WWW.YUOBSERVER.ORG 64:7 February 2021 -Shevat 5781 Editorial Setting the Stage for the Spring Semester

BY Fruma Landa, Editor school in 11th grade, few facul- began chatting. She told me she right-wing Jews often face and in Chief ty in my new Modern Orthodox was still single and working as a learn not to judge them for it. We school believed that a girl from secretary and asked what I am up all deserve to live in communities As I enter the last semester of Lakewood could possess any to. When I told her I was a psy- that align with our ideals and no my undergraduate career, I find significant secular knowledge. chology major, a common major one should be turned away due myself reflecting on all that I have There were things I did not know, at YU, she looked at me with awe to their educational background. accomplished at YU. Growing up I couldn’t figure out how to power and praised my intelligence and in the ultra-Orthodox commu- down a computer and anything achievements. She thought she Now, I am a semester away from nity of Lakewood, NJ, attending pop culture related was (and still was not capable of achieving a BA graduating YU with plans of grad- college was not an assumed stage is) foreign to me, but I did possess degree, a degree many Modern uate school. Having the choice of life. Boys only learned a couple knowledge of secular studies on Orthodox individuals possess. to further my education is a gift. hours of secular studies a week, par with my new peers. However, contrary to what she I have seen too many undergrad- and while girls did learn more, may have believed, I was not uate students wasting away their they are taught that above all When I started my time at YU, I smarter than she was — I just had education — taking courses not else, they should strive to be the found that I did not need to prove different opportunities than she to learn, but to receive an A, com- best mother and wife they could my educational knowledge. No did. menting that they are in YU just be. Not a first day of class would one needed to know I used to to get married, paying other peo- go by without a classmate asking, live in Lakewood, and thus no We at YU have the privilege of ple to write their papers for them, “But why do we need to learn that one judged my aptitude and skill. furthering our education, an and overall taking their education to be a good mother?” We were Over the course of my years at YU, opportunity so many children for granted. As we enter into the not expected to have a career or I noticed that when I mentioned in our Jewish communities lack. second half of the academic year, use our schooling for anything I used to live in Lakewood, many However, instead of receiving aid I challenge you to treat your ed- other than to help our children do were too far removed from the and compassion from the Mod- ucation in a way that reflects the our homework. community to understand the ern Orthodox communities, they opportunity and privilege given implications and form any judg- are often looked down upon and to you. I endured countless remarks ments. Finally knowing I would perceived as unintelligent. With trying to devalue my education, not be judged based on my aca- often limited contact to others and underestimating my capa- demic performance, my rigorous outside their community, there bilities. Receiving answers such work ethic began to loosen up are many phrases and words as “girls your age don’t need to and I learned to enjoy my educa- which are commonly mispro- know that” were far from unusu- tion. I became privileged enough nounced among Yeshivish com- al. Instead of giving up, I worked to take my schooling for granted. munities. No one deserves to be harder. My dreams of a future ridiculed for mispronouncing a career began to form as I spent However, a short while ago, I word they never heard spoken or countless hours a week reviewing returned to Lakewood for an using badly formed sentences, my notes, making sure I mastered old friend’s wedding and, while yet I have witnessed it happening the material, along with reading waiting to wish Mazal Tov (con- many times. We need to foster numerous library books. Upon gratulations) to the Kallah (bride), an understanding of the limited switching out of my Lakewood I met another old friend and we access to education religiously Shevat 5781~ February 2021 NEWS PAGE 2 News

The Glaubach Family Donates $10 Million to The YU

BY Erica Rachel Sultan, Career Center News Editor

During the week of February 1, their career goals after graduation, Glaubach shared in the Yeshiva Career Center at Yeshiva Univer- Dr. Ari Berman, President of Ye- the Career Center offers many University press release, “We sity becoming business leaders shiva University, announced that opportunities for its students. The feel that a gift to name the Career and philanthropists in their own Dr. Felix and Miriam Glaubach Center offers programs in mentor- Center at Yeshiva University is right.” donated $10 million to the YU ships, internships, career devel- the most impactful investment we Career Center. opments, connects students with can make. At this time of uncer- Dr. Berman commented saying alumni and future employers, and tainty, growing and strengthen- that Yeshiva University students’ The Glaubach duo has had a gives lessons on career-readiness ing the Career Center at Yeshiva success after graduation is “one connection with YU for over 70 topics such as critical thinking, University will bring confidence of our core strategic priorities,” years. Dr. Glaubach is a long-time problem-solving, collaboration, and stability to countless students and that he is very grateful to the Trustee of Yeshiva University digital technology and global and their families. By helping Glaubach family, Senior Philan- and RIETS (Rabbi Isaac Elchan- intercultural fluency. Susan Bauer, Yeshiva University students to thropic Advisor Susie Meyers, an Theological Seminary) and executive director of the Center, have successful careers[,] we will Executive Director of the Career member of the Board of Yeshiva stated in Yeshiva University’s enable them to be future leaders Center Susan Bauer and VP of College and Yeshiva University press release, shared with the of Yeshiva University, the Jewish Development Adam Gerdts for all High Schools. As a result of their YU Observer, that the generous community[,] and leaders in the of their help in making this gift generous donation, the Career donation will allow students the USA [and] Israel. This gift is an possible. Center will be renamed The She- opportunities to have meaningful investment that makes our prior vet Glaubach Center for Career successes after graduation. gifts to Yeshiva University all the Strategy and Professional Devel- more valuable. The highest form opment. Dr. and Mrs. Glaubach are excited of charity is enabling others to to contribute to the development support themselves, we look for- Designed to help students achieve of the YU Career Center. Dr. ward to graduates of the Glaubach PAGE 3 NEWS Shevat 5781~ February 2021 Newly Announced Joint Yeshiva University-Albert Einstein College of Medicine B.A./B.S.-M.D. Program

BY Shoshanah Marcus, News Editor

In an announcement on the YU joint program, the announce- Berman in the announcement. grant its own degrees and YU was News Blog on January 19, 2021, ment included that “Yeshiva Similarly, Dr. Ozuah stated, “I have no longer the degree granting the President of Yeshiva Uni- University and Einstein have enjoyed working with Dr. Berman institution. versity, Dr. Ari Berman, and the also created a task force to study to lay the groundwork for an President and CEO of Montefiore creating joint academic and exciting new chapter for Mon- There is not much specific infor- Medicine, Dr. Philip O. Ozuah, re- career-related programs in health tefiore Medicine, Albert Einstein mation about the program itself portedly signed a new agreement care and health sciences.” College of Medicine and Yeshiva that is publicly available. Dean launching a joint Yeshiva Univer- University.” Bacon shared with the YU Ob- sity-Albert Einstein College of Both Dr. Berman and Dr. Ozuah server, “The program will not be- Medicine B.A./B.S.-M.D. program. are excited for the fruition of this Yeshiva University has had fluc- gin until 2022 and the details still This program is intended to be joint program. “I am pleased to tuating ties with Albert Einstein need to be worked out. Once that “for highly qualified high school partner with Dr. Ozuah as our College of Medicine (AECOM) is done, we will have information graduates ensuring their path to vital institutions expand our for many years. In 2015, AECOM to share with everyone.” an excellent medical education collaborative efforts and advance transferred the financial and and an impactful career in health Yeshiva University, Montefiore operational rights from Yeshiva care.” and our beloved Albert Einstein University to Montefiore, after 60 College of Medicine forward with years of YU control. Moreover, in In addition to the creation of this strength and purpose,” said Dr. 2018, Einstein gained authority to

Dr. Miller Promoted to Chair of English Department After Dr. Shires’ Departure

BY: Shoshanah Marcus, News Editor

er, and to all our hard-working, Dr. Shires’s mentees, shared, “Dr. be impossible to replace such a committed faculty members in Shires pinpoints exactly where you singularly effective Chair as Pro- Dr. Linda Shires, the chair of the the Humanities.” Dr. Shires con- need pushing, guiding an expan- fessor Shires, I will at least try my department of English at Stern tinued to reflect on her time at sion of your individual faculty for hardest to live up to the standards College, retired following the Fall Stern College, stating, “While I’ve intense thought from that person- of fairness and hard work that 2020 semester after holding the enjoyed creating new courses, I’ll alized starting ground. And, so Shires embodies. It is my goal to position for over 10 years. Subse- especially miss teaching Holocaust you grow. While strictly adhering make this transition as seamless as quently, Dr. Matt Miller has been Representation and classes in my to scholarly accuracy, Dr. Shires possible for students and faculty, promoted to fill this position. publishing field of Victorian liter- equally encourages that you find and I plan to continue in the same ature. Stern students stand out as your meaning, as ‘often the grand tradition that our English majors Dr. Shires has been a Professor kind, generous, and intelligent. It meanings of faces as well as of have known so far.” of English at Stern College since has been great fun to stay in touch written words may lie chiefly in 2008 and has been the chair of with those who went on to become the impressions of those who look Miller is excited to undertake this the English department at Stern high school teachers, M.A. and on them’ (George Eliot).” new position. He explained, “for College since 2009. She shared her Ph.D. students, psychologists, now, I am just focusing on learn- gratitude with the YU Observer social workers, lawyers, editors, Since 2008, Professor Miller has ing to do this job to the best of saying, “As I leave Y.U., a special business leaders, and artists across been working as an associate pro- my ability; however, in the future, thanks goes to Dean Bacon, Assoc. the USA, Canada, UK, and Israel.” fessor of English at Stern College. I look forward to pursuing new Dean Orlian, and Jane Galland Miller shared his excitement with initiatives to keep the major in at Stern, to my exceptional col- Dr. Shires acted as a mentor for the YU Observer, “I am honored English at Stern at the forefront of leagues in the English Depart- many students, including those to be given the chance to play this fresh ideas and opportunities for ment, both full-time and adjunct writing their honors theses. Ra- new role within the English De- our graduating classes.” — always standing by each oth- chel Liebling (SCW ‘22), one of partment at Stern. While it would Shevat 5781~ February 2021 NEWS PAGE 4 Update on YU’s Covid Monitoring Program, Covid Cases Rise to 34 Between Jan. 16-Feb. 8 on Campus

BY Shoshanah Marcus, minute testing. Once on the site, from January 16 to February 8, days a week for testing, one day News Editor students are asked to schedule an there have been 32 positive Covid will be a nasal swab, and the other appointment, or multiple appoint- cases (28 positive cases during will be the Abbott Binax Test. In For the Spring 2021 undergrad- ments for the rest of the semester, the period of January 16-January order to take the Abbott Binax test, uate semester, Yeshiva Universi- give their name, email address, 29 and 4 more cases during the students are required to download ty requires students on the Wilf phone number, date of birth, and period of January 30-February 8) the Abbott Navica app and create Campus and the Beren Campus additional information if special on the Beren Campus and the Wilf an account. Once that is done, the to be tested for COVID-19 two requests need to be made. Campus. Nissel starts his January email instructs students to “Pull up days a week. This new monitor- 26 email by mentioning that while the screen with your unique QR ing program is set in place due to At the testing cite, all students are YU’s procedures are working, code and show it and your YU ID increased capacity of students who required to comply to the Code the campuses also need the help to the registration table. Make sure are able to attend in person classes of Conduct, wear masks, abide of the students in order to stop your name is recorded accurately. on the two campuses. At the very by social distancing guidelines — the spreading of Covid. He then Present the QR code to the techni- beginning of the semester, January which Vice Provost Nissel reminds explains that most of the positive cian who will scan it with an iPad. 20, Vice Provost Chaim Nissel that social distancing means being cases have been asymptomatic The tech will then scan a test card reminded in-person students of the at least six feet apart from others at and these cases were identified to link it to your ID. The tech will program and reinstated the pro- all times — fill out the daily health through contact tracing done by prepare the test and provide you cedures it entails. Every Monday screenings, and participate in the the Covid-19 monitoring team. The with a swab and a testing kit. You and Thursday, students are to get new monitoring program. In order team’s process is to contact any- will swab your nose and complete nasal swab testing done on their to find the results of their tests, stu- one who, within the past 48 hours the testing process according to the respective campuses. On the Beren dents must So far, Nissel has sent of the positive test, was within posted signs. When your test has Campus, testing takes place on the out email reminders the day before six feet of someone for a cumula- been read and reported, you will be third floor of the 215 Lexington every screening takes place. Spe- tive total of 15 minutes over a 24 notified via email and the Navi- Avenue building. Wilf Campus cifically on January 26, he sent an hour period. Students who live on ca app (within approximately 30 testing takes place on the second email to all undergraduate students campus are offered to quarantine at minutes).” floor of Furst Hall. Beren testing in regards to the rising numbers of home or on campus. starts at 10 a.m. and goes until 3 positive Covid cases on the Wilf If you test negative for the Abbott p.m. and Wilf testing starts at 12 and Beren Campuses. As a result of the rising cases, Binax Test, which you are able to p.m. and goes until 5 p.m. In order Vice Provost Nissel says that YU check the status of your test under to get tested, students are required The New York Department of will be fine-tuning their Covid-19 the Results tab in the Navica app, to make appointments for their ten Health’s dashboard shows that monitoring program. Still two “there is nothing further required New Plans for Undergraduate Departments to Increase BY Adina Bruce, Website Manager Inter-Campus Collaboration

Directed by the office of the pro- increased collaboration would give es, having some faculty teaching development will result in positive vost and the deans office, the students new educational opportu- in both campuses, and supervising changes. “I think this could be re- English, psychology, music, phys- nities. student research.” He expressed ally nice for both campuses. There ics, and chemistry undergraduate that merging departments serves to are a lot of really good physics departments will be taking part When asked to comment by the “offer students at both campuses professors uptown and downtown. in a “unification.” This merger is YU Observer, Dr. Matt Miller, an enhanced access to all faculty I’m sure that learning from dif- characterized as an opportunity to newly appointed chair of the Stern across the two campuses, a unified ferent teachers and encountering increase intercampus collaboration College for Women’s (SCW) En- curriculum, and a broader variety different teaching styles could and is scheduled to start in Fall glish department, expressed, “this of courses they can take.” only further our education,” stated 2021. is still a pretty new idea … [the physics major Benjie Goykadosh members of the English depart- The policy of merging undergrad- YC ’21. Other students, however, In a statement to the YU Observ- ment] are trying to work together uate departments was proposed in are skeptical; an anonymous SCW er, Dean Karen Bacon explained to devise ways we can offer more 2015 by President Emeritus Dr. ‘24 student shared, “I find this that this new direction for many diverse courses to both our mid- Richard Joel as part of sweeping decision sends a very clear mes- undergraduate departments will town and uptown students, espe- cuts and restructuring following sage to both faculty and students give students on both campuses cially our English majors, while a severe financial crisis. At the involved in the affected depart- the opportunity to take courses by still maintaining the same basic time the proposed merger was ments - that YU cares more about a greater variety of professors as framework as well as separate announced with the aim of fully money than improving education well as “increased programming.” campuses … we do hope to devise merging by 2018. That process was … YU has targeted only their least She stressed that “[t]his is not a ways to take better advantage of clearly never actualized. popular departments. … Merging restructuring but a unification of our diverse uptown and midtown may provide more variety, but it is departments to broaden and align faculty to provide more education- The COVID-19 pandemic has ultimately a cost cutting measure, the curriculum where appropriate al opportunities.” put pressure on many university demonstrative of YU’s complete and share faculty where appropri- institutions, and a recent study by neglect and lack of regard for the ate.” Some departments such as math, New York University’s Professor welfare of its ‘less profitable’ divi- political science, history, comput- Galloway on university financial sions.” After reaching out to various er science and economics have predicaments even placed Yeshi- department heads about this devel- already enacted collaborative va University in the “struggling” As of now the impact of this policy opment, the YU Observer received policies. Dr. Marian Gidea, chair category. However, Dean Bacon remains unclear; however, Bacon responses that overwhelmingly of the SCW mathematics depart- remarked that this upcoming merg- promises more information will be expressed uncertainty as to what ment, explained how the respective er is not based on budgetary con- released as the semester develops, the new policy would entail and SCW and Yeshiva College (YC) cerns, stating that “[t]he programs stating: “We are excited about this how this would practically affect mathematics departments have drive the budgets”. work. As the semester unfolds, we students. However, many facul- already been working together will have more information about ty members seemed hopeful that “through coordinating their class- Some students are hopeful that this Fall 2021 plans” Shevat 5781~ February 2021 OPINION PAGE 5 Gender Inequality in the Workforce BY Rivka Lasson VP of Economic Equality and Healthcare to those of men, but are being bias in the workforce. Next, the restricted by societal rules. workers must identify where such bias can stem from in terms of hir- This data shows that there are, in ing and promoting. Finally, tools fact, more than enough women must be developed to lessen this capable of holding such positions bias and inequality. These essen- in fields with which women are tial steps not only promote female very familiar; however, gender in- work ability, but shed a light on equality is keeping these promo- those who use other, unimportant tions from occurring. Therefore, ideas when hiring individuals for gender equality in all fields is a a given organization. To find out cause that this country is striving how gender roles really affect a for more now than ever. Too long workplace atmosphere, look at has this country been on a ram- the employers and see if their pant run of gender stereotypes strategy for employment is the manifesting themselves in the same for male and female pros- workplace, in positions that are pects. If they deviate from any of based on skill rather than gender. these steps, they need to repeat Further, women make up almost this sequence or be removed Economic inequality and inequal- half of the S&P 500 employees, It is no secret that women are of- from the position entirely in order ity in positions of authority are ap- however, when it comes to S&P ten thought of as “too emotional” to fully comprehend just how to parent issues when looking at the 500 CEOs, only 5% are women. to be in positions of power. Gen- deal with employees regardless unequal distribution of workplace Why is it the predominantly der roles shape many decisions of of gender, and maybe, through authoritative positions among the female industry of education and hiring, and the first thing that em- their own revelation, understand genders. JPMorgan, for instance, the half-and-half industry of fi- ployers look for is the mental ca- just how serious and rampant this presents data which compares nance holds so few women in po- pability of taking on specific roles. issue truly is. the percentages of women and sitions of power? Is this inequality Far too often, women’s emotional men in leadership positions. They due to the stereotypical woman capabilities mix themselves up in Sources: found that some fields appear to being groomed from birth to general mental abilities, thus add- https://news.stanford. be male-dominated, while others focus on girly things, being given ing a facet of professionality that edu/2017/12/19/new-ap- are female-dominated. Regard- dolls with which to play, while may not exist when dealing with proach-reducing-gender-inequal- ing the education industry, 76% stereotypical males are given prospective male workers. ity-work/ of teachers are women. Despite toy cars? Perhaps these gender https://www.jpmorgan.com/com- most teachers being women, the roles being bred from childhood A Stanford news article suggests mercial-banking/insights/gen- percentage of women holding the are great contributors to gender several steps to this national prob- der-leadership-gap-infographic authoritative position of super- separation; or perhaps women lem’s solution. First, workers must intendent in schools is just 20%. desire to work in positions similar be educated about the gender The Death Of The S.A.T Subject Tests

BY Abigail Grigoryan

ematics scores to show their ment (AP) tests, which is a critical ination, completely undermines College Board, the nonprofit strengths in specific courses. part of receiving college credit. the sole purpose of the exams that administers the Scholastic While eliminating a piece of what and the actual college admission Assessment Test (SAT) and Ad- many argue to be an inequity After news of the College Board process. From both sides, it is vanced Placement (AP) exams, in the educational preparation, discontinuing Subject Tests was disproportionate but eliminating announced on January 19 that it this creates more competition in released, many were relieved and means that allows other students will no longer offer SAT Subject gaining acceptance to top univer- started petitioning for the abol- to excel, takes away from academ- Tests or the essay section of the sities, which has never been more ishment of the SAT itself. However, ic achievement. Not everyone is a general SAT. This decision came difficult since so many universi- it is still the fairest thing about the great test taker which is why “Test due to the decline in the number ties have already adopted “Test college admissions process. With- Optional” policies are set in place of standardized test takers, largely Optional Policies.” For students in out standardized testing, colleges but it is completely unfair for stu- attributed to the COVID-19 pan- the United States and especially would have no way of comparing dents that relied on Subject Tests demic. international students, the SAT students from different schools to now have to resort to being Subject Tests would no longer academically because schools reviewed on one score despite Although this makes the college be an opportunity to demon- have varying grade inflation or a possibility of having a greater admissions process less influ- strate specific skills, which largely deflation. On a 4.0 scale, there is Subject Test score. enced by test scores and more on hinders students who must now no way that two students would academic character, this may lead discover other ways to express be judged equally based on their to more stress for students since their knowledge within standard- profiles without seeing their profi- now only one final score is valued ized testing. In addition to having ciencies. Aside from extracurricu- instead of what could have been to develop new means of express- lars and personal resumes, stu- a great Subject Test score. Many ing their strength through the dents have to compete with the high school students used Subject Evidence-Based Reading and Writ- Standardized Test scores of legacy Tests to compensate for weak- ing, and Mathematics sections, students. Developing arguments nesses in their Evidence-Based students now need to put more that standardized testing has to Reading and Writing, and Math- effort into their Advanced Place- do with racial and class discrim- Shevat 5781~ February 2021 PAGE 6 OPINION A Call for Moral Clarity

By Rabbi Ezra Schwartz, RIETS Rosh Yeshiva

There is no need for yet another rise from slavery and oppres- edly hold dear. When writers in kill the Jewish babies. Their act voice to come forward and talk sion and champion the values Orthodox periodicals refuse to of heroism was rewarded by about how despicable Tuesday’s of justice articulated by the issue a full-throated condemna- Hashem (God). Moshe Rabbenu attempted putsch was. There Neviim (prophets) to the entire tion of violence and instead cre- however develops an even is no need for someone else world. Degel Yisrael proudly ate a false equivalency between clearer sense of morality. Moshe to speak about the awfulness flies against the hateful symbols the ransacking of government Rabbenu made no excuses. He that the current occupant of of Confederacy and Naziism. with localized political violence could not tolerate any injustice, the Oval Office brought about. I It certainly has no place being this past summer, this speaks to whether perpetrated against hope that those with more sway flown in tandem with these how far our communal values one of his Jewish brethren or in the larger American commu- most putrid symbols of hatred have deviated. We must do seri- a non-Jew. He develops from nity, from both sides of the aisle, and oppression. Moving the ous cheshbon hanefesh (inter- one who first was reticent to will speak forcefully about this. embassy may have been very nal reckoning). We must be able act justly (as the verse says, he However, whether or not they positive, peace with our Arab to say unequivocally that what turned here and there and saw do so is not my concern. brethren is certainly wonderful; happened on January 6 was an there was no man) to one who but for that nezid adashim, for onslaught on American values acts on his sense of moral jus- My concern is for my commu- that bowl of lentils, we cannot and Torah ideals. Without any tice even when it came at great nity. Sadly, there is a genuine give up on the true meaning of hesitancy, we must say that it personal cost forcing him to flee need to address those closest Degel Yisrael and moral place was a travesty. Mitzrayim (Egypt). Moshe rep- to me, people I daven (pray) Medinat Yisrael was founded to resents our ideal leader because with and with whom I share a represent. Even accepting that the elec- he stands for pure morality and commitment to Torah, mitzvos tion was decided incorrectly justice. The developed image (Jewish commandments) and More than that, I am sickened (which it wasn’t), halacha (Jew- of Moshe Rabbenu is unapolo- traditional morality. There is a by the image of my brothers ish Law) demonstrates that we getic and unequivocal on moral need to address the Orthodox and sisters, people wearing should accept a single errone- matters. Like Moshe we must Jews who participated in the yarmulke (skullcaps) and ous decision rather than under- call out injustice. We must do rally, those who celebrated the tzitzis (ritual fringes), skirts and mine the entire governmental so unequivocally and loudly. event even silently, those who snoods, who were not embar- process. The Sefer HaChinuch in We must not apologize or make sympathized with its goals if rassed to align themselves with mitzva 496 famously explains excuses. The attempted putsch not with its implementation, the most vulgar parts of Amer- the mitzva of lo tassur, under- was an unmitigated travesty and even those who in their ica. I cannot fathom how Jews, stood by him to mean that we and an assault on American and Monday morning quarterback- Shomrei Torah u’mitzvos (obser- follow Beth Din even when Torah values. ing fell short of voicing uncom- vant of the Torah and its com- they issue an erroneous ruling, promised condemnation of the mandments), stand arm in arm articulating a social contract entire event. In short, what hap- with those wearing sweatshirts theory. In order to maintain pened on Tuesday should force that state 6 Million Were not society, we must accept certain our community to recalibrate Enough. How can anyone with a risks and even errors. A system our moral compass and take beating Jewish heart march arm that may at times be wrong is careful stock of whether we are in arm with those who wear better than no system at all. being true to hashkafas ha’To- shirts glorifying Auschwitz? Absence of a system will allow rah (the outlook of the Torah). I everyone to act on his or her believe that the event needs to I am deeply disturbed that so own wishes. This would destroy be reacted to with the strongest many in my community, even society. The Chinuch presents possible condemnation. if they did not join in person, an insurmountable question to were sympathetic to the cause any ben or bat (male or female Let’s think about some of the and therefore unwilling to follower of) Torah who possibly imagery from the event. We condemn the rally even after felt that attempting to overturn saw not only the disruption of we witnessed the desecration the election was proper. Congress and the desecration it brought forth. I am pained of our halls of government, we to read supposed condemna- As we read Parshas (the weekly also saw Confederate and Nazi tions of the event that come Torah portion of) Shemos, we flags raised; symbols of hatred, with a “but”. The argument that can’t fail to recognize the moral oppression and murder proudly anger against a biased media clarity of first the meyaldos flown in the halls of our govern- and against a society bent on (midwives) and then Moshe ment. But most disturbing of all subverting what they consider Rabbenu (Moses our leader). we were witness to at least one American values somehow jus- The Torah extolls those who Israeli flag flying next to these tifies violence or at least places stand against oppression in all most odious symbols. Tuesday’s it into proper perspective, is its forms. attempted putsch runs counter specious. No anger can justify to all the values Degel Yisrael what happened on Tuesday. It is worth noting the subtle (the Jewish flag) represents. difference between the way The Israeli flag stands for thou- Perhaps, (although this is Moshe Rabbenu reacted to sands of years of longing for factually incorrect) an election injustice compared to the freedom. Degel Yisrael should was wrongly decided. But in approach of the meyaldos. be a modern articulation of a no rational way should this The meyaldos attempted to prophetic promise; that Klal lead to ransacking the halls of appease Pharaoh and explain Yisrael (the Jewish people) will government that we all suppos- away why they were unable to OPINION Shevat 5781~ February 2021 PAGE 7

By Mitch Goulson The Tragedy of the YU Pool

Before I arrived at YU, I never people practiced for an hour resumed lap swimming with re- of caution.” thought anything of swimming every night for four nights a strictions such as social distanc- — well, I could not drown, but week, even incorporating dry- ing and wearing a mask outside Last year, I recruited stu- I couldn’t really swim. While land workouts in the gym. I am the water. Additionally, I per- dent-lifeguards to be on duty looking for an alternative to the incredibly proud of the dedi- sonally know of various private and arranged their weekly gym during my first semester cation shown by the members areas to swim in my home state work schedules. This semes- on campus, I decided to try out of the team toward a goal that of California. ter, I have offered to not only the pool as another workout was not guaranteed, and for no recruit lifeguards, but to also option. additional credits. I have been in constant com- create schedules for the pool, its munication with the Athletic cleaning, the lifeguards’ hours, During a swim in late-Septem- Unfortunately, with the arrival Director, Joe Bednarsh, about and anything else that would ber 2019, I noticed a young of the COVID-19 pandemic and reopening the pool. I have sent make the reopening process man, seemingly in his mid-20s, the subsequent lockdowns, him emails, asked him for meet- easier on the administration. swimming back and forth in the I went home to Los Angeles, ings, and have been proactive Unfortunately, Mr. Bednarsh pool without tire, flip-turning putting my efforts for the swim in trying to understand why he has not shown a willingness to off the wall each time. Consider- team on hold. While I remained would not commit to opening meet with me nor to discuss ing that I could barely do more quarantined at home, I contin- the pool while at the same time avenues of how we could work than two laps without needing ued to swim for exercise in my keeping the weight room and together to open the pool, even a minute break to catch my pool. In fact, I taught myself basketball court open. While he at a limited capacity. He has breath, I asked him for some all four strokes and improved has been responsive, he has not not spoken to me in person nor advice. He showed me proper greatly as spring and summer given a single valid response as over the phone, both of which I swim techniques, and I realized passed. I yearned to return to why the pool should remain have suggested multiple times, that I had no idea how to swim. to YU in the fall and officially closed. Instead of simply telling offering to make time around After training for two months, inaugurate the swim team in YU me “yes, let’s open it” or “no, let’s his schedule to meet. Despite five days a week, and 2,500 lore. I fantasized about balanc- revisit next year,” he has run me putting money into the pool in meters every night, I improved ing coping with online classes in circles, telling me that it is the form of a new pool clock, greatly and swimming took on and swimming in YU’s pool. feasible but continually noting pool flags, and three lane ropes a major part of my life. that there are other concerns he last year, it feels as though his The pool remained closed when has yet to expound upon. investment was for naught. As I continued swimming, I I returned to YU. Because of wondered why YU had a ful- the pandemic and the safe- After reaching out to YU’s Med- Mr. Bednarsh has displayed ly-functioning lap pool but no ty issues that accompany it, I ical Director myself about the great efforts in coordinating swim team. I dreamed of cap- kept the swim team on pause safety of utilizing the pool, Mr. with the NCAA to ensure safe taining the first-ever YU Swim and turned my focus to solely Bednarsh agreed that opening basketball and baseball sea- Team, leading the team to wins reopening the pool in a limited the pool for the second semes- sons, recently releasing the in meets and working on my capacity for lap swimming. Con- ter was “appropriate.” Howev- basketball team’s schedule, and craft everyday. Despite the lack sidering the low risk of transmit- er, nothing about his actions announcing tryout dates for of lane ropes, pool flags or a ting COVID-19 through a pool makes it at all clear that he has the baseball team via email. It working swim clock, I nonethe- — according to the CDC, “the any intentions of reopening it. would be greatly appreciated if less decided that I would com- chlorine in the water should he would allocate similar efforts mit myself to spearheading YU’s ‘inactivate’ coronavirus,”— it It is not as if the pool is in to opening the pool, even if just first-ever swim team. baffles me as to why the admin- no condition to be used. It is for recreational swimming. istration adamantly refuses to drained, cleaned, and otherwise I recruited students as well as open the facility as enforcing a treated as if it was open on a To swimmers, access to a pool is coaches, and I held tryouts and two-swimmer-limit remains a regular basis. The lane ropes everything, and while my fellow tracked each swimmer’s times. more than viable option. Mean- that were purchased last year students and I struggle with the With the amount of time I ded- while, workout facilities such as would make it simple to enforce shortfalls of online learning, a icated to starting up this team, the workout gym and basket- social distancing in the pool. In part of our lives is missing. Our I essentially added the equiva- ball court, both of which carry a show of good faith and atten- semesters are being made more lent of a class to my schedule in a far greater risk for COVID-19 tiveness to safety, I also argued difficult by the absence of the my first semester. In fact, David spread, remain open. that the other pool facilities I pool which would help manage Freedman, the man who taught would ideally use — the adja- our stress in the middle of the me how to swim that one night Many schools, including Bing- cent locker room and sauna/ pandemic. in September, became the head hamton University (NY), Uni- steam room — were “wholly un- coach of the team. For the next versity of Maryland (MD), and important” and “should not be two months, our team of 14 Penn State University (PA) have reopened out of an abundance

PAGE 9 OPINION Shevat 5781~ February 2021 Chaos on Capitol Hill

By Sarah Brill, Science and Technology Editor

For the past month and a half, people in dan- munity being killed by the groups who have not only de- President Trump has spread ger, and they need to go home.” police during arrests. Even spised the Jews for generations, nonsense on Twitter, tweeting When the National Guard and though BLM was advocating but other minority groups as out that the election was a the police had the area under for a worthy cause, and even well. fraud and that votes were not control, the supporters would though the grand majority of counted properly. Twitter has still not go down without a fight the marches were peaceful, The attack on Capitol Hill in taken a course of action, flag- shouting racist and xenophobic the president still called all the Washington D.C. on Wednesday ging a total of 200 tweets since remarks over a loudspeaker. marchers “thugs.” Apparently, was fueled by the fire Donald the election, warning viewers the same rhetoric does not Trump has been burning ever that the tweet had been taken In response to this mob, Rep. apply to the Capitol stormers he since the election. Hopefully, down due to falsified informa- Cathy McMorris Rodgers called “very special” and “great peace can be restored on the tion regarding the election. (R-Wash.), who formally reject- patriots who have been badly Hill, and the atrocious and While disputing the election, ed Joe Biden as the electoral & unfairly treated for so long.” undemocratic behavior we have Trump has encouraged his college winner, revoked that The bias and racism cannot seen, where Congress members’ supporters to attend his rallies stance after seeing the undem- be more clear than that. One lives are physically at stake, nev- as he spews false information. ocratic actions of these Trump group of people was protesting er happens again. The thing is, Trump supporters supporters. President Trump, voting democracy, and another believe him. They think that the and his supporters, many of was protesting for basic human *** *** election was rigged and that whom supposedly back Chris- rights. One involves privileged Sources: somehow the recount was also tian beliefs, have even been far right conservatives breaking https://variety.com/2020/digi- fraudulent. They are convinced scolded by the dean and bishop into the Capitol building, loot- tal/news/twitter-trump-200-dis- that Trump won both the elec- of the Washington National ing offices, and desecrating our puted-misleading-claims-elec- toral college and the popular Cathedral, saying to Trump, “Mr. democracy. Another involved tion-1234841137/ votes, both of which Joe Biden President, there has been no minimal looting that took place https://www.washingtonpost. won. fraudulent election. You called at locations like Target and com/dc-md-va/2021/01/06/ your supporters to our Capitol, Walmart. The two are not com- dc-protests-trump-rally-live-up- On January 6, 2021, Congress you fed their wild fantasies parable. dates/ was set to confirm Presi- and conspiracy theories, you https://www.forbes.com/ dent-elect Joe Biden as the offi- whipped them into a frenzy; Suppose the situation were sites/tommybeer/2021/01/06/ cial winner of the 2020 election. this is not acceptable.” reversed and BLM was storm- trump-called-blm-protest- Matters escalated, however, as ing the Capitol building. In that ers-thugs-but-capitol-storm- Congress was in session. Mobs What is utterly ironic about this case, I can assure you, not only ing-supporters-very-spe- of Trump supporters flooded whole situation is that while would they have not been able cial/?sh=4fcc417a3465 the steps of the Capitol and Trump was attempting to create to get in, but they would have https://forward.com/ breached security. These people chaos, Vice President Mike been pepper-sprayed, arrested, fast-forward/461617/aus- successfully entered the build- Pence was not. Trump asked and shot with rubber bullets on chwitz-shirt-capitol-mob-na- ing, and one person was shot Pence to block the election the spot, as that was the reac- zi-antisemitism/ and died later that day. results. In response, “Pence on tion when they were peacefully https://thehill.com/homenews/ Wednesday [January 6] had is- protesting. For example, at the news/533082-gop-senator- Members of this mob had suc- sued a letter to lawmakers con- Elijah McClain violin vigil in Au- says-hes-never-seen-pence-as- cessfully entered the Statuary firming that he did not believe rora, Colorado. police opened angry-as-he-was-amid-trump- Hall and were deploying chem- he had the ‘unilateral authority’ fire with rubber bullets and calls-to ical irritants. All members of to reject electoral votes in the tear gas to disperse a crowd of https://apnews.com/ Congress were required to exit race for the White House.” people listening to the violin- article/donald-trump-ri- their meeting hall and place gas ists play in tribute of the young ots-ralph-reed-violence-de- masks on their faces. According Around 3 p.m., Trump tweeted boy who died at the hands of mocracy-958fbf612ab94cd- to the Washington Post, “Span- out a call to the mob at Capitol law enforcement. Fast forward 9fa1f0f3738eb90dc berger, a former CIA case offi- Hill to remain peaceful which to January 6, when a group cer, said that it was a crisis she is almost funny as he has been of white supremacists, Nazis, would only expect to see unfold promoting this rally since his Proud Boys, and other civilians in fragile countries halfway “Save America Rally” where he could, without any problem, across the world. “It is a low for urged his supporters to head without any confrontation this country I never thought we to the Capitol to demonstrate whatsoever, stormed the Capi- would reach,” she said. “This is against Congress certifying tol and reached the point where what we see in failing countries. President-elect Joe Biden’s they were looting the building This is what leads to the death victory. Of course, peaceful as- and sitting casually in offices. of democracy.” sembly is not a crime, however January 6 was not an example Personally, what really rattled Shortly after chaos ensued, the of peaceful assembly. me is that Jewish people are National Guard was deployed, still supporting Trump and the and D.C. Mayor Muriel E. Bowser One parallel that has been supporters after an antisemitic (D) issued a city-wide curfew drawn most recently is the one sweatshirt was pictured in the from 6 p.m. on January 6 to 6 between the Black Lives Mat- Capitol building. The shirt read a.m. on January 7. Before 6 p.m., ters movement this summer “Camp Auschwitz.” Are these Bowser made remarks directed and this storming of Capitol the people Trump calls “very at President Trump, saying, “We Hill. In the summer of 2020, the special?” It was also the knowl- continue to urge the president Black Lives Matter movement edge that Nazi’s were within to tell his supporters they are took the street in response to the crowd of supporters along putting police officers, innocent members of the Black com- with white supremacists, both Shevat 5781~ February 2021 OPINION PAGE 10 Pornography in Jewish Law: Subjective Application

By Yosef Rosenfield

During the Spring 2020 semes- on Hebrew grammar, in Mo- according to halacha. But at the Is there an objectively correct ter, I took an excellent course rocco, did not reach Rashi in same time, if another person interpretation of Numbers with Rabbi Beny Rofeh titled 11th century France.) However, views erotic images with the 15:39? Does a fine line exist that “Psychology, Relationships, and what he writes about this verse intention of feeding his sexual separates personal sexual taste Halakhah.” The class required is fairly intuitive: a person sees desires, maybe that is problem- and universally provocative that each student choose a with his eyes, then desires with atic. material? For any religious Jew number of personal challenges his heart, ultimately leading who to complete over a few-week him to sin [with his body]. Thus, Furthermore, if we are to ac- is dedicated to following period, with the hope that we according to Rashi’s explana- cept this halachic distinction halachah, these are extremely would tion of this phrase, the verse is between objective law and important questions. Regret- grow spiritually, emotionally telling us to not stray after our subjective application, it would fully, I don’t have any definitive and/or physically from these ex- eyes, because doing so will lead certainly support the hashkafic answers. periences. The list of challenges us to then stray after our hearts (theological) belief that every included options such as asking — which now desire what we leniency creates a stringency, two girls out on a date, elimi- have seen — causing us to, in and vice versa. For if we grant nating two foods from your diet turn, act on those desires in a the mainstream opinion that and writing your own eulogy. sinful manner. certain visual content is univer- When I decided to complete the sally forbidden, then explicit “no porn for 10 days” challenge, Using this interpretation to in- material in the movie “A Clock- I felt guilty about the task being form our understanding of the work Orange”, for example, too easy for me. To remedy text, it appears that the law re- would indeed fall under the the situation, I modified the garding viewing sexual content Biblical prohibition, presumably challenge to prohibit viewing is more complex than many leaving less sexual content as anything with the intention of might think. Perhaps most, if entirely permissible. If we adopt deriving sexual pleasure. not all, Orthodox Jewish schools the more literal interpretation, teach — or at least endorse — however, someone could be I thought of this as a halachic very specific guidelines for what allowed to view the full nudity (Jewish legal) interpretation is in this film — assuming the vio- of the challenge, as the Bible “appropriate” to watch and, lent rape is not a sexual stimu- states (Numbers 15:39): “And conversely, what is deemed lus for him — and yet be pro- do not stray after your heart immodest and therefore for- hibited from gazing sensually at and after your eyes…” Now, bidden to look at. In light of images of his celebrity crush in Rashi (an early commentary) is our textual analysis, however, a crop top. The latter approach not necessarily a reliable com- a more accurate application of would suggest a fairly sub- mentator when it comes to the law would seemingly be jective set of laws for viewing the simple reading of a text, as personalized to the individual. sexual material, an idea which he was unaware that Hebrew If someone has the ability to is honestly somewhat disturb- words have three-letter roots. view hard core pornography ing when seeking immutable (Judah ben David Hayyuj’s 10th and consciously decide to not God-given truths in Jewish law. century breakthrough theories get aroused, perhaps that is fine Shevat 5781~ February 2021 FEATURES PAGE 11 FEATURES

STAFF WRITER PROFILES: ELI SAPERSTEIN

COVID-19 pandemic? With in addition to experimenting with what it could be?” This attitude BY YOSEF ROSENFIELD Whom?: I am currently on cam- cooking and baking recipes that I has helped me accomplish things ON BEHALF FEATURES pus in the Rubin dorms. never had the time to use before. I never thought were possible. STAFF Currently reading: Brandon What do you miss most about When there is a problem, see what Sanderson’s “Warbreaker” and your pre-COVID-19 life?: Be- you can do to actually change the ach month, the YU E Rav Amnon Bazak’s “To This ing able to make plans weeks in situation before learning to simply Observer aims to highlight some Very Day” advance without having to wor- deal with it. of the YU undergraduate students Currently watching: “Soul” and ry about whether or not I or my who have written articles for us. “The West Wing” friends will be in quarantine. Read Eli’s past articles here: For the February edition, the Currently listening to: “The What is your favorite thing https://yuobserver.org/2020/10/ YU Observer is highlighting Eli NPR Politics Podcast” and “The about YU?: The number of interview-with-associate-dean-mi- Saperstein. Ben Shapiro Show”, as well as opportunities there are to get chael-strauss/ the “Hamilton” soundtrack (on involved in campus life, especially https://yuobserver.org/2020/11/ Name: Eli Saperstein repeat). those that would not be afforded to unlearning-institutionalized-rac- College: Sy Syms School of Busi- Favorite way to social distance me at a secular university. ism-with-sarah-adams-cornell/ ness with friends: skiing, video calls What’s a quote/thought/piece of https://yuobserver.org/2020/11/ Major: Undeclared (as of now Any cool things you’ve done/ advice you have for your fellow new-yorks-new-look/ accounting and finance) hobbies you’ve picked up over students?: “It is what it is … ” https://yuobserver.org/2020/10/ Year: Sophomore, second semes- the COVID-19 pandemic?: I — it’s a famous quote, but in my the-breakdown-of-civil-debate/ ter on campus have been listening to media from family we have a slightly different Where are you for the both sides of the political divide, saying: “It is what it is, but is it

CLUB PROFILE: THE NUTRITION CLUB

es on nutrition in a well-rounded Coach Gila come in to speak about come to talk to club members on BY ELISHEVA ZAHTZ ON manner. Especially with so many the importance of healthy living. Zoom. We’ve been trying to bring BEHALF OF FEATURES students interested in Nursing and We had a speaker come in on in more new and exciting people to STAFF Health, this can be a great founda- behalf of Goodr last semester, to keep things interesting! tion for them. Medical students get talk about saving food that would What is your advice to some- ach month, the YU Ob- E surprisingly little education about otherwise have been trashed, and one looking to get involved on server aims to highlight one club nutrition. using it to feed people in need. campus?: Reach out to me [Suri available to the YU undergraduate What was your pull to get in- What are some plans you have Lipsky] and join the WhatsApp community. For the February is- volved in the club?: I’m for this semester/future group! If you’re looking to create sue, the YU Observer is highlight- majoring in Nutrition and semesters?: We’re hosting an event, or have something you ing “The Nutrition Club” as an aspiring dietitian, I an event this February (on want to talk about, we’re happy to thought the 8th) help you plan it and get started! Club Name: Nutrition Club this with the Anything else to say about your Heads: Suri Lipsky Our club comes to connect nutrition stu- was a Sha- club: Even if you’re not major- Relevant Campus(es): Beren great dents and to educate students about health, mayim ing in Nutrition, there’s always Campus net- wellness and nutrition. Vege- something new to learn. Come get What is your club’s mission work- tarian- involved, you’ll be surprised by the statement?: Our club comes to ing opportunity and way to meet ism Club and talking about going things you learn from hanging out! connect nutrition students and people who were also interested vegetarian in a healthy way, and This impacts everyone and it’s im- to educate students about health, in the field. But as I spent time, I why you might want to. portant to develop an understand- wellness and nutrition. We share realized that there was so much What is your favorite OSL-pro- ing of how nutrition affects you. tips, ideas, articles and events to more to the club and I was learning vided food for club events?: support awareness and education. and interested in the things being Pizza always seems to be the Are you a YU undergraduate club Why is this club important?: discussed with the other students. crowd-pleaser! We also try to have head interested in seeing your club Nutrition impacts everyone, and Not everyone is a nutrition major, food demos, before COVID, and featured in a future edition? Email eating healthy is important for all and it’s great to hear their perspec- have people making their smoothie us at [email protected] of us. Having a space where people tives and share our opinions with bowls at the event and interacting with your club name and the names can come together and share their one another. with the food. of the club heads! information and knowledge, talk What are some things your club With COVID, how is your club about relevant topics and share our has done in the past?: We’ve adjusting?: Our WhatsApp group personal insights and experiences co-hosted events with the Psychol- has grown, and we’ve switched with other people allows for us to ogy Club talking about Nutrition from interactive events to more on- develop ourselves and our stanc- and Mental Health and have had line speaker events, having people 2 PAGE 12 FEATURES SHEVAT 5781 ~ FEBRUARY 2021 FEATURES YU FACULTY PROFILE: DR. DAVID GLASER

BY BINA DAVIDSON ing enough that it led me to try century. He had a very rigorous ON BEHALF OF FEA- composing. Once I started to see music education, first from his TURES STAFF that I could create something out father (who was a bandmaster of nothing more than vibrating in the Union Army) and then at air, I was hooked. Yale University. He had a unique Each month, the YU Observer What do you like about working musical vision, far different from aims to highlight a YU faculty at YU?: I really enjoy the size of any one of his contemporaries. He member. For the February edition, the school and the smaller classes realized that he couldn’t maintain the YU Observer is highlighting that I teach. I can get to know my his integrity as a composer and Dr. David Glaser. students and really feel as if I’m still make a living from his music, mentoring them, teaching them so he went into business and built Name: David Glaser how to think, rather than just a successful life insurance compa- Department: Music transferring information to ny. Ives was a pioneer in Educational Background/Qual- them. developing estate plan- ifications: BA - Hunter College, How has COVID/Zoom ning. His music was redis- CUNY; MA - affect- cov- the century. I was teaching on Queens College, CUNY; DMA - Co- ed the Once I started to see that I could create ered Sept. 11. Needless to say, classes lumbia University way in the ended early that day. I walked Hometown: New York something out of nothing more than vibrat- your ing air, I was hooked. 1960s, down Fifth Avenue (I live in How long have you worked at classes and he Greenwich Village) watching the YU?: Long enough so that last func- is con- smoke from the towers and won- year I had a student whose moth- tion?: The downside, as we all sidered an “American original”. He dering how and why this could er took my Sense of Music class. I know by now, is that it is exhaust- is a great model for anyone who happen. When I got home, after started as an adjunct in the fall of ing and somewhat sterile. We wants to pursue a unique vision. making sure the family was okay I 1995. can’t exchange ideas as freely Do you have any advice for stu- went into the kitchen and started What got you passionate about or quickly as we do when we’re dents interested in a career in cooking. But before I decided on your field?:I had been an avid in person and I can’t go off on your field?: a menu, I slipped on headphones listener, but hadn’t thought about as many of my (always fascinat- Don’t do it! I think everyone and cued up Bach’s “Goldberg starting to compose until I heard a ing) tangents. But I think we still should study music, art and liter- Variations”. It was at that moment recording of Schoenberg’s “Pierrot manage in spite of the distance to ature. But all of these fields, while that I realized I needed a refuge, lunaire”. I hated it the first time I connect. giving you great insight into life a place where everything was in listened to it. But as it was consid- If you could bring in any guest and culture, as well as enduring order and made sense, a place to ered to be a seminal work of 20th lecturer, alive or deceased, who pleasure, are just too difficult find one of the great monuments century music, I decided to give it would it be, and what would they a way to make a living. Look at of human thought to balance the another chance, and another and speak about?: This was a surpris- Charles Ives. chaos outside. yet one more. After listening once ingly hard question to answer. What is one thing you want stu- a day for about a month I began I finally chose Charles Ives. He dents to know about you?: Is there a YU professor you admire to understand it and hear what was an American composer who As we’re in one crisis now, I’ll refer who you would like to see high- was great about it. It was intrigu- worked in the first half of the 20th back to one at the beginning of lighted in future editions? Email

STAFF WRITER PROFILES: MATTHEW SHILAT

BY YOSEF ROSENFIELD Opaque Lens” by Rabbi Hayyim deeper understanding of Judaism ON BEHALF FEATURES Name: Matthew Shilat Angel and a richer, fuller life with my STAFF College: YC Currently watching: “The Boys” amazing friends. Major: Political Science on my own, rewatching “Psych” What’s a quote/thought/or piece : Senior, fourth year on cam- with my wife Each month, the YU Year of advice you have for your fel- pus “Change “The best remedy Observer aims to highlight some Currently listening to: low students?: On The Rise” by Avi Kaplan for those who are afraid, lonely or of the YU undergraduate students Where are you for the Favorite way to social distance unhappy is to go outside, some- who have written articles for us. COVID-19 pandemic? With In my Flatbush apart- with friends: Chatting through where where they can be quite For the February edition, the YU Whom?: ment with my new wife. WhatsApp, tagging others in posts alone with the heavens, nature, Observer is highlighting Matthew “Through an and meeting up to hang out … and God.” — Ann Frank Shilat. Currently reading: socially distanced, of course. Any cool things you’ve done/ Read his past articles here: hobbies you’ve picked up over the https://yuobserver.org/2020/10/ COVID-19 pandemic?: Traveling crisis-and-hope-event-voices- with my new wife and learning di- through-the-ages/ verse new things in my spare time. https://yuobserver.org/2020/12/ What do you miss most about crisis-and-hope-yu-voices-repair- your pre-COVID-19 life?: See- ing-the-rift/ ing my friends more often, muse- ums and restaurants being open, and learning with my havruta [Torah study partner]. What is your favorite thing about YU?: The environment has nurtured my Jewish growth, and the connections have led me to a SHEVAT 5781 ~ FEBRUARY 2021 FEATURES PAGE 13 FEATURES WHAT WE LOSE WITH ONLINE LEARNING: STUDENTS REACTIONS BY DINI find the many hours spent staring with her more often and submit our attribute to online learning are our HIRSCHFIELD at their computer screens taxing: “I best work. Many professors across ways of making the best of a tough get many headaches from look- the departments adopted this more situation. Certainly, those who pre- Online learning has be- ing at the screen all day for many lenient approach and are sensitive fer a less demanding schedule ap- come the default mode of learning hours. It is also very hard to en- to student needs. Professors also preciate the laxness of the system, due to COVID-19. At YU, some gage in the class when the profes- use breakout rooms to foster an but hardly anything about online students enjoy the less demanding sor is just talking,” shared Daniella environment of collaboration and learning is ideal for those who are aspects of online learning, while Rubin, SSSB ‘23). It is clear that maintain the classroom communi- invested in their college experi- others suffer from the lack of social despite the professors’ best efforts, ty. As a new student at the Sy Syms ence and education. For those who connection and severely compro- this mode of learning fails School of Business, Liana once enjoyed in-person classes mised college experience. Al- to offer the same quality of Seidenfeld enjoys the way and campus life, the compromised though there are some advantages educa- “break- learning and lack of social life can to online learning, the detriments tion as out be harmful to their mental health. in-per- With online learning, students no longer rooms We can commend our students outweigh any benefits this “new have college as a social platform. normal” may pose. son allow and professors for turning lemons With online learning, class- for into lemonade, but focusing on the students no longer have college es, collab- bright side fails to overcome the as a social platform. Students also and students are losing out on a oration and new friendship[s].” fact that this is not ideal. Neverthe- struggle to process class materi- proper education. Moreover, first-time students might less, Zoom is here to stay for now, al as their focus is compromised Aware as they are that be more willing to sign up for and it is up to us to look ahead by Zoom fatigue and distractions Zoom hardly fulfills the vision more clubs because all they need to with a positive attitude. Professors in their makeshift “classrooms.” they had in mind for their edu- do is join a WhatsApp group to be and students must work together to Though she recognizes the efforts cation, students are doing their involved. Lastly, the online system find the best way to teach, commu- made by instructors to forge con- best to maximize their learning allows students the time, energy, nicate, and recreate the vibrancy nections in their online classrooms, opportunities in this setting. One and opportunities for more intern- of the classroom as best we can. Dalia Adams (SCW ‘23) finds her advantage is that professors are ships on their resume since most Hopefully, through these efforts, online classes “impersonal” and more accessible, and they are more companies transitioned to remote students and instructors alike will is often distracted by her “room- understanding in some situations. work. find what works for them to get the mates, cell phone, and noises in Last semester in my English class, The advantages of online most out of online college until it the [dorm] building.” Students also my professor extended deadlines as learning do not make up for its is safe to revert to fully in-person the class needed, so we could meet shortcomings. The benefits we learning.

ABOUT “STERN COLLEGE: IN THE NOTE”

students who were willing to pressed by the selflessness this the idea never sat well with me. BY SHIRA JOSHUA share their notes. I remember student has exemplified. A few I remember on one Shabbat, one of my more demanding weeks later an additional statis- I, along with my friend Rachel I remember my first week at courses was statistics. As my first tics classmate of mine offered Mauda and some others, sat in Stern clearly. As an international quiz was approaching, I was in her notes, and at the end of each the Schottenstein Residence Hall student, I had to adjust accord- need of notes as the few people class, I ran to photocopy the lounge and contemplated how ingly to my new environment I had previously asked refused. notes, so that I can review the we can motivate other students and status. I was extremely ex- As the day before the quiz came, class material and study well for and classmates to share their cited and slightly hesitant at the I was very worried and stressed the quizzes and exams. I truly notes. After much thought, I same time. As I wasn’t from the that I would not be able to get a don’t think that these big-heart- came up with an idea to open area, I came alone without any hold of notes and study. There- ed students realize how much of a Facebook group as a platform family for support and without fore, I decided to text everyone a help they were. to share notes and other study knowing anyone on campus. I “knew” (not many people) to One may ask why didn’t materials for free. Last summer, However, I came full of expec- ask if they know someone who I choose to buy notes? I sim- my friend Rachel and I met and tations of expanding my knowl- knows someone that perhaps ply could not afford it. In Israel, worked to make this group a edge, succeeding, and forming is willing to share her notes. Lo where I come from, selling notes possibility. However, I didn’t new friendships. and behold, I found an amazing and quizzes is not a common have the courage to publish it Even with all my deter- friend who was ever so generous practice, in fact it is looked down yet as I was worried that peo- mination, I was having trouble and happily offered her notes so upon. The normal thing in Israel ple wouldn’t join or support it. taking notes during class, due to as to benefit others. No words is to just share and help fellow Eventually, I decided to ignore the language barrier. Therefore, can describe how thankful I was students succeed. Although I un- I was forced to rely on generous for this kind gesture and im- derstand the motive to sell notes, SEE STERN IN THE NOTE, PAGE 14 PAGE 14 FEATURES SHEVAT 5781 ~ FEBRUARY 2021 FEATURES FEATURES

DAF YOMI AT BEREN: WHEN EXTRINSIC MOTIVATION TURNS INTRINSIC

learning itself. Rav believes that, mitzvot. Many students grew up congregation. BY SHAYNA in performing these actions for with mandatory prayer services Last week, I went to the HERSZAGE, MANAG- other reasons, a person may in their schools, forming an ex- Friday night prayer service ING EDITOR come to want to do them for trinsic motivation toward prayer. in Schenk synagogue on the their own sake. Thus, Rav argues Without a teacher marking off Wilf Campus. As per COVID-19 Psychologists categorize that a person’s motivations to attendance on a checklist in the protocol, all congregants were motivations into two groups: learn Torah and perform mitzvot mornings, one may wonder how required to have signed up extrinsic motivation and intrinsic may change; the motivations the synagogues of Washington prior to the Sabbath and, be- motivation. Extrinsic motivation may start out extrinsic — for the Heights (the area which houses fore entering, the congregants’ describes one who is motivated sake of a grade, for example — the Wilf Campus) and Midtown temperatures were checked. The due to possible factors such as and then turn intrinsic, out of (the area which houses the Beren temperature-checking process a desire for praise, payment, or love for Jewish values and Campus) have groups of caused the flow of congregants a good grade one may receive Jewish texts. college students present to turn into a long line of people as a result of fulfilling an action. Many Yeshiva Uni- each week. The answer is waiting to enter and engage in Meanwhile, intrinsic motivation ver- per- prayer services. As I waited in describes one doing an action sity Rather, this is an exhibition of extrinsic moti- fect- the back of the line, at the very not for a reward, but because the stu- vation that has turned into intrinsic motiva- ly end of the block, I felt a sense of individual finds satisfaction or dents awe and pride. There is no clear pleasure in the action itself. have tion to do a mitzvah over time extrinsic motivation to attend The dichotomy of the sup- Friday night services: we must two categories of motivation is ported Rav’s above statement aligned with Rav’s statement: wear masks, we must walk in the addressed in Masekhet (Tractate) in their own lifestyles. In some what started out as an extrin- cold winter air, and there is no Pesakhim in daf (page) 50b: situations — such as in Judaic sic obligation to attend prayer more post-services schmoozing “Rav Yehuda said that Rav classes — Torah learning oc- services has transitioned into an (socializing) or possibility of a said: A person should always curs out of a desire to graduate intrinsic motivation to engage in potato kugel. Rather, this is an engage in Torah study and per- with good grades. However, the the mitzvah of prayer. exhibition of extrinsic motivation formance of mitzvot, even if he learning seldom remains within For several months last that has turned into intrinsic does so not for their own sake, the confines of class. Whether year, communal prayer services motivation to do a mitzvah over as through the performance of there is class or not, chavrutot were closed worldwide due to time. mitzvot not for their own sake, (learning in partners) continue the COVID-19 pandemic. Sud- Rav’s statement shows one gains understanding and to happen — not for a grade, denly, not only was there a lack the possibility for growth and comes to perform them for their not for payment, and seldom for of overt extrinsic motivation, but fluidity in motivation. We, as own sake.” social clout, but out of an in- there was even a lack of commu- people, are constantly growing According to this state- creasing passion toward learning nity. A person could stop pray- and changing. What begins as an ment, a person should always Judaic texts. ing altogether and no one else extrinsically motivated task may strive to perform mitzvot (com- Additionally, the same would notice. However, while become an intrinsically motivat- mandments) and learn Torah — intrinsic motivation is found some people lapsed in their ed part of a person’s life and val- even if they are not motivated among the Yeshiva University prayers, others remained diligent ues, whether or not that change by solely the mitzvah or Torah community with regard to doing — from home instead of within a is conscious. In the face of the

to share for free. I’m sure this would benefit from that, then earn. On the same scale, however, STERN IN THE NOTEgroup will expand even more and they may pay it forward as well, the more students who join, the FROM PAGE 13 encourage others to change for expanding the notes library and less students will need to spend. the better. The aim of this group assisting others in their educa- The benefit is gaining immediate the background voices in my is to create a supportive space tion. As humans, we all need help access to the required material head and to publish it. I was so and platform for all students to sometimes, and school can be with minimum stress. surprised to see the wide support share and gain and allow for study that much easier if we can sup- If you would like to support this from close and far this group has material to be more accessible. If port each other. Although, it is group, please join the “Stern Col- gained. To date, there are more one student will share her notes true that the more students who lege: In the Note”! than 300 members and so many and five students, for example, join, the less money people would amazing students are starting SHEVAT 5781 ~ FEBRUARY 2021 FEATURES PAGE 15 FEATURES

ACKNOWLEDGING THE LAND WE LIVE ON

BY SARAH BRILL, SCIENCE create equity and accessibility from marginalized communities. decisive steps to change that or AND TECHNOLOGY EDITOR to such marginalized communi- What else can, specifically else their professions of “honor- ties. Failure to take those steps universities, do to better under- ing” are hollow. reveals their land acknowledg- stand the importance of both With our university not It is not a new concept ments to be merely performa- honoring indigenous land and acknowledging the land all that America was founded tive and ineffectual. respecting it? campuses are located on, we as through the bloodshed and How can we go about Universities need to an institution are lacking a sense tears of the Native American honoring the land we are on in understand that this is not an of mindfulness and of ethical people. Throughout history, a respectful way and pay tribute academic exercise that they can obligation. Nearly all universities this community has been un- to the tribes that might have legitimately claim to approach in the New York City borough dermined and underfunded by once established roots there? from a sterile, objective position; have acknowledged the land the government despite having The best way to one allowing them to ob- their university is built on by native roots to this land. As we honor the land is to use serve, absent obligation adding a separate page to their have progressed as a society, it in a sustainable man- to make fundamental website outlining the territories there has been more recognition on which they are built. Yeshiva of native people and their land. In my culture, we use the same word, “okla,” University, I call upon you to do For example, many companies for both land and people. The two cannot be your civic duty. As Jewish people we know the concept of being and universities state on their separated website what land their prop- kicked out of our homeland well, erty is on, something which our as illustrated throughout our university has not done. In order ner. In my culture, we use the changes. In reality, universities history. Here the Native Amer- to gain more insight into the same word, “okla,” for both land are tools of colonization that ican people have been forced concept of land acknowledg- and people. The two cannot be suffer from the same structural onto small reservations lacking ment, I reached out to Summer separated. We belong to the inequities as most institutions government funding; the least Wesley, a Native American from land and have responsibilities to in this society. The barriers to our university can do is acknowl- the Choctaw Nation of Oklaho- it. Institutions that wish to honor accessibility to students within edge the land: ma, with a few questions of my the Nations whose lands they marginalized communities are Both the Wilf and Beren own about native land acknowl- are on should start by honoring well documented. Furthermore, Campuses are built upon the edgment. the land, and also reach out to universities often employ indi- Munsee Lenape land. In 1669, As an Ingenious person, those people to find a way to viduals that harm our commu- the Munsee and Esopus tribes why do you think it is neces- benefit them. There is no one- nities. Sometime this is through attacked the Dutch colonizers sary for people, especially large size-fits-all solution where that is their work, through fraudulently settling their land, but failed. corporations and universities, concerned, as each of our com- claiming to Indigeneity, or even The Munsee were then forced to to acknowledge the Indigenous munities are different and have a combination thereof — a move and settle near the Del- land we are on? unique needs, so it is important good example being my alma aware River, but later on, they Land acknowledgements that members of those com- mater, who gave a pretendi- headed west towards Ohio. are a first step in reducing munities lead the way. Unques- an (the word we often use for Knowing what land our Indigenous erasure and to- tionably, each institution has frauds that pretend to be Native) school, graduate school, or wards coming to terms with the an ethical obligation to strive to professor tenure for publishing workplace is built upon will help ongoing colonization that we benefit the Nation whose land a book in which she admits that us better understand the Native currently live under. Therefore they are occupying. she is not Native, yet spends American people and the war it is important for institutions to When a large corporation much of the text arguing why crimes committed against them. acknowledge the people whose or university does not honor the she should be entitled to that To live in the shadow of igno- land they are on but they cannot land the building(s) is on, how identity anyway. Unfortunate- rance is not a path which most and should never stop there. does that make you feel? Why? ly, she is not the only known people take, and it is one that I Additionally, there need to be The conduct of an in- pretendian employed there. hope our school does not, as the real steps towards turning the stitution speaks about their Enough writing on the harms concept of living in exile holds current tide, to include not only character. Failure to meet their caused by such frauds already so near to us. immediate information to their minimum ethical obligation of exists, so I won’t belabor the ex- audience with regards to ways respecting the land and honor- planation. However, the reality is *** *** that they can help or assist those ing the occupied peoples reveals that universities have an ethical Sources: communities as well as actively their colonial nature, which obligation to honestly evaluate https://nativegov. evaluating the internal dynamics makes them fundamentally un- the role they play in the ongoing org/a-guide-to-indige- of their institutions in order to safe institutions for individuals colonization process and take nous-land-acknowledgment/ PAGE 16 SCITECH Shevat 5781~ February 2021 Travel the World, but at What Cost? By Talya Danzer

Upon choosing aircraft transpor- tation, there are many factors that must be taken into account. These factors include the risks of terrorist attacks, system mal- functions, and in the days of a pandemic, the risk of getting COVID-19; yet, it barely registers in one’s mind that there are risks of DNA damage and cancer due to factors such as cosmic ionizing radiation and ultraviolet rays. If lymphocytes. The increase of of observed cancer cases over aircrews, the results indicate a these factors pose a risk to those oxidative stress or oxidative DNA the expected number of cases. need for further research. Cosmic who fly sporadically, then all the damage is often a biomarker for Results from ten separate studies and UV radiation are shown to more so to pilots and flight crew diseases such as cancer. analyzed in the meta-analyses in- not only damage DNA, but trans- whose job it is to maintain and dicate that compared to the gen- locate chromosomes as well as fly in an aircraft daily. Cosmic radiation exposure leads eral population, the SIR was 1.40. increase the risk of certain types to an increased risk of cancers in- Since the number was larger of cancer. Flight crews have a Are the genotoxic risks of flying cluding acute myeloid leukemia, than one, that indicates a great- lot to consider when it comes to worth the paycheck and the skin cancer, and prostate cancer er number of cases than was working in the skies. It is up to sightseeing? Is one getting ex- as well as reproductive issues. expected. The study concluded them to decide if the hazardous posed to more than just beauti- Skin cancer, such as melanoma, that around 40% of these cases risk is worth the adventure this ful sights? was discovered at higher rates can be attributed to the disrup- lifestyle brings. They may be the in flight personnel. Despite this tion of the circadian rhythm in ones getting the paychecks, but Radiation is one of the main consistency, however, it is un- flight attendants as well as cos- it is their body that is paying the genotoxic risks that plague flight clear whether the cancer diag- mic radiation exposure. price. crew members. Cosmic ionizing nosis is due to increased cosmic radiation has two types to which ionizing radiation exposure on Circadian rhythm disruption *** *** flight crews are exposed. There is the aircraft itself or due to the significantly alters the immune galactic cosmic radiation; radia- increased leisure time of flight system as well as hormonal Sources: tion in which particles are emit- crew which, due to time in the balance. Being a member of the https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih. ted from the solar system and sun, allows for an increase in cabin crew ensures light expo- gov/21605163/ interact with Earth’s atmosphere ultraviolet radiation exposure. In sure at night, short and unusual https://www.sciencedirect. and there are solar energetic pilots, chromosomal transloca- sleeping hours, as well as time com/science/article/abs/pii/ particles, or solar flares. Com- tion, or the unusual arrangement zone changes. In women, this S1383571802000360?via%3Di- pared to the average person who of chromosomes, was discovered can increase the tumor growth hub https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ is exposed to around 0.33 mSv at statistically significant rates in rate for breast cancer. Melatonin, topics/aircrew/cosmicionizingra- annually, aircrew are exposed relation to the amount of time which mediates one’s circadian diation.html to an annual amount of 3.07 they had been flying. This was rhythm, inhibits breast cancer https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/ mSv. Dosage exposure directly done using FISH, or Fluorescence cell growth. The increase in tu- topics/aircrew/reproductive- correlates with altitude, proving In Situ Hybridization, to help mor growth is due to the chang- health.htmlhttps://www.cdc. that the increased dosage intake locate where the DNA is bound. es in melatonin release and cell gov/nceh/radiation/cosmic.html in flight personnel is a result of The frequency of chromosomal metabolism. Mainly, the changes https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih. the high altitudes reached when translocation in those who had in circadian rhythm correlate gov/29921353 operating in an aircraft. been flying for a long duration of with fatigue as well as mental https://oem.bmj.com/con- time was double the frequency health issues, none of which tent/59/7/428.long When exposed to copious of those who had flown minimal- increase genotoxic risks. https://academic.oup.com/jtm/ amounts of cosmic radiation ly. These chromosomal abnor- article/23/6/taw055/2750995 due to time spent in the air, malities are associated with Additionally, there are reproduc- https://bmcpublichealth. there is an increased risk of DNA cancer risk. tive risks for crew members who biomedcentral.com/arti- damage. The National Institute are pregnant. Cosmic exposure cles/10.1186/s12889-018-5221-3 for Occupational Safety and In women, there is an additional as well as excessive standing https://econtent.hogrefe. Prevention used the comet cancer risk: that of breast cancer. time and heavy lifting may be com/doi/10.1024/0369- assay to detect both single and The exposure to cosmic radiation linked to increased miscarriage 8394.95.4.99?url_ double-stranded breaks in the paired with the disruption of rates during the first trimester. ver=Z39.88-2003&r- DNA of aircrew in comparison one’s circadian rhythm is a large Targeting the exact cause of fr_id=ori:rid:crossref. to a control group of ground contributor to the increased these reproductive problems is org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%20%20 staff. Although the findings frequency of breast cancer a work in progress, but one must 0pubmed in this study lacked statistical observed in female flight crews. be diligent to reduce their risks https://academic.oup.com/jtm/ significance, there was a noted Using meta-analyses that comply and exposure during pregnancy. article/13/3/127/1816549 increase in DNA damage in the with the meta-analysis of Obser- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm. aircrew members. These findings vational Studies in Epidemiology Flight crews greet passengers nih.gov/19074211/ https:// were solidified by an additional guidelines, researchers were able with big smiles and passengers onlinelibrary.wiley.com/ study done by the Department to compile the statistical data are often jealous of an aircrew’s doi/10.1002/(SICI)1098- of Health Risk Analysis and Toxi- from various scientific studies. ability to travel the world and get 2280(1998)32:2%3C121::AID- cology at Maastricht University. Researchers were able to calcu- paid to do it. Beneath the smiles, EM7%3E3.0.CO;2-4 Using twenty-three flight engi- late a 95% confidence interval however, the DNA damage in neers and a control group, there (CI), the range of values where a flight attendants is nothing to be was a significant increase found number likely exists, combined jealous of. Despite there being in the oxidative DNA damage in with the standardized incidence an influx of studies done on the the flight engineer’s peripheral ratio (SIR). The SIR is the ratio effects of cosmic radiation on Shevat 5781~ February 2021 SCI TECH PAGE 17 The Polar Vortex Is No Longer in the Poles

By Sarah Brill, Science & Technology Editor

Polar vortexes are common will travel along the jet stream. tion.” This unusual and irregular in the North Pole. In fact, they When these vortices occur, warming and cooling of the *** *** happen almost every year. This northern states and northern Earth’s atmosphere has caused Sources: year, however, as meteorolo- parts of Europe are affected by events from the wildfires in Aus- https://www.nationalgeograph- gists anxiously awaited their small snowstorms and colder tralia and California, in addition ic.com/environment/2021/01/ news story of the night, an weather due to some of the to the warmest summer Antarc- the-polar-vortex-is-coming- unprecedented event occurred: vortex expanding south along tica has ever experienced. raising-odds-for-intense-winter- temperatures spiked in the arc- the jet stream. Stratospheric Now, an unnatural polar vortex weather/ tic from minus 92 degrees Fahr- warming, however, can destabi- is headed towards North Amer- https://www.cnn. enheit to 8 degrees Fahrenheit, lize the polar vortex, pushing it ica and Europe one of which com/2021/01/07/weather/ thrusting warm wind into the off course. is caused by climate change. It polar-vortex-shifts-arctic-air- oncoming polar vortex. Instead has been warned time and time south/index.html of just striking the North Pole as The question remains: what again that if a shift in our men- https://www.weather.gov/safe- it was supposed to, this vortex caused this sudden change in tality towards climate and the ty/cold-polar-vortex split into two. One is headed temperature? It is no secret that environment does not change, towards North America, and the the Earth is warming, the ice is irregular events such as these other towards Europe, where it melting, and climate change is will continue to occur. is expected to strike at the end happening of January and beginning of before our February. eyes. In fact, according Regularly occurring polar to National vortexes in the poles occur Geographic, quite differently than that of “[i]n the the abnormal polar vortexes past 30 headed towards North America years, the and Europe. Typically, cold air Arctic has is spun counterclockwise near warmed the North and South Poles and about twice it dissipates in the spring. Polar as fast as vortexes have always occurred the rest of by the poles, according to the world, a the National Weather Service. phenome- To maintain the cold spin of non known air, there needs to be a stable as arctic temperature and the vortex amplifica-

Man and Earth’s Best Friend

BY Shani Lewis VP of Envrionemental Issues Dems

Everyone knows that a dog is their sense of smell is 10,000 removed before they take over even the North Atlantic right man’s best friend, but did you times stronger than a humans. an area.” whale. With the help of dogs, know that a dog is also Earth’s Wildlife conservationists use This is a tremendous aid to conservationists around the best friend? Dogs have an en- dogs to help track down danger- wildlife conservationists who, world have been able to elimi- hanced ability of smell, in fact, ous wildlife. Jaymi Heimbuch, a according to Heimbuch, are nate dangers to nature and pro- specialist in wild- only able to identify danger- tect wildlife that is endangered. life conservation, ous species of plants by sight Who knew man’s best friend wrote that dogs are when they are in full bloom. would also be a friend to Earth? able to “[sniff] out Which is ultimately too late since *** *** invasive species most plants once they are fully Sources: like giant snails in bloomed will spread their dead- https://www.nationalgeo- the Galapagos or ly nature to the wildlife around graphic.com/animals/2021/01/ [detect] disease them. In addition to finding dan- working-dogs-for-conserva- in beehives, dogs’ gerous plants in wildlife, dogs tion/ https://www.treehugger. noses can be put to are also able to sniff out endan- com/ways-dogs-are-used-spe- work in searching gered species, helping conser- cies-conservation-4864474#:~:- out what shouldn’t vationists find and protect these text=Sniff%20out%20 be there so that hu- species. problems%20for%20wild- mans can act. Dogs According to CNN, the dogs are life&text=Dogs%20are%20 are able to sniff out trained to identify the endan- able%20to%20sniff,the%20 particular plant gered species from their feces. species%20can%20be%20 species, pointing Many species have been saved, protected. https://www.cnn. ecologists to tiny such as the San Joaquin kit fox, com/2019/10/30/world/conser- patches of invasive gray wolves, cougars, bobcats, vation-dogs-endangered-liz- mustard so that moose, river otters, American ard-scn/index.html the plants can be minks, black-footed ferrets and PAGE 18 SCITECH Shevat 5781~ February 2021 The Role of Dippin’ Dots in COVID Relief By Leia Rubinstein the chief development Jones informs that the same COVID-19 pandemic, there is officer for Dippin’ Dots, freezer should not be used for finally an end in sight with the explained that in order to both food and vaccine to pre- creation of a vaccine. However, The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine get the special shape of Dippin’ vent contamination. Any freezer simply having the vaccine is not is ready for use, but there is Dots, the ice cream must be pel- that Pfizer-BioNTech would enough; there is also the issue just one problem: it needs to letized. Ingredients are mixed purchase must never have been of transporting the vaccine for be stored at a very cold tem- and then dripped into the freez- used for Dippin’ Dots and re- delivery across the country. perature of -94 F. Specifically, er to create their characteristic served only for vaccine storage. Thankfully, the Dippin’ Dots it requires a “cold chain” — a shape. They are then stored and company freezers may be the system that keeps the tempera- sent out in freezers at -49℉. Also, Jones explains that the solution to this problem, and ture standard throughout the freezers utilize dry ice, a solid will speed up the process of delivery process. Fortunately, Dippin’ Dots actually developed form of carbon dioxide that eliminating the coronavirus. a solution for how to maintain these special freezers with the is -109℉. Dry ice, however, the cold temperature required intention of using them for comes with certain risks, such of the vaccine has been found medical purposes in addition as burns or frostbite if touched *** *** from an unlikely source: Dippin’ to storing their frozen treat. with a bare hand. In addition, if Sources: Dots. As of 2012, some are already warmed up, dry ice can subli- https://www.today.com/ implemented for use in storing mate into carbon dioxide gas food/how-dippin-dots-could- Dippin’ Dots is a brand famous vaccines that use pelletization. and cause anyone around to help-covid-19-vaccine-stor- for its ice cream in the form of Jones received inquiries about suffocate. Dippin’ Dots deliv- age-t204293 tiny beads. But what does the purchasing some of their freez- ery workers undergo special https://www.popsci.com/story/ popular summertime treat have ers for the coronavirus vaccine training to stay safe on the job health/covid-vaccine-cold- to do with COVID-19 relief? As it and is prepared to sell them, and Jones recommends similar chain-dippin-dots-ice-cream/ turns out, Dippin’ Dots uses spe- but warns about the safety training for the delivery of the cial freezers that can get as cold precautions that must be taken vaccines. as -122℉ to make the shape of into consideration. the ice cream beads. Stan Jones, In this late stage of the COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution: Where We Are Now By Shoshanah Marcus, News Editor

After months of creating and COVID-19 vaccine be allocated updated on a regular basis on given priority during this phase. testing vaccines, the Pfizer-Bi- to healthcare personnel and their website. The CDC has com- If vaccine supplies continue to oNTech and Moderna COVID-19 long-term care facility resi- piled a similar map depicting be limited in the second phase, vaccines finally have FDA ap- dents,” which is referred to as the total doses administered, participating countries will proval. Phase 1a. On December 22, total doses distributed, people receive vaccine doses based 2020, the CDC recommended receiving one or more doses, on an assessment of their risk. The Pfizer-BioNTech and Mod- that Phase 1b, consisting of and people receiving two doses Additionally, the COVAX Facil- erna COVID-19 vaccines have frontline essential workers and as reported to the CDC by state ity promises that there will be been distributed to people people aged 75 years and older, per 100,000 people and by total some doses allocated as a “hu- across the globe since Decem- and Phase 1c, consisting of count. manitarian buffer … to serve as ber 14, 2020. Both vaccines people aged 65-74 years old, a provider of last resort for if/ require two doses; however, the people aged 16-64 years with The World Health Organization when national, government-led second dose is administered underlying medical conditions, (WHO) published a series of processes fail to reach certain three to four weeks after the and other essential workers, be articles on the development of populations.” first dose depending on which distributed. The CDC stated on the COVID-19 vaccine with the vaccine was administered. their website that “[a]s vaccine latest article addressing how to Overall, large organizations availability increases, vacci- fairly distribute the vaccine. The such as the CDC and WHO may When it comes to determining nation recommendations will WHO established the COVID-19 have many recommendations who should receive the vaccine, expand to include more groups” Vaccines Global Access (COVAX) for how to effectively and fairly the Center for Disease Control and included that “[t]he goal is Facility in collaboration with the distribute the vaccine, but each and Prevention (CDC) makes for everyone to be able to easily ACT-Accelerator vaccine part- state and country will need to suggested priority vaccination get a COVID-19 vaccination as ners the Coalition for Epidemic determine for themselves how lists, and then each state makes soon as large enough quantities Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) to best allocate their resources. its own plan based on these of vaccine are available.” and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. recommendations. The COVAX Facility’s goal is According to USA Today, “about to “[bring] nations together, The CDC claims that supplies 7.2% of people in the US have regardless of their income level, of the vaccine will be limited received at least one COVID-19 to ensure the procurement at first, which is why they have shot. About 1.6% of people and equitable distribution of gathered an Advisory Commit- have received both doses of COVID-19 vaccines” and aim to tee on Immunization Practices the vaccine. About 40.8% of the accomplish this through two (ACIP) to make recommenda- shots distributed haven’t been phases. During the first phase of tions as to who should receive used yet.” These statistics, along distribution of the vaccine, the the vaccine first. As of now, with a map that depicts how vaccine will be given to partic- the CDC recommends that many people have been vacci- ipating countries until 20% of the first phase be divided into nated with the first and second the population is vaccinated. three subphases. According dose in each state in the United Frontline workers in the health- to the CDC, “initial supplies of States, are consistently being care and social fields will be Shevat 5781~ February 2021 SCI TECH PAGE 19 Where have all the insects gone?

By Tova Shmulewitz

As a child, I would point out the bottom of the food chain clined 83% since the late 1970s. this problem becomes a real butterflies and other insects making them a source of nutri- The reason for this is due to the threat. flying around, while simultane- tion to animals such as fish and steady increase in warm tem- ously running away from bees birds. They also play a vital role peratures resulting in a decline *** *** and other imminent “threats” in the pollination of crops and of snow during cold seasons. De- Sources: buzzing around my head. But plants. Pollination is essential in forestation, fires, and droughts http://www.digitaljournal.com/ as I aged, my interactions with maintaining plant life and crop are other human-caused reasons tech-and-science/science/death- insects happened less frequent- growth. Without food to sur- why insects are going extinct. by-a-thousand-cuts-earth-s- ly as they once did. This is not vive, the birds and fish will not Another reason for the insect insects-are-disappearing/arti- because I stopped noticing survive which could very realis- decline is our increased use of cle/583901 them as I matured, but because tically lead to major problems pesticides and chemicals which of a serious issue facing the for us humans at the top of the results in habitat changes for the https://bgr.com/2021/01/25/ world today. food chain. This applies not only insects. Research has shown that bee-populations-decline-study/ to meat-eaters, but also vegetar- monarch butterflies have been https://learningenglish.voan- Insects have slowly been de- ians and vegans, as insects are rapidly declining in areas where ews.com/a/the-monarch-but- creasing exponentially over also needed for plants and crop they usually migrate to during terfly-population-is-in-dan- time. Some scientists have growth. the cold season to stay warm. ger-of-disappearing/5748017. called this phenomenon an This is because chemicals have html “insect apocalypse.” According So what is leading to this extinc- killed off some plants needed for https://www.pnas.org/con- to reports, the Western Bum- tion of insects? Environmental the butterflies’ survival. tent/118/2/e2002543117 blebee species has declined by factors such as climate change 93% over the past few decades, are often cited as a leading There are some things that and 25% of all bee species have cause of extinction alongside we are able to do to stop this disappeared. human-caused global warm- rapid decline. We need to de- ing. Climate change is actually crease the use of pesticides and Insects may seem annoying to cited as one of the main reasons raise awareness about climate us, but they are vital parts of for the declines. One study has change. Helping the environ- the food chain and integral to shown that in a forest in New ment can help the insects. We all our ecosystem. Insects are at Hampshire, beetles have de- need to do what we can, before BUSINESS PAGE 20 Shevat 5781~ February 2021 Business Wall Street vs. The Internet By Jake Sheckter financial information, to a certain extent. It is extremely apparent that a large portion Over the last couple of weeks, of the group that makes up too many of us have been r/WallStreetBets has had yelled at by friends, family, and enough with the growing absolute strangers to invest inequality, and is tired of our life savings into GameStop seeing massive Wall Street stock, to “hold the line,” or that corporations continue to their methods will surely take step all over “the little guy” to them “to the moon.” If you have make a quick buck. no idea what this all means but have been caught in the For decades, the mid- crossfire of day-traders and dle-class people of America memes, you should know that have followed a narrative you are not alone. GameStop, stating that the large banks a company that sells physical cleans out the pockets of hedge with a low price to cover their and towering hedge funds copies of video games, used to fund managers along the way. positions (which never came). should be the entities to control be a bustling hub for gamers It is significant to note that this the economy and get wealthy of all shapes, ages, and sizes. What is “shorting”? Shorting is a scenario is very rare due to the throughout. Meanwhile, the However, due to recent years of bet that a company’s stock will fact that short-sellers would average working citizen is stuck online video game download- decrease in value. An investor need to short more shares of a with stagnant wages, record ing and disc-less gaming con- (borrows and) sells shares at company than actually exist (in consumer debt, and financial soles, GameStop has become a specific (high) price, betting our case, over 140% of existing advice telling them to wait until the obsolete dinosaur we find that in the near future the price shares were shorted). the end of their lives to retire. in the shadowy corners of dying of that stock will drop. The WallStreetBets claims that this shopping centers. This steady investor will then later be able This means that even if every major, societal swing will trans- decline was apparent in the to buy the stock at the predict- short seller wanted to close fer power to the masses and company’s stock price as it fluc- ed lower price to “cover” their their positions, they wouldn’t away from the hedge funds, tuated (roughly) between $20 shorts, therefore “closing” the be able to because the shares giving middle-class America and $50 for almost a decade deal and profiting the differ- technically don’t exist. What hope for a change in their story between 2007 and 2017, before ence between the price they makes this case different is that to come. falling to less than $15 in 2018 sold at (originally) and their re- Redditors caught on early and and 2019, and finally hitting cent low buying point. By short- decided to take Wall Street on close to a $3-$5 rock bottom ing a company (which huge a run for its money. Redditors *** *** over the last two years. hedge funds do all the time), bought and refused to sell Sources: downward pressure is forced on their GameStop stock while https://finance.yahoo.com/ So, what is going on? Essential- the stock price. This means that short-sellers couldn’t cover their quote/GME?p=GME&.tsrc=- ly, millions of average people an already struggling company shorts without forcing them- fin-srch made a huge bet against some can get knocked down even selves into billions of dollars in https://www.wsj.com/articles/ enormous financial institutions, further, solely because some gi- losses because the stock was melvin-capital-lost-53-in-jan- and won, even if only tempo- ant hedge fund invests millions excessively over shorted, practi- uary-hurt-by-gamestop-and- rarily. Practically speaking, this of dollars shorting it to make a cally backing themselves into a other-bets-11612103117#:~:- means we are witnessing one quick buck. So what happens corner from which they couldn’t text=GameStop%20 of the largest wealth transfers when a shorted stock soars sky- escape unharmed. Mania&text=Maplel- from the financial ruling class to ward instead of decreases? This ane%20Capital%2C%20 the middle and middle-upper is called a “short squeeze” and This resulted in an internet and another%20hedge%20 classes in recent history, so it is, to sum it up, the short seller can even America-wide “us-versus- fund,GameStop%2C%20 understandably, the only thing lose a whole lot of money. them” mentality. If you bought AMC%20Entertainment%20 on everyone’s minds. GameStop and refused to sell to Holdings%20Inc. A company named Melvin anyone, consequently “holding https://www.nbcnews.com/ How did this come to be? A Capital Management very the line,” you became part of a business/business-news/ large subgroup on the dis- quickly became this short-sell- much larger, internet-frenzied, gamestop-reddit-explainer- cussion board website “Red- er loser after shorting millions whole. If you caved in and sold what-s-happening-stock-mar- dit” named “r/WallStreetBets” of dollars in GameStop stock. your shares before the collec- ket-n1255922 came to the conclusion that Melvin Capital Management, tive took GameStop “to the GameStop’s stock was under- along with Citron Research and moon,” you were deemed a trai- valued. Spanning the next a few others, made an unfortu- tor who helped out the hedge few months, r/WallStreetBets nate bet that GameStop would funds. Over the last weeks, singled out a major fault in continue to decline (to around Melvin Capital has lost close to the strategies of a few massive $2 or $3 dollars) and therefore a reported $3 billion dollars to hedge funds which had bet allow them to take out a huge this short squeeze. many millions of dollars that profit, as they normally would. GameStop’s final days were But this was not like any oth- What does this all mean? With approaching. These ‘Redditors’ er time. In a flexing match of tensions rising as trading plat- would then buy incredible the strongest wills, Redditors forms like Robinhood halted amounts of GameStop stock pumped up the stock price (to trading and later only allowed at their extremely low prices, over $443 dollars), according to GameStop stock to be sold, continue to purchase more as GameStop’s Stock Ticker (GME), not bought (taking the hedge the prices rose, which result- while the hedge funds kept funds’ side), the market insta- ed in quickly forcing what is doubling down and shorting bility of certain stocks has only known as a “short squeeze” that the stock even further, hoping been increasing. We are wit- not only drives the price up but they would come out on top nessing the democratization of Shevat 5781~ February 2021 BUSINESS PAGE 21 The Awakening of the Semiconductor Industry By Judah Esses

The semiconductor industry Integrated Products (MXIM) is dangerously dependent on chip production, semiconduc- powers much of the world’s in a deal worth $20.9 billion. Taiwan. According to Jan-Pe- tors can now shift their focus to technology, from making it pos- In September, Nvidia (NVDA) ter Kleinhans, director of the software, chip, and eventually sible for loved ones to talk face- agreed to buy the U.K.-based technology and geopolitics brand themselves as a systems to-face from across an ocean to Arm Holdings in a deal valued project at Berlin-based think company. A great example of executing millions of trades in at $40 billion. Although there tank Stiftung Neue Verant- this is Nvidia. Instead of merely the market every day. However, was a pause in the action as the wortung, “By dominating the focusing on building chips, they “over the last 15-20 years, the coronavirus lingered through U.S.-developed model of out- have become one of the world’s semiconductor industry has re- the streets, it didn’t take long sourcing chip manufacture, leading systems companies. If corded growth at an annualized for people to realize that there Taiwan ‘is potentially the most other large companies take ad- rate of less than 5%.” With this was a lot of debt available for critical single point of failure vantage of their market share in lack of growth and the increase companies to borrow, and the in the entire semiconductor the industry, they can be head- in chip production prices, the interest rates were low. This rec- value chain.’” The biggest semi- ing in Nvidia’s direction. industry has been quiet. But, ognition is what partly led to a conductor production compa- due to the coronavirus, which buzz in the industry despite the ny in the world is the Taiwan All in all, the industry has start- has brought a shift to the cloud pandemic’s negative effects on Semiconductor Manufacturing ed to pick up again, and there and increased the number of the economy. As these mergers Company (TSMC). With TSMC is a lot of room for growth people working from home, the and acquisitions occur, we see being a dominant manufacturer now that companies are tak- demand for chips has skyrock- consolidation. This helps the in terms of both market share ing advantage of the current eted. This sudden catalyst has smaller firms who are struggling and production capabilities, any situation. Nonetheless, it is led to sudden competition in with rising costs for designing. disruption would cause a ripple important to keep the situa- the industry, and in such an Also, packaging and testing in the industry. Thus, as the tion with China and Taiwan unstable economic environ- are becoming unaffordable for Biden Administration settles in, in mind because it can have a ment, these companies need most companies, especially for it is critical for the industry that major effect on the industry. to be competitive. This has led the smaller firms who have not they take a tough stance on After a record year of mergers to a huge influx of mergers and achieved economies of scale China’s agenda with Taiwan. and acquisitions, I think we can acquisitions over the past year, yet. Furthermore, the industry’s expect to see similar numbers which has helped companies consolidation is also benefiting Because of the demand for as the industry consolidates. As increase market share, reduce the larger firms by cutting costs chips due to the pandemic, a result, the more prominent costs, and boost productivity. and becoming more diverse in many are skeptical of what the names will branch out and offer their services. semiconductor industry will more diverse products. Overall, Over the last year, the industry look like as things go back to although it is an industry that has recorded more than thirty Although the forecast for the normal. Although the need for has been lacking growth, the mergers and acquisitions — the semiconductor industry seems chips may not be as high, the world is a very different place two largest deals combined bright, there is a red flag. China industry still has room to grow. than it was last year, and this for a value of more than $60 is pushing the world to avoid However, it will grow differ- has woken up the semiconduc- billion. In July, Analog Devices doing business with Taiwan, ently than it had in the past. tor industry once again. (ADI) agreed to acquire Maxim and semiconductor production Instead of solely focusing on PAGE 22 BUSINESS Shevat 5781~ February 2021 The “Benefits” of the Covid-19 Pandemic By Amalya Teitelbaum

that because the pandemic I am so happy for them. recession?” Amongst the horrors of the continued into the election pandemic, earnings have sky- season, Facebook’s role in provid- With Amazon leading the charge, The closing of small businesses rocketed for Facebook, Tesla, and ing accurate election information Facebook is racing behind in a greatly contributes to the grow- Amazon. While people have been and removing voter suppression close second place. Facebook ing wealth of these Tech Giants losing their jobs, struggling to on the app is more important sales, which comprise nearly all during the pandemic. If you walk make ends meet, and desperately than ever. Due to the pandemic, of Facebook’s revenue, rose 10%, down any street in Manhattan it applying to receive money from Facebook now unfortunately, or bringing their revenue to $18.3 would not be difficult to under- the government, on the other fortunately depending on your billion in the second quarter. As stand why. You can not take 3 side of the scale we have the tech opinion, boasts 2.7 billion month- a result, Facebook shares jumped steps without a bright yellow “Go- giants. These companies recently ly users on Facebook alone and 8% in extended trading. I do give ing out of Business” sign or a neon released results showing just how 3.14 billion monthly users across some credit to Mark Zuckerberg red “Closed” sign glaring down at much their sky-high share prices its family of acquisitions including though, who unlike Amazon, you. Without the ability to go to a have soared. In fact, Congress ac- Instagram and WhatsApp. continuously pushes for the store and back to their apartment cused tech companies of having support of small businesses and and back within the hour people “too much power.” Nevertheless, the United States stressed these businesses’ role are forced to turn to sites such as economy and the wealth of these in the expanding online market- Amazon for their shopping. be- Many companies have seen a companies during the pandemic place, which has increased tenfold cause many people are unable to major increase in sales through- have a strong negatively correlat- because of the pandemic. For leave their homes due to quaran- out the pandemic as people race ed relationship. On the day that example, he has publicly criticized tine, prevailing health issues, and to find efficient ways to go virtual; the U.S. announced the overall calls for company regulations in common sense which tells them such as school, work, and enter- economic growth had collapsed targeted internet advertising. This to restrict going to stores during tainment. This increase in sales by a record-setting 32.9%, Ama- “would reduce opportunities for a pandemic they are forced to an doesn’t show a sign of stopping zon casually reported a profit of small businesses so much that online shop. Ultimately, whether anytime soon. For instance, the 5.2 billion dollars for that same would probably be felt at a mac- we like it or not, we find our fin- past elections had Americans rac- quarter and sales of 88.9 billion roeconomic level,” he said. “Is that gers typing in A-M-A-Z-O-N. ing to Facebook for information. dollars, 40% higher than last year. really what policymakers want in Mark Zuckerberg himself stated the middle of [a] pandemic and Is Bitcoin the Newest Favored Investment?

By Shaina Levin, Business Manager being longstanding, there are a “wallet,” which allows them to before it became popular. He still many problems with a keep track of their money and can has now accumulated over $220 centralized system. For ex- be purchased from the Coinbase million worth of Bitcoins, but In 2008, the idea of cryptocur- ample, there can be corruption website or app. Once a user trans- since 2012 he has not been able rency was created by a man who of authority, as the banks have fers Bitcoins to their coinbase to gain access to their account. uses the pseudonym Satoshi control over your money and can wallet, they will have complete He has two more attempts to get Nakamoto with the goal to de- withhold or freeze your accounts control over their bitcoins. into his account before losing all centralize the money system. In at any time. The people have trust his Bitcoins forever. While he has 2009, Nakamoto formed Bitcoin, in a bank, who essentially has Bitcoins have become the lead- reportedly “made peace” with which quickly became the most complete control of their money. ing form of cryptocurrency used, the situation, this is a major risk a popular and widely used crypto- but is it worth investing in? While person is taking when investing currency. In recent weeks, there Bitcoin is a form of cryptocurren- this form of currency is becoming in Bitcoins. has been much buzz surrounding cy, in which the currency is digital more popular and widely ac- cryptocurrency — and Coinbase’s by nature. Bitcoin creates a de- cepted by the likes of companies Additionally, Bitcoin is extremely impending IPO (Initial Public centralized system which solves such as by Microsoft and Expedia, volatile and the return on invest- Offering) has only added to the the “double spending problem” there are still potential risks in ment is not the classic dividends, excitement. Taking a step back, through the use of complex algo- investing in this form of curren- earnings, or investments. It’s earn- one must ask: what is Bitcoin, and rithms to prevent the duplication cy. While Bitcoin is impossible to ings are dependent on how much is it worth investing in? of currency. Bitcoin includes a duplicate, eliminating the “double someone will pay for that Bitcoin transparent and pseudo-anon- spending problem,” it still has risk investment in the future. The current money system in the ymous ledger. This means the of theft and fraud. U.S. relies on the U.S. dollar (USD) owner of the Bitcoins has access *** *** which has been given a legal to seeing all transactions taking It is also important to point out Sources: status by the government. This place with Bitcoins, but hides the that their password protection https://www.moneycrashers.com/ system is considered a centralized identity of the individuals behind can cause one to get locked out bitcoin-history-how-it-works- system, in which people trust the the transactions. By using Bitcoin, of their account, losing their pros-cons/ banks which keep a ledger of who users have complete control over Bitcoins. According to Nakamo- https://www.cnbc. owns what amount of money their money. The exchanges elim- to, Bitcoins were created to be com/2020/12/16/bitcoin-hit- on their systems, and this record inate the need for a middleman, accessible to all without being 20000-for-the-first-time-ever- helps prevent people from copy- as banks are not required. controlled by a central authority. should-you-invest.html ing their money. In other words, This is done through the complex https://abc7chicago.com/ this centralized system helps A common and secure website algorithms that allow a user to stefan-thomas-bitcoin-pass- avoid what they call the “double to buy Bitcoins is Coinbase.com. create his or her own save key word-san-francisco/9652903/#:~:- spending problem.” The Federal This platform comes as an app as only known to them. If someone text=Stefan%20Thomas%20 Reserve, the United States’ cen- well as the website, and it allows forgets their password, they have went%20viral%20this,10%20at- tral bank, is the center of where you to exchange either money only ten attempts before their tempts%20before%20wiping%20 money is printed and recorded to or another form of cryptocurren- Bitcoins are gone forever. clean. effectively run the economy. cy for Bitcoins, think similar to https://www.federalreserve.gov/ Robinhood but for cryptocurren- For example, Stefan Thomas is aboutthefed.htm Despite the currency system cy. Users are required to create a man who invested in Bitcoins Shevat 5781~ February 2021 BUSINESS PAGE 23 Are Marketers Telling Lies or Telling Stories? By Beatrice O’Campo

That’s the question Seth Godin have a smell, and I know this from Godin notes that as much as the marketer and you want to be asks in his book “All Marketers are firsthand experience.) But slap a consumer likes to think she is great, you need to learn to tell Liars”. (All marketing and advertis- picture of Alaska on the front of making purchases based on facts, stories. Don’t just give people the ing majors, keep calm: We’re sto- the candle and give me the expe- the opposite is actually true. The data and facts about what your rytellers). Is there a lie within that rience of unwrapping the custom consumer makes decisions based product does. That isn’t enough. story that both us and the cus- packaging, and I’m sold. on knee jerk reactions to how a You need to tell them a story tomers believe? Yes. Is that story So sold, in fact, that I now have product makes her feel. Homesick that will make them associate a absolutely essential to successful seven Homesick candles in differ- candles make me feel fancy, safe, good feeling with your product. marketing? Also yes. ent scents. My boyfriend thinks I and excited. Glade candles make Ben Shapiro famously said, “facts Let me explain. have a problem. In reality, Home- me feel cheap and bored. To heck don’t care about your feelings.” In Recently, I discovered a brand of sick tells a good story, and I, the with the data: I’m shelling out an marketing, the opposite is true. candles called Homesick. An ad consumer, tell myself the lie: That extra thirty bucks. The feeling is the main thing that showed up on my Instagram feed these candles really do smell like We can see the same thing taking matters. declaring that Homesick made a places and times I miss, and there- place everywhere. Data shows This does not mean that we candle for every state in America. fore I should pay triple for them that recycling is actually more can make up stories to trick the There I was, sitting in my New what I would pay for a similarly expensive and uses more green- consumer into buying our prod- York apartment and missing my scented Glade candle. house gases than just throwing ucts. We need to remain ethical home state of Alaska. I clicked on Not only does Homesick tell a sto- all our trash away. But we fight and authentic. Our stories should the ad and bought a $35 Alaska ry, it lives and breathes that story. tooth and nail to keep recycling in merely be a frame that the con- scented candle. The packaging is luxe, unique our cities because it makes us feel sumer views our product through. Homesick says they make candles and high quality. The website is good and clean and assuages our Back to the Homesick example: By to remind you of the memories full of soothing, nostalgic words guilt. Data shows that granola is itself, the Alaska candle just smells and places you love and miss. like “love,” “family,” “childhood,” actually full of sugar and fat, but like pine. But then Homesick There’s a USA candle that smells “home” and “happiness.” The fancy juice bars in LA sell pounds tells me it smells like my home. like apple pie and a New York City candles themselves come in sleek of the stuff because it’s associated Suddenly, I smell Alaska in that candle that smells like “spring glass containers with minimalistic with hiking, health, and a down- candle. days in Central Park, cement and labels. to-earth lifestyle. Data shows that The story makes the product. expensive department stores.” Compare this to Glade candles. minivans are safer and get better More than that, it makes the prod- There are scents like “Grandma’s You can find them in any Duane gas mileage than Mercedes G uct desirable. If you can figure Kitchen,” “American Summer,” Reade. The packaging is flimsy. Wagons, but minivans have been out how to tell an authentic story “Book Club,” “Love Letters” and The labels on the front look cheap labeled as the official car of soccer about what you’re selling, you’ll “Holiday Stroll.” and gaudy. The scents, when you moms and the G Wagon is the do well. Does my Alaska candle smell like get right down to it, are probably car of the Kardashians. So, you (And you’ll probably get me to “glacial water and spruce”? If you close to identical. Does it matter guessed it: We scoff at minivans spend a ton of money on it.) made me smell it blind, I’d say to me, the erstwhile consumer? and covet G Wagons. no. (Glacial water doesn’t even Nope. All this is to say that, if you’re a

SSSB Club Profile: TAMID

By Nathan Hakakian on behalf of the YU Observer

Each month, the YU Observer ant?: the COO of Morning Brew. all majors and backgrounds aims to highlight one SSSB club TAMID is a highly competitive TAMIDxYU also has consecutively which forms one tight-knit group available to the YU undergradu- program offering a unique op- sent 5-10 students to partake in of passionate, dynamic and dedi- ate community. For the February portunity to expand your net- the TAMID Fellowship in Israel cated students, if this sounds like issue, the YU Observer is high- work, receive hands-on business each summer. something you’d be interested in, lighting “TAMID.” experience, gain exposure to the Hold weekly meetings for the you should definitely apply! Israeli economic landscape, and Education, Consulting and Fund Club Name: TAMID possibly partake in a once in a tracks. Anything else to say about your lifetime summer experience in club: Heads: Israel. Beginning with an inter- What are some plans you have for Applications are out now and are Presidents- Jon Leff & Alex Vol- active classroom curriculum, the this semester/future semesters? due Jan 31st @11:59pm: chek program soon progresses into We are excited to announce a To Apply Director of Recruitment- Alex three different tracks- Consulting, new tech track. Brody Fund and Tech- this gives mem- Strengthen our curriculum. We are also holding an info Director of Education- Meir Tol- bers hands-on experience with Create more networking events session on Thursday, Jan 28, at chin companies in the heart of the with other TAMID chapters. 8:15pm! Director of consulting- Rachel start up nation. Membership to Continue to bring in top speak- Link to join Doretsky the TAMID Group is also a chance ers. Director of Fund- Liz Pavel & Ken- to build your capacity as a leader ny Book by learning from TAMID students With COVID, how is your club Are you a YU undergraduate club Director of Operations- Jessie both at YU and across our nation- adjusting? head interested in seeing your Weinberg al collegiate network (60 campus- Our weekly meetings have been club featured in a future edition? es strong). moved online. Email us at theyuobserver@gmail. Relevant Campus(es): Syms Ber- com with your club name and the en, Syms Wilf What are some things your club What is your advice to someone names of the club heads! has done in the past? looking to get involved on cam- What is your club’s mission state- TAMID has brought in top busi- pus? ment/ why is this club import- ness speakers such as Austin Rief TAMID consists of students from PAGE 24 ARTS AND CULTURE Shevat 5781~ February 2021 Bridgerton: A Modern Take On England’s Regency Era

By Batia Segal

What is Bridgerton? adds a modern flavor to the honesty and communication look for clues and tries to trick Bridgerton is a drama series set Regency era of England. It in a relationship. For example, her into revealing herself, but to in the Regency era of England achieves this mainly by incor- when Daphne marries Simon, no avail. and follows the lives of the high porating the common cliche she is under the impression that status Bridgerton family. There’s of “love trumps all” and twenty he cannot have children which Another thing I think is worth a special focus on the fami- first century ideas of feminism is false. Simon tells her this in mentioning is the fact that both ly’s oldest daughter, Daphne. into early nineteenth century order to not reveal the true rea- Daphne and Eloise both actively The series opens with Daphne England. son for him not wanting to have “choose” the way they want to getting ready for the new social kids. Because he keeps this se- live their life. This trait is more season of arranging matches One thing that I really loved cret, they run into many issues, obvious of Eloise because she for marriage while the town about Bridgerton is the theme but if they had open communi- is overtly contrasting societal is buzzing about the show’s of love trumps all. Although cation they would have had the expectations, but it is important narrator and town gossip, Lady a common trope, Bridgerton opportunity to work through to note that Daphne does not Whistledown. Lady Whistle- brings this idea to an era when the problem together. simply conform either. Daphne down sells gossip papers about love is undervalued as an inte- chooses who she wants to mar- London’s high society and her gral aspect of a marriage. In the A notable character in the series ry, despite her brother wanting identity remains a mystery Regency era, marriage is simply is Eloise, Daphne’s younger sis- to choose for her. Some may throughout the series. seen as a business arrangement ter with the ambition of becom- argue that she is not really to either maintain a family’s ing a writer. While Daphne is choosing, rather she is a prod- After getting ready for her social status or climb higher on symbolic of the girl who wants uct of the constricting society debut, Daphne enters the ball the social ladder. For instance, what the Regency society ex- and is simply blending in. This is of awaiting potential suitors. Simon does not want children pects of women, Eloise is sym- not the case. It is clear from the The night begins decently, but for the most of the series. We bolic of the girl who wants the way that she rejects Anthony’s Daphne’s older brother, Antho- later learn that the reason is exact opposite. She wants to go suggestion and chooses to stay ny, pushes away every man that because his father treated him to University, become educat- with Simon. From this example approaches Daphne because he so badly that he refused to ed about the world and be self alone we learn that Daphne is does not see them as fit for his produce an heir for his father sufficient without the need for a as much a “feminist” character sister. Because of this, Daphne is as a way to get revenge against man. Unlike today where many as Eloise. no longer viewed as desirable. him. Now, he meets Daphne women can choose to do as Later on, we are introduced to and eventually falls in love with they please, Eloise lives in an era Conclusion the Duke of Hastings, Simon. her. Him falling in love with where she is not allowed to go All in all, Bridgerton is a won- Unwilling to get married, he has her gave him the outlet to be to University or has barely any derful series full of amazing the opposite issue as Daphne able to overcome his childhood say in how she wants to lead actors and interesting char- since people keep pestering trauma and break away from her life. In other words, Eloise acters. The production value him to settle down. After a his father’s hold. On the other is the twenty-first century girl is phenomenal from the sets couple of clumsy encounters, hand, Daphne’s main concern who is forced into nineteenth to the costume designs to the Daphne and Simon decide it is is to marry someone she loves, century norms. I particularly orchestral versions of modern a good idea to pretend to date even if that person cannot give liked this character because music. I highly recommend it. to make Daphne seem more her children. For instance, she despite not having the resourc- desirable and Simon seem marries Simon knowing that he es at her disposal she always unavailable, giving them both “cannot” have children. In this maintains a certain curiosity what they want. As the cliche case, her love for Simon trumps about the world around her of romantic dramas tend to her other personal desires. and is ambitious about finding play out, from here on out, their answers to her questions. For tumultuous romance begins. Another thing I appreciate example, her search to find the What makes the series different about the series is their em- true identity of Lady Whistle- from others is that Bridgerton phasis on the importance of down, she takes her time to Shevat 5781~ February 2021 ARTS AND CULTURE PAGE 25 YU Observer January Poetry Submissions: Clarity

What Did Simon Really Say?

By P.D.

YU Observer January Poetry Sub- Simon says don’t eat milk and March’s poetry submissions is missions: Clarity Simon says don’t stray after your meat. “Chaos”. Send all submissions to Each month, the YU Observer heart. Simon says don’t eat chadash. [email protected] by sends a call to YU students for Don’t watch movies. Who’s out? March 15 . poetry submissions following Don’t listen to music during Sefi- a specific theme. This month, ra. You’re out. Judge people favorably. We’re the theme was “Clarity”, and our out. honorable mentions include P.D.’s Get married. Don’t be gay. I’m out. piece, “What Did Simon Really Don’t have premarital sex. Simon says love your fellow as Say?”. Simon says perform yibbum. yourself. Who’s out? We’re out. What Did Simon Really Say? Do you want to see your writ- By P.D. Simon says don’t eat pork. ing published? The theme for

Wanderer Above the Sea of Fog by Casper David Friedrich

By HaKohein

YU Observer January Poetry rage, he’s stood still. Feature: Clarity the wanderer’s content to be Do you want to see your writ- Each month, the YU Observer alone. While Friedrich thought he saw ing published? The theme for sends a call to YU students for To his numb nerves, the frost is a the hand of God, March’s poetry submissions is poetry submissions following mirage. the wanderer sees only due “Chaos”. Send all submissions to a specific theme. This month, Atop the sea churn Daedalus’s relief. [email protected] by the theme was “Clarity”, and we bones. The great, gray sea which once March 15 . are featuring HaKohen’s piece, did leave him awed, “Wanderer Above the Sea of Fog The waves spray up and douse will be the resting place of his by Casper David Friedrich”. his tired soles, belief. Wanderer Above the Sea of Fog his tired soul doth hardly feel by Casper David Friedrich the chill. Behind him lies a dream, By HaKohein His vacant eyes reflect, then find, before him- sleep. Sheol; The once-a-wanderer falls Impervious to Khione’s last bar- the first time since he’s set off to the deep. PAGE 26 ARTS AND CULTURE Shevat 5781~ February 2021 Disney’s “Soul” Really Touched My Soul

By Sarah Brill, Science & Technol- ogy Editor

jazz musician Joe (Jamie the physical world by another gift and share it with the world. Disney-Pixar’s latest animated Foxx) who receives his first soul called 22 (Tina Fey). 22 The movie also teaches us that film, “Soul”, debuted on Disney+ real professional gig after must find her spark while Joe even if that given spark is never on December 25 and became months working as a part-time must find his way back to his expressed, one can find their an instant phenomenon. Dis- band teacher. That dream is body. This movie shows the own spark through truly living ney is no stranger to tackling suddenly crushed when he falls audience that everyone is born life. The world will constantly difficult subject matters, from into a pot-hole and his soul is with an innate gift and it is up throw obstacles at us, and if we racism in Zootopia to single par- sent on a conveyor belt to the don’t learn to adapt we will enthood in Nemo. That being never truly live. These themes said, this was not the typical are difficult to conquer and Pixar movie with hints of sar- Disney does that by means of casm and comedy thrust at the animated and abstract charac- audience. This time, Pixar tack- ters; as is Disney’s modus led a subject matter that many operandi. mainstream television compa- nies and movie companies can There has been some backlash barely hold a candle too, and surrounding this film from they did it, in my opinion with people who state that it doesn’t elegance and classic Disney hold the essence of Disney or magic. that it is too mature for a Disney film. Movies are changing, but This movie follows the life of beyond. He is helped in his to him or her to discover that the world around us is changing journey of trying to get back to

“The Prom” Review

By Sarah Brill Science and Tech- nology Editor

This review contains spoilers. own spotlight. With quite a few ton town in the middle of the show their identity on a day-to- hiccups along the way, these country who are hiding in their day basis. “The Prom”, a Broadway musical down-on-their-luck Broadway closet afraid to show their true made movie in 2020, emulates stars help Emma get the prom selves to the world. “The Prom” the epitome of a homophobic she deserves. shows that anything is possible. small town in the middle of no- Turning an entire town on your where, Indiana. Full of musical The downfall in this truly bril- side is slightly unrealistic but numbers, motivating speeches, liant film production was Barry nonetheless, it gives voice to and references only your grand- Glickman, played by late night those who struggle and fight to mother will get. This movie talk-show host James Cordon. combines cringy teenager Barry is a gay man attempting drama with topical issues such to not only help Emma through as acceptance and love. her downfalls and setbacks, but to also reestblish and enhance The movie-musical starts off his relationship with his mother showcasing the problem at after hearing that Emma has no hand: Emma Nolan (Jo Ellen relationship with hers because Pellman), a gay teenager living she is gay. The character Barry in rural Indiana, is prevented is unproblematic, however, the from attending prom with her actor James Cordon who is a girlfriend. Emma and Principle straight man is. The movie is try- Tom Hawkins (Keegan Mi- ing to establish the fact that the chael-Key) are stuck fighting LGBTQ+ community is contin- Mrs. Greene (Kerry Washington) ually oppressed, but then they who heads the PTA and is mom juxtaposed this oppression and of Alyssa Greene (Ariana De- struggle with a straight male Bose), who we soon find out is character portraying something Emma’s girlfriend. he himself has never gone through. There are many gay Meanwhile, in New York City, singers who have been on an egotistical broadway actors off Broadway who could have and actresses are looking for a casted, making the fact that the lost cause to boost their mo- organization chose a straight rale and popularity. These four male problematic. self-centered starstruck celeb- rities head down to Indiana, Regardless of this setback, “The and, through a series of musical Prom” shines a light on those numbers, props, and lights, end teenage boys or girls or gender up helping Emma step into her non-binary people in a forgot- Shevat 5781~ February 2021 ARTS AND CULTURE PAGE 27 “Wonder Woman 1984” — Review

By Efrat Malachi

“Greatness is not what you think. thematic connections on their likely and unconvincing adver- the superpowers she gains, Pace yourself and watch.” A pep own. Watching a movie should sary. The character just seemed like flying, is a nice touch at the talk young Diana receives from be an enjoyable and effortless rushed and needed more time to end. All the little screws out- her mentor and aunt, Antiope, escape, not another homework grow, as well as the relationships performed themselves but the before stepping off into a com- assignment. The third: problem, introduced along the way. The bigger bolts were placed crook- petition. The paradox here is its way too many plot holes. I don’t foreground was wealthy while ed, therefore the machine did lack of practice by the film’s mak- think the ambiguity was inten- the background stood vacant. not perform optimally. Overall, ers. “Wonder Woman 1984” was tional but if it was, there was no The film had incredible poten- I would give this film a 6/10 but supposed to be a blockbuster, purpose for it. While villainous tial but was overshadowed by I’m hoping the third installment instead, we got a lackluster mov- Maxwell Lord can only grant cliches and grandiosity when it for the “Wonder Woman” tril- ie. It officially premiered on HBO people one wish, some are given should have been overpowered ogy (underway) will have her Max, a streaming service, on De- two? There’s no answer as to by Wonder Woman’s journey. mother, Queen of the Amazons, cember 25 after being delayed why. The movie lost the superhero’s Hippolyta’s blessing, “one day several times due to COVID-19. Another questionable decision meaning, especially with the you will be all that you dream of Anticipation was overdue and is having Steve Trevor return in sad ratio of action to non-action and more.” the hype was unparalleled someone else’s body. A magical sequences. It almost felt like a across social media platforms. wishing stone is not limited to new genre was made if you mar- Unfortunately, you don’t need to logic, so when Diana wishes her ried romcom and action; neither be a film critic to catch the plot lover back there’s no reason to would approve of this union. holes and worn-out rhetoric. jump through hoops. We see Putting critiques to rest, there Let’s be clear, standing inde- Chris Pine’s face on the screen still are delightful parts we can pendently it was a good movie, but in the mirror he’s a man left praise. One, the light humor though coming off the heels unnamed. It unnecessarily over- and political jokes relieve the of the 2017 film, also directed complicates, subtracting from imbalanced intensity of the film. by Patty Jenkins, it wasn’t what the story. Largely, the movie Two, Gadot and Pine again bring it should have been. “Wonder focuses heavily on the grand such elegance and presence to Woman” was excellent, soaring scheme that it neglects to pri- the screen. Three, the costumes beyond everyone’s imagination. oritize the small yet significant were brilliant and Gadot’s make- The bar was now raised to a details that fans haven’t for- up and wardrobe for the final height that even the superhero gotten about. It’s been 3 years showdown were superb. Four, had trouble reaching. since the first The first scene opens with a movie but spunky, youthful Diana Prince 60 + years running through the woods, for Wonder accompanied by a voiceover of Woman her- her present self (Gal Gadot) as self. Where she reminisces on “the magical has she been land of my youth” (Themyscira). all this time We trail behind as she gets ready and what has to compete in an Amazonian she been up Olympic of sorts. Spoiler, she to? was in the lead going against We jolt into warriors twice her age and size 1984 with a but met defeat. On the verge of melancholy victory, she was pulled back be- Diana work- cause of haste and ego. Antiope ing as a sci- needed to teach her a lesson she entist at the would never forget — “you took Smithsonian the short path…no true hero Museum with is born from lies.” The motifs, no insight as truth versus lies and personal to how and versus universal interests, gather why; a simple momentum as things unravel timeline or toward the climax. Though, they a few brief were the only elements clev- flashbacks erly and consistently echoed would have throughout. been enough Bringing attention to the first of to catch us many issues, the Amazonians up. We meet failed at imitating Gadot’s Israeli her co-work- accent. The characters prove er, Barbara they can speak with a foreign Minerva, tongue but it was not authen- who initiates tic to the actress’ and difficult a genuine to understand. The second friendship issue: some underdeveloped with Diana ideas were scattered and paced but later improperly, as if the directors transforms expected audiences to make the into an un- PAGE 28 ARTS AND CULTURE Shevat 5781~ February 2021 The Mandalorian Season Two Review: Reimagining Mandalorians By Sarah Brill, Science & Technology Editor

taught that the “Clone Wars” series originally, opment in “The Mandalorian,” to Spoilers for Season Two of “Man- only people to wear the armor Mando is hesitant and untrust- the themes of loyalty and trust, dalorian” below. are those who have earned it. ing of this new character. Ulti- this is a stellar follow-up to the Mando’s loyalty is tested again mately, Mando leaves with “the first season. Season one of “The Mandalorian” in the following episode where child,” now introduced as Grogu, left off with Mandalorian, also he finds the so-called Mandalo- as the Jedi Ahsoka stated Grogu known as Mando (Pedro Pascal), rians to help him transport “the was not ready. Unfortunately, tasked with delivering the “child,” child” to the Jedi order only to the task to return Grogu to the termed by the fandom as Baby find out that these Mandalorians Jedi was not an easy one, as Yoda, to the Jedi order. A hold- disrespect “the way” in which Mando once again confronts ing theme throughout the two he was brought up. Through- Moff Gideon (Gi- seasons is the concept of loyalty out the season, we see Mando ancarlo Esposi- to an organization or a being. discover other Mandalorians, to) who has his For the Mandalorian, that loyalty including Boba Fett (Temuera own plans for lies with living the way of the Morrison), who have more Grogu. Mandalorian and returning “the experience or who are from the child” to the Jedi. Both loyalties plant of Mandolor itself who do If “Mandalori- are challenged throughout the not follow the same “way” he is an” season two entirety of season two, as we see accustomed to. It changes the is not on your Mandalorian grapple with “the way the audience views the way Disney+ watch- way” along with his own feelings the community of Mandalorian list, it should be. towards the “child” who we soon are portrayed in the first season This “Star Wars” find out is named Grogu. while also allowing Mando to spinoff is noth- grow as a character. ing less than The second season starts off extraordinary with a parallel to the original Throughout season two, we also as the writers, Star Wars trilogy (books 4-6) on notice Mando’s relationship with Jon Favreau and the planet of Tatooine where the “child” grow. When confront- George Lucas, the Mandalorian confronts a ed with the prospect of giving have both marshall wearing Mandalorian him up to the Jedi Ahsoka (Rosa- outdone them- armor. This is Mando’s first real rio Dawson) selves. From the test of loyalty, as he has been presented originally in the character devel-

As a Written Leaf: The Little Friend

By Elyanna Saperstein

“The Little Friend” buttressed by action-packed sub- sets up several major conflicts overall lack of character devel- By: Donna Tart plots that reveal the depths of a such as the murderer’s identity, opment in this novel. While we Genre: Historical Fiction youth’s inner life. In contrast, “The the character flaws of the adult usually expect characters to shift Total score: 7/10 Little Friend” feels distinctly more characters, and the protagonist’s and grow throughout a narrative, Book in five words: Sixties, small disjointed. The main plot of a girl journey, yet resolves none of the refusal of the characters of town, murder portrait seeking to avenge her younger them. “The Little Friend” to do so sends If you love: Any of Donna Tartt’s brother’s murder is intertwined a different message. previous work, long atmospheric with the subplot of her complete- I rated this book as highly as I did, novels, and the phrase “It is what ly female family (the male fig- not due to its plot, but for the Very often throughout our own it is” — this is the book for you. ures are all long gone) and their writing itself. Never one to lose lives, we expect others to change. If you hate: simplistic dynamics, foibles. Though the characters are herself to overflowing verbosi- Whether it’s a parent, sibling, or modern city drama, and short beautifully portrayed, there is lit- ty, Tartt manages to impart the friend, we assume that people’s books — this is the book for you. tle to no development among the intense spirit of both the time actions are symbols of growth adults. The protagonist’s mother and place she tries to capture. instead of manifestations of the Donna Tartt first appeared on is emotionally incapacitated after She does this without resorting person they already are. The the literary radar with the release her son’s death throughout the to either stream of consciousness characters in “The Little Friend” of her debut novel “The Secret entirety of the novel. This static- descriptions or lengthy passag- don’t change. Rather their char- History”. Recently, her novel “The ity is emblematic of all the adult es. If you are willing to enter the acters reflect differently under Goldfinch” has received attention characters. Furthermore, while book, the atmosphere will quickly different lights. They become from critics and fans alike. Today, the decadent descriptions that overshadow any of the critiques. neither better nor worse people. I will be reviewing her Pulitzer have made Donna Tartt iconic It allows you to forgive the expo- They do not end braver, stronger, prize-winning book “The Little are present, it is hard to say how sition on characters that never or weaker. They simply are put in Friend”. they concretely contribute to the really change — though they are different situations to which their story. continuously revealed through core selves react. There’s a certain Having read “The Goldfinch”, I the book. sense of realism that sets this went in with high hopes. “The The book, despite its length (over story apart from others. Goldfinch” stands out for its 500 pages), fails to find a satis- Despite the lackluster finish, beautiful portrait of adolescence, factory conclusion. The novel there is a silver lining to the Shevat 5781~ February 2021 ARTS AND CULTURE PAGE 29

Finding the Common Denominator in Art

BY Yosef Rosenfield

To procure a drawing from 1891; his drawing, rather, could the black community. As the marks and lines. At the same before 1950 and one from after have possibly represented a fear title suggests, the sketch is not time, however, each piece does 1950 — this was my task for my of female sexuality — with the meant to be a stand-alone piece, portray an individual person, Fall 2020 “Principles of Drawing” subject’s masked face symbol- but is a mere study for a more albeit from different angles — final with Professor Carla Au- izing a repression of women’s significant work of art. There are with “Armor” being a profile rich. First, I came across “Armor” sexual identity and desire. even multiple outlines for the and “Untitled Study for Untitled (1891) by Odilon Redon. Re- I also found a much more recent policeman’s cap that are visible (Policeman)” facing its subject don was a 19th century French piece, from around 2015, titled on the paper, and it was precise- head on. Both works use some symbolist painter whose later “Untitled Study for Untitled (Po- ly this “history of a drawing” that degree of value, and — techni- work anticipated Dadaism and liceman).” This work by American first caught my eye. cal characteristics aside — they Surrealism. “Armor” is a char- artist, Kerry James Marshall, Comparing and contrasting the strategically depict their respec- coal drawing of a woman in a who is known for his depictions two drawings, I noticed some tive subjects in a certain posi- spiked helmet that covers her of black figures, was a timely obvious differences between tion or state in order to convey mouth area. What struck me was selection. The rough pencil them. Redon’s “Armor”, for a sociopolitical message. This the timelessness of this image: sketch shows a man in a police example, is a charcoal drawing, shared quality fascinates me during the COVID-19 pandemic, uniform distinguishably sitting whereas “Untitled Study for and perhaps reveals a common leaving the house wearing a on the hood of what is presum- Untitled (Policeman)” is drawn denominator that connects even protective mask made everyday ably a police car. This drawing is in pencil. Furthermore, Redon the most disparate pieces of art. errands feel like I was going out no doubt a product of its time, takes a fairly detailed approach to battle. This, of course, was far a statement amidst the rising to his drawing, while Marshall’s from Redon’s mind in the year tensions between cops and sketch features many simple PAGE 30 Letters to the Editor Shevat 5781~ February 2021 Moral Clarity: It Depends Who’s Looking: An Open Letter By Herbert Burack to Rabbi Schwartz Dear Rabbi Schwartz: to be long-winded and just plain since they weren’t Jewish, and ported Bar-Chochva, with all I read your opinion piece in the long, you too, opine with just therefore not our problem, the of his flaws, in the wars against YU Observer. In the words of the another long-winded diatribe. world be damned! Rome after the destruction of great English detective, Sherlock You sit there on your mighty The truth be told, the Orthodox the second Temple) and the son Holmes, “Watson, you see but throne pointing fingers at the who went down to DC, went of a prostitute, Yiftach (who was you do not observe.” It seems that Orthodox, “who were not embar- there to peacefully protest the hounded out of Israel due to his you, as well as Rabbi Blau (see his rassed to align themselves with perversion of America’s greatest flaws and was called back due opinion piece in the Jewish Week the most vulgar parts of America.” invention: a free and untainted to his military prowess by the a few weeks ago), have emerged You accuse writers in Orthodox election, no matter who won. people, to fight against the na- from your spiritual bubble on periodicals who “refuse to issue The fact that low-life elements of tion Amon), would have done in Amsterdam Ave. and crept into a full-throated condemnation society, White Supremacists, and this situation. But then again, we the public political landscape. of violence and instead create a Nazi sympathizers were there already know the answer. From the outset, you state that false equivalency between the as well, had no bearing on the “there is no need for yet another ransacking of government with protest. The majority of people, Herbert Burack voice to come forward and talk localized political violence this from all walks of life, came there Teaneck, NJ about how despicable Wednes- past summer.” Where were you to protest something that was day’s attempted putsch was…” all summer long when Ameri- stolen from all of America. and yet like all rabbinic speakers can cities burned? Oh yeah. The If there was ever a call for mor- who begin their sermons with a violence came from rich, white al clarity as you state, I wonder “short d’var (words) torah”, tend ANTIFA and BLM radicals but what Rebbe Akiva (who sup- Re: A Call For Moral Clarity; Let’s Talk About Democratic By Yisroel Bass Values and Jewish Values.

Dear Rabbi Schwartz, communities and clergy is that not the issue here, but rather the themselves around the world. we, as observant Jews, are no less fact that the sort of speech that is Thank you for your observations susceptible to anti-democratic, inherently violent, when allowed That frum Jews should be func- and call for moral clarity following authoritarian, cult-of-personality, to fester and normalize for years, tioning on a higher moral plane last week’s events. and supremacist ideology than will lead to violence eventually, goes without saying, but your call any other ethnic or religious and this is no surprise. for moral clarity does not give us I feel however that your analysis group. a roadmap. How do we combat and message gives too much at- As Jews, we need to demand of these base desires that transform tention to countering a fantastical That Jews who were raised frum our clergy and institutions a rec- at best into non-participant sym- scenario that has no grounding (religious) or identify now as ob- ognition that we have a fascism pathizers or at worst, into insur- in reality (i.e. the election was servant were participating in the problem and that our history as rectionists locking arms with actu- stolen), rather than addressing insurrection is disgusting, but not victims of fascism does not nullify al Nazis? Musar (rebuke) is not the core of the issues at play. The surprising. For many years, espe- its power of attraction. Like Trump enough. Disgust is not enough. reasons that you felt it necessary cially preceding the current ad- himself, the ideologies manifested to rebuff this claim as if it were ministration, “safe space” has been in his supporters share a com- Yisroel Bass, true, while admitting that it is not, given at our shuls and institutions mon thread of appealing to our Director, Yiddish Farm Education is a testament to what has been for authoritarian, supremacist and basest desires and longings for Center called a “reality crisis”. even genocidal discourse, with no security, importance, power, pride Goshen, NY accountability nor censure. and leadership. Those desires cut The real issue that should be across class and religious lines addressed by our Orthodox Let me be clear that free speech is and can be found manifesting Reply to “A Call for Moral Clarity”, 1/8/21 By B. Rempell

I object to Rabbi Ezra Schwartz’s Army against the Nazis in WWII would enable a dangerous form of YU Observer. As a result of his stance in the strongest possible — while knowing full well of the of manipulation. shameful words, my family will be way. In fact, I am outraged by his Soviets’ dedication to snuffing out withdrawing its ardent support sharp moral critique of Orthodox Yiddishkeit (Judaism) and op- To be clear, I am not defending of Yeshiva University after many Jews for “aligning themselves pressing Jews in its territories. the violent assault on the Capitol, generations. We will not support with the most vulgar parts of which was unequivocally wrong. I an institution which has a senior America” (his words) during the As Jews, we must take our moral am, however, defending and sup- leader who lectures our commu- Capitol rally on January 6. Re- and ethical stances (including porting the Jews who attended nity with such a misguided and spectfully, does the rabbi not those which have a political ele- the peaceful portion of that rally nonsensical critique. know his history — both ancient ment) based on our own beliefs in support of election integrity — and modern? There are numerous ALONE — without wavering a cause which many Americans of -B. Rempell examples throughout our histo- depending upon who is standing diverse persuasions view as moral Brooklyn, NY ry of Jews aligning themselves with us. To illustrate an extreme and just. with unsavory or downright evil example, surely the rabbi would elements, either by intention or not be in favor of Jews constantly It is sad and extremely disturbing necessity. One clear example was changing their positions whenev- that the rabbi did not consid- Jewish partisans who fought in er neo-Nazis announce that they er the above before writing his coordination with the Soviet Red share the same views — doing so piece of drivel in the last issue Shevat 5781~ February 2021 Letters to the Editor PAGE 31 Reimagining the Derech for the Next Generation: In Re- sponse to Rabbi Noson Shmuel Leiter By Shifra Isaacs

The following is a response to a Bais Yaakov (religiously right-wing youth are not some ambiguous Jewish space. letter by Rabbi Noson Shmuel school for girls) or similar envi- other who exist outside Jewish Leiter warning against govern- ronment, we were constantly told circles. You probably know at More recently, on December 20, ment bills which encourage both explicitly and implicitly that least a few people who are les- YU hosted a Zoom panel called the acceptance and inclusion homosexuality and gay thoughts bian, gay, bisexual, transgender, “Being LGBTQ+ in an Orthodox of LGBTQ+ people in schools. A are abominable and pitiful. or otherwise queer. For many World.” Over 700 people partici- few days after this response was LGBTQ+ people in the Orthodox pated in the call, where current written, the Jewish Link removed The Yeshiva system believes that community, it is never safe to students and alumni told their Rabbi Leiter’s article from their single-gender schools solve the come out. They risk potentially stories of coming to terms with website. problem of premarital sexual con- going to hell, being disowned their LGBTQ+ identities and how tact. This perspective completely by their families, or worst of all, they navigate Jewish spaces. The gradual acceptance of ignores LGBTQ+ people, and it becoming the subject of gossip Some remained Orthodox while LGBTQ+ individuals in Western actually makes Jewish school at simchas (celebrations) for the some became non-observant. society has presented an unfore- even more difficult for closeted next decade or so. This call represented progress seen challenge to traditional Or- gay high school students. Expe- for me in the modern Orthodox thodox Judaism. In some Ortho- riencing attraction to the same All joking aside, the rejection world. Despite all the disasters of dox communities, young adults gender can feel oppressive in a of LGBTQ+ youth is correlated 2020, this moment was a beacon are taught to view homosexuality single-gender school. with higher suicide rates among of hope that showed me positive not as a sexual orientation, but in- other serious mental and physical steps are still possible. stead as a form of evil inclination My teachers constantly talked health issues. Studies show that that channels physicality toward about how “the gays” were inev- 68% of teens experience rejection My final question for Rabbi Leiter sin. In this view, homosexuality itably going to hell, or how sorry after coming out to their family. is this: Do you want the next gen- is simply a difficult test adminis- they felt for families whom God LGBTQ+ youth from highly re- eration of Jewish LGBTQ+ youth tered by God; Jews must either “tested” by giving them LGBTQ+ jecting families are over 8 times to stay in the community and pass by conquering their physi- children. These teachers never as likely to attempt suicide com- maintain Torah values? If the an- cal desires or fail and suffer the imagined that the very children pared with LGBTQ+ youth from swer is yes, please embrace them spiritual consequences. This view they pitied were sitting in the accepting families. Additionally, instead of pushing them away. of sins is common in the Jewish room holding back tears and LGBTQ+ youth from highly reject- Please stop telling them they are tradition; idolatry and heterosex- internalizing an insurmountable ing families were over three times irreparable problems and abomi- ual adultery are framed similarly. force of homophobia that would as likely to use illegal drugs, and nations. Please invoke “V’Ahaveta However, this perspective is toxic haunt them for years to come. over three times as likely to be at L’Reiecha K’mocha,” the value of for young adults growing up in high risk for HIV and other STDs treating a neighbor as kindly as the frum (religious Jewish) world My opening questions to Rabbi compared with LGBTQ+ youth you would like to be treated, and today. Leiter are the following: What is from accepting families show them the respect, compas- your goal when you push for the sion, and kindness you would Our culture is sexually repressive, exclusion of LGBTQ+ people in Rejection hurts, especially when give to anyone else without a which is understandable consid- yeshiva and other Jewish environ- it’s perpetuated by your own second thought. ering that Torah frames sexual ments? Why do you assume that community for reasons you contact as moral only within the LGBTQ+ people are not sitting cannot control. Rabbi Leiter may There are horrible people in this confines of an acceptable Jewish in your shiur (Torah lecture) as think he is fighting to uphold mo- world who steal, rape, and mur- marriage. However, this repres- you denigrate them? Do you rality and prevent Jewish children der, and yet the LGBTQ+ com- sion contributes to some un- think that these attitudes provide (who are all assumed to be het- munity are often considered the healthy outlets in our culture. The LGBTQ+ Jewish people any incen- erosexual) from being corrupted. worst kind of sinners. The only repression of LGBTQ+ identities tive to stay in such an oppressive This is a noble goal in theory, and crime these LGBTQ+ youth have can lead to depression, self-ha- culture? I do on some level appreciate his committed is love. If you want tred, and even self-harm and sincere attempt to protect me Mashiach (Messiah) to come suicide. This repression becomes Is it not clear that you are pushing because it shows that he cares sooner rather than later, stop apparent in our early teens. Ado- potential Torah-observant Jews about the spiritual well-being of combating love with hatred. lescence is the time when some far, far away to a point where they Jewish youth. However, what he people begin to question their cannot bring themselves to listen is actually doing is perpetuating sexuality. Although this process to a word you say? Do you under- the cycle of internalized ho- is always complex, the difficulty stand that, once they have been mophobia, increasing the prob- is exacerbated by the Jewish laws conditioned to bury their feelings ability of suicides in the LGBTQ+ of shomer negiah (refraining from and swallow their “abominable Jewish community, and failing to physical touch between people tendencies,” they will stiffen up acknowledge that he is fighting of different genders). Many high the moment you enter a room against his own people. school students who come from because they are so terrified of Orthodox homes sneak out to being seen? Do you not see that Despite the all-too-common ho- explore their sexuality with mem- we, your students, your sons, mophobic rhetoric in Orthodox bers of the opposite sex. your daughters, your fellow Jews, spaces, things are still improving your future, are the ones you are for Jewish LGBTQ+ youth. In the For adolescents in the LGBTQ+ terrified of? You fear your own summer of 2019, I marched with community, this process of children, even though we’ve been Jewish Queer Youth (JQY) and questioning sexuality becomes here all along. Congregation Beit Simchat Torah even more confusing. As a queer (CBST) at World Pride in New Jewish woman who attended a To spread Rabbi Leiter’s an- York City. It was one of the most right-leaning modern Orthodox ti-LGBTQ+ messages is to push empowering days of my life; I yeshiva high school, I can speak the Orthodox Jewish community saw Jews from all denominations to this point from personal expe- several steps backward. First, pro- accepting and supporting one rience. In my school, which was ponents of Rabbi Leiter’s message another. It was also one of the not as overtly homophobic as a must understand that LGBTQ+ few times I felt seen and safe in a