Poetry slam returns to Flatbush
By Lyla Ashkenazie Sophomore Editor
The Poetry Slam team has returned to Flatbush after several years, under the leadership of English teacher Ms. Erani, who serves as the faculty advisor of the Poetry Club.
Participants from Flatbush went to SAR to compete in a Poetry Slam against four other yeshivot (SAR, Berman, Bi-Cultural, and Ma’ayanot) on November 13. For Poetry Slam competitions, participating students write two types of poems in advance and then perform them in front of a panel of judges at the competition. At SAR, the required poems were the Waltmarie and the free verse. The Waltmarie is a poem that requires the poet to write ten lines of poetry, with lines as short as two syllables.
poets from other schools and was able to compliment their work.
Extra time tests moving to house next door
By Sylvia Saad Editor-in-Chief
The Flatbush-owned house next door to the school on East 17th Street has been converted into an extra time testing area and a potential Bet Midrash, Rabbi Beyda said. After undergoing minimal, “lowcost” renovations, the house is ready for testing and will be in use soon.
Ms. Erani guided Flatbush’s Poetry Slam competitors before and throughout the competition.
Flatbush junior Francine Massry won the award for best free verse poem for her work called “How the Mighty Fall.” It took Massry one day to write the poem, “after realizing that I still had not written anything,” she commented.
She joined the team because of her love for language and poetry, and her belief that “a poem is not truly complete if it is not shared with others.” Massry said that she loved the competition because she was able to get to know a lot of the
Team leader and sophomore Barbara Namer said that she joined the club because she has “an interest in English literature and performing so this opportunity was a perfect way to connect those two interests.” Her favorite part of the competition was getting to hear the works from the other members participating.
Poetry Slam meant a lot to Ms. Erani when she was a student at Flatbush. “When I joined the poetry slam club, led by my teacher Ms. Robinson at the time, it was one of the few places I felt empowered to actually express all the thoughts, ideas, and metaphors swirling around in my head,” she said.
Ms. Robinson moved to Israel 10 years ago (she lives in Chicago now), and the club had not been run consistently since then. Ms. Erani decided to bring
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There are additional plans to utilize the space for Bet Midrash learning, but who exactly will learn there is unclear at this time, Rabbi Beyda explained. The home was originally purchased by Flatbush without a specific short-term plan for use. When the house came up for sale, school leadership considered the purchase a wise strategic move, as there will likely be need for expansion in the decades to come.
The house’s lighting, paint, walls, and flooring were fixed in preparation for its usage for test-taking. The construction began earlier this year and was completed soon after.
Extra time testing is currently held in the Laniado Gym, as well as the tent and the old nurse's office. Some students do not mind the current situation. “It’s not cramped or anything. It’s not bad to me,” senior Tunie Terzi commented.
Others, however, find the testing locations' distance from the main classrooms
inconvenient. “It takes me so long to get there, since it’s all the way across the building,” senior Frieda Novick said. “It’s also always very noisy, with people coming in and out at all times.”
While the new testing house may resolve some noise issues, it could still face criticism for being similarly isolated.
The home’s other use, as a Midrash, is an exciting new addition to the school’s religious spaces. “Flatbush has so many religious opportunities, in and out of the classroom, so I am looking forward to seeing how they use this new Midrash,” senior Heywood Chalom shared. The potential for a different environment to learn and grow in is a unique chance for all students.
Behind the scenes of Professional Development
By Jaclyn Lazerowitz
Contributing Writer
Students usually know when the faculty has Professional Development, because it often means a late start or early dismissal. But what does it mean for teachers? What happens when teachers are in school without students?
A school isn’t just a place for students to learn—it’s a community where teachers also must evolve. Professional Development days are essential to fostering growth for educators themselves. During Professional Development days, teachers are encouraged to partake in a number of activities to help take their teaching tactics to the next level. From learning in classrooms to acting out scenarios on the auditorium stage, teachers have the freedom
to choose their sessions and integrate the highlight of their sessions into their classrooms, enhancing the learning environment not only for them, but for their students as well.
Ms. Esther Hidary, who organizes the PD program, said that there are many opportunities for teachers to share experiences or learn how to improve their practice in the classroom through Professional Development. By way of their frequent meetings with department chairs, other peers, or their personal coaches, teachers are able to grow and expand their skill sets.
These two coaches, Elisheva Zeffren and Judith Talesnick, are outside personnel, both of whom focus on the minute details that form the bigger picture at YOF. Each of the coaches, as well as all faculty members, take part in a three-step PD day. They first begin with an assembly in which principals share information with the staff. Then they attend group sessions called Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), and after, they attend teaching workshops to exercise different innovative ways to connect with students.
Ms. Hidary shared a few new projects, includ-
ing Lifnai Ve’lifnim, a program that teaches educators how to engage in productive conversation with students in the classroom.
“At YOF, we believe in a growth-oriented mindset,” Ms. Hidary explained. “We don’t have to be perfect teachers from day one but we are constantly trying to learn from other teachers, staff members, and peers, how to pursue excellence in our craft.” She said that these meetings help teachers gain excellent practice in conversation, connection, and communication.
“A playful classroom is a more memorable and productive one,” Ms. Sally Shatzkes expanded. Ms. Shatzkes, chair of the Arts Department, offered insight into the PLC she puts together for other teachers every PD day. She likes to keep things
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A Student Publication of the Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School •
Ms. Erani (right) and the Flatbush poets
The house is renovted and ready
Ms. Zeffren is a PD coach
AGREE TO DISAGREE
Spend this summer at camp
By Raquel Gindi
Features Editor
Summer camp is the best place for a student to spend their summer break. Whether as a camp counselor or traveling to somewhere like Israel, summer camp can help you build leadership skills while having fun. After high school, it doesn’t really make sense to go away or work as a counselor because it may not be offered, so now is really your only chance!
There are so many options, such as being a camp counselor at camps like Camp David, Camp Allsport and Ultimate Sports Camp, which are all located in the Ocean Township area of New Jersey. Another option could be going away to Israel or the West Coast, as there are programs offered by ILead, Sephardic Community Center Travel, and so many more.
I worked in Camp David for the past two years, and plan to work there again this upcoming summer. I have been a counselor for both young and older ages, which are very different, but can be fun in
their own way. As a first grade counselor, I was scared that I would get bored and annoyed by the kids, but in the end, I had the most incredible time and formed connections that one wouldn’t be able to do in an internship. I also had a similar experience with seventh grade kids.
If you feel like being a counselor isn’t your type of thing, you can go on a travel program. Senior Sylvia Habert went on ILead, which is an adventurous, survival-themed program based in Israel. “We went on crazy hikes so often and it was a rough trip, but it’s really one of the best experiences I ever had and I wish I could go back because I learned so much from it,” she said.
Programs and counselor opportunities are only available for a limited time until you have to start actually doing internships and getting jobs, so there is no better time but now to do this and have unique, fun experiences that will also build leadership skills and contribute to personal growth.
Your Year Wrapped
By Caroline Palacci
Entertainment Editor
A familiar flurry of colorful graphics floods social media every December, sparking nostalgia, conversation, and memes. This much-anticipated annual feature doesn’t just recap listening habits but actually reimagines our year in music as personalized, interactive storytelling. From top songs and artists to total minutes listened, Spotify Wrapped turns data into stories that give users a time capsule of their year in music. So, what does Wrapped look like this year?
Since its start in 2016, Spotify Wrapped has brought more interactive new features. This year, Spotify has introduced an AI podcast summarizing users’ listening history and adding commentary from its AI DJ, making the recap feel more dynamic and personalized. Enhanced playlist customization and social-sharing options also make this year’s Wrapped visually engaging and especially easy to share with friends.
Last year, the app introduced the Sound Town feature that matches users with a city based on their favorite artists, and the Me in 2023 assigned unique listening personalities, from “Alchemists” who craft endless playlists to “Shapeshifters” with more eclectic and broad tastes. The new updates this year have been much anticipated by fans. “It’s exciting how they switch it up every year,” said se-
nior Susie Masri, “and everything felt even more personal this year, which was great to see.”
With new features rolling in each year, Flatbush students who answered a Phoenix poll felt divided as to which was their favorite, yet it can be agreed that artists’ videos are a classic favorite.
“The most exciting feature for me?” said senior Louise Sutton. “It has to be the artist videos.” It is easy to see why. With social media on the rise in the past few years, fans have gotten used to personal interactions with their favorite celebrities, who are engaging more with their fan base than ever before.
Beloved artists like SZA and Taylor Swift released videos to their fans, saying that they are grateful for the support that granted them a successful year. SZA expressed appreciation: “This year was all about you, and I can’t thank you enough.” Similarly, Swift thanked her loyal Swifties, attributing the year’s magic to their support, remarking, “You’ve made my 2024 unforgettable.”
This interaction helps build a sort of real relationship between artists and their fans, an attribute unique to Spotify.
Spotify Wrapped is more than a list of statistics; it’s a celebration of music’s role in our lives. It connects personal moments for individuals and within communities, making it the perfect conversation starter for any music fan.
By Samantha Ryba Editor-in-Chief
We spend the entire school year working exceptionally hard, so obviously we deserve a summer vacation to compensate for all of that stress. So, why should you spend your high school summers outside of summer camp? Well, my answer is in regard to our futures.
We are still in our youth, which is a period of time we should be completely taking advantage of. We have not yet declared our majors, nor devoted our lives to a specific field, which is exactly why we should be spending that time exploring the possibilities without the workload of school.
These summers can mark pivotal moments in our lives, especially for anyone that hopes to have a successful college experience. Spending your summer immersed in programs that increase skill development, expose you to a network of professionals, and boost your resume can be extremely beneficial and gratifying.
A wise soul once shared some advice with me. She said, “You’re going to have to work really hard in your life at some point; you can do that either when you’re young, or you can push it off until you’re older, unmotivated, and already committed to a job that you potentially don’t enjoy.”
Editors-in-Chief: Samantha Ryba, Sylvia Saad
School News Editors: Galiette Mita, Nina Tawil
Religion Editor: Katie Hidary
World News Editor: Victor Shemia
Features Editor: Raquel Gindi
Entertainment Editors: Leah Katash, Caroline Palacci
Fashion Editors: Irene Cohen, Rachael Kopylov
Fun & Games Editor: Margaux Lincer
Sports Editor: Colette Chehova
Business Editor: Emily Tarrab
Photography Editor: Bobbi Salama
By Galiette Mita School News Editor
In 2023, Mr. Ben Shushan made the bold decision to leave his family and hometown in Israel and fly across the world to become a teacher in the United States.
Mr. Ben Shushan has been a teacher for more than a decade, spending most of it teaching civics in Israeli public schools. However, after nine years of nothing but wonderful experiences in Israel, Mr. Ben Shushan began to crave “something different”—something that was new, exciting and fresh.
It was then that he signed up to be a shaliach for the World Zionist Organization (WZO). The WZO sends hundreds of teachers around the world with the goal of bringing modern Hebrew and Israeli culture to Jewish students in the Diaspora. As a shaliach, Mr. Ben Shushan left Israel alone for Brooklyn where he then immediately began a job as a Hebrew teacher in a public school called Hebrew Language Academy. Now in America, the new experience caught him by surprise. The school
Junior Editors: Elliot Cohen, Salomon Dayan, Yvette Dweck, Lili Hanan, Emme Nidam, Olivia Shamah, Olivia Shamayeva
Sophomore Editors: Lyla Ashkenazie, Shlomo Lahav, Sylvia Mizrahi
Design: Carolina Cohen
Faculty Adviser: Adam Hofstetter
I think this perfectly summarizes why summers should be spent anywhere other than a day-camp environment.
A lot of students fear that they won’t experience the fun and social aspect of summer if they spend their time in different internship programs. However, with the right balance, it is completely achievable to be involved in an internship while still hanging out with friends and doing fun summer activities.
Seniors Michelle Saadia and Katie Louzia, who participated in the highly competitive Women in Science program at Maimonides Medical Center, agreed that they had plenty of time to hang out with their friends, and make new friends, while on the program. “The program is only during the week. You have the entire weekend to socialize and have that regular summer experience while still exploring your interest,” Louiza said.
“Once you find that balance between work and friends, you no longer have those worries about missing out,” Michelle added.
These accounts clearly explain why spending your summer immersed in a program can help you develop your resume and interests while still maintaining friendships and enjoying a much needed break from school.
Get an internship this summer Faculty Freshman: Mr. Guy Ben Shushan
culture was far different than what he was used to in Israel. “In Israel, there are a lot more trips,” he said, “hiking, overnights, sleeping in tents. Over here [America], it’s mainly about studies.” A year later, he joined the Yeshivah of Flatbush team.
However scary his new journey in the States might have appeared, Mr. Ben Shushan is no stranger to thrilling adventures. Outside of teaching, he is an avid traveler, having visited over 40 countries and many US states. He particularly enjoys traveling to Australia and Japan. He also partakes in hiking trips in upstate New York.
Mr. Ben Shushan’s favorite part about teaching at YOF is the bonding he is able to do with students outside of the classroom. He enjoys bumping into students in the hallway and answering their questions about Israeli culture and the current war. “It’s very nice that students want to know about Israel. I can feel the deep connection present within the students in the Yeshivah to Israel,” he remarked.
High School Administration
Rabbi Joseph Beyda, Head of School
Ms. Esther Hidary, Associate Principal
Rabbi Yigal Sklarin, Associate Principal
Dr. Michael Atlas, Associate Principal
Rabbi David Galpert, Assistant Principal
The Phoenix Staff
Tisch becomes first Orthodox Jewish woman to lead the NYPD
By Victor Shemia World News Editor
Jessica Tisch was sworn in as New York City’s new police commissioner on November 25, becoming the first Orthodox Jewish woman in the NYPD’s 179-year history to do so. While proudly wearing a Star of David necklace, she spoke before the public about anticipating an exciting future while also commending the current efforts made by the department.
What made her speech noteworthy to any Jew watching was her use of Hebrew. When bringing up the tragedy of a fallen officer, Rich Wong, she mentioned the concept of saying “Mi Sheberach” for him. Near the end of her speech, she alluded to her Judaism once more by mentioning the idea of Tikkun Olam, and explaining that the bravery of the officers works toward a greater purpose, ultimately serving a Tikkun Olam.
Tisch has never served as a police officer. Mayor Eric Adams addressed public concerns over this issue by praising Tisch’s work ethic and record of innovation.
Her academic achievements include three college degrees, all of them from Harvard University, including from their business and law school. Along with this, Tisch has an extensive history in serving the city through different positions, with nearly 17 years under her belt. Most recently, she served as commissioner of the city’s Sanitation Department.
Her ties to the NYPD first began in 2008, when she joined as a counterterrorism analyst. From there, she moved
further up the ranks and her leadership influenced many positive changes in the department’s efficiency and security.
Many aspects of the police force were changed for the better, including 911 call quality improvements and filing crime reports. The most notable of these developments was her technological implementations in security. Innovations such as body cams on all on-duty officers, along with better surveillance with Domain Awareness Systems on city streets, were two of the many advancements under her leadership.
She was selected as commissioner of various departments, beginning with the New York City Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications (DoITT) under Mayor Deblasio in 2019. What she is best known for, however, is her efforts under Mayor Adams as the commissioner of the department of DSNY. In just the short span from 2022 until present, she has accomplished more than most, by spearheading the successful “Trash Revolution” of the city.
Tisch has achieved all of this while proudly upholding her Jewish heritage. Not only is she an observant Jew in her personal life, but an expressive one in her line of work. Coming from the Tisch family, which is renowned for its philanthropy, she is no stranger to helping others, driven by strong Jewish values. This was evident in the speech she gave at her ceremony, when she not only rightfully acknowledged the valiant efforts of the NYPD, but also tied in Jewish concepts as well.
Poetry Slam returns to Flatbush
continued from front page
the club back to Flatbush to empower her own students, because she feels strongly that, “it’s important for current YOF students to have that same opportunity—to be empowered to courageously share their voices and perspectives with others through writing, but also to feel inspired by their talented peers and acquaintances doing the same.”
Poetry Slam is recommended by all
participants, including Massry, who says the competition is especially gratifying for introverted and shy students, “because it builds so many public speaking skills and it allows you to be vulnerable in a safe space, which is so healthy and is such a rare opportunity to have, she added. “I believe in taking those kinds of opportunities when they represent themselves.”
Behind the scenes of Professional Development
continued from front page
lively and fun, and suggests that, “all material is playful.” For her PLC, she brings in theater games and ensemble practices that engage faculty members, promoting blind reliability and teamwork. She shared that her PLC is all about infusing the classroom with theater, and how theater itself functions to create structure and community.
Professional development day also gives educators the opportunity to build a supportive network. Teachers interact with other teachers and faculty members, some of whom they’ve never met or don’t see very often. This serves as an opportunity not just for conversation, but also for collaboration and learning from one another.
Ms. Savdie, a teacher of Judaic Studies, explained that PD helps the faculty at YOF feel like a team, not just isolated professionals. She said she enjoys “interactive activities with peers and getting to know faculty better,” and that PD offers “more interactivity … to connect with colleagues outside the classroom.”
At its best, PD has a direct impact on the classroom and on the teachers themselves. Ms. Shulman, the chair of the Mathematics Department, said, “Our November PD day also included sessions about Rabbi Raymond Harari ZT”L and his contributions to leadership and education.” These sessions ranged from the practical to the general; for example, Rabbi Beyda led a session about Rabbi Harari’s use of the whiteboard, and Ms. Winkler, chair of the Hebrew Department, invited a few of the Rabbi’s former students to speak about him on behalf of his last class and their experiences with him as a teacher.
Professional Development day here at Flatbush is a morning or afternoon off for the student body, but it’s a day full of activities and teamwork for the teachers. They enjoy sessions and act like an ensemble while learning better ways to engage their students when they walk into the classroom every morning.
Science in English
Caffeine gum: A chewable energy boost?
By Ralph Bakst Contributing Writer
Most people know that the typical American starts their day by grabbing a cup of coffee. The warmth, the taste, the comforting familiarity–and of course the caffeine–make it a staple in daily routines. Some go for a second or third cup later in the day for an extra boost of energy, while others choose tea or energy drinks.
Despite different tastes and preferences, one thing is common: caffeine enters the body through drinking, passing through the digestive system, and getting absorbed into the bloodstream.
But what if there was a more convenient and portable way to consume caffeine? Enter the growing trend of caffeine gum.
In 2019, a company called Neuro
pitched its caffeinated gum on Shark Tank. While the founders walked away without a deal, the product has since gained traction, especially with endorsements from figures like Joe Rogan on The Joe Rogan Experience
This raises an interesting question: Is caffeine gum an innovative breakthrough, or just another passing trend?
Caffeine works by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain, which delays fatigue and enhances alertness.
One study found that participants who consumed caffeine performed better in memory recall and processed information more quickly compared to those who didn’t. Another study linked moderate caffeine consumption with improved problem-solving accuracy and fewer mistakes.
When consumed in coffee or tea, caffeine is absorbed through the stom-
ach and small intestine, reaching peak levels in the bloodstream within 30 to 60 minutes. This process depends on digestion, which means the effects are more gradual.
However, caffeine gum operates differently. When chewing the gum, caffeine is absorbed directly through the tissue in the mouth, entering the bloodstream faster. This offers a quicker energy boost—ideal for situations where waiting for digestion might not be practical. While some caffeine is still processed through the digestive system, the sublingual absorption makes gum a unique, fast-acting alternative.
Despite its benefits, caffeine gum isn’t without downsides. Its portability could lead to overuse, especially since each piece contains a concentrated dose of caffeine. Side effects like jitteriness, headaches, or even dependence can oc-
cur if consumed excessively. Additionally, the long-term effects of using caffeine gum are still not well understood.
Caffeine gum presents an intriguing alternative to traditional beverages. Its quick absorption and portability make it especially appealing for students or professionals who need a quick energy boost on the go. But it’s important to weigh the potential risks, including the chance of overconsumption and limited research on long-term effects.
As alternatives like caffeine gum continue to gain popularity, they prompt questions about the future of caffeine consumption. Will it replace the classic coffee mug, or simply carve out its own niche in the energy market? Only time will tell.
By Daniela Friedman Contributing Writer
D’var Torah: What dreams may come
By Michael Salzman Contributing Writer
In Parashat Vayeshev, we are introduced to Yosef’s ability to interpret dreams. The parasha begins with Yosef retelling the dreams of him dominating over his brothers and his brothers bowing down to him. From this moment, we are able to see that Gd is with Yosef and he is destined for greatness. The Torah emphasizes this idea in its strategic ending to the parasha
At this point, Yosef is in jail because of Potiphar’s wife’s accusations of assault against him. In prison, Yosef meets two interesting individuals. One is the king’s baker (
and another is his winemaster (
. Both of these men have dreams they wish to have interpreted, deciphered, and understood. Little do they know they have been placed in a confined cell with someone that can do exactly that.
The
goes first, sharing that he dreamt of a vine with three branches that blossomed and ripened into clusters of ripe grapes. He took these grapes and pressed them into Pharaoh’s cup. Yosef interprets this to mean that soon the םיִקְִשְׁׂ�
be re- i leased from prison and will be back to working for Pharaoh.
The baker then asks for his interpretation of an unsettling dream: he was standing in the middle of a field with birds eating food off the top of his head. Seeing that Yosef has interpreted favor-
Alum in Israel: Elisha Kahan
By Asher Melamed Contributing Writer
Elisha Kahan’s presence in school has been missed since he graduated last year. Kahan is currently spending a gap year in Israel, studying at Yeshivat Har Etzion, or “Gush,” a top yeshiva in Gush Etzion for serious students.
Kahan always wanted to study in Israel because the year offers the opportunity for him to learn Torah, improve his tefilah, and make him a more committed Jew in all aspects. Additionally, he believes that since he will be attending a secular college, he has “to come well equipped.” A sturdy Jewish foundation helps students preserve their Judaism through college. Kahan also knows that this time spent in Israel “carries into the rest of your life,” specifically, “how you’re going to learn and what you’re able to learn.”
He chose Gush because he “definitely wanted to be in an environment with Israelis,” and Gush is a Hesder Yeshiva, so it has many Israelis who plan to learn and
ably for the
, the
expects the same for himself. However, he receives the opposite. Yosef interprets his dream to mean that he will soon be hanged by Pharaoh in a field while birds eat food off of his dead body.
We all know this story. It is taught from a young age and is ingrained in our minds. However, there is a deeper meaning to the interpretation of םיפֹאָֹהָ’s
ream. This interpretation high- d lights the courage of Yosef. He could tell the םיפאָֹהָ
what he wanted to hear— that he’ll be reinstated by Pharaoh, back to his normal life, just like the ־רֽׂשַׂ
However Yosef believes in th e truth—in honesty. For all Yosef knows, his interpretation can falsely lead the
to fear his death and to kill Yosef. However, Yosef has full faith in Hashem, and says what is the right thing to be said. While it may not be what the
wants to hear, it is certainly the right thing.
This idea is integral for all individuals to understand, but even more so for teenagers. In life, there will always be times when we fear telling the truth. We fear the consequences it may bring and other events that we don’t desire. We look to blame others instead of taking responsibility. However, like Yosef, it is important to speak the truth and to do what is right even if it may not be what people want to hear. Who knows, one day the decision to be truthful could turn out to be a life-saving moment.
serve in the IDF. “I think it would be a little more of a detached experience if you didn’t have the chance to interact with Israelis if you’re in Israel,” Kahan added. He also plans on making Aliyah one day, so he wants to get a taste of living with Israelis and immerse himself in Israeli culture. Additionally, Rabbi Avi Harari and Dr. Wolowelsky strongly recommended he go to Gush, and Kahan values their opinions.
A typical day at Gush is intense and filled with learning. Kahan wakes up at 6:30 a.m. and prays Shacharit at 6:55. He begins his days learning with a shiur from 8:35 till 10:15 on Gemara Massechet Gittin taught by Rabbi Friedman. “Even though Rav Friedman has a large shiur, I feel like there’s definitely a personal connection with every Talmid.” For the rest of the day, Kahan attends different shiurim and has the privilege of learning many different topics in chevruta.
At 7:15 p.m., the afternoon learning concludes, and the students pray Arbit. Finally, Kahan goes to the night learning from 8:15 to 11:00. During this time, he
learns Gemara Massechet Gittin with his boger, or older chevruta
The students at Gush are very diverse. “There’re kids from everywhere,” Kahan said. They hail mainly from New York, New Jersey, and California, the United Kingdom and Australia. Moreover, “there’s a very wide range of the Gemara learning skills of the kids who learn at the Yeshivah.” Nonetheless, Kahan remarked that there’s a sense of unity under a common purpose at Gush: “We all come here to learn.” Specifically, Kahan said the students are very serious and truly learn lishmah, for the sake of learning. This environment fosters a strong sense of community.
Kahan has had an easy experience making friends at Gush. One reason for
this is that “the kids are very nice,” as he simply put it. Additionally, “you’re forced to make friends when you’re in the process of making chevrutas.” Furthermore, there are many opportunities such as Shabbat meals to connect with other students. Gush is positively impacting Kahan in many ways: “You have plenty of opportunities to work on all aspects of being an Eved Hashem, which is really what the goal of yeshiva is: it’s not just to learn how to learn; it’s to grow in your Avodat Hashem.”
He believes that, for many students, spending just one year in a yeshivah in Israel can greatly help Torah become an integral part of their lives, and he is very content with how it has contributed to his own growth and connection to Judaism.
Business
What’s up on Wall Street?
By Baruch Elmann and Emily Tarrab
This past month, Donald Trump’s election victory immediately shifted market behavior in response to his proposed economic policies.
Highlights:
• Banking stocks soared:
• Trump promised to cut the corporate tax rate from 21% to 15% and reduce economic regulations, aiming to ease the burden on businesses and increase their profits.
• Goldman Sachs grew 17.6%, JPMorgan rose 12%, and Wells Fargo is up 18.1%.
• Tesla stock climbed an astonishing 47%:
• Trump’s highly publicized symbiotic relationship with Musk during his campaign led investors to sense growth potential for Tesla under the new GOP.
• Tesla’s market cap pushed over $1 trillion.
• The cryptocurrency market shot up 40%:
• Trump has promised to turn the US into “the crypto capital of the planet.”
• He also plans to remove the current Securities and Exchange Commission chair, Gary Gensler, who has cracked down on the cryptocurrency industry by
suing many companies for fraud and collecting billions of dollars in fines.
• Lowlights:
• Renewable energy stocks plummeted:
• Enphase Energy dropped 14% and Sunnova Energy dropped a steep 17.9%.
• Investors are concerned that the market will struggle, as Trump plans to reverse the Inflation Reduction Act, which lowers the costs of energy-saving and solar technologies.
• Domestic retail stocks tied to foreign products declined:
• Five Below dropped 9%.
• Trump’s plans to increase tariffs on China will impact the profit margins of American businesses that rely heavily on Chinese products, making it difficult for them to remain competitive and lucrative, ultimately diminishing investor confidence.
What to expect:
The stock market is projected to perform well this month because it’s the holiday season! Often, factors like holiday optimism—which boosts investors’ moods and confidence—and increased consumer spending, driving higher demand for products and services, contribute to the annual market trend known as the “Santa Claus Rally.”
Proposed Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and our economy
By Salomon Dayan Junior Editor
President-elect Donald Trump has selected Scott Bessent to become his Secretary of the Treasury.
Bessent is a billionaire who gained much of his wealth through managing hedge funds. After graduating from Yale University in 1984, he interned in money management with Jim Rogers, a former colleague of George Soros, the 94-yearold philanthropist and co-founder of the Quantum Fund. In 1991, Bessent joined Soros Fund Management and eventually rose to head their London office. Bessent played an important role in the fund’s betting against the British pound, a move that made billions. In 2015, he created the money management fund Key Square Group.
Bessent has been deeply influential in political fundraising. After initially supporting Democratic candidates, by the 2010s he had mostly shifted his political views, donating close to $15 million to Republicans. Unlike most of his billionaire colleagues, who were skeptical of Trump because of his legal woes, Bessent doubled down on Trump, meeting with the President-elect on economic issues and donating a significant amount to his campaign.
Bessent is generally a believer in small government, especially minimal government involvement in the economy. He supports Trump’s 2017 tax cuts and proposes balancing the budget by cutting spending. He has also spoken about reducing the ballooning federal deficit, stat-
New rules shutting many restaurants’ outdoor sheds
By Morris Mita Contributing Writer
The NYC Department of Transportation issued new rules, requiring outdoor dining establishments to either comply with strict regulations or be permanently removed from New York’s sidewalks and streets as part of the post-Covid programming initiative, “Dining Out NYC.” This has forced thousands of restaurant owners to disassemble their sheds just before the holidays, costing them a great deal in revenue and customers.
Most feel too deeply disappointed and bitter to take down their existing sheds, let alone construct new ones that comply with the updated regulations. A few businesses report that they will have to lay off employees to respond to the loss in profits.
Outdoor dining sheds became a New York staple during the pandemic after a state executive order, named “Open Restaurants,” permitting restaurants to establish outdoor dining. The emergency law aimed to reduce the rapid spread of Covid-19 at the time. Although it was nev-
er meant to be a permanent idea, restaurateurs and investors don’t seem like they want it going away. Before this law, around 12,000 restaurants across New York City applied for permits to build sheds for outdoor dining under Open Restaurants. But fewer than 1,500 restaurants have applied to build a new shed that complies with the new regulations.
It’s safe to say that this new law will take a toll on the restaurant industry, since it will decrease the number of restaurants with outdoor seating. Restaurants will have to find new and affordable ways to attract customers.
Some New Yorkers argue that these sheds are displeasing to look at and attract rats to the area. People who live next to these eateries also complain about the increased traffic it produces, occupying vital space on busy streets and sidewalks. On the other hand, many customers appreciate dining in an uncrowded place while soaking in the fresh air.
While the outdoor sheds served as a lifeline to restaurants, their future hangs in the balance.
ing in an interview, “I do think this debt and deficit is going to be the big issue of the day. I think Americans are worried about it.”
Moreover, while most economists are generally skeptical of tariffs, citing inflation as a major concern, Bessent argues that tariffs are “not inflationary” and are primarily a sanction on unfriendly governments, such as China.
In some policy areas, however, he is slightly more cautious than Trump, suggesting that tariffs should be phased in gradually and saying that some of Trump’s policies violate international trade laws. Bessent has proposed a “3-3-3 plan” to address the economy, focusing on deregula-
tion and boosting oil production by three million barrels per day. The plan aims to reduce the federal deficit to 3% of GDP by 2028 and achieve a 3% annual GDP growth rate.
If Trump’s pick to have Bessent join his cabinet is approved by the Senate, he will become the first ever openly gay treasury secretary and the second ever openly gay cabinet member after Secretary of Transportation Pete Budigieg was appointed by Biden in 2020.
While out of the ordinary, Bessent and his policies will undoubtedly be very impactful economically over the next four years.
Outdoor dinnind sheds may disappear
Fun & Games
Ask Merle
Merle,
I’m so disappointed in this year’s Black Friday sales, I barely got anything! I feel like I couldn’t justify any purchases. Did you get anything?
— Shoppingaddict478
Shoppingaddict478,
I completely agree with you, I was really shocked to see the 20% off discounts these company’s called “sales”. Back in like, middle school, brands were at least 50%, and even that didn’t feel like a great deal! These companies are taking advantage of us. Besides for Aviator Nation (which had a great sale by the way) I didn’t get anything! :(
Hi Merle, As the cold weather starts coming, I can’t help but wonder: where do I put my jacket when I get to school?
— Freezingfreshie
Hey, Freezing! Hm, good question. There actually used to be a coat room! But there’s not anymore so … you could leave it in the Commons, but that’s a little risky. Once I left my coat in the Commons; by 4:30 so many shoes had stepped on it that it was no longer white. There’s also the option of lugging it around from class to class, but I personally take the easy way out and wear it all day. Plus, school is always freezing. (I thought we fixed that issue, or was that a ploy for renovation money? ;))
Merle,
building. You could get something from the Chanis, Crawford’s, or even bring lunch from home. You could also ask your 5th period teacher if you can eat your lunch during their class, but I think the other option works out better.
Merle, Spotify or Apple Music?
— musiclover
Hi,
Ummmm, I hope it’s not too controversial, but I’m an Apple Music girlie. Don’t cancel me.
Merle
Letter of Recommendation:
Block Blast
By Estee Yazdi Contributing Writer
What do I do about Friday lunch? By the time I get my bagel I have two minutes to get to class!
— Hungrysophmore
Hungry, Ugh, I know, it’s the worst, isn’t it? I think the best option is just to have Friday as your designated day to stay in the
Flatbush Cartoon
By Jacqueline Tebele Phoenix Cartoonist
If you’ve walked through the halls or sat in Crawford’s recently, chances are you’ve seen Block Blast dominating everyone’s screens. From freshmen to seniors, it seems like everyone is glued to the game, chasing to beat their high scores. But what makes this game so addictive, and how can you level up your skills?
Inspired by the iconic puzzle game Tetris, Block Blast is similar in style, with just a few differences. The game’s main goal is to arrange blocks of varying shapes on a grid, aiming to clear rows or columns for points. There’s no time limit, but when you run out of space for new blocks, it’s game over. The simplicity keeps it accessible, while the challenge of strategic placement keeps players hooked.
The game’s appeal lies in its mix of strategy and instant gratification. Clearing multiple rows at once results in satisfying combos, and there’s a constant hustle to beat your personal best; or your friends’.
However, Block Blast isn’t always so kind. Just as you’re closing in on your high score, the game seems to turn against you. Suddenly, you’re dealt shapes that don’t seem to fit anywhere, awkwardly cluttering the board and leaving you scrambling for a solution. That’s where strategy comes into play. Since there’s no timer, a player’s best bet is to take their time analyzing the board and figuring out how to make those odd-shaped blocks work in their favor. Careful planning and a bit of creativity can help you clear even the most chaotic boards and keep your streak alive.
One tip is to not just focus on clearing the current row. Look at the shapes that are coming up and think a few moves ahead to avoid running out of space. An-
other tip is to keep the edges open: avoid filling up the corners too soon. Leaving space near the edges gives you more flexibility when larger blocks appear. The last and most important tip is to go for the combos; clearing multiple rows or columns in a single move earns bonus points, so make sure to keep that streak going.
The three-by-three block is the largest piece in the game and is often feared by players, especially when the board is crowded. However, the game almost always gives you blocks to help you clear large portions of the board or break through these difficult areas. So don’t ever fear the three-by-three block.
While being on top of the Flatbush game billboards, Block Blast isn’t just a game; it’s become an outlet for everything from boredom to frustration. If you’re tired of endlessly scrolling through TikTok or Instagram, Block Blast offers the perfect alternative. Its simple yet addictive gameplay keeps your mind engaged without feeling overwhelmed; it’s oddly therapeutic. The satisfaction from clearing rows and setting up combos can turn your frustration into focus.
However, like every popular app, Block Blast is not without its downsides. “Students are so immersed in this game that they rarely pick up their heads while walking through the Commons,” one teacher complained. Although it’s fun, this game can be played in unhealthy amounts. Students can use this app to procrastinate and delay their workload without even knowing it. “I can’t put my phone down,” admitted senior Sarah Tawil. “Every time I lose I just go straight to the next game.”
So use these suggestions to dominate and enjoy your Block Blast game, but keep in mind that its consumption is best in moderation.
Standard of Fabulous
The Phoenix 2024 Chanukah gift guide Resale markets heating up
By Irene Cohen Fashion Editor
Chanukah is just around the corner and there is still time to start shopping for the perfect gifts for your family and friends. Here are eight gift ideas along with who they would be perfect for and where you can buy them.
A speaker! Music has the power to energize you whenev er, and a high-quality portable speaker is the ideal present for music lovers. Small, easy to carry around, and high quality, it’s great for listening to music outdoors. There are also options for waterproof speakers. It’s a perfect gift for a family member who loves hosting, and for teenagers. You can buy one from JBL or Amazon.
Cozy slippers! It’s starting to get cold out and we all want to be comfortable and cozy. They are essential for lounging at home after a long day. Slippers are a great gift for everyone and can be purchased from UGG, Brunch, or Amazon.
pasukim with personal messages. They sell bracelets and necklaces custom to order and are shipped from Israel. This is perfect for any girl in your family. You can visit their website or their store in Israel.
A portable charger! A portable charger can save you when you’re on the run and don’t have time to wait for your phone to charge. It’s perfect for travelers and students, making it accessible to charge anytime and anywhere. A reliable brand is Anker, which is sold at Amazon and Target.
A Sephora gift card! A Sephora gift card is every girl’s dream. If you’re confused on what to get someone who loves makeup, a gift card is always the right way to go. It’s perfect for teenage girls and you can buy it in Sephora, both online and in store.
Airpods or Airpod Max! Whether it’s listening to music or a podcast, Airpods or Airpod
By Olivia Shamah Junior Editor
The clothing resale market has become exponentially more popular over the last few years. While clothing sales from firsthand retailers are still rising, secondhand clothing is seeing significant growth, increasing 275% from 2020 to 2021, and only climbing from there.
Companies like TheRealReal, ThredUp, and Poshmark are partly responsible for this rise, as they provide a more affordable option for customers looking for designer, higher-quality, or timeless goods, as opposed to the cheaper and trendier goods that are sold by fast-fashion retailers like Zara or H&M.
One of the driving factors of the resale industry is the resale of luxury products. More specifically, companies like TheRealReal, which is an online consignment service that carries mainly luxury brands, cater to people who want the look of the luxury brands but don’t necessarily want to splurge.
Websites like these also make it easy for anyone to sell their old clothing or shoes, especially if they are valuable. While it may be common to drop off old clothing at a donation bin or thrift shop, the rise
of resale has provided another option for people to make some money while getting rid of old clothes. Poshmark and ThredUp are two of the most popular outlets for selling used clothing and accessories. Companies like these provide a way for sellers to get paid clearing out their closets, while giving buyers a chance to buy expensive or luxury items at a lower price. Some platforms like TheRealReal are primarily intended for designer goods, while other websites and apps exist for other niches. For example, companies such as StockX and GOAT specialize in sneakers, which are a popular collector’s item.
While these platforms may seem similar to the thrift stores that have existed for a while, they are, in fact, very different. When selling on a resale platform, sellers keep most of the proceeds in contrast to those donating to thrift stores, who often get very little compensation or nothing at all.
These new resale options also appeal to customers who are more conscious about the sustainability of their purchases. Resale revives pieces that otherwise would have been discarded, keeping items out of landfills and avoiding the environmental cost of manufacturing new clothing.
A mug! As it gets colder out we all want to enjoy some hot chocolate or coffee. Mugs are a great gift to buy the coffee lover in your life, and there are thousands of unique options. You can purchase at Target, Walmart, or Anthropologie.
Hadaya jewelry! Very few gifts will last you a lifetime, but Hadaya jewelry is one of them. The unique brand engraves
Max are perfect when you want to listen to music on the go or during a workout. There are many options at different price points, as well as various colors to choose from. You can purchase both online and instore from Apple or Best Buy, or from Amazon.
A wallet! A new wallet is perfect for anyone trying to stay organized. It keeps cash, cards and IDs accessible and secure while adding to your personal style. You can buy one from Amazon, Nordstrom, or luxury brands like Coach.
The F1 paddock: Motorsport’s favorite runway
By Yvette Dweck
Junior Editor
During race weekend, the F1 paddock doubles as a runway, with fans, drivers, and, of course, WAGs (wives and girlfriends of athletes) showcasing their high-fashion outfits. The F1 paddock is a restricted area where teams, drivers, celebrities, and VIPs gather before and after races.
This fashion phenomena began with Lewis Hamilton. Before Hamilton’s debut to F1 in 2007, drivers would typically wear whatever sponsor-covered shirts their constructors (teams) gave them. Hamilton was the first to go against the grain. To every race, he would show up wearing a new, intricate, and fashion-forward outfit. He and his stylist, Eric McNeal, spend weeks preparing his outfits for each race. After attending the Met Gala for almost a whole decade, Lewis Hamilton has been named one of the 2025 Met Gala co-hosts. Hamilton’s love for fashion and bold outfits inspired and continues to inspire drivers by encouraging them to estab-
lish their own style. Zhou Guanyu, the first Chinese F1 driver, decided to display his culture through his clothing by combining traditional Chinese cultural influences with designer brands and popular trends. Charles Leclerc became known for his wide legged jeans that he always pairs with his team polo. George Russell is often seen showcasing his “old money” style through his partnership with Tommy Hilfiger. Daniel Riccardo even created his own clothing line, Enchanté, and promoted it by wearing Enchanté hoodies on the paddock. Riccardo also
became known for matching his outfits to the location of the race when he rode into the Austin Grand Prix on a horse, sporting a top made out of American flags. While some fans choose to focus on and take inspiration from drivers’ outfits, most F1 fans care more about the WAGs’ outfits. Alexandra Saint Mleux, girlfriend of Leclerc, is arguably the most famous F1 WAG. After just recently making her Instagram profile public, she already has over a million followers engrossed in her elegant outfits and iconic beaded dresses. Saint Mleux became so influential that she became the new face
George Russell’s girlfriend, Carmen Montero Mundt, is famous for her comfy yet stylish outfits on the paddock. Recently, at the Vegas Grand Prix, Mundt wore a red sweater and matching pants that quickly went viral when pictures of her and Russell were plastered all over the internet due to Russell’s win. Her outfits resemble the classic, clean, and comfy paddock look.
Kika Gomes, a Portuguese model dating Pierre Gasley, went viral for her stylish but affordable outfits. Fans appreciated seeing someone so famous and wealthy dressed in clothing that they can afford. There are countless websites online providing links to Gomes’s outfits, inspiration pictures based on her outfits, and guides to her most-worn companies.
Going to the F1 paddock is a big deal, as sponsors and celebrities are everywhere. Outfits have to be unique yet classic, bold yet elegant, traditional yet modern. Dressing for the F1 paddock is all about making a statement.
of Hailey Bieber’s popular makeup brand, Rhode Beauty.
Sports
JV Basketball off to strong start
By Colette Chehova
Sports Editor
The Flatbush Falcons JV Boys Basketball team started off the season strong with a 6-1 record. After losing to the Magen David Warriors by five points at the start of the season, the Falcons stepped up and went on a five-game winning streak, landing themselves first place in the Yeshiva League.
On November 11, the JV Falcon’s crushed the Rambam Ravens by an impressive 75 points with a final score of 100-25. This astonishing feat showcased the players’ skills and success and will pave their path to victory.
On December 3, they faced off the Warriors once again. Elie Mouhadeb,
Michael Soulieman, and Abe Kassab all racked up double digits on offense, which set the Falcons ahead of the Warriors offensively. They doubled down on defense and secured the win with final score of 65-50.
Head coach Danny Nigro said he teaches the players to believe in each other and pushes them to play at levels they never thought possible. Their five-game winning streak is a testament to Nigro’s coaching and the players’ ability to work together on one common goal: winning.
The JV Falcons have the talent needed to take it all home in the championship this year, but Elie Mouhadeb stated that “nothing is guaranteed and we have to continue to work hard in order to reach our goal of winning the championship.”
Sportsman Spotlight: Chalom finds balance
Davis Warren provides inspiration in Michigan
By Sam Gindi
There have been many inspiring stories in the sports world, from Eric Berry overcoming cancer to Pat Tillman walking away from a multi-million-dollar contract to serve in the army after 9/11. Davis Warren was a high school quarterback at Peddie School in New Jersey. During his junior year, tragedy struck, and he was diagnosed with Leukemia. He went through five months of intense therapy in Los Angeles before he overcame the cancer.
Warren was a senior in high school who barely had any experience at the varsity level because he had been sick. His chances of being recruited by a major college program were over.
Warren walked on to the Michigan Wolverines, a Big 10 conference college football team. In his rookie season, he did not play in any games, but still won Michigan Scout Team Player of the Year, an honor given to those who exhibit outstanding sportsmanship and commitment from the bench.
In his sophomore and junior year he was elevated to the roster, but still received barely any playing time. Still, Warren kept
By Lili Hanan Junior Editor
For Senior Heywood Chalom, football has always been more than just a pastime—it’s a passion. As a star wide receiver on the Flatbush flag football team, he has dedicated himself to the game for as long as he can remember. “I tried out because I love football and I want to play it as much as I can, whenever I have the opportunity to,” Chalom shared in a recent interview. Chalom’s passion for the game shines both on and off the field. Balancing the rigorous demands of academics, extracurricular activities, and team practices isn’t easy, but he’s found a system that works for him. “I balance football with academics and other commitments by scheduling my time well and making sure there’s no overlap of when I have responsibilities,” he explained. His discipline and time man-
his hopes high and stayed committed to the team.
This year, Warren’s senior year, he was finally given the chance to start, as the quarterback ahead of him, J.J. McCarthy, had been drafted into the NFL. Unfortunately, only three weeks into his first starting season, he was benched until week nine in favor of Alex Orji and Jack Tuttle. Michigan’s playoff hopes were already gone at this point, but there was still one thing Michigan needed to accomplish.
The Ohio State–Michigan rivalry is one of the biggest rivalries in all of sports, sometimes referred to as “The Game.” It was played in week 12, where the 6-5 Michigan Wolverines were set to play the 10-1 Ohio State Buckeyes, the second best team in the nation. Going into the game, Michigan were 21-point underdogs. Michigan had beat Ohio State the previous three years, and they were able to accomplish a miraculous fourth win, beating Ohio State 13-10.
In one of the biggest upsets in recent college football history, the Wolverines were led by none other than Davis Warren, the walk-on quarterback and Leukemia survivor.
agement skills set a strong example for his teammates, proving that dedication to the sport doesn’t have to come at the expense of other responsibilities.
For Chalom, it’s not just about working hard. His favorite part of being on the team is, unsurprisingly, the joy and technicalities of the game itself. “I love the game, and there’s nothing I’d rather do,” he said, reflecting on the joy he feels every time he steps onto the field.
As the season progresses, Chalom continues to inspire his teammates and coaches alike with his unwavering commitment and enthusiasm for football. The Flatbush football team is lucky to have such a dedicated player on their roster.
Keep an eye out for Heywood Chalom this season—on the field, in the classroom, and as a role model for other students who want to be successful in all aspects of school.