The Phoenix 2018-2019 Issue 3

A Student Publication of the Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School • 1609 Avenue J, Brooklyn, New York • Vol 53, Issue 3 • December 2018 / 5779

Flatbush Outperforms U.S. on SAT and ACT Katie Fishel Leaves Legacy

By Albert Saad of Warmth Managing Editor

A Phoenix examination of the most recent SAT and ACT scores of Flatbush students show that the Yeshivah outperforms both the nation and the state of New York on both exams--by a significant margin. On the SAT, current juniors and seniors at Flatbush have scored an average of 1230, with a mean Math score of 620 and a mean Evidence Based Reading and Writing score of 620. According to the College Board, in 2018 the national average SAT score was a 1068, with an average Math score of 531 and an average Evidence Based Reading and Writing Score of 536. This data reveals that Flatbush students performed almost a full standard of deviation over the national mean, a statistically meaningful performance.

While far fewer Flatbush students take the ACT than take the SAT, there is still a great deal to be said of our students’ performance there as well. Flatbush’s juniors and seniors have recorded an average composite score of 26, with average section scores of 26.7 in English, 25.1 in Math, 27.1 in Reading, and a 25.4 in Science. The average national score falls much lower, coming out to a 20.8 composite score and averages of 20.2 for

English, 20.5 for Math, 21.3 for Reading, and 20.7 for Science.

Flatbush compares just as favorably to New York State averages. The New York average SAT score is the same as the national average: 1068, with mean scores of 534 for each section. Private schools in the state did predictably better than public schools, but even there Flatbush is above average in the group. Privateschoolreview.com reports that the mean SAT grade for all New York private schools was a 1224 for 2018, slightly below Flatbush’s numbers.

So why do Flatbush students do so well?

While a good percentage of any standardized score is accredited to the work put in outside of the classroom, many students also recognize Flatbush’s rigorous curriculum as a major factor in their success. High-scoring senior Joe Braha said, “Flatbush’s high level of reading prepared me well for the time pressured reading of the SAT. Also, being in advanced math, Flatbush gave me a strong understanding of the math necessary for the SAT, and beyond.”

Some students credit not only the intense coursework, but the work ethic this curriculum gave them. Senior Mazal Zebak, who scored higher on the SAT than any other current student, claims, “Flat-

bush is a school that values math and English, which are both fundamental to succeeding on the SAT. Not only is the information instilled into me, but also the work ethic that I develop in those classes translates to active preparation for the SAT.” Braha and Zebak’s thoughts are echoed by The Princeton Review, which claims that the high school classes that prepare students most for the SAT and ACT are 10th grade English, English/ Language Arts, Geometry, and Algebra II. As the college admission process becomes more challenging and selective as the years progress, success on the SAT is only becoming increasingly important.

Prepscholar.com states, “Your SAT score reveals whether your GPA and transcript are accurate representations of your academic ability. Admissions officers use your SAT/ACT score to figure out if your grades were inflated or not.”

Despite all the pressure to do well, junior Ricky Sasson feels very prepared to take his upcoming tests. He feels confident because “Flatbush provides all students with a diverse and dynamic curriculum that educates skills and general knowledge. These skills are commonly utilized when taking the SAT exam-both in reading and math.”

Screen Time App Reveals Students’ Phone Habits

By Jamie Ashkenazi Senior Editor

Along with Apple’s newest software update came a feature called “Screen Time.” Screen Time gives users a real-time report on the amount of time they spend on their device, and it breaks down the averaged amount to show users exactly what they spend majority of their time doing. After this new feature was released, The Phoenix surveyed students from all four grades to see how much time they devote to their cellphones each week. They also were asked about what actions they currently are taking in order to combat the growing epidemic of cellphone addiction.

The surveys showed that our students

In This Issue

Politics: Is Flatbush leaning liberal?

Page 3

Apple’s Screen Time app tracks and categorizes phone use

average 30 hours a week, or a little more than four hours a day, on their phones.

While some students spend their screen

hours productively writing papers, an-

Entertainment: The Try Guys Page 5

Ask Merle: Tips to improve your essays Page 6

By Teri Franco School News Editor On November 23, we lost a special member of our Flatbush family. Katie Fishel A”H (HS 2016) brought a ruach that truly enhanced the Yeshivah’s atmosphere for both teachers and students. Fishel’s role on the Birthday Commission embodied the value by which she lived her daily life: making everyone feel loved.

Vivian Durzieh entered high school with Fishel as her senior mentor. “I still remember her bright hello on orientation day when she introduced herself. From the day I met her she made school feel like a welcoming, loving place. She would give me the warmest hellos and constantly check on me throughout my school year, not just the first day and not just freshman year. She checked on me every time she saw me because that’s just the type of warm person she was. She made sure to make me feel important and special as a small little lost freshie and she even took on many other girls as her mentees and treated them the same way.”

Fishel instilled her confidence and passion for the school into her mentees and anyone who needed support.

Inspired and excited, Durzieh took on the task of becoming a senior mentor to her own group of freshmen this year and strives to emulate Fishel’s way of going above and beyond what was required, a task Durzieh to which now dedicates herself even more to honor Fishel’s memory.

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Fashion: Focus on fashionable faculty Page 7 www.theflatbushphoenix.com | 1

Faculty Freshman: Mr. Weinstein Meet a Flatbush Family: The Mikhlis

By Elie Esses

After graduating from Yeshiva University Mr. Weinstein began pursuing Contributing Writer a career in music, which included perMr. Mordy Weinstein isn’t new to forming with multiple different Jewish a Flatbush, as he was a student here from cappella groups including Six13, running elementary school through high school. a recording studio, and performing at This year, Mr. Weinstein is making his weddings. His work took him across the globe, from Australia to South Africa, return as the new choir director. where he performed at exclusive events for extremely influential people, notably, the former President and First Lady, Barack and Michelle Obama.

Mr. Weinstein began his career in music education at the Shefa School in Manhattan. In regard to his returning to Flatbush Mr. Weinstein stated, “It’s odd to be on the other side, shifting my relationship with former teachers to that of colleagues.”

Nonetheless, he said he is enjoying his job here immensely. “Being in charge of the choir is an incredible honor because Flatbush choir and chamber choir is where my musical passion and subsequent career began. So working with students similar to the way I was as a student Mr. Weinstein is incredibly rewarding and fulfilling.”

Katie Fishel Leaves Legacy of Warmth and Love continued from page 1

Fishel shared her warmth with everyone and was especially enthusiastic about birthdays, which she viewed as a day to celebrate each individual. Multiple current seniors recall their birthdays during freshman year being boosted by Fishel’s small but powerful gestures. And everybody who knew her seems to have received the trademark birthday cookie.

“Although I never really knew Katie on a personal level, I was lucky enough to have been touched by her kindness,” explained senior Danielle Malka. “One morning, she walked through the door with a cookie from Ostrovitsky’s and I asked her what’s it was for, and she said someone’s birthday. I said, ‘Oh yum, lucky, I want one.’ When the person didn’t want the cookie she kindly gave it to me. She remembered such a small detail and it meant and still means a lot to me.”

Gabe Vizgan, who graduated in 2016 along with Fishel, also was on the receiving end of a birthday cookie during his sophomore year. He had told only a few close friends that it was his birthday, but when he opened his locker there was a cookie waiting. At the time, he and Fishel barely knew each other. “I guess that didn’t matter to Katie, though. To her, everyone she came into contact with was a friend. So much so that she took the time

to, somehow, find a way to learn about me—a relative stranger—and my family.

She then took the time out of her own break, to spend her own money, to buy me that cookie. It really touched me to think about all the thought and effort she must have put into me—to treat me like an old friend when I barely knew her.”

Of course, Fishel cared for people in many other ways as well. Vizgan recalls bumping into Fishel at Disney World during winter break that same year. “We weren’t there for the same reason, though. While I was there to relax and enjoy, Katie was there working as a counselor for a special-children’s camp.

While I was trying to soak up some of the Disney magic Katie was hard at work trying to instill some of that magic and happiness into her campers. Flatbush worked us hard and we deserved a break, but Katie just had to give everything she had to others; that’s just the type of person she was.”

Sarit Alkadaa, a senior, remembers feeling lost on the first morning of her freshmen year in a sea of unfamiliar faces until Fishel introduced herself “with the warm smile that she always had on her face. From that day on, she would always spread her warmth and greet me on my way to class, in the hallways, and

The Phoenix Staff Editor-in-Chief: Sam Beyda Managing Editor: Albert Saad Senior Editors: Jamie Ashkenazie, Ezra Faks School News Editors: Teri Franco, Julie Saadia Religion Editor: Rebecca Coopersmith World News Editor: Sarah Dagmy Entertainment Editors: Raquel Oved, Raquel Silvera Food Editor: Hannah Hasson

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The Mikhli family at the twins’ eighth grade graduation in June. Isaac is on the left, Jacob is between his parents, and Alex is on the right, with little brother Adam, age 9, in front of Ms. Mikhli

By Kaden Harari Sophomore Editor

Imagine having a twin with you throughout high school, with whom you are close and can share anything.

Now imagine having an older brother, too, who’s a junior in the same school.

Oh, and your mom also works at your school. Jacob and Isaac Mikhli, freshman twins, are tackling Flatbush with the help of junior Alex Mikhli. On top of that, their mother, Ms. Mikhli, is a member of the sYeshivah’s faculty. She is sophomore grade advisor and teacher of freshman biology.

Although Alex claimed that he leaves his younger brothers to find their way by themselves, Jacob explained, “He is there to help me if I don’t understand something. I like having that comfort if I’m struggling, or if I’m looking for advice.”

Isaac talked about how it feels to have Ms. Mikhli with him in school: “If I ever need, she gives me candy or money for snacks and lunch.” On the other hand, wherever else we crossed paths.” When Alkadaa overslept and missed minyan one morning, later that day Fishel “went out of her way to ask me if I was feeling OK, because she hadn’t seen me that morning. … That’s a unique quality that Katie had: making people feel welcome.”

Fishel often coupled that warmth with unparalleled school spirit. Current SGO President Adina Cohen remembers when she was a nervous freshman. Fishel “always made sure to check up on me to ensure that I would grow the same love for Flatbush as she had. She even custom made her shoes to match the Flatbush colors, maroon and gold.” Fishel spread her love for the school to everyone and inspired many current seniors to get involved in various commissions so they could develop the same passion and school spirit for themselves.

Teachers, too, have been paying tribute to Fishel in a variety of ways, including sharing memories on her Facebook page. Ms. Bloom wrote, “Katie Fishel, what a truly special young woman you were, such a truly kind and sweet person—a true mensch!”

Ariela Robinson, a former English

Fashion Editors: Sarit Alkadaa, Celia Banbahji Fun & Games Editor: Allie Saada Sports Editor: Jack H. Dweck Junior Editors: Jayne Haddad, Claudine Hadef Sophomore Editors: Kaden Harari, Michael Oved Design: Carolina Cohen Faculty Adviser: Adam Hofstetter

being Ms. Mikhli’s son and student comes with its challenges. “Being my mother’s student isn’t drastically different than having any other teacher,” according to Jacob, “but she tends to keep closer watch on me in terms of misbehavior.” Alex never had the opportunity to be Mrs. Mikhli’s student, but he believes that having his mother constantly looking over his shoulder and being “overprotective” can get embarrassing at times.

Isaac does not have his mother as a teacher, as he and Jacob are in different classes. The twins said that’s probably a good thing, as it gives them space from each other. As Jacob said, “We learn at different speeds. It’s better for both of us like this because we’re able to make our own paths. Also, if Isaac already learned something that I’m in the middle of, he’s able to help me, and vice versa.”

And even though they are in different classes, some teachers still confuse Isaac and Jacob for each other!

teacher at Flatbush, formed a close bond with Fishel as well. “There are just a handful of students out there who take the time to give feedback to a teacher, something that is so important to our teaching careers and actually makes us better teachers because of it. Katie took the time. Four years ago, I was Katie’s English teacher. On my last day of teaching at Yeshivah of Flatbush, Katie showed up in my empty classroom as I was finishing up grading only to give me a two-page thank-you letter and a bouquet of flowers [pictured at left]. This was the type of girl Katie was. She was not only able to see and be aware of the life that existed around her, but she took action to appreciate it. About a year ago, Katie wrote to me on her Jewish birthday wishing me health and happiness. On her birthday, not mine. That was Katie. Utterly and completely selfless. She lived to keep others smiling.”

Those who had the privilege to be around Katie Fishel were impacted in the best way possible. She always will remain an important and beloved member of our Flatbush family.

High School Administration Rabbi Raymond Harari, Head of School Rabbi Joseph Beyda, Principal Ms. Sari Bacon, Associate Principal Ms. Esther Hidary, Assistant Principal / Director of Admissions

Flatbush Students Are Increasingly Liberal

D’var Torah:

Focusing on Solutions

By Rebecca Coopersmith Religion Editor

Ms. Kaplowitz, right, with her AP Political Science students at the mock debate last month

By Jack H. Dweck Sports Editor

A notable political shift is underway at Flatbush. Students, especially underclassmen, are increasingly likely to reject the political stereotype that the Yeshivah is home to a politically conservative student body. This was on full display on November 6, as Governor Andrew Cuomo, a Democrat, was edged out by only 10 votes in Flatbush’s own mock election, whereas Democratic candidates have typically lost the school’s mock election by large margins. This clearly hints at a new “Blue Wave” in Flatbush, where students are beginning to embrace a different set of views from their peers.

Perhaps more telling is the numbers of students who self-identify as being on the left side of the political spectrum.

According to the registration numbers for the mock elections, 56 percent of the current freshman class identify as either Democrats or left-leaning independents.

This is a remarkable shift from the former status quo of Flatbush; an astronomical 90 percent of current seniors identify as Republican.

Ari Weingarten, a freshman, is part of this trend. Weingarten is a self-identified independent who has “a liberal tilt” in his political viewpoints. He believes that Democrats are more tolerant of different people in this country than Republicans, and that was his main reason for obtaining liberal views.

According to James Tebele, an AP Political Science student who participated in the mock election acting as Governor Cuomo, the shift toward liberal views can be seen as a rejection of our current government, led by President Donald Trump. Tebele said freshmen are becoming socialized by the media and their teachers with Trump as President, and have reacted in a similar way to students being pulled right when Barack Obama was President.

However, many students in all grades admit to being politically ignorant. A substantial number of the seniors said they identify as Republicans solely based on the viewpoints of their parents, or their personal views on Trump. Ms. Shelley Kaplowitz, the US Government and Politics teacher, supports this theory, to a point. “There is a sad lack of political knowledge among too many students, and so some simply mirror the views they hear at home. But then that would be true of the freshmen as well. So it’s clear that something more is going on here. Part of it is the increased attention in class to

teaching the difference between actual facts and someone’s opinion. In addition, over the last couple of years, politics is being played out all over social media—a platform that young people are comfortable with. It’s what they’re seeing there that also might be driving an increasing number of students toward the more liberal end of the political spectrum.”

Even students who follow current events are often hesitant to speak up in classes to provide their political opinions. They don’t speak up for fear of getting patronized by classmates who don’t share the same viewpoints as they do. In fact, students like Weingarten feel marginalized in a school where liberals are still underrepresented. While there is a Conservative Commission for students on the right to express their views, there is no such forum for students on the left.

However, James Tebele thinks that will soon be a thing of the past with the rise of the left in Flatbush. “It’s about time that we have more Democrats coming into Flatbush. It will help even out our student body and make us more educated on different viewpoints.”

Students on both sides seem to welcome the school’s newfound political diversity. Freshman and self-professed conservative Eli Esses said he looks forward to political discussions with those on the opposing side of the political spectrum, explaining that, “I really don’t want to be in a political echo chamber for the next four years. I actually want to learn new things about politics, and I think the political evenness of our grade will help us in that aspect.”

James Tebele as Governor Cuomo

Everyone knows the classic story of Pharaoh’s dreams: Yosef gets called to Pharaoh to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams of seven thin cows eating seven big cows and seven wilted bushels of wheat eating seven healthy bushels. In the end, Yosef tells Pharaoh that the dreams mean Egypt is going to have seven years of a great abundance before going into a grueling famine.

What often goes unnoticed is at the end of Yosef ’s interpretation of the dreams, he gives Pharaoh unsolicited advice: “Now let Pharaoh seek out a discerning and wise man and set him over the land of Egypt.” Basically, he’s telling the king to hire a financial advisor, without being asked for his opinion on the matter. What’s so special about this? Only a unique person could have

the courage to verbalize a solution rather than just stating the problems.

In today’s world, there is much that needs repair. It is easy to notice problems and complain about them. It takes much more thought, wisdom, and dedication to find solutions. Instead of simply complaining when you’re feeling overwhelmed by how much work or how many tests you have, put in the effort to find a solution. For example, come up with a schedule for yourself to balance everything, and don’t procrastinate. We need to realign our thinking.

Slowly but surely, we can change the world one solution at a time.

D’var Torah joke: Rashi’s daughter comes home wearing a new dress.

“That’s a nice dress,” Rashi says.

His daughter answers, “Dad, do you have to comment on everything?”

This Month in History

John Lennon Murdered by Crazed Fan

By Robert Adler Staff Writer

John Lennon, founding member of the Beatles, was walking home from the Record Plant Studio to his Manhattan apartment with his second wife, Yoko Ono on the evening of December 8, 1980.

The couple approached the Lennon’s hometown newspaper, the Liverpool Echo archway in front of the Dakota utopian society with peace on earth and Apartments where they lived, but Lennon never made it inside. Mark a lack of societal divisions.

As his career progressed, Lennon’s David Chapman, a 25-year-old security guard, pulled out his Charter Arms .38 music increasingly evoked his politics Special revolver and fired four shots into and social beliefs. Today, 38 years after the body of the 40-year-old rock music Lennon’s death, the world continues to icon. Lennon was rushed to Roosevelt be shaped by his music and career. New Hospital but was pronounced dead on York City dedicated the section of Central Park directly across from the Dakota arrival.

Fans around the world mourned in memory of Lennon, naming it StrawLennon, many by gathering outside berry Fields in honor of the song by that Roosevelt Hospital or outside the Dako- name. It contains a memorial to Lennon, ta. No funeral was held; his ashes were titled Imagine, surrounded by the serene environment of the park. His murder cremated and given to Ono. John Winston Ono Lennon, arguably has also become inspiration for much the most beloved musician of his gener- thought, with famous director Stephen ation, was shot dead that night, but his King even basing the obsessed fan in the journey didn’t start at the gateway of the novel Misery on Chapman, whom King Dakota. It started across an ocean, in En- had coincidentally met several days before Chapman murdered Lennon. gland.

When Chapman was arrested at the After achieving some success in England, Lennon and The Beatles would scene, he had dropped the revolver and venture to America to launch what was holding only a paperback copy of the would become known as “The British famous J.D. Salinger novel The Catcher Invasion”—a sudden influx of popular in the Rye. Chapman pled guilty to murBritish music acts into America in the der and was sentenced to 20 year to life 1960s. After a highly successful perfor- in prison. He remains incarcerated tomance on the Ed Sullivan Show, Beatle- day, having been denied parole 10 times mania would sweep the United States in since he first became eligible in 2000.

Yoko Ono, Lennon’s wife and a witness a frenzy not seen before.

After a falling out with the rest of the to the murder, still carries on Lennon’s group that many fans link to his mar- legacy and his ideals for a better world. riage to Ono, Lennon began a solo act, The murder of John Lennon had brought releasing many singles including his an end to an icon of society, but his mismost famous song, “Imagine,” a hit sin- sion and legacy still continue to live on. gle that invites the listener to dream of a

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Protests Over Fuel Prices Spread Beyond Paris

The Food Corner

Protesters wearing yellow vests clash with French riot police near the Arc de Triomphe in Paris on December 1

By Sarah Dagmy World News Editor

Protesters in Paris continue to clash against the country’s high fuel prices and taxes. About 8,000 rioters rallied en masse in the streets of France’s capital and 100,000 protested nationwide on Saturday, November 24.

Two people have been killed and hundreds injured throughout the protests. Protesters gathered on Paris’s famed Champs Elysées despite an official ban of rallies on the avenue. At least 130 demonstrators were arrested throughout France, including 42 in Paris.

The protesters were labeled gilets jaunes (yellow vests) for wearing fluorescent yellow vests that displayed their defense on the issue. The Parisian protesters waved French flags and signs decrying French President Emmanuel Macron. Throughout France the dem-

onstrators yelled, “Macron, resign!” as they threw rocks at police and built barricades in the streets, blocking roads and causing traffic. The police responded by firing tear gas and water cannons at the dissidents.

These protests arose as diesel prices and taxes in France were increased by 16% and a major tax increase soon will be implemented in January 2019. The tax increase in gasoline is a result of the Paris Accord on global warming issues. Countries who signed the accord must meet specific goals on diminishing greenhouse gases, and France is striving to become a paragon for other countries even though the agreement won’t take effect until 2020.

Since the protests began, Macron has promised some compromises but has not yet announced specific changes to the tax hikes.

Screen Time App Reveals Students’ Phone Habit continued from page 1

ing, Entertainment, and Games as their top three categories. Those who use their phones more than average are the ones who use it for boredom relief, procrastination, or just to keep themselves busy.

Those who averaged at or below the four hours seemed to have a stronger work ethic. Their top three categories almost always had Productivity as the Apple SVP Craig Federighi explains Screen highest percentage, with Creativity and Time at the product launch in June either Entertainment or Reading and References as the other two categories. swering e-mails, or doing research, a Students who use their phones less are majority of our students admitted that the ones using it in order to get work they spend their time mainly on social done and occasionally to relax. networking and entertainment apps and This data appears to indicate that the websites. Overall, Flatbush students use more attached students become to their social networking and entertainment phone, the less they use it for productive apps three times more than productivity reasons and the more it turns into an enapps. tertainment device, even if the user didn’t Screen Time’s users receive their sta- start off that way. tistics broken down into three main catBreaking down the numbers by grade egories, depending on what they spend showed that freshmen are most likely to the majority of their time doing on their spend more than the average four hours device. The topics available are Social on their cell phones. The average screen Networking, Entertainment, Productiv- time for freshmen was 5 hours and 18 ity, Reading & Reference, Games, Cre- minutes each day; sophomore’s average ativity, Education, and Other. Our stu- was 4:42; junior’s average was 4:12, and dents’ three most frequented categories the seniors averaged 3:58 each day. were Social Networking, Entertainment, Perhaps growing up with technology and Productivity. Students who report- has led to a larger reliance on it, which ed phone use above the four hours also would explain the younger grades’ inwere most likely to have Social Network- creased screen use. Four of the 50 stu-

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Waking up early for school every morning can be difficult, especially since the air is so cold outside of your warm bed covers. What better way to wake up than with a warm and sweet drink that will make your day! Here are my three favorite drinks to give you energy and comfort at sunrise.

Strawberry Banana Smoothie When we think of healthy foods, we tend to focus mostly on vegetables, but fruits are just as important.

This sweet and tangy smoothie will fill you up and give you a boost of energy for the difficult morning ahead.

1 cup frozen strawberries 1 fresh banana, peeled 1/4 cup Greek yogurt 1/4 cup orange juice 1 cup ice 1 tablespoon honey Put the ingredients in a blender and blend. That’s it!

Hot Chocolate While hot chocolate might not be the healthiest option, drinking a cup once in a while will make you feel warm and cozy for weeks.

1 1/2 cups of half and half 1 1/2 cups of whole milk 3 ounces of milk chocolate, chopped or broken 3 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate, dents who were surveyed used their phones for more than eight hours a day, and three of those four students were freshmen. There were four other freshmen whose reported screen times were well into the seventh hour as well. Only two of our upperclassmen reported to have screen times this high, one having used her device 8:16 each day, and the other 6:51.

In order to achieve screen times this high, students would have to be using their cell phones throughout the school day at any free moment available, as well as throughout the night at home. In fact, some of the freshmen spend more time on their phones than they do sleeping.

To help combat this phone obsession, Screen Time provides options for users to manage and decrease their screen time, like the Downtime and App Limits settings. Many Flatbush students have been taking advantage of these new settings, hoping to decrease their weekly average. For example, senior Esther Hidary set up her phone so that from 11:00 P.M. until 6:00 A.M. certain apps are restricted, which forces her to think twice before using her phone late at night.

Some students have begun to turn off their phones while doing school work to

By Hanna Hasson chopped or broken 1/2 tablespoon of dark corn syrup In a saucepan over medium heat, stir all of the ingredients together until all of the chocolate is melted and incorporated into the milk. One sip is like getting a huge hug from a fuzzy polar bear. You don’t want to miss that experience.

DIY Tea Blend There is nothing better than waking up to a warm cup of tea to open your sinuses and get you ready for the day. Mixing different herbs and spices to create your perfect blend will give you the best results because it is custom to your liking. Here is one of my favorite tea blends that I love to wake up to.

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger Mix the ingredients together and steep in boiling water. Let sit for a few minutes and enjoy your steaming mug of goodness.

Did you know...?

Tea was supposedly discovered 5,000 years ago by the Chinese Emperor Shen-Nung when the wind blew tea leaves into boiling water. eliminate distractions and others go so far as to put physical distance between themselves and their phones when they need to concentrate. One student makes sure to leave her phone outside of her room before going to sleep in order to prevent any chance of staying up all night glued to the phone.

Such preventative measures are in line with recommendations from the school’s guidance counselors. Ms. Zimmerman strongly recommends that students make it a point to refrain from using any form of technology a half hour before they plan on sleeping; it will help relax the mind and make it easier to fall asleep since you can’t get sucked into the endless social media world. She also suggested that students check their phones once before studying or doing work for any updates or extra information, and then turn the phone on airplane mode or hide it to prevent any temptations.

After looking through their own Screen Time reports, students have said that they have started to realize that the amount of time they devote to a device is unhealthy, and that they are making a stronger effort to unplug and spend less virtual time with friends and more time in person.

Entertainment Movie Review:

Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald

By Jayne Haddad

Contributing Writer

with his friends to find Credence Barebone in the late 1920s. Credence is a socially awkward young man who suffers from Obscurus, a disease that manifests itself inside young wizards or witches who are forced to suppress their magical powers as a result of physical or psychological abuse. When an “Obscurial” reaches an emotional or mental breaking point, he or she loses control and releases an immensely destructive wind.

Newt and his friends are on the hunt for Credence in order to prevent infamous criminal Gellert Grindelwald (Johnny Depp) from using Credence as his weapon for attaining pure-blood wizard supremacy over nonmagical beings.

The Crimes of Grindelwald has received backlash for its confusingly complicated plot and unexplained holes in the story. Some critics are underwhelmed with the movie and accuse the film of changing the Harry Potter books’

canon. Others feel the movies’ shortcomings spur from the plot’s need to overburden with details in order to clear the decks for the franchise’s next movies.

However, the plot’s complexity aligns with the rest of J.K. Rowling’s revered wizarding universe. Rowling is known for her eccentric imagination and her ability to bring her crazy worlds to mind-boggling life. Although this movie pushes the bounds of befuddlement, there is no doubt that there will be closure by the end of the series. The fact that the audience can be left dumbfounded after a rollercoaster of twists and turns is what makes this movie enchanting.

The Fantastic Beasts franchise is set to have a total of five movies, leaving Rowling with three more to continue to appease critics and grow her magical wizarding world, taking us along for the ride.

Recommendation: The Try Guys

By Raquel Silvera Entertainment Editor

The Try Guys, a comedy series on YouTube, has gained significantly more views and subscribers over the past few months, placing them firmly in the company of YouTube’s elite.

The Try Guys started when four men at the website BuzzFeed, Keith Habersberger, Ned Fulmer, Zach Kornfeld, and Eugene Lee Yang, began making a series of videos in which they would try out crazy activities, foods, or trends. Buzzfeed specializes in entertainment and has a huge presence on YouTube with innumerable videos on any and every topic. Over the years, as their segment starting getting a lot of attention, they decided to become independent of BuzzFeed without severing all ties.

Whether it’s trying the grossest food combinations, getting outrageous acrylic nails, or testing the effect of 36 sleepless hours on their ability to drive, The Try

To Kill a Mockingbird

By Stella Lessler

Junior Editor

J.K. Rowling’s new movie, Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald, fuses remarkable cinematography and breathtaking plot twists to exceed expectations.

The Crimes of Grindelwald, the sequel to Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, includes elements of adventure, humor, friendship, trust, family, betrayal, and romance. With the incorporation of overwhelming special effects and capturing moments on the brink of collapse, the movie can seemingly keep the audience’s complete attention, and stupefaction, throughout each scene. Shocking truths are revealed and threatening situations put fragile relationships in a position to test whether blood is thicker than water and whether love can truly conquer all. The Crimes of Grindelwald also experiments with a variety of romantic relationships: unrequited love, forbidden love, childhood love, and true love.

This Harry Potter spin-off can easily thrill “potterheads” with its direct references to old scenes, sets, and even appearances from characters mentioned in the books but not seen in the Harry Potter movies. There are obvious parallels between the two series but this new movie progresses and introduces even more magic and spells. Nevertheless, The Crimes of Grindelwald can satiate non-Harry Potter fans’ thirst for an exciting and nail-biting experience.

The movie follows Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne), a warm-hearted wizard with a passion for caring for magical creatures, on a spontaneous adventure

Theater Review:

Guys never back down from a challenge.

They started off their early seasons with 7 or 12 episodes, but their most recent season has over 40. While their videos used to be solely for humorous effect, they now create a wide variety of science-oriented videos that explain very relatable everyday occurrences. They also do videos that allow their viewers to be exposed to different cultures, like traditional Indian or Korean cultures, or activities like roller derby that viewers might never have known about otherwise. And though their ideas have been elevated, they are still some of the funniest YouTubers out there.

The diversity of The Try Guys is also part of what makes their videos so enjoyable and relevant.

The four guys all come from different backgrounds, which adds more depth to the videos. Occasionally, the guys will bring in family members or friends to make special appearances in the videos, really opening up about their lives. The Try Guys write, produce, direct, shoot, and appear in each episode. Their personalities are what bring the videos to life and make them so entertaining. They try out an incredible variety of experiences, including therapy sessions, intense ballet training, surviving in the wilderness, and even reenacting the ancient Greek Olympic Games. There is simply no end to their innovative and captivating videos. They push the boundaries of society and open viewers’ eyes. They’re hysterical best friends who, when together, are unstoppable in the joy they bring to the digital world.

Students participating in the Masterpiece Theater commission attended the first preview of To Kill a Mockingbird, a new Broadway show, on Thursday, November 1.

The classic novel was translated to the stage in a thrilling and incredible performance put on by some of Broadway’s finest. The cast included Jeff Daniels as Atticus Finch, Celia Keenan-Bolger as Scout, Will Pullen as Jem, and Gbenga Akinnagbe as Tom Robinson. The show flows smoothly, engaging the audience with the inspiring story, music, and dramatic sets.

As the show is performed, it both educates the audience on the story itself and on important messages of morality, justice, and integrity. It helps the audience understand the injustices that happened in the past, and to learn from the past to never let history repeat itself.

The show is based on the famous novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee. It depicts a justice-seeking lawyer, Atticus Finch, and his two children, Scout and Jem, in a story set in an extremely prejudiced South where racism was the norm, and unjustified actions against African-Americans occurred daily. The story portrays the Finch family, their struggles, and their adventures, as Atticus attempts to defend a black man unjustly accused of a terrible crime.

The Masterpiece Theater group greatly enjoyed the experience, praising its accuracy and presentation, with a positive overall review. The general opinion of the public seemed to be in consensus with the Flatbush students, as most reviews have been overwhelmingly positive.

However, if one was to find an issue with the play, there is no need for concern just yet. Changes and adjustments will be made with every performance to improve the show as a whole, as the show has not yet premiered, as it is still in previews. The spectacular drama will be premiering for the first time with the final script and modifications on Thursday, December 13.

Jeff Daniels as Atticus Finch

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Fun & Games Ask Merle

Dear Merle, All my friends study together for one class that I struggle with. Do you think it would be more or less helpful for me to join their study group?

Anonymous

Dear Anonymous, Well, this is one of those things that could go either way, depending on the atmosphere of the study group and the reasons you may be having trouble in this specific class.

You have to be honest with yourself.

If you meet with your friends with the intention of having fun and you know you probably won’t ever end up getting work done, obviously this study method won’t help you. But, when done correctly, studying with a group is shown to be more effective than studying alone. One main reason is because verbalizing concepts, hearing ideas in other words, and attaching the material to an active memory enhances memory retention. Additionally, studying with a group allows access to a wider variety of notes and insights, which could be extremely helpful if you’re having trouble understanding a topic. Furthermore, being surrounded by

a group of similarly motivated students creates an incentive which allows you to be more motivated and focused, and less likely to procrastinate.

Merle Dear Merle, Some days I come to school exhausted because I got no sleep the night before. How do I avoid falling asleep in the middle of class?

Anonymous Dear Anonymous, The obvious answer, and the worst thing to hear when you tell someone you’re exhausted, is that you should have gone to bed earlier the night before. But, of course, you can’t go back in time. So most people opt for coffee. It may be the perfect solution for some, but for others, coffee can make them jittery and anxious.

If that does happen, a good replacement is green tea, a naturally caffeinated drink praised for its focus-boosting abilities.

And, as simple as it may seem, never underestimate the power of cold water and a well-balanced meal.

Besides eating and drinking, participating in class or just going for a walk might work for you. Taking notes, asking questions, and engaging in class discussions may stimulate the brain enough to wake up both your mind and body.

Merle Dear Merle, I wasn’t taught how to write a good essay in elementary school, and now I have to write an essay on every test I take.

What’s the easiest way to write a great es-

say?

Anonymous Dear Anonymous, I too, as well as many of my peers, don’t have a distinct memory of being taught how to write an essay in school (which of course disproves the infamous, “C’mon, you learned this last year”). Yet, after several years of writing essays about books I’ve never read and opinions I don’t agree with, I’ve come to understand what makes a really good essay.

1. PREPARE. Before you write anything down, take note of the information you will write about. Having a well-structured outline and organized, thought-out ideas is key to a well written essay. Construct your thesis, decide your tone (usually formal), and think of strong buzz words/ phrases to use to support your main idea. (And if possible, annotate). If you are writing a persuasive essay, disregard your personal opinions and pick whichever side has more supporting details; it will be easier for you to write.

2. INTRODUCTION. If you’re writing a response to a book, include the title, author, and brief description of the book. Or, if you’re writing a persuasive essay, write a hook, followed by important background information which supports your main idea. The next sentence should go more in depth about any important background information (write

Riddle Me This! Word Search 1. I come from a mine and get surrounded by wood always. Every one uses me. What am I? 2. What disappears as soon as you say its name?

3. How can the number four be half of five?

4. If you throw me out a window, you’ll leave a grieving wife. Bring me back, but through the door, and give someone a new life. What am I? 5. I go up and down the stairs without moving. What am I? 6. I’m a word that’s hardly there. Take away my start, and I’m an herbal flair. What am I? 7. The more you take, the more you leave behind.

What am I? 8. David’s father has three sons: Snap, Crackle and _____?

9. What belongs to you, but other people use it more than you?

10. Tall I am young. Short I am old. While with life I glow, wind is my foe. What am I? (Answers are on the next page.)

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as if the reader knows nothing). Next, your thesis statement should answer the prompt and express your main idea, followed by three or so supporting details explaining why you believe this.

3. REMEMBER TO PEE. No, not like that. It’s an acronym for Point, Example, and Explanation. Every supporting detail should have a few points to elaborate, each with an example (example/quote/ evidence/statistic) and its concurring explanation (why is this significant and how does it prove your main idea). This is where you go back to the book, text, poem, etc. to find proof to prove your point.

4. TRANSITIONS. You might as well google “transition words” and familiarize yourself with them.

Another key component of the essay (whose importance isn’t emphasized enough), transitions are words or phrases which allow to your ideas to flow better.

5. THESAURUS.COM. Think of this as a tool to help you embellish your essay; powerful word choice could give your stance/main idea more weight, while also making your writing style seem sophisticated.

6. CONCLUSION. This is your chance to tie everything together. You must summarize your argument, restate your thesis, and draw conclusions. You’re essentially answering the question “So what?” or “OK, why do I care?” and effectively making the reader side with you.

(Remember: never repeat yourself, always check your grammar, and cite credible sources.)

Standard of Fabulous Flatbush’s Most Stylish Teachers Talk Trends ers I like Converse and Vejas

Do you wear glasses or contacts?

What are your go-to outH: I like to wear both, but I prefer fits on a typical day? contacts. The only thing I don’t like about H: I usually wear a black or denim skirt and a comfy sweater, with a jean jacket.

W: Black skirt and a top, with wedge suede black booties. But when I’m home, I really love wearing sweatshirts and exercise clothes.

M: A black skirt and cute but easy sweater that doesn’t require a lot of fuss.

contacts is that people don’t always recognize me as easily. I want people to recognize me when I’m not wearing my glasses.

W: Most of the time I wear glasses. I buy a new pair every year, though, since I feel as if it’s almost always a new accessory.

M: Glasses.

Do you have any fashion inspirations?

H: My mom. When I was younger, I

What are your go-to for- always used to make her shop for me. I mal outfits? used to steal her clothing all the time. I H: Something that’s different and very classy, but comfortable.

Silk dresses are a great example.

W: I like wearing more expensive dresses when it comes to weddings and other events. I don’t wear black; I think it looks like you’re going to a funeral.

One color I love wearing is emerald green. I think it’s elegant and beautiful.

M: Usually a dress. Otherwise, patterned skirts with a simple top.

still do that today, but don’t tell her.

W: Celebrity-wise, Kate Middleton.

She always dresses so classy and modest.

But, if I’m being real, I always look at my students style, since they keep up with the trends more than I do.

M: I’m not sure, but I always make sure to have a preppy and simple look with minimal jewelry.

What’s your favorite trend at the moment?

All: The midi skirt. It’s classy and modest.

Ms. Mayer

Ms. Harcsztark (left) and Ms. Wielgus

Ms. Harcsztark: Everywhere really, but in specific I love Zara, J. Crew, and Bloomingdales.

Ms. Wielgus: My daughter shops for me. I prefer online shopping, specifically Asos and Zara. When it comes to shopping in person, Rodeo Drive.

Ms. Mayer: For work, usually places like J. Crew and Madewell, but for sneak-

H: There’s a lot, but if I were to pick one, a jean jacket for sure.

W: Jewelry, specifically earrings.

M: My shoes. Either ballet flats, loafers, booties, or velvet slippers.

Where’s your favorite place to shop?

H: The Upper West Side and the malls in New Jersey.

W: SoHo and Rockefeller Center. Everything is all right next to each other. It’s kind of like an outdoor mall.

M: Rockefeller Center, but I don’t go to the typical places.

Faculty Fashion Fact: It isn’t just students who have to follow a dress code at Flatbush. Did you know that teachers have a dress code, too? For example, male teachers’ shirts must have collars and buttons, and must be tucked in.

1. Color coordination is key. No matter how fun or crazy or boring your socks are, they should match something else you’re wearing. The main color in your socks should match the main color in either your shirt or your pants. And if you can match your socks to both your shirt and pants at once, even better.

2. The more plain and monotonous your clothes are, the crazier your socks can be. If you’re wearing a simple striped shirt and black or navy pants, have some fun and wear your most colorful or insane socks.

3. Conversely, if you’re already wearing clothes with bold patterns, tone down the socks a little. You don’t want to look like a circus clown.

4. Fun socks are sold almost any-

9. Your name 10. A candle

Where do you buy your clothes?

What clothing piece can you not leave your house without?

Mr. Hofstetter’s Sock Tips where. Clothing stores, shoe stores, and accessory stores are just the beginning.

And online, the options are endless.

Soxy, Happy Socks, and Sock Drawer are three of my favorite sock sites, and of course there’s always Amazon.

5. When it comes to folding, don’t ball your socks. It keeps them together, but it also stretches out the elastic of the outer sock. Just pair your socks and then fold in half once, and they’ll last you a lot longer.

6.

Remember that most people won’t even see your socks most of the time. Pick out your socks ever morning to make yourself happy, not to impress anyone else. Come to think of it, that’s pretty good advice for getting dressed in general.

5. A carpet 6. Sparsely 7. Footsteps 8. David

This month, Standard of Fabulous had the chance to catch up with Ms. Harcsztark, Ms. Wielgus, and Ms. Mayer to talk fashion from the faculty’s point of view.

They represent some of the best teachers in the school, and have a really good sense of style too. Each teacher was asked the same questions, so the three separate interviews were condensed into one for this page. One thought that’s not included below: Ms. Wielgus believes that the key to looking good for everyone is confidence. “You feel good inside when you look good on the outside.”

H: Zara all the way. They always have my back.

W: There are a lot of options. Rodeo Drive, Zara, and Asos for skirts and dresses, Amazon for sneakers, Zappos and Buckles on Avenue P for shoes.

M: J. Crew. It’s just so easy and everything is right next to each other.

1. Pencil lead 2. Silence 3. IV 4. The letter “N”

By Celia Banbahji, Sarit Alkadaa, and Raquel Keda

Where do you suggest to buy last-minute fashionable clothing?

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Sports JV Basketball Falls Short at Hausdorff Tourney

By Nathan Sidaoui

another Hausdorff championship, but ultimately came up short as South Florida Contributing Writer coasted to victory.

One of the most exciting sports After a relatively slow start to the seaevents of the year kicked off on Thursday, son, as the JV team is now 2-3, a HausNovember 29, as the Flatbush JV Basket- dorff victory could have been the moball team went head to head with three mentum-shifter the team needs to push other schools in our annual Hausdorff for a playoff spot by the end of the season.

Memorial Basketball Overall, their offensive Tournament. After the game has been clicking Varsity team was able with the new group of to secure a victory in freshmen coming in, the Tier II championbut their defensive game ship in the Memphis needs to improve. There tournament, a win for have been games this the JV team in Hausseason that are usually dorff could have had wins for the Flatbush Flatbush spirit rising team, but they haven’t to a whole new level capitalized, possibly and helped fill up our because they need time new trophy case in the to adjust playing with a Sammy Levy scores against Cooper Commons. The Falnew group of freshmen. cons competed against As long as the team Cooper Yeshiva from Memphis, Katz Ye- works together, plays hard both offenshiva H.S. of South Florida, and Farber sively and defensively, and translates the H.S. of Detroit with hopes of earning work they put in multiple times a week

onto the court, they have a good chance to grow from the disappointing tournament results to improve in the regular season.

The weekend as a whole consisted of tefillah, d’vrai Torah, and sports, and everyone in the Yeshivah was invited to participate in the prayers on Shabbat and to cheer on the Falcons throughout the weekend.

Sophomore Judah Regev stated that, “The season didn’t start off as well as we wanted it to, but this tournament not only gave us a chance to put in some extra practice on the court, but also bonded as a team, and as a school, which could make the difference for us down the stretch.”

The first games began on Thursday night, but before play started there was a Yachad Chanukah program that featured students singing and dancing as a part of the Yachad Ohel program. On Friday there were games throughout the

David Cattan takes a shot against Katz

day, followed by a spiritual Shabbat. The games resumed again on Saturday night, and the final games were held on Sunday, followed by an award banquet as the exciting weekend came to an end.

Aside from winning or losing, the tournament brought us together as students and as a Jewish community, as well as getting to know student athletes from all over the United States.

Girls Basketball Working To Improve Performance

By Carole Cohen Contributing Writer

Rafi Nemet during his sophomore year

By Jack H. Dweck Sports Editor

Rafi Nemet is a legend in the Flatbush sports world. He is known for the hard work, dedication, and devotion he shows in the gym and on the field. Nemet is captain of the Varsity Floor Hockey and Ice Hockey teams, and also plays Varsity Soccer. In addition, Nemet spent his first three years in Flatbush on the Varsity Baseball team. He has been a constant presence on sports teams for all four years he has been here, while earning the respect of his teammates and coaches for his athleticism and hard work.

No matter what the circumstances of the games are, if Nemet is playing in it, he is giving it his all in his signature position as a defensive specialist in whatever sport he plays. He always puts his heart into it, and whether it’s a preseason game or the championship, he’s still playing at the highest level he possibly can. It has been a recipe for success, as Nemet has been able

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to lead his many teams to the playoffs in multiple years.

Why does he play so many sports? “All of my older siblings played sports, so it’s just natural for me to play hockey, soccer and baseball all the time,” he explained.

Nemet’s upbringing with his older brothers has made him quite competitive, which can result in momentary outbursts

by Nemet against opposing teams. But teammates laud Nemet for his willingness to defend them against unfair treatment by referees or opposing teams. This devotion to his teammates has earned him admiration and respect in his leadership role as captain. His teammates trust him to have their backs in games, and Nemet does just that.

Nemet has built lasting connections with his teammates and coaches through sports. “My whole Flatbsh experience, even in school and with finding friends, has been shaped by me being on sports teams. It gives me a real connection to these guys,” he said.

Girls Varsity Basketball isn’t just a team, they’re a family. With direction from head coach Rozan Mizrahi and assistant coach (and recent Flatbush graduate) Sarah Horowitz, the girls work together and are determined to reach their championship goals.

Unfortunately, the team was faced with a test midseason, a tough four-game losing streak after an opening win. Their first game was at HAFTR. The Falcons kicked off the season with a strong defense and great passing, which helped them control possession of the ball and give Flatbush a 44–36 victory. After that game, everything went downhill. The team did not play nearly as well against Ramaz. Lorraine Levy, the Falcons’ point guard, feels that the team “definitely could have beaten Ramaz because we’ve beaten them before. We always have a close game with them and I think our teams play very similarly.”

Their next game was their first home game, against Maayanot. Even with a couple of stellar passes and some nice shot selections, they took the loss. Three days later, the team lost to Bruriah in an away game and followed that with a loss to North Shore.

Coach Mizrahi stated that “the Varsity team needs to improve in three key areas to secure more wins, which we have in fact showed significant improvement in from game one until now. First we need to improve on our defense communicating and rotating.” Communication is crucial for the Falcons because players need to speak with each other as

a team in order to initiate and execute plays during the game. The inability of the Falcons to communicate has caused a disconnect between players and coaches during games, leading to mistakes in crucial moments.

Mizrahi continued, “Secondly, our passing needs to be cleaner and less risky, as well as taking advantage of the runners up ahead on a fast break. Lastly we need to finish, we are making strong moves to the basket and getting fast break opportunities but have been struggling with our layups.”

The Varsity team has two to three practices every week, one being with junior varsity to try and solve the issues in their game. They work hard, and the team has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season, but they needed some tweaking in their gameplay if they wanted to end their four-game losing streak.

Then came the game that ended the streak. Facing the Westchester Wildcats, the Falcons got off to a great start with Renee Kubie’s three point shot. Joy Cattan managed to box out the Wildcats and snatch the ball in the paint. The many great passes by the Falcons led to some important shots that gave them the upper hand and ended the four game losing streak with a crucial 51-13 victory.

If the Falcons want to make it to the playoffs, they’ll have to keep playing like they did against Westchester. Coach Mizrahi called the game “a huge step in the right direction for us.”

Are the Falcons steadying the ship and heading for more victories? The next few games will reveal the answer.