3 minute read
Beyond the Book A creative
Beyond
the
YOFHS juniors, seniors, faculty and guests participated in a creative Book Day program on February 27, 2020. This dynamic symposium centered on the many themes in Richard Matheson’s iconic science fiction book, I Am Legend. Library Chair Ms. Rachail Kurtz, English Chair Ms. Mica Bloom and Librarian Mr. Brian Katz coordinated the event, which brought in alumni speakers, artists, and other distinguished guest presenters as well as our own faculty members. The event allowed students to interact with a wide array of experts in many fields and build early connections with successful alumni.
Matheson’s book about the sole survivor of an incurable plague was selected for Book Day for its classic depiction of a dystopian future after a deadly virus hits the world. The main character, Robert Neville, struggles with survival needs and the search for survivors without mutations, as well as his feelings of alienation and fear of death. “It was by chance that we chose such a prophetic book,” shared Ms. Bloom.
In the Khezrie Auditorium, students gathered to hear a short dramatic student presentation of a monologue from the book, and watched a film produced by students to produce a brief film parody of the book. Mr. Mordy Weinstein led the choir, who sang songs with the theme of friendship. FBI special agent
Mr. Pierre Chrissafis shared stories from several undercover cases, including a decade-long
Russian intelligence investigation that led to the arrest of 10 spies. In another room, the NYC
Office of Emergency Management’s Ms. Abby
Jordan went over the importance of carrying proper identification and designating a safe
Book
space in your home that is outfitted for an emergency. Two Epidemic Intelligence Officers from the CDC, Ms. Karen Alroy and Ms. Dena Bushman, shared a day in the life of a disease detective. These classes wound up being particularly relevant given the pandemic that hit New York less than two weeks after Book Day.
YOFHS Jewish history teacher Ms. Michal Shulman’s “Jews as Vampire” class showed students how Jews were portrayed in German art in the past, and how and why these negative images first surfaced, while Social Studies faculty member Mr. Justin Engel revisited vampires in film and pop culture. Bat conservationist Ms. Danielle Gustafson dispelled common bat myths and shared fascinating information about these misunderstood creatures.
Mr. Michael O’Shea, a graphic artist and illustrator, discussed his drawing process while fielding questions from students. He also shared pieces at various stages of completion as well as a finished drawing. Makeup artist Ms. Devorah Kuperhand gave creepy makeovers to student volunteers and showed them how she creates special makeup effects for movies. Students laughed as their friends were transformed into phantasmagoric figures.
Students also learned a few karate moves from Pa Kua karate class specialist Ms. Jennie Landsman, and explored Krav Maga self-defense with Captain Eilon Even-Esh from Shomer 360.
—Librarian Mr. Brian Katz
TOP LEFT Proud Book Day coordinators: Librarian Ms. Rachail Kurtz, English Chair Ms. Mica Bloom and Librarian Mr. Brian Katz. TOP RIGHT Students spell out tips for emergency preparedness from NYC Office of Emergency Management’s Ms. Abby Jordan. LEFT Mr. Alex Schneider shares his inside knowledge of building design with eager students. BELOW LEFT Mrs. Helena Hadef discusses concepts of morality using the book’s characters. BELOW RIGHT Comic book artist and illustrator Mr. Michael O’Shea poses with dark fantasy illustrator and writer Mr. Robert Geronimo. BOTTOM LEFT FBI Special Agent Mr. Pierre Chrissafis shares his gripping career experiences with the students. BOTTOM RIGHT Makeup artist Ms. Devorah Kuperhand transforms an unsuspecting student into a creepy character.
