CYHSB Weekly 5/17/2024

CYHSB WEEKLY

Cooper Yeshiva High School for Boys

4

PLAYOFF SEEDING: 1. Gold Kids: 6-2

2. Vandy's Vikings: 5-3

3. Wanan's Goats: 4-4 4. Somer's Marshmallows: 4-4

5. Beck's Decks: 1-7

To sponsor an issue and lend support to the next installment of the CYHSB Weekly, please reach out to Nadav.Lowell@mhafyos.org

President Biden says antisemitism has no place in America Source: CNN, Betsy Klein

Surge in Campus Antisemitism

Sparks Federal Action

Nadav Lowell (‘25)

A surge in antisemitism within American college campuses, evidenced by a staggering 700% increase in Hillel-International reported incidents since October 7th, represents a concerning trend that threatens the safety and wellbeing of Jewish students. The aftermath of the terrorist attacks on Israel by Hamas has catalyzed this spike, with antisemitic acts targeting Jewish students becoming alarmingly prevalent across America. Organizations like Hillel International have been

tirelessly working to address and report these incidents, emphasizing the urgency of ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all students. Despite efforts to combat antisemitism, the data reveals a distressing reality: Jewish students are disproportionately facing hate on campuses, with a majority reporting experiences of antisemitism and a significant decline in their sense of safety on campus.

In addition to the disturbing Cont'd on next page

Cont'd fom prev page events perpetrated by antisemitic students on campuses - it is also shocking to see the widespread nature of the action taking place; at colleges and institutions of learning recognized with the highest prestige in our nation. Many also question the actions of academic leadership during this troubling time. Despite drastic actions, and intense antisemiticprotest maneuvers that forced local law enforcement to get involved in several instances, presidents at the heads of universities have been shockingly silent and at times supportive of the violence ensuing against their Jewish populations. These actions have been questioned on the state level resulting in a congressional hearing to hold these leaders accountable for their actions. One must understand the lack of proper response from

administrative leadership can result in ever-escalating discord among student bodies and begs questions as to why the leaders of academia have not supported their Jewish students.

During one such congressional hearing, the Presidents of Harvard, University of Pennsylvania, and M.I.T. faced questions regarding their approach to disciplining students advocating for the genocide of Jews. The presidents’ responses appeared evasive and lacking in moral clarity. They refrained from offering a straightforward condemnation of such behavior, instead providing legalistic explanations about free speech and harassment policies. Despite affirming support for Israel's right to exist and expressing commitment to combatting antisemitism, their reluctance to categorically denounce calls for

prevalent campus -based hate speech suggested a failure to prioritize the safety and well-being of Jewish students.

A Congressional hearing held at Columbia University heard President Nemat Shafik's testimony on the topic of challenges universities face in confronting bias on campus. Shafik exemplified a firm stance against antisemitism aligning with Columbia's “official” commitment to combating the issue. However, the hearing also revealed tension surrounding the interpretation of certain phrases associated with the general Israel-Palestine conflict and political rhetoric. Critics, largely made of Jewish-affiliated Representatives and Republican legislators argue that the statements taken on by the university do not sufficiently match actions toward student bodies regarding antisemitism. Proponents point to instances of violence and chants advocating for the genocide of the Jews without proper comment from college administrations.

As these incidents continue to rise, universities must prioritize proactive measures to combat antisemitism and uphold the fundamental values of tolerance and respect on their campuses. Staunch federal support and outcry against this hatred toward Jewish citizens are an inspiring sight. The recent surge in antisemitic incidents across the United States has prompted a comprehensive federal response under the Biden-Harris Administration. Recognizing the urgent need to counter this alarming trend, the Administration has taken decisive action to address antisemitism in Cont'd on next page

Artist Chip Bok of THE WEEK displays the bigotry and biased views held on colege campuses.

Apple Inc. vs. US Gov: A Pivotal Antitrust Battle

Jojo Ardestani ('25)

The ongoing legal clash between Apple Inc. and the United States government regarding allegations of monopolistic practices has captured the attention of the tech industry and the public alike. At the heart of this dispute lies the question of whether or not Apple holds a monopoly in the market and if its actions have resulted in unfair competition. The US government says that Apple's dominant position in various sectors, particularly pertaining to “app throttling,” creates an ecosystem that popular smartphone reviewer Marques Brownlee deftly referred to as being a “Walled garden.” This has created barriers for entry for competitors and limits consumer choice when looking for options to upgrade. This situation is directly opposed to government antitrust laws aimed at promoting fair competition and preventing the abuse of market power. While

NEWS cont'd fom prev page various spheres, particularly within educational institutions. Through initiatives such as the National Strategy to Counter Anti-Semitism, the Administration has implemented over 100 actions aimed at combating antisemitism and promoting tolerance. These efforts include robust enforcement of civil rights laws, such as Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, to ensure protection against discrimination for all students, including Jewish individuals. Additionally, federal agencies like the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Education (ED) actively engage with campuses to

Apple asserts that it operates in a highly competitive environment, pointing to the presence of alternative platforms such as Android for mobile devices and Windows for computers, they fail to mention the scarce options to upgrade due to their intentional incompatibility between Apple products and competitor devices. This legal battle holds significant implications for the tech industry and consumers. A ruling against Apple could lead to regulatory measures aimed at increasing competition and lowering prices for consumers. On the other hand, a favorable outcome for Apple would affirm its business practices and allow it to continue operating without substantial intervention. The outcome of this lawsuit will shape the future landscape of the tech market, influencing how companies conduct business and the level of competition present.

provide resources and support for enhancing campus safety and fostering inclusive environments. These efforts show our nation's steadfast commitment to fight for our aid and protection.

The congressional hearings and federal policy serve as a clear indication of the government's proactive stance against antisemitism within educational institutions. By subjecting university presidents to rigorous questioning and scrutiny, lawmakers are holding them accountable for their responses to incidents of discrimination and bias on their campuses. Government officials are signaling

Designed By: Omer Zalman

As students and future consumers, understanding the complexities of antitrust regulations and their impact on industry dynamics is crucial. While the legal proceedings unfold, it is essential for us to remain informed and engage in discussions about the balance between market dominance and fair competition. The resolution of this case will not only impact Apple but also set precedents for competition policy in the digital age.

their commitment to ensuring that universities take concrete actions to address antisemitism and create a safe and inclusive environment for all students.

Furthermore, the hearings provide a platform for legislators to advocate for policies and initiatives aimed at combating antisemitism and promoting tolerance within the higher education system. In conclusion, while the federal response to these events is a comforting sight, it is imperative for members of the Jewish community (and beyond) to lay down their support for our people - aiding Israel and our students in any way we can.

The Antidote Within: Harnessing Torah

Rafi

Goldkin

('25)

There were once two men who were infected with a fatal disease. They traveled to the same doctor and requested a cure that would save their lives. The doctor easily presented them with a simple medicine that would heal them even from the brink of death. He warned them, however, that they had to take the medicine every day or else they would die. One of the men stuck to the regimen, took the medicine every day, and was healthy within a month. The other man, on the other hand, forgot to take the medicine after two weeks and died a day later.

Every one of us is infected with our own disease, the Yetzer Hara Yet, our doctor prescribed us a simple medicine to cure us and elevate us. Throughout Tehilim, the pesukim describe Hashem as our doctor and healer. It says in Meseches Kiddushin 30b, that Hashem said to Bnei Yisrael, יַנָב הרות

able be’ezras Hashem, to be constantly learning, they will be blessed with a healthy soul. We say in shema every day ֙םֶתְמַשְו

, and place my words (The Torah) on your heart and your soul. The Gemara in

Designed By: Omer Zalman

, My son, I created the Yetzer Hara, and I created Torah as its antidote. We had our illness, we told our doctor, and he gave us a cure. We just have to use it. Sometimes on a pill bottle or medicine container, it has a label that says ‘Take Daily’ or ‘Take Morning and Night’. The Chofetz Chaim writes in Toras Habayis that this is the same with the nefesh Hashem prescribed to our soul a remedy known as Torah and he labeled on it, ‘Take Morning and Night’. We must heed this label and continuously take the medicine or chas v’shalom, we will fall sick. One has to be osek (busy) in Torah and constantly be reviewing and learning so that they won't become ill. If a person is

means a perfect potion. Meaning, that if you are to place the Torah, such a perfect potion and remedy into your souls, you will be accomplishing the avodah of tikkun nefesh (Fixing the Soul). The Gemara in Avodah Zara 20b cites a baraisa in the name of Rebbi Pinchas. The baraisa states that Torah study leads to the midah of vigilance, the midah of vigilance leads to the midah of alacrity, and this midah leads to more midot and so on and so forth. This baraisa is what the Ramchal bases his whole Messilas Yesharim off of. But in order to accomplish all these incredible levels that the Messilas Yesharim describes, one must start from the beginning. The Ramchal describes this very prominent issue that resides in people. He writes that Hashem provided us with a way to cure our sickness, the Torah. Whoever thinks that they will be able to be cured of their sickness without

Torah, will never be cured. He provides a moshol, a parable. Imagine a sick person went to consult his doctors. And his doctors decided on one certain type of medicine he should take that would stop his suffering. But the man doesn’t take that medicine, he goes and takes whatever he wants, and he will surely die from his illness. But if one is to constantly be learning and toil to acquire his learning, he will surely be healed from the Yetzer Hara. This week's portion, Emor, briefl y discusses the Korban Omer. This is korban that is brought on the second day of Pesach, marking the beginning of Sefirat HaOmer, and the counting to Shavuos. A very big question has been raised on sefira by many gedolim. Usually, when one is excited about something, one begins to count down until the anticipated event occurs. However, the opposite occurs during sefira where we count up to the 50th day which is Shavuos. A possible answer to this question is a concept that is very prevalent among many Jewish minhagim, (customs). There is a concept of being maalin bakodesh, or elevating in holiness, which is reflected in the candle lighting of Chanukah. Being maalin bakodesh is exactly the avodah of sefira which the Jewish nation was trying to accomplish during the 49 days building up to matan Torah However, we see an odd phenomenon here that conflicts with what we previously thought. In last week's parsha, Kedoshim, Rashi asks a question that not many of us think to ponder. What does it mean to be Cont'd on page 7

TOP: CYHSB

Students rally for Israel on Yom Ha'Atzmaut (5/14).

MIDDLE: The students set of on the annual march to Baron Hirsch in support of Israel.

BOTTOM:

Yedidya and Guy, from Torah Mitzion, speak at the CYHSB for a heartfelt Yom Hazikaron (5/13)

Cooper Clicks

The Cooper MACS Tennis

Balancing Social Life, Exercise, and Exce

Ilan Lennon ('27)

Have you ever been in a pickle, not knowing how you could keep up with your social life and still get exercise? Akiva Levine, a sophomore and experienced tennis player, answered this question: "Tennis is a thoroughly enjoyable sport, offering a fantastic way to exercise, improve your skills, and socialize with others.”

On January 22, the students of the CYHSB received a much anticipated email. This thrilling message announced the start of the tennis season! Upon hearing the exciting news, Junior and seasoned tennis player, Ranaan VanderWalde exclaimed, “I had been eagerly anticipating the start of the tennis season for a long time. When I received the email confirming it was happening, I was thrilled.”

Nine CYHSB students signed up for the team, with Robbie Rubin as the coach. When asked what inspired him to take the lead, Rubin replied, “I have been playing tennis now for almost 20 years, and as much as I love playing, I enjoy teaching tennis just as much, if not more. I think tennis is a great game that, when played right, reinforces a lot of good habits like focus, discipline, and toughness as well as some healthy competition. It is fun to be able to share some ideas and concepts that allow people to

team allows me to hang out with my friends outdoors while learning many skills and getting the opportunity to make a Kiddush Hashem during a match.” It wasn’t just winning that the players were worried about; each individually made an effort to make a Kiddush Hashem and sanctify God’s name by acting respectfully and courteously to the opposing team.

Having practiced together, the tennis team was confident they would do well against their opponents.

As the match commenced, the team was told that each player would get to play both a doubles and singles match, allowing them to showcase their unique skills on various levels.With confidence and disciplined experience, the tennis team triumphed in their first attempt, coming together not just as a team, but as a family. When asked how he felt about the team and successful match, Jonah Siegel modestly replied, “The tennis

Three days later, with another practice between them, the Macs were able to have another successful match against First Academy Christian School (FACS). Yosef VanderWalde, a senior and practiced tennis player, noticed, "The matches against other teams provide a fantastic opportunity for us to test our skills against unfamiliar opponents. I can see my personal improvement beyond practice, and it's always enjoyable to compete for the school.” This selfimproving mindset has allowed the Macs to grow both as a team, and on an individual level for each player.

With so much success, the team's development can only be attributed to Coach Rubin. When asked what his experience has been coaching this year, he answered, “I have done private lessons for a few years, so I had experience with instruction, but I had never coached a team before, so this has been a new experience. Cont'd on next page

Yosef VanderWalde serving on the court. Photo By: Raanan VanderWalde

Cont'd fom prev page

It is hard that I don't get to give every player as much individual attention as I would like to. Still, I have learned that it is also fun trying to build team chemistry and encourage kids to be good teammates and learn how to communicate with each other mid-match positively and efficiently.” This shows how beneficial tennis can be from a social, physical, and mental standpoint.

However, this season was far different than Coach Rubin initially thought it would be, as he said about this, “Honestly, I was very surprised. I had given lessons to a few of the players on the team, but outside of those few, I wasn't expecting anyone to have much experience; I have been really impressed with the level of everyone on the team. I think the

DVAR cont'd fom page 4 holy? Rashi writes that to be kadosh means to stay away from giloi arios (Forbidden illicit relationships). To be holy means to stay away from one’s biggest Yetzer Hara. During the sefira, we see that we must elevate our holiness by staying away from our Yetzer Hara, and then we will be able to receive the Torah. But earlier we said that one must first learn the Torah in order to be saved from the Yetzer Hara. However, I don’t think this is a contradiction. This is similar to a man who loves candy, but

most important thing for me to see is that people are excited to be at practice, take the game seriously, want to get better, and are willing to try to tap into a level of competitiveness and fearlessness that usually feels uncomfortable at first. It's been nice to see that the players have all grown in those areas to varying degrees, and can't wait to keep watching everyone's growth!”

It’s important to take a step out of our comfort zone and display our competitiveness so that we may be able to accomplish things we wouldn’t have thought possible.

In the short time the Cooper Macs Tennis Team has been together, they have demonstrated remarkable growth and success both on and off the court throughout the season. Under the guidance of Coach Rubin, the

after a while, he realizes that he is starting to get out of shape due to his intake of unhealthy sugars and fats. So he calls his doctor and sets an appointment so he can come in and the doctor can help him. During the days leading up to his appointment, he begins to stay away from candy and distance himself from it. Then finally the day of the appointment arrives and the doctor is able to make him realize that candy is very unhealthy. So too, during sefira, we begin to distance ourselves from the Yetzer Hara. We clean ourselves

team has developed strong chemistry and camaraderie, which is evident in their respectful conduct and positive attitude during matches. The players' enthusiasm and willingness to improve have led to impressive progress in their skills and selfconfidence. Moreover, their dedication to sportsmanship and making a Kiddush Hashem through everything they do highlights the team’s commitment to representing their school and community in a positive light. The season's achievements reflect the team's athletic prowess, exceptional character, and teamwork. As the season continues, the CYHSB tennis team is poised to achieve even greater accomplishments, and their journey serves as an inspiring example of the impact of sports on personal and collective growth.

little by little until we won’t be willing to have anything to do with it. Then finally, when Shavuos comes, Hashem provides us with the Torah, a refuah that can make us realize how unhealthy the Yetzer Hara is and purge it from us forever. In the days building up to Shavuos, may we all strive to rid ourselves of the Yetzer Hara. And once Shavuos arrives, may we be’ezras Hashem, be able to let the Torah work its heavenly influence, and heal us once and for all from our sickness.

This Week's issue is sponsored by Shana and Ari Lowell in memory of Shaina Rachel bat Rivka ZL. Shabbat Shalom!

CYHSB Weekly Staff

Co-Editors in Chief

Nadav Lowell | Nadav.Lowell@mhafyos.org

Raanan Vanderwalde | Raanan.Vanderwalde@mhafyos.org

Associate Editor-in-Chief

Rafi Davidovics | Rafael.Davidovics@mhafyos.org

Managing Editor

Akiva Levine | Akiva.Levine@mhafyos.org

Chief Layout Editor

Yitzy Ryp | Yitzy.Ryp@mhafyos.org

Production Director

Amit Zalman | Amit.Zalman@mhafyos.org

Layout And Graphic Designer

Omer Zalman | Omer.Zalman@mhafyos.org

Avigdor Zweihorn | Avigdor.Zweihorn@mhafyos.org

Head of Torah Affairs

Rafi Goldkin | Rafael.Goldkin@mhafyos.org

Senior News Editor

Ilan Lowell | Ilan.Lowell@mhafyos.org News Editors

Davi Baum | David.Baum@mhafyos.org

Ilan Lennon | Ilan.Lennon@mhafyos.org

Photography and Social Media

Jack Kampf | Jack.Kampf@mhafyos.org

J.J. Stein | Jacob.Stein@mhafyos.org

CYHSB Weekly Staff Writers

Jojo Ardestani | Jonathan.Ardestani@mhafyos.org

Benny Freiden | Benjamin.Freiden@mhafyos.org

Administrative Advisors

Mrs. Ashley Brown

Rabbi Dov Rossman

Message from the Editors:

The return from Pesach break has led to some exciting events in the CYHSB. Tennis and Torah study exemplify students getting back into the swing of things, with students as sharp as ever delving into the intricacies of legal developments across the tech sector. Yom HaShoah, Yom Ha'atzmaut, and Yom Hazikaron are emotional days in the halls of our school, and with the recent rise of antisemitism, we can only feel our bonds as Jewish students deepen. The time for community unity is here, as we step through these troubling times as one.