September 2024
The Cougar Chronicle
JACK M. BARRACK HEBREW ACADEMY
Venezuela in Turmoil
Venezuela, which was once one of Latin America’s most prosperous countries, has been in a state of political crisis for over twenty years. The roots of this turmoil can be traced back to Hugo Chávez, who rose to power in 1999 with a promise of social revolution. His government, marked by extensive social programs funded by oil wealth initially had widespread support. However, over time, his administration became increasingly authoritarian, centralizing power and suppressing opposition.
After Chávez’s death in 2013, he was succeeded by Nicholas Maduro. Maduro’s tenure has been marred by economic mismanagement, corruption, and allegations of human rights abuses. The 2018 presidential election, in which Maduro claimed victory, was widely condemned as fraudulent, leading to a significant escalation of the crisis. In response, opposition leader Juan Guaidó, then head of the National Assembly, declared himself interim president in 2019, a move recognized by over 50 countries, including the United States. This bold step sparked ongoing protests and deepened the divide within the country.
As of 2024, Venezuela remains in a state of political deadlock. Maduro’s government, while weakened, has managed to cling to power with the support of key military figures and international
MargotEnglander,Editor-in-Chief
allies like Russia, China, and Cuba. The opposition, led by Guaidó and other prominent figures, continues to rally support both domestically and internationally, although their influence has waned over time.
Public sentiment in Venezuela is a complex mix of frustration, fear, and resignation. While many citizens continue to oppose Maduro’s rule, the nature of the crisis has led to widespread fatigue. Protests still occur, but are often met with violent repression. The government’s tight control over the media and frequent crackdowns on dissent have further stifled the opposition’s ability to act. Venezuela’s economy, once flourishing because of its rich oil reserves, has collapsed. Hyperinflation, unemployment, and shortages of basic necessities have left millions in dire situations. The humanitarian crisis is evident in the staggering numbers of Venezuelans who have fled the country, seeking refuge in neighboring countries and the world. For those who remain, life is a daily struggle of survival.
The impact on Venezuela’s youth has been particularly devastating. Many young people have grown up knowing nothing but crisis, with limited access to education, healthcare, and job opportunities. This generation is often described as the “lost generation”, facing an uncertain future in a country with dwindling hope. The international response to Venezuela’s crisis has been and continues to be deeply polarized.
The United States and the European Union have imposed sanctions on Maduro’s government and provided support to the opposition, viewing Maduro as an illegitimate ruler. In contrast, Russia, China, and Cuba have stood by Maduro, offering economic and military aid that has been crucial to his cling to power. Regional reactions in Latin America have been mixed. Countries such as Brazil and Colombia have been vocal critics of Maduro and provide refuge to Venezuelan migrants. Others, like Argentina and Mexico, have taken a more neutral stance, advocating for dialogue and negotiations rather than direct intervention.
The future of Venezuela remains uncertain. Several scenarios could unfold, ranging from a negotiated settlement that leads to new elections, to a continued stalemate that further deepens the crisis. The potential for a more dramatic outcome, such as military intervention or a sudden collapse of Maduro’s government are other possibilities. Whatever the outcome, the implications for global politics are significant. Venezuela’s crisis has already reshaped alliances and tensions in the region, and its resolution – or lack thereof – will continue to reverberate on the global stage. As the world watches, the people of Venezuela remain caught in the middle, waiting for a resolution to their long nightmare.
Turns Out the Junior Class Isn’t Too Cool for School
Instead of prancing along the sandy beaches of Tel Aviv, the junior class will be walking the halls of Barrack. These juniors may have prepared to be too cool for school, since they were to get a three-month extension of summer, but the current rocky political climate in the Middle East was too hot even for them. After spending all summer dreaming of the day they got to step out of a plane and onto the grounds of the Holy Land, this class was thrown for a loop when their trip was suddenly postponed. But, even after all the disappointment, it is important to remember that it is being postponed, not canceled. The school noted when they announced the postponement that they would have some special programs for the junior class to make up for this change in plans, so I thought I would offer a few suggestions. Since we won’t be floating in the Dead Sea, I suggest a spa day for the junior class featuring a float
JillianShweky,CenterspreadEditor
therapy session with mud masks. Now that a stroll through the Shuk full of bargaining and magnificent purchases will not be occurring, please provide a trip to New York City for some retail therapy in SOHO. Knowing that we won’t get to hike from sea to sea, I think it would make us feel a lot better if we could go on a week-long glamping retreat. Without seeing the historical sites of the Jewish people, a movie night to watch the iconic movie, The Prince of Egypt, would make up for our lack of cultural immersion. And of course, we are missing out on the delicious food of our culture, so we would like a catered class dinner at Zahav. So, we know what this means for the juniors, but what does this mean for the sophomores who thought that they were one step closer to the top of the ladder, and the seniors who… well they probably aren’t thinking about us. In truth, we know this is for our safety, and that we will return to Israel in
the future, but for now let’s just sit back and relax, and enjoy our junior year… at home.
Violence on the streets of Venezuela, BBC
Welcoming Our New Faculty to JBHA!
This year at Barrack we are welcoming 14 new additions to the faculty! Here is a little introduction from each of them.
Mike Acquavia (Health & PE, Assistant Athletic Director):
Hi, my name is Mike Acquaviva, and I am the Health and Physical Education Teacher/ Assistant Athletic Director. I am excited to get to know the students and be involved with all of the sports programs. A fun fact about me is that I enjoy spending my summers down the shore with my family.
Ran Berman (Shaliach & Hebrew Teacher):
Hi, my name is Ran Berman, and I am the new emissary from Israel. I will be a new Hebrew teacher and lead the Israel Club at Barrack. I arrived in the USA three weeks ago and I’m incredibly excited about the strong presence of Zionism and the love for Israel on campus. My main goal this year is to strengthen the connection between the Barrack community and the State of Israel. A fun fact about me: I am an enormous sports fan! I am a dedicated fan of Maccabi Haifa in soccer and I’m a marathon runner.
Leon Covitz (Director of Jewish Life): I was born in Glasgow, Scotland. Grew up near my father’s farm where he bred Shetland Ponies and cows. I made aliya and lived for a long time on Kibbutz Ma’alei Gilboa - where I helped run the dairy. I am blessed to be part of Barrack which has an excellent reputation in both Jewish and General Studies. I have been provided with the opportunity to not only teach but also support our student body with their Jewish Life experiences and a faculty that encourages our efforts. My goal is to make sure that our student body feels good about their Jewish identity and also wants to be part of the ruach (spirit) when there are Jewish events. In addition, I would like our community to continue nurturing its relationship with Israel and its citizens - Am Yisrael Chai and Go Cougars. A fun fact about me is that I learned to be a teacher while working with and milking the cows. Just like cows will produce good milk yields if they are calm and do not feel stressed, so do students. I never needed to use a stick to bring them (the cows) into the milking parlor. If they saw a stick being raised they would often feel stress which would disrupt their milk flow. This is the same with students who need to feel good about their surroundings and know that their teachers care for them and want them “to be the best that they can be.” Less stress, more flow!!!!!
Hannah Levine (Drama Teacher):
Hi, Barrack community! My name is Hannah Levine (she/her) and I am thrilled to be joining Barrack as the new Middle & Upper School Drama Teacher. I am a theatre director
ClaireEnglander,SchoolNewsEditor
and educator. I spent the last decade in theatre leadership positions as the Education Director at Portland Stage Company (Portland, Maine) for seven years and the Director of Education & Community Outreach at Arden Theatre Company (Philadelphia, PA) for two years. I have worked with a variety of theatre companies throughout the country, with a particular love for physical storytelling and collaborative processes. This school year, I am most looking forward to directing the Middle & Upper school musicals and hope to get more students involved in the drama department. I have a dog named Herschel who is named after Hershel and the Hanukkah Goblins.
Alexander (Zander) Levit (STEAM Teacher):
My name is Zander Levit and I will be teaching STEAM this year. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Franklin & Marshall College, and my Master’s Degree in Teaching from Relay Graduate School of Education. Previously I have worked in two charter schools in Philadelphia teaching K-4th grade, spending most of my time teaching 4th Grade Science. Having previously worked with high school students as a College Advisor and Football Coach, I am very excited for the opportunity to work with older students again! My goal this year is to learn and have fun with my students and to become a part of the Barrack community. Fun fact: I am the oldest of 6 siblings (we also have 3 dogs!).
Zhanna Riloff (History Teacher):
My name is Zhanna Riloff; I am a new History teacher in the upper school. I am excited to work with students broadening their global views and hopefully making history interesting, engaging, and relevant. My husband and I have two kids in high school and two small dogs. We live in the area, and I am so happy to work in my community. I love to travel, play tennis with my friends, and I love the beach!
Chana Rothman (Music Teacher)
My name is Chana Rothman. I will be teaching Music at Barrack this year. I will also be leading musical AM, a vocal ensemble club, and an instrument club (band)! I am excited to start building a music program with all of YOU. I want to hear all about what songs and instruments you’re excited about. My main goal is to make more music and singing happen, and add to the overall #JewishJoy here at Barrack. Fun facts #1: I just finished recording my fourth album of original songs. Fun Fact #2: I have two cats named Cookie and Brownie, and it’s almost impossible to tell them apart!
Shannon Boyle Schuster (Dr. Schues) (Math Teacher):
I am excited to be back in the classroom and back in a school after consulting for four years. My goal for the year is to provide support and
inspiration to my students to grow as humans and as mathematicians. Fun fact - for my 50th birthday I decided to see 50 concerts the year of my birthday. I not only reached my goal, but on the 50th show, seeing my favorite band, they invited me backstage to meet the band.
Rachel Sussman (Art Department Coordinator and Teacher):
I’m Rachel Sussman, the new Art Department Coordinator and Teacher. I’ll be overseeing the Visual Arts department at Barrack, leading the Art Institute program as well as teaching upper school art electives. I’m very excited to be a part of this community, to meet my new students, and to help them grow as artists. A goal of mine is to further enhance and emphasize the Arts at Barrack. A fun fact about me is that I have the cutest dog of all time, Ollie, a threeyear-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
Bar Yotam (Hebrew Teacher):
Hello! My name is Bar Yotam, and many of you might already know me as Hamorah Bar from my six years of teaching at PJDS. I’m thrilled to be joining Barrack as a new Hebrew teacher and look forward to getting to know you all. A bit about me: I was born in Israel and spent most of my life there. I worked as a teacher in Israel for ten years, before moving to the Netherlands with my family—my husband, two daughters, and our little dog. From the Netherlands we moved together to the United States. My goal is to support each student’s academic growth by offering personalized instruction and resources tailored to their unique needs and strengths. A fun fact about me is I love biking and singing.
Shira Weissbach (Jewish Studies Teacher & Israel Education Coordinator)
Hi, my name is Shira Weissbach, and I’m excited to join the Barrack faculty as a teacher in the Jewish Studies department and Israel Education Coordinator this year. I’ll be teaching students in both the middle and upper schools. After spending several months last year as a long-term substitute, I’m thrilled to be joining the team as a full-time teacher. I can’t wait to be at the school every day, getting to know the students and faculty better, and fully immersing myself in the Barrack community! A fun fact about me is that I spent the summer working at a day camp as a team-building specialist, and I also trained on the high ropes, zip line, and other adventure activities!
Also, a warm welcome to Jonah Greebel (English Teacher), Leerose Mendelovits (Hebrew Teacher), and Nathan Torok (History teacher) as well!
We are so excited that you have joined the Barrack community and are excited for the new year!
School News
Ask Jack!
ClaireEnglander,SchoolNewsEditor
Hi Jack,
Do you have any study tips? JBHA Student
Dear JBHA Student,
There are so many ways to study! It may take a few tries to find what works best for you. Here are some of my favorite ways of studying. Make your own study guide by creating questions and filling out a response. If your teacher provides a study guide make sure to fill it out! You can also work with your friends and quiz each other. When studying with friends you can catch each other’s mistakes and bounce ideas off of each other. Another method of studying is to look back on the work you’ve completed throughout the lesson and review it because we remember things best right after we’ve read them. By reviewing it transfers the information from short-term memory to long-term memory. If you’re someone who often crams the night before make a study schedule, and plan out time dedicated to studying. Of course, you can always ask for help from your teacher if you’re stuck, the teachers at Barrack are very understanding and would be happy to help you. I hope this helps!
Hi Jack,
How do I manage my time with my schoolwork and all of my extracurriculars?
Dear JBHA Student,
It can be hard to manage your time especially when you’re really busy outside of school, but it’s an important skill to learn. The best tool I
can think of is using a planner. Put all of your activities and work in the planner and then look ahead at the beginning of each week to plan times to get some work done, even using just five minutes here and there can be helpful. Also, use free periods during the school day to do work. However, make sure to also let yourself rest and don’t stay up too late doing work because you can’t do your best work when you’re tired.
Hi Jack, I want to make some new friends but I’m not sure how to go about doing it. Any advice?
Dear JBHA Student,
I’m so glad that you want to meet new people! My best suggestion is to just go up to them and start talking, try to find something in common, or make a joke. It’s ok to be scared and it’s also important to overcome that fear and put yourself out there.
Hi Jack,
How do I get involved at school?
Dear JBHA Student, Getting involved at school is a great idea!! Start by looking for activities at school that spark or align with your interests. You can join one of the many clubs that are offered at Barrack, an athletics team, or student government. If you really want to be involved don’t be afraid to go out for a leadership role. If there isn’t a club that interests you start a new one! Find people who are interested in that new club, fill out an application, and get approved. At Barrack, there are so many ways to get involved.
Welcoming Our New Head of Jewish Studies: Rabbi Gurwitz
ArielShavit,Editor-in-Chief
Where did you grow up?
San Diego, CA
What is your favorite movie?
Inside Llewyn Davis
What was your favorite activity to do when you were younger?
Hang out at the beach and snowboard
What made you want to go into education?
I wanted to do something meaningful every day. As a rabbi and a teacher, I get to have deep conversations, be curious, and join students on a journey of forming their Jewish identity. And it’s also really fun to work in a school!
What is your favorite holiday and why?
I love Sukkot. It’s my favorite transition of the year - fall is in full force, winter is coming and you can feel the energy changing. Yet, instead of increasing our time inside, we first are compelled to gather outside in makeshift structures to feel the fragility of time and the power of community.
What are you most excited about at Barrack?
I’m really excited to meet all the students and teach Jewish Studies and Tanakh!
Did anything specific draw you to be at Barrack?
When I visited for my interview I felt that students were empowered at Barrack with sincere opportunities to guide the direction of the school. From SA to JLI to the Derech Eretz Council, I was inspired by the high level of student engagement. I am really excited to be in an environment where students are invested in their experience, excited to share their voice and where their perspective truly matters.
Do you have any fun ideas to implement at Barrack?
I want to find opportunities to partner with STEAM and Art and weave Jewish Studies with hands-on learning and project-based learning. I also want to find opportunities to fuse the learning with experiences outside of the classroom.
What is your favorite thing to do on the weekend?
I have a 3, 5, and 7-year-old, so my weekends are usually a mix of Shabbat hangouts, playgrounds and walks in the woods. I love to be outdoors, so anytime I’m in nature, I’m happy.
Are there any other fun facts that we should know about you?
I have backpacked across countries in South America, Europe and Africa. I previously worked as a baker and I love making shofarot out of goat horns with students.
Unscrambling The Chaos of an Election
MicahFriedman,WorldNewsEdiitor
Former
With the Democratic National Convention coming to a close on August 22nd and Vice President Kamala Harris officially accepting the presidential nomination with Minnesota Governor Tim Waltz as her running mate, the November 5th presidential election is coming into clear view. As the date approaches, here is what to know and what to look out for.
President Biden dropped out of the race after he debated with former President Trump, but Trump is set to debate Harris on ABC on September 10th at 9 P.M. in Philadelphia. Trump has suggested debates on September 4th and September 25th although Harris has accepted neither which many speculate to be because the debates would be on Fox News. The Vice Presidential Debate between the Republican Vice Presidential candidate J.D. Vance and the Democratic Vice Presidential candidate Tim Waltz is set to be hosted by CBS in New York City on October 1st. As excitement grows for these events the American public will be sure to tune in to determine who they wish their next President and Vice President to be.
Another highly broadcasted event on September 18th is former President Trump’s sentencing for falsifying business records. This sentencing is part of the first of four trials that Trump is facing, although the rest of the trials aren’t expected to be conducted until after the election.
Several key swing states including Pennsylvania, Arizona, Ne-
vada, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Carolina and Georgia are expected to determine the course of the election. The most important of these swing states is Pennsylvania which carries 19 electoral votes, tied with Illinois for the 5th most of any state. As of August 29th, Trump is projected to win in Arizona, Pennsylvania, North Carolina and Wisconsin while Harris is projected to win in Georgia Michigan and Nevada.
The Presidential Elections are not the only ones taking place on November 5th as there are also congressional elections on the ballot. 33 seats in the Senate are up for regular election, one of which is Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey’s, while 2 are up for special election (one of which was former Senator Ben Sasse’s seat). All 435 seats in the House of Representatives are also up for election this year as members of the house serve 2-year terms.
As November 5th approaches, the nation is anticipating an extremely important moment. The debates as well as sentencings will be held soon, and the candidates will continue attempts to sway key swing states to vote for them. On November 5th, not only the next president but also the controlling party of the Congress will be decided. In the next few months, former President Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris with their running mates will be working hard to try to win the nation.
Vice President Kamala Harris delivering the final speech at the Democratic National Convention
The New Russian-American Cold War Vis-à-vis the American Ideal of Free Speech
On August 1st, 2024, as myriads of Americans rejoiced at the release of their own citizens who were wrongly convicted and imprisoned in Russian custody, Vladimir Putin saluted his living martyrs: sleeper agents, spies, and an assassin. Both sides relished in their victory liberating and fulfilling their public promises to return their citizens home. Nevertheless, the very necessity of such an exchange shifts the spotlight to the historically delicate US-Russia relationship and its rapid denigration vis-à-vis free speech and practice.
Two out of the three US nationals released from Russian custody were convicted on charges centering on their journalism: Alsu Kurmasheva was convicted in a speed trial of disseminating so-called “false” whereabouts of the Russian army. She received six and a half years of jail time for crimes that she vehemently denied and the US government opposed. Evan Gershkovich, accused of espionage, was correspondingly sentenced to a more severe prison term of 16 years. His conviction marked the first time since the Cold War that an American journalist had been charged with espionage.
Gershkovich’s trial garnered international publicity due to the highly political nature
FlynnGoldstein,StaffWriter
of his conviction and the upheaval manifested by so many, his Wall Street Journal colleagues in particular. Putin seized the opportunity to arrest a US citizen based in Russia while simultaneously leveraging Gershkovich to spread distrust and misinformation through his state-controlled propaganda outlets, specifically RT News which published footage of him allegedly concealing a flash media device containing illegally obtained privileged information. The Russian regime has challenged and threatened the foundation of journalism in Russia, expressly concerning foreign correspondents: the assumption that accurate and unbiased reporting will not be an emissary to imprisonment or worse. Putin’s cracking down on journalism serves a multitude of purposes. The most obvious: to amass an array of political prisoners – glorified bargaining chips – which he used to free some of his most loyal and ‘patriotic’ associates via the titular prisoner swap. Nevertheless, through the debacle, Putin not only practically and symbolically penalized dissidence against his establishmentarian regime, but he also sowed the seeds of doubt and suspicion amongst Russians in the American political machine – once so influential in
Russia’s evolution and international development following the fall of the Soviet Union. Under Putin, Russia has proverbially stabbed the US in the back by turning against a former ally and its people. The Russian government’s stark posture against Americans and American journalists sends an unmistakably clear message: the US has no role in Russia’s future whereas its rhetoric and reporting threaten Putin’s delicate balance of power over his citizens and the tantalizing prospect of Russian rule over Ukraine. Coupled with the US’s less-than-secret armoring of Ukraine, staunch media support, and Ukraine’s current military stratagem to strike Russian forces and infrastructure at home, the climate now is cold – very cold. With the broken intra-nation relationship between global superpowers on the brink of dramatic escalation, it is now until further notice, irrefutably, a cold war. The only question is: when, if ever, will the snow fall? Perhaps, it is ironic that Russia has specifically targeted free speech: it is distinctly American – a right guaranteed relatively since the state’s very inception.
President Trump campaigning at the border in Arizona
The Rise of The European Far-Right
Right-wing politics and Europe have a long history of being tied together. Fascist political parties have existed on the continent since the early 20th century when Benito Mussolini created Italy’s National Fascist Party, whose policies inspired other far-right figures, including Adolf Hitler. This history has led to far-right ideology spreading throughout the European continent. These factors, combined with The Soviet Union’s long control over large swaths of the European region, have led to far-right parties such as AFD in Germany and Vox in Spain who have ample support throughout their respective countries. The rise of the Far Right has not happened in a short period but has taken place for over 100 years. This new burst of far-right activity on the European continent has been activated
RyanFink,IsraelEditor
because many European rural individuals are fed up with what they see as “liberal ideology”. They think that European nations should not accept refugees (who are fleeing war and political persecution) and also believe that their countries belong to “ethnic Europeans” and not those of other races or nationalities. These ideas have pushed many right-wing parties into the mainstream, with some even controlling a majority in the government. One example of this is the Brothers of Italy party, who currently control Italy’s parliament. The rise of the Far Right is not something that should be seen as new or even threatening; Europe’s political scene is similar to the U.S in that it is very politically diverse, and though many can claim that the Far Right is on the rise such claims are not backed by
Israel One Year of Horror
MicahFriedman,WorldNewsEditor
new data or information. Europe has always been diverse in its political agenda, and it does not seem as if that will change anytime soon.
Courtesy: Elke Wetzig via Wikimedia Commons; Zoe Dahse translation: ‘2033: “we couldn’t have known (this would happen again)!”’
The horror that occurred on October 7th, 2023 feels so distant as so much has occurred since then, but in reality, it occurred just less than one year ago. As we get closer to the one-year mark of this tragedy Israel, the whole of the Jewish people and the world face a dilemma, what do we do to commemorate this tragedy? Many ideas have been posed so far in hopes of raising global awareness and honoring those who died.
Across the world there will be ceremonies held, that will help memorialize the victims of the attacks. Families of the perished will lead some of these ceremonies, mainly in Israel with the collaboration of the Kumu movement, an organization created by residents of the northern and southern parts of Israel. The main ceremony will be held without any political influence from the Israeli government in order to not create a staged or artificial event. The ceremony will be organized by the families of those who are currently being held hostage and they hope that they will have large public participation.
Another way that October 7th will be remembered is by virtual and in-person vigils. There will be vigils held in Philadelphia and San Diego to show resilience to terror and hatred.
For San Diego, this will be the second large vigil held as they held one just a few days after the initial attack. They see vigils not only as a place to grieve but as a place to come together as a community.
Additional groups will come together in rallies and show themes of hope and commitment to a country that is struggling. Groups around the globe will show their support to establish that they not only are there for the people of Israel during the good times but also during the bad. Attendees of these events will reflect on these past events and look forward to the future on ways that they can continue to support Israel.
Overall, on the one-year anniversary of the October 7th attacks, people across the globe will be showing their support for Israel in many different ways. Whether it is through rallies, vigils or ceremonies, all who participate in these events will try to raise hope, resilience and strength during these difficult times. On the day that so many of the Jewish people’s family members perished it is especially important to come together as a community and be stronger than ever before.
Photo
The first vigil that took place in San Diego
Israel’s Escalating Tensions with Iran and Hezbollah
As Israel enters its 11th month of fighting in Gaza, tensions across the greater Middle East are continuing to rise. Rising tensions are nothing new in the news cycle, but it seems that Israel may soon be pulled into yet another war; Iran and its Shia proxy group in Lebanon have been continuing to call for attacks on Israel. These new rounds of tensions with Israel and foes in the region started on the northern border. The Iranian proxy group Hezbollah is continuing to send rockets and missiles in response to Israel’s military operations in the Gaza Strip, with one rocket attack on the 27th of July claiming the lives of 12 Israeli Druze children in the small village of Majdal Shams
RyanFink,IsraelEditor
in Israel’s northern border with Lebanon. This attack has caused Israel and its military forces to be on high alert. After the attacks on the 12 Druze children in the north of Israel, Israel responded by fascinating Fuad Shukr, a senior Hezbollah leader who was close to Hassan Nasrallah, the leader of the Lebanese militia group. Along with other associations in the region, like the killing of Ismail Haniyeh, Iran and Hezbollah have both hinted at attacks on Israel that could lead to a broader war in the area. When this article was written, no more significant attack had escalated to anything more than threats by the Iranians and the proxy groups.
Plans Post War
RyanFink,IsraelEditor
As ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, many are asking the question, if a deal is reached, what happens next? Israel has had to rebuild before, but none can compare to what Israel post-war would look like. If the war in Gaza were to end, it would not necessarily mean the end of the conflict. Hezbollah on Israel’s northern front continues to bombard the parts of the north of Israel with rockets and drone attacks. Creating a humanitarian crisis in which hundreds of thousands of Israeli civilians have been forced to leave their homes. All of this continuing play out while the war in Gaza continues to rage. Experts say that recent ceasefire talks are not currently at a point in which a deal can be reached and that some of the current negotiations are only helping to build a framework in which a later deal can be done. Experts in the region still do see hope for a post-Gaza war Middle East, with some even saying a ceasefire resolution could cause Saudi Arabia to recognize the Jewish State.
With a ceasefire, a vast amount of the Israeli population is scared that Hamas will only get more powerful, and the ceasefire will only lead to more and more conflict. Many governments, including the U.S., have openly supported that with a truce in place, the Palestinian people will be ensured a state of their own. The aftermath of the Israel-Hamas war will undoubtedly usher in a new time for Israel, leaving many of Israel’s former international partners distancing themselves from Israel’s actions in the Gaza Strip. Though Israel is still seen as an Allie by the U.S. and many NATO delegations, its place on the international stage has shifted, and Israel will need to contemplate what a post-10/7 Israel will look like.
Beiruti youth posing with a Hezbollah flag
IDF Soldiers Operating in Gaza
Israeli Flag Flying Near the Kotel
Arts & Entertainment
A Guide to Brat Summer
AvivaMarkowitz,Arts&EntertainmentEditor
“Ugh. I’m so in my Brat Summer right now.” “Anyone else getting Brat vibes from this?” “Why does school have to start? My Brat Summer was just getting started!” To any teachers, parents, or fellow students confused about what the text above refers to, you are not alone. Since February 28, 2024, Charli XCX, a famous pop singer known for her hit songs Boom Clap and Fancy, has been advertising her new album Brat. For several months, Charli teased and put out multiple singles and music videos. Brat was officially released on June 7 followed by her second version of the album Brat and It’s the Same but There’s Three More Songs So It’s Not released on June 10. The album itself is a mix of hyperpop, electropop, and clubpop. Immediately following the release, thousands of people online started posting about how much they related to the aesthetic of the album and lyrics of the songs which spanned from insecurity and self-loathing to admiring yourself and feeling like you’re on top of the world. Users online started to use the album as a base for another aesthetic or trend which led to the creation of “Brat Summer”. But why is “Brat Summer” different from past trends like “Barbie Summer” or “Hot Girl Summer”?
While other trends make people feel the need to obtain something in order to be a part of the cool kids club, “Brat Summer”’ idea is that anyone can experience it no matter how much
money is in your bank account. This causes an issue for brands that profit off of these trends.
Though most companies are trying to make money off of “Brat Green” or the slimy almost disturbing color of the album cover, there isn’t much success considering how Charli spoke out and said that you really just need yourself and your flaws. Many people following these trends have come to realize how their interests are being used against them as a marketing strategy. Though this isn’t a new idea, it makes these stores look even more unoriginal and tacky. But are the stores really to blame?
Gen Z and Gen Alpha have been direct victims of the “trendpocolypse”, constantly relying on these coming-and-going personality traits expressed through fashion and aesthetics to help define who they are. These gener-
ations have gone through an extreme version of trends that older generations have experienced at a much slower pace. Gen Z and Gen Alpha have lost any real identity they had because of their need to be something special and original, to stand out and be well-liked. This feeds into the influencer era society seems to be in, where many regular people have the ability to turn into someone famous overnight. With this power, influencers are able to choose said trends and are paid to advertise different brands’ contributions, allowing fast fashion to continue along with the constant in and out of trends. There is now no separation between one’s interests and one’s spending habits, which is a very dangerous concept. So how does this connect back to “Brat Summer?” Is “Brat Summer” all that different from the trends we’ve seen before? Yes and no. Though companies are still able to sell their products under the Brat name, this specific trend has been a major call for awareness to the younger generations about the toxic lifestyle of trends based on over consuming habits. But the most important thing coming out of “Brat Summer” is the fact that there can be a communal interest in something that doesn’t have to be expressed through purchases rather than experiences and past mistakes that make us who we are today.
The Summer Cinema of 2024
JonahPappas,SportsEditor
Summer of 2024 came and went, as all summers do, in the blink of an eye. If you were smart, you spent at least a little of your time in the air conditioning of a movie theater, eating popcorn and enjoying the show. Although no splashes as large as the Barbenheimer craze of last summer occurred, many great movies were released during the blockbuster season. Every genre has been checked this year, from horror and thrillers to family movies and comedies. In early June, an action lover could watch Bad Boys: Ride or Die, a family could sit and enjoy Inside Out 2, and horror fans could tremble in fear at A Quiet Place: Day One. Soon after Inside Out 2 was released, Despicable Me 4 came out, further broadening the options for small children. In the horror world, Longlegs, the hottest scary hit of the summer, was released in July, and soon after that Maxxxine also came out. For action fanatics, Twisters and Deadpool &Wolverine came out a week apart, continuing the meteoric rise of Glen Powell and the
possible resurgence of the MCU. At the beginning of August, the summer’s most popular romance film came out, It Ends With Us. The movie, based on Coleen Hoover’s bestselling novel stars Blake Lively, and her relationship with Deadpool star Ryan Reynolds has created the opportunity for an interesting double-feature. Horror films continued their dominance in mainstream Hollywood with the releases of The Crow, Trap, Alien Romulous, and Blink Twice, all reaching general audiences in early to mid-August. Overall, Inside Out 2 was the most popular movie, grossing around 1.7 Billion dollars, while Deadpool &Wolverine became the highest-grossing R-rated movie ever, grossing around 1.2 Billion. Behind them in a distant third are Despicable Me 4, Twisters, and Bad Boys: Ride or Die. That eclectic mix of top-grossing movies shows that although many believe that show business as a whole is dying, it remains strong and that audiences will respond to well-made movies.
Charli XCX’s “Brat” Album Cover
As the chaos and drama of the school year start up again, we often find ourselves looking back over the summer and reminiscing over all of our memories. Many of us look back to the weeks we have spent at sleepaway camp. What makes these memories so amazing are our camp friends. Though we are excited to see our school friends again, there are many distinct differences between the social bubbles, making it a bittersweet experience to start the school year.
A primary difference between camp friends and school friends is that we live with our camp friends for a number of weeks. When we eat, sleep, and spend all of our time together, it’s impossible not to form bonds that are more like family. In school, we spend 8 hours a day with each other, yet we go home and sleep in our own beds every night. We set more boundaries and have more privacy from each other simply because we can. Many find it appealing to have control over a friendship and to be able to choose when to hang out or when to have downtime, while oth
Back In Our
From One Bubble to the Next
YaelFriedman,StaffWriter
ers prefer the camp friend bond, having fewer boundaries and less privacy, but feeling more like family.
Another factor contributing to the closeness we feel to our camp friends is that we don’t have many of the stress factors in the real world while in our camp bubble. We can focus on strengthening our friendships without distractions. During the school year, we have many things to focus on: schoolwork, sports, our families, etc. We have to work harder to maintain friendships. While this is more challenging, it also shows how strong a friendship can be. Putting the extra effort in and making time for our friends shows us and them how much friendship means to us. Now that we are back in the Barrack bubble, we are filled with excitement to see our friends again, but also sadness that we are not in camp anymore with our camp friends. While both friend groups are very different from each other, one thing is the same: we know that our bonds will click back into place when we see each other again!
Does the Jewish Bubble Need to be Popped?
JillianShweky,CenterspreadEditor
One thing Jewish people pride themselves on is the strong community that links each of us to one another across the globe. We view ourselves as one people, and our unity is the reason we have survived all the hate we have faced throughout history. But is our Jewish bubble really aiding us as a people, or is it creating a distorted perception of the world and our place in it?
We are 15.7 million people in a global population of 8 billion, yet it feels like we are constantly surrounded and interacting with other Jews. My initial thought is that we are just lucky we live in such a vibrant community, yet everywhere we go it doesn’t feel as if it’s very hard to find fellow Jews.
One mind-boggling aspect of this bubble is Jewish geography. It amazes me how it is possible that Jews from all different places in this world can meet and discover they have another Jew bonding them in some way. I realized
Barrack Bubble
that Jews surround each other all year round: in the school year at Jewish schools, Jewish youth groups, Teen tours, Maccabi, and Synagogues, and in the summer, at camp and down the shore. Due to this it truly is inevitable that basically any Jew from anywhere can have someone in common. I recognize how lucky I am to be a part of such a strong tribe, but I have only seen the world from the lens of my Jewish community and Jewish school. My naive perspective would like to believe that the world is like this everywhere for Jews, but deep down there is this fear that the day I leave my home, I will also
be leaving the safety of my Jewish bubble, and will experience a culture shock and feel alone. Some people feel suffocated by the air in the bubble, but I view it as filtering the air I need in order to breathe and thrive. Yet, if we function just within our bubble it could seem like we have a false perception of the world, like we have effectively self-isolated. But in fact, part of being a Jew is to be engaged with the rest of the world: socially, through commerce, philanthropy, activism, and academics. The great thing about the Jewish bubble is that the walls are not so thick. We can be a part of the world outside the bub-
ble, and also invite others to come and experience inside. Being a part of a bubble does not cut one off from the rest of the world, if anything it establishes a foundation for how to be a contributing member of society both within and outside our Jewish community. Unfortunately, our Jewish bubble is surrounded by people who want to pop it. Now more than ever the Jewish bubble is essential to the Jewish people’s survival as it provides us with a safety net and a home. As Rabbi Jonathan Sacks once stated, “community is society with a human face, the place where we know we are not alone.”
When is the Right Time to Pop the Bubble?
Anonymous
What looks shiny and perfect from the outside, but as soon as you get too close, it pops? A bubble. A toxic social bubble. Starting a new school year can mean a lot of things, and one of the best things is getting to see all of your friends after two months of sun and fun. It can also mean making new friends, and for some people, it can be a chance to be a new person. A lot of growth can happen over the summertime both inside and out. Sometimes we find ourselves having grown apart with some people, and having grown closer with others. This is all okay. People change, and sometimes when this change occurs, people don’t fit together the way they used to. When a social dynamic changes like this, a friend might become toxic. Now how do we handle this?
ic. Is it something fixable, or has something fundamental changed about your relationship with your friends? It’s important to remember that change sometimes is for the best and allows new room for growth and self-discovery. Next, remember that sometimes the best thing for everyone is to put yourself first. If you’re not being true to your own feelings, it will become impossible for you to feel happy and comfortable in that friendship, and believe me, everyone will feel it. Lastly, just because you decide to stop spending as much time with some people who make you feel toxic, does not mean you have to stop loving and respecting them. Just remember, sometimes it can feel like we’re stuck in a bubble, but while beautiful, bubbles are also fragile. So let’s start this year with(out) a pop!
Start by trying to figure out what it is that’s making it feel tox-
Arts & Entertainment
Top TV Shows of the Summer
MargotEnglander,Editor-in-chief
It was a summer of great TV, so here are some of the most popular TV shows of the summer that you should watch!
House of The Dragon: This is a prequel to Game of Thrones, set 200 years before the original series. It follows the Targaryen family’s rise to power, their internal conflicts, and the events leading up to the Targaryen civil war, known as the Dance of the Dragons.
The Bear: This show centers on a young chef who returns to his family’s struggling Chicago sandwich shop after the death of his brother. It explores the challenges of running a restaurant, while dealing with family dynamics and personal trauma.
Bridgerton: Set in regency-era London, this drama follows the Bridgerton family as they navigate high society, romances, and scandals. The show is known for its diverse cast, lavish costumes, and fun background music.
The Boys: This series takes a dark, satirical approach to superheroes and
takes a look at the impact of their actions on society. It follows a group of vigilantes who aim to take down corrupt superheroes and expose their dark side.
Love Island USA: A reality dating show where singles live together in a villa, coupling up and competing in various challenges to win over each other and the viewers. Viewers vote on their favorite couples and the winning couple takes home $100,000.
The Bachelorette: This reality dating show features a single woman who dates multiple men over a series of episodes, looking for her perfect match as she eliminates contestants. The show combines romance and drama.
Big Brother: A reality TV competition show where contestants live together in a house under constant surveillance. They compete in various challenges, form alliances, and vote each other out until one remains to claim the cash prize.
Sports Team USA Rebounds Back to Gold in Paris
JonahPappas,SportsEditor
Throughout the many years of Olympic Basketball, the US men’s team has remained completely dominant. Since the event began, the American team has entered all twenty times, and medaled in all twenty. They have won seventeen gold medals, one silver medal, and two bronze medals. No country in any other sport has reached that level of winning. But when one team is that successful, every loss feels like a major failure. For many years, collegiate basketball players were allowed to play in the Olympics for America, but this rule was abandoned in 1988 when the American team won bronze. The next Olympics in 1992, was the first in which NBA players could play for America, and they formed the “Dream Team.” This team was full of future hall of famers and is regarded to be one of the greatest basketball teams ever assembled. After the Dream Team won gold, many believed that no other country would ever stand on top of the podium, but in 2004, they were proven wrong. The team was not well organized and had no cohesive team identity, and they finished with just a bronze medal. That loss put a fire into many players’ hearts, and the team rebounded in 2008, forming the “Redeem Team,” and winning gold again. It seemed like the US would never again become complacent, but once more, that was wrong. In 2023, at the FIBA Basketball World Cup, Team USA finished a distant fourth place, an embarrassing showing for what was supposed to be the basketball powerhouse. To make matters worse, Olympic Track star Noah Lyles mocked the NBA, saying “I have to watch the NBA finals and they have ‘world champion’ on their head. World champion of what? The United States?” These comments drew intense backlash from many NBA players and became the subject of intense online discourse. Lyles’ remarks along with the poor showing at the FIBA World Cup, prompted NBA star and all-time leading point scorer LeBron James to begin to recruit the league’s top stars to play in Paris. When the full team was announced, fans everywhere were shocked, no team since the Dream Team of 1992 seemed to be as full of future hall of famers. Besides James, Steph Curry, Kevin Durant, Anthony Edwards, and Anthony Davis, all committed to the team, creating an exciting atmosphere for Team USA fans. But the work had just begun, the team had to prove that all of those huge stars could work together as a team. Although some doubted them, the NBA stars did just that, going undefeated in the preliminary stages and the official Olympic rounds en route to a gold medal. In a post-game interview after the gold medal match, LeBron James was asked what this team should be called. His response?... “The Avengers.”
LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Steph Curry celebrating midgame.
In the world of gymnastics, Simone Biles is considered the GOAT (Greatest of All Time). Now holding 11 Olympic medals, including 7 gold, she is the most decorated gymnast in history. However, her remarkable career took a turn at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, when she withdrew from the competition after suffering from a case of the “twisties” – a dangerous phenomenon that gymnasts experience in which they lose their perception of their body in the air. She said that this was not the first time she had experienced “twisties” but it was the first time she had them on the balance beam and uneven bars. Citing mental health struggles, she posted that she “felt the weight of the world on her shoulders” and could not in good conscience continue to compete. This decision sparked a whirlwind of reactions from the public, both positive and negative. Some commentators criticized Biles, accusing her of being a quitter and selfishly depriving another athlete of the chance to compete. She was slandered in Russian media and even accused of being a drug cheat because of her ADHD medication. However, multiple gymnasts came to Biles’s defense, sharing their own stories of mental blocks and struggles. Biles’s decision to prioritize her mental health was widely praised and credited with starting a larger conversation about athlete’s mental health.
In June of 2023, it was announced that Biles would return to compete in the US Classic held in early August. She competed in all four events and took first place. She advanced
Simone Biles Is Back
MargotEnglander,Editor-in-chief
to the US National Championships, where she became the oldest woman (at age 26) to win. Her journey to the Olympics was watched by the world. Her preparation involved a blend of mental and physical training. She dedicated herself to a comprehensive training regimen, involving therapy and support systems to ensure she was mentally resilient as well as physically strong. This period of recovery and preparation was supported by her closeknit team, including coaches, family, and sports psychologists, all contributing to her comeback.
At the Olympic Trials in 2024, she was selected to represent the United States at the Paris Olympics alongside Jade Carey, Jordan Chiles, Sunisa Lee, and Hezly Rivera. With her qualification, she became the fourth American female gymnast to compete in three Olympics. Ahead of the Olympics, she submitted a new skill for the uneven bars, making her the first and only female gymnast to have moves named after her in all four events. During the qualification round, the US Team qualified for the team final in first place. Furthermore,
Biles qualified for the all-around, vault, balance beam, and floor exercises (she was first reserve for the uneven bars final). During the team final, she competed in all apparatus’ and helped the team secure a gold medal ahead of Italy. In winning the all-around competition, she became the third female gymnast to win two Olympic all-around titles.
The 2024 Paris Olympics marked Biles’s triumphant return to the public spotlight. Her performances were nothing short of extraordinary. Returning with her signature moves, Biles delivered routines that showcased her unmatched skill and artistry. From flawless vaults to gravity-defying floor moves, her routines captured audience members and judges alike. Yet it was her emotional resilience and grace in the face of adversity that truly stood out, earning her not only medals but a renewed sense of admiration from fans worldwide.
Biles’s Olympic comeback serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating the power of resilience and the importance of prioritizing mental health. By overcoming and being open about her challenges, Biles has contributed to reshaping the narrative surrounding mental health. She has solidified her legacy as a symbol of perseverance, and her story encourages others to pursue their dreams while being mindful of their health and needs. As she continues to inspire us all, Biles’s legacy will undoubtedly resonate for many years to come, reminding us all of the true essence of great (or should I say GOAT).
Israeli Success in the Olympics
JonahPappas,SportsEditor
The Olympics are a celebration of competition and patriotism on a global scale. Along with the extreme skill wielded by each Olympian, many of the competitors have overcome tremendous adversity to reach the top of their field. No country better exemplifies this than Israel. Since its rebirth in 1948, the Israeli people have been no stranger to war and destruction. But in October of last year, the atrocities committed upon hundreds of innocent citizens shook the country to its core. But the actual attack was not the end of the abuse Israel has faced. Not only do they continue to face terrorist attacks from Hamas and Hezbollah, but they also receive heavy criticism for defending its right to exist. During this tumultuous period, many questioned if Israel would send athletes to Paris to compete this year, and many antisemites tried to get Israel banned from the Olympics. But the Israeli athletes
showed no fear and came to Paris and executed. In total, the Israeli national team won 7 medals, including one gold and five silvers. The gold medal was won by 24-year-old Tom Reuveny, a windsurfer from Ramat Gan. After winning gold, Tom dedicated his win to the Israeli soldiers on the warfront, saying “I did it for our brave soldiers.” President Isaac Herzog told him “You made a whole nation happy, a nation that is at war and a nation that prays for the return of those being held hostage.... our anthem was played, Hatikva, hope, for the first time in these Olympics.” Reuveny’s win was particularly meaningful due to the disgusting messages he received before his event, including one that said “Prepare for your death!” His and all the other medalists’ wins represent a major facet of Israeli character, wholehearted bravery in the face of hostility.
Gold Medalist Tom Reuveny celebrates after winning
Hitting the Books? Here’s Our Top Picks
ShulaLevine,StaffWriter
As the school year begins, stress builds up, and one of my favorite ways to relieve that stress is by reading a book. A decent book keeps you wanting to read when you should be doing other things, such as homework. A good book provides an escape, a journey to new worlds, whether fiction or not. A great book makes you think about the people surrounding you, your feelings, your choices, and most importantly, your purpose. A fantastic book makes you want to share it with someone else and have an opportunity to discuss and love the book together. So, if you are hitting the books and looking for any of those experiences this school year, here are some of the top picks I read this past year that I would love to share with you.
LessonsInChemistryby Bonnie Garmus
Not only is this novel an award winner, but it is also a thought-provoking, inspiring, and intriguing story of a female chemist in the 1950s.
Readers follow the protagonist, Elizabeth Zott, as she struggles to find her place in the misogynistic science community of the 1950s. Elizabeth is smart, independent, and witty. She finds love, loses love, and raises a daughter, all while working to make scientific discoveries and, surprisingly, starring in an afternoon TV show.
Elizabeth’s story was turned into an Apple TV mini-series in 2023 starring Brie Larson, which was nominated for an Emmy.
AnAbsolutelyRemarkableThingby Hank Green
The Brother of John Green, Hank Green, is also an absolutely remarkable author. This novel, a New York Times Bestseller, was incredibly engaging and entertaining, even for readers who are not usually sci-fi fans. This book features giant metal aliens named Carl, two friends who make videos with said aliens and become famous overnight, and the challenge of being an alien ambassador.
Hank Green offers all his readers a good laugh and deep contemplation of their purpose on earth. Hank Green continues the story in his sequel, A Beautifully Foolish Endeavor.
TheInheritanceGamesby Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Imagine getting called to the principal one day to find out that Tobias Hawthorne, a billionaire in Texas that you never met, put you in his will. This is what happened to Avery Kylie Grambs. Avery suddenly is the heir to a vast fortune that she doesn’t know what to do with and has no idea why she has.
With the help of the billionaire’s four grandsons, Nash, Grayson, Jameson, and Xander Hawthorne, Avery follows clues left by Tobias to reveal the real reason she was left the fortune. Along the way, Avery has to deal with jealous relatives, the media, stories of the Hawthornes’ past, and trying to be a normal kid. However, after Avery and the Hawthorne brothers’ discoveries in the novel, Avery knows she will never be ordinary again.
Three other entertaining books in the series follow up this novel, and more are coming out.
Love&Gelatoby Jenna Evans Welch
Just because school is starting, it doesn’t mean your summer book season has to end. If you’re missing a summer romance and the feels of a good beach read, Love & Gelato is the book for you. The main character, Lina, has just lost her mother to cancer. Her mother’s dying wish was for Lina to visit her father in Italy for the summer. Lina is reluctant until she finds her mother’s journal and decides to relive her mother’s experiences in Italy herself. Love & Gelato features a love triangle, grief, adventure, and gelato. It is also one of three books in the Love & series. This novel was also turned into a Netflix Original movie. (Warning: The movie is not entirely accurate to the book.)
TrulyDeviousby Maureen Johnson
Truly Devious is one of five novels in a riveting mystery series. Maureen Johnson introduces readers to a boarding school in the mountains of Vermont, Ellingham Academy, where every student decides what they want to study. Fun, right? In actuality, quite a few murders took place at this school, but the case went cold. Stevie Bell, a true crime enthusiast, applies to the school to solve the murders. She gathers a team of friends to help her out, but when something happens to one of them, she turns her attention to solving what happened to them and finds out that maybe the two mysteries are connected.
You won’t want to put down this book, and as soon as you finish one book in the series, you’ll want to read the next.
So to all those who are “hitting the books” this school year, I hope you enjoy these book recommendations, and feel that they are worthy of being deemed “fantastic” and I encourage you to share them with others.
Heatwave Fashion: The Coolest Summer Fashion Trends of the Year
As summer began, the days turned hot and long, and sometimes it seemed easier to throw on anything we could find that would sweat the least. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the Summer clothing trends that I think have both style and sense and can be worn year-round!
The first trend would be thrifting. Second-hand buying has become popular all over the world out of concern for sustainability and affordability. Personally, as someone who has “thrifted” multiple times, some of my favorite things ranging from t-shirts to pajama pants are from local thrift stores! However, one problem I have encountered at these stores is that their products and clothes are almost
YoniBleier,OpinionEditor
entirely geared towards women, so the men’s area selection is much smaller.
The second trend has to be Athleisure. It’s exactly what it sounds like: the perfect mix of athletic and leisure. These are easy and good options because they’re very breathable and perfect for outdoor activities, such as exercise and sports. There are a lot of expensive brands selling athleisure like Lululemon and Alo, but you can essentially find the same clothes at Old Navy, Target, Fabletics, and Athleta. Personally, it’s my favorite type of clothes and can be worn year-round and is very easy to style.
The third and last trend is crocheted
tops. Crocheted tops add an element of fun to what we wear because they are usually made with bright colors or patterns. While usually feminine, there are a lot of crocheted tops that are sold unisex or for men. One reason I love wearing them is that they are so light. I mean honestly, it’s like you’re not even wearing them. In fact, they are easy enough to make on your own! Make something basic, like stripes or a solid color, and now you have your own source of clothes and a perfect birthday present!
And yes, sometimes the clothes do not make the man, but a good easy outfit can do a lot! Plus, all these clothes give everything a beachy vibe and a summer feel, so why not bring that into this amazing new school year?
Features & Games
Highlighting Synagogues in the Greater Philadelphia Area: Kahal Kadosh Mikveh Israel
ClaireEnglander,SchoolNewsEditor
Congregation Mikveh Israel is the oldest formal congregation in Philadelphia and the longest-running in the United States The synagogue is known as the “Synagogue of the American Revolution” because It dates back to 1740 when Nathan Levy bought a plot of land from Thomas Penn to create a Jewish cemetery. Services were first held in members’ homes until they were able to rent out spaces. During the War of Independence Jews from around America fled to Philadelphia to escape the British and one of those people was a Hazan from a congregation in New York,
Gershom Mendes Seixas. He was crucial in establishing the Spanish-Portuguese tradition of prayer in the synagogue which remains today. Currently, Rabbi Yosef Zarnighian and Rabbi Emeritus Albert E. Gabbai serve as the rabbis at Mikveh Israel and it is located in Philadelphia’s Old City Historic District. The synagogue follows Sephardic Orthodox traditions which are seen through the liturgy and community practices. Mikveh Israel offers daily prayers, Shabbat services, and high holiday services. The congregation is committed to preserving its history and unique traditions. It offers many educational programs to deepen its member’s connection and understanding of Jewish history, culture, and customs such as Torah study groups, lectures, and different classes. The congregation also engages in community service, interfaith projects, and charitable activities.
Mikveh Israel Congregation is a pillar of Jewish history and Jewish life in America. It remains dedicated to preserving the heritage of its founders while also celebrating what the future has to offer.
Features & Games
Connections
AriEisenstadt,Features&GamesEditor
Word Search
AriEisenstadt,Features&GamesEditor
Features & Games
COUGAR CHRONICLE
Strands
AriEisenstadt,Features&GamesEditor
You can connect letters vertically, horizontally, or diagonally.
Words must be at least three letters long.
In this particular game, there are seven words excluding the spangram, which is the phrase that the puzzle is based on.
Answers
Spamagram: School Subject
Subjects: Algebra, Bio, Chem, English, Hebrew, Music, Art
Cougar Chronicle Advisor: Tmac
Co-Editors-in-Chief: Margot Englander & Ariel Shavit
Centerspread Editor: Jillian Shweky
Layout Editor: Evan Berman
Opinion Editor: Aviva Markowitz
Sports Editor: Jonah Pappas
Features & Games Editor: Ari Eisenstadt
World News Editor: Micah Friedman
Arts & Entertainment Editor: Yoni Bleier
Israel Editor: Ryan Fink
School News Editor: Claire Englander
And Thank You to All of Our Amzing Staff
Writers!
We
Are So Happy to Have Everyone Back!
