Claire and Emanuel G. Rosenblatt High School at Donna Klein Jewish Academy
INDEX
9801 Donna Klein Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33428
News................1-2 A decade of mitzvahs By Jonathan Hurwitz, Opinion...........3-6 editor-in-chief and Noa Feature...........7-10 Levhar, copy editor This year, Donna Klein Sports...........11-12 Jewish Academy’s 10th annu-
Volume II Issue II May 2014
Two nights of theater: Shrek the Musical steals the show By Eli Grabelsky
Senior Rebecca Fisher, sophomores Jonathan Abrahami and Jonathan Linz preform in this year’s musical. Photo: Jane Neubauer-Black
As the final song played at the end of the show, the faculty, students and parents in attendance rose in unison to clap for DKJA’s production of Shrek The Musical. The collective standing ovation by the crowd showed their great appreciation for the production. The show, the 11th for the DKJA drama department, was performed on Mar. 2 and 3 to mostly sold out auditoriums. This was no surprise to the DKJA drama department, as every previous play had also completely sold out. Shrek the Musical was directed by the head of the drama department, Zoraida
Adams. For the past 11 years, Adams has spearheaded the drama department at DKJA. Her previous experience in the field has allowed DKJA productions to succeed. She trail-blazed numerous productions for the DKJA theatre department including Peter Pan, Into the Woods, and Willie Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. Although Adams led the past productions, she had plenty of help. She solicited the help of the Zinman Hall tech Crew, and even some student directors from the high school, such as freshman Joseph Zeuner and sophomore Arianna Scho-
enwald. Other members of the drama staff included Charles Parker as the musical director, Prudence Croft as the costumer, Terri Samuels as the choreographer, and Teresa Sicre as the scenic designer and Painter. Everyone helped to produce a play that started auditions months prior in the fall school year. The entire crew practiced both during and after school. All of this was directed and coordinated by Adams, with staff and student helpers. Adams, along with the student directors, helped guide the student actors in Continued on Page 2
al Mitzvah Day was held on Sunday, Feb. 9, and over 700 volunteers showed up to participate in the day’s events. The day included a Breakfast Celebration for all the families in Zinman Hall from 9:30-10:30 a.m. From the Breakfast Celebration, volunteers left to go to their respective sites to begin doing their community service. The events ranged from binding damaged siddurim, to Paint Your Heart Out, to the Caring Kitchen, all in which students, parents, and faculty came together to help those in the community. At Paint Your Heart Out students and families painted the exterior of a house for an underprivileged family. This event was led by Dean of Students Ilana Joseph and her son, junior Marc Joseph. The students felt very involved in the program and many have shown interest in participating in the organization again. Marc Joseph said of the event, “The event was very fun and it was a great way to see the direct impact of your service.” Mitzvah Day is a crucial event for all DKJA families as it brings the school and the surrounding community together. It allows students to reach out to organizations and create relationships with them to understand others that live in our nearby community.
News Page 2 Shrek Cont’d Shrek the Musical. In particular, the four leads all had their moments while playing their parts well. Lead character Shrek and his wisecracking sidekick Donkey were played by sophomores Jonathan Abrahami and Jonny Linz, respectively. They were sent to rescue princess Fiona (senior Rebecca Fisher) by the
antagonist Lord Farquaad (8th grader Sammy Koolik). These four were joined in their adventure by other fairy tale creatures, such as Pinocchio, the three pigs and more, in the production. The cast members of the play spanned anywhere from 5th to 12th grade, with many in between. There was even a first grader, Jolie Reise, who won a spot in the play
through a school auction. Despite the age gap, students from lower, middle, and high school were able to work together in a cohesive manner to prepare for the theatric production. Shrek the Musical was the latest play put out by the DKJA drama department. Throughout the show, there were several moments of laughter and enjoyment for
the entire audience. Hopefully the future productions by Adams and the rest of the DKJA drama department continue to produce plays that give these amazing opportunities to the students and everyone else involved in the production. Since the finale, the audience has already begun to wonder which play Adams will choose to direct next year.
Motivational speakers from all walks of life educate Rosenblatt High School students By Joseph Zilonka
Inviting guest speakers to schools is a valuable way for students to connect with influential people who share their stories and ideas, and to get students thinking. This year, students had the chance to hear a diverse set of speakers, who touched on all aspects of life. Richard H. Bernstein, a lawyer who is currently a professor at the University of Michigan, spoke to students about his experience in law school, his participation in 17 marathons, and his completion of the Ironman
Triathlon, all of which he achieved despite being completely blind. He responded to students’ questions about blindness and how it has affected his marathons, education and profession. He was enthusiastic as he spoke and answered any questions the students had for him. Scott Fried, who speaks to teens across the country about his life, was diagnosed with HIV in 1987 and has since then openly discussed the virus and how he contracted it. During his speech, he explained that
he was picked on in schools for being homosexual, and how he turned his life around and went from being “scared to sacred.” Fried was very powerful in his speech and the students were able to connect with him. “I love speaking to teens across the country,” Fried said, “and, in fact, all over the world. It helps me to carry on the work and lessons of so many of my friends who died of AIDS in the 1980s and 1990s. I don’t want their lives and the lessons they learned to have been in vain.”
Free the Slaves Chapter raises awareness for Nigerian girls By Trevor Hier
Led by President Lori Hurwitz, The Free the Slaves Chapter used #BringBackOurGirls, an internationally trending “hashtag,” to help spread awareness regarding recently kidnapped Nigerian school girls. To the right is a collage of 25 students wearing navy, the color of the human trafficking ribbon, holding up a sign reading #BringBackOurGirls.
In the Pre-Med Club, students have heard doctors speak on many aspects of the medical field. Dr. Shari Topper, a local dermatologist, spoke about skin cancers and how using sunscreen can help protect against it. Another speaker, Dr. Albert Dabbah, spoke about his work and why he decided on the field of plastic surgery. After each of their speeches, students got a glimpse into the world of medicine and what it is like to be a doctor. During Hanukkah, 10th grade Judaic Studies classes got to hear from Mrs. Amy Pessah. A DKJA parent, she spoke, about how her husband’s family was saved during the Holocaust by a non-Jewish family, and how her husband, a doctor, met this family in Boca Raton years later while giving a physical to their grandson. She showed the students that life was full of miracles, revealed and hidden, and how hidden miracles can reveal themselves to the world when we least expect it.
Opinion Page 3
SeaWorld celebrity Tilikum enters a new, different spotlight The tragic killing of SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau by an orca in 2010 filled headlines nationally. Brancheau’s death brought major controversy and debate over the issue of the captivity of animals. Directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite, the documentary Blackfish provides a justification behind the death of Brancheau in 2010. One of the journalists in the film, Jane Velez-Mitchell, gives quite a simple answer, stating, “If you were in a bathtub for 25 years, don’t you think you’d get a little irritated, aggravated, maybe a little psychotic?” The film follows Tilikum, the orca who was accountable for Brancheau’s death.
Before Tilikum arrived at SeaWorld, he was responsible for the death of Sea Land of the Pacific (South Oak Bay, British Colombia) trainer Keltie Byrna, a 20-year-old part-time trainer. Witnesses state that the attack was random and aggressive. The following year, in 1992, Tilikum was purchased and moved to SeaWorld Orlando, FL. Sea Land of the Pacific, the film points out, coincidentally closed the same year as well. After Tilikum’s fatal attack on Brancheau, SeaWorld was hit with public debate regarding its treatment of whales and trainers. In response to the attack, the Occupation Safety & Health Review (OSHRC) enforced a regulation that prevented any
direct contact between the whales and trainers- a major part of the Shamu shows. In November, SeaWorld appealed to revoke this action. A final decision over this case has not yet been made. After the documentary was released this past July, controversy has been widespread. Several performers, including BareNaked Ladies, Willie Nelson, and Heart, all canceled their upcoming shows at SeaWorld in response to Blackfish. BareNaked Ladies explained through a website post on Nov. 27, “We’ve talked things over, and decided not to play at SeaWorld at this time . . . . this is a complicated issue, and we don’t claim to understand
all of it, but we don’t feel comfortable proceeding with the gig at this time.” In response to the controversy, SeaWorld made a formal public statement, stating, “Blackfish is billed as a documentary . . . the film is inaccurate and misleading and, regrettably, exploits a tragedy that remains a source of deep pain for Dawn Brancheau’s family, friends and colleagues . . . the film paints a distorted picture that withholds from viewers key facts about SeaWorld.” Both animal activists and the SeaWorld company have continued to defend their side to the story. However, it is up to us, the consumers to make the final call.
Even with a star-studded cast, The Monuments Men struggles to shine By Matthew Ribacoff
The Monuments Men, released Feb. 7 is the true story of an unlikely World War II platoon faced with the daunting task of retrieving and rescuing art masterpieces that have been stolen by the Nazis. On what is known as the greatest treasure hunt in history, this group of seven art experts must risk everything and travel behind enemy lines in order to save some of mankind’s most precious art pieces, including the Ghent altarpiece and the Bruges Madonna. While the movie boasts an impressive cast and an interesting new view of one of the most famous wars in history, The
ments Men still falls short in terms of plot and character development, resulting in its ultimate demise in the hopes of being a successful movie. The movie is written and directed by George Clooney, who also plays the role of Harvard art historian Frank Stokes. Stokes gathers up a group of six other art experts to join him, including James Granger (Matt Damon), Richard Campbell (Bill Murray), Walter Garfield (John Goodman), Preston Savitz (Bob Balaban), Donald Jeffries (Hugh Bonneville), and Jean Claude Clermont (Jean Dujardin). The men are also assisted by Claire Simone
(Cate Blanchett), an art curator and member of the French Resistance. Once in Europe, they split into teams to go in search of the missing treasure. While this is obviously a very impressive cast consisting of many Oscar and Academy Award winners, the movie fails to capitalize on this with its extreme lack of character development. Most of the characters get one big moment, but there isn’t really much more than that. Since the group of men are split up during a large portion of the film, it makes it even harder to learn more about each member and
become more emotionally attached to them. There is also very little backstory for each of them; the film delves no further than the fact that they have a profession involved in art and that some of them have families. This is a shame given how much potential the movie had with this lineup of actors. Overall, with its star lineup and exciting story premise, The Monuments Men had great potential to be a successful World War 2 movie. Unfortunately, the clunky storytelling and lack of character development render this movie a disappointment. Grade: C
Opinion Page 4
A brief history of why are not old enough to see that movie By Zachary Goldberg, Managing Editor Before the opening credits can roll and before the stars burst dramatically onto the screen, the Motion Picture Association of America must assign every film a rating of age appropriateness. But who or what is the MPAA, and why does such an organization exist in the first place? While the laws of free speech have protected books, newspapers, and other media in America for nearly the entirety of the country’s existence, movies were not always so fortunate. In 1915, the historic court case Mutual Film Corporation v. Industrial Commission of Ohio determined that the First Amendment to the United States Constitution did not, in fact, protect freedom of expression in film. In a 9-0 vote, the Supreme Court dismissed the case, saying, “The exhibition of moving pictures is a business…not to be regarded…as part of the press of the country, or as organs of public opinion.” Though the Court eventually overturned the case in 1952, the film industry experienced excessive developments in censorship in the decades between. In the early 1920s, Hollywood’s reputation was nothing to boast about. Celebrities were involved in a number of scandals. Famous incidents include Fatty Arbuckle’s rape and manslaughter trial, and the possibly accidental murder of Ziegfeld Girl Olive Thomas by her husband, Jack Pickford. Public sentiment toward the film industry suffered as a result of these episodes. Desperate to clean up the business’s image, fearful of government intervention, and eager to ensure financial stability, distributors recognized the need to act quickly. With these concerns in mind,
the major studios of the early twentieth century (Paramount, 20th Century Fox, Loews, Universal, Warner Bros., Columbia, United Artists, and RKO) came together and established the Motion Picture Producers and Distributers of America, an organization devoted to the self-censorship of films. In 1930, eight years after the association’s founding, the MPPDA established the Production Code. Conceived by Postmaster General William Hays, the code consisted of strict moral guidelines for the content of movies. Much to the studios’ relief, the code worked. Most theaters refused to screen films that did not receive the MPPDA’s stamp of approval. Audiences were satisfied with the newfound morality in films, and investors were consequently glad to continue spending. Still, religious organizations like the Catholic Legion of Decency dissuaded followers from attending films that it deemed immoral, and even encouraged boycotting certain movies like Miracle on 34th Street (1947) and Some Like It Hot (1959). Seeking to avoid boycotts, the MPPDA furthered its efforts and formed the Production Code Administration. Any film seeking distribution had no choice but to receive a stamp of approval from the PCA, or the producers of each film would be fined a hefty sum of $25,000. The production code enjoyed years of success, until a few movies turned Hollywood on its head. One of these movies was Paramount Pictures’ The Man with the Golden Arm, directed by Otto Preminger. Premiering in 1955, the film showed audiences a character using heroin. Though lacking approval from
the MPAA (the association was renamed the Motion Picture Association of America in 1945), the film was a smash hit. As tolerance among audiences grew, the MPAA frequently revised its parameters for the Production Code. One man in particular played a critical role in its restructuring. In 1968, Jack Valenti, former “special assistant” to President Lyndon B. Johnson, was named president of the MPAA. Once a decorated lieutenant in the United States Army Air Corps during WWII, Valenti was already a national hero. His commitment to Johnson and his ability to confidently negotiate with politicians contributed to his widespread respectability. Upon the insistence of Universal Pictures head Lew Wasserman, Valenti was brought in from Washington to reinvent how Hollywood conducted its content management. From the moment he began working in his new position, Valenti expressed deep contempt for the Hays Production Code. Indeed, filmmakers shared this sentiment, and had, by this point, produced several films with complete disregard for the code. Valenti recognized “the irresistible force of creators determined to make their films,” and also feared the possibility of government interference in the creation of movies. His solution revolutionized the production process by introducing a standardized film rating system, somewhat akin to the system we know today. The original ratings were as follows: G- “For general audiences.” M (later renamed “GP” and then “PG”)- “Suggested for Mature Audiences.”
R- “Under 17 Requires Accompanying Parent or Adult Guardian.” X- “No one under 17 admitted.” New ratings were introduced in accordance with changing times and necessity. When images of child slavery in Steven Spielberg’s 1984 film Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom horrified parents, the “PG-13” rating was born. The “X” rating, reserved for the most obscene films, for which nobody under the age of 17 was granted admission, garnered an infamous reputation in the public for being associated with unspeakable activities. The 1969 film Midnight Cowboy was bestowed with the “X” rating because of its homosexual subject matter, but has been retroactively given an “R” rating thanks to the MPAA’s expanded guidelines. The adult movie industry took a liking to the rating’s reputation and placed the “X” label on many of its films to stress their mature content, despite the fact that these films were not actually evaluated by the MPAA. Theaters resented any association with what they viewed as indecency, and so “X” was replaced with the currently used “NC-17” rating. Today, the MPAA is involved in more than just content regulation. Their top priorities include fighting film piracy, particularly online, and promoting positive relations between Hollywood and foreign markets. But even as it broadens the scope of its goals, the MPAA’s original objective remains unchanged: making sure you don’t see that movie that you’re not old enough to see.
Opinion Page 5
The distortion of the definition of the word celebrity in today’s society By Daniel Mantzoor
Most people would probably not be familiar with the name of any of the scientists working for American Association For Cancer Research, or even the name of just one United States general. Yet, it’s fairly easy for most to name an actor on that new television drama, or the newest hip-hop singer touring across Europe. For much of our history, celebrities have been singers, actors and actresses, professional athletes, dancers, and famous TV icons. Why aren’t people, who constantly help improve society, the role models we look up to? Jonas Salk, the man who discovered the first working Polio vaccine, is an example of one of the many important scientists that people seem to have forgotten. Granted,
his achievement was once majorly celebrated among the medical community and the rest of the world, but his massive contribution to society should be given significantly more recognition. People who truly deserve recognition don’t get it, for the most part. Often those who do get the fame and get it for their looks and in many cases, their provocativeness. Lately, the most popular celebrities have shared these traits for obtaining fame and success. The most well known people in this world are those we see on TV and in movies, singing, dancing, playing a sport, or showing off whatever other talent they have. Their talent is undeniable, but the fact that they get the majority of attention among
people and media is baffling. People today see celebrities as role models and give them their full attention. This generation often doesn’t stop to think about who should be the real shapers of society. The problem is mainly with the people, not the system. Our society often unintentionally ends up disregarding hard working individuals, and instead, gets excited over people performing on our screens. In addition, some of the world’s greatest revolutionary minds and leaders of the army and government are given considerably less media attention and financial benefits. Four-star general of the United States Army, David Petraeus, only made about a quarter of a million dollars annually for his ser-
Team Editors
Jonathan Hurwitz - Editor-In-Chief Lori Hurwitz - Editor-In-Chief Zachary Goldberg - Managing Editor Noa Levhar - Copy Editor Trevor Hier - Photo Editor Joseph Zilonka - Web Designer Michael Furst - Web Designer
Section Editors Donna Klein Jewish Academy 9801 Donna Klein Blvd. Boca Raton, FL 33428 t. 561-852-3300
We accept letters to the editor at: RosenblattTalon@gmail.com
Naomi Galel Eli Grabelsky Daniel Mantzoor Jordan Nakdimon Matthew Ribacoff Allison Sherman
vice. Although that is clearly above the average American’s income, compared to someone like Miley Cyrus, who holds a net worth of about $150 million, it isn’t nearly as exciting. It is a problem that a person who led the United States Army was making a fraction’s worth of a pop icon’s salary because of the level of his contribution to the government. It is in human nature that people choose to admire those who entertain rather than those who work specifically to change the world. Though the contributions are often given indirectly to people, it’s upsetting that the real heroes in society are typically forgotten. It’s a shame that many of the true shapers of our world so often go completely unnoticed.
Staff Writers
Adam Behmoiras Asher Gritz Nola Schwalb Jordyn Gelb Max Moed Daniella Wirtschafter Advisor: Mr. Cory Laub
Special thanks to:
Head of School Mrs. Karen Feller Principal Mrs. Helena Levine
RollerPosters.com The Behmoiras Family
Opinion Page 6
FACE-OFF Violent video games: Much ado about nothing The detrimental affects of violent video games By Jordan Nakdimon
By Daniella Wirtschafter
Recently, in the American Media, violent video games and the effect that they have on young minds have been discussed at length. They are often blamed for many tragedies, especially school shootings. In fact, some lobbies are pushing to ban violent games entirely. Lobbyists tend to use the argument that it is unfair to mold young people in violent environments, and that it stands to reason that they would be inclined to act more violently. However, this is a ridiculous notion, with a fundamental Graphic: Zachary Goldberg, Managing Editor background that could serve to be more significantly fluenced by games such as Too much of a good dangerous and harmful than these. Professor James Alan thing can be bad for you. other computer-generated Fox says no. Fox, an expert At first glance, video games killings. of criminology and murder, such as Call of Duty or An argument often used in claims that the use of violent Grand Theft Auto may seem favor of the banning of vio- video games was merely a harmless and entertaining. lent video games is the fact byproduct of his other un- However, they can be dethat studies have shown vio- derlying problems. He says structive in the long term. lent stimuli to cause adoles- that an obsession with vioThese games have a huge cents to act more violently. lent video games is a result impact on the way people Look at the box for a video of personal problems. For think and may even lead to that you deem unacceptable. example, in the case of Lan- more aggressive behavior. Do you see the little black za, it was an intense inability Numerous psycholog“M” in the bottom right to find a role in society, and ical experiments have corner? That “M” stands for social ineptitude that caused shown the negative ef“mature,” or “For Mature him to be so preoccupied fects of these games. Audiences.” It wasn’t meant with video games. The games In a 2012 study by Brad for impressionable minds. he chose to play had no af- Bushman, a professor of Once again, people refuse to fect on his actions; rather it communication and psytake responsibility. There are was his unbalanced brain. chology at Ohio State Uniso many parents who push As tragic as stories like this versity, 70 students were testfor the ban of violent stim- are, and as badly as we wish ed to examine the long-term uli, yet do not take the ini- to find a scapegoat for them, effects of violet video games. tiative to remove the games. it must be remembered: For During the span of three Common skeptics refer to every Adam Lanza, there are days, half the students played teen killers, such as Sandy millions of healthy, well-ad- violent video games such Hook shooter Adam Lanza, justed kids playing the same as Condemned 2 or Call of asking whether he was in- games with no violent results. Duty 4, while the other half
played nonviolent games, such as Dirt2 or Pure, for 20 minutes each day. Then the groups participated in two exercises that would measure their level of aggression. In one exercise, the students had to create their own ending for an unfinished story. For example, one had to decide how a driver would react after someone hit his car. Using this method, the researchers were able to assess the student’s number of violent responses. In the next, the participants took part in a competitive reaction time task on a computer where the winner blasted a sharp, unpleasant noise, such as nails on a chalkboard, into the loser’s headphones. The winner also decided its intensity and length. It was shown that those who had played the violent video games were the ones who demonstrated more aggressive behaviors during the experiments. They also had an increase in their violent expectations with each day. Conversely, “students who played the nonviolent games showed no changes in either their hostile expectations or their aggression,” according to Bushman. Although there is still some doubt about the direct correlation between video games and aggressive tendencies, there are numerous scientific studies that highlight violent video games’ potentially harmful repercussions.
Feature Page 7
An insight on student summer internships By Nola Schwalb
For students, choosing what to do with summer vacation is an important decision. There is an added stress to do something in the summer that would impress colleges. It is no longer as simple as going away to summer camp; there is also the aspect of wanting to do something that will highlight a student’s talents or aptitudes. One of the best ways to do that is to hold an internship. An internship is a type of apprenticeship in which a person can gain work experience, usually without pay. Not only do internships look great for college, but it’s something new to experience, and if a student interns at a place they may want to work one day, it may potentially turn into a full time job. Internships are mostly available to people in high school and college. In order for a student to apply for the right internship, it’s important to find something that interests them. It’s critical that the intership is also interesting to the student, otherwise they will become bored quickly. Internships aren’t always glamorous and enjoyable. Students should be prepared to do lots of busy work, minor tasks, and errands. During an internship, always remember that punctuality is key. Being on time is a representation of someone who is in charge of themselves and their responsibilities. One more thing to bear in mind is the fact that quality is always
better than quantity. Instead of carelessly rushing through every task, ask someone for feedback, and do a thorough job on every task. With that said, internships can be really fun as well. Students get to experience new and different things involved with in their internships in addition to the area (city, town, etc.) in which they are interning. Interns will find out what it is like to work, perhaps, for the occupation they consid- Graphic: www.rollins.edu er to be their “dream job.” Having an internship is an amazing opportunity to real- Bang head here: Constant stress in our lives ly experience a new environ- By Allison Sherman ment and a working lifestyle. Stress is a major factor in There is a certain stigma Getting the interships will most likely be competitive. the lives of the human race. in taking classes that are Students should make their People are stressed about not the most challenging, résumés as perfect and pre- things as small as whether thus making teens feel comcise as possible. It may be their socks match to things pelled to take the hardest helpful to go on websites that as big as being hired for a classes, resulting in an escan help create your résumé, job. It is human nature to calated amount of stress. “I don’t think there is such as www.resume.com. overcomplicate the simWhen creating a résumé, plest of things and to worry a time when I’m not stressed it’s important to include ev- about every detail. America out. It’s hard to try to balerything that could make a is a stressed out nation, and ance all of the work from student stand out, such as unfortunately, the up-and- all the different subjects,” great achievements, previ- coming generations are too. said Pamela Wolf, junior. Teenagers are pressured Dalton said, ous jobs, or extracurricular activities. People should by adults to take the most “In over twenty years of always keep in mind that vigorous classes, by friends working with teens I have it’s important to prove why to be hip, and by society to seen the stress for stuthey deserve the internship. stay up-to-date on the lat- dents rise to a new level.” Whether it is family, To find internships that est and greatest. Cynthia Dalton, psychotherapist for school, or friends everyone are accessible to high school students, speak to business- children and teens in Boyn- has something that causes es in nearby areas, talk to a ton Beach, has been working stress in their lives. Stress school counselor, or do some with teens for more than two is something that will reresearch online. Websites decades. She believes that, ally never go away. Therelike www.internships.com are “The increased level of aca- fore people must embrace a good place to start on the demics and the competitive it as a part of their lives search for internships that nature to get into college has and try their best to conare attainable for students. caused an increase in stress.” trol it in an efficient way.
Feature Page 8
An attempt to survive without a cellphone in a technology-based society By Pamela Wolf
Think about your cell phone, whether it’s an iPhone, Android, or any other style. Now think about how often you use it. Do you think you could live without it for a day? Consider how often you simply have it in your hand, even if you’re not using it. When asking 20 students how often they used their phone, 14 of them answered the same thing: “Every day.” Arianna Schonwald, a junior, said, when asked about her phone usage, “Very often, but only because I have a lot of friends, so I keep in touch with them.” A set of 12 different students, grades 10 and 11, were asked the same question, but this time via text message. Out of these, three people replied instantly, five others within 10 minutes, two others within an hour, and only four people did not respond at all. This shows
wwwwwwwww Tips can make
By Naomi Galel
that many teenagers tend to have their phones with them and are quickly able to respond at any given time. Today, most teenagers get their cell phone before high school. “I remember getting my first phone in 7th grade,” said Allison Sherman, junior. Sophomore Jonathan Abrahami was asked about his reaction when he recently got his first phone. He said, “It’s really cool, because it helps me keep in touch with people.” Though having a cellphone most of your life is common now, this was not the case with the faculty. Math teacher Alon Brodie said he only got his phone when he was 16, and back then they were much larger phones. History teacher Gary Friedman said that he got a phone when he was in college. In truth, he barely even uses it today. “I always turn it off when
I go to sleep,” he said, “and I never text anyone on it. I just don’t see a reason for it.” Sophomore Michael Gonzalez was given the challenge of whether or not he could go 24 hours without his phone. He relies on the device to call his parents and friends or to go on the Internet. Though he was at first hesitant, after much persuasion he took on what he called “a struggle.” Starting at 6:00 p.m. on Jan. 19, Gonzalez completely turned off his phone and kept it away from him at all times. He also turned off his iPad, disconnecting himself from the Internet. “It was really a struggle,” Gonzalez said, “When I first wake up, I usually go to my phone, but not that day.” Gonzalez explained that he did many things that he normally would not do. This mostly included watching television and even going out-
side for a bit. The worst part, he felt, was not being able to do things he would have always taken for granted. “I saw this really pretty sunset and I wanted to take a picture of it, but I couldn’t because I could not use my phone,” said Gonzalez. Finally, after what seemed to him like forever, he was rewarded with his phone back after his 24 hours of withdrawal, and got in a few precious night hours of texting before bed. From this challenge, Gonzalez has come to appreciate his phone and now feels that he may actually be able to handle not having his phone for a period of time. Students are so tied to their phones, and though it can often be difficult, sometimes it is nice to be able to completely unplug from our busy world. Do you think you can, too?
the stressful act of studying a more calming process
Testing and studying can be pretty stressful. Try taking some of that stress off with these helpful and easy tips. 1. Take a lot of short study breaks rather then a few long ones to help your mind remember the information. The brain can become overwhelmed when confronted with too much information at once. Breaking it up helps with taking
2. A study at University of Leicester in England revealed that students who studied from an electronic device were less likely to remember the information during a test.
body, but don’t over eat so so you can avoid tiredness. that the stomach is bloated. According to Dr. Douglas McKeag, exercising be5. Chewing gum while fore the test can hep blood studying or test taking can flow and increase alertness. help one stay on task and can improve memory. The Next time a big test or 3. According to studies at chewing motion allows huge assignment comes Cornell University, mint, blood to flow to the head and around, try to apply these lemon, and dark choco- thus causes better memory. tips to your regular studylate flavored candies iming habits. Rather than prove brain awareness. 6. Exercises such as run- trying to overload your ning before your test may brain, approach your as4. Eat a large enough break- help your brain to think signments with this advice fast that it will sustain the quicker, but don’t over do it to assure an efficent result.
Feature Page 9
Student Spotlight: The fifteen-year-old everything man, Joseph Zeuner By Allison Sherman
Students at Rosenblatt High School are always encouraged to be leaders and take extra steps for community. Freshman Joseph Zeuner has embraced these principles and is an integral part of the DKJA family. Zeuner has dedicated a lot of his time to the high school’s Drama and Technology departments. He enjoys playing tennis, working with computers, and student directing for the drama department. At the end of the summer and before the start of the school year Zeuner, along with sophomore Joseph Zilonka and the school’s Technology Department set up the computers in the school as well as the LearnPads, a tablet used in the fourth grade classrooms and the library, and the classroom iPads. At the end of
the school year he also helps with the process of disabling and shutting down the school computers. He is a member of the Student Leadership Lighthouse Committee (SLLC) and the Thespian Society and is the historian for the Anti-Defamation League No Place for Hate Club. As a member of the SLLC, Zeuner organizes leadership activities in the school, such as Leadership Day and the community service thermometer, which measures the number of hours the students at the high school have completed. As historian, he keeps a record of the club’s events, activities and meetings. The club organizes schoolwide activities to spread the ADL’s mission, to combat and spread awareness of anti-Semitism and bullying. On the high school Shabbaton in Au-
gust the club organized a flash freeze on City Walk at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. High school students wore ADL T-shirts and handed out flyers to educate people about the organization. Zeuner is not only involved in clubs, but also he played a significant role in this year’s school production of Shrek The Musical. Joseph worked as the assistant student director along with
Aaron Fils, freshman, Lindsey Kornblau, sophomore, and Arianna Schonwald, junior, under the guidance of Drama Department head Mrs. Zoraida Adams. As student director, Zeuner scheduled and ran rehearsals, did paperwork for the play, created playbills, and made advertisement posters. Zeuner is a role model for teens and a prime example of a child destined to go far in his life.
Joseph Zeuner works the control panel in the Zinman Hall technical room. Photo: Zachary Goldberg
A unique pair: The Jewish people and Roman Catholicsm’s Pope Francis By Asher Gritz
According to a World Jewish Congress Article, on Jan. 16, Pope Francis hosted a kosher lunch with 15 Jewish leaders from his native Argentina. The lunch was held at the Vatican’s Santa Marta guesthouse. He conveyed to the attendees that he hoped the meeting would strengthen the ties between the two religions. Pope Francis’ election on Mar. 13 of last year opened the Church to greater ties with the Jewish people and has
led to a unique relationship. Pope Francis was recently reported saying that he will reveal the actions of Pope Pius XII by opening the archives of the Vatican. The Sunday Times of the UK reports that he is prepared to disclose information about Pope Pius XII, who has been criticized for remaining silent during the Holocaust. The Pope’s relationship with the Jews goes back to his home country of Argentina, where he report-
edly had good connections with the Jewish community. Rabbi Abraham Skorka, director of the Seminario Rabinico Latinoamericano, a seminary in Buenos Aires, has been a close friend of Pope Francis for over 20 years now. The two have even written a book, On Heaven and Earth, together, and have hosted a TV show together promoting interfaith dialogue and relations. Continuing his support for interfaith relations, Pope
Francis’s first act as Pope was sending a letter to Rome’s Chief Rabbi, Riccardo di Segni. The letter expressed the hope to strengthen ties between the Jewish people and the Catholics. In addition, Francis has continued exchanging emails with Skorka on a weekly basis. With a strong continuing friendship, Pope Francis will also continue to be considered an honored Catholic leader and strong friend of the Jewish people.
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National bullying epidemic more than just a school problem By Max Moed
At DKJA, the Anti-Defamation League Club members are trained to recognize and diminish bullying. One way they did this was by creating the Shalom wall in the school that expresses the negative aspects of bullying and that working together is key. ADL teaches that anyne can become a victim of bullying. One surprising, but very serious, example comes from the Miami Dolphins bullying scandal that took place during the 20132014 NFL season. The events began on Oct. 30, when Dolphins left tackle Johnathan Martin left the team’s training facilities after an incident in the lunch room in which his teammates, lead by lineman Richie Incognito, switched tables after he sat down. Af-
ter this, a number of investigations about the team’s locker room atmosphere broke out. The investigations dealt with the team’s morals, leadership, and other incidents that occured during the Outside Training Activities. As evidence showed, reporters and analysts of the NFL learned that Martin’s incident was caused by bullying. During early November the Dolphins found out that the bullying, included inappropriate remarks about his family, derogatory name calling, and racial slurs directed toward Martin. The Dolphins suspended Incognito for his off-the-field actions without pay. During this time, Martin returned home to California, and waited for the investigation rulings, while Incognito served
his suspension, without pay, for the four games allowed. The National Football League did not sit idly by. They opened a private investigation to understand what the atmosphere in the locker room was like. The outcome was that, Martin was a victim of bullying. Incognito was soon released from the
Dolphins. Martin has since then been traded to the San Francisco 49ers with a new start in mind, while Incognito is still a free agent. As taught by the ADL club, bullying, we see, can be a factor on every level. In addition, it also ultimately results in long-lasting affects for both the victim and the bully.
The ADL club holds up the “No Place for Hate” sign at their final presentation. Photo: Jane Neubauer-Black
An immediate relief for parents sending their kids to school on buses By Max Moed
The Folsom Cordova Unified School District in Folsom, CA, comprised of 32 different schools, is quite unique. They have spent over a quarter of a million dollars on a system that will enable parents to track their children’s buses via GPS. Parents in the district will now be able to confirm that their child has gotten on the bus, and then arrives at school. Each vehicle has a tracking system installed in it to allow parents to follow them live; students must swipe their bus pass or tick-
et before they take their seat to prove that they entered the bus, and again in order to depart from the bus and go to school or home. The district has 78 buses, each with a tracking device and a card scanner to check that the student is present. When Stephen Nichols, a representative of the school district, was asked about the new technology by Fox News Sacramento’s Marin Austin, he replied, “I think in the info age parents want to know where their kids are at all times. We can find that
info for them much quicker.” This technology gives parents an extra sense of comfort for parents. Before the installation of the GPS system, parents of the county made it known to the school district that they wanted to know when their children arrived at school. The program is becoming popular throughout the country, and more districts are beginning to integrate tracking systems. One of these districts, the Durham Public School District, uses the same GPS technology.
The system is constructed by Synovia Solutions, a transportation software company based in Indianapolis. The Denver Public School District uses similar technology known as the “+ Pass.” The system is also used to maintain proper idling times when the buses are in use, so schools can save fuel, money, and have safer and more efficient ways to get children to school on time. Durham’s contract with Synovia allows them to lease the product for $10,000 per month for the next five years.
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Sports and Judaism: Jewish celebrities flourish in the athletic world By Adam Behmoiras
‘Sports superstar’ may not be the first thing that comes to mind when discussing famous Jewish celebrities, but throughout history, there have been many famous Jewish athletes, coaches, executives, and sport broadcasters. Here are some highlights of Jews participating in professional sports in America. Sandy Koufax Koufax is a former American baseball player. From 19551966, was a left-handed pitcher for the Brooklyn and Los Angeles Dodgers. His career achievements include four World Series titles, three Cy Young Awards (the best pitcher in the National League), four no-hitters, a perfect game, and three Triple Crowns, which is an award an award or honor for winning a group of three important events in a conference, in only six seasons. His decision not to pitch Game 1 of the 1965 World Series because it fell on Yom Kippur received national attention, an example of conflict between professional pressures and personal religion. Barney Ross Ross was an American professional boxer in three weight classes. In 81 total matches, he won 74, 22 by knockout. Ross’ father was a Talmudic scholar and a rabbi. During World War II, he expressed his thoughts about Hitler and Nazi Germany in several conferences and public speech-
es, and was considered an American Sports Hero. Brad Ausmus Ausmus was a catcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers from 1993-2010. In the summer of 2013, the Detroit Tigers hired him as their new manager. He was introduced into the Jewish Sports Hall of Fame in 2004. Ausmus also managed the Israeli Baseball National Team in 2012 in the 2013 World Baseball Classic. Amar’e Stoudemire Stoudemire currently plays basketball for the New York Knicks. He did not know that he was Jewish before joining the NBA. His parents did not tell him, nor were they really aware of it. Amar’e Stoudemire won the 2003 NBA Rookie of the Year award with the Phoenix Suns. In 2010, Stoudemire made it a goal “to get a better understanding of [his] heritage.” In addition, Amar’e continues to learn about the Torah and Jewish customs when he is in Israel. For the 2013 Maccabiah Games, he served as an assistant head coach for the Canadian basketball team. Shimon Peres, who is Israel’s president, asked Stoudemire to join the Israeli national basketball team. Omri Casspi Casspi was the first Israeli-born man to join the NBA, followed by Gal Mekel. Casspi grew up in Holon, Israel and plays the small
Jewish American athletic celebrties: Baseball player Sandy Kofax and Boxer Barney Ross. Photo: www. wikipedia.com forward position. He played professionally in Israel prior to entering the NBA. He was drafted in 23rd overall in 2009 by the Sacramento Kings and was selected to the NBA All-Rookie Team. He currently plays for the Houston Rockets. Sage Rosenfels Rosenfels is a retired NFL quarterback. He played with five NFL teams after being drafted in 2001 by the Washington Redskins. He was a two-year starter in college for the Iowa State Cyclones. In college, Rosenfels led the team to the Insight.com Bowl in Phoenix, Arizona and helped them win the program’s first bowl game. Ryan Braun Ryan Braun is a right fielder for the Milwaukee Brewers. He has multiple career accomplishments including winning the National
League MVP in 2011 and the NL Rookie of the Year in 2007. Many of Braun’s relatives were lost during the Holocaust. Braun is “extremely proud to be a role model for young Jewish Kids” and it “is something” he “is really proud of.” Braun is the 4th Jewish figure to ever win a MLB MVP award, and the first in almost 50 years since Sandy Koufax won this it in 1963. Marc Trestman Trestman is currently the head coach of the Chicago Bears. He attended the University of Minnesota and coached two college teams, ten NFL teams, and one Canadian Football League team. Before joining the Bears, he was the first Canadian Football coach to win back-to-back Grey Cups in 2009 and 2010. He was also named the CFL Coach of The Year in 2009.
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Middle School Boys’ Basketball Team’s success leads to them to the Semi-Finals By Jordan Nakdimon
On Feb. 22, the DKJA Middle School boys basketball team, riding high on the momentum of an 11-1 record, played a quarterfinal game against fierce rivals Hillel of North Miami. Led by 8th grade guards Adam Salama and Jake Dable, the Eagles won the game decisively, with a final score of 52-45. As evidenced by Salama’s eight points in the fourth quarter, the Eagles never took their foot off the pedal, playing hard until the final buzzer. Salama had 20 points total, while Dable had 17. Dable served as their first half scoring leader with 14 of his points coming before the half. Following the big win against Hillel, the Eagles played in the semifinals against the top seed in
the division, the number one ranked ACES Charter School. On a late-winter afternoon in Aventura, two powerhouse programs faced off, the winner advancing to the championship round. After a 12-1 record, the Eagles were unable to pull off the upset in this one, despite great effort from all members of the team. Eighth grade forward Jake Cohen, who was the main scoring threat in this game, led them. “It was a great season overall,” said Cohen, “Even though we lost in the semi [finals] against ACES, we had a great record and I’m really proud of my friends and teammates. Coach Ben did a great job in making us better teammates that work together.” It was this sense of
DKJA middle school boys’ basketball pose for their team shot for the 2014 season. Photo: David Trell communal responsibility, along with team wins, and, by extension, team losses, that made this team as successful as it was. Raw skill can only get you so far, and it is up to the players to do the rest. A 12-2 record is an excellent one, one that can only be achieved through hard work and dedication. Under the lead of Coach Ben
A fond farewell to the President of the Board, Lesley Zafran The Talon would like to express its best wishes to Lesley Zafran, outgoing president of the Donna Klein Jewish Academy Board of Trustees. Mrs. Zafran’s service to the school and her support of the Leader In Me program have been transformative, and her commitment to guiding the students, especially the seniors, has been appreciated by all. She and her husband, Dr. Bruce Zafran, advanced two children through DKJA’s Rosenblatt High School, Alexander (’09), a recent graduate of The George Washington University, and Emma, a 2013 graduate currently studying at Tufts University. Our publication, and the school as a whole, sends Mrs. Zafran its greatest thanks, and best wishes in all her future endeavors.
-The Talon
Bridges and the 8th graders playing in their last season of Middle School Basketball, they were able to achieve this leadership, and therefore played well. The 8th graders will try their luck with the high school basketball program next year, and of course the returning 7th graders now have a legacy to protect: a legacy of teamwork.