesday. The surprised that so many people leftist leller, wrinen by Talia in the school are for the discon­ Milgrom-Elcott and Emil, said tinuation of the peace process that although there were entirely." Others were not obstacles to peace, we ex­ surprised that the rightist leller pected them, and we applaud received as many votes as it Rabin•s courage in continuing did. "I signed the lener against to strive for peace despite the peace because that is how I them. 1lie rightist letter, writ­ feel, and I think most people ten by Yair Hakak, said that in­ feel the same way," claimed light of the PLO and Arafat's freshman Lawrence Koutcher. refusal to separate from their One of the major disappoint­ terrorist past, Israel should stop ments was that less than half all negotiations immediately. the student body signed any of Besides presenting student the three lcners. Those who opinion to Colene Avita!. these were involved in writing the

letters and coordinating the signing were shocked at the apathy. Some believed that their signatures would not make a difference. In the words of one sophomore, "The Israeli government is not going to change because of what a few kids in America say." Others did not sign because none of the letters represented their views. Junior Leora Nathan ex­ plained that "if it only argued for stopping the peace process conditionally, I would have signed the rightist letter."

Some seniors actually went to the rally. One student noted the irony that Rabbi Avi Weiss came in to speak at Ramaz later that day, which seemed to be an endorsement of his views-but we did not follow him to the rally. "If! had senior privileges I would have gone to the rally," claimed Yair Hakak.

The RaDl Page Volume : Fortissimo

Ethay Abbiray Osephjay Hay. Ooksteinlay Pperuay Choolsay Coay Amazray

February 1994/Ramadan 1414

Ramaz B-Ball Player Clubbed!!

by Daniel Benei dow. Rabbi Bakst called Rabbi After a late basketball prac­ Lookstcin from his car and up­ tice on February 14, star player dated him on the recent turn of Marc Waldman was clubbed in events. Rabbi Lookstcin im­ the knee by an over-zealous mediately responded by ques­ HAFfR fan. After screaming tion ing, "Are we Marc's "Why me? Why me?," Marc keeper?" collapsed into the waiting arms Mr. Rochlin called an emer­ of Mr. Dulny. The HAFfR fari gency GO meeting where the escaped into a getaway car with topic of sprinkled versus non­ the license plate "GlLOOLY." sprinkled doughnoughts was It just so happened that Rabbi discussed in depth. Addition­ Goldmintz caught a quick ally, the GO came up with a glance of the plate and told plan to create a C hagigah that what he saw to the police and would draw students from all Dr. Shudofsky's men. Al· the Yeshivas in the country, in­ though the Rabbi thought that c I udi ng the student from plate said "GET LOUIE," the HAFTR who aucmpted to police were able, through hyp­ hamper Ramaz 's chances at nosis, to find out that not only Madison Square Garden. Sure did the Rabbi dislike kasha, but enough, the chagigah plan rhar t h e plate r eally s:J:id .. TABOU.LJ . .. Meanw_l,JiJe worked and the HAFrR stu­ dcnt�howcd At once._ he "Wa� Marc was rushed \o lhc thud bound and shackled with tan floor where he got s o m e Kramer's and Spencer Sudafed, a lozenge a n d a n Bagley's chains. elevator pass from Ms. Wer­ Dr. shudofsky proceeded to theim. Marc's knee was swell­ p u l l the mask off o f the ing up so Ms. Wertheim took HAFTR student's face to him 10 the Sump and Ejector reveal that it was truly the guy pump room on SC in order to from Gristedes who stands be­ drain the fluid from the knee. hind the ham all day. When the After further interrogation mask was removed, the Gris­

by Dr. Shudofsky's men, Rabbi tedes guy stated through Goldmintz admitted that the clenched teeth, "IC it wasn't for license plate was really "THIS that rascally administration, I GUM JS CHEWY" and not would've gotten away with it, "GET o r and I would be able to play L OU I E" "TABOULI." Immediately instead of Marc!" after this revelation, Rabbi Rabbi Goldmintz, who was Bakst, who was already wait­ put under hypnosis again, ing in his flashy sports car, at­ revealed that not only was he tached a siren to the roof of his afraid of Ms. Lcddcrrnan, but car and screamed, "Yahoo, let's that the license plate really go get Boss Hogg once and for said, "GILOOLY." all!" Even though Rabbi Bakst Marc recovered quickly due was driving at over I00 MPH to Ms. Wertheim 's expenise on 78th Street. Jason Yagoda with the Sump and Ejeclor easily passed him on the right pump. Dr. Shudofsky's men on his commute from Gris­ were called back and Rabbi tedes. Soon, Mr. Miller joined Goldmintz was snapped out of in t h e hot pursuit of the his hypnosis. Both Mr. Miller HAFTR student as he slid and Rabbi Bakst returned safe­ down the secret fire pole in the ly 10 their respective parking back of office into his waiting spots and Rabbi Lookstein Dodge Intrepid w i t h t h e called an assembly to award " B e a v i s a n d B u t t h e a d on Marc with three different VarBoard" sign in the rear win• remember to light Sabbatt candles al 5:25 p.m. (ADVT.)

X.dd·V

60 East 78th Street has been liberated from the cable monopoly) (ADVT.)

Mr. Dulny consoles the team after the Incident

SchooJ Whitewashes Infraction with Fake Snow Day

by AndrewJakabovlcs lunately, the school forgot code infraction would tarnish On Friday, February I Ith, about God, who had other the administration's sterling Rabbi Goldmintz woke up late plans for the day. He provided image. As one source close to and rushed to school. In his Ramaz students with balmy the top revealed, "an error on haste, he neglected to wear a fifty degree weather for the the administration's behalf tie. Upon realizing his mis- day. All students who peered would tarnish Rarnaz's reputa• take. he promptly suspended outoftheirwindowsthalmom- tion as a real yeshivah." h1rtrs:e.TrrO'Mtle"tlayr,,-A1tt10�11g «aepcete.J..mt:J1"3'am:�,, ,...ou,.,,.._,.,..,__...,_____"' Rabbi Bakst was asked by the he figured it was a Friday and and a clear sky. noonewouldcareifheadhcred Jn 1es1amen11othegoodtraf• other members of the ad­ to the dress code. he promptly fie conditions, senior Shalom ministration to shave. as it was called an administrative meet· Holtz said, "I was half-way to not in the spirit of the dress ing to deal with this crisis. In school before I met someone code. Although he protested an unprecedented face-saving coming in the opposite direc- vehemently, he ultimately move by the administration, tion who told me school was made the decision to go barecalls were quickly placed to the closed." Despite the over- faced after rcalizing that his fa. transponation companies and a whelming evidence that links cial hair would be a bone of brief recording was left on the the administration 10 this scan- contention among the other adRamaz Upper School's cmer- dal, Mr Miller, after repealed ministrators and cause hard gency hotline suspending clas- questioning, still stated cm- feelings among the students. s e s due to the weather. phatically that school was Rabbi Bakst's"scnior attitude" Students who dialed 517-5142 closed because of the snow. has been further reflected by The administration, it has his attendance at davening and heard the usual snow emergency message. In the eyes of the been learned, still believes it• his habit of walking unan­ administration, the diversion self to be infallible. An nounccd into classes that arc had been successful. Unfor- egregious error such as a dress not on his schedule.

Minutes Respectfully Submitted Parent liaison has successful meeting (not continuedfrom any.vhue)

The meeting opened with Rabbi G o l d m l ntz con­ gratulating the members for their handling of lunch duty.

Ms. Gribetz reminded Rabbi Goldrnintz that parents have nothing to do with lunch duty.

Rabbi Goldmintz asked Ms. Gribetz "Who are you and what are you doing here?" Ms. Gribetz reminded the commit­ tee that she is the new ad­ minislrator. Shocked members of lhe Liaison all scratched their heads.

T he Chair recommended that homework over vacation be kepi to a minimum. The

Table responded that in a high prcsslll'C yeshiva environment, extra homework is not neces­ sary. The Credenza ap­ propriately commented that furniture in the room has ob­ server status only and should not be allowed to make com­ ments.

Ms. Slonlm suggested that Ramaz have school on Sunday.

A queslion was raised: does Ms. Slonim have the Lille of Doctor? Slonim responded that she does not know.

Mr. Miller entered the room and said "Boker Tov." Rabbi Bakst then complained that this was his job.

It was suggested that in the future, Mrs. Norma Bellino actually sign her name in the large space between "respect­ fully submiued" and "Norrna Bellino."

Respectfully submilled,

Norma Bellino