Volume 46, Issue 2 (October 2012) - The Rampage

The Rampage

Volume XXXXVI Number 2

The Ramaz Upper School

October 2012/Cheshvan 5773

Saudis Visit Ramaz Darien Kauvar ’13 On October 4, a delegation of Saudi Arabian educators and translators visited Ramaz as part of a visit to learn about schools that have combined religion with modernity.

Months earlier, Carolyn Nomura of the New York State Department contacted Ramaz and requested that Ramaz allow the Saudi Arabians to visit the school as part of their trip. For undisclosed reasons, Ramaz was the only Jewish high school that the State Department chose for the guests to visit.

The Saudi Arabians also visited Yeshiva University, JTS, and other Catholic and Muslim schools in the New York area.

The Saudi Arabians were interested in learning about how to combine religion and secularism. Head of School, Mr. Shaviv, described how these were issues that the “Muslim and Saudi Arabian world is only just beginning to deal with, while the Jewish world was faced and dealt with these problems over 200 years ago.” However, there is a key difference between the problem of modernity that Jews faced 200 years ago, and that the Muslim world is facing now,” Mr. Shaviv said.

“The Jewish school model was designed for a small minority of the Americans, while the Muslim model that the Saudi Arabians are designing will be for the large majority of their world.”

Upon arrival, the Saudi Arabians were introduced to and addressed by Mr. Shaviv.

Mr. Shaviv spoke to them about Ramaz, and how our school is a “model of combining a strong relationship with tradition and modernity,” Mr Shaviv said. “We proved you could run a school with two identities.”

Following their conversation with Mr. Shaviv, they were introduced to the other administrators. The guests had the opportunity to ask them questions about the education system. Following a brief conversation, a select group of students who consisted of the editors of The RamPage and the GO were brought in to Continued on page 6

Hurricane Sandy Devastates Area Disrupts School Routine

Gilad Shalit’s Platoon Welcomed at Ramaz Rachel Huebner’13 and Darien Kauvar ’13 On Tuesday, October 16, after a great deal of planning, Gilad Shalit and his platoon visited Ramaz. Hundreds of students, former students, teachers, and guests gathered in the auditorium of the Upper School for a program that paid tribute to the soldiers and that offered particular support for the soldier who had been held in captivity for five years.

The event consisted of a video of pictures of Shalit, speeches by students, former students, and teachers, followed by a question and answer session with the soldiers.

The assembly concluded with the Ramaz choir singing Libi.

The speeches and questions were vetted by the members of the Israeli Defense Force, and certain rules were put in place, making sure that Shalit and his fellow soldiers were not put under undue stress.

The strict rules created difficulty for the organizers of the morning assembly, but, according to Ms. Benel, the point of the event was simply to make clear the appreciation of the Ramaz community for the sacrifices these men have made, and to acknowledge those students and teachers from Ramaz who had kept vigil for Gilad Shalit during his ordeal.

When Shalit entered the room, the audience was asked to refrain from making loud noise. The group of soldiers was then called up one by one, and took their seats in a semi-circle on the stage.

The assembly tried to find a balance between the requirements of the guests and the

desire from the students to celebrate the presence of Shalit on their stage. Some students felt uneasy during the assembly, but many recognized that simply having the young man whose days in captivity has been counted in the lobby of the school for the past five years was remarkable, and made the ambivalence about the program less significant.

Many of the speeches given by the Ramaz students mentioned the davening students had done in front of the Iranian consulate during the last five years, protesting the imprisonment of Shalit, as well as attempting to raise awareness about his plight.

Some saw the repetition of stories about the effort the students made on Shalit’s behalf somewhat self-serving, but others thought that it was an opportunity to let Shalit know that he had been remembered constantly by our school.

“Were we self promoting?” said Rabbi Slomnicki. “I hear it. But it was well meaning and not selfish.” Gabi Agus ’13 agreed, saying, “Though the speakers from the school focused a lot on the Wednesday prayer vigil, I think that was a good thing. We were informing him about our efforts on his behalf, which how else would he know if we didn’t tell him? Also, that was what we, Ramaz students, did for him, so what else would we tell him?”

Gilad Shalit choose not to speak during the assembly, which did confuse some students. But, many students

realized how little they understand about Shalit’s situation, and were perhaps made more aware of its severity by his silence. As Ms. Benel pointed out, this assembly was unique for the school, and the school had to simply do what the guests thought was best.

Rabbi Schiowitz said that he “could not imagine that anyone would hold anything against Gilad Shalit.” He said, “There are very few people who have sacrificed as much as he has in service of the Jewish People. He deserves nothing but our respect.”

The program at KJ that followed the one at Ramaz focused on the unity of the Jewish people and Rabbi Lookstein stressed to the soldiers that “We would have done what we did for Gilad for any of you. For Asaf, for Moshe, or for Yaakov.

“It was really amazing to have such heroic soldiers in our company, who really just wanted to talk to us and tell us about the challenges that they confront every day,” said Agus. “And obviously it was such a privledge to have Gilad Shalit there, too, not only because we davened for him every week, but because he is one of our brothers.”

On Monday, October 29, Hurricane Sandy, the largest Atlantic Hurricane ever recorded, struck the east coast.

The category two storm, with winds peaking at 110 miles per hour, is calculated to have caused $20 billion worth of damage and destroyed thousands of homes and businesses. More than 8.2 million Americans were left without power, and even a week later, thousands still lacked electricity, heat, internet and cell phone reception, and hot water. As of November 2, 157 lives were claimed by Hurricane Sandy. The Ramaz community was severely affected by this storm, and many homes were flooded.

There was much controversy surrounding Ramaz’s handling of the situation.

Originally, the administration informed students that Ramaz would be following New York Public Schools in deciding when to close school. Despite this announcement, when Mayor Bloomberg announced that public schools would not be open on Thursday and Friday (November 1 and 2), Ramaz informed the school that it was stopping to follow the public schools, and that school would reopen for those two days. This sparked much outrage, and the G.O. assured students via Facebook that Thursday would not be a “regular school day.” Thursday ended up being a day of normal classes, but the administration decided to cancel school for Friday and make it an optional chesed day.

Look out for our November issue with full coverage of Hurricane Sandy, including students’ and faculty’s personal accounts.

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Club Fair: New and Improved Alex Weinberg ’14 Club Fair had undergone a series of changes this year although some were imperceptible to students as they walked around in the auditorium.

The G.O. and its advisor, Mr. Hillel Rapp, were responsible for the smooth running of Club Fair. “This year we wanted Club Fair more organized than it has been in years past,” said Mr. Rapp, “We were more systematic about who was presenting and where they would be doing it.” Part of the reorganization was achieved by the new form that club leaders needed to fill out prior to Club Fair. The club leaders were required to fill out an online form with such information like type of club, meeting day, faculty advisor, and necessary materials for presentation at Club Fair. This information allowed the G.O. to organize Club Fair by the genre of club.

For example, Science and Math extra-curriculars were placed on the far wall of the auditorium so that students interested in those types of clubs could sign up with more convenience. “It was so much easier to find the clubs that I wanted to sign up for this year because they were all in the same place,” said Noah Marlowe ’14. This online trove of information also allowed the administration to get a more accurate picture of which clubs are still active and when they will take place.

Even with the changes, the event was not glitch-free.

Originally, the plan was to get students to sign up online for clubs, using smartphones codes and laptops at the club booths. This would have saved club leaders the laborious task of typing up emails from the handwritten sheets as well as solved any issues with handwriting and data entry.

However, the Wi-Fi was not working during the beginning of 6th period; club leaders and freshmen simply used the standard signup sheets. By the time the Wi-Fi was fixed, it was impractical to switch to computerized signup without confusion. Possible reasons for the initial lack of Wi-Fi were short setup time or the confusion caused by having Teshuvah assemblies on the same day as Club Fair.

The G.O., assisted by David Dellal ’13, is releasing a new website called

Ramazstudents.com in order to help students learn about clubs they want to join and how they can do it. Features will include meeting days for clubs and updates on events going on within the club. The hope is that this new website will allow the students to be more involved in their extracurriculars and that they will be able to learn about other extra-curriculars more easily. “It’s basically a dynamic source where clubs can show what they’re doing. I think there is a lot that goes on at Ramaz behind closed doors because no one takes the time to explore everything that’s really going on. The idea of the site is to get clubs to update the site with photos, blogs, videos, and full newspapers,” said Dellal.

The site also gives students access to keep up with clubs if they miss meetings. “For example in my engineering club for instance, I’ll post instructions, tutorials, schematics, as well as other stuff,” he added.

The site also will be used for making announcements about clubs. “Another benefit is if clubs have special events like guest speakers or trips. Now there can actually be a page to explain it instead of the GO website giving a brief mention of a trip next week and no one actually knowing what’s it about,” said Dellal.

Dellal got the idea for the website from what he found missing in his own clubs.

“I run a few clubs that need centralization and I’ve always seen this as a missing element that has to be fixed in our school.” The G.O. plans to have the website up and running sometime after the open house.

“We plan to continue to make Club Fair a better experience next year too,” said Mr. Rapp. While this year was an “improvement” over last year’s Club Fair, the G.O. plans to improve even more next year. The G.O plans to set up the Club Fair all morning, rather than during 5th period alone. The goal is that the Club Fair will have better communication than in past years, and that every club will have a designated space, hopefully, easing tension and confusion among the clubs.

Mr. Rapp said, “I’d also be really interested in hearing what students think.”

The RamPage News

October 2012/Cheshvan 5773

New Head of School Offers D’var Torah Michal Hubert’ 14 On Friday, September 28, Mr. Shaviv addressed the student body for the first time.

Many returning students felt it was a nice addition to the usual Friday line up. The topic of Mr. Shaviv’s speech was a quote in Parshat Haazinu, “G-d is perfect in His actions” and its relation to the commonly asked philosophical question, “How can there be a good G-d if there is so much evil in the world?”

Several students were impressed by his delivery, including Esti Flamenbaum ‘14 who “loved his focus on the text” and how he “just jumped right into the school year and didn’t give a ‘Hi, I’m new here’ speech”. Other students, including Jonathan Silverman ’14 also approved of Mr. Shaviv’s speech, saying,

“I thought his speech was a pretty good way to introduce himself to Ramaz and become a part of the school.”

So how does our new Head of School like Ramaz?

When asked this question, Mr. Shaviv responded that the transition to Ramaz has been a bit difficult and the schedule is confusing, but the people in the Ramaz community have been extremely friendly.

However, Mr. Shaviv did not fly all the way from Canada to figure out the X-YA-B-C-D schedule rotation; he came to innovate Ramaz.

“I’m bringing a pair of fresh eyes to the school”, remarked the Head of School. One of the changes Mr. Shaviv plans on enacting is “to get the three divisions of the school working more closely together”.

Mr. Shaviv also has decided to shadow a student in the upcoming weeks in order to experience the average day of a Ramaz student and is considering taking his “first test since 1971”.

Two changes that have already come from Mr. Shaviv’s arrival are the teacher nametags and the positioning of his office in the former teachers’ lounge. The Ramaz community seems thrilled to have Mr. Shaviv as Ramaz’s newest addition and has welcomed him, along with his changes, warmly.

The Struggle to Get Into a Yeshiva High School Zimi Sloyer ’14 Despite the fact that there are more options, it seems as if it has gotten more and more difficult to get into Modern Orthodox high schools over the past few years. For whatever reason, the numbers of applicants to schools like Ramaz and SAR has increased, which has led to some students not getting into a Jewish school.

The Jewish Education Project, formerly known as the BJE, is very involved with the admissions process. They

Jewish Education Project are important, issues arise when a student only applies to one Jewish school, and that school, for whatever reason, chooses not to accept them.

Sometimes a student is not the right fit for a certain school, or sometimes the school just doesn’t have room to accept them.

Ramaz, for example, prefers to keep the grades between 100 and 110 kids.

Even though there was a time when the grades were closer

Although the grades at Ramaz, like some other schools, have grown over the past few years, the administration has not changed their acceptance process or expectations at all. The grades are bigger for the same reason it is harder to get in: there are more people applying. According to the new Director of Admissions, Randy Krevat, “Ramaz looks to compile a grade of bright kids that we can offer the best opportunities.”

administer a standardized test, which most Modern Orthodox high schools in the tri-state area require. They also try to make sure every student who wishes to attend a Jewish school gets into one. Once schools have decided which students they will be accepting, The Jewish Education Project calls the schools and tries to make sure there is a place for every student.

While the efforts of the

to 120 kids, there have been renovations on the building since then, and it wouldn’t function as well with larger classes.

In addition to this issue, Ramaz is not the right place for everybody. Aviva Lieber, the Admissions Coordinator, said, “We look for students who can work hard and do extra curricular activities. Its really important to maintain a balance.”

Since there are more students applying, the high school admissions process has become more competitive.

At the same time, however, there are more options. Students should use this to their advantage. The more schools someone applies to, the easier it is for The Jewish Education Project to ensure that they have somewhere to go.

October 2012/Cheshvan 5773

Eddie Mattout ’14 On Wednesday October 3 and Thursday October 4, the GO organized school-wide Chol Hamoed Sukkot trips.

All grades went on the same trips, but on different days.

On Wednesday the freshmen and seniors went on a double decker bus tour of NYC and watched the off-Broadway production of the Blue Man Group. The sophomores and juniors went downtown to bowl. Many students found the trips fun, and believed that the school had an obligation to organize some sort of “fun” activity.

As usual, school began with davening, only during these two days it was extended. “Davening was extraordinary,” said Josh Buksbaum ’15. “I really felt a real sense of community and unity when we all shook the lulav together.” Following services, the students were treated to a long breakfast in the sukkah. “The

Sydney Sarachek’ 14 On Tuesday, November 6, the citizens of the United States voted for who they want to lead our country over the next four years. However, here on 78th street, the students of Ramaz have already picked those who they see best fit to lead their respective grades for the current school year. Were the presidents chosen because they are seen best fit, or are the elections simply a popularity contest?

The major issues in the upcoming presidential elections are taxes, healthcare, employment and foreign policy.

Those clearly aren’t the issues here at Ramaz. Here our biggest issue in voting for a class president is the schedule for final exams. Shabbatons always seem to be the same every year, and missing class for field trips once or twice a year is always fun, but the finals schedules effect a week

Layla Malamut ’14 With the arrival of the new head of school, Mr. Paul Shaviv, it was widely known—to the chagrin of many faculty members—that the teachers’ lounge would be taken over by Mr. Shaviv for his new office. Before the school year began, rumors circulated about the potential whereabouts of the office.

“I think the top two choices were either the eighth floor or even the student lounges

The RamPage News

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Sukkot Trips Stay Local extended breakfast really gave me a time to deep-breathe and it really created a relaxed holiday atmosphere” said Will

Park because then I would have at least been able to see all the other non- Ramaz students.” Many agreed. “I

Fried ’15.

During Sukkot most Yeshiva schools were closed throughout the holiday including Chol Hamoed. “ It’s not fair that I had to spend my day in school while all my out of school friends were having a day off and were truly enjoying the holiday” said Alex Weinberg ’14. “ It would have been better to go to Hershey

really had fun on the trips, but I would have loved to go to Hershey and seen all my camp and non-Ramaz friends” said Sy Elyakim ’16.

When asked about the nature of the trips, Eytan Abergel ’15 said, “The school most certainly had a requirement to take us somewhere on these two days of school.

They might have even had a

responsibility to take us on a full day trip.”

Unlike last year when the entire school went to Hershey Park, this year’s trips were local. “We felt it would be better to have two half day trips rather than one full day trip. It would add a second day of fun and more community-wide opportunities. ” said Joshua Frohlinger ’12, Treasurer of the G.O. “Based on the turnout of 320 students, I think people had a good time.” “ Even though I didn’t love having school on Chol Hamoed the trips were a lot of fun and really kicked off the year well,” said Joseph Cohen ’15.

Based on the Ramaz GO poll, 82% of the school liked the Blue Man Group trip better than bowling. “Even though I’ve seen Blue Man Group four times, it’s great every time,” said Sammy Merkin ’15. Some sophomores and

Elections for Class President:

juniors specifically enjoyed Blue Man Group because of the audience volunteer. “Seeing Ms. Weinstein and Jack Tauber go up on stage really made the experience more enjoyable,” said Joseph Cohen ’15, referring to the two Ramaz members who were chosen to go up on stage.

The highlight for many students was the double decker bus tour of NYC. “I particularly enjoyed the double decker bus tour. Even though I have lived in NYC all my life, it gave me a perspective of I’ve never seen before,” said Cohen.

Some students would have liked to have some input on the decision of the Sukkot trips. “It would have been a nice, communal event if we were able to at least have a vote on the location of the trip” said Will Fried ’15. “Regardless, I had a great time, even though we had school.”

A Look Into How Students Vote

and a half of your school year, two times a year. A good president will make the schedule as easy and convenient as possible.

The elections could easily be seen as a popularity contest. It is common for people to vote for their friends regardless of candidates’ respective ideas. Margo Oshry '15 says the elections are "100% a popularity contest.” She continued by saying, “I don't think anyone even bothers to look at the ideas of each candidate, everyone just looks to see who is their better friend and votes for that person." If this is the case, than the class president elections are flawed.

The class representatives could easily end up being lazy popular kids who ran as a joke and don't care about doing anything beneficial for their grades.

There are students who

disagree and feel that popularity plays no role in the class president elections. Brandon Cohen ’14 says that “the elections are solely about who is best for the grade.” Kelly Sterman, class president, takes a different approach on why she thinks the elections are not a popularity contest which is “the presidents usually end up winning by a difference of a few votes so it can’t be considered a popularity contest because nobody ever really wins by a landslide.”

Two students were asked anonymously who they would vote for in the case that they had a close friend running for president, and another student who wasn’t their friend, but they knew he or she would do a better job. One student responded, “Despite my initial instincts, I would end up voting for the one who wasn't my friend because my friend

would be doing it for all the wrong reasons.” Another student answered, “While I would want to vote for the candidate who is better fit for the position, I view my social life as more important than my academic life, and being popular is very important to me.”

The truth of the matter is that all elections, even presidential elections to some extent, are based on popularity. Many students see the best possible class president as someone who is both sociable and capable of accomplishing a lot. Samantha Adler ’14 said, “You have to have good ideas and be willing to work hard to win, but you also definitely need to be well-liked by your grade.”

Eliza Ezrapour ’13, who has been class president for three years straight shared the same opinion and said, "People are

more inclined to vote for their friends but ultimately people really do vote for who they think will do the best job."

Mr. Hillel Rapp is the faculty member in charge of the class president elections and he explained that every candidate must write a paragraph presenting their platform so that students can vote based on a candidate’s aims for the year., “For the most part students vote for who they think best fill the two positions, not only for their friends. If you look at the people who were elected, they are effective students, students who will work, and who the student body felt would best represent them,” said Mr. Rapp. Mr. Rapp is pleased with how the elections are run with respect to trying to make them a serious matter, and not just voting for your friends.

A Look at the New Teachers’ Lounge themselves,” said Josh Garfunkel ’14. The teachers’ lounge was relocated to room 402 in the library.

Despite all the drama surrounding the move, it may prove to not be so bad. The new lounge has sufficient space, large windows,

and even an excellent drawing

of Dr. Gaylord staring right at you when you enter the room. The window on the door is covered in tape, which provides that familiar aura of privacy and mysteriousness just like in the old lounge.

Although many students were curious about to the relocation, they were not greatly affected by the change.

Flora Lipsky ’15 commented, “Although the abrupt news of the teachers’ lounge being moved was a surprise to all, it only really concerned those who actually had to relocate.

Otherwise, the difference is only that of walking up one extra floor to see teachers. The teachers’ lounge clique is sure to be the same as always.”

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The RamPage Freshman

October 2012/Cheshvan 5773

Freshman Shabbaton Spread

October 2012/Cheshvan 5773

The RamPage Features

Page 5

Praying Next to Hatshepsut Skyler Levine ’15 Two summers ago, there was a fire in Kehilath Jeshurun, and the Shul has not been functional since. For Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur our congregation divided into several services which took placed in varied locations including the RAMAZ Middle school, the High School, the Lower School and, the service which I attended, the Metropolitan Museum of Art. While it was conceptually unique to daven at the Met I had a hard time trying to think of the positives to the situation our community faced, as I missed the comfortable feeling of my old Shul where I had grown up davening and where I felt at home.

The main sanctuary of Kehilath Jeshurun, prior to the fire, was large but didn’t feel huge. The Bimah from which the Chazan prayed, was situated in the center of the synagogue. The women sat in the balcony, surrounding the

men’s section, all equidistant from the Bimah. From any seat in the shul, the women could see the arc where the torah belonged. The auditorium at the Met, although grand and with wonderful acoustics, felt gargantuan, empty and cold. The Bimah was all the way in the front of the room, very far away from the women’s section which was located in the back on the lower level and in the back balcomy. The torah arc was barely visible from the upper balcony where I sat. I felt like a visitor in this large room; I did not feel like I belonged.

As I sat outside Shul during Yizkor, I found myself sitting next to a middle aged man listening to an audio-tour of the museum. We sat side-by-side and I didn’t think much of it until he took off his headphones and in perfect Hebrew with an authentic Hebrew accent asked me if I spoke

Hebrew. I was taken aback but immediately responded in the affirmative. He then asked me in Hebrew, “What are all these people doing here? Are you having Yom Kippur services and if so why here?” I explained to him that our Shul had burned down and the Museum offered to host Yom Kippur services for our congregation. He thought this was a beautiful thing and was clearly touched by the gesture. I then proceeded to invite him into Shul to daven Musaf. After looking down at his jeans, he hesitantly accepted this offer. As I showed him the way to the men’s section, he took off his headphones and donned one of the shul’s kippot. I never saw this man again.

As I look back on my Yom Kippur experience this year, my mind is flooded with emotions. I am most thankful for growing up in a religious home and belonging to a

Freshmen Take Six!

wonderful Shul under extraordinary leadership. I am sad that our community couldn’t pray in our spiritual home but I also understand that some-

home and inconvenienced, maybe this is our opportunity to bring a touch of Judaism to people that would otherwise not have the opportunity. Praying in a seemingly secular environment has enabled me to bring spirituality to one less fortunate.

Thinking about others and helping others find their way- maybe that is a Yom Kippur lesson far more valuable than any other. Out of the vastness of the Metropolitan of Art Gymnasium came an opportunity for closeness with God and warmth that I will always cherish.

times a greater good comes out of tragedy. While we are displaced from our religious

Double Vision

Helena Lustig ’15

Alex Ratzker ’14 Since the start of the school year, the freshmen grade seems to have taken over the sixth floor lounge. Though glad the freshmen have acclimated to school, this occurrence has been met with some discontent from upperclassmen who have lost their regular spots to the newcomers.

Albert Nissim ’14 said, “ I used to look forward to sleeping on six every morning after my bus arrived at school, but now I’m forced to go to four.

I know the lounge is open to everyone but there are just too many ninth-graders on six and it is so loud.“ Sammy Merkin

’15 agreed stating, “It seems as if the entire freshmen grade comes to six in the morning and not just those who have their lockers there.”

This issue continues throughout the day as upperclassmen are seemingly displaced during homeroom as well. Jamie Capell ’14 said “Sometimes I have class on six following homeroom so I go to the lounge before class. However, there were a few times when I decided to just go straight to my class because of the swarms of new students occupying the lounge and the surrounding area.”

Yet the freshmen are happy to have found a place in the school where they feel comfortable. Gabrielle Ratzker ’16 said “Whenever I have free time I go to six because there are always people there to socialize with.” Freshman Rebecca Schwartz ’16 added, “It’s the first place I would go to find my friends or check in throughout the day to see what is going on.”

While it is nice to see the freshmen adjusting to high school and their new environment rather comfortably, please make some room for the rest of us!

This year, the freshmen have six pairs of twins and a set of triplets in their grade.

This is the largest number of twins that Ramaz has ever had in a single grade. One might think, what is it like being a twin entering Ramaz? Rebecca Silverman ’16 said, “everyone always asks me what it feels like to be a twin, but I don’t know how to answer because I’ve never not been a twin”. Elizabeth Ritz ’16 said, “Anabelle and I look nothing alike, so most of our grade still doesn’t know that we are twins. When I show people who my twin is, they think I’m joking”.

When I was a freshman, I had a different experience as a twin. My sister, Julia, and I look very much alike and for a few weeks, some of our classmates did not realize there were two of us- they thought we were the same person. Some people ask me if it is easier being a twin in the same school. I think there are some positives and some

negatives, but I thought I would ask this year’s freshmen twins and triplets what they think. Oren Oppenheim ’16 said, “Since we didn’t know a lot of people coming in, we could rely on each other and help each other out”.

When it comes to schoolwork, some twins like to work together, and others prefer to work on their own. Silverman said, “I like being a twin because when I have trouble with anything like my work or tests my twin brother can help me and he’s really smart”.

Ritz said, “we don’t really do homework or study together because we are in all different classes”.

Throughout high school, it is good to know that there is someone by your side who knows you and can help with anything that may come up. If you do not yet know the twins and triplets in the ninth grade, hopefully in a few months you will get to know them all.

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Saudi Arabian Visitors

The RamPage News

Empty Candy Machines, Empty Calories

continued from page 1 speak to them.

The Saudi Arabians answered numerous questions about Ramaz and Judaism, and how the two existed within Ramaz. Among the other questions asked were “How do you view prayer? How much do you know about Islam?” And, “Are you at this school only because your parents wanted you to, or do you personally want to be in a Jewish school?” The students proceeded to lead the different educators and translators to different classrooms; each group visited both a secular and Judaic studies class.

The guests also met with a select group of faculty members in order to learn even more about the school.

Rabbi Sklarin, who had the chance to speak to them both during his class and during the faculty session with the guests, said, “They were incredibly nice and seemed genuinely interested in learning about our school and how we deal with different issues.

They were especially interested in evolution and how it related to the Judaic studies.”

While few students had the privilege of speaking to our guests, their visit sparked great interest among the student body. Numerous students asked about their visit, their clothes, and what they had to say. Elliot Linder ’13 said, “It was really interesting that they came to our school, especially because we were the only Jewish high school they came to visit, when we live in an area with so many other Jewish high schools.” Andrew Merczynski-Hait ’15 agreed and added “Saudi Arabia is a country where education is highly controlled by the state, and they often teach things that we… might not agree with. I was therefore interested to see how the professors who came felt about seeing a school where we integrate secular and religious studies… It seemed to me that the professors sincerely seemed interested to see how things worked at Ramaz…”

Ultimately, Mr. Shaviv described their visit as “an interesting experience for both us and them.”

October 2012/Cheshvan 5773

Will Fried ’15

After griping for five long weeks about the empty thirdfloor snack machine, students arrived October 11th to find not only that the machine had been filled with candy, but also that their complaints had sparked a broad discussion about the school’s role in making more healthful snacks available in the building.

For those students fortunate enough to eat lunch at or before 6th period, the functioning candy machine may not have been their greatest reason to celebrate, but for those in the sophomore class, in particular, who must wait until 8th period to eat and cannot leave the premises to forage on their own, the newly available source of sustenance has plaints that the administration engendered true jubilation. was not taking appropriate “Finally,” Alex Herschman action, Mr. Miller said, “How can you threaten and get angry ’16 said. “I can’t count the number of times I’ve run at an entire body of students up to three just to find the for the misdoings of what’s machine empty and my stommost likely a single person? ach even emptier.” Edward There are 413 students in the Mattout ’15 agreed: “It’s been school--we’re not going to hard. I get very hungry and punish all of them.”

When asked what would be have had nowhere to get food.

We don’t have time to eat the case if this scandal were to repeat itself once again, Mr. breakfast and by 7th period, I’m not focusing on class, I’m Miller retorted, “If we find just thinking about food.” anything, we will respond to School nurse, Ms. Mosit as seen appropriate. Until kowitz, sympathized with the then, the administration will students’ complaints about continue to do due diligence the lack of snack options and investigate further.” and made it clear that kids

couldn’t be expected to pay attention in class when their stomachs were growling. “It is important to have snack machines in schools…Everyone requires energy to function mentally and physically.”

Health Educator and nutritionist Ms. London agreed and further pressed the point that teens “should eat every three hours at the very least.”

But Ms. London went on to say that a snack machine filled with sugary treats was not the right choice for the school: “It was a bit of a

Pizza “Prank” Redux

Noah David ’14 At the beginning of the school year, a problem from last year reoccurred; on September 20, 80 pies of pizza arrived at the entrance to the Upper School, delivered from a local Italian restaurant.

While it seems that this was considered a prank by the same person or persons that were involved in last year’s prank, the students and the administration generally view the event as not amusing and in fact destructive. Melissa Kaplan ’14 stated that “there is nothing funny about tricking our school and stealing our own parents’ money.”

In response to some com-

Jen Mammon ’14 On Wednesday, October 3, the first day of Chol HaMoed Succot, Ramaz upper school students attended the Friendship Circle Succah Party to meet the Friendship Circle children with special needs.

More than 30 volunteers from all four grades came to enjoy the succah party. Ramaz students were each paired up with a Friendship Circle child for various activities. There were two tables; one with arts and crafts and the other with

shock for me when I arrived at Ramaz to see how much sugar, candy and foods with little to no nutritional value were being offered as snacks, either as part of celebrations or in the vending machines.”

“In an ideal world,” she said, “Fruit would be out for the taking in the building to … make a child's first impulse something healthy.” In taking this view, Ms. London supports the nationwide trend to mandate healthful eating options, especially in schools, as a way to combat obesity and diabetes and limit their mounting societal costs. This

Friendship Circle Sukkah Party edible succot. The arts and crafts included Succot coloring pages and creating Magen David stars out of popsicle sticks to hang in the school succah with ribbon. At the other table the Ramaz students along with their Friendship Circle friends made edible succahs out of graham crackers, marshmallow fluff, pretzel sticks, and sprinkles.

"They were delicious and so fun to make," said Olivia Kaufmann '14. After these

activities, everyone headed to the succah where the Friendship Circle Rabbi, Rabbi Krasniansky, gave a d'var torah and all the Friendship Circle kids got to shake the lulav and etrog. They ate dinner in the succah and then sang songs and danced. "It was a great way to celebrate the holiday," said Zimi Sloyer '14. "The kids were having a great time."

objective is all to familiar to New York City residents where Mayor Michael Bloomberg has made it illegal to sell oversized beverages in the city as his contribution to establishing a healthier populace.

When asked whether the school would support Ms. London’s recommendation to make fruit available throughout the day, either for free or for a cost, the dean of the school, Mr. Miller, said he would introduce the idea at the next faculty meeting.

He suggested forming a committee with Ms. London, Ms. Moskowitz and students “to put healthier options in the snack machines and possibly institute the fruit initiative.”

Several students, however, shrugged off any nutritional concerns. “I care more about doing well on a 7th period test than worrying about what I’m putting into my mouth,” Eli Lewis ’15 said.

Ms. London sympathized with students. “Without education, it’s rare a teen would choose a bag of carrots over M&Ms.” But she was not willing to accept that striving for good nutrition is a lost cause that should not be pursued. “It is a bit disconcerting to think we are teaching and modeling a superior academic level of excellence through education, yet this basic life skill of making healthy food choices, is barely being addressed and poorly modeled.”

October 2012/Cheshvan 5773

The RamPage News

Page 7-

New (and improved?)

Sophomore Mincha Routine Michal Palagi ’16 and Isabella Korchnoy’ 16 In order for sophomore daily Tefillah to reach a higher level of meaning, the davening teachers, Ms. Krupka and Rabbi Schiowitz, decided to come up with some new ideas in order to enhance everyday routine. A davening committee was formed to be take part in the process. One idea from Ms. Krupka and Rabbi Schiowitz was to assign a student a day to prepare an insightful and personal few words during the few spare minutes prior to mincha. The students could speak about anything from what davening means to them to something they heard or read about that they found meaningful. “At it's core, Tefillah is an experience of reflection. To begin Tefillah with a student sharing a reflection with her or his friends seems to be an appropriate way to prepare for

Tefillah,” said Rabbi Schiowitz. “So far the students have been responsive to the idea.

It's future success will depend on what the students make of it.”

The reaction from the students was mixed.

Some students, such as Julia Lustig ’15 felt that the idea would be beneficial to students. “If taken seriously, it can really have a positive

effect on students and bring something new to everyday davening,” said Lustig. Other

students like Jeremy David ’15 agreed with Lustig and added, “This can really push

No Hershey Park Trip?

Skyler Levine ’14 At the beginning of this year, word spread about the new Succot trips that the G.O. planned for Chol Hamoed, and some students questioned why the school was not attending Hershey Park. While many assume that the usual activity for Chol Hamoed is to go to Hershey Park, according to Mr. Miller, it has never really been a Ramaz tradition. Over the past ten years, Ramaz has experimented with different plans for Chol Hamoed Succot ranging from no school, to Hershey Park, to many other activities. The administration was even surprised when the G.O. approached them two years ago and told them that the G.O. wanted to plan a trip to Hershey park.

Regardless of whether Hershey Park is a Ramaz tradition or not, some students were upset that Ramaz was not going this year. Students enjoyed getting together with many different Jewish schools and shuls in the area for a day of rollercoaster fun. Zoe Schreiber ’15 said “I love the spirit in Hershey Park on Succot.” Students will miss the ruach of the Jewish people celebrating the chag together in an interesting way.

Some of the current sophomores also felt that the lack of a Hershey Park trip was a missed opportunity for the freshman to bond. Some felt that it was a great time in the

year to really get to know their classmates during school hours, but in a non-school, pressure free, environment.

Sally Klapper ‘15 said, “I got close with all my best friends in Hershey Park and I feel bad that the freshman will not have the same opportunity I had.”

While many were enthusiastic about last year’s trip, some were not. Last year, the G.O. had to convince and push people to sign up for the trip. Even though a decent number of students eventually signed up for the trip, there were many who did not come the day of the trip. President Nina Rohr ’13 said, “The attendance was always pretty bad for Hershey Park. Since it was a whole day trip, there was rarely a great turnout.

So we decided we had to try something different - that's why we went with having class in the morning and then going on the trip. In that case, the trips had to be more local.” She also said that the administration never really liked the Hershey Park idea.

While many enjoy Hershey Park there were many concerns with it. The planning requires great effort on the part of the administration, the cost is considerable, the turnout poor, and the concern for the safety of the student body weighs on the minds of the faculty. There are also some students who do not like

roller coasters. Gabi Stemp ‘15 said, “Last year, I felt like I had to go to Hershey Park to be social, but I was bored all day with nothing to do.” If you do not like rollercoasters, Hershey Park feels like a tiresome waste of a day.

This year the G.O. again came to the administration with a new idea for the Chol Hamoed outing. Some were excited that this year’s trip consisted of two half day activities rather than one full day trip. Stephanie Felder ’14 said, “The trips were much more enjoyable and a lot less exhausting when they were spread out.” The half day trips were less draining then the full day trip to Hershey Park.

Mr. Miller said, “This year’s trip was well attended and overall contained a very positive feeling.”

The administration and the G.O. do not always agree on issues and sometimes find themselves in direct conflict. In this circumstance, not everyone was happy with Hershey Park, so the G.O. successfully worked with the administration to create an alternative.

us to take a better look at ourselves and try to improve.”

There were students who took their assignments seriously, however there were many others who did not. Some students seemed anxious to begin Mincha and a little uninterested and other students really seemed to want to hear what their friends were saying.

Some sophomores feel that the few extra minutes they get from their busy schedule

can be used otherwise. “I’d rather use the time to study, take a break or go to my locker,” said Victoria Spero ’15 , “It’s not fair to take away our only spare minutes.” Some students, like Spero, want the extra time to get a snack or drink, get their books for the last couple of classes, or simply just relax.

Furthermore, every student has an overwhelming amount of work and would rather not have an additional assignment. “It was stressful for me because I was thinking about it the whole day,” said Aliza Hornblass ’15, who spoke about Gilad Shalit. “I didn’t really know what I was going to say and speaking in front of the whole grade made me a little nervous.”

New Clubs

Daniel Eidman ’14

Along with a new crop of Freshmen and a new Head of School, Ramaz is abuzz welcoming its highly anticipated new co-curricular clubs. Two of the new clubs are the Real Estate Club, run by Simon Jemal ’14, and the City Culture Club, headed

by James Austin Weiss ’14.

Both club leaders were gracious enough to free up some time from their hectic schedules and give me some facetime, where we discussed what makes their clubs unique and worthwhile.

While speaking with Weiss, he mentioned that the main purpose of the New York City Culture Club is that, “Everyone should have the opportunity to experience all the culture, the city we go to school in, has to offer.” Benjamin Prince ’16 said, “I wouldn’t want to miss out on the great trips this club takes like the hip kosher eatery, Sacred Chow, The Frick Museum, the MOMA and the Statue of Liberty.” Weiss also came up with a great and helpful idea of creating a culture group on Facebook. Now all of the members of the club

are able to share their experiences instantly. Co-founder Nathan Tauber ’14 said, “If Saba’s Pizza is your idea of a hip Manhattan culinary experience, you may need to drop in on the City Culture Club meeting.”

Simon Jemal’s Real Estate Club is focused on real estate in New York City. The group plans to tackle diverse issues such as the next Manhattan hot spot, whether it’s Spanish Harlem or the massive undertaking of Hudson Yards.

Simon and Co-founder Eddie Menaged ’14 are trying to reel in a few guest speakers including Marc Holliday and Joe Chetrit to give advice on how to be successful in the jungle of Manhattan real estate.

The school administration is always encouraging and permissive when it comes to new club interests. Speaking to the founders of these new clubs confirmed the school spirit that permeates the building.

Page 8

The RamPage Arts & Tech

October 2012/Cheshvan 5773

Don’t Count It Out: Review of Apple’s iPhone 5 Akiva Gold ’15 and Matthew Levy ’15 After the long anticipated its new phone is speed--somewait, Apple customers finally thing which the iPhone had received the coveted iPhone been lacking. Apple updated 5. On September 21, Apple the iPhone 5’s cellular servicreleased the longer, lighter, es, as well as its WiFi capabilthinner and smarter iPhone 5 ities. Apple ditched the old 3G that included a more useful network, and gave the iPhone Siri, a better camera, and the 5 LTE capabilities, giving controversial Apple Maps. users faster on-the-go wireThis major update to the two- less. This allows for faster year-old iPhone design gave uploading and downloading Apple customers a phone that while not on WiFi, as well as could finally compete with faster browsing speeds. Emily the ever-improving Android Sinensky ’16 said that she felt Smartphones. her phone is “really fast...and The Smartphone market much nicer.” Apple also gave has been rolling out larger the iPhone an update to its phones for almost two years, WiFi services, offering users but, remaining loyal to its the same speed perks they original design, Apple had have on LTE on WiFi. Apple refused to enlarge the iPhone did an impressive job speeduntil this update. Finally ing up the iPhone, an area Apple updated their model, in which it had major issues allowing the iPhone to join keeping up with the market. other models at the top of Among the many updates the Smartphone class. Apple given to the iPhone 5, one added half an inch of height to minor update that pushes the the phone and gave the iPhone iPhone 5 forward is the abil5 a clearer and more colorful ity to take Panorama photos. display. The iPhone 5 is also iPhone users are now able to 20% slimmer, weighing only choose a setting in the camera 3.5 ounces. These improveapp which allows them to take ments excited many new own- landscape photos. Then, they ers, like Becky Cohen ’16. simply move the iPhone left “There were a lot of different to right, and the phone imthings that were on the iPhone mediately creates a landscape 5 that were better than [they view of the photo. In a few were on] the 4S,” she said, “it simple seconds, the photoghas better quality and it’s a rapher is left with a stunning little taller and thinner.” photo almost twice the size of Another update Apple gave a normal photo.

Another small update is a smarter Siri. Siri is the personal assistant function on the iPhone, but on previous iPhone models, Siri was limited to sending text messages and finding local stores. On the iPhone 5, Apple widened Siri’s abilities; users can now ask Siri to write an email, post to Facebook, and even jot down a note. Also, with a simple prompt, Siri can inform you about last night’s sporting events, or your favorite sports players statistics. This is another area in which Apple was definitely lacking but took a giant step forward.

But not everything Apple did moved forward with the new release. With the release of the iPhone 5, Apple unveiled a new Maps application, and a new charge connector. Due to the fact that Google has become a competitor with Apple, Apple created their own mapping system, and replaced the old Google Maps with their own faulty Apple Maps. Immediately after the release of the new Maps, stories came out about the system’s flaws. People complained that directions were not always perfect, and that Apple Maps left out many areas in the map. Apple CEO Tim Cook acknowledged the error, and apologized for the

inconvenience. Sadly, only time will tell if Apple can get on track with their new maps.

The other controversial update to the iPhone 5 was its new dock connector. Since the release of the original iPhone, the iPhone has used a large 30-Pin connector on the bottom of the phone. This connector is already almost six years old, and decades behind the new connectors of Android phones. So Apple announced that with the iPhone 5 would come the “Lightning Connector”. This connector is half the size of the 30-Pin Connector, and brings the iPhone back up to speed with its counterparts on the Android market. Sadly, many people felt that this update to the connector left all old Apple charging devices useless, and made the iPhone 5 un-compatible with old iPhone models. This was a dangerous move by Apple, as it angered many customers, and in an ever evolving market, this may cause Apple to lose.

When asked if they would switch over to the iPhone 5 if given the opportunity, stu-

dents’ answers varied. Elliot Linder ’13 immediately said no, because he feels that “for the amount of money and Android costs, I would have more features.” Other students agreed. On the other hand, Jacob Berman ’16 felt that there were enough features on the iPhone 5, and that he would switch to the iPhone 5.

Although not everything that changed in the new iPhone is the best, the iPhone 5 is still one of the top phones on the market. Apple reported that they sold over five million units in the opening weekend alone, a figure that can not be discounted.

Buying a new phone truly depends on what the buyer himself wants. Whether the buyer wants to upgrade their phone every year, or hold on to it for an extended period of time, or what features they feel are necessities is truly their choice. But when you are shopping for your new Smartphone, don’t count out the iPhone5.

was with Sam. As the plot progresses, Charlie, once a friendless outcast, greatly impacts his clan of caring, thoughtful friends; and for the first time in his life, he feels that he has an important place in other peoples’ lives and in the entire world.

Most movies nowadays, such as Easy A, 21 Jump Street and Mean Girls illustrate teen life far different from the lives that we actually live. Logan Lerman, Ezra Miller and Emma Watson do an excellent job of evoking real, genuine emotion in their roles, adding depth to their characters, and not just playing the clichéd high school teen movie character.

This enabled me to relate to the character's lives as a high school student. The movie reminded me of my first days of high school. While looking at the exterior view of Charlie, one may think he is a weird, messed-up outsider; however, the movie allows the viewer to see well beyond Charlie's

quirkiness, and I found myself comparing Charlie's experiences to my own on some level.

Charlie came into high school unable to live up to his brother's legendary reputation.

While my older brother Jake Sarachek '12 was no football legend, or basketball star in the Yeshiva league case, I stood in his shadow, which was pretty big. The summer before I started high school, my brother, while on a summer program in Spain was hit by a car and seriously injured.

Jake's accident shadowed me everywhere I went in my first days at Ramaz. "How's your brother doing, is he ok, when is he coming back," people would ask. Similar to Charlie, who in the beginning is just known as the outcast, who sits alone at lunch with no identity of his own, I was just Jake's sister, answering questions about his health.

But, as my time went on at Ramaz, I made amazing, caring friends, and found

my own place as part of the school, just as Charlie found his. What I found so captivating in The Perks of Being a Wallflower was far beyond Charlie's incredible journey as an individual, but rather the effect the movie had on me.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is worth the $14 because you walk out feeling hopeful. I can honestly say it is one of the best movies I have seen in a very long time. I don't even have to tell people to read the book before seeing the movie, which is usually the case, because the movie was so emotional.

It did what most mindless movies in our day and age fail to do: it connected with the viewer. I went home after the movie not only having recognized Charlie's journey in finding himself, but also grasping my own ongoing journey in becoming who I am today.

The Perks of Going to See The Perks of Being a Wallflower Sydney Sarachek ’14 Unlike what movie directors have done with Harry Potter, The Hunger Games and Twilight, Stephen Chbosky, author of The Perks of Being a Wallflower did not expurgate much of the adored book in his movie. The plot is about a teenager Charlie (Logan Lerman) who is shy, introverted and unpopular. As the plot progresses, Charlie's journey is a typical comingof-age story. He finds friends who for the first time in his life understand him, and in the midst of this, he finds himself as well.

The movie begins with Charlie beginning high school. He is pressured to fill some pretty big shoes as his brother just graduated high school and was the starting quarterback for the football team and now plays for Penn State. Charlie's older sister (Nina Dobrev) is a senior and a straight-A student. On top of that, Charlie lost his only friend to suicide, and is dealing with his own mental-

health issues. While Charlie starts off school sitting at lunch alone and counting down the days until high school is over, soon enough, he finds the courage to introduce himself to Patrick (Ezra Miller), a witty misfit in his shop class. Patrick and his stepsister, Sam (Emma Watson) take Charlie under their wing and introduce him to the joys of friendship; house parties, Secret Santa gift exchanges and some pretty terrific music.

Patrick and Sam are nonconformists. Right away, it is obvious that Charlie is attracted to Sam, even though she has a college boyfriend.

Sam is protective, loving and always looking out for Charlie. Patrick and Sam introduce Charlie to their group of friends, who Sam refers to as "the Island of Misfit Toys."

Charlie meets the opinionated Mary Elizabeth (Mae Whitman) and at one point in the film, reluctantly dates her, while truly wishing he

October 2012/Cheshvan 5773

Fall T.V. Premieres

The RamPage Arts

Page 9

“Cruel Summer” Album Review Zev Prince ’14

Sydney Sarachek ’14 With the return of the school year comes the return of many of our favorite television shows. Welcome back Revenge: Last year Revenge added a lot of excitement to our Wednesday nights, and hopefully this year the show will do the same as it moves to Sunday night. Everyone is back in the Hamptons ready for another thrilling summer season. Last season ended with a plane crash and a pill overdose, and this season picked up on the excitement right away. In Season Two, Emily and Nolan, the dynamic duo, are back and better than ever. Emily discovers that her mother is alive, and Nolan, who sold his house because of the bad memories in it from Season 1 becomes Emily's new roommate. Daniel and Ashley are together and Charlotte traded her luxurious

“Revenge,” “90210,” “Gossip Girl,” and many more. We missed you all.

90210: Welcome back to Beverly Hills, 90210. Last season ended with a major car crash involving Dixon, but to no surprise it turns out that he is—but just barely. Debbie Wilson is back in the picture!

Everyone was distraught over Dixon's accident, as Adrianna rushed back from Las Vegas before a major show to sit by her ex-boyfriend's bedside. Unfortunately, Vanessa is sticking around to make

Liam's life miserable, and he tries to sell his bar to pay her off. To no one’s surprise, Naomi is up to no good and she and Max drove off from Max's wedding and ended up in jail. Lastly, Teddy agreed to be the father of Silver's baby.

A lot happened in the opening episode, but nothing too exciting; looks like it's going to be another season of classic Beverly Hill's drama.

Gossip Girl: Hello and Goodbye Gossip Girl. It's the beginning of the end for all of us Gossip Girl fans. The crew gathered together in its last premiere with one goal: finding Serena who had been missing all summer. Serena, who was ultimately found in upstate New York, brought her new boyfriend back to the Upper East Side. The premiere set up each of the gang's individual story lines for rest of the final season.

Chuck and Blair are not back together; they both claim that they have other things to deal with before they can make

time for each other. Nate seems to be developing a relationship with a younger girl, but the question is, how much younger is she? Dan turned to Georgina for help with his new novel, and however critical Dan may be of his fellow Upper East Side socialites, at this point, his hands are just as dirty as theirs. Everyone get ready for one final season with our favorite Upper East Siders, and hopefully this last season will bring what we have all been waiting for: finding out who Gossip Girl is. Xoxo

room for a room in rehab. Her Doctor isn't helping her much as he turns on to be on Conrad's payroll in order to keep her in rehab until Conrad can get full control of her inheritance. And most excitingly, Victoria is alive! She is working with the "White-Haired Man," which means she can't be up to anything good. The Porter's also have their own problems as the Stowaway is shut down and Jack is the father of Amanda's baby. This overwhelming episode lays down the foundation for Season Two. The main question is: will the search for Emily's mother help her retain her humanity, or will it push her into becoming a cold-hearted villain like her enemies?

Many people credit Kanye West with the new album “Cruel Summer,” but those who make that claim are terribly mistaken. “Cruel Summer” is a compilation by Kanye West’s record label G.O.O.D. Music, and features many other artists besides West. The artists of G.O.O.D. Music span from talented rappers like Big Sean or Pusha-T, and producers such as No I.D. and Hit-Boy, to incredibly talented singers like Teyana Taylor, KiD CuDi, and John Legend. With a wide range of talent on one label, G.O.O.D. Music’s “Cruel Summer” proved to be a much expected hit. The album encompasses many of the biggest hip-hop hits over the last couple of months. Whether you like the track “Mercy” or not, sometime throughout your day you would find yourself murmuring the infectious, yet ignorant, lyrics: “Lamborghini Mercy… I’m in that two seat Lambo.” If “Mercy” did not do it for you, I can guarantee that you related to the song “I Don’t Like,” which simply lists things that, Chicago rapper, Chief Keef does not like.

“I don’t like” was an immediate hit on the radio and in the homes of all. Some who did not like the original lyrics added their own. I once heard Brandon Cohen ’14 rap the following version: “No elevators after mincha, that’s that stuff I don’t like. No Friday cookies that’s that stuff I don’t like. Treifa cupcakes that’s that stuff I don’t like.” Possibly the biggest rap record of the year, “Clique,” featuring Jay-Z, appeared on Cruel. All three of these records contain hooks that will get stuck in your head for weeks. If rap is not your cup of tea, fear

not because in addition to hip-hop, there are a number of glass shattering singing ballads that also appear on Cruel Summer. Newly signed Teyana Taylor makes her G.O.O.D. Music debut on this album and she kicks it off by having a duet with a legendary R&B figure, John Legend.

The two artists team up for a modern Romeo and Juliet tale, otherwise known as “Bliss.” Although underrated, this song features a combination of two of the greatest voices in R&B today, which makes “Bliss” such a facemelting ballad. While there are people who are not fans of neither Hip-Hop nor R&B, there is, simply put, nobody who does not like R. Kelly.

We see a dynamic duo with two of the most controversial artists of this era, as Kanye West and R. Kelly collaborate to make one of the most intricately produced tracks on this album: “To The World.” On this track, West shows us one of his most musically diverse productions. However, even though Yeezy (Kanye West) seems to have immortality on the musical composure front, he shows weakness with his lack of lyrical content and his relatively un-complex rhyme schemes. These negative anecdotes would normally connote either an appalling song, or a track which goes unnoticed by the masses. However, the R. Kelly featured song was another hit for Cruel Summer. The song’s success can be broken up into three main factors: the supremacy that an incredible voice with perfectly hit notes carries, an example of “Star Power” at its finest with two incredibly famous artists (who each have incredibly large individual

fan bases) teaming up on one song, and the creative rhythm behind the vocals.

The final ingredient of Cruel Intentions is “Creepers,” produced by Dan Black. At first glance, “Creepers” may appear to be just another piece on the Cruel Summer record, however, true fans realize that this song is the end of a cult leader’s long hiatus from his craft. Mr. Solo Dolo is back.

If you do not know who this is by the preceding name, I am talking about Kid Cudi. Ever since his last album, “Man On The Moon II: The Legend Of Mr. Rager,” Scott Mescudi has been absent from the rap game. Sure he dabbled in alternative rock, but this is the first time we see CuDi back at his thang. For Kid CuDi fans, this song resembles the final stretch until the release of his third solo album, Indicud.

“Creepers” is a profound element of “Cruel Summer” and of all of the tracks, it carries the most artistic talent and creativeness.

No matter who appears on this album, or whether the record is officially under the imprint of G.O.O.D. Music or not, at the end of the day nobody can take full credit of this album but one man: “The Louis Vuitton Don” Kanye West. While Mr. West scarcely appears on the record, his creative vision is evident all over “Cruel Summer.” Whether it is the lyrics, the beats, or even the album cover, everyone can find something to love about “Cruel Summer.”

From start to finish, “Cruel Summer” is an enjoyable listen that you will not get sick of for a long time.

Page 12

The RamPage Opinions & News

Wait, There’s School Today?

Esti Flamenbaum ’14

Don’t crucify me for saying this, but we really should have started school a week earlier this year. We also shouldn’t have had school the day after Rosh Hashanah, and possibly not after Yom Kippur, either.

The holidays broke up the beginning of the school year too much for us to really get acclimated to our classes.

Two weeks of normal school, before the holidays started, would have been extremely useful. That would have allowed us to have each day in the schedule rotation at least once, and as a normal day, not a Rosh Chodesh schedule.

Speaking to some of my classmates before the bell rang on the Wednesday morning after Sukkot ended, much of the talk was about when an assignment for another class was due, and whether the information been e-mailed to us- we weren’t sure. Some of us hadn’t had that subject since before Sukkot started.

“It’s too disruptive. We should either have school or not,” said Dan Korff-Korn

’14. And I believe that to a great extent, he’s right. I know the school just tried its best, that we needed to get in some school even with all the holidays, but having school so broken up seemed more detrimental than helpful. It’s hard to learn much when you are not sure when you will have that class next.

This was extra hard for the freshmen, who don’t yet know how classes at Ramaz work.

“It was really crazy,” Becky Cohen ’16 said, “to have to learn something and then not have school for a lot of days, and then have to remember it.”

Most students would probably agree that we shouldn’t have had school on Chol Hamoed. As Brandon Cohen ’14 said, “it messes up the teachers’ schedules and everything.”

But some thought the crazy schedule wasn’t that bad. As Dr. Koplon said, “It’s been a good way to ease into the school year.” Some students, such as Sivan Aharon ’14,

agreed, saying “The days go by more quickly.” Others had some reservations. “I like that the periods were shorter,” said Abby Spilky ’14, “but it’s harder in between classes.”

There wasn’t much else that could be done, I know.

As Dr. Stone said about the choppy schedule, “It was disruptive, but the reality is that unless you are willing to allow no intersession, or having school go late into June, there’s little choice. We have no control over the Jewish holidays or when they fall out.”

I’m not saying the solution is simple, or that it would make everyone happy. It is true that we need to have school before October. However, it is also true that having our school days as broken up as they were this year made retaining what we learned difficult. There was much disagreement about our school schedule this year, but what I hope everyone can agree on is that we need new ideas.

October 2012/Cheshvan 5773

Where There’s Smoke, There’s…Nothing?

Esti Flamembaum ’14 According to New York State Education Law, schools must have a minimum of twelve fire drills a year, at least eight of which must occur before December. Last year, Ramaz had its first fire drill in January and had few afterwards.

In past years, Ramaz has managed to have fire drills earlier in the year. When asked about last year’s lack of fire drills, Mr. Miller said, “That’s true. We didn’t have enough fire drills last year.” nd wasn’t folowed by futher drills.

Last year’s first fire drill was chaotic, with students of all grades intermingling.

This was the antithesis of the school evacuation two years ago, when the Ramaz student body managed to leave the building in a timely manner and make it all the way to the Middle School during an emergency..

A lack of fire drills is, of course, a hazard, especially

to the students who don’t know the school very well yet. “We definitely should have more, because it teaches students how to escape the building safely, especially the freshmen, who don’t know the building that well,” said Brandon Cohen ’14. At last year’s first fire drill, it was the freshmen that were the most confused about where to go.

The older students at least had previous experience on which to draw. The fact that schools are even required to have twelve fire drills a year, just goes to show how vital they are to our safety. They are not something that should be ignored or forgotten about.

It is currently too early in the school year to tell whether or not this year will be similar to last year in regard to fire drills. As the administration is aware of New York’s laws regarding fire drills, though, last year will likely prove to be a fluke.

Lower School Construction Proceeds Apace Darien Kauvar ’13 As part of the rebuilding of KJ and the Lower School of Ramaz, due to the fire that severely damaged the building a year ago, additional floors are being added to the building in an effort to not just rebuild, but, as Rabbi Lookstein said, to “turn a catastrophe into an opportunity.”

Mr. Shaviv, the Head of School, described the twofloor addition as a “minor addition, and an opportunity to improve the facility.” New classrooms are being added, as well as a new gym. The new gym will be a double floor gym, and in the same space, there will be a designated area for Early Child-

hood. However, new classrooms and a new gym are not the only changes.

The current lunchroom will become a series of classrooms. The social hall, chapel, and library are going to be combined to replace the old lunchroom, as well as the social hall. The new lunchroom and social hall will have more space, including a space for children to be served where they eat--something that the Lower School did not have before the fire. In addition, the chapel and library are going to be moved to the old gym.

Due to the construction of two new additional floors, it is also expected that the Lower

School will look to expand their class size. Mr. Rochlin, Director of Institutional Advancement, said, “There are going to be enough new classrooms for an extra class for each grade from Kindergarten through Fourth Grade.”

Over time, the school will look to take in an extra “60 to 100 students.”

While Ramaz was looking to both rebuild and improve, the school was very “aware of the financial costs when planning the construction,” said Mr. Rochlin. There was “no need” for more than two floors, and, he said, “for the two floors alone, there was a lot of money to raise for

the construction costs.” Both Mr. Rochlin and Mr. Shaviv emphasized that Ramaz was looking to build only what was “needed.”

However, the construction has not gone completely without problems. It is rumored that the tenants of the apartments in the neighboring buildings, whose views will now be blocked, are quite frustrated. However, Mr. Shaviv said, “there is no such things as construction without neighborly concern… but it is only a two floor addition.” He also said that, “the construction is in complete compliance with all city and state regulations.”

Mr. Rochlin said, “We are only looking to build what will be conducive to everyone; we are our own neighbors.” In response to the rumors, Mr. Rochlin said, “the building next door, 111 E. 85th street, has asked numerous questions about our construction, including if and how our construction can affect their building, because we are reinforcing the foundation of the building.”

The projected completion date for all construction is September 2014.

Not Enough Food?

Zimi Sloyer ’14 At the beginning of this school year, students were told they could only eat lunch once. This is because the lunchroom is more crowded than it has ever been. Ramaz has 431 students, its highest enrollment in many years. In addition to the influx of students, the lunchroom is also serving the Ramaz business office, which is now located near the upper school.

The administration felt the need to bring up the issue

of eating lunch only once, partially because there are more people eating in the lunchroom this year, but also because of an issue from previous years. Many times, a student who has 8th period lunch will run down to the lunchroom between earlier classes to get a quick lunch.

The administration feels that this is rude to the students who wait on line, and also to the teachers whose classes people are missing in order to

get lunch. Rabbi Stochel said, “Cutting lines in order to get food in between classes presents two problems. One is the basic interpersonal expectation of menschlichkeit to wait one’s turn on line. The second is more logistical - it will be difficult to arrive in class on time. In addition, if a student has a free during a lunch period, he or she should wait until those who are assigned to that lunch period have had a chance to take food.”

Even if a student isn’t skipping lunch and has a free, there is still an ethical issue.

Students pay a certain amount for the lunch program, which allows them to eat one lunch per day. Technically they are not entitled to a second lunch, so the administration argues that it is unethical for students to eat two lunches.

However, students have never been told that they couldn’t get a second helping of food at lunch. When asked what

the difference is between eating two lunches and getting a second helping of food, Rabbi Stochel answered, “If you eat twice during one lunch period you will eat more modestly.” .

October 2012/Cheshvan 5773

Great Expectations: Volleyball Style Kelly Sterman ’14 The pressure is on for both the girls’ varsity and junior varsity volleyball teams as they begin their 2012-2013 seasons. Last year both teams won their championships in a convenient double header. To Coach Kohn, the news could not get better. But the big question remains, will both teams live up to the hype this year?

Each team beat the somewhat undefeated last year. The JV team beat an undefeated in the regular season, SAR, while the varsity team beat Frisch, who had won the previous five championships.

“Volleyball is not just a skillbased sport, its mental,” remarked Coach Kohn. “We’ve been training our girls not just in the physical sense but in the mental one as well. They are all extremely aggressive and up to any challenge,” she elaborated.

The team is known for its competitive edge and chemistry. Newbie Natalie Dicker ’16 said, “Everyone seems really nice. I’m confident that we’ll do great in the season

since everyone works so well together.” Most of the players have a strong passion for playing the sport. Margo Oshry ’15 said, “I can’t wait for the season so we can repeat our victory this year!”

A change in the team’s practice times has brought added pressure to the squad.

“The shortened practices are definitely going to affect how well we can play,” remarked Mia Shoshany ’14, “but I’m sure that we will pull through; we did it last year.” To make up for lost time, the team has been practicing during unconventional time slots. It now practices on both Sunday and Friday afternoons. However, virtually none of the players seem nervous or anxious.

Captain Ezrapour remains especially confident. “Volleyball is a mental sport, if you get nervous you won’t play as well,” she said. “We need to win, and therefore we will.

We have the most determination, the most aggression, the proper skills and the best technique out of all the teams in the league.”

JV Boys’ Basketball Preview

Yale Buchwald ’15 The boys’ Junior Varsity basketball team is heading into this season with many new players and new coach to lead the team.

Eight players from last year’s JV team are on the varsity team this year. While the loss of experienced players might appear to weaken the JV team, many are happy with the team this year. “I like our team this year,” said Avi Goldman ’15. “We have a great bunch of guys and I think we will win many games.” Others, such as Jack Tauber ’15 agreed, saying, “the people last year had a lot of talent, but I believe this year we will play as a team and come out on top.” Tauber also said, “rebounding is our strongest quality. If we perfect this we will win.”

Another quality of the team is its strength on the frontcourt. “There is good depth this year, especially at the big-man position,” said Adam Bandler '15. Bandler also said that they have a “strong team on the backcourt with Sammy Merkin and Jack Tauber.”

With the important skill of rebounding, along with a solid front and backcourt, the team

poses a large threat to the other JV teams in the Yeshiva league.

Last year, the JV boys lost to their rival, Frisch, in the final game of the regular season. Frisch has proved itself to be a huge rival to the sports teams at Ramaz. Frisch’s greatest advantage against the JV team, some such as Tauber think was, “running the fast break well.”

A new head coach, Joe Schwartz, along with returning assistant coach, Eric Moerdler, will lead the JV boys.

One possible explanation for a new head coach this season might be due to fact that the “results of last season were disappointing,” said Sammy Merkin ’15. Jack Tauber’s first impressions of the new head coach come across as very positive. “Coach Schwartz is a great guy and knows a lot about the game,” said Tauber. “I believe he will lead us to a very successful season.”

The JV boys' appear to have a promising season ahead of them.

They won their first game against Kushner by over 40 points at home on October 25.

The RamPage Arts

Page 13

To Play JV or Varsity: Now That is the Question

Andrew Lobel ’15 Michael Jordan tried out for his high school varsity basketball team as a sophomore…and didn’t make it. Yet he used his time on the junior varsity (JV) team to hone his skills and become one of the greatest basketball players ever. Top sophomore athletes at Ramaz face a similar quandary: should they play on their JV team or try out for Varsity?

The convention at Ramaz is that freshmen and sophomores participate in JV tryouts, while juniors, seniors and only select sophomores participate in Varsity tryouts.

This differs from some New York high schools, where there is one tryout and coaches pick the best players for Varsity, and the next best for JV, without regard to the student’s class year. Coach Dulny does not favor such a system for Ramaz: “We do not want freshmen on Varsity. Ramaz is a school first, then a sports team. It is just too much to ask freshmen to deal with the transition from middle school academically, and the commitment required to play Varsity.”

But Ramaz, like the other high schools in the Yeshiva League, does permit exceptional sophomores to try out for its Varsity Basketball and Hockey teams. According to Jamie Lassner, Coach of the Ramaz JV Boys Hockey Team, “If the Varsity coach and athletic director feel that a sophomore is physically able and sufficiently talented to be an asset to the team, then the student should be afforded the opportunity to play Varsity, provided that sophomore remains a stellar student and mensch.” This approach puts talented sophomore studentathletes in a quandary: are they better off starting JV, or making Varsity but risking more time on the bench?

Many sophomores at Ramaz choose to play JV, even if they have the talent to make Varsity. As the

top player on a JV team, a talented sophomore enjoys maximum playing time and a greater opportunity to improve due to increased time on the court. Ben Charles ’13, for example, had the opportunity to try out for the Varsity Basketball team as a sophomore, but chose JV. He said, “I didn't play varsity because after speaking with Coach Dulny, I thought it was a good idea for me to stay on JV and

grow as a player. I think the way to grow as a player is by playing a lot in practice and in games. I also stayed back because I wanted to grow as a leader. Being one of the oldest on the team, I wanted to help the new freshmen adjust from middle school basketball to high school basketball.” As Charles points out, sophomores who are skilled enough to make Varsity typically become captains of their JV teams. Heading JV enables these players to acquire valuable experience leading, helping and inspiring their teammates—lifelong skills that are definitely as valuable as a good jump shot or hard slap shot. In a similar vein, shining as a JV team starter builds confidence, a character trait that in the long run is as important as athletic skill.

But other student-athletes subscribe to the Talmudic philosophy that it is “better to be the tail of the lion than the head of the fox” (Pirkei Avot 4:20). In their view, despite reduced playing time and the smaller chance of

starting in games, playing Varsity with stronger players offers the better opportunity for improvement. This year, Rachel Aboodi ’15 was given the opportunity to play Varsity Basketball as a sophomore and seized it. As she explains, “Coach Dulny gave me the opportunity to try out, and I decided I should take it because playing with older and more advanced players can only help me improve and become a better player.” Joe Baruch ’14, who played on the Varsity Hockey team as a sophomore, agrees: “It was beneficial for me to play against more advanced competition. I also had a great time with the upperclassmen on the team, and that added to my experience.”

Coach Dulny stresses that he does not ask a sophomore to try out without the intention of giving them ample playing time if they make the Varsity team. These students are generally “aggressive and mentally tough.” But playing up as a sophomore is not without its risks. As Coach Dulny points out, sophomores “can get pushed around, the upperclassmen aren’t always too thrilled to have younger kids taking away their playing time, and it’s a huge jump from JV.” Hannah Klapper ’13, who made the choice to play Varsity basketball as a sophomore, has no regrets and would advise other sophomores who have the opportunity to go for it. She feels that “playing with older and better players improved my skills.

If you make Varsity, you will get at least some playing time which will really help you develop.”

Top sophomore athletes definitely have a lot to consider when deciding between JV and Varsity. But whatever their ultimate decision, they should all heed Michael Jordan’s sage advice: “Don’t be afraid to fail; be afraid not to try!”

Page 14

Boys’ Varsity Basketball Ready to Ram Opponents Brad Waldstreicher ’14 The Boys’ Varsity Basketball Team is looking to rebound this upcoming season after a quarterfinal loss at the hands of last year’s champions, Frisch. The team believes it will be a championship contender this season, as it consists of a unique mix of talent, speed and height. Last year, the team had a record of 21-6.

Many credited this to Daniel Berg ’14, Jamie Cappell ’14, and Natan Tauber’14.

Coach Dulny said, “I think playing in varsity last year is really going to give these three juniors the confidence to play at a very high level this season. They’ll definitely have an advantage over all other Yeshiva League juniors because they know how quick and strong you have to be to play varsity.”

According to JewishHoopsAmerica.com, last year’s team ranked 9th nationwide, receiving 183 votes overall. This year, the website has them ranked #6 in preseason polls, behind the likes of North Shore, DRS, MTA, Frisch, and Magen David.

Jamie Cappell ’14, who was

The RamPage Sports

October 2012/Cheshvan 5773

Girls’ Varsity Basketball Places Second at Tournament

Sydney Sarachek’ 14

Girls’ varsity basketball didn't mean there was one less team was tired and there are played in its first games with a player to be shooting baskets definitely excuses they could awarded Underclassman of pre-season tournament begin- and running back and forth on make about with went wrong the year and third team honors ning Thursday, October 18 in the court, but the girls still felt in Saturday night's game, she nationally, thinks that the the Five Towns, and ending disadvantaged by not havadded, "We have to move Rams’ biggest challenge this Saturday night October 20. ing their coach leading them. forward and learn from our season will be “Playing as a Last year, Ramaz took first Even though the team was past experience, especially team instead of as individuplace in a neck and neck game coached Saturday night by with our real season starting." als.” versus Haftr. This year Ramaz their former JV coaches Kayla Mr. Dulny does not think that The Rams have been lost to Haftr and took second and Jon Moerdler, not seeing his (or Aboodi’s) absence had practicing constantly since the place in the tournament. The Mr. Dulny on the sidelines any significant effect on the end of summer, and this hard final score was Haftr, 42, definitely made the team a final score. He said, "I think work combined with a strong Ramaz, 33. The team was at little anxious. "It was our first the fact that we were the only home crowd should allow a slight disadvantage Saturbig game of the season and team to play two games on them to have a very successday night; they were missing not having Mr. Dulny there Friday had us very tired. We ful season. Matthew Gross their starting shooting guard, had to have an affect because also have to play more like a ’14, an enthusiastic fan, said, Rachel Aboodi '15, who was he's our coach,” said Nina team and not one on one."

“I think they have more poat a family simcha and their Leibowitz ’13. “Not hearing All in all, the tournament tential this year than last year coach, Mr. Dulny, who was his voice to make sure we as a was still a great chance for even though they lost a great out sick. team stayed focus and played the team to see how they big man in Josh Wildes. As Maayanot, Central, Haftr our best made a difference.” play together in real games. far as expectations go, I think and Ramaz are the four Mr. Dulny has been leading Lauren Wildes '14 emphathey have the talent to win schools who competed in the team’s practices all year, sized that it was a "pre-season it all, but they need to learn the tournament. In Ramaz’s and even throughout his contournament" and added that to play together and have game against Haftr, the team stant yelling and screaming the team "definitely needs to consistent team chemistry. Of was roughly 10 points behind during the games, the players work on things but at least course, Ramaz fans are a huge throughout the entire game. feel a sense of encouragement we had these games to realize key to winning and I can’t be The team missed Mr. Dulseeing him on the sidelines what we needed to improve the only one going to road ny's shouting at them from the that they did not feel Saturday before the regular season games… Just kidding.” sidelines, and Rachel Aboodi night. actually begins." Leibowitz In their first preseason at shooting guard. Aboodi Ramaz was the only team built on Wildes's analysis of game, the Rams blew out rival started in the three games the that had to play two games the tournament; "We came in Flatbush by 40 points. Acteam played on Thursday and instead of one on Friday second place and that's okay. cording to Coach Dulny, the Friday (Ramaz won all three). before Shabbat started, which It was a preseason tournateam’s defense was spectacuHannah Klapper '13 started was very tiring for the team. ment and we got four practice lar and was a main factor in as shooting guard in Saturday Aboodi said, "I was very tired games out of it. Thanks to the the blowout win. night's game. Aboodi said, Saturday night and I didn't tournament hopefully we will "It helps to have three point even have to play in the final come out really strong at our guards [herself, Alex Ratzker game. I assume that my team- first game." Ally Goldstein '13 '14 and Klapper] so we can mates were also exhausted said, "We need to get the ball sub and not get tired but the and as a result, they got easinside more" after realizing team only had two Saturday ily discouraged early in the one of the team’s weaknesses night, and that didn't help." game." While Ratzker agreed in the tournament.

The absence of Mr. Dulny with Aboodi and said that the not, SAR, and Flatbush, our coach has us doing numerous drills and swimming countless laps,” said Issever. Stephanie Felder ’14, another co-captain, said, “We put in a lot of effort and try to support and cheer each other on regardless of our varying skill levels and swimming capabilities.”

“Swim Team is a great Editors-in-Chief opportunity to hang out with Jon Herman Opinions Editor your friends while doing Jeremy Hoffman Rachel Kahtan something that you enjoy,” Rachel Huebner said Lauren Gross ‘15. Newcomer Eliana Doft ’16 said, Arts Editor “Swim Team was a unique Associate Editor Celia Eydeland opportunity for me to meet Darien Kauvar new people who share some Photography of my own interests.”

“It was really incredible to ONLINE Editor Editors see how much people imRaffi Snow Sarah Myers proved from the beginning of Gil Refael last year until the end of the year. Though we are now a Copy Editor competitive team our ultimate Nina Rohr Faculty Advisor goal is to facilitate constant Dr. Steven Milowitz improvement and growth in News Editor the sport. It will be interesting to see what happens this Jonathan Koptyev year,” Issever concluded.

Swim Team Kicks Off Alex Ratzker ’14 Last year Esther Malka Issever ’14 and Sydney Sarachek ’14 founded the Ramaz Girls’ Swim Club. This year, the Swim Club has become a team with plans to compete against Jewish high schools in the surrounding area. Led by their four junior captains and their coach, Jodi Roberts, the swim team hopes to become an important component of Ramaz’s athletic life.

“Some people are unaware of the existence of swim team because our practices are not held in school. But we swim on a weekly basis on Thursday nights from 5:30 to 7:00,” said co-captain Samantha Adler ’14. Sarachek added, “We have about ten girls on the team now, but we would love to spread the word and have a few more students join.”

The team is working hard in order to be ready for their upcoming meets. “In preparation for our tentative competitions against Frisch, Maaya-

The RamPage Editorial Staff