January 2018 Volume 20, Issue 3 The TheVOiCE Student-Run Newspaper of RKYHS The Dirty School Epidemic This problem must be fixed By Jared Carmeli Inside This Issue

Everyday, students at RKYHS are given 40 minutes to eat lunch in the Midterms dining hall, socialize with friends, or attend meetings for the various extra- curricular activities that are offered. However, there is an underlying issue that has managed to stay constant al- most every single day: the lack of stu- dents who clean up after themselves. Needless to say that anyone who walks page 2 down the main hallway, through the Multipurpose Room, or in the dining hall will surely find a countless num- ber of plates, utensils and even trays with full meals completely abandoned Month of the Arts and left for someone else to clean up. Moreover, this issue is certainly not ex- clusively limited only to food left from lunch. Students leave numerous papers lying around and garbage all over the floors in front of their lockers. school looks its best is tedious and, of not only have an impact on the job Although some students do not see this course, difficult. The very simple act of of the maintenance staff, but rather as a problem, if one were to look just page 3 not throwing out unwanted food or pa- the rest of the school community as a a little closer he/she would find that pers adds to their already laborious job. whole. Whether it is Lunch and Learn this lack of throwing away garbage This is not to say that students should or Mock Trial after school, there is al- affects many people. First and fore- be washing the floors or cleaning win- ways some kind of garbage leftover that Chromebooks most, this issue tremendously affects dows, rather to make sure we are not people need to clean up if they want to the job of our already hardworking adding to the workload of those people sit or work somewhere comfortably. maintenance staff. For those students that do wash the floors and clean the Given this is a rather straightforward that stay late for after-school activities, windows. problem, there are various different it is very obvious that the work these Furthermore, this issue does CONT. ON PAGE 6 men and women do to make sure our Hello From the Other Side pages 5 Left winged voices speak out By Hannah Kirsch vative, their influence is stronger than environment.” Luckily, at Kushner, we Play Review that of the more liberal Jews. have a wonderful administration which A student at a Modern Orthodox One student declared, “Our current is aware of this issue, and is willing Yeshiva may feel that finding your president is a big Israel supporter, and to assist in any possible way, to help own political voice can be extremely we have had a lot of discussions about educate students about the dangers of challenging. Students in this envi- that.” Could our school’s conservative- judging and alienating other students ronment often find themselves be- based, pro-Israel views impact students’ due to their political views. Many stu- ing influenced from both sides of choices about their political party iden- dents believe the administration should the fence. However, it has become tification? Moreover, it is often the ac- aid the students on their journey to find evident that in this contemporary so- tions and statements of their right-wing their political voice by stripping away page 6 ciety, many students feel pressured peers that make the liberal students feel biased conversations in the classroom into right-wing beliefs. During Ju- uncomfortable when discussing poli- and feeding the students straight facts. daic classes, or even just speaking tics in the classroom. I have personally High school is a journey to with peers, students who lean to the heard on several occasions the term(s), find yourself. Whatever that entails, HOK: Mr. Singman political left often feel they are the “he’s such a liberal.” In our school, politically or otherwise, society should obvious minority, and therefore, they this phrase has a negative connotation. want to assist in that journey. Sadly, choose not to speak during political Due to our very sheltered environment, many people are merely interested in discussions.I write this article not as many students often overlook the con- furthering their own agenda and will a left-wing student myself; I actu- cept of respecting an opinion that is not not hear or encourage views that do not ally lean more to the right. However, their own. The choice to not expose align with theirs. This is extremely un- I strongly believe in students’ rights oneself to other views is a large issue fortunate. As the next generation, we to freely speak their opinions and not and is often the cause of the intense should work hard to resolve this issue page 8 feel pressured by others’ biased views. judgement of certain students who may and eliminate these types of behaviors. This applies to right-wing students take a different approach when examin- I personally believe that in order to who attempt to express their views as ing societal issues. achieve any type of peace between the well. They, too, should be able to have Ultimately, an objective of ye- two sides, we need to start by agreeing a strong voice in our Kushner commu- shiva education should be to ensure to legitimize the other side’s opinions. Boston nity, without any influence from facul- that all students are comfortable in I hope to one day see this become a ty or other sources. However, I choose their opinions and are not judged for reality. For now, I will strongly advo- to focus on the liberal students; their them, and feel their opinion is respect- cate and work for this in an effort to suppressed voices are both saddening ed in the community. Unfortunately, transform our little piece of society, and problematic. we have not reached that goal, as one from two seperate sides into one co- What is the source of this right- student who leans more to the left said, hesive team. It is vital to our future wing atmosphere in our school? When “I have found myself in several differ- and future generations, that left- and page 9 surveyed, 33% of students said, it is ent classes, specifically Judaic studies right-wing leaning students should be because of our Modern Orthodox up- classes, where I felt ostracized from able to recognize and acknowledge bringing. They argue that because a the rest of the class. Teachers do not the other side, while having their own majority of Orthodox Jews are conser- always help in ensuring a comfortable voices be strongly heard. January 2018 2 News Volume 20, Issue 3 The Voice Staff Midterm Schedule Michal Shechter, Editor-in-Chief How do the students feel about it Becky Weisberg, Editor-in-Chief By Reva M. and Alexandra D. tics in the afternoon. On the second day, would be much more helpful if it was Zack Kaplan, Senior Editor in the morning there is Talmud, and in on the first day so that I would be able Zach Marcus, Senior Editor Before winter break, students the afternoon there is AP Government, to study more efficiently and get it out must take a midterm, which is a test in AP Biology, AP Physics C, and AP psy- of the way.” Leora Shua, Senior Editor a few of their classes on what they have chology. On the third and final day of One benefit of the schedule learned thus far in the year. Students be- midterms there is Math in the morning, is that students that do not take AP Editors lieve that their studying is more effec- and AP literature and language in the classes finish their midterm by eleven tive when certain subjects are earlier or afternoon. o’clock in the morning. This benefits Becca Cohn later in the midterm schedule first and The school puts the math mid- them because they can use the extra Aaron Dickstein vise versa. Students have been asked term last because it takes the fastest to time to study for their other midterms. Hila Gilmore about their opinions on the 2018 mid- grade, but some students believe that When asked about how they felt about term schedule. math should be first. The reason for this the midterm schedule, an anonymous Jon Kirsch In past years, students have felt is because it is one of the harder subjects ninth grader said, “Although I would Cynthia Lando that they receive better grades when cer- that students are tested on, and they want prefer history to be the last midterm, as Daniel Moradi tain subjects are first. This year’s sched- to get it out of way so that they can focus it is a tougher subject, math is also a ule is as follows. On the first day there is on other subjects without being worried tough subject, so I am happy that it is Alyssa Schnipper history, which is in the morning and AP about the math midterm. An anonymous last because then I have more time to computer science, AP physics, AP mac- tenth grader said, “Math is a harder and study and do well.” General Staff roeconomics, and Ap computer statis- is a more stressful subject for me and it Rachel Berk Eden Bendory Jared Carmeli Alex Degan Emily Gruber Emily Jurkevich Jamie Kaplan Chloe Katz Jakey Kluger Hannah Kirsch Josh Lando Hannah Mamet Shayna Mandelbaum Reva Matthew Liana Maza Maya Minsky Robotics in Action Noa Mobillio Celebrating Channukah one invention at a time Michael Pedoeem By Shayna Mandelbaum They were eventually Gideon Rubin able to figure out how Sophie Schanzer In honor of Chanukah, the stu- to increase the amount Danielle Shapiro dents in the Robotics class, along with of power but had an- assistance from Dr. Regev, decided to other issue: the CD Josh Shapiro build and code beautiful Chanukiahs. was spinning too fast Maya Stein The students had originally planned to and could easily hurt Benjy Stock build the Chanukiahs using the school’s someone. Dr Regev as- 3D printer but they decided to take a sisted them in finding a Dalya Stokar more creative approach by making them solution. They secured Jesse Tuchman out of common recyclable materials. the CD and replaced They used everything from CDs to pop- the Magen David im- sicle sticks and cardboard boxes in to age with keychain Mrs. Bohs, Advisor create the Chanukiahs. In order to code lights made to look and wire the Chanukiahs, they used the like a dreidel. Many electronic programing platform Ardu- of the students faced proach which enabled them to face their ino. Before wiring the Arduino boards, challenges but were challenges with minimal assistance, an the students learned how to design sche- able to easily overcome approach which made their success in matics of their electrical circuits to map them due to the wide the project even more worthwhile. In addition, the students be- out their Chanukiahs. the lights would turn on and off. variety of options they lieved it helped them boost their cre- Afterwards, the students were The students faced many chal- had in building and programming their ativity. As Sammy Indyk ‘19 explained, able to use small LEDs as their lights lenges along the way, most notably try- Chanukiahs. One student commented “the Chanukiah project inspired me to and customize everything from the ing to figure out how to build a Chanuki- on this, stating “my group had initially expand my horizons and become more blinking pattern to the colors (using spe- ah in which they could fit the circuits and wanted to use a light sensor but we were creative.” A number of other students cial RGB LEDs). They were also able wires through the materials. One group unable to due to technical difficulties, so mentioned how they have been encour- to program how it would be controlled. attempted to build a Chanukiah with a we were easily able to switch to using a aged to take the knowledge gained Some groups decided to use a remote Magen David drawn on a CD spinning motor because of all of the options Dr. from this project and apply it to other control while others used a single button around by way of a motor. Unfortunate- Regev provided us with.” areas of study. Overall, the project was to control how many LEDs would flash ly, they had to scrap the idea because Overall, the students thought of immensely successful as each student on each day of Chanukah. In addition, the Arduino was unable to power both this project as a major success even with learned many new skills through com- the students were able to use light sen- the LEDs and the motor simultaneously. all of the obstacles they faced. They also sors and touch sensors to control when appreciated Dr. Regev’s hands-off ap- pleting it.

Coming Up Soon: 1/10 Boys Varsity Basketball Game 1/10 Boys JV Basketball Game

1/11 Boys Varsity Wrestling Match 1/15-1/17 Midterms January 2018 Volume 20, Issue 3 News 3 This Month In History:

The Emancipation Proclama- Golda Meir became the first During World War II, Warsaw, The first scheduled transcon- tion by President Abraham Israeli Prime Minister to visit Poland, was liberated by So- tinental U.S. flight traveled Lincoln freed the slaves anti- the Pope. viet Russian troops. from California to New York. Union states. Month of the Arts

By Alyssa Schnipper most other school programming is that the school was not, as Dr. Do- As you may or may not know, brick put it “forcing 200 people to December was RKYHS’ first ever listen to a string orchestra where Month of the Arts. Throughout the they might absolutely hate it and be- month there was a plethora of artisti- cause we were forcing them to do it, cally themed activities made avail- be more close minded to it.” Which able to the students. We had Rikudiah was much appreciated by the way! (the girls dance competition), splatter Continuing on, Dr. Dobrick elo- painting in the art room, an Israeli quently endorsed the way by which band come, slam poetry, and much Month of the Arts was run, “That’s more because there are “many differ- one of the virtues of... the model be- ent forms of personal expression”(Dr. ing invitational and fun. Its not tak- Dobrick) and the school was enabling ing away from anything, just adding us to be able connect through the out- to the experiences of our students...a let that most appealed to each of us. model like this, it doesn’t have to be Everyone that religiously checks their for everybody, art is something that’s school email (so about five of you) has personal and there is many different seen the emails that Dr. Dobrick sent ways to express oneself.” out regarding all the programming. So was it important? The Although Dr. Dobrick was not the general consensus seems to be yes! mastermind behind this whole idea, dents.” (Dr. Dobrick) An anonymous ‘19 subtly pointed out “I’m not sure if RKYHS students want this program- with the help of Mrs. Buechler he was senior praised the initiative because students responded well, but if it was ming back next year because “Art is the one that made sure the idea came “it really gives you the chance to learn more enforced then students would great thing and to have a month dedi- to fruition, because as Hippocrates in a non school environment, plus it’s totally take action.” Translation: the cated to it is just amazing!” (Liana put it “Ars longa, vita brevis” - “Art fun!” Their only criticism was that communication before these events Maza ‘19) However, the communica- is long, life is short,” and RKYHS they “wish it had been better adver- needed some work. tion side of it definitely needs some wanted their students to start making tised.” A definite high point in the improvement, and with that improve- a difference and take time to gain ap- Talking of better advertising, month was the school play. Rachel ment we hope many more students preciation from that which has been Dr. Dobrick agreed that it needed to be Benzakein ‘18 “participated in the will take advantage of future pro- created before you. publicized more and if it could be done school play and it was amazing” and gramming. “The arts month celebrations is really over he wishes the communication had the rest of the actors surely feel the Thank you to RKYHS for important because art is an wonderful been better and clearer from the start. same way. Opening night a crowd that starting this new initiative that hope- incredible aspect of human life and we Programing for the whole high school filled the entire auditorium showed up fully taught us all to “pay more atten- want our students to be able to explore needs to be planned much in advance to support their friends, fellow stu- tion to the value of art in our lives,” things that are great and beautiful in if it wishes to garner a large amount dents, and the arts. After each scene (Dr. Dobrick) and about all the differ- many different dimensions.” (Dr. Do- of attention, which is why the same the cast was rewarded with a round of ent creative and artistic paths avail- brick) Our school has many students senior sheepishly admitted “I didn’t raucous applause. It was a proud mo- able in life. “The arts are a vital aspect with a wide array of artistic abilities really participate because I didn’t ex- ment that we will all remember with- of life where we get to appreciate part that for the most part go unnoticed, actly know when activities were,” and out a doubt. of the human experience,” (Dr. Do- and this month was an “opportunity only three students went to the Met- Something unique about this brick) so thank you for giving us this to add to the experiences of our stu- ropolitan Opera House! Liana Maza Month of Arts that is different from opportunity. Chanukah Programming By Liana Maza it, 30.4% of students were indifferent be a routine activity, however, they some students found that there could to it, and 28.3% of students actually were pleasantly surprised when the be improvements with the program- Chanukah at RKYHS was disliked the program! actors of Comedysportz came out on ing for next year and the programs jam packed with all sorts of activi- Similar to Powerpoint Karaoke, there stage! The energy level was palpable were unnecessary. For example, one ties ranging from inspirational to was diverse feedback on the Chanu- and everyone was captivated by the student wrote, “Felt like most of the crazy. The school kicked off the holi- kah Tisch. Half of the students felt games. programs were just to stall time, but I day with Powerpoint Karaoke and that it provided an hour of fun and Even more than Comedys- liked missing class!!”. then continued with the outstanding ruach, but the other half of the stu- portz, the most popular Chanukah In summary, the vast majority of stu performance of the youth musical dent body felt that they were not in- program among Kushner students dents agreed that the Chanukah pro- group, Kinor David. Throughout the spired. Specifically, 51.1% of students was the schoolwide HQ and KQ! Ac- gram was a nice way to add a festive week, there was an energetic Chanu- tapped the “like” button for this pro- cording to responses, an astounding feel to this special holiday time at kah Tisch, an exciting candle lighting gram, while 38.3% were indifferent. 76.6% of students loved it! Many Kushner. While students noted that ceremony, and a very entertaining Furthermore, 10.6% of students ex- thought it was original and fun at the there was room for some improve- comedysportz show. The holiday was pressed their dislike for this program same time. One student said, “I truly ments, overall, the student body ap- capped off with a thrilling game of and wished there could have been an- enjoyed our school’s originality with preciated the efforts to inject a bit of schoolwide HQ and the all new KQ! other type of event scheduled during the Kushner Q and would definitely fun distraction into our hectic daily However, was this year’s Chanukah this time. like to see more of those program- school environment. programing up to par with student’s In contrast to those events, ming ideas in the future”. Most stu- expectations? A schoolwide survey the majority of students loved Com- dents agreed with these comments was sent out to find out. Here is what edysportz and found it hilarious and and thought this was by far the best the students of RKYHS thought: captivating! According to the poll, activity during Chanukah. Although Powerpoint Kara- 68.1% of students were very pleased As a whole, students at RKYHS oke probably seemed like a fun idea with the program, while 17% were in- had positive opinions on the school- at the time it was being planned, there different, and only 14.9% of students wide programing. Natalie Berger 19’ was a mixed reaction to the event. disliked it. Some students expressed noted, “Enjoyed all of the program- Only 41.3% of students truly enjoyed their feeling that this program would ming!!!!! Keep it coming!”. However, January 2018 January 2018 4 News Volume 20, Issue 3 Volume 20, Issue 3 Opinion Muslim Jewish Exchange An inspiring trip for the juniors By Dalya S. and Emily J. do their pilgrimage to Mecca to how their five daily prayers. We sat in the bic notebooks and classroom deco- they live their daily lives. Before we back and observed quietly, and noted rations. Then we continued down Because of the Jewish bubble ate lunch, we were able to continue all of the different motions they had the hall to the three year olds. They we live in, it is sometimes difficult to asking our questions in the mosque, to do. It was very interesting to watch were adorable and ecstatic to sing appreciate the world around us, espe- where they pray every day. This part another religion perform the same act us all of their favorite songs, both in cially aspects of it that are seen in a of the question period also included a of prayer that we do each day, but in english and arabic. Despite all of our negative light. Although the Muslim short history about this mosque and a a completely different way. Junior differences, all children are similar, population in American has grown short lesson on how they pray. After- Thorin Spiegelman agreed and fur- excited to learn and show off what steadily in the past few decades, Mus- wards, we had lunch with them and ther added “it was an experience that they know. Afterwards, we walked lims are continuously looked upon were able to speak to the students in I will never forget and it perfectly through the middle school and high unfavorably due to false stereotyp- a less formal way. We soon realized epitomized that everyone connects to school, looked into their classrooms ing, especially in the eyes of many that we had a lot more in common god in his or her own way.” When we and watched them walk through the Jews. On Thursday, December 21st, with them than we thought. When were finished with the day’s schedule hallways. By the time we were done eleventh graders participating in the asked about getting to know the Mus- that the Muslim students planned for walking through the school, it was Muslim Jewish Exchange Program lim students, Junior Danielle Shapiro us, we asked for a tour of the school time to leave. (MJEC) had the unique opportunity noted that “at the end of the day, we so that we could further see how the Junior Daphna Ansel perfect- to visit with the Muslim students of are all teenagers trying to get enough school and the culture; also, we were ly expressed our feeling after the trip. Noor-Ul-Iman School in Monmouth sleep while maintaining a social life.” having such a great time and did not She stated “Muslim Jewish Exchange Junction. For all students who at- This perfectly highlights the entire want to leave. The Muslim teachers was an amazing experience. I learned tended, including ourselves, this was idea behind the entire Muslim Jew- and students were very open to this that the stereotypes Muslims have an extraordinary opportunity that ish exchange program; by getting to idea of showing us their whole school are not always true. The Muslims we forever altered our perception of the met were muslim community as a whole. truly moral Although as a group we did people who not considered ourselves to be closed are devot- minded before the visit, afterwards, ed to their most people felt completely aston- religion ished at a what a difference a first without vio- hand impression could do to an opin- lence.” Our ion. Because we had never partici- experience pated in anything of the like, nobody at the Mus- knew what to expect and there was lim school even a sense of uneasiness among and getting the group. Shortly after we arrived, to know and we realized the Muslim students learn about and we are alike, so our uneasiness the students quickly disappeared. The Muslim was life students gave a short, but informative know the Muslim students in a casual and encouraged us to follow them changing and something we will nev- presentation on the five pillars of Is- setting, we can see that they really from the mosque to their classes. er forget. Every one of us walked out lam. Afterwards, we had the unique aren’t much different from us. We started off the tour by walking of the trip with new understandings opportunity of asking them various At 12:30, it was time for their through the elementary school, and and perceptions about the Muslim questions, ranging from how they afternoon prayer, which is the third of looking at the second graders’ ara- community. Trump’s Big Move Jerusalem is named Israel’s Capital By Josh Shapiro General Assembly, in a lopsided vote, only state that has its right to self- knowing of the threats, the world can- 128 in favor, 9 in opposition, and 35 in determination questioned. Similarly, not allow barbaric threats and terror On, December 6th, 2017, after abstention, condemned and rebuked the U.S. can choose to place its em- to sway and decide what countries can decades of relatively ambiguous U.S. the U.S. and voted to demand the U.S. bassy in any location that a sovereign and should do. policy towards Israel and its capital, to rescind its new policy towards Je- nation has designated as its capital. These threats bear a striking Jerusalem, President Trump formally rusalem. Among the countries that To those who claim that this decla- resemblance of those in opposition to “acknowledged the obvious” by rec- did not vote in favor or abstained are ration impedes the peace process or the UN partition plan of 1947, where ognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital some of the United States’ biggest al- the likelihood of a two-state solution surrounding Arab nations refused to and fulfilling many previous presi- lies including Canada, Australia, Ja- in Israel, that is simply not true for accept the partition plan and instead dents’ unfulfilled promises. Not only pan, Britain, Germany, and France. the following reason. Peace between threatened to wage war with Israel if was this a recognition of the capital, the state was established. Although but it was also the beginning of the pro-Israel people were aware of this process of moving the U.S. embassy threat at the time, they proceeded to from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. The Je- establish the State of Israel. To those rusalem Embassy Act of 1995 (“Act”) who say that Jerusalem is the center was passed by Congress to recognize for Christianity, Islam, and Judaism Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and religions and not for just Judaism, that begin the process of moving the em- is also not a relevant argument. Just bassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. because the U.S. recognizes Jerusa- Although it was enacted in 1995 and lem as the capital of Israel, it does not some have promised before, every undermine the value of Jerusalem to President following its enactment has Most nations in the UN and critics of Jewish Israelis and Palestinian Arabs other religions or in any way prevent failed to implement the Act. Trump Trump’s actions condemned Trump’s or a two state solution in Israel is not these religions from practicing their enumerated the reasons for the dec- declaration because they claim that contingent on the moving of an em- religion. Lastly, for those who believe laration as a “recognition of reality” the statement will not bring peace to bassy or the recognition of a capital. that the declaration was made too and the “obvious” first, second be- Israel and potentially undermines the The true reason why there is no peace soon, they too are mistaken. The dec- cause Jerusalem is the location of the possibility of a peaceful, two-state so- or two-state solution is because of the laration should have been implement- Knesset, Supreme Court, the official lution. They also say that Jerusalem continuous barbaric and terrorist acts ed in 1995, or in any of the twenty-two residence of the Prime Minister and is the center for all religions, not just of those opposed to the United State’s years after the act was passed. President, and, lastly, because in the Judaism, and that right now is not the statement. Before Trump recognize All in all, President Trump’s past all American officials have met correct time for such a controversial Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, Pal- statement will be something that peo- their counterparts in Jerusalem. statement. estinian nationalist and Islamic forces ple will remember for many years, and There has been significant in- Despite all of these claims, threatened the world with “3 days of although it can be argued that this was ternational criticism and condemna- Trump’s statement is clearly justified rage” if Trump fulfilled his prom- not a good statement for U.S. and the tion in response to President Trump’s for many reasons. For instance, every ise. Although many might raise the world as a whole, it is certain, based recent declaration to implement the sovereign nation has the right to de- question of why the U.S. would fol- on what was presented, that this was Act. On December 21, 2017, the UN termine its own capital. Israel is the low through on the statement despite the right time and statement. January 2018 Volume 20, Issue 3 Opinion 5 Together or Apart A take on the separate judaics classes By Sophie Schanzer and mature discussion, while an ad- vantage of her co-ed classes is the According to Diane F. Halp- interaction with the opposite gender, ern, PhD, a psychology professor which provides both social and aca- at Claremont Mckenna College, demic benefits. Jessica Serviss ‘20 “School is preparation for adult life. is not sure if, and how gender affects How can boys and girls learn how to the classroom. She feels that more interact as equals in the workplace than gender, the subject, structure, if they have no experience interact- and size of the class, as well as the ing as equals in school?” This argu- personality and teaching style of the ment, presented by Dr. Halpern, in teachers, provide the greatest dif- support of co-education is forceful. ferences in class atmosphere. Simi- Other proponents of co-education larly, Lexi Berger ‘21 thinks that she maintain that when boys and girls is more talkative in her same-sex learn together, they increase their classes because of the topics and not self-esteem and social skills. A co- because of the gender of her fellow ed environment also teaches stu- students. Overall, however, Danielle dents to have respect for their oppo- Shapiro ’19 favors co-education, and site sex peers and exposes them to she comments that, “the world is co- different viewpoints. On the other ed; by only learning with half of the hand, advocates of single sex educa- world, you obviously miss out on a tion propose that single-sex educa- great deal.” tion encourages students to explore Considering the merits of their own strengths without feeling both types of education, it is difficult constrained by gender stereotypes. to conclude with certainty whether Furthermore, if girls and boys are single-sex or co-education is more separate, they can be taught in ways studies which have better decorum. the viewpoints of the girls in his class effective. In fact, a study commis- that may be more effective for a spe- She also feels that the all-girl classes in his General Studies subjects and sioned by the federal Department of cific gender. Thus, there seems to present some personal female topics finds that it makes the class more in- Education and released in 2005 en- be strong cases for both methods of that are better addressed in a single teresting. Chloe Katz ’21 expresses titled, “Single-Sex Versus Coeduca- education. gender environment. Jared Carmeli her enjoyment of both learning styles tional Schooling: A systematic Re- At RKYHS, girls and boys ‘20 echoes this idea, when he says, which have inherent advantages and view”, found that there is not enough learn together in a co-educational classes that are single-sex are a safe disadvantages. Chloe finds that her evidence to suggest single-sex edu- environment for General Studies, place where that specific gender can co-ed classes might be louder, and cation is better than co-education but they are separated into single- discuss personal issues without em- her single-sex Judaic studies classes or vice –versa. Thus, although the gender classes for their Limudei barrassment. provide a more comfortable format debate continues, RKYHS seems to Kodesh classes, thus providing a Zach Marcus ’19 finds that for asking controversial and mean- have found the perfect balance in its blended educational experience. learning Judaic studies in an all- ingful questions. She also points out mode of education. By providing Hannah Mamet ’21 enjoys this bal- boys class, at times, affords him the that both class types can be distract- co-education in the General Studies ance in school and appreciates opportunity to express his opinions ing, go off topic, and lead to discus- classes and single-sex education for that co-education allows different more freely and allows for better sions about completely random sub- the Judaic Studies classes, RKYHS viewpoints of boys and girls to be learning without boys trying to im- jects. Maya Minsky ’20 says that provides its students with the ben- presented. On the other hand, she press girls. Yet, he appreciates the an advantage of the all-girls Judaic efits of both types of education for a values her all-girl classes in Judaic perspective he gains from hearing classes is that it allows for more open rich learning environment. The Chromebook Problem By Jakey Kluger not oblige to this policy and overex- asserting that “your access to school after I was told too.” Actions like tend their rights to the chromebooks chromebooks has been restricted for these which abuse our rights towards Have you ever seen Rabbi by either forgetting to put them back, one week.” John felt after his experi- the chromebooks directly cause the Tave pulling kids out of class and or purposefully keeping them. Be- ence that the “chromebook patrol is extraordinary efforts taken by fac- wondering what that’s all about? cause of the student’s abuse of the their life and they truly devote every ulty to manage them. Since the beginning of his tenure as chromebooks, Rabbi Tave has begun second of their time to making sure Despite that some students the Educational Technologist, Rabbi to enforce his rules in a stricter man- no computer is left behind.” feel that the methods of maintain- Tave has been the guardian of the ner with his new intern Moshe Mer- There are different types ing the chromebooks are excessive, school’s chromebooks. As Sammy melstein. of students when it comes to us- it is our job as the student body to Indyck puts it “Chromebooks are Although most many not rec- ing and returning chromebooks in overlook these chromebooks as our implemented into our school for ognize him by name, many have seen school, the own computer, the extra own. It is the responsibility of the the students use, and they should Moshe’s fabulous dance moves in the careful one, and the regular student. student’s to handle the chromebooks be available at all times for the stu- student lounge. In order to maintain Some students, the own comput- and return them, and it should not be dents.” However, even though the the location of all the chromebooks, ers one, bring their own comput- that a faculty member has to watch chromebooks are for the students, Rabbi Tave pulls kids out of class, ers into school and generally never over them at extreme lengths in or- there still are rules for their use. If sends emails to the kids who google touch the chromebooks at all. Other der to not lose any. one takes out a chromebook, he/she accounts were the last used on miss- students, the extra careful ones, use However, if we begin to re- is obligated to return the chrome- ing chromebook, and suspends stu- the chromebooks and always make spect the chromebook policy there book to its correct spot in the charg- dents from using chromebooks for sure to return them to their proper will be no need for the extreme ing cart. However many students do a significant amount of time. One place. These students typically are lengths, and the school can begin student, John never bothered about the chrome- to trust us more in all subjects. Lis- Kirsch, coura- book policies and the returning of tening and beginning to respect geously shared their chromebooks. Then there are the chromebooks not only lessens his experi- the RKYHS regular students. These the tight grip of the school on the ence with the student’s either misplace them, chromebooks, but also can allows for chromebook leave them in their lockers, or sim- further student benefits in the future. police. After ply forget to put them back. Rabbi If we show the school they can trust repeated fail- Tave constantly has to chase these us with chromebooks, the school ures to return student’s down in order to ensure would not hesitate to give us addi- chromebooks that no chromebook is lost. One stu- tional benefits in the future. That is properly, John dent anonymously claimed that he/ why I call on the entire student body received an she has “been in the possession of a to change their habits and always re- email from Mr. chromebook for over two weeks and member to handle the chromebooks Mermelstein was finally forced to return it back in the correct way. January 2018 January 2018 6 Opinion Volume 20, Issue 3 Volume 20, Issue 3 Opinion Girls in Honors

By Chloe Katz terrifying. Dr. Dobrick, Kushner’s Director of as a whole” and “bring some more Over the course of the year, Studies revealed that this “is not interesting ideas or thoughts” as Each day, Eden Bendory, it became easier, especially once typical in the other grades current- AJ Keiser ‘21 agrees. After a sur- Lexi Berger ‘21 and I walk from our seats were moved closer to- ly” and it can’t be a sexist conspir- vey and many interviews, possible Judaic Studies classes of around gether. However, we still noticed acy as he explained, “placements solutions arose. fifteen girls to our Honors Biol- and acknowledged the divide each are driven by recommendations, One anonymous source ogy class with exactly three. We sit day and looked forward to when placement exams, standardized ‘21 pointed out that “it would..be down together at a table in the back more girls would join the class in tests et cetera,” and are entirely wrong and actually sexist...if [the left-hand corner of the lab. Sur- high school. “blind to gender.” school made a program that helps] rounding our small group, which But, on the first day of The idea that Honors classes are a the girls to get into honors and not doesn’t cover even an entire table, school this year, I noticed that, lot of pressure and as a part of the [the] boys,” so any future initia- are boys. Two tables of boys to the surprisingly no girls had joined. small group of girls, one is under tives should not be rule-bending right of us. Two tables of boys in In total, 13 girls had switched into constant scrutiny is, in reality, not or meant to push preferential treat- front of us. One boy next to us at RKYHS, and not a single one had as intense as it is made out to be. ment for female students only. One our table: 15 in total. According to joined. Now, it is Eden and me, and However, the pressure felt can oc- possible program, as suggested by a mathematical ratio, this means the boys from last year, and three casionally act as a motivator. Be- Maurice is “to create a stronger that there are five boys to each girl. new boys. After a few days, the cause Lexi experiences this pres- emphasis in middle school for girls After four months into the class adjusted to the ratio and she sure, she can always back up her to join those classes,” because a school year experiencing this atyp- and I were no longer afraid of ei- comments in class and keeps her strong foundation is the best way ical ratio, students in this class no ther of us being absent. Eden stated ideas that make less sense to her- to prevent future problems. longer notice the huge gender gap in an interview that “this year it self. I believe the best way to that recurrently appears in four of doesn’t bother me at all,” because Because of this example motivate my female peers into the Honors secular classes. Most of after three years, she had adapted. of the pressure’s effect on her, she working harder and aiming for us don’t know any different since Lexi goes one step further contributes to the Honor class’ higher classes is to publicize that before 9th grade even began we and states that there might even general efficiency. Ethan Moses females are capable of it. If the true had been experiencing this. Back be a positive side to her Honors ‘21 noticed this and commented reason behind the five to one ratio in Joseph Kushner Hebrew Acade- biology class’ gender divide. She in an interview that “girls tend to in my biology class is fear of the my, there were four girls in our 6th believes it “allows [herself, Eden be more organized and efficient at intensity, pressure and workload grade Honors math class, five the and me] to expand [our] circle of the work they are tasked with ac- of the Honors classes, then, just as next year in 7th and down to just friends to more than just the girls complishing” and that because of the programs “Girls Who Code” Eden and me in 8th. in [our] grade.” On the other hand, this, the overall efficiency of the (https://girlswhocode.com/), The first two years, I didn’t an anonymous female source ‘21 class is dramatically different. An “STEM for Her” (http://www. notice the lack of girls since my in classes with ratios such as these anonymous source ‘21 echoes this stemforher.org/our-programs/ grade had always had a lot less negatively states that she does feel statement by admitting, “I would programs-overview/) and Princ- girls than boys, allowing five to be a pressure because of the lack of honestly say that [the girls] take eton College’s “HerWorld” (http:// an understandable number. But in girls, specifically “when a teacher the classes more seriously than www.stemcollaboration.org/pro- eighth grade when two of the girls mentions that they would like to the guys” and I believe this comes gram/herworld-2) promote female switched schools and one moved see more participation from girls.” from the positive pressure we do capability and focus on girls who down, it could no longer be denied She also feels “that if [she doesn’t] feel. desire involvement in the STEM that it was not normal. For Eden participate, it’s noticed more.” It is so important to have community, Rae Kushner Yeshiva and me, seated at opposite sides of This might why girls in more girls in the 9th grade Honors High School must do the same. I a room full of pretty loud boys, it 9th grade don’t want to move up. classes. Having more female voic- am looking forward to seeing more was difficult to participate. If one Considering that the reason can’t es, according to Maurice Korish girls join Honors secular classes in of us were absent, it was absolutely be mathematical or statistical since ‘21 would “diversify [his] classes future years! A Time to Pray and a Time to Eat

By Josh Lando just starts when davening ends. On then toast them which takes even lon- Mondays and Thursdays by one min- some days this setup gives you a good ger. This whole process can take over ute. This solution would fix the not Every school day, there is davening, amount of breakfast time, but other 10 minutes, but on some days, boys enough time during breakfast prob- breakfast, then our first class. Davening days you just don’t have enough time. only receive 5 minutes of breakfast. lem. and our first class both have a designat- For breakfast, you have to go to the Jonah Eisenberg, 2020, said, “some- Although it seems very un- ed starting time, but beakfast doesn’t. dining hall, buy your food, eat it, then times [breakfast] can be a 15 minute likely that the school would agree to This is because davening is longer or return to your locker to get your stuff break, while other times it is only a this solution, it would stop students shorter based on the day, so breakfast for class. Also many people buy bagels 3 minute break.” He also added that from complaining that they do not a solution would be to have at least a have enough time for breakfast. This 10 minute breakfast break each day. would slightly change the schedule on This is a phenomenal idea, but there two out of the five school days, and not Dirty Epidemic (cont.) would be only two solutions to solve affect any learning. This would allow this problem. for students to eat the most important One solution is to cut down meal of the day. davening. This solution would never The American Heart Associa- methods to solve it. For instance, to do is take that extra fifteen seconds work, because the school would never tion said that “people who eat break- Hannah Kirsch ‘20 proposed there be and walk to the garbage can, thus al- let any minyan shorten its davening fast are significantly less likely to de- an added incentive saying “if the stu- ready making a difference in helping just to have more time for breakfast. velop diabetes than people who skip dents clean up after themselves once a so many other people. Mr. Plotsker of- This would be the more preferable so- breakfast.” So basically the school is month there will be a pizza lunch [pro- ten times correctly expounds upon this lution, but it is basically impossible. trying to give us diabetes. This prob- vided by the school].” On the contrary, point after school following Maariv The second solution is to lem is a top priority, and shortening Grace Schapiro ‘20 does not believe when he asks students to take an ad- shorten classes. It would be necessary the classes on Mondays and Thursdays this will be sufficient enough to entice ditional thirty seconds to help push in to cut down each class by at least one seems like the only possible solution. students to clean up and explained that the chairs and put siddurim back on minute to add 10 minutes to breakfast. If we don’t add breakfast, students “if there was an incentive that students the shelves in the Beit Midrash. It is This would make sure that everyday, may develop diabetes, or maybe just cannot typically receive on an average important for everyone in the school to students would have time to buy, eat, be very hungry the whole day. This day, they would do it.” recognize that we are part of one cohe- and even toast their breakfast with- solution will make the whole student The fix, however, is really simple! Gar- sive community and as such, students out being late to class. This problem body happier, because then every stu- bage cans are found in several differ- and teachers should take action to help usually only occurs on Mondays dent will have the breakfast time they ent places in the lunchroom and in the ensure that we are doing all we can to and Thursdays, so I think the school need, or just have an actual break be- hallways, so all students really need keep it clean. would only have to shorten classes on fore five straight classes. January 2018 Volume 20, Issue 3 Opinion 7 Beauty and the Beast Another successful performance By Michal Shechter ously because Rebecca’s accent was cial. Last year’s HSM was just so Director Tova Halpern successfully so good that she was British for ev- amazing, I couldn’t pass up another put on a play with more complex On December 11th, the Kush- eryone. Another noteworthy factor opportunity”(Shulman ‘19). dancing, stage direction, costumes ner Drama Club presented Beauty is the convincing performance put According to Eliana Tajfel ‘19, etc. The costumes were rented from a and the Beast to a practically sold on by Sam Shulman and Josh Mat- “This year’s play, as a whole, was company called Playtime Costumes. out auditorium. Since the premier, it thew. Having discovered their pas- definitely more challenging because It is important to acknowledge Eliot has received positive feedback for its Drazen, Rachel Benzakein and Nava convincing acting, striking costumes Chefitz whose costumes were furni- and impressive sets. ture, portable, but still furniture. Ra- Leading the production, Jes- chel Benzakein ‘18 said, “It was a lot sica Fernandez ‘19 and Gideon Rubin of fun to play Chip but I’ve had knee ‘18, were amazing in their roles of pains for a week.” The musical direc- Belle and the Beast. With her beauti- tion, led by Avi Wolf, reminded peo- ful voice and charismatic acting, Fer- ple of their favorite childhood songs nandez played a Belle that wowed the while also composing new, catchy audience. “The best part was walking music. The elegant sets were painted down the aisle in the beginning of the by Kushner students and the light- show and hearing a little girl say ‘Oh ing/sound was done by Jason Singer my gosh, is that Belle?’” (Fernandez and Avrumie Zilberberg. ‘19) After the prince, AKA Rabbi A favorite moment of the Rubin, transformed into the beast, play is certainly the very first scene Rubin, Gideon that is, impressed the where Rabbi Rubin transformed into audience with his command of the the beast. Rabbi Rubin said, “I am stage and his powerful rawr. To the looking to get discovered and I am audience’s surprise, this was actually excited for my next cameo in Annie.” Rubin’s acting debut. Gideon ‘18 felt One might have asked themselves “it was an incredible experience that how, when the beast turned back into was worth having.” You may or may a prince, he was no longer Rabbi Ru- not see him in the Shakespeare play bin. Rather, he became a different second semester. genre of Rubin. This question will Each cast member deserves a sion for acting as basketball jocks there was more intricate choreog- remain a mystery. shout out for their commendable per- in High School Musical the previ- raphy and many things going on at For students who crave more formance and should feel proud of ous year, they continued to impress one time, including constant costume productions, worry no more! This the show that he/she put on. I would us with their innate acting skills and and set changes.” Eliana also pointed coming spring, Kushner will be host- be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the students at Kushner look for- out that last year they were playing ing its yearly Shakespeare play. This Rebecca Gampel’s impressive Brit- ward to next year’s play when Sam relatable high school students while year’s performance will include a lot ish accent. One might be wondering and Josh are finally the leads that this year, the characters were more of toil and trouble. All you have to how only one character in the entire they born to be. Shulman said, “Be- challenging to portray. Despite hav- do is wait for tomorrow, tomorrow, play was British. The answer is obvi- ing in the play again was really spe- ing less rehearsal time than last year, tomorrow. How to Combat Peer Pressure

By Hannah Mamet way people look at you as an indi- thing, more serious than you real- says, “There are many issues with vidual. No longer are you someone ize. If you are spending time with a someone wanting to go to class but Peer pressure, a unique and different; you are as- group that is at a social event like a a person they want to be friends word that can be defined so simply sociated admediatly with the group party and the leader decides to take with is ditching. So, they ditch too.” as “influence from members of one’s you spend time with. According to part in bad behavior, it is beyond the Though, she adds that for her, “I peer group.” But in reality, it is much Livestrong.com, people, “may also word difficult to stand up for what like standing up to peer pressure be- more complex. Peer pressure can be find themselves pressured into do- you and all your friends inside feel cause I feel good about myself and something that makes a person un- ing things, such as drinking or steal- and know is truly right. like I have a choice on how I act.” comfortable, or more so, upset. But ing, that they likely wouldn’t engage Lexi Berger notes how peer Aviva Luxenberg says how she has at the same time, it can happen and in if they were on their own.” pressure can lead to us making bad personally encountered it and what you may not even notice it. Being pressured by your decisions just because we want to be she has found to work. She says, “In Peer pressure makes us wear peer group can be a very serious friends with a certain person. She the past, when I have conversed with the same clothes and dictate what kids who were discussing something we do with our free time, like what that I found insensitive, I had felt people we spend time with on Shab- the pressure to participate in the bat or on Sundays. It can even dic- conversation, instead of excluding tate to us which phone case to use. myself. Recently, I have been able to Peer pressure can involve making overcome this flaw, and have been reasons for a person to engage in an able to raise my voice. Rabbi Mintz activity with you or making some- taught us that we should try to talk one feel bad for not participating so about things more appropriate by that they will eventually. It can also changing the topic politely. People lead to ruining friendships. understand why I am uncomfortable Though, we cannot for- having this conversation and they get that peer pressure can, at some change the topic immediately. When times, be good. For example, friends one is in a similar situation, I advise help us grow our social skills by them to take a stand and do the right hinting what is “normal” to say. thing.” Also, if you had a bad reputation Safeteens.org suggests that from your old school and you meet we should, “understand that you nicer kids that you choose to spend have your own beliefs/values, have time with, they can influence you self-confidence, choose your friends positively and change your reputa- wisely, talk to a trusted adult, and to tion to a better one. not make excuses - say exactly what On the contrary, peer pressure does you feel.” It is up to us to make our have many negative effects. If you own decisions and to realize when it spend time with kids who are not the is no longer okay to follow the crowd best behaved, this changes you as a especially if the crowd is engaged in person. Furthermore, it changes the bad behavior. January 2018 8 Opinion-Review Volume 20, Issue 3 Greys Anatomy By Eden Bendory in the show must face. In each season are fired, and much more. However, ative, and amusing, and the relation- there are various tragedies that occur after my two favorite characters died ships and patients are the best part of Grey’s Anatomy is a television to the surgical residents in addition in the plane crash in the season eight the show. Not only do the viewers be- series about a group of surgical interns to the patients, such as shootings, car finale, I began to dislike the show. come attached to the main characters at Seattle Grace Hospital. The show re- accidents, fires, plane crashes, drown- The new characters that were brought of the show, but they become attached volves around Meredith Grey, a surgi- ings, and death. Meredith Grey faces in began to become less and less cre- to the patients in the hospital and wait cal resident and the narrator and main and accepts these traumas with her ative, and the plot began to weaken. In to discover if they will survive or per- character of the show. The first season friends, husband, and fellow surgeons. season fourteen, I personally think the ish from their horrible diseases. of the show is the team working as in- Since the show has fourteen seasons show is repetitive and not very inter- The Bad: Over the years the show has terns, and as the show progresses they and is still going, throughout the sea- esting. The new surgical interns are become less original and interesting. become residents, fellows, and attend- sons most of the main characters die or boring and naive, and the humor is less While season nine and ten were sim- ings. It portrays the drama and realism leave the show, and in season fourteen amusing. In addition, there are now ply less entertaining, seasons twelve, of working in a hospital by bringing there are only four members of the only two or three characters that I like thirteen, and fourteen contain very in various patients and stories in ev- original cast remaining. out of the many in the cast currently. few favorable episodes. The show is ery episode. In addition, it shows the I personally enjoy this show Personally, if the show had been like it no longer new and exciting, and I find viewers how competitive the surgical very much. While season one is not is now in season one, I would not have other shows more interesting. I would field is; the residents argue over sur- particularly exciting, as the show pro- continued watching. However, in the prefer they end the show after this sea- geries and specialties, and in their fifth gresses it becomes more and more mid-season/winter finale, the episode son so I can enjoy it until the end. and final year as residents they com- interesting, with new patients and ended in a major cliffhanger, and I am The Bottom Line: This show is pete against other hospitals in order characters brought in who add to the waiting to see what happens when the amazing and addictive, and the first to be hired for the best job. However, plot. My personal favorite seasons are show returns on January 18. eight seasons are incredible. I recom- not only is there the excitement of sur- seasons five through eight, where the The Good: It is an entertaining, mend that anyone who has the time gery, but there are personal obstacles most exciting events happen, and my mostly realistic, and even humorous watches this show before another. and relationships that each character favorite characters date, marry, argue, show. The characters are original, cre- Rating: 10/10 HOK: Mr. Singman By Becky Weisberg life growing up and each of them were My problem with advice is that people backgrounds studying together, play- people who made time to be present do one of two things when they take ing ball, or just talking. There are stu- 1. Can you tell the school about your and listen. Knowing that there were it. Either they hate the results and then dents and teachers connecting over childhood and your previous jobs? people who cared enough to hear me have an opening to blame someone current events, Gemara, STEM, He- out was something I appreciated in else for their decision or they love it brew language, history, or anything I wouldn’t even know where to be- my life as a teenager and I wanted and become dependent on someone else one could think of. I value the gin on my childhood. I was born in the chance to pay it forward. What’s else making their decisions for them. support that my colleagues have of- Queens, NY and spent the first 4 years misunderstood about my role in Guid- So, generally speaking, I avoid giving fered me over the years as well. This of my life in Brooklyn. I have basi- ance is that it’s not about “dealing with advice and instead I try to work with is the product of a culture set decades cally no memories of that. My parents problems.” Rather, it’s about making students to explore and evaluate the ago and continues through today. In decided to move me out of the city connections. I’ve found that seem- options available to them so they can many ways Kushner is family. when violence between two elementa- ingly mundane conversations with make their own informed decisions. ry school children broke out down the students about fantasy football, phi- If there’s a message I could send to 5. What do you like to do in your block and so we moved to Montclair, losophy, or shows and movies can be students it would be that we have hun- free time? New Jersey. Then I moved to West just as important to these connections dreds of choices we make each day and Orange when I was 11 and I’ve pretty as conversations about friends, school, these choices make us who we are. If When my friends and I can find some much lived there ever since. At about family, or college and career choices. we want something different, we must mutual free time, I’m happy to spend the same time, I enrolled as a student Then, if any issues arise, students can think about the choices we’re making it with them either eating, going out at Kushner. I’ve worked in summer speak to someone who knows about and choose something different. somewhere, or just chilling. I also camps for years, served as the NCSY them beyond whatever that moment’s love reading, traveling, and brain- advisor in West Orange for 5 years challenge is and we can better help 4. What do you find special about teaser puzzles. I’m often looking for (Chapter of the Year three times!), and students. What’s meaningful to me is Kushner? some new challenge or something I volunteered at Kushner for a while getting to know our students over their new to learn. During the NFL season before working here full-time. years in high school and one of my fa- One thing that has remained consis- my Sundays revolve around NFL Red vorite parts of my job is the privilege tent in the many years I’ve been at Zone for fantasy football and I really 2. What inspired you to be a guid- of writing deeply personal college rec- Kushner both as a student and faculty enjoy watching basketball games too. ance counselor? What about the job ommendations for them. member has been the family-like com- is meaningful to you? munal atmosphere. When walking 6. What is something special and 3. What’s the best piece of advice through the halls, I see students from unique about you? I think back to the role models in my you can give students? different grades, communities, and CONT. ON PAGE 10 Club Attendance By Zach Marcus a member of at least one club. This undermines the authority or super- want to go on aren’t getting. Only might even be just to fulfill their vision of the club. If a teacher or fac- people committed to the club should There are many opportuni- chesed requirements, which is still ulty member tells you to simply eat be entitled to the benefits. Also, this ties for students to join and par- okay. What isn’t okay, however, your lunch where the meeting is go- doesn’t apply just to trips. This is ticipate in school clubs in school. is reaping the benefits from clubs ing on and you think you are above also a problem when there is food, as Thanks to the school’s schedule of without putting in the work or at- the law, it shows the lack of respect people will rush to get food and not having a school-wide lunch, almost tending meetings on a regular basis. that that student has for that person attend the rest of the meeting. The all school clubs can meet conve- Many groups have a keystone trip and the club in general. It also shows same happens when there is a speak- niently during lunch, and few (ex- or activity, whether it be AIPAC their lack of interest in the group. er, especially one with giveaways or cluding sports teams) meet after Policy Conference, building houses Some people engage in club activi- prizes. It creates a bad culture that is school. This makes it easy for stu- for Habitat for Humanity, going to a ties simply for the sake of putting it really hard to correct and fix. How- dents to attend all the meetings. 76ers game, or going to Newark to on their resume for college or a job ever, we must find a solution to this However, it also makes it easy for distribute clothes to the homeless. application. They think it is okay to problem.Instead of joining as many students to either overbook their However, many students feel it is do less than the minimum to be able clubs as you can, just join the ones schedule or forget a meeting alto- okay to only meet the requirements to say they did it and falsely impress you care about. Instead of joining gether. There is also the problem of in order to attend the event and not wherever they are applying to. just for your resume, join something students willingly skipping meet- do what others are doing to stay This is another problem. that you will enjoy and gain from. ings because they would rather do in the club. Many clubs, AIPAC in They are essentially taking advan- High school is truly a time to learn other things during their lunch pe- particular, have high attendance in tage of the club to gain from it later and explore interests you are inter- riod, like play basketball, do work, the beginning of the year and then in life, which is morally wrong and ested in. Instead of hanging out with or just eat lunch with their friends. lose people in the following weeks also ruins the club because people your friends, commit to something, With the wide variety of clubs and before getting requests from those will go on the trip who do not actu- because that’s how life works too. groups to choose from (including who didn’t go to the meetings to go ally care about what they are doing. Clubs should be treated seriously seven ran by Rabbi Kirsch alone), on the trip. This is problematic for They also might take up spots that and should be attended on a regular almost all students find themselves several reasons. The first is that it people who deserve to go or actually basis. That’s the way it should be. January 2018 Opinion-Review Volume 20, Issue 3 Sports-Humor 9 Basketball Takes Boston The basketball teams compete in a tournament By Danielle Shapiro credible experience and it definitely Plotsker hit a three, making this a ening and lunch, as well a Dvar To- improved the way I think about my one point game. Both teams fought rah. After lunch and Menucha, the In early December, the game.” But because the tournament hard in the last minute, but sadly the teams went back to Mimao and en- boys’ and girls’ varsity basketball only officially began Thursday af- Cobras couldn’t connect enough to joyed a nice Seudah Shlishit to close teams braved the cold and shipped ternoon, there were a few hours to pull through. Although the loss was the Shabbaton aspect of the tourna- up to Boston for the Maimonides kill Thursday morning before the tough, it was a great comeback and ment. Invitational Basketball Tournament. teams had to head over. To fill that provided for an important learning After Havdalah the teams There were eight teams invited in to- time, Rabbi Kirsch helped organize opportunity that the boys can take a had to refocus, as this game would tal: four girls’ and four boys’. On the a tour of Fenway Park, a big Boston lot from. prove pivotal, especially for the boys side, the teams were Kushner, landmark where the Red-Sox have On Friday, both the boys girls team. Because the girls team Maimonides, Flatbush, and Atlanta played since 1912. After the tour, a and girls were set to play the Flat- was 1-1 during the tournament, this Jewish Academy. On the girls side, van took both teams to Maimonides, bush Falcons- the only other Yeshi- win would give the girls a chance to however, the teams were Kushner, to kick off the tournament with a va League team in the tournament. compete with Miamo for the cham- Maimonides, Flatbush, and Ber- welcoming lunch. We chatted for a Different from the boys’ previous pionship spot. The competition was man. For those curious as to why bit but then the real fun started; it game where Miamo took an early Melvin J. Berman, whose team was the fourth team of each gender was was game time. Walking downstairs lead, this game was back and forth also 1-1 in the tournament. The different, the explanation is quite in- to the gymnasium, one could see from tipoff and therefore even more game was relatively close until the teresting. When the tournament was end, when Berman rose to the oc- created about five years ago, it was casion and scored 34 points to close a boys tournament with four schools the game. (Miamo being one of them), and one The boys were set to play the At- school that Maimonides invited was lanta Jaguars, who were also 0-2 in the TABC Storm. The Storm came in the tournament. Although the two and completely slaughtered the Mi- teams technically had the same re- amo MCats, creating an embarrass- cords, it only took a couple of min- ing scene for the many Boston fans utes to show Kushner’s superior- that showed up for the games. After ity on the court. By the end of the the humiliating defeat that first year, game, the score was 43-17, a much the MCats decided that they would deserved win for the Kushner boys. no longer host a tournament only Sadly, both teams were eliminated to lose; if they were going to host, from the championships, although they would make it so that they can their effort and teamwork is beyond win. Therefore, only schools that commendable. Miamo initially scouts as “worthy” how the home court advantage could exciting to watch. Unfortunately, Sunday morning included can come on the tournament. Last play a role. The gym was packed the Cobras lost by four, eliminating consolation games for the Cobras, as year, Melvin J. Berman Academy with Maimo students, parents, themselves from the championships. well as the Championship for those sent both a boys and a girls team to alumni, and friends. After the an- The combined losses were heart- teams that qualified. On the girls the tournament. Although the girls nouncement of starters and singing breaking for both the players and side, the Maimonides MCats won team did not get the dub, the boys of the national anthems, it was time fans, but we know that the boys had without much difficulty. The final team did, and beat Miamo to win the to begin. Although Kushner played a played competitively and in harmo- score was 73-47, an incredible win championship. Following through competitive game for the first quar- ny through and through. for the girls team. On the boys side, with the precedent it had created, ter, the MCats quickly pulled away, Following the intense loss however, the game was a lot closer. Miamo decided that Berman boys utilizing star sophomore, Daniella on the boys side, the girls had quite It took a full game and overtime were not to be invited back to the Bessler as point guard. By half- the motive to pull through and get to determine that Championships tournament the following year, and time, it was obvious that the game its first win. The Cobras beat the would be Maimonides for the boys so, Atlanta Jewish Academy took its was not going to bring Kushner its Falcons 27-24, giving the Lady Co- team as well as the girls team. place, filling in as the fourth spot on first win, so the team spent the rest bras their first win of the year. Ju- After the games, Maimo the boys side. of the game practicing its plays and nior Taylor Abotbol noted that “it announced the awards’ recipients, The tournament began for improving for future matchups. was such a refreshing feeling to fi- and congratulated all the players on Kushner on Wednesday morning On the boys side, however, nally win a game. We practiced the outstanding games. This officially when the teams set out on the bus- the game was much more interest- whole season and deserved to win, ended the tournament, and it was a full day before the tournament ing. Although Miamo took the initial so it was nice to finally get the dub.” time to go home for the Kushner Co- officially began. Wednesday night, lead and at one point led the Cobras After returning to the hosts’ homes bras. Overall, the tournament was a the teams got the chance to attend by seventeen, a combination of team- to prepare for Shabbat, everyone met great experience and it gave each the full celtics game; from warm work and smart playing put Kushner at Maimonides for Tefillah and din- team a great deal of practice for the ups courtside, to sitting in the suite back into the running just in time to ner. Dinner schmoozing and singing regular season. Thank you to Rabbi during the game, it was definitely win. With less than a minute left the was a great bonding opportunity for Kirsch, Logan, and all the coaches the full Boston experience. When Cobras were down by four and look- both the boys and girls from all the for allowing this tournament to take asked about the game, Junior Ben ing for something to push them over participating schools. Shabbat con- place; we couldn’t have done it with- Waldman commented “it was an in- the edge. As if it were magic, Gabe tinued Saturday morning with dav- out you! Students with Siblings

By Jesse Tuchman tioned that Abby generously “takes “Some teachers liked them so they The Eighth Grader [her] to school in the morning [when could have a good first impression of Miriam Bash ‘22, sister of Dina Bash Many freshmen in RKYHS she’s in the mood].” She is also “there me.” An example of this is Mr. Reiss ‘19 and recent graduate Jonah Bash have siblings that currently attend the when [she] needs [her],” assuming who brings up a different story about ‘17, is preparing for her time in high school, are recent graduates or will be Abby is not occupied with the many his beloved twins every day. “If you school next year and living up to all incoming freshmen in the next few classes seniors attend daily. Some know my brothers, there are definitely the expectations that come with be- years. As Zach Tuchman’s younger cons, according to Maya, would be those teachers who don’t have a good ing a Bash in RKYHS. Miriam ‘22 sister, I can relate to all of my strug- that “Some teachers mistake [her] for first impression of me. You can imag- explains that she is “looking forward gling peers on a spiritual, emotional Abby,” since they look so much alike ine how grateful I am to my brothers.” to having a sibling in high school and and meaningful level. I embarked on with one being a redhead and one not being intimidated by upperclass- a journey to discover their take on this being a brunette. Still, many seniors The Lonely Freshman men like many other freshmen. [She] difficult reality and what it was like to tend to get confused by our class title. Chloe Katz ‘21 is a lonely freshmen can look forward to having [her] sis- have famous siblings. When asked to comment, Rachelli in search of a sibling in high school. ter’s friends as familiar faces in the Klibanoff ‘18 said, “Hi freshmeat… She claims that it is sad to not have hallway and throughout school.” She The Current Senior oh I meant Freshman.” an older sibling to the stressful times also believes that “having a sibling Maya Stein ‘21, sister of Abby Stein of freshmen year into perspective who has a lot of experience as a high ‘18, explained that despite being part The ‘During the Time When Mr. Re- (where there are no SATs or ACTs to school student will be extremely help- of the freshmeat community, “Some- iss Worked at Gesher’ Alumni worry about and no stress from col- ful if [she] needs help with anything times I say hi to her in the hallway.” Sarah Getraer ‘21 has been compared lege applications.) On the other hand, both socially and academically.” This stereotype-breaking interaction to her brothers, Benjy and Alec Get- Chloe definitely appreciates not feel- Overall, each student has a between an original gangster and a raer ‘14, too many times to count in ing “the pressure of being compared different perspective on the common rookie 9th grader can give the rest of the four month period she has been to someone” and how she “can make issue of siblings, I being one of them. us freshmen some hope. When asked at RKYHS. Sarah claims that “It is [her own] first impression on all the FAQs for the pros and cons of attending a lot of pressure to be as smart as teachers.” Q: Are you related to Zach Tuchman? RKYHS with her sister, Maya men- they were.” It can be positive because A: Yes -- he’s my brother. January 2018 10 Review-Comic Volume 20, Issue 3 M.O.T.O.E. New Girl By Marissa Feiler are frequent but unexpected and every By Jonathan Kirsch tion, mystery, and drama would time you think you know who did it, start and I was getting impatient. In 1934, fresh off a case at the they prove you wrong in spectacular Ever heard of the famous At the end of that episode I saw Western Wall in Jerusalem, detective fashion. It portrays the time period Archie comics that has become an Cheryl and Jason Blossom going Hercule Poirot’s vacation in Istanbul very nicely, but was modern enough American classic starting in the on a boat ride, and the next thing is suddenly interrupted by news of a to be enjoyable for modern audiences. late 1930’s? Well it may have just I knew, the show “began”. That’s development in an ongoing case back One of the biggest surprises become even more well-known. also when my love for the show in London. Finding himself suddenly of this movie wasn’t the reveal of the It’s because of a show based off began. I was so hooked on the in need of transportation to England, killer (whom I won’t reveal because I the popular comic. Greg Berlanti show that I watched the season’s his old friend Bouc invites him to en- sympathize with how it feels to have a and Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa’s 13 episodes in 5 days! I was ad- joy a carefree ride on his train, the movie spoiled for you), but rather the Riverdale is about a group of high dicted to this thriller! My favorite Orient Express. However, the suppos- performance of a serious role by Josh school best friends who struggle part was at the end, after the mur- edly relaxing journey suddenly turns Gad, the man who brought us Olaf. in dealing with the freak death der was solved. Archie and his dark when the train is derailed and His portrayal of Hector MacQueen of a classmate. But was it a freak dad go into the famous diner and sinister businessman Samuel Ratchett was flawless and absolutely 0 jokes death, or was it murder? Once one enjoy dinner together. But all of a is found stabbed in his compartment. were cracked, despite the fact that he’s of the friends’, Jughead Jones’, sudden, an armed robber comes in The suspects consist of a di- a comedic actor. I was hoping for an dad was accused and arrested for looking to steal money. The thief verse group of people: the devout mis- Olaf reference though, seeing as they the murder of Jason Blossom, the takes a look at Archies dad and sionary Pilar Estravados, Austrian were derailed in the snow.. but we group begins an investigation of the next thing we know, we hear a professor Gerhard Hardman, the Rus- can’t get everything we want! their own to prove his innocence gunshot. The season ends leaving sian royal Princess Dragomiroff and and to find the real killer. That me eager to watch the next season her assistant Hildegarde Schmidt, The Good: The twists constantly sur- group includes Archie Andrews, and see what happens. the victim’s accountant Hector Mac- prised me, I loved the dramatic way who is the perfect red-head. He is Queen and butler Edward Masterman, that they did the big reveal, and the the captain of the Varsity football The Good: No matter how bad an the British doctor Dr. Arbuthnot and fact that they modernized it while still team, is in a great relationship episode was, I could always count governess Mary Debenham(who have staying true to it’s setting. with Veronica Lodge, and is fi- on the end of the episode to have a mysterious former connection), the nally coming out about his music a good twist or leave an interest- rich widow Caroline Hubbard, the The Bad: The one thing I didn’t like career. His girlfriend, Veronica, ing cliffhanger. It was as if they mysterious Count Rudolph and Count- was the usage of strange camera like most families in Riverdale, were leaving us with a new lead ess Helena Andrenyi, and the Hispan- angles(directly overhead, outside of has some family problems. Al- or clue. It made me eager to watch ic car dealer Biniamino Marquez. the train looking in, etc.) during some though her father Hiram is in the next episode. I also liked how In the course of the investiga- pivotal scenes. The overhead angle jail, her mother doesn’t stop from they included the well-known car- tion, Poirot discovers that the victim’s was used to film the discovery of the continuing the illegal activity. toon group “Josie and the Pussy- real name was Casseti, an infamous body. The fact that I couldn’t see their There is also Betty Cooper, who cats”. It was great to see! criminal and fugitive responsible for faces while they talked just really ir- involves herself in the case be- the kidnapping and murder of 3 year ritated me a lot. cause the victim is the ex-fiance The Bad: Although there wasn’t old Daisy Armstrong, the daughter of her sister and because she is much to complain about, I personl- of a famous army pilot. As the blame The Bottom Line: I absolutely loved dating Jughead, whose father was ly felt that the stroyline regarding shifts and motives are revealed, Poirot this movie. I think that it’s a must-see accused of the murder. Together, Jason Blossom and Betty’s sister must figure out who really killed Cas- for any murder mystery lover and that these four follow leads and look Polly was boring and unexciting. seti. if they do see it, they will adore it also. for evidence in attempt to figure I was always very tempted to fast- Personally, this is one of my out who the murderer is. They are forward during it and even though favorite movies to date. The twists Rating: 9/10 so committed that they stay out it led to the killer’s motive, it was late, sneak into houses, and even- stupid part of the first season tually get even closer to the truth than the sheriff does! Who is The Bottom Line: Overall, I HOK cont. the killer, and more importantly, was thoroughly impressed with why? the first season of Riverdale and I only speak English fluently, but I re- 7. What made you want to come back After I finished watch- highly recommned it. I view it as ally love languages. In high school, to Kushner after you graduated? ing Blue Mountain State for the a possible attraction to any teen- I was conversive in basic Spanish, I second time, I was trying to find ager or older. It includes all the taught myself some Dutch, and learned It was just a matter of great timing. I was another show that I could hap- needs of a teenager: murder, love, how to read and write in Japanese. (In finishing college looking for an opening pily invest my after-school-hours mystery, drama, and sex. I also 10th grade, I would sometimes write my to work with high school students and in. I saw that Riverdale was on beleive that this show has the star name in Japanese on Senora Hausdorff’s the school had a few roles that fit my the “recommended” list for me potential and can become the next Spanish tests.) I also learned computer skill set. I was given the opportunity to on Netflix and I thought I would big thing due to the rich history of languages like Python, HTML, and teach classes, work in Learning Lab, be give it a try. It started off slow, the Archie comics. C++, but I’ve long forgotten most of involved in student activities, and work with the the first episode devot- those. Currently, I’m working on im- in Guidance. It was cool for me to be ed to introducing the characters. Rating: 8/10 proving my Hebrew fluency and I’m able to work in the school that I’d at- I was wondering when the ac- slowly beginning to learn Esperanto. I tended as a student and to have so many can also speak the gibberish language, of my former teachers as colleagues. I Ubbi Dubbi. I aspire to one day be a citi- couldn’t pass up that chance. Left Comic by Nicole Gruenswag Right Comic by Maya Minsky zen of the world like Rabbi Pecaric.