The Phoenix 2014-2015 Issue 3

INSIDE: Israel Travel Trips • Filmmaker Alumnus • Restaurant Review: Odradeks • Dance Team Season Preview

A Student Publication of the Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School • Issue 3 • 2014 | 5775

ACT vs. SAT: Which Israel Activism Is Right for You? Commission Changes Approach Leah Linfield, 3-HN

From the moment we step foot in Flatbush, there are a few subjects we never stop hearing about: college, college, standardized tests, and college.

For seniors, college season is well underway; they are furiously finishing and submitting their applications. The junior class is not quite at that stage, although they do have a big decision to make regarding standardized tests, the scores of which will weigh heavily on their applications.

The ACT and SAT are the two options for standardized tests. Every university accepts either, which means that students can improve their chances at college acceptance by taking the test that best plays to their strengths. Flatbush recently administered both the PSAT and the PACT in order to help students glean which test was right for them.

The first major difference between the two tests is their formats. The ACT consists of five large sections in English (45 minutes, 75 questions), math (60 minutes, 60 questions), reading (35 minutes), science (35 minutes), and an optional writing section (30 minutes).

The SAT has 10 shorter sections of 20-25

Shani Zenilman, 4-HR

minutes each in critical reading, math, and writing.

The next big difference is the type of student each test attracts. Students whose strength is in the English subjects and vocabulary usually decide on the SAT, while the ACT usually attracts those into math. According to Mr. Gombo from the College Guidance Department, the SAT appeals to “students who are good at solving word puzzles ... the ACT questions are more straightforward.”

Although choosing between the two tests seems like a difficult decision, it is comforting to keep in mind that students usually score similarly on both tests.

This year’s Israel Activism commission, led by co-commissioners Rashelle Gersh and David Idy, has made a number of changes and are taking a much different approach from what the commission has done in previous years. According to Gersh, the commission is now focused on activities both inside and outside school. The commission has two goals: first, to focus on educating students on the BDS (Boycott, AIPAC campus activist Joey Cohen Saban Divest, and Sanction) moveaddresses YOF students ment so they understand what we’re up against. The second U.S.-Israel relationship, federal aid… focus is to teach students how to lobby things like that,” Gersh explained. in Washington, D.C. on a variety of topThe commission has already brought ics. “Basically, the difference is that we’re in several off-the-record speakers to diseducating [students] on things they’re cuss such issues. The speakers, some of coming in contact with on an everyday whom belong to AIPAC and one who is basis, and the second is the larger pic- from the Hebrew University of Jerusature, which is Iran, nuclear weapons, the lem, talked about how to approach arCont’d on page 3

New Teacher Profile: Ms. Mizrahi, Renaissance Woman Merle Dweck, 3-HR The answer to your question is yes.

It will always be yes when Ms. Mizrachi is involved. An actress? Yes. A mechanic? Yes. A vocalist? Yes. A musician? She plays only six instruments. A gymnast, traveler, impressionist, teacher, model, and scientist—the list is seemingly infinite. This is a woman who won’t take no for an answer; not from her bosses, not from her parents, and most certainly not from her herself. The more questions I asked, the more I learned what a renaissance woman she really is. This is a woman who knows what she wants and will stop at nothing to go after her dreams.

I started with the simplest of questions: If you were given the choice, what superpower would you choose? The answer I got was something only Ms. Mizrachi would be able to say: “I wouldn’t take the superpower; I would give it to someone else. If I kept the superpower, people would treat me differently and I wouldn’t want that. I would give that said person the power of infinite wisdom so he can automatically fix cancer or solve a world problem. I think the only reason King Solomon had so many wives is because he couldn’t find a woman smart enough for him.”

Every time I shot out a question her

answer was similarly unexpected.

MD: What and where was your first job?

Ms. M: Besides babysitting? At 14 I worked at Wal-Mart, a RadioShack, and as a hostess in Minnesota. You see, I’m from the South [she said in a southern accent].

MD: What did you aspire to be as a child?

Ms. M: I wanted to be a band teacher because I already knew how to play the drums, the French horn, piano, violin, flute, and guitar. But that phase didn’t last long.

MD: Did you always love science?

Ms. M: I was always against education because I failed math and science, so I hated it. It was only when I came back from Israel that my interest in science peaked.

MD: How did you get to Israel?

Ms. M: I got a degree in theater before Cont’d on page 4

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Dr. Gerber Returns

Meet a Freshman: Victoria Haddad

Clarice Soffer, 3-S As many of you probably heard by now, one of the school’s faculty members, Dr. Gerber, was recently ill. Her sudden illness caught many people off guard, including the administration; they had to make some last minute changes that were unexpected.

Before school started Rabbi Levy consulted many teachers and asked them if they were willing to temporarily teach another class until Dr. Gerber returned.

As a result, Rabbi Haber took on teaching 11th grade Accelerated Tanach and Rabbi Kramer took on 12th grade Accelerated Tanach. In addition, many teachers agreed to merge their classes; Rabbi Avi Harari teaches 12-HR/HN girls Tanach, and Ms. Schwartz teacher 2-R boys and girls Tanach.

“As a new teacher, I wasn’t expecting to have a co-ed Tanach class. It presented its own unique challenges,” said Ms. Schwartz. “We touched upon some very

sensitive topics like ‘Sotah.’ It was a little challenging, but interesting, because the students each heard each other’s perspectives and views on the topic.”

Officially, Dr. Gerber was on sick leave until December 3, but she just couldn’t wait to come back! Despite the fact that she still has chest pains, she said she hopes that because she teaches Torah, Hashem will give her the good health and strength she needs to continue teaching.

Adding to the complications of Dr. Gerber’s return was the elevator being out of commission. Fortunately the elevator was fixed just in time.

Dr. Gerber said she hopes that her students will get used to her as she transitions back into her job, and allow it to go smoothly. She expressed gratitude to the teachers who covered her classes and taught her students the material in her absence.

Robyn Dweck, 4-R

“I want to say thank you to all the members of the administration, staff, colleagues, students and alumni for all their prayers, get well wishes, cards, phone calls visits and all acts of kindness,” said Dr. Gerber. “It made me feel and understand what it means to be part of the Flatbush family!” Wishing Dr. Gerber a speedy and healthy recovery!

Refuah shlema!

RD: What’s your name?

VH: My name is Victoria Haddad RD: What class are you in?

VH: I am in 9T. RD: What elementary school did you attend?

VH: I went to Yeshivah of Flatbush for elementary school.

RD: Do you have any siblings who attended Flatbush High School?

VH: Yes, my sister Ellen, who graduated last year.

The Whole Story: Terror Attacks on Rise in Israel Sarah Levy, 4-HR The horrific slaughter of four noted rabbonimand a police officer is just the most recent example of the violence currently erupting in Israel. During the past few weeks, Palestinian terrorists have used guns, knives, and motor vehicles to kill 11 innocent people. The attacks, which took place mostly in Jerusalem but also in Tel Aviv and the West Bank, have arisen from tension over the Temple Mount, the most holy site in Israel to both Jews and Muslims. Sheik Raed Salah, head of the Islamic Movement in Israel, has declared that the “Third Intifada” has begun.

On November 18, two Palestinian cousins wielding axes, knives, and a handgun stormed into the Kehilat Bnai Torah synagogue in the West Jerusalem neighborhood of Har Nof and brutally killed four worshippers. Three of the four were rabbis, including Rabbi Moshe Twersky, a descendent of the famous American Rabbis Isadore Twersky and Joseph Soloveitchik. All four were immigrants, three from the United States and one from Great Britain. They were killed while saying the sacred Amidah, wrapped in their tallitim and tefillin. A Druse police officer was killed as well in a shoot-out with the attackers, as were both of the terrorists.

Relatives of the terrorists say they were motivated by the recent death of a Palestinian bus driver and from fear of an Israeli takeover of the Al Aqsa mosque on the Temple Mount. The bus driver, who was found hanged in his bus, was believed by some Palestinians to have been murdered by Jews. However, an autopsy indicated that his death was a suicide.

The Temple Mount controversy began on Oct. 29 with a terrorist’s attempted assassination of controversial Rabbi Yehuda Glick. Following the assassina2 | www.theflatbushphoenix.com

Israeli Zaka volunteers respond to the November 18 attack

tion attempt, Israel temporarily closed the Mount for the first time in decades.

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas called the closing a “declaration of war.” Sheik Salah called on Arab residents of the West Bank to go forth in an intifada, which means uprising. In other words, he called for a terror war.

Though the Mount is now reopened to Muslim worshippers, the anger clearly hasn’t gone away.

In response to the bloody acts of terror incited in part by this anger, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called for continued demolition of terrorists’ homes. On Wednesday, the home of Abdel Rahman al-Shaludi, who killed two people last month, was demolished.

He had driven his car into a crowd at a light-rail stop in Jerusalem, causing the death of an Israeli mother and a baby.

At least five Palestinians involved in these terrorist attacks have been killed.

Although President Barack Obama has called on Israeli and Palestinian leaders to work together and “seek a path forward towards peace,” it seems increasingly unlikely that this will happen soon.

Correction In last month’s issue, the profile of YOF alumna Jeannie Franco was incorrectly attributed to Mimi Lazerowitz of 2-HR. In fact the article was written by Miri Zenilman of 3-HN.

RD: What is your favorite subject?

VH: My favorite subjects are Math, English and Art. RD: Did you participate in any extracurricular activities in elementary school?

VH: In 6th grade I was in E2K and in 7th and 8th grade I participated in Partnersin-Reading with high school students.

RD: Are you on any sports teams?

VH: I’m currently on the volleyball team.

RD: What was the hardest thing to adjust to when you came to Flatbush?

VH: The hardest things to adjust to were the hours of the days and also how I have so many teachers.

RD: What are you looking forward to in Flatbush?

VH: I am looking forward to getting involved in many commissions and making new friends.

The Phoenix Staff

High School Administration

Editor-In-Chief: Shani Zenilman Managing Editor: Abby Shegelman Religion Editor: Sarah Levy Entertainment Editor: Rebecca Zami Sports Editor: Joey Cohen Fun Page Editor: Merle Cohen Standard of Fabulous Editors: Emma Burekhovich, Nicole Yankovich Photography Editor: Robyn Dweck Web Editor: Joey Baum Junior Editors: Albert Dweck, Merle Dweck, Michelle Harari, Sarah Torgueman, Gabriel Vizgan

Rabbi Raymond Harari Head of School

Sophomore Editors: Mimi Lazerowitz, Jane Zakay Design: Therese Berkowitz Faculty Advisor: Adam Hofstetter

Rabbi Ronald Levy Principal Ms. Jill W. Sanders Director of Admissions Associate Principal Ms. Sari Bacon Associate Principal Rabbi Joseph Beyda Assistant Principal

Hidden Holy Land

Four Little-Known Places Not to Miss on Your Next Trip to Israel

By Sarah Torgueman, 3-HN BlackOut Restaurant: A wild yet wonderful culinary experience for the whole family.

The opportunity to experience a restaurant quite like the BlackOut Restaurant in Tel Aviv-Yafo certainly does not come every day. Unlike other restaurants, the BlackOut Restaurant serves its guests in complete and utter darkness. With an exceptional staff of blind waiters, the entire meal is served in the dark. From being escorted to the

Blackout diners being led to their table, photographed with night-vision camera

Leket Israel: Making a lasting difference in the lives of Israeli families in need.

Leket Israel is a nonprofit Israeli organization that provides food for those less fortunate. This charitable organization grows and harvests food crops of various kinds of vegetables—30 million pounds of produce throughout 2014. The ultimate chesed to the poor is filling in what remains missing to them. Food is absent from the daily lives of many Israeli families. Known as Israel’s National Food Bank, Leket Israel serves as Israel’s largest food rescue organization. By producing millions of pounds of produce, it continues to rescue Israel’s needy by distributing this food to them.

Volunteering with Leket Israel is a large chesed and is immensely fun, too! Volunteers harvest vegetables, which are then cleaned and distributed. As volunteers, my family and I harvested an exotic vegetable. It was a small, smooth, and white vegetable called kohlrabi that sprouts from the ground. We carefully pulled as much as we were able to from the ground and collected the produce

table until paying the bill, the diner feels the sensation of being blind. Dining in the dark sharpens one’s ability to taste and smell food by disengaging one’s eyes from the eating process. This unbelievable dining event focuses on the rest of our senses in order to partake in the meal. Our abilities to hear, feel, smell, and taste dominate our bodies and are the focus of the meal.

BlackOut is a kosher dairy restaurant. Diners have the option of ordering a “Surprise Menu,” in which the chef will choose the courses for your meal, including a surprise dessert, or ordering entrees from the dairy or fish menus. Either way, the food is as incredible as the experience. In the pitch-black dining room, you eat your entire meal and pour your own beverages while not being able to see a thing! Guests are intrigued with to be flexible with four senses, rather than five, from this extraordinary experience.

Book your reservations at BlackThe Baha’i Gardens on Har HaCarmel Out right away, since it becomes sold out weeks in advance. BlackOut that we harvested.

As recorded on Leket Israel’s webRestaurant serves guests at 6:30pm and at 9:00pm on Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednes- site, “Each year, with the help of 45,000 days, and Thursdays, except for holidays. volunteers and dozens of paid workers,

Leket Israel rescues over 770,000 hot meals, 110,000 loaves of bread and over 18 million lbs of produce and perishable goods, for the benefit of the needy. In addition, Leket Israel supplies over 1.35 million (7,600/day) volunteer prepared sandwiches to underprivileged children from 113 schools in over 30 cities.”

Leket is located in Raanana, Israel.

Volunteer opportunities include harvesting food crops, rescuing and delivering surplus meals, and gleaning fields and orchards. Leket Israel was an unforgettable experience because I had the opportunity to do true chesed in Israel with my family.

Har HaCarmel: Holy mountain where Eliyahu HaNavi displayed his faith to Hashem.

In Haifa, Israel’s major port city, lies the holy Har HaCarmel. Traveling to northern Israel is necessary to experience part of the great spirituality within the Holy Land. The cave where Eliyahu HaNavi prayed to Hashem is situated on the landmark mountain and is definitely a place one must visit when in Israel. Today sefarim are placed in the cave so that visitors can pray to Hashem with the ultimate concentration and intensity, as it is the place where Eliyahu Hanavi spoke to Hashem in ancient times.

The Baha’i Gardens on Har HaCarmel are world renowned for their beauty.

The magnificent gardens are structured on the slant of the mountain and therefore almost lead to the top of the mountain. Attached to the gardens are 19 terCont’d on page 4

Israel Activism Changes Approach... Cont’d from front page

guments, instead of just stating facts, and how to respond to aggressive people in ways that are neither likewise aggressive nor fearful. In light of the recent attacks in Israel, Gersh mentioned that this is extremely important because, as Jews and New Yorkers, students must be prepared to respond to aggressive encounters.

In addition, on Monday, November 17, five Flatbush juniors traveled to an

AIPAC summit in Washington, D.C. One of those students, Sarah Torgueman, explained that during the summit (which was attended by 400 high school students overall), students were taught details about the conflict in Israel and how to lobby. They learned how to respond to people who just want to fight, learned which pro-Israel actions Congress should take, and were reminded to keep

informing members of Congress that Israel is a very important topic to their Jewish constituents. Ultimately, while the meetings did prepare her somewhat for the summit, Torgueman stated, “You have to have the passion and willpower to keep yourself informed on the issues.

We can’t take Israel for granted.”

D’var Torah: Climbing the Spiritual Ladder Leor Alkadaa, 4-HN In Parashat Vayeitzei, Yaakov had an intriguing dream as he slept on the rock: a ladder extended to heaven with angels ascending and descending the ladder. Many questions arise from Yaakov’s dream when trying to figure out its significance. What was the purpose of the dream? Why did Yaakov have that specific dream? What message was G-d trying to send to Yaakov?

The Midrash Tanhuma explains that the ladder represented the history of mankind. The rungs on the ladder represent the different kingdoms that ruled the earth, one succeeding the other.

The Midrash Rabbah explains that the ladder stood between the land of Israel and the Diaspora, or Galut. Rashi cites this Midrash and states that the angels who ascended the ladder were the angels of the land of Israel who would escort Yaakov to heaven and remain in the land. Those angels who descended are the angels whose domain is outside the borders of Israel and therefore would accompany Yaakov on his journey outside the land of Israel.

The Rambam further describes the dream and how it pertains to Yaakov. He explains that the ladder is the representation of two realities: the world on earth and the world in heaven. The angels are “going up and down on it,” as the pasuk says. Rambam explains this portion of the pasuk to mean that first the angels ascend to heaven and high spirituality and then descend to transmit that spirituality to the world on Earth. In addition, the ladder represents the presence and omnipotence of G-d. G-d is sitting (kavyachol) on the ladder and takes care of it. This provides a sense of comfort that G-d is watching over us and always taking care of us.

Rav Chaim m’Volozhin states that the ladder is symbolic of mankind on earth. A person lives life with many ups and downs and the ladder symbolizes the ups and downs and the path to improvement and spirituality, which is the ascent part of the process. When people do mitzvot, they are ascending the ladder and getting closer to G-d. Of course, the opposite means that the person is descending along with mankind. The pasuk says “olim ve’yordim bo.”

“Bo” means “in,” a hint that the ascent and descent occurs “in” the man. Therefore, one must ascend to G-d and spirituality by starting from the bottom and slowly ascending through prayers and mitzvot.

The Zohar brings down an interesting interpretation of part of the dream. In the pasuk it says the ladder is “artzah” (toward) and not “baaretz” (in). This means that the ladder is directly brought down from heaven and planted toward earth, or on the path to earth. The neshama of the man comes from heaven and the process of life takes the neshama in many routes toward Earth and into the body of the man. Our job is to elevate our neshamot and to ascend back to heaven and G-d.

The message of the dream comes to signify a person’s centrality on this earth.

One must always strive to reach great heights, step by step. One must always progress, rung by rung, and never stay on the same rung for long. |3

Alumnus Interview: Stephen Kerstein (’92) Abby Shegelman, 4-HR Flatbush alumni often say that their experiences at Flatbush still have an effect on them long after graduation. Filmmaker Stephen Kerstein (’92) is one such alumnus. When interviewed, Mr. Kerstein revealed that his film career and his daily life have been influenced heavily by his Flatbush education. He even gave us a small preview of his new film, Motion Sickness.

“The film is about a rabbinical student who is going through a very rough patch in his life. It’s a crisis of nightmarish proportions that is the result of his inability to strike a balance between his mind and his body or, one might say, between the spiritual and the material.

The protagonist of Motion Sickness suffers because he sees the material world as being at odds with his spiritual aspira-

Across 4. 15 per semester 9. Morning coffee 10. Male neck accessory 11. Mr. AP Bio 13. Teacher in room 203 15. In English: Pantalone (answer isn’t pants) 17. End of Staircase C 18. Optional _______ 19. Nightly Flatbush e-mail

tions,” Mr. Kerstein said. “He might have benefited from spending some in time in Flatbush!”

When prompted, Mr. Kerstein reported that the curriculum, teachers, and even the atmosphere of the high school set his future in motion. Mr. Kerstein stated that much of what he learned in Flatbush remains with him and has proven to be a great resource. He was encouraged to “think critically” about whatever he may be learning or is confronted with.

This skill is one that he still uses today in his professional and personal life. “I am also deeply grateful to those teachers who opened up the Torah for me in both its language and ideas. They equipped me with powerful tools for deepening my understanding of the world,” he said.

Mr. Kerstein also claimed that he feels it truly wonderful to be able to open up a sefer and understand exactly what he is reading or saying—a small thing but an important aspect of his life.

When asked if he would go back and change anything from his high school career, Mr. Kerstein stated that he would have liked to have been more open to other people. “I was too closed off and missed out on getting to know a lot of my peers. Also, I would have cut class less often.”

Mr. Kerstein’s perception of his high school was one of great joy and appreciation. We proceeded to ask him if he had any advice for current students. After some thought, he stated, “Find some time every day to let your mind wander and pay close attention to what you find.”

Places Not to Miss on Your Next Trip to Israel... Cont’d from page 3 races that are situated from the end of the gardens to the northern slope of Har HaCarmel. The flowers that are grown in the gardens are colorful, lively, and symmetrically organized. When standing at the top of Har HaCarmel, above the Baha’i Gardens, those who visit can admire a breathtaking panoramic view of Haifa, the Galilee Hills, and the Mediterranean Sea. Namal Tel Aviv: Popular port loaded with excitement and entertainment day and night.

The Tel Aviv port, called Namal Tel Aviv, has become one of the city’s trendiest and largest places to be. Residents and tourists are found walking the Namal from early in the morning to

late at night. It is a massive wooden deck that covers 14,000 square meters and is usually bustling with activity. The popular promenade attracts runners early in the morning and people looking to eat at the small cafes. In the radiant sunlight of day, people come to the port to walk the promenade while shopping at the many stores located there. At night, Namal Tel Aviv transforms into a popular nightlife scene. The people on the promenade often look at the exquisite Mediterranean, which is slightly lit by the neighborhood and filled with a few yachts. Restaurants, clubs, and bars crowd the Namal in the evening. The Tel Aviv Namal is a flourishing and lively attraction that is teeming with entertainment and culture.

Bicyclists enjoy the sunset at Namal Tel Aviv

Down 1. Senior attendance 2. Yearbook name 3. _____culture, garden 5. Electronic chalkboard 6. Soprano, _______, Tenor, Bass 7. Day of Tzedaka Commission meeting; abbr.

8. Mrs. Zaltzman’s nationality 9. Former Seminar location 12. Down East 15th 14. Rabbi Haber’s commission 16. Mural of 404

New Teacher Profile: Ms. Mizrahi, Renaissance Woman... Cont’d from front page I left home and I used my college money to pay for my ticket to Israel. I went with $50, luggage, and a guitar. I hitchhiked a lot. I went from Chabad to Jerusalem to Haifa, where I got a job as a translator for a weapons engineer. It was the first time I experienced engineering. I was actually good with weapons because my dad was a colonel so I grew up shooting. My best friend was an Olympian who was a professional sharpshooter. She taught me how to sharp shoot. It was then I decided I didn’t want other people taking me into their homes. I came back and decided to go to college because I wanted to be the person who helps people and makes a change.

MD: Which college did you go to?

Ms. M: I went to the University of Minnesota, where I graduated in astro4 | www.theflatbushphoenix.com

physics. I was considering being a lawyer or writer but I was required to take a science course so I took physics and biological engineering. (I didn’t take biology or chemistry because I didn’t want to go through the labs.) It was horrible. I went to my professor (and soon mentor), Dr. Heller, and asked if he would be able to help me. He said yes and taught me all about neutrinos. He saw my interest and offered me a job in the NOvA project. I accepted and built a neutrino detector. It was the first project I had. It’s where high energy particles are projected with a high velocity… [starts geeking out] MD: How did you manage to transfer from job to job?

Ms. M: I wanted to experience as much as I could.

MD: What’s a crazy thing you’ve done?

Ms. M: Well, I researched this guy named Dr. Shalom Michael (he’s super cool) whom my friend told me about.

One day I just walked into his facility. The front desk asked me if I had an appointment. I said I did even though I didn’t.

He phoned Michael and told him that I was here. Michael said, “Uh, sure, yeah, send her up.” We talked and I fan-girled.

He made it so there was an available position in CMRR (Center for Magnetic Resonance Research) that I could have. He made one available for me because that’s what professors do.

MD: Any other interesting little secrets you have hidden in your Pandora’s Box? Ms. M: Well, I taught accent reduction when I was an undergrad. I’m an imitator. I also taught a lot in high school and

college before working in Flatbush. Oh! I was also the founder and president of “Ladies of Physics.” We were nicknamed the “Physchicks.” The men were totally jealous.

MD: What’s your favorite saying?

Ms. M: “The world belongs to those who show up.” My professor taught that to me and I couldn’t agree more. The world is full of chances and opportunities for you to grasp. If you just put yourself out there and let yourself take them, the world is yours to have.

MD: So ... is there anything you can’t do?

Ms. M: Well, I certainly can’t cook.

Ugh, I can’t cook to save my life.

YOF Preparing for Annual Odradeks Coffee House: Hausdorff Tournament A New Hotspot Colette Betesh, 3-T The annual junior varsity basketball tournament held in memory of Thomas Hausdorff, a former General Studies principal of the Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School, is fast approaching. On December 4, fellow yeshivah basketball teams will be arriving from as far away as Detroit, Memphis, and Boca Raton to play in the tournament, which is informally called “Hausdorff.” The tournament incoprorates a shabbaton, which honors Mr. Hausdorff ‘s extensive love of basketball and of Torah studies.

A former athlete who played basketball for Brooklyn College, Mr. Hausdorff came to Flatbush after a long and successful public school career in the New Jersey school system. Unfortunately, after onlt seven years at Flatbush, Mr. Hausdorff passed away unexpectedly from a heart attack. Mr. Michael Gelber, who had a close relationship with Mr. Hausdorff, states that Mr. Hausdorff was “a very unique individual. He could have conversations on equal footing with students, teachers, and colleagues in the administration about anything.” Mr. Gelber went on to give the example of Mr. Hausdorff eating lunch in the teacher’s room and discussing Shakespeare with the English teachers. He also added, “[Mr. Hausdorff ’s] door was always open,” and even when students got in trouble, they’d walk out “without feeling emasculated and accepted their punishment,” a true testament to Mr. Hausdorff ’s character and the esteem in which he was held.

By Gabe Vizgan, 3-HN When asked why he started the tournament, Mr. Gelber responded that after Mr. Hausdorff passed away “I needed to find something to memorialize him.”

With the help of Rabbi Besser, Mr. Gelber organized not only a basketball tournament, but also a shabbaton that includes a Yachad program and shiurim. The freshman and sophomore athletes from visiting teams are welcomed into various homes of our hospitable students, where they spend a lovely weekend observing Shabbat and competing for the coveted trophy. The tournament runs throughout the weekend, with the championship game held on Sunday at 12:30 p.m.

Victor Zeitoune, a senior who has been involved in organizing the tournament since freshman year, states that he helps with Hausdorff because “it’s a great way to memorialize an amazing man.”

Mr. Amkraut, the school’s Director of Athletics, commented that Hausdorff is “an absolutely fantastic event. I’ve been involved with many tournaments in my professional career and very few are run as expertly as Hausdorff is. It’s phenomenal not just for the players of the teams that participate, but even more so for the members of the Flatbush community who help run the event so smoothly and successfully.”

The Hausdorff competition is a beautiful way to form friendships with Jewish teenagers from all over the country, and to remember a truly special individual.

Traveling Troupe Aims to Move the Elderly Joseph BenHaim, 2-HR On November 23, the Traveling Troupe visited the Shore Front Geriatric Center in order to perform for the residents. On Sunday, November 30, they will be visiting the Isabella Nursing Home in Manhattan with the same goals in mind. It’s a busy week to be sure, yet these performances are hardly the beginning of what is shaping up to be an active year for the growing Traveling Troupe.

Traveling Troupe consists of a group of students whose goal is to showcase their musical talent by playing instruments such as the guitar or the drums while fulfilling a mitzvah and visiting the elderly. The students who are part of the commission leave the school and go on trips to local nursing homes and share their musical talent while making a senior citizen’s day better and more entertaining.

Michael Zalta, a senior in 4-HN, founded Traveling Troupe during his freshman year. Originally, Traveling Troupe was just a few students who performed at nursing homes once in a while, but they are now a commission consisting of over 35 students who look forward to each and every trip that they go on.

“I founded Traveling Troupe as a way to fuse my passion for performance and my desire to do chesed,” said Michael Zalta.

Many students who walk through the halls of Flatbush, students like Ikey Benzaken, sophomore, have a passion as well for performing with Traveling Troupe. “It makes me feel good when I play for the elderly and see the smiles on their faces,” said Ikey. “It’s awesome to get to do chesed and brighten people’s day while having fun and playing music,” said Michael Catton, a sophomore, who is constantly looking forward to playing his favorite instrument—the guitar. “Today, Traveling Troupe is so special because of the dedicated members who have joined.

I begin to feel like I am helping all of the performers discover themselves and I help each member who comes on the trips build up confidence in themselves and their chesed,” said Michael Zalta. “Also, it is unbelievably gratifying to know you’ve made somebody who is sick in a nursing home’s day.”

Not only does Traveling Troupe offer some entertainment for the elderly, but it also helps the students of Yeshivah of Flatbush build up confidence in their

On Avenue J, we have bakeries, pizzerias, a steak house, and even a sushi bar.

But what about a café? Odradeks Coffee House, the new kosher café located next to 7-11, recently opened and has already attracted Flatbush students to its interesting decor and fascinating variety of foods.

Decorated in the same style as the original Odradeks, which is on Austin Street in Queens, the interior design of the café is nothing like what we’ve seen on Avenue J. There is a certain sense of sophistication in the eatery’s atmosphere, felt in the “classiness” of dining on hard oak tables while seated in comfortable leather chairs—a nice change from Pizza Time’s benches and Ready to Roll’s highrise metal chairs.

On the walls of the café hangs an assortment of seemingly random items— ones you might not expect to see in a café—including abstract art and lab beakers. The purpose of these objects may be symbolic: coffee, as simple as it may seem, is a science in need of experimentation, as well as an art, a pursuit of passion and a form of expression. Or maybe they just look cool. Walking in, you may find yourself saying, “Whoa, this would be a swag hangout,” or maybe, “I could write my next book here.” Whatever your reason for coming, you will be met by a friendly staff and a relaxed ambiance; you will immediately feel at home at Odradeks.

As for the food, there is an array of interesting choices to meet all your breakfast, lunch and on-the-go needs. For breakfast you could order a traditional meal like toast or eggs, or you could go for something a little more specialized like the House Made Granola (nuts, oats, honey, fresh seasonal fruit) or The Standard (avocado, greens, tomato parmesan, and poached eggs on brioche).

Lunch, too, offers provisions.

There is the Simple Soup (carrot and ginger), Cauliflower (cauliflower, béchamel sauce, parsley, with a baguette), or the Quiche of the Day (seasonal vegetables, egg, cheese, homemade crust). If you’re in a rush and just want a quick bite,

you can run in and grab a piece of cake or hot pocket, which will get you in and out in a matter of seconds (if the line allows it, that is).

There is also a variety of drinks: some café classics like cappuccino, latte, and espresso, as well as some specialty drinks like the Punk, Americano, and, the house specialty, the “Shottie” (a unique coffee ice-cream blend that comes in a variety of flavors.)

The preparation of the food is just as interesting as some of their names. For example, if you were to order a Poutine (yellow potatoes, mushroom gravy, cheese), you would be able to watch as they prepare your food with a culinary flamethrower, as their kitchen is open to the eyes of their costumers.

The down side: Odradeks is not the cheapest restaurant on J. Coffee, depending on exactly what you get, could cost you anywhere from $1.50 to $7.50.

Breakfast could cost you $3.00 for toast or $8.00 for the Salmon & Egg plate. The same goes for lunch, which ranges from $6.00 for the soup to $10.00 for the BànhMì (shitake mushrooms, extra firm tofu, cilantro, pickled daikon & carrots, sriracha, baguette). Though this would not put as big a dent in your wallet as Jerusalem Steakhouse, it is noticeably more expensive than, say, Chock Full o’ Nuts.

Also, there is only one counter at which to order, which can potentially make the line long and disorderly. The prepared food can take anywhere from two to ten minutes to arrive. However, being that the café is quite new, those standards are likely to improve.

Despite the minor flaws, which are subject to change, the eccentric atmosphere and interesting variety of foods make Odradeks a refreshing new choice.

music, and improve their talents while practicing for events. “I wanted a place where I can perform what I like and develop my performing abilities and found

that Traveling Troupe was a place where I could help myself while helping others,” said Michael Zalta.

Evelyn Tawil, 3-HR, entertains the crowd

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Entertainment Ask Merle

Movie Review: Interstellar

Merle Cohen, 4-HR

Mikey Shamah, 4-HN

Dear Merle, I can’t deal! How come teachers can steal our double lunches? They have meetings and reschedule class for lunch but when I have a meeting and want to reschedule class it’s all like, “Noooo” and, “Didn’t you go to the bathroom already?” or the famous, “I didn’t see any purple cards in my box.” Time is pressing for all of us, especially in YOF where there so much going on. I love school, just not my stolen lunches.

Sincerely, It’s Not a Two Way Street?

Interstellar is Christopher Nolan’s seventh major motion picture in which he follows his standards of practical effects, eye-opening vistas, and the infamous pulling apart of your brain. The plot is simple: Cooper (Matthew McConaughey), a farmer/engineer/ex-pilot, is tasked with finding a new planet to save the human race from extinction. But the movie is executed in a way that focuses more on human emotions than on intergalactic space travel.

Interstellar does a superb job of blending real scientific facts into the movie.

At first, some people may find it a little jarring when characters start talking scientifically, but it feels almost like a second language by the time the credits roll around. While some aspects of the plot are complemented with great detail,

Dear It’s Not a Two Way Street, I like to think of this situation as an “My-mother-can-make-me-do-choresbut-not-the-other-way-around” situation. And I’m not saying it’s fair, but let’s get real: life can be unfair sometimes. But by the time finals come around, you’ll be thankful that you didn’t get all those double lunches and actually finished the material you need for the exam. Best of luck!

Sincerely, Merle Dear Merle, My teacher keeps saying “class trip.”

After many comments and lessons he throws in a “class trip.” I’m so confused.

Are we really going to all these places?

Some of them are in Europe, so that will be expensive. My peers started planning these class trips also. Is that a thing?

Also, he hints at class cuts all the time but I promise we’re all there! We never had a ditch day!

Sincerely, Long Live RothbortGi Dear Long Live RothbortGi, I, too, was once subjected to the trial and error of hoping for intercontinental class trips and ultimately disappointed. For a remedy I’ve come up with an easy, six-step program to get you out of this confusing funk. Best of luck! Step 1: Remember, trips cannot go into the future or to the past. Step 2: We are not equipped with the correct vaccines to take a trip to Asia. Step 3: Unless you were born in Russia, and currently live there, you’ll probably never take that trip. Step 4: Unless Ms. Bloom is funding the program there will never be a class trip to the continent of Africa. Step 5: Europe doesn’t want Americans, so class trips there are a big no. Step 6: Finally, NEVER EXPECT A CLASS TRIP, THEY’RE NONEXISTANT. Sincerely, Merle Dear Merle, What ever happened to the Flatbush Phantom?

Sincerely, Phil Harmonic NO-prah 6 | www.theflatbushphoenix.com

others are left in the wind and leave the viewers scratching their heads. I cannot give any examples without spoiling the movie, since everything is interconnected (no pun intended).

Coming off of his Academy Award win for Best Actor, McConaughey continues his streak of breathtaking performances with Interstellar. He fits right in as the farmer with bigger aspirations and his southern accent completes the part.

His counterpart, Anne Hathaway (Dr. Brand), however, doesn’t play so well off of McConaughey, which makes their duo a bit awkward. There is something off about Hathaway’s performance; her acting doesn’t seem to fit her part, and she is stiff in suspenseful scenes. The rest of the supporting cast is average with the exception of Jessica Chastain.

Nolan prides himself on practical effects and has many Interstellar. He useds real-world locations to portray faraway locales, and it couldn’t have been done better. Nolan succeeds in making futuristic spaceships and exotic planets feel real. His choice to use IMAX over a 35mm or 3D pays off, as the scale of Interstellar is captured impeccably.

The McConaissance soldiers on with another stellar performance by McConaughey, while Christopher Nolan opens your brain to the possibilities in the universe with an emphasis on human interaction and emotion. Although it had only a sliver of plot holes and some not-so-good acting, Interstellar is a must-watch.

Theater Review: Side Show The Blissful Disjoint of the Jointed Twins Michael Zalta, 4-HN The new edge brought to the cult-classic musical Side Show reflects upon an inchoate history yet poses provisions for blissful sympathies. This is because the deliberately redefined musical, which opened November 17th at The St. James Theater, was redirected and through-composed with humane sentiment that creates a troubled but ad-rem tale of the grotesque and ideal of self-acceptance.

The true character portrait that tracks Siamese twins Daisy and Violet Hilton and their journey from being abused side-show freaks to Vaudeville’s most beloved performers becomes a thought-provoking masterpiece. As the show pushes the boundaries of how we approach the grotesque it demands our examination: Are we entertained by aberration? Do we mock? Can we ignore the physical and love?

Daisy and Violet reflect upon universal parts of the human condition.

Their contrasting egos seem to yearn for acceptance and acclaim, as we all do. They soon have to learn, however, that the essence of being unique is not one of superficial value but one that includes something spiritual, one that requires devotion and love. As they ask the seminal question, “Who will love me as I am?” the “freaks” of Side Show reveal that contentment only emerges from one’s self-acceptance, when they embrace what makes them who they are.

As the twins rise to fame they begin to wonder if it is more important to be acclaimed or loved. A “love pentagon” between the Daisy and Violet, their managers Buddy and Terry, and their devoted guardian Jake, raises the question: where is true love—in one’s hopes and ambitions or in one’s blind and unbridled heart? The girls must understand themselves before lending their hearts to someone else.

Bill Russell’s revised book shows a new sensitivity to the side-show freaks. Where these characters could be marginalized as camp, they in fact compose a deliberate and biting satire of the dreams of fitting in when you are unique. Scenes and lyrics have been carefully cut and replaced, but much of the new material is flawed, being too concrete. The new book keeps the zest and witty humor of the original but becomes incoherent, with no point on which to pivot the layered plot. The show lacks a distinguishable conflict, which leaves you confused over sundry struggles until the final retribution.

The new music falls flat, but heightens the pathos and glory of the well-known original ballads that sustained the life of this show for years after it closed.

The new music seems to simply be filler meant to hide the voids in the plot advancement. Lyrics are too concrete and forgettable when juxtaposed with the original musical numbers, which include “Come Look at the Freaks,” “You Should

be Loved,” and “I Will Never Leave You” (each of which received a standing ovation at the performance I attended).

These sublime ballads and sumptuous duets by Henry Krieger (Dreamgirls) ring truth and earthiness through every part of your being.

Aside from obfuscated illusions, the modest scenic design by David Rockwell provides a nifty stage for an impassioned and sometimes disturbing story. Costume and makeup design is stunning as well.

Unfortunately Daisy and Violet, played by Erin Davie and Emily Padgett, cannot compare to Emily Skinner and Alice Ripley, the power duo who wowed Broadway in the same roles some 17 years ago. Their voices simply do not carry the grit and resonance that their roles require and their melodramatic acting leave you a little less piteous of the hapless twins. Buddy, played by Matthew Hydzik, and Terry, played by Ryan Silverman, portray eager and conflicted managers to the twins with savoir-faire.

David St. Louis, whose voice tears your heart apart, plays Jake with steadfast and poignant fervor.

The purpose of the musical theater is to speak what the written and spoken word cannot. If Side Show does one thing, it speaks a candid message that can send chills down your spine. You begin to realize that you, too, are just like the freaks.

Dear Phil Harmonic NO-prah, For those of you who aren’t familiar with this term, the Flatbush Phantom was once a Flatbush senior who would belt his opera in the halls during class time. One day while singing his heart out he was caught by Jimmy and disappeared. Sometimes when down in the

basement you can still hear him lurking and singing his now eerie opera. No, not really. But seriously, I’m pretty sure he graduated. Honestly, I never knew who it was in the first place. Best of luck!

Sincerely, Merle

Riddle of the Month: It is the beginning of eternity, the end of time and space, the beginning of the end, and the end of every space.

What is it?

Standard of Fabulous Apple Watch: Officially Merging Fashion and Technology Sol Betesh, 4-S Ever since the dawn of the smartphone in 2007, fashion and technology have been trying to converge. Even today, most people just can’t leave their houses without their phones; when they do it causes a panic attack. A phone is an extension of the person using it; this is basically the definition of fashion and why people want to wear clothes that make them look and feel great!

Since 2007, phone case sales have skyrocketed. The idea is that all phones look the same, so we want to make ours different. Thus began the combination of technology and fashion.

However, as tech gets smaller and more portable, technology companies have been investing heavily in wearable technology. You’re probably asking why you haven’t seen more people sporting Google Glass or the abundance of smartwatches on the market. The answer is simple: they’re UGLY. If you’re going to wear something all the time it has to look great!

What company is better suited to fix this problem than Apple? At a press conference in San Francisco this September, Apple introduced the Apple Watch. Although the conference was filled with technology bloggers, Apple invited employees from Burberry and Neiman Marcus as well.

The Apple Watch is unlike anything currently on the market. Other smart watches are unappealing, cheap looking, and unable to perform simple functions correctly. The Apple Watch, on the other hand, comes in three distinct collections: Apple Watch, Apple Watch Sport, and Apple Watch Edition. Apple Watch features a polished, stainless steel case, Apple Watch Sport is made from an extreme-

Fanny Packing It into the 21st Century Katie Fishel, 3-S

ly strong type of anodized aluminum, and Apple Watch Edition comes in 18 karat gold. In addition, people have the option of personalizing their watch with easily detachable leather and metal wrist bands.

“We know that wearing something all day, every day, becomes as much about personal preference and self-expression, as functionality,” said Apple’s Senior VP of design, Jony Ive. Once again Apple has been able to create a functional and appealing product that outdoes its competitors. Apple understands what other technology companies don’t: if you’re wearing something all the time, it has to look great! So, with all the customizable options that Apple Watch offers (including that unbelievable 18 karat gold version), Apple is officially moving us into a world where fashion and technology can coexist. The watch doesn’t come out till early 2015, but there’s no doubt that this is another hit for Apple. Sorry, Samsung.

Meet This Month’s Fabulous Freshie!

Sammy Burekhovich

Class: 1-HR Age: 14 Elementary school: Yeshivah of Flatbush Bio: This bold freshie is not afraid to be silly when it comes to his fashion choices. He chooses to take advantage of his youth and wears what he likes without worrying what others will think. On Spanish Culture Day, Sammy even donned a super-festive sombrero. He believes, “Clothes are meant to keep you warm and protect you from Flatbush’s room to room temperature variations, not to look cool in other people’s eyes. Be sure to look out for this confident freshie striding through the Flatbush halls.

Can you say “Flashback Friday?” because it looks like the fanny pack is making a scene. The fanny pack was invented in the 1980s and many know it to be a popular bag for tourists. The fanny pack is shaped similar to a belt but instead of a buckle in the center it has a pouch to put small belongings inside such as a cell phone or sunblock.

For a time fanny packs were way out of style and an article of clothing targeted by comedians. Yet there have been recent sightings of celebrities rocking fanny packs. Most notably actor Matthew McConaughey was spotted wearing one at a Red Sox game. Aside from seeing celebrities wearing them, many top designers such as Chanel, Alexander Wang and Rebecca Minkoff have added stylish twists to them. For example, Chanel has made a fanny pack version of her famous quilted leather bag. Even the Black Eyed Peas lead singer, Fergie, has been seen rocking Chanel’s fanny pack. Fashion designer and reality TV star, Nicole Richie, has been sent fannies from the high status designers.

Aside from the new chic creations of the fanny pack, there are also some humorous versions. Just look on Fanny Pack’s website to see a whole variety of them. They have made kid-friendly ones that resemble animals and “blingified” some for a more mature audience.

Are these bags a hot accessory? Some people are still laughing at the idea. But as you can see, they’re being made and worn by some of the biggest names in the media.

Matthew McConaughey shows off his new accessory

Uggs Season Michael Elkharrat, 3-S Uggs can be seen on almost a quarter of the boys and just about all of the girls at Yeshivah of Flatbush. Uggs were originally made for comfort, but at this point we are all wondering why the students at Flatbush truly wear them. Is it for comfort or is it just a trend? Teenagers all over the world worry about what their friends think of them; there are very few who don’t. If a student were to tell me he is wearing a pair of Uggs because they look good, I’d probably look at him like he’s crazy. My theory is that one student who didn’t care what his friends thought wore Uggs and eventually it just caught on. We may never how this trend truly came to be, but for comfort’s sake, I’m glad it did.

Fashion Fact of the Month The first time a designer logo appeared on clothing was in 1930 when a tennis star, Rene Lacoste, manufactured a tennis shirt that featured an embroidered crocodile.

Have a fashion tip for Standard of Fabulous? Contact us at standardoffabulous@gmail.com.

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Sports Sportsman Spotlight: Ray Braha Albert Dweck, 3-HR

Ray Braha, the captain of your Flatbush Falcons varsity boys’ basketball team, is an extremely talented player who has spent much of his life viewing the hardwood as a second home. This prolific big man grew up with a basketball in his hands and from an early age began to develop a passion for the game. Ray fell in love with the seamless flow of the game and the many intricacies that accompany it.

He joined his elementary school team, and through seventh and eighth grade he led the Flacons in their quest for the championship. His love for the game only grew stronger the more he played. At the time he began watching “Hardwood Classics,” a TV series featuring the history of basketball, showing some of the greatest all time games, teams and players. Braha now acquired a love for the history of the game.

Soon it was off to high school, where Braha joined our own Flatbush Falcons. He quickly ascended the ranks to the varsity team, where he should excellent leadership, talent, and hard work and soon became the captain of the team. And when I asked Ray how being a part of the basketball team affected him, he was quick to answer that he gained maturity, learned to balance his work with pleasure, make new friends and be a leader. And of course he mentioned that he was proud to be a Flatbush Falcon!

Ray Braha

Year

Ppg

Rpg

Blk

Ast

Senior

2011-12

4.2

3.8

0.7

8

Captain

2012-13

8.4

9.6

1.2

2.2

H: 6”3

Age:17

2013-14

5.2

3.3

0.3

6

W: 160

Basketball

C/PF

Season Preview: Dance All the Right Moves?

Mary Jajati, 1-HR As we settle into the 2014-15 school year, the sports seasons are beginning to take shape. This years dance team, led by captains Claudia Elkharaat and Helen Menashe, has high hopes for the upcoming season. The dance team has placed at every single one of their competitions so far, and this year’s team intends to keep this trend going.

The team does hip-hop and street jazz dances, all choreographed by Menashe and Elkharaat. During the off-season the dance team practices ev-

ery Thursday, but now that it’s getting closer to the competition they meet twice a week. Because all 14 girls on the team will dance in the competitions, the captains are persistently trying to make sure the girls are completely ready, and frequent practice is necessary. “We are doing this just to make sure the dance is perfect,” Menashe explained.

But winning takes more than just hard work. How will they achieve this obvious main goal? “We plan on winning by adding different moves and

unique transitions and formations,” says Menashe.

The dance team competes against multiple schools including Ramaz, Magen David, and HAFTR. The upcoming competition, called “Rikudiah,” is on December 13 at Rae Kushner Yeshivah.

Yeshivah of Flatbush is providing bus transportation for students who want to attend (girls only). Menashe says, “It is super important for us to have support and we would really love for everyone to come!”

Season Preview: Boys’ Varsity Soccer Kicked Out

Yaear Weintroub, 3-R Making history, the Flatbush Falcons boys’ soccer team will be playing outdoors this season! The crisp air and the fresh, natural feeling of the grass could pump up any soccer player. The Falcons look to add a sense of authenticity when they take the field to play the most popular sport in the world. The players will definitely be more excited to play soccer on grass, like it was meant to be, just like their favorite players from all over the globe.

Mr. Eric Amkraut, the Director of Athletics, explains that the idea came from expressions from both the coaches and players. In addition to this, last year during the baseball tournament in Columbus, Ohio, Mr. Amkraut met Josh Pransky, the head of Yeshiva University’s Athletics Recruitment.

Pransky expressed some frustration about not having metropolitan yeshiva students with outdoor soccer experience. Therefore, “with the support of YU and the strong influence of the new co-head coaches, we felt this was the right time to start this program,” comments Mr. Amkraut. The players and coaches are not the only ones confident in this program. “We’re building something for the future, and we think the foundation is really strong,” Mr. Amkraut said.

Although it looks like we’re headed for one of the coldest years in a long time, the players shouldn’t mind. Outside, they’ll be running faster than they can imagine. Even though the Falcons lost their first outdoor game, Coach Eli Amzalag told flatbushfalcons.com, “The boys gave a terrific performance for a first time out, and we have a great foundation to build upon.” Realistically, playing outdoors is probably going to take some time to get used to, but when the Falcons get running, they won’t just fly.

They. Will. Soar!

Hausdorff Memorial Tournament Game Schedule Thursday, December 4 7:15 p.m.: Game A - Cooper Yeshiva vs. Weinbaum Yeshiva H.S. 8:45 p.m.: Game B - Yeshivah of Flatbush vs. Akiva Hebrew H.S.

Saturday, December 6 7:00 p.m.: Game E - Akiva Hebrew H.S. vs. Cooper Yeshiva 8:45 p.m.: Game F - Yeshivah of Flatbush vs. Weinbaum Yeshiva H.S.

Friday, December 5 9:30 a.m.: Game C - Yeshivah of Flatbush vs. Cooper Yeshiva 12:15 p.m.: Game D - Akiva Hebrew H.S. vs. Weinbaum Yeshiva H.S.

Sunday, December 7 11:00 a.m.: Consolation Game 12:30 p.m.: Championship Game

8 | www.theflatbushphoenix.com