A Student Publication of the Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School • 1609 Avenue J, Brooklyn, New York • Vol 58, Issue 2 • October 2023 / 5784
Recent Flatbush graduates fight hatred on college campuses Sylvia Saad Fashion Editor
“I haven’t really been wearing my kippah around campus,” commented Ralph Betesh (HS ’21), a current student at Columbia University. Although he has been, in general, “trying to keep a low profile,” Betesh has attended on-campus rallies and vigils for Israel. “Knowing the songs and prayers from being in Flatbush has been such a privilege,” he said. Additionally, Betesh sends his soldier friends in Israel videos of those support gatherings to raise morale. “It is truly uplifting for them to see how much we care, here in America.” As the war in Israel continues to escalate, antisemitism climbs alongside it on college campuses. Betesh is one of hundreds of Flatbush alumni who are studying at colleges all over the United States and experiencing firsthand the result of Jew hatred that has been brewing for centuries. Many Flatbush alumni are currently taking action to counteract the harmful effects of misinformation as well as to show their love for Israel in these unfortunate times. Jewish college students have become
Sidaoui, a senior at NYU, has been outspoken targets for antisemitic hate crimes, including violent assaults as well as calls for Jewish deaths. At Tulane, Jewish students were beaten when they tried to stop anti-Israel protesters from burning an Israeli flag. At UCLA, students chanted “We want Jewish genocide.” At Columbia, an Israeli student was beaten with a wooden broomstick, left with broken
fingers after he confronted a woman who was tearing down flyers with the names and pictures of Israeli hostages. Nonetheless, many Flatbush alumni have been as vocal in their support of Israel, and are even leading pro-Israel clubs and activities in their schools. Rosie Ruben (HS ’23) is the president of the Students Supporting Israel (SSI) club
in Babson College. She organized a rally in solidarity with Israel following the attacks. Mark Antar (HS ’22) arranged a rally and vigil as president of Huskies for Israel at Northeastern University. Over 300 people attended and prayed for the lives lost and for the hostages safe return. “We’ve been doing a lot of educating the outside, as well as keeping the inside Jewish community tighter and closer,” Antar said. Noya Shebshaievitz (HS ’22), a leading member of SSI at Duke University, took initiative to fundraise money for Magen David Adom and managed to raise roughly $150,000 for the cause. She has also organized a challah bake and led the prayer for Israel and the IDF at a vigil. Although many displays of Israeli support have been treated with respect, some have not. At Brooklyn College, during a Jewish vigil being led by Frieda Dabbah (HS ’19), a pro-Palestianan group bombarded the Jews by screaming “ It was justified” and “Intifada,” the Arabic word for violent uprising or rebellion, while they were quietly mourning the losses of their brothers and sisters. “It is
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How students and staff School denies ‘cell blockers’ are supporting Israel but rumors persist By Ilana Kroub Contributing Writer
Mr. Badihi left school for two weeks to rejoin the IDF
In This Issue
World News: Page 4 D’var Torah: Page 5 Ask Merle: Page 9
Simchat Torah. Though once a day of celebration and happiness for the Jews, it is now known as the “Israeli Massacre.” Now, it is the day Hamas terrorist organization launched a massive assault on Israel, shooting thousands of missiles, murdering hundreds of Israelis, injuring thousands, and taking more than 200 hostages into Gaza—all in one day. The Flatbush community has an overwhelming amount of love and support for our brothers and sisters in Israel and will do everything they can to aid the soldiers currently retaliating with Operation Iron Sword, who are devoted to retrieving the hostages, eliminating terror-
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New Business Section! Three stocks ready to soar Page 9
By Olivia Shamayeva Contributing Writer
Bad cell phone reception in many parts of the school building since the renovations began last year has led to a persistent belief among many students that so-called cell blockers (devices designed to block cell signals) have been installed throughout the school. Rabbi Galpert denied these rumors. “We do not have cell blockers, although we do have filtering on our Wi-Fi which does restrict people from accessing certain websites and apps,” he said. “Cell blockers mean that you block cell phone
Fashion: Nail colors to wear for Autumn Page 11
service. We do not block cell phone services, we put filters blocking certain social media sites from being accessible” on the school’s Wi-Fi network. He called the rumors of cell blockers in the school “fake news.” Cell blockers, in the context of Wi-Fi networks, are believed to to restrict cellular devices from certain applications when connected to the network. One of the main purposes of cell blockers is to limit or even eliminate the use of cell phones or devices in a certain area. They can be used to limit distractions in the workplace and allow students and teach-
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Sports: Four players you need on your fantasty team Page 12 phoenix@flatbush.org | 1
AGREE TO DISAGREE
Everyone should take The case against 12th a 12th period elective period electives Galiette Mita Junior Editor
390 minutes. Every student, every year spends 390 minutes a day sitting in a Flatbush classroom drilling into their minds the typical, same old 10 subjects. Math, History, Hebrew, English … you know the list. These classes’ material are often predictable and tasteless since we learn them every year on a routine, and have been studying these same subjects since we were in first grade. Yet over and over again, we have to sit in the room and listen and, once we’re done, repeat it in another mandatory class. Those 390 minutes can get quite unadventurous. But what if there was a way to add a refreshing change to your schedule? What if you learn and get tested on a topic you actually enjoy? That’s the sole purpose of Flatbush electives, and the 4:36-5:15 class is really no different. How exciting would it be to bring a professional camera to class instead of a notebook? Or spend your time designing creative and thoughtful poems? You could broaden your mind to a subject you were never taught in the school curriculum, but find intriguing and useful. Especially if you are an upperclassman filling up your 10th and 11th period elective with a double AP science class, you need the experience of learning a unique skill that actually interests you. Don’t just be let down because of the late hour—if a class sounds worth taking and you could genuinely see yourself pursuing something
like it in the future, don’t skip out on the opportunity! That’s the whole reason it’s there. Also, most extracurriculars and sport practices don’t start until 5:15 after school anyway. So you might as well fill up that time instead of lounging around the Commons like a homeless person. Many juniors show appreciation for the 4:36-5:15 period as a chance to take an extra AP class for college credit. Some other APs require a certain minimum grade or a prerequisite class to join, but the ones offered during 12th period are open to everyone and are a good way to add some juice to your college application. So sophomores, take this as critical advice when you choose your electives for next year, and if you’re serious about college, consider staying for those extra 39 minutes. What’s more is that in your junior and senior year, your years of high school are really coming to an end and, as crazy as it seems, you’re no longer going to be a student at Flatbush anymore. So it’s then more than ever that you should take advantage of all the opportunities we can get at Flatbush. The 5:15 elective is a great way to enrich your high school experience and at least get you excited about showing up to a class. Even though your time in the classroom is stretched slightly from 390 minutes to 429 minutes, at least you won’t regret picking up on some skills that will be helpful when you’re in the real world.
Faculty Freshman:
Mr. Mauricio Tavil By Olivia Shamah Contributing Writer
Born in Brazil, Mr. Mauricio Tavil was working as a manager at a textile company, planning to switch over to a different textile company, when he met with the Rabbi of Beit Yaacov School in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The rabbi mentioned the school’s new curriculum for health education, Project SAFE, and Mr. Tavil immediately fell in love with the endeavor and decided to reroute his career to focus on health education. After this transition, Mr. Tavil worked as a SAFE teacher in the Beit Yaacov
The Phoenix Staff Editors-in-Chief: Jacqueline Halabi, Aleen Jaradeh Senior Editor: Sarah 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
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School for both the elementary and high school, as well as teaching a variety of Judaic studies subjects to fourth graders. As a SAFE teacher, Mr. Tavil believes that the most prevalent problem our students face is the pressure to conform to social norms, which he believes can put students in risky and potentially dangerous situations, as well as jeopardizing their values, morals, and individuality. When the Beit Yaacov School came to visit Yeshivah of Flatbush last year, Mr. Tavil was instantly struck by the welcoming nature of our school and community. He was so impressed with YOF that he decided to make the switch. He was
By Shirley Jajati
Furthermore, learning is more effective during regular school hours, and late Entertainment Editor afternoon classes may not provide the Exploring optional elective classes same quality of learning experience. Elective classes and being able to that last until 5:15 ardelve into subjects en’t only tiring, but of personal interest also sometimes conappeal to many in flicting with certain the Yeshivah of Flatextracurricular acbush. However, with tivities and therefore classes that stretch prevent students from until 5:15, it’s not partaking in them. An very practical and anonymous senior girl can be potentially told me, “I’ve wanted harmful to students’ to be a part of the Art well being. Club for the past two Elective classyears, but the meetes that stretch until ings are always during 5:15 are a huge time my 5:15 elective.” Excommitment, and tracurricular activican create an imbalties play a vital role ance between acain a student’s persondemic and personal Ms. Cohen’s 12th period AP 2D Art al growth; they foster time for students. and Design/Photography class skills, friendships, and Students already lifelong interests. These have a full day of mandatory classes, extracurricular activ- things are vital to students in high school ities, and homework, and having school who are trying to find themselves and hours extended for another 40 minutes discover new passions. While optional elective classes have leaves students drained and limits their time for relaxation when they get home. their merits, daily classes until 5:15 raise This can be detrimental to students’ concerns about the well-being of students health as it may lead to fatigue and burn- and their ability to maintain a balanced out. Students who take classes until 5:15 and fulfilling life outside of academics. It daily also tend to be less academically is important to ensure that students have motivated, since they start to lose en- time to grow, rest, and explore their perthusiasm once they are overloaded with sonal interests beyond the classroom. work.
also impressed with the students’ commitment and drive in both academic and extracurricular activities. His favorite aspect of YOF is the warm and welcoming environment, which not only makes him feel included in our community, but also reminds him of his Brazilian community as well. Mr. Tavil attributes his relatively easy transition to this, despite it still being a very significant change. As a teacher, Mr. Tavil feels that it is very important to connect with his students. He always tries to make an effort to engage in conversations with them, whether it be after class, in the hallways, or even outside of school. He can be found praying in the Beth Torah High School Minyan on Saturday mornings, building relationships with his students outside of a classroom setting. In his free time, Mr. Tavil enjoys reading and spending quality time with his family. He has two children, two siblings, and ten nieces and nephews in Brazil. He
Fun & Games Editor: Esther Shemia Sports Editor: Paulette Saada 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
also has a lot of family in Brooklyn, which also contributed to his decision to move here, as he greatly values his family.
High School Administration Rabbi Joseph Beyda, Head of School Ms. Esther Hidary, Associate Principal Rabbi Yigal Sklarin, Associate Principal Rabbi Dr. Michael Atlas, Associate Principal Rabbi David Galpert, Assistant Principal
Despite requirements, many students not scanning in or out of each building By Bella Shamayeva School News Editor
Many students and teachers who dutifully obeyed the new requirement to scan in and out using the Ruvna app when they enter and leave the building for the first few weeks of the school year no longer bother to do so, especially when they attend classes that are located across the street in Touro or Prep. Senior Teri Chalouh notes that “It’s just a hadje. People think it doesn’t do anything or even forget it’s there sometimes.” Students in all grades agree that signing in can be a real hassle. Freshman Joseph Shamayev stated that “signing in at Prep especially is very hectic because there are too many people crowding around the scanners.” He added, “besides the crowding there is also a tech problem. Most of the time, the iPads are broken or my phone won’t load, which is annoying. It’s definitely a helpful idea to know where everyone is, but it could be better.” The administration confirmed that they are aware that many students aren’t scanning in and out every time they leave or come in the building. However, they pointed out that students are overwhelmingly scanning in when they arrive each morning, and thus using Ruvna for attendance is successful to an extent. Chalouh echoed this, saying that she likes using it for signing in every morning but “every time you leave the building is too much.” By scanning in every morning, student attendance is automatic. But Rabbi Galpert said that there is much more behind the new rules to scan in and out each time throughout the school day: scans keep track of who is in the building and who isn’t at any given time, which increases every student’s safety. “Especially with kids moving in and out of Touro or
Prep multiple times a day, we understand that it’s a bit tedious but it really helps enhance the school’s security measures” he added. For many, scanning in and out is nothing new. From finger scanning to Covid health screenings to Ruvna barcodes, Flatbush has been implementing various ways to record attendance over the years. A few years ago Flatbush used to use biometric finger scanning as a way to “sign in” by scanning your fingerprint. According to Rabbi Galpert, biometric finger scanning was labeled “illegal to use in schools” by the state, and “after this issuance we had to come up with a way to scan in and out in the morning.” However, at the same time Covid began to spread and the school needed to adapt to the new health standards. Students had to fill out a questionnaire asking about how they were feeling and then scanned the QR code that generated with completing the health screening, counting both student health and attendance. As health checks became less of a concern, the school had to adapt once again, and Ruvna changed with us. “Ruvna also pivoted,” continues Rabbi Galpert, “instead of recording health information, Ruvna now serves the purpose of attendance and accountability for our school.” “The old module had some issues,” says Rabbi Galpert. “There was always a new barcode sent by text or email, and people had the ability to share or screenshot them, which was also a problem.” The current version of Ruvna does not have the ability to do this, which relieves the administrative concern that people were attempting to share codes and scan in when they weren’t really in school. Now there is a fixed QR code, which is more convenient for students. Rabbi Galpert says that there is more
Senior Merle Kassin scans in to come. The Ruvna application can be used to notify people when there is an emergency; it keeps track of who is in the building at any time and won’t needlessly notify those who aren’t in school. By using this added feature, principals and the security team can make sure that ev-
eryone is safe. This won’t be introduced to the student body yet, but it is definitely something that the administration has planned for the near future.
Flatbush graduates and former faculty in Israel face tough choices By Emme Nidam Contributing Writer
Students from the Class of 2023 who have gone to study in Israel, as well as the faculty members who have recently made Aliyah, are doing what they can to cope during war. Many YOF alumni attended Yeshivat Moreshet Yerushalayim, a yeshiva that had to relocate to Brooklyn temporarily due to the dangerous situation in Israel. Albert Kroub (HS ’23), a current student in that school, said that he would have loved to stay in Israel but he feared that the war would escalate, so he flew back to Brooklyn. “The day of the attack and the following days were truly disheartening to witness and experience firsthand,” Kroub said. While he is back home, he is doing as much as he can to help both
spiritually and physically. Kroub took it upon himself to pray and learn with extra kavana. He also contributes to the war physically by packing supplies and necessities for soldiers. Although he is doing everything he can from afar, Kroub mentioned that he hopes to return to Israel quickly and take advantage of learning Torah in the holy city of Jerusalem. “I believe that we should be in our country in times of happiness and in times of trouble,” said Bella Shatzkes (HS ’23). Shatzkes is still in Israel attending Machon Maayan, and she said she is devastated that sirens and safety restrictions have become a necessity in her home. She feels overcome with shock and grief about the hostage situation and for those that have been ruthlessly slaughtered. Shatzkes is currently volunteering at the vet clinic on her seminary’s
campus, nursing a large number of army dogs back to health and taking care of dogs whose owners in the south of Israel couldn’t take care of them anymore. Ronnie Hidary (HS ’23) also is still in Israel, studying at Orayta, and is supporting the cause spiritually by praying and having faith in the army and G-d. He hopes that this war will finally end the “Israel-Palestine conflict,” and that Israel can finally focus on its role as being the cradle for Judaism. Hidary said, “I have hope that the pain and death will not be in vain and soon Am Yisrael will live peacefully.” In addition to the alumni who went to learn in Israel, a few faculty members have made Aliyah recently. Ms. Victoria Berman, former Judaic Studies teacher, moved to Israel at the end of the summer and currently teaches in a girls’ semi-
nary. Ms. Berman said that she and her husband are not planning to return to America, despite the difficulties of living in Israel during such a scary time. “Here in Israel I feel like I can contribute best to our great nation,” she says. Ms. Berman is contributing by supporting a mother whose husband went away to serve, visiting the parents of deceased soldiers, and helping displaced Haredi families find hotels to stay in. She continues to teach her students in seminary, saying, “The Torah is our lifeline.” Berman expressed her heartbreak for all those that have passed away, stating that, for the Jewish nation, one person’s loss is everyone’s loss. However, she keeps in mind that she has “never felt more part of a nation” because of this war, and hopefully things will be looking up very soon.
phoenix@flatbush.org | 3
Do we even go to the same school Upper and lowerclassmen lead very different Flatbush lives By Rae Levy Contributing Writer
While they occupy one school building and share many of the same teachers and clubs, freshmen and sophomores lead considerably different lives from juniors and seniors. Lunch times are separate, minyan is separate, and classes don’t overlap, making the opportunity for interactions between grades minimal. Many freshmen and sophomores say they don’t know any students in the upper grades, and vice versa. Lowerclassmen and upperclassmen enjoy different benefits and face their own unique problems as they navigate high school. Therefore, to understand the life of a Flatbush student, one must understand the advantages and disadvantages that are distinct to each group. Lowerclassmen (freshman and sophomores) are newer to high school and therefore have a fresh start. They get the chance to explore a new building, try out for a new sport, and meet people from all
different schools and Juniors and seniors backgrounds. Lowhave control over severclassmen can make eral of the classes they new friends, and make take and can adjust fresh impressions on their schedules to be teachers. They have longer or shorter. They a variety of clubs to can take the classes choose from and the they are interested in, freedom to try new and maybe enjoy their things and make misday a bit more. Setakes. Freshman have their own mincha niors even have a free While a new en“WIN” period once a vironment comes with new opportuni- week to catch up on work. Not only is ties, it also comes with new limitations. the academic life of upper and lowerFreshman can’t leave the building until classmen vastly different, the social life is their second semester and neither fresh- as well. Seniors can (and most do) drive man nor sophomores have little control to school, giving them more freedom to over their class selection. They get to come and go. They also seem to care less choose between Spanish and coding and about following all the rules. Almost 80% choose their Talmud/Halakhah split. But of seniors surveyed for this article say otherwise they have to take whatever they are more likely to ditch a class now schedule is given to them and they end as opposed to when they were freshman. at a different time every day. Being a FlatHowever, upperclassmen have to bush student is never easy, but being a study for their SAT or ACT in addition lowerclassman seems a little harder, or at to their regular coursework. Juniors are least more limited. encouraged to take as many AP cours-
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es as possible, and are often very busy as a result. The culture surrounding AP classes is very pressure-filled. Additionally, many leadership roles within the school are only available for upperclassmen, such as serving as mentors to lowerclassmen, the heads of commissions, SGO officers, and many more. Even on weekends, many juniors have to set aside time for SAT prep or driver’s ed, while seniors have to work on college applications. They have to juggle all this as well as their schoolwork. Many say that lower classmen have less pressure to get good grades and excel academically. Their grades matter less compared to a senior applying to college. While there are different positives and negatives to both cohorts, there are some perks of Flatbush available for all students. All grades get their own specially designed Seminar weekend, for example. And all grades follow the same yearly assessment schedule. So lowerclassmen, enjoy the novelty. And upperclassmen, enjoy the freedom.
A deeper understanding of the war in Israel By Aliya Abergil World News Editor
October 7 marked one of the most tragic days for Israel and the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Hamas terrorists infiltrated the Israel-Gaza border and killed approximately 1,400 Israelis and took at least 220 civilians as hostages. Terrorists entered kibbutzim right by the border and massacred people in their own homes. A music festival that took place near the border was also ambushed by terrorists, and many partygoers were slaughtered. Many Gazan citizens and Palestinians claim that this massacre is “justified” since they are fighting against the oppression and occupation of Israel. Palestinians believe that Israel forcefully took their land and they want it back, as
they believe the land rightfully belongs to them. After the 1948 Arab-Israeli war, Egypt took control of Gaza but after the Six Day War in 1967, Israel once again gained control of the area. After decades of tension and conflict, Israel withdrew its forces and settlers from Gaza in 2005 and since then the terrorist group Hamas has governed the area. Israel thought that surrendering Gaza to the Palestinian Authority would decrease the conflict and violence, but they were mistaken. The atrocities of October 7 led Israel to declare war on Hamas in order to defend themselves and bring the hostages back home. Although Israel has the support of the United States, United Kingdom, and many other countries, many people condemn Israel for defending itself and are calling for a cease fire and deescalation. Additionally, tensions con-
tinue to rise in the Middle East between Lebanon, Iran, and Israel. Iran allegedly funded and planned Hamas’ organized attack on Israel and Lebanon is threatening Israel as a way to stop them from retaliating against Gaza. With tensions brewing in the Middle East, antisemitism has increased significantly around the world. Just days after the massacre in Israel, Hamas called for a global day of jihad on all Jews on October 13. Universities have been filled with pro-Palestinian rallies that celebrate the murder and assault of innocent lives and there have been many incidents where Jewish students were targeted with hate speech, threats, and even violence because of their religion. Prestigious universities such as Harvard and NYU have released statements that condemn Israel’s actions. Jewish students are combating
IDF soldiers prepare for battle antisemitism through peaceful protests and raising awareness. Overall, many Jews no longer feel safe as they go along with their daily lives.
AI helps archaeologists decode ancient scroll By Bobbi Salama
Science in English:
Junior Editor
In the year 79 AD, a volcanic eruption occurred at Mount Vesuvius, leaving an Ancient Roman city covered in meters of ash. Any historical artifacts the city contained were rendered unreachable for millennia—until now. Archeologists have recently uncovered some crumpled and crushed scrolls so fragile that opening them would break them apart. How do you read a book you can’t open? Computer scientists have experimented with various technologies to “open” wrapped scrolls. Brent Seals and his team of computer scientists have found methods to “virtually unwrap” some scrolls using computed tomography (CT) scans, bringing a procedure more commonly used in medicine to the technological world. These CT scans allowed Seals’s team
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Unrolling the scroll would destroy it to view these scrolls as flat images. In 2016, they reported using this method to read copies of the Christian Old Testament and the book of Vayikra that had been written in 3-4 AD. However, the difference for those scrolls is that the ink contained metal, making them more easily visible to the CT scans.
The ink on the Herculaneum scrolls from Vesuvius is composed mainly of charcoal and water, rendering this method ineffective. This is where 21-year-old Luke Farritor comes into the picture. As a computer science student, he developed an AI machine-learning algorithm that
was able to use small differences in the texture of the scroll to decipher letters and locate the writing. Using an x-ray scanning method, this algorithm was ultimately able to detect the shapes of several Greek letters, including the word “porphyras,” which translates to “purple,” uncovering a word never before seen in any other ancient scrolls. The Herculaneum scrolls are sad to carry stories that have never been rewritten and passed down throughout the years, published directly from the authors themselves. The steps Farritor took to decipher these scrolls reveals a newfound ability to “revolutionize our knowledge of ancient history and literature,” says historian Thea Sommerschield. Alongside AI’s past aid to historical research, this recent, earthshaking breakthrough using AI promises to bring more successes that we have never seen before.
Israel Alum in Israel:
D’var Torah:
Jacob Coopersmith From anger to
mercy By Elisha Kahan
After the Malachim (angels) finished relaying their message to Avraham on the expected birth of a son, the Torah tells us the Malachim arose and וישקפו על־פני סדם- they looked over onto Sedom, the very antithesis of the Avraham’s house of Chesed (Seforno). Rashi here informs us that all uses of the form הׁשקפה- overlooking in “”ִּמִקרא, usually defined as Tanach, are for the bad. In our example, Sedom would be destroyed and upturned, the only survivors being Lot and his two daughters.The only exception to this general rule is the Pasuk found in Ki Tavo: השקיפה ממעון קדשך מן־השמים וברך את־עמך את־ישראל ואת האדמה אשר נתתה לנו- look down from Your[Hashem’s] holy abode and bless your nation, Yisrael, and the land which You gave to us. Rashi explains that because this declaration is announced after the giving of tithes and gifts to the poor, the Middah of anger is replaced with mercy and השקיפהthere is used with a positive connotation. Chizukini raises a question on Rashi: the rule of הׁשקפהimplied looking for the bad is not as universal as
Rashi implies! In Shir HaShirim, for example, it is written מי־זאת הנשקפה כמו־שחר- who is that who looks over like the dawn, a metaphorical reference to the beauty of Bnai Yisrael and their Temple. Siftei Hachamim resolves the difficulty by suggesting that when Rashi uses the word ִּמִקרא, he is not exact and is talking about the Torah itself. Uses of הׁשקפהin the Torah with a bad connotation include Hashem looking at the camp of Egypt to destroy them and Bilaam and Balaak’s attempts to curse the Jewish people. This is supported by a Midrash in Shemot Rabbah Midrash which specifically limits the rule, cited in the name of Rabbi Alexandri, to the Torah. However, in Midrash Tanchuma, Rabbi Alexandri is cited as giving examples throughout Tanakh of הׁשקפהas an expression of צערdistress! We can resolve the difficulty with regard to Shir HaShirim quickly, for Rashi there indicates that just like night precedes dawn, so to Bnei Yisrael endured difficulties under the subjugation of Persia before the Maccabees were able to fight for independence. הׁשקפהis almost always proceeded or preceded by צער, but with the power of Tzedakah, we can reverse the harshest decrees.
The yeshiva decided to reallocate some of the time from Shiurim so their students could assist people. Coopersmith helped clear out a bomb shelter used by a widow with cancer and a pregnant woman whose husband left to war. Another day, Coopersmith went to
an army food warehouse to cook and package food for soldiers. “This way I’m directly helping the army, and I feel like I’m doing something and not just standing by,” Coopersmith related. “Even with everything going on I still feel safe here with the yeshiva and in Israel.”
Religion Editor
Coopersmith (right) at yeshiva
By Elisha Kahan Religion Editor
Yeshivah Flatbush alumnus Jacob Coopersmith is spending his gap year in Jerusalem, studying in Yeshivat Eretz HaTzvi. This year, he is learning Masechet Kiddushin for his first shiur of the day, but for his second shiur, he is able to choose from a multitude of electives. “I chose one class devoted to a period spanning 1,000 years of Halacha, another learning about the different Siddurim: Ashekenaz, Arizal, and of course Aram Tzova, a class on Machshava, and a Nach class on Daniel. We take two of the classes on Sundays and Wednesdays and two of the classes on Mondays and Thursdays,” Coopersmith explained. On Tuesdays, the boys either go on ( םילויטtrips) or learn pertinent halakhot like Tzitzit and Sukkot. Coopersmith was off for the first days of Succot and spent his holiday with friends and family in Israel. For Simchat
Torah, the yeshiva prefers the students to stay in. “The yeshiva tells you you’ll have an experience you’ll never forget; I don’t think I’ll ever forget about this Simchat Torah,” Coopersmith reflected. In the evening, Coopersmith enjoyed Hakafot and the joyous nature of Simchat Torah. In the morning, he was met with a different story. Ten minutes into Pesukei DeZimra, the first siren sounded. In the middle of Chazara, the boys had to go down to the shelter and continue praying there. Soon, the rabbis were even telling their students to take out their phones for safety. “We tried to make the most of it, but there was a lot of uncertainty, and we had to make sure we were all in a group. The school was taking a lot of precautions; the IDF didn’t even know what was going on,” he described. Thankfully, no rockets hit the yeshiva. Coopersmith did note, however, that recently “a bomb almost landed near us and the whole building shook when the bomb exploded in the air.”
War causes growing fears over Israeli economy By Elisha Kahan Religion Editor
The future of the Israel-Hamas war has spiked fears of economic downturn in both Israel’s and the world’s economy. Israel’s tourism industry is already suffering, with travelers canceling trips and tours in a country at war. Wassim Razzouk, a tattooist in Jerusalem’s Old City, noted that fifty potential customers have already canceled. Tzvi Cohen, a tour guide situated 20 miles from Gaza, reported that all his October tours have been called off. Popular tourist sights like the Kotel remain mostly empty, and the bustle of Jerusalem’s streets has been severely silenced. 300,000 Israeli workers have been sucked out of the economy to serve as reservists in the army, providing needed experience in an army dominated by new soldiers. These Israelis served important
Even in Jerusalem, many shops remain closed roles as teachers, nurses, entrepreneurs, dates, or meeting friends for a fun night and tech workers. Additionally, small out. A dip could take place in an econobusinesses throughout Israel, such as my already suffering from strife and prorestaurants, coffee shops, caterers, taxi tests against judicial reform. services, and wineries have been either According to Bloomberg News, the closed or free of customers, as most Is- war can have global effects on GDP, inraelis are remaining largely at home and flation, and the price of oil, depending very few are throwing parties, going on on how far the conflict spills over. In the
worst scenario, Iran could have a direct military exchange with Israel, increasing the price of oil by 64 dollars per barrel, dragging world powers like the U.S., China, and Russia into war, and plunging the world into a recession. Some of these effects are not unheard of: the Yom Kippur War and subsequent oil embargo led to stagflation in many rich countries. There is good reason to be hopeful, however. A large sector of Israel’s economy is in the chemical and mineral industry, which remains largely unaffected. Once reservists return home, they can use the skills they learned on the battlefield to start successful businesses. When the war ends, a tourist industry experienced in upheavals will quickly bounce back up. Despite pressures and upsets from all sides, Israel has always managed to persevere and make the best of its situation.
phoenix@flatbush.org | 5
How students and staff are supporting Israel Principals deny rumors of cell blockers
continued from page 1
continued from page 1
Students sold donuts to raise money for Bet Elazraki, a home in Israel for at-risk children ists and their weapons, and preventing raised money for Ezra Murcaz, a home future attacks and defending Israel. for displaced families where mothers The Yeshivah of Flatbush Tzeda- can send their kids while their fathers kah Committee has and is continuing are in reserves. “The Tzedakah Committo raise money in support of Israel and tee stands in support of Israel and will different organizations all devoted to continue raising money, even after the helping the citizens and soldiers of Is- conflict is resolved,” Ms. Esther Spigel, rael. The Tzedakah faculty advisor Committee uses is of the commitallocating $8,000 tee, explained. dollars to be evenAdditionally, ly distributed there is the advoamong different cacy of Students organizations and Supporting Isfundraisers. This rael, who are includes sending exceeding their money to Yeshivat goals and expecShalavim, a school tations, providin Israel that used ing students with the money to promany opportuvide toys, games, nities to leave an activities, food, impact on Israel. and drink for the Senior Jack Hamui ties tzitzit for soldiers “I’m really hapchildren of rabbis; py to be active selling bracelets in SSI and to be with designs of Israeli flags on them, able to give opportunities to other stuwith all proceeds going to Israel; and dents so that they can actively leave a selling ice cream in the Student Com- positive impact on Israel and America,” mons for double the usual price, so that said Emily Tarrab, one of the student each purchase also paid for ice cream heads of SSI. SSI has promoted students for a child in Israel. It is clear the Tzeda- to send emails to local government repkah Committee is devoted to this cause. resentatives asking them to vote for supAdditionally, the Tzedakah Committee port for Israel and help their citizens.
Additionally, SSI introduced students to Adopt a Soldier, a system where participants receive a soldier’s Hebrew name so they could make sure to keep that name in mind when praying Tehillim. Furthermore, SSI sent letters to soldiers in the South, where the fighting is the most dangerous and potent, and to schoolchildren, raising their spirits by letting them know Jews in America are on their side and are praying for them. Not only are our students making an impact, but so are the faculty. Many have donated their time and money to a variety of organizations that are focused on helping Israelis and are coordinating all sorts of other efforts to collect needed items and distribute them to soldiers and displaced families. In school, teachers are giving special lessons about the history between Israel and Hamas to raise awareness. Meanwhile, the entire school has been joining together for daily mincha in the auditorium, followed immediately by a daily Israel Minute, which is an empowering and uplifting minute-long video update on the events occurring in Israel. “It’s important as a school community to connect and reflect upon what is happening in Israel right now,” said Rabbi Beyda.
Students set up a Shabbat table display in Times Square to recognize the hostages
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ers to stay more focused on their tasks. Despite the administration’s insistence, many students adhere to their belief that the school is intentionally thwarting their technology. “Nothing ever loads when I am connected to the school Wi-Fi,” said senior Esther Lazerowitz. “I wouldn’t know if anything worked because it has never actually gone through.” Sophomore Margie Soud has had similar problems: “It is an ongoing problem on my phone because each time I’m connected to the school Wi-Fi, a lot of my texts don’t go through, and everything as a whole is delayed” she said. “And also when I try to go on to the Flatbush Instagram account to see Cooking for a Cause, or what events are that day, or anything in general, it just doesn’t work.” More students are connecting to the school Wi-Fi because they usually only have one or two bars of cellular data when inside the school. As they connect to the Flatbush internet to shorten the wait time, they are left with yet another loading symbol. “My social media apps don’t work on the school Wi-Fi and it’s very frustrating because I want to check up on the news, and I can’t do that,” remarked freshman Shlomo Lahav. “I also can’t really check my texts with my friends on Snapchat, and I can’t communicate with them until after I get out of school because their texts don’t load.”
Screen shot of a student’s phone in the Commons, where reception is weak
Morah Lerrer’s classes wrote letters to soldiers
Recent Flatbush graduates fight hatred on college campuses continued from page 1
one thing to protest a rally but it is a complete other to disturb a memorial. Calling for an intifada is calling for violence. That in it of itself is not just anti-zionism, it is glaringly antisemitic,” said Grace Madeb (HS ’20), a student at Brooklyn College. At NYU, Nathan Sidaoui (HS ’20) has been so outspoken against antisemitism on campus and the lack of support for Jewish students from the school’s president that he was interviewed on Fox News about the situation. And Alan Shamah (HS ’22) co-wrote a letter to the NYU administration demanding that they do a better job supporting and protecting Jewish students; as of October 27, the letter had more than 25,000 signatures. To add flame to the fire, many colleges’ anonymous social media platforms have become outlets for antisemitism and misinformation. Columbia’s app, Side Chat, is filled with antisemitic remarks that resemble some notable Nazi propaganda. On Babson’s app, Fizz, Ruben saw a story she had posted about Is-
rael on Instagram reposted with text that said she was delusional and brainwashed. To combat the hate spreading on these apps, one Flatbush graduate at an Ivy League university, who asked to remain anonymous, has taken it upon himself to educate people who are misinformed about the conflict. “Demonstrating to your peers that you understand the tragedies of both Palestinian and Israeli people alike, and staying true to your values and Jewish identity, is extremely important on college campuses. Showing that you are sensitive to all innocent lives lost opens the floor to respectful dialogue you might not see while bombarding people with your beliefs.” It is crucial for Flatbush alumni and students that are presented with the opportunity to defend and protect Israel to take it, no matter how big or small. Though antisemitism continues to rage on, seeing the difference our alumni have made on campuses so far is truly uplifting.
Jonathan Baum (HS ’20) walked through an anti-Israel protest at Drexel University carrying an Israeli flag, with support of local police
Dabbah, center, led a vigil for victims of the massacre while protesters (background) shouted at her and the other students in mourning
Class of ’23 graduates Hymie Gindi, Joshua Baum, and Abie Shaoul, studying in Israel, made meals for soldiers with their rabbi at a Jerusalem bakery soldiers
Classroom, or wildlife sanctuary?
A small bird flew into Tent 2 during a fourth period English class on November 1. With the help of the maintenance staff, the bird eventually left unharmed.
phoenix@flatbush.org | 7
Entertainment
Actors’ strike prolongs Adele says goodbye to music wait for new content By Zachary Steinfeld Contributing Writer
Esther Lazerowitz Contributing Writer
With the TV writers’ strike resolved, viewers were excited to start seeing new episodes of their favorite scripted shows. But on July 14, the actors’ union, SAG-AFTRA (Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists) began striking against production studios, demanding a better system of pay for actors as well as protection from AI usage in film production. With no end in sight for the strike, many studios have been forced to pause production, with movies seemingly most affected. One of the major films that have been delayed is the hotly anticipated Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part 2. Originally set for release on June 28, 2024, it will now hopefully hit theaters on May 23, 2025. Blade will now be released February 14, 2024 instead of this year, and The Fantastic Four was pushed from February 14 to May 2, 2025. Captain America: Brave New World, Anthony Mackie’s debut movie as Captain
America, has also been delayed to July 26, 2024. Additionally, two upcoming Avengers movies, Avengers: The Kang Dynasty and Avengers: Secret Wars, have been pushed back a year, from May 2026 to May 2027. Spiderman: Beyond the Spider-Verse, previously slated for release in March of 2025, has been put on hold indefinitely due to the strike. The flaw in these predictions, however, is that the actors’ union and production studios have yet to reach any sort of agreement on terms, making projected release dates very uncertain. If neither side concedes and the strike persists for much longer, these dates will have to be continuously pushed back, to the point where the public will definitely feel the lack of new content. Until both SAG-AFTRA and the major film production companies can sit together at the negotiating table and produce a deal, no new movies will be produced. In the meantime, keep an eye out for any updated release dates for your favorite shows or movies.
Social media goes to war By Shirley Jajati Entertainment Editor
All over social media, there are battles of conflicting opinions. On every platform, it seems there’s only two ways to view things but in reality, it’s not so black and white. The tension between Israel and Hamas, and those who support or oppose them, has been growing for a few weeks now, and news about the war has been spreading like wildfire, especially when it comes to social media. While it offers real time updates on breaking news, allowing people to stay informed about critical events as they happen, each post contains an undertone of bias, projecting favor onto a certain side and prejudice onto another. Furthermore, each post can convey only a certain amount of information at a time, so part of the story will always be missing. And of course, there is intentional misinformation, as social media is weaponized to spread propaganda. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is fraught and long-lasting and will always lack crucial details on social media, which is why any information found on there should be confirmed and researched before being shared. Not only is social media full of misinformation and out-of-context facts, it features many gruesome posts going viral. “My parents don’t allow me to have
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social media anymore. They don’t want that kind of stuff influencing me,” stated senior Ezra Rosenfeld. Violent or graphic content can be shared with little regulation, potentially glorifying violence or causing harm to viewers. From female Israeli hostages being paraded throughout the streets, begging for their lives, to innocent babies being beheaded, to buildings reduced to rubble and images of sobbing Palestinian children, there is absolutely no filter on these images. However despite the misinformation, bias, and amplification of violence, Social media still sometimes does what it does best: it connects people. It allows people to come together in hope and prayer. For every violent, and negative post, there’s one to combat it, inspiring hope and religious beliefs. From videos of support from people all over the world singing the anthems of countries in peril, to soldiers posting videos of encouragement to those around them in the face of death and destruction, to donations and fundraisers that people around the world are starting up in order to help in any way they can, it is clear that in times of struggle humanity is there for each other. We work together, we unite, as a show of strength and support for one another. True goodness is inside of each and every one of us, we just need to reach down and bring it out for all to see.
After over 15 years in the music industry, one of the world’s most adored singers, Adele, is taking an indefinite leave from the stage. Her Las Vegas residency, fittingly named “Weekends with Adele,” is closing its curtains for the last time on November 4. Following this, the singer is taking a long hiatus from music to get a degree in English Literature. She made the announcement back in October of 2022, reiterating her love of the subject: “If I hadn’t made it singing, I think I would definitely be an English Lit teacher.” Her plans are to acquire the degree online with the help of a tutor, rather than in person at a university. “That’s my plan for 2025. It’s just to get the qualifications.”
Though it was always her dream to get a degree, she never had the chance due to her immensely successful music career. On top of winning numerous Grammys, an Academy Award, and countless other awards, the singer also has four top-selling albums. The second of those four, 21, is currently the best-selling album of the 21st century, having sold over 31 million copies worldwide. With this kind of fame, there was never a time nor place to get a degree. Instead, with this new venture, she’s making her own chance. Rather than waiting for her fame to subside, her fame must now wait for her. Fans are hopeful that, when she is all done and ready, Adele will take a step back into the music industry, and grace us with her musical talent once more.
Business Fed ends rate hikes, Wall Street’s best-kept aims for ‘soft landing’ secrets: 3 undervalued stocks ready to soar By Eric Azrak
consumers (like Joe), and, ultimately, leaves store shelves overstocked with a Business Editor potential recession on the way. In a soft Even those not familiar with the in- landing, though, the Fed perfectly pushtricacies of the current financial climate es the interest rate high enough to slow have probably heard one word over and the economy/inflation while avoiding a over again: inflation. recession. NaturalIt began in midly, the question on 2021, partially due everyone’s minds to Covid-19 stimnow is which type ulus packages, and of landing are we in has plagued the U.S. for? Short answer: economy ever since. It depends on who In 2022, it was not you ask. uncommon to see Long answer: spikes of seven, eight, After 11 rate inor nine percentage creases from the points in the monthFed, it seems their ly inflation rate. To Fed chair Jerome Powell rate hikes are over. bring it a bit closer Americans and to home, a 12-pack of Coca-Cola costed economists welcomed the decision to $4.20 in January 2019 and now the price hold off on further raises with open arms; has almost doubled to $8.00. finally, the U.S. economy was looking up. When inflation begins to spiral, the Regarding which landing we’re in for, Federal Reserve (AKA “Fed”) steps up to U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen adathe plate. Forbes describes the Fed’s mis- mantly pointed toward an upcoming soft sion as to “keep the U.S. economy hum- landing at a recent Bloomberg finance ming—not too hot, not too cold, but just event. To substantiate her claim, Yellen right.” The vehicle by which they do that specifically called out the rising labor is the federal funds rate, which is what force participation rate (percentage of most people refer to when they shout, the total population that are employed), “The Fed keeps raising interest rates!” consumer spending, and slowing inTo put it simply, this rate ends up affect- flation rate. “What we have looks like a ing the interest rate of the average Joe’s soft landing, with very good outcomes mortgage. Higher mortgages mean less for the U.S. economy,” Yellen stated. She money in Joe’s pockets and less money he also displayed (and scoffed at) a 2022 can spend. As a result, storeowners lower Bloomberg infographic, which forecast their prices to keep goods affordable and a 100% chance of U.S. recession within BOOM: inflation is solved, right? Well, twelve months. unfortunately, it’s a bit more complicated While the path toward economic northan that. mality is certainly foggy, the general senNow, comes the introduction of a timent is positive. The Treasury predicts “hard landing” vs. “soft landing.” In a a soft landing and so do the numbers, but hard landing, the Fed raises rates too only time will tell if our inflationary balsteeply, drains too much money from loon will fizzle out or pop altogether.
By Morris Ringer Contributing Writer
During this time of much uncertainty, many stocks have fallen. Here are 3 stocks that I believe are undervalued and whose stock price will increase. JetBlue is one of the biggest companies in the United States. They were ranked the second-best airline behind Delta by Forbes in 2023. JetBlue has been working on a way to bring in more high-end clientele to their airline. They took advantage of Delta Airlines’ recent announcement changing their requirements regarding their frequent flier status, making it nearly impossible to retain. As an advantageous tactic, JetBlue decided to match thousands of passengers’ status from Delta. This brings in an influx of passengers for the 2024 quarters. JetBlue is now trading at $4.50 the lowest the stock has been for the past few years. Even during the Covid lockdown, the stock price wasn’t this low. It’s a pivotal time to purchase the stock. When thinking about stocks to hold for years, Amazon should come to your mind. Amazon is the fifth most valuable company, with a valuation of $1.322 tril-
lion. Not only is Amazon a great company currently, but they are also making innovative changes for the future. The company will only continue to further expand as time goes on. Amazon is not only the leader in e-commerce, but they have also made it their mission to take over other fields. Amazon is the company of the future, and I don’t believe that there will be a future where Amazon doesn’t continue to dominate the retail industry. Disney has been one of the most underperforming stocks of 2023, hitting an astonishing 9-year low. Disney has been around since 1923, and over the years they have expanded to many industries. Disney has realized that many of these divisions keep on losing money. Since its launch in 2019, Disney+ has lost Disney $512 million. Disney has made massive moves to cut costs this year. They saved $5.5 billion by cutting 7,000 workers. Disney has been making big moves, like their partnership with Penn Sportsbooks, which allows people to bet on games with ESPN and Penn. This brings Disney into a very profitable new industry. Disney will keep making these very successful deals, so you should buy it anywhere in the $80 range. It is undervalued right now, and that is about to change.
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Fun & Games Ask Merle Merle, Which college am I applying to? -stressedsenior Wsp Stressed, I really wish I could tell you, I don’t even know myself. College applications are stressful and don’t really make sense to me. Ask College Guidance lol. Love, Merle Merle, What’s a Roman empire? -tiktokontheclock Hey Tiktok, The Roman Empire is a fascinating topic and a historical era that lasted centuries. It existed from 27 BCE to 476 CE. It was known for its advancements in architecture, engineering and military prowess. It encompassed vast territory and left a lasting impact on art, culture, and governance. If you still don’t understand the hype, ask a boy how many times they think about the Roman Empire. My own personal empire is Prayag; you know, he’s the “It’s the way you act” guy. Search him up, you won’t regret it. Love, Merle Merle, When’s the next break? Now that Sukkot has passed, what do I have to look forward to? Winter vacation is too far away! I can’t do this anymore. -burntoutjunior Hello, Burnt,
The next break will be Thanksgiving, but I encourage you to not wait until that long to focus on your mental health. Take breathers throughout the day, focus on activities other than school. Visit your Guidance Counselor. Pay attention to the change in nature and the beautiful creations of G-d. Waiting for a break will only make that break seem longer away. G-d gives you only what you can handle; you’ve got this! Stay strong. Love, Merle Merle, What’s Flip? Why am I getting so many text messages to join? -flippingout22 Hi, Flipping, Flip is a mobile app that allows you to buy and sell items locally. It’s a convenient platform for finding good deals on secondhand items or selling things you no longer need. I don’t have the app, but I’ve heard raves about it, how people are getting tons of things for such a low price. Just like college applications, this isn’t something I truly understand. Maybe ask your friend who sent the text. Love, Merle Merle, Why does it feel like I’m always in school? -starvingsophomore224 Hey, Starving, Honestly, I think it’s the lunch rule. Not being able to go out to Dixie or Chock puts a real pause on the day. It
What was your last text? By Esther Shemia Fun & Games Editor
We asked a bunch of students (and a few members of the faculty) to take a look at their phones and show us the last text they sent. Sam Silvers
Wanna come over tonight Ronnie Chaaya
Yo was sleeping what up
Ms. Mottahedeh
Someone asked if I could apply early to macaulay Mollie Ashkenazi
Avi Lati
I have just enough for one workout left
I don’t have a way to get to you I’m not able to drive yet
Aleen Lati
Roberta Safdieh
Avi stop talking
Not really having a good day
Morris Shammah
Katie Waingort
No
Steven Morano
530?
Grace Bawabeh
Miss you love you Sara Salama
Review sheet Bella Soudry
My boyfriend just requested my finsta Susan Gindi
You’re doing G-ds work
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Mrs Marcus gave us a free and we have her twice today Ms. Mikhli
No I didn’t get in trouble Francine Esses
Join my flip
Rabbi Sklarin
Send this to your militant sister Leah Lati I need butt warmers it’s freezing in here
breaks up everything, robs us of that fresh breath of air. I don’t know how long this lunchtime ban will last but I recommend bringing lunch from home and leaving it in your locker. If that doesn’t work, there are many of the same options from the Chanis and Francisco. After all, how can you get sick of an acai bowl? Maybe we’ll bring Chock to school. I’m really missing Alex. Love, Your fellow hungry Merle Merle, Weren’t the classrooms supposed to be done after sukkot? -constructionlovingkid
Construction, Yes, but technically “after Sukkot” can be in June. “After Sukkot” can mean next year. “After Sukkot” is a broad term used to give us hope; it’s the light at the end of the tunnel, and honestly I wouldn’t survive without it. I look forward to the construction emails. Just wait patiently for the day “after Sukkot” finally happens! It’ll be one of the happiest days of our lives. I can’t wait to see how brand new and improved the classrooms will be. We’ve been waiting a while for this, so it better be worth it. Love, Merle
Flatbush Cartoon
By Jacob Nussbaum Phoenix Cartoonist
Standard of Fabulous The perfect nail colors to warm up your autumn By Sophia Madeb Fashion Editor
As the autumn breeze kicks in, nail colors must seamlessly change to darker hues that embody the seasonal transition in the fashion world. When the season morphs from summer to fall, the leaves are not the only color that turns brown. Nail artist Tina from Sheer Bliss, a nail salon on Avenue U, notes that the season’s most used shades are “lots of browns.” Alongside brown colors, the French and chrome styles are also incorporated into this popular shade. Instead of the usual white tip lining, it is a pink or nude base with a brown tip lining, and instead of the original white base with chrome dust,
it is brown with chrome topping. Nudes and light grays are also popular during the beginning of fall. However, darker colors become more popular as the temperature continues to drop, including navy, various deep reds, burgundy, and dark green (otherwise known as hunter). Some, however, opt for more complex styles, the most prevalent trends being French nails with a pink or nude base and either a red or black tip lining. Similar to our fall transitions from iced cold drinks to pumpkin spice lattes, the popular nail colors also shift to darker and darker hues. However, there are universal colors that always seem to be in regardless of the season. One of those timeless staples is the color pink. “Oh, pink, everyone
always does,” Tina said. Other constant nail colors include all red tones, white
french, and chrome topped nails.
The best accessory: How to wear makeup Starbucks fall drinks on Shabbat By Nina Tawil Junior Editor
By Sarah Madeb Contributing Writer
As autumn kicks into full swing, the pumpkin spice craze does, too. The pumpkin spice latte is a seasonal drink exclusive to the fall. People don’t walk, they run to their nearest Starbucks for that sweet, delicious latte and other fall drinks. Starbucks is the most popular hotspot for, as described by employee Rachel, “pumpkin spice and everything nice.” She stated, “we sell around 300 pumpkin spice lattes a day, and that doesn’t include the other seasonal drinks we sell.” Starbucks launches their fall menu on August 27, available only until November 2,
when their Christmas menu begins. Fall is the time when people start fruit picking, the leaves change, and the weather is at a perfect medium, where it is not too hot or too cold. Starbucks’s menu follows this aesthetic, including the iced apple crisp shaken espresso, iced pumpkin chai latte, and, of course, the original pumpkin spice latte. The corporation also includes fall-friendly baked goods, though they are generally not kosher at most locations. Another large company serving seasonal pumpkin spice lattes and other fall specials is Dunkin Donuts. This season’s most popular item is their collaborative drink with Ice Spice, called the Ice Spice Munchkins
The restrictions regarding makeup on Shabbat come from the principles outlined in the Torah, particularly the Toledot Mishkan (the building of the Tabernacle). In this context, we’re taught that activities which took place in the building of the Mishkan are to be refrained from on Shabbat, as they are considered creative work. While Shabbat makeup choices may seem limited due to these guidelines, there are still makeup options that align with Halakhah. Mineral-based makeup, like Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez, can be a more suitable choice for Shabbat. These products often contain natural minerals and pigments, minimizing concerns about spreading and mixing colors. Another cosmetic brand called 7 Day Shine has introduced makeup specifically designed for Shabbat use, adhering to Halakhic
drink, which includes pumpkin spice munchkins. Other companies also produce limited edition goods; for example, Chobani sells a limited edition pumpkin spice creamer. However, Starbucks has an incomparable popularity for their fall season
standards. These products are formulated to meet the requirements of Shabbat makeup. Lastly, Junk Free Beauty sells some products that can be used on Shabbat; they are often formulated without complex chemical structures holding them together, and are also a good option. They tend to be oil-based, making them more compatible with Shabbat observance. There are also makeup alternatives you can use to adhere to the Halakhah. For example, putting olive oil on your lips instead of using lipgloss, and the use of liquid eyeshadow instead of powder. While the Halakhic guidelines for Shabbat observance limit some makeup choices, there are still various options available for those who wish to enhance their beauty without violating these principles. Remember that the goal is to celebrate and honor the sacred day of rest while feeling beautiful and comfortable in your own skin.
menu, and their revenue increases by $1 billion worldwide just for this season. Many students at Yeshivah of Flatbush agree. “I love getting pumpkin spice lattes from Starbucks. It puts me in a ‘fally’ mood,” said sophomore Lili Hanan.
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Sports NFL ticket sales rise due Four trades for your to ‘Taylor Swift effect’ fantasy football team By Eddie Saada
By Caroline Palacci Contributing Writer
NFL ticket sales have risen 175% since singer Taylor Swift first attended a Kansas City Chiefs game in September, according to popular resale site Stubhub. On September 24, Swift was spotted sitting in Chiefs star Travis Kelce’s personal box at Kansas City’s Arrowhead Stadium. Dating allegations were soon confirmed as the pair was seen exiting the stadium hand in hand. Swift’s fans, many of whom did not previously follow football, soon flocked to stadiums for a chance of seeing the star and caused ticket sales to skyrocket. Average ticket prices for the Chiefs-Jets game reportedly jumped from $168 on Sunday (before Swift’s appearance) to a staggering $245 on Wednesday. The sudden jump in ticket sales did not go unnoticed by the league. In fact, the official NFL instagram advertised Swift’s attendance at Chiefs games to attract fans. During her second game visit,
the camera panned to Swift 17 times in what many observers saw as an effort to entice her fans to watch the game as they hoped to catch a glimpse. With Swift in attendance, the Chiefs-Jets game averaged 27 million viewers, making it the second most viewed game of the regular season. Viewership of the game among usually indifferent teenagers rose 53% because of the singer’s presence. The excitement for football Taylor Swift has created among her fans is clearly a direct catalyst as she continues to be an icon for teen girls across America and the world. The NFL is not alone in getting a sudden bump in popularity. Because of his girlfriend, Kelce has gained millions of fans and followers and is currently the third most searched person in the world, coming in right below Swift. A recent Saturday Night Live sketch included Swift and Kelce as celebrity guests. The skit poked fun at Kelce’s sudden popularity and joked about the fame that dating Swift has brought him.
most reliable running backs in fantasy football, which makes him a great player Contributing Writer to add to your team. In the world of fantasy football, makNico Collins, WR, Houston Texans ing strategic player trades can be the key For the first few weeks, Collins was to success. off to a great start, along with his quarHere are four players who you should terback CJ Stroud. Right now, Collins consider owning if you don’t already. has lost the attention because he cooled Jonathan Taylor, RB, Indianapolis down a little, which is why you can get Colts him for very cheap. Also, Collins has an Taylor has esextremely easy schedtablished himself as ule coming up, with one of the premier games against the Benrunning backs in gals, Buccaneers, and the NFL, and his Cardinals. These teams fantasy value is ingive up a tremendous creasing. A deal for amount of points to Taylor would be a wide receivers, and game changer. He Collins’ production has a rare combinacould dramatically intion of power and crease. speed, making him Chris Olave, WR, a consistent threat New Orleans Saints Taylor should get more touches both on the ground Olave is probably and through the air. the best “buy low” canIn addition, Zack Moss, Taylor’s back- didate on this list. Though Olave hasn’t up, has seen fewer touches lately, which been outstanding, he has been solid, putmeans more opportunities for Taylor. ting up 15 or more points in 4 of the first He started the season late, which could 7 games this season. This is happening make him a low buy target. even with his quarterback just getting Isiah Pacheco, RB, Kansas City used to the system. Dereck Carr was a Chiefs great quarterback for the Raiders the A versatile running back, Pacheco past few years and even made the Pro has been steadily increasing his impact Bowl, so there’s reason to believe that in recent sessions. He is known for his Olave will start getting better opportuability to contribute to both the running nities. Also, Olave has topped 10 targets and passing game, which would add a in 5 of the first 7 games this season, and lot of value and points to a fantasy team. currently has the eight most targets this Pacheco plays for one of the league’s season by any player. This shows that best offenses, leading him to score many Olave’s ceiling is super high, which is touchdowns. Throughout the start of why he is a top player to trade for right the season, Pecheco has been one of the now.
Sportsman Spotlight:
Salama choreographs her team’s success By Aleen Jaradeh Editor-in-Chief
Sara Salama, co-captain of the Flatbush dance team, has always had a strong passion for dancing. As captain, Salama’s creativity, dedication, and encouraging attitude fosters the strong bond between her teammates, allowing the team to flow harmonically with the rhythm. Salama has been dancing for as long as she can remember. As a child, she attended dance classes, and her love for dance only grew from there. She has been on the dance team since her freshman year, providing her with the utmost knowledge of how the team works, and thus allowing her to excel in her role as captain. Many responsibilities accompany
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the role of leader of the dance team. For starters, Salama spends almost five hours a week just choreographing the dances. She then spends another two hours every week at dance practice, where she and her co-captain teach the dances to the rest of the team. According to Salama, “There’s a lot that goes into being captain; it’s not just teaching the dances.” Along with having to create and teach the dances, Salama also has to create a theme by which they center their dances, organize classrooms for practice, format layouts for the positioning of the team, and more. As dance captain, Salama also wishes for the dance team to become more recognized in Flatbush. She feels that due to there being one competition instead of weekly games, the team is often over-
Salama has been dancing since she was a toddler
shadowed by basketball, a much more popular team at Flatbush. More important, Salama has high hopes for winning this year’s dance competition. Addition-
ally, she hopes that “the team gets close and becomes a good team who can depend on each other.”