April 2022 Nisan 5782
H A F T R Happenings HIGH SCHOOL
Years later, Coach Wiener’s mentorship still guides our efforts. This year, that experience continued with our coach, Mr. Joey Hoenig, HAFTR Director of Athletics, and Assistant Coach Ms. Ilona Diamond.
HAFTR Hawks Win! By: Ruthee Rosner, Senior I started to play basketball in sixth grade on HAFTR Middle School’s Varsity team, which was coached by Mr. Neil Wiener. Coach Wiener’s determination, skills, commitment, drive, patience, and encouragement carried my teammates and me through the next six years, which made us the basketball players we are today.
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After a year without sports due to COVID, the entire team was even more determined to take full advantage of the basketball season. From the first day of practice, we were committed to winning the championship title. All of our hard work led us to this final competition, held on Monday, March 14. Prior to the game, the entire high school participated in a pep rally, which was led by our coaches. At the rally, the school cheered as coaches introduced each player on the team and shared words of support and encouragement. The energy in the room was electric and pushed us toward the big game. Later that evening, the team boarded the bus, and students followed on fan buses as we all headed to North Shore Hebrew Academy High School’s gym, where we went head to head against the SKA Sonics.
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Moments before the game, our team met in the locker room, where our coaches reflected on our amazing season and expressed their love and gratitude for being given the opportunity to train our team. As we stepped onto the court, the excitement was palpable and the energy was invigorating. HAFTR’s spirit was bursting around the room, with everyone waving pom-poms, popping confetti poppers, and wearing HAFTR apparel. This helped to create the perfect atmosphere driving my teammates and me to a strong victory with the final score being 49 HAFTR Hawks to 34 SKA Sonics. The day after our win, the celebration continued as the entire school joined on the front lawn and was treated to ice cream and music. During the festivities, the team was put in the spotlight and was given special recognition from everyone. This was an excellent way to end the basketball season, and for the five seniors on the team, an unforgettable way to end our high school basketball careers. Thank you to everyone who has supported the team; LET’S GO HAWKS!
High School Programming
February 2022
BOYS' SHABBATON By: Corey Listman, Senior
This past Shabbos, Parshat Tetzaveh, HAFTR High School boys attended a Shabbaton that surpassed everyone's expectations. The weekend was packed with fun, learning, singing, and bonding. The theme for the Shabbaton was kesharim, connections. Throughout Shabbos, students worked on developing kesharim with Hashem, Rebbeim, and friends. As a high school senior, I recognize that I may not have an opportunity to spend time with my friends and teachers in this way again, which made the moments of the Shabbaton even more special. For me, the most meaningful part of the Shabbaton was the time I was able to spend with my Rebbeim. Getting to speak with them outside of the classroom and getting advice for my year in Israel was invaluable. The programming began on Friday morning, February 11, when the boys boarded the buses and headed to Chelsea Piers. Everyone rushed to their favorite activities, like intense intramurals of basketball, football, soccer, and batting practice in the batting cages. Afterward, we headed to the Doubletree Hotel in New Jersey where we spent the rest of our time. All 120 students ushered in Shabbos with nostalgic tunes during davening, energetic dancing, and ruach. Following a delicious Seudah, the faculty facilitated an entertaining and exciting game involving Rebbeim and students testing each other's knowledge of one another. The game gave students a chance to show off their knowledge about each other, and gather memorable trivia about their teachers. It was a huge hit and had everyone engaged and overcome with moments of uncontrollable laughter. Following the game, we enjoyed a magnificent tish with zemiros and beautiful nigunim. Many students stayed in the dining room late into the night enjoying conversation with our Rebbeim and getting to know them on a new level. These moments were some of the most enjoyable parts of the Shabbaton.
Shabbos day began with davening, followed by an array of delicious food, intense games of ping pong and learning. Amidst this jam-packed shabbos, the senior boys had a unique opportunity to have a question and answer session with alumni Jake Greenberg and Daniel Greenfield. Students were able to ask them about their experiences since graduating from HAFTR. It was helpful to get advice about Yeshiva in Israel as well as our next steps after high school. Shabbos ended with a beautiful musical Havdalah. The room was filled with everyone dancing and singing, trying to hold on to the last moments of Shabbos, not wanting it to end. Before returning home, we headed to High Exposure Rock Climbing, Ninja Warrior and Parkour, another indoor adventure park, where the guys tested their fear of heights and strength. Everyone had a blast! This Shabbaton was the perfect start to the final semester of school. It created so much simcha and achdus throughout the grades. This Shabbaton is one we will never forget; the spirit of this weekend will undoubtedly carry us through the rest of the year.
Alumni Jake Greenberg and Daniel Greenfield joined us for Shabbos, giving students the opportunity to ask about their experiences since graduating from HAFTR and offer helpful advice about Yeshiva in Israel as well as our next steps after high school.
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BY: DANIELLA HOFFMAN, JUNIOR
For the first time since before the pandemic, HAFTR High School held a girls’ Shabbaton. On the morning of Friday, March 11, over 170 girls boarded the coach buses and embarked on their fun-filled weekend. The first stop was a snow tubing adventure at CampGaw Mountain in New Jersey. The girls spent an hour snow tubing and then went to Urban Air, a trampoline park. Both activities gave teachers and students a unique experience to bond and build relationships while having a fun time with their friends. After an exhilarating afternoon, it was time to get ready for Shabbos at the DoubleTree Hotel. The girls ushered in Shabbos with pre-Shabbos pictures, candle lighting, and davening. As Shabbos continued, so did the thoughtful and entertaining programming. Between the inspiring shiurim, hysterical skits performed by the teachers, game shows, and meals, the girls were able to connect in very meaningful ways with their friends and teachers. The theme of the Shabbaton was kesharim, connections. This idea was palpable through the stimulating shiurim, engaging activities, and shared meals where students sat with their Morot, Rebbeim, and their families.
FOLLOW THE FUN
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As Shabbos came to an end, the seniors led the rest of the students in a beautiful ebbing. Songs and the voices of HAFTR girls filled the room. This was followed by a musical havdalah, after which the girls ventured to their next adventure: in-door rock climbing at High Exposure Rock Climbing in Northvale, New Jersey. With fun music and crazy heights, everyone had a great time.
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The Shabbaton was unforgettable, and the perfect way to build kesharim with friends, teachers, Morot and Rebbeim. Thank you to all of the faculty and administration who spent Shabbos with us, and a very special thank you to Mrs. Alyssa Schechter and Ms. Ilona Diamond for organizing this fantastic weekend. We can’t wait for next year!
SHAB BATON
ROSH CHODESH ADAR BET AT HAFTR By: Eva Czegledi, Junior
ANYTHING BUT A BACKPACK In honor of Rosh Chodesh Adar Bet, HAFTR High School students participated in fun activities to get into the Purim spirit. Adar is a particularly joyous time, and HAFTR students had the opportunity to dive into the excitement with two days of unique activities. On Thursday, March 3, students dressed up in clothing from different eras. Each grade was assigned a specific decade to represent, and nostalgic outfits could be seen in the halls. The freshmen wore 1990s inspired attire, sophomores wore dapper clothing from the 1950s, juniors dressed up in funky clothes from the 1970s, and seniors decked out in clothes from the 1980s. Faculty joined the trend and wore clothing to represent colonial times. It was such a fun experience for students and teachers to rummage through their wardrobes and find styles that could fit their particular decade. The festivities continued on Friday, March 4, with “Anything But a Backpack Day,” a day designated for students and teachers to bring an alternate version of a backpack to carry their books. Students and faculty were very creative with this, some rolling their books in baby strollers, crates, bicycles, and even trash cans. These two days were the perfect way to bring in the spirit of Purim. Everyone could feel the excitement permeating the building, and students are eager to continue celebrating Adar Bet!
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HAFTR High School students helped children get one step closer to going to camp this summer. On Thursday, March 31, HAFTR students participated in a bowl-a-thon to help raise money for The Camp Scholarship Fund. The Camp Scholarship Fund is an organization that helps provide financial support to families in an effort to send their children to camp. The organization creates fundraisers of all kinds, including 5k Color Runs, Tehilim-a-thons, bake sales and, of course, bowl-athons. Participants enjoyed food, bowling, time with friends, and the understanding that they were helping kids go to camp. HAFTR students were joined by their amazing teachers, Rebbeim, and many of the faculty’s children. The event was a fun and successful way to raise funds for deserving families. Thank you to everyone involved, and especially our director of Student Life, Mrs. Schechter, who put this event together. The bowla-thon was not only an opportunity for students to help those in need, but also a program that reflected the unity and friendships within our school.
PURPLE DAY AT HAFTR HIGH SCHOOL BY: ANDREW BERGER, JUNIOR
AWARENESS OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Purple Day at HAFTR High School was a huge success! Purple Day is dedicated to bringing awareness to the issue of domestic violence in our community. The day comprised two goals: to educate the student body about these significant issues and to fundraise for a lifesaving organization dedicated to this cause. Both of these objectives went extremely well. To help with this task, HAFTR teamed with Shalom Task Force, an organization whose purpose is to promote healthy relationships and combat domestic violence. On Wednesday, March 9, students were encouraged to wear purple to help them get into the mindset of the day. During first period, students were shown a video prepared by Shalom Task Force. The video was created to help spread awareness about domestic abuse, as well as the work that Shalom Task Force does. Following the video, students engaged in meaningful discussions pertaining to the message of the film. Throughout the day students were able to purchase donuts, as well as raffle tickets for great prizes as a way to raise money for this organization. By the end of the day, students and faculty raised over $900 for Shalom Task Force and had a better understanding of healthy dynamics and relationships. It was great to see so many students supporting this cause, both through their donations, and their purple apparel!
STUDENTS FUNDRAISE FOR THIS LIFESAVING ORGANIZATION
SHARSHERET DAY
AT HAFTR HIGH SCHOOL By: Michelle Kirschner, Senior
WITH THE RIGHT ATTITUDE, AN INDIVIDUAL CAN ACCOMPLISH ANYTHING
There was a special buzz of energy when roaming the halls of HAFTR High School last week. Walking through the building on Wednesday, February 9, pink streamers, balloons, and signs in support of breast cancer awareness could be seen decorating the walls. All of this was in recognition of Sharsheret, which is an amazing Jewish organization for individuals who have, or are at risk of having, breast and ovarian cancer. This organization provides support for those who have been affected by this disease and is a security blanket for these individuals. Facing these ailments is extremely daunting, and having an organization like Sharsheret helps these individuals have a positive outlook on the disease they face and gives them hope. Between classes, students participated in activities and worked on fundraising for the organization. Students sold doughnuts, masks, lemonade, ice cream, and raffle tickets with many prizes. The raffle was an unbelievable expression of unity in that business owners throughout the area came together to contribute to this incredible cause, as did HAFTR students. In addition to fundraising, the girls engaged in an informative and empowering speech by Renee Exelbert. Not only did Mrs. Exelbert share her story, but she answered questions that our students had. She discussed the difficulties she faced while undergoing treatment and how that affected her and her family. Mrs. Exelbert demonstrated the importance of being honest with oneself, and that with the right attitude, an individual can accomplish anything. Sharsheret Day was a huge success, which is thanks to our student body, staff, and community. A special thank you to Nancy Cohen, the Long Island program coordinator for Sharsheret, and Mrs. Alyssa Schechter, director of Student Life, for organizing the entire Sharsheret Day.
HAFTR HIGH SCHOOL EXPERIENCE FOR CLASS OF 2026 BY: RACHEL CZEISLER, JUNIOR
HAFTR High School hosted the HAFTR Experience, an event for the incoming freshman class of 2026. This program gave prospective students a glimpse into what high school life is like here at HAFTR. On Wednesday, February 23, students and faculty welcomed eighth grade students from many different schools and backgrounds and introduced them to the daily routine of HAFTR High School students. The morning began with opening remarks from our Principal, Ms. Naomi Lippman, who welcomed the eighth graders and spoke to them about the many unique qualities that HAFTR has to offer. Ms. Lippman spoke of the warm, inclusive environment and the high level of academic excellence of our students. Ms. Lippman highlighted the long-lasting and meaningful friendships that students have with each other, as well as the connections between students and teachers. Following Ms. Lippman’s words were speeches from our Associate Principal, Dr. Josh Wyner, and Dean of Judaic Studies, Rabbi Riselsheimer. The incoming freshmen were then placed into groups, and each was assigned to a designated high school student and teacher to lead them through the rest of the program. The groups circulated around the school and participated in mini-lessons presented by Limudei Kodesh and Humanities teachers,
which helped them get a feel of the daily high school schedule. There were also many fun activities that gave students a sense of HAFTR’s energized spirit. The girls had the opportunity to create vision boards in the auditorium, while the boys engaged in a team-building exercise in the gym. Through the rest of the day, the 8th graders had the chance to get to know many high school teachers and students, and experience the welcoming environment that permeates HAFTR High School. While walking through the halls, there was a palpable buzz among students and faculty alike. High school students proudly showed 8th graders the highlights of the building and introduced them to many of their future upperclassmen. Julian Schneider, Shiri Cohen, and Eric Garbulsky, all students from different elementary schools planning to attend HAFTR next year, shared their thoughts of the day; Julian Schneider, who enjoyed roaming the halls of his future school, said, “Everything was so well organized and the school was really well prepared.” Shiri Cohen, who especially enjoyed the vision board activity, said, “I had so much fun making vision boards and playing sports in the gym!” A lasting thought from Eric Garbulsky: “I really enjoyed being able to get a preview of what my next four years are going to look like.” Everyone here at HAFTR took tremendous pride in welcoming these students, and we all look forward to seeing them next year!
TECH NEWS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS STRESS IMPORTANCE OF POSITIVE USE OF TECHNOLOGY By: Dasi Well, Sophomore
At HAFTR High School there is an emphasis on utilizing technology to its fullest while being mindful of maintaining a healthy balance of internet use and engaging in real-life experiences. As a special treat, representatives from the 10th and 11th grades visited HAFTR Middle School’s sixth graders on Wednesday, February 16, to discuss how technology can be utilized for positive purposes. The activity was part of a larger program held that week in the high school, which was devoted to mental and physical health awareness. Juniors Rebecca Dagan, Ariana Haft, Jamie Kornblum, and Rachel Wenger, and sophomores Abbi Kammerman, Bailey Levine and I worked alongside Associate Principal Dr. Wyner, school psychologist Dr. Klestzick, and school social worker Mr. Hirt in creating this program. The high school students met with the sixth graders to discuss five points to be mindful of when engaging in technology, namely balance, information, engagement, inclusion, and being alert. They also presented different optical illusions, images that can trick the eye and be seen in different ways, to demonstrate how not everything is always as it seems. The high schoolers related this to social media and presented ways to ensure that it is used in a positive way. After the high school students’ presentation, the middle schoolers were asked to create posters highlighting a lesson they learned from the program. The upperclassmen enjoyed sharing these messages, ones they wished they had heard when they were younger, and the sixth graders walked away with new ideas on how to best employ technology.
HEALTH WEEK
AT HAFTR HIGH SCHOOL By Amanda Ehrenhaus, Junior
Mental health awareness is an extremely important topic for high schoolers. Every student, no matter how much work or free time they have, experiences some sort of stress and anxiety. It can vary from triggers like homework, college decision-making, extracurriculars, family dynamics, or social issues. Health Week, which was held at HAFTR High School from February 14 through February 18, was an excellent way for students to learn about ways to cope with any stress or hardship they may experience. HAFTR recognizes the importance of raising awareness of these issues and coordinated an entire week filled with fun and educational activities. The week started out with all students wearing green in honor of Mental Health Day. This day allowed students to show their support and awareness of mental health. Following that, there were Zumba classes for the girls and self-defense classes for the boys as a way to show students how they can incorporate these physical activities into their everyday lives. These programs also informed students of the importance of physical health. Dancing, as well as karate, are outlets for emotional expression, stress reduction, and creativity. Students learned that these activities provide enormous benefits, like stress relief and a way to channel energy in a positive way, especially during stressful situations. In addition to the health benefits, these routines are also a way to bond with peers. The week continued with representatives from the high school traveling to the middle school to coach 6th graders on the topics they learned throughout the week. The high schoolers focused their discussions on the impact technology has on mental health, and mentored students about the positive ways they can balance technology in their lives. In addition to this special school visit, there was an array of programming as the week continued, with each program designed to discuss a specific element of adolescent health. The week ended when students were addressed by Mrs. Gila Glassberg, a registered dietician, who discussed healthy eating, body image concerns, diet culture, and other related topics. She offered genuine advice to students on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, advice that will certainly help students as they continue through the rigors of high school. This week was an excellent opportunity for students to learn about the importance of mental health and the ways we can promote it on a daily basis. Programs like these not only encourage mental health but help create a sense of community and family within our school.
LUNCH BUDDIES By: Michelle Kirschner, Senior
This past week, student members of HAFTR High School’s Chesed Club took part in a new program with Kulanu called “Lunch Buddies.” Lunch Buddies is a program where students at HAFTR High School are paired with students from Kulanu and spend their lunch periods together on a weekly basis. Students from both schools spend their time talking about their likes, interests, hobbies, and families. This is a special opportunity for both HAFTR and Kulanu students, allowing them to expand their relationships with individuals who are different from themselves. Students at HAFTR value this experience and aspire to serve as role models to help Kulanu students, and themselves, learn to socially engage with others in a new way. The quality time these students spend together creates an environment of warmth and inclusivity while also teaching students sensitivity and leadership skills. This program will not only foster positivity among students, but help all of the students involved to develop their understanding of others, and how to engage with a variety of people. This program is an amazing experience for all, and we hope that the HAFTR and Kulanu students will form lasting relationships throughout the school year and beyond.
Upcoming Chesed Opportunity Volunteer at Kulanu's Annual Community Fair on May 15!
Senior Winter Trip By: Sophia Green, Senior
As a special treat, students in HAFTR High School’s senior class went on a winter trip to Launch Trampoline Park and Area 53 for a fun-packed day. Following davening on Thursday, February 3, students headed to Queens, where the adventure began. The first stop was Launch Trampoline Park, where students engaged in various sports, all played on trampolines, such as an American Ninja Warrior Course, dodgeball, foam pits, rock climbing, basketball, gymnastics, and a joust-like balance beam. Throughout the morning, students made new memories and created moments with friends they will never forget. The trip not only gave students a chance to have fun, but gave them the opportunity to interact with friends in a new way, as well as get to know students they had not truly connected with before.
After some time, students embarked on the second half of the trip, which was held in Area 53. The next few hours were filled with group laser tag, pool, foosball, air hockey, basketball, and other activities. In between the games and competition, students enjoyed pizza, french fries and delicious snacks. Lunch was just what everyone needed before heading off to what would become a truly memorable night: a trip to the Barclays Center to watch the HAFTR Hawks boys’ and girls’ varsity basketball teams compete against Yeshiva of Flatbush High School. The seniors, joined by the rest of HAFTR High School, wore their best HAFTR apparel, and cheered on the players while enjoying the games. It was thrilling to watch HAFTR players compete at the home of the Brooklyn Nets, and witness their incredible athleticism. The entire day was a unique way to join together before the rigor of classes resumed, and we look forward to sharing in many more events like this to come.
Mock Trial Wins Preliminary Rounds of Tournament By: Stephanie Marcus, Sophomore While HAFTR High School has held Model Congress, Debate, and other academic extracurricular competitions throughout the winter, the Mock Trial official tournament has just begun. In December, The New York State Bar Association distributed case law to all of the schools participating in this year’s Mock Trial tournament. After long hours of practice and preparation, the schools have now begun to compete against each other, persuading a judge to rule in favor of their side: guilty or not guilty. This year's case is a Ponzi scheme where the prosecution must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that the defendant engaged in conspiracy in the fifth degree, as well as securities fraud. Schools have been preparing for months, training students to not only understand their side of the case but to be able to dispute any opposing ideas. Both preliminary rounds were held on February 10 and February 16; schools like HAFTR that have accumulated enough points from winning their trials will move on.
ACADEMIC TEAMS WINTER ROUND-UP Although many teams have been eliminated from the competition, the HAFTR Mock Trial team not only can boast its advancement in the upcoming trials but remains undefeated, winning both rounds. In order to ensure that HAFTR brings another win, students and coaches continue to participate in Zoom sessions three times a week. Even outside of these scheduled Zoom calls, students have been devoting time and effort to the team. HAFTR’s first win was for the prosecution and was played against South Side High School, a public school in Rockville Centre; their second, a win for the defense, was against St. Dominic’s High School, a private school in Oyster Bay. Coaches for HAFTR include Hon. Justice of New York State Supreme Court Queens County David Kirschner; Principal Law Clerk, New York State Supreme Court of Queens County, Anthony Perrotto; Criminal Defense Attorney Anne D’Elia, Esq.; former mock trial competitor Mr. Dovi Kirschner; and faculty advisor Mr. Ken Goldman, who have been preparing lawyers and witnesses to develop a theory of the case that will allow their side to prevail. Student lawyers Esther Gaon, Brooke Lipton, Sara Wallach, and I have been working for months to develop as much insight into both sides of the case, in order to establish why their side should triumph. Alongside the skilled lawyers are HAFTR’s esteemed witnesses Sara Hersh, Michal Mari, Lilly Rotman, and Jacob Wallach, who have learned their characters' affidavits inside and out. A huge thank you to all the coaches, lawyers, and witnesses who have made HAFTR’s success possible. We hope to advance in the tournament and emerge victorious once again.
HAFTR HOSTS YESHIVA LEAGUE MODEL CONGRESS TOURNAMENT By: Deborah Becker, Junior
HAFTR High School hosted its annual Yeshiva League Model Congress (YLMC), welcoming 162 delegates from sixteen schools from New York, New Jersey and Florida, on Tuesday, March 1, 2022. The tournament was held over Zoom and included over 220 students, judges and presiding officers. We also want to thank Elijah Gurvich, HAFTR alumnus, a former president of the YLMC and keynote speaker, who joined remotely to judge while serving in the IDF inside the Gush. Abby Rabinowitz, co-president of the HAFTR YLMC team and HAFTR senior, opened the tournament with welcoming remarks. She told students how Model Congress has enhanced her high school experience, and she offered participants encouragement and some sage words of advice to help them in this competition. Abby was followed by HAFTR High School Principal, Ms. Naomi Lippman. Ms. Lippman applauded students on their hard work and commended their participation in the tournament. She thanked Ms. Sydney Altfield, director of Grassroots Engagement at Teach Coalition, for serving as keynote speaker for the congress. Ms. Atfield talked to the delegates about getting engaged in their communities and how they can make a difference. Finally, YLMC Director, Mr. Alex Libkind, reviewed tournament rules, offered some tips, and opened the 19 committee break-out rooms for the students. In preparation for the tournament, students submitted bills and resolutions on topics related to their committees, covering a broad range of issues both foreign and domestic. Inside each committee, students argued vehemently about the pros and cons of their resolutions, giving impassioned three-minute speeches followed by two minutes of questions. Each committee also dealt with a crisis such as a potential invasion of Taiwan by China or a Freedom Convoy in the US snarling the supply chain. After two rounds of competition were concluded, the results were tallied and winners were announced. The following students were singled out for special recognition: Sarah Nordlicht from Ma’ayanot (Housing) and Robyn Beyda from Flatbush (Small Business) tied for first place overall; Benjamin Cohen from Katz (Armed Services), Lulu Morse from HAFTR (Healthcare), Dasi Well from HAFTR (Environment), and David Engelsohn from Rambam (Foreign Relations) tied for second place overall; and Marc Lessler from Flatbush (Intelligence) and Eitan Zomberg (MTA) tied for third place overall. Additionally, each committee had first and second place winners. Congratulations to SKA for having seven winning delegates, HAFTR for posting six winning delegates, and Central, MTA and SAR for earning five winning delegates each.
ELIJAH GURVICH, a HAFTR alumnus & former president of the YLMC, joined remotely to judge while serving the IDF inside the Gush.
HAFTR wants to extend our appreciation and gratitude to all the judges, presiding officers, participating schools, and especially to Mr. Alex Libkind, HAFTR coach, for organizing and spearheading this tournament.
HAFTR HIGH SCHOOL PARTICIPATES IN MODEL UN CONFERENCE BY: MICHAL MARI, SOPHOMORE
HAFTR High School’s Model United Nations team recently participated in YUNMUN, the Yeshiva University National Model United Nations, in Stamford, Connecticut. The convention, which was held Sunday, March 13-Tuesday, March 15, hosted students from dozens of high schools from all across the country. YUNMUN is described as “a student-run simulation of the workings of the real United Nations,” and it provides students with the opportunity to learn and understand the inner workings of international relations. Students play the role of delegates from countries that are actually members of the United Nations, and the participants represent a range of different viewpoints on current global issues, often representing those viewpoints with which they don’t agree. When preparing for the convention and advocating for their country, students must conduct thorough research about their country’s interests and policies across an enormous range of issues, developing their knowledge of global affairs and improving critical thinking and problem solving skills, as well as communication and public speaking skills. HAFTR students were assigned the difficult task of representing either Iran or Madagascar. HAFTR High School had an extremely successful conference, with three delegates receiving honorable mentions in their respective committees. Junior Andrew Berger received an award in the SPECPOL committee, having to come up with solutions about the issues of peace in both the Middle East and in space. Sophomore Kaitlin Pollack received an award in the UNICEF committee, the committee designated for dealing with global issues relating to children, and sophomore Maya Karasanti also received an award in the African Summit committee, the committee that discusses issues concerning Africa and its citizens. These students received recognition for their outstanding work coming up with solutions to the issues they were presented with. YUNMUN was an extreme success this year, and we are looking forward to many more successes for years to come.
JOURNALISM CONFERENCE BY: ESTHER GAON, SOPHOMORE Students who are on the editorial staff of HAFTR’s Tattler, the school newspaper, joined JSPA (Jewish Scholastic Press Association) in a journalism conference with Jewish students representing their newspapers from around the country. On Tuesday, March 15, students were able to choose to participate in lectures from a variety of different categories, including a presentation from an Orthodox Wall Street Journal writer, a Jewish foreign correspondent for the L.A. Times, and many others. During these conferences, students were advised on how to be a journalist while maintaining a Jewish lifestyle, how to become a better journalist and editor, how to find new ways of developing their newspapers, and how to meet people who have an accomplished journalism career. After these conferences, JSPA gave out awards in recognition of the best articles written by students. The articles covered topics having to do with Judaism, school news, Israel, and social issues. Thank you to the Tattler’s Editor-in-Chief, Lulu Morse, and faculty advisor, Ms. Allison Posner, for making this occasion possible.
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HAFTR Robotics By: Harry Fleschner, Sophomore
Strong Competition for HAFTR Team 4th Place Finish
Throughout the course of the past few weeks, the HAFTR High School Robotics team has been working day and night preparing for the Center for Initiatives in Jewish Education (CIJE) Vex Robotics competition. On Tuesday, April 5, the team packed up their robots and traveled to The Armory in Fort Washington to compete against the other schools participating in this competition. The HAFTR High School Robotics team presented four different robots that were paired up with different schools to collaborate together in each match. Each team competed in several matches to complete various tasks using their remote control robots. These robots were programmed to operate via remote control in order to lift rings onto a base and/or move these mobile bases to their team's side in order to gain points. There was a hierarchy of rank based on who won each match, which would decide what team made it to the playoffs. The robot created by Yoni Goldstein, Sean Harris, and me, moved on to the semifinal round and ultimately ranked in 4th place. It was a fun and exciting day for all and it was great to come together to work with other team members from other schools. Thank you to our coach Mr. Schanke for advising the team throughout the year. Great job to all who competed. The HAFTR robotics team looks forward to participating in this event again next year.
TEAM NEWS HAFTR FORMS NEW ESPORTS TEAM
By: Coach Sebastian Bohorquez Thomas Mandel, Ethan Muchnick, Raphael Sabo, Nate Stein, Jonathan Sacolick, and Matthew Wiener make up the newly inaugurated HAFTR Esports team. They played their first season in the Concorde Education Rocket League for the Fall 2021 season with 10 teams from across the nation. This includes teams from east, west, and central. All games were played as a best of 5. Twelve games were played throughout the season, round-robin style, and pretty quickly we realized our greatest opponent was Sacred Heart School. Our games against their A and B teams were always really close. In the end, we tied for first place with Sacred Heart B, with Sacred Heart A not far behind. As we headed towards the playoffs that take place at the end of the season, we practiced specifically in preparation for our games against Sacred Heart B. The top 4 teams qualify for playoffs, so it was HAFTR vs Sacred Heart A, B, and C. The playoff tournament was also streamed, which added some nerves for our players, but they kept their composure and focused. In the semi-finals against Sacred Heart A, we won the series 3-0. In the finals, we were against Sacred Heart B. This is what we practiced for, so we felt prepared and ready for this match. We ended up winning the series 3-0, and our entire team was ecstatic. As winners of the playoffs, all players received a special Concorde Elite Challenger Coin, a ribbon, and a certificate. Each player had a huge contribution to the team in so many ways. Every single player has improved tremendously, and I'm incredibly proud of all of them. Our team chemistry is strong, and besides being a team, they're all great friends, which translates into their communication and chemistry on the field.
Raphael Sabo is a player with a passion for the game and continues to put in many hours. Along with being a great player, he was able to assist in practice by also sharing his extensive knowledge. With his incredible mechanical and spatial awareness, he makes the foundation of the team a strong one. Jonathan Sacolick is an amazing player who has the drive to improve and does so quickly and effortlessly. He's put in the time on and off the field and it shows. Watching him the first day and watching him play now feels like two completely different players. He's a team player and watches out for teammates' positioning, making our offense and defense a strong one. Ethan Muchnick joined the team halfway through the season and became a great addition to the team. His strong mechanical skills and aggressive positioning allow for unexpected goals when we need it the most. Although hesitant to join at first, we're glad he decided to become a part of the team. Thomas Mandel is a player who can surprise you at the least expected moments, giving us an edge over opponents. He'll hide his true skill and strike out of nowhere, landing the ball at the back of their net, or making a game changing save. A great team player with great communication, he keeps the team positioning in check. Nate Stein is the glue of the team. He connects with everyone, and always makes an effort to keep rotations and positioning as fluid as possible. He always brightens the mood and keeps the team having fun, while still improving as a team. A fundamental player both on and off the field. Matthew Wiener is our lucky charm. Our secret weapon. Our secret sauce. With his presence and his lucky wheels, we can never lose. Matthew has an aura that brings joy to the team and is a great team player, always rotating and positioning himself around his team. Matthew has also improved tremendously since the start of the season, and I'm excited to see his full potential be realized.
HAFTR ADVOCATES BY: JACOB WOLF, SOPHOMORE
Teach NYS Virtual Mission to Albany The Teach Coalition is an organization created by the Orthodox Union whose mission is to advocate for funding on behalf of nonpublic schools. On Tuesday, March 22, the Teach Coalition hosted the Teach NYS Virtual Mission to Albany via Zoom. The program invited students, teachers, and parents in Yeshivot and private day schools to make their voices heard on behalf of their schools. Student representatives from grades 10 and 11 at HAFTR participated in this program by speaking with New York State Senators, or members of their offices, and advocating for an increase in funding for education and STEM programs. The students were able to see first-hand how the state government works and how lobbyists use their voices to help increase funding for their specific causes. Students also saw how Democrats and Republicans work together within the state government and use the art of debate and compromise to accomplish their goals. It was a unique opportunity for HAFTR students, who all expressed pride in advocating for programming at HAFTR and being able to take part in the inner workings of the New York State government.
S P O R T S
UPDATE
CONTINUED SUCCESS OF VARSITY VOLLEYBALL! BY: LUCA LEMBERGER, SENIOR The HAFTR Girls’ Varsity Volleyball team has shown amazing success this season. With a record of 100, the undefeated team has been proven to be the one to beat. From their first home victory against SKA, to their latest win against Westchester High School, the team members have become stronger players and closer teammates. Before the girls’ most recent game, the seniors on the team were honored by the underclassmen with posters of recognition and delicious cupcakes. The team has truly become a family.
HAFTR
High School
With excellent guidance and training from Coach Zev Adler, the girls have developed outstanding volleyball skills and teamwork, both of which have led to the team's continued victories. With the conclusion of the preliminary rounds, HAFTR has moved on to the playoffs. Being the first seed in the league, HAFTR has a homecourt advantage and is ready to tackle the west coast teams. Our next game is this coming Tuesday, February 22, against SAR. Come support the HAFTR Varsity Volleyball team by wearing your HAFTR apparel, bringing your cheer and showing your spirit! The team hopes to bring home the first ever volleyball championship and is excited for the opportunity to get the win. Go Hawks!
HAFTR HAWKS TOURNAMENT BY: SYDNEY SCHNEIDER, JUNIOR The HAFTR boys' junior varsity basketball team, the HAFTR Hawks, recently participated in a tournament hosted by Katz Yeshiva High School in Boca Raton, Florida. The team dedicated countless hours on the court practicing for the big tournament and were eager for the games to begin. The Hawks, led by their coaches, Mr. Leroy Samuel and Mr. Bruce Wernick, boarded the plane on Sunday, February 6, and made their way to warmer weather and a heated competition. Without missing a beat, the team began the competition shortly after their arrival and participated in the games which continued through Tuesday, February 8.
The games were intense and extremely close. HAFTR players put in tremendous effort as they played against North Shore Hebrew Academy, Katz Yeshiva High School and SAR High School. HAFTR put up a tough fight and was successful in defeating SAR High School. Players from both teams showed exemplary teamwork and sportsmanship toward each other and their opponents. The Hawks are more motivated than ever to practice and gain more success. Although they didn’t win every game, they had a memorable time playing alongside their friends at different schools, and are proud of their victory and accomplishments.
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HAFTR HAWKS WIN GIRLS VARSITY TOURNAMENT By Elisabeth Gurtman, Junior Games continued on Friday, with HAFTR and Berman Hebrew Academy leading the tournament in first and second place.
As Shabbat approached, the games were put on hold as players prepared for a beautiful Shabbat together. The girls enjoyed the hospitality of local hosts for Friday night dinner, and had an amazing Shabbat lunch hosted by HAFTR. After lunch, the girls heard encouraging The Second Annual HAFTR Invitational Girls Varsity Basketball Tournament was a huge success. Six teams joined together February 36 for a weekend of basketball and bonding, giving the teams an opportunity to get to know each other both on and off the court. This year’s tournament was a welcome addition to the regular basketball season, especially considering that last year’s competition was canceled due to the pandemic. The tournament included five local New York teams–HAFTR, HANC, NSHA, Ramaz, and Yeshivah of Flatbush–as well as Berman Hebrew Academy from Maryland. The tournament kicked off on Thursday evening, February 3, at the Barclays Center with a game between HAFTR and Yeshivah of Flatbush. Fans from both teams made their way to Brooklyn to see their team play on the home court of the Brooklyn Nets. While HAFTR came out on top 58-23, it was definitely a night that both teams will always remember. When game commentator Amanda Ehrenhaus asked, “How does it feel as a senior to be able to play at Barclays Center?” Shirley Gottlieb responded, “It's amazing, because I get to leave this place having had a wonderful opportunity.”
words from Coach Joey Hoenig, as well as Divrei Torah given by representatives from each team. Coach Ilona Diamond inspired the players with lessons of perseverance and friendship, after which the girls segued into an icebreaker activity. They spent the day getting to know each other, and soon realized they had a lot more in common than just basketball. Games continued Saturday night and Sunday morning. Flatbush beat Ramaz in a close 38-34 game, taking third and fourth place, respectively. Finally, HAFTR played Berman Hebrew Academy for the championship title. The Hawks’ Nest was packed; it was filled with HAFTR fans, as well as many Berman Hebrew Academy fans who came all the way from Maryland to support their team. The Berman players were tough, but they could not outmatch HAFTR’s team, which remains undefeated in its regular season. HAFTR took the championship title with a 68-48 win against Berman Hebrew Academy. After the game, Coach Diamond said, “I feel so fortunate to be a part of this moment for these girls. I’m so proud of them.” The tournament was a huge success, resulting in some amazing basketball and unbreakable new friendships.
HAFTR High School 635 Central Avenue Cedarhurst, NY 11516 516.569.3807 highschoolinfo@haftr.org @haftr_hs www.haftr.org