The Phoenix 2018-2019 Issue 8

A Student Publication of the Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School • 1609 Avenue J, Brooklyn, New York • Vol 53, Issue 8 • June 2019 / 5779

Three Grades To Get New Grade Advisors

By Vivian Cohen Contributing Writer

Four new grade advisers will be overseeing sophomores, juniors, and seniors beginning in September. Mr. Engel, who currently oversees the junior and senior boys, will be giving up both positions, and current sophomore grade adviser Ms. Mikhli will be stepping aside as well.

The biggest change will be for sophomores. Unlike previous years, there will be two grade advisers for the incoming sophomore grade. The new grade advisers will be Mr. Hofstetter, who will oversee the boys, and Ms. Benzakein, who will serve in the same capacity for the girls. Both teachers said they look forward to creating a strong bond with their half of the grade.

Mr. Hofstetter is excited to have a more official role in helping students succeed and watching them grow. “The students have always been my favorite part of my job,” he said. “I’m fortunate that I’ve been able to build a good rapport

with my students, and I plan to continue doing that next year, both as a teacher and as a grade adviser.” But this is not a one-way street; most students feel a tight connection with Mr. Hofstetter, as Jakey Tawil, currently one of Mr. Hofstetter’s junior students, explained. “All of the boys in my class are really close with him.

We even stayed by him for the weekend, which made us even closer,” he said. Tawil predicted that this close bond that is usually formed with Mr. Hofstetter will enable students to feel comfortable asking him for help in his new position.

Students said similar things about Ms. Benzakein. Sophomore Emily Shamah feels that Ms. Benzakein did much more than teaching. “She genuinely cares about us,” Shamah said. “I feel like she really took her time to get to know us and build close relationships with everyone.

She was very understanding.” For her part, Ms. Benzakein is excited to take on this new role. She said her main goal is to be available for the students to come to her with a problem, or even just to chat.

Mr. Hofstetter (left) and Ms. Benzakein will be advising sophomores, and Mr. Kweller will advise sophomore boys “I look forward to getting to know each and every student and to being there in any way I can help. I look forward to this new position and the new relationships with students that I can create,” she said.

Ms. Zaltzman will be staying in her current role as the grade adviser for junior and senior girls, but in each grade she will have a new partner handling the

boys. For junior boys, that will be Mr. Kweller.

Sophomore Betty Hidary, who currently has Mr. Kweller as a teacher, believes that he is a very approachable mentor. “I don’t think that kids will hesitate to go to him when they need help.” Mr. Kweller said he feels a sense of responsi-

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YOF Bids Farewell to Several Teachers Ms. Wielgus Donates Kidney Mr. Eldad Raphaeli, best known simply as “Mar,” is retiring from teaching Hebrew after more than 25 years in the classroom. Mar has passed down a love for the works of Agnon and Bialik to over a generation of students. His passion for the texts he teaches has helped hundreds of students feel a connection to what they’re reading. Teddy Betesh, a senior who has been in Mar’s class for three of his four years at Flatbush, explained that part Mar Raphaeli of what makes Mar special is his depth of knowledge, not just of the Hebrew language

By Sam Beyda but of Hebrew literature. “He would be Editor-in-Chief able to pick up in the middle of any senAs each school year closes, the Yeshi- tence of Tehillah [a 60-plus-page story] vah says goodbye to some members of its when we were reading it and continue on faculty, each moving on for different rea- for pages at a time by heart,” Betesh said.

As an alumn, Rabbi Ariel Mizrasons. This year’s goodbyes include some teachers who have been at Flatbush for hi joined the Flatbush family only four decades, and several who are relative years ago, but in that short time he has had a lasting impact on his students. Evnewcomers.

In This Issue

Alumna: The woman behind Grandma’s Cheese Page 2

World News:

The case against Huawei Page 3

ery student who has sat in one of Rabbi Miz’s Judaic Studies courses shares a strong bond with him, and the rabbi has inspired countless students to renew

continued on page 4

By Evelyn Tawil Contributing Writer

Rabbi Mizrahi

When Jewish History department chair Ms. Wielgus donated one of her kidneys to a stranger last month, more than 2,800 people watched the video she posted on the YOFHS Instagram. But how did such an act of chesed come about?

Ms. Wielgus said her decision to donate a kidney was first sparked by a cousin who donated a kidney four years ago.

The potential to do the same lingered in her mind until one day last November, when she read an article about the donation process and the life-changing effect it can have on the recipient. That very night, Ms. Wielgus’s son called to tell her that his Rabbi had spoken about kidney donation over Shabbat, and he exclaimed, “Ma, I think you would be perfect for this!” Ms.

continued on page 4

Entertainment: Have you been to IPIC yet?

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Fashion: Tame your wild summer hair Page 7 www.theflatbushphoenix.com | 1

Meet a Flatbush Family: The Dwecks

Faculty Freshman: Ms. Graber

By Michael Oved Sophomore Editor

Sophia (left) and Robera Dweck

By Daniel Beyda Contributing Writer

Sophia and Roberta Dweck are one of many pairs of senior/freshman siblings.

Despite being three grades apart, the two sisters are inseparable. Often seen walking through the Commons together as well as eating lunch side by side. They are the stereotypical Flatbush Family to say the least.

Sophia is a quiet but popular freshman with an innate talent for reading and writing, as well as art and a few select sports. Although she also excels in math, Sophia admits that it didn’t come as easy as the others, “I struggled with math during the beginning of the year, but I focused hard in class and it started coming together.”

In many ways, the sisters are polar opposites. Unlike Sophia, Roberta doesn’t participate in any sports but does very

well in math naturally. Sophia’s favorite subject is Math, while Roberta’s is Tanakh.

Even their assessments of their relationship contrasted each other. Sophia downplayed their relationship, saying, “We aren’t that close, but who is?” On the contrary, Roberta described their relationship as “friendly, because we are usually able to joke about anything at any time and that’s why I love her.”

In fact, many students see the Dweck sisters as one of the closest senior/freshman sibling duos in school. Sophia admitted that she looks up to her older sister for advice, life lessons, school help and pretty much everything else there is to ask. However, she added that having an older sibling in high school “hasn’t really had so much of an impact on me. Every once in a while she embarrasses me in front of my friends, but hey, that’s what older siblings are for.”

Alumna Interview:

Florence Cohen (HS ’13)

By Albert Saad

success and ease in college. In fact, she

Managing Editor

says that “the workload of college did not

Florence Cohen, a 2013 Flatbush graduate, was a passionate and driven student before she began her successful business.

Cohen, whose last name was Zeitouni when she was at Flatbush, participated in many extracurricular activities and classes, serving as captain of the girls Volleyball team, member of the Tennis team, and AP Psychology student. She appreciates all the work given to her and attributes this intense workload to her

come close to what was expected of me in high school.”

With all the unexpected extra time on her hands in college, she was able to focus more on building her cheese business.

Cohen’s company, Grandma’s Cheese, produces homemade, certified kosher cheeses that are sold in four Brooklyn markets and two more in New Jersey. Cohen has managed to do all of this while still attending classes at Hunter College, from which she expects to graduate this coming January.

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: Danielle Mehani

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A woman of many cultures, many talents, and much influence, Ms. Jessica Graber is one of three new members of the College Guidance department this year. She brings an added level of diversity to College Guidance, as she was born in South Africa and raised in Australia: she now has lived on three different continents. But Ms. Graber’s journey to Flatbush is about more than just geography.

Having experienced the warmth and lasting impact a guidance counselor can have on students, Ms. Graber was inspired and decided to study psychology in graduate school.

She began her professional career in Australia at a Jewish school called Masada. Eventually, Ms. Graber came to the United States, where she met her husband.

After all her globetrotting, what made her settle down at Yeshivah of Flatbush? Ms. Graber explained that “being at the Yeshivah made you feel an unexplained warmth. You could feel a sense of family among the staff and students. It reminded me so much of my own school.”

Now that she’s here, Ms. Graber couldn’t be happier. “It’s everything I expected.” Of course, the job is not without its challenges. Ms. Graber stated that a challenging part for her was keeping up with the “complexities specific to Flatbush, like the unique way students’ transcripts are composed in Flatbush as opposed to other schools, and the many available APs.” In her free time, Ms. Graber is an

She credits Flatbush with much more than just teaching her how to balance her time and workload. “Flatbush taught me the power of friendship and that being different is accepted,” she said. Also, through her many rigorous Judaic studies classes she learned “that sometimes, having more questions than answers is OK.” These are valuable lessons that she applies in her business and her everyday life.

Business was always a field that interested her and she knew she wanted to become a businesswoman since she was young. Looking up to her father and many other distinguished community members, she pursued this career and already has experienced much success. The community supported her and once she “started, they didn’t let me stop.”

To current students, Cohen had this

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

Ms. Graber artist, and she enjoys spending time creating art in a dedicated art space in her apartment. However, her priority is always helping her students through the college process.

Ms. Cohen to say: “If you can graduate Flatbush, you can do anything you set your mind to.”

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

Outgoing SGO Offers Advice to New Slate

D’var Torah:

Who Thinks of the Feelings of People in Need?

By Rebecca Coopersmith Religion Editor

Left to right: Sutton, Katash, Ms. Marcus, Madeb, Jemal, and Cohen

By Kaden Harari Sophomore Editor

As another academic year nears its conclusion, the current version of the school’s student government (SGO) does so as well. During the recent Archon ceremony on May 24, power officially was shifted over when the new members of SGO were inaugurated by the transfer of the designated SGO binder. President Adina Cohen became a former president, Vice President Jack R. Dweck became a former vice president, and the same with Treasurer Esther Hidary, Secretary Michael Chattah, and Commissioner-at-Large Sarina Shalom. The recently elected students who now occupy these positions are President Shlomie Katash, Vice President Isaac Sutton, Treasurer Arlyne Jemal, Secretary Grace Madeb, and Commissioner-at-Large Vivian Cohen.

Former President Cohen describes that moment at the Archon ceremony to be “bittersweet,” as she had devoted herself to the SGO, although she is sad to leave it behind, she is looking forward to seeing what the next year has in store.

“The legacy I wish for them to carry on is the legacy of the SGO. The SGO is a hardworking group of people who will work endlessly on events, but also will work to hear out the students and make dreams into reality.”

When asked what event in particular they wish will be maintained, former Commissioner-at-Large Shalom responded that the main answer is Color War. Shalom explains, “Yes, hard work was required and sacrifices were made… but all for the better. That’s part of the process,” Shalom explains. Her “biggest reward” was the “feeling of making my fellow classmates happy.”

Former President Cohen elaborates further that the student involvement during grade wars reflects the mission of SGO; students’ experiences were enhanced while working hand in hand with and abiding by the Yeshivah’s values and regulations. It also reflects SGO itself in the sense that each student had more of a voice and was able to express his or herself to those in charge, the way that SGO members will hear any student out and act as a bridge between students and faculty.

If a student deems that a rule enforced by the administration is ineffective, or if one would like to pitch a new idea, it will be taken into consideration by the members of SGO. Each one has his or her own way of contributing to the success of organized school events and to the student body’s satisfaction. Together with Mrs. Marcus, the group is able to efficiently and cohesively work behind the scenes to create the lively atmosphere present within the walls of the Yeshivah.

Hidary offered her successors a crucial lesson for working together in order to accomplish great feats: “Don’t go around each other when you’re trying to get things done… a team comes as a team, where everyone should feel understood. And if you disagree with something, don’t go behind backs, as it causes unnecessary and unwanted drama.”

The new SGO already is planning its course of action. President Katash has some goals in mind, like “big structural changes to some of the school’s functions, such as the test schedule and the minyan system, as well as a number of programs next year to make the school life for every student simpler and easier.” Overall, he wishes to create an environment that supports the concept of logically analyzing and addressing situations with the outcome being major improvement.

Treasurer Jemal agrees and discusses the feeling of obligation to give back to her school by setting her mind to getting the job done. Vice President Sutton says, “I hope that as a team we are able to set and achieve realistic goals that will benefit the students and the administration,” with key factors being “patience and respect.”

Commissioner-at-Large Vivian Cohen has an equally important, but different ambition. She looks to cater to her peers who want to be part of a commission that may not seem possible to lift off the ground. “It’s a shame that some commissions don’t happen. Students are excited about joining, and then they fall through! With help from Mrs. Marcus and our government, we will reach the point where every individual can find his or her own place.”

Flatbush’s strong new SGO undoubtedly will make an impact, and the school will soon experience what is to come!

On Shavuot, we read Megillat Ruth, in which Ruth goes to Boaz’s field for food because she and Naomi are dirt poor. Once Boaz finds out her identity, he made sure that she is provided for and can go back home to Naomi with a surplus of food.

Seeing the large amount of food Ruth comes back with, Naomi inquires which field she went to and Ruth answers, “The name of the man for which I did for him today is Boaz.” This seemingly strange sentence construction holds a valuable lesson.

Instead of putting Boaz as the subject, such as, “The name of the man who did for me today is Boaz,” Ruth responds in an unusual manner, putting herself as the subject of the action being performed. Why? The Medrash answers that this shows us who really benefits when one gives charity.

But that doesn’t completely answer the question. If anything, Ruth’s statement sounds ungrateful because she appears to be saying that she did the

bigger chesed by accepting Boaz’s charity, and that her kindness was better than that of Boaz. Also, does it matter to Naomi who did the bigger favor?

To better understand the answer, we have to remember where Ruth came from. Ruth was a former princess who was raised in luxury, the complete opposite of where she is now: begging for food. Having fallen to such depths, she focuses on the positive—performing the bigger act of kindness—to preserve her dignity and boost her morale.

This teaches us two very important lessons. First, we need to remember to be aware that anyone in need of charity is hurting emotionally as well, so we need to try to minimize the pain as much possible to help maintain their dignity and pride. Second, even at your lowest moment, try to view your situation in a positive light. Ruth understood the importance of this, so she turned the degrading act of begging for food into one that reflected positively on her.

D’var Torah Joke: What was Boaz like before he met Ruth?

Ruth-less

U.S. Government Battling Chinese Cell Phone Giant

By Sarah Dagmy World News Editor

Huawei Technologies Co., an innovative technology company based in China, is in the lead as the world’s No. 1 telecommunications supplier and the world’s No. 2 smartphone maker. However, the U.S. Justice Department recently released multiple indictments against the company, accusing Huawei of theft of intellectual property, impediment of justice, and fraud related to its supposed elusion of U.S. sanctions against Iran. Huawei continues to claim its innocence and has denied any offenses.

Currently, the U.S. government’s most significant concern over Huawei is the company’s relationship with the Chinese government. U.S. officials worry that Huawei’s equipment potentially could be used to aid Chinese espionage or sabotage against other countries and companies, including the United States.

On these grounds, the Trump administration has blacklisted Huawei from conducting business in the United States or with U.S. suppliers. Yet despite these pro-

hibitions, there is still a massive presence around the world of Huawei electronics.

Following the lead of the United States, other countries have instituted similar bans on Huawei’s technology.

Many technology companies have done the same; Google, Intel, Qualcomm, Broadcom, Western Digital, and Micron all released statements that they will cut ties with Huawei.

However, the Netherlands recently chose Huawei to provide equipment for its next-generation 5G wireless network because of the quality and affordable prices of Huawei’s smartphones. Huawei has made similar advances in Germany, France, Britain, Italy, Canada and throughout the developing world, selling products with good quality at prices that rivals can’t match. Huawei’s is able to produce goods at such low prices in part because of subsidies from the Chinese government.

The question remains whether China provides those subsidies in exchange for Huawei’s help in spying on rival governments and companies. For now, the United States is not taking any chances.

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The Phoenix Honored for Three Grades To Get New Fourth Consecutive Year Grade Advisers continued from page 1

By Shelley Shammah Contributing Writer

The Phoenix has been recognized yet again by the American Scholastic Press Association as one of the top school newspapers in the country. For the fourth year in a row, the newspaper earned the distinction of First Place for high schools with enrollment of 500-1,000. The Phoenix was the only newspaper from a Yeshivah high school to be honored by the ASPA this year. Congratulations to the entire Phoenix staff on its latest honor!

YOF Bids Farewell to Several Teachers continued from page 1

Dr. Saad-Lessler their commitment to Torah and Mitzvot with his incredible stories of Hashem’s influence on our lives. He is leaving to become the Assistant Rabbi at the Edmond J. Safra Synagogue in Manhattan, where he hopes to inspire families much like he has students for the past four years at Flatbush.

Math teacher Ms. Friedman is beloved by the freshmen and sophomores she teaches, but she is leaving us for a different kind of love. Ms. Friedman, who recently got engaged, will be moving to Israel with her fiancé shortly after they get married.

Mr. Eli Amzalag also is departing Flatbush this year. Every male student takes SAFE with Mr. Amzalag once a week throughout high school, and his

Ms. Friedman

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advice has proven critically important to many. One senior boy recounted a time where he was facing a difficult decision in his personal life and Mr. Amzalag “went out of his way” to make sure the student was able to make the right choice for his future. Mr. Amzalag also coaches the boys soccer teams.

Mr. Ricky Kennard, a stalwart of the Science department, also will be leaving, after teaching Regents and AP Physics for over 20 years. Mr. Kennard’s infectious energy, fueled in part by his daily 3 p.m. Dunkin’ coffee, motivated his students to give the incredibly challenging subject their all. He is also known for his detailed, hands-on demonstrations and his stories of his childhood in his native country of Guayana.

English teacher Ms. Paulina Salem is also among the teachers who will not be returning next year. Her Writing Workshop classes are known for their relaxed, yet informative atmosphere and Ms. Salem’s kind and encouraging nature. Despite leaving the high school, she will continue to teach second grade in the Lower Division, as she has been for several years.

Several other part-time teachers will be leaving as well, including Dr. SaadLessler, who teaches AP Economics. Ms. Schilit (History) and Ms. Appel (Judaic Studies), who joined the faculty in September, are also leaving.

Ms. Salem

bility when it comes to his new role. He always saw his job as helping students gain the most from their experience at school, and this new role highlights that goal.

“I hope to learn as much as I can while helping the upcoming juniors to be as productive as possible,” Mr. Kweller noted.

The senior boys will be assisted by Rabbi Galpert next year. With all of the work that Rabbi Galpert does around the school, taking on the role of senior grade adviser came with a cost. Rabbi Galpert felt it was necessary to step down from his role mentoring Senior Council, which he has done for seven years, because it would be too much for him to do both. He stated that he will be a guiding and helping hand for Mrs. Marcus, who will oversee Senior Council next year.

In his new role, Rabbi Galpert looks forward to interacting with the seniors in a new way and helping them grow as people. Albert Terzi, a junior, knows that

Rabbi Galpert will advise senior boys having Rabbi Galpert as a grade adviser is not something to take for granted. He shared, “When I asked the Rabbi how he had time for this new task, he answered that he had time one night and planned out my whole senior year!”

Ms. Winkler will continue to serve as grade adviser for all freshmen.

Ms. Wielgus Donates Kidney continued from page 1

Wielgus took this as a sign from above and decided to move forward with her decision to donate her kidney.

The next morning, Ms. Wielgus noticed a lady in Borough Park who needed a ride. She picked the woman up and they started chatting. With tears in her eyes, the woman told Ms. Wielgus that her father had just received a new kidney and that it gave him another chance at life. Before returning home that evening, Ms. Wielgus contacted Renewal, a Jewish kidney donation organization that pairs kidney donors and recipients.

Renewal put Ms. Wielgus in contact with previous kidney donors who all had positive experiences with both the surgery and recovery. Ms. Wielgus then visited Renewal for testing.

She was confident in her decision, even if it meant giving up her normal exercise routine of running, biking, and skating for some time post-surgery. She said she was so grateful to be feeling strong and healthy that she wanted to give to those who weren’t.

Ms. Wielgus did not meet the woman who would be getting her kidney until the morning of the transplant surgery.

The recipient, who had been waiting for three years for a new kidney, cried happy tears and was extremely thankful to Ms. Wielgus for being her donor.

Ms. Wielgus was thrilled to have the opportunity to do this great Mitzvah, truly giving of herself. She was not ner-

Ms. Wielgus shortly before surgery vous prior to surgery and felt as if she “didn’t do anything major,” although her generous act resulted in saving a life.

After surgery, Ms. Wielgus’s emotions were “indescribable.” She felt as if she “was on a high” and was overwhelmed with joy. The recovery was rapid, and three weeks after surgery, she was able to get back to her normal exercise routine.

Ms. Wielgus is keeping touch with her kidney recipient; who is recovering well and is in healthy shape. The two text each other almost every morning and are planning to meet up someday in the near future.

Chesed is like a chain: one’s selfless act inspires another to do the same. Ms. Wielgus’s great act of chesed undoubtedly will inspire many more.

Entertainment IPIC Provides Posh Movie Experience

SVU Turns 21

By Raquel Silvera Entertainment Editor

Luxurious seats are among the perks IPIC offers

By Jayne Haddad Junior Editor

IPIC, a truly transcendent movie theater, has been gaining popularity and raising the bar for pedestrian theaters across the country. IPIC sets itself apart with its impeccable service, amenities, food options, seating, and much more.

As soon as you step inside, it’s evident that IPIC is no ordinary theater. The ambiance of the building is set with lush couches and huge modern paintings interspersed on the walls. The sumptuous interior design and overall cool atmosphere of the theater makes it easy to forget even the most utterly boring movie.

The movie choices remain up to date and always showcase the newest releases.

Tickets are priced higher than average, but it’s definitely worth it. The types of seats vary from normal chairs to recliners to beds, and the seating arrangements depend on which theater you attend. For

the most part, the theater includes coupled reclining seats with a table to share, an individual blanket, and pop-out cup holder. Disturbances from neighboring customers are kept to a minimum since those “neighbors” are generally spread out from you and your date’s personal little zone.

Waiting on your table is a press-forservice button and a menu offering a variety of dinner options, desserts, and snacks. Besides the free popcorn, there’s the diverse candy selection just like at any movie theater. The waiters have the list of delicious sweets and sours memorized and there’s no worry of disrupting the stranger next to you with the crinkling of the bag, because the candy comes unwrapped and in a bowl, ready to devour.

Each IPIC looks different, and most of them offer an adjoining bar and restaurant. Seats fill up fast, so be sure to book your seats in advance.

TV shows come and go, but it seems that Law and Order: SVU is here to stay.

The crime drama has been renewed for its 21st season, making it the longest-running primetime drama currently on television. With over 400 episodes, the show has proved itself as relevant and popular today as it was when it debuted in 1990.

The show chronicles the lives of the Special Victims Unit of the NYPD, an elite squad of detectives who investigate crimes of sexual assault, child abuse, and domestic violence. As acting commander of the SVU, Lt. Olivia Benson (Mariska Hargitay) is a seasoned veteran of the unit who has seen all the horrors of New York crime. She leads her team with empathy and intelligence, all the while dealing with her difficult past which influences the way she relates to the victims

of each case.

Part of the show’s popularity is because it’s loosely based on real crimes or real people, and even though it’s fictional it mimics real life and real tragedies. It was one of the first shows to focus on the sensitive cases and delve into the harsh reality that victims of those crimes face.

It’s an emotional and very realistic portrayal of the hard-to-swallow cases that unfortunately happen too often. The show acts almost as an outlet for awareness for safety at home and in the streets, as well as mental health.

The show is both captivating and intriguing as every episode focuses on a new case with new people. And yet the audience is still able to connect to the characters every time. This series is legendary and is more important than one might think. It wakes people up and keeps them on the edge of their seat like any show in its 21st season would.

Jonas Brothers Reunion Reawakens Eager Fans

By Rachel Lincer Contributing Writer

Picture this: the sun is shining through your windows and your music is blaring. Your favorite boy band’s music is playing and you’re having a blast. But then they make an announcement that they’re splitting up.

The day was October 13, 2013. The day every young girl’s heart broke. The day our favorite childhood boy band confirmed they were breaking up.

We knew something was suspicious when the group cancelled 23 tour dates toward the end of 2013. When asked why they split, they announced it was due to the creative differences they each wanted to pursue.

The Jonas Brothers have sold over 17 million albums worldwide since they formed in 2005. They gained popularity from their many appearances on Disney Channel, including the 2008 Disney Channel original movie Camp Rock and their sitcom, Jonas. But for the past five years, fans have had to settle for their various solo projects while hoping the

brothers would someday reunite.

That all changed on February 28, 2019, when the Jonas Brothers announced their reunion through social media with a short clip of their new song. On March 1, they released their new single, Sucker.

They also recently released their second single, Cool, leading up to the release of their upcoming first new album in years. The Jonas Brothers are the first boy band to reach No. 1 in almost two decades.

The brothers are now adults focused as much on their significant others as on their music. In these six years each one progressed in his love and professional life. While Nick and Joe pursued solo careers that were never as successful as the trio, Kevin opened an estate agency. He also starred in the reality show Married to Jonas with his wife, Danielle. Last December, Nick married Indian Bollywood actress Pri-

Left to right: Joe, Nick, and Kevin Jonas yanka Chopra in a luxurious wedding that combined their two cultures. Joe is engaged to British actress Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark on the HBO series Game of Thrones).

This summer, the brothers are going on tour around the U.S., performing their

new material (and some of the old favorites) at over 40 arenas. Their fifth album, Happiness Begins, is set to be released on June 7th. It is nostalgic to feel a piece of our childhood coming back. Don’t forget to buy your concert tickets before it’s too late!

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Fun & Games The Natareeze

By Natalie Ryba

b

Contributing Writer

GLASS HALF FULL

- As the saying goes, we’ve experienced our share of April showers and now seeing the May flowers!

-Spring Concert was phenomenal.

- I actually started doing work for French.

GLASS HALF EMPTY

- School is almost over and I’ve grown to love everything so much, I don’t want it to change.

- When teachers ask why I haven’t completed work, I just whine “Oh my G-d, I’m so tireddddd”.

- I had a streak of passing chem quizzes and it came to its inevitable end yesterday.

- It pains me to say that we will be bidding farewell to the beloved Rabbi Mizrahi as he moves to Manhattan to spread love and Torah.

THINGS TO GET YOU THROUGH THE WEEK SHOWS+MOVIES -Joanie Loves Chachi -Gilmore Girls

-The Big Bang Theory finale -Married With Children -Big Eyes -Cafe Society (The Woody Allen one) -Will & Grace (original) MUSIC -Daydream by The Lovin’ Spoonful -There She Is by The Lovin’ Spoonful -Beyond The Sea by Bobby Darin -I’ve Got a Feeling I’m Falling by Louis Armstrong -They Say It’s Wonderful by John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman

SHABBOS READS

I find the books that aren’t relatively new to be more stimulating and more of an escape. Keep in mind, it can’t hurt to try.

-Tender is The Night by Scott Fitzgerald -A Farewell To Arms By Ernest Hemingway -The Sun Also Rises By Ernest Hemingway -Sanctuary By William Faulkner

amputate my pinky because it acted as a barrier between my knee and the stairs.

On top of that, a whole group of juniors saw it happening.

-I was sitting with my friend at lunch; she uncrossed her legs really quickly, knocked my lunch out of my hand, and since it was a thermos, it made a deafaning sound.

Guess who was there. The same group of juniors... and Mr.Galpert...he made sure I cleaned up every last drop of that soup.

-On Saturday the people of Brooklyn experienced a mini earthquake

Follow me on Instagram @thenatabreeze

THAT’S SHOW BIZ BABY

-I was walking up the stairs by Crawfords trying to move as fast as possible, when all of a sudden I fell up the stairs managing somehow to almost

Coded Crossword

Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a number 1-26. Can you crack the code and solve the crossword? Every letter of the alphabet is used at least once. Three letters are already in place to get you started.

The Food Corner Summer Cravings Summer is starting soon, so it’s time to enjoy those refreshing desserts that can only be eaten after a long hot day at the beach.

After tanning at the beach, the best way to end the day is with an ice-cold popsicle (or two). The heat of the sun and the chill from the popsicle make the most crave-worthy combination.

Strawberry Lemonade Popsicles Ingredients: -1 ¾ cups of diced strawberries -1 cup (5 medium lemons) of fresh lemon juice -½ cup water -1 cup granulated sugar divided Directions: -Add the diced strawberries and 2 tbsp of granulated sugar into a blender. Blend until completely smooth.

-Add equally to the bottoms of a 10 cavity popsicle mold (be careful not to spill the strawberry puree down the sides) -Place in the freezer for 30 minutes.

-In a small saucepan, add in the water and the remaining sugar. Heat for about 3 minutes over medium just until the sugar is dissolved.

-Pour the lemon juice in with the simple syrup and stir.

-Using a funnel, fill the remaining area in the popsicle molds with the lemonade (on top of the now frozen strawberry purée)

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because I was wearing two inch heels.

I was on the side walk and tripped.

However the noise that accompanied the regaining of my balance was louder than the bomb that hit Hiroshima.

By Danielle Mehani Food Editor

-Soak the wooden popsicle sticks in water for 1 - 2 minutes.

-Add the popsicle sticks to the mold. Place in the freezer for at least 8 hours to overnight.

-To eat, run the popsicle mold under warm water for a few seconds to release the popsicles and enjoy!

As everyone knows, summer is not complete until you’ve had a few dozen açaí bowls from the famous Playa Bowls. Instead of having to buy them from there, why not learn how to make them yourself and enjoy them anytime?

Açaí Bowls Ingredients: -1 frozen packet of acai berry puree, broken into pieces -1 cup of apple juice -1 large banana -1 ½ cups of frozen berries -½ cup vanilla greek yogurt -1 tablespoon honey Toppings such as strawberries, shredded coconut, granola, chia seeds, sliced banana, Nutella, almond butter, blueberries…

Directions: -Place the apple juice, banana, frozen berries, yogurt, honey and acai puree in the blender.

-Blend until thoroughly combined and smooth.

-Pour the smoothie into 2 deep bowls.

-Arrange the desired toppings over your smoothie bowls, serve and enjoy!

Standard of Fabulous Tame Your Wild Summer Hair Summer Fashion Trends 2019 Sarit Alkadaa Fashion Editor

The time has come: the season of humid air and frizzy hair. While some people are able to freely walk the streets with effortlessly beautiful hair throughout the summer, others struggle for hours to maintain control. So, what are you able to do to reduce the amount of time spent styling your hair while still managing to master the look? Here are the quickest and most effective hair hacks and tips.

1. Lay low. Frizzy hair usually results from dryness due to a breakage in the outer layer of the strand. To preserve this moisture, your hair needs to produce essential natural oils to maintain its strength. Believe it or not, shampoos actually strip these natural oils away when cleansing the scalp, drying out the hair even more. So lay low on the shampoo, using smaller doses than usual. Sulfates are a major force in stripping moisture, which is why you should opt for a sulfate-free shampoo for better hair protection.

2. Try a hair mask. With all the heat and humidity surrounding you, a light hair mask once every two weeks can be necessary to retain shiny hair and healthy strands. Keep the mask on for about an hour, and then rinse off as usual. Your hair will be feeling softer and looking glossier than ever!

3. Air dry. While wrapping your strands around a towel dries the hair faster, it breaks the hair just as fast. Using a bath towel can cause hair cuticles to get irritated and split more easily. Instead, squeeze the water out of your hair with your hands, and follow this by lightly dabbing the hair with a towel to take off excess water. Once this is done, braid your hair and allow it to air dry.

4. Change the pillowcase.

Ever wonder why your hair is always so dry and messy in the morning? Cotton-blend pillowcases absorb the moisture of your hair, causing the strands to be drier and frizzier. Instead, opt for a silk pillowcase, a perfect alternative that will leave your hair the way you left it the night before!

5. Style differently. You don’t need to leave your hair down to look and feel pretty! Braids and buns are great summer looks that will keep those frizzies away. If you don’t know how, watch a tutorial on how to create French and Dutch braids so that you can master the look by the time summer break kicks in! Not only will there be less frizz, but also you will be able to cool off when the hot sun begins to creep in. Additionally, to make your classic bun look a little fancier, tie your hair into a tight, sleek ponytail, braid the back of your hair, and wrap the braid around your head with a stylish scrunchie to create a braided bun. This look is easy and beautiful!

Fendi-Fila Collaboration

By Celia Banbahji Fashion Editor

Fendi is my favorite “high-line” brand, while Fila is my favorite affordable brand. This collaboration is known for combining Fila’s signature red-andblue bubbled “F” with “endi” following after.

This collaboration has been around since autumn, but the two brands are making joint products for the upcoming summer as well. Products include wallets, bags, sneakers, heels, jackets and even tracksuits. Many of the products from this collaboration quickly sell out, but often they can be found later at a premium on websites such as “Nett-APorter.”

How the collaboration came to be is

the most interesting part. It wasn’t initiated by the owners of Fendi or Fila; it was started by the Scottish artist Hey Reilly.

All he did was Direct Message the owners of Fendi and Fila on Instagram to ask if they would be willing to collaborate with one another. Obviously, they agreed and his idea proved to be extremely popular.

This collaboration is a lot of great things, but cheap is not one of them. A simple tracksuit or fringe jacket sell for as high as thousands. But hey, if you can afford it, go for it. It’s a great investment that will make you look sharp.

By Celia Banbahji Fashion Editor

Finally! Everything is just better in summer, including the fashion. I don’t know about you guys, but waking up and getting to pick an outfit in the summer—rather than dreading picking an outfit for school—actually motivates me to get out of bed. The best part is that you never need a coat anymore to cover and/ or ruin the look.

Here are a few of my favorite fashion trends for this upcoming summer of 2019!

1. Biking shorts. These have been a trend for several months, but now that companies such as Chanel are doing it, that makes it instantly 10 times more fashionable, right? Biking shorts may seem like the most hideous thing ever. I mean, cropped leggings? Gross.

But, they can actually be really sharp paired with a long, oversized T-shirt with white sneakers; a quick “lazy” outfit that can actually look good just because it’s a trend.

2. Neon green. Neon in general has been a trend for a while now, but specifically neon green has been everywhere lately. From the Kardashians to Miley, brands like Off-White and Balenciaga have been following through with this for a couple months.

Wearing neon colors is always risky and can easily go from “surprisingly cool” to just plain ugly. To make it look good, wear your neon green without any other print or extreme jewelry. Let the color do the talking on its own.

3. Summer dresses.

This is my favorite trend.

Summer dresses haven’t been around for the past couple of years. I have no idea why they disappeared, but I’m thrilled they’re finally back. Summer dresses are easy, cute, and very presentable. My favorite places to get dresses are Zara and Urban Outfitters. Just throw them on with Doc Martens or white sneakers and you’re out the door.

Fashion Fact:

Nowadays, any self-respecting fashionista will never leave her house without flawless eyebrows. While perfect eyebrows are a trend today, fashionistas during the Renaissance period used to shave them off. Take Mona Lisa for example.

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Sports Boys Tennis Takes Shot at Championship

Freshman Moe Sutton

By Jack H. Dweck

Junior Teddy Gindi gets ready to return serve

By Joshua Dweck Contributing Writer

The Yeshivah of Flatbush Boys Varsity Tennis Team is the last team that has a chance at winning the elusive championship that Flatbush has been waiting for.

Led by Coach Mike Gelber, the boys are looking sharp in preparation for the finals at National Tennis Center in Flushing, Queens. With help from senior Michael Dayan, freshman Moe Sutton, and junior Sam Cohen in singles, and seniors

Michael Chattah, Jack H. Dweck, Teddy Betesh, sophomores Mark Shalom and Teddy Gindi in doubles, the team has steamrolled to an 8-0 record.

Doubles player Michael Chattah stated that, at this late point in the season, “it’s coming easy for us to get these wins.

I think we are ready to go all the way.”

The team has been practicing since November, working on fundamental skills like improving serves, volleys, and returns, for the chance to win yet another championship for the Falcons Tennis

Sports Editor

Junior Michael Dayan

Team under Coach Gelber’s leadership.

However, the team will be facing a formidable matchup against the Heschel Heat. The Falcons are unfazed, though, as the team is coming off a convincing win against Ramaz in the semifinals. This win gave them the confidence they need to compete for the trophy at NTC, which is also the home of the US Open.

Sportsman Spotlight: Joshua Dweck “Joshua is just the perfect player for our team. As our starting center fielder and cleanup hitter, we always knew that we could count on Snakeman to make a clutch play in the field or on the bases.”

What makes Dweck so special is his Baseball IQ, his high OBP, and his smart play in the outfield.

Having been accepted to George Washington University, Dweck clearly has the brains to properly lead the Flatbush Softball team, but more importantly, Dweck has the personality of a leader, so he was an obvious choice for captain by head coach Howard Fleischman.

Set to graduate this month, Dweck has played his last game as a Falcon, but he has made sure that Dweck legs out a single while teammate Jack Rosow (background) comes in to score the team is in good hands for next season. As captain, he took several junior players like Freddy team, Dweck has cemented himself as a

By Jack H. Dweck leader in Flatbush Athletics. Known for Salem and Sonny Natkin under his wing, Sports Editor his fun banter in the dugout, spikes from teaching them how to lead a successful For Joshua Dweck, or “Snakeman,” the outfield, and unique approach in the team. It is in this way that Joshua Dweck as his teammates have nicknamed him, batter’s box, Joshua, a senior, leaves the has excelled most: he has made sure that the Softball team will have many more athletics have come to him naturally. Falcons with a great legacy.

Assistant Coach Albert Dweck stated, winning seasons yet to come.

And as captain of the Varsity Softball

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Opinion: Another Tough Year for Flatbush Sports The Flatbush Falcons have suffered through another subpar athletic year marked by mediocrity and disappointment with few bright spots. With dozens of sports teams and no titles to show for it, the Flatbush sports landscape looks as barren as it ever has. Decades worth of banners hang from the walls of our main gym, but it seems as if those were all earned in the 1900s, as there has not been a winning team in Flatbush in years. One small highlight this year was our Girls Dance team, which won a competition in December, but the Falcons have done nothing but choke since then.

Our Boys Varsity Basketball team couldn’t make it out of the Divisional Round in the playoffs against the Heschel Heat. Boys Hockey lost in the opening round of the playoffs as well. Boys JV Football team finished an undefeated season by losing as heavy favorites to the underdog MAY team. Boys Volleyball similarly ended an impressive season with a shocking playoff loss. Our Varsity Baseball team, which had been on the forefront of Flatbush athletics, has taken a huge step backward over the last two years, and our Varsity Softball team barely managed to pick up one win on the season. I can keep going.

Gone is the day where the Falcons were revered by other yeshivot, and now our teams are only a ladder for other teams to climb on the road to their own championship runs.

I’m not saying that our athletics program is a complete failure. It is not, as evidenced by the many victories of our Tennis, Volleyball and Football teams, but for some reason, even our best teams can’t reach the top and bring home a championship. As a Met fan, I am too familiar with the old adage: “There’s always next year.” Well, here’s hoping that next year will be different.