THE BULLDOG PRINT Yavneh Academy of Dallas 12324 Merit Drive, Dallas, Texas 75251 Volume 12, Issue 1 Friday, Oct. 27, 2017 What’s inside New school, new home Student transition from non-Jewish schools to Yavneh By Jamie Perkins ‘20 On my frst day at Yavneh, I felt like I had been plucked out of my world and “I was very excited because I had heard very good things from people that placed in a diferent country. I had very little previous Jewish education, stopped went there, mostly from BBYO,” Sasson said. going to Sunday school in third grade and didn’t know a word of Hebrew. It felt Compared to Park Hill, Yavneh suits her needs. She prefers the small size and like everyone was speaking a secret language for the whole morning. fnds that she learns with more purpose. Gabbe Krasovitsky [11] found that Yavneh was the perfect school for her. Page 8: Mice and dogs and monkeys, oh my! Dive Going into that day, I had no idea what to expect. All I knew was that it was going to be completely diferent She transferred from J.J. into animal testing and the fght against it. from Greenhill. I am certainly Pearce High School not the only student to come last school year. To from a non-Jewish school. Krasovitsky, the caring Many other students have faculty at Yavneh makes similar experiences. for a better overall en- Nearly a quarter of Yavneh vironment better suited students transfer from non- to her needs. Jewish schools. What those “At Yavneh, the who came from Jewish lower teachers focus more and middle schools think per- on you and care more,” ceive to be normal is alien to Krasovitsky said. Page 9: Dr. Portnoy refects on his initial impression of the newcomers to the Judaic Meeting people at Yavneh and efforts to improve the school. curriculum. For the 75 percent Yavneh is like meeting who grew up going to Jewish a new family. schools, the prayers are second Caring isn’t nature, the Judaic classes are limited to academics. familiar and the Hebrew lan- Everybody at Yavneh, guage isn’t a foreign language. including the teachers, Alexis Goldberg [10] want the best for them came to Yavneh from Levine academically, socially Academy. and in their everyday “[We had] Tanakh, Navi, lives. Coming from public Page 10: Stereotypes swerve into staff editorial. Criti- Chumash, Hebrew, Synagogue Skills, Mishna, Israel studies, school, Krasovitsky cized and delegitimized. Comparative Religion [for Illustration by Asher Schonbrunn. did not have the same classes]” Goldberg said. Jewish education that However, the experience is Akiba and Levine kids had. She went to Sunday School until shortly afer her Bat drastically diferent for students from a non-Jewish school. Mitzvah. Te Judaics were not the main reason she came to Yavneh but she has Until the second grade, Shauna Bernstein [9] attended Akiba. Afer that found them to be very interesting. she went to Richardson West Junior High until this year when she enrolled at “I enjoy learning Hebrew more than I did Spanish at my old school,” Kraso- Yavneh. vitsky said. “Te Jewish classes are more entertaining and fun to learn. Tey are “[It’s diferent] because of what I have to wear, what I’m learning and how more interesting.” I’m learning,” Bernstein said. “Tere are smaller classes and the teachers really Coming to Yavneh from a non-Jewish school is a major adjustment, but the interact with me.” teachers, administration and students do everything they can to make it easier. Bernstein found the Judaic classes to be eye-opening. It’s a place of open arms and smiling faces. Page 11: Whether walking to the Kotel or staying at “I learn information that I never knew about, like Oral Law,” she said. Although coming in with little knowledge about Judaism was scary, I have felt like all the Judaics teachers have my back. Tey started from the very beginning home, Yavneh alumni share their unforgettable expe- Some things about Yavneh and Richardson West have stayed the same for and they take it as slow as everyone in my class needs. riences during the high holidays in Israel. Shauna. For example, World Geography has been her favorite class in both schools. Coming into Yavneh, I thought I would be behind or trying to catch up. It Bernstein didn’t take a language class at Richardson West, but now one of her hasn’t been like that because I have nobody to catch up to. I’m going at my own favorite classes is Hebrew. pace and all of the teachers and other students accept that. “Hebrew, despite its challenges is enjoyable,” Bernstein said. “It stimulates my Tis past two months at Yavneh have been very diferent from what I am used mind.” to at my previous school but I no longer feel like I’m in a diferent world. Every- Last year, Jenna Sasson [10] came to Yavneh afer having attended Park Hill one has been accommodating and welcoming and I, along with other students Center spread High School. Her transition here was smooth. Coming in, she knew that Yavneh from public schools, are beginning to feel like Yavneh is a second home. would be the right ft as she had multiple friends from BBYO who assured her it would be great. Vocal taboo Staf and students debate meaning behind Jewish limitations of song By Frieda Katz ‘18 Macy Hance [12] had no knowledge of kol isha and its ramifcations. Even For some Yavneh students, the only comfort in an unwanted weekday morn- afer being educated on such, she lacked a connection to it. ing is music. While many engage in musical pursuits, female voices in particular “I don’t see this law as necessary, since a man’s voice could easily be just as ofer sweet sounds, ofen absentmindedly occurring as students hum along to seductive as a woman’s,” Hance said. mantras blaring from twin headphones. She also believes that attraction to someone should not be seen as sinful or What melodic high schoolers may fail to realize, however, is that their per- wrong, as kol isha seems to contend. sonal karaoke sessions ofen tiptoe on the verge of breaking Jewish law. Hance views kol isha as “a fence around a fence around a Torah law.” She Shir HaShirim, Song of Songs, 2:14 states, “Let me hear your voice because generally fails to fnd meaning in these types of obligations. your voice is pleasant and appearance attractive.” Tis is the verse held responsi- “Kol isha and other laws like it such as shomer negiah — touching the oppo- ble for the law of kol isha (literally translated as “a woman’s voice”) — prohibiting site sex — are so unnecessarily obscure,” Hance said. men from hearing a woman sing — as ruled in Tractate Brachot, Blessings, 24a She believes those with issues in controlling sexual urges should learn will- as follows: “A woman’s voice is ervah (nakedness).” Although the halacha regards power, rather than force protective laws over others. the voice of a woman, the obligation to not listen falls on the man. Even certain students with prior knowledge of kol isha’s prohibitions don’t Natural disasters of 2017 Upon studying this ruling at face value, however, these music-loving, passion- fnd the law observable or practical. Pages 6-7 ate girls shockingly gasp at how a Jewish law could be so seemingly unreasonable. continued on page 3 2 / Oct. 27, 2017 NEWS the bulldog print Ari’s Angle A look at the Korean issue from a financial view When a bond is at greater risk of default, people generally turn to Credit Default Swaps (CDS) to insure their money. Here’s an example of a CDS: imagine you bought a South Korean government bond, which was yielding you 2.5 percent interest. However, you are a leftist and genuinely believe that Trump will spark a war with North Korea. You would want to insure that bond should South Korea be destroyed and cannot pay you back. You would ask someone else to insure your bond. They would pay you the value of the bond if South Korea defaulted. This insurance comes at a price. The greater the risk, the more costly the insur- By Ari Berke ‘20 ance. Those who indulge in histrionics about With tensions high between the United States Trump and North Korea could buy a CDS on and North Korea, conservatives and leftists are South Korean bonds, meaning they would be split over the eventual outcome. But the cost may owed the original value of the bond if North not merely be lives. Korea defaulted. Then, when South Korea is A leftist claims that Trump is insane, and his destroyed, they could buy all their bonds for aggressive demeanor towards North Korea will almost nothing, and force the insurer to pay drive the two countries into a nuclear war. Other them the bonds’ original price. They would countries including Japan and South Korea will make nearly 500,000 percent return on their be drawn in as North Korea threatens to bomb investment. Guam, Los Angeles, Tokyo and Seoul. Conversely, if people believed the end The country most adversely affected is South result of the current U.S. foreign relations is Korea. Seoul is easily within North Korean artil- not war, they could sell insurance for South lery range. South Korea’s financial capital, which Korean bonds which they assume will not also happens to be one of the top 5 most populous be defaulted on and make a zero risk rate (in cities in the world, could be reduced to rubble. their opinion) 7 percent in a world where the On the other hand, a conservative would riskless rate is roughly 2 percent. That easy 7 diminish the possibility of a nuclear war, trus- percent is a return rate coveted by investment North Korea continues testing both rockets for ability to reach near and distant lands including the United tingTrump’s tactics of confronting North Korea’s firms globally, who kill themselves to find States. It also continues to do underground nuclear detonations. North Korea aimed missiles towards violent rhetoric and sporadic missile launches. opportunities above 2 percent. Guam, shooting across the Japanese mainland. Map courtesy of Bing Images. The argument between the two sides has few Whether one is a Trump supporter or not, facts to support either opinion. In this argument, ways exist to make money from his poli- emotions have the potential to carry an opinion cies. The North Korea situation is a prime past a sensible point. It’s time for both sides to put example and strikes a nerve across America their money where their mouths are. when both sides get excited by the possibility. Financially, the big worry of Seoul’s destruction The financial markets force them to back up their is that they will not be able to pay back (or will points. A conservative pro-Trump thinker would default on) their loans (bonds). If this happens, think the president will deliver, while leftists are anyone who has loaned money to South Korea by positive he won’t. buying their bonds will lose their entire invest- People could make money on that security and ment. Citizens of South Korea would be left with a put the question of college payment to bed. bankrupt government as well. the bulldog print PERSPECTIVES Oct. 27, 2017 / 3 Solo no, group yes Kol isha does not keep girls from singing, just asks for modesty Cont. from page 1 them, and women’s boundaries are inherently different from men’s.” Sophia Fineberg [12] chooses to reject the law regardless of her familiarity with its implica- While the prohibition is only on a woman’s voice, Ben-Abraham reasoned that kol tions. Fineberg believes people are entitled to use their voice to express themselves as they isha can teach both sexes about modesty. choose, and that man should be aware of his misdeeds rather shifting blame to others. Ben-Abraham compared this controversial safeguarding to the famous Sirens “I don’t think it’s right to prohibit someone from doing something because it might of Greek mythology, who had the power to hypnotize mortals with their allur- have a remote impact on someone else; everyone needs to take responsibility for their ing voices. own actions and reactions,” Fineberg said. “Even the physically-obsessed Greeks understood that the voice is an ani- Fineberg does understand kol isha’s purpose — to maintain a sense of purity in malistic tool of communication that can be alluring and sexualized,” she said. humanity’s actions and thoughts — but doesn’t see the need for strict stringencies on “I don’t think that kol isha only applies to singing, either. It’s a guard for individuals to reach that sense of liability for one’s own actions. the mouth in general,” Ben Abraham said. Certain members of Yavneh’s staff, however, believe in a modern day application of She stressed that with the rise of contemporary social media platforms kol isha. as outlets of gossip and speech, guarding the tremendous power of words While Principal Rabbi Maury Grebenau understands the frustration associated through kol isha may now be more important than ever. with this prohibition, he views it as a subunit of the Jewish code of modesty: tzniut. A crucial piece of advice suggested by Grebenau, Lieberman “A central theme in Judaism is the importance, yet obscureness of sexuality,” and Ben-Abraham for those who are in disagreement with Grebenau said. kol isha is to learn more about it and find a means to He compares the purposes of kol isha and tzniut. Both, Grebenau be- positively apply it to one’s own life before rejecting it. lieves, exist to fence humanity from promiscuity, as women’s voices While the law may initially alarm some, said Gre- in particular are often associated with such themes in today’s benau, it only prohibits singing in particular scenarios world. and often remains inapplicable to everyday life. “It’s not difficult to see how overly sexualized pop music has Agreeing with Grebenau, Lieberman said that al- become,” Grebenau continued, stressing how easily the voice though the law is challenging for one to observe, there can be used as a tool of seduction. “The idea of a man being exists a time and a place for everything — including forbidden from hearing a woman sing is a way to prevent im- the voice. morality entirely.” “We live in a world where a woman’s voice is Despite alarming, initial shades of sexism that seem to en- heard all the time,” she said. compass kol isha, Yavneh’s Orthodox female staff members fail to She provided examples of situations where a miss a beat in regard to discovering the true, logical significance woman is permitted to sing according to Jewish behind it. law, such as singing in a group over the radio For Judaic teacher Daniella Lieberman, who expresses herself or while singing spiritual and Jewish songs. through singing, holding back her voice for the sake of halacha, “The Torah claims that a woman’s voice is Jewish law, often remains extremely strenuous on her spirit. beautiful enough to be guarded by kol isha, so “Since this is such a hard mitzvah for me to keep, I had to really such a voice is permitted to sing what is uplift- work to find my own place within the halacha,” Lieberman said. ing and meaningful,” said Lieberman. This effort to seek out this law’s role in her life, however, ultimately Both Lieberman and Ben-Abraham find proved beneficial for Lieberman’s outlook on Torah. She now under- these exceptions beneficial and logical in ev- stands why protecting her voice is so crucial. eryday life, whether it be at a girls night or in the comfort of “The difference between the voices of both sexes can even be heard their own homes. in the Yavneh Beit Midrash,” she said, using the Yavneh community as an Even with the leniencies and loopholes of kol isha, Li- example of the law’s obvious value. “Davening simply sounds more pure eberman stresses the importance of understanding why the and harmonious when the girls carry the tune, as opposed to when the law itself exists before finding one’s own place within it. boys do.” “In order to be able to argue against kol isha, learn about General Studies teacher Chana Ben-Abraham finds similar signifi- it first,” Ben-Abraham said. “It is really a filter to prevent cance in this law, observing it as she does any other aspect of tzniut. one from overstepping a boundary. Once your words are “My observance of kol isha falls into my observance of Jewish out there, you can never take them back; that’s why I guard modesty in general,” Ben-Abraham said. “I make sure to keep within the my voice through kol isha.” parameters of kol isha if I happen to be singing, just as I dress modestly Shahar Peleg [12] sings a tune from her prayer book during girls morning when I leave home. Every human being needs certain boundaries set upon services. Photo by Rachel Sasson.

Girls participate in morning services, connecting to G-d through melodies of shared culture. Photos by Rachel Sasson. 4 /Oct. 27, 2017 PERSPECTIVES the bulldog print

Israeli food American food: is’RAEL’i amazing The best of all worlds “If you really want to make a friend, go to Imagine a salad. What you are imagining is someone’s house and eat with him … the people probably very different from the image I have in Israeli or American food? who give you their food give you their heart,” my head. I’m imagining a mixture of fresh cut-up said Cesar Chavez, American labor leader and tomatoes and cucumbers, civil rights activist. with a drizzle of olive oil, Food is a universal language — it speaks to souls through some lemon juice, salt flavors and connects people with ingredients. and pepper. Only one category of cuisine comforts the world more than Lettuce and croutons any other: American food. don’t exist here. This is Everyone can create American food. a typical Israeli salad: Only master chefs can create amazing shawarma or delicious simple, yet flavorful. falafel. Although Israeli food All you need to make mac and cheese is a stove and some is uncomplicated, the level of brain capacity. American food comforts the heart like no array of spices and sauces other, especially because tastebuds aren’t being assaulted by 40 personalize the dish. different foreign spices. The taste and smells America has 50 different states, each with their own specialty of Israeli food reminds dishes. For example, Kentucky is known for fried chicken, New some of their second York for bagels, Chicago for deep dish pizza, Wisconsin for any- home: Israel. As they eat thing cheesy, and so on. an iconic Israeli dish such Each state gets inspiration from other countries but makes as shakshuka — a dish the recipe their own, while Israel is one land with similar food of eggs cooked in a sauce throughout it. of tomatoes and peppers, Those who decry American food argue that Israeli food is often eaten with a side of healthier since its main components are grains, legumes and bread — they feel con- spices. However, this is exactly the reason why American food is nected to their heritage and superior: every time one bites into a burger or munches on some family even though they fries, the meal feels like a well-earned reward. are at dinner halfway across Another plus: American food is easy to obtain and make. the world. Grocery stores carry frozen corn dogs, waffles, french fries and For others, Israeli food other American foods, making it effortless to warm up or cook brings back memories from these foods right in the comfort of one’s own home, to enjoy with times spent in Israel and of family and friends. After all, cherished American holidays, like the holiness of the country. Thanksgiving and the Fourth of July, are centered around eating In the same vein, Israeli food often reminds students of the vast culture within Israel. Israeli food is good food and spending time with loved ones. proof of the variety of culture and ethnicities within the small country. Acquiring kosher food anywhere but Israel is difficult in itself, but finding kosher Israeli Schnitzel and kugel comes from Ashkenazi Jews. Mizrahi Jews brought couscous and matbucha — food in America is near impossible. Kosher American food however, is much easier to acquire, a spicy spread made from tomatoes and peppers. Yemenite Jews brought jachnun — layers of rolled since it is easier to make/to learn to make and doesn’t require as many expensive ingredients, dough with ample amounts of butter, cooked all night and traditionally eaten on Shabbat morning — like fresh vegetables or spices. and schug, which is red or green spicy sauce. Iraqi Jews brought with them kube— meat dumplings American food is more versatile than Israeli food and is easily adaptable. Adding one’s own with dough made from semolina and amba — a spicy dip made from green mangos. preferred ingredients only makes it better. Changing Israeli food with as little as a grain of Israeli food bursts with flavor and history. salt risks the chance of offending the chef or others. The Mediterranean diet uses fresh fruits and vegetables, olive oil, nuts and fish. All of these com- American food can also be adjusted to fit a person’s needs and requirements. A person ponents are much healthier than the often heavier American diet, which consists of a lot of red meat, suffering from Celiac or Crohn’s Disease cannot consume gluten, but American restaurants like processed sugar and white flour. Cafe Fino here in Dallas provide kosher, gluten-free, dairy-free, vegan and vegetarian options. Israeli cooking is more flavorful, healthier and contains more culture and history than the typical Israeli food on the other hand, cannot be changed without withdrawing the integrity of the American menu. Unfortunately, the cuisine is harder to find and more expensive than American fare. meal, for example, shawarma isn’t shawarma without chicken, beef or lamb, and shakshouka is The limited selection of kosher food remains an issue for the Jewish communities outside of Israel, nothing without eggs. especially the Jewish community in Dallas. Food creates a connection that can never be broken. Yet it’s not about the food people In Israel, kosher restaurants range from ethnic sit-down restaurants, to shawarma and falafel share, but rather the memories they make with people who respect other cultures and beliefs. stands and to sushi and quality bakeries. The diet incorporates spices and herbs such as zaatar, saffron So no matter the kind — be it American or Israeli — it’s about the connections between and mint. These spices bring a whole new dimension to foods. Competition between these restaurants people. causes prices to be lower. By Shahar Peleg ‘18 By Rachel Rouhani ‘21

“[Israeli food] reminds me of home.” “I enjoy eating Israeli food because “Things I love most about Israeli food “I never really found Israeli food to “Why is American food good? It’s the Yoav Even [9] it’s full of culture.” is the creative use of tahini, hummus be that great. I enjoy American food, way they prepare it and season it and Anna Wernick [12] and fresh cucumber tomato salads.” macaroni and cheese, pizza. It’s all the portion size.” Kimberly Berman [English] delicious.” Jessie Lampert [10] Ezra Ruderman [11] the bulldog print FEATURES October 27, 2017 / 5 Hypothetical American draft Students sound off on the controversial issue of the possible draft By Miriam Schwitzer ‘21 She acknowledges that the fear of being killed continues to be a While it is required for men to sign up for the draft, whether or When Seth Gerstenfeld [12] turns 18, he will have a month major deterrent. not woman should have to sign up has never been decided. to register with the Selective Service. That would enable the U.S. “I would feel intimidated at first, but then I would realize that In April 2016, a bill passed both Houses that require women government to call him up if the draft were reinstated. I’m fighting for my country and the people that live there, basically turning 18 after Jan. 1, 2018 to sign up for the draft the same way Seth doesn’t really need to worry. The draft hasn’t been active defending my own home,” said Estrada. as men are required to. since 1973 as the Vietnam War wound down. A similar piece was also added to a defense policy bill by But is it fair that Gerstenfeld should have to sign up if Eliana Duncan Hunter, a representative from California. The part about Abraham [12], who is also turning 18, doesn’t have to let the gov- woman having to sign up for the draft was eventually taken out of ernment know she is of draft age? the policy bill. Though the original bill would still have to be rec- When a country has a draft, they use it to call upon the young onciled. However, in November 2016, this bill was dropped as well. men and women who live there to help boost the numbers of Estrada still believes it should be equal for both sexes. soldiers in their military. “I believe that women and men should be drafted because Potentially reinstating the American draft was suggested by women are just as capable of being in the military as men are and Gen. Stanley McChrystal (ret.) who said that about 1 percent of women don’t just have to be on the sidelines — they can take other Americans serve voluntarily. McChrystal was commander of inter- positions,” said Estrada. national forces in Afghanistan during the mid-2000s. Some have said that they believe women must sign up even if Supporters of the draft, such as McChrystal, believe having it’s for shorter stints. Similarly, in Israel woman serve for a shorter a draft will enable America to quickly prepare for war after the time, about two years, and then are reserve soldiers until they are country enters conflict. 38. Unlike Israel, the American draft has not been used for more The draft can have very grave effects on a soldier’s life. than four decades. Additionally, American youth do not have to Serving in the military has the potential to be accompanied serve in any particular fashion. by serious side effects, including military sexual trauma (MST) or In Israel, serving in the army is mandatory and a big respon- post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). sibility. Each individual’s service significantly influences them, The veteran hospitals are currently suffering. In 2014 there whether it be in a positive or negative manner. were reports of waiting lists which advertised shorter wait times Israel’s draft began in 1948 with the founding of the state and is then the hospitals could provide, as well as many staffing issues mandatory for most Israelis when they reach 18. Arab Israelis are such as the hiring of convicted criminals or general understaffing. exempt from service. Ultra-Orthodox Jews have the option to go These issues have been going on for years and still continue to to Yeshiva rather than serve. do this day. By having a draft we would be increasing the amount People with dual citizenship, such as Roy Einhorn [12], have of citizens exposed to diseases or the stresses of veteran hospitals. the ability to defer the mandatory draft. In Einhorn’s case, since he If changes to the draft were made and women were also has lived the majority of his life in America, this would be a cir- obligated to register then Abraham as well as Gerstenfeld would cumstance in which an Israeli citizen may be exempt from serving. have to let selective service know when they reached draft age. Nevertheless, Einhorn and other like him can still be called The number of soldiers in service would therefore increase and in upon to fight in a few years if they don’t renew the process to stay turn help America have a strong military, as General McChrystal out of the Israeli Defense Forces. When soldiers serve in the mili- and other supporters hope. tary it is for two to three years, depending on gender. Reinstating the draft, especially if it were altered to be for both Israel is not the only country to have an active draft. Switzer- genders, could also increase the amount of war related diseases land, Russia, China, North Korea and Eritrea also require their that affect soldiers when they return home. youth to serve in the military. Jordan Krieger [12] is ambivalent about women and the draft “If I have to join the army I’d rather go to the Israeli army,” said but acknowledges the importance of a draft during times of war. Jennifer Greenspan [12]. “I’d rather be in the Israeli army then the “I feel like women should be able to choose if they want to American one,” said Sophia Fineberg [12]. [join the army] or not,” said Krieger. “I think that drafting is a Emma Estrada, a freshman at Richardson High, is an avid little bit unfair but if we have no way to defend ourselves then it Photo by Seth Gerstenfeld. advocate for the return of the American draft. needs to happen.” Estrada wants to be in the Air Force and takes part in dif- ferent training activities to help prepare her for combat.

Don’t test. It’s the law.

Mazal Tov to the Yavneh boys Soccer Team Rachel and Matthew Berke 6 / Oct. 27, 2017 FEATURES the bulldog print the bulldog print Natural disasters of 2017 By Eliana Abraham ‘18, Frieda Katz ‘18 and Sarah Liener ‘20

Rain. Katz Yeshiva High School in Boca Raton, Fla, after Irma Wind. Debris. hit. Extreme weather shattered Unfortunately, this is the light version of the damage. The Damagethe world thrice this year. Hurricane Boca Raton got the leftovers of Irma. Islands of paradise Harvey struck Texas in late August to early were turned into islands of hell. September, destroying the homes and synagogues of “I vividly remember hearing about the power outage the Jewish community of Houston. At the same time, that hit all of Puerto Rico,” said Vanessa Tanur [12]. “It Hurricane Irma attacked the Caribbean and Florida with seemed like a nightmare.” the power of a Category 5 hurricane. Immediately after Mexican synagogues were shaken down by the violent these two, Hurricane Maria, another Category 5 hurri- earthquake. Turned into rubble right before the high cane, was accompanied by a 6.0 magnitude earthquake, holidays. devastating These natural di- Puerto Rico and sasters left emotional Mexico. scars as well. From the “We had to expect suburban homes the worse, that our of Texas to the house and everything beach houses in in it would be gone,” Florida to the said Wolfson. “It resorts in Puerto didn’t feel like reality, Rico, nothing it was really scary.” was safe. The Human beings natural disasters’ were hopeless against physical attacks the power of the on infrastructure weather, more vulner- and nature cre- able than ever. The ated streets of Houston unforgettable and Miami became scenery. rivers for rescue rafts. “I was in my Highways from Flori- 2nd floor apart- da to Atlanta became ment and the the evacuation route water was almost for all Jewish com- up to the first munities in Florida. floor, so there Mexico became a land was a few feet Illustration by Rebecca Herschberg ‘20 of rubble. of gross muddy “I was helping water,” said Eliana Ruben, a junior at Beren Academy in my friend clean her grandparents’ stuff and decades Houston. of memories and books were all gone over the span of Although she has experienced flooding before, Ruben hours,” said Ruben. recognized early on that Harvey would be much worse. The past was washed away by the waters and shattered Water can feel great in a hot shower or as a cold drink, by the tremors. Lives were taken away and transformed but crashing down from the sky and ruining everything forever. in sight, it’s no longer viewed favorably. The wind was “When I first heard about Harvey, I thought, ‘not also a major factor in damaging the cities. again,’” said Ariel Schneider, a junior at Beren Academy. “There were tons of leaves, branches and trees up- “I immediately then [focused on] making sure that my rooted from the ground,” said Adira Wolfson, a senior at family was safe and that I helped others.”

These catastrophes had worldwide im- GLOBAL response pact, the efforts of civilians and celebrities alike minimizing casualties and damage. Jennifer Lopez, Alexander Rodriguez, JJ Watt, and In- more are all examples of celebrities that have donated, ternational airlines, such as Delta volunteered in, or started funds to Puerto Rico, Mexi- and American, offered free travel alterations away from co, Florida, and Houston — the city which many listed disaster zones. call their hometown. A recent astonishing accomplish- During his visit to Puerto Rico to assess and help ment was Watt’s success in raising over $37 million for along their situation, President Trump echoed the stag- victims of Hurricane Harvey. gering contrast between the island’s hurricane death Mankind watched videos and heard stories of those toll--under a hundred reported dead-- and hurricane in need, and Katrina’s thousands. The damage, said Trump, had proceeded to potential to be exceedingly worse help in even without the aid from count- the smallest less individuals ways. The across the globe. College Board Hurricanes continues to Harvey, Irma, provide SAT and Maria and PSAT fee made waves waivers to worldwide, and those around aftershocks of the world Mexico’s earth- affected by quake knocked these disas- the rubble of ters. humanity. the bulldog print FEATURES Oct. 27, 2017 / 7

Immediately after it possible for them the news of Hurricane not to worry about Harvey, Yavneh Academy of Dal- the chagim. Let them las rushed to help the afflicted city. As soon worry about what as the physical flooding stopped, the school began they needed to worry Yavnehto organizeresponse a trip to help the people of Houston, about, their liveli- preparing to leave the next day. hood, their houses. When the students heard of this desperate need Not about their holi- to clean up our neighboring city, everyone wanted days and shabbat.” to assist, but there were concerns: how could stu- A more exception- dents drive all the way to Houston? How would al case was Roz Naor people be able to get into the city if the highways [11], who was ex- were flooded? How would we be able to go tomor- tremely moved by the row? Would we be able to go if weren’t news of Hurri- excused from class? cane Harvey. All of these questions led the Naor re- school to realize that one day’s no- fused to stay home while fellow Texans were tice was not enough time to pull this suffering. He initially desired to go down off. Yavneh students motivated the right after the hurricane hit, but was school to find some outlet in which cautioned about the water level. the teens can help with the relief efforts. “They lost everything. I’m only four Shaare Tefillah, an orthodox synagogue hours away, so I had to do something, in Dallas, had an abundance of cleaning and [when I went down there,] I did supplies that needed to be transported to the best I could,” said Naor. Congregation Ohr HaTorah, another local He worked with Texas Kosher Barbeque synagogue. With no hesitation, Yavneh and they were “cranking out about 5000 students volunteered to drive. From their meals a day” for the Houston Jewish commu- four door sedans to their Ford pickup nity, according to Naor. trucks, the teens loaded and unloaded the He was shocked by the catastrophic scenery, brooms, wipes, toilet paper and more. in awe of the strength of water and wind. A Taste of the World, a catering company “There was one section where every house co-owned by Ceci Katz and Ruthy Henkin, was destroyed from the ground to three feet up,” was asked to cater for victims of this natu- said Naor. ral disaster over the course of one month. Yavneh students and faculty were not con- Their crew needed some extra hands cerned about spending time to help load a truck to help pack, wrap and label the food. with cleaning supplies, or help package food or Once again, Yavneh students came to send messages to their friends and families. All the rescue during their free periods.A Jews, all Texans, all Americans, all people are Taste of the World was able to feed family. Yavneh Academy of Dallas does not over five thousand people, preparing green leave family in need to fend for themselves. beans, kugel, brownies and more. “We felt honored that we were able to provide for these families in need,” said Katz. “We made Harvey hero By Miriam Schwitzer ‘21 and getting rid of furniture and After Hurricane Harvey there cabinets. the rebuildingHer school took a trip to Florida was, and still is, a lot to be done to “Basically her whole first floor “Oth- Keys to continue lending a helping restore Houston to its former glory. flooded,” Tucker said. ers were more in need, so hand. Aside from the numerous firefight- At the same time, she also had we [helped with] toiletry drives and “Even through all the struggles, the ers and police staff who are still her own house to look after. donated the items,” said Jessica Spec- people in Houston still had positive doing incredible work to battle the “I looked at my garage and it tor, a BBYO participant from Naples, attitudes,” said Naor. problems caused by the storm, citi- had water in it, but never standing FL. The islands affected by Maria are zens work beside them to help their water so I was kind of was just like Local communities took charge expecting a few years to restore the communities. I’ll get to that next,” Tucker said. with assisting their neighbors who cities to what they once were: places One such helper is Michelle The community also came to- were victims of the natural disasters, of joy, care-free summers and beauti- Renfrow Tucker, a Sugar Land, gether to help. especially after the news coverage ful beaches. Texas, resident, Tucker has helped “We did a lot of picking up,” came to a halt. Instead of Hurricane After these natural disasters, com- her neighbors and also helped with Tucker said. “Meeting random Harvey, Harvey Weinstein fills head- munities united. They experienced Greene Family Camp hurricane day strangers on the highway who were lines. the worst together. They experienced camp. friends of friends who drove all the Those who are aware that people fear, uncertainty, vulnerability and Tucker and her son Alex awak- way and brought us paper towels still need help are those who are right death together. Despite troubling ened at 5:30 when Harvey created and masks and gloves and sprays.” by the situation. times, hope flies through the air. its havoc. They wrapped themselves Tucker also spent time working at “There was a room [in our school] “I realized that no matter what and their dog in pool noodles to Greene Family Camp’s Camp Harvey full of boxes filled with all types of hits my community,” said Schneider, stay above the rising water. The relief for kids. supplies: diapers, canned food, cloth- “we’re going to stay strong and we hardest part she said was when she “I was basically a day camp ing, water,” said Wolfson. will keep building more and more.” had to think of the possibilities of counselor for 11 and 12 year olds not surviving. from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.” Tucker said. “I had to take out a Sharpie and Tucker had what she calls write Alex’s name, his phone num- a 911 backpack with important ber and his social on his body in documents sealed in ziplocks, a case we got separated or he died,” little bit of food (tuna, protein bars, Tucker said. and dog food), the electronics and They were able to swim to their chargers, a set of clothes, medicine neighbor’s house, which was on a both human and dog, wallet, leash, higher elevation than their own. water bottle, pocket knife, hammer, After the storm and the initial flashlight, a waterproof bag that in- clean up— getting all the wet stuff cluded a flotation device that would out — Tucker with Alex in tow, hold a phone and go around your started helping a neighbor, a single neck. mother, who didn’t have the same “I have no idea why I have this a level of preparation. They’ve worked size 5 diaper,” Tucker said. “I think cutting up carpets, drywall, mold that might have been from the last time.” 8 / Oct. 27, 2017 FEATURES the bulldog print Animal abuse abounds Companies use testing to get products approved; people neglect, hurt their own pets By Meira Abraham ‘21 more tests until they die. needed — which included removing his eyes. Take a look around the average house: countless sham- No pain-relieving medication is used for the animals, Then, Beamer came along to rescue the dog. poo bottles, makeup products, medications and cleaning since testing is not funded by the government. “It’s such an inhumane thing to do,” Beamer said of the supplies fill the shelves. However, inhumane treatment of animals isn’t exclusive- dog who was a victim of cruelty and neglect. He had to have Behind all of these items lies the cruel and inhumane ly done by companies; owners can create horrific situations his eyes removed since fleas were coming out of his eyes. process of using animals to the safety of the product. Ani- as well. “People didn’t want him because of what happened to mal cruelty is not just against the iconic lab rat. Millions of Plano resident Janie Beamer adopted a dog who had him,” Beamer said. “They would ask me why would I do this guinea pigs, rats, mice, dogs, cats, monkeys, birds and even been bounced from home to home. The first owners died, to myself, and I would tell them ‘why wouldn’t you do this fish are brutally killed each year for this purpose. the second hated him because he got underfoot, a relative of to yourself.’” While some animals are killed, others live in captivity for the owner who hated him picked him up but then ignored “Roscoe,” who has now been renamed “Stevie Ray Beam- human entertainment. his basic needs and grooming. er” has found a home filled with love. Beamer even posted In recent years, Sea World has been in the center of After many months of being listed on POUNDwishes, on Facebook that people come over and ask for Stevie rather controversy over animal cruelty. Many of their whales enough money was raised to get “Roscoe” the surgery he than sitting down to visit with the family. have been injured due to harsh conditions, with over 160 Beamer cannot comprehend how someone could do this whale deaths occurring in captivity since 1959. Due to the to such a devoted and loving animal. Even after everything backlash, Sea World is no longer breeding in captivity and is the dog went through, he is still able to love and trust his remodeling their tanks to make them less cruel. new caring owners. Ringling Brothers Circus became a thing of the past Stevie is starting to feel comfortable and safe in the earlier this year partially based on its suspected abuse Beamer house. of animals. Lions and tigers were caged and over- “Stevie loves to have the wind blow in his face,” trained to the point where they could no longer be Beamer said. “He does what I call a face surf. He is considered wild animals. Elephants were the first now king of the hill.” released to go to farms where they could learn On a positive note, animal cruelty and testing to be free again. on animals may be on the decline. People also use products for their com- Today organizations against animal testing mon daily activities that have been tested such as People for Ethical Treatment of Ani- on animals. Customers don’t see the be- mals (PETA) and cosmetic companies that hind-the-scenes testing of products, such choose not to use animal testing are work- as shampoo and cleaning supplies. With ing to get rid of animal testing. Lush is a all these products, animals are repeat- cosmetic company whose owners fought edly tested, often using massive amounts animal testing even before they formed of the product in a way humans would the company. They found other alterna- never use them. tives have proven to be better and cheaper People like to think that their than testing on animals. household dog could never be a victim However, there remains a lot of work to of animal cruelty, but many common, be done. domesticated animals continue to be used In China, one of the biggest importers in for testing. the world, all cosmetics imports are required Another source of animal cruelty is test- to employ animal testing. Cosmetic compa- ing done by companies in the cosmetic indus- nies want to get into this enormous market. try. The majority of makeup users are unaware It leaves little options for those who want to of the cruel procedures used to test numerous compete. products. In the United States, although the FDA does not Some animals are shaved and excessive amounts require animal testing, companies who don’t use ani- of substances are applied to their skin or are put in their mal testing may find a significantly longer process to get eyes or mouth. The skin may show redness, rash, scaling new items to the market, and drastically lower profits. and inflammation. They may go blind or have internal This is why the pro-animal testing lobby has shot down burning or damage. The processes may painfully kill the many bills outlawing animal testing, and the possibility one animal, and if the animal survives, they may be subjected to passes in the future is bleak.

MAZAL TOV AND YASHER KOACH TO THE BULLDOG PRINT ON THEIR 12TH ANNIVERSARY! FROM DR. DAVID PORNOY AND FACULTY OF YAVNEH ACADEMY OF DALLAS

Stevie Ray Beamer has gone through a lot in his short life. He started his adopted life in the home of an elderly couple who died, then was adopted by a woman who resented his being underfoot and then went to live in the home of a relative who allowed him to get all matted and flea infested. The fleas were so bad, he had to have his eyes removed. He now lives with a Plano family who has taken care of his every need and filled his life with love. Photos courtesy of Janie Beamer.

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rah portion, written by Rabbi Tannenbaum Jr. Jr. Tannenbaum Rabbi by written portion, rah han Community School in Baltimore Baltimore in School Community han community, and to the greater community,” Portnoy Portnoy community,” greater the to and community,

- To week’s the from lesson a Torah, dvar and Portnoy - Da Tfiloh Beth at school of head sociate with good values who are committed to the Jewish Jewish the to committed are who values good with

weekly newsletter which features an update from from update an features which newsletter weekly - as and school upper of head the as served Tfiloh, and other schools are putting out good people people good out putting are schools other and Tfiloh,

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trying to combine rigor and nurture or high stan high or nurture and rigor combine to trying - said. he leadership,” school - en and birth from Ranging school. high after life

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to work here. Portnoy credits this quality to being the the being to quality this credits Portnoy here. work to Afterwards, he got his Ed.D. from Johns Johns from Ed.D. his got he Afterwards, - exercis Portnoy alumni, with touch in keep To

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Additionally, the “everyone knows everyone” en everyone” knows “everyone the Additionally, - - at Portnoy Yale, at years four After “One of the secrets of a good leader is to know know to is leader good a of secrets the of “One

wide range of religious backgrounds. backgrounds. religious of range wide dent contact. I love being in a classroom.” classroom.” a in being love I contact. dent and gives credit where it is due. due. is it where credit gives and

Beth Tfiloh community, with students coming from a a from coming students with community, Tfiloh Beth - stu more having miss I “Sometimes said. He does not credit all these changes to himself himself to changes these all credit not does He

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ferential there.” there.” ferential “I knew I loved school life, I liked to to liked I life, school loved I knew “I gether on budgeting, making sure that everything is is everything that sure making budgeting, on gether

very well,” Portnoy said. “There was no delta or dif or delta no was “There said. Portnoy well,” very - at Yale and taught at a local school. school. local a at taught and Yale at - to closely pretty work I and [Peterson] “Ralph

“I think [Pam Fine and Dan Prescott] laid it out out it laid Prescott] Dan and Fine [Pam think “I involved in teacher preparation offered offered preparation teacher in involved cial aspects. cial

that the reality lived up to his expectations. expectations. his to up lived reality the that ter the education field, Portnoy became became Portnoy field, education the ter - finan some of care takes also School of Head Our

noy felt he knew exactly what to expect going in and and in going expect to what exactly knew he felt noy - en to wanted he Thinking science. cal added more electives.” more added

Regarding his initial impressions of Yavneh, Port Yavneh, of impressions initial his Regarding - - politi and economics studied Portnoy girls] and Iyun [Advanced Judaics for boys], but also also but boys], for Judaics [Advanced Iyun and girls]

Yavneh Academy of Dallas. of Academy Yavneh As a Yale University undergraduate, undergraduate, University Yale a As do, so we expanded matmidot [Advanced Judaics for for Judaics [Advanced matmidot expanded we so do,

student enthusiasm and faculty commitment at at commitment faculty and enthusiasm student ur .” re tu baum, Rabbi Grebenau and I have felt is important to to important is felt have I and Grebenau Rabbi baum,

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been one of the great joys of my life and and life my of joys great the of one been

tion. tion. Jewish music, Mr. Rees is teaching Jewish history,” history,” Jewish teaching is Rees Mr. music, Jewish

say,” Portnoy said “Being at Yavneh has has Yavneh at “Being said Portnoy say,”

Dan Prescott, contacted him to apply for the posi the for apply to him contacted Prescott, Dan -

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schools, the search committee led by Pam Fine and and Fine Pam by led committee search the schools,

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ment. ment.

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reminisce about the ‘‘ the about reminisce

to arriving at Yavneh. at arriving to “Mincha was something that was an easy fix, but I I but fix, easy an was that something was “Mincha

The Emery/Weiner School in Houston, directly prior prior directly Houston, in School Emery/Weiner The lack of the desired community aspect during mincha. during aspect community desired the of lack

takes time to to time takes

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By Maayan Abouzaglo ‘19 Abouzaglo Maayan By letter, it was really long, we didn’t know if people read read people if know didn’t we long, really was it letter,

Head of School looks back on first five years as a Bulldog a as years five first on back looks School of Head

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FEATURES print print bulldog the / 9 / 2017 27, Oct. 10 / Oct. 27, 2017 FEATURES the bulldog print The road to retirement Rabbi Tannenbaum reflects on time at Yavneh, considers future plans Some of his fondest memories are of Israel Independence Day much as he loves learning from his students.” and preparing food for the aforementioned holiday. There is a chance Yavneh may see Tannenbaum again shortly “The student I miss most knows it,” Tannenbaum said. as he has confirmed in a video interview that he is considering However, everyone at Yavneh thinks that he is referring to returning to Yavneh. This will come as a happy surprise to all who them; this is just reflective of Rabbi Tannenbaum’s relation- miss him. Until then, he will continue to teach classes at Shaare ship with the students. Tefilla. Rabbi Tannenbaum takes pleasure in life outside of school “Nothing would make me happier than seeing my students and tries to find happiness in every activity. show up for a class [there],” Tannenbaum said. “Everything can and should be made enjoyable, by asking yourself: Why am I doing this? Who might benefit from it, and For more about Rabbi Tannenbaum Sr., including information how will this further the ideals I live for?,” Tannenbaum said. about a possible return to teaching at Yavneh, see an exclusive Rabbi Tannenbaum may be one of the most beloved teachers in interview with the beloved rabbi at bulldogprint.org. Yavneh history. It is a sign of his humility that when asked about his teaching philosophy, he answered that he has none and that there is none. He does, however, try to remember how he disliked school as a teen- ager and that many kids, given the choice, A special man would choose not to come to school. A teacher must “respect and encour- By Eli Minsky ‘19 age students to be honest and coura- My learning with Rabbi Tannenbaum Sr. geous in their thinking and question- ing,” Rabbi Tannenbaum said. consists of the Jewish Thought and Law The senior rabbi said that he material for junior year, but in a very unique believes that the success of teachers depends on their students and that setting. the success of students depends on Twice a week, we indulge in deep learn- their teachers. Rabbi Tannenbaum offered ing at Starbucks, free of regular distractions his former students and fellow that may occur in class. This allows for more teachers advice. “Students and teachers material to be covered in a shorter amount aren’t on opposite sides,” he of time. said. “Any sign of strife be- tween the two groups has Rabbi Tannenbaum and I actually only go to be dealt with quickly.” Photo by Daniel Garren. back about one year, but it’s the quality of By Daniel Garren ‘19 The retired rabbi also Yavneh’s student body is still in recovery from the retirement stresses that “school is not another form of warfare.” He tries to our friendship that speaks volumes. of Rabbi Yaakov Tannenbaum. Now, the entire school, namely the picture himself in his student’s shoes and think about the way they Throughout my entire sophomore year, Judaics lounge, no longer has the same liveliness as it once did. perceive things and what they feel. Students aren’t the only ones who miss seeing Tannenbaum’s Tannenbaum’s life has not undergone substantive change since Rabbi Tannenbaum taught three of my smiling face, as they sat at desks listening to his lectures on the his retirement. He still spends his time preparing for classes, but classes. What made this so amazing is that Chassidic movement. Faculty members do, too. now these classes are at Shaare Tefilla instead of at Yavneh. Rabbi Tannenbaum has discovered old habits die hard. Tannenbaum’s classes cover a variety of topics, including but not we were able to spend so much time togeth- “I still often think I am on my way to campus,” Rabbi Tannen- limited to Parsha, Talmud, Kabbalah, and Tehillim. er in an alternative class which gave way for baum said . “I start walking down Lyndon B. Johnson Freeway only History teacher Mordechai Rees spoke to his intellect and to remember that I don’t have to go [to Yavneh].” generosity. unforgettable discussions. According to Tannenbaum, all of life is a journey, with religion “Rabbi Tannenbaum Sr. is a great and inspiring teacher of Rabbi Tannenbaum means so much more being part of that journey. He believes everyone deserves respect, Torah and all around source of intellectual knowledge,” Rees said. especially t hose who sign up for the religious aspect of the jour- “I enjoy learning with and from him always.” to me than just a rabbi; has become one of ney. As an example, he believes that those who “can’t daven” should Yavneh basketball and soccer Coach David Zimmerman found my most valued mentors to enter my life. His show respect for those who can. Tannenbaum Sr. to be special. “Everything and anything important must be dynamic and “Rabbi Tannenbaum Sr. is one of the kindest, smartest and personality is second to none, and he main- generate more questions than answers,” Tannenbaum said. most honorable individuals that I have ever been privileged to en- tains his composure better than anybody I’ve Tannenbaum lives by the philosophy of having consideration counter in my life,” Zimmerman said. “He has truly been a blessing for others. for this school in all his all his years of contribution and love.” ever known. He misses the annual Erev Shabbat selichot program, the front Students also looked up to Tannenbaum. Alan Presburger ‘17 It’s these qualities, along with many more, office staff and especially the reading of the megillah on Purim at praised the retired rabbi. Yavneh by his son, Rabbi Tannenbaum Jr. “The most important things I learned from him are the ones that make him such a special man. he taught by example,” Presburger said. “He loves teaching just as STAFF EDITORIAL Be undefined by stereotypes Ask any person, they’ll most likely say they have experienced person is so interested in you that they notice small things about As far as Russians loving vodka, that stereotype comes from being subjected to stereotyping. Even in 2017, society has not your face or your drink of choice. the fact that at one point, vodka was actually cheaper than water. eliminated assuming a person’s personality based on where they’re The reason these stereotypes exist is that some of them are It was so cheap that, in 2010, former President Dmitry Medve- from or what they believe in. based on truth. Look back to the initial Jewish and Russian stereo- dev raised the price from $1.96 to $3 for a half-liter to discourage The question to anyone who’s been offended by a stereotype type. In art, Jews, for the most part, had no specific facial features. people from drinking it so much. about them is: Why they are offended? After the thirteenth century though, artists started to use more It’s important to not get offended by stereotypes because a lot of Who cares if someone thinks you are Jewish because you have a realistic depictions of people and therefore, certain facial features the time the person who says them may have also been a target for big nose? Who cares if someone thinks you love vodka just because conveyed certain ethnicities. Thus, Jews were given a misshapen some stereotypical comments as well. By foregoing anger and then you’re Russian? yet realistic face and a somewhat hooked-nose. This was not always refusing to use the anger to hurt others shows who is the bigger Do you think that the person who commented on your nose seen as a negative trait. Kabbalistic texts believed that a large nose person. As long as the stereotypes aren’t truly hurtful, there should knew that when Israel elected its first female prime minister, Swit- was a sign of character. Kabbalistic Rabbi Aharon Leib Biska wrote be no reason for people to take offense. zerland still had not yet given women right to vote? in 1888 that “A nose that is curved down with a small hump in the If people stopped getting offended by these remarks, then oth- Do you think that the person who jokingly questioned your middle attests to a character that seeks to discover the secrets of ers would find that there would be no reason to use them altogeth- alcohol preferences noticed that one of the most beautiful places in wisdom, who shall govern fairly, be merciful by nature, joyful, wise er. Don’t give anyone the satisfaction of hurting you, because who the world, the Red Square, is located in the heart of Moscow? and insightful.” you are is so special, and a misused stereotype isn’t something that These seemingly meaningless remarks actually show that a you should have to be ashamed of. the bulldog print ISRAEL Oct. 27, 2017 / 11

THE BULLDOG PRINT Editor-in-chief Holidays in the holy land Eliana Abraham Alumni share memories from Rosh Hashana to Simchat Torah Layout Manager By Tia Einhorn ‘20 Roy Einhorn The high holidays are an unimaginable experience that must be lived to actually appreciate. Add to the magic: spend the holiday in Israel, the Holy Land. When people think of the holidays in Israel, they picture the Kotel, thousands of people filling the streets of Jerusalem. But my holiday experience in Managing Editors Israel wasn’t so stereotypical. Maayan Abouzaglo Believe it or not, many people - like me - have an alternative tradition as they take part in the holidays. Many communities or small towns spend the month of holidays all together as one huge family, congregating at a single synagogue. Ari Berke No matter how the holidays are spent, just being within the borders of the holy land makes everything special. Several of last year’s graduates chose to Reporters study in Israel this year, allowing them to experience the rituals in person. They share the experience withThe Bulldog Print. Meira Abraham By Heidi Kravitz ‘17 By Megan Lacritz ‘17 By Rosie Bernstein ‘17 It may be cliche to assume that just being in 700 voices sing aloud, chanting and repeating The high holidays in Israel can best be un- Daniel Garren Israel enhances the awesome spirit that accompa- verses from the prayer book announcing G-d derstood by observing Jerusalem’s Central Bus Frieda Katz nies the high holidays, but it’s true. as our king. 90 other girls from my school sit Station in the afternoon before Yom Tov begins. Nonetheless, I was privileged to spend my around me as I concentrate deeply on the words I As a girl on my own in Israel for the year, I Sarah Liener Rosh Hashana and Yom Kippur not just in an recite in my siddur. 12 hours straight of mean- did a lot of traveling this holiday season. And Shahar Peleg ordinary synagogue, but in my own Beit Midrash ingful prayer, the clock ticking as I turn more thus, the Tachana HaMerkazit became a very I am learning in for the duration of my gap year. and more pages. familiar place for me as I roamed the country. Jamie Perkins As I was praying for a sweet new year and My high holiday experience in Israel as part But as familiar as it felt, each time I entered the Rachel Rouhani begging Hashem for forgiveness, I was also of a seminary was truly one of a kind. There is glass doors and put my bags through the metal thinking back to all the learning I had accumu- no question whether you feel at home the instant detector, the more I realized the differences that Paul Schussler lated in just the couple weeks prior to the begin- you see every store shut down and all the roads came with each holiday. Miriam Schwitzer ning of the holidays and relating my learning to filled with children playing instead of cars honk- As Rosh Hashana approached and I headed to my prayers. That was an experience I owe to my ing simple because it’s a holiday. A holiday that Givat Shmuel, the bakeries of the station smelled Photo Editor seminary and to being in Israel for the year. is significant for every Jew, a holiday where you of sweet honey, their pastry cases lined with Seth Gerstenfeld Just like in America when the majority of focus on G-d rather than other people. apple confections. Each one had a line out the the country is flowing with joy and happiness of You can hear singing from all different direc- door of people buying these freshly-baked treats Photographer the holiday season from Thanksgiving through tions, you see people in tears yearning for our in hopes of making their holiday special. Rachel Sasson Christmas, in Israel it’s the same notion from exile to end within the next year, you can feel the Almost two weeks later as I boarded a bus to Rosh Hashana through Sukkot, but it’s magnified energy of the the whole country joining together Ra’anana, beginning my Sukkot break, we passed Online Copy Editor by the whole country uniting and participating to celebrate the momentous time of year. It was through neighborhood after neighborhood with Tia Einhorn in each holiday. clear that I wasn’t in America anymore. the spirit of Sukkot lining the streets, balconies All bakeries waft their enticing and porches all over the city. And it Digital Manager apple-honey cake aromas into the was just moments after Yom Kippur’s David Cohen streets, and there are seldom places end. where it’s difficult to find sukkahs As I passed through the bus sta- Business Managers springing from the sides of each tion throughout the holiday en route Ben Levkovich house. The spirit in the air over here to Tzfat, Beit Shemesh, Be’er Sheva is as unique as it is marvelous. and Tel Aviv, I was approached by Eli Minsky Over Sukkot break, the country is countless people asking if I wanted to Staff Artists filled with jam-packed events of hap- borrow their lulav and etrog and make piness in order to fulfill the idea of a bracha. Rebecca Herschberg zman simchateinu, times of our joy. These people weren’t rabbis trying Asher Schonbrunn Not to mention only keeping one day to convert me or extremists trying of chag definitely qualifies as a major to recruit me. They were just regular Statistics Manager benefit of being in Israel. people passing through Jerusalem’s I am a spiritual person by nature, Central Bus Station, making sure a fel- Leib Malina low Jew had the opportunity to fulfill so maybe I relate to the stereotypi- Thousands attend prayers at the Kotel. Photo submitted by Liat Levkovich. Adviser cal beliefs of Israel’s innate ability to the mitzvah before the sun went down. Judy Babb amplify all of Judaism’s ideals, but it just feels so By Liat Levkovich ‘17 But perhaps my most inspirational encounter true and special. It’s possible the same feelings To totally take advantage of Sukkot during my with Israel’s celebration of holidays happened in Head of School permeate America and I’ve never truly related year in seminary, I promised myself that I would my own home at Migdal Oz on Yom Kippur. My Dr. David Portnoy because I don’t celebrate the major holidays that eat every meal in a different sukkah. There were day of prayer fluctuated between the emotions bring about this sense of joy, but being in Israel sukkahs everywhere! In the street, on the porch, of great awe and fear and the happiest joy I have for the holidays definitely sets a high bar for in the parking lot and even on the roof. ever felt. The way I described it to my family future holidays spent outside Israel. A little annoying at times, this goal moti- when the holiday ended was, “We were either The Bulldog Print is the official student newspaper of crying or dancing.” As we sang a verse describing Yavneh Academy of Dallas and serves as an open forum to in- vated me to notice various types of sukkahs, see form and reflect the opinions of its students and the Modern multiple views of Jerusalem and meet a diverse the celebrations that will be had when the world Orthodox community. array of people. From the children’s artwork on gathers in Israel and recognizes Hashem as their Student staffers are responsible for the production of The the wall to the imitation fruit hanging from the King, I had a realization. I am a living fulfillment Bulldog Print and will not publish material legally considered of this prophecy. Arm in arm with the girls to obscene, libelous or an invasion of privacy. However, The Bull- bamboo, every sukkah was so uniquely special. dog Print will not avoid the publication of material deemed As the sun was setting on the Shabbat of Suk- my left and right, voices joined as one, I realized controversial or professing a minority viewpoint. kot, my friend and I decided to take a stroll to I was in the Land of Israel crowning G-d. Why All images in The Bulldog Print are student produced, shouldn’t we dance? republished with permission, are in the public domain, or fall the Kotel, reflecting on our hectic, yet rejuvenat- within fair use practices for criticism and news reporting. ing holiday. The Bulldog Print is in good standing with the Columbia We prayed and Scholastic Press Association, National Scholastic Press Associa- tion and Interscholastic League Press Conference. relaxed, while wit- EDITORIAL POLICY nessing the beauty of Unsigned editorials represent the opinions of the top edi- Shabbat ebbing away tors and selected staffers. The adviser may counsel, but does not at this holy site. We determine content. Signed opinion pieces, letters and reviews reflect the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of decided that the Kotel Yavneh Academy or its administration. sukkah would be the ADVERTISING POLICY ideal place to hear The Bulldog Print is funded through advertising sold by Ariella Cohen ‘17 and Heidi Kravitz ‘17, currently students havdalah. Groups of the block and received 10 days prior to publication. The Bull- dog Print may refuse ads not in the best interest of its readers at Yeshivat and Midreshet Torah V’avodah, pose for a people, from all walks and the Modern Orthodox Jewish tradition. picture during an intermediate day. Photo submitted by of life, congregated LETTERS POLICY Heidi Kravitz. around a chassidish The Bulldog Print accepts letters to the editor which man standing on address concerns of the Yavneh community or are in response to a previous article or issue in the paper. The Bulldog Print a chair. He began reserves the right to edit for length and content while retaining reciting the havdalah the original opinion presented. Please send letters to lettersto- prayer and mint leaves [email protected]. CONTACT were thrown for the b’samim segment. Sarit Perl, Benji Zoller ‘16, Rosie Bernstein ‘17, Megan For advertising, editorial, letters, story, photo or subscription Lacritz ‘17, Ariella Cohen ‘17, Rabbi Tannenbaum’s information, contact the newspaper by phone [214-295-3500], That moment impacted my soul. I was in Je- daughter,Nechama Tannenbaum, former Judaics teacher or via e-mail [[email protected]]. Subscriptions to rusalem at the Kotel, in the sukkah, surrounded any U.S. address are $25 per year. Circulation is 1000 copies. Naomi Schrager, Rachel Rapps ‘17 and Liat Levkovich ‘17 by my people, listening to havdalah. Life doesn’t hang out in Israel. Photo submitted by Liat Levkov- get much better than that. ich. 12 / Oct. 27, 2017 CULTURE the bulldog print The decline of paper and power Are books becoming obsolete in American culture? By Paul Schussler ‘20 Forget mathematics — paper and ink People who love adrenaline rushes may Social media as we know it has in- are more than enough. like horror. People who are creative and advertently taken over people’s reading According to an article in The Wash- artsy may like fantasy. People who like habits. Rather than sitting down to relax ington Post, reading fiction “seems to suspense might read mystery. and read a book, people quickly scroll boost the quality of empathy in the people Often times, teachers are the ones to down their feed. By only reading short who read it” and prevents depression. instill a love for reading in students. blurbs written by people who may just Fiction allows one to slip away into a “My love of reading came from the be spouting nonsense, people no longer fantasy world, leave all troubles behind inspiration of great teachers,” said Peggy take the time to appreciate or question the and arrive in the thoughts of a character Leeman, English chair. source of their text. feeling their strong emotions. Leeman recommends “The Read- At all grade levels, English classes at Unfortunately, one of the reasons read- Aloud Handbook” by Jim Trelease. In the Yavneh require students to read one book ing has been on the decline is the spread book, Trelease says “but I didn’t have to over the summer. For some students, it of the internet, video games and other read much to get all A’s in high school.” may have been the only book they read distractions. Though all A’s can be a goal, other rea- all year aside from other required in-class While it may seem that teenagers are sons to read are equally paramount. reading. the ones to blame for this epidemic, teen- “Through books one can orient his life Recent studies from the National age phone addicts are not the only ones to the world he lives in for books link the Endowment for the Arts (NEA) show that accountable for the decline in reading. past, the present, and the future,” Leeman Adults and young children are victims said. fewer people are reading for pleasure. PAUL’S PREFERENCES From 1982 to 2015, the number of of this trend, too. Reading on a phone Books may not be necessary to receive books adults read for pleasure has de- or laptop, even if it is a step in the right good grades in high school, but they help Genre: clined by 17 percent. This drastic drop direction, can still be harmful. facilitate important ways to view life. It Fantasy should be a wake-up call to the world When people read on a device that can bring the past to life, and the future to Science fiction to re-establish light reading as a societal shines a light in their eyes, the brain in- the present. norm. terprets that as sunlight and keeps people “Through books, one can start today Action Aside from helping one pass an English awake. where the great thinkers of yesterday left Authors: class, reading has other benefits. First, it While electronic versions of books are off, as books have immortalized man’s Drew Hayes readily accessible, reading is still viewed as knowledge,” Leeman said. “Thinkers, is known to reduce stress. One study con- Orson Scott Card ducted by the University of Sussex in 2009 an activity for intellectuals and geniuses. dead a thousand years, are as alive in their says that reading reduces stress better than However, everyone can find something books today as when they walked the L. E. Modesitt music. to read that appeals to their interests. Just earth,” Books: Reading allows people to sleep better like there are innumerable university ma- So, put down those headphones and Ready Player One and staves off memory loss by continu- jors and minors, there are countless book grab a Nicholas Sparks novel, another ously exercising the brain. genres and subgenres. book of choice or perhaps an issue of The Storm Front (The Dresden Files) Bulldog Print. Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy CALENDAR

November Thanksgiving Star Wars: The Last Jedi Candle lighting times End of Quarter 1 Nov. 23. Remember to give thanks for Dec. 15. A galaxy far away arrives at October December Nov. 3. Finally! Nice job y’all. everything you have! Enjoy the turkey. theaters. May the force be with you. Oct. 27 at 6:22 Dec. 1 at 5:02 Dec. 8 at 5:03 November Jay Z Black Friday Winter Break Dec. 15 at 5:04 Nov. 3 at 6:16 Nov. 7. Come to American Airlines Nov. 24. Caution: possessive material- Dec. 18- Jan. 1. Oh what fun it is to Dec. 22 at 5:07 Nov. 10 at 5:11 Center at 4:44 for a great time. istic maniacs will be on the loose. ride in a car not going to school. Dec. 29 at 5:12 Nov. 17 at 5:06 Yavneh Shabbaton Cirque Du Soleil Nov. 24 at 5:04 January December Jan. 5 at 5:17 Nov. 11. The much anticipated Yavneh Eric and Happie Dec. 20. Watch people do what your Shabbaton. Be there or be square. body won’t. Menorah lighting times Dec. 8-9 Singers Eric and Happie join Dec. 12 after 5:21 Dec 16 after 6:03 Imagine Dragons us for a Shabbaton at Shaare Tefilla. Pitch Perfect 3 Dec. 13 after 5:22 Dec. 17 after 5:23 Nov. 13. Can you imagine how great Dec. 22. Don’t miss the sign to hit up Dec. 14 after 5:27 Dec. 18 after 5:23 this show is going to be? Come to Dallas Marathon this movie. Fat Amy and the Bellas Dec. 15 after 5:04 Dec. 19 after 5:24 American Airlines center at 7:30 to Dec. 10. Take this and run! reunite and take to the stage overseas.Shabbat/Holiday ends experience the thunder. General studies exams January October December World Kindness Day Dec. 12-15. Study all day every day. We back! Oct. 28 at 7:17 Dec. 2 at 6:00 Nov. 13. Smiles all around. Open the Good luck! November Dec. 9 at 6:01 Jan. 2. Classes resume. Life returns to Dec. 16 at 6:03 door, compliment someone’s outfit. Channukah 12324 Merit Dr. Nov. 4 at 7:11 Nov. 11 at 6:06 Dec. 23 at 6:06 Dec. 12-20. Light up the nights! Spin Wonder Nov. 18 at 6:03 Dec. 30 at 6:11 Wonder if you’re going to wanna miss all of those dreidels and gather the Nov. 25 at 6:01 January the bestselling book’s movie debut. chocolate and latkes. Jan. 6 at 6:16