A Student Publication of the Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School • 1609 Avenue J, Brooklyn, New York • Vol 54, Issue 4 • January 2020 / 5780
Chesed Mission boasts Flatbush limiting teacher tutoring for final exams largest group ever By Adelle Ayash Contributing Writer
By Michael Oved
The Chesed Mission trip to Israel is bigger this year than ever before, with 74 students attending. This number is a huge jump over last year, when 55 students attended, and roughly double the typical size of the trip in years past, according to Senior Barbara Dayan visited sick children on Chesed Rabbi Besser. Mission last year When Chesed Mission began 18 years ago, it was the trip possible for every single student merely Rabbi Besser with a few fami- who wanted it. Rabbi Besser didn’t want lies, according to Rabbi Besser. This year, any kid to miss out on the opportunity however, the trip has set a new record of bonding with their peers through the with 72 juniors and two seniors. When impactful mitzvot that they will share all these students applied, Rabbi Besser on the trip. What was most important to and Rabbi Galpert weren’t sure if it was Rabbi Besser was that every kid sees firsteven possible to take so many students hand all of the chesed they can do, and and worried that the true goal of the trip with 74 students “imagine the chesed would be overshadowed by the number that can be done,” he said. of kids. The trip is held every January during In the end, Rabbi Besser decided that the winter break, so no kids are missing it wasn’t right to say no to kids who just school. Students visit places throughwanted to be a part of the chesed. He decontinued on page 4 cided to take on this difficulty and make
Rules about teachers tutoring students for final exams have been receiving extra attention this year. According to the Teacher’s Handbook, a teacher may not tutor a student in a subject where, “that teacher has developed or had direct access to the subject department’s current midterm/final.” The concern is that it’s possible a teacher may inadvertently disclose test questions. While there have never been any incidents of tutors giving their students any unfair advantage for a final, the Yeshivah is now adhering more strictly to this policy to ensure there is not even an appearance of impropriety. This is particularly more important now, according to Associate Principal Ms. Bacon, because “in recent years there has been greater collaboration among the teachers for producing most finals.” According to Rabbi Galpert, the administration is now strictly enforcing this particular rule. “This isn’t due to any specific violation” but rather, designed
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to ensure final exams in Flatbush are beyond reproach, he said. In that regard, the administration has taken significant efforts to remind teachers of this. “Our teachers are professionals who understand that it is their responsibility to uphold the school’s rules and standards, and therefore there is no need to do anything more than remind them of this rule,” Ms. Bacon commented. “Integrity is one of our core values, one of the cornerstones of Judaism, and we must always take this seriously.” The point is that even the appearance of a lack of integrity is something the Yeshiva is seeking to avoid, she explained. Reaction among some students and teachers seemed to fall in line. Although some students were disappointed that their list of potential tutors is more limited, and some teachers were frustrated at the loss of potential extra income, all understood the need to reemphasize the existing rule. In fact, most students were more interested in what else is in the Teacher’s Handbook than they were in the issues raised by this policy.
Flatbush boys save Baguette Express By Trina Cayre Contributing Writer
When word got around that Baguette Express was on the verge of being sold to another owner, concerned Flatbush students begged the current owner stay, and their tactics seem to have worked. A few weeks ago, rumors began spreading that Baguette was closing. The truth proved to be a bit less devastating, but still upsetting, for the Flatbush students who eat there. The current owner, who would like to remain unknown at this time, had plans to move out of state and therefore would not be able to continue operating the restaurant. His plan was not to close Baguette but to sell it to a new owner. When Flatbush boys heard this news, they begged him not to sell. And, more important, they started eating
In This Issue People: Page 2 D’var Torah: Page 4 Fun and Games: Page 6
at Baguette even more often. Flatbush student Sammy Reghini, a relative of the owner, explained, “Ever since the group of Flatbush boys begged the owner not to close down, he’s been getting more business.” Baguette Express, located three blocks from school, is a family-owned restaurant that serves baguettes, schnitzel, falafel, steak, fries, and other food to take-out or eat in. Although anyone is welcome there, Flatbush lunch periods fill the place specifically with boys to the point where it has become known as “the no girls allowed zone.” A group of Flatbush boys estimated that they spend on average two out of five of their lunch periods at Baguette per week. Junior Joey Alhadeff said, “This place is the only one with nice baguettes and schnitzel on Ave J.” Another student
Entertainment: Artists we lost in the 2010s Page 5
Baguette Express will remain under current ownership declared, “They make their food with love.” The owner himself seems to be as popular as the food. Students claim that “He is #1,” and the restaurant “wouldn’t be the same without him.” They keep returning because “he’s very nice and if we give him ideas of what we want, he always tries it
out.” Many students expressed that they “love him,” largely due to the fact that “he knows how to handle lunch time.” For now, Baguette is still open under the same owner, much to the delight of Flatbush students; they are hopeful that the warm and accommodating management will remain.
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Faculty Freshman Ms. Tawil Flatbush Family: The Dayans By Lillian Haddad Contributing Writer
Before coming to Flatbush this year to teach math, Ms. Lenore Tawil was an assistant teacher in Barkai Yeshiva. Ms. Tawil, along with Ms. Dweck and Ms. Goldstein, is one of three new part-time math teachers at Yeshivah of Flatbush this year. She explained that she now teaches at Flatbush due to a bit of serendipity: she unexpectedly got in touch with Mrs. Shulman through a WhatsApp chat called “Math Question of the Day.” A graduate of Flatbush herself, Ms. Tawil also has family in school with her; younger brother Jakey is currently a senior. Ms. Tawil describes her experience working here so far as “amazing” thanks to the rest of the math department, who she credits with being incredibly helpful with everything. Ms. Tawil just got married last week, and has had a lot going on between planning a wedding and getting adjusted to her new job. “Teaching while preparing for my wedding has been so hectic but it’s all worth it!” she said.
Stephanie (left) and Naomi Dayan
By Jack Saad Contributing Writer
For those of you who are wondering, Ms. Tawil’s students will still be calling her Ms. Tawil, as she married someone with the same last name: her husband is fellow Flatbush graduate Abie Tawil. When it comes to teaching, Ms. Tawil said the most important thing to her is that her students feel comfortable to tell her when they don’t understand something. She said she hopes they know that she is happy to help. “I loved Flatbush as a student and I am so excited to be back!” she said.
Naomi and Stephanie Dayan (11th and 9th grades, respectively) have recently become the newest addition to the multitude of family members who attend the Yeshivah of Flatbush. Like many other Flatbush families, the Dayans have maroon and gold in their blood, as their older brother Jason, sister Fortune, and mother also attended the Yeshivah. The sisters look extremely alike; many friends find it hard to tell them apart. They have a lot in common in addition to their looks, including their avid love for dance. Stephanie even made the varsity dance team as a freshman. Naomi is an accomplished athlete as well; she is on the varsity soccer team. Also, Naomi and Stephanie both enjoy doing chesed, and you can often find them at the SBH Youth events. Naomi and Stephanie share a very close relationship. According to Naomi,
Junk Free Beauty founder finds balance Alumnus interview: Gloria Molocho (HS ’09) By Barbara Dayan Contributing Writer
Have you ever thought of an idea for a company but didn’t know how to pursue it? 2009 Yeshivah of Flatbush graduate Gloria Molcho saw a business opportunity after not being able to find nontoxic products in the cosmetic industry, and found a way to pursue it by making her own. In October 2016, Molcho and her sister Doris launched Junk Free Beauty. As a mother, Molcho wanted the healthiest products for her child; she tried to find healthier baby products but wasn’t able to. She decided to start her own business that would offer healthier and safer alternatives for everyday use.
The Phoenix Staff Editor-in-Chief: Raquel Silvera Managing Editor: Jayne Haddad Senior Editors: Claudine Hadef, Bonnie Melamed School News Editors: Diana Gindi, Stella Lessler Religion Editor: Rose Sternberg World News Editor: Sarah Dagmy Entertainment Editors: Rachel Lincer, Danielle Mehani Food Editor: Sarina Shalom
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When she started her company, Molcho had to do almost everything herself, with the help only from her mother and sister. They made the products, labeled the packaging, and marketed their brand on social media. Molcho realized that she needed to build a loyal clientele in order to be successful, so she created her brand based on the junk-free lifestyle. She quickly built her company and gradually expanded from offering only baby products to now offering household goods, facials, makeup applications, and party favors. She packages all of her products in a factory now instead of manually. The makeup industry is one of the most competitive in the world. Knowing this, Molcho keeps up with the trends and
Fashion Editors: Rose Kurland, OrDavid Menashe Fun & Games Editor: Reuben Goldstein Sports Editor: Nathan Sidaoui Junior Editors: Carole Cohen, Terri Elmann, Kaden Harari, Michael Oved, Jennifer Salzman Sophomore Editors: Elie Esses, Nicole Muravsky Staff Writters: Sylvia Mizrahi, Natalie Ryba Design: Carolina Cohen Faculty Adviser: Adam Hofstetter
the best part of having a sibling in school is “always having someone in the building that you know and can rely on for anything.” Stephanie also loves seeing and speaking to Naomi in the hallways. “School gives us something else to talk about,” Stephanie says. Having a sibling in school is both a positive and negative thing. Siblings can share gym clothes, advice, or help, and having someone older to rely on shortens the process of getting used to high school. While these are great things, both Dayans agree that having a sibling can also have negative implications. Naomi acknowledges that she feels pressure to be a role model as the “big sister” of the pair. Either way, both Stephanie and Naomi love Flatbush and each other. It seems that Flatbush has enough room for both Dayans and many more Flatbush families.
develops new products that she knows will keep her clients interested. She also hired a trained esthetician and makeup artist to help clients find what they need. To Flatbush students who are aspiring entrepreneurs, Molcho (whose last name was Dweck in high school) offered the following advice: “Even if you don’t offer a service or good that someone asks for, say yes and figure it out.” For example, a customer once asked if JFB could do a makeup party for her; Molcho said yes and immediately began to work out the logistics of the event. This is how she created Junk Free Parties, which has grown into a successful part of her company. Molcho is a great example for any girl in the community who wants to start a business. She has learned to balance maintaining her business and raising her child. Within four years she has been able to build her company into a household name for healthy products throughout the community, and she continues growing.
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
Blood drive breaks records Reading a newspaper is so 2010 despite inclement weather By Nicole Muravsky Sophomore Editor
By Diana Gindi School News Editor
The Yeshivah of Flatbush’s bi-annual blood drive held on December 9 reaped a surprisingly high number of donations in comparison to the previous year despite heavy rainfall throughout the day, Rabbi Galpert said. Flatbush hosts a blood drive during Spring and Fall each Joey Alhadeff was one of 148 blood donors last month year, usually collecting in is all worth the beautiful mitzvah that more than 100 pints of blood and thus saving more than 350 comes with it. “Not only is donating blood the ulpeople’s lives. This year’s blood drive brought in more donations than ever: timate act of chesed, it is also crucial in a total of 148 donations, which had the saving so many lives, almost like being potential to save as many as 444 patients’ a doctor,” Khezrie said. She ascribed the rise in donations this year to the great eflives. This is a significant increase over the fort put in by the entire commission. She previous December drive, which pro- added, “This year, we took the extra step cured 129 donations, which helped 387 of informing everybody about the benefits of donations, easing their fears while patients. Bad weather often keeps potential do- strongly encouraging them to do a wonnors at home and has lowered donation derful mitzvah.” Many students share Khezrie’s belief totals in previous years, but the heavy rains on the day of the most recent blood in the importance of donating blood. drive clearly did not deter many people “Donating blood is something that’s so easy for me to do,” said senior Ben Dofrom donating. Rabbi Galpert, who oversees the nin, who donated for his third time this blood drive, attributes the increase in year, “Many people really need it, so why donations to the changes that the com- not?” The commissioners hope to reach out mission has made this year. “We try to convince students to sign up and offer a to even more students, faculty, and parchesed hour to anyone who donates,” he ents for future drives, in hopes of breaking donation records once again. Rabbi said. Grace Khezrie, one of the blood Galpert said, “It’s a great way to help save drive commissioners who undertakes lives and we should all try to do our part the innumerable tasks to run the event in doing so.” smoothly, believes that the hard work put
How to handle finals stress By Diane Azrak Contributing Writer
Students are having panic and stress attacks due to studying during finals time in Flatbush, as well as all over the country. An informal study conducted by The Phoenix revealed that, out of every 100 Yeshivah of Flatbush students, 67 get stressed very quickly, and 78 get stress attacks quite often. Further, many students do not have the tools to cope with stress; more than 30 students said that their coping mechanisms include “I don’t know,” “I just cry,” or “Nothing, I just fail.” Teachers have their own pressures at this time of year, including creating the finals on time while still grading work from the semester, and worrying about students and making sure they’re doing well. But students have 10 subjects to juggle, friend issues to handle, social media to keep up with, body issues to deal with, and hormones out of whack, all while figuring out who they are in the world, forming their own identity, and cementing their values. Add finals to that mix, and many students get overwhelmed. “It’s just a very confusing time in your life you need the head and time to figure
it all out,” empathized guidance counselor Eva Dayan. “Freshmen, particularly, are under a lot of stress because it’s their first round of finals and they don’t know what to expect.” said science teacher Ms. Mikhli. “Then you have a lot of juniors who are taking APs and they’ve never done that before and have more stress than sophomores or seniors.” Many students think that in order to do well, or at least pass, they need to pull all-nighters and not take any breaks. But in reality, once they hit a certain hour, excessive studying isn’t going to help; a sleep-deprived brain is not going to function during the next day’s final. Procrastination, a very popular concept among students, will do absolutely nothing other than push the problem to a later hour, which will make it even harder to deal with. When feeling overwhelmed, the first thing to do is breathe and take mental breaks from studying, Ms. Dayan suggested. It may sound counterintuitive, but stopping in the middle of studying to do something that makes you happy can really help. This can mean something different for different people. For Ms. Dayan, it means taking walks outside (no
Let’s start off with a question: When was the last time on the train you saw someone read a newspaper? You know … one of those things made of paper with ink splattered on it, formulating words. Nowadays people rely on technology for so many different things in life, and that includes reading the news. One of the most basic changes happening over the last decade is the transition from reading the physical newspaper to online news. Based on the responses of a wide variety of Flatbush faculty and students who were polled on this topic, only 9% of the total respondents read the physical newspaper. Mr. Rothbort explained why he is part of that 9%: “I enjoy reading the newspaper during my morning commute. I like the tactile feel of the paper and I find it relaxing. I do not enjoy reading the newspaper on a small screen. Also, there is an art to reading and folding the newspaper on a crowded train!” Sophomore Shoushou Ashkenazie also prefers the traditional way of reading the news. “When I’m online my phone distracts me and I can’t concentrate on what I’m reading,” she stated. In contrast, the vast majority of the students and faculty members polled take advantage of the conveniences of their phones. Senior Isaac Sutton explained, “I find it easier to listen to the news on my phone during my walks to school, or while I brush my teeth and get dressed, rather than sitting down to read the paper. I can multitask when I’m just listening on my phone.” Faculty members who read the news online said the main reasons were because of easier accessibility and to save time and money. The breakdown for students in each grade was the most surprising. An overwhelming majority of the freshman and
seniors who answered the survey do not read the newspaper. However, the juniors had an approximate balance between those who read and those who don’t, and the sophomores read the newspaper the most. The faculty is much more likely to keep up with the news regardless of how they read it. Approximately two-thirds of the faculty members who responded consistently follow the news throughout the week, many of them daily. Many people, including senior Ricky Sasson, assumed that most students get their news online, whereas more teachers stick to the traditional newspaper they grew up on. “I believe that teachers tend to prefer a distraction-free physical newspaper, whereas students, like myself, probably enjoy the convenience of having news at their fingertips through technology,” Sasson said. However, this is only half true. Faculty members prefer reading online at almost the same rate as students. 86% of the student respondents read the newspaper online, similar to the 85% of the faculty respondents who do so as well.
matter how cold it is); breathing in the fresh air helps clear her head “If something upsets me, I know taking a walk in nature is taking a break from the situation,” she said. Physical activity is a very healthy way to relieve stress as well because it releases endorphins, which make people happy and puts them in a positive mindset. “I exercise big time and it helps relieve a lot of stress,” offers Ms. Mikhli. Another great method is drinking tea. It is calming, therapeutic, and really helps people clear their heads so they can get focused and ready to work. If tea doesn’t work for you, journaling is a great way to relieve stress: expressing all your feelings and having an outlet can really help getting it out of your system. (For those who aren’t the writing type, the school’s guidance counselors are happy to listen.) For more creative students, painting, art, and listening to music are also a very effective coping mechanisms. Doing something artistic or creative helps a lot of students when they just need to calm down and do something they love before getting back to hitting the books. Others like to try yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises. If none of these methods work for you, the final option is stress eating. It’s definitely not as healthful as the others,
but if it’s done in moderation and is handled properly, it can help give you relief as well. According to Ms. Mikhli, chocolate and pasta help her the most, and many faculty and students acknowledge that they tend to eat more during finals time. As long as it calms you down and gets you ready to study, you can try whatever you want. Basically, you just need to “remove yourself from the situation,” Dayan explained. “Don’t group everything at once, meaning don’t start thinking about everything wrong in that moment, just think about that specific thing you’re stressed about.” The key is finding that balance between self-care and studying. “Stress is caused by a lack of knowledge,” stated Rabbi Yitzchak Rosenblum, who deals with stressed-out seniors in his role as a college guidance counselor. Much of the worrying students do during finals is because they don’t know how the final will go or how it will affect their average, or they just plainly don’t know the material. But Mikhli reminds us, “If a student has been working very hard all semester and has done all the work, they don’t realize that they already know a lot of the information. … I just tell everyone to CALM DOWN. … In a year or two from now you’ll look back and wonder, ‘Why did I stress so much?”
Sights like this are increasingly rare
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Anti-Semitism hits home D’var Torah: Flatbush students rattled by recent flurry of attacks Memories and reputations of men By Rochelle Hafif Contributing Writer
The recent rise in anti-Semitic violence has members of the Flatbush community concerned for their safety, as attacks have increased in frequency throughout the New York area and especially in Brooklyn, including multiple locations close to the Yeshivah of Flatbush. Weeks ago, two gunmen charged the Jersey City Kosher Supermarket in an “anti-Semitic attack, leaving three bystanders dead and shocking Jersey City’s thriving multicultural community,” The New York Times reported. But several, less deadly events have left Jews throughout Brooklyn and the greater New York area shaken. During Chanukah alone, there were more than eight anti-Semitic attacks in New York City, including an attack on a woman and her son from the Sephardic community on December 26. A woman allegedly attacked the mother and son on Avenue S and West 6th Street, reportedly screaming, “We are coming after all you Jews!” Several Yeshivah of Flatbush students and members of the faculty were among the estimated 25,000 people who attended the “Solidarity March” rally against anti-Semitism this past Sunday that began in from of City Hall and included a march over the Brooklyn Bridge. Many students acknowledged feeling threatened by these continuous attacks. “It’s scary because we used to hear these distant stories. Stories from before we were alive or before our parents were alive. And then it was stories in distant places like Israel. But the targets keep getting closer,” said Jennifer Salzman, a junior. “With Pittsburgh and Jersey City, you can’t help but fear that something like this could G-d forbid happen even closer to us, and it’s terrifying.” After five people were hospitalized in Monsey when an intruder with a machete stabbed several people at a Chanukah party, the Flatbush administration sent out an e-mail to parents last week detailing the school’s security efforts. The
By Rose Sternberg Religion Editor
An estimated 25,000 people marched against anti-Semitism on Sunday e-mail attempted to reassure worried parents while also asking them to follow procedures and reminding them how to respond in case of an incident at the school. Meanwhile, Salzman’s fears were confirmed when she heard about an incident that occurred when seniors were on their way to the senior ice skating trip. “Some guy said ‘That large obnoxious group was obviously Jews.’ Then he confirmed his suspicions with the sight of a kippah,” stated senior Albert Terzi. Other students have had similar experiences. In relation to kippot, junior Teddy Hara, who attended the rally Sunday, said, “In the summer I was on my way to my internship when a man on the subway looked me dead in the eyes after seeing I was wearing a kippah and told me, ‘I never knew there were rats in this station.’” Concerns about such interactions with anti-Semites and the increasing violence have become commonplace, even when we are unconscious. Isaac Chabot, a junior, said that he woke up in a panic recently after he dreamed of anti-Semites calling him a dirty Jew while playing ball. In addition, these thoughts are seeping into college-making decisions. Senior Ricky Sasson says that with anti-Semetic acts on the rise, “it’s most definitely a scary thought and something to keep an eye out in deciding which college I want to attend next year.”
The main theme of this week’s parasha and the haftarah is the death of a leader and the advice they give for the future. In the parasha, Yaakov is dying and in his last moments he decides to impart his words of wisdom to his sons, recounting past transgressions and advising their improvement. He recalls each sin that they committed, from Shimon and Levi killing Sodom, to Reuven moving his father’s things. Yaakov reminds them of their mistakes not to scorn them but to ask them to be better, to not let these crimes define them or be their legacy. On the other hand, in the haftarah we learn how David uses his remaining time to advise Shlomo HaMelech on how to settle the score with those who have wronged the king. In his last moments, the only thing David can do is to dwell on the past and see people as their worst acts. And while this advice carries the good intentions of a king who must punish those who have disrespected the king and his rule, it must be taken
Shtisel’s Giti Weiss to visit Brooklyn’s Syrian community
Chesed Mission boasts largest group ever continued from page 1
out Israel that are known for their substantial contributions to the world and chesed. Students visit organizations that help children with special needs, senior centers, and hospitals. The students also interact with Israeli soldiers and bring donated gifts to many of the people and organizations they visit. Senior Barbra Dayan explained that she was expecting to be uncomfortable and unprepared when she attended Chesed Mission last year because she didn’t actively do chesed as often as she should; however, the trip changed her perspective and taught her to leave her comfort zone. Claudine Hadef, another student on last year’s trip, also was fearful that she would have a difficult time helping the people with unfortunate circumstances. Once on the trip, she opened up to the experience and began to appreciate the small things in her life that the people she encountered were not fortunate enough to enjoy. In Claudine’s words, “not only does this trip benefit the people the students visit, but
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it also helps the students themselves to be grateful for everything good in their lives.” Many of the students attending this year have similar fears but are still excited to join Rabbi Besser on the trip due to its fantastic reputation. Junior Gaby Weinwurzel expressed her nervousness about interacting with disabled children but is eager to be rid of that fear so she can partake in “one of the biggest cheseds in the world,” as she put it. She also discussed how inspired she was by the number of fellow juniors going and believes that “it says a lot about the kind of people we are and I am glad to be surrounded by a grade like this.” Some students, like junior Rochelle Hafif, expressed concern that the size of the crowd could detract from the experience. Jennifer Salzman echoed this idea: “With such a large group it may be more difficult to form such a strong connection through our chesed; however, I am excited for the grade unity that is bound to occur on the trip.”
with a grain of salt as we consider the element of pride that also drives his actions. These two situations represent the ways we can see the world. There are those who can only see others’ mistakes and those who see a chance for redemption. We have no choice in how others see us; we can’t control their opinions or their inclinations to see the worst in people. What we can control is how we see others. Actions happen in milliseconds, but they live on eternally in the memories of men, playing over and over in their thoughts and minds. While these memories will remain with us forever, we have the choice of whether to let those events cloud our minds, distorting our impressions of people permanently. In situations like these there are only two options; either we can harden our hearts and feel no compassion toward others and their attempts to change, or we can admire them for their desire to improve and help them, accept them. Reputations aren’t a representation of who we are now, only where we’ve been; they don’t dictate where we are going.
Riskin, in character as Weiss
Betty Hidary Contributing Writer
Neta Riskin, an Israeli actress best known for her role in the TV series Shtisel, will be speaking at an SCC Lecture and Education program on March 4 at 8:00 pm. The actress, who plays Giti Weiss on the show, was born in North Tel Aviv. She has been nominated for several acting awards and won an Award of the Israeli Television Academy for Best Actress
in a Drama Series. Although she is a Jew, Riskin was raised in a secular home and was never fully aware of what it meant to be Jewish. After receiving her role on Shtisel she had to take acting classes in order to better portray her role as an observant Jew. She had to learn how to perform the simplest things, such as how to eat Shabbat dinner or how to kiss a mezuzah. At the Center program she will be speaking about her life as an actress and how her role in Shtisel has impacted her. She will talk about the culture shock that came along with her role as Giti. The Center has created this program as part of a plan to help educate the Syrian community on the customs and lifestyles of others. “A part of the Center’s mission is to provide educational and cultural programming to the community. The Lecture and Education Department is working hard to bring more speakers and presenters to help grow and accomplish this mission,” said SCC President Steven Hidary. “We’re proud to have hosted award-winning journalist Ronan Bergman, Fauda Star Leor Raz, former U.S. Senator Joseph Lieberman, and now Neta Riskin. This is just the start of more to come.” The program will take place at the Center, 1901 Ocean Parkway. It has an $18 admission fee and is open to all ages.
Entertainment Looking back at artists we lost in the last decade By Bonnie Melamed Senior Editor
As one decade ends and another begins, many new celebrities are rising to fame, but we can’t forget all the impactful celebrities we’ve lost in the past 10 years. On November 13, 2013, the entertainment world lost actor Paul Walker, who gained a large following from starring in The Fast and the Furious movie series. Ironically, Walker died in a car crash, while Furious 7 was in the middle of production. This devastated many fans, as well as fellow actors who worked beside Walker. Fans made memorials with flowers and pictures after Walker died, and the song “See You Again,” by Charlie Puth and Wiz Khalifa immediately gained fame on the Furious 7 soundtrack as a tribute to Walker.
Two celebrities whose deaths this year stunned and devastated Millennials and Gen-Z were Avicii and Cameron Boyce. Avicii, a Swedish DJ and songwriter, rose to fame from his first album, Stories, in 2015, and an EP he released in 2017 called Avicii. His songs “Hey Brother,” “Addicted to You,” “The Nights,” and many more sent his electronic dance music to the top 40 on the radio charts in the 2010s. On April 20, 2018, the news that Avicii had passed away from an unknown cause stunned fans all over the world. Instagram and Twitter feeds were flooded with tributes and posts mourning Aviici’s death. It was later revealed that Aviici suffered from depression and anxiety, some of which developed throughout the rise of his career, and, sadly, he had committed suicide.
Cameron Boyce, a child actor who grew up a part of Gen-Z, passed away in July of 2019. Boyce started out on the Disney Channel shows Jessie and Shake it Up, and continued to gain fame on Disney Channel from the movie series Descendants. The kids and teens of Gen-Z grew up watching Boyce grow alongside them in their living rooms, and were heartbroken when his death, due to a seizure, was announced this past summer. Stan Lee, the creator of the Marvel empire, passed away in November of 2018. His death affected many generations: the people who grew up with the original comics, the ones who watched the movies, and those who grew up idolizing the superheroes he cre-
ated were dumbfounded when they heard the news. Yes, millions of fans were saddened by his death, but everyone knew Lee lived a happy and enjoyable life. “I don’t really see a need to retire, as long as I’m having fun,” Lee explained in an interview in his 90s. Not only did our generation lose many fan favorites, but the generations above us lost many iconic celebrities of their time as well. Prince, Whitney Houston, and Robin Williams are just a few entertainment icons who died in this decade. We lost many beloved celebrities in the past 10 years, but they all left behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.
Is it time to start keeping up with the Kardashians?
Left to right: Kendall, Kim, Kourtney, Kylie, Khloe, and Kris
By Jacqueline Rabih Contributing Writer
Keeping up with the Kardashians has been a hot reality show for over a decade, and is about to start its 18th season. Loyal viewers have watched each member of the Kardashian family change and grow in their own way, marketing their own products, building billion-dollar companies, and creating social media empires. However, all their success in other businesses has led to the announcement that Keeping up with the Kardashians is coming to an end in 2020-2021. For those of you looking to jump on the bandwagon for the final season, here is a quick cheat sheet to get you caught up. Kris Jenner was originally married to lawyer Robert Kardashian, who was most famous for defending OJ Simpson against murder charges. Kris and Robert had four children together: Kourtney, Kim, Khloe, and a son, Rob, Jr.; the three girls are the main focus of the show. After Kris divorced Robert she married her second husband, Olympian Bruce Jenner. Together they had two girls, Kendall and Kylie Jenner, who ended up becoming even more successful than their three Kardashian half-sisters. We’ve seen Kendall and Kylie on the show since they
were nine years old and have seen them grow each season into who they are today. Kris, meanwhile, acts as manager of all of her six children, receives 10% of the show’s earnings, and is known for being the world’s #1 “momager.” In part due to the publicity from the show, each sister has her own separate business, and each has had high-profile relationships with a variety of celebrities. Kourtney Kardashian, the oldest sister of the six, has three children with her ex-boyfriend Scott Disick, and they are known for their co-parenting skills. A main reason why the show is coming to an end is that the family feels Kourtney doesn’t contribute or work as much as the rest of the sisters and just collects a paycheck from the hard work that the rest of the family put into the show. This argument has been going on for a while, and has caused Kourtney to remove herself from the show. Kim Kardashian West, the second-oldest sister, has become one of the most influential and famous people in the world. Her biggest success has been her cosmetics line KKW Beauty, which has become a multimillion-dollar company and keeps growing with every new product launch. She also runs a shapewear company, SKIMS, which many women purchase because of her promotion of ac-
cepting your body as is. Even with all the businesses she runs West has also begun law school, and made headlines last year by convincing President Trump to give pardon to multiple convicts. She has four kids with her husband of almost 10 years, rapper and fashion designer Kanye West. Khloe Kardashian, the youngest Kardashian sister, was body-shamed in the past. It was those comments that inspired her to start Good American, a denim wear line for women that is extremely size-inclusive. She is best known for her workouts and her own show, Revenge Body, which helps people lose weight and be healthy. She has a one-year-old daughter and is always entertaining everyone on the show with her humor and always wants to be around her family and friends. Kendall and Kylie Jenner are also ex-
tremely successful in their own endeavors. Kendall is the highest paid supermodel in the world. She travels the world and has been on more than 76 magazine covers. Kendall’s modeling career took off when she walked in the Victoria’s Secret fashion show for three years. Kylie is the youngest sister out of six and the world’s youngest self-made billionaire, due to her company Kylie Cosmetics. She has been a huge social media influencer from back in her teenage years and is one of the most followed people on Instagram. She has a one-year-old daughter with rapper Travis Scott. In the final season of Keeping up, expect to see more of the sisters running their individual businesses and trying to balance family time with photoshoots and collaborations
Pilot Pete is ready for take-off
By Esther Benjamin Contributing Writer
Peter “The Pilot” Webber will be the next bachelor in the drama-filled new season of ABC’s The Bachelor.
The trailer for the upcoming season of The Bachelor shows Peter kissing multiple women, so things will be getting heated. There will definitely be a lot of drama between the women, and a lot of tears. This season will include a lot of windmill references, which is a nod to Hannah Brown’s season of The Bachelorette from last year, when Peter was a contestant and the two had a very memorable scene by a windmill. In the new season, one of the women even dresses as a windmill on the first night for her first impression. The question of the season is will Hannah Brown come back to fight for Peter’s heart?! Due to the fact that she was also on Dancing with the Stars at the same time The Bachelor was being filmed, our guess is that she does come back but for just a short amount of time, and things with Peter will not work out.
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Fun & Games Ask Merle Dear Merle, Finals are in full swing and I still haven’t figured out how to manage my time well. I can’t seem to stay focused, I procrastinate, and when I finally start studying it’s too late at night and I fall asleep. Do you have any study tips? Stressed Student Dear Stressed, You’re not alone. We all fall into the trap of Instagram stalking, endless TikTok scrolling, and of course, good old Instagram stalking (yeah, it’s there twice). So what to do? Here are some tricks I’ve picked up through the years. 1. Ding, Ding, Ding, Din, Din, Di, D, D, D, D, the class chat is on fire. Instead of muting or ignoring it, look at the messages. Thankfully, people are helpful, and the countless notes, advice, explanations, and answers you will glean from looking at it will help you succeed. Feel free to share your knowledge with others, too. They will appreciate it. 2. Once you’ve finished looking at the chat (10 minutes seems about right) start studying and don’t you dare stop.
FOR ANYTHING. Turn off your phone. Put it in another room. Smash it, flush it, or otherwise ensure that it will not disturb you. 3. COFFEE (or caffeinated tea if you’re THAT person). 4. Find a quiet place. (Not The Quiet Place. Although having a monster who’d keep everyone silent seems helpful.) 5. If you absolutely need a break, do jumping jacks. Yoga. Eating. Meditation. Anything that’ll distract you from burning out, but also won’t distract you long enough to forget to continue studying. And whatever you do, DO NOT CHECK YOUR PHONE. 6. Do not stress out. When it comes down to it, studying is but a supplement to notes you took in class, etc. If you’re doing it properly, studying shouldn’t take you more than a few hours. Good luck, Merle Merle, I think I’m going insane. I thought of something the other day but then as I was about to say it, it slipped my mind. No matter how hard I tried to remember
The Natareeze
b
GLASS HALF FULL
• The sooner finals start, the sooner they’re over. It’s science. • Career Day was great. • I saw Billie Eilish on the subway. Just kidding, it was a homeless guy! • I wonder what Chicago is like. Just a thought. • I got to show eighth graders around school. • I have never seen joy purer than Rabbi Besser with a donut on Chanukah.
GLASS HALF EMPTY
• I’m at a point in the school year when learning in class is like a break from all the studying. • I feel like I got so used to Seminar that I didn’t take it all in and I just let it pass by. I also slept through class wars, and anyone who was around me never heard the end of it. • I wonder how much face wash is too much face wash to accidentally get in your eye. • My guidance appointment is in two days and I feel like I can’t get by until then.
THINGS TO GET YOU THROUGH THE WEEK SHOWS+MOVIES Two and a Half Men King of Queens Everybody Loves Raymond The New Adventures of Old Christine The Big Bang Theory
By Natalie Ryba Staff Writer
SONGS “Come Together” by The Beatles “Sunday Morning” by The Velvet Underground & Nico “Brave New World” by The Bongos “Just Like Heaven” by The Cure
THAT’S SHOW BIZ BABY
Silly, uneducated me thought that a GPA is just all your current grades, not all your report cards mushed together. So what I thought was a 90 is really a number that isn’t 90. Consistency is key, folks. On Career Day, when the guests finished speaking, the room was dead silent. The teacher in the room, who also happens to be my teacher, said, “Any questions?” in her voice that triggers that fight-orflight thing within me. So I pointed at one speaker and shouted, “YOUR life sounds like an indie movie,” and then luckily nothing else came out. I was giving a tour of the building to a few eighth graders and when we passed Mr. Hoff ’s room, I said, and I quote, “This guy is so smart, you become smarter just by talking to him, ya know, through osmosis.” Then I had to explain osmosis. Let’s just say I have a hard time getting through to the youth. My family was lighting Chanukah candles on December 24, when we were all silent for a second, I started singing “Silent Night.” Nobody was amused, but hey, that’s show biz, baby! Follow me on Instagram @thenatabreeze
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it, I couldn’t. What should I do? Aging Early Dear Aging, The feeling of something going through my mind, but then somewhere between its escape from the realm of my imagination and its entrance into the back of my throat, it gets lost, has haunted me forever. It just disappears. Bam. Gone. A brain fart of the worst kind. In the past, I’ve searched for it, my mind working overtime, on an endless quest for something long gone. Moments pass and I begin to question my sanity, thinking that the thought had never existed to begin with. The distinct memory of its existence begins to fade, and I begin to think that I may just be a lunatic, believing that what no longer exists ever existed? The biggest issue is that the proof of the existence of the nonexistent thought no longer exists, because it never came to be. Deepest sympathies, Merle
The Food Corner With the temperature dropping and the skies getting darker, piping-hot comfort food is needed to warm your hearts. How does some ooey-gooey mac and cheese sound? INGREDIENTS: • 1 pound elbow macaroni or cavatappi • 1 quart milk • 1 stick unsalted butter, divided • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour • 12 ounces gruyere or mozzarella cheese, grated (4 cups) • 8 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, grated (2 cups) • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg • 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs • Kosher salt • Vegetable oil DIRECTIONS: • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. • Drizzle a little bit of vegetable oil into a large pot of boiling heavily salted water. • Add the macaroni and cook according to the directions on the package. Drain well. • Meanwhile, heat the milk in a small saucepan. Melt 6 tablespoons of the butter in a large pot and add the flour. Cook over low heat for 2 minutes, stirring with a whisk. • While whisking, add the hot milk and cook for a minute or two more, until thickened and smooth. • Off the heat, add the cheeses, 1 tablespoon salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Hey Merle, I love you! You always know what to say. I’ve always wondered how you do, though? Is it ever hard to come up with an answer? Avid Admirer PS. I want to be you Dear Admirer, Thank you for being a fan! Well, to be honest, for the most part I don’t know what to say. I usually just say something that’s obvious but overlooked, add a bit of humor and specificity, and suddenly I’m practically a certified therapist. It’s like walking the line between being mean and being funny. Takes years of practice. Thankfully those years of Merle Boot Camp prepared me well. Regards, Merle PS. LOL, right. Have questions for Merle? Send them to askmerle2020@gmail. com
By Sarina Shalom Food Editor
• Add the cooked macaroni, stir well, and pour into a 3-quart baking dish. • Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, combine them with the fresh bread crumbs, and sprinkle on the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and the breadcrumbs are browned on the top. • Serve and enjoy! It looks like it’s going to be a snowy winter, and that means home will be your best friend. Cozy up, watch a movie, and drink some of the best Hershey’s hot cocoa. It takes a few minutes longer than the packaged kind, but trust me when I say it’s worth it. INGREDIENTS: • 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract • 4 cups milk • 1/3 cup hot water • 1/2 cup sugar • Pinch of salt • 1/4 cup cocoa powder DIRECTIONS: • Mix sugar, cocoa and salt in a medium saucepan, then stir in water. • Bring to boil over medium heat, stirring constantly, about 2 minutes. • Add milk and stir until hot, but not to a boil. • Remove from heat and add vanilla. Whisk until foamy. • Serve in mugs and toss in some marshmallows if desired! • Makes about 6 servings.
Standard of Fabulous Dress for Success—on Finals Art Basel marries art with By Judy Tawil Contributing Writer
The time has finally come for the season for caffeine, all-nighters, and a mental breakdown or two. Although finals week can be stressful, what you wear can help get you through it. First off, bring a blanket. The most important thing is feeling cozy. If you came to school feeling unprepared for a final, that hour between minyan and the final are way more productive if you’re comfortable. If you choose to go with a hoodie and sweats, that works, too. Always remember to dress in layers. You never know if you will be sent to a room below zero or above 90. Since you don’t want to think about the temperature for a full hour and a half, it’s always best to wear a T-shirt (or collared shirt for boys) under your hoodie. Girls, consider switching out leggings for sweatpants once in a while. Flatbush girls are known for their pajamas-under-the-skirt look. If you are not one to conform to that style, now is the time to give it a try. Also, remember that nobody is focusing too hard on your appearance
when they’re too wrapped up in their own stress. No need to apply makeup or do your hair. Remember to bring a drink with you. S’well bottles and Hydroflasks can be used as a light flex. Chock cups are also girls’ favorite accessory in school. However, there is absolutely no need to take three hours sipping your iced coffee in order to show off the fact that you got Chock today. You know who you are. Uggs are definitely also a finals staple. Pair them with a cute pair of fuzzy socks for maximum coziness. Most girls wear the black slippers, so any color at all will really make you stand out. And of course, an oversized hoodie is always a safe option. It should be big enough to hide the fact that you’ve been stress eating all week. I recommend the Maybelline Instant Age Rewind concealer to hide the bags you’re about to get under your eyes. It’s full coverage, long wear, and affordable. And lastly, if it helps, remember that you’re about to be sitting on a beach, skiing down slopes, or becoming a permanent resident of your couch, and finals will feel like a breeze.
Let your personality guide your clothing choices By Yvette Dayon Contributing Writer
From an early age I was very interested in fashion and design. My dreams have always been to one day design, manufacture and sell my own clothing. As I’ve grown older, I have developed a sense for the type of clothing, design, and color that would accentuate a person’s features so that they would look their best. I decided that it was time to put my skills to the test. I recently sent out a survey that included questions I thought would help me determine the perfect outfit based
on the responses. The questions were as follows: What is your favorite season? Are you outgoing? Do you like to take risks? Are you comfortable in casual clothes or dressy clothes? Are you quiet or loud? These questions help me get to know and understand who I am styling and what direction I should be heading in. The season question gives me a hint about what clothes they typically wear. If you’re outgoing and take risks, that tells me that you aren’t afraid to hop on to the latest trend; this is especially true if you like to get dressed up and have a loud personality, because you aren’t afraid to stand out. The majority of participants chose as their favorite season was summer. The majority also said they are outgoing, loud, like to take risks, and like to wear more comfortable clothes. Based on the results of the survey I decided to coordinate an outfit for a comfortable summer night look that is risky and outgoing. First, I picked a pair of simple black joggers with an oversized short sleeve black acid-wash Grateful Dead T-shirt with colorful skeletons dancing in a swirl pattern for that edgy look. The shoes I selected were plain, black, Nike slides, representing a summer look that I combined with black and white tie-dye ankle socks to complete the look. This is an outfit I would totally wear and feel great in, and I think most people who took my survey would agree.
fashion in Miami Beach
Held at Miami Beach Convention Center, Art Basel Miami Beach 2019 drewmore than 83,000 art dealers, artists, collectors and aficionados.
By Simone Dweck
were sold. The fair isn’t merely about the price Contributing Writer tags; it’s about simply being there. SeeArt Basel, an annual art fair in Mi- ing distinct techniques each artists used, ami where artists from around the world learning the history of the work disdisplay their work, has emerged over played from various tour guides, and the years from an art museum to a full- public relations attracted travelers from fledged art festival and celebratory week- all over the world. Art Basel Miami also portrays the end. Artists and enthusiasts from around the globe all flock to downtown South collision between fashion and art. High Beach to get firsthand looks at talented end fashion brands collaborate with artists. Fendi partnered with the photograand up-and-coming artists. Many of the works are captivating, pher Christelle Boulé to display her phowith great attention to detail. Photog- tographs in their store; she photographed raphy, film, sculptures, paintings, and the process of making the perfume that Fendi debuted at installations are Art Basel. Versace shown in the collaborated with main exhibit hall. interior designer Art Basel brought Sasha Bikoff, who 284 galleries to used Versace prints display this year, to make unique exhibiting the furniture. Her dework of over signs were exhibit4,000 artists. ed in “South Beach What grabbed headlines at this Gagosian’s corner booth, pictured Stories” during Miyear’s show was here; two works by Tom Wesselman. ami Art Week. Many celebrities the infamous duct-taped banana. “Art is whatever you attend the yearly event, and of course, can get away with,” said the creator of dress to impress. In a city of beaming the piece, Maurizio Cattelan, quoting the colors, it may be a bit strenuous to stand famous Andy Warhol. The banana was out. Artist Raúl de Nieves showed up to priced at a staggering $120,000. The Art the Bulgari x Art Production Fund dinBasel Banana is a catchy title, but it’s not ner in a dashing red Vaquera outfit. Caractually the work’s name; Cattelan titled di B even made quite an entrance with her rainbow hair. the banana Comedian. Art Basel was started in 1970 by galWhile many scoffed at the banana, there were, in fact, huge sales on exceed- lerists Ernst Beyeler, Trudl Bruckner and ingly impressive pieces. David Hammons Balz Hilt. The fair has been growing ever sold a white mixed media for $2.4 mil- since. People mark their calendars a year lion. Another successful artist featured in in advance for this extraordinary weekthe fair was Cindy Sherman, who creates end, so save the date for next year: Demassive self-portraits. By Saturday after- cember 3–6, 2020! noon, nine out of ten of her tapestries
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Sports YOF Dance team doesn’t How do teachers stay fit? place in competition By Abigail Tuachi Contributing Writer
The Flatbush girls dance team did not place in the competition that took place at Kushner Yeshiva High School in New Jersey on December 14. “Not placing was pretty tough for the team to hear, especially after we worked so many hours and put so much effort into the competition,” said team member Jennifer Salzman. “We still wanted to have won, but we were proud of ourselves anyway.” The winner of the competition received a trophy and a cash prize that goes to the charity of its choice. About 12 different high schools competed, and each team was required to base its dance around a theme. Magen David Yeshiva won first place, with a theme of spreading kindness. In second place was Ilan High School, whose theme was paintings in a museum, and in third was Hillel Yeshiva, who had a theme similar to Flatbush dance team: phones and technology. Flatbush’s theme was before and after phone addiction, and each team member wore black with a red scrunchie and a phone case as a prop. The Flatbush dance team won first place last year, so it was shocking and disappointing for them to hear that they didn’t place this year. After reviewing the handbook, Coach Frieda Zeitounie declared that the team went over the
five-minute maximum time limit, which is why they didn’t place. “I know for sure that we were over time. I can’t see another reason why we lost because all of the other teams were shocked that we didn’t place,” team captain Barbara Salama stated. The music for the dance was a mixtape approximately 5 minutes and 25 seconds long, sent in a week or two before the competition, and the judges did not comment on the length. The time limit was not stated in the requirements section of the rubric, rather in a different section that the coach didn’t go over before the competition. The team captains had no knowledge of the time limit because they hadn’t seen the rubric at all. The judges did not officially disclose why the team didn’t place and will not do so until a rubric breaking down where the team gained and lost their points comes out, which will be in about a month. Team captains Arlyne Jemal and Barbara Salama were chosen for their skill and experience on the team, which consists of 15 members: 1 senior, 8 juniors, 1 sophomore, and 5 freshman. At first, the team had practice once a week, but as the competition moved closer, practice increased to around 3 or 4 times a week. With such a young team, most of the girls will have an opportunity to do finish higher next year.
Sportsman Spotlight:
Tawil plays with passion
By Marty Elmekies Contributing Writer
“Once the game begins my stress caused by school vanishes.” Danielle Tawil, a senior in class 4-HR, is a leader,
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athlete, and an exemplary student. You might ask how the Volleyball captain keeps all her priorities straight, and her answer is to handle one thing at a time, not dwelling over her long list of tasks to get done. With a record of 6-2, the varsity volleyball team is looking to surpass the Flatbush norm and bring home the first place prize. Tawil brings a particularly competitive drive that requires tons of energy. As the team captain it is her duty to bring that energy and drive to win, and by doing so she transforms the team into a unified force. “Whoever wants that victory more will come out on top, no matter the skill set,” Tawil admitted. Tawil has also been on the varsity soccer team for two years. Remaining an offensive threat, Tawil is also known to be a defensive presence. “The word around town is that she is lock-down on
Ms. Wielgus celebrates after finishing a charity bike ride in Israel last November
By Carole Cohen Junior Editor
Grading tests, grading tests, grading tests … that’s all a teacher’s life is from the perspective of a student. But most teachers have hobbies outside of teaching, and one common passion among the Flatbush faculty is a dedication fitness. Many students already know that Senora Birman is a committed Zumba instructor, but Zumba is not the only exercise she gets. Senora Birman says she also hits the weights and runs on the treadmill. “I exercise as often as I can,” she said. “I enjoy working out very much because it helps one’s health as well as one’s mood.” She also mentioned that she gets her best workouts in by turning on her best playlist, which helps many others, too. Last year, many sophomores learned how to dance in Senora’s Zumba class. Vivian Cohen, a junior, said, “The class was very fun, and we let out our energy. It got us hyper and positive for the rest of our day.” At the end of the year each student had to choreograph their own dance using the year’s information as a guide. Currently, Senora teaches the Physiology of Fitness and Exercise Tsei U’lemad and continues to encourage YOF students to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Senora Birman is far from the only teacher who exercises regularly. Global History teacher Mr. Saadia follows a robust training routine five days a week. His schedule includes weight training three times a week for 45 minutes each workout, and then cardio twice a week for 30 minutes each. Five days a week is not so simple with defense,” senior Leo Tebele stated. She is additionally committed to the softball squad. In addition to being involved in three sports teams, one can only imagine the number of commissions and after school groups Tawil contributes to as well. As a result she seems to be skilled in time management. It is only appropriate to speak a little bit more on her acknowledgements as a sportswoman. Throughout her
a teacher’s workload. “I try to prepare all my lessons during the summer, and I do the rest of the work in between classes, in my prep periods, or when I get home. I work out either very early in the morning before school and on the weekends,” concluded Mr. Saadia. Right before their Seminar, juniors had a special speaker: Ms. Wielgus, who spoke about the marvelous chesed she performed by giving a kidney to a stranger, and about the part fitness plays in her life. Ms. Wielgus works out every day, but commented, “not gym workouts—I hate that!” She runs 2-3 times a week, and in that speech before Junior Seminar, students learned that she was QOM, queen of the mountain, a prestigious title awarded to champion runners. In addition to running, Ms. Wielgus cycles 2-3 times a week also. She also incorporates tennis and ice skating into her weekly circle of activities. Most people would be tired out after a couple of weeks of this routine, but not Ms. Wielgus. “I love it! It doesn’t feel like work because I enjoy it so much,” she added. Her advice was to pick an activity you enjoy and find friends who will do it with you and encourage you to stick to a routine. Last year, Ms. Wielgus and some students went running before school, quite early in the morning, but they did it together and stuck with it. Another suggestion she brought up was to “set goals for yourself in exercise, so it’s always challenging, and there’s always something to work for. And no matter how tired you are, or not in the mood, push yourself! There’s nothing like physical activity to lift your mood and give you energy.”
high school years Tawil has brought in one very impressive award, the Coaches’ Award. But don’t be fooled, for it is almost certain us students will hear her name be called once more at that annual sports dinner. Tawil has stayed humble throughout her years of athletic accomplishment, but her teammates recognize her impressive conquests as a Flatbush athlete.