The Phoenix September 2023

Renovations behind schedule, causing inconvenience and uncertainty

By Barbara Salama  Junior Editor

Students and teachers alike entered the building this year with high hopes for the new, promised updates to the school and the area around it. Instead, they were met with the same classrooms still closed off, an unusable main gymnasium, varying room temperatures, and the long awaited Starbucks nowhere in sight. While some improvements were completed on time or close to it, such as the new main office, classroom renovations are approximately a month behind schedule, the administration confirmed. Teachers who were relocated out of their classrooms last semester show few signs of returning, and instead most of the faculty continues go-

ing back and forth to classrooms in Touro College, Yeshivah Prep, and outdoor tents.

Every empty space in school has been repurposed to accommodate these challenges. “There’s no space to be in the whole school now. The library is now an office and there’s no hangout spots oth-

er than Crawford’s and the Commons,” stated an anonymous senior.

One of the most significant issues caused by the delayed construction is the backed up stairwell. With two staircases out of three in the old building having limited access, lines have been forming just to get onto the stairs. Students are forced to either brave the crowded stairs or find another route, which occasionally results in getting stuck and having to backtrack. Being late to classes is now a relatively common occurrence for students and faculty.

“It’s difficult to get the class started in a timely fashion, and that’s something I really miss,” Mr. Rothbort lamented. “I get less teaching time because kids are

continued on page 3

Students curious, confused about revamped testing system

By Bella Shamayeva School News Editor

The administration sent an email to all students with the color coded dates for tests throughout the year but, despite the first test dates scheduled for almost immediately after Sukkot, many Flatbush students are unaware regarding updates made to this year’s new testing system.

As the new school year has been well underway, students can’t help but wonder what their exams will look like. When asked what they know about the test schedule this year, a lively group of freshmen answered with confused looks, asking, “What do you mean?”

Upperclassmen, on the other hand, remember the past two methods of testing and are curious to see what this year’s testing plan will look like.

First, they needed to vent about last year’s attempted “testing weeks.”

“It was overwhelming at first when we had two tests a day,” remarked senior Natalie Sasson, “but toward the end of the year we kind of got used to it.” For other students, it was the ending that wasn’t what they hoped it would be. “Although I liked it at the beginning of the year, as we got closer to the end of the year ... it was

Opinions: Page 2

D’var Torah: Page 4

Ask Merle: Page 6

Is the new cell phone policy working?

just not it,” said junior Nathan Hasson.

However, testing weeks had changes that benefited many students who weren’t as successful at representing their knowledge through a traditional written exam. “I liked having project-based assignments more because I got to show my creative side,” Sasson noted. “It was a new way to show my learning without just ‘spit back’ material through a test.”

On the teacher’s side of things, some teachers embraced alternative assessments, others struggled to adapt, and many teachers didn’t fully approve of the testing weeks. An anonymous teacher stated that the testing weeks took away many class periods, interrupted learning, and slowed down productivity.

According to Ms. Hidary, these were some of the administration’s biggest concerns, which they took into account when crafting this year’s plan.

“Before the changes, most students would have about 3 to 4 tests a week, every week,” Ms. Hidary said while explaining the design of last year’s system, “so we tried to concentrate exams to one week so that students weren’t taking tests basically every single day.”

As the previous “test week” schedule was a disruption to class progression

Entertainment: High School

Musical in Hebrew Page 5

and there were very few tests a semester, some students needed additional tests to help balance out their grades. Thus, the administration formulated a new schedule that gives each student a total of 24 tests per semester across all subjects, so that the tests given are more limited and controlled. “Some dates are sprinkled throughout the weeks and others have more tests in a row” Ms. Hidary continued.

Another significant reason for shifting to this year’s hybrid test schedule, Ms. Hidary noted, was to accommodate the growing number of students who get extra time for exams. “Over 150 students have extended time during every examination, which leads to students missing their classes” in the old test calendar system from two years ago, Ms. Hidary said. To address this issue, all tests will be followed by a free period, allowing students with extra time to finish their exams without missing their next class.

Tests given in January and June will remain as before, as they stick to the finals schedule of back to back tests. Whether a test is cumulative or not is up to each teacher's discretion as usual. The rules for quizzes remain unchanged.

Fashion: Are celebrity brands worth buying? Page 7

By Victor Braca Photography Editor

Upon starting class on the first day of school, students were introduced to a cell phone policy that requires them to place their phones in the phone pouches near the door of each classroom at the beginning of each period. With 36 numbered pockets, these pouches have many students wondering why the administration continues to change the school cell phone policy, especially considering that last year’s policy change didn’t seem to make much of a difference in student cell phone usage in school. This year, the administration contends, will be different.

While the students view this as a new policy, the administration sees it differently. “‘No phones’ is not a new policy,” Rabbi Beyda argues. “The policy started last year, and our objective was to make it a consistent procedure throughout all classrooms. So by placing pouches on the walls of every classroom, everybody knows that that’s where their phone goes.”

In the first two weeks of school, teachers have made it clear that they are taking the policy seriously. Sophomore Rami Harari commented, “Pretty much all of my teachers have been enforcing the phone pouches. As far as the policy itself, I don’t think it’s necessary. In the past, students have just kept their phones on them or in their pockets and it never created a big disruption.”

However, some freshmen coming

continued on page 3

Sports: Pickleball comes to Flatbush Page 8

The gym was not ready until mid-September

AGREE TO DISAGREE

No Lock? No Problem

By Sarah Levy Senior Editor

Imagine: you’re walking into school with a load of books in your hand, making your way to your locker. Wouldn’t it be easy to just flip open the door of your locker, drop your books in, and leave?

Wouldn’t that be the most convenient way, because who wants to waste their time twisting a dial or entering a code? It makes no sense when you can already be on the way to your next class in a matter of seconds by throwing your books in and going.

Opening a lock is time-consuming, especially considering that we only get four minutes in between classes, therefore causing our perpetual rush. Moreover, do you even have an extra hand to open the lock with all the books you’re carrying? I’m assuming no, which is why you would have to put down those

Lock your locker!

books—even more time wasted! Time is valuable in Flatbush, and wasting it on opening and closing your locker door may even land you a seat in detention. And who knows, maybe without buying an overpriced lock, you would finally be able to afford a Crawford’s coffee.

One of the main concerns about locker safety is people stealing your stuff, but the only thing that a student would want to get their hands on is a Chromebook. An easy solution to this would be to carry it from class to class, since a lot of teachers require it anyway. At the end of the day you can drop it back off when the rest of the school makes their way home. Especially after a long school day, dealing with a stubborn locker code would be the last thing you’d want. While you struggle to open up your lock, I’ll be by my next class. I’ll see you there … if you make it.

Faculty Freshman: Mr. Cooper Smallidge

By Aleen Jaradeh Editor-in-Chief

Imagine: you’re walking to your locker to grab the book your class is reading for English, as you have an open-book quiz next period. You open your locker, reaching your hand out to where you’re expecting your book to be, yet instead, you’re met with an empty space. Like many Flatbush students before you, your book was stolen. Looks like you either have to scramble to find someone else’s book with notes to use, or fail your quiz. All that added stress of hunting down a book that you’re eventually going to have to pay to replace if you can’t find it could’ve all been avoided by one thing: locking your locker.

Some students say they don’t want to waste time having to open and then relock their locker. The most you’d be wasting is 10 seconds, not a lifetime. Those 10 seconds could save you time having to hunt for someone else’s stuff to use. Also,

most people only go to their locker a few times a day, not between every class, so it’s very unlikely that having to lock your locker would cause you to be late to any classes.

Not only are your books put at risk by not locking your locker, but so is your Chromebook. Most students only use their Chromebooks when required, like a quiz, and don’t want to lug their bulky Chromebook around with them all day. By keeping it in a locked locker, you don’t have to carry it all day and you don’t have to worry about Chromebook thieves taking it and never returning it. At this point, the IT Department is so tired of you coming to their office at least once a week asking them to track your Chromebook because it was stolen yet again. You’d be doing them a favor as well by locking your locker.

By locking your locker you’re ensured that all your stuff stays where you put it. Good luck on that quiz … if you can find your book!

By Leah Katash Junior Editor

While Mr. Cooper Smallidge always has had a love for history and the civil government, teaching ninth grade World History is not always what he imagined himself doing. Mr. Smallidge originally planned on being an engineer; however, after starting his education at the University of Maine, he quickly decided that

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

engineering wasn’t for him and switched his major to education and social studies instead.

Mr. Smallidge is originally from Maine, and lived in a town made up of around 1,500 people. Growing up on the coast of Maine, he was surrounded by a fishing village. While he did enjoy fishing, he spent a large portion of his time working construction with his dad, who was a carpenter. He explained that he en-

joyed school growing up mostly because he was able to see his friends, although he did find learning exciting as well.

As an adult he moved to Arizona, where he taught at Alchesay High School up until last year. He moved to New York only about a month ago. He and his wife now live in Manhattan near Bryant Park, where they enjoy an entirely different lifestyle than they had back in Arizona. While he does love New York, this city is the opposite of the outdoorsy environment and culture he is used to. Many students even mistook him to be a cowboy after seeing him pictured wearing a cowboy hat. However, he cleared up the confusion by explaining that the hat is just formal wear in Arizona, which is quite different from the necktie typically worn in New York City.

Mr. Smallidge says that Flatbush is “very different” from any of the other schools where he has worked. He is used to shorter school days and is impressed with how students can keep up with the rigorous academics that Flatbush offers.

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

Additionally, he has noticed that Flatbush students are very attentive. Overall, he is incredibly impressed by Flatbush’s professionalism and performance.

Mr. Smallidge describes his teaching style as a “student-led approach,” where he plans to provide his students with the necessary tools and skills to eventually be able to teach themselves. He shares that his favorite part of teaching is getting to know the students and becoming familiar with them. However, like most teachers, he dislikes the stressful part of teaching, which he defines as the testing and grading. Mr. Smallidge said he puts his students first and explained that his ultimate goal is for all his students to pass his class. He said he is excited to learn more about Flatbush and its values.

Outside of school, Mr. Smallidge enjoys playing video games, traveling, and adventuring in the outdoors, which sometimes includes hiking or kayaking. He also played baseball for about 12 years and is a proud Red Sox fan.

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

YOF launches business and law program

By Nitza Hanan Features Editor

This year, Yeshivah of Flatbush introduced a new business and law program, offering classes focused on leading students to “personal fulfillment.” New classes like Corporate Entrepreneurship and Elements of Law are being offered mainly to juniors and seniors, along with existing electives such as Virtual Enterprise International (VEI). These courses, “will provide learning opportunities for each and every student to identify and develop their natural aptitude, affinity, and passions,” according to the program course catalog.

Flatbush has had business- and law-related electives for years, but the new program includes more options, all under the leadership of Dr. Abie Tawil, who joined the faculty last year.

One class that highly values student interaction and growth is VEI, as it is run mostly by students. Bobby Falack, the class HR and marketing department manager, says that he hopes “students

Revamped Inquiry program now includes all seniors

will leave the class with a better understanding of accounting, finance, business management, and personal responsibilities.” Business Law plays a role in this new course as well, and an anonymous senior explained how: “I love how exciting and useful the information we learn is.”

Students will also be better prepared for jobs and internships as a result of this new program, the program’s literature claims. These courses aim to replicate a college-style classroom, emphasizing critical thinking and job readiness. While these classes require a commitment from students who enroll in them, they offer a special academic experience that isn’t provided otherwise. Students taking these unique courses have the chance to further their communication, character, critical thinking, and leadership skills.

After only a few weeks of this new program, Dr. Tawil exclaimed, “I’m happy with the way it is going,” and is excited to see how it will expand and enrich student life.

Renovation behind schedule, causing inconvenience and uncertainty

continued from page 1

coming late and I fear they’ll miss it. And when exams come around, it’s going to be a challenge.”

To make it to classes on time, students are finding themselves leaving classes the second the bell rings. “I pack up while the teacher is finishing up the lesson, and then I walk out of class before all the people get out of their classes,” said sophomore Esther Levy. But even this solution has drawbacks. “I can’t talk to the teachers after class because I have to run out and go to my next period,” junior Michael Salzman said. “Because it’s so far away, I don’t have the time.”

Students have been attempting to find newer, quicker paths around the building; however, this is an especially difficult endeavor for freshmen, who have been getting lost trying to navigate the building while construction closes off pathways. “I was trying to find the music room and ended up somewhere completely different,” said freshman Shlomo Lahav. “Any rooms that don’t have a number, or that are a series of random numbers and letters, are harder to figure out what they are.”

A group of freshmen on their way to SAFE found themselves on the basement balcony, unable to use it to get through due to that pathway having been closed off.

Almost no matter the destination, most people in the building are finding that getting from point A to point B is more of a struggle than it used to be. Additionally, there is worry that these delays could cascade, causing the next stages of

construction to be delayed as well.

Despite all the challenges, there’s still hope and excitement surrounding the renovations. According to Rabbi Galpert, a new graphic design room is being built on the third floor across from the art room, and the main gym is now fully complete and ready to host PE classes once again.

“Hopefully, shortly after Sukkot we’re going to have the east side classrooms,” Rabbi Galpert stated.

Once those classrooms are complete, classes currently held in rooms on the west end of the building (East 16th St.) will move to the east end (East 17th St.), where students will be able to enjoy the new classrooms. Staircase A, at the east end, will also be usable again, which should help reduce crowding in staircase B.

So what’s next? As soon as the east side rooms are ready to use, the west side will be closed off and demolished, including the outer walls on that side.

“We are working with our contractors to reduce the amount of disruption that we have,” Rabbi Galpert said. Learning from the first phase of the construction, most of the work will be done at times when most students and teachers are no longer in the building to mitigate the dust and the noise that affects class time. The administration hopes for a quicker and more seamless continuation of the renovations. “[The contractors have] learned from a lot of the things that they’ve done that could help them work more efficiently for the other areas of the building,” believes Rabbi Galpert.

By Leah Lati School News Editor

Inquiry Beit Midrash, an exclusive elective program for select seniors that takes the place of the traditional Talmud and Tanakh classes, has been expanded this year to include the entire senior grade.

Unlike the conventional way of teaching Talmud, with students being supplied with teachings, Inquiry allows students to take some initiative in their learning, with students learning hands on with their teacher for approximately one period and then learning independently with their chavruta for the second period.

This method of learning was first introduced at Flatbush only five years ago to promote independence and ownership in learning, explained Mr. Engel, one of the coordinators of the Inquiry program. It started on a smaller scale, with only a carefully selected group of students taking part, as a means to determine the efficiency of the system. After some trial and error and some tweaks meant to perfect the program, all seniors are now enrolled in an Inquiry class.

“When we first started this program we didn’t know how it would go, if the program would succeed or not. But after going through multiple generations

of it we were confident on our end that we could do it” for the entire grade, Mr. Engel said.

At the very beginning, teachers were uncertain if all students had the skills to take ownership of their education, “but now we know they can handle it,” Mr. Engel stated.

Because the entire senior grade is now taking Inquiry, additional subjects of focus are available based on the strong interests of both the students and teachers. For instance, Rabbi Safdieh is very passionate about practical halakhah and is now able to pass it on to his students.

Students have many opposing opinions regarding this new experience. Inquiry is usually taught in the Ben-Haim Beit Midrash, but some seniors are sent to regular classrooms due to the size of the senior grade. “I have Inquiry in a classroom so it just feels like a regular Tanakh class. It’s not the engaging type of class you would expect when you think of Inquiry,” senior Grace Madeb complained. On the other hand, an anonymous senior expressed, “I love the Beit Midrash but sometimes it gets so loud I can’t even think. I end up listening to the other class more than my own. It’s a little distracting having an abnormal amount of people all learning in the Beit Midrash at once.”

Is the new phone policy working?

continued from page 1

from Flatbush Elementary School, whose policy is even stricter, are grateful for the high school’s policy. Freshman Sammy Zeitoune stated, “In eighth grade, our phones were locked up all day, and we only got them after school ended. So I think it’s safe to say that the high school has a better policy in general.”

An anonymous senior pointed out a potential flaw in the new policy, saying, “What people don’t realize is that there’s a very simple loophole in the new phone policy. Since school started, I’ve been bringing an old phone to school and putting it in the pouch. I haven’t gotten a problem from anybody. As long as there’s something in the pouch, you’re good.”

Students seem to agree that most teachers are enforcing the policy. However, in a poll of 80 seniors, 31% indicated that one or more of their teachers does not force students to put their phones in the pouches. This raises concerns about how far the administration is willing to go. When asked if they would consider taking all students’ phones for the entire day, Rabbi Galpert said it is “too early to tell … but, if necessary, then yes.” Rabbi Beyda confirmed this: “We have no plan

to go further unless we see this doesn’t get consistently applied. If this doesn’t work, then we would consider no phones in school altogether and create some kind of room where everyone has to put their phone every day.” The administration seems to be warning the students and faculty alike: follow the rules.

As many students know, chemistry teacher Ms. Goldberg has been a strict proponent of the phone pouch for the past ten years. “I’m thrilled that other teachers now have to [enforce phone pouches],” she stated. “It makes my job a lot easier now that I’m not the only one doing it.”

While opinions on the not-so-new cell phone policy are mixed, one thing is for sure: the administration is taking this very seriously. As the school year unfolds, the phone pouches hanging in each classroom serve as a tangible reminder of the administration’s commitment to minimizing distractions. But as students and faculty navigate this policy, the question remains: Will the pouches become a permanent fixture, or will they be ruled out by the force of the student body?

Seniors have Inquiry during periods 2 and 3

Room 201 is one of many still unifinished

Israel and Saudi Arabia close to normalization

By Aliya Abergil World News Editor

For months, Israel and Saudi Arabia—with help from the United States— have been discussing normalizing relations. A deal has not been finalized yet, but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently spoke at the UN National Assembly saying that Israel “is at the cusp” of a peace deal with Saudi Arabia.

Peace between the two countries would provide a more stable Middle East, as Saudi Arabia is the richest and most influential country in the Arab world. It would allow the two countries to work together on economic and technological issues. Additionally, this treaty will make Saudi Arabia accept Israel as a state, which will benefit Israel and its citizens in a variety of ways. As a condition, Saudi Arabia wants full US support if they are attacked or during a war and for the US to increase the accessibility of weapon sales to them. Additionally, Saudi Arabia wants Israel to create a formal Palestinian state within Israel’s borders.

Despite the many benefits of this deal, there are some disadvantages as well. Finalizing this deal is already causing tensions within Israel because many rightwing citizens do not want the formation of a Palestinian state and do not want peace with Arab countries. Palestinian leadership has voiced opposition because they are unsatisfied with the terms and do not want Arab neighbors becoming more friendly with Israel. And in the US, the deal will need 67 votes in the Senate in order to pass. Moreover, many Americans do not want US soldiers supporting Saudi Arabia due to the regime’s values and past behavior. Despite these disadvantages, President Biden and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin are pushing to finalize this deal because it will stabilize the region and further improve the nation’s relationship with Israel and other important powers in the Middle East.

If an agreement is reached, Saudi Arabia will join Egypt, UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan, all of whom have officially normalized relations with Israel in the past few years.

Israeli lab grows kosher meat

By Samantha Ryba Junior Editor

Two American meat production companies were approved by the FDA and USDA last June to launch their “cell-cultivated chicken” in select restaurants, igniting debate over whether such products should even be called meat, and leaving observant Jews to wonder whether lab-grown meat can be kosher. The Orthodox Union answered that question earlier this month when it granted kosher certification to labgrown chicken from SuperMeat, a lab-grown meat company in Israel.

The production of lab-grown meat begins from a few stem cells derived from an animal. The cells are placed in a machine called a bioreactor, which allows scientists to control the temperature and pH levels to emulate the conditions of a real animal’s body. The cells are then supplied with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to help them grow. The meat is also given hormones to promote the cultivation of cells.

Science in English:

D’var Torah: Mourning over the Yetzer Hara

By Elisha Kahan Religion Editor

In Sukkah 51b, the Chachamim discuss a significant renovation to the Beit HaMikdash immediately preceding the great festivities of Simchat Beit HaShoeivah, the celebration of the drawing of the water for the next morning’s special water-libation. In order to prevent inappropriate levity, a special balcony in the Ezrat Nashim was built for the women, separating them from the men below. The structure of the Beit HaMikdash being divinely inspired, how could such a fix be made? Rav cites a verse in Zechariah: דָבְל תוֹחָפְּׁ שִמ תוֹחָפְּׁ שִמ ץֶרָאָה הָדְפָסְו דָבְל םֶהישְנוּ דָבְל דִוָדּ תיֵבּ תַחַפְּׁ שִמ - and the land shall mourn, each family alone, the family of Beit Dovid alone and their wives alone… Now, if men and women will remain separate in the tragedy of mourning, certainly a Ezrat Nashim should be constructed in the joy of the Simchat Beit HaShoeivah!

costs $2.

From a Jewish perspective, the opinions on the consumption of this meat vary. Some agree that the meat is considered kosher, but getting a real certification would be very difficult. The labs in America that grow meat do not only use chicken and cow cells, but pig cells as well. This raises the concern of cross-contamination. But others, like Israel’s Chief Rabbi David Lau, state that if the meat is not derived from a slaughtered animal, it is kosher—and pareve!

SuperMeat’s lab-grown chicken is the first in the world to have kosher certification. SuperMeat grows its chicken from egg stem cells to avoid using cells from live animals, but the Orthodox Union says the product is not pareve.

The OU emphasized that, as innovations come about, it’s the job of the Jewish people to disprove the misconceptions about a gap between Halakhah and science.

Why would Beit Dovid be in mourning at this time? One of the explanations the Gemara proffers is that the Yerushalayim will mourn over the newly eradicated yetzer hara. The reshaim will be sad that they were unable to overcome what appears as small as hair, and the tzaddikim will cry over the battles they fought with an evil inclination as high as a mountain. Elsewhere, it is explained that since reshaim immediately submit to the yetzer hara, its pull is only able to become so great, while the yetzer hara of tzadikim is much greater. The pesukim themselves hint to the hesped over the yetzer hara: Zechariah describes the mourning as that of the mourning over a דיִחָיּ- a single one and a רוֹכְבּ - a firstborn. The evil inclination is indeed one of two inclinations and is also, in a sense, a firstborn. According to Avot D’Rabbi Natan, the yetzer hara is inculcated in a child in the womb, while the yetzer hatov only appears 13 years later!

The mourning is compared to other mournings in Jewish history: דַּפְסִמְכּ ןוֹדִּגְמ

the sun, saying: “Each man to his city, and each man to his land!” The noun הָּנִר can be an expression of joyful shouting, indicating the relief of the tzadikim over the termination of terrible evil influence. Achav had murdered Navos and had proliferated avoda zara in Yisroel. However, it is apparent Achav’s servants and admirers mourned for him greatly. Achav exerted tremendous world power at the time (see Megillah 11a), and as king of 10 tribes, many would have mourned him. In Bava Kamma 17a, it is implied that 36,000 men accompanied Achav for his funeral. Why is this mourning, conducted by only reshaim, compared to the mourning over the yetzer hara, which will be performed by both reshaim and tzadikim? Megillah 16a offers us a solution: when Haman complains to Mordechai of his embarrassing him, he cites the pasuk in Mishlei: לַא ךְבִיוֹא לֹפְנִבּ חָמְשִׂתּ - in the falling of your enemy, do not rejoice Mordechai returns with a pasuk in Devarim: ומיֵתוֹמָבּ לַע הָּתַא ךוֹרְדִת - You, on their high places you should tread. The pasuk in Mishlei was only written in concern to fellow Jews, as opposed to the description given in the defeat of enemy goyim—for we harbor hope that our Jewish persecutors will do teshuva. By the death of Achav, then, we were filled with the same bittersweet feelings which we will feel at the destruction of the yetzer hara. Even though Achav could no longer torment the neviim of Yisroel, Achav harbored some potential for teshuva during his lifetime and even the tzaddikim are nonetheless sad that Achav couldn’t have done teshuva before his last moments. Rashi explains the very expression of הָּנִר is actually that of hesped, of mourning.

This message of achdut is inherent to Sukkot, the time of our rejoicing.

Despite this tremendous achievement, numerous health concerns have arisen from the development. Because the cultivation of the cells requires a highly refined growth medium, many wonder if the product is truly safe to consume. The labs use different hormones that are known to interfere with metabolism and have been linked to some cancers. The side effects aren’t particularly common but most people would rather eat real chicken than take a risk with the potentially carcinogenic labgrown chicken.

Moreover, the process of growing these meats is very expensive. A piece of lab-grown meat costs around $17, compared to traditionally produced meat which only

Opinions on the environmental effects of lab-grown meats vary as well. The idea to cultivate meat in labs originally began because environmental activists wished to curb the carbon emissions caused by conventional meat production.

(According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, livestock makeup 14.5% of all emissions produced by humans.) However, the project is actually having opposite effects. The purification process used to create lab-grown meat emits large quantities of CO2 and the global warming potential of the lab-grown meat is between 4 and 25 times higher than that of traditional meats.

Will concerns over health effects, price, and environmental impact outweigh excitement over kosher certification? The answer might be a matter of taste.

- like the mourning of Haddad-Rimon in the valley of Migiddon. This cryptic expression is explained by Rav Yoseph in Megillah 3a as a reference to the mourning over the Yisroel King Achav, who was killed by Haddadrimon, and the separate mourning over the Beit Dovid King Yoshiyahu in Megiddon after he was killed by Pharaoh Neicho. Both of their deaths can be ascribed to the evil inclination, as Yoshiyahu failed to consult with Yirmiyahu and Achav completely ignored the prophet Micaiah’s prophecy. Yirmiyahu himself mourned over the righteous King Yoshiyahu’s death, hinting in his kinot of Yoshiyahu’s potential to be Moshiach had he lived.

News of King Achav’s plight was, in contrast, met with indifference:

On the first day of Sukkot, we read a haftarah in Zechariah describing Hashem making the non-Jewish nations go up to Yerushalayim during the holiday of Sukkot to observe the festival during the times of Moshiach. The Gemara on Avodah Zarah 3a explains that, in the future, the nations of the world will complain to Hashem about His apparent favoritism to the Jews. Eventually, Hashem will offer them the chance to fulfill one mitzvah to prove their worth: sukkah. When they will have begun to sit in their sukkot, Hashem will make the sun shine harshly, and, in desperation, they will kick and leave their sukkot. Granted, those who are in suffering are patur from the sukkah, but why did they have to kick it and degrade the mitzvah? Am Yisrael can be sharply contrasted. Now, even the wicked Achav, who did not merit Olam HaBa, protected the Sefer Torah from Ben-Haddad’s advancements. Indeed, the 22 years of Achav’s rule are said to have stemmed from his honor of the 22 letters of the Torah.

of

Hebrew High School Musical

Drama dept writes new script for Hebrew Play

Entertainment Taylor Swift movie extends Eras frenzy

By Henry Esses

Entertainment Editor

Each year, our school is fortunate to enjoy a captivating theatrical production under the direction of Arts Department chair Ms. Sally Shatzkes. This year, though, is different. Until now, each play has relied on pre-existing scripts, many of which were adapted and translated into Hebrew by Ms. Winkler. However, this year Ms. Shatzkes has written an entirely new script for the upcoming production: a Hebrew version of High School Musical

Ms. Shatzkes discussed her inspiration behind choosing this play in particular, saying, “I wanted to direct a crowd pleaser—something well known where everyone would know the songs. And though the movie is painfully cheesy, the musical theater version is really fun. Not to mention, the message is relevant and important, especially for high schoolers.”

The primary challenge in translating and staging this production was ensuring that the lyrics made sense, rhymed, and fit the rhythm. Luckily, Ms. Winkler,

the expert in translating musical theater songs, was able to be of assistance. Additionally, most of the translation was obtained from another school through a trade deal, as they were interested in Flatbush’s Hebrew version of last year’s The Wizard of Oz.

Ms. Shatzkes explained that connecting students with the characters and storyline is easy for this year’s show because the characters’ high school experiences parallel those of our students. It also serves as a reminder that our school offers diverse opportunities beyond traditional cliques.

The production will be using the set from one of Ms. Shatzkes’s summer camp productions, which is cost-effective, given the high expenses associated with designing, building, and labor.

Ms. Shatzkes employs intensive rehearsals not only to prepare for the production, but also to help teach Hebrew to students in an interactive and exciting way. By the time they perform for the student body, they feel comfortable with the language.

TikTok Shop: Hot or Not?

By Yvette Dweck Sophomore Editor

One hundred and forty-six shows. Over one billion dollars. About seventy-two thousand tickets sold per show. The Eras Tour is on its way to become the most profitable tour in history, at around $2.2 billion. And now, it’s coming to theaters. Starting on October 13, Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour will be in theaters across North America.

Swift announced the movie through her Instagram on on August 31. She posted a trailer captioned, “I’m overjoyed to tell you that [The Eras Tour will] be coming to the big screen soon.” By watching the movie Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour, fans will get to experience a recorded version of one of Swift’s concerts in SoFi Stadium, California.

Although the film is being shown in movie theaters, Swift is encouraging fans to sing and dance during the movie. Furthermore, Swift hopes fans will dress up and trade bracelets at the theaters, continuing traditions started at her live shows.

Fans are predictably excited, and even many who have attended the concerts plan to relive them by seeing the film. Flatbush sophomore Rosie Eida exclaimed, “The Eras Tour was the best experience of my life. I can’t wait to experience it all over again in film!”

The film’s advance ticket sales are al-

nient. But while it helps users stay up to date on new trends and can even make shopping more entertaining, it has many drawbacks.

By Shirley Jajati Entertainment Editor

Scroll. Like. Repeat. It’s a constant addiction. TikTok reaches teens around the world and provides them with specialized entertainment curated to their likeness. However, recently TikTok has added new features to the app, and teens

are left wondering whether they’re beneficial to them.

TikTok Shop, a new feature in the app that allows users to discover and purchase products directly from short video content, has fans going crazy for new trendy products. TikTok Shop allows users to buy products directly through the app, making shopping more conve-

Since TikTok itself is so fast-paced and already has much promotion for products, TikTok Shop encourages impulse buying. While this may be advantageous to Tiktok, it is detrimentally affecting user’s budgets.

“I have bought maybe 10 makeup products from TikTok Shop just this week, and I’m running through my allowance,” said an anonymous Flatbush sophomore.

TikTok Shop is also overwhelming and annoying to many users. It is now a

ready so high that they broke the AMC theaters’ advance sales record. The first weekend of showings is estimated to bring in about $100 million in ticket sales alone.

Swifties are excited because of the affordability of the movie. Tickets to the tour could cost more than $10,000, while a ticket to the film only costs $19.89 for an adult and $13.13 for a child. Those prices reference Swift’s first pop album, 1989, and her favorite number, 13.

Swift chose to release the film in theaters for numerous reasons. The Eras Tour was so successful that, even with all 146 shows sold out, most of her fans weren’t able to purchase tickets. Flatbush student Barbara Chehebar said, “I waited all day to get Eras Tour tickets and ended up with nothing, but tickets to the film were easy to get and affordable. I’m so happy that the tour is in theaters.”

The date of the film release raised many concerns, since it is scheduled for the same weekend as the anticipated film Exorcist: Believer. Fans initially thought that the two films would become a duo similar to the way Barbie and Oppenhiemer did on their opening weekend, July 21. Instead of the two movies coming out on the same day, however, Exorcist: Believer moved its release date up to October 6. The producer of Exorcist: Believer tweeted, “Look what you made me do. ‘The Exorcist: Believer’ moves to 10/6/23 #TaylorWins.”

challenge to distinguish between genuine content and paid promotions. This could lead to TikTok becoming an app that is only appealing in terms of shopping, and less as an entertaining pastime.

Further, some critics are worried about TikTok Shop being dangerous, because users share personal information and financial data for purchases. There have been concerns in the past about TikTok sharing users’ personal information, and the addition of TikTok Shop has only increased those concerns.

Ultimately, it is up to the user to determine what is deserving of their time, money, and attention.

Ask Merle

Dear Merle, Why are the staircases so crowded? I shouldn’t have to wait in a line before getting in!

Annoyed Senior

Dear Annoyed, I definitely understand your annoyance, considering the freshman don’t know the concept of walking. Going through the side staircases is a good option (if they aren’t under construction). Saying “excuse me” probably won’t work, but you can definitely try it. If both of those fail, seniors will host a “staircase rules” Tsei U’lemad for freshmen and teach them what they need to know. Hopefully it’ll get better.

Love, Merle

Dear Merle, How do I remember my phone pock-

Fun & Games

et number if I have a different one for every class?

flatbushsophomore126

Dear flatbushsophmore126, You should definitely make your phone its own schedule with phone pocket numbers instead of the usual class numbers. Once you have that done your phone will be comfortable in its correct place; it definitely loves its own bed. Make sure to take extra care of it considering it can’t stay in your bag.

Love, Merle

Dear Merle, I got a small bag to have fun my senior year and now I have to hold all my stuff. Should I get a new bag?

Weak-Armed Senior

Dear Weak, NOOO! You should definitely not get a new bag considering Senioritis might kick in early. However, if you’re still tak-

Teacher Fun Facts

By Esther Shemia

Fun & Games Editor

1. I dropped out of high school in my senior year (to start college early).

2. I was an exchange student in San Diego for my last year of high school.

3. I learned how to surf this summer.

4. I have a black belt in martial arts.

5. I failed my chesed hours in high school because I forgot to log them.

6. I served in the IDF.

7. I don’t know how to ride a bike.

8. I once met Justin Timberlake.

9. I grew up in Deal.

10. I went to Deal for the first time this summer.

ing all those recommended APs, I would consider buying a new bag. After all, every teacher requires you to have your own notebook, and has a strict ban on Macs. Worse comes to worst, just get a freshie to hold your things for you and follow you around.

Love, Merle

Dear Merle,

Why can’t I go to Dixie for lunch? ThisGirlLovesChickenSand-whiches35

Hi Girl, Dixie is sacred ground “for the boys,” so I can’t get you a chicken sandwich. It isn’t worth the abuse or torment. Imagine a boy walking into Chock and ordering a bagel: it’s unimaginable and pretty much the same idea. Maybe you should Uber Eats a chicken sandwich or make one at home. It won’t have the same incredible smell that fills up every classroom, but I’m sure you’ll love it all the same. Speak-

ing of lunch, I think you should talk to hungryjuniorboy; he seems to be having a similar dilemma.

Love, Merle

Dear Merle,

Why can't I go to Chock? All I crave are those red drinks the girls are holding in the Commons!  hungryjuniorboy

Wsp Hungry,

I totally understand the craving; those red drinks are delicious and refreshing in this sauna. But the same way a girl can’t walk into Dixie, it’s shameful for a boy to walk into Chock. However, if you really want Chock, maybe ask one of the senior boys who don’t care to walk into a girl’s den. You can also ask ThisGirlLovesChickenSandwhiches35 to make a trade. You could get her Dixie and she could get you Chock.

Love, Merle

Flatbush Cartoon

By Jacob Nussbaum Phoenix Cartoonist

Mr. Berkowitz

Ms. Marcus

Rabbi Blumenthal

Ms. Bloom

Ms. Freedman

Ms. Spiegel

Mr. Saadia

Ms. Cohen

Mr. Rothbort

Dr. Chattah

Standard of Fabulous

Fashion Week: Who Does It Better?

By Sophia Madeb Fashion Editor

A new season of styles has hit the runway this September at New York’s and Milan’s Fashion Week.

New York and Milan Fashion Week occur two weeks apart from each other, with New York Fashion Week happening first. Both offer significant opportunities to show off new looks from bigger brands, as well as from new and upcoming houses. “The runway show is the moment of maximum exposure,” events director Italian Labe said. The two Fashion Weeks have a similar procedure: celebrities, influencers, and fashion

reporters get exclusively invited to watch models walk down the runway showcasing up-and-coming fashions. Although the two events have similar rundowns, there are major differences. New York’s Fashion Week has been said to be less exclusive than that of Milan. Over the years, people have crashed the show and thrown after-parties at the pier filled with celebrities. “ has a very faithful public scene; it is the coolest place in the world with its thou sand parties,” said the Fashion Network. Although the parties make for a fun time, they shift focus away from the fash ion that Fashion Week aims to display. Therefore, Milan re frains from af ter-parties to keep the attention on the fashion. Milan is seen as “the classic image of Italian women.”

New York, on the other hand, is seen as the “less

How to shop for the holidays

By Nina Tawil Junior Editor

As Sukkot approaches, many of us are faced with the question of what to wear this season. Fortunately, The Phoe nix has you covered!

This season’s trending colors to look for while shopping are shades of red, blue, caramel, and gray. These colors are set to dominate the fall season. Also, remember to dress appropriately, as the weather is expected to range from 55 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, which is warmer than most Sukkot seasons. A long trench coat can be the perfect lightweight jacket for the season.

A new style that has gained popularity is matching blazer and skirt sets. They come in pleated and striped patterns, making it easy to find a set that suits

everyone’s style. Knit dresses continue to be a fashion favorite, and stores like Zara, Aritzia, and Target have many holiday finds that are perfect for shul. Other clothing pieces to consider are long, flowy skirts. Silk and pleated skirts are especially in style at the moment. They are versatile and perfect for the chilly season. Pair them with a chunky sweater for a cute, effortless look.

Another trend to embrace is matching knit sweater sets. These coordinated sweaters and skirts allow for a quick, put-together outfit while keeping you warm. Retailers like Revolve, ASOS, and Mango offer numerous options.

To complete your outfit, consider bold footwear. Loafers and chunky boots are stylish choices that will keep you comfortable throughout the season.

boring” Fashion Week, as it is “highly geared toward industrial fashion rather than creative,” said The New York Times

As NYFW is comparatively newer, it is still learning the ropes of the dos and don’ts. Critics say New York Fashion Week was seen as a disappointment due to a lack of professionalism, which

whirlwind of negativity.” Littleton walked down the runway with a blue shirt in clear, bold letters saying “Jewish Lives Matter,” setting the stage for controversies. Unlike New York’s Fashion Week, Milan’s Fashion Week was regarded with a “spirit of Italian fashion, as established brands push their boundaries,” stated

Overall, the final question is: Who does Fashion Week best? In popular opinion, the answer is actually Paris, which holds its Fashion Week in mid- to Paris offers the most wealthy and most interesting program,” The

Are celebrity makeup brands worth buying?

By Sylvia Saad Fashion Editor

An increasing presence of celebrities and influencers in the cosmetics industry has raised a question in many people’s minds: How much involvement do these prominent figures actually have in their products?

The answer to this question varies on the company. Although exactly what every company does is largely confidential, there are a few popular arrangements to consider. In some scenarios, a celebrity will present their idea to an incubator and ask them to make a product. Alternatively, celebrities will be approached by an incubator with the creation of a brand in relation to them. The incubator will cover everything from formulation to marketing, leaving the celebrity room only for creative input and promotion. Maesa has been a leading incubator in the field since the early 2000s and is responsible for brands like Flower Beauty by Drew Barrymore and Glow by JLo. They also played a role in Kim Kardashian’s original KKW fragrances, Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s Anomaly, and many other celebrity brands.

Some brands, however, are created from scratch and will recruit teams to come together to develop their ideas. Selena Gomez’s brand, Rare Beauty, is one example, having executives from Nyx and Hourglass brought into her team. Her brand was then built from the ground up and is now one of the most

successful makeup companies on the market.

Additionally, many brands are invested in by corporations such as LVMH and Cronos Group far beforehand. Fenty by Rihanna, the brand that arguably started the trend of celebrity involvement in the makeup industry, was backed by LVMH in 2017. Hailey Bieber’s Rhode Beauty received investment from One Luxury Group and grew from there.

Although most celebrities are not as involved as many consumers expect in the actual creation of their products, sometimes the reason behind the development is pure. Fenty Beauty originated to cater to diverse skin colors that were not being well represented in stores. Rihanna knew what it was like for makeup artists to not carry her shade of foundation or just have her makeup feeling lackluster due to the lack of color matches available for people of color. Similarly, Gomez started Rare Beauty to promote inclusivity and authenticity within the beauty community. Its other main goal is to spread mental health awareness, as 1% of profits are donated to that cause.

While the majority of celebrity makeup brands are merely a cash grab, doing your research on what actually goes into the business will ensure you are putting your money in the right place. Before automatically purchasing a product with the name of a beloved public figure, inquire. It might save you from buying from someone entirely different than the face seen on the box.

Sports

PE curriculum joins pickleball craze

By Emily Tarrab

Sophomore Editor

The skyrocketing popularity of pickleball over the past few years has brought it directly to the Flatbush gym. Physical Education coach Robyn Dweck confirmed that all Flatbush girls will be playing pickleball in P.E. this year. This is not the first time, as the curriculum is on a three-year rotation. But this year it happens to coincide with the sport's booming popularity. “It’s amazing that pickleball is the new ‘it’ sport,” Coach Dweck said.

While new to Flatbush, pickleball started back in 1965 with a congressman and a businessman, Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell. One summer day, as the two returned from a golfing club back to Pritchard’s home in Washington, they found their families sitting around bored and with no entertainment. Pritchard first suggested they play badminton on their old court, but he failed to retrieve enough rackets fit for the entire family. So instead, he got some ping-pong paddles and a perforated plastic ball, similar to a Wiffle Ball. After they played this game for a while, they discovered that the ball bounced best on an asphalt surface and that the badminton net of 61 inches should be lowered to 36 inches.

Soon after, Pritchard, Bell, and another friend, Barney McCallum, created the rulebook for this familyoriented game. Pritchard’s wife, Joan,

Basketball program gets new staff and initiatives

By Margaux Lincer Contributing Writer

For the 2023-24 sports season, Flatbush is attempting to step up its basketball program by hiring new staff and implementing new initiatives.

ris Dweck, and Girls Basketball Head Coach Mary Beth Chambers.

then coined its famous name, “pickleball,” since the random equipment used reminded her of the rowing term “pickle boat,” referring to a boat randomly made up of leftover rowers from other teams.

The sport gradually continued to grow until 2020, when pickleball gained immense popularity. Pickleball fit the safety requirements during Covid-19’s peak because it is typically played outside and does not require close contact between players. The Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA) has labeled pickleball as the fastest growing sport in American history. The SFIA has also stated that, over these past three years, the number of people playing pickleball has increased by 159%, with 8.9 million players in 2022. This upward trend in pickleball players, as opposed to tennis or ping-pong players, is mainly due to the fact that the rules are simpler and the ball travels slower, facilitating the game. Many people can also purchase the equipment online and play in their driveways because it requires only a small court, thus producing a more accessible sport.

This sport also has its fair share of haters for several reasons. Pickleball is played on a shorter court, resulting in longer rallies between teams, creating irritating popping noises when the ball and paddle come in contact. These pops are also high pitched and frequent, which is why people living directly near these courts are taking issue with the sport.

Sportsman Spotlight:

For Kassab, basketball means family

By Rae Levy

Contributing

Writer

Merle Kassab is dedicated to the game of basketball both on and off the court. Kassab brings her positive attitude, love for basketball, and commitment to fostering a strong and caring environment, to her role as team captain.

Kassab has been playing basketball her whole life. As her mother is a basketball player (and currently the 7th grade girls' coach), Kassab says that she “grew up with the game.” She got her start playing on the Magen David Elementary school team and has been playing for

all four years of high school. She became captain of the Girl’s Varsity Basketball Team in her junior year and will continue in her role through the end of her senior year. Kassab remarked that she has to be playing constantly and can’t not be on the court. Therefore, during the off-season, she plays on the Flatbush softball team to stay busy. It’s safe to say that sports are her life.

Being captain of the basketball team affects all aspects of Kassab’s life. She has practice every night for around two hours and still manages to get all her schoolwork done. She credits the busy practice schedule for giving her great organiza-

The new programs aim to not only teach the team to play the game but also to make each player a better athlete and enhance growth over their years on the team. Immediate changes include the introduction of spring and summer programs, providing skills development sessions led by coaches, and offering shooting clinics for both boys and girls. Additionally, the school has entered high school summer leagues for the first time, allowing athletes to improve year-round. Practice times have been increased and equalized for both boys and girls, with varsity teams practicing four times a week with an additional conditioning session once a week in the Jack Levy A” H gym and junior varsity teams practicing twice a week without conditioning. All games will be played in the highly anticipated new basketball gymnasium.

These new programs are being instituted under the direction of a mostly new staff: Director of Athletics Adam Ginsburg, Associate Director of Athletics Matthew Malc, Head of Basketball Mor-

Additionally, tennis players have been complaining that their courts are being taken over by pickleball players, instead of them using designated pickleball courts. Lastly, many parents have gotten frustrated with the fact that playgrounds and parks are now crowded with pickleball players and tournaments, ultimately making it difficult for children to run around and play regularly. And new players tend to talk obsessively about the game, annoying their friends and family.

Despite the negative publicity it receives, the pickleball industry continues

tional skills. Kassab says she’ll spend any free time during school getting ahead on her homework and she’ll even stay after school to do work if she needs to. She claims that if she didn’t have practice to keep her on a strict routine, she wouldn’t get anything done.

This season will be Kassab’s second as captain, but the responsibility still feels large. As the team leader, she’s not only responsible for her performance, but her teammates’ as well. One aspect of her role is helping to set a positive and encouraging tone for the team. She said it’s important for her to be in a good mood, as it reflects onto the rest of the team.

Kassab loves her role as captain and enjoys the added responsibility of supporting her teammates. She said, “You have to cheer them on, give constructive criticism, and confidence.”

Spending every night at practice together really bonds the team together as “everyone is automatically friends with each other.” Kassab remarked that the team feels like a family. “All of those girls

Coach Malc brings 28 years of coaching experience, having started at the age of 15. He has coached at various schools, won state championships, and even led the US National Team to a gold medal in Israel. Many within the school are hoping that he will lead the Boys Varsity team to championship victories. The Varsity program is scheduled to play the toughest matches in school history, competing in several tournaments and showcase events against some of the best high school teams in the nation. “We aim to elevate our programs to another level, and competing against top-tier competition will help us achieve our ultimate goals,” explains who?

Coach Mary Beth Chambers, new Girls Varsity head coach, boasts an exceptional playing career and has had many successful coaching stints. She is King’s College’s all-time leading scorer and a two-time NCAA Division III All-American. Her coaching achievements include leading St. Rose College to a state championship. The girls will start their season in Los Angeles, participating in an exciting and competitive tournament. They have had practices and a league throughout the summer to prepare for the upcoming season.

to grow, with big-name companies such as Fila and Nike creating the fashion, and tennis equipment giants Babolat and Prince manufacturing the paddles. Although Pritchard and Bell did not intend for pickleball to become an official sport, its newfound popularity is not without reason.

As the new school year commences at Flatbush, it will be interesting to see if the pickleball phenomenon will catch on as the girls learn and play the sport this year.

are my sisters,” she said. Kassab plans to never stop playing and doing what she loves. She’s considering going to Yeshiva University for the chance to play on their women’s basketball team. Either way, she’s not parting with the game anytime soon.

Kassab facing HAFTR last year