The Phoenix June 2024

Flatbush bids farewell to two beloved icons

By Victor Braca

Photography Editor

As the school year comes to a close, students have been saying goodbye to two beloved faculty members: Dr. Sari Mayer and Ms. Caroll Dweck-Sutton. Dr. Mayer is closing off a decade of working at Flatbush, while Ms. Sutton is ending a seven-year term, the past three of which she served as Director of the Shifra Hanon Pathfinders Department.

Ms. Dweck-Sutton will be continuing her work in career counseling through her new position as Executive Director of the PROPEL Network, a community organization that “enables women to

earn and help support their families while maintaining traditional values.” Dr. Mayer, on the other hand, will be remaining in the Flatbush family, serving as the Assistant Principal of General Studies at YOF Middle School.

Reminiscing on their experiences at Flatbush, both emphasized how their time at Flatbush was shaped by the great people in our school. “I will miss the people—my coworkers and my students. It made making the decision to leave a very difficult one,” said Dr. Mayer, who also emphasized Flatbush’s role in her journey to earning her doctorate. She added, “Ms. Bloom wrote me a letter of recommendation, Rabbi Beyda approved my research, and the members of the Inquiry department allowed me to observe their classes and join their meetings.” She went on, beaming with gratitude, “My seniors at the time hyped me up and were

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Some senior courses will include credit at Brooklyn College

By Sylvia Mizrahi

Contributing Writer

Starting in September, the Yeshivah of Flatbush will be offering a new program in which seniors are able to dually enroll in Brooklyn College while still in high school. By taking an adapted version of their regular classes, participating students will receive a grade on both their high school and college transcripts for the same course. Classes such as business, English, and possibly social studies and Judaics, will enable students to receive up to 30 credits (about a year’s worth) toward a college degree. These credits possibly can be used at any CUNY college or at any school that will accept transfer students with a Brooklyn College transcript.

Along with regular classes, students have the option to also participate in elective college courses. For seniors, an additional 30 credits may be earned through these electives. Currently, our school is

planning to offer 10 business electives and college courses in preparation for law school. A pre-med track might also be offered, with guaranteed admission to St. George’s University, a medical school, as long as students maintain a 3.4 GPA.

To take any of these college-credit courses, students need to attain an 83 average or higher. The administration said they hope to include approximately 2030 students into this new program. As for the cost, each credit is estimated to be around a few hundred dollars, which is half the price of regular tuition at Brooklyn College.

Rabbi Beyda explained, “We wanted to help students, financially and timewise, while preparing them for college,” which will overall help students in their future careers.

Such dual programs between high schools and local colleges have become increasingly popular across the country, known by various names including College Now, Early Enrollment, and Dual

Enrollment.

At Flatbush, the majority of these courses will be taught by Flatbush teachers. However, in the spring semester, our school also hopes to send students to the Brooklyn College campus so that they gain experience and preparation for college after they graduate. Dr. Abe Tawil, who runs the Flatbush business program, noted, “The goal is to ensure that, one, students get a real college experience before actually going to college and, two, they don’t have to repeat courses that are of little or no interest to them. For example, if someone wants to get a business major, asking them to repeat biology or chemistry seems unproductive.”

As for the lower classmen, next year, business, management, and intro to computer application courses will be offered to sophomores. Marketing, finance, and accounting courses will also be offered to juniors.

New wheeled swivel desks are fun, functional, and distracting

By Olivia Shamayeva Contributing Writer

The Yeshivah of Flatbush is testing a new type of student desk that contain a set of wheels located beneath the chairs, allowing students to be able to freely move their desks around the room. The desk itself also swivels around the chair, slides forward and back, and can be switched from the right side to the left. The desks, which have orange chairs and bases, are being used on a trial basis only in Mr. Hofstetter’s classes in room 409.

As exciting as these desks may seem, the addition of them occasionally leads to distractions and challenges in the learning environment.

“Imagine having ADHD, and then sitting in a chair that swivels 360 degrees, attached to a desk that swivels 360 degrees, and the whole thing is sitting on six multidirectional wheels that have no brakes!” exclaimed Mr. Hofstetter.

“The first few days were especially chaotic. All anybody wanted to do was play.” Mr. Hofstetter remarks. “Now that my students have been sitting in these desks for a few weeks, most of them have gotten used to the wheels and stay in one spot. But in each of my classes there are a few students who cannot stay still. It’s very distracting for the whole class to have two or three students rolling across the room, and we definitely accomplish a little bit less during each period than we would if we had regular desks.”

Despite all of the challenges these chairs present, there are also benefits that these desks offer. Mr. Hofstetter men-

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A Student Publication of the Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School • 1609

AGREE TO DISAGREE

Open electives to everyone

By Samantha Ryba Junior Editor

In theory, it makes sense for a higher-level class to require minimum GPA prerequisites, right? Wrong! There are too many other factors that indicate how a student will perform in class that a GPA simply cannot account for.

Imagine being a sophomore, so excited to take AP European History with Mr. Engel, only to discover that your Judaic studies grades have dragged your average down, below the required minimum GPA of 90. Despite excelling in history and English, Flatbush says you may not take AP Euro because you’re not proficient enough in Masekhet Sanhedrin or another religious study. Somehow, this method of screening students for classes has been employed for so long that nobody seems to realize how problematic it is. People are multifaceted beings, and may have proficiency in one area rather than another. The overall GPA is not an all-encompassing indicator and therefore is unnecessary in this process.

I’ve heard students defending the policy, claiming that the prerequisites filter out kids who will “slow down the class.” However, teachers can use their discretion when answering questions. When I have a

fundamental question in a topic I struggle with, I use other resources like my teacher’s office hours or peer tutoring. The school also has a Writing Lab and a Math Lab, both of which I frequent. If a student signs up for a difficult class, they likely know what they’ve committed to and I bet some support from their peers and the administration could be really helpful.

We should also consider the idea that sometimes, people just have bad semesters. It could be a health issue or problems at home, but no matter what the setback is, it can have a great impact on students’ performance. This can even apply to someone trying to enter AP Chemistry with a low chemistry average due to personal problems the previous semester. In this case, the student’s GPA may not accurately reflect their chemistry capabilities. There are more suitable factors to consider, like a teacher’s experience with a student, or their grades from previous semesters. Even a short entrance exam might offer a more comprehensive evaluation.

There should definitely be some form of screening for students, but the ones we have in place now are outdated. Imposing a minimum GPA is restrictive and limits students from reaching their academic potential.

Faculty Freshman: Rabbi Moshe Mark

By Shlomo Lahav

Contributing Writer

From an early age, Rabbi Moshe Mark felt a profound calling to the Torah. He believes deeply that the Torah nurtures the soul and that every Jew needs its wisdom and guidance in their life.

Teaching isn’t just a profession for Rabbi Mark; it’s a Divine calling. He knew from a young age that he wanted to be a teacher. His love for Torah is profound, and he feels that he should share it with others. His teaching approach goes beyond mere instruction, as Rabbi Mark crafts dynamic lessons and employs engaging teaching methods in order to inspire his students.

Rabbi Mark was born in Queens and moved to Woodmere in the Five Towns when he was two years old. He went to DRS high school and then attended Yeshiva University for three years, majoring in psychology.

Rabbi Mark saw Flatbush as the ideal setting to teach. He had inquired about Flatbush previously and knew what a prestigious school it was, so when opportunity arose, he seized it. Upon giving a model lesson, Rabbi Mark immediately recognized that Flatbush was where he belonged. The natural drive to learn Torah and excel academically within the students really stuck with him. He firmly believes that in order for him to inspire and impact students, they must be driven to learn.

With one year of experience teaching Torah, Rabbi Mark embraced Flatbush this year, transitioning from teaching in a small middle school to a bigger high school. He mentioned that the biggest difference between his middle school students and his high school students was the sense of community and maturity. He feels as though the high school students in Flatbush were mature enough to learn Torah deeply and truly understand its

Electives need prerequisites

By Aleen Jaradeh Editor-in-Chief

Many believe that the requirement of upholding a certain GPA to be considered for AP classes is an unfair system. However, this requirement ensures the rigor of the AP classes is met.

AP classes offer high school students the opportunity to engage in college-level coursework and allow them to receive college credits if they succeed on the AP test. While the benefits of AP classes are clear, the question of who should be allowed to enroll in these challenging courses remains controversial. To ensure that both the students and the academic environment thrive, AP classes should have minimum GPA requirements for enrollment.

Establishing a GPA requirement ensures that students who enroll in AP classes are sufficiently prepared for the rigor of the AP class they will be taking. AP courses are designed to challenge students and push their academic boundaries, requiring students to have a well-rounded knowledge of the foundational subjects that they take in school. A minimum GPA requirement serves as a measure of whether a student is academically prepared to take courses that are above the standard level. They also ensure that students possess the necessary skills to succeed. This not only benefits the individual student, by ensuring they are more likely to succeed, but also main-

benefits.

Nevertheless, Rabbi Mark acknowledges that he still has his challenges. He finds it particularly challenging to be motivated to go that extra mile for every student, even if he feels that a student may not be fully engaged. Despite this challenge, he draws strength from the warmth and sense of community that his students and fellow faculty foster.

Rabbi Mark’s main goal is to enable: to enable students to realize the beauty of Torah, and to embrace it, learn from it, recognize its relevance within their lives. His mission is to build and deepen the connection between his students and God, nurturing a profound love for Torah and instilling a deeper understanding of what it means to be a Jew.

As Rabbi Mark continues to build his foundation within the Flatbush community, he looks forward to the adventure ahead.

Fun & Games Editor: Esther Shemia

Sports Editor: Paulette Saada

tains the integrity of the AP program, ensuring it remains a true indicator of advanced academic achievement.

Secondly, minimum GPA requirements can foster a more conducive learning environment. AP classes thrive on all students engaging in discussion, collaboration, and work ethic. When all students in the class are on the same academic level, the quality of the class is upheld and allows for a more in-depth exploration of the subject matter. If students who are not sufficiently prepared are allowed to take part, it can slow the pace of the class and cause the hindering of the curriculum, which would in turn slow down the learning experience for others. A lack of a GPA requirement would also cause students who are not up to the academic benchmark to enroll in AP classes to take up the limited spots in the AP class, decreasing the number of spots left for students who do meet the academic requirements.

Admittedly, such requirements could limit opportunities for some students, particularly those who excel in the subject of the AP they want to take but whose lower grades in other subjects prevents them from doing so. This challenge can be overcome through systems that help all students reach the required GPA. Students can get the help of a tutor or can utilize other resources to ensure that they are motivated and on the right path to meeting the GPA requirements.

High School Administration

Editors-in-Chief: Jacqueline Halabi, Aleen Jaradeh

Senior Editors: Sarah Levy, Rae Levy

School News Editors: Leah Lati, Bella Shamayeva

Religion Editor: Elisha Kahan

World News Editor: Aliya Abergil

Features Editor: Nitza Hanan

Entertainment Editors: Henry Esses, Shirley Jajati

Fashion Editors: Sophia Madeb, Sylvia Saad

Business Editor: Eric Azrak

Photography Editor: Victor Braca

Junior Editors: Leah Katash, Galiette Mita, Samantha Ryba, Bobbi Salama, Nina Tawil

Sophomore Editors: Yvette Dweck, Rachael Kopylov, Emily Tarrab

Design: Carolina Cohen

Faculty Adviser: Adam Hofstetter

Rabbi Joseph Beyda, Head of School

Ms. Esther Hidary, Associate Principal

Rabbi Yigal Sklarin, Associate Principal

Dr. Michael Atlas, Associate Principal

Rabbi David Galpert, Assistant Principal

The Phoenix Staff

Handful of seniors opting out of college

By Rae Levy Senior Editor

As seniors are preparing to graduate, most are finalizing their college plans. While the vast majority of the approximately 180 Flatbush seniors will be taking a gap year in Israel before beginning college, or heading straight to college in September, a few seniors are embarking on more unconventional journeys for next year.

The rising antisemitism on college campuses across the country has made many students revisit their choice of college. There has been a huge increase in students going to colleges like Yeshiva University and Touro University to stay closer to Jewish communities. However, for a very small number of seniors it has made them rethink college as a whole. One senior expressed that he never really wanted to go to college, and now he knows he doesn’t thanks to the current campus environments. Instead, he will be working for a family member.

Another anonymous senior feels that college isn’t necessary for someone who wants to go into business. “You only need college if you want to be a doctor or lawyer,” he said. “The best way to learn business is experience.”

Some students never even considered college in the first place. Danny Levy has never thought that college was right for him. Next year he plans to do work in commercial real estate leasing. Levy feels

that any college he goes to now won’t benefit him, especially considering that he hasn’t really applied himself in high school. “Going to work will probably suit me best, giving me real-life experience outside of college,” Levy said. He has been working in real estate for the past couple of years and feels ready to do it full time.

Though college provides both workforce preparation and social experience, Levy isn’t worried about missing out. “If I were to look back at all the things I missed out on, I’ll never be able to look forward to the things I can accomplish.”

While she’s still committed to a school next year, Danielle Ashear is doing something a little different than most of her classmates. Next year, Ashear plans on participating in a culinary program in Kingsborough college. Ashear has always been passionate about cooking and baking, and she even sells her own desserts. Her dream is to be a pastry chef and maybe write a cookbook one day. This program will give her the chance to learn specifically about what she is interested in and only that. She likes that the program lets her be in a typical school while also staying specific to her interests.

There are many different paths that seniors can take next year, and there is no right path in life. As long as they follow what they are interested in, they are sure to continue enriching themselves, whether inside the classroom or outside of it.

SAT exam goes digital

By Nina Tawil Junior Editor

Starting last month, the College Board has made the SAT fully digital, moving away from the traditional paper-and-pencil test format.

The College Board explained, “We made the transition to a digital SAT in response to what students and educators were telling us. Students do a lot of their learning and testing digitally these days.”

The SAT test length has also been significantly reduced, shifting from a three hour test to two hours. While the test content still covers reading, writing, and math, the structure has been altered. The reading passages are now shorter, with a single question following each passage. Additionally, the math section now allows a calculator to be used for the full duration of the test and is adaptive from the

first part to the second part. This means that, based on a student’s performance in the first math section, the questions will change in difficulty. Scores will also be available within days instead of the usual waiting time of weeks.

While there are some benefits to the digital SAT, some students are not happy with their experience. Junior Gloria Winnick took the new digital SAT, and complained that “the math section was not like anything I’ve had experience with before.”

Some students, however, were pleased with the changes. Junior Raquel Gindi said, “I like that I could use a calculator for the entire math section. It made it less stressful.”

There were also reports of technical glitches for some students, an issue that the College Board insists will be solved before the next test date.

Inquiry Bet Midrash gets overhaul for September

By Joseph Shamayev Contributing Writer

The Inquiry Bet Midrash program at Flatbush will be implementing significant changes for the upcoming school year, the program’s leaders explained. Inquiry is a double period every day where students are placed in groups to study Gemara or Tanakh or both with a teacher, and together they decide their curriculum for the semester. They learn this chosen topic for the entire first semester and choose a new topic for the second.

The school will be changing Inquiry for seniors next year. Assistant Principal Rabbi Galpert said, “Next year we will not have a similar Inquiry model. Next year there will be four periods of Tanakh and Gemara per week.”

The school originally decided to try out Inquiry to help students develop passion for learning Torah on their own. Rabbi Galpert explained, “As students develop in their learning, we want to have them learn for life, as it is learning on their own which helps them with independent skills.” Inquiry helps students learn on their own in a chevrutot-style

model, and there is a teacher there if students are ever in need of assistance in their studies.

Most seniors believe Inquiry is good, but not perfect. An anonymous senior boy said that he really enjoyed Inquiry. However, he said that it really depends on which teacher you get, as a particular student might not work well with their teaching style. “To like it,” he continued, “you really need to build a love for it.” Additionally, having a double period can be exhausting and diminishes the attention spans of the students.

Rabbi Galpert explained the disbanding of Inquiry by saying, “While students were intensively studying one area, they were not learning Tanakh and Talmud, which is important to the Yeshivah’s mission in Torah values.” But, Tanakh and Talmud won’t stay the same. Teaching styles will change to match those of Inquiry, so students can still get the benefits of small groups and chevruta-style learning. In fact, chevruta learning will be included in the classes next year. Students will learn both Tanakh and Talmud, but separately, and they will still have the ability to learn independently.

Virtual portal connects

NYC and Dublin, for better and worse

By Bobbi Salama Junior Editor

Amidst a world divided by oceans, a new step has been taken toward bringing our human population closer than ever before.

In 2016, Lithuanian artist Benediktas Gylys was driven by the idea to bring together people from all different diverse backgrounds. He and a team of technology university students began construction on an artistic installment they called The Portal; a live, unfiltered digital screen which would be on 24/7, broadcasting into another country. Located in frequented locations, they would never be empty of people, allowing those who approached it to meet others regardless of time zones and distance. In 2021, the Lithuanian crew built the first two portals, one of which was kept in Vilnius, Lithuania, and the other sent to Lublin, Poland. That by itself was groundbreaking, but this month, they have accomplished crossing an even bigger divide. Their first cross-Atlantic portals, located in Dublin, Ireland, and New York City, were unveiled on May 8. Hundreds of people gathered around each portal, holding up signs of welcome. The opportunity for wholesome interaction was readily taken, with friends reconnecting from their respective sides and strangers dressing up in costume or playfully asking for others’ phone num-

bers. Residents of both cities enjoy the real-time, heart-touching correspondence that comes with being able to see each other’s faces rather than just words on a screen.

However, on May 14, just a week after their debut, both portals were closed due to inappropriate behavior. Despite all of the security and overwhelming majority of peaceful users, there were instances on both sides of the portal depicting hateful or vulgar activity. The fact that anything could happen between the screens was somewhat of a social experiment. The same installment that peaceful urban citizens flocked to in thousands also attracted a loud minority who decided to see just how far they could push their newfound connection.

The Portals have now reopened with higher technical security and set operating hours. They are scheduled to remain open until autumn, bringing celebrations and shows to the portal to allow those across the Atlantic to share the experience. After the closure and the projected updates, which could potentially solve these issues on a technical side, many New Yorkers and Dublin residents hope that the instigators will cease their behavior. The goal for these two portals, as well as other current and future ones, is to be able to connect them to all existing portals, deepening the sense of connection that Gylys aims to achieve across our planet.

Get ready for cicadas

By Rachael Kopylov Sophomore Editor

The year 2024 was coined “cicadageddon” by CNN, and for good reason. For the first time since 1803, two periodical broods of cicadas will emerge aboveground. This phenomenon won’t occur again until 2245.

This year, cicadas’ already extensive geographic reach will get even farther because of the dual emergence of the two cicada broods. The Northern Illinois Brood, or Brood XIII, spends 17 years underground before surfacing for three to four weeks as an adult insect. The Great Southern Brood, or brood XIX, does the same but after 13 years.

Cicadas are large insects similar to crickets, and are harmless to humans and animals, but there will

New spinning desks are fun and distracting

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tioned that he appreciates the flexibility of the desks, and how it is easy for the desks to change from righty to lefty, making the chairs more accessible to all students. “The wheels allow my students to change the configuration of the classroom quickly and easily, whether it’s to make a circle or to work in small groups or even just to slide closer to the SmartBoard while we watch a video.” Ultimately, he said, the distractions outweigh the benefits.

Junior Sara Dayanov, who is in room 409 for two classes each day, said, “The chairs are definitely more comfortable to sit on and work on than the regular metal desks, and they are very fun to use, but at the same time I also feel like they are not too stable and when you first sit on the chair you fly backwards.” She confirmed Mr. Hofstetter’s assessment, adding, “The chairs were distracting in the first couple of days since everyone just wanted to spin around, but over time most people got used to the chairs and they started to become less distracting.”

Other students came into the classroom when it was empty with the rest of their class to try out the new chairs when they had a free period. One of them stated, “We found them to be very fun to use and play around with.” Another student added, “If I was learning in a class with these chairs, I personally would probably

feel a little bit distracted from what I am learning since I would just want to have fun and spin around.”

Chemistry teacher Ms. Goldberg was asked by the administration if she wanted to try the chairs in her classroom, but she declined. “I was offered the chairs, and I think that they are a lot of fun to ride in, but I don’t think they belong in a classroom like mine, where the lessons are very structured,” she stated. “I think they are very good for classes where group work is done, and students have to constantly change their positions, but in my classroom, I think they would be more of a distraction.”

With regards to the cost of this investment, the schools Operations Director, Ms. Grace Minyan said that the chairs were provided to the school through a grant, and they are about the same price as a standard desk. She further explained that the chairs were bought because “the administration wanted to try something new with teaching in the school.”

Ms. Minyan acknowledged the drawbacks of the new desks. “There are many mixed feelings about the addition of the new desks because, while some teachers may like it since it allows them to have mobility in the classroom, others may not because they prefer the structure of the regular classrooms better.”

Flatbush bids farewell to two icons

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involved in a focus group. Some even volunteered to let me practice my defense on them.”

be millions of them across about 16 states. While they can’t bite, sting, or pinch, they will disturb surrounding areas with their loud mating calls.

The increased number of cicadas does not necessarily mean that areas affected by cicadas will see more cicadas than usual. The two broods occupy different geographical ranges, so most places will only experience a normal cicada emergence. However, heavily forested areas are more likely to see more cicadas than agricultural regions.

To put into perspective how many of these insects will emerge, one trillion cicadas, each slightly over an inch long, would span 15,782,828 miles if placed end to end, which is enough to reach the moon and back 33 times.

Ms. Dweck-Sutton also made sure to mention how much she enjoys working with the students, adding, “Watching them develop into confident, capable individuals both inside and outside of the classroom is incredibly rewarding.”

In school, one doesn’t have to look far for people who adore Ms. Dweck-Sutton. Mrs. Shifra Hanon, founder of Pathfinders, highly praised her successor: “Caroll is a cut above. A dynamic, highly motivated, highly intelligent leader, with a special perspective for the future.” Caroll’s colleague Ms. Doris Anteby will miss Caroll but is happy for her. “I have learned so much from working with Caroll over the years. … Whatever she is working on, she will always give it her full attention and energy.”

In addition to her coworkers, Ms. Dweck-Sutton has influenced hundreds of Flatbush students. Graduating senior Max Elmann put it best: “Caroll has truly spent every day dedicated to helping us to discover our passions beyond the classroom.”

Dr. Mayer is no different—revered by fellow faculty as well as students. “I love her teaching style,” said freshman Mary Chazanoff. “She’s genuine, down to earth, and makes sure there is still some personality in the classroom.”

Ms. Mica Bloom, the English department chair, has worked with Dr. Mayer for many years. “Dr. Mayer is a wonderful teacher: talented, thoughtful, intelligent, and caring,” she said. “We are going to miss her enormously but take solace knowing that she is still a vital member of the Flatbush family.”

Both educators are extremely proud of what they’ve accomplished at Flatbush. “My greatest achievement while working here has been being entrusted with the immense responsibility of running an entire department and filling the shoes of a true legend,” said Ms. Dweck-Sutton, referring to Ms. Hanon. Dr. Mayer is most proud of “forming connections with students,” and looks forward to continuing that at the middle school.

Dr. Mayer and Ms. Dweck-Sutton have made their mark in our school, and we look forward to seeing how they will excel in the future!

Room 409 has 26 of the new desks

BDS? Divestment isn’t easy

By Elisha Kahan Religion Editor

Many of the recent anti-Israel campus protests have centered around calls for financial divestment from Israel. Companies that students see as supporting the oppression of Palestinians vary from Israeli security firms to large U.S. companies, including AirBnB, Google, and Apple, which maintain business ties with Israel.  Such companies, and by extension, the universities, are viewed as profiteering off the war in Gaza.

The ideas behind the modern rallying cry of divestment are rooted in the highly controversial Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement, which began in the early 2000s.  The movement calls for the cutting of academic, cultural, and economic ties with Israel.

Although university endowments can be in the billions (Columbia has $13.6 billion of endowment), it is unlikely that even a divestment en-masse on the part of the universities will apply enough financial pressure on companies to stop working with Israel. Even the large-scale efforts to divest from South Africa in the 1980s failed to place strain on their financial markets. Divestments from fossil-fuel companies have become prevalent among universities, but these

divestments are better taken as symbolic actions embodying the spirit of the student body.

Divestment is a challenging process, and even the basic transparency students seek is difficult to achieve. Many of the endowment investments are tied up in hedge funds and private equity funds which maintain their profitability without publicly revealing details. Other companies that the protestors are calling to divest from, such as Google and Apple, are not invested in directly but rather through mutual funds and ETFs that track the S&P 500, which would prove difficult to disentangle from. This is apart from the various transactional fees that divestment would incur and the difficulty of refusing to work with large firms like BlackRock that have ties to Israel. There are also various legal difficulties for public universities involved because of state laws discouraging or prohibiting any boycotting of Israel.

D’var Torah: Finding our ‘why’ as Jews Israel

By Shirley Jajati Entertainment Editor

Loyalty. A virtue cherished across cultures and civilizations. Rooted in bonds of trust and respect,  loyalty is a sense of dedication and allegiance to individuals, causes, or ideals. From the loyalty of friends who stand by each other through thick and thin to the loyalty of people to their nations, this concept is the essence of human relationships and societies. In a world of uncertainty, loyalty is our guiding light, forming connections and upholding the values that define ourselves.

al. That is not why we follow His word. We follow His word because he’s our G-d, because he has chosen us to follow His laws and in doing so, he created a bond that can never be broken. He has written a covenant with our forefathers stating that we will succeed and that we will overcome every challenge and every nation that opposes us. He knows we will succeed, because He has handed us the secret to our success in this life: the Torah.

A handful of colleges have taken small, conciliatory actions to placate students. Northwestern offered to disclose its investments, while Brown University has agreed to let students meet with the administration to discuss their proposal. However, the number of colleges that have actually begun the process of divestment is infinitesimal.

Alum in Israel: Abie Tawil

By Elisha Kahan Religion Editor

Alumnus Abraham J. Tawil is currently nearing the end of his gap year at Yeshivat Torat Shraga in Yerushalayim. Tawil starts his day with a Halakhah seder, where he learns halakhot from Chazon Ovadia. He has a Gemara Bi’iyun (in-depth) seder in the morning, a program of chavruta learning followed by shiur.

Tawil believes his Flatbush experience was crucial to his transition to yeshivah-style learning. “Rav Gitler’s chavruta learning was my first exposure to real chavruta learning. It gave me experience and prepared me; it’s a whole different ball game not being spoon-fed, and much more challenging.” Tawil said that learning in chavruta helps him gain an understanding that is unachievable by simply

learning from a Rabbi.

During chavruta learning in the Yeshivah, a Shoel uMeishiv (trained learning assistant) usually helps the students through difficult sugyot. At one point, the Shoel uMeishiv left for the army, so Tawil and his chavruta had to fend for themselves. “It definitely got difficult at some points. It took more time on certain pieces, but it sort of helped us that way.” Tawil believes that he ultimately grew out of the experience.

Tawil spends his nights learning Gemara Bikiyut, quickly covering ground. He also takes other classes throughout the day. For one session, he takes Tanach, his group’s original goal to learn one Perek daily. However, Tawil reported, “Our Rabbi got called up to the army, it’s not the same.”

Tawil enjoys other sessions, including

In Parashat Bechukotai, our loyalty, as the Jewish people and the chosen nation of Hashem, comes into question. As Vayikra, the book known for thoroughly discussing the laws and rituals we were given as the children of Israel, comes to an end, we are forced to ask ourselves one question: Why? Why do we follow these rules? What do we gain? What is their purpose? And Bechukotai seemingly hands us an answer: because it’s in our better interest. “יִלִ

” ((Va� yikra די:וכ), Hashem threatens famine, defeat, exile. “

(Vayikra ג:וכ), Hashem promises abundance, security, His presence. These punishments and blessings, these material things and concepts in our lives, are these the reasons for our commitment? Can our loyalty be bought? Or are we just too afraid of G-d to dare go against His word?

The answer can be found in four simple words that have been repeated throughout this Parshah, and the Torah itself, countless times:

(Vayikra א:וכ). Yes, we are afraid of G-d and the curses He may bring upon us. Yes, we want G-d’s favor and pray for His blessings. But that is not why we are loy-

topics such as musar, lashon hara, and interesting halakhic topics. Rabbi Shamula holds a shiur his students like to call “arts and crafts,” going over large source sheets based on topics his talmidim are interested in.

The Yeshivah makes sure to expose their students to more mature learners through the Vaad program. On Tuesday nights, talmidim are paired with Gruss Bachurim to have a hot-topic session and a shmooze. The Gruss program is a kollel run by YU for those seeking Semicha. During the two-hour lunch break and even after 10:00 Shiur, Shraga keeps its talmidim active with two basketball leagues and a soccer league.

At the beginning of the year, 90 boys were coming for their first year and 60 for Shana Bet. After the war, around half of the Yeshivah left, but the vast majority returned. Many Shana Bet students traditionally do not come back after Pesach. The majority of students there are Ashke-

We follow this book, we follow His rules because we know that this is how we bring Hashem and Holiness into our lives. This is our guide book. The punishments and the rewards merely push us in the right direction when we are lost. But our real “Why” is that we strive to create a connection with Hashem. That is why our religion is different from all the rest. We don’t just “identify” as Jews. We. Are. Jews. We don’t pick and choose our laws, we follow everything we are commanded to. Not just out of fear, and not just out of a pursuit for success, but out of love and devotion and commitment and loyalty. The punishments and rewards that G-d promises us in this week’s parasha are little compared to the real reward of being part of our nation and following under the rule of Hashem:

We are His Nation. We are His people. And He is among us. With Hashem’s laws and spirit within us, we can challenge the 99% of earth’s population that is separate from us, that do not follow what we do or restrict themselves as we do, to become closer to G-d. Our Torah and the lifestyle we choose to keep cements our loyalty to everything our forefathers have built together with Hashem as their guide.

naz, but the yeshivah does have a Sephardic program with 30 boys.

Tawil was asked if he has become more culturally Ashkenaz after the immersive Ashkenaz experience in the Yeshivah. While Tawil does learn with an Ashkenaz student in morning Seder, he notes, “Have I become more Ashkenaz? I hope not!” Ironically, Shabbat lunch at Shraga is exclusively Sephardic cuisine, including hamin, kibbe, and cigars.

Thursday night Mishmar is a special time, meant to spiritually prepare the Shraga Talmidim for Shabbat. In a packed room, they sing zemirot, listen to a mussar shmooze, and enjoy cholent. For every Shabbat that Shraga tells its students to stay in, there are two “out” Shabbatot. Even on “out” Shabbatot, the Rebbeim invite their talmidim to their homes for a Shabbat meal. The students also get to go on Shabbatons to places like Mitzpeh Yirecho, Tzfat, and Ramat Beit Shemesh, where many of their Rebbeim live.

Yeshivah of Flatbush regularly celebrates the students who excel in the classroom and on our many teams. But many Flatbush students’ most impresive accomplishmnets occur beyond school’s walls. In this special feature we shine a spotlight on 18 Flatbush students who are achieving remarkable things in a variety of fields and activities outside of school.

By Sarah Levy and Rae Levy Senior Editors

Norma Gindi, 12th grade, Fashion

Ever since Norma Gindi was young she has always loved makeup. Last year she started doing makeup for her friends when they had events, and she fell in love. This summer she took a course at the New York Makeup Academy and got certified as a makeup artist. She loves doing her own makeup, but working on other people is her favorite. Check out @normajade.makeup the next time you need professional makeup done!

Isaac Cooper, 12th grade, Sports

As a star of the varsity boys basketball team, Cooper loves the game. In his junior year, he founded Sharpshooters, a basketball training business. He trains young kids in the sport, both physically and mentally. “Through focused training sessions, I emphasize the importance of technique, practice, and self belief, ensuring each player can perform with assurance and precision.” Cooper said. Sharpshooters is not just a business, but a way to empower “the next generation of basketball players to reach their full potential.” He says his goal is to prepare the boys for the high school level. Be sure to check out the latest moves and shots @sharpshooters.bk!

Helene Shamah, 11th grade, Chesed

Meet Helene Shamah, the newest head of Yachad and MCF. Like most students, Shamah often attends the variety of Yachad and MCF events held in Flatbush. She saw the importance of holding fun, accessible events for students to do chesed and was inspired. “The weekly Yachad events and the holiday events really brings smiles to so many peoples faces and is a great way for students to connect with people with special needs.” Shamah said.

She loves MCF because of how it connects and helps so many different organizations while having fun events for the students. Shamah is excited to do more chesed. “Both organizations are great opportunities for students to help other people and do chesed but can also make new relationships and have a good time!”

Debra Mizrahi, 12th grade, Photography

Debra Mizrahi can always be found with a camera in her hand. Her first camera was a Canon she got for free. Since then she’s never without one. She started by wanting to capture fun memories with her friends. Sharing the pictures brings her closer to her friends and she loves making them happy. Once she started posting her pictures publicly, she started getting hired to take pictures at various events. She’s done proposals and basketball games. “It doesn’t feel like a job; I really love it so much,” Mizrahi said. Mizrahi loves seeing people come together, and how pictures can unite people.

18 18

Danielle Ashear, 12th grade, Baking

This year, Danielle Ashear was inspired to start her own baking business after perfecting her cake and cookie recipes. She had dreamed of starting her own business since she was a little girl, and getting the supportive feedback on her homemade recipes gave her the confidence to take the next step and start selling them. She receives her “inspo designs” from several social media outlets and recipe books and, since baking was always her passion, she continues to test out new recipes each day. So if you’re looking for the next treat to satisfy that sweet tooth, be sure to check out @dansdesserts … that chocolate cake won’t disappoint!

Lili Hanan, 10th grade, Art

After Covid hit, Lili Hanan was left with a lot of spare time and needed to occupy herself with something that she loved to do. Always passionate about art and skilled in painting and drawing, she spent every free moment immersed in her cr=ighth grade; however, she had a big creative block and felt a little stuck. “Every time I wanted to draw and paint nothing would come up on paper. It was as if my mind was blank and my hands were frozen,” stated Hanan.

Last year, as a freshman, Hanan was frustrated that she wasn’t able to get in touch with the creative part of herself; however, her mom motivated her to continue to paint, and the more time she sat alongside a canvas, the more ideas came to surface.

Hanan knew that she wanted to do something with her talent and, after brainstorming, she decided to start a nonprofit organization.She started an Instagram account called @paint4impact where the buyer gets to choose where they want the proceeds to be donated after purchasing a piece of Hanan’s art. She did her research on several charity organizations, so that she can suggest a variety of charities to her customers. Recently, a buyer purchased one of Hanan’s pieces and learned from Hanan about the Ocean Conservancy Foundation. The buyer is now donating to this organization on their own. “I’m really so happy I started this not only for me, but for so many people because it’s also a way to educate people on nonprofits,” stated Hanan.

Linda Benun and Rivkah Lahav, 12th grade, Music

Linda Benun and Rivkah Lahav share a passion for music and are both gifted with unique talents. They have been singing for a while now, but it was only this year that they began releasing their own songs for everyone to stream.

Benun has been experimenting with her own melodies and lyrics for a while. She started writing her own song, “Gravity,” as a project for

Summer Scholars, and eventually released it to the public to showcase her special talent.

Similarly, Lahav always loved music and has been writing melodies and lyrics for as long as she can remember. She wrote her first few real songs just for fun or for school projects. She always loved songwriting but never thought of releasing her own songs. It was only a few months ago when the idea popped into her head, and she released her first song, “North Star,” as a gift to her mother. “The positivity and support I received after the release definitely inspired me to keep writing and recording, and I’d love to release an album once I have full time-access to a studio. I’m doing something I love anyway; why not share it with the world?” stated Lahav.

Together, Benun and Lahav are currently working on a song called “Ghost.” They started writing the song months ago. Benun sat by the piano and came up with a melody that they liked and they both recorded their voices instrumentals… stay tuned and be sure to stream their songs on Spotify!

Colette Chehova, 11th grade, Calligraphy

During Covid, Colette Chehova was left with a lot of free time. She used some of that time to perfect her calligraphy and she made place cards for her family. To her surprise she received a lot of positive feedback. Those heartfelt and sincere reactions inspired her to start selling place cards; as her business grew she created @colettes_calligraphy, where she showcases her artistic talent to the public. “I love finding creative ways to make place cards for parties or Shabbat tables and sharing them with people,’’ stated Chehova.

Gabrielle Cohen, 12th grade, Photography

Gabrielle Cohen has always wanted to be a photographer. When she was young she was taking pictures of everything and anything she could. A couple years ago she realized that she wanted to turn her passion into a career. She interned with different photographers, and took lessons and she figured out her style. Her business, @candidcapturesbygab, lets her express herself and have fun doing it. Cohen says she couldn’t be happier with her decision, “I am extremely grateful to have something I am truly passionate about, and something I enjoy doing and look forward to every day.”

Sally Kada, 11th grade, Fashion

Sally Kada always used to do her own nails as a little girl and found it very entertaining to mix and match colors and get creative with the designs. She loves drawing and art and, therefore, thought it would be the perfect idea to start her own business and incorporate her passions into her job.

Kada states, “It’s definitely hard, especially as a Junior, to balance a business and school work.” She schedules her nail appointments based off of the amount of school work given that day and tries to manage her time well. She does gel and regular manicures so be sure to check her out @nailed_bysally!

Susan Gindi, 12th grade, Literature

Susan Gindi became an avid and passionate reader and needed a way to channel her thoughts, critiques, and theories about the books she read without subjecting her friends to hours of unwanted ranting. Thus she created a TikTok account called @Susansbooktalks to express her passion for reading, and anyone with a common interest can watch the videos on her account and respond with their own opinions. Gindi thought that this was the perfect outlet to rant about the novels she reads, and she finds it entertaining to hear everyone else’s thoughts. This account keeps her busy and she loves to post on it whenever she has free time. Be sure to check it out and share your thoughts on the novels you read!

Joy Harari, 10th grade, Babysitting

Joy Harari really loves working with young children in the community. After receiving several requests from parents to babysit or a recommendation for other potential babysitters, she put the pieces together and got an idea. She decided to start her own babysitting service to help out the community while giving teenage girls a chance to make some extra cash. Now, she connects babysitters who work in her business with parents who need sitters. The sitters get jobs at times when they are free and the parents get to go out—it’s a win-win! She has been doing this for nine months and even extended her services to NJ for the summer. Be sure to check out @joysbabysittingservice!

Sonny Cohen, 11th grade, Fashion

Coming from a family with a deep love for fashion and clothing, Sonny Cohen always knew he wanted to pursue a career in the industry. A few months ago, while brainstorming ideas for his own clothing line, he decided to incorporate his name, Sonny, into the brand. After endless thinking, the name “Sunny Nights” clicked for him, inspired by the words on his Bar Mitzvah party invitation in 2020. He knew that this name would be the start of something big.

Cohen aspires to grow his clothing line, specializing in summer clothing that reflects his vibrant personality and adding a fun vibe to his business. With his mother owning a clothing store, Letank, he plans to seek advice from her and ask for help on a variety of clothing designs. Cohen stated, “My mother is very supportive of everything I do and will keep working with me on growing my company. I will keep working to try and build a successful company and with the help of Hashem and those around me anything is possible.”

Ilana Kroub, 10th grade, Photography

Kroub quickly made a name for herself this year with her photos and videos of the boys varsity basketball team. Now she goes to almost all Falcons games and photographs the team. “Photography and videography is not only a business for me; it’s a passion,” she said. ”Nothing compares to capturing the perfect moment; for me there is no feeling like it.”

She finds her inspiration from people appreciating and getting joy from her work. It makes her happy to see them happy. Follow @ilanakr_videography to see her photos and viral videos.

Danny Levy, 12th grade, Music

For Danny Levy, DJing began as a fun hobby. He had the gear and would play around with it. After three summers of experimenting with different sounds and transitions he felt ready. He performed his first set in front of a small group of friends and he fell in love. He worked hard and he got better and better at it. He saw how happy the music made people and he wanted to keep doing that. “It’s been a dream to make sure everyone has a good time at the party. I knew I could make a difference and I did.” Levy says on what inspires him. Now he plays parties and for his friends.

Adele Hamway, 11th grade, Fashion

Adele Hamway always took pleasure in assisting others, so she decided to combine this passion with something she truly loves: styling hair. Initially, her friends started asking her to do their hair for events or just for fun, but after seeing her talent they all gave her the encouragement to start her own business. Her friends helped her with her business name and Instagram account, and supported the whole process. After gaining the confidence to make her business public, Hamway began to take clients and grow her business.

Balancing school work and a business can be challenging for her because sometimes if clients ask for appointments earlier in the day, she needs to decline the request because of school. Additionally, she stated, “when I get clients on days when I need to study, I need to make sure I am organized and have a schedule to be able to be out for most of my night and then get home late to study.” With her time management skills and organization, there’s no doubt that she will get the job done. Get those waves done now and check out @styledbyadle!

Sarah Sousson, 10th grade, Photography

Sousson is the Flatbush Falcons’ photographer and videographer. She got into photography in April of 2023 when she visited the set of the CBS show FBI. “It was really cool how many people there were in the production.” Sousson said. She later discovered her passion for sports photography because of a TikTok made by a photographer who worked for the Detroit Tigers. Now she is a sports photographer and never misses a Falcon game. Check out @ssphotography.57, where she documents all of it.

Emily Tarrab, 10th grade, Activism

Emily Tarrab is very passionate about supporting Israel. This year she was accepted into The American Jewish Committee’s Leaders for Tomorrow. The educational program teaches Jewish teens how to vocalize support for Israel. She has attended multiple seminars with other Jewish kids around the country, learning leadership and advocacy skills.

Business With stock buyback, Apple bets on itself

By Michael Mosseri Contributing Writer

Apple Inc. has recently announced a substantial $110 billion investment into its stock repurchase program.

This strategy, known as a stock buyback, involves Apple using its surplus revenue to buy back its own shares from the market. Instead of distributing this excess cash as dividends to shareholders—which would provide investors with a portion of the company’s profits—Apple is choosing to reinvest in itself.

A stock repurchase serves several strategic purposes. It can boost the value of shares by reducing the number available on the market, increasing earnings per share (EPS) and potentially raising the stock price. Additionally, it signals to investors that Apple believes its stock is undervalued and is a good investment. From a tax perspective, buybacks can be more efficient than dividends for shareholders, as taxes on buybacks are deferred until shares are sold, whereas dividends are taxed immediately upon payout. Apple’s decision to allocate such a substantial amount to buybacks underscores its financial health and confidence in its longterm growth prospects.

With significant cash reserves gener-

ated from its strong revenue, Apple is in a favorable position to make this investment without compromising its strategic investments. While some investors might prefer direct dividends as an immediate return on their investment, the buyback strategy can ultimately benefit shareholders by enhancing the value of their holdings. As the number of shares decreases, those remaining in circulation may become more valuable, leading to potential capital gains. Apple’s significant buyback program can also influence the broader market.

As one of the largest companies globally, Apple’s financial strategies are closely watched and can impact the market. This move might encourage other firms with strong cash reserves to consider similar strategies, potentially leading to a trend in stock buybacks across the market.

Making sense of GameStop’s latest play

By Teddy Kurtz Contributing Writer

GameStop, a video game retailer, has been in the headlines in recent years for their extreme stock movements. Their latest decision, which was to issue more shares of stock, has caused their shares to decrease significantly in value. I’m going to discuss why a company would do this, knowing it may very well hurt their stock value.

GameStop’s decision to issue new shares carries both benefits and risks. The main benefit is that issuing new shares raises capital for the company, which can be used to fund either different projects, debt repayment, investments in technology, etc. In an always-changing retail world, having access to capital is extremely important for companies to have to be able to adapt and remain competitive. Despite clear benefits, there are also severe risks. When new shares are issued, it dilutes the ownership stake of each individual stock. This can lead to a reduction in value per share, which very well can cause shareholders to feel pressure and sell their stock for much cheaper than they could’ve previously, and the continuous selling of shares can lead to a decrease

AI’s influence on the future of HR

By Rachel Shamoelian Contributing Writer

Artificial intelligence has already had a significant impact in the business world. One industry that AI plays a major role in is the human resources industry.

AI can be seen as a beneficial source to HR in many ways. AI can save HR professionals time and effort by automating specific tasks like resume screening and scheduling interviews. AI can also easily scan and analyze data that can help predict future workspace necessities. Another helpful tool is AI’s ability to help personalize employee’s experience by presenting them with customized training, help them with excelling in their career, and provide them with certain benefits based on their preferences. AI estimates the engagement of the employees, which gives HR a better idea and understanding for where one would need improvement before the issue escalates.

Although AI is marketed as a beneficial advantage to HR, it can also be seen as a negative component to the industry. There has been great apprehension on whether AI will take the role of and re-

place human workers. Additionally, AI can be a biased source; therefore, the HR professionals must check that AI is used correctly and ethically. Even though AI does help HR create tasks, it cannot replace an in-person interaction. HR professionals use face-to-face interactions when giving performance reviews and disciplining workplace employees. AI can also pose major financial issues due to its expense and need for high technology and training.  With these drawbacks, it is highly unlikely that AI will replace HR professionals anytime soon. AI will continue to be an elevating characteristic in the HR industry, leaving the professionals to focus on human interactions, and decision-making.

in the stock price.

The response of the shareholders to GameStop issuing new shares shows how unpredictable the stock market is. The company has experienced a steep decline in stock value, showing the investors concern regarding dilution. A way GameStop could have prevented this is communicating to its shareholders what their plans are to do with the extra capital, which can minimize their concern.

The decision by GameStop to issue new shares and the following decline in the company’s stock price highlight the complex nature of financial markets. Companies that require capital can raise it through the issuance of new shares, but doing so has dangers of its own, such as dilution and possible shareholder backlash. To control investor expectations and preserve market trust, businesses must communicate well and be transparent, as demonstrated by the stock market’s response to such news. Furthermore, GameStop’s experience suggests a new approach in market dynamics and investment behavior by highlighting the increasing impact of individual investors and online communities on stock market outcomes.

Apple’s $110 billion stock repurchase program demonstrates its financial strength and strategic vision. By reinvesting its surplus revenue into buybacks rather than dividends, Apple aims to enhance shareholder value and signal confidence in its future performance. This move not only benefits shareholders but also reinforces Apple’s position as a dominant player in the global market. Yeshivah of Flatbush

There are many possible future trends between AI and HR; one being AI chatbots that can provide employees with instantaneous support and answer any HR questions, which again will alleviate the stress of an HR professional’s workload. Another trend is the virtual assistant handling other tasks like administrative work and scheduling. AI will identify issues within the workplace and will allow HR to address them immediately.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 5, 2024

Entertainment

Wicked movie splitting in two

By Ezra Rosenfeld Contributing Writer

Good news! Wicked, the highly-anticipated movie adaptation of the three-time-Tony Award winning musical of the same name, is only a few months away! When the Wizard of Oz prequel first opened on Broadway in 2003, starring Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth, it was an instant classic. Over 20 years later, it’s still popular, and is now the fourth-longest running Broadway show of all time.

part coming a year later.

In 2016, it was announced that Universal would be adapting the musical into a movie, with a release set for 2019. The movie, starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, would be directed by Crazy Rich Asians and In The Heights director John M. Chu. Since its announcement, however, the release schedule has gone through various changes. Several delays have pushed the film far past its initial release date, but the biggest announcement was that the adaptation would be split into two movies, with the first part releasing November 27 of this year, and the second

Chu stated that “it would be impossible to wrestle the story of Wicked into a single film without doing some real damage to it.” The decision to split the movie allows the team to flesh out the story and characters more than a single film would. This also allows the movies to mimic the structure of a traditional Broadway musical:

two acts split by an intermission. The first film will end where the first act does, with the showstopping number “Defying Gravity.” There is also a tonal shift between the two acts, so two movies allows for a smoother transition between the lighter, more entertaining first act and the darker, character-driven second act.

Like the film, fans’ reaction to the news was split, with some happy that they’ll be getting more story, while others disappointed in the year-long wait for the second half. Ultimately, only time will tell whether the Wicked films will be poorly received by its millions of fans or become instant classics like the Broadway show and the classic 1939 movie it’s based on.

Shirley a legend

By Shirley Jajati

Entertainment Editor

Shirley, a film following the life and legacy of Shirley Chisholm, the first African-American woman elected to the United States Congress, burst onto the scene with incredible force and revela tion. Directed by Ava DuVernay, it stands as a monumental tribute to a woman whose audacity and resilience redefined America itself.

we are introduced to the environment that shaped Chisholm’s full spirit.

We Were the Lucky Ones is a must

By Esther Lazerowitz Contributing Writer

The World War II drama we’ve all been seeing ads for has finally arrived! In case you’ve missed it, We Were the Lucky Ones is an eight-part series that follows the Kurc family’s journey through World War II. Beginning as a wealthy Jewish family in Radom, Poland, just before Germany’s invasion, the Kurcs are separated at the onset of the war and struggle to survive and reunite. If you’re planning on watching this series, here are some things to keep in mind before you jump into 1930s Poland. Bring tissues. Of course a story about a Jewish family going through the Holocaust is going to be emotional, but this one takes it to the next level. The decision to make the series a drama and not a documentary makes the story feel so much more raw and immediate, instead of clinical and detached. It gives the characters their own lives. The family starts off living normally in Radom. Yes, they’re worried about Germany invading, but they’re just as occupied with becoming a new mother, or getting married, or teasing their siblings. And that only makes it harder when they are forced to start thinking about bigger, more threatening things.

Get to know everyone. Each character is so wonderfully unique, given their own developed identities, that learning who they are as individuals and not just

as “Jews surviving the Holocaust” comes naturally. Since the show begins before the war breaks out, everyone is able to fully display their own personalities, desires, ambitions, and pressures separately from the struggles caused by the Nazi regime and become their own person. The incredible acting pulls it all together and makes each and every character come alive.

Look around. The set, the lighting, even the costumes—every scene fits its mood perfectly. The colors and shadows and shapes all blend to create a feeling that’s just right for the action, even within the confines of recreating historically accurate sets and costumes.

Listen to the music. Very simply, the score is so fantastic that it almost upstages the actual show. It is consistently used effectively to create and highlight the intense emotions in each scene. But also, listen to the characters’ music. Listen to what compositions they write, what songs they practice, what music makes them happy or irritated or sad. Listen to how it changes and listen to where it gets them. Take it in. There are no “life lesson” moments in this series. There doesn’t need to be. There are hidden ideas and subtle feelings that grow, each episode building on the last, until you come away with a heartfelt message of family, loyalty, and love.

From the opening scene, Shirley has the audience on the edge of their seats with its powerful portrayal of Chisholm’s early life. The narrative does not shy away from or attempt to sugarcoat the harsh realities of growing up in a segregated America, and therefore is able to accurately capture the essence of a young girl whose intellect and ambition were apparent even in the face of these barriers. As the camera pans through the bustling streets of Brooklyn,

The role of Shirley is masterfully embodied by Viola Davis, whose performance is nothing short of remarkable. Davis brings to life Chisholm’s fierce determination, her eloquence, her unwavering commitment to justice. Every scene pulsates with the energy and urgency of the civil rights movement, making the audience feel as though they are marching alongside Chisholm in her quest for equality. The supporting cast, including Mahershala Ali as Chisholm’s friend and mentor, adds depth and dimension to the narrative, creating characters who influenced her journey.

One of the film’s most meaningful moments comes during Chisholm’s historic speech on the floor of the House of Representatives. The movie captures the gravity of the moment as the camera focuses on

Davis’s face, highlighting every emotion. Her words, a call to action for women and minorities to break free from the chains of oppression, resonate with a power that transcends the screen. This scene, among others, serves as a stark reminder of how far we have come and how far we still have to go.

Shirley is more than a historical recount; it is a bold statement for the ongoing struggle for equality. The film’s release

in 2024 is a deliberate and timely reminder of the importance of representation in politics. As the credits roll, the audience is left with a sense of responsibility to continue the fight that Chisholm so valiantly led. The film’s message is clear: the work is not finished, and it is up to us to carry it forward. Shirley Chisholm’s legacy, brought to life so vividly in this film, is a reminder that each of us has the power to shape the future.

The real Shirley Chisholm

Fun & Games

Ask Merle

Dear Merle,

I can’t believe school is almost over, and I’m really struggling to keep up with my school work and studies. Please send help. I really don’t know what I should do to keep going and get me through regents and finals.

-tiredsophmore22

Hey, Tired!

Staying motivated to study can be tough, especially at the end of the year. The seniors are roaming free and you’re stuck at your desk. You should set goals for yourself: break down your study sessions into smaller, achievable goals. You should also establish a consistent schedule that works for you. Reward yourself: treat yourself after reaching milestones or completing tasks. But most important, stay positive: surround yourself with good vibes and believe in your abilities. In no time you’ll be walking into summer with no stress. You got this! Keep up the great work!

Love, Merle

Dear Merle,

I’m a senior and don’t know what to do with all the time on my hands. I feel like I’m just sitting around doing nothing

when I should be putting my energy into other activities. Do you have any recommendations?

-boredsenior24

Hi, Bored, I totally get what you’re saying. As a senior, having extra time on your hands can feel a bit strange. But don’t worry, there are plenty of things you can do to make the most of it. You can now explore new hobbies, you can volunteer, or get active. As seniors entering the real world, this is your time to explore, grow, and have fun! Enjoy the journey and embrace new experiences.

Love, Merle

Dear Merle,

that the summer’s coming, things are starting to change. Everyone is beautiful and that’s what matters, but if you’re looking for a change maybe you should check out pilates, a peloton class, or even sweat it out.

I’ve heard great reviews about these classes and wouldn’t gloss over them if you’re looking for a change in workout. Onto clothes, maybe it’s time for a shopping trip to the city or your local Syrian stores, like Swoon, T-shirt Shoppe, and Twist. I’m sure no matter what you do or clothing you wear you’ll always look best with a smile on your face.

Good luck, and LMK about the Pilates class—thinking of booking myself.

Love, Merle

As we transition into the summer, my wardrobe and my mental state isn’t ready for the change in weather and clothing. I’m not sure I’m prepared to give up my hoodies and sweatpants for bathing suits and dresses. Any suggestions on where to shop or to exercise?

Strands

By Esther Shemia Fun and Games Editor

-unpreparedqueen

Wsp Unprepared, Trust me, I get what you’re saying with the hoodies and sweatpants: it’s just so comfy and cozy to wear oversized clothing and not have to worry about anything. But now

TODAY'S THEME It's getting hot

Dear Merle,

I’m a heavy procrastinator and haven’t chosen something to do for the summer yet. I need options quickly! -keepcalmandcarryon

No Worries, Keep, You’re going to be fine. There are tons of opportunities at your fingertips. You could head down to the Pathfinders office and ask for internship or job opportunities, or just ask Dr. Chattah to work at AllSport; he always has a contract at the ready. Just remember to choose something that excites you because otherwise you will be stuck in something for three

months that you don’t want to do.

Love, Merle

Dear Merle, How do I get more chesed hours?  -desperatefreshie123

Hey desperate,

Getting hours is a tricky thing in Flatbush. Every night it seems like you’re busy, and I get it. Some nights are practice, others are games, some you have to study, and others you go out with friends; it seems like there are no free times during the week. In this case you can go to Ms. Esther Spigel and try doing something during lunch. SBH offers many opportunities every night so it’s important to plan your schedule around the days you want to go. If that doesn’t work out, you can go on a Sunday to the Center. In that case, I wish you the best of luck.

Love,  Merle

Dear Merle,  Is it fun being Merle?

No. Don’t be Merle. Whoever it is next year, have fun.

Flatbush Cartoon

By Jacob Naussbaum

Phoenix Cartoonist

Standard of Fabulous

Which sunscreens you should buy for summer

By Galiette Mita Junior Editor

As the weather gets nicer and the UV index climbs, everyone starts to find themselves spending more and more time outside. As we bask in continuous bright euphoria, our skin soaking in the warmth and much-needed Vitamin D of the sun, we must be conscious of all the risks we’re taking as well. Before putting our faces and bodies anywhere under the sun’s UV rays, if you want to maintain your youthful-looking skin past age 30, it’s imperative that you treat yourself to some SPF.

If you’re just starting your summer sunscreen shopping and don’t know what to look for, then you’re in luck, because The Phoenix has put together a list of popular sunscreens that fit every occasion and mood.

raved about among skin-care enthusiasts is the Glowscreen SPF 40 tinted sunscreen by Supergoop. It also comes in different shades, so as to appeal to a diverse audience. Like any tinted sunscreen, this one can definitely feel more like you’re applying a makeup product, which can be great if you don’t like the feeling of sunscreen on your face. It also doubles as a moisturizer. However, it costs around $40, which is a bit on the steeper side for sunscreens.

Dressing for Israel

By Sophia Madeb  Fashion Editor

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, certain products stand out as modest yet modern, ideal for summer trips in Israel.

occasions such as a bar mitzvah, wedding, or other special events in Israel.

Sometimes sunscreens can have a very pigmented white color, which can make our skin look pale when applied. This whitecast can be avoided by using sunscreens with a clear or tinted base. My personal favorite is the Invisible Shield SPF 35 sunscreen from Glossier. It retails for $25 and has a dewy, lightweight consistency that will add a healthy glow to your skin.

Another tinted sunscreen that’s been

Looking for more affordable options? Here are some sunscreens that are under $20 and get the job done super well. I love the CeraVe Hydrating Sheer Sunscreen SPF 30, priced around $13, as a cheap and trustworthy sunscreen. It’s not tinted; however, because of its ingredients, it doesn’t give a white cast either, which makes it great for everyday use. It also gives the same hydrating benefits that many expensive products do, which I think is a huge plus. However if you prefer tinted SPF, they do offer a tinted version for the same price. Another great option is the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer sunscreen for $8. You can use it on your face as well as the rest of your body. And since it’s cheap, there will be no guilt if you need extra for the rest of the summer.

Hottest upcoming summer fashion trends

As the warm weather rolls in and our winter coats are put to rest, the time has come to revamp our summer wardrobes. Here are the latest and greatest fashion trends to help you stay both comfortable and elevated this summer. One of the biggest aesthetics to look out for is the European fashion trend. Most of it is seen in the

context of traveling to Europe, but even if you’re not booking flights, you can still achieve the breathy and chic look. One of the most comfortable styles, especially in the heat, is a maxi linen skirt paired with a cute tee and some sandals. Adding in accessories like chunky jewelry, a straw bag, or a scarf will take the outfit to the next level. Another easy but beautiful look is pairing whites and creams for a monochrome moment. If you’re not wearing a matching set, be sure to mix different textures to add visual interest to your look. Pairing a cream skirt with a white button down and a brown belt is the perfect blend of classy and breathable. A more dressy but extremely trendy option is the dropwaist dress. Some have corset or tube tops, and they work beautifully at both the mini and midi dress lengths. Try pairing them with a sandal and a cute handbag to tie off the look.

Another trend for this summer is Y2K Revival. It’s all about bringing back the 2000s retro aesthetic to add a playful and colorful twist to your wardrobe. Low-rise denim skirts, baby tees, colorful ballet flats, and retro sportswear are all huge ways to achieve the revamped nostalgic look. Other flats, such as Adidas Sambas or Gazelles, and interestingly textured

Zara has released a modest collection, available both in stores and online, filled with flowy midi to maxi dresses and skirts, great for the summer. Additionally, Zara usually offers jean skirts, which are a great option, especially if a certain length is needed. Other places that sell great jean skirts include Bloomingdale’s, Revolve, and Shopbop, offering various lengths from brands like Agolde. Agolde’s longer skirts are great quality and ideal for seminary, though they tend to be on the more expensive side.

H&M has also launched a modest collection available both in stores and online. A religious woman on Instagram named Yaffa often posts outfits she wears from this store, showcasing outfits she picks and chooses that are styled modest yet has the everyday casual look.

One popular online website for modest everyday clothing is Mikarose, which usually features sales on their site. This website focuses on knee- to ankle-length skirts and dresses, suitable for shirts for both everyday wear and for fancier occasions. Additionally, Reformation is a site that offers nicer dresses for more formal

ballet flats, like with mesh netting, are all great options to pair with your low rise denim skirt or maxi skirts.

The last huge trend we’re seeing so far is the preppy chic aesthetic. After dominating this season’s designer runways, there’s definitely going to be a lot of people sporting the preppy look. The most simple option is pairing a straight denim skirt with cotton button-up shirts and a nice brown belt. Anything similar to the Ralph Lauren polo shirts or button downs are going to be really big this season. There are also going to be tons of matching sets with pleated skirts and waistcoat vests, probably paired with Chanel slingback flats or kitten heels.

And of course, there has to be an honorable mention for the Trad Wife trend set predominantly by Nara Smith, with the Scandinavian looking tops and dresses.

Additionally, there are Israeli-owned clothing businesses that cater to modest Jewish women. Head over Heels is an online store mainly focusing on modest clothing for teenagers and young adults. Their collection includes modern-looking tops, dresses, and skirts. ATA Wear offers clothing for both men and women. (Note that the site is in Hebrew and tends to be on the pricer side.)

Stella and Lori is an Israeli-owned brand, with most profits supporting Israeli refugees from the October 7 massacre. Their site features shirts and bags addressing current issues, such as the campaign “United We Stand” to bring home the hostages.

DeRococo, another Israeli-owned brand, always features a holiday edit for upcoming holidays. Currently, DeRocco is packing and sending clothes for victims in Israel and is giving 10% of every purchase to help the people affected by the massacre on October 7. Their website is most known for their matching skirt and top sets, which often come with a blazer, making them nice for the upcoming holiday, Shavuot, as well. They offer skirts of all lengths, especially longer ones that can be worn in the summer, as well as summer shirts and sweaters for the winter.

Sports

Paris preps for Summer Olympics

By Paulette Saada  Sports Editor

The 2024 Summer Olympics will be taking place in Paris from Friday, July 26 to Sunday, August 11. The games take place every four years in a different country, and this year’s games in Paris will be the biggest event ever organized in France. The goal of the Olympics Committee is to show the spectators, with a capacity of 300,000, the unique offerings of France while also providing games that are “more responsible, more inclusive, and more spectacular than ever before.” For the first time in Olympic history, 50% of the athletes will be women; women were allowed to compete for the first time in the 1900 Paris Olympic Games.

The opening ceremony for the Olympics will be held in a city center for the first time ever, and the Olympic rings will be displayed on the Eiffel Tower while

boats carry the athletes toward the tower. The Games will include 32 sports, three of which (climbing, skateboarding, and surfing) were first introduced in the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, as well as one new addition to the games this year: breakdancing. More than 15,000 athletes will compete in 329 medal events.

Tickets to the Olympic events are already sold out. The Olympic Committee also offers many travel packages including competition tickets and travel arrangements, ranging from $1,000 for a one night stay at a three star hotel and one sporting event to $30,000 for 6 nights at a five star hotel with access to six sporting events. There are also VIP packages that range from $100, which includes lounge access at individual competitions, to $10,000, which includes being able to enter the lounge for the opening ceremony and meet with the athletes before the Games begin.

Brunson, Knicks gave fans a wild ride

By Paulette Saada Sports Editor

The New York Knicks’ season ended earlier than the team wanted, but the team and fan base are filled with pride over what the team achieved this year.

The Knicks ended their regular season with a record of 50-32, coming in second place in the Eastern Conference behind the Boston Celtics. Last season the Knicks earned their first postseason victory series against the Cleveland Cavaliers for the first time in ten years, and then fell short to the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. That’s why, when the Knicks beat the Indiana Pacers in game one, fans in Madison Square Garden celebrated as if they had won a championship, getting closer to reaching the Eastern Conference finals for the first time since 2000.

“No New York sports team can captivate the city quite like the Knicks,” wrote

The New York Times. Although the Knicks had been decent for many years, the team this year led by Jalen Brunson has captivated the city to a level comparable to the 1990s Knicks led by Patrick Ewing.

Brunson is the reason so many fans are invested in the Knicks this year because of his charm, humility, and hard working ethos. Brunson has become New York’s favorite athlete this year, more relatable than Aaron Judge and less self-centered than many other great athletes who have played for New York. In addition, he became the first player to score more than 40 points in four straight games in the playoffs since Michael Jordan in 1993. During the regular season he averaged 28.7 points per game, the fourth-highest in the NBA, and he finished fifth in the voting for MVP.

Brunson’s father, Rick Brunson, is an assistant coach for the Knicks and a former Knicks player.

Sportsman Spotlight: Falack goes out on top

By Paulette Saada Sports Editor

Senior Bobby Falack picked up a tennis racket for the first time when he was about 4 years old and hasn’t stopped playing since. “I play 2-3 times a week on a strict schedule, for what feels like my whole life,” he said.

Falack is currently the captain of the Flatbush boys tennis team and has been part of the team since his freshman year.

The boys tennis team started practicing once a week from the beginning of this year, long before the start of the season. Once the season starts they often have a match during the week as well as practice on Sunday nights. The team is currently 7-0 and is in first place in their conference. Falack believes that his team definitely has what it takes to win the championship, and they are working hard to get to that

point. “Our lineup looks strong and we are definitely in the right direction,” he said.

The tennis competitions are structured with many different competitions happening simultaneously. Each player is ranked from 1-7; the top three players on each team play in singles matches, and the rest of the players compete in doubles. The competitions are set up so that similar-ranked players compete against each other.

Falack explained that he loves the tennis team at Flatbush because the team is like a family, and he enjoys the experiences the team has created together. He explains, “Starting in freshman year, Eric Azrak, Sam Sutton, Morris Shamah, and I have been working to reach a common goal: a championship.” These four current seniors have been a strong foundation of the team throughout high

school, and had been playing together prior to joining the Flatbush team. “The team has created a connection between us that is unique, like brothers,” Falack said.

Another part of the team that he loves is that they are able to go and play in actual U.S. Open courts and he said this experience is absolutely exhilarating. For example, an experience that he will never forget is the tradition that the boys on the team created to attempt to hit a tennis ball into Arthur Ashe Stadium, although Falack said he does not think anyone will ever be able to do it.

Falack loves to play tennis over any other sport because it is a unique game played against oneself, without requiring a coach and a team. What he likes so much about tennis is that, in team sports, there are many X-factors such as a game-winning buzzer beater, or an excellent pitcher on the opposing team, or even a teammate not playing as well as usual that can greatly affect the outcome of a game. In contrast, tennis is a sport in which each person is their own team, and needs to make their own decisions for themselves. “You are standing alone on the court, and it is a mental battle against yourself to figure out what you are doing wrong, and what to do next against your opponent,” he explained. The element of figuring it out by himself and using his own judgment and tactics is what produces a surreal feeling of accomplishment for Falack when done right.

Although the season for the tennis team has not ended yet, Falack’s season has come to an end due to injury. He recently underwent surgery that will not allow him to continue playing for the Flatbush team again. He tore his groin and aponeurotic plate last November, but he pushed through the injury and played for another couple of months, including the first three matches with the team this year. He no longer can play, but Falack will still be coming out to support and help the team in any way that he can. He said, “It truly is sad to not be able to play in my senior year of the team that I feel like has been anticipating for the last four years.” Looking past the injury, there is no question that Falack plans on playing tennis after he graduates from the Flatbush team. Already, he plays in a community men’s league and is the youngest player in the league by about 8-10 years, he estimates. The league is extremely talented and serious, and Falack looks forward every week to playing.

In addition, Falack is Universal Tennis Rating (UTR) ranked, and participates in many tournaments throughout the year and summer. He has also competed two times in the Maccabi Games, the Jewish youth Olympics, first in San Diego in 2022 in which he won the gold medal for competitive tennis, and then in Fort Lauderdale in 2023 in which he won a silver medal.