he ommentator T The Independent C Student Newspaper of Yeshiva University

VOL. LXXXVI TUESDAY, APRIL 20, 2021 ISSUE NO. 11 NYC Vaccine Site Opens on Wilf Campus as NYS Eligibility Expands

By Yosef Lemel

This article was originally published online on April 7.

A New York City vaccine site, offer- ing the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, opened on Yeshiva University’s Wilf Campus on Wednesday, April 7 following the expan- sion of vaccine eligibility to all New York residents or workers above the age of 16 on Tuesday, April 6. The site is located in Weissberg Commons — on the ground floor of Belfer Hall — and will be available to the public through June 2021, according to an April 5 email from the university announcing the site’s opening. The times of operation are from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday; the location will be closed for Shabbos and Jewish holidays. “As part of our mission, we are always looking for ways to help the community at large, especially during these unprecedent- ed times,” expressed President Ari Berman in a statement to The Commentator. “This includes opening our campus to the city's historic COVID vaccination effort and contributing to greater vaccine access and health equity for Northern Manhattan residents.”

The April 5 email, which first notified YOSEF LEMEL Belfer Hall, where the vaccine site is located Continued on Page 4

Hedi Steinberg Library Set YU Planning to Eliminate to Undergo Renovations In-Person Hebrew Programs, Over the Summer Move to Completely Asynchronous lighting, as well as a range of seating op- Model Beginning in Fall 2022 By Rikki Kolodony tions, including lounge seating. “The reimagined space will greatly ben- The Beren Campus' Hedi Steinberg efit student learning,” said Rina Krautwirth, coursework and managing their busy aca- Library will be undergoing renovations, a research and instruction librarian at the By Sruli Fruchter demic schedules.” which are expected to begin and be com- Hedi Steinberg Library. “I feel that rede- Botman charged Dr. Aaron Koller, pleted this upcoming summer, according signing the reference desk will provide This article was originally published online coordinator of the Wilf Campus Hebrew to Paul Glassman, director of Scholarly and the students with enriched access to ref- on April 14. Language Program, and Dr. Zafira Cultural Resources, and Edith Lubetski, erence services [and] I expect that more Lidovsky-Cohen, chair of the Stern College head librarian at the Hedi Steinberg students will use the library because of Plans are in motion to eliminate the in- for Women (SCW) Hebrew Language & Library. these changes.” person, undergraduate Hebrew programs Literature Department, with developing a As per Glassman and Lubetski, Hila The reconstruction is being paid for by and move them to a completely asynchro- fully online Hebrew program for Fall 2022. Stern, an architect and designer of Tel Aviv a $250,000 grant from the State of New nous model beginning in Fall 2022, The Koller and Lidovsky-Cohen have already University, is in charge of redesigning the York's Dormitory Authority (DASNY), as Commentator has learned. contacted a course designer recommended Hedi Steinberg Library. A new research per Glassman and Lubetski. DASNY is the “The work to move our Hebrew language by Botman about her proposal. Botman has instruction lab, which will be subdivided, state government's financial and building courses online is designed to improve our not been in direct contaighlct with Hebrew will be included in the redesign. The lab will regulator. DASNY invests in, plans for, and students’ academic experiences in Hebrew faculty about these plans. act as a classroom for the use of essential builds health and education programs that language,” explained Provost and Vice “[T]here are many bridges to be crossed on-site research instruction. It will be open support inclusive, long-term communities. President for Academic Affairs Dr. Selma and uncertainties to be resolved before to the entire Beren Campus. The lab can Glassman proposed the renovation de- Botman, who first proposed the changes in specific plans can be finalized,” Koller said. be used as a group study room when it is sign plan to Assembly Member Nily Rozic's the early weeks of Spring 2021. At this point, it is unclear how many, if not in operation by classes and there will office before submitting it to DASNY liai- She added that this was “[i]nformed any, Hebrew faculty will be rehired after be newly-renovated group study rooms son, Jon Greenfield of Government Affairs. by feedback from students who have tak- Spring 2022. with flat-screen TVs and improved screen- The renovation will most likely begin in the en Hebrew language online here at YU” In the current model for Wilf Campus, sharing technology. There will also be new summer of 2021, he said, pending approval and the new model will “provide students based on a placement test taken before with greater flexibility in completing the support and information desks, carpeting, Continued on Page 4 Continued on Page 4

NEWS | 5 FEATURES | 11 OPINIONS | 15 BUSINESS | 18

Rabbi Dr. Bernard Rosensweig z'"tl Ending the Agunah Crisis Where Will We Be For Commencement '21? Hasty Highlights 2 From the Editor's Desk Tuesday , April 20, 2021

The Commentator From the Editor's Desk 2020-2021 President Berman, What Happened Editor-in-Chief YOSEF LEMEL to Being the “World’s Premier Jewish

Educational Institution”? Managing Editor ELISHEVA KOHN a convincing enough reason to sustain convincing enough to stop the univer- By The Commentator Editorial the Hebrew program with normal, in- sity from moving the course drop date Board person classes. without a “W” five weeks earlier than For a university that prides it- usual, a change students were vocally News “By offering in one institution a self on being the flagship of Modern against. Senior Editor Junior Editors comprehensive, integrated educational Orthodoxy, these changes speak vol- The administration may think it fair SRULI FRUCHTER SHLOMIT EBBIN program that produces the Jewish lead- umes as to where YU’s priorities lie, to presume that the average student JARED SCHARF ers of the next generations ... Yeshiva and Jewish studies are not among them. wants a lighter mandatory college work- University is the world’s premier Jewish Of course, this is not the only disci- load with “greater flexibility.” Perhaps Features educational institution.” pline taking the backseat at YU. Indeed, that is the case, unfortunately, but why Senior Editor Junior Editors These words were spoken by liberal arts departments are also feeling would the university endorse that? We ELAZAR ABRAHAMS DANIEL MELOOL President Ari Berman in his 2017 in- the brunt of faculty cuts and feelings of need a Jewish studies curriculum that NETANI SHIELDS vestiture speech, along with his other second-class status from the univer- challenges us and hope YU has not giv- high praises of YU as “an institution for sity. However, can Yeshiva University en up on its mission to be “the world’s Opinions the Jewish community and the broader honestly say its Jewish curricula were premier Jewish institution,” a state- Senior Editor Junior Editors society.” He lauded YU for what it had meant to be treated as if they are just ment that does not imply mediocrity. AHARON NISSEL ARIEL KAHAN another academic specialty? At this point, these suggestions can done and would do for the Jewish com- NAFTALI SHAVELSON munity and the world at large. Now, only remain general, as the university however, in contrast to this optimistic If YU does not stop its has shied away from concrete expla- vision, we fear the future is dark for YU. nations for its actions. If specifics are It is failing its students and the com- onslaught on Jewish needed, however, then here are a few: Business munity as a Jewish institution. studies — decimating Keep the Hebrew program in-person, Senior Editor Junior Editors This decline and fall of Jewish stud- re-hire adjuncts of SCW’s Jewish YAAKOV METZ MAX ASH ies at YU goes back to at least 2015, the university’s Hebrew Studies Department and bring back a ALIZA LEICHTER when the Sy Syms School of Business revamped Intro to Bible requirement (SSSB) changed its policies to scrap program, cutting its faculty to YC. the traditional Jewish studies course and limiting course offerings In December 1991, The Commentator Senior Layout Editor load, including Jewish History and learned that the university was plan- MICAH PAVA Bible. Four years later, in 2019, Yeshiva — we fear that it will ning to shut down the Bernard Revel College (YC) scrapped the requirement Graduate School of Jewish Studies. In Social Media Manager for students to take an “Intro to Bible” meet the point when Jewish response, over 1,000 students signed SHIRA LEVITT course, causing a plummet in enroll- studies will be completely a petition and hundreds showed up to ments of a course necessary for a well- protest, marching to President Lamm’s Website Manager office and demanding the university rounded Jewish education. Professor forgotten. RAPHAEL ALCABES Moshe Bernstein, a longtime Bible pro- reverse its decision. “Jewish School, fessor at YC, said at the time that the Jewish Studies!” they chanted. Facing new requirements are “but one more Jewish studies are struggling to heavy pressure, the university eventu- Business Manager manifestation of a watering-down of the survive with an ever-declining pool of ally reversed its decision. MEIR LIGHTMAN Yeshiva College liberal arts education.” faculty and academic class offerings, If YU does not stop its onslaught Now, YU has expressed several other and YU is continuing to suffocate them. on Jewish studies — decimating the We are calling on YU to stop toppling university’s Hebrew program, cutting Layout Staff manifestations of this neglect. DEBORAH COOPERSMITH, In Spring 2021, the YU adminis- its Jewish studies academics and start its faculty and limiting course offerings RAFAELA KAPITANKER, SHIRA LEVITT tration dissolved YC’s Jewish Studies focusing its efforts on revolutionizing — we fear that it will meet the point Department — the largest department them, a feat that can be made possible when Jewish studies will be completely at YC — and moved Jewish History and by following two steps: forgotten. Now is not the time for YU Staff Writers Jewish Philosophy professors into the First, the university ought to stop to backtrack on its mission to be the DEBORAH COOPERSMITH, History and Philosophy departments, treating Jewish studies as disposable foremost university for Jewish students ZAHAVA FERTIG, ZACHARY GREENBERG, respectively. Lingering faculty were and start viewing their existence as a across the globe. ARIEL KAHAN, RIKKI KOLODONY, pushed into the newly-formed Bible, fundamental component of YU’s iden- President Berman himself partici- YONATAN KURZ, JONATHAN LEVIN Hebrew, and Near Eastern Studies tity. Could we imagine YU liquidating pated in the protests to save gradu- AKIVA LEVY, GILAD MENASHE Department. The Commentator recent- the undergraduate Torah program- ate Jewish studies at Revel. This time RAPHI SINGER, ly learned that Jewish Studies adjunct ming and batei midrash under any we ask that he make an effort to save ALEXANDER WILDES professors at Stern College for Women circumstances? undergraduate Jewish studies. As he (SCW) — without any warning — were Second, instead of scrapping cours- concluded in his investiture, “Join us The Commentator is the student newspaper of told via email that they would not be es and disbanding departments, the in our journey. Be a part of history, as Yeshiva University. rehired for Fall 2021. university should invest its time and we maximize our potential, write a new For 86 years, The Commentator has served Then, we discovered that YU was resources in figuring out what isn’t chapter in the Jewish story and work students and administrators as a communicative planning to eliminate its in-person working and seeking to remedy it — to make a lasting impact on the history conduit; a kinetic vehicle disseminating not with a cheapened, “easier” program, of all of humanity.” undergraduate social, religious and academic Hebrew programs for Wilf and Beren beliefs across the student bodies; and a reliable students and move them onto an on- but with something that enriches our reflection of Yeshiva student life to the broader line, asynchronous model beginning academic experience in a meaningful Editor’s Note: For an article to be Jewish and American communities. way while still addressing university designated under the byline of “The in Fall 2022. Even before this hap- The Commentator staff claims students pened, Biblical Hebrew was eliminated concerns. Commentator Editorial Board,” a spanning the diverse spectrum of backgrounds from the Wilf Campus program in its Provost Botman reasoned that an minimum of 75% of editorial board and beliefs represented at Yeshiva. Spring 2020 updates. The universi- online Hebrew program would “im- members, including the editor-in-chief, prove students’ academic experiences,” are required to give their assent. This We are united by our passion for living the ty’s own outdated website celebrates ideals of Torah Umadda, and a commitment to that “The Hebrew language has long giving them “greater flexibility in com- editorial received unanimous support journalistic excellence. nurtured the national identity of the pleting the coursework and manag- from the editorial board. Jewish people,” but clearly that is not ing their busy academic schedules.” Visit us online at The irony is that this argument wasn’t www.yucommentator.org. Tuesday, April 20, 2021 7 Up 7 Down 3

SWAG DAY!!!!! 1 Either you're in Syms, on a sports team, or straight out of the 1960s. But hey, it’s Swag Day so no complaints here. YU COVID VACCINATION CENTER 2 Friends don’t let friends push off getting vaccinations.

Yiddish Comes to Duolingo 3 “Lemel means a (little) lamb.” White Button Down Shirts

Rinse, Lather and Repeat. With Shabbos, Double Rosh Chodesh, Yom Zikaron, Yom Ha’atzmaut, and Shabbos I sure hope everyone has more 4 than one white shirt. Free Food, You Say?

A little rain couldn’t stop our individually packaged and wrapped BBQ or a game of giant checkers this Yom Ha’atzmaut. All is well as long as you 5 don’t sing along with the chazan during Tefillah Chagigit.

Anonymity 6 Sometimes it seems like I can write whatever I want here because a large portion of our readers still think that Elisheva/Elli/Lizzie Kohn has been writing this column all year. Feel free to prove me wrong.

“To the Heights” Rides Groupchat

Avoiding the train at all costs … but also don’t want to spend a fortune on your parent’s credit card. And who knows, maybe one of your next

7 Uber buddies will be your or a friend’s bashert. (Can anyone bring a small package for me???)

7 7UP by ZahavaDOWN Fertig

Accellion CYBERHACK THE RUSSIANS ARE COMING. 1 Conflicts of Interest? Knowledge is power and right now, I feel very powerful … 2 Honors Senior Thesis Nightmare Only 25 pages you say? Yikes ... 3 HEST Unrest

That moment when Rav Goldwicht gave a 10 minute speech at the tekes ma’avar entirely in Hebrew on the same day The Commentator published the plans for all Hebrew Language classes to be taught asynchronously and virtually by Fall 2022. 4

StuCo Election OPEN SEASON! Petitions or essays, raffles and WhatsApps. Pass those donuts around cuz there’s gonna be dramaaaaaa. 5 . Deeply Rooted, Forward ... Focused? It’s grammatically awkward and a lot less catchy than Torah Umaddah but at least it’s easier to remember than all five of the Torot. 6 39 Days until Commencement May 26, where will you be? 7 4 News Tuesday , April 20, 2021 HEBREW PROGRAM Continued from Front Page their first semester, students take either YC, felt strongly about the current Hebrew able to find anyone who can credibly argue other plans.” one, two or three semesters of Hebrew in a program. “What I can say, with confidence, that the asynchronous model is a better Others were adamantly against the uni- stream-lined process through courses num- is that the current model of learning Hebrew model for teaching Hebrew language. I’m versity’s plans. “My worst fear when YU bered 1010, 1020 and 1030. Those who score in the Men’s undergraduate programs has just sad that we have reached the point at began offering asynchronous courses dur- exceptionally high on the exam take one been exceptionally successful,” she said. which this fact is beside the point.” ing the pandemic is that they wouldn’t end semester of an advanced Hebrew course, Schachter noted that while students be- In January 2021, the Robert M. Beren when the pandemic did,” remarked Zach marked as 1040. This system went into ef- gin their requirements at various levels, the Department of Jewish Studies at YC was Ottenstein (YC ‘22), who has not yet begun fect in Fall 2020. current program “empowers students to dissolved, and the Department of Bible, his Hebrew requirement. “People choose YU Beren students must also complete a engage more fully in the Jewish texts they Hebrew, and Near Eastern Studies was for its relatively small and personal classes in placement exam to enroll in Hebrew cours- now study in the Yeshiva and will continue formed, which now includes the Hebrew all subjects. However much it may be in the es, and depending on their score, they take university's interest to move the [Hebrew] one, two or three semesters of Hebrew. “I will say that this decision is a sad one for the students of YC program to an asynchronous model, I am Depending on how high their score is, stu- personally opposed.” dents can be exempted from the Hebrew and SCW.” Jocelyn Cohen (SSSB ‘23), who has only requirement altogether. ___ taken Hebrew online, felt similarly about Hebrew Department faculty were dis- Prof. Lori Linzer online learning. “I believe it is very im- mayed at the news of the university’s plans portant to have synchronous classes when and have little confidence in the success of to study throughout their lives,” also en- program. SCW still retains its Hebrew learning a language,” she explained. “It’s all an asynchronous Hebrew program. “I will abling them to “to understand their daily Language & Literature Department, as it about conversation. It is very hard to have say that this decision is a sad one for the tefillot [prayers] and interact with their operated in previous semesters. dialogue when there aren’t two sides to the students of YC [Yeshiva College] and SCW,” Israeli brethren.” Some students, like Ozzie Jeselsohn conversation.” said Prof. Lori Linzer. Both professors also stressed the impor- (YC ‘23), felt conflicted about the potential “Over the past year, due to [the] “When I began teaching at YC about 8 tance of learning Hebrew in an in-person changes. “I’ve been taking Hebrew classes COVID-19 pandemic we have worked years ago,” she said, “I was impressed with classroom environment, which could not since my middle and high school years, and closely with our faculty to adapt courses the level of customization that was available be achieved online. “So much of the learn- I very much understand the importance of to virtual settings and have been able to to students in their morning programs and ing that happens in the Hebrew classroom, them being face-to-face,” he said, adding establish a strong Hebrew language course their Hebrew programs, and it was clear that whether on Zoom or in person, happens in that “Taking Hebrew this semester online in an asynchronous format,” Dean of the this personal touch and individualized ap- real time, through genuine interactions,” came with a bunch of problems, one of them Undergraduate Faculty of Arts and Sciences proach set YU apart from other campuses. Linzer explained. “Our classes are not lec- being having to type vs. write your answers Karen Bacon told The Commentator. “This Now this distinguishing feature of the YU tures — they are almost entirely interac- for exams.” is still in development and any updates on experience seems to be evaporating, and its tive — with students answering questions, However, based on Botman’s explanation plans for Hebrew language classes in fall offerings are starting to look a lot more like conducting dialogues, or collaborating in of how this could help students, Jesselson 2022 will be announced during the spring an online university.” many other ways.” commented, “I’m relieved knowing that I’ll 2022 timeframe.” Prof. Aliza Schachter, who also teaches at Linzer added, “I don’t think you will be have more time in my day to make room for BEREN LIBRARY Continued from Front Page from Greenfield's office, so there will be no new study rooms. Libraries to create an optimal space in the you cannot find a single person [who] would need for a temporary space for students The library staff appears to be very op- Hedi Steinberg Library dedicated to helping disapprove of the incredible renovations of during that period. timistic regarding the renovation. “I am students,” Glassman told The Commentator. the library. I personally can't wait to see it The Hedi Steinberg Library was last reno- looking forward excitedly to the implemen- “We believe the results will be a comfort- after it's completely renovated!” vated in 2016. The renovation was limited tation of the renovation,” Lubetski said. “The able and flexible environment that supports “The library definitely gives more...of to the first floor of the library, and it -in new look should be very welcoming and at- individual and group study-and student an older feeling,” Jacqueline Rabih (Katz cluded the conversion of a periodical room tractive. The added classrooms [and] study success.” School of Science and Health ‘24) told The into group and individual study rooms. The rooms will be a wonderful addition [and] we Students seem to be delighted with the Commentator, “ a new renovation [will] upcoming renovation will be similar to the expect the students to be very happy with future renovation as well. “YU has been mak- give more of a fresh feeling…[and] is a great Wilf Campus' Mendel Gottesman Library the changes.” ing a lot of changes lately ... that some people route to take given that change is always for renovation, which began in 2015 and ended “I’m thrilled with the grant from the State approve and some disapprove,” Amalya the better.” in 2017, in terms of updated software and of New York which will allow the University Teitlebaum (SSSB ‘23) expressed. “However,

WILF VACCINATION SITE Continued from Front Page university still requires the participation students about the opening of the site, noted of vaccinated students and staff in the that the university “is only providing space COVID-19 monitoring program through and has no part in the operation” of the site; their taking bi-weekly rapid tests. “We are rather, it will be operated by Centers Urgent continuing to work with our medical direc- Care “on behalf of New York City.” YU set tor and NYC and NYS health and safety up separate entrances and exits from the protocols, and if there are any updates to site, which are monitored by security of- our policies we will share [them],” he said. ficers to “maintain the safety and security Although more students will now be of the campus.” able to receive vaccines, the university cur- Berman credited the site’s establishment rently has no plans for altering its virtual to the university’s “partnership with Mayor commencement ceremony to an in-person Bill de Blasio’s office, Assembly Member format, according to Aliza Berenholz Peled, Carmen De La Rosa and Congressmember senior director of events and brand experi- Adriano Espaillat, as well as Eric Goldstein ence, citing NYS COVID-19 guidelines as and the UJA who are helping coordinate” the rationale. outreach to vulnerable populations, includ- COVID-19 cases have been steadily de- ing Holocaust survivors. creasing in NYC. As of the time of publica- Appointments at the site, and at other tion, NYC Department of Health statistics NYC locations, can be scheduled through put the number of confirmed cases in the the online NYC Vaccine Finder or by calling past week at 17,498, down from a weekly 877-VAX-4NYC. YU’s vaccine site is one out average in the past month of 19,573. Over of 25 sites that allow for New Yorkers who 4.5 million doses have been administered are 75 or older to walk in and receive the in NYC; 37% of the adult population have vaccine without scheduling an appointment. received at least one dose and 23% are fully Some students were happy to hear that vaccinated. a vaccine site will open on campus. “I think “We are extremely privileged to be able that this arrangement has great potential to to partner with the City at the Yeshiva create a bond between Yeshiva University University vaccination site in order to keep and the rest of the wider Washington Heights the community safe from this challenging community and will benefit the YU student pandemic,” stated Centers Urgent Care CEO body greatly by providing them conve- S. Scott Orlanski. “Centers Urgent Care is in nient access to vaccination,” said Zachary business to provide the best possible care YOSEF LEMEL Ottenstein (YC ‘22). for the community and providing this vac- Inside the vaccine site Vice Provost for Student Affairs Chaim cine is a vital effort that we are proud to be Nissel told The Commentator that the a part of.” Tuesday, April 20, 2021 News 5 Rabbi Dr. Bernard Rosensweig, Longtime YU Professor, Passes Away at 94

By Yosef Lemel Theological Seminary (RIETS) in the Rav’s and their Application,” “The Origins of son, Rabbi Dr. Michael Rosensweig — a rosh shiur. Other students in the Rav’s shiur at Ashkenazic Jewry in Germany” and “The yeshiva at RIETS and rosh kollel of the Beren This article was originally published the time included Rabbi Dr. Sol Roth, Rabbi Thirteenth Tribe, The Khazars and the Kollel Elyon — stated that his father was online on March 31. Dr. Moshe Tendler, Rabbi Binyamin Walfish Origins of East European Jewry.” He also “able to be part of the beis medrash” while Rabbi Dr. Bernard (Berel) Rosensweig, and Rabbi Dr. Norman Lamm, the latter of authored a book studying the transformation being able to “take that passion and those a former professor of Jewish History at whom was Rabbi Rosensweig’s roommate of Ashkenazic Jewry in the 15th century titled values” and “translate them as a professor Yeshiva University for 38 years, passed away for three years. “Ashkenazic Jewry in Transition.” in the college and elsewhere.” He added, “I on Thursday, March 25 at the age of 94. Rabbi Rosensweig received semikha from After teaching at Queens College for a few can’t recall a single self-conscious moment Born on Oct. 26, 1926, Rabbi Rosensweig the Rav in 1950, a master’s from the Bernard years, Rabbi Rosensweig taught classical, when he’s had any difficulty with any of these grew up in Toronto, Ontario. In his early Revel Graduate School (BRGS) in 1967 and medieval and modern Jewish History at YC, hats. That’s an amazing legacy.” years, he learned secular subjects at Clinton “Rabbi Dr. Bernard Rosensweig not Street Public School and Harbord Collegiate “I feel very much a part of what I teach, no matter what level or only taught Jewish history, he lived Jewish in the mornings and Jewish studies at what time period.” history. His outstanding work as a rabbi, Yeshiva Torah Chaim in the afternoons un- ___ educator, scholar and communal leader pro- der the tutelage of Rabbi Avraham Aharon foundly impacted generations of students Price, one of Toronto’s leading rabbis. Rabbi Bernard Rosensweig and our community as a whole,” President In 1944, when Rabbi Rosensweigwas 17, Ari Berman told The Commentator. “As a he came to New York City to study at Yeshiva a doctorate from BRGS in 1970. He first the James Striar School and the Isaac Breuer devoted student of the Rav, he exemplified College (YC). “The idea of this combination served as rabbi of Bais Yehuda Synagogue College from 1976 to 2014. He also helped the core values of our community and leaves of learning Torah and getting the kind of and Congregation Shaarei Tefilah in Toronto create and administer the Jewish History behind a family and legacy that continues education that you want … overwhelmed and eventually, when he moved to Queens, AP exam for high school students. Then- to inspire.” me,” he later reflected. “It wasn’t easy for as rabbi of Congregation Adath Yeshurun in YU President Norman Lamm conferred an Rabbi Rosensweig’s wife of 61 years, me to come. It was the Depression. We had Kew Gardens. He also served as vice pres- honorary doctorate on Rabbi Rosensweig in Miriam Rosenberg-Rosensweig, passed no money. But I made it.” ident, financial secretary and eventually 1994 at YU’s 63rd commencement ceremony. away in December 2010. They are survived At YC, Rabbi Rosensweig learned in the president (1978-80) of the Rabbinical In honor of Rabbi Rosensweig’s retire- by their five children, Marilyn Amar, Josh the shiurim of Rabbi Moshe Shatzkes, the Council of America (RCA), the largest ment in December 2014, YU held a tribute Rosensweig, Judah Rosensweig, Rabbi “Lomza Rav,” and Rabbi Dovid Lifshitz, Modern Orthodox rabbinical organization for him, attended by around 100 friends, Michael Rosensweig and Sharon Gottlieb, the “Suvalker Rav,” after which he trans- in North America. relatives and colleagues. “I love teach- in addition to many grandchildren and great- ferred to the shiur of Rabbi Dr. Joseph B. Over the decades, Rabbi Rosensweig ing Jewish History to the boys in Yeshiva grandchildren. He was buried in the RCA Soloveitchik, “the Rav,” who was a primary penned articles on various topics for College,” Rabbi Rosensweig reflected. “I feel section of the Eretz HaChaim Cemetery in mentor to Rabbi Rosensweig throughout his Tradition — a journal of Orthodox Jewish very much a part of what I teach, no matter Israel on Friday, March 26. life. He graduated YC in 1947 and contin- Thought regularly published by the RCA what level or what time period.” ued his studies at the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan — including “The Hermeneutic Principles At the tribute, Rabbi Bernard Rosensweig’s

Rabbi Rosensweig spoke at a tribute held in his honor in 2014. YESHIVA UNIVERSITY RIETS Hosts Community Yizkor Program in Memory of COVID-19 Victims Glasser and RIETS Dean Rabbi Menachem seats [at the seder table] of treasured and prominent leaders of our generation.” By Gilad Menashe Penner. Rabbi Glasser, Rabbi Penner and beloved loved ones,” he noted in his opening Rabbi Schacter was then introduced and CJF Senior Scholar Rabbi Dr. Jacob J. remarks. Rabbi Glasser continued saying discussed the recovery from a loved one’s This article was originally published Schacter each spoke during the program. that, metaphorically, “for the larger seder passing. He said, “While we fully acknowl- online on April 13. Rabbi Glasser served as the moderator of of the Jewish People there were tremendous edge that we will always remember [our The Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological the event. “For so many, there were empty voids created by the loss of some of the most loved ones]... we still try to move forward.” Seminary (RIETS) held a community Yizkor After a short video was played in memory program on Thursday, April 1 in remem- “Our Yizkor event was an opportunity to mourn and reflect of many of the Jewish leaders that the Jewish brance of the victims of the COVID-19 pan- community lost, Rabbi Penner spoke, echo- demic and Jewish leaders that have passed together, as a YU family. Especially at times of crisis, that ing Rabbi Schacter’s thoughts. “Through us, away within the past year. The event took extended family is critical for our emotional and religious well- the lives of those who are lost are contin- place over Zoom and attracted over 130 ued,” he said. “They are judged every year attendees. being.” based on what they really accomplished, The event was planned by Yeshiva ___ which was not the limited amount that was University’s Center for the Jewish Future RIETS Dean Rabbi Menachem Penner done during their lives but the amount they (CJF) Community Programming Director Rabbi Dov Winston, CJF Dean Rabbi Yaakov Continued on Page 6 6 News Tuesday , April 20, 2021 Leading NYC Mayoral Candidates Speak to YU via Student-Organized Virtual Forum students asked candidates various ques- –– agreed; McGuire emphasized that “every mayor of youth engagement, Garcia spoke By Elisheva Kohn tions relating to the relationship between the educator should have access to equitable about the need to “have interfaith conver- Jewish community and public officials, ineq- sources of funding,” and Stringer talked sations,” and collaborate with Israel’s tech This article was originally published online uity in Washington Heights, hate crimes in about his experience bringing kosher and industry, McGuire discussed the “systemic on March 23. the city, funding for private schools, Jewish halal food options to NYC’s public school inequalities that exist in healthcare, in edu- school curricula, the Boycott Divestments system. cation” in Washington Heights, home to the Four leading Democratic NYC mayoral and Sanctions (BDS) movement, NYC part- Regarding the equivalency in instruction Wilf Campus and Stringer addressed how candidates — Kathryn Garcia, Scott Stringer, nerships with Israel and many other issues. at Orthodox private schools, Garcia main- he would improve the COVID-19 vaccine Ray McGuire and Eric Adams — participated Both McGuire and Stringer, the only can- tained that “parents need choice,” and that distribution in the city. in a virtual forum on Monday evening, or- didates present at the time, addressed the authorities should “not try and enforce and The event concluded with a “lightning ganized by the Yeshiva University Political uptick in hate crimes targeting the Jewish shove requirements down people’s throats.” round,” in which the candidates revealed Action Club (YUPAC) and the J.P. Dunner and Asian-American communities in NYC. McGuire, Garcia and Stringer all con- their favorite Yiddish word (McGuire’s was Political Science Society, to discuss various “Hate is on the rise,” acknowledged Stringer, demned the BDS movement. “I reject the “tachlis,” Garcia chose “shlep” and Adams issues ahead of the June NYC Democratic who attributed parts of the phenomenon to BDS movement and believe it is anti-Semit- opted for “mazal tov” after a pause), as well primary election. Former presidential candi- former President Donald Trump, who he ic and anti-Israel,” said Garcia. Similarly, as other light-hearted tidbits of information. date and current NYC mayoral frontrunner said “legitimized hate and white suprema- Stringer said that he “doesn’t support” the Yang’s expected attendance was only con- Andrew Yang was expected to partake in the cy.” McGuire spoke about Rabbi Abraham BDS movement, which McGuire also “abso- firmed the day before the forum took place, program but canceled mid-event. Joshua Heschel’s civil rights activism and lutely and full-heartedly” renounced. and students were disappointed to hear mid- According to YUPAC Co-President Meir his collaboration with Martin Luther King Shortly after Adams tuned in to the forum event that he canceled. “I was shocked by Lightman (SSSB ‘22), the organizers reached Jr. Combating hate crimes, he said, would and Stringer left to attend another campaign the announcement that Mr. Yang canceled. out to all NYC candidates who were polling be his “highest priority.” meeting, a student asked the candidates It took a lot to get him confirmed, so I was above 1% –– those who had a “viable chance” “We need to be supporting all of our whether they would pledge not to run for the surprised,” said Yael Evgi (SCW ‘21), the vice of becoming mayor –– to invite them to schools, regardless of whether or not they presidency while mayor. McGuire, Adams president of YUPAC. the forum, as directed by the university. are public or non-public,” said Garcia –– and Garcia said yes and added that they also Members of YUPAC did not release the “YU is a non-profit,” Lightman explained, who had joined a few minutes earlier –– in wouldn’t run for any other office. number of people who participated in the which is why the organizers had to “set a response to a student question about funding The candidates also addressed various end, though Lightman reported that over barometer and invite all the leading candi- for private schools. The two other candidates other issues relevant to the upcoming elec- 300 people had signed up to attend in ad- dates” to avoid supporting one candidate present at the time –– McGuire and Stringer tion; Adams promised to appoint deputy vance. Several journalists reporting on the over another. According to Lightman, the greater NYC area also tuned into the virtual student organizers worked with the Office forum, according to various Twitter threads. of Student Life and Jon Greenfield, director Some mayoral candidates mentioned dur- of YU’s Office of Government Relations, to ing the event that much campaigning ahead plan the virtual forum. of the primaries in June and the general The event started with opening remarks election in November has been taking place from Lightman and McGuire, the only can- virtually due to the pandemic. Just a day didate who arrived at the forum on time. before the forum with YU, Garcia met with Stringer joined shortly thereafter, followed YU High School for Boys (MTA) via Zoom. by Garcia, who arrived around 20 minutes “The forum took many hours of planning late due to traffic and apologized at the fo- over two months by over a dozen students rum, and Adams, who signed on a few min- and shows that YU students can accomplish utes before 7 p.m., which is when he was anything and garner the attention of politi- slated to join. cians, community leaders, and journalists McGuire spoke about his “long-stand- from across the city with hard work and ing relationship with the Jewish commu- determination," Alex Friedman (YC ‘22), nity,” particularly Hassidic groups and the co-president of the J.P. Dunner Political Agudath Israel of America, and how NYC Science Society, told The Commentator. has provided him with many opportunities Evgi said, “Overall, the event was success- despite his background. “I had a great edu- ful at educating the YU community about cation … a lot of debt and I had no money, the top polling NYC mayoral candidates re- and this city has been great to me,” he said. garding their political stances and what they After congratulating the YU Maccabees plan to do.” Charlie Kramer (YC ‘23), who on their successful season, Stringer spoke tuned in Monday evening, shared a similar about his upbringing in Washington Heights, sentiment. “It was so great seeing candidates and how he plans on tackling the long-term take the time to come to YU, and share their effects the COVID-19 pandemic had on the campaign visions,” he remarked. “Thank you city, which he said are “akin to the Great to the YUPAC and Dunner society presidents for leading such a successful event!” Depression.” A screenshot of the virtual forum that took YESHIVA UNIVERSITY POLITICAL ACTION CLUB Following a round of brief introductions, place on March 22

YIZKOR PROGRAM be-tzeror ha-hayyim [May their souls be Continued from Page 5 bound up in the bond of eternal life].” Students were appreciative of the speech- accomplished after.” es. “The event was really special,” shared The program then continued with the Rivka Barnett (SCW ‘21), who attended the recital of two chapters of Tehillim for the program. “I thought it was really power- remembrance of those who passed away from ful when Rabbi Schacter and Rabbi Penner COVID-19. The chapters were recited by emphasized that we should be comforted be- Rabbi Mark Karasick and Rabbi Tyler Pere, cause we are the ones who can continue the whose father Rabbi Joseph Karasick and legacy of those who are not with us anymore.” whose grandfather Rabbi Moshe Kwalbrun, This program follows another YU ini- respectively, passed away this past year due tiative related to the COVID-19 pandemic, to COVID-19. During the recital, names of which was launched this past March. YU deceased loved ones –– submitted by attend- developed a website with the purpose of ees before the program –– were displayed educating its students and the general pub- on the screen. lic on lessons learned from the COVID-19 In a statement sent to The Commentator, pandemic. According to their website, the Rabbi Schacter elaborated on his thoughts site functions as “a repository of the lessons from the event. “Memory is central to learned in teachable moments that will con- Judaism,” he said. “The root z-kh-r in tinue to guide us for the rest of our lives.” Hebrew means to ‘focus on this,’ ‘make this “Our Yizkor event was an opportunity important,’ and to do so through action. to mourn and reflect together, as a YU fam- We need to live our lives, proactively, in ac- ily,” Rabbi Penner reflected on the event. cordance with the values that animated the YESHIVA UNIVERSITY “Especially at times of crisis, that extended Rabbi Yaakov Glasser, Rabbi Menachem Penner and Rabbi Dr. lives of our loved ones who died. In this way, Jacob J. Scachter each spoke at the community Yizkor program. family is critical for our emotional and reli- they will live on and be remembered most gious well-being.” meaningfully. Tehei nishmatam tzerurot Tuesday, April 20, 2021 7 Course Drop Date Without a “W” Moved Five Weeks Earlier in 2021-22 Calendar

based on what is considered best practice in have at least “750 minutes of instruction Yeshiva Student Union sophomore repre- By Jared Scharf higher education while taking into account and 1,500 minutes of student preparation sentative, expressed, “While I understand local conditions. Some time ago we reviewed for each credit hour awarded” He explained that some of these changes may have been Yeshiva University moved the course drop our withdrawal from course policy and real- that “YU class schedules provide evidence” necessary in order to keep our accredita- date without a “W” five school weeks — not ized it was not consistent with best practices to Middle States — the organization that tion as an institution of higher education, I including the three weeks of Sukkot break in and needed to be reevaluated.” ensures that accredited institutions adhere wish the university would send out an email the fall — into each semester for the 2021- explaining the changes and why they were 22 academic year, a date five weeks earlier “Our withdrawal deadlines are now in line and consistent with made instead of just uploading the calendar than in past years, according to the academic to the website and allowing us to discover our peer institutions’ academic calendars.” them ourselves.” calendar that was released on Thursday, ___ April 7. The student body was not notified Lerman added, “If you don’t feel confident by the university administration about these University Registrar Jennifer Spiegel enough in your decisions and your reasons changes nor about the calendar’s release. for making them to send us an email explain- The course drop date without a “W” is When the Fall 2020 calendar was released to the minimum standards — “that YU fulfills ing them, then maybe those decisions were the last day of the semester that students to students after Spring 2020, the drop date its obligation to provide sufficient instruction not the right ones.” are able to withdraw from a class without a without a “W” was changed to be only four in its courses.” Some students felt positively about cer- “W” appearing on their transcript. In past weeks into the semester, nearly three months The calendar also indicated that there tain changes. “I think it’s smart that YU is years, this date was typically after midterms, earlier than in prior years. After student will now be five days of “remote instruction” planning on having remote instruction in about 10 school weeks after the semester backlash, the university changed the drop between Rosh Hashanah and the day after between Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur,” began. Students who wanted to withdraw date to its expected time on Dec. 2. Simchat Torah — from Sept. 10 until Oct. said Ellie Berger (SCW ‘22). “Since we had from a course after that date would need to In addition to the “W” drop date change 4. The university has not made any formal class at the same time this past year I had obtain permission and would receive a “W” of the 2021-22 calendar, reading week — announcements about the format through assumed that it would be the same next year, on their transcript. Now, that date has been the days before final exams designated for which classes will be taught next year. and the fact that they’re making it remote moved up by five weeks to October 18, two studying — will be shortened from five to Spiegel said that the academic calendar allows for out of towners or people who weeks before midterms begin. four days for Fall 2021 and from five to three committee met with student leaders be- want to travel for the chagim to do that and “The withdrawal date was moved up as days for Spring 2022. fore the calendar was released to get their have the flexibility to do their classes from part of a previously planned change to the “We are introducing study days instead feedback on this year’s academic calendar. wherever is convenient for them. They are 2020-21 academic calendar but was delayed of reading week this year in preparation Student leaders had the opportunity to ex- taking the benefits of Zoom school and using due to COVID,” University Registrar Jennifer for finals,” Spiegel explained. “These days press their thoughts regarding the changes it to our advantage.” Spiegel told The Commentator. “Our with- are completely non-instructional and allow to the calendar. Other students were particularly upset drawal deadlines are now in line and con- students to prepare for their upcoming finals. Commenting on the meeting, Yeshiva about the drop date change. “In all my se- sistent with our peer institutions’ academic This change allows our calendar to meet the College Student Council Vice President mesters at YU thus far, I had the comfort calendars.” Spiegel did not respond to The required number of instructional hours as Jonah Chill (YC ‘22) said, “I appreciated that of knowing that I could wait until after a Commentator’s inquiries regarding which well as maximizing the full content of courses the YU administration not only discussed the midterm to drop a course,” said Abie Jacobs institutions she was referring to. and also does not impact scheduled breaks upcoming academic calendar with students, (SSSB ‘22). “Now that the comfort has been In a statement to The Commentator in in the semester.” but also that they listened to students’ input removed, I will not have much time to gauge Spring 2020, Dean of the Undergraduate According to Special Assistant to the and incorporated it into the calendar.” whether a class is right for me or not. “I’ve Faculty of Arts and Sciences Dr. Karen Bacon Provost Timothy Stevens, colleges that are Other student leaders were still frustrated been happier about other things.” similarly said, “Our academic policies are provided with federal financial aid must with the changes. Baruch Lerman (YC ‘22),

Yeshiva University moved the course drop date without a “W” five school weeks earlier than in past years. YESHIVA UNIVERSITY 8 News Tuesday , April 20, 2021 Dr. Mordecai Katz, Major YU Benefactor, Dies at 88 for ways to spread our Jewish values and vice president of the entire corporation. offered 50% tuition scholarship and guar- By Raphi Singer ensure great success for our students.” Katz then decided to enroll in law school anteed admissions to a masters degree, if After graduating from Talmudic Academy and received a juris doctorate from New they meet eligibility requirements. Dr. Mordecai D. Katz, a major benefactor — an earlier name of Yeshiva University’s York University in 1978. Upon graduation ”Mordecai Katz was singularly ad- of YU’s Katz School of Science and Health, High School for Boys — in 1948, Katz at- from NYU Law, he was an associate for three mired for so many reasons,” Dean of the passed away on Thursday, March 19 at the tended the Polytechnic Institute of Brooklyn years at Fried, Frank a major New York City Undergraduate Faculty of Arts and Sciences age of 88. Katz, along with his wife, Dr. where he received a bachelor's degree in 1952. law firm, before leaving to become a private Karen Bacon said. “He was a man of mod- Monique C. Katz, donated $25 million to He then received a master’s degree in elec- investor with a home office in order to be able eration in his personal life, but passionate form the Katz School in 2016. trical engineering from the Massachusetts to spend more time with his family. about his commitment to family, to Jewish Katz was vice-chairman of the Yeshiva Institute of Technology in 1953 and a mas- The Katz School offers graduate degrees education and to the State of Israel. Dr. Katz University Board of Trustees and a trustee of ter’s degree in industrial management from in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, bio- was an exceptionally gifted problem solver YU for 25 years. Additionally, Katz was chair who was invaluable in helping to position of the Board of Overseers of the Bernard “Dr. Katz was a committed philanthropist whose generosity Yeshiva University for the future.” Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies “Dr. Katz was an optimist,” shared Paul and a member of the Board of Overseers of and leadership have transformed Yeshiva University and the Russo, dean of the Katz School. “As we talked the Azrieli Graduate School. In 1993, Katz Jewish world.” through strategies for the Katz School of was awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters ___ Science and Health, he saw only the pos- from YU for his commitment to champion- sible and the pathway to make it happen. ing its work. President Ari Berman He had just a few guidelines for the school: “Dr. Katz was a committed philanthro- it should be built on excellence and be sure pist whose generosity and leadership have Polytech Institute in 1961. tech and health, digital media and fintech, to add in Jewish values wherever you can. transformed Yeshiva University and the From 1963 to 1967, Katz was the di- and associates degrees in management or I am personally grateful for the chance to Jewish world,” President Ari Berman told rector of corporate planning at Kollsman liberal arts. The school also contains a “path- have worked with him.” The Commentator. “Together with his wife Instrument Corporation, an aircraft instru- ways” program, designed for undergraduate Katz is survived by his wife, Dr. Monique Dr. Monique C. Katz, the Katzes have long mentation manufacturing corporation. Katz students to enroll in a bachelor’s program C. Katz, and his four children, Rachel Katz, been extraordinary champions for our com- was also president of Kollsman Motors, a at Yeshiva College upon successful comple- Michael Katz, Gail Katz and Debra Katz, and munity. He led by example, always looking subsidiary of Kollsman Instrument from tion of an associate's degree; additionally, grandchildren. 1967 to 1970, then becoming promoted to graduating Yeshiva University seniors are

YESHIVA UNIVERSITY The Katz School was formed in 2016. Minyanim Return to Beren Campus for the First Time Since Pandemic Began

By Shlomit Ebbin the minyan, so Beren students could have Commentator why he decided to join. “When involved in making this possible,” said Yael the minimum of 10 men, and 12 students covid hit, it was frustrating when there were Laks (SCW ‘22). “It really uplifted my Rosh This article was originally published online signed up to attend. Isaac Breuer College no minyanim going on and you had to daven Chodesh experience!” on April 16. Representative Baruch Lerman (YC ‘23) every single day in your house,” he said. When asked if there will be a Rosh was also involved in helping recruit men for “When I was finally able to daven with a Chodesh minyan again next month, mem- A Rosh Chodesh minyan took place on bers of BMC responded that it is “unlike- the Beren Campus on Monday, April 12, and “It’s an invested value of the university, saying that this is ly” since Rosh Chodesh Sivan — the next the Shabbat minyanim on Beren are return- Jewish month — will take place during finals ing, starting this week on April 16 and 17. something important to us, that the women’s campus should and recruiting men from the uptown cam- These mark the firstminyanim on the Beren have a minyan each shabbat to collectively daven together as pus to come during that time may prove Campus since the COVID-19 pandemic shut challenging. down campuses in March 2020. a tzibur would.” Stern College for Women (SCW) will be Roughly 40 students from the Beren ___ returning to its pre-COVID system of hold- Campus attended the minyan, which took Rabbi Jacob Bernstein ing three minyanim on Shabbat every week place in the Lea and Leon Eisenberg Beit by hosting volunteer male undergraduates Midrash in Stanton Hall and was orga- at the Hilton Garden Inn in midtown and nized by Beit Midrash Committee (BMC) the minyan. The men were given a compli- minyan it was the best feeling, so I kind of providing them with free Shabbat meals. President Sarah Berman (SCW ‘22) and mentary breakfast of bagels, cream cheese know what the girls are going through and I The upcoming Shabbat minyan was orga- Torah Activities Council (TAC) President and Dunkin Donuts coffee after theminyan . was like, if I can help them make a minyan nized by the Office of Torah and Spiritual Nina Siegel (SCW ‘21). Shai Rosalimsky (SSSB ‘23), one of then why not go for it?” Life, the Office of Student Life and TAC Before Rosh Chodesh, an email was sent the students who came to Beren to be a Students expressed their appreciation for Continued on Page 9 to Wilf undergraduates informing them of member of the minyan, shared with The the minyan. “I want to thank all the people Tuesday, April 20, 2021 News 9 Hackers Steal YU Students’ and Employees’ Personal Information in Accellion Security Breach was posted online and is publicly visible, offline. The email added that “this incident by a link — “if the company does not contact By Sruli Fruchter including banking information, home ad- is limited to the Accellion application and us.” It concluded, “Call or write to this store dresses and two Social Security numbers. there has not been any unauthorized access and ask to protect your privacy!!!!” This article was originally published online As of publication, the students were not to Yeshiva’s computer systems.” Baruch Lerman (YC ‘23) told The on April 1. personally contacted by the university aside The email warned that the unauthor- Commentator that, on the morning of ized party has contacted members of the YU Tuesday, March 30, he received over 3,500 Hackers recently stole Yeshiva University “It is kind of scary that I community and that recipients should not emails from the hacking parties in his spam students’ and employees’ personal informa- “respond, open any attachments, or click any folder. “There were several that claimed they tion — including Social Security numbers got these to my YU email links.” It also urged that such contact should were from the ‘Yeshiva Online Security’ from and financial information — in a data secu- address while ITS is doing be forwarded to [email protected]. some random email address,” he said. “A rity breach of Accellion, Inc., a third-party The Commentator obtained an email re- bunch [were] from ‘CLOP RANSOMWARE vendor used by the university to securely maintenance work on the ceived by students from the hackers with the TEAM’ and a bunch that said I went to transfer files. The university’s Information subject line, “Your personal data has been Stanford University. I've been getting more Technology Services (ITS) emailed students internal YU systems though” stolen and will be published.” The return since then though the amount has definitely on Thursday, April 1 that they are investigat- ___ address was different for each email received thinned a bunch.” ing the “data security incident.” Baruch Lerman (YC '23) by students. Some alumni, whose personal He added, “It is kind of scary that I got Several institutions, including Stanford information was compromised from the these to my YU email address while ITS is University and the University of Maryland, from the general email sent to students. breach, told The Commentator that they doing maintenance work on the internal YU were also affected by the Accellion breach. According to its website, Accellion is a have not received any communication from systems though.” On March 26, ITS emailed The Stanford Daily reported that hackers “private cloud solutions company focused YU on the matter. students that it is conducting “scheduled leaked Social Security numbers, emails and on secure file sharing and collaboration.” “If you received this letter, you are a maintenance” for Self-Service Banner, a financial information of Stanford community Vulnerability in the California-based com- customer, student, partner or employee portal for students’ course registrations. members. Hackers threatened to release pany’s file-sharing application allowed an of Yeshiva University,” the email began. It Dr. Van Kelly, a Computer Science pro- some universities’ data unless they paid a unauthorized party to steal “certain univer- went on to say that “the company has been fessor at YU, said that “The most alarming ransom of $10 million in bitcoin. sity files, some of which may have contained hacked” and its stolen data will be released. claims in the news seem to be, at least partly, The Commentator has confirmed that the personal information,” ITS’ email said. The “We inform you that information about you Continued on Page 10 personal information of three YU students university has since taken the platform will be published on the darknet” — followed

BEREN CAMPUS MINYANIM RETURN Continued from Page 8 and is scheduled to take place in the Koch enjoy a student-centered minyan of our 2016 semester by TAC and the Shabbat The reestablishment of minyanim on the Auditorium with mincha, kabbalat Shabbat own on campus,” said Associate Dean of Enhancement Committee. Additionally, Beren Campus is made possible by the recent and maariv on Friday night and shacharit, Torah Studies and Spiritual Life Shoshana prior to the COVID-19 outbreak, a weekly expansion of COVID-19 vaccine eligibility mincha and maariv on Shabbat day. The Schechter, who will be one of the guests on Tuesday shacharit minyan on the Beren in NYS, which now includes everyone aged minyanim are to take place every Shabbat the Beren Campus this coming Shabbat and Campus was established in February 2020. 16+. In addition to the minyanim, students for the rest of the semester and will consist was very involved in the minyan-planning “One of the major components to build- on both campuses now have the opportunity of men both from the families of the Shabbat process. “We know the students have missed ing community is to have opportunities for to sign up to eat meals with a group of up guests and students from the Wilf Campus. the opportunity to attend minyan on cam- the community to daven together,” shared to six people instead of the usual socially “I think it's so exciting that Shabbat on pus, and have been patiently waiting for the Beren Campus Rabbi Jacob Bernstein. “It’s distanced seating that has been in place since the Beren Campus slowly feels like it's tran- time that minyan can return.” something that has been wanted by students, the start of the Fall Semester. According to sitioning back to what it was, while also “It was incredible having a minyan by us, by faculty. A lot of people have wanted the Shabbat sign up email, if someone in the incorporating the Shabbat experience we've this Monday morning for Rosh Chodesh. this to come back, we just needed to get the group tests positive for COVID-19, everyone worked hard to create up until this point,” Somehow everyone felt closer together de- right point in which we were capable of do- who sat in that group will be required to said TAC VP of Shabbat Eliana Feifel (SCW spite the distance. Even though we couldn’t ing so in a way that was safe.” quarantine. ‘21). sing, it was a semblance of normalcy. It Rabbi Bernstein added, “it’s an invested “This decision is part of our ongoing ef- Since students returned to campus this should continue and I’m hopeful for this value of the university, saying that this is forts to continue to evolve and evaluate how fall, Kabbalat Shabbat took place in the Shabbat,” shared Lizzie Janssen (SCW ‘22). something important to us, that the women’s best to create a robust Shabbat experience Koch auditorium without a minyan, and “Though I love Adereth El with all of its campus should have a minyan each shabbat that is both safe and enjoyable for our stu- Beren students were encouraged to attend history, it will be nice to be in our own beit to collectively daven together as a tzibur dents, and complies with applicable legal Congregation Talmud Torah Adereth El midrash with Rabbi Bernstein running the would.” guidelines,” Schechter said about the min- located on East 29th Street for minyan dur- show.” YU has not held a minyan on the Beren yan. “We are looking forward to this next ing the day. The push among SCW students for Campus since the COVID-19 pandemic first stage of returning to normal. “While we're grateful to the 29th minyan to return to Beren Campus reflects affected the community in March 2020, Street Shul for consistently opening their attitude over recent years. The weekly though many students returned to campus their doors to us, we recognize how im- Shabbat minyan currently being reinsti- in October 2020 and minyanim on the Wilf portant it is for the Beren community to tuted was originally launched in the Fall Campus resumed at that time.

MINYAN ATTENDEE Approximately 40 students attended Beren’s first Rosh Chodesh minyan since the beginning of the pandemic. 10 News Tuesday , April 20, 2021

ACCELLION SECURITY BREACH Continued from Page 9 on statements from the hackers themselves; communications from hackers to infoesec@ “Ensuring the security of university- “We appreciate your patience as we take these would not be expected to be entirely yu.edu, and if students have concerns about related information is one of our highest the necessary steps to resolve this incident. truthful.” identity theft, they should visit the Federal priorities and the University is approach- We will provide further updates as they Kelly added that concerned students Trade Commission’s website, which lists ing the matter with the utmost serious- become available.” should follow ITS’ guidance in forwarding all steps to securing “finances against hackers.” ness,” ITS said in concluding their email. This is a developing story.

MICAH PAVA Accellion, a third-party service used by YU, was breached by hackers.

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Applications for the Class of 2025 are available on our website Tuesday, April 20, 2021 Features 11 How We Can End the Agunah Crisis get refusal should never be accepted, and the marriage is terminated. Likewise, if a you think you will never need it, by normal- By Tamar Janus our community must stand together to op- woman refuses to accept the get, she must izing this document, you can play a part in pose this manipulation of Jewish law and pay her husband $150 a day because the making sure someone else never ends up in For over a decade, Chava has been waiting to support our most vulnerable members. husband is losing out on the support that the horrible situation of being an agunah. for her get — a Jewish writ of divorce — from To seek help, many agunot turn to his wife usually provides. You’re not saying that you G-d forbid think her legal ex-husband Naftali, who continues ORA: The Organization for the Resolution Importantly, as a legally binding arbitra- this will happen to you, but rather you are to keep her chained to a dead marriage. of Agunot, a leading organization tackling tion agreement, the halakhic prenup can making a statement that you love and re- Chava married Naftali in 2006, and after the agunah crisis. Working within the pa- be upheld in civil courts. Thus, while a civil spect your partner no matter the situation, four years of experiencing relentless abuse, rameters of Jewish and civil law, ORA ex- court can’t order a husband to deliver a get, and you are making a commitment to each she picked up with her two children and left. plains how they work to help each agunah it can compel the parties to honor the agree- other that the get will never be used as a Although a seruv — an order from a beit din attain her get in a timely manner through ments made, appearing before the Beth Din weapon. Most importantly, you are helping for the community to ostracize him — has “agunah case advocacy, early intervention of America and paying the proper amount create a standard of safety and respect in our been issued, Naftali has made no attempts programs, and educational initiatives for of money each day. community, where we stand up against get to give Chava a get, thus preventing her from agunah prevention.” As CEO of ORA, Keshet Starr, Esq. told refusal and domestic abuse and make sure moving forward with her life. For years, However, rallies and advocacy efforts only The Commentator, “the Prenup is extremely each individual is protected. Chava suffered in silence as she struggled work as a post facto response. The best way effective because it is binding under both civil The rabbis and leaders of our communi- to raise her two kids as a single mom with a to protect individuals and end the agunah and Jewish law, holds people to a positive ties are doing their part to spread the word meager income. Recently, Chava has started crisis is for couples to sign a document known standard, and encourages a get early on in and normalize the halakhic prenup — the sharing her story on social media, and her as the Halachic Prenuptial Agreement. There a divorce, before animosity rises and parties most effective tool we have to combat the case has garnered widespread support. are many misconceptions about the halakhic become entrenched in their positions.” agunah crisis. In 2012, 21 roshei yeshiva prenup and how it works, so let’s start from So far, the halakhic prenup has proved at Yeshiva University signed onto a kol ko- the beginning. highly effective in preventingget refusal and reh urging its leaders and students to use Even if you think you will Originally drafted and approved by Rabbi has been upheld in civil case law. halakhic prenuptial agreements at every never need [the prenuptial Mordechai Willig, the halakhic prenup is an So, why doesn’t everyone sign it? Jewish wedding. And, in 2019, the Rabbinical agreement that a couple signs before mar- While some couples don’t sign it simply Council of America (RCA) launched their “I agreement], by normalizing riage that consists of two clauses. First, the out of a lack of knowledge, others argue Support the Use of a Halachic Prenuptial couple agrees that in the case of get refusal, that because divorce and get refusal is such Agreement” campaign, garnering 150 signa- this document, you can play a they will adjudicate their case in front of the a sad and unlikely possibility, they simply tures from rabbis around the world. Beth Din of America, of which Rabbi Willig don’t want to discuss it. After all, who would However, the real work needs to be done part in making sure someone serves as Segan Av Beth Din. This way, if want to talk about the possibility of divorce by us — young people who are taking the else never ends up in the an issue arises, the couple already knows with the person you plan to spend your life first steps toward building marriages and who to turn to. with? This is comparable to a person who families. You can play a role in helping end horrible situation of being an Second, the couple agrees that in the decides not to buy insurance or who over- the agunah crisis by taking small actions event that either a husband or wife refuses looks genetic testing before starting a family. such as mentioning the prenup to friends, agunah. to participate in the get process, the recal- The sad reality is that sometimes in life we signing it yourself or signing a postnup if citrant party must pay the other party $150 have to plan for things that are hard to think you’re already married. If we want to see a Across our communities, there are hun- a day. The $150 a day is not a punishment about, and the halakhic prenup should not Jewish community built on respect, dignity dreds of agunot — chained women — whose or a coercion mechanism; it’s simply the be excluded from those plans. and Jewish values, we need to spread the husbands refuse to give them a get because enforcement of a halakhic obligation that a Moreover, most people think that they word about the importance of the halakhic their husbands want to use it as leverage to husband must support his wife (Rambam, will never need to use the halakhic prenup. prenup and make it an established standard gain a better divorce settlement, as a mecha- “Hilkhot Ishut” 12:1-2). The prenup tells a Honestly, they are probably right. While in our community. nism to retain control, or simply because husband that if he wishes to withhold a get, most people won’t end up needing it, the they want revenge. Whatever the reason, he must continue to support his wife until reality is that get refusal happens. Even if

UNSPLASH The halakhic prenup can allow many women to become free. 12 Features Tuesday , April 20, 2021 Operation Torah Shield — 30 Years Later the transportation costs for the passengers could not have gone,” explained one student. The goal of the trip was to provide moral By Yosef Lemel once they were in Israel. After a long flight, the passengers ar- support to the Israelis, which was certainly The trip was almost canceled premature- rived in the Holy Land where they began to accomplished. The visitors stayed resolute In a video shown at Yeshiva University’s ly; to make it a tax-deductible transaction, excitedly dance on the airport tarmac and through their visit and returned with feelings 2021 tekes ma’avar for Yom Hazikaron and the money for the trip needed to be fun- kiss the ground. “When we got off the plane, of growth, in a spiritual sense. As one visitor Yom Ha’atzmaut, Rabbi Elie Mischel de- neled to El Al through a non-profit. Yeshiva people dropped their bags and were danc- put it, “Davening in yeshiva, in Israel, there scribed how in 2003, when Saddam Hussein declined to act as the non-profit since the ing; everyone just started dancing,” recalled was so much kavanah. Watching my friends threatened to bomb Israel, YU sent 100 stu- administration was afraid that the dangers Barry Gelman. pray was inspirational. Miracles were going dents to Israel on “Operation Torah Shield” the trip posed might have resulted in a major Program participants were immediately on. Scuds were landing without exploding.” to volunteer with the Israeli Defense Forces Around a month after Operation Torah (IDF), sing and dance in vulnerable yishuvim “When we got off the plane, people dropped their bags and were Shield commenced, the Student Organization and to show that the Jewish people “weren’t of Yeshiva (SOY) organized a forum named afraid.” “I felt the pride of Jewish nation- dancing; everyone just started dancing..” “Operation Torah Shield II,” featuring hood, a certain fearlessness and strength ___ Rabbis Norman Lamm, Zevulun Charlop that was different from our normal experi- Barry Gelman and Meir Goldwicht in the Zysman beis me- ence here in America and in exile,” reflected drash, to look at the Gulf War in retrospect Rabbi Mischel. lawsuit, potentially resulting in an auction greeted by then-Deputy Foreign Minister and find meaning in its events for Israel and The 2003 trip was modeled after an ear- for Belfer Hall to pay off damages. Indeed, Benjamin Netanyahu, among other Israeli the Jewish people. lier trip in 1991, also called Operation Torah before the trip, organizers, apprehending officials. “Atem chelek mimenu — you are President Lamm, along with other stu- Shield, in which over 400 people were sent potential liability claims, handed out flyers to part of us,” Netanyahu told the visitors. dents of Yeshiva, took action in 1948 during to Israeli yeshivas in the midst of the Gulf students informing them that the “U.S. State Reflecting on Netanyahu’s words, a stu- the Israeli War of Independence, developing War through a trip organized by YU students. Department has issued a travel advisory dent said, “I think Torah Shield proved to munitions for the young country. “We are As The Commentator reported at the urging people to stay away from the middle ourselves and our families that any danger following the same tradition as 43 years time, an anonymous philanthropist “was east including the State of Israel.” In the end, to the Israelis is a danger to us, and that we ago,” he said at the forum. “But now we becoming increasingly disgruntled with TV the trip was saved by American Friends of identify with their pain.” are not called upon the physical side of the programs depicting hundreds of Jews leav- Yeshivat Ateret Cohanim, a yeshiva in the Once in Israel, visitors stayed at 15 vari- equation but rather to exercise our spiritual ing Israel.” He therefore decided to charter a Muslim Quarter of the Old City, which acted ous Israeli yeshivas. Some provided medical strength. That was the purpose of our trip Jan. 15 flight transporting Yeshiva students as the necessary non-profit. and food assistance. Others spent most of (Operation Torah Shield), and that is the on heavily subsidized tickets “to counteract Over 200 individuals canceled their their time learning Torah. One student ex- purpose for tonight.” Israel’s sinking morale.” planned flight to Israel with Operation Torah pressed, “By learning, I helped more than Wednesday’s tekes ma’avar was Yeshiva’s In the week leading up to the flight, Shield allowing for the replacement of their giving out food to old people or anything biggest in-person event held since February during finals season, $50 tickets to Israel spots with people on the waitlist. After word else. There is nothing like learning in Eretz 2020. Speeches were made, candles were lit, were distributed by student leaders and spread through the Modern Orthodox com- Yisrael.” songs were heard, all in the spirit of standing snatched up by eager students in the dorms, munity, around 25% of the flight consisted Soon after Operation Torah Shield was in strong and unified with the State of Israel. reserving an entire plane in a few hours with of passengers who were unaffiliated with full throttle, on Jan. 18, the Iraqi government Currently, we thankfully live in an era dur- hundreds of others being placed on wait- Yeshiva who were charged $100 per ticket. fired Scud missiles into Israel in an attempt ing which peace deals are more common ing lists. Rebbeim were able to travel free The reasons for the cancelations varied. to drag the Jewish state into the war, during than Scud missiles. However, there is al- of charge. The money accrued from ticket Many had legitimate fears of terror attacks. which visitors to Kerem B’Yavneh watched ways the danger of terror on the horizon. sales was used to pay for clothing distribu- Others were pressured by family members the missiles fly through the air. Students Students must ask themselves what they tion to poor Russian immigrants to Israel to stay. “I was going to go, but honoring often were forced to run to shelters in re- will do when Israel is plunged into danger. and other charity endeavors, in addition to my parents took priority. When I saw how sponse to air-raid sirens. Some thought that What actions will you take to provide aid in concerned my parents were, I realized that I Armageddon was nigh. times of necessity?

YESHIVA UNIVERSITY Operation Torah Shield in 2003 Tuesday, April 20, 2021 Features 13

We Asked, Y(O)U Answered

Shifting Priorities

By Daniel Melool and Elisheva Maccabees baseball team. My focus has Baruch Lerman (YC ‘23) due to living at home. I’m still very focused Kohn definitely shifted from strictly schoolwork Major: Biochemistry and Psychology on school, so that hasn’t changed much. I to "extracurricular" editorial positions that am not concerned about getting a job yet, so Transitioning to remote learning and I occupy. However, I cannot in good faith Family, pursuing a career in medicine that hasn’t been affected by the pandemic. dealing with new health and financial con- attribute that shift to the pandemic. What and Judaism are my top three priorities in Dating is definitely more difficult now, and cerns that were spurred by the pandemic the pandemic has shifted, though, is my life right now. Before the pandemic, they has had a detrimental effect on my mental have prompted students to reevaluate their time management. I began job hunting over were the same — family, medicine and health from not being able to see people priorities with regards to their families, winter break and had to pause my search Judaism. They haven’t really changed; face-to-face. course load and other areas of life. The given my insane workload this semester. It though I have become closer to my family Commentator collected a few reflections has thus not affected my performance as a by current students on how the pandemic student, but rather vice versa. I have also found dating to be a more difficult pursuit “I took things for granted during the pandemic than before, but that before Covid.” difficulty has forced me to concentrate on my ___ heavy workload and ultimately preserved my wellbeing (whereas trying to date — even Malka Gorbunov (SCW '23) without a pandemic — with so much on my plate would likely have taken a toll on has shifted their priorities. my wellbeing). Having had my introverted personality fueled and strengthened by the Ezra Emerson (SYMS ‘23) effects of the pandemic, I am finding myself Major: Marketing even less willing to participate in social ac- tivities or at all engage with people outside In terms of my top three priorities, my my family. wellbeing is one, then what classes and work I have each day to do is second, and to have Malka Gorbunov (SCW ‘23) some socializing time is my third. Before the Major: English pandemic, they were not as significant to me as they are now, so yes, they definitely have My priorities include: getting out of the changed. I watch a lot of TV now, which is house more, keeping up with schoolwork not good. Also, Instagram and stuff like that and living healthy. Before the pandemic, all take up more than it should. Zoom makes three were easier. I also prioritized people school feel painful. less at that time than I do now. My focus can't shift much from school because it takes Yosef Rosenfield (YC ‘21) much more effort now than before. It does Major: Music take more time, as there are less options. It takes time away from schoolwork. I am not After the pandemic started, my priorities dating currently, but socializing has become became school-related commitments, family very difficult, especially for someone who’s matters and musical pursuits. Before the an introvert by nature. It's become virtually impossible and life gets very isolated. I took pandemic, I was in a dormitory, so my fam- PIXABAY ily matters were not as big a priority. I was things for granted before Covid. Illustration of a surgical mask also the starting right fielder for the Yeshiva

FROM THE COMMIE ARCHIVES (April 29, 1996; Volume 60, Issue 13) — Mir Yeshiva’s Escape Chronicled at Yom Hashoah Program.

1941 escape, was able to cogently convey By Commentator Staff that remarkable sequence of events to 200 captivated YU and Stern students last week Editor’s Note: Yom Hashoah was recently as the featured speaker of a highly successful commemorated on April 8. Below is an Yorn HaShoah program. archive discussing the Mir Yeshiva’s tre- Rabbi Tokayer, a YU and RIETS alumnus mendous escape during WWII, which was and former chief rabbi of Japan, animatedly chronicled at Yeshiva University's Yom depicted the people and places that saved Hashoah program in 1996. thousands of Jewish lives at the somber -- gathering held in Weissberg Commons on The Mir Yeshiva’s wartime travels from Tuesday evening, April 16. In a room dec- Poland to Vilna to Vladivostok to Kobe to orated with horrifying posters about the Shanghai, and its remarkable deliverance Holocaust, he maintained that the litany from the hands of Hitler and Stalin during of forged passports and exit visas, and the The Commentator Archives THE COMMENTATOR the dark days of the Holocaust, are topics inexplicable actions and inactions of Soviet which justify years of intense study. But and Japanese officials, saved enough Torah Jewry. One of those scholars, MYP Rosh Rabbi Tokayer's remarks were preceded Rabbi Marvin Tokayer, a witness to and scholars to educate and rejuvenate the next Yeshiva Rabbi Simon Romm, attended the by brief remarks from Zachor Committee participant in that community’s miraculous generation of American and Israeli Jews, program. Chairman Jason Buskin and YCSC Vice- a function which may have saved world Rabbi Tokayer spoke glowingly of one President Dov Simons and a candle-lighting rebbe’s passionate trip through the streets of ceremony. The program was rounded out [Rabbi Tokayer] maintained that the litany of forged passports Manhattan and Brooklyn to raise thousands with a recitation of Keil Maleh Rachamim of dollars for trans-Siberian train fares one by YCSC President Josh Fine. and exit visas, and the inexplicable actions and inactions of Friday and Shabbos. The students were espe- Some students remained after the pro- cially amused by Rabbi Tokayer’s description gram’s conclusion to screen a new, Oscar Soviet and Japanese officials, saved enough Torah scholars to of the shtetl community’s often-rocky accli- award-winning documentary on Anne Frank, educate and rejuvenate the next generation of American and mation to its strange, new world, including which is now showing in theaters. an episode in which the Mir’s two top reb- Israeli Jews, a function which may have saved world Jewry. beim were summoned to what was probably the Pearl Harbor planning desk in Tokyo. 14 Tuesday , April 20, 2021

Advertisement Tuesday, April 20, 2021 Opinions 15 Commencement 2021: Where Will We Be?

For my roommate, a first-generation guidance from our medical director, we doors. Why would it be any different than By Zahava Fertig college graduate, graduating from Yeshiva came to the conclusion that we could not hosting a graduation, especially if it would University is magnanimous. It is a symbol have an in-person event attended by thou- take place outdoors in a park? While com- The 2021 posters and flags seem to be for herself to see how far she has come and sands of people.” As a senior reading this mencement would have a larger audience, taunting the graduating Class of 2021. everything that she has gone through, in email, I was so frustrated by the clear lack even if it only included the graduates, it I vividly remember each time I’d visit could easily take place outdoors in a park, my grandparents’ and great grandmother’s football field or parking lot. homes, I’d marvel at all the framed pic- As we come to commencement it is even more so important that Students at Yeshiva University are test- tures hanging on the living room walls or ed for COVID-19 twice a week and every sitting on top of the piano. There I’d see we take the time to acknowledge that together as a class we had day more students are receiving vaccina- younger versions of my grandparents, par- tions. Further, as of April 6, all New York ents, aunts, uncles and cousins each smil- a uniquely different college experience that previous and future residents above the age of 16 are eligible ing for their professional graduation photo college students won’t be able to relate to. to receive vaccinations. With a vaccina- while donned in their university gradua- tion site located in Belfer Hall as well as in tion cap and gown. many other locations across the country, it As my own graduation is speedily ap- order to get to hold a college diploma with of logic in this decision. Obviously, an in- is not unreasonable to require PCR covid proaching, I remember those pictures and her first and last name on it. person event with thousands of people was testing and/or proof of vaccination prior to I feel cheated. Will the picture I took in For the Class of 2021, our college expe- impossible, but we don’t need thousands an in-person event. front of a green screen in the Morg Lounge rience was normal one day and completely of people to be there. A live ceremony for As of April 12, 2021, updated detailed mean anything significant if there was no upturned within a 48-hour time period in just the graduates, some members of the guidelines by Governor Andrew Cuomo’s commencement or momentous occasion March of 2020. No one could have imag- administration and a keynote speaker office have been released, specifically or actual celebration connected to the tre- ined that we would not be returning to is all that we need to have a meaningful with guidance for graduations and com- mendous achievement of having complet- campus for the rest of the semester, let commencement. Yeshiva University is a mencements. According to those guide- ed an undergraduate degree? alone the many students who have still not relatively small university. The graduating lines, events with more than 500 guests Graduation means different things returned, over a year later. Class of 2020 consisted of a mere 705 stu- can take place in a 20% capacity indoors. to different people. There will always be As we come to commencement it is even dents. Understandably, not every graduate Proof of negative covid tests are required someone who doesn’t care about gradu- more so important that we take the time to will be able to get to New York in order to prior to entry. Yeshiva University already ation, but there are so many people who acknowledge that together as a class we had participate in person. has a system in place keeping track of un- really do. Graduation is when we take the a uniquely different college experience that However, there is a large percentage of dergraduate students who are being tested time to reflect on how far we’ve come from previous and future college students won’t the class that would do anything to have twice a week. Special arrangements would day one of our compulsory education to be able to relate to. The Class of 2020 lost the opportunity to put on their cap and not need to be made in order to ensure that investing in ourselves and in our educa- the last few months of their last semester gown, hear their name announced, receive the Class of 2021 is tested prior to an in- tion passed what is required. Graduation is on campus, however, they had more than their diploma, and smile for their parents person event. a time to remember all of those times we two-and-a-half years of memories and ex- and grandparents, with extended family There were so many things that we crammed late into the night before a test, periences throughout college. As the state and friends watching on a livestream. needed to compromise on, that were just hours spent in the library and days where of the world begins to revert back to nor- While in May 2020, it was infeasible not possible to replicate virtually when we thought we’d never get to this point. It malcy, albeit quite slowly, and more and to have an in-person graduation, we have we’re just doing our best to maintain our is a time to stop, recognize and celebrate more individuals receive vaccinations, the come so far in innovative ways to create a sanity when everything around us seems that we have something valuable about hope is that the Class of 2022 will not have meaningful hybrid event in which there are uncertain. The Chanukah dinner that stu- ourselves to be proud of. to question whether or not they will be able people both present in person and virtu- dent leaders are invited to, chaggigot, club As a third-generation Orthodox, female to celebrate in person. G-d willing, it will ally. An in-person graduation is very pos- events, Shabbatonim, YUNMUN, event college graduate, graduation is not just be a given. But where does that leave the sible to organize if put to the task. planning, networking, internships, fellow- about me. It is about my family, my parents Class of 2021? The tekes ma’avar that took place on ships and jobs are just some of the exam- and my grandparents. It is an opportunity On March 11, 2021, an email arrived in April 14, commemorating Yom Hazikaron ples of opportunities we missed out on. for them to shep nachat and be proud of my inbox and it felt like a slap across my and Yom Ha’atzmaut was organized as After giving my final speech in my what I’ve accomplished, but also for them face. The email from the provost’s office an in-person and virtual event in the Max speech communications class outlining to see what they’ve accomplished too by stated that “Unfortunately, following the Stern Athletic Center on the Wilf Campus. why the Class of 2021 should have an in- helping me get to this point in my life. public health and safety guidance of New For me, it was glaringly obvious that it is person graduation, and listening to my York City and New York State, as well as possible to organize a large-scale event in- classmates, almost all seniors, share my frustrations, I knew that the 25 of us could not be the only ones. An email on April 13 announcing a graduate-only “viewing party” just added to the discontentment. If there are plans for a viewing party, why can’t there be plans for a real commencement? I deeply empathize with the graduat- ing Class of 2020. They were robbed of closure. Their college experiences ended abruptly and unexpectedly and there was no end; it was just over. The Class of 2021, on the other hand, lost half of their junior year and then had to keep going, learning remotely, both remembering what there was before and being reminded on the dai- ly how different everything is now. Graduation can be the return to nor- malcy that we so desperately want. It can be a reminder of the first half of our college experiences and it will give us the closure the Class of 2020 lacked and the Class of 2021 craves. There were so many experiences we lost this year. Graduation cannot become an- other thing that slips through the cracks. The Class of 2021 deserves to be celebrated in a safe and meaningful way. We do not want to be viewers at our own graduation. We want to be in it.

May 26, 2021: Where will we be?

AHARON NISSEL The 2021 posters and flags seem to be taunting the graduating class of 2021. 16 Opinions Tuesday , April 20, 2021 Biden, Bipartisanship and the Rise of Josh Mandel

which facts themselves are manipulated and passed and enacted without input from the the No Child Left Behind Act. To illustrate By Levi Boshnack even manufactured. My fellow Americans, minority party. With a slim 218-212 major- what goes wrong when one side refuses to we have to be different than this.” In those ity in the House and a 50-50 Senate, Dems work with the other, let’s skip ahead to 2022 During Game 1 of the 2020 World Series, moments, I really believed he meant it. don’t have a broad mandate, but they’ve and simulate the Ohio Senate race. an ad titled “Go From There” ran during It’s been three months since the inaugu- been acting like it’s 2010. Photo op meeting When a young conservative male in commercial breaks. Voiced by actor Sam ration, and I still believe he meant it when with the GOP Gang of Ten? Check! Refusing Marietta, Ohio hears the word “unity” or Elliot over a stripped-down piano version of he said it. I just don’t believe he’ll ever try to listen to their counteroffer and compro- “bipartisan,” he thinks of John Kasich. When the American national anthem, the ad spoke to accomplish it beyond photo ops. Once mise, and instead choosing to pass a $1.9 the kid hears that Rob Portman is retiring of unifying the country and working together the epitome of an establishment Democrat, trillion COVID stimulus package with zero because legislating while in the minority toward common goals. “There is so much Joe Biden finds himself out of step with his GOP votes, bypassing the filibuster by stuff- has become impossible, he celebrates, be- we can do if we choose to take on problems party. Washington Democrats no longer ing as much of it under the 50 vote budget cause just like John Kasich, Portman isn’t and not each other, and choose a president a “fighter.” He doesn’t care that, unlike who brings out our best,” said Elliott, “Joe Kasich, Portman is actually conservative. Biden doesn’t need everyone in this country Congress is set up for compromise; the contradictory interests He wants someone who believes the ends to always agree, just to agree we all love this present within our country makes it unfit to be ruled by a slim justify the means when it comes to standing country and go from there.” up for his way of life. The way conservatives Joe Biden centered his presidential cam- majority. show they’re fighters is by “owning the libs.” paign around a promise to return to normal- So the kid then votes for Josh Mandel in cy with an emphasis on unity, and it worked. the primary, a low turnout affair in which Many moderates and even conservatives respect institutional norms, now believing reconciliation rule as the Senate parliamen- Mandel gains the upper hand by promising lent their support to him, looking to turn that the ends justify the means. On Jan. 21, tarian would allow? Check! Decrying perfor- to rename the city of Columbus to the city of away from the vitriolic tribalism they were it was reported that the Senate organizing mance politics and divisive rhetoric? Check! Trump, increasing his similarities with our accustomed to seeing come out of DC during resolution had hit a bit of a snag. With the Drafting and passing legislation pertaining 22nd and 24th president. When fact-check- the Trump presidency. Joe Biden won the Senate deadlocked at 50, Majority Leader to elections in the House that they know ers point out that Cleveland wasn’t named presidency with a margin of over 7 million Chuck Schumer and Minority Leader Mitch won’t pass the Senate to create a narrative? for Grover Cleveland, conservative media votes nationally, despite Republicans do- McConnell needed to agree to a power- Check! Calling opposition to the bill racist? outlets accuse them of interfering by waiting ing better than expected down-ballot. Then sharing deal for control of committees and Check! Calling the filibuster a relic of Jim until Mandel had won the primary before Trump refused to accept the results, filing day-to-day floor procedures to officially Crow and accusing its supporters of per- pointing this out. Mandel beats Tim Ryan dozens of unserious lawsuits in an attempt transfer. The plan was to model the agree- petuating white supremacy? Check! Creating in the general after Nina Turner loses the to uncover voter fraud that wasn’t there. ment after Trent Lott and Tom Daschle’s a commission to study the Supreme Court Democratic primary and runs as the Green On the day Congress certified the results, pact 20 years prior, but McConnell wanted a and possible modifications to make it “fair” Party nominee, splitting the Democratic he held a rally in DC which ended with his commitment from Schumer that Democrats because you’re afraid they may not rule in vote. A maniac who was kicked out of an desperate supporters storming the Capitol wouldn’t invoke the “nuclear option” to by- your favor? Check! RNC meeting is now the Senator from Ohio. in an effort to stop the certification results. pass the legislative filibuster while in the I have been very clear about my opposi- Am I fearmongering? Maybe a little. Acts of tremendous heroism ensured that the majority. Schumer refused to agree, even tion to Trump and the toxic divisiveness he However, If I told you in 2010 that Donald death toll wasn’t higher than five and that though he knew he didn’t have the votes brought out in everyone. He sowed distrust Trump would be elected president due to the results were certified that night. Trump to actually bypass it. In 2017, 31 Senate in our already-crumbling institutions, but conservatives feeling left behind by the po- was impeached with bipartisan support a Democrats signed on to a letter in support more ominously, he caused us to sow it in litical establishment, you’d have a similar re- week before Inauguration Day for his role of the filibuster, urging McConnell to “join one another. The actions of the Biden ad- action to my apocalyptic vision of Ohio 2022. in the attempted insurrection. us in opposing any effort to curtail the exist- ministration and congressional Democrats Mainstream Republicans and Democrats The Biden administration and the ing rights and prerogatives of Senators to are toxic as well. As I said in a previous aren’t enemies. Democrats should work Democrats had a tremendous opportunity to engage in full, robust, and extended debate article, Trump didn’t come out of a vacuum. with Republicans who want to work with turn down the temperature in Washington. as we consider legislation before this body White working-class Americans felt ignored them, even if it means not getting 100% of Biden had campaigned as a uniter who in the future.” McConnell obliged, despite by DC politicians and religious conserva- the agenda passed. Congress is set up for sought to find common ground with his pressure from some Republicans and prod- tives thought no one was fighting cultural compromise; the contradictory interests ideological opponents. On Jan. 20, it seemed ding from President Trump on several oc- battles for them. Many young conservative present within our country makes it unfit to as if he was going to try to make good on that casions. Just under four years later, just voters have no memory of the “Morning in be ruled by a slim majority. If Biden and the promise. “Let us listen to one another. Hear two Senate Democrats (Joe Manchin and America” ads that led to landslide victories Democrats continue governing like they live one another. See one another. Show respect Kyrsten Sinema) were bold enough to give during the Reagan years. They don’t know in a parliamentary system, when the politi- to one another. Politics need not be a raging McConnell their word that they would vote about the grace George H.W. Bush showed cal pendulum swings back to Republicans, fire destroying everything in its path. Every against invoking the nuclear option. to Bill Clinton in defeat. They’ve never heard they’ll find people like Josh Mandel suddenly disagreement doesn’t have to be a cause for In times of unified government with about George W. Bush and John Boehner in charge. total war,” said the president in his inaugural extreme partisanship, the filibuster is the convincing Ted Kennedy to help fight the address. “And, we must reject a culture in only thing preventing legislation from being “soft bigotry of low expectations” by passing

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS President Biden’s inauguration Tuesday, April 20, 2021 Opinions 17 Why Democrats Should Keep the Filibuster

nor ultimately in the Democratic party’s, efforts to remove the filibuster, thus ensuring were filibustered in the previous 60 years. By Jonathan Levin best interests. its survival for the time being. Nevertheless, Similarly, McConnell blamed Democrats in Removing the filibuster has adverse ef- as long as the filibuster is blamed for the 2019 for obstructing presidential nominees In 2013, after blaming Republicans for fects. Take judicial appointments, for in- Senate’s inefficiency, this conversation will based on politics, saying that Democrats blocking then-President Obama’s nominees stance. Now that nominees no longer need come up again. often delayed nominees for months before based on politically-motivated obstruction, 60 votes to be confirmed, judicial appointees So, what’s the solution? While some, like confirming them sometimes— unanimously. Senate Democrats exercised the nuclear op- are likely to be at polar opposite sides of the Senator Joe Manchin, support making the The problems listed above only concern tion, removing the Senate filibuster (which political spectrum, and to be confirmed with filibuster “more painful” to use (such as nominees, but there are plenty of other areas required 60 votes for confirmation) for all little to no support from the other party. requiring senators to continuously hold the in the Senate that are not functioning as presidential executive and judicial (other That is not something that would encour- lectern to prevent a vote — something that well as they used to be. Congress’s approval than Supreme Court) nominees. While the age public trust in our courts. Getting rid President Biden supports too), that will not rating, 36% on March 15 (which, believe it nuclear option allowed Democrats to ap- of the remaining filibuster, which would solve the problem. The issue isn’t the filibus- or not, is the highest it’s been since 2009 — point Obama’s nominees over Republican allow controversial and highly impactful ter, but rather the unwillingness of senators likely a result of both the stimulus bill and opposition, it also allowed Republicans to legislation to be signed into law along party to work together; this is what Senator Sinema Trump’s impeachment) is indicative of this. do the same when Trump became president. lines, would only sow further division in an referred to when she said that “I think the Furthermore, although Congress has histori- Additionally, using the 2013 nuclear option already highly divided country. Ignoring a solution is for Senators to change their be- cally received low approval ratings, the past as a precedent, Republicans got rid of the Republican reprisal — McConnell’s threat havior and begin to work together, which is decade has been its most brutal approval- remaining filibuster rules for Supreme Court of “a sort of nuclear winter” — Democrats what the country wants us to do.” wise since World War II, with its approval nominees, allowing them to appoint three will not only ensure the passage of their own The country has gotten further divided, rating regularly in the teens and low 20s. justices without any input from Democrats. agenda, but also a Republican agenda on a and the Senate is a reflection of that. Both This should give us pause. As Senator Sinema Recently, there has been renewed discus- future date, when Democrats find themselves Democrats and Republicans, when they con- said, and as a group of 20 Senators from both sion about entirely removing the remaining in the minority. trolled the White House, have blamed the parties are working towards accomplishing, Senate filibuster to allow President Biden to To be clear, the filibuster will not go away; other side for obstructing their presidential our senators must step up to the plate and pass controversial legislation that otherwise both Senators Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) and nominees based on politics — an idea that begin working across the aisle. Getting rid wouldn’t be able to pass the 50-50 Senate Joe Manchin (D-WV) (who also voted against holds at least some truth. Obama noted in of the filibuster won’t make anything better. without bipartisan support. While many the nuclear option in 2013), the two most 2013, before then-Senate Majority Leader Only Senators — by working together — can Democrats argue that the filibuster’s time moderate Democratic senators (Manchin’s Harry Reid exercised the nuclear option, make our democracy work and restore public has passed and that it should be scrapped, state, West Virginia, went to Trump by nearly how 30 of his nominees were filibustered in confidence in our Congress. such a decision would not be in the country’s, 40% in November), said they won’t support less than four years, compared to the 20 who Can NBC Be Redeemed?

By Efrat Malachi speak for themselves. The event encouraged back and find their place, with the help of an depressing expressions of Orthodoxy. people to stop by and ask questions, in per- initiative called Project Makom, established Turning to Netflix, this echoes the mini- March 10, 2021 — a chilled blue sky son or via the livestream, about any Jewish in 2014. series released in 2020, titled “Unorthodox,” hovered above NBC Studios while an im- topic since there was a lot to clarify. This wasn’t the first time NBC had created which received mixed reactions from Jewish passioned protest took place right outside. “‘Backwards, extreme, judgmental, sex- Jewish caricatures based on false informa- viewers. The writers for these shows seem to Organized by Allison Josephs, the founder ist.’ These are words that too often come to tion and a far-fetched imagination. In “Law always be fascinated by the “un” and never and director of Jew in the City (JITC), a mind when people think of Orthodox Jews and Order: SVU’s” “Unorthodox,” the Haredi the “orthodox.” When a man or woman walks peaceful protest morphed into a Q&A event and Judaism. Popular culture, including world was made to look dark and disgrace- by wearing an obviously Jewish garment, as a response to NBC’s “Nurses” episode, movies, books, and TV shows repeat these ful. While every community has its struggles another Jew can understand the background “Achilles Heel.” The episode included dis- negative ideas about religious Jewish people and shortcomings, the screenwriters here and beauty of it, but will a stranger to the turbing anti-Semitic rhetoric causing Jews and their lifestyle.” This is only one part of did not make it a point to highlight even religion comprehend the nuance? to feel uneasy and even unsafe, so the record JITC’s mission statement. A portion of their the slightest positive aspect of an observant One with insufficient insight who is taught needed to be set straight. Josephs was the work goes to reversing negative stereotypes life. Instead, they focused solely on the more to identify Jewish people and ideas through first to call attention to it across her online TV shows’ inaccuracies will most likely be platforms, consequently garnering public repulsed by them. In contrast, the true goal disapproval toward the broadcasting com- The writers for these shows seem to always be fascinated by the of Orthodoxy is not to come off as an alien- pany (and general media) often misrepre- like or pre-historic people, as many outlets senting the Jewish community. “un” and never the “orthodox.” and headlines convey, but one with a higher Proving it’s not all talk, a group of code (as spelled out in the Torah) on how to Orthodox Jews led by JITC took it from the live a most upright and uplifted life. web to the streets. Priority was still given and associations about Orthodoxy through insular sect within Orthodoxy and stretched Explaining the intricacies of Orthodox to uphold COVID-19 safety restrictions by educational efforts and events. When the it to an extreme; we’re not playing with Laffy living, as well as thanking NBC for pulling limiting the quota of attendees, keeping six “Nurses” episode was released, it didn’t just Taffys — we’re dealing with legitimate lives. the episode from all digital platforms, were feet apart between individuals and handing huff and puff, but it blew down Josephs’ Somehow it’s always the man in a black coat, the objectives for the protest and were fortu- out masks printed with “don’t put words in door. This was the perfect model to show for hat and beard that screams “Pick me!” to nately met. The rally featured ordinary Jews my mouth.” Taking the message further, JITC’s fight and work that began in 2007. play as the suspected or convicted perpetra- answering questions about their upbringing, Josephs and her team brought in life-size Another portion of the organization's ef- tor. Either directors are ignorant, in which beliefs, values and even fashion choices. cutouts of fictional Jewish characters NBC forts goes to aiding Jews who fell out of case they should educate themselves before Special thanks is due to the security team had produced before to stand beside real Orthodoxy, due to unhealthy family life and depicting any person, especially wrongly, or at the studio for overseeing the protest and Jews now, letting these wild representations poor education, and are looking to come are negatively depicting Jews intentionally allowing for our first amendment rights to (and irresponsibly) for the sake of higher be exercised: another reason to see the glass ratings. Whatever route one takes, it falls at as half full. the expense of mistranslating and offending Mendy Pellin, Chabad film director and a people’s sacred traditions. What’s worse comedian, came to show support along with is that others who don’t know better will students from Frisch High School and Jews take it as truth. from across the Orthodox spectrum to make It’s just a movie, but it’s not. Once a TV a clear statement – we’re just as human as series inspires attacks against a group based the next guy; we come in every font, color on race, faith, ethnicity, etc. then it’s writers and size. We can’t be forced into a box made who have an obligation to apologize and by the limited scraps of information some promise to do better. You can’t tell over TV executives have. Therefore accessibility someone’s story if you know nothing about in education is crucial and this is why JITC it. The misportrayals can be linked to the has extended the invitation to meet with increase in Jews being targeted the past few NBC for anyone who wants to learn more years in NYC, LA, NJ and other states with about Orthodox Judaism. The good news is a dense Jewish population. Evidence gath- our message has only improved with time ered by the FBI Uniform Crime Reporting and the press has been receptive to it. No Program states that there were 953 “anti- one can control the decisions Hollywood Jewish” incidents and 1,031 victims in 2019 makes but maybe small ripples can be made, – the highest of all the religion-based hate leading to greater ones. Hopefully next time crimes. Coming in second is the “anti-Islamic we stream our favorite drama or comedy we (Muslim)” crimes at 176 incidents. This is won’t cringe at the depiction of a Jewish per- On March 10 protesters rallied outside of NBC Studios in JEW IN THE CITY no surprise if people are fed what popular sonality, but grin knowing they got it right. Manhattan over anti-Semitic portrayals of Jews in media. media channels serve – repeatedly dry and 18 Business Tuesday , April 20, 2021 Hasty Highlights

By William Mogyoros 40 percent.” This shift is especially apparent entire game. As Han explained to the WSJ, leagues beginning to include highlight rights among the younger audience, a demographic “We want to make sure that we’re giving in their deals with media companies such as Sports can have a tremendously positive which Buzzer aims to target. According to a access to Gen Z and younger millennial audi- Warner Media’s wildly popular Instagram emotional impact on us. I was raised as an recent study from Variety, 48% of NFL, 54% ences, creating alternative formats that are account, @houseofhighlights. avid fan of Villanova University's basketball of NBA, and 58% of MLB fans between the already in line with their evolving consump- To capture their share of this growing team. I have a personal connection to the ages of 18 and 34 say they prefer watching tion habits.” This reliance on social media is market, Buzzer has developed a seemingly team as I grew up around the campus in highlights of their favorite sports over the not merely a passive fad but has resulted in promising strategy that has enabled them Pennsylvania and even attended a summer to recently secure streaming rights with the camp run by the players and coaches. It was NHL and PGA Tour. The app aims to hook a the 2016 March Madness Championship, To capture the value in these moments that enchant consumers, consumer’s attention by allowing viewers to and Villanova was caught in a tight game have “live look-ins” — short clips of live game with North Carolina. The score was even a new player in the already competitive sports streaming action, for just 99 cents apiece. Additionally, with seconds to go, and my four younger industry has arrived. Buzzer executives also plan to send alerts brothers and I stood together as Villanova for noteworthy sports moments such as a Point Guard Ryan Arcidiacono raced up the close game in the final two minutes. Mr. floor as the clock ticked down. He pitched the Han added that Buzzer would aim to reach ball behind him to Kris Jenkins, who hit a viewers who don’t have or can’t afford to three-pointer at the Buzzer to win Villanova’s purchase traditional cable television, en- first championship in over 30 years. My abling them to expand the limits of sports house erupted, and pandemonium ensued media. Although Buzzer is a competitor to as my brothers jumped for joy, tackled each conventional Cable TV, ironically, they are other, and I may have even shed a tear or also looking to partner with them. Aside from two. It was a moment that will always be a providing live clips, Buzzer provides links cornerstone of my childhood. Although not to streaming services that offer the whole this exact sports moment, many can recall game. In exchange for this, Buzzer collects a very similar personal stories. It is mystifying referral fee from the streaming services, thus how much time and energy is invested into resulting in a robust business model that al- watching entire sports games, and yet it is lows Buzzer to leverage its own competitors. sometimes only the memory of a highlight, Additionally, Buzzer has also announced that a couple of seconds, that stick with us. it plans to integrate its app with sportsbooks To capture the value in these moments and other betting apps. Buzzer attempts to that enchant consumers, a new player in latch the rapidly growing sports gambling the already competitive sports streaming industry, which according to Statista, has industry has arrived. Buzzer, founded by Bo reached a market size of $203 billion in Han, the former director of live content at 2020 and is projected to grow by $134.06 Twitter, was created based on the new reality billion during 2020-2024, progressing at a of sports media as it shifts from television compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of to social media. As Mr. Han recently stated almost 10% during the forecast period. to the WSJ, “Once the game is over, it’s By providing fans with the most capti- just a clip on Twitter, and that's a commod- vating moments at just a click away and for itized product.” TV viewership in all major less than a dollar, Buzzer has developed a sports is rapidly decreasing. According to business model tailored to today’s sports data compiled by Sports Media, regarding fans by granting them the ability to access viewership in this year alone, “... golf’s U.S. immediate excitement. Through this, Buzzer Open was down 42 percent. The Kentucky PIXABAY has positioned itself to become a significant The intersection of Gen Z and the sports world has player within the world of sports streaming. Derby: 43 percent. The Stanley Cup finals: primed Buzzer to disrupt the sports market deeply 61 percent. MLB’s division series were down seated in tradition.

Amazon — Bookseller or Business Butcher?

By Ben Spanjer Journal, Amazon sells about 90% of all e- playing field is not level, we have to talk to Apple’s iBook store, Apple lost and had to books and 50% of all paperbacks and hard- our customers all the time about why we settle for around $450 million. So there Sports can have a tremendously posi- covers globally. This in and of itself is not a can’t match Amazon’s pricing.” certainly is precedent for this lawsuit to be tive eOn March 25, 2021, a Chicago-area problem. One of the features of capitalism Additionally, the lawsuit alleges that a success. bookseller filed a lawsuit directed at the is that it is essentially boundless, and phe- not only are these publishing houses giv- This lawsuit is a benchmark for how much “Big Five” publishing houses: Hachette, nomenal success is a marker of being able to ing Amazon better book prices, but as a power and privilege large corporations will HarperCollins, Macmillan, Penguin Random utilize the economy successfully. Jeff Bezos result of that, wholesale prices had to be be able to wield in the coming years, and will House and Simon & Schuster. The plain- started Amazon out of his garage in 1994 kept artificially high in order to give Amazon serve as a testament to how strong the anti- tiff, Nina Barrett, who operates a bookstore and is now the richest man on Earth and those better prices. These artificially inflated trust laws in this country are. The ramifica- called Bookends and Beginnings, also in- the second-largest private employer in the prices make it even more difficult for small tions of the results of this lawsuit are broad cluded Amazon in this lawsuit. The law- world. This is a great success of capitalism. bookstores and booksellers to make profits and far-ranging. Consumers can only hope suit alleges that these publishing houses Why should it matter that Amazon is getting on the then-even more inflated price of the books can remain inexpensive without en- are guilty of granting Amazon a designa- better prices and exclusive book releases? books they sell. tirely removing booksellers and bookstores tion called “Most Favored Nation” status. Isn’t that just one of the benefits of econo- These suits have worked out in favor of from the mix. The lawsuit describes this status as “Anti mies of scale? the plaintiff before. In a similar case involv- Competitive provisions [that] ensure that The problem is not that Amazon is getting ing the same “Big Five” book publishers and no rival bookseller can differentiate itself good prices from these publishing houses. The problem is that these exclusive prices The problem is not that Amazon is getting good prices from these publishing houses. The problem is that these exclusive prices have taken away Amazon’s bookselling competitors’ ability to compete. from, or otherwise compete with, Amazon have taken away Amazon’s bookselling com- on price or product availability in the sale petitors’ ability to compete. In an interview of print trade books.” with the Chicago Sun Times, Barrett men- At this juncture, it is important to iden- tions that, “I, along with most independent tify what exactly Barrett’s problem is with bookstore owners in America, feel incred- Amazon. According to the Wall Street ibly frustrated because we’ve seen that the Accusations of unfair business practices are leveled at Amazon PIXABAY in a new lawsuit Tuesday, April 20, 2021 Business 19 Money in the Mail

By Shmuel Metz signed into law on March 27, 2020, was the spending habits in response to the check to inflation, but that isn't all that bad. In “The first stimulus check paid out to Americans while those with accounts containing $500 Economic Consequences of Peace,” John As you open the mailbox, plop onto the totaling $1,200 for those who qualified. The or less, spent almost half of those deposits Maynard Keynes says that some inflation couch and gape at the $600 check addressed objective of this stimulus along with many within 10 days, which had a marginal impact is healthy for an economy because it forces to you from the U.S. Treasury, your mind other stimuli such as unemployment wages, on the stimulation of the economy. Many consumers to purchase goods and services begins to meander off to all of the latest immediately since they know the prices merchandise you are now able to purchase. Like a defibrillator that jolts a heartbeat back at its normal will rise in the future. Inflation also makes That blissful thought is abruptly met with a it easier on debtors, who can now repay consideration that is of a broader and more pace, the heart of the economy needs to be shocked back to its their loans with money that is less valuable global perspective. If everyone is receiving than the money they originally borrowed, a stimulus check, won’t that prompt the initial rhythm. although creditors will lose money. devaluation of all my personal capital and Although the economy has more room to assets? You cash in the check, figure that loans to small businesses and direct aid factors, most notably the maintained closure recover, the current plan for the U.S. to send this question is one for an economist and to states, was to lower unemployment and of businesses and services during that time, out another stimulus check along with the leave your house to buy the latest Nike shoes. encourage consumer spending on goods contributed to the negligible impact. The current successes of the COVID-19 vaccine With widespread quarantining and the and services. The growth in revenue in in- next stimulus check however, ballooned provides a concrete path to full reinstitution shutdown of a large majority of businesses dustries and institutions and the increase in the economy in a more effective manner. of America’s once-thriving economy as well due to the COVID-19 virus, March 2020 saw aggregate demand would generate a cycle of As part of the CARES ACT, phase two in- as the financial success and security to mil- one of the most dramatic market crashes in more income and higher levels of spending, cluded a $600 stimulus check received by lions of Americans. history. In around four days, the Dow Jones creating more jobs. most Americans in January. Following the Industrial Average (DJIA) plunged about In a paper published by Kellogg Insight second check, a surge in retail shopping 26% and unemployment in the U.S. shot up based on the research of Scott R. Baker, R.A. increased sales by 5.3%, electronic sales by as far as 20%. Like a defibrillator that jolts a Farrokhnia, Michaela Pagel, Constantine 14.7% and restaurants and bars even saw a heartbeat back at its normal pace, the heart Yannelis and Steffen Meyer, Dr. Baker found 6.9% increase in sales. of the economy needs to be shocked back to that those who had $3,000 or more in their The long-term effects on the economy its initial rhythm. Hence, the CARES ACT, checking accounts did not change their with stimulus packages will most likely lead

PIXABAY Stimulus checks have been going out to US citizens for months. 20 From the YUJA Vaults Tuesday , April 20, 2021

11.25.20 - a poem by Micah Pava

In constructing narrative out of the rainbow shadow show flowing thru this dome, I freeze fluttering moments on paper— I lose something of what was beyond articulation in each expansive moment. The tear swells up & drops down my cheek, a hot knife that glides thru flesh as butter will be spread on crunching toast in morning light elsewhere, far from here. I am far from everywhere & yet in your eyes, I am me. You are you in mine but it is a you that is only mine. If Hell is other people, I would assume it can be paradise as well.

Midtown - fine art by Dassi Okun

Realities and Individualities - fine art by Chana Weiss

Scarlet Dreamer - a prose poem by Jacob Jablonka

I do not recall falling asleep, but here I am, all the same, in this world where the ground is scarlet and indistinct like an impressionist sunset, the people are sewn silent and gray, and the sky is nothing. From place to place I wander, never tiring nor waking. Alone and Quiet. Searching for the horizon dawn.

Amidst the wastes and muted masses there stands a single stone. Upon its face is thus engraved: O Scarlet Dreamer, who has stumbled so far, know that you will stumble on.

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