SHALHEVET HIGH SCHOOL • Los Angeles, CA October 2016 - Elul 5777 - Volume 17, Issue 1 shalhevetboilingpoint.com
School makes LGBT inclusion official policy Rabbi Segal hopes first-ever ‘pledge’ will set an example for other Orthodox schools By alec fields, Co-Editor-in-Chief
BLAST: New teacher and Mashgiach Ruchani Rabbi David Block blows the shofar in the Beit Midrash Sept 14 as new year 5777 approaches. See stories pages 4, 22, 24.
BP Photo by Ezra Fax
Election 2016: Kids follow parents, slight lead for Dems 19 percent still undecided, and more moms than dads support Hillary Clinton By LUCY FRIED, Arts & Culture Editor In a recent poll of the Shalhevet student body, 120 students polled were almost evenly split on who they would vote for in the upcoming 2016 presidential election if they were of age. Most were following their parents’ preferences. But almost half were not sure how they would vote. About 30 percent said they would vote for Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton, 26 percent supported Republican Donald Trump, and the Libertarian and Green party candidates Gary Johnson and Jill Stein had 2.5 and 1.6 percent respectively. But a plurality of students were either undecided or said they would not vote at all. “I would vote for neither, because Hillary
Clinton is not honest and Donald Trump is stupid,” said senior Isaac Goor, representing the views of 20 percent of students in the poll. Another 18 percent were unsure. The poll was conducted Sept. 20-22, before the Sept. 26 debate between the two candidates. After the debate, Mrs. Clinton’s national lead in the poll doubled, from 1.5 percent to 3 percent, according to RealClearPolitics.com. At Shalhevet, her margin was 3 percent the week before. The Boiling Point polled Shalhevet students last April as well, although with a much smaller sample size of 60 students, a different student body, and some different candidates. Similar to this poll, Clinton received a higher percentage of votes than Trump, but John Kasich, another
Republican candidate at the time, had a one and a half percent more votes than her. Meanwhile, the percentage of students saying they were unsure of who they supported decreased from 38 percent last year to 18 percent this year. Students were also asked their parents are voting for, and while there was only a slight difference between students’ preferences and those of their parents, there was a significant one between the votes of students’ mothers and those of their fathers. Thirty-three percent of students’ mothers are voting for Clinton, while 25 percent of them are voting for Trump, in comparison to the 30 percent of students’ fathers voting for Trump and Continued on Page 14
John Lennon was here: Choir records in famous studio By LUCY FRIED, Arts & Culture Editor and Maya tochner, Staff Writer In a Hollywood studio that has hosted a multitude of celebrity musicians, the Choirhawks recently recorded several of their songs from the 2015-16 school year for a new CD that will go on sale after the chagim. The 30-voice a capella group recorded twice, once at music producer Ami Kozak’s home studio on June 6, and a second time at the legendary Boulevard Recording Studio in Hollywood on Aug. 17, where John Lennon, Ringo Starr and Pink Floyd also recorded. Songs the group recorded include “All of Me,” “Chandelier,” “I Hope You Dance” and “I See Fire,” along with Jewish songs such as “Mel-
ech Malchei” and “Al Hanissim.” Choir president Eli Greenberg said the CD had been planned the group’s first-ever Bay Area performance tour last December. “It was a pretty collective thing,” Eli said. On their tour, he said, audiences asked them, “‘Do you have a YouTube channel? Do you have an album? A CD?’ I think from that we had the idea to just make a CD.” The Choirhawks first recorded in Mr. Kozak’s garage studio for approximately two hours, but ended up re-recording most songs due to his studio not being built for an optimal quality recording of a group the choir’s size.
Mr. Kozak, who is a member of the band Distant Cousins, then arranged for the group to have a second session at Boulevard Recording Studio, which is approximately three times larger than what Mr. Kozak has at home. “I decided to go with a better room to accommodate the size of the choir,” Mr. Kozak said in an interview. “The choir was pretty prepared and everything was pretty smooth… Made my job pretty easy.” According to its website, others who recorded at the Boulevard include Fleetwood Mac and Carly Simon. Pink Floyd also recorded its album The Wall there, and Simon her song
Hoping to start a trend that will spread throughout Orthodox Judaism, Shalhevet has adopted a six-point LGBT non-discrimination pledge, co-written by Head of School Rabbi Ari Segal and openly gay 12th-grader Micha Thau. It’s a new idea they hope will address what Rabbi Segal has called the biggest challenge to emunah – religious belief – in the religious world today, by ensuring that LGBT students are accepted at their schools and ensuring all students are treated equally. In the pledge, Rabbi Segal promised to not discipline any student because of his or her sexual orientation, to not preclude LGBT students from any religious activities at school, and to connect LGBT students to any necessary support services, among other things. A generic version of the pledge can be viewed online at jewishschoolpledge.com, a new website, and was announced to the Shalhevet community in a Sept. 30 email from Rabbi Segal. In his email he referred to a Sept. 29 article in the Jewish Journal, where Micha wrote about being Orthodox and gay. “I wish to call your attention to the pledge that Micha references in his article, one that he co-authored together with us and one which we hope will establish a precedent for schools like ours across the nation,” wrote Rabbi Segal. Rabbi Segal does not yet know if the pledge will be added to the student handbook or if it will be presented to the students at Town Hall, but he believes it will always be a part of Shalhevet. As of Oct. 11, it had not been published on the school’s official website. “While the pledge is not a legal document, I absolutely believe that the school will abide by it when I leave the school,” said Rabbi Segal in an email interview with the Boiling Point from Israel, where he is spending the holiday period with his family. “This pledge is not about me - it is about the values of tolerance, respect and support that the school espouses and believes in deeply,” Rabbi Segal wrote. “It is a core part of Shalhevet’s mission and that won’t change - ever.” Shalhevet Board President Fred Toczek said the pledge was an administrative action and did not require board approval. But he said there was “widespread support” for the pledge on the board. “It’s not something that is subject to board approval or disapproval, but there is wide-spread support,” said Mr. Toczek in an interview. The pledge was announced two weeks after Rabbi Segal addressed the challenge faced by LGBT Jews in an article on shalhevetboilingpoint.com, and just days after the school’s new Continued on Page 16
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SHIMON PERES Z”L
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NEW TEACHERS
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BATMAN AT SCHOOL
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ADVICE TO FRESHMAN
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The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Comunity
Going Up
NEIGHBORS: It’s only wood now, but the construction project next door to school is becoming a four-story apartment complex with a pool, spa, bar and various open spaces. According to Scott Griggs, Senior Project Manager, it will be called Broadstone Fairfax and contain 144 apartments and two retail spaces covering 400,000 square feet. Mr. Griggs said a delay in concrete has stalled the project, and projected completion is Fall 2017.
BP Photo by Honor Fuchs
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* Yom Kippur: Shalhevet’s repenters
* Complete text of Rabbi Segal’s LGBT statements
* Who’s new? New staff 2016-17 * New year, new rooms
IN THIS ISSUE: Community - Pages 1 - 8 Arts & Culture - Page 9 Outside News - Pages 10-11 Features - Page 12-15
Torah - Pages 16-21 Opinion - Pages 22-24 Sports - Pages 25-28
* Diverse customs of Rosh Hashanah * News conference with Rabbi Segal about new schedule, Just Community constitution
Make us your homepage! shalhevetboilingpoint.com When we know it, you’ll know it
The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Community
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Fairness Chairs pick winners of senior representative elections The ‘wow’ that we want By Micha Thau, Staff Columnist “Wow.”That was the word I and many of my classmates during our freshman year would use to describe our first Town Hall. The topic was in no way memorable, the comments were average and a good portion of the room seemed to be lost in a different dimension. But nevertheless, something about Town Hall was captivating. Over the years, though, it has been the ideological concept of Town Hall that has enamored me more than the discussion itself. The freedom of expression and speech, a feeling of equality between faculty, administration and student body and the glorious ideals of democracy and changing the status quo became the hallmarks of my Town Hall. Little by little though, the golden pedestal upon which Town Hall stood in my mind began to rust and along with it, my opinion of the effectiveness of the Just Community. Maybe this happens to everyone as they get older. Or maybe it was further exacerbated when invited speakers began to replace Town Hall discussions, sometimes for weeks at a time, creating a sense that we were accomplishing nothing for our community. At the end of 11th grade, I ran for Agenda Chair, yearning to remake Town Hall in the golden image I once saw it in and with a strong desire to accomplish much through these weekly meetings. But I came in dead last. I do believe that our new Agenda Chair, Bennett Schneier, will succeed in shaking up Town Hall for the better. Still the last three years have left me wondering what the function of the Just Community is, and whether we are accomplishing it. To me, the combination of the Fairness and Agenda committees are meant to provide a safety net for the student body. A sort of insurance that guarantees every student’s hope to change the predicaments he or she faces at school to counteract the feeling of voicelessness that high school students sometimes feel and bridge the divide between teachers and students through cooperation and honest communication. Increasingly, though, the Fairness Committee seems to have become taboo. Though faculty members insist otherwise, students still think teachers will be offended if taken to a Fairness hearing, and that rather than solving a student’s problem, a case would cause the student further damage – and for sure, sacrifice any hope of a relationship with that teacher. The result is that Fairness is rarely used – and secret when it is used – so there is no evidence one way or the other. Meanwhile, Town Hall has become less about changing school policy and more about the discussion of moral dilemmas. Students deserve some blame for this because of not submitting proposals. But whatever the causes, Town Hall has become a place where one can share opinions freely but where there is no practical impact to what is said. No change, simply the freedom to express thought. In that sense, Town Hall has morphed into a sort of giant “think tank” rather than a part of a functioning student government, a trend I had hoped I could help change as Agenda Chair but now cannot. To be truthful, I am unsure about this and I don’t know what impact this shift will have. For freshmen coming up from middle school where there was nothing like this at all, Town Hall will always have the “wow” factor. However, it is clear that for the moment, our student government has become a facade, focusing on critical thinking and deep moral questioning rather than filling its intended role as an avenue for change. Before we trek too far down this path, we owe it to ourselves to take a good look around and ask if this is what we want, before we fall so far down this rabbit hole that we cannot find our way back up.
SPOKE: Sabrina Wannon, one of the three candidates for reps who was allowed to speak and was later chosen as a rep, talked about her plans for the committee after a heads-down, hands-raised vote narrowed the field from five to three candidates.
BP Photo by Ezra Fax
By Zev Kent, Senior Editor There were no ballots, not every candidate was allowed to speak, constitution, which had been partially lost last year and was found in and the Fairness Committee – not the students in the grade -- picked May. During the election, Alex told the seniors that everything was the winners when the senior class met to elect Fairness committee rep- proceeding “by the letter of the law,” referring to the constitution. But Agenda Vice-Chair Isaac Goor said use of Article 2 Section 2 resentatives during Town Hall period Sept. 17. All grades voted that day for grade-level representatives to the Agen- had been inconsistent. “I disagreed with it,” Isaac said of last week’s process. “I think if da, Fairness and Student Activities committees, and the other grades’ elections were held as in the past, with candidates giving speeches fol- you’re going to follow the constitution, you should follow it all the way – a.k.a. give up the chairmanship and let the representatives vote lowed by everyone voting. But for the seniors, who met in Room 304, the election was unusual on who should be the chair. “I think it was un-Just-Community-constitutional,” Isaac added. from the start. “If you want to go all the way First, they were told that not everyone would get in and follow the constituto speak, and that they would not be choosing the tion word for word, then do winners. There were five candidates: Talya Ohana, The Fairness Committee must be made up of individit. Don’t half-ass it.” Ezra Hess, Hannah Diamond, Eytan Rosenman and uals who will do everything in their power to better Since the finding of the Sabrina Wannon. the committee. We are not looking for the kids who constitution, there has been Then, instead of ballots, the seniors were asked discussion of whether abolish to put their heads down and raise their hands for are most popular or the ones who can debate, rather it, amend it, or shape the Just the two students they wanted as their representatives. the ones who care. Community to reflect it. Fairness co-hairs Alex Reich and Becca Sentchuk and - Becca Sentchuk and Alex Reich, Fairness Co-Chairs Alex, Becca and Isaac have Fairness faculty adviser Dr. Keith Harris kept their expressed opinions that the heads up and counted the votes. Just Community adapt to fit After that, the three candidates who had received more into what the constituthe most raised hands -- Hannah, Eytan and Sabrina tion says. -- were allowed to speak. Head of School Rabbi Ari Segal said that he believes that, instead of And then, the seniors were told to leave the room while Alex, Becca, and Dr. Harris made the final choice. They chose Hannah and Sabrina. adapting the Just Community, we should adapt the constitution. “I think the constitution should be revisited and amended,” said “It was 100 percent unfair,” said defeated candidate Talya Ohana, who was eliminated before she could speak. “Voting on the basis of Rabbi Segal at a news conference of Boiling Point editors Sept. 4. “I a name is unfair. Nobody really knows how I feel about the Fairness don’t think it should be redone. You don’t redo constitutions; you amend them to reflect modern realities. Committee.” “The school is founded on certain principles which I don’t think are Senior Noah Suissa said he didn’t like it because it was inconsistent changeable,” he said. with how the rest of the Just Community operates. Agenda Chair Bennett Schneier also thinks it should be updated. “I think that we have to follow the same voting procedures for all “It’s important to note that the constitution was written with a difthe committees of the Just Community,” said Noah. “I don’t think it ferent administration, a different faculty, the school had a very different was fair. I think it was unreasonable.” Becca and Alex wrote an email to the Boiling Point defending their makeup,” said Bennett. “The culture of the school is very different. It was made for a different Shalhevet..” actions. Dr. Harris was asked by the Boiling Point if the Fairness Committee “The Fairness committee must be made up of individuals who will do everything in their power to better the committee,” the email stated. would follow the constitution this year. He said it would be considered. “Yes we’re going to look at it, but then there’s the question of wheth“We are not looking for the kids who are most popular or the ones who can debate, rather the ones who genuinely care about fairness and what er or not it should be amended,” said Dr. Harris. “We’re potentially proposing that as a Town Hall meeting, and it represents.” we’re going to look at the constitution… ConThe Just Community stitutions can be amended.” Constitution, enacted by I think it was un-Just-Community-constitutional. If you Becca said that the Fairness Committee has consensus by the communiwant to go all the way in and follow the constitution already submitted a proposal to the Agenda ty in 1993, says this about word for word, then do it. Committee to discuss the constitution at Town grade-level Fairness ComHall. mittee representatives in Ar- Isaac Gore, 12th Grade For now, Becca and Dr. Harris both said ticle 2, section 2: they were happy with the way the elections Each grade will elect turned out this year. representatives from its own However, Becca said that next year’s senior grade, and teachers will elect fellow teachers. The two nominees from each grade and the two teacher rep elections will use normal balloting as in the other grades – and with the new-last-year schoolwide requirement that an interview is necessary nominees with the most votes will serve on the committee. to become a candidate. Becca and Alex interpreted it this way: “All rep grades will follow that process, but the chairs and faculty “It is stated in the constitution that representatives shall be elected through nomination and ultimately selected based upon their ability to advisors will have an objective standard for which a student must meet and they have the power to disqualify the candidate,” Becca said. “This benefit the committee,” they wrote in their email. way the chairs and advisors still have the ability to mold the committee Senior Micha Thau thought he understood their position. “It’s a little frustrating, but I understand where the Just Community leaving the process less up to popularity” Talya Ohana hoped future elections for Fairness would be more – is coming from,” said Micha. “They’re trying to make sure that people with high positions can pick people who they think they can work fair. “From what I know, Shalhevet is founded on democracy,” Talya with.” “The danger is that… it might just be based off who Alex and Becca said. “I was prepared to give a speech and I was passionate about it… want to work with,” said Micha. “The danger is that it might turn into and I was upset that I wasn’t able to do it.” who the Fairness Chairs like the most.” The controversial process reopened the issue of the Just Community
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The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Community
Administration cancels ‘bubble’ on Model Congress team, saying uncertainty caused more problems than it solved By HANNAH JANNOL, Community Editor “The parents have to sit and wait School officials popped for two months to figure out if they the tradition of a “bubble” have to pay over $1,000,” said current on the Model Congress Model Congress co-captain Maya roster this year, ending a Golan, “and if their kid does make custom that let some stuthe trip, they have to scramble to pay dents who hadn’t made the over $1,000, and if the kid doesn’t team attend practices in make the trip it’s annoying if they put hopes of making the team aside over $1,000.” later, or sooner if someone But the bubble had its defenders else dropped out. as well. In recent years, stu“Kids get to be around the more dents vying for a covetexperienced debaters, so they get to ed spot on the Penn or soak in what they should be doing Princeton Model Congress and how they should be acting and teams could expect one of speaking,” said junior Ilan Bouskithree outcomes after fall la. “I wasn’t on the bubble freshman tryouts: acceptance, rejecyear, but just from being in practices tion or a spot on the bubwith the seniors helped out a lot.” ble, meaning they showed Sophomore Clara Sandler went potential and could attend on the Model Congress trip to Princteam meetings to improve eton last year after having been on the by watching members bubble. She didn’t make the Model practice. Congress team this year but is now But this year, Modheading up Model UN. el Congress adviser Mr. POPPED: Model Congress practice, pictured above, no lonEven though students can hone William Reusch, along ger has continues this year without bubble members. their public speaking skills in Mock with Principal Reb Noam Trial, Model UN, or even Town Hall, Weissman and GenerClara said there are particular skills al Studies Principal Mr. BP Photo by Ezra Fax taught in Model Congress. Daniel Weslow, decided they got rid of the bubble,” said sophomore Ari Sassover. “Model Congress really teaches the system created too “Last year it was really overwhelming for me because I wanted you how to speak like a politician, which is different than speaking much uncertainty and was not the best use of the bubble-students’ to do a bunch of extracurriculars,” Ari said. “The fact that they like a lawyer or a diplomat at UN,” Clara said. time or talent. put me on the bubble, and I didn’t To solve this problem, a group of 11th-graders on Model Con“On a personal note, I didn’t like the know whether … I was going to do gress have assembled a lunchtime mentoring program to coach stumixed messaging of the bubble,” said Mr. the Model Congress trip was kind of dents who did not make the team. During their inaugural meeting Weslow. “There should be opportunities What happened to those kids who were on the annoying, so it’s understandable and Sept. 22, six trainees split up in to groups of two with juniors infor students that are showing up to pracit gets rid of all that questioning and cluding Ilan Bouskila, Rami Gruman and Sam Hirschhorn. bubble were like, ‘What’s my spot? What am I tice everyday to compete if they want to.” confusion.” Rami said he was worried that without the bubble, there In addition to attending team pracdoing here?’ Those not chosen for wouldn’g t be enough students ready to join Model Congress when tice, students on the bubble could be - Mr. William Reusch, Model Congress Adviser Model Congress are now being en- seniors graduate. “It depends a lot on how many people you anticadded to the trip later if they improved couraged to try out to participate ful- ipate will drop out,” said Rami. Students drop out senior year for significantly, and some were added at the ly on one of the other teams. various reasons, he said, and it’s hard to predict. last minute if another student dropped That opportunity can come in the “When you anticipate more people dropping out, I think that out before competition. Mr. Reusch said it was uncomfortable for everyone. “What hap- form of the Mock Trial team, he said, or the newly revived Model the old bubble system becomes necessary,” Rami said. Meanwhile, this year’s Model Congress captains complained pened was those kids who were on the bubble were like, ‘What’s UN team, which has already been dubbed by some students as the that they hadn’t been consulted. my spot? What am I doing here?’” said Mr. Reusch in an interview. unofficial “JV Model Congress.” Of the 30 students who tried out for Model Congress this year, “We were chosen to be team captains because, seemingly, we On average, eight students made the bubble and four of them would make the trip that same semester, according to past years’ only 13 made it – an acceptance rate of 43 percent. Eleven more know the most about Model Congress and what’s best for the team, were automatically on the team because they had won awards on so for them to take away the bubble, which I think is critical to the team captains Daniel Soroudi ’16 and Avishai Rabin ’15. development of new team members, and without consulting us, Students who were actually on the bubble agreed that it was past trips. For Model UN, 22 students tried out this year and 14 were is somewhat disappointing,” said Alec Fields, who is co-captain of awkward. Model Congress this year with Maya Golan and Maayan Waldman. “It wasn’t terrible, but I think it was kind of a good idea that accepted, about 64 percent. The uncertainty of the bubble also caused other problems.
Freshmen receive the ‘10 commandments’ at orientation By Nicholas Fields, Staff Writer It may not have been delivered at Mount Sinai, but this year’s ninth-graders received their own set of 10 commandments at Freshman Orientation. Over the course of a three-hour welcoming event Aug. 25, various faculty helped the class of 2020 prepare for the upcoming school year by dividing them into their advisory groups and discussing Shalhevet’s values. Afterwards, they ate ice cream, explored the school and socialized “Just Community: Be present, participate; it’s this unique aspect which makes Shalhevet different,” read one commandment, presented not on tablets but on Powerpoint slides. “Be proactive in your learning, co-curriculars and overall Shali experience,” read another. After gathering at 7:30 pm in the gym, students were sent to round tables with their new advisor and an upperclassman, where they met one another, learned about the advisory program and went over schedules. Advisory, they were told, is a place to talk about school, feelings and problems. “It definitely helped me because I came in kind of confused but I feel more organized now and I’m ready to start school.” said 9th grader Adam Tizabi. Then PowerPoints were presented by Dean of
classmates, and at least one freshman was upset Most students were thankful for the orienStudents Mr. Jason Feld and Director of Student that students had been separated into advisory tation. Tobey Lee said “It helped me adjust to Life Raizie Weissman. Raizie told students who groups. Shalhevet.” and Zev Kupferman was glad for the to turn to if they needed assistance or help. “I didn’t like how everyone was in their help learning the complicated block schedule. Mr. Feld said Shalhevet is a unified family and “I thought it was really helpful going over the huddles,” said freshman Talia Cohen. “I wanted community. schedule and meeting all the teachers and I’m ex- everyone to be more unified.” Next came Shalhevet’s 10 commandments, cited for next year,” said freshman Maital Hiller. presented by Mr. Feld and Judaic Studies teacher Everyone was happy to have met new Rabbi David Stein. Values mentioned were communication, mutual respect and taking risks. Mr. Feld and Rabbi Stein said students shouldn’t be COMMANDED: Sitting at round tables in the gym, incoming afraid to catch opportunities and should freshmen met their advisers and studied their schedules. respect each other. Along with values, commandments were given for dress code and chesed (community service) hours. “The more you give, the more you will receive,” read one slide. Another commandment was to never plagiarize. The commandment format left students feeling – commanded. “It was a good way to reinforce all the rules of the year in a fun way,” said freshman Gilad Spitzer, adding he was glad dress code does not include a uniform. “It’s nice being able to wake up and wear BP Photo by Neima Fax something new every day,” said Gilad.
The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Community
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More math and Talmud classes but shorter lunch for underclassmen among major changes to bell schedule By Lucy Freid, Arts & Culture Editor, and Alec Feilds, Co-Editor-In-Chief
“When a kid is learning about Greek history, the fact that he is Shalhevet’s first new bell schednot making any connection or she ule in four years, featuring different is not making any connection to schedules for different grades and what is happening in the Jewish extra math and Talmud classes for world, is a travesty frankly,” said grades nine and 10, has received Reb Weissman in August. mixed reviews so far, with underMs. Walls, who with Mr. Feld classmen complaining that they are designed the schedule, agreed that overwhelmed while some teachers the different lunch lengths for difare happy to be seeing their classes ferent grades were causing probmore often. lems. But she said that without Freshmen and sophomores say it, the schedule would have been shortened lunch periods for their unworkable. grades mean they don’t have time “It would have been a logistical to meet with teachers, attend lunchmess and nightmare to have two time club meetings, or get to know different schedules at the same the older students. time,” said Ms. Walls. “We have no time to get our stuff Reb Weissman said upperclasstogether or talk to other grades,” men also needed the extra time said sophomore Maya Miro. “It HUSTLE: Freshman and sophomores get first prioroty in the more at midday, and that SWAP completely shifts what our relationlunch line because their lunch ranges from 30 to 37 minutes, had not been productive for them. ship with the upperclassmen is.” “It’s because they go off campus, Clubs that met at lunch are also in comparison to the 65-minute upperclassmen’s lunch. and they often have more projects struggling. Sophomore Ari Sassover, that they’re working on with one who co-runs the Politics Club, said BP Photo by Neima Fax another and meeting with teachers that it has not met yet this year. it’s really helpful because we don’t have SWAP.” in a serious way,” said Reb Weissman. “We don’t have time to meet and Under the previous “block” schedule, adopted in 2012, most “What [SWAP] turned into – and it was okay, but it wasn’t optido all that we need to do in the club,” said Ari. “There are also days classes met in 60-minute blocks three times a week. Upperclass- mal in our opinion – it turned into an opportunity for juniors and I need to do homework, so I can’t really balance it.” Teachers also are unable to meet with underclassmen at lunch. men’s courses still do, under the new system. Reb Weissman said seniors to leave campus and-or to socialize,” he said. “Those are great things and they’re important and we have set times for those, [but] Mrs. Gidanian, who teaches sophomores, juniors, and seniors, the idea then was to have more in-depth learning. “But we got the sense that not all disciplines demand that same the purpose of SWAP was not for that.” called the new underclassmen’s schedule a “struggle.” Mondays and Wednesdays are particularly full now for freshmen. “For sophomores, they don’t have time to meet with me [at amount of time, nor the same amount of frequency,” Reb Weissman They have lunch, two MAP periods, a full-length period, Mincha lunch],” she said, adding, “It’s difficult for me to manage my time said. The new schedule therefore created two new “MAP” periods, 45 and then a fourth full-length class period. due to the 45-minute classes, and I feel that I am always rushing to minutes back-to-back right after lunch, for Math, Arts and PE. For sophomores, a similar schedule applies on Wednesdays and do my lesson plans.” That means freshman and sophomore math now meets four Thursdays. But math and arts teachers, whose classes meet more often now times a week for 45 minutes. The other MAP Ms. Walls acknowledged though the number of minutes is the same, are pleased. that shortened lunch for un“Obviously I’m always going to be in support of more exercise,” period switches off between Arts -- Music Apprederclassmen was a problem. said P.E. teacher Mrs. Raelyn Bieda. “A lot of the kids told me that ciation and Art Composition and Design -- and “Having a totally unified I’m the only exercise they get during the week, so it’s better that they P.E. We have an hour for lunch this year, which is Students say it adds an extra night of math lunch period for the whole have it more often.” really helpful because I tend to get school is a chance for students The new schedule was developed by the school’s Educational homework, but math teachers say it helps the to interact more with different Leadership Team over a period of three years, officials said. The subject stay fresh. a lot of work done. “I think it really works efficiently for math,” grades,” said Ms. Walls in an leadership team is made up of Principal Reb Noam Weissman, Geninterview. “I think that’s someeral Studies Principal Mr. Daniel Weslow, Dean of Students Mr. said Ms. Jennifer Kong, who teachers freshman - Sarit Ashkenazi, 12th Grade thing we’ll have to work at to Jason Feld, Director of College Counseling Ms. Aviva Walls, Math and senior math. “I need to restructure it bemake sure there’s still the same Department Chair Ms. Katia Malikov and Judaic Studies teacher cause classes are 45 minutes, but it’s really helpful to get the momentum going.” interaction between the classRabbi Ari Schwarzberg. Since arts and PE divide the second math pees.” On some days, lunch for ninth- and 10th-graders is 35 minutes riod, students have each subject twice every week – instead of three “We’re still trying to work out what the kinks of the schedule long. It is 65 minutes for grades 11 and 12. are,” she added. On Sept. 12, Reb Weissman responded to complaints by length- times spread over two weeks under the old schedule. “I am so happy to be seeing each class twice a week,” said Mrs. At a meeting with Boiling Point reporters Sept. 8, Rabbi Segal ening the underclass lunch period by seven minutes – but only Keene. “For the last few years, I often saw them was asked more about the new schedule than any other topic. He days when a student’s short lunch is once a week, or less. I couldn’t get to know the kids said changes were possible, but probably not until next year. followed by P.E. He said P.E. would vand I couldn’t get traction on the curriculum, the “There are some unintended consequences, things that we forestart later. classes were so far apart.” We don’t have time to meet and do all saw but wanted to wait and see, and I think Shalhevet is always open According freshmen said Coach Along with the MAP periods, the new sched- to change,” Rabbi Segal said. Bieda gives students seven minutes that we need to do in the club. ule also brings a new period for freshman called He also suggested that school might work better if it ended at 5 after lunch to change for P.E. anyway, “TWJ,” standing for Talmud, World History and p.m., and noted that most Modern Orthodox schools on the East - Ariella Sassover, 10th Grade so the change has not been felt. Jewish History. TWJ meets eight times per week. Coast end at that time. “Coach Rae still expects you to be Four of the classes are Talmud; two are Jewish “If you ask me on a personal level, I’d say, ‘Yeah I’d like 30 mindressed by the end of her seven minhistory and two World History. utes more of work, give me two 15-minute homeroom periods in utes,” said freshman Zev Kupferman. With four hour-long Talmud classes each week, the middle, I think that’s great…,” he said. “How you’d convince The new schedule has also lengthfreshmen now have more Talmud than any other students of it, I don’t know, it’d be interesting.” ened the normal school day for everyone by 10 minutes, with school Although Reb Weissman said Shalhevet is “of course open to ending at 4:30 p.m., while Fridays are 45 minutes shorter, ending subject, while the formerly separate classes of World History and Jewish History classes have been partially merged. change,” he asked students to remain optimistic and give the changat 1:15. Talmud, Reb Weissman said, needs to meet more often. es a chance. In addition, for upperclassmen, SWAP -- the hour-long appoint“No matter what level a student is currently at, it is a type of skill “I’m interested in being patient with the process, and seeing how ment period on Tuesday afternoons -- has been cancelled and is now that is similar to math that requires a lot of practice,” he said. it goes,” Reb Weissman said. “It’s a combination of patience and class time instead. They say it’s worth it for the longer lunch. He said the two history courses – which used to meet three times flexibility. That’s what Shalhevet ought to be about, that’s how I “We have an hour for lunch this year, which is really helpful because I tend to get a lot of work done,” said senior Sarit Ashkenazi. per week each, but now they meet twice a week each in total – .will perceive Shalhevet.” “I eat for the first half of lunch and I do work for the other half and now be “speaking to one another.”
School leadership team developed new schedule over three years By ALEC FIELDS, Co-Editor-in-Chief Shalhevet’s revamped schedule was developed by what Principal Reb Noam Weissman called the “educational leadership team,” a group comprised of himself, Director of College Counseling Ms. Aviva Walls, General Studies Principal Mr. Daniel Weslow, Dean of Students Mr. Jason Feld, Math Department Chair Katya Malikov, and Judaic Studies teacher Rabbi Ari Schwarzberg. Reb Weissman said the group meets once a week and discusses ways to improve the school. “What we’re charged with doing is taking a pulse of what’s going on with the teachers, what’s going on with discipline within the school, what are strategic things we need to be thinking about in terms of education in the school, and, most importantly, always keeping our finger on the pulse of educational research and making sure we’re up to date,” Reb Weissman said.
The team started discussing improvements to the new schedule three years ago. Ms. Walls joined last January. Part of the planning involved examining schedules at other schools. Reb Weissman said he and Head of School Rabbi Ari Segal visited Orthodox high schools around the U.S., including SAR, Ramaz, Ida Crown, Beth Tefillah and Hebrew Academy of Greater Washington. General Studies Principal Mr. Daniel Weslow looked at schedules from his previous school, New Roads in Santa Monica, as well as Crossroads in Santa Monica, Wildwood in West Los Angeles and Viewpoint School in Calabasas- all private, secular, college preparatory schools. “Each year, at every school that I’ve been at, there’s been some type of evolution of the schedule or some minor shifting,” said Mr. Weslow. “I think it just meets the needs for
Shalhevet.” While there was no formal student or faculty input except for the leadership team, Reb Weissman said he considered things he’d heard from throughout the community, including parents. “We really spent a lot of time thinking about it, talking about it, hearing what’s going on with students, hearing how parents are perceiving things, teachers are perceiving it, asking them for the feedback,” said Reb Weissman. “This is another demonstration of our creativity and willingness to innovate and not just be paralyzed by status quo.” He said the Educational Leadership Team did not believe a Town Hall vote or discussion were necessary for this change. “The job of the Just Community is not to make decisions about pedagogy, but it’s the job of the administration to hear from students
and really take a pulse of the school,” said Reb Weissman. “We didn’t take a survey, [but] we’re always speaking to students. “Students will always hear me informally going to them, ‘What class are you working on right now?’” said Reb Weissman. “‘What are you spending your time on?’ I’m not just making small talk. I really want to get a sense of what students are spending their time on.” Reb Weissman said the leadership team would get student reactions to the new schedule over the course of the year. “As with everything, it is our model and our motto that we are interested in learning from students’ perspectives,” said Reb Weissman. “As with everything we expect change to be hard for some people, but we’re always very interested in feedback.”
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The Boiling Point •October 2016 • Community
HISTORY
ED. SUPPORT
Blogger, Youtuber, Through winding journey, a academic joins History department passion for helping kids By Hannah Jannol, Community Editor
If Dr. Keith Harris is not teaching Civil War history in a classroom, he is talking about it on his blog, Youtube channel, or research novel, Across the Bloody Chasm. Dr. Harris, who is teaching World History to 9thgraders, one US history class to sophomores, and an SAS Civil War & Reconstruction course to upperclassmen, began his academic media presence in 2010. Since then, his Youtube channel has accumulated over 31,000 views and 120 subscribers. Additionally, he runs successful media platforms on both Twitter (@MKeithHarris) and Instagram (@keithharrishistory), which have over 8,000 followers combined. “All of my social media presence is geared to reach out to the broader public,” Dr. Harris said. “I’ve written academic books and essays but…I’d much rather have a broader audience.” “I probably reach more people with a single tweet than I do I look for the way people think with all my academic works combined.” and the way they come to their On his Youtube conclusions rather than just road channel, he has a vidrepetition of names and dates, I don’t eo series on his channel, titled “Office really care about that kind of stuff. Hours,” in which he -Dr. Harris briefly explains topics in the AP U.S. History curriculum. On his website, called keithharrishistory.com, he writes succinct blog entries on a multitude of topics ranging from contemporary politics to the battle of Gettysburg. “Have ‘all’ people been criminalized for their manner of dress?” Dr. Harris wrote in a July 9 post titled “The Absurdity of #AllLivesMatter.” “Have ‘all’ people had to instruct their children that they will be treated as potential threats and thus take especial care not to be killed? No.” Dr. Harris is tapped into both the intellectual microcosm of academia and wider world of history interest, and so his teaching style combines both. His SAS Civil War curriculum will use old literature on the Civil War, such as the memoir Co. Aytch by Sam Watkins, and mainstream films like Gone with the Wind. In his SAS Civil War class – a new course offered this year — Dr. Harris is replacing a textbook with primary documents like Robert E. Lee’s “General Order No. 9” to his soldiers of Northern Virginia, and trading in lectures for class-wide discussions. “I am demanding on my students, I expect them to learn things and produce things, and I think that my teaching style lends itself to that — so I’m a sort of task-master,” Dr. Harris said. “But I’m fair. I look for the way people think and the way they come to their conclusions rather than just road repetition of names and dates, I don’t really care about that kind of stuff.” Junior Ariel Cohen was at Dr. Harris’s demonstration lesson last spring, where he used the 1861 “Cornerstone Speech” by Alexander Stephens, then vice president of the Confederate States of America in 1861. In his speech, Stephens argued that African Americans are unequal to white people. “I loved the creativity of the lesson with primary sources and his
RECEPTIONIST
Loves teens, is used to hard work By Lucy Fried Arts and Culture Editor
Growing up as the second of five children in a low-income family in South Los Angeles, Ms. Daniella Silva said that she never really felt like a teenager. However, she believes that teenagers are at the best stage of their lives. By Benny Zaghi, Opinion Editor “You will inherit the earth,” said Ms. Silva in an interview. “You’re so young, and you’re so motivated to change the Ms. Jen Hurvitz, new Educational Support Specialist, discovered world, all you need is the right people to talk to, the right a growing passion to help kids when she was studying sociology at people to motivate you.” UC Santa Barbara. After working her way through college in jobs ranging After that, she tried working in other kinds of jobs and industries, from canvassing for businesses to private tutoring, Ms. Silva but she always seemed to go back to teaching and working with kids. is now the fulltime receptionist at Shalhevet, occupying the “When you realize something fits your personality and your inoffice by the entry doors where Ms. Muriel Ohana sat last terest, then you know it is not a coincidence,” said Ms. Hurvitz. year. Ms. Ohana, assistant to the head of school, has moved “Working in this kind of field is definitely where I connect to.” to an office in the administrative wing. and assumed the adTeaching pre-Algebra and ditional role of Development Associate. Algebra at Westview School Ms. Silva went to two high schools, both located in for six years, Ms. Hurvitz My mother has a great saying: when you South Central Los Angeles — Fremont High School spent the bulk of her time with are working anywhere, always be the for grades nine and 10, and Animo Pat Brown Charter whole classrooms of students. High School for her junior and senior years. At Animo most dependable person in the room, Now, as assistant to Ms. AshPat Brown, she was editor of her school newspaper, the ley Evins, she’ll be working and always try to be the one person that Griffin Gazette. one-on- one with Shalhevet everybody needs at that moment in time. She then attended UC Riverside and graduated students who need tutoring with a major in creative writing. Ms. Silva was the first -- Ms. Silva and other accommodations to in her family to attend college. reach their potential in school. “Nobody in my family knows what that’s like except “This will definitely be a diffor me, which is something I savor,” she said. ferent kind of role,” said Ms. Hurvitz. Ms. Silva tutored students both at Vista De Lago High Other jobs Ms. Hurvitz has held have included volunteering at School in Moreno Valley and independently, and also worked the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee in 2008, where in a variety of other jobs including telemarketing, retail sershe went on a seven-day trip to Lithuania and Estonia. vice, supervising a bakery, and as a travel assistant at LAX and “We cleaned Jewish cemeteries and worked with the Jewish a housekeeper. youths in the community,” said Ms. Hurvitz. “It was an amazing But her goal was to work in education, especially with experience.” teenagers. Ms. Hurvitz said she learned about Shalhevet from Ms. Evins, “I feel really lucky to be here,” Ms. Silva said. who is a close friend of hers. She said she hopes that together they Working while also being a fulltime college student taught will be able to facilitate a “clear, constant stream of communication her to fight for herself, Ms. Silva said. between students, teachers and parents.” “When you both work and go to school at the same time,” Ms. Hurvitz says she’s an easy person to talk to, and loves to cook, said Ms. Silva, “you’re doing things that are very contradichike and practice yoga. tory, because studying requires you to sit down and concen“I don’t really have pet peeves,” she added. trate, and work has you on the go. “You have to learn how to balance it and make sacrifices for the greater good.” Ms. Ohana, meanwhile, who has taken on the additional passion for the topic, specifically the Civil War,” she said. role as development associate, said her new location on the Dr. Harris is looking forward to learning Jewish History in depth with Mr. Jeremy Shine, now that the freshman World History and back hallway near Registrar Ms. Lili Einalhori would help her Jewish History courses have been merged. This year, Jewish History concentrate more on her work. Her old spot by the front door seems perfect for Ms. Silva. and World History each meet twice a week during the same period In addition getting to know the faculty and student body, block, as opposed to three times a week each in different periods. Mr. she aims to become the most reliable person she can be — an Shine and Dr. Harris are working together to align the two curricula. Still, Mr. Harris considers himself “an Americanist by profession.” ideal derived from something she learned back in South L.A. “My mother has a great saying: when you are working anyHe has a Masters in American History and a PhD in Civil War Hiswhere, always be the most dependable person in the room, tory and 19th-century America, both from the University of Virginia. There, he began his career in education by instructing discussion and always try to be the one person that everybody needs at sections. For the past three years, he has been teaching privately but that moment in time,” Ms. Silva said. 6She said her mother and father, both immigrants from before that taught briefly at UC Riverside. Mexico, always inspired her. Dr. Harris has visible tattoos and seems to collect them as well as “My parents worked really hard to embody the ethic of cats, saying he has “well over five” of both. On his right knuckles, he has his wife’s name, Coni, tattooed, one letter on each finger – and always being the most on top of things,” she said, “and I’m said he is planning on tattooing an image of Ulysses S. Grant on his excited to take their philosophy to the next level here. “I want to be able to test myself and see how far I can go, right forearm. and how far I can take things and how much i can get people to depend and rely on me.”
The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Community BP Photos by Ezra Fax
ENGLISH
Veteran teacher will aim for personal spin
CHEM, PHYSICS
Loves to take classes as well as teach them By ZEV KENT , Senior Editor
7
SCIENCE CHAIR
New Science chair wants classes to do real research By jacob feitelberg, Outside News Editor
New Science Department Chair Mr. Ayden Jacob plans to A California native, self-proclaimed “foodie” and former move the department away from tests and lectures and towards By Lucy Fried Arts and Culture Editor L.A. tour guide, Mr. Tushar Dwivedi is teaching this year’s labs and projects. He also plans on helping individual students Chemistry and Physics classes. go beyond the classroom -- literally. Although his interests and experience are eclectic, Mr. One of the advantages of a small school like Shalhevet, he Mr. Eric Smith likes to laugh and says he laughs at himself a lot. Dwivedi more recently was a math teacher at Culver City High said, is that it can create learning opportunities with local institu“Not that students should try to make me laugh; education is a School and also privately tutored some Shalhevet students, tions like Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. very serious thing, but we can’t take ourselves too seriously,” said Mr. which is how he found the school. His wife is expecting their “We are going to look for internships where the 11th - and Smith. first baby in November. 12th-grade students can conduct hands-on research at Cedars Mr. Smith will be teaching freshman and sophomore English this He says teaching is not about giving difficult work, but rathand hopefully other institutions,” said Mr. Jacob, who conducted year, and said he’d put a “Mr. Smith spin” on the curriculum. er about helping students succeed in areas that they normally research himself at both the University of Pennsylvania and at “I like to challenge students academically,” he said in an interview find difficult. Oxford University in Cambridge, England. last week. “I really like to stimulate their intellectual curiosity.” “Science often times is consid“Every school I went to you just have a teacher giving slides,” “After about two weeks the students should get ered hard by students nowadays,” said Mr. Jacob. “I got passionate about bringing what I gained at used to the routines, because it can be a little heavy at said Mr. Dwivedi in an interview. Oxford — because they have a very different teaching style — to first but then you realize, oh, you can do this.” Mr. Dwivedi enjoys bowling, pho“I think that more important than the Jewish community. It’s very one-on-one so every student unRaised in Gary, Indiana, Mr. Smith attended pubtography, and going to concerts. whether I’m easy or hard is that I try derstands what is going on a practical level.” lic high school and had jobs all throughout his high my hardest to make sure that stuMr. Jacob is familiar with smaller schools considering he grew He has been bowling his whole school career, first as a lifeguard in for the summers dents, particularly the ones who feel up in Los Angeles and attended Valley Torah High School. He after grades nine and 10. During his junior and selife and has bowled a 253. like they are not science students, was born in New York City and moved to Los Angeles when he nior years, he would attend school for half the day get it.” was five. and work the other half the day as what he called “the Learning is also something Mr. After high school, he graduated with honors from Yeshiva burger king” at nearby Burger King restaurants. Dwivedi loves to do himself – in fact, he called learning new University, where he majored in Neuroscience. He then studied He then went on to achieve a Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies things one of his defining traits. neuroimaging at the University of Pennsylvania, and Neuro-RaEducation with an emphasis on U.S. History and American Govern“I want to take as many classes as possible… I just really, diation Oncology at the University of Oxford, Gray Institute for ment from Purdue University, followed by a Master’s degree in Edreally like that, and I think that it makes it fun to meet people,” Radiation Oncology, in Cambridge, England. ucational Organizational Leadership from the University of Illinois. he said. He has taken classes including container gardening, ikeHe hopes that bringing real-world challenges like heart disBefore coming to Shalhevet, Mr. Smith taught for 20 years — 16 bana (Japanese flower arranging), and pie making. ease and brain tumors into the classroom will help students in Chicago at various schools and then four at Fusion Academy in Mr. Dwivedi grew up in Porterville, a small town three hours become interested in the sciences, and plans labs ranging from Woodland Hills. In Chicago, Mr. Smith helped found and develop north of Los Angeles, and attended UCLA. He worked as a hodissections to digital anatomy. the curriculum for Urban Prep Charter Academy along with some tel concierge in Los Angeles for 4 years, which allowed him to “We want to revamp the way that students are introduced to friends, and was an administrator there. really get to know the restaurants of the city. the sciences,” said Mr. Jacob of the all-new science department, He said his favorite Even before recommending restaurants to hotel guests, which also brought Mr. Tushar Dwivedi to Shalhevet this year. part of teaching is just Mr. Dwivedi loved going out to eat. “We want to have a lot of interactive learning... hands-on, reThe whole process of watching young that: the teaching and the “I always thought of it as a social thing,” said Mr. Dwivesearch-based learning.” learning. people mature intellectually, mature di. “It would be the time I enjoyed spending with my family He said he hoped students would feel comfortable approach“The whole process of socially and emotionally, and get that my relatives my friends. So I always wanted to research and ing him to talk about science in general and their specific interwatching young people know where’s the best place to go for this or ests in the scientific field. critical thinking piece to become inquismature intellectually, mathat? I’ve had that be a part of me ever since I Mr. Jacob is no stranger ture socially and emotionitive and inquire about the world and was young.” to teaching, even though he ally, and get that critical Every school I went to you just have a teacher challenge it, I love that. While he was born in California, Mr. has spent so much of his life thinking piece to become giving slides. I got passionate about bringing Dwivedi and his family are Hindu. Both of his doing research. inquisitive and inquire --Mr. Smith parents were born in the Indian state of Gu“I’ve been tutoring for what I gained at Oxford — because they have about the world and chaljarat. Mr. Dwivedi speaks fluent Gujarati and the last several years for medlenge it, I love that,” Mr. a very different teaching style — to the Jewhis first name, Tushar, means “morning dew” ical school students, graduSmith said. ish community in the ancient Indian language Sanskrit. ate students, undergraduate Along with wanting students to challenge the world, Mr. Smith He thought long and hard before deciding students and high school stu-Mr. Jacobs likes to challenge his students, mostly through reading and writing to join the school. In the past he had jumped at dents so that kind of led into and with an emphasis on rewriting. teaching opportunities that did not end up being teaching,” said Mr. Jacob. “Ninety percent of writing is rewriting,” he said. “I’m really big the best fit for him, he said, but Shalhevet’s enviHe said tutoring showed him into editing and peer editing.” ronment convinced him. what did and didn’t work in other schools’ teaching styles. Mr. Smith describes writing as one of his main personal hobbies, “I love the sense of community and the sense of family that He himself became interested in the sciences from an early calling himself a “closeted letter and essay writer.” the school has,” said Mr. Dwivedi. “I’m sure you hear it all the age, with his parents signing him up to volunteer at hospitals He’s been wearing dreadlocks for 21 years — “They’re older than time from people but it truly is very, very unique for every elestarting in fifth grade. He went on to volunteer at hospitals into most — no, all — of my students,” he said — and also enjoys swimment of the school to feel so close to one another.” high school and college. ming and was a high school swim coach, and now is working on his In addition to food and learning new things, Mr. DwiveScience, he said, is also a way to improve the world, as he was grilling skills. di enjoys bowling, photography, and going to concerts. He has taught to do back in Valley Village. And he also is the school’s first African-American teacher who’s been bowling his whole life and has bowled a 253. “My dad studied physics and engineering,” said Mr. Jacob. not a P.E. coach. But though he has no previous connection to ShalHis wife, Christina, is also from Porterville. She has been a “He always pushed to do something with your knowledge that hevet, he said he felt a natural connection upon coming to the school. kindergarten teacher in Anaheim for the past 14 years. can influence humanity in a positive way.” “I think it called me, because it doesn’t feel foreign or weird here at all,” he said.
8
The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Community
More classrooms built for record student body, staff By HANNAH JANNOL, Community Editor New construction throughout Shalhevet’s building has brought patio. There is a second staircase in the basement for new space for seven new teachers, a record high student body at mostly emergency use, leading outside of Shalhevet 245, and a few new problems too, ranging from temperature in the out onto Fairfax Avenue. Getting from classes on the basement classrooms to students getting to and from the basement third floor to the basement and visa versa has been difficult for students during the school’s five-minute to the third floor for class. With four new classrooms, a dividing wall in the Beit Midrash, passing periods, but teachers have been understandand a STEM lab on the second floor, students and teachers now ing. Sophomore Ami Nelson has Jewish History on have 23 classrooms to use counting the STEM lab, up from 16 last year and 17 in the old building. Also employed for classes this year is the third floor and then Hebrew in the basement. He the stage of the Wildfire Theater, where Principal Reb Noam Weiss- said he’s often late to Hebrew. “It’s pretty hard to get all your stuff from your man teaches a Jewish Philosophy section to over 35 students and locker and get to the basement in the Ms. Tamara Gidanian teaches Honspan of five minutes,” said Ami. ors Algebra 2 to 22. BUILT: New STEM room for the Robotics team replaced I like that we have classes in the His teacher, Ms. Shlomit Abrams, Executive Director Robyn LewGenius Bar on second floor, is almost complete. who uses room B104, said her last-periis and General Studies Principal basement because we kind of get od classes frequently start a few minutes Mr. Daniel Weslow said Shalhevet’s out of the building -- even though it’s late, though she still holds students reexpanding population is the main BP Photo by Ezra Fax the same building, I like being in a sponsible for being on time. driver behind the construction. The like being in a different area,” Caroline said. Ms. Lewis recommended students in that situation incoming freshman class this year different area. On the second floor, the Robotics team’s new STEM (Science, use the staircase that runs along the exterior of the buildhas 67 students, the largest at least Technology, Engineering, Math) room is almost finished, located -Caroline Edry, 9th Grade ing by the parking lot, instead of the spiral staircase in since 2002. where the Genius Bar and one of the Wildfire Theater’s two catwalks the central foyer which is used the most. Also, bringing Ms. Lewis said the Tuesday afterused to be. The Genius Bar has been moved to open space near things for both noon presence of Ikar synagogue’s room 216. religious school also strained classroom space. The new classrooms classes to the first class would According to Drama teacher Ms. Emily Chase, the second It’s pretty hard to get all your will allay this pressure on Tuesdays and throughout the week, she mean not having to stop at a catwalk was not functional, while the remaining also has a locker in between. said. stuff from your locker and get to storage unit built by alumnus Mati Davis ‘16 as part of a Boy New ninth- and 10-grade “On Tuesdays, when IKAR is in the building, it was very tight for the basement in the span of five Scouts project. students and teachers to be able to have their classes and continue English teacher Mr. Eric “The catwalks are only useful for long-term storage, so it minutes. their classes,” she said. “So we thought if we could create additional Smith likes being in the wasn’t a big deal,” Ms. Chase said in an e-mail. “We still have basement despite its issues, spaces downstairs on Tuesdays, it just alleviates the pressure.” - Ami Nelson, 12th Grade the other one.” Most of the new classrooms are the same size as the rooms on and the fact that it has been In the Beit Midrash, a white, detachable folding wall now Shalhevet’s second floor, except for a room in the center of the base- dubbed “the dungeon” for its splits the Beit Midrash in half for two classes to occur there colors and location. Teachers who use the upstairs rooms generally ment which can accommodate much larger classes if need be. at the same time. The separator has the same sound rating as regular The basement classrooms have air vents, but are not connected to teach different periods in different rooms. drywall, Ms. Lewis said. “I like it, if I can be in one classroom all the time,” said Mr. the central air conditioning system that cools the rest of the school. The split room has been occupied primarily by larger Judaics Four wall air conditioning units installed in August have helped, Smith. “And it’s kind of off the beaten path, because I’m kind of classes, such as Rabbi Schwarzberg’s Tanach and Talmud sections, though they have caused teachers to have to choose between cool off the beaten path. Then I kind of like my anonymity amongst the Mr. Feld’s Modern Middle East course and Rabbi Gormin’s Talmud group. “ temperatures and distracting noise. and Jewish Philosophy sections. Mr. Smith shares his room with Dr. Keith Harris and Mr. Shine, “It’s a judgment call, because you don’t want it to be too hot in On the right side of the room, a wall-sized bookcase built over the classroom, but when do you have to turn it off because you can’t but still feels as though it is his own space and said he has enjoyed the summer by Shalhevet’s maintenance staffers stores Tefillin, sidactually hear what people are saying and they can’t hear each other?” bonding with the other new teachers there. durim, and Judaica. Freshman Caroline Edry likes the basement for similar reasons. said Jewish History teacher Mr. Jeremy Shine. It was designed Ms. Lewis, Rabbi Schwarzberg and Rabbi David “I like that we have classes in the basement because we kind of Also, the only way for students to get to the basement is via the Stein and built by maintenance staffers Diego Agustin Sanchez and pre-existing staircase that slips downward between the kitchen and get out of the building — even though it’s the same building, I just Javier Dominguez.
Boiling Point wins Rockowers and top national honors in writing By Clara sandlers, Sports Editor and Lucy fried, Arts & Culture Editor In its highest honors to date, the Boiling Point last spring was named one of the top three best-written high school newspapers in the country and also won two national best-story awards, all from the Quill and Scroll International Honorary Journalism Society. The Boiling Point was one of just three newspapers to receive Quill and Scroll’s first-ever Comprehensive Writing Award; the other two were The Spark, of Lakota East High School near Cincinnati; and the Featherduster, of Westlake High School near Austin, Texas. There was no ranking among the three. The award was for the entire year’s work of the 2014-15 staff, led by alumnae Alexa Fishman and Goldie Fields, both class of ‘15. Quill and Scroll awards are judged by the American Society of News Editors and administered by the University of Iowa’s Journalism and Mass Communications department. Alec Fields, this year’s co-editor-in-chief, and Elon Glouberman ’16 won Quill and Scroll “sweepstakes” awards, which honor the top story in each of about 15 categories. Elon won for political writing and Alec won for news. Also over the summer The BP learned it had won two more Simon Rockower Awards from the American Jewish Press Association (AJPA). Shalhevet is the only school to compete in that contest, which is for professional Jewish papers and journalists throughout North America. The Rockowers were won by Alec Fields and Noah Rothman. Also, last week a photo by senior Ezra Fax was chosen as a finalist in the National Scholastic Press Association’s News Photo of the Year competition, one of only 10 finalists in the country. Part of a new category of awards called the Blue and Gold Awards. the Comprehensive Writing Award was launched in honor of the Quill & Scroll Society’s 90th anniversary, according to Vanessa Shelton, the group’s executive director. Ms. Shelton called Shalhevet one of the top schools in the nation for writing. “It was pretty competitive,” Ms. Shelton said. “We had several schools place in the national awards as well as in the sweepstakes awards in writing. You have some excellent writing going on there.” Quill and Scroll gives three levels of awards: the National Award, for an individual or group’s work on a particular story; the Sweepstakes Award, which pits all the National Award winners against each other in each category and only the first prize wins; and the new Comprehensive Award, for a year’s work of an entire paper. Shalhevet won a total of nine awards from the Quill and Scroll Society in 2016, two Sweepstake, six National Awards, and the Comprehensive Writing Award.
HANDS-ON: Boiling Point editors said the Comprehensive Writing Award was for group effort.
per category for the whole United States. Noa Segal won the Boiling Point’s first-ever National Award for Advertising Design for her ad thanking everyone who had contributed to the new building, titled “It Took A Village.” Michelle Hirschhorn ’16 won for front-page design for Page 1 of Issue 3, which featured the Choirhawks singing beside the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco. In addition to Elon and Alec, current Senior Editor Zev Kent, Noah Rothman ‘16, and Eric Bazak ‘16 – last year’s editor-in-chief – won National Awards for their writing. Zev won in news for his story about a senior prank gone awry. Eric won in the personality profile category for his look back at the career of former General Studies Principal Mr. Roy Danovitch. In the AJPA Rockower Awards, the Boiling Point won second place in writing about women for “Evolution of a title ensnares potential new faculty hire,” Noah Rothman’s story about a BP Photo by Ezra Fax prospective teacher from Yeshivat Maharat who turned Ms. Shelton said the group’s trustees decided to introduce the Comprehensive Writing Award to recognize the collaborative effort down a position rather than be called “Ms.” after she’d received involved in producing an entire newspaper, instead of just individ- ordination. Noah’s and Alec Fields’ three-part story “Out of the Shadows: uals. That made sense to Goldie Fields, BP Executive Editor in 2014- Ancient tradition meets modern sensibility,” on Orthodox views of 15, who attributed the success to the hard work and commitment LGBT issues and the experiences of a gay rabbi and a Shalhevet lesbian alumna, won Second Prize, Boris Smolar Award for Enterof everyone on the paper. “It’s a big commitment to have a paper like ours,” said Goldie. prise/Investigative Reporting. Lisa Hostein, executive editor of the Hadassah magazine and “I think that it was our genuinely hard work and making sure the head of the Rockower Awards committee, said via email that the product was good.” Shalhevet had never won a Sweepstakes award before. Elon Boiling Point’s success is unique for a high school newspaper. “It is truly impressive that your high Glouberman won for his September 2015 stoschool paper, which does indeed compete ry, “A summer of argument as Iran deal polarIt’s a a big commitment to have a paagainst a multitude of professional papers, ized community,”and Alec Fields won for his continues to garner awards,” Ms. Hostein news article, “Rabbi who sauna-ed with stuper like ours. I think it was our genuwrote. dents in New York was scholar-in-residence at inely hard work and making sure the It was the fourth year in a row that the Beth Jacob on Shavuot.” product was good. Boiling Point won Rockower honors. Alec’s story explored whether officials at Eric Bazak said he was proud of the Beth Jacob knew about the rabbi’s controver-Goldie Fields ‘15 work ethic of the Boiling Point staff, and sial history before inviting him to speak. Shorteveryone does it with “perfection and dedly before his actions were exposed in the New ication.” York Times, his speech to teens was cancelled. “There were times last year where it’d be very frustrating because Boiling Point faculty adviser Mrs. Joelle Keene said it was a during those production nights you’re literally spending all night combination of Alec’s good writing and careful journalistic eye. “It was a national story that Alec knew about from following just working on BP,” said Eric. “It’s tiring, but at the end of the day it’s worth it because the the news,” Mrs. Keene said, “so when he saw two conflicting flyers handed out by his synagogue – one with the rabbi’s name and one result is an incredible paper we all feel very proud of and one the community can benefit from.” without – he decided to investigate.” Quill and Scroll awards about 250 National Awards, about 75
Arts & Culture
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OCTOBER 2016
David Mazouz of ‘Gotham’ balances stardom with studies By EVA SUISSA, Staff lumnist Last year Shalhevet welcomed a superstar into its family — then freshman, now sophomore, David Mazouz. David has been acting since the age of 5, professionally since 8, and is currently playing the role of Bruce Wayne in the hit show Gotham on Fox Broadcasting Company. It films in New York City, which means he travels often from his school life in Los Angeles to his acting career in New York. “A lot of people make the conscious decision ‘Oh, I want to pursue acting,’ because they want to be rich and famous, but that wasn’t really my reason,” said David, who pronounces his name Da-veed. “I just did it because it was fun.” His first memory of enjoying acting was at a class in the Valley when he was 6 years old. One exercise particularly stood out to David. He and another boy, Lucky, pretended to watch a horror movie at a table, and screamed on the top of their lungs, “Don’t go into the closet!” “I remember going home at the end of the day thinking, ‘that was exciting – I want to do that some more,’” he said. Over the years, it evolved into a deep love for acting. “I just love between ‘Action!’ and ‘Cut!’ ... stepping into the shoes of a different person,” he said. On his New York set, David steps into Bruce Wayne’s shoes in Gotham. The show is about Bruce’s life before becoming Batman, and his character coping with the aftermath of the murder of his parents — struggling to find out why they were killed, seeking things to connect him to what they were doing, and trying to continue their work. He also falls for a homeless girl on the street. Although pretending to be Bruce doesn’t affect his personality, David says he and Bruce do share some character traits. “He’s pretty compulsive and can get obsessive, which I am also,” said David. But Bruce is a “great guy, so for me to say that I feel like I’m like him is kind of a little arrogant, but hopefully — I try to be. “What more affects my life is not playing him (Bruce), not pretending to be him sometimes, but having a job like this in general and being my age,” David said. Challenges from his job include not being able to see his LA friends for approximately 27 weeks of the 40-week school year. “It’s a pretty sadly routine life when I’m in New York, because we don’t really have a lot of friends there,” said David. “I’ve tried to make friends … but it’s just so hard with my work schedule.” In other ways, his life in New York is not routine. Depending on
10-pound dog Starlit, a champagne-colored Havanese, also travels back and forth with David. The rest of his family – his dad and his older sister Rebecca, who also acts – live in Los Angeles full time. David returns to Los Angeles whenever he’s not in an episode of Gotham. He will usually stay in LA for at least two weeks at a time, because each episode takes that long to film. Here at home, David transitions from a TV star with a tight schedule to an average teenager who enjoys spending time with friends, going to the movies instead of acting in them, and walking his other dog — a German Shepherd named Delilah. One of his friends, sophomore Aaron Navon, watches Gotham and enjoys David’s acting. PASSIONATE: Sophomore David “David’s a great actor, because he’s portraying Mazouz said that he acts and goes to Batman as a kid before he really gets a start . . . and auditions simply out of enjoyment. being a kind of vigilante,” said Aaron. Aaron doesn’t think it’s strange seeing Bruce Wayne at school. BP Photos by Ezra Fax “I thought maybe it would be weird seeing when he needs to be in a scene, David could start filming anywhere him, but I don’t think it’s weird at all – it’s cool,” he said. from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. on the set that is about an hour away from Not only does David enjoy going to Shalhevet because he gets where he stays in the Upper West Side. When he has free time at work – during a lighting break, for to see friends like Aaron, but he likes how open the administration example – he studies with his tutors. By law he is required to have is to new ideas, specifically during Town Hall. To David, Town Hall is an open space to discuss different perthree hours of school learning daily, and must learn for at least 20 spectives. It has also taught him current events. minutes at a time. “There’s just so much going on around the world that I would If he is scheduled to film during a Jewish holiday, his boss is usunot be aware of if it wasn’t for Shalhevet (and Town Hall),” he said. ally very understanding, and will reschedule it, says David. After high school he plans on taking a break from acting to go to His Judaic studies tutor, Tani Weissman, is principal Reb Noam Weissman’s younger brother and attends Yeshiva University. Tani college, but later on he definitely wants to pursue a job in the enterWeissman teaches David Talmud, Jewish history, and Hebrew lan- tainment industry — either acting, directing, writing or producing. Continuing to work in the business seems like the natural thing guage. His secular studies tutor, Christine Rudakewycz, teaches him for David to do, since he’s been English, Algebra 2 Honors and U.S. History. acting for most of his life. When He doesn’t take Tanach, Art, Chemistry or PE, beWhat more affects my life is not he was younger, David starred cause he took Chemistry over the summer and does a mix in many shows and movies, playing Bruce, not pretending to of Krav Maga, wrestling and jiu-jitsu for exercise. including Touch, The Darkness, “I think it’s actually easier being here with a one-onbe him sometimes, but having a Criminal Minds and The Games one tutor,” said David, “because if I don’t understand job like this in general and being Maker. something, I’m just like, ‘I don’t get that, can you explain And while he loves stepping that again?’” my age. into the shoes of different peoWhen he gets home from filming, David turns into -David Mazouz ple, like Bruce Wayne, at Shalan ordinary student. hevet he steps into ones that are He will either do his homework, watch TV shows like a lot more familiar — his own. South Park to decompress, or go to the market with his mom who travels back and forth with him between LA and New York. His
John Lennon was here: Choir records new CD in famous studio in Hollywood Continued from Page 1 idols had, those who knew were impressed. called “Mockingbird.” “That was really cool, I actually looked it up Ringo Starr recorded “Goodnight Vienna” at the Boulevard Studio, which is located on Hol- beforehand,” said junior Daniel Lorell, then listlywood Boulevard near the Pantages Theater and ing the celebrities who had recorded there. Daniel sings bass on the CD. “It felt really professional, right next door to the Museum of Death. Because of the mid-summer date, only about and the staff were really nice,” he said. Choir director Mrs. Joelle Keene was glad to half the Choirhawks were present for the second recording session. Alumni present from the class have a recording of last year’s group. “I decide to make of 2016 included Shirel an album when I feel Benji, Ariella Cohen that we are having and Daniel Shoham. It was a very famous studio, they had a particularly good Alumnus Jake Benthree engineers so I’m sure it’s going to year, and last year yowitz went to the sound very good. was amazing,” Mrs. Mr. Kozak’s house on Keene said. “It was a separate day and re-Beatboxer Jake Benyowitz ‘16 just a really memocorded beatboxing over rable year, with amazthe Aug. 17 tracks. ing soloists and a Jake, who is curgreat repertoire.” rently learning at YeThe CD debuted at Back-to-School Night shivat Lev Hatorah in Beit Shemesh, said that the choir has improved 100 percent since his fresh- when it was played over the sound system in the man year, and that a CD is another step in the gym. It is currently available for pre-order for $13 by contacting Eli Greenberg or choir vice presiright direction. “It’s a way to get our name out even more dent Liora Rabizadeh on Schoology. Senior Michelle Greenberg heard it at Backthroughout the community and throughout the country,” said the four-year choir member in an to-School Night. “I thought it was really cool that the choir interview. “It was a very famous studio, they had three engineers so I’m sure it’s going to sound very from a small Modern Orthodox school would be able to go to a recording studio and produce a good.” While many choir members were unaware CD,” she said. “It makes them seem legit.” Mrs. Keene said the songs would also be pubthat they were using the same equipment as their
licized in the Bay area, where the Choirhawks did alto Bailey Mendelson. “it enhanced our experitheir first-ever performance tour for Chanukah ence in choir… and it made us want to continue last fall. Stops included Oakland Hebrew Day throughout our high school years.” School, Congregation Kol Ami in Palo Alto, and Jewish Community High School of the Bay in downtown San Francisco. “Really everyone was asking us for recordings up there, so hopefully they can get these in time for Chanukah 2016,” she said. While the making of a new CD will draw attention to the choir from the larger community, it also bonded the choir as a PROFESSIONAL: The Choirhawks recorded at the group. “I thought Boulevard Recording Studio Aug. 17, standing in the that it really shoes of Ringo Starr, Carly Simon and Pink Floyd. brought our choir together,” said sophomore and BP Photo Credit: Ami Kozak
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Outside News OCTOBER 2016
School remembers Peres for heart, poetry, devotion to peace By JACOB FEITELBEIG, Outside News Editor the way he is able to convey his opinion. It is like no other.” Shimon Peres, who died Sept. 28, tried to be a unifier – even in Los Angeles. During his presidency in 2007, Peres addressed the Turkish parliament to express his optimism for In March 2012, Israel’s elder statesman and then-president spoke to a community gathering at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Singing the American and Israeli national anthems at the event were the a lasting peace between Palestinians and Israelis. This made him the first Israeli foreign minister to combined choirs of three area Jewish high schools: Milken, New Community Jewish and Shalheve. address the parliament of a Muslim country. But he was not always a unifier. Standing at attention in the front row were President Peres, then-Consul General David Siegel and “I did not always agree with his political views, but he had a lot of integrity,” said Mrs. Davis. then-Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. Mrs. Davis is not alone. Peres was very active in trying to push a two-state solution to the IsraeShalhevet alumna Rachel Spronz ’15 was one of three students who presented flowers to President li-Palestinian conflict. However, many Israelis in Israel did not agree with him, which is evident by the Peres as he walked onto the stage. “Getting chosen to be one of the few that got to deliver flowers to Shimon fact that he lost some many times when he ran for Prime Minister. Mr. Feld was living in Israel when the Oslo Accords were signed. Peres was incredible, but meeting him was even greater,” said Rachel, “Residents of Jerusalem caught a lot of the brunt of the terrorist activity that came along with the now a sophomore at the University of Maryland, in an interview. “He had a huge smile on his face,” Rachel said, “and gra- Oslo Peace Accords,” said Mr. Feld. “At the time, I didn’t appreciate the steps that he was taking towards reconciliation with the Palestinians. In retrospect, I can begin ciously gave me a kiss on my cheek as I to appreciate his vision.” handed him the flowers. What a gift to Peres was involved with Knesset for 47 years either as Prime Minthe world he was.” He gave his heart and soul to the State of ister, President, foreign minister, or as a regular representative for the When Shimon Peres, former Prime Israel. Beginning as a founder and all along Labor Party. Minister, President, and Knesset memhis life he kept going until the end. He never “[We can learn ] hwow to be a dedicated Jew and how to care very ber of the State of Israel, died at the age of gave up. much about the State of Israel even if we don’t live there,” said Mrs. 93, it seemed everyone at Shalhevet was – Mrs. Michal Davis, Hebrew teacher Davis. “He gave his heart and soul to the State of Israel. Beginning as moved and had something to say. a founder and all along his life he kept going until the end. He never Dean of Students Mr. Jason Feld, gave up. We should learn [from him] to never give up for fighting for who teaches Modern Middle East, dethe State of Israel.” scribed his successes. Mrs. Rabinov said she would remember Peres for his positivity. “His most important accomplishments were the work “He never used the words ‘it can’t happen’ or ‘I can’t do it,’ “ said Mrs. Rabinov. “He was loyal to that he did for the Israeli defense,” said Mr. Feld. “He was instrumental in founding the Israeli navy, Israeli aircraft in- Israel and to what he believed in. He was a hard worker all his life.” Even after Rabin was assassinated by an Israeli extremist who opposed the Oslo Accords, Peres dustries — which is the foundation of the Israeli Air Force — and helped build Israel’s nuclear deterrence capa- continued to called for peace in the region, she added. In his final years, President Peres was revered around the world for those efforts, and when he bility.” Peres was Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin’s for- came to Los Angeles in 2012, there was great excitement. Shalhevet, Milken and “New Jew” choirs eign minister during the 1990s when the Oslo practiced “Hatikvah” and “Star-Spangled Banner” together on a Sunday at Milken, the first time the Accords were signed with Palestinian leader Yasser groups had combined. “What I think is important Arafat, an agreement for which the three men shared the especially for Shalhevet stuNobel Peace Prize. “Peace in the Middle East was the goal of his life,” said dents to recognize,” said Mr. Hebrew Department chair Ms. Mickey Rabinov. “I feel so Feld, “is what an individual can accomplish and can consorry that he will not see it.” Many Shalhevet teachers looked up to him both for his tribute to the Jewish people, and to do so in a way that repolitics and for his poetry and songs. Hebrew Teacher Mrs. Shlomit Abrams said that every ally has a positive and lasting year she teaches on of his poems, “Beta Yisrael Eyes,” which influence on the globe. “If you were to ask Shimon describes an Ethiopian-Israeli girl. “I never saw a man that so many people, very important Peres in his life he would explain that he would just wake people, loved so much,” said Mrs. Abrams. archive.government.ru Leaders from all over the world including, President Barak up every day and try to do Obama, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, and Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh what’s best for the Jewish peoSING: Shalhevet alumni Josh Einalhori, Adam Shoukry, attended his funeral, which was broadcast live via internet early Thursday morning Los ple. I think that is an importRokah, Benny Balasz and Jacob Elspas reant message and lesson for us Angeles time. hearsed with Milken choir director Kelly Shepard “He was a bright man, in terms of the ways he could express himself,” said Hebrew Teacher Mrs. to take to heart.” on the Milken campus in 2012. Michal Davis. “What I really enjoy is to read interviews with him, and every time I am astonished by
BP Photo By Rebecca Elspas
Zika raises doubt about annual girls basketball trip to Florida By ZEV KENT, Senior Editor The Zika virus, which started spreading in Central and South America over the past year, has made its way to Florida, including where the Firehawk girls’ basketball team plays in an annual tournament. Rabbi Alexander S. Gross Hebrew Academy, the host school of the Annual Hyman P. Galbut Girls Basketball Tournament, is in one of the areas being treated for Zika-infected mosquitos. Athletic Director Ryan Coleman told the Boiling Point in an email that the decision of whether or not to go to Miami hasn’t been made yet. “But that has nothing to do with Zika,” wrote Coach Coleman in an email to the Boiling Point. “The tournament falls during CIF playoffs, so that is something that the coach, Reb Weissman and I will have to discuss and make a decision about.” Coach Coleman said people should not allow Zika to intrude upon their daily lives, but said everyone’s thoughts would be taken into account. “We will definitely take the pulse of the community and let the students and parents weigh in on this matter,” said Coach Coleman. “If they do not feel safe traveling to Miami we will not go.” As of Sept. 21, there were 3,358 cases in the United States, 3,314 of which came from traveling in countries that have Zika. There were 43 cases of locally acquired infections in Florida, and, as of Sept. 15, 749 pregnant women in the U.S. known to have the virus. Zika spreads mainly through mosquitos, and 80 percent of victims suffer no symptoms and don’t even know they have it. But if a woman becomes infected while pregnant, the disease can spread to
the fetus which can lead to devastating birth defects – most commonly microcephaly, a severe defect that causes a small and undeveloped brain. Those who do have symptoms from Zika can experience fever, rash, joint pain, conjunctivitis, muscle pain and headaches for a few days or a week. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that once infected, patients will likely be protected against the disease in the future. But as there is no vaccine or cure for Zika – and no way to prevent the birth defects it causes – Miami and its surrounding suburbs and neighborhoods have begun targeting mosquitos with pesticide. On Sept. 9, Miami Beach started to spray naled, an insecticide that kills mosquitos, through the air. Local residents have protested the “aerial spraying,” as the CDC calls it, for fear of harmful side effects. Rabbi Alexander S. Gross Hebrew Academy is in one of the areas being sprayed. Senior Nicole Miles who plays forward for the basketball team said that she is not worried about Zika, and that she thinks that the team will end up going to Miami for the tournament. “Hopefully by then it won’t be an issue,” said Nicole. “But if it is, I’m sure school won’t take us into anything that is detrimental to our health.” Zika can be transmitted sexually or through mosquito bites, so the CDC recommends using condoms and protecting against mosquito bites. The best way to prevent mosquito bites is to use insect repellent and to wear clothing that covers most of your body.
BP Illustrations by ARIELLA SASSOVER
BP Drawing By Ariella Sassover
With the recent outbreak, many companies have begun serious research into the development of a vaccine or cure. They have reported varying success in trials of vaccines, and some drugs are being moved to advanced stages of animal and even human trials. Zika has become a big enough problem to attract the attention of the US congress. In their budget for the upcoming fiscal year, Congress this week allocated $1.1 billion for research, mosquito control and health care for people in the U.S. and its territories. Meanwhile, the CDC has designated many countries in South America, the Caribbean, and Central America, including Brazil, Puerto Rico, and Costa Rica, as Zika infested areas and has issued travel health notices for those countries and many more
The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Outside News
Jews in England are worried by Brexit vote
Table Talk News to Help You Schmooze
Israeli physicist makes black holes in a lab Professor Jeff Steinhauer, an experimental physicist at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, has simulated a black hole in his laboratory by himself. This black hole is not the same as black holes in space that suck in light with their gravitational pull. It is a “sonic” black hole, so it only absorbs sound waves and not light. It’s an important achievement, but it was sort of an accident. BP Illustrations by ADAM TARYLE “While working on a different experiment, I suddenly saw a pheBP Drawing by ADAM TARYLE nomenon... and I realized this is a sonic black hole” said Mr. Steinhauer in an interview with CNN. The significance of this discovery is that scientists can now study black holes safely on Earth. It’s known to be is a safe process because he has created more than 4,000 of them safely. Professor Steinhauer explained on CNN how sonic black holes relate to cosmic black holes because of light waves and sound waves. “Well, they are both waves and the equations describing these waves are the same equations in a real black hole and a sonic black hole,” said Professor Steinhauer. An example of this is by that his sonic black hole emits radiation that appears to be Hawking Radiation – which, as postulated by theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking more than 40 years ago, is radiation emitted from a black hole that eventually causes the black hole to shrink until it disappears. Quantum physicists believe that when particles are spontaneously created, they appear in pairs, one with a negative energy and one with a positive energy. Usually they would collide and destroy each other immediately after being created, but at the edge of a black hole they are torn away from each other due to the intense gravitational pull. The negatively charged particle falls into the black hole and causes the black hole to shrink, while the positively charged particle escapes. The same thing happens with sonic black holes said Professor Steinhauer. Shalhevet Science Department Chair Ayden Jacob said it was a breakthrough that will be studied everywhere. “The ability to detect the escape of sound from a black hole falls right into the lab of what Hawking theorized to be inherently true to the physics of black holes,” Mr. Jacob said in an email response to Boiling Point questions. “It will be interesting to see if this 42-year-old theory can now be observed in labs across the world.” Physicists have had a hard time proving this studying cosmic black holes, with the closest black holes still being thousands of light years away. But Professor Steinhauer’s sonic black hole is one step towards proving Hawking’s theory once and for all according to CNN. Stephen Hawking, who is now 74, has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) which hinders him from writing at a regularly, so he has yet to comment on the discovery as of Sept. 26. --Jacob Feitelberg, Outside News Editor
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BP Photo By Katia Surpin
With 52 percent of Britain voting to leave the European Union and 48 percent to stay part of it, did the country’s Jewish community get the result it was hoping for? Apparently not. The momentous exit from the European Union that Britain chose on June 23 will not only affect all of Europe, but possibly Jews in particular. Most Jews voted against it. The Jewish Chronicle of London commissioned a poll of 1,000 British Jews, which found almost twice as many Jews favored staying as leaving - 59 percent to 31 percent. According to the German news site dw.com, some fear that the anti-immigration feeling that played a large role in the Brexit campaign will trigger targeting of minority and foreign groups even if they were born or lived in the UK. In addition, they worry that Jews fleeing other European countries due to anti-Semitism -- in France, for example – will find it harder to live in England. A third worry, according to timesofisrael.com, is the loss of England’s pro-Jewish and pro-Israel influence in other European countries. Both shechita (ritual slaughter) and brit mila (circumcision) have been strongly defended by England and its Jewish community as part of the EU. Without England, 27 other countries and their Jewish populations will have to take the initiative to defend the practices. Israel, on the other hand, does not expect Brexit – when it occurs – to have much of an effect, because it has close relationships separately with EU member countries. “Britain is generally a voice inside the EU that understands us,” said Yigal Palmor, the Jewish Agency’s director of communications, according to The Jerusalem Post. Still, he said Britain was a supporter of Israel inside the EU and will most likely remain a supporter of Israel outside of the EU. --Benjamin Zaghi, Opinion Editor
A cream to cure skin cancer? Researchers at Tel Aviv University and the German Cancer Research Center have uncovered how melanoma propagates through its host, and believe it is a promising start to the development of a cure, news reports announced last month. “Maybe in the future, people will be able to rub some substance on their skin as a prevention measure” said Dr. Carmit Levy, the lead researcher of the project, told Times of Israel. The deadly disease claims more lives than any other skin cancer, deBP Drawing By Lily Drazin spite constituting only 1 percent of U.S. skin cancer diagnoses according to Cancer.net. Under the leadership of Dr. Carmit Levy, of TAU’s Sackler School of Medicine, the team has discovered how the cancer develops into malignant growths around the body (metastasis). Unlike most cancers, melanoma is caused by the effects of things like the sun rather than internal mutations, and initially takes the form of benign excrescences, which are merely harmless growths. But if left untreated, the cancer cells can mutate and penetrate below the skin, thereby spreading through the body and eventually forming malignant tumors. Before entering the bloodstream, the team found, melanoma cells move upwards to the surface of the skin. There, the researchers concluded, the body’s own cells signal the cancer to move downward, into the bloodstream. That is what gives them hope that a cure could be simply rubbed into the skin, targeting the cells before they move down and thus curing the disease. “Now that we know the triggers of melanoma transformation and the kind of signaling that leads to that transformation, we know what to block” the doctor told Times of Israel. --Tyler Ekaireb, Staff Writer
Ben Shapiro gives tips to combat BDS in moderated assembly By Benjamin Zaghi, Opinion Editor Nationally syndicated columnist Ben Shapiro told juniors and seniors Sept. 12 that in order to stop BDS, they should delegitimize their arguments by calling them anti-semitic for judging Israel and not other countries who are doing worse things. In an unusual Monday assembly, Mr. Shapiro gave students tips for an hour on how to refute arguments made by the anti-Israel movement, particularly on college campuses. He said that the best way to win an argument is by using morals, not facts. “Everyone wants to feel moral superiority,” Mr. Shapiro said. “Everyone wants to feel that they are fighting against Darth Vader. If you present facts that show them they are fighting in favor of Darth Vader, their moral superiority is damaged.” At the beginning of the assembly, students were given flash cards on which they could write down questions related to only to the Boycott-Divest-Sanctions movement, which tries to fight Israeli policies by hurting the country economically. A similar movement succeeded in bringing down the apartheid regime in
South Africa in 1994. Although he was prevented from discussing non-Israel-related topics – apparently because his views on social issues go against Shalhevet policies -- he did manage to relate his views on the election and on pro football player Colin Kaepernick kneeling at games during the Star-Spangled Banner. Mr. Shapiro’s controversial remarks have included calling the day gay marriage was legalized “a dark day in history,” calling a transgender woman “sir,” and saying that female soccer players should not be paid as much as male soccer players because their skill is unequal to men’s. Principal Reb Noam Weissman and Head of School Rabbi Ari Segal decided that flashcards would be the best way for students to pose questions to him, to be sure he would not be asked about those topics. Still, some questions enabled Mr. Shapiro to speak about things that were only semi-related to BDS. For instance, he was asked about the presidential elections and said neither American candidate is necessarily pro-Israel.
Another question allowed him to weigh in on football pro Collin Kaepernick’s decision to sit during the national anthem as it was a Town Hall topic the week before. “Colin Kaepernick is just an idiot, because what he is saying is untrue,” he said. Students had mixed views about whether Ben Shapiro should have spoken at Shalhevet. Nevertheless, Reb Weissman said he got more thank you’s for this presentation than he has gotten for any other speaker Shalhevet brought. “There’s something that Ben does in terms of speaking about BDS that our student body really appreciated,” Reb Weissman said. “If we’re a community that deeply believes in open discourse than that means even people we disagree with. It can’t just be the liberals, the progressive people, and just hear that side. “I think when you have an opportunity to hear from someone so outspoken against BDS in an unapologetic way, its important to inspire the students that there is nothing to shy away from.”
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The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Features
FEatures
NEW HEIGHTS: Freshmen, here on the roof the first week of school, should remember to be themselves and take their time.
OCTOBER 2016
BP Photo by Honor Fuchs
Dear Freshmen, By Aidel Townsley, staff writer All of the underclassmen seem to have everything figured out. But coming into freshman year is a big transition from middle school and it can be intimidating. For those of you starting one of the most transformative, memorable, and intimidating parts of your life, here are some things to think about, from a junior and a friend. Laugh. Nobody’s life is stagnant. Not as an adult and certainly not in high school. Growth is not only constant but inevitable, and while those older than you might know how to navigate the halls and stairways of Shalhevet, there are many things that would make them flounder. Everyone gets nervous on the first day of school, at tryouts, and speaking in Town Hall. If you joke about your nerves you will find those around you agreeing, and this solidarity of anxiety will help everyone feel more at ease. Learn. Allow yourself the chance to learn, and understand that you are not expected to know everything from the get-go. This means it is your duty to be open-minded and listen, but do not feel obligated to already know what you haven’t been taught. Knowledge comes with time. There is no need to idolize people who are eloquent speakers or who have traits you admire. At the same time, even though you shouldn’t idealize someone else’s expereinces, you should still show respect to those who have done what you haven’t and might know more than you do. Make sure to ask questions and listen, and don’t be afraid to apologize when you make a mistake. Speak. You are in high school. You do not need a spokesperson. Sometimes facing your fears and taking responsibility for your actions is the quickest way to get your needs met and be respected. If you have a problem with someone, talk to them, and if that doesn’t go well, talk to the person above them. Parents can give good advice, but often the most productive and mature way to resolve conflicts is to do it yourself. Make sure to take preventative measures, like sending emails if you know you will be tardy or miss a class. Always write professional emails to ensure that you will be proud of what you put
From friendships to tryouts, it’s all new. To make it work, remember to laugh, listen, learn and breathe. And -- don’t rush. your name on. Befriend. Although there will always be jerks in life, most upperclassman would love to start a friendship with you, especially if you strike up a conversation. Ask someone their name or what interests they have, and they will appreciate you taking the first step. Also, get to know the Shalhevet staff. Although they might be intimidating, they are great people who are using their time and lives to try to make your life the best it can be. Get to know them. They can really help you out and are people you want on your team. Also, be loyal. Loyalty is the cornerstone of a good relationship, along with trust, an ability to listen, and an ability to have a good time. True friends will only ever try to influence you for the better and will make sure you are comfortable and safe. Surround yourself with those who uplift you and whom you uplift.
posed to be doing certain things by certain age deadlines. Trying to fill your life with experiences that you think will make you cool or accomplished on paper will only make you miserable in the end. Make sure that in whatever you are doing, you are putting in thought, being safe, and having fun. Balance. Balance your life. Unless your life goal is to work until the day you die, balancing your schedule is key. Make sure to put time in for what is important -- your family, your friends, your education and your co-curriculars, and above all, yourself. Using a planner can really help you find this balance, get your goals done, and not burn out. If you hate organization, ask someone who enjoys planning and work with him or her to prioritize and manage your schedule. A little adrenaline can actually motivate you, but nothing that happens in school should be important enough to create panic, exhaustion or tears. Your life and priorities can change in an instant and creating a fear about something that cannot cause you major harm will bring much more negativity to your life than an A on a test can bring good. Love yourself, and if you fail, you will still be proud as long as you tried your best.
Own. Have a unique style, and own who you are. If style is not your thing then don’t sweat it, but if you find yourself expressing yourself due to a perceived social pressure, don’t. Your unique self-expression will make you stand out, and if you like a trend, feel free to make it your own. On the same note, take compliments with grace. There is no need to protest or put yourself down with phrases like, “Oh this old thing,” or “ Are you sure it’s not unflattering?” Have confidence in your decisions -- they are yours, and thus, they are you.
Explore. Pursue your interests. You may already know what you like, and when you go down that path, you will find joy in that. If you don’t know what you’re interested in, try some new things out. They might surprise you.
Honor. Think about how you publically portray yourself. For instance, there is no need to scream in the hallways -- that really disrupts the environment of those around you. Also, if you have a question, it is courteous to ask someone who you think would know, whether that be a student or someone from administration, before posting it on Schoology.
Soar. Remember, treat others the way you would want to be treated, be open to new ideas and honest to those around you. Feel proud of who you are and know you will change, grow, fall, and get up so many, many times in your life. Including now.
Breathe. Don’t rush your life because you think you are sup-
Serve. Try making community service a part of your life. Nothing is better than making a positive difference, and you will feel more confident in your ability to make a change and good choices.
This is a fresh start. Seize it.
The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Features
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Beyond the beach: For some, summer ‘16 expanded horizons Republican student campaigns for Clinton By Jacob Feitelberg, Outside News Editor Sophomore Clara Sandler worked for Hillary Clinton’s presidential campaign over the summer, making 176 phone calls over two weeks for two hours at a time, based at two restaurants in the San Fernando Valley. “I’m a Republican, so it was really revolutionary that as a Republican who supported Marco Rubio and John Kasich, now I’m supporting Hillary Clinton and I worked for her campaign,” Clara said. “I support Hillary because fundamentally I am a Republican, but I am very liberal when it comes to social issues like gay marriage, abortion, immigration,” Clara said. She supported Rubio because he was a moderate, she said, and she disagrees with Trump’s views, which she deems extreme. So she found herself making phone calls for Secretary Clinton from restaurants where the campaign sent her – the Hound Dog Hot Dog Shop in Sun Valley, and James Restaurant in San Fernando – at the Valley’s far northeast end, more than 10 miles from where she lives in Valley Village. The summer campaign job was a good fit for Clara, who last year started the Politics Club with fellow sophomore Ari Sassover
so that students would have a setting to discuss politics, especially the current presidential election. Clara also gives periodic updates on the race at Town Hall and on Schoology. “I love politics because it makes sense to me,” said Clara. “Politics runs our world, even though it’s dirty sometimes. We have to embrace it, follow it, and if we don’t like the political figures that are out there, then become a political figure yourself.” In her phone calls, Clara would use slogans like “Keep the Donald out of the White House.” “Some people were really rude, some people were really nice on the phone, some were easier to talk to and some were harder to talk to,” said Clara. She said that her first night, only six out of the 56 people called answered the phone. She also said many of the people she encountered would not be swayed to support Hillary, because they were either Trump supporters or Bernie Sanders supporters who held to the mantra, “Bernie or Bust.” “It sucked when people didn’t answer,” said Clara. “At least the Bernie supporters answered.” Still, when the calls were tough, she kept going – even though
DEMOCRAT? Clara Sandler made phone calls from the Hound Dog Hot Dog Shop.
BP Photo by Natalia Shabtay she was not being paid. “I learned how to have a work ethic,” Clara said. “ This was the first time that I have ever worked, and it was great to get this experience working on a presidential campaign.” Clara found her job through a family friend, Mr. Jonathan Goldenberg, was working for Hillary already, and he was able to bring her along to make calls. She also said she was the youngest volunteer there, with most being in their 30s or 40s. Mr. Goldenberg commended her involvement. “Phone calls are the backbone of the campaign and she really was pushing the numbers,” Mr. Goldenberg said. “Clara worked really hard. She made more phone calls than even some of the more experienced volunteers.” Clara has no regrets about working for a Democrat, though next time she hopes to support a Republican. .Mr. Trump, she noted, lacks something she herself is trying t gain. “He has no experience in politics,” said Clara.
Robotics captain turns his talents to hospital labs By CLARA SANDLER, Sports Editor Senior Seiji Shaw is known around school as the robotics superstar, and he spent his summer also pursuing work in the field of science – working with computers at San Francisco General Hospital and in the Cardiology lab at Cedars-Sinai. “I developed a lot of skills at robotics that I used for robots, but now I’m using them for a greater purpose,” said Seiji, who enrolled in Shalhevet last year after his family moved south from the Bay Area. Seiji started the Firehawk Robotics team last year, and it placed 16th in its very first competition in March. In San Francisco, Seiji worked in the hospital’s tuberculosis clinic, where he started out creating a system for organizing gift cards for donors. The system was so successful that it ultimately was used to organize medicines, according to his supervisor at SF General, clinical epidemiologist Laura Romo. “I was really impressed with his work ethic and his enthusiasm,” said Ms. Romo in an interview, “and obviously with the success that he had with helping us out with the inventory system.” The clinic has an incentive system for attracting patients who need treatment with thousands of dollars in gift cards. Each box of gift cards contained $5,000 worth of cards and there was no way to keep track of the gift cards in the box. That’s where Seiji came in. He created a system to store and track the cards to where they were given out, who they were given to and at what time of day, and to provide a history for these
incentives so the clinic could keep track. It worked so well that it became a system for the medicines in the hospital, too. Seiji created it along with another student, Alex Lara-Agraz, of Brentwood, Northern California. Alex is the son of one of Seiji’s mom’s former colleagues. “Right now the meds system works,” Seiji said. “We might need some more changes for the gift card system, but we’ll find a way to do that some time.” He got the job at the TB clinic through his mom, formerly of the San Francisco Department of Public Health, who knew about the volunteering program. After an application and training, Seiji was put in touch with his supervisor. He plans on going back to work at this TB clinic in the future, he said. Seiji found his Cedars-Sinai job through his cousin who was also working in a lab. They wanted to work together. At Cedars, he did cellular imaging and data analysis, taking pictures of heart cells from mice and evaluating them to see if they supported a top-secret hypothesis being studied by research scientist Dr. Ying Fu. He also created software for the hospital’s Cardiology lab. The woman who ran the clinic at Cedars-Sinai had to look at spreadsheets and calculate averages and ratios. Seiji was able to create software through Excel to automate the data analysis at Cedars. Seiji said he was glad to use skills from robotics to “help the world.”
“My goal later in life is to develop something or do research that will help someone,” he said. “The inventory system helps the TB clinic be more organized to save lives. The lab helps solve the some of the mystery of how the heart beats coherently. I’m taking my robotics skills and placing them somewhere else.” He also enjoyed going back to San Francisco. “It was nice,” Seiji said. “I got to visit friends and family, and it was kind of nice to see the city again. It made me appreciate where I am in LA, and appreciate San Francisco.”
PURPOSE: Seiji Shaw worked at two hospitals, including Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
BP Photo by Ezra Fax
Job hunt uncovers a passion for firefighting By Benjamin Zahgi, Opinion Editor Sammy Ellenhorn, now In 12th grade, looked for a job last summer but ended up finding a passion for a career that he might later pursue in his life. He worked at Los Angeles Fire Station No. 63, near Venice Beach. “I wanted a new experience outside of the Jewish bubble,” said Sammy. “It was also something I was really interested in.”
Fireman: Senior Sammy Ellenhorn stands in front of firehouse 63 in Venice where he worked this summer training to become a cadet. BP Photo by Ezra Fax
The idea was suggested to him by a friend who is a police cadet. Sammy searched for programs in multiple fire stations before finding one that had space for him to join. This one was called Cadet Program Station No. 63, run by Fireman Engineer Robert Hays. Cleanly shaven, boots on his feet and watch on his wrist was how Sammy began his day in the station each morning at 6:30 a.m. He then did the job of a firefighter at the station, whether making coffee or doing drills. He also threw ladders, practiced search and rescue, and learned how to use a rotary saw. Sammy’s favorite drill was the search and rescue drill, which is very similar to hide-and-go-seek, he said, but in the scenario of a fireman. Participants in the drill wore full gear -- gloves, an oxygen tank, a helmet, a coat, pants, and masks blacked out to simulate poor vision in fire. Then, sweltering under all the equipment and with poor eyesight, he mock-searched for firemen acting as people trapped in the fire. While being searched for, they made beeping noises that helped locate them, but other fireman made other noises at the same time to simulate the distractions of a building on fire.
In addition to lack of vision and mobility, the oxygen tank would run out of air after a while, and he had to switch tanks before choking out. The program put Sammy to the test, both physically and mentally. Even though school has started, he’s still going to the fire station once or twice a week. He must commit to the cadet program for seven to 10 months, completing 16 drills to become certified. “You have to be self-motivated in order to pass the drills, said Sammy. “You have to go out and educate yourself.” If he gets there, privileges will include riding in a firetruck and being on site when there is a fire. First, he’ll have to train in three different stations over the course of a year. “Sammy is taking steps in the right direction to become a certified cadet,” said his supervisor, Fireman Hays, in an interview. “I think he is doing an outstanding job in the program. He has been taking initiative and really shows a passion to become a firefighter.” Sammy is not sure yet, but is considering being a reserve or a full time fireman when he is older. “It is really something that makes me grow and become more mature,” he said.
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The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Features
Hou
DIVI daughter is a Democrat, so some things are better not discussed
Most students agree wit presidential election, bu real challen
By EVA SUISSA, Staff Columnist During the occasional car ride in their silver Honda hy- Avi made Hannah so upset that she didn’t talk to him for a brid, Hannah Jannol is listening to Donald Trump debate couple of days. Hannah said these periods of silence usually on MSNBC with her Republican family. In the front, her occur after heated debates about social equality — somemother and 14-year-old brother Avi comment in agree- thing she takes very seriously that her brother views as inment, while in the back, 16-year-old Hannah rolls her eyes significant. Ms. Jaffe tries to avoid this type of conflict by not talking and looks out the window — trying to tune out Trump. Her 11-year-old sister Alina, who has not yet formulated about political topics, especially things like feminism and a political opinion, sits in silence next to her. If Hannah social activism. It’s more important for her to have family hears something she really disagrees with, she’ll retort back harmony. But it’s difficult for Hannah to not talk about Donald — causing her mother, Ms. Batya Jaffe, to raise her voice. Hannah has known she is a liberal Democrat since sev- Trump, especially now during the election season. She is outraged by what she sees as Trump’s enth grade, when she started to exracism and sexism; her mom doesn’t plore social activism articles posted think it’s an important issue. on Facebook. Feminist blogger MaI’d rather just let them “My mom and my brother and rina Watanabe introduced her to believe what they want to a lot of other Trump supporters just liberalism. believe. seem to not really care that he says Since then she has taken her pasthose things, and I think they’re unsion for social justice to The Boiling - Hannah Jannol derestimating it and they’re minimizPoint, where she reported the story ing it,” said Hannah. of a Jewish transgender man named “We’re at a turning point in hisBenjamin Kenner, originally Rochel-Leah Kenner. Ms. Jaffe disapproved of this, because she tory where we can ... take huge strides towards equality, and doesn’t believe that people should publicize uncomfortable I think that we’re really almost there, but right now the istopics when there are more pressing issues to write about, sues of inequality are more nuanced. On paper, black people like the government taking money from people to give to have equal rights, but socially, are they treated the same? I don’t think so.“ the unemployed through taxes. If Hannah tries to share her political opinions, Ms. Jaffe “I still kind of scratch my head sometimes how she came will quickly quiet her in an attempt to evade arguing. Howout so liberal,” said Ms. Jaffe. Although she feels her family rejects her opinions, Han- ever, she’s slower to quiet Avi if he raises the subject, Hannah is confident in her liberal stance and doesn’t hesitate to nah believes. Still, even in this divided season, there have been signs of defend it. She says she learned this perseverance from kickmovement in Hannah’s family – in both directions. boxing — another one of her passions. This past July 4 weekend, Hannah and her family visited In kickboxing, she said, when someone hits you, you hit back and defend yourself. When she the Castro District in San Francisco — a gay neighborhood feels it is necessary, Hannah defends her liberal — during a vacation. Although there were some moments of discomfort for her mother, like when they passed two views. But her parents’ minds, too, are made up. “I’ll listen to them, but they won’t listen to men holding hands, it made Hannah hopeful that her famme,” said Hannah of her parents — Ms. Jaffe and ily’s tight bonds were strong enough to accept her liberal views. Mr. Neal Jannol, Hannah’s dad. And Hannah herself may be coming around to her Ms. Jaffe favors Trump’s wall between America and Mexico, while Hannah does not. Ms. Jaffe fa- mother’s view that some things are better not to discuss. “I’d rather just let them believe what they want to bevors deporting illegal immigrants, while Hannah does not. Ms. Jaffe is gets upset when media fea- lieve, and to just not really talk about [politics] any more ture gay couples, saying it forces multiculturalism with them,” said Hannah. “I just feel like it is unproductive on viewers, while Hannah loves to see, say, a bira- and harmful to our relationship unnecessarily.” cial or gay couple on a TV show. Sometimes these differences cause tension in Page design by Abbi Sentchuk and Honor Fuchs the family. There have been times when a politGraphics by Zev Kupferman and maital hiller ical argument between Hannah and her brother
Source: Poll of 128 Shalhevet students, Sept. 22-24
30 26
HILLARY CLINTON
4
GARY JOHNSON
DONALD TRUMP
Election 2016: Poll shows most students follow parents, Clinto Continued from Page 1 32 percent voting for Clinton. This mirrors national trends, which show Mrs. Clinton leading among women and Mr. Trump leading among men. “Hillary stands for social and economic equality,” said senior Layla Galeck. “It would be horrible for Trump to be elected and for him to take America a step back in our fight for equality and acceptance of all people.” Students’ reasoning for supporting Trump include his national economic plans, along with the support for Israel that he has pledged. Freshman Adam Tizabi said that he would vote for Don-
ald Trump if he were of age in the upcoming election. “He supports Israel more, and for me Israel is my top priority,” said Adam. Talya Ohana, a senior, said that despite not knowing much about politics, she is influenced by her parents’ views, and is in support of Trump. “From what I hear, they think Donald Trump would be the best candidate,” said Talya. “Especially because my dad is a small business owner and economically it makes more sense for them.” On the other hand, students supported Clinton both be-
cause of her values and to stop her Republican opponent. “It’s less of voting for Hillary because she’s a great candidate, which they think she’s not, and more that they’re voting against Trump,” said freshman Jacob Lefkowitz Brooks on why his parents are voting for Clinton. For Layla Galeck, a vote for Clinton isn’t simply a vote against Trump, but a vote for the candidate she believes to be “one of the most qualified people to ever run” for the presidency. The larger American Jewish population shows much greater support for Clinton than Trump at a ratio of almost 3:1,
in agreement with ju and their parents, ac ish Committee (AJC Sixty-one percen ing for Clinton, whi pollfound. Greater support a recurring theme in done by AJC, Presid while Republican ca Another differen
The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Features
uses
IDED
th their parents about the ut disagreement poses a nge this year
republican son is a chance for both sides to learn to listen By HANNAH JANNOL, Community Editor
N
21 19
NOT VOTING UNDECIDED
OR JILL STEIN
During the first presidential debate Sept. 26, senior Yaakov Sobel’s mom said Hillary Clinton was winning because she appeared to have brought notes and therefore seemed more prepared. Sitting next to her on his family’s sofa, Yaakov disagreed. He thought Donald Trump appeared more all-powerful and all-knowing having not brought notes. And yet, he didn’t say so. He suppressed his view to maintain shalom bayit – in English, peace in the household. Yaakov said he has been doing this since he came to the realization that he holds mostly conservative beliefs during 2014, when political discord came to a head after the capture and murder of three Israeli boys by terrorists, along with protests in Ferguson, Mo., and an increase in coverage of mass shootings. His mother, Dr. Julianne Sobel, similarly often withholds her more liberal thoughts to preserve the good relationship she has with her son. “A lot of the time I don’t share my opinion, I just listen respectfully,” Dr. Sobel said. “I don’t think the silence implies agreement. In our family it implies ‘I’m listening to you.’” Yaakov and his mother have been able to maintain peace and respect despite disharmony that the 2016 election season has brought to many American families and friendships. Immigration, guns, Israel and racial tensions in America are the main things Yaakov and his mother disagree on. Though Yaakov does not support all of Trump’s policies, like the wall he plans to build between America and Mexico, he likes the principles behind even the candidate’s more controversial stances. “They are not politically correct, they are not PC by any means,” Yaakov said. “But I think that a lot of those things are things that need to be done. Whereas Hillary, she’s gonna go about everything around being PC and she’s not really gonna create any change, and if she does it will just be to make things more politically correct.” He also believes there should be much stricter immigration control. His mother is much more amicable toward immigrants. “I believe that the people who are here need to stay here,” Dr. Sobel said. “This is their home and they’re contributing members of society, so they should have amnesty and they should be granted citizenship.” She said her idea of social justice and her professional experience as a psychologist are the main reasons she will be voting Democratic this November. Maintaining civility has taken some discipline. Two years ago, Yaakov and his mom were discussing the West Bank on the way home home from school. Yaakov believed most of the remaining Palestinian territory should be annexed by Israel, whereas his mom leaned more toward a two-state solution at the time, as long as Israelis living in the settlements could remain there. This discussion, Yaakov said, slowly devolved into something less civil. But they were careful not to raise their voices. “If we could continue at a de-escalated tone, and a de-escalated manner, then we would continue talking,” he said. “But if we
couldn’t find a way to maintain that respect, then the conversation ends, because as soon as you start involving disrespect it’s no longer a conversation. It’s now an argument where neither side is being heard.” Yaakov believes this distinction between a discussion and an argument is whether both sides are listening with an open mind. “I think that ties in to really what Shalhevet has taught me,” he said. “It’s something that’s unspoken and it’s unformulated, but it’s an idea at Shalhevet that the main focus is that we get educated. “Then you have to be willing to change based on the outcome of the discussion.” His mother said a key to respect and peace is understanding what she calls “different truths.” “Being a psychologist has helped me because I’ve helped all kinds of people,” she says. “You get to know people as people. I think you have to remember we’re all created in the image of God. People have different perspectives. They’re a product of their environment.” Yaakov and his mother are close for other reasons as well. Both are avid singers and performers. Yaakov sings bass for the Choirhawks and his mother, a soprano, used to We’re all created in the image perform for the Jewish Women’s Repertory of God. People have different Company. They both love for rock n’ roll and perspectives. even go to concerts to- Dr. Julianne Sobel gether. “My mom knows all the new music and is always like, ‘Oh my gosh let me show you this new EDM artist,’ and I always get into whatever she shows me,” Yaakov said. He said their success in political discussions has also improved other areas of their relationship, like setting curfew and other rules. He used the metaphor of a “two-way street” to describe how they do it. “If both drivers know how to drive -- know what they’re talking about; give the right of way -- allow the other person to talk; signal -- explain what they intend to say; and follow the laws of the road -- don’t yell or lose control,” he said, they can drive their cars in opposite directions and not have a collision — not say that the other side is “wrong.” Yaakov’s father, Mr. Scott Sobel, is also a Trump supporter who, like his wife and son, believes in the value of shalom bayit. “We don’t ever argue about politics because life is too short, and certainly politics is a subject that is forbidden at the Shabbos or Yom Tov table,” Mr. Sobel said. “Shalom bayit can never be sacrificed for any political reasons.”
on slightly ahead, many undecided
ust 30 percent of Shalhevet’s student body ccording to a survey by the American JewC) Sept. 13. nt of the Jews polled said they were votile 19 percent supported Trump, the AJC
for the Democratic party among Jews is n American politics. In a 2012 AJC poll dent Obama had 64 percent of the votes, andidate Mitt Romney had 24 percent. nce between Shalhevet and national polls
was in the percentage who would sit out the election if they were 18. The option of not voting was not included in the 2012 poll, as it has been in recent ones, with 8 percent of American Jews saying that they aren’t voting. In the new Shalhevet poll, 20 percent of the students said they wouldn’t vote if they were of age, and 14 and 10 percent said their mothers and fathers were not voting.
Source: RealClearPolitics.com
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The Boiling Point • October 2016• Torah
TORAH
OCTOBER 2016
A pledge to include School makes LGBT inclusion official policy, hoping to set an example for Modern Orthodox schools Continued from Page 1 and they live in fear then we haven’t done ev- Straight Alliance (GSA) club on campus, and RabGay-Straight erything we can, so we decided to develop this bi Segal announced the creation of a GSA in Town Alliance met pledge,” said Rabbi Segal. “If there are students in Hall on Sep. 22. The pledge also has an ambition: to have other for the first your school who are scared and don’t know where schools sign off on these the school stands, that’s not time. or similar standards or “As they go a place where students, those create their own version off to college, students at least, can be their We’re trying to make something that a of a pledge.“Different students invari- best selves, can do their best things work for differably face the learning.” lot of Jews can agree on, and it’s very ent schools and none The pledge was created in painful moral difficult. of us are trying to dilemma created large part because of Micha’s -Micha Thau, 12th Grade impose our vision by the seemingly experiences, and in the hope of the pledge on intractable conflict: that LGBT students in Shalany other school,” believing in the pri- hevet and other schools will gal. “What we want to macy and validity of feel comfortable, according to Rabbi Segal and said Rabbi Seencourage other schools to do and other commuthe Torah on the one Micha. “One of the reasons that I didn’t come out was nities to do is to make their own pledge or have hand, and following their hearts’ sense of morality with because I didn’t know how my school would re- their own conversation on this issue.” “We should celebrate schools and communities act,” said Miregard to lovcha in an inter- that have the conversation cause for some commuing and accepting For two years he was worried whether he view with the nities it is much harder to have the conversation,” their gay friends – or Boiling Point. he added. perhaps “coming out” would be kicked out, expelled, whether we Micha, who created the new pledge website “So I thought themselves—on the other,” would tell him he couldn’t be a gabbai or daven maybe if I had himself in anticipation of Rabbi Segal’s announcewrote Rabbi Segal. or lain, he just had no idea. the school and ment, said the pledge was created for a religiously Micha, in his Jewish other schools diverse group of schools and certain concessions Journal article, described -Rabbi Ari Segal, Head of School put out these that he didn’t mind under the circumstances. struggling before comDefinitions of religious activities and incorcommitments ing out. that they porating the words “gender identity” along with “My religion, my family, my friends, my presence at my wouldn’t expel kids who came out of the closet, “sexual orientation” in the pledge would have been school, would, in my mind, all be in or harass or discriminate against them, then more better, he said. “The reason is that language makes people feel serious jeopardy if I dared to reveal kids would be apt to come out of the closet.” While Micha struggled,Rabbi Segal thought very uncomfortable, and we want to reach the the truth to anyone,” wrote Miwidest breadth of schools and institutions,” said it was obvious that Shalhevet would be accepting. cha. “For two years he was worried whether he Micha. “It’s just more to work on for the future. Rabbi Segal signed the pledge, co-created by senior would be kicked out, expelled, whether we would We’re trying to make something that a lot of Jews Micha Thau, Rabbi Segal tell him he couldn’t be a gabbai or daven or lain, he can agree on, and it’s very difficult.” Eshel has already been in contact with at least and the Orthodox LGBT just had no idea,” said Rabbi Segal in an interview. support group Eshel, so “I just assumed that he, that everyone, took for one other school, according to Micha, but neither that LGBT students granted that of course we wouldn’t kick a student Rabbi Segal nor Micha plan on actively advertising would know that out, of course the student could be fully participa- the pledge. Instead, they think the pledge will sell itself. they are accepted at tory in everything we do.” “We think we will have parents going up to the Micha, too, thought it was necessary for ShalShalhevet. school and saying ‘sign this,’” said Micha. “ We ’r e hevet to be proactive about its stance. Rabbi Segal agreed that Shalhevet’s pledge “This is important, because there is a real danvery supportive and tolerant, ger in preventing kids from coming out,” said Mi- would inspire people to take action, but he did not but if our cha. “If you didn’t make your decision clear, you rule out the possibility of changing strategies if the s t u d e n t s make that person afraid, and if you make that pledge does not initially succeed. “If it doesn’t seem to be working, obviously d o n ’ t person afraid, they may wind up doing something k n o w that is going to harm them or harm other people we’ll change our approach,” Rabbi Segal said. or both. “By making your position clear, you let other people know that this is a safe environment for them.” Other elements of the six-part pledge are an agreement that sexual orientation cannot affect a potential student’s application for admission; a promise not to permit any student, teacher or administrator to discriminate; and a stipulation that Shalhevet will not refer students to “reparative” or “conversion” therapy. The pledge also advocates sponsoring a Gay-
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Gay-Straight Alliance draws 15 at first meeting By Alec Fields, Co-Editor-in-Chief Less than two weeks after calling the Torah’s called the “The biggest challenge to ’emunah’ of views on homosexuality the biggest challenge our time.” (See related story, Page 1.) In his Op-Ed on shahevetboilingpoint.com to emunah, or religious belief, of our time, Shalhevet’s first-ever Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA), Rabbi Segal explained the challenges faced by created by head of school Rabbi Ari Segal, held LGBT Modern Orthodox Jews and said that more must be done to help. its introductory meeting. “Young people in the LGBT community have Led by school guidance counselor Rachel Hecht and Rabbi David Block, Mashgiach told me that they feel invisible when we counsel Ruchani or spiritual advisor, seven students and them in private; they feel somewhat loved, but six teachers attended the meeting held in room only unofficially, ‘tolerated,’ but not embraced,” 309 to show support for Shalhevet’s LGBT stu- Rabbi Segal wrote. “This state of limbo cannot persist.” dents. Micha, a senior, believes the GSA will help Sophomore Nomi Willis, who was told last year by Principle Reb Noam Weissman that she non-LGBT students be more tolerant. “It’s about what it means could not wear her “leto be an ally and what it galize gay” t-shirt at It’s about what it means to be means to be supportive,” school, participated. said Micha. “It’s a very, very “It’s important that an ally and what it means to be important skill to learn beShahevet have a GSA supportive. cause people make a lot of because it’s in such a -Micha Thau, 12th Grade mistakes.” community where it Micha declined to go into might not be completely specifics, but said that he has accepted to be gay,” said Nomi. “I want to be a part of making people feel heard many misconceptions about LGBT stucomfortable and making it a main stream thing dents at school. “[There are] a lot of misconceptions about to support people who want to come out or just what it means to be a gay person,” said Micha. want to support gay rights.” Announced at Town Hall Sept. 22 by Rabbi “It’s important that a lot of that stuff gets disSegal, the club will be geared towards teaching pelled. “People don’t exactly know what it means to students how to be “allies” of LGBT students, according to Rachel Hecht and Shalhevet’s only be supportive, and I think this GSA will really openly gay student, Micha Thau, who is helping give a clear definition of what it means to be an ally and how important that is.” the club. Micha acknowledged that LGBT students not Since the meeting took place during Tuesday lunch when underclassmen’s and upperclassmen’s yet “out” might be afraid to attend the meeting, lunch period do not overlap, not all students were and said he would not have gone himself before present at the same time and the meeting time he came out as gay. “Even though I know that I wouldn’t have may have been unclear to students. “This is important enough that there should gone, just knowing that there’s a group of stuhave been more attendance,” said Micha. “I dents who cared enough to go would have made think that we can do a better job of publicity. me feel a lot of safer,” said Micha. “I think it will People didn’t really know what was happening or land up doing a lot of good.” In his Op-Ed, Rabbi Segal said it is now how it was happening.” The club is a part of a larger effort by Shalhe- known that LGBT students, including many in vet to provide support for LGBT students. Rab- Orthodox day schools, struggle painfully with bi Segal also signed a pledge written by Micha, fears that they would be rejected if people knew detailing more ways to solve what Rabbi Segal what their sexuality was. At the same time, their
peers struggle with a disconnect between what Ju- Orthodox community, with real life families and daism says and the love and acceptance they feel friends. What may seem like an interesting sociological debate in truth is creating crushing pain, for their friends. “The reconciliation of the Torah’s discussion anxiety, and general turmoil for people about of homosexuality represents the single most for- whom we care deeply.” While the plan for the GSA and details like midable religious challenge for our young people the weekly meeting today,” Rabbi time have yet to be deSegal wrote. The reconciliation of the Torah’s discussion cided, Micha believes “More young it will make a differpeople are of homosexuality represents the single most ence. ‘coming out’ formidable religious challenge for our young “I’m hoping that than ever bepeople today. whatever direction this fore, and that goes, it will be a positive repeatedly -Rabbi Ari Segal, Head of School force for change at our puts a face to school,” said Micha. this theologi cal challenge. “These weighty issues do not live in the abstract,” he continued. “They powerfully and emotionally impact genuine individuals living in our
Rabbi Segal calls conflict between Torah’s, society’s views of LGBT individuals the greatest challenge to emunah of our time’ By Alec Fields and Ma’ayan Waldman, Co-Editors-in-Chief Calling it “the greatest challenge to emunah (faith) in our time,” Head of School Rabbi Ari Segal has published an article urging religious leaders, particularly in education, to take an active approach to the pressing conflict between Orthodox Judaism and homosexuality. In a 1,868-word piece published this afternoon, he offered ideas as to how the Jewish community can move from an attitude of “mere tolerance” to a place of thoughtful engagement that will “bring our young people closer to Torah and Halacha -- not further away.” To put it plainly, ‘being nice’ cannot serve as the end goal,” said Rabbi Segal. “Basic kindness is but the starting point of human decency.” While not stating any official game plan for conquering this issue, Rabbi Segal suggested establishing school LGBT support groups, celebrating Orthodox LGBT individuals, and encouraging support from their fellow students. “Gay students deserve the same friendship and solidarity as anyone else,” Rabbi Segal wrote, “especially as Jews trying under the most challenging of circumstances to navigate the Torah and observe its commandments.” Rabbi Segal’s article described a religious struggle not only among LGBT students, but among their friends and peers. “As they go off to college, students invariably face the painful moral dilemma created by the seemingly intractable conflict: believing in the primacy and validity of the Torah on the one
hand, and following their hearts’ sense of morality with regard to loving and accepting their gay friends – or perhaps “coming out” themselves—on the other,” Rabbi Segal wrote. “All too often, this earnest challenge results in our children quietly losing faith in the Torah as a moral way of life.” “The Torah in Vayikra, Chapter 18, verse 22, says: “You shall not lie down with a male as with a woman: this is an abomination,” and Rabbi Segal acknowledged a religious dissonance that could occur. He called on Gedolim -- religious leaders -- to find a solution. He specifically mentioned the leaders of Yeshiva University, where he and most of Shalhevet’s Judaic Studies teachers studied or received ordination. “I will leave the discussion of this massive theological question to the Gedolim of our generation,” he wrote. “But I beg the YU Roshei Yeshiva and the Gedolim of our community to take up the discussion now.... Our Gedolim rightly claim the mantle of Torah leadership for our community but they must assert themselves. They must fill the vacuum that exists right now. “If not,” he said, “the difficult and vital issue will be addressed by those to their right and left.” Meanwhile, schools and students should not only embrace LGBT people, but must confront the religious issue, Rabbi Segal wrote.
“Steering away from the issue might feel safe, but that avoi ance is detrimental and dangerous,” he wrote. “Rather than avoid, we must actively and thoughtfully engage. Even just taking those initial steps, I believe, will alleviate the burden of this theological struggle, and will help prevent those tempted to throw in the theological towel to circumvent the tension altogether.” Another school that has taken up this issue is Salanter Akiba Riverdale (SAR) Academy of Riverdale, N.Y. Shortly after the June 12 Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, SAR Principal Rabbi Tully Harcztark expressed solidarity with LGBT students at a school vigil and prayer service. That was on June 14, after Shalhevet’s school year was over. In an interview later with Tablet magazine, Rabbi Harcsztark said that it was a time for his community to “reflect, to ensure that our environment is a safe environment and we model that for others as well.”
Page Design by Abbi Sentchuk and Noa Segal Photo Illustration by Ezra Fax
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The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Torah
Student’s fix to Jastrow goes viral Popular Talmud dictionary can now be searched on PDFs thanks to Noah Mermelstein’s app By abby blumofe, Staff Writer, and MA’AYAN WALDMAN, Co-Editor-in-Chief For Talmud students everywhere, gone are the days of spending so many resources,” Noah said. Since the copyright for the original Jastrow website is expired, distracting minutes of learning trying to locate a difficult Aramaic he was able to download the PDF files of all of the pages and colword and its translation in the Jastrow Online Dictionary. lectively convert them to images in order to write his code. Last year, current junior Noah Mermelstein created a new He performed dozens of tests to find the smallest file size for version of the website, which is called jastrow.tk. The website has the pages that would still make the words readable, so that the a word search and a zoom-in feature, and it already has over 2,500 loading would go faster. users and 6,000 views. He then created an algorithm that He started it as a fun project to allows website users to search a word practice his computer engineering have the page with that word knowledge. What it had was the alignment between the and come up as they type in letters. “I didn’t do anything so sophisSince then, people inside and ticated,” Noah said. “It was just an skills that we wanted our students to learn outside of Shalhevet have been happy interesting engineering problem. I and the text and ideas. to use it. Sophomore Leor Kaminwas shocked that no one had done it before.” -- Tali Aldoubly-Schuk, Carmel ski, who transferred here this year, already had it last year when he was The older Jastrow website, with at Milken Community High School. the rather clunky URL tyndale“My rabbi told our Gemara class archive.com/tabs/jastrow, has been about it,” Leor said in an interview. used by Shalhevet students since long “It was super helpful.” before the LaHav curriculum was introduced. It is arranged alphaApart from the website’s success, another thing Noah did not betically with first-word indexes, but the PDFs available online expect was that this development would lead to a month-long were not searchable for finding individual words quickly. summer internship with LaHav – Shalhevet’s original Talmud Noah noticed this problem and knew how to fix it. Watching curriciulum created by Principal Reb Noam Weissman and Judaic Youtube videos from Code Academy and other websites, he has Studies teacher Rabbi David Stein. been teaching himself computer engineering since middle school. Rabbi Stein asked Noah to incorporate his program“Nowadays you can teach yourself anything because there are
BP Photo By Ezra Fax
ming into the Lahav app, which contains all of the curriculum’s sources and allows teachers to share and collaborate on teacher guides and lesson plans. In his month-long internship, during which he worked two to three times a week, Noah helped automate some of the components of the app, such as word recognition in PDF files. The Lahav app developers hope the app will be accessible to students, so that they can annotate and translate individual pages of Talmud on an iPad, phone, or computer. Rabbi Stein said the app is still undergoing development, but so far he has received positive feedback from teachers who use it. “It definitely is a culture change,” said Rabbi Stein. “Teachers are kind of used to working on their own, and this allows teachers to try to collaborate a little more.”
LaHav Talmud curriculum now spreading to more schools By Jacob Feitelberg, Outside News Editor SAR: Shalhevet’s LaHav Talmud curriculum is Shalhevet’s pioneering LaHav Talmud cur- learn the halachic process from various being used by the ninth grade at Salanter-Akiriculum is starting to catch on around the world, sources, and the second two use in-depth ba-Riverdale Academy in Riverdale, N.Y. with three U.S. schools adopting parts of it this case studies organized by topic, instead year and plans for 10 more in Israel to start it next of the traditional Talmud study method of learning an entire book page by page. year. It has received several grants, and Reb In Riverdale, N.Y., Salanter-Akiba-Riverdale (SAR) Academy is using it in grade nine; Car- Weissman and Rabbi Stein have made mel Academy in Greenwich, Conn., is using it presentations about it to Jewish schools in grades five through eight; and Leibler Yavneh around the world Rabbi Nati Helfgot, chair of SAR’s College in Australia is going to use the 11th- and Talmud department, said LaHav would 12th-grade curriculum in a pilot class this year. Additionally, RASG Hebrew Academy in have wchanged his own Talmud educaFlorida is using the ninth-grade curriculum for tion when he was a student, describing how he had to pick up main ideas of the grades nine and 10. In Israel, the AMIT school system plans to use halachic process on his own when he was first learnthe ninth grade curAt Carmel Academy, officials said LaHav was ing Talmud. riculum next year a good fit for their school’s goals. “There is no in 10 of its high “We had a clear sense of the kind of skill sets doubt that it would our students were going to come away with, like schools schools. There is no doubt that it would have been much have been much betLaHav, initibetter to systematically have learned the ideas that ter to systematically knowing why the rabbis were in the conversations ated seven years that they were in,” said Dr. Tali Aldouby-Schuck, have learned the Carmel’s Director of Judaic Studies Curriculum are in this curriculum. ago by Principal Reb Noam Weiss-Rabbi Nati Helfgot, SAR ideas that are in this and Professional Development. curriculum,” said man — with Ju“What it had was the alignment between the Rabbi Helfgot in an skills that we wanted our students to learn and the daic Studies teacher interview. Rabbi David Stein text and ideas.” SAR is only using becoming co-auSince it is a K-8 school, Carmel modified the LaHav for its ninth ninth-grade curriculum to work with its sevenththor a year later — started as an experimental Talmud class and has grade so far, Rabbi Helfgot said, but he plans to and eighth-grade classes. Officials there are now since grown into an award-winning four-year cur- test it this year on grade 10. So far it’s being used planning to prepare 5th- and 6th-grade classes, as a supplement rather than a replacement for which learn Mishnah, to transition to 7th- and riculum, said Rabbi Stein. In the first two years, he explained, students their Talmud curriculum. 8th-grade with LaHav.
Israel’s AMIT schools present a more difficult problem in adapting LaHav, because the number of schools means it’s a bigger project, according to Rabbi Stein. This year, 10 teachers from different schools connected to AMIT are being taught how to implement it. “For the AMIT schools system, we would have teach a lot more teachers BP Photo By Paul Horowitz
than we have before, and that will be the challenge,” said Rabbi Stein. Still, the project has come a long way from its beginnings, when it started with a simple question Rabbi Stein and Reb Weissman sought to answer: How does halacha, or Jewish law, work? They felt this understanding was really important for them to teach to their students, who would then have the Torah learning they’re doing apply to their daily lives. “We have two main goals” Rabbi Stein explained. “To put an emphasis on skills and concepts, and to understand and know halacha.” Staff writer Abby Blumofe also contributed to this story.
A new year’s insight: I listen, therefore, I am By MA’AYAN WALDMAN, CO-Editor-In-Cheif Shofar blowing marks the commencement of each morning of Elul, the Hebrew month traditionally observed as a time of reflection and growth in which we ponder how best to live our lives for the coming year. But at such a seminal time in our annual calendar, why is there such a focus on the sounding of a ram’s horn? Of all forms of possible rituals, why are we called upon to connect to this time of year in the form of sound? In the Book of Genesis, after Adam eats from the “Etz Hada’at,” or “the tree of knowledge,” God calls out to him with His mighty
voice, and asks, “Ayeka?” (Genesis 2:9). Where are you? Where do you stand in life? What defines you? Challenged with this question, Adam is empowered to access the inner recesses of his own spiritual, emotional, and intellectual self. “I heard Your voice in the garden, and I was afraid because I am naked; so I hid,” Adam replies (2:10). When Adam finally opens his ears, he not only realizes his connection to a higher power, but also acknowledges his insecurities and his failings in the wake of disobeying a Divine command. We can open our mouths all we want to
articulate our views and beliefs. We can scour passages of commentators and religious texts with our eyes to take a scholarly approach to religious growth. But real change happens when we act from our ears. When we consciously and attentively take in meaningful insight from our teachers, our mentors, our friends, and God. After all, the quintessential prayer that is recited multiple times daily is none other than “Shema Yisrael,” “Hear, O’ Israel.” In the Rosh Hashanah service, we recite, “Ashrei Ha’ahm Sheyodeya Truah.” “Happy are the people who know the blast of the Shofar.”
Our ultimate happiness, this verse seems to indicate, is contingent upon our ability to open our ears to the voices of others and the voice of G-d. Philosopher Rene Descartes famously stated, “I think, therefore I am.” But the shofar teaches us that the ultimate Jewish attitude is not one of philosophical thought or eloquence or even action, but rather, of listening. “I listen, therefore I am.”
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Judaic Studies growth means more teachers, more connections By MA’AYAN WALDMAN, Co-Editor-in-Chief
Six faculty members, most part-time, have joined the Judaic Studies team this year, as school officials try to provide SPIRIT: Students from all grades sing under rakez tent on the roof, led by Rabbi Tsaidi, more role models and “points of connection” for Shalhevet’s left, and Rabbi Block. They lead a learning and singing ‘chabura’ on Fridays at lunch. expanding student body. School officials said the increase would help the school fulfill its mission of strengthening ties between teachers and students who can emulate and learn from them. “If the mission of the school is to develop close relationships for the purpose of personal growth, then we need the right people and the right number of people to be doing that,” said Principal Reb Noam Weissman. The new teachers are replacing two full-time faculty who did not return this year: Mrs. Atara Segal, who has taken a sabbatical to attend the Yoetzot Halacha program in Israel; and Ms. Ruthie Skiaist, who taught and ran the chesed (community service) committee, who left to pursue a passion for painting and does not plan to return. At the same time, enrollment grew from 227 to 247 studewnts. Head of School Rabbi Ari Segal said there weren’t enough teachers to get to know so many. “We have a lot of talent in the Judaic Studies realm, but it’s hard to have every faculty member doing everything, which is what we were doing before,” Rabbi Segal said in a meeting with Boiling Point reporters Sept. 8. Four teachers, three of them new, have been assigned speBP Photo By Alex R’Bibo cifically to get to know every student in the school. The male rakazim, or spiritual mentors, are responsible for getting to onegs and other Shabbat meals. know all of the boys, and the female rakazim are focusing on there’s a connection point from different faculty members.” The rakazim are Mashgiach Ruchani Rabbi David Block, They also have started a weekly Friday chabura, or learneither ninth-and-10th or 11th- and 12th –grade girls. who is in charge of the programming, Rabbi Yagil Tsaidi, ing session, on the roof. Reb Weissman said more student-teacher connections Mrs. Carolyn Tsaidi, whose focus Each of the new Judaic hires is adding something unique could also ease feelings of is underclassman girls, and Ms. to the staff, Reb Weissman told the Boiling Point. favoritism. Ilana Wilner, a returning teacher “It’s people who ideologically want to be here and want to A Boiling Point poll We have a lot of talent in the Judaic Studies realm, whose focus is upperclassman girls. contribute something to the table,” he said. of Shalhevet students last but it’s hard to have every faculty member doing “Because we’re specifically In addition to Rabbi Block and Rabbi and Mrs. Tsaidi, year found that 83 pertasked with this, no one feels like the new faculty are Ms. Sara Smith, who is teaching Ms. Seeverything, which is what we were doing before. cent perceived favoritism they are being stretched too thin,” gal’s ninth-grade Tanach curriculum; Mr. Jeremy Shine, who at Shalhevet, defined as --Rabbi Segal, Head of School said Ms. Wilner in an interview. is teaching Jewish History along with Ms. Tove Sunshine; “preferential treatment “We wanted to infuse the culture and Mrs. Sarah Leah Gormin, leading chesed. given to one student or of the school, and I really like beIn all, that’s six new Judaic faculty. Rabbi Segal told the group of students over aning part of that.” news conference he hoped this would lead to a more focused, other.” She said the rakazim would dedicate all of their breakfasts hands-on, and diverse staff, and satisfy “the need to be able “Real or perceived, it doesn’t matter,” Reb Weissman said. “What the rakazim program does is no matter what, and lunches at school two meeting with students to learn or to reach students on a religious, emotional level.” just talk, and also are responsible for hosting and facilitating
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The Boiling Point • October 2016• Torah
Mashgiach Ruchani
Tanach
SQUASH: Ninth-grade teacher Ms. Smith fell in love with squash, a raquetball-like sport, while at Brandeis.
BP Photo By Ezra Fax
SINGER: Rabbi David Block performed alongside Judaic Studies teacher Noey Jacobson at the White House in 2011, and is now teaching Talmud, Tanach, and Jewish History. BP Photo By Ezra Fax
Maccabeat joins Shalhevet ’04 valedictorian back faculty as new ‘spiritual adviser’ to teach Tanach By Nicole Soussana, Torah Editor
By Nicole Soussana, Torah Editor
Rakezet
RELATABLE: Mrs. Carolyn Tsaidi hopes to get to know every 9thand 10th-grade girl. She is at school sporadically during the week.
BP Photo By Shayna Becker
New teacher for a new role, ‘Rakezet’ By JACOB FEITELBERG, Outside News Editor
New Judaic Studies teacher Rabbi David Block is Shalhevet’s secNinth- and tenth-grade girls will have Mrs. Carolyn Tsaidi as When new Judaic Studies teacher Ms. Sara Smith was in high ond mashgiach ruchani and its second Maccabeat. a spiritual guide-counselor, or rakezet, this year. school, her teachers included Mrs. Roen Salem, Mrs. Joelle Keene, Rabbi Block, who is teaching freshman Advanced Tanach, sophoHer husband, new Judaic Studies teacher Rabbi Yagil Tsaidi, Mrs. Suzanne Halloran and Ms. Emily Chase. more Talmud and Jewish History, and senior Tanach classes this year, has been given a similar role for the boys, as rakez, and Judaic That’s because Ms. Smith went to high school at Shalhevet, started singing at Yeshivat Sha’alvim in Israel after high school. His Studies teacher Ms. Ilana Wilner will be rakezet for girls in graduating as valedictorian in 2004. roommate there for two years was current Judaic Studies teacher Noey grades 11 and 12. “Sara was memorable because she was so bubbly and sweet,” Jacobson. “I will be at davening a few times a week,” said Mrs. Tsaidi, said Ms. Salem. “Her personality was outstanding, and her scholarAfter two years at Sha’alvim, they both moved on to Yeshiva Uni- who is also planning to become a nurse. “And I’m going to take ship and integrity.” versity, where Rabbi Block co-founded, directed and sang in the Mac- a few girls out a few times a week to breakfast or take them out Will these memories make it strange to be her former teachers’ cabeats, the famous all-male Jewish a capella group based there. to lunch.” colleague as she teaches ninth-grade Tanach? And it was Rabbi Block who co-wrote and co-directed the group’s The new job titles were announced by Principal Reb Noam No, she said. viral hit “Candlelight,” which made the group famous. He stayed a Weissman in an email Aug. 19 about favoritism. He said he “I don’t think it will be weird to work alongside them because Maccabeat for four years until 2012, when he left to receive his mas- hoped that they would help each student feel a personal connecof the nature of the student-teacher relationship at Shalhevet,” and ter’s degree in education. Noey Jacobson has remained in the group. tion with a staff member so no one felt left out. the way they are encouraged to learn and work together in a friend“Candlelight,” Rabbi Block said, was a surprise hit. “I met with this team and they have already made it their ly and accepting environment, she said. “I was just this little kid in Yeshiva University who wanted to sing goal to make connections with each and every student in the Ms. Smith grew up in Los Angeles and, like many current stuand wrote lyrics to a song.” Rabbi Block said. “And the song took off.”2 school,” Reb Noam wrote, referring to Rabbi and Mrs. Tsaidi, dents, attended Maimonides Academy for lower school. In high Originally from West Hempstead, Long Island, New York, Rabbi Ms. Wilner, and new Mashgiach Ruchani (spiritual supervisor) school she was active in choir, drama and Boiling Point. Block earned a master’s in Jewish History and Jewish Education from Rabbi David Block. After high school she attended Brandeis University, majoring in YU and is now a doctoral student in its Graduate “They will spend time with Near Eastern and Judaic Studies and History. She is now working School. students during breakfast, grab on a Ph.D. in Jewish Education at New York University. For her His position as mashgiach ruchani, or “spiritual coffee later in the day, have dissertation she is researching the development of non-Orthodox I will be at davening a few times a week...and mentor,” means he will be present to ensure that the students over for Shabbat Jewish day schools in Los Angeles in the 1970s and ‘80s. students can ask big questions and discuss theologimeals, arrange monthly onegs, I’m going to take a few girls out a few times a Her interest is in how different ethnic immigrant groups educal issues. and develop chaburahs (small cated their children, but her dissertation is mainly about non-Or“I have the opportunity here to teach things that I week to breakfast or take them out to lunch. learning groups.” thodox Jewish day schools in Los Angeles. really, really love.” Rabbi Block said. -Mrs. Carolyn Tsaidi Although the Tsaidis are “I am studying specifically non-Orthodox schools because their Shalhevet’s last mashgiach ruchani was Rabbi part of the Judaic Studies facgrowth was due to the growth in Orthodox schools.” Ms. Smith Aaron Parry, author of The Complete idiot’s Guide ulty and will relate to students said. She explained that at the start of the 20th century, most Jews to Talmud and The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Hebrew on a personal and religious level, went to public schools as a way of integrating into American sociScripture. Rabbi Parry left the school in 2011. Mrs. Tsaidi said she can relate to less religious students for anety, but that after World War II, Jews became more interested in Rabbi Block said he looks forward to teaching Gemara, but espe- other reason. private day schools. Once they caught on in the Orthodox comcially Jewish History, which he describes as one of his passions. He “I wasn’t as religious as I am now in high school, so I community, Conservative and Reform communities saw the value of also hopes to teach students how to take real meaning from what they pletely understand the whole spectrum,” said Mrs. Tsaidi. “I private education as opposed to public schools, they began schools learn in Tanach. view everyone the same.” of their own. Singing low tenor with the Maccabeats – the same part Noey sings Mrs.Tsaidi grew up in Valley Village and went to YULA Meanwhile, she is also very excited to be working at her old — Rabbi Block got to meet President Obama when the group per- Girls High School, but said she wasn’t very religious until she high school. While it is still the same place, Ms. Smith said there formed at the White House at a reception in honor of Jewish American went on the Birthright program while a student at UC Santa has been much administrative change since she was here, and the Heritage Month in 2011. He describes this experience as very special, Barbara. Birthright takes Jewish college students to Israel if they building being brand new and different also adds to the effect. though short. have not been before. Ms. Smith looks forward to teaching the book of Shemot (Exo“Regardless of your politics, being in the presence of someone who The secular environment at UCSB also caused her to take dus) this year since she has never taught that part of Tanach before. has so much ability to effect change and make a difference was amaz- her religion more seriously, she said. It also instilled in her a love She has a master’s in teaching Tanach and has taught the subject at ing,” Rabbi Block said. “It also taught me that we’re not that many of art and the beach. both Pressman and YULA Girls High School. steps removed.” “I love art, drawing and painting,” she said. “I also like going She said she emphasizes chavruta and group work and rarely if Rabbi Block also explained that there are some parts of singing to the beach.” at all lectures, she said. Additionally, she does not categorize herself with the Maccabeats that he misses Mrs. Tsaidi went to seminary at Shearim last year, after she as either easy or hard. and parts that he does not. got married to Rabbi Tsaidi, whom she met in New York City. “I think I am a fair teacher with high exHe misses the thrill of performing There’s something really beautiful about hearMrs. Tsaidi said she hopes to stay long term, but doesn’t pectations.” Ms. Smith said. in front of a crowd and inspiring his know for sure because she is studying to be a nurse. She now atMs. Smith’s hobbies include exercising, ing a harmony, to sing and make it beautiful. audience along, with traveling and tends Santa Monica College and hopes to either go to St. Mary’s baking, and playing squash. Squash is simiThere’s something really spiritual about that. experiencing new scenery. Even more, Nursing School or go to UCLA for nursing school. lar to racquetball and involves a four-walled he misses being able to sing in harmo- Rabbi David Block court where players take turns striking a ny with the other members, he said. hollow rubber ball with their rackets. “There’s something really beautiIt’s not very popular on the West Coast, ful about hearing a harmony…to sing she said, but she became involved with it at and make it beautiful,” Rabbi Block said. “ There’s something really Brandeis, which has a lot of squash courts, falling in love with it spiritual about that.” Rabbi Block said. during a summer internship. Something that Rabbi Block does not miss, he said, is that once Ms. Smith also explained that while some aspects of Shalhevet singing becomes a profession, singing so constantly can make it feel are still the sawme from when she attended it such as the ideas old and less meaningful. of democracy, Town Hall, and student voices and opinions, she is “I do like the fact that I don’t sing as often.” Rabbi Block said. “It excited to work here for the innovative environment. allows me in those times where I am singing to tap in to the beauty “Shalhevet is doing really creative and ground-breaking work in of singing.” the school in general but specifically in the Judaic Studies curriculum,” she said. “It’s really exciting for me to be able to work with a faculty like that. People who are just really thinking critically about teaching Judaic studies in the best possible ways.”
HAVE A SWEET YEAR!
The Boiling Point • October 2016• Torah
Talmud, Rakaz
FOOTSTEPS: Rabbi Yigal Tsaidi was inspired by his high school rabbi and mentor in Detroit to become a rabbi himself.
BP Photo By Shayna Becker
Talmud teacher hopes to connect and inspire By ABBY BLUMOFE, Staff Writer
Jewish History
ALIYAH: Mr. Jeremy Shine, a former IDF soldier, previously worked for the JDC helping the Russian Jewish community. BP Photo By Ezra Fax
A history teacher who has already changed history By JACOB FEITELBERG, Outside News Editor
21
Chesed
SERVICE: Mrs. Sarah Leah Gormin’s passion for Judaism led her to become religious as a college student.
BP Photo By Ezra Fax
New chesed coordinator plans out-of-state trips
Some may say Jewish History is just a class, but for Mr. Jeremy Shine, it’s a way of life. Rabbi Yagil Tsaidi’s path to becoming a rabbi was paved by a Mr. Shine, the new ninth-grade Jewish History teacher, grew By EVA SUISSA, Staff Columnist close rabbi of his growing up -- Rabbi Tzali Freedman, who was up at Central Synagogue in West London, one of the oldest synamore than just his class rabbi. gogues in England, built in 1870. His father, Rabbi Cyril Shine, As a high schooler, Mrs. Sarah Leah Gormin spent her time He always looked out for him outside of the classroom. served that shul for more than 30 years. cheering for the Pacifica High School Seadogs in Orange County, “He came to all my sport games as a student, and after my last As he listed these historical dates and numbers, Mr. Shine creating art, making her own clothes and jamming out to punk game as a senior he sat me down and told me that if I apply my drive laughed and said his daughter Tamar, a senior at Milken Com- rock music. for sports to Torah, I would be a great teacher,” said Rabbi Tsaidi, munity High School, always makes fun of him for it. But though she loved going to high-energy concerts of rock who grew up in Southfield, Mich., near Detroit. “That line stuck “My daughter always says to me, ‘Dad! How come whenevbands like Ransed and the Dead Kennedys, there was something with me since.” er someone asks you a question you go back 3,000 years?’” Mr. she found even more exciting — Judaism.To her it was as exciting Rabbi Tsaidi, Shalhevet’s new 11th and 12th grade Talmud Shine said in an interview. as concerts. teacher,and boys rakez – spiritual coordinator – focusing on grades His own history is a story in itself. After high school, Mr. “It’s that same [feeling of ] a whole group of people out for the nine and ten. He said he already has seen how much he can learn Shine made aliyah to Israel and joined the IDF. But he discovered same cause,” said Mrs. Gormin, Shalhevet’s new chesed – comfrom both his peers and students, and that his teaching style is more he lacked talent in fighting. munity service -- coordinator. “Like when you’re all singing ‘Lecha question- oriented and interactive. “The self-realization was partly during my basic training when dodi’ on Friday night. It gives you a lot of energy and power to “The class and concepts aren’t hard,” Rabbi Tsaidi said. “It really I was told to run at a target and point a gun at it and shout ‘shoot, your neshama,” or soul. depends on the student and how much effort they put into it, but shoot,’” Mr. Shine said. “I was asked to do that two or three times Now she will try to bring that spirit to chesed at Shalhevet. most of the time the students get the answer before I tell them.” because I did it so badly the first time.” Dates have already been set for her to take juniors and sophomores Drive and effort are something Rabbi Tsaidi developed with the At Hebrew University he studied International Relations, and on first-ever out-of-town mitzvah trips, one in December and one help of Rabbi Freedman. then worked for the American Jewish Joint Distribution Com- in February, and probably outside of California. In a phone interview, Rabbi Freedman told the Boiling Point mittee (JDC), a Jewish relief organization, from 1993 to 1995, Mrs. Gormin said it that it was this drive and focus that interested him about Rabbi which sparked his interest in his Russian-Jewish identity. gives Jewish communiTsaidi from the start. At the JDC he reclaimed formerly religious buildings ties a lot of chizook, “I happen to have liked him tremendously, and I liked him treand turned them into wellness centers for elderly Jews, or strength, to see pasmendously for all the wrong reasons,” Rabbi Freedman recalled. Typically we just stay local for those kind thus inadvertently embedding himself in the timeline of sionate teens helping “He was a very challenging student, always very popular with his of trips, and so to kind of have a real imRussian Jewish history. shuls by running the peers though not so much with the adults. I happened to always get These buildings had been seized by the communist pact outside of Los Angeles community, it’s kids program, setting a kick out of his healthy mischievous side and I thanked G-d I did Soviet regime of the Cold War era, which had closed up Kiddush and leadnot have him in the classroom.” going to be powerful. down any and all religious communal institutions. Now ing prayers. Although Rabbi Freedman said seeing him on the sports court made him -Mr. Weslow they’re back in Jewish service. the exact details have confident in Rabbi Tsaidi’s ability to channel his athletic focus into After that experience, the history of Eastern Europenot been finalized, the other areas of life. an Jews became his topic of research in graduate school plan is to help both “He was always very intelligent, focused and driven but that at the University of Michigan, where Mr. Shine started Jewish and non-Jewish mainly manifested on the ball court,” Rabbi Freedman said. “He a degree in political science and research into Jewish identity in communities, through local synagogues and organizations like had a sweetness and sensitivity but he didn’t display that much. At Ukraine. He didn’t complete the program because he didn’t want Habitat for Humanity. Details of the trip are still in proga certain point he began to channel his strengths in a more spiritual to become a professor, he said. ress. The10th grade was originally going to San Francisco, but Mrs. manner and he really soared.” Mr. Shine is incorporating Jewish History and Talmud with Gormin now wants to take them somewhere further. For the 11th Rabbi Tzali Freedman and Rabbi Tsaidi said they keep on-andthe World History curriculum being taught by Dr. Keith Harris. grade she’s deciding between South Carolina, Arizona, Nevada and off contact, but whenever they do catch up — even if a large amount It’s a new system, and he said the courses share important themes. Texas. of time has lapsed — it feels as though no time has gone “Why do people reject political authority, what General Studies Principal Mr. Daniel Weslow thinks an out-ofby. grounds do they have for accepting political authortown trip will have a great impact. Rabbi Tsaidi inity as legitimate?” Mr. Shine said, explaining that he “Typically we just stay local for those kind of trips, and so to terviewed at ShalThe class and concepts aren’t hard. It really explored these subjects with Judaic Studies teachers kind of have a real impact outside of Los Angeles community, it’s hevet two years a depends on the student and how much effort Rabbi David Stein and Rabbi David Block. going to be powerful,” said Mr. Weslow. go, along with his “Again you have the same theme about authority — they put into it, but most of the time the Along with the trips, Mrs. Gormin wants to bring chesed opwife, Ms. Carolyn who should be accepted as authority, what if you have a portunities into school, so students can “focus more on the actual Tsaidi, but they students get the answer before I tell them. minority opinion?” Mr. Shine aske. “So these are ways act of giving versus how many hours and ‘How am I going to get moved to Israel in-Rabbi Yagil Tsaidi I can tie in Jewish History not only to Talmud but also there, and where am I gonna go,’” she said. stead. After he and to what Dr. Harris is teaching.” Because she was always “the super Jew” of her family, involved his wife married last The process has been interesting for Dr. Harris as both in synagogue and a Jewish youth group, it felt natural for her year, they decided well. to turn Orthodox at age 19. Mrs. Gormin is married to Judaic that they wanted to “What we’ve discovered in various meetings is that there are Studies teacher Rabbi Derek Gormin, whom she met at UC Irspend their first year together in Israel to have their foundation be multiple overlapping themes in both those worlds,” said Dr. Har- vine’s Hillel. They became more observant together. in Israel. ris. “The ideas of the legitimacy of authority for example, gender Mrs. Gormin later worked for the Orange County Hillel, JewAt Shalhevet they look forward to “partaking in something greatthemes come up a lot, the use of literature comes up, the use of licious — a Shabbat festival for college students — and NCSY, er than [themselves],” he said. The only thing he said he dislikes technology comes up.” where she’s been working alongside Rabbi Gormin for five years. about Gemara is when he gives up on it. Mr. Shine said his class is more about questions than about anShe studied art and art history at Cal State Long Beach and “Learning Talmud intrigues me due to the constant questionswers. In an interview, he posed a number of thought-provoking enjoys drawing, pottery and sewing. and-answer scenario,” Rabbi Tsaidi said. “A problem seems like it’s questions he plans to ask students. She also is busy being a mother. The Gormins’ four children been solved, but then another problem comes up.” “Why did the Israelites ask for a king?” Mr. Shine asked. range in age from 7 to 1 and attend Yeshiva Ketana in the San Rabbi Tsaidi attended Yeshiva University, where he said Shabbat “Why did Constantine convert to Christianity and not to Juda- Fernando Valley. Their 4-year-old, Zissel, like her mother enjoys was special since everyone, shomer Shabbat or not, came together. ism? Why did the king of the Khazars convert to Judaism and not drawing. Now he hopes to host Shabbat meals and plan activities for Shalheto Christianity?” Mrs. Gormin decided not to pursue an art career after college vet students outside of school. He said he considers a lesson a success if both the student and because she wanted to focus on her newborn baby. But she later deHe also met Mrs. Tsaidi -- rakezet for the 9th- and 10 th -grade the teacher can answer some of these by the time the bell rings. cided to go back to school for a year at Emperor’s College in Santa girls – at YU. Now he looks forward to creating connections with his Outside of the classroom, Mr. Shine is still studying Jewish Monica to pursue another one of her passions — holistic medicine, students like Rabbi Freedman had with him. History. He also constantly reads non-fiction, so much so that specifically acupuncture, because she loves helping people. “He’s always been very influential in my life,” Rabbi Tsaidi said. when he is out of town, his wife puts a bookmark on his pillow to “He’s one of the reasons I became a Rabbi.” remind her of him.
22
Opinion
EDITORIALS
Let students help solve the schedule problem By The Boiling point editorial board
We’ve all come to expect the moans and groans of stressed-out juniors and seniors. But sophomores? Freshmen? This year’s new schedule, which was imposed on the students, rather than decided on democratically, burdens underclassmen by shortening their lunch period to about half an hour, and adding an extra class period to their day. That means less time for them to rest, bond with their friends and upperclassmen, and receive in-school teacher support. It also means upperclassmen can’t find their math teachers, most of whom teach during the MAP period that is the second half of upperclassmen’s lunch. Moreover, student-run clubs that used to
meet during a full lunch period are losing precious meeting time and attendance. With a 30- or 37-minute lunch for underclassmen, depending on the day, clubs such as Finance, Film, Fashion, Politics, and Firehawks 4 Israel are struggling to meet, and when they do, attendance is down from past years, even though school enrollment is up. Like any other issue that affects our school, we see a clear way to solve this year’s schedule crisis. And that is with student input. The Just Community provides all the tools we need to tackle this problem – transparency of reasoning, communal buy-in for whatever is decided, and perhaps most important, the engine of student creativity. Some might say that if students are com-
plaining so much, they should have spoken up earlier. But when these schedule changes were being considered – over a period of three years, according to Alec Fields’ report in this issue – students were completely unaware they were even under discussion. This year’s schedule poses a threat to the overall culture of Shalhevet and we believe it must be addressed as soon as possible. Next year – as Rabbi Segal suggested at a Sept. 8 news conference with Boiling Point editors – seems pretty far away. Scheduling is undoubtedly one of the hardest tasks of a school, especially one that tries to do as many things well as Shalhevet does. But that should not stop us from trying to fix it. Let the students help.
LGBT pledge: A moment of opportunity for all of us By The Boiling point editorial board
We wholeheartedly commend Rabbi Segal and the board for pioneering LGBT support within the greater Modern Orthodox community, making Shalhevet a model for thoughtful transformation within halachic boundaries. And now that Rabbi Segal has done his part, we the students need to do ours. No true culture change is possible unless it comes from the ground up. It is only with student support and action that we can truly create a culture of LGBT tolerance and acceptance inside our school. One of the pillars of Rabbi Segal’s initiative was announcing a Gay-Straight Alliance with the goal of teaching students how to be allies of LGBT students. However, at the first GSA meeting, only 13
The Boiling Point
people – six of whom were teachers – showed up. This was probably not meant as a slight, but we know all too well that LGBT students have not always felt welcome in Shalhevet. Jenny Newman ’11 told the Boiling Point that her teachers and friends had said ignorant things in front of her about homosexuality. “My classmates at Shalhevet thought spreading the rumor that I was a lesbian was one of the most insulting things they could come up with,” she told the Boiling Point in an interview in 2015. Even in the past few years, students have been hesitant to tell people about their homosexual identity. Micha Thau, an openly gay senior, wrote in an editorial published in the Jewish Journal that before coming out, he felt
that his entire life would be in jeopardy if he “dared to reveal the truth to anyone.” So we need to go the extra mile. Now, the platform is here. It is time to step up our game. The first step is just showing up. Rather than eating lunch with friends, on days that GSA meets, come and eat lunch in that room. And there is more we can do. Social media is a powerful tool. A simple like or comment on an LGBT post can be transformative – even on the Boiling Point Facebook page or website. Let’s show that our minds and hearts are open. Let’s live the culture that our administration and school are spearheading.
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The Boiling Point is the student-produced newspaper of Shalhevet High School and is published 6-8 times yearly. Unsigned ditorials represent the majority view of the members of the Editorial Board, which consists of the Editor-in-Chief, Deputy Editor-In-Chief, Managing Editor, Senior Editor, Web Editor, Opinion Editor, Community Editor and Faculty Advisor. The Boiling Point welcomes submissions for signed editorials from members of the Shalhevet Community, and the final decision about print-
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The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Opinion
23 TWO BOILING POINTS OF VIEW:
Should Ben Shapiro have been allowed to speak at school? No: Free speech is different when it takes place at a high school
Yes: Freedom of speech protects helps us learn to think on our own
By HANNAH JANOL, Community Editor
By CLARA SANDLER, Sports Editor
I listen to Ben Shapiro on the AM 870 radio morning show “The Morning Answer,” and to his Ben Shapiro’s Sept. 12 appearance at an assembly of the 11th and 12th grades was controverpodcasts on the Daily Wire on a regular basis. sial on two accounts. One, he has a history of fervid conservatism, and two,Shalhevet’s administraDo I agree with everything he says? No. Do I think that he’s sometimes a little radical in tion recognized this, so they limited the topics he could address during his talk, unbeknownst to his ideals? Of course. But in a diverse country where people are encouraged to disagree with each students at the time. other, I think that it is vital that we hear all sides of a particular issue, even if they’re offensive. People knew he was controversial, but few students in the room knew that on July 16 ShapWe live in a country where we have the right to free speech. The same way that Colin iro had gone on Dr. Drew wearing a kippah and called a transgender woman “sir,” or called the Kaepernick is able to sit during the national anthem, the same way that Occupy LA could take up legalization of gay marriage “a dark day in history” at a talk he gave at a shul. He claimed he does the lawn at City Hall for weeks, Mr. Shapiro has the right to his opinions. Moreover, he has the not believe the government should be involved at all in marriage, though he doesn’t protest heteroright to share them. sexual civil marriages when interviewed. Last year, the school brought David Myers to speak. Mr. Myers is an outspoken liberal He’s said other things too. On his show for the Daily Wire, Mr. Shapiro has said associated with J-Street. The same way that we can allow someone from the far left to address the he believes Colin Kaepernick’s decisions were irrational because there is no sysstudent body, we should have someone on the far right of the spectrum speak to us, too. temic racism in the U.S. today, thus denying the experiences of over 30 million I want to hear from all sides, even sides that I don’t agree with. I want people. to hear from extremists on both sides. I In another speech, he said African-Americans have no excuse want my opinion to be challenged. to be poor and cannot blame society for their plight. He compared We live in a world where there are them to Jews, saying his ancestors could rise through the ranks of people of different races, genders, American society with hard work, so anyone could. He ignored the ethnicities, religions, sexualities biggest difference between Jewish people and black people: skin and life experiences. If you accept color, which cannot be hidden and is always visible. that fact, then you should accept It was ironic that Mr. Shapiro spoke in the same month Shaland be willing to listen to all hevet instituted its first Gay Students Alliance; Rabbi Segal wrote opinions, even if they are eloquently of the need to include LGBT students fully in all different from your own. aspects of our community, even religious ritual; and the school I happen to adopted a six-point public pledge ensuring rights and a welcome think that the centrist for LGBT students in our school. opinion is boring. I would Which begs the question: what is the purpose of speakers at consider my personal poShalhevet? litical views to lie someFreedom of speech is enshrined in our American values where in between a and constitution, and Mr. Shapiro certainly had a right to conservative Democrat speak. However, Shalhevet should not have invited him. and a liberal RepubliThat is because Shalhevet is indoctrinating — it is an instican, so I personally am in tution which has an obligation to develop a certain moral compass the middle. But when I hear in its constituents, a compass that should be strong enough to be someone speak, I want to hear challenged later on, including by speakers like Ben Shapiro. someone with passionate, clear I have no problem with Ben Shapiro speaking at a rally or at opinions. I want to hear someone UCLA; I have no problem with the head of Hamas or the head who doesn’t apologize for feeling of the KKK speaking at UCLA, either. But there’s a fundamental this certain way, who has thought difference between UCLA and Shalhevet. things through and come to Here, we must heedfully pick the people we promote. Our conclusions he or she wants to school has a very powerful voice in the community, and especially strenuously defend. among its students. Ben Shapiro has these Obviously not every person Shalhevet brings in is endorsed by right-wing opinions. Ben Shapiro the school. During a Shalhevet Institute event last year, Rabbi Shachallenges my viewpoint. I am ron Brous was one of the speakers; Shalhevet does not halachically so glad the school brought him recognize female rabbis. But she was one speaker of four at that in to speak, because he changed event, representing one of several viewpoints. Ben Shapiro spoke the narrative, he took a different alone. approach to the conversation. David Meyers — a pro-J Street UCLA professor who spoke I did have a problem with last year — provided a liberal antithesis to Ben Shapiro his speech, however. It was partially when he was invited to speak through the Shalhevet Incensored. The only way that we were stitute, though Shalhevet does not support his views. But allowed to ask questions was by writing Mr. Meyers spoke after school, and listeners came volthem on note cards, and then Reb Weissuntarily. Mr. Shapiro spoke during school hours to 120 man sifted through them to choose which students who had to be there. to ask or to censor. Then there was the matter of censorship. Reb Mr. Shapiro was only allowed to Weissman, as Mr. Shapiro noted, carefully screened speak on the issue of BDS, the Boyhis questions and told him ahead of time not to cott-Divest-Sanctions movement that discuss anything but Israel and BDS. This policing BP Photos by Ezra Fax seeks to change Israeli policy by attacking it economically, the way failed; he was asked a question that compared apartheid was attacked and ultimately defeated in South Africa. Why? Why couldn’t he talk BDS’s form of nonviolent protest to Colin Kaepernick, and managed to call Kaepernick an about something more controversial, like LGBTQ issues—something Rabbi Segal has made a big “idiot.” He said he would not elaborate because he was being “heavily policed,” he said. Reb topic recently – or women’s roles in politics and Judaism, which are a constant conversation in the Weissman laughed nervously and corrected him, saying Mr. Shapiro was being “curated.” Shalhevet community? In a school that prides itself on open conversation, why couldn’t we have it? The reasons he was being censored are the same reasons that he should not have been invited Ben Shapiro represents controversy and questioning; there’s no point in having him if he to the school in the first place. If the administration was concerned enough to restrict him, they can’t go there. He represents the other opinion. He only spoke of something that we as a commushould not have had him at all. Or they should have publicly announced the censorship and nity can agree on, and he provided a great perspective and wonderful tactics on how to combat a denounced his non-Israel-related opinions. threat to Israel. Human beings are not cafeterias. We do not get to pick and choose what we like and ignore When he speaks generally, he talks about things that we don’t necessarily want to hear -the rest, pretending that it does not exist. Mr. Shapiro is a full package, and he brings baggage that he’s comfortable with “bursting our bubble.” Here, he wasn’t allowed to. could not be dropped off at the door on his way in. Some may say that Mr. Shapiro’s right-wing opinions should have kept him from speakDoes this mean we should analyze every single viewpoint of every speaker to make sure we ing because he’s “offensive.” But that’s a subjective term – a term that implies disagreement causes agree with all of them? No. Rare is the person whose views are so extreme as to go against core personal offense. Mr. Myers’ opinions are also offensive to some people. If we censor our speakers values of our school. Bringing such a person to Shalhevet risks weakening the values of tolerance because they may cause offense to someone, then where does the First Amendment go? we say we promote, and even worse, indoctrinating students toward intolerance.. Last I checked, we have freedom of speech in the United States, and we normally do Mr. Shapiro’s parting words to the upperclassmen were that we are all Jews, and therefore at Shalhevet as well. The same way that people are allowed to protest in Charlotte, N.C., and we represent all Jews. If that is true, then calling a transgender woman “sir” on television while Ferguson, Mo., students at Shalhevet have a right and a need to hear from all perspectives, the more wearing a kippah paints all of us as close-minded and disrespectful. Linking Zionism with that tarchallenging the better. If we discriminate against one type of speaker, we make that impossible. nishes our homeland. The diversity in opinion that is a hallmark of the Shalhevet experience is ultimately how we The Jews that Shalhevet seeks to send out into the world are the opposite of all these things. learn to formulate opinions of our own. It’s good that Ben Shapiro came, as this is a place where all views – all views – should be welcome.
The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Opinion
24
As I See it
A slumberless sleepover By EVA SUISSA, Staff Columnist You can learn from your own mistakes. But what happens when you see someone else makes one? Can you still learn from it? The lights were off in the entire house, except in my friends’ room, which was brightly lit and filled with the carefree and spirited environment of any classic teenage girl sleepover. Since I usually spend my Saturday nights stressing over homework, it was nice being able to enjoy a night off, gossiping and giggling with my friends. At least, I thought it would be. Out of nowhere, we heard a sharp boom coming from outside. We rushed to the balcony window to see that a car had completely flipped over after hitting a parked car. I had seen a car accident in movies and on TV, but never in real life. I was shaken. I felt my breaths getting
shorter and shallower as my mind swarmed with all of the possible scenarios that -- without having any concrete facts -- I was forced to imagine in my head. What was it that caused this accident? Was anyone wounded? Before I got too lost in my thoughts, my friends’ step-dad, Chaim, came in to the room to tell us that the driver was perfectly fine. Not a scratch, cut, or bruise could be found on her body. She looked about 20 years old and was deemed intoxicated by the policemen. Chaim said that she might have been texting. At about 1:30am, the police handcuffed the woman, and the sleepover continued. But I kept thinking about this crazy ordeal. It is a miracle that the woman survived without a scratch, and I have few doubts that the woman learned the dangers of texting and driving, seeing her
BP Photo by Abby Blumofe Photo Illustration by Ezra Fax life literally flash before her eyes. But what about me? I was just a witness. I didn’t actually experience the accident. It wasn’t my life that was saved. It wasn’t my luck. People say that mistakes are okay if you learn from them. But if I can learn from other someone else’s, that seems like a pretty lucky deal to me.
In praise of grit – and the knocks it takes to get it By ADAM TARYLE, 12th Grade
ed.
A 5-year-xold boy grips a baseball bat. Ambition twinkles in his eyes as he winds himself up and bludgeons the piñata until the sugary treasure tumbles out. Suddenly, his competitive spirit vanishes as he is told to join a line of children receiving candy. The father of the birthday boy removes pre-packaged candy bags and hands exactly one to each child who participat-
Whatever happened to the chaotic scene which followed such a spilling of candy? What was once a hard-knocks lesson in how to be tough and fast enough to earn the goods has turned into yet another sign that our generation’s children are being raised too soft. In his Aug. 10 column in the Jewish Journal, David Suissa bemoaned the increasing phenomenon on college campuses of shielding youth from anything potentially offensive. Students, he said, think colleges must eliminate anything that damages self-esteem. Perish the thought that somebody might hear something that won’t make them feel good inside.
The truth is that if emerging adults are to succeed in the challenge of life, they must learn to be tough; and toughness can only be learned the hard way; through disappointment and upsetting critique. The film Whiplash carried the same point. A school band conductor, Terence Fletcher, would not accept any mistakes during practice, physically and verbally abusing his most promising young musicians and claiming that the most damaging two words in the English language are “good job.” While the maniacal music teacher shocked the viewers with his extreme methods, the final message conveyed was that true musical genius can be developed only through harshness, not tender loving care. Tenderness, of course, originally comes from a good place. Our parents’ and grandparents’ generations had to struggle to endure tough times and earn enough to make a living. They had so many challenges from the outside that it made sense to offer care and gentleness at home, and in general for parents to do everything they could to make life easier and happier for their children. But despite their good intentions, today they are actually undermining their children’s potential to achieve what they did themselves. In fact, many developmental psychological studies today focus on the benefits of grit, the ability to persevere through hardships over the long-term. Those studies show that grit is a greater determinant of success than is excessive and unearned praise. Psychologist Dr. Angela Duckworth expresses her agree-
ment with this statement in a famous TED Talk. Instead of promoting grit, some parents shield their offspring from challenges and failure. In other words, they are preventing their children’s exposure to anything that nudges them to grow, while at the same time, excessively rewarding their most minor deeds. There is no reason to grow or develop when we are in an idyllic environment. It is in times of discomfort that we must adapt to survive the challenge. We learn from our mistakes, and almost always emerge with more grit and more wisdom. Even high school students need to learn this lesson. Praise is appropriate when it is well-earned. Without occasional praise for performing well on a task, people will not understand what achievement looks like. However, as Fletcher expressed in Whiplash, excessive praise does the most damage. In an interview for Cinemablend, J.K. Simmons – the actor who portrayed Fletcher – weighed in on the issue himself, saying, “There’s a kind of numbness, a sameness, a lack of motivation in ‘good job’ culture. We’re raising a generation of kids who are being overly praised for incredibly minor accomplishments. I think it’s counter-productive.” Grit motivates people to work hard and earn success. It is a testament to human willpower. Even if it means some children will get scarcely a tootsie roll at the piñata party, the lesson of grit is the far sweeter reward.
The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Sports
Sports
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OCTOBER 2016
Kent’s Calls 2016 Football: Something old, something new By Zev kent
Senior Editor
For me, September is a month of mixed emotions. On the one hand, it’s back to school; on the other hand, it’s football time. I get my favorite sport back with all the excitement that comes with it. So, to help spread my favorite sport across the school, I’m going to provide you with a recap of the offseason as well as important information for the start of this year’s NFL season. Here are my big stories. First up is LA’s new (and old) football team. After 22 years, the Rams have moved back to Los Angeles. They left in 1994 for St. Louis where they won a Super Bowl in 1999. Now, for the 2016 season, the team that many Californians still root for has returned. This year, the Rams had the number one overall pick and drafted quarterback Jared Goff. Most people expect Goff, as the first pick in the draft, to be the Rams’ starting quarterback. However, currently veteran Case Keenum is the Rams’ starter and coach Jeff Fisher says that Goff’s starting week one is not a guarantee. So far the team is 2 and 1. As they return to LA, the Rams also return to their old stadium, the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The Coliseum is the home field for USC and was the home of the Rams until 1980. They will play in the Coliseum again until their new colossus in Ingelwood is ready in 2019. Last year, the Rams finished 7-9, third in their division and well short of a trip to the playoffs. This year, they hope to rally behind last year’s Rookie of the Year, running back Todd Gurley. After the Sept. 12 opener, notable games are the three final games in the season against the three teams in their division: the Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers, and Arizona Cardinals. One of the major stories of last season and heading into this season is the Deflategate controversy. In the 2015 AFC Championship game, New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was accused of deflating the footballs so they’d be easier to throw and catch. As a consequence, the Patriots were fined $1 million and lost their firstround pick in the 2016 draft. In addition, Brady was suspended for the first four games of the 2015 season. However, Brady took the NFL to court and the suspension was overturned. He played all of last season, but this offseason the suspension was reinstated for the upcoming 2016 season. Whether or not Brady actually cheated (and I could write a whole other column on why he’s innocent), the main argument against the NFL is that the league and its commissioner, Roger Goodell, overstepped their bounds and the punishments were overly severe. The power of the NFL came into question again this offseason, when the league threatened four players with indefinite suspension if they did not comply with an NFL investigation into suspected performance enhancing drug use. The four players, Clay Matthews, Julius Peppers, James Harrison, and Mike Neal, were accused, along with Peyton Manning, of doping in a report by Al Jazeera. Since the report came out, the accuser has recanted his statements, but the NFL is continuing its investigation. The accused players, along with the NFL Players Association, have said the league is basing its charges on a report that no longer is credible. At first, the players refused to cooperate, but three out of the four active players have now given in to the NFL and will take part in an interview. Despite the tension between the NFL and its players and fans, football is still an amazing sport. There’s never a boring moment in a football game. Every play has the potential to turn the tide of the game, even up until the final seconds. It is a great way to occupy a Sunday afternoon, especially if you are rooting for a team. If you don’t currently follow football or have a favorite, start rooting for the Rams. The new old home team has a lot of young talent, and hopes to make the playoffs for the first time since 2004 – right here in L.A.
DOUBLE: Shalhevet and YULA faced each other twice in a week, and Shalhevet won both times. The first time they won 40-13, the second time they won 33-6. BP Photo By Sarah Yadegari
In-league undefeated streak ends with back-to-back losses to AGBU In 100-degree heat, boys Flag Football team finally loses its first game in Coastal League.. By CLARA SANDLER, Sports Editor The Encino games marked the end quarter and ended up in the red zone – of a league streak that had started in the within 20 yards of the goal – but were team’s second year, when the then yearunable to execute. In the second quarter, AGBU scored old team was brought into the Coastal League by Coach Christopher Buckley. twice, the second time because the Titans intercepted a pass thrown by Alex That season, Coach Buckley led the team to its successful first championSilberstein. ship, which was repeated last year under In the third quarter, Shalhevet was Coach Coleman. right outside the end zone, but again The team lost other games along the was unable to score, and in the fourth quarter, they made it into the red zone, way, but not in the Coastal League. It as placed eighth last year in the Loma but AGBU intercepted the ball and Linda Flag Football Tournament, where would have scored yet again had the they play teams from Seventh Day Adreferees not called a flag to nullify the ventist schools that use Sundays instead touchdown. of Saturdays. This year they won’t be The final score was 14-0. participating because it conflicts with The Firehawks Sukkot. changed quarterbacks “We were Still, the league record felt like a not ready We played you in the championship game last three times. Alex Silstreak and Eli Greenberg said the loss to play year, and we’ve been preparing for all season berstein started and effectively,” for you guys. Our season is considered a win closed, but junior Zack hurt. “It’s obviously not a good feeling, Hirschhorn and senior Coach because we beat you. knowing that I’m the captain of the Ezra Hess also played Coleman -Luke Love, AGBU quarterback. team who broke the streak,” said Eli. said as the Players blamed themselves. AGBU tight end players left “We just couldn’t execute,” said Luke Love said that the field. his team had been preparing to face the Firehawk wide receiver Zack Muller, a “I told them before the game that they sophomore. “We had the catches, they Firehawks. were going to get their butts kicked just weren’t far enough. It was just our “We played you in the championwhen I saw the way that they were own mistakes.” ship game last year, and we’ve been warming up.” For his part, AGBU preparIt might have had something to do Coach Jack Keshishyan ing for all with the weather. According timeandIt’s obviously not a good feeling, said that the Titans won season for date.com, the temperature in Encino the first game with luck, you guys,” yesterday afternoon topped out at 100 knowing that I’m the captain said Luke. degrees. Despite the extreme heat and of the team who broke the streak.- and the Firehawks should long distance Shalhevet, about 12 fami- “Our season -Eli Greenberg, Defensive Captain have won 18-6. AGBU stands for Armenian Genis considlies showed up to cheer. eral Benevolent Union. Both games were shutouts, and both ered a win “Honestly I felt that because we times the defense was strong. But the on Thursday, we got very lucky,” Coach beat you.” offense was unable to execute. But he also did not understand why Keshishyan said. “Shalhevet gained Coming off Thursday’s loss, senior way more yards than we did if you did Shalhevet kept changing quarterbacks. defensive captain and cornerback Eli the total yardage. They moved the ball “We had a game plan before Greenberg thought that the team needway better than we did. They just had a the game, and we stuck to that game ed some more energy. couple of unlucky dropped balls. And “Defensively, we’re going to keep the plan,” Luke said. “I didn’t know why they switched – the original quarterback today, there were a couple of unlucky same thing we did [in the last game], dropped balls. was the better choice.” because it seemed to really work,” Eli “I needed to make sure that we Coach Coleman said he changed said before the second matchup. “In the quarterback partly because he didn’t tightened up our defense, and they put terms of offense, we have to start fast, out the game plan that I had, and they feel Alex was playing well, and partly pick up the energy. As a whole really, executed which was the best part of it because of a specific play. we have to pick up the energy and get “I tried to give our back-up quarter- all.” things going early. The Firehawks’ next game was schedback a chance,” Coleman said. “When “It’s obviously not a good feeling uled for Sept. 26 against Ambassador, I changed to Zach Hirschhorn to be … knowing that I’m the captain of the but was canceled due to the excessive quarterback, that’s because we run a team who broke the streak.” heat. Their record so far is 4-2. But the second game was worse. The specific play on an almost every game Firehawks started on defense in the first basis, so that’s normal for us.” After two years of undefeated seasons in the Coastal League, the boys’ flag football team ended its 30-game win streak this week, losing to AGBU of Canoga Park twice in four days. The Firehawks lost the first game Sept. 22 by a score of 6-0, and lost the second game, Sept. 25, 13-0. Both games were played in Encino. “I mean, it was tough, but streaks are meant to be broken,” said senior and starting quarterback Alex Silberstein. Shalhevet Athletic Director and Coach Ryan Coleman said after the first loss that the boys had not had the right spirit going into the game.
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The Boiling Point • October 2016• Sports
The Boiling Point • October 2016 • Sports
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Mismatch between rivals helps boys Flag Football team win two against YULA; Girls to play Panthers Nov. 3 By Ami Nelson, Staff Writer Though the week ended badly, it started with high spirits. In a matchup that was uneven in more ways than one, the Boys Flag Football Team defeated rival YULA 33- 6 Sept. 13 at Poinsettia Recreation Center, riding on momentum after beating them 40 - 13 the week before. A week later, the team finally suffered its first in-league losses against AGBU, Sept. 22 and 25 (see story, previous page). But against YULA, confidence from the first game brightened the second, the players said. The Panther team has fewer players than Firehawks, in general is less of a powerhouse than YULA’s basketball team, but rivalry still adds high stakes to the games. “It’s always a tense game playing against them, but we’re definitely a lot more confident now that we beat them by that much,” said senior defensive linemen Sammy Ellenhorn. Sophomore wide receiver Asher Dauer had similar thoughts. “We’ve already played them three times, so we’re a lot more BP Photos By Shayna Becker comfortable, and everyone on the team knows their opponent,” said Asher in an interview before the game. The Lady Firehawks have only played one game so far, falling 6 - 0 last month to LA Adventist. Their season will get busier after Sukkot break. The boys’ team nearly shut out YULA at the Sept. 13 game. Going into halftime, Shalhevet was up 20-0 thanks to two touchdowns by sophomore Zack Muller and one touchdown by senior Eitan Halpert, both wide receivers, all thrown by captain and quarterback Alex Silberstein. In the second half of the game, Alex was pulled for senior quarterback Ezra Hess who, on his first down, threw a 50-yard pass to junior offensive linemen Avi Weinreb. With under one minute SLAY: Shalhevet and YULA faced each other twice in a week, and Shalhevet won remaining, Shalhevet was up 33-0 on YULA. both times. The first time they won 40-13, the second time they won 33-6 . The sole touchdown for YULA happened in the last 30 seconds, preventing a shutout.That happened when the Panthers’ quarterback threw a 20-yard pass and was caught on the edge of the end due to the number of players on each team. While the Shalhevet of football at Shalhevet. zone by their wide receiver. “The number of kids that come out are a credit to how inspired team has enough players for both an offensive and The high score reflecta defensive team – who take turns on the field de- the student body is to play football,” Coach Coleman said. “But ed several key plays by The number of kids that come out are a credit to pending on which team has the ball – YULA haa there isn’t anything we can do about that. We just have student Shalhevet, including in- how inspired the student body is to play football. But only enough to fill a team with each member play- body that is more dedicated.” terceptions by three playThe game following this win, Shalhevet lost to AGBU, ending a ing constantly. ers and touchdowns by 4. there isn’t anything we can do about that. We just Shalhevet Athletic Director and Boys flag foot- 30-game in-league win streak. YULA’s head coach, have student body that is more dedicated. “AGBU has a defensive strategy that gives us trouble, but they ball Coach Ryan Coleman thought the size of the Dennis Cervantes, thou are just more talented than YULA,” said Coach Coleman, when teams contributed to their win. -- Ryan Coleman, Coach ght his team had still “The size of the teams matter in terms of fa- asked why beating a team like YULA was easy, but AGBU was difplayed well. tigue, because the [smaller teams’] players will be ficult. “At least [the players] The Titans also have enough players for separate offensive and more tired, but they also won’t be able to focus didn’t quit,” said Coach at practice,” Coach Coleman said in an interview defensive teams. Cervantes in an interview with the Boiling Point. after the game. “It just didn’t go our way this time.” When asked if he thought those wins were fair, Coach Coleman At the Sunday game, it was clear that the game was mismatched, thought they were not only fair, but a testament to the dedication
The Boiling Point •October 2016• Sports
‘Sweet agony’ of Fantasy Football lures students anyway
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By JACOB JOSEPH LEFKOWITZ BROOKS, Staff Writer of his spare time editing his lineups and Competition, anxiety and doing research for upcoming fantasy many lost hours of homework are match-ups. all hallmarks of Fantasy Football, “During school if I go to Hashkama but it seems students at Shalhevet and I have a break,” said Ari, “or I finish have fallen for it as hard as the rest my lunch and I don’t have any homeof the country. work to do, usually I look at my fantasy Once an activity whose memteam and look up people’s match-ups bers gathered on Sundays around and see if I want to take any of my playthe living room TV with magaers out.” zines, notepads and pizza, Fantasy Sophomore Asher Dauer started Football has become a multi-plata Fantasy Football club that meets at form online enterprise. lunch to help out students with their At Shalhevet, it’s a popular fantasy leagues. and captivating activity among all Students come “not only to get grade levels. advice but to take part in a civilized “It makes [watching football] environment where people can just lot more exciting,” said sophotalk about their fantasy football teams, more Yakir Kanefsky. “Every news, how their teams played that player becomes more significant, week, who they want to pick up and and all the different plays become who they think is going to play well,” more significant. So it’s a whole GATHERING: Boys in the Just Community League congregated at Alec and Jordan Fields’ house Asher said. new experience of football.” for the Fantasy Football draft Sept. 4. They were encouraged to wear their favorite players’ jerseys. Another challenge is that fantasy In Fantasy sports, groups football is not free. The average adult of participants create imaginary in a fantasy league paid an average of teams made up of players in actual BP Photos By Zev Kent “I started playing Fantasy Football because I didn’t know football $184 per league in 2016, according to leagues. Then they score points according to the performance of their players in actual pro games that and I felt that was a big social handicap in male circles,” said Ben- the Fantasy Sports Trade Association. nett. “I started for social reasons and I started to really like football.” Shalhevet’s Just Community League has an $80 entry fee. The week. Ninth graders said it helped them get to know one another. grand prize for winning the most matchups throughout the season In a Fantasy league, two teams are matched up weekly, and by “I think fantasy football was a great way ... to break the ice in is $500, $150 for second place and $50 for third. There are also $10 the end of the week, whichever team has the most points wins. The football version started in 1988 with 500,000 people, and has now the first couple days of school,” said freshman Harry Diamond, a weekly payouts to the highest scorer. member of the all-freshman Shalhevet 2020 League. “Though makThe sophomores’ league has a $60 membership fee. The 2020 grown to approximately 57.4 million. ing waiver decisions is stressful, I think it’s a great way to combine League charges $10. But the pastime has other dimensions as well. “Eighty dollars in the scheme of four months is not nothing, “I love fantasy football and it’s super entertaining, but I think football with a social aspect,.” but it’s not a big expense,” said Bennett. “It provides incentive for if anything it’s made my football experience probably a little more teams to not tank or give up. I know my parents won’t get upset at materialistic and something not that genuine,” said senior Alex Silme if I lose.” berstein, who runs one of several leagues at Shalhevet. It’s a very agitating experience. The game is There’s also the question of whether this is all legal, since most of “I think it’s actually impacted it pretty negatively,” Alex said. “I so fickle and unpredictable, and it’s futile that the players at school are under 18 – minors, that is. tend to objectify players. For example, yesterday, I was happy when you’re trying to predict a game that’s appeal is Under federal law, “any person knowingly permitting a minor Danny Woodhead tore his ACL because I have Melvin Gordon on to wager or any minor placing a wager is guilty of a Class A misdemy fantasy team.” that it cannot be predicted. meanor.” Fellow senior Jonah Kaye describes his involvement as “sweet -Bennett Schneier, 12th Grade However, the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of agony.” 2006, signed by President George W. Bush, seems to have legalized “When my players do well it’s very satisfying, but it’s also a huge fantasy sports. time suck,” said Jonah. “It’s like a buy-in to a whole different friend group,” said senior The law states that any online contest that “has an outcome that There are many leagues in the school, each with its own set of reflects the relative knowledge of the participants, or their skill at rule, prices and social components. Some have high entry fees, and Jonah Kaye. Still, most players seemed to have a conflicted relationship with physical reaction or physical manipulation (but not chance)” is not there are rules about adding and cutting team members, similar to fantasy football. Many members described it as time-consuming and considered gambling. the waiver system in pro sports. Knowledge, effort and skill do seem to be factors. Players said it In Shalhevet’s Just Community League, there are high stakes and somewhat frustrating. “It’s a very agitating experience,” said Bennett. “The game is so takes a huge amount of dedication to win. high payouts. Alex Silberstein runs it as commissioner, with seven fickle and unpredictable and it’s futile that you’re trying to predict a And according to Bennett, whatever else students join for, winother seniors and four juniors. ning actually is part of the goal. “I think it’s a great way to interact,” Alex said, “The junior-senior game that’s appeal is that it cannot be predicted.” And while being in even one league can be difficult, some Shal“I really want to win,” Bennett said. “There’s not a lot of things relationship is very important and we’ve become better friends, to hevet students are in multiple leagues. Some watch games every in your life that you can point to and say you’re better than your say the least.” friends at something, and this is For fellow senior and league member Bennett Schneier, the so- Monday, Thursday and Sunday. Sophomore Ari Reder is part of three leagues, and spends much one of those things.” cial aspect is a primary focus.
First-ever Israeli in MLB would not play on Yom Kippur By JORDAN FIELDS, Sports Columnist After signing with the Dodgers in June 2016, Israeli citizen Dean Kremer played this past summer for two of the Dodgers’ minor league teams, first in a rookie league for the Ogden Raptors in Utah, and then in an “A” League for the Great Lake Loons in Michigan. He’s the first the citizen of Israel to sign with the MLB, and the minor league system is where most pro players get their start. The Loons won the Midwest League championship, defeating the Clinton LumberKings three games to one in a best-of-five series. According to milb.com, in the series-clinching game, Kremer pitched the final 2 2/3 innings and allowed no runs and just one hit and one walk to preserve a 9-8 Great Lakes victory. The Boiling Point interviewed Kremer by telephone prior to his Sept. 4 game with the Loons. BP: According to your biography, you were born and raised in California. How are you Israeli? Dean Kremer: Both of my parents are, and the rest of my family are born and raised in Israel. I am the first generation here. That gives me citizenship. BP: Have you been to Israel before? Dean Kremer: Yes. I go every summer to visit family. If I wasn’t here playing baseball right now, I would be over there… My family lives kind of all over, but mostly I am around Tel Aviv. BP: Do you speak Hebrew? Dean Kremer: Yes, I speak fluently. BP: Being an Israeli born in Stockton, how did you get into baseball? Dean Kremer: My dad played tennis his whole life and then he came over to the United States on a college scholarship to play tennis. When I was born, he was done, and he didn’t’ want to be around the courts anymore. He wanted to put me in baseball and we lived right next door to a little league field. BP:I read you are going to play for the Israeli team in the World Baseball Classic (WBC). Are there any other players on that team who aspire to be in the Major Leagues, or play in the minor leagues? Dean Kremer: or the WBC, the way it works is you only have to be eligible for citizenship for
that country. For Israel it is easier to get citizenship. Pretty much the whole team is Jewish minor leaguers. BP: Would you play a game on Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur? Dean Kremer: No, I would not. BP: What is your favorite part about playing professional baseball in the minor leagues? Dean Kremer: It’s just fun. I love playing baseball. I want to do it for as long as I can. BP: What is the hardest part? Dean Kremer: Pitching when you are struggling. When you hit a rough patch, and trying to get out of the rough patch. BP: You were drafted by the San Diego Padres, but you decided not sign with them. What was the reason for that? Dean Kremer: I didn’t feel like I was mature enough to start my minor league career. I wanted another year to live outside the house and to get bigger and stronger. When I went to junior college I lived primarily at home. BP: Is there a difference between playing college baseball and playing in the minor leagues? Dean Kremer: Yes, it is definitely different. The hitters are better. Everybody has pop. Everybody can hit the ball out of the yard. BP: What are your plans for the off-season? Dean Kremer: I am going to work out, get stronger, come back and do what I can… I’ll be at home in Stockton. BP: Had the Dodgers been scouting you for a while? Dean Kremer: For this past season yes. BP: What is your advice for Israeli teenagers who want to play professional baseball? Dean Kremer: My advice would be to work hard, trust the process and get a little better every day.