Panther Post - June Issue 2021 by YULA High Schools

Panther Post The

YULA Boys High School VOL. V NO. 3 June 2021 | Sivan 5781

The Light at the End of the Tunnel: YULA’s Return to Campus By Israel Gootin (‘22), Executive Editor

April 12, 2021, YULA Boys reopened its campus for full-day in-person classes after the County of Los Angeles Public Health announced that all high schools in Los Angeles were permitted to reopen. Previously, YULA’s campus was open for Judaic studies classes only, with students attending general studies classes via Zoom. The YULA staff has been anticipating the return

“to a normal routine” since the beginning of the school year, says Rick St. Laurent, Principal of General Studies at YULA Boys. While Rabbi Joseph Schreiber, Principal of YULA Boys, admits that there were initially “issues involved with having general studies classes on campus,” he promises that YULA administrators have been “doing their utmost”’ to ensure that they remain as safe as possible.

YULA Boys Head of School Rabbi Arye Sufrin highlights that “while this is an important step forward, we must recognize that there is still a pandemic, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure the safety of all individuals.” The majority of YULA’s staff has received both doses of the coronavirus vaccine, and the administration is doing everything possible to keep students safe during this transition.

YULA Hit by Vandalism By Akiva Brookler (‘21) A vandal graffitied a swastika, the numbers 18 and 88, which correspond to antisemitic phrases, and profanties on an exterior wall of YULA’s campus. The vandalism was one instance in a series of several vandalized institutions in the area. The numbers graffitied are part of an alphanumeric system used by neo-Nazi, where 18 (AH) refers to “Adolph Hitler” and 88 (HH), to “Heil Hitler.” “It was beyond shocking and appalling that a yeshiva that was built with the sweat, tears, and hands of survivors (our campus is named the

Nagel Family Campus after survivors) can have antisemitism like this in our own backyard,” said YULA Boys Head of School Rabbi Arye Sufrin. YULA security contacted the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) as soon as it learned of the vandalism. The LAPD responded immediately and determined that there was no threat to YULA. As a precaution, however, YULA has increased security measures, and the LAPD has increased patrolling in the area. The LAPD believes the vandal was a transient, or homeless person, and they have a suspect they are pursuing. “I

want to commend LAPD for the way they handled the situation,” said Rabbi Surfin. “I don’t view the swastika on YULA as an attack on YULA. I think it’s an attack on the whole community and Am Yisrael (the nation of Israel),” said Rabbi Sufrin. “And we have to be reminded that it’s real, and antisemitism continues to climb. It’s not just something that happens in Europe. It’s here.”

Leaving California

NBA Trade Deadline

Between 2008 and 2019, 18,000 companies left California for states like Texas, Nevada, and Arizona.

Teams like the Orlando Magic, Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls, and Denver Nuggets reshaped their rosters.

Community

Why do Homeless People Refuse Shelter? Part 4 of a Series

By Boaz Edidin (‘22), Editor-in-Chief Governmental and charitable organizations have tried to shelter homeless people for years, but it turns out many refuse their help. Initially, finding space to house the still growing homeless population was the problem. But city and state governments have recently secured shelters––primarily rec-centers and hotels––to house homeless people during the pandemic. This increase in shelters led to a decline in the number of people living without a roof over their heads. Yet, many homeless people choose the streets over shelters. “Their reasons are several,” wrote the Bowery Residents’ Committee (BRC), a New York City shelter management organization. Homeless encampment in Los Angeles – Boaz Edidin (‘22) “Independence. Fear of the unknown. Concern for safety. Lack of confidence. though, these rules restrict their autonomy. Pride. These are not exhaustive, but they are represen- “Living unsheltered isn’t easy, but you’re autonotative of what many feel, who say ‘no’ to shelter.” mous,” explained the BRC. You can stop at the park or Shelters have strict rules that restrict drug usage visit your friends whenever you please. You don’t have and impose curfews on residents, essential restric- that freedom when living in a shelter. tions from a management standpoint. Order must be “Homeless people are assigned to a shelter after maintained in a shelter to keep residents healthy and applying at a central intake center,” according to the safe. From the perspective of the homeless residents, BRC. Thus, it also takes some initiative to get a spot in

YULA Teachers Experience the Ups and Downs of COVID-19 Vaccinations By Aron Hecht (‘23) As COVID-19 vaccines have become readily available, YULA teachers have taken every opportunity to get vaccinated. Mrs. Miriam Green, Co-chair of the YULA Math Department, received the Moderna coronavirus vaccine at Dodger Stadium. Although it took her a couple of days to schedule an appointment, she said that it was “definitely worth it.” Mrs. Green said that the only side effect she experienced was soreness in her arm and that she has no doubts about the safety of the vaccine. Although she feels a sense of relief knowing that she is protected from the virus, she will continue practicing the same health guidelines as she did pre-vaccination. Ms. Pam Felcher, Chair of the YULA English Department, tells the Panther Post that she faced a similar struggle to Mrs. Green’s when she booked her vaccination appointment: She had to wake up at 2 a.m. to secure an appointment. After her sister and brother-in-law, who

are both physicians, received their shots, Ms. Felcher was confident that the vaccine was safe. She said that she did experience exhaustion after taking the vaccine, but joked that she was “not sure if it was the shot or just because I am old and tired.” Ms. Felcher fears the newly mutated coronavirus variants that the vaccine may not necessarily protect against, so she has not made significant changes in her post-vaccination life just yet. Unlike Mrs. Green and Ms. Felcher, Mrs. Vickie Bellomo, the Chair of YULA’s Science Department, easily secured a vaccination appointment. Mrs. Bellomo had no concerns about taking the vaccine and is fully vaccinated. But, similar to Mrs. Green and Ms. Felcher, she is still abiding by COVID-19 safety protocols. While many teachers are vaccinated, they have stayed cautious and continued to live their lives in full compliance with COVID-19 safety protocols.

a shelter. So why would someone who values the extra autonomy of living unsheltered, actively seek shelter? In an attempt to solve this dilemma, organizations like BRC employ extensive outreach programs. Still, many homeless people refuse to use shelters. Shelters don’t have the best reputations amongst the homeless population, said David Pirtle, a previously homeless man who now works for the Faces of Homelessness Speakers’ Bureau. “You hear a lot of terrible things about shelters––that shelters are dangerous places, that they’re full of drugs and drug dealers, that people will steal your shoes, and there’s bedbugs and body lice. And, yeah, unfortunately, a lot of those things are true.” Some homeless people don’t only feel freer when unsheltered, but they also feel safer. Of course, not all shelters are the dangerous places that Pirtle described. But, the chance of being thrown into a dangerous, restrictive shelter poses enough of a threat to deter homeless people from applying.

A Pandemic Guide to Entertainment By Jake Stephen (‘23) Never before this quarantine have students had such a surplus of free time. YULA students have taken this opportunity to balance school work with personal passions and pastimes, particularly entertainment in the form of movies and TV shows. So, what movies and shows are they watching? What books are they reading? Are they enjoying them, and what do they recommend? A student survey administered by the Panther Post suggests a general consensus that YULA students aren’t reading very much fiction over quarantine. In a technologically centered world, the interest in reading a book is becoming a thing of the past. Aaron Silvera (‘23) summed up this idea by joking that “the internet has ruined what was left of my ADHD attention span.” However, there are some YULA students whose curiosity supersedes this challenge. Many students have begun using their extra time by engaging in a wide spectrum of business-related activities and reading business books to expand their knowledge. Aidan Stephen (‘22), who is currently kick-starting his own mobile app, is reading Shortcut Your Startup, a book that he describes as “essential for any student interested

in being their own future boss.” Moshe Feldman’s (‘23) interest in the stock market led him to read Bitcoin Billionaires, which he recommends as a “fascinating story about some early investors in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.” Other YULA students have no guilt in spending their free time binging TV series. A show that many YULA students recommended in the student survey is All American, a drama depicting the life of a high-school football player, rising to success. Aaron Hecht (‘23) claims it is “a show that will continuously keep you at the edge of your seat.” Another highly recommended TV show is WandaVision, a Marvel series set after the events of the film Avengers: Endgame. Yehuda Holender (‘22) describes it as a “perfect fit for anyone who has been involved in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It sets the stage for the next era of Marvel movies while also providing a great, quirky homage to TV shows of the past.” No matter what your interests are, there are tons of great ways to pass the time over quarantine. With the myriad books and streaming services available, there is a nearly endless number of binge-worthy content to help pass the time.

The Panther Post • June 2021 • Community

Why Are People Leaving California? By Kovy Etshalom (‘23) Between 2008 and 2019, 18,000 companies left California for states like Texas, Nevada, and Arizona. Some of the wealthiest individuals in the United States, such as Elon Musk, have also made the decision to leave California. However, it’s not just the

wealthy people leaving: Data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicates that over 650,000 people of all backgrounds left the state in 2019 alone. The combination of high taxes and housing costs are reasons cited for the mass exodus from the state. Although the cost to relocate might be steep for many businesses, the benefit of lower tax and property costs in other states provides a stronger financial return in the long run. A UC Berkeley study reports that 52% of people emigrating from California cite the high income tax rate as what pushed them out of the state. In California, the top tax bracket pays 13.3% of their income, the highest rate for any state in the country. Although high taxation is a leading factor in driving businesses out of California, proposals by the state legislature still seek to increase corporate tax rates to nearly 19%. California historically makes a significant sum of its tax dollars from small business owners and extremely wealthy people. But as California continues to increase these groups’ tax rates, they will continue to leave, thereby stripping the state of vital economic assets.

In 2020, the state government cited small businesses as the “drivers of economic growth,” adding that they are responsible for creating two thirds of new jobs each year. In fact, local businesses make up 99.8% of all companies located in California and employ 48.5% of the state’s total workforce. However, since they lack the financial backing that large corporations enjoy, more than 20,000 small businesses in California were forced to shut down due to the pandemic, while just a few of the most wealthy companies suffered the same fate. This crisis is driving public support for higher tax rates on large businesses, rather than forcing small businesses to continue to bear the brunt of these losses. In addition to the high tax rates, California’s strict quarantine mandates restricted businesses even further. The pandemic also helped people realize that they could work elsewhere. So many people have recently left, that the Census Bureau population data caused California to lose a U.S House seat for the first time.

YULA Trustees Event Exceeds Expectations By Kovy Etshalom (‘23) YULA Boys honors the benefactors and board members who invest in YULA’s future at the annual Trustees Event. In addition to honoring these people, the Trustees Event aims to raise money to subsidize YULA’s annual expenses and help all families afford tuition. In 2020 and 2021, the Trustees Event was held in virtual and hybrid formats, respectively, due to the pandemic. Even with these changes, the event raised nearly two million dollars in total over the last two

years. This year, the Trustees Event took place May 3rd in YULA’s parking garage to accommodate social distancing. The garage was transformed into a banquet hall, with emerald satin tablecloths and couches dotting the interior of the parking lot. The roof was peppered with golden lights, and a flowing waterfall prop set the scene for the night. Attendees enjoyed music played by the YULA band, and, appropriate for the night’s

designated theme of unity, they davened mincha-maariv together as a minyan. The event raised $930,000 and featured special virtual appearances by David Freidman, the former US ambassador to Israel; Rabbi Hier, the founder of the Simon Wiesenthal Center; and even NBA star Chris Paul. According to YULA’s Director of Development and Operations Rochel Gargir, this year’s trustees dinner was special because “the donors and school

supporters got to see the school and reap the benefits and nachas first hand.” This year the event came together as not just a simple fundraiser, but as an opportunity for YULA’s supporters to see the impact of their contributions first hand.

The Panther Post Editor-in-Chief: Boaz Edidin (‘22) Executive Editor: Israel Gootin (‘22) Managing Editor: Ethan Frankel (‘22) Faculty Adviser: Ms. Pam Felcher Community Editor: Ethan Frankel (‘22) Academics Editor: Eitan Gelb (‘22) Sports Editor: Boaz Edidin (‘22) Features Editor: Aaron Silvera (‘23) & Ben Rubin (‘22) Torah & Israel Editor: Moshe Feldman (‘22) Opinion Editor: Aidan Stephen (‘22)

Layout, Graphics, and Photos Editor:

Daniel Sentchuck (‘22) Please be mindful that this publication contains words of Torah and should be treated with respect.

YULA Boys, 9760 Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90035

A vital part of The Panther Post is our extensive opinion section, which includes both the Editorial Board’s opinions as well as op-eds written by the student body. But these pieces should not be the end of the conversation; instead, they should catalyze a meaningful conversation within our community about important issues. So we want to hear your opinions. Any article you read––whether you agree, disagree, or have a relevant comment––we want to hear how you feel. Letters to the Editor are an essential part of all newspapers, and ours should be no different. We ask that you send your brief reactions (an edited 150 words) to letters@yula.org, so that we and all our readers can hear our community’s diverse opinions.

Academics Faculty

Focus

By Coby Karben (‘22) and Eitan Gelb (‘22), Academics Editor Rabbi Nachum Sauer has been an integral part of YULA since its early beginnings as a Beit Midrash and kollel. Throughout the years, he’s helped YULA students grow and develop their Halachic knowledge and love of learning. He now spends his mornings teaching YULA’s Advanced Gemara Track to seniors and a contemporary Halacha class to freshmen. After school, he resides as a judge on the RCC Beis Din, presiding over the Halachic conundrums our community faces. Rabbi Sauer grew up in the east Bronx, attending Yeshiva Torah V’Emunah, and later Marsha Stern Talmudical Academy (MTA) for high school. He went to Yeshiva University (YU) to learn from Rav Soloveitchik, and he also graduated with a degree in biochemistry. Although he took courses in the sciences to become a doctor, he could not attend medical school as a kohen due to the anatomy courses that would expose him to tumah, impurities. However, he continued his pre-med courses in order to broaden his understanding of the world and to fine-tune his Halachic decisions. Although Rabbi Sauer enjoyed the challenge his secular courses offered, he stresses that, above all, Torah learning comes first. His love of learning, he says, led him to teach and become a Rabbi. He received his Semicha, Rabbinical degree, under the Rav as part of YU’s Yoreh De’ah program, as well as a master’s degree in Jewish Education from YU’s Ferkauf Graduate School of Education. Rabbi Sauer went on to learn in the Mirrer Yeshiva in Israel, alongside Gedolim like Rav Chaim Shmuelovitz. After that, he took a position teaching Torah at Touro College for five years. In 1979, he was brought over to YOLA’s Beis Medrash program, which was held on YULA’s current campus, by Rabbi Moshe Meiselman, and he has been an integral part of the YULA community ever since. Rabbi Sauer, in addition to learning and paskening Halacha, and reading about gedolim, great Rabbis, enjoys listening to Jewish musicians like Mordecahi Ben David, Motti Steinmetz, Baruch Levine, Avraham Fried, and various Chassidic groups. Because he values music so much, Rabbi Sauer makes sure to start his Friday shiur with a Jewish niggun, tune. Rabbi Sauer has given so much to our community through his Halachic expertise. He inspires Talmidim daily and forges connections with them that last well beyond their four years at YULA. As Rabbi Sufrin once said, “[Rabbi Sauer] truly is the gem of our school.”

Making the Most of Hybrid Learning By Benjamin Rabbanian (‘24)

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, students and parents have been wondering about the challenges and rewards of the virtual learning experience at YULA Boys. While some enjoy online learning because it allows them to develop relationships with their teachers, others prefer the opportunity to sleep in and learn from the safety of their homes. Raphy Amsellem (‘23), praising the YULA faculty for their tireless efforts to accommodate students, said, “The YULA administration has paid much heed to the suggestions of students when it comes to changing the nature of learning. For example, to maximize the most of our limited schedule, certain teachers have extended their office hours.” These extended office hours enable students to connect with their teachers and receive necessary assistance. Although there are many benefits of hybrid learning, some believe that the lack of face-to-face communication between students and teachers hinders their learning experience. Jake Stephen (‘23) says that “being on Zoom feels isolating from the rest of the class, and even though teachers try to cater to both in person and online students, their attention is usually divided, making it difficult for both types of students to learn.” Despite the occasional bumps in the road, YULA students have dubbed this unusual school year a success. Left: Rabbi Joseph Schreiber teaches his hybrid 9th grade AGT class.

YULA’s Funniest Zoom Moments By Eitan Gelb (‘22), Academics Editor Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, students and parents have been wondering about the challenges and rewards of the virtual learning experience at YULA Boys. While some enjoy online learning because it allows them to develop relationships with their teachers, others prefer the opportunity to sleep in and learn from the safety of their homes. Raphy Amsellem (‘23), praising the YULA faculty for their tireless efforts to accommodate students, said, “The YULA administration has paid much heed to the suggestions of students when it comes to changing the nature of learning. For example, to maximize the most of our limited schedule, certain teachers

have extended their office hours.” These extended office hours enable students to connect with their teachers and receive necessary assistance. Although there are many benefits of hybrid learning, some believe that the lack of face-to-face communication between students and teachers hinders their learning experience. Jake Stephen (‘23) says that “being on Zoom feels isolating from the rest of the class, and even though teachers try to cater to both in person and online students, their attention is usually divided, making it difficult for both types of students to learn.” Despite the occasional bumps in the road, YULA students have dubbed this unusual school year a success.

Sports

Lighter COVID Restrictions Pave the Way for the Return of YULA Sports By Andrew Rubel (‘23) Following a sustained drop in COVID-19 transmission rates, California Governor Gavin Newsom has authorized the return of Los Angeles County outdoor high school sports, clearing a path for YULA sports teams to return to action. Within just a few weeks of the announcement, the basketball, baseball, soccer, golf, and tennis teams at YULA have already restarted practice. The three YULA basketball teams–– frosh-soph, junior varsity, and varsity––have resumed practice in both YULA’s Samson Center and the nearby Rancho Park facilities. The baseball and soccer teams have also held practices at Rancho Park, and the YULA golf team has returned to practice in the gym. “I am super excited for the upcoming season,” said Gavi Steinlauf (‘22), captain of the golf team. “We have been practicing twice a week for a couple of months, and I feel great about the team we have put together.” YULA’s inaugural tennis team has also begun practicing in Rancho Park in preparation for competitions against other schools. The YULA fencing team has been an outlier. The contactless nature of fencing has allowed the team to meet for practice every Monday

since the beginning of the school year. They have even made a Zoom coaching option available for team members who cannot attend the in-person practices. Fencing tournaments have yet to resume since COVID-19 restrictions have limited the ability to compete against other schools, but members of the team remain hopeful that tournaments will resume this year. While YULA sports teams have been given the green light, they still have to abide by strict COVID-19 guidelines. “Our team has avoided shaking hands, something which is generally done in a tennis match, usually both before and after a game,” says first-year tennis player Raphy Amsellem (‘23). After 13 months of sitting on the sidelines, YULA athletes are finally back in action and hoping to keep it that way.

Interview with NFL Insider: The NFL Draft By Moshe Feldman (‘23), Torah and Israel Editor

This year’s NFL Draft took place in person in Cleveland, Ohio. After holding the event virtually last year due to COVID-19, this year the NFL ran a hybrid draft: Coaches and general managers attended virtually, but the teams strategized in person. As usual, the draft was conducted over a three-day period–– from April 28 through May 1––and had seven rounds. Mr. Dave Feldman, the NFL’s Vice President of Social Media Marketing, has watched every decision for or every draft firsthand since 2015. As a high-level employee, he coordinates with the executives involved in planning each year’s draft. According to Mr. Feldman, the NFL takes many factors into account when scheduling the event. Panther Post Torah-and-Israel Editor Moshe Feldman interviewed Mr. Dave Feldman prior to the 2021 NFL Draft. The Panther Post: At what point did the NFL decide to hold the in-person draft and what were some considerations? Dave Feldman: It had been scheduled in Cleveland, Ohio, for a while and the goal always was to have it in person. [After] seeing advancements like vaccines and after consulting with doctors, we knew it was possible to make sure to conduct it safely. PP: What lessons has the NFL learned from running a successful virtual draft last year and what adaptations or improvements will be made going forward? DF: [Last year] we raised over 100 million dollars through a digital fundraiser called Draft-a-Thon. With all that’s going on, we want to give back and help out communities that have been hit hard during these tough times and build our brand. PP: How are decisions made to host in one city over another? DF: It is a big process and honor. We have several host committees that report to the NFL with certain proposed plans and they choose the one that works

best. For example, Cleveland this year put together a plan that made it appealing to go forward with [their city]. PP: Let’s say the next draft is expected to be in Los Angeles. How early does the NFL plan out and organize logistics? DF: Most plans are already underway now for [next year’s] draft. They do work in the city and start setting up generally at least six weeks before. PP: In terms of deals with sponsors, how is the NFL planning on advertising differently as the Draft will be viewed online and in-person? DF: There will definitely be less of a need to create new venues for sponsors than last year, where we had to get really creative. But overall, I’m sure they will be pleased. Something like Draft-a-Thon, a charity event, is obviously for the greater good and will entice sponsors to support good causes and make the country a better place. PP: Are viewers projected to be higher or lower than last year? DF: Last year the draft was the first major sporting event since COVID-19, so it had one of the highest earnings. It probably isn’t really fair to then compare it, as the country was in a much different place a year ago. PP: What current social media projects are you working on for the NFL Draft? DF: We’re still in the planning phase of many social events, being a reactive platform. We will be doing events on all major platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, Youtube, and Twitch, like the Draft-a-Thon. We had many innovative events at the Super Bowl, such as a Miley Cyrus concert and a Showtime Camera in the endzone to allow fans to engage with players. We always are trying to do new things for fans, and I’m sure as the draft gets closer, new opportunities will arise to push the outlook even further.

The Panther Post • June 2021 • Sports

Who Made the Biggest Splashes at the

By Yehuda Holender (‘22)

This year’s NBA trade deadline was especially active with some NBA teams attempting to make the push to championship contention and others attempting to fully rebuild. Teams like the Orlando Magic, Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls, and Denver Nuggets reshaped their rosters.

Gary Harris Aaron Gordon

Otto Porter Jr. Al-Farouq Aminu

RJ Hampton Evan Fournier

Wendel Carter Jr. Nikola Vucivic

After being trapped in mediocrity for the last 2 years, with no end in sight, the Magic gave up on its three core players, Evan Fournier, Aaron Gordon, and 2021 All-Star Nikola Vucevic. The high-profile moves the Magic made at the deadline will lead the team in the clear direction of rebuilding for the future. Although Hampton and Carter Jr. are extremely promising young talents, they are still a couple of years away from developing into productive starters. In the coming years, the Magic will continue to intentionally plummet in the standings, and if the ping-pong balls bounce in their favor, there could be a new star in Orlando. This year’s draft is filled with potential studs at the positions that the Magic desperately needs, such as combo guards Jalen Suggs, Jalen Green, and Cade Cunningham. The acquisition of the Bulls’ picks will also significantly raise the chances of Orlando landing someone useful down the line. In the best-case scenario for the Magic, this deadline should mark the start point of a Philadelphia-76ers-like rise through rebuilding. On the other hand, these moves could set the franchise back many years in their quest to eventually be more than an eighth seed.

Nemanja Bjelica Avery Bradley

Trevor Ariza Kelly Olynyk

Meyers Leonard

Victor Oladipo Moe Harkless

The defending Eastern Conference Champions a COVID-riddled year made a splash at the deadline numerous expiring contracts to make a stronger run there was a catch: The All-Star level player that they way stud Victor Oladipo–continued to be riddled wi ing him out of the 2021 playoffs. Although it seems l deadline due to the Oladipo injury, the Heat did not nificant pieces in the trades and were smart to take a bly high-reward approach, while picking up a very so Ariza. Having played on championship level teams m career–with the Lakers and Rockets–Ariza will bring to bolster Miami’s starting five. While the Heat did no off run they wanted to, they still have hope that they po through free-agency, which will make them even m following years. If they re-sign Oladipo, and Ariza bec their lineups for the next few years, this trade deadlin ered a success in the future.

Sports • June 2021 • The Panther Post

e Deadline?

Al-Farouq Aminu

Daniel Theis

Nikola Vucivic

Troy Brown Jr.

Otto Porter Jr.

Daniel Gafford

Luke Kornet

Wendel Carter Jr.

Amid another below-average season, the Bulls decided to pull the trigger on one of the biggest trades of the year, dealing a valuable, young player in Carter and two draft picks for All-Star center Vucevic. The 30-year old Montenegrin big-man has been one of the most versatile players in the East for the past couple of years. He is a strong post player with a large bag of tricks, as well as a solid spot-up shooter who excels in pick n’ pops. This trade signifies that the Bulls want to try to win after years of being in the dumps. Though, on the surface, Chicago seems like a solid playoff team, with All-Stars Vucevic and Zach Lavine, they never had a chance to make the playoffs this season due to their abysmal record before the deadline. With that in mind, this move is a look towards the near future, as the Bulls hope to luck out in free agency this year and hopefully compete seriously in the 2021-22 season.

in Miami during e as they took on at the title. Only, y traded for–twoith injuries, forclike a failed trade t give up any siga low-risk, possiolid vet in Trevor many times in his grit and shooting ot make the playy can keep Oladimore scary in the comes a staple in ne will be consid-

Aaron Gordon Isaiah Hartenstein

JaVale McGee RJ Hampton

Gary Harris

The Nuggets took advantage of the fire sale going on in Orlando and picked up a dynamic two-way forward in Aaron Gordon. Famous for his high-flying dunks, Gordon has quietly shaped a solid all-around game with a much improved three-point shot over the past few years. With the leading MVP candidate Nikola Jokic on their squad, the Nuggets are looking to grab their organization’s first title. The only significant change Denver has had since their emergent Conference Championship run last year was the loss of Jerami Grant, and they look to fill that vacuum with Gordon as they enter the playoffs this year. Considering they only had to give up the regressing Harris and the unproven Hampton for someone as talented as Gordon, this trade seems like a steal, but if their season ends differently from what they anticipate, the Nuggets are a lot more likely to get stuck in cap hell this offseason without any chance of making a move. This scenario became even more complicated after the season-ending injury to the Robin to Jokic’s Batman, Jamal Murry. Ultimately, even with the sustaining injuries, the addition of Gordon bolsters Denver’s championship odds so they still look like one of the favorites in the stacked West. However, if they lose in the playoffs this year, the Gordon trade puts even more pressure on their timeline to win a championship.

Features

The State of the Iran Nuclear Deal: How Does it Impact Israel? By Aaron Silvera (‘23), Features Editor

LBNCadmin

Since its signing in 2015, the Iran deal has been a source of controversy in the United States. Some say that it prevented Iran from developing a devastating nuclear weapon, while others argue that Iran would have obtained a weapon either way. Recently, President Joe Biden has attempted to revive the deal, which complicates America’s relationship with Israel, an enemy of Iran. Formally named the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, the Iran Deal is an agreement between Iran, the United States, China, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the European Union. Essentially, if Iran refrains from enriching uranium to a level that could conceivably produce a nuclear bomb, the other signatory countries, particularly the United States, will remove economic sanctions against Iran. The Trump administration pulled out of the deal in May 2018, claiming that Iran had violated the spirit of the deal––a claim disputed by the International Atomic Energy Agency, the UN organization placed in charge of monitoring Iran’s compliance with the deal. Regardless, the United States reimposed sanctions, and to retaliate, Iran

began to enrich uranium beyond the previously agreed upon limit. The United States’ sanctions successfully scared countries like France and Germany into not trading with Iran. In addition to economic repercussions, limiting access to foreign markets has restricted Iranian civilians’ abilities to receive medicine and other humanitarian supplies. Though President Biden has shown an interest in reviving the deal, experts have warned him that both Iran and Israel are not going to make reaching a deal easy. The new negotiations, which are being held in Vienna, Austria, have been a productive, but bumpy ride. Last June, an Iranian centrifuge facility exploded, and while the cause is still unclear, some sources suspect Israel to be the perpetrator. More recently, the same facility suffered blackouts, making Israel a possible suspect again. These incidents have set back the deal, and Iran’s hard-liners have been pushing Iran to ask for more sanction relief or more leeway in their nuclear enrichment program. Unlike in 2015, public opinion is now, albeit marginally, on Biden’s side. A Gallup poll when

the original deal was signed shows that 33 percent of Americans supported the deal, whereas 45 percent of Americans disapproved. Because the President can lift sanctions without Congressional approval, President Biden can sign a new deal as long as he’s still in office. While there haven’t been new polls on re-entry into the deal, Biden’s high approval numbers likely afford him the political capital to enter the deal early with the hope he will be vindicated over time. These essential questions remain: How quickly will all parties get to the table? What will they agree on? And what will Biden be willing to give up to prevent Iran from getting nuclear weapons?

To Save or to Spend? By Benjamin Rubin (‘22), Features Editor According to Lexington Law Firm, an organization that specializes in student legal issues, high school students spend $2,200 a year on average. Some high schoolers obtain their spending money from their parents; others, from parttime jobs. The reason these students seek money from their parents and from jobs is usually to spend it, but would saving this money for the future put students at an advantage? Assuming students set aside 10% of the annual $2,200 they spend over their four years of high school, they would end up with $880 in savings on average. While that sum of money does not seem like a significant income, saving it builds an important habit. Those who learn to spend money responsibly at a young age generally develop the ability to save money much more easily later in life. Although these skills will prove crucial to eventually finding financial success, many YULA boys believe there is no substantial benefit to saving money as high school students. Some YULA students take issue with spending their high school years focusing on saving money when they could focus on making lifelong memories instead. Eitan Gelb (‘22), one of those students, says that he would

“rather spend money on buying a burger and fries now … instead of maybe remembering to save and eventually buying a burger later on in life.” So the question is whether to get into the habit of saving for the future or to enjoy the high school experience now. Luckily, the answer is not as black and white as it seems. High schoolers don’t have to choose between saving and having fun because they can do both: They can get both the psychological benefit of saving and the pleasure of the present. According to a 2019 american Psychological association sponsored study if students understand that in the future they will need to save money, by practicing saving money with as little as five to ten dollars, their brains remember to save money later on in life and they can still enjoy their high school years.

The Panther Post • June 2021 • Features

Two Ways to Make Tiny Fried Pies By Yehuda Holender (‘22)

INGREDIENTS: Dough: - 1 heaping cup all purpose flour - 2 tbsp. sugar - ½ tsp. salt - 6 tbsp. butter (or solid butter substitute) - ⅓ cup cold water Apple Filling: - 1 Granny Smith apple, cored and thinly diced - 1 pinch of salt - 1 tbsp. brown sugar

Yehuda Holender (‘22)

- 1 tsp. cinnamon - 1 glug of maple syrup - 1/2 tbsp. bourbon - 1/2 tsp. allspice (optional) - ¼ tsp. ground clove (optional)

Carrot Cake Filling: - 1 large carrot, finely grated - 2 tbsp. chopped pecans - 1 tbsp. brown sugar - 1/2 tsp. cinnamon - 1/2 tbsp. all-purpose flour - 1 tsp. neutral oil - 1/2 tbsp. coconut rum (optional)

Frying and Serving: - Enough neutral oil to fill ½ inch in a pot or pan - Powdered sugar for garnish

Mini pies are the perfect summer snacks. These Southern treats, which resemble tiny dessert empanadas, will fill you with satisfaction if crafted correctly. Pie dough can be extremely variable depending on a multitude of factors, so in order to reach the desired flakey, delicate texture, you must strictly adhere to these dough-making instructions. You can choose whether you want to use just one of the fillings, or both, but remember to adjust the amounts accordingly. The quantity of the recipe written is enough to make approximately 10 pies of each flavor. The classic apple filling has a maple twist that adds complexity to the American staple, while the carrot filling, inspired by carrot cake, has a delicious varied texture.

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Start 30 minutes before you would like to shape and fry the pies. Pour flour, salt, and sugar into the basin of a food processor and pulse until mixed. Add cold butter in ½ tbsp. cubes and pulse until it combines into a grainy mixture. 2. Add in cold water and mix for no more than 15 seconds. Check if it has enough moisture to come together into a semi-crumbly dough. It should be a bit malleable when squeezed tightly into a dough, but, at the same time, still dry and crumby. Add a tbsp. or more water until you reach the desired consistency. 3. Pour the dough out onto a sheet of plastic wrap, fold the plastic over dough to create a wrap, and press tightly and evenly on all sides to mold the dough into a rectangular disc. Chill in fridge for 30 minutes. 4. Prepare the fillings while the dough cools. Apple filling: - Dice the apple into small cubic pieces; they should be around the size of a peanut. - Mix the apple in a bowl with salt, brown sugar, spices, maple syrup, and bourbon. Keep the mixture cool until filling time. Carrot filling: - Grate carrot on a microplane or the small side of a grater (not the spiky side). - Mix carrot in a bowl with brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, oil, and nuts (as well as the rum if you’d like). Keep cool until filling time. 5. Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot or pan. Don’t use non-stick; if possible, use cast iron. 6. Remove dough and roll into a large, thin circle. Don’t worry about how thick it is; just get it where you can. This is a very forgiving recipe, after all. Be generous with the bench (remaining) flour, and act as quickly as possible to avoid sticking. 7. Use a cookie cutter or a large glass to cut out 3½-to-4-inch circles. There should be close to 20 circles. 8. Fill each circle of dough with 1-to-2 tsp. of your desired filling (or 3-5 pieces of apple) and try not to overstuff it. Close the circle as tightly as you can and crimp tightly around the edges with a fork, like an empanada. Set all your completed mini pies aside for frying. 9. Fry the pies in oil heated at 375° Fahrenheit. You do not need a thermometer; just eyeball it by putting one pie in the oil to check how much it bubbles. Make sure that bubbles do not form on top of other bubbles. If over-bubbling occurs, slowly remove the pan from the heat for 15 seconds and try again. Fry the pies in smaller batches of 5-8 to avoid crowding the pan. 10. Fry them until golden brown and leave them to cool. Dust with plenty of powdered sugar before serving.

The Panther Post • June 2021 • Features

Biden’s First 100 Days in Office By Aaron Silvera (‘23), Features Editor Campaign promises are a way for the voters to know exactly what a candidate stands for and what positive or even controversial changes the candidate plans to make while in office. Presidents usually make most of their promises and set most of their policies in their first 100 days in office, and meeting all of the promises within those 100 days proves difficult if not impossible. PolitiFact, a political fact-checking organization, tracked President Trump and Obama’s campaign promises and found that President Obama kept around 47% of his promises, and Trump kept around 23%––proof that meeting campaign promises is a challenge. So what has President Biden in his first 100 days in office accomplished, and what might he still be able to accomplish? So far, President Biden has signed 37 executive orders. To put that in context, President Trump signed the same number of orders during the entirety of 2018. Some of these orders have made headlines, such as that one that revoked President Trump’s “zero-tolerance” policy of separating people entering the U.S. illegally from their children, ending

the ban on transgender individuals enlisting in the U.S. Army, and rescinding Trump’s ban on travel from Muslim-majority countries. A less well-known step was

March 11. Passed by a party-line vote (Democrats for, Republicans against) with over 75% of Americans supporting the bill, the bill provides $1,400 one-time checks, extended food

First 100 Days Biden’s executive order that directed all federal agencies to review any policies that prevent discrimination based on sex in compliance with a Supreme Court ruling issued in July. The most impactful action of the Biden administration has been the American Rescue Plan, signed on

stamp benefits, and emergency paid leave to millions of Americans. The bill also provides over $50 billion for small businesses, restaurants, and bars to reopen; and it extends tax cuts for families with children for this fiscal year. The Biden administration believes that these measures will fast-

track the nation’s return to a pre-pandemic economy. Republicans, citing budget deficit concerns, voted against the $1.9 trillion stimulus package. President Biden promised to raise the minimum wage to $15 per hour, force candidates for federal office to release their tax returns, create new pathways to citizenship for all immigrants, step up the number of refugees admitted from other countries, and guarantee a week of paid leave for all workers in America––all of which are yet to be signed into law. While President Biden has yet to fulfill all of these promises, he still has almost four years left to do so. However, not all four of these years have the potential to be equally productive. There is a strong chance that either house of Congress will be won by the Republicans in the 2022 midterm elections, so the best time for the Biden administration to pass any bill is right now, when the Democratic Party controls two branches of government. If they wait too long, some of the promises they have made will slowly, but surely, drift out of reach.

Trumps PostPresidency Adventures By Marcus Cate (‘23) When President Donald Trump’s term as the 45th president of the United States ended January 20th, 2021, he joined a list of nine other presidents who failed to win re-election. Ever since he was stripped of access to his social media accounts after the attack on the Capitol on January 6th, Mr. Trump has maintained a relatively low profile. However, he has announced that he is not out of the limelight for good. In his final speech as president, he promised his supporters that he “will be back in some form.”

After the Capitol riots, many Republicans went out of their way to distance themselves from Mr. Trump. Nikki Haley, who previously served in Mr. Trump’s cabinet, stated that the president “let us down” and that “we shouldn’t have followed him, and we shouldn’t have listened to him.” In contrast, other prominent Republicans, such as House minority whip Steve Scalise, have continued to support Mr. Trump and his claim that the 2020 election was illegitimate. This fissure has sparked speculation that the Republican party might officially split. But undaunted, Mr. Trump responded to the speculation, “We have the Republican party. . . It’s going to unite and be stronger than ever before.” Mr. Trump’s professed allegiance to the Republican Party has raised

questions about his standing in the next presidential election. Would the Republican party nominate Mr. Trump against an incumbent president to whom he had already lost? Would he be able to garner support after his hectic final month in office? According to Pew Research, Mr. Trump left office with an approval rating of just 29%, the lowest for any president since Richard Nixon. However, according to recent polling, 54% of surveyed Republicans expressed that they would back Mr. Trump in the 2024 primaries. So maybe the Republican party is warming up to the idea of putting Mr. Trump back on the ticket in 2024. Mr. Trump is an important member

of the Republican Party today. With an enthusiastic base of supporters, he has created a cult of personality around his demeanor, rhetoric, and viewpoints. He still commands the majority of support from right-wing voters. Therefore, even though a portion of the party has retracted its support for him, Mr. Trump has positioned himself for a 2024 run. Will it be enough to resecure the presidency? Only time will tell.

Torah & Israel

The Halachic Implications of TikTok By Moshe Feldman (‘23), Torah and Israel Editor With over two billion downloads across mobile app stores, TikTok, a social media platform where users create and watch short videos, has soared in popularity. However, for Orthodox Jews there are various potential halachic concerns regarding the content uploaded to TikTok. Along with funny memes, many TikTok content creators entice viewers by dressing immodestly, dancing suggestively, or using language antithetical to the Jewish value of modesty, tzniut. While not every video contains such content, it is perhaps advisable to be careful when scrolling, especially since users cannot deliberately choose what content shows up on their feed. Another potential issue is that of bitul torah, mismanagement of time. The Gemara discusses those who attend any sporting event: “One who goes to the stadiums or to a camp of besiegers where different forms of entertainment are provided, this is called the seat of the scornful” (Avoda Zara 18b). A related verse in Tehillim echoes the same sentiment

that sporting events can cause a dereliction of one’s duty to study Torah. To participate in an action that is merely for entertainment may lead one to waste time that could be better spent studying Torah. Therefore, TikTok falls under the category of bitul torah. Many video creators incorporate song segments into

their content, either as background music or as the primary focus. Another problem with listening to non-Jewish music is exposure to nivul peh, inappropriate language. Nivul peh is a relative term, but one should still strive to avoid it. Similarly, there is a prohibition against listening

to Kol Isha, the voice of a woman. The Gemara states, “the voice of a woman is ervah (nakedness)” (Brachot 24a). A verse in Shir Hashirim states, “let me hear your voice, because your voice is pleasant, and appearance attractive.” According to Rashi, this verse suggests that a woman’s singing is attractive to a man and thus prohibited. Contemporary poskim, commentators, write about the practical ramifications of this prohibition. Rav Eliezer Waldenburg, the Tzitz Eliezer, and Rav Yosef Eliyahu Henkin agree that the prohibition would not apply when listening over a radio, while Rav Ovadia Yosef and Rav Chaim Dovid Halevi rule that one may listen to a woman’s voice only if the listener is unfamiliar with the appearance of the singer. However, in TikTok videos, though the original singer of the music is usually not present, lip-syncing or dancing to the song could be considered Kol Isha. Because the halachic issues are diverse and may not always be applicable, it might be best to consult with a practicing Orthodox Posek or Rabbi before browsing on TikTok.

The Halachot of Lashon Hara By Moshe Feldman (‘23), Torah and Israel Editor Though one might think dinner table conversation is an innocent way to socialize, engaging with friends and family in one of these seemingly innocent conversations at the Shabbos table may present Halachic concerns. Lashon Hara, literally translated as evil tongue, but commonly known as gossiping, is considered a major sin, yet one of the hardest to avoid committing. Due to its subtle nature, people may not even realize that they said

something they should not have. The source that tells us Lashon Hara constitutes a sin comes from Vayikra 19:16, which states that “you shall not go up and down as a slanderer among your people.” Rabbinic law adds to the Torah’s prohibition of rechilut, or gossip, by even prohibiting avak lashon hara, the mere insinuation of bad things. There are also many subtle, but important, nuances to these Halachot, which further blur the verbal moral line. When discussing a particular public figure, like a politician or a Rabbi, one must be very careful to not speak Lashon Hara. Whether or not a person is explicitly named, or left anonymous, does not matter; in all cases, one transgresses the prohibition of Lashon Hara. In certain situations, one may need to disclose information about a third

party, even if it may be considered Lashon Hara. The Chofetz Chaim established the following guidelines that must be met in these instances: One must be sure that the information is accurate. One must first confront the individual privately, attempting to gently persuade him to make amends. The nature of the offense should not be exaggerated. The motivation in writing a story should be to pursue the truth and to assist those in need of help. The intention should never be to harm anyone but rather l’toelet, with a constructive purpose. Should it be possible to correct a situation without publicity, it is prohib-

ited to publicize the matter. Should the subject of the investigative story suffer harm greater than he deserves, it is forbidden to publish the story in such a way that the damage would not be reversible.

Due to its subtle nature, people may not even realize that they said something they should not have.

Even if all the above requirements have been met, prior to publicizing the information, the reporter must carefully review his motives and intentions since peoples’ lives and reputations are at stake.

Opinion

What the Chauvin Verdict Means for the Future

By Jake Stephen (‘23) Derrick Chauvin, the police officer who infamously knelt on George Flloyd’s neck until he died, was convicted of second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder, and second-degree manslaughter, April 20, 2021. But what does this verdict mean for America’s fight against racism? What America calls “justice” has undoubtedly been clouded by some degree of racism that has persisted until now. We see evidence of racism in the American judicial system in Supreme Court decisions like Dred Scott vs. Sanford, Plessy vs. Fergusen, and Korematsu vs. United States, which have denied basic rights to minority Americans in a callous effort to keep them on the margins. However, there have been other trials, most notably Brown vs. Board of Education, that have pushed America’s fight against racism in the right direction. Law enforcement’s targeting minorities has been an issue throughout American history. The fact that the LAPD officers who brutally beat Black activist Rodney King in 1991 were acquitted indicates

that the inhumane treatment of Black people by law enforcement is alive and well. While I see no point in arguing that the Chauvin trial has brought about the spontaneous, magical end to racism, it is important to understand that it might create a precedent for the future. Although the officers in the King beating were not completely held accountable, Chauvin has been, so now the American justice system has a chance to form a new precedent of holding racist perpetrators accountable. The stark contrast of the Chauvin verdict from the atrocities of the past hints that America is heading in the right direction.

Chauvin taken away in handcuffs – Los Angeles Times (2)

Seeking The Positive In Negative Times Jake Stephen (‘23) Our lives changed drastically this year. The phrases “I miss my friends, movie theaters, and sports games” have become conversation staples. But maybe we can find a few positive things that came out of this quarantine period. Now that many schools have instituted a shorter school day to accommodate online learning, students have free time in which they can pursue personal projects and passions. Many YULA students have taken part in myriad extracurriculars and personal projects. Ben Meisels (23’) has described his quarantine as “a time that has enabled me to pursue my passions such as my precious metals company that has boomed as a result of the commodity surge during quarantine.” Quarantine has offered countless other advantages like the “Covid dog” phenomenon: Like many people forced to stay home and in need of loyal and faithful companionship, at the beginning of the pandemic, my family rescued a dog. Now we wonder how we ever lived without her. Now it’s impossible to walk down the street without seeing lots of people walking dogs. Sure, the barking may be a little bothersome at times, but that annoyance is dwarfed by the joy our dog has brought to our lives. Although quarantine may feel isolating, in addition to our new four-legged family members, we must also appreciate how our community has only grown stronger. This sentiment of community strength was put to the test when a young Jewish boy was reported missing. His disappearance elicited an unprecedented community response, as what seemed like the entire Los Angeles Jewish community took to the streets to search for the boy. Though the pandemic prevented us from being close in the physical sense, our bond as a community has cemented as a result of these challenging times.

Covid-19, 20, 21… By Aryeh Rothenberg (‘22)

Let’s be honest. When we first heard of the coronavirus, we all thought it would be less of a big deal than it turned out to be. Joking about undercooked bats, we slept comfortably in our “5-casesa-day” cocoons. Fast forward a year, and life is only just starting to return to normal, as we rush to stick a needle in everyone’s arm to quell a raging pandemic. COVID-19 turned the world upside down; yet, as a school, as a state, as a country, as a planet, we fought to keep our heads above water. In doing so, we dramatically changed our everyday lives: We wore masks, “Zoomed,” and shopped online at unprecedented rates. And a lot of these changes look as if they might stick around for some time. People might want to cross mask-wearing off their long-term plans, but don’t count out those bad boys just yet. Proven to be reliable in the prevention of the distribution of germs, masks will undoubtedly leave their mark on the world as germaphobes, snifflers, and coughers alike seek to stop the spread of other communicable illnesses.

Online video conferences, the staple of our everyday lockdown lives, probably won’t be going anywhere either. Coming from someone who hopped on a plane twice a month to see his family in Northern California, only to fly back to Los Angeles days later for school, the ability to attend class–and work– from hundreds of miles away unlocks a whole new level of efficiency. Even my dad, who used to make monthly trips to China for customer meetings, has no plans to return to such arrangements. “What’s the point?” he said. And he’s right. There are so many things we used to do–meetings, classes, interviews–that work better for all parties on Zoom. Obviously, there is no substitute for in-person interaction, but “Zooming” has proven itself a worthy alternative in a world where people cannot always be in the same place.

Yes, masks and Zoom have impacted our lives, but the strides made in online shopping are rivaled by none. There is nothing quite like opening the front door to find a week’s worth of groceries on the welcome mat. No more endless Costco checkout lines, no more Herculean efforts to get all the bags from the cart to the car in one go, and definitely no more water misters turning on right as you stick your head near the fresh produce. Do those things even do anything? Twohour grocery shopping, one-day Amazon deliveries, take-out from all your favorite restaurants–everything is at your fingertips, just one click away. Though we may soon put the horrors of COVID-19 behind us, it’s worth hoping that some of the changes in the way we conduct our business will linger.

A lot of these changes look as if they might stick around for some time.