THE COUGAR CHRONICLE
January 2018
Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy, Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania
Writing Banishes Differences
This year, Barrack’s middle school students had the wonderful opportunity to participate in a program called “Writers Matter”. The program was developed by Dr. Robert Vogel, professor emeritus at LaSalle University and a former Akiba/Barrack parent. Vogel is working on this program alongside Leslie Pugach, recently retired Akiba/Barrack teacher. This program has a mission to bring students of different religious backgrounds together. There are three schools that participate: St. Christopher’s School, The Al Aqsa Muslim School, and Barrack Hebrew Academy. The focus of the program is to overcome the divisions of religion and realize that writing is a way to do so. This program is year-long, with the schools meeting two to three times to share their writing pieces. In Writers Matter, each participant writes a piece or two in his or her
respective school. When it is time Though their initial feeling when for all three schools to come togeth- beginning the program was nerer, the participants are divided into groups to share their pieces, with each group containing students from all the different schools. What is most interesting about this program is the feedback from students from each school. Barrack students said that they wanted to partake in this program because it is a Writers Matter participants from Barrack, St. cool way to meet othChristopher’s School, and The Al Aqsa er kids from different Muslim School. religions. They feel that because they are not usually exposed to this, these vous and shy, the students discovrelationships are a main takeaway. ered that even though people have Photo Credit: JBHA
Stefanie Rose Sports Editor
Volume XXVIII Issue 2
different religions, they can be the same in many aspects, such as writing; once one got over the physical differences, there was no problem in getting to know the other students from the other schools. What they found most interesting about the writing is that while some of the pieces focused on the religious background of a student, some participants did not choose to incorporate that into their pieces. Students from The Al Aqsa Muslim School and St. Christopher’s School said very similar things. At first, they were surprised, but then they became excited to learn about others through their words on a page. Similar to the Barrack students, they wanted to meet people their age who came from different religious backgrounds. This program displays an essence of Jewish, Catholic, and Muslim communications that is not regularly seen by communities.
Friends in Faith, and in Confession, Too!
Tori Berlin Editor-at-Large
Photo Credit: Google Images
On Monday, October 9th, the The gathering began with mixed senior class visited St. Joseph’s school groups discussing the evoUniversity for a seminar with stu- lution of artwork relating the two dents from Pope John Paul II High religions, with the hope of learnSchool. Both schools participated ing more about each other and in a program called Friends in Faith, directed by the u n i v e r s i t y ’s Institute for Jewish-Catholic Relations, with the purpose of learning about the two religions’ different customs of confession. Earlier in “Synagoga and Ecclesia in Our Time,” on St. Joseph’s the year, the two campus schools had met at Pope John Paul II High School themselves. After analyzing the to get to know each other through statues, “Synagoga and Ecclesia”, Roman Catholic-Jewish dialogue. that stood at the entrance to the During the more recent meet- Strasbourg Cathedral in France, ing, many JBHA students were the students compared them to the happy to see familiar faces again. modern version that stands in the
IN THIS ISSUE
middle of St. Joseph University’s campus, “Synagoga and Ecclesia in Our Time”. This updated version was visited and approved by Pope Francis during his visit to Philadelphia in 2015. Students from both schools debated whether the original artwork portrayed the Jew as inferior to the Catholic. The general consensus was that the historic “Synagoga and Ecclesia” did indeed depict a superiority of the Catholic statue to the Jew, due to many aspects including the possessions of each statue, as well as their facial expressions. In contrast, most students felt the contemporary depiction of the two religions displayed a more equal, genuine relationship. “Synagoga and Ecclesia in Our Time” showed two nearly identical people sharing a bench, reading their separate holy texts while simultaneously enjoying time together. The majority from both schools believed this illustration was more positive and demonstrated an ability of both re-
ligions to collaborate peacefully. After some more icebreakers, the groups quickly dove into an intense discussion of the separate traditions of confession. While the Barrack students learned about the nine steps of confession in Roman Catholic societies, the John Paul II students analyzed the translation of the Jewish confession, Al Het, as well as the meaning behind many other prayers recited on Yom Kippur. Although there were major differences in the confession practices, students felt they could relate to the other through the common theme of asking forgiveness from God. Through intellectual discussions, the students were able to learn about each other’s faiths, while simultaneously building new relationships and learning more about their own religions. In the spring, Pope John Paul II High School will return for a Model Seder at Barrack for a final gathering between the two schools.
Find out about the juniors’ Muss experience.
Update on the Rohingya persecution in Myanmar.
Page 10
Page 5
January 2018
The Cougar Chronicle page 2
The Evolution of the Kneeling Movement Lillian Bernstein Staff Writer
“Kaepernick received GQ’s 2017 Citizen of the Year Award, finally gaining recognition for what many consider his inspirational activism.” the intentions of the league erupted. However, despite Kaepernick’s absence in football this season, a few players continued to protest. The situation grew more intense following President Trump’s rally in Alabama, on September 24th, in which he argued that NFL owners should respond to the protests by firing players, and used an expletive when referring to Kaepernick. His remarks had the opposite effect of what he intended and prompted dozens of players to join in on the protests. Another by-product of Trump’s comments was criticism of the players’ rights to protest. Many
people argued that players should protest on their own time, and not during work. The questioning of circumstances of protests is not an unfamiliar complaint. During the Civil Rights movement, Martin Luther King was frequently criticized for his public protests. Just as the act of kneeling has disrupted the lightness of sports entertainment, so too were King’s protests seen as a disturbance. However, the act of forcing Americans into a state of creative tension prompts long overdue dialogue about uncomfortable topics like racism and police brutality. Another common objection is that wealthy NFL players should be grateful for what they have and not complain, as if being rich prevents someone from experiencing racism. Yet, even though many players are wealthy, they’re not exactly in positions of power. According to the Institute of Diversity and Ethics in Sport, black people make up 66 percent of the NFL rosters, but there are no black NFL owners. However, the reasons for this are complex and not racist. Trump primarily argues that the protests are unpatriotic and disrespectful to U.S veterans and our Founding Fathers. Any form of discourtesy towards the flag and anthem is seen as traitorous and un-American. The opposing side disagrees, saying that the right to protest is a fundamental liberty granted in the Constitution. If the NFL allows the players to continue, the U.S. government
has no control over displays of activism during sports games. Furthermore, the notion that citizens should be penalized for speaking out against the government is completely unpatriotic. The right to protest cannot be limited to concerns that don’t make America look bad. The First Amendment of the Constitution states that all citizens have the right to free speech. These NFL players are actually demonstrating patriotism by utilizing their Constitutional right to protest.
Photo Credit: GQ Magazine
During the past few months, there has been an uproar surrounding protests taking place at sports games during the national anthem. They began during the NFL preseason in August, 2016, when 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick sat on the bench during the national anthem to protest police brutality against AfricanAmericans. Eventually, his protest evolved into the action of kneeling, and it spread into a national movement. When Kaepernick was not re-signed for the 2017 NFL season, a widespread debate questioning
In the midst of all the havoc surrounding the media attention on
the NFL protests, the message of the protestors seems to be lost. Last year, after his first protests, Kaepernick explained that he is “not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people, and people of color.” The goal of the kneeling movement is to raise awareness of the mistreatment of minorities in the United States. However, the arguments against the NFL protests focus on whether or not the players should be allowed to protest at all. The disagreement revolves around patriotism and free speech, when what people should be discussing is racism, the real reason the players are kneeling in the first place. President Trump has continued to attack the NFL, calling for a boycott of the league if the protesters persist. Yet, if he simply addressed the issues being protested and worked for a solution, the players would not feel the need to continue their kneeling. As a result of the protesting revolution that he pioneered, Kaepernick received GQ’s 2017 Citizen of the Year Award, finally gaining recognition for what many consider his inspirational activism.
Parties: Worth the Risk?
Max Lederer and Devon Sandler Staff Writer and Photography Editor
Photo Credit: savingmamasita.com
It’s exciting to be invited to parties in high school. They can give you the time of your life; sadly though, they can be dangerous, too. Parties are a great way to meet new people, bond as a community or grade, and make new friends. They offer a free zone to escape the responsibilities of home life, school, and other obligations. They let teens be with their friends. Parties are crucial for the growth of bonds between people, and it’s important that everyone attends one once in awhile, even if it’s just a small get together. Unfortunately, one big issue
at teen parties is people sneaking in alcohol, trying to pass it off as water, then convincing people to drink even if they don’t want to. The main
from alcohol poisoning, which can be fatal. Teens who are naive about these risks may be influenced by other teens. Drinking excessively and drug abuse is one of the leading causes of death for teens. Moreover, it’s illegal for anyone under 21 to drink; this law is for everyone’s benefit. Some good adreasons parties can turn deadly are vice: When you arrive at a party, alcohol or drugs. Even with the don’t get influenced by anyone and smallest amount of alcohol, your be your own person. Find someone risk of feeling over the edge goes to hang out with who is responsible up. You also risk getting really sick and mature. If you see a drink and
are not sure what it is, use the IISR method: “Is it smart and responsible to drink?” If you don’t know what it is, ask an adult at the par-
“Parties are special times of laughter and fun, but also times where we need to be careful, alert, aware, and responsible.” ty. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Be sure to think first and then act. Parties are special times of laughter and fun, but also times where we need to be careful, alert, aware, and responsible.
January 2018
The Cougar Chronicle page 3
Clubs: Too Much Freedom to Explore?
Rosie Gertzman Executive Editor
Photo Credit: savingmamasita.com
Oftentimes, club meetings at lunch are the best part of a Barrack student’s day. They provide a break between classes for students to explore their interests, and learn in diverse and unique ways. Amazingly, there are 42 club options at Barrack, including student publications like the Cougar Chronicle; awareness and advocacy groups such as Human Rights Club; competition-based clubs such as DECA and Mock Trial; culture appreciation clubs such as the language clubs; and so many more that give all students their own unique opportunity to shine. With so many clubs, students are given the opportunity to discover their true passions outside of the classroom. Barrack has a sev-
en-day rotating schedule with each ally, since there many clubs, each ships among students of all ages. club meeting once a cycle. This gives one has a very specific purpose and Some may argue that the students the responsibility to plan goal that differentiates it from oth- students are “spreading themselves too thin,” but in reality, the opposite is true. As underclassmen, students begin to pick and choose club meetings to attend, but as leadership opportunities arise for upperclassmen, individual students must decide their own schedules and attend up ers. For example, the Political Ac- which groups they are best fit to to seven clubs if they wish. The vast tion Club and the Human Rights lead. With 42 clubs, almost any number of clubs provides each stu- Club often discuss very similar “Each club has a very topics about the world, but the anspecific purpose and goal “42 club options give gle from which they discuss them which differentiates it all students their own is completely different and pulls a from others.” unique opportunity to different set of students to the respective meetings. If both of these shine.” options did not exist, club mem- student who wants a leadership opbers would be frustrated that their portunity will have the chance to dent with a sense of individuality voices were not heard, and they earn one. These leadership roles as they decide what they care most might not even become involved. are not only important for high about, and what they hope to gain Barrack clubs welcome anyone school growth; they also mark as a student in their middle school who is willing to commit their time, the very beginnings of a career and high school years. Addition- and this helps to foster relation- path for some Barrack students.
Say No More to Roy Moore
Tori Berlin Editor-at-Large
mary, his fellow Republicans were initially careful not to denounce him immediately. Instead of mentioning his weak spots, they choicely noted that they would be “eager to accept him as a fellow legislator on issues like healthcare and tax cuts”. Most “Roy Moore is a force of the elected Republicans chose to that must be stopped.” have an open mind and wait to see what his actions would be before commenting on his personality. As ing removed for refusing to uphold Republican Senator John Hoeven a federal court order to remove a of North Dakota said, Congress monument of the Ten Command- should “give him a chance to come ments from the Alabama judicial building, the second for enforcing the state’s ban on same-sex marriage despite the United States Supreme Court deeming this to be unconstitutional. Since then, Moore has been cited for his racism and homophobia. He has stated that homosexuality should be illegal and that Congress should not be open to Muslims, as well as pub- down and help us advance the agenlicizing his view that the attacks da that will be good for our counon September 11, 2001, were a try”. In contrast, and predictably, punishment for America’s sins. many Democrats publicly con After winning the GOP pri- demned Moore immediately after Photo Credit: dietdoctor.com
Even before running for Senator of Alabama, the name Roy Moore was known throughout the United States. Moore was Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Alabama twice, the first time be-
the results of the primary came out. though he insisted there was no Not long after the primary, sexual assault involved. Many Republicans had continued to endorse him, such as President Trump and “Moore previously his wife, Melania. However, some stated that homosexual- Republicans had called for him to ity should be illegal and drop out of the race, as Alabama citthat Congress should not izens began to view Moore in a new light, as shown later by the election be open to Muslims.” results. Doug Jones won the senatorial race by 1.5%, yet since the voting on December 12th, Moore has several women came forward with refused to acknowledge Jones’ win. sexual misconduct allegations Ever since the beginning of his career, Moore has obstructed the law and, after being caught, refused to let it stop him from continuing. Roy Moore is a force that must be stopped, another example of arrogant politicians who believe they can get away with illegal activity simply because they have political power against Moore. This news upturned and influence. His loss in this electhe election and eventually gave tion proves the virtues of the Amerthe Democrat, Doug Jones, the ex- ican people are able to outweigh tra votes he needed to win. Moore political party affiliations, as they admitted to dating younger women, should continue to in the future.
January 2018
The Cougar Chronicle page 4
Max Lederer Staff Writer Thousands of miles away and shrouded in secrecy, North Korea has become increasingly dangerous to America. In this ever-changing world, distance and cultural barriers don’t hold back a small country in the Korean pen-
“Thousands of miles away and shrouded in secrecy, North Korea has become increasingly dangerous to America.” insula from posing an enormous national security threat to the US. North Korea is creating problems for countries all over the world, including its neighbors, South Korea and Japan, and even in the far-off continents of Europe and North America. Missiles over Japan and increasingly antagonistic threats in official statements offer a glimpse into the height-
ened tensions between North Korea and the surrounding world. A huge problem within North Korea is that the country is run by a dictator. Opinions in North Korea, unlike in the Western world, aren’t shared and valued equally; only the voice of one man is important, and that is Kim Jong Un. What the leader says, the people follow. And Un is apprehensive, suspicious, and threatening. His unpredictable and terroristic tactics create fear among the democracies of the world that North Korea will provoke an international conflict. North Korea has already had four missile launches over the Sea of Japan. None of the bombs have yet reached Japan or South Korea, but have come dangerously close. The people of Japan and South Korea are extremely concerned that their countries could be in imminent danger. And with North Korea’s increasingly powerful nuclear arsenal, the United States has also
Photo Credit: https://www.reuters.com
Why We Should be Worried About North Korea
North Korea’s dictator, Kim Jong Un become concerned that missiles may be able to reach mainland America. While the US has strong ties with Japan and South Korea, no such relationship has ever been
formed with North Korea. Alone and nuclear, North Korea stands isolated in international politics, and with a scarily manic leader, seems more dangerous than ever.
Hurricanes and Climate Change Serena Levingston Staff Writer
One month after Hurricane Maria, 80% of Puerto Ricans, or about 3 million people, were still without power. For three days
in a row, Hurricane Irma was a Category 5 hurricane, the longest amount of time a satellite has ever recorded. Hurricane Harvey dropped a horrific amount of rain--27 trillion gallons--on Texas and Louisiana over the course of six days. This fall, there were a shocking number of natural disasters, not only in the United States, but around the world. There were deadly monsoon rains in Bangladesh, India and Nepal; flooding and landslides in decimated Sierra Leone; a disastrous earthquake in Mexi-
Photo Credit: savingmamasita.com
“Though there may not be an increase in the number of hurricanes in the future, many scientists believe there will be an increase in the number of powerful hurricanes.”
co. Many scientists link all these events to climate change, but they believe that the three recent hurricanes show the greatest effect. Though there may not be an increase in the number of hurricanes in the future, scientists believe there will be an increase in the number of powerful hurricanes. Climate change is considered accountable for that increase in pow-
er; since warming temperatures and ocean levels rising all lead to more water in the atmosphere. The heightened amount of water in the atmosphere makes rains heavier, and the warmer water gives the storms more energy. With more rain, the danger the storm poses to residents is higher, damage to people’s property is much greater, and recovery is much more difficult.
Hurricane Sandy was five years ago, and people are still recovering from it. In fact, New Orleans is still not the same as it was before Hurricane Katrina struck, and that was over ten years ago. With an increase in the number of powerful hurricanes, it will become harder and harder to restore buildings, terrain, and most importantly, people’s quality of life.
January 2018
The Cougar Chronicle page 5
Rohingya Persecution in THE COUGAR CHRONICLE Myanmar 272 South Bryn Mawr Avenue Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania 19010
Talia Koltun-Fromm Sports Editor
Recent violence began on August 25, 2017, when Rohingya militants attacked border police. The Buddhist militia retaliated by launching a “clearance operation,” killing over 1,000 people and forcing more than 300,000 to flee. There are multiple reports of Rohingya villages being burned and people slaughtered. The New York Times wrote an article about the horrific way a woman named Rajuma was treated “The Buddhist militia and how her child was murdered. retaliated by launching This violence is reported nationwide because of the scale of the a “clearance operation,” massacre, but also because of the killing over 1,000 people creation of a new Rohingya miliand forcing more than tant group: the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army. They claim that 300,000 to flee.” their attacks against the government forces are purely self-defense. legal immigrants. Consequently, On September 21, 2017, the U.S. Myanmar’s government denies State Department announced that it them citizenship, and places mul- will be sending 32 million tiple restrictions on their freedom, dollars to aid those persecutand access to medical assistance, ed in Myanmar. The hope is education, and other services. that other countries will fol There is a long and complicat- low in America’s footsteps ed history concerning the Rakhine and send aid. The OrganizaState. Due to ethnic tension, there tion of Islamic Cooperation have been recurring outbreaks of made a request to the U.N. to violence. In 2016, around 87,000 cut economic ties or restrain Rohingya Muslims fled to Ban- trade with Myanmar. Many gladesh. During the same time, members of the organizaMyanmar’s government allegedly tion are speaking out against endeavored to rid its country of its Myanmar, saying that this Muslim minority. After seven Bud- Muslim community is being dhists were found hacked to death, subjected to ethnic cleansing. more troops were sent to the Rakh- Unfortunately, this kind ine State, enough to stir up trouble. of persecution is not some-
thing new to world news. The causes of the Bosnian war were due to ethnic conflict between the Bosnians, Croats, and Serbians. In South Africa, apartheid existed in order to persecute an ethnic majority. During the Holocaust, Jews were considered a foreign ethnicity by the Nazis, and were forced to abandon their homes and then were
murdered. These are only a few examples, but this kind of victimization has been repeated multiple times, and sadly still exists today.
Photo Credit: savingmamasita.com
The Rohingya people of Muslim descent who settled in Myanmar generations ago, are said to be the world’s most persecuted people. Living side by side with Buddhists, the two groups have had a terrible relationship for years. Most Rohingya people live in what is called the Rakhine State, and suffer from discrimination due to Myanmar’s belief that they are il-
Editor-in-Chief..............................Eli Gordon ExecutiveEditor........................Rosie Gertzman ManagingEditor............................Molly LaVoe LayoutEditor.........................JoshuaGoldstein WorldNewsEditor...........................Sarit Held SchoolNewsEditors......................Michal Loren ..................................................Shirin Kaye OpinionEditor.........................Hillel Weitzman Features&GamesEditor...............Lily Grossinger CenterspreadEditor....................Helen Rudoler Arts&EntertainmentEditor............ Rivkah Wyner Art Editor.....................................Shirin Kaye SportsEditors.............................Stefanie Rose .......................................Talia Koltun-Fromm IsraelEditor............................Elana Kopelman PhotographyEditor.....................Devon Sandler Editors-at-Large............................Tori Berlin .............................................Gabriella Maze Business Manager.........................Adin Solomon Advisor..............................Mrs. Judith Pransky
School News continued from page 6
DECA Districts: A Success
Devon Sandler and Max Lederer Photography Editor and Staff Writer
Solutions to games on page 16!
competition, and the International Career Development Conference (ICDC). Thousands of students, including those from Barrack, came to the district competition, competing in a multitude of different events. Only the top seven students from each category won the opportunity to move on to the state competition in February, at the Hershey Lodge, in Hershey, PA. The Photo Credit: deca.org
In November, upper school students at Barrack had the opportunity to compete at the DECA district competition, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, in King of Prussia, PA. DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) is a business competition for high school and college students, that offers different events, challenging participants to speak in front of a judge and take a formal written test. There are three different levels in each yearly competition: the district competition, the state
final DECA Conference will take place in Atlanta, GA, in April. Though there was a lot of pressure and challenging competition, the participants from JBHA came out victorious. Bes i d e s testing w e l l , they produced strong role-play presentations that gave them an edge in the scoring. State qualifiers from Barrack include 12th graders Maddie Savitch,
Noah Glickman, Jacob Felger, Benji Hirschman, Eli Gordon, Talia Koltun-Fromm, Rachel Oppenheimer, and Davi Cohen; 11th grader Devon Sandler; 10th grader Gabe Miller; and 9th grader Max Lederer. They won awards in the categories of Principles of Finance, Apparel and Accessories Marketing, Marketing Communications, Retail Merchandising, Sports and Entertainment Marketing Management, Entrepreneurship, and Hospitality Services Management. Congratulations to all competitors!
January 2018
The Cougar Chronicle page 6
Finding Relevancy in New Derekh Eretz Values
a group of teachers from different departments, the Council’s intent is to span the wide array of ideas at Barrack. Currently, the Derekh Eretz Council is revising its values to make them more relevant to today’s students. In the beginning of the fall, each Jewish Studies class was asked to take the 24 Character Strengths survey, a survey created by psychologists that asks questions relating to character in order to evaluate key moral strengths. Using the anonymously shared
Gabriella Maze and Adi Peres Photography Editor and Staff Writer
Photo credit: G`oogle Images
If you are looking for a new club to join, your search is over. Chesed Club is Barrack’s community service club and it is perfect for any student. We participate in exciting activities that benefit our local community. A recent event was helping Project HOME serve food on Thanksgiving, but there are many more activities, such as a Hanukkah drive, an MLK
they expanded the idea of modesty beyond a dress code, to how to celebrate a victory modestly. Their goal was for people to feel comfortable around each other. More recently, the Board of Trustees requested that Mrs. Sharon Levin, the Head of School, revisit the pledge, because, as Rabbi Lev described, “In spite of our best efforts to have character assemblies and publicize the pledge, there are people who think we’re not as kind as we could be. Some people are part of the community, and others feel more on the mar-
In addition, Rabbi Lev told me that he thinks “it’s a good idea to look at the values every few years
“The reason why people like to work in school is not just about book learning, it’s about cultivating the character.”
and see if we’re meeting expectations or if we could do better.” In the Levingston household, it is well known that Rabbi Lev loves to talk about moral education, so what he said to me during our interview came as no surprise: “What I’ve learned in my research is that the reason why people like to work in school is not just about book learning, it’s about cultivating the character. I know I’m not alone in feeling that we’re not doing our job if you’re just scoring well on a test, gins.” This is something that goes we’re doing our job when we have against Barrack’s message of plu- people who grow up to be kind, and ralism, the “conscious engagement for whom a strong moral character with diversity”, according to Bar- is who they are, in the workplace rack’s philosophy on pluralism. and in the Jewish community.”
Chesed Club: Get involved! Day “On”, making gifts for the poor on Purim, and so much more! Come
“We got to know some amazing people and truly felt like we were making a difference in the children’s lives.” to Chesed Club and share an idea you are passionate about and we can include your suggestion in our next event. We are hoping to make Barrack a more service-oriented school and make sure we give back to our local community. Another way in which we helped out this year was volunteering at the Friend-
ship Circle Walk. A group of students from Chesed Club joined forces and went to the Walk, in order to show our support. We handed out tshirts, gave out food, and directed the walkers. We met some amazing people and truly felt like we were making a difference in the children’s lives just by coming to the Walk and getting to know them. We could tell that their day was made so much brighter; one happy walker greeted us with tremendous hugs and kisses. Thanks to our amazing volunteers, high-fives and smiles were seen all around the Walk. To see our community come together in order to Photo credit: friendshipcircle.com
“It’s a good idea to look at the values every few years and see if we’re meeting expectations or if we could do better.”
data from the survey, Rabbi Lev says that he and the council will “look at where we score high and where we score low, and let that inform our thinking on what values we want to affirm and what values we want to look at and cultivate.” When Rabbi Lev first arrived at Barrack in 2009, the Derekh Eretz Council was just a committee, and it had no long-term goal other than raising awareness. He worked with Rabbi Steve Stroiman, a former Jewish Studies teacher, and the Student Association members of each class from 2010 up until 2012 to propose the Derekh Eretz values as we know them today --- honor, h o n e s t y, h u m i l i t y, m o d e s t y, community, and fellowship --- looking to Pirkei Avot, Sayings of Our Fathers, for inspiration. There were values that were more important to adults, like modesty, that the council worked to make more relatable to students; Photo Credit: oztorah.com
Serena Levingston Staff Writer “The Derekh Eretz Council has a dual mission: to adjudicate, and to educate,” says Rabbi Judd Levingston, whose roles include being the Director of Jewish Studies here at Barrack, my dad, and head of the Derekh Eretz Council. The Council aims to raise awareness about Derekh Eretz values and to arbitrate on disciplinary issues. Consisting of two students from each grade and
help a bigger cause truly encompasses what we want to do as a club. We hope to make many more appearances at future Friendship Circle events as well as those of other organizations so that we can make a difference and help better our community.
January 2018
Rabbis to the Rescue
The Cougar Chronicle page 7
Stefanie Rose Sports Editor
for Human Rights (RHR) Center. RHR strives to change how the Israeli government views poverty in its country because the organization believes this topic is not at the top of the government’s agenda. Rabbis for Human Rights was established in 1988, towards the beginning of the First Intifada. Based in Jerusalem, the organization was founded by rabbis of all sects and is still led by rabbis, because they thought there was a huge human rights voice that had to be heard. It receives funding from many international human rights groups, from the European Union, from the United Kingdom and Spain, and from donations. When the or-
tions with their Arab neighbors. Today, poverty in Israel is still a huge issue; the country itself has one of the highest poverty rates in the world: 20% of Israelis are below the poverty line and 36% of Israeli children live below the poverty line; in the United States, 29% of children are below the poverty line. Through the RHR organization, professional staff
Photo Credit: JBHA Facebook
Rabbi Idit Lev, a Conser- ganization first started, it worked vative Rabbi who lives in Haifa, with Palestinian olive farmers in is a proud member of the Rabbis the West Bank; the organization helped the farmers to get other re“This organization sources since they were not able strives to change how to harvest their olive trees. Unthe Israeli government fortunately, militant Israelis, often radical teenagers, were harassviews poverty in its ing the olive farmers, against the country.” wishes of Israeli residents who wanted positive rela-
From left to right: Rabbi Judd Levingston, Rabbi Idit Lev, Rabbi Adam Zeff, Devora Solomon, and Stefanie Rose
members, like Rabbi Lev, help all of these people who are in need. The organization works especially hard to assist both Haredim (ultra-orthodox Jews) and Arab Palestinian populations. It recruits native Arab speakers to help reach out to those who only speak Arabic. RHR also helps new immigrants with the education system, legal documents, bills, and with navigating the public transportation system. The organization tries to help people in poverty by providing long-term support and help with everyday issues. It petitioned to make public transportation more accessible, so those who live far from their job must not walk extreme distances. It pays for babysitters while parents are at work and helps budget for entire families. This organization helps people in poverty make decisions for themselves, in keeping with Maimonides’s highest level of Tzedakah, charity. RHR provides resources to those in need, and it is amazing how people from around the world all come together to help.
Welcome to the Barrack Mishpacha Stefanie Rose Sports Editor
The 2017-2018 school year at happy to become part of the fam- the community “is the best part, by Barrack has been great because ily. Being a new faculty mem- far.” Not only are they adjusting to “The feeling of being there are so many new faces to see ber is very different from being a their teaching and counseling roles, known as ‘new’ goes in the halls. Along with close to 70 new student, but they have one some have taken up positions like away instantly; once new students, eight new faculty main similarity: the feeling of be- coaching sports. Daniel Baxter, members have joined the Barrack people enter the family, ing known as “new” goes away for example, had the opportunity family. Barrack has gained an exthey are part of it for- instantly; once people enter the to coach the Middle School Boys’ cellent group of individuals: Danfamily, they are part of it forever. Soccer B team. He says that “the ever.” iel Baxter, joining the Science De So far, the school year for these year is going very quickly and I partment; Lisa Nolan, joining the teachers has being going smoothly. enjoy that everyone has been very Math Departfriendly.” He is ment; Marlene glad the bulk of the Pajot-Pavlak 11th grade has re(French) and turned from Muss Cynthia Vain“so the Physics stein (Spanteaching can fiish), joining nally get started!” the Language Entering this Department; new environment Elizabeth Panmay have been dian, joining hard, but accordthe College ing to Maya MalCounseling achi-Rosenberg, Department; “Every day I enMaya Malachijoy it more and Rosenberg, more; it is abjoining the solutely a great Hebrew Deplace.” All teachFrom left to right: Daniel Baxter (Science); Cynthia Vainstein (Spanish); partment; ers, new or reMaya Malachi-Rosenberg (Hebrew). Danielle Wilturning, agree that son, joining every day, there STEM; and Matthew Stein, the dividuals have definitely come to Cynthia Vainstein says she “enjoys is always something new to learn, new music teacher, joining the Arts the right place. Barrack is beyond teaching at Barrack very much.” and there are more and more reaDepartment. These incredible in- happy to have them, and they are Getting to know her students and sons to “love where you learn.”
Ho
a w S w the Media
Joel Osteen: Heretic, American Opportunist, or Motivational Cheerleader? Eli Gordon Editor-in-Chief
mons, he at many points sounds more like a motivational speaker than a preacher. Pulling less on scripture to support his arguments, Osteen talks about prosperity with a modern tone, discussing life with your family, community, and employment. Because he talks
about such wide-spread struggles, like finding a job or keeping your family wholesome, so many people relate, and therefore follow. However, Osteen’s success doesn’t come without controversy. Many criticize Osteen’s apparent promotion of the Prosperity Theology (or Prosperity Gospel), which teaches that God will reward faith with economic success and health. By taking on this theology, religion becomes all about prosperity and wealth. Many feel that Osteen not only becomes tone deaf to the struggles of impoverished people, but also perverts the true purpose of religion. O s t e e n counters that his preaching is not about money. It is about his belief that God wants people to live in health, to have positive relationships, and to feel blessed. Having money brings peace of mind; it also allows people to help others. Therefore, it ties in to Osteen’s vision of a good life.
Obviously, Osteen’s flavor of preaching seems to be popular, in spite of the critics, and that’s because of American culture. Many in the American public, being fa-
“Tone deafness and ultra-capitalistic message aside, his career and teachings have prospered.” natically obsessed with both religion and wealth, have flocked to Osteen to hear him smoothly entwine the two. Tone deafness and ultra-capitalistic message aside, his career and teachings have prospered. In America, many are so focused on religion and wealth, that they let the two be unapologetically blended together. In a way, the success of Osteen and his empire perfectly wrap up many Americans’ attitudes towards life, and encompass what many believe the American dream has come to be: becoming rich through believing in Jesus. And Osteen, being worth over $40 million dollars, is fulfilling what many think he is reinventing as the American dream and religious purpose.
Portrayal of Jews in the Media
Sarit Held World News Editor
It is not hard to find Jews in Hollywood, both as standard actors and reotypes Jews as wealthy, cheap, as main characters. From Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David with shows of mean, immoral or unethical. Big nose and nasally voices, mixed with anxiety and seriousness, are “These stereotypes are often degrading and the standard character traits. Jews misrepresentative of the Jews as a whole.” are often type-cast as lawyers and doctors; shrewd and controltheir own name, to strong female Jewish comedic characters like Grace ling. Examples of these stereoAdler on Will and Grace and Monica Geller on Friends, there is no short- types are easy to think of; for exage of Jews in the mainstream media. However, whether it be in mov- ample, in The Big Bang Theory, ies, TV shows, or on Saturday Night Live, the mass media frequently ste- Howard Wolowitz. These stereo-
Photo Credit Hufffington Post
al preachers, doesn’t focus on sin and punishment; rather he focuses on the positive, looking at human potential and relationships. Since he tries to relate to such a broad audience, he speaks about the road to success in broad strokes: how to overcome poverty, learning how to work hard, and organizing your life. During any of his ser-
Photo Credit: Commons.wikimedia.org
Joel Osteen, televangelical royalty and owner of one of the biggest mega-churches in the world, has been teaching people how to find Jesus, and therefore their best selves, since the turn of the century. His father, John Osteen, was the Southern Baptist pastor of Lakewood Church in Texas. After his death at the age of 77, due to a heart attack, he was succeeded by his son, who grew the church and following into a legendary empire, seeping into all sectors of American life — from TV, to radio, to Sunday mornings. He has written seven New York Times bestsellers, grown his congregation to over 55,000 people, and has his video and audio podcasts downloaded roughly 10.5 million times a week. But what makes him so compelling, and why do people of all backgrounds flock to hear his sermons? Osteen, unlike tradition-
O p c i l i b n u i P on s y a The Demonization of Muslims in American Media Eli Gordon Editor-in-Chief
On October 31, 2017, a 29-year-old man, Sayfullo Habibullaevic Saipov, plowed a rented UHaul truck through a popular biking path in New York City, killing eight people. Saipov said the attack was inspired by ISIS. All over the country, local media rushed to run stories such as, “Passaic County Muslims denounce NYC terror suspect,” “Hartford Muslims condemn New York terror attack,” and “Colorado Muslim Group Condemns NYC Terrorist Incident.” The American polarization of Muslims has gone so far that they need to exclaim their condemnation for violence, a condemnation that should go without saying. So many Muslims are the first to speak out, because they are scared of what happens when they don’t. They are also speaking out because they have been
accused of not condemning acts has is with its Muslim community. of radical Muslim terrorism in the Whether it be domestic terrorist attacks or our government’s involvein Middle-Eastern wars, the “The demonization of ment constant coverage of Muslim relaMuslims has made Amer- tions in our media has hugely afican media profitable, fected how we, as a population, and act towards our felbut has in return created perceive low Muslims. A Gallup poll shows a nation fearful, and vio- that 36% of Americans hold an lent, towards the entire unfavorable opinion of Islam. Anpoll says that 60% of MusIslamic community, even other lim Americans believe that Amerithose who are not part of can citizens are prejudiced against them. Even though Muslims acthe radical fringe.” count for only 1% of the American population, they are the victims past. In addition, many Americans of 4.4% of American hate crimes. cannot forget the images of Mus- So why are the hate crimes lims dancing in the streets when committed against Muslims so disthe Twin Towers were destroyed. proportionate to the size of their One of the most dynamic community? Since most Americans and troubled relationships America don’t interact with Muslims in their
types are often degrading and misrepresentative of the Jews as a whole. Though there are a fair share of negative connotations, positive stereotypes also exist. Jews are many times portrayed as highly intelligent, or gifted at music or other hobbies. In the popular show Glee, Rachel, the main star of the Glee Club, is Jewish. These kinds of stereotypes are dangerous in their own right, however, as they tend to misshape public opinion regarding a social minority. Jewish people, like all people, can be wealthy or poor, intelligent or not, kind or cruel. Given the global history of anti-Semitism, it is important that Judaism be portrayed in a balanced manner that does not encourage such popular misconstructions. Not only are Jews found in Hollywood, but another issue that the
everyday life, given the small size of their population, they rely on what they hear on TV and the radio to form their opinions, and what they hear is mostly negative. Data shows that spikes in hate crimes against Muslims happen around the time of terrorist attacks perpetrated by Muslims, because of the skewed focus on their religion in the media. Radicalized terrorists never represent the larger Muslim community, but too many times those terrorists are taken as representatives of their religion by talk show hosts and political pundits. Rarely is a person’s Muslim identity discussed in the media when it isn’t affiliated with a terrorist attack or a political gesture against them. Muslims in America live in fear because parts of American society have allowed Muslim stereotypes to reign over our newsfeed. This is exacerbated when the speeches and pronouncements of radical Muslim clerics in America and abroad are publicized, and when radical Muslims commit another act of violence. But when a news source seems to become popular when it peddles fear, it is not hard to see why violence committed by a Muslim Arab is called “terrorism,” but when committed by a white Christian man it’s called a “mental health problem.” The demonization of Muslims has made American media profitable, but has in return created a nation fearful and violent towards the entire Islamic community, even those who are not part of the radical fringe.
Jewish community faces in the media is how the Israeli-Palestinian dispute is framed in the news. Many American news organizations will report Palestinian anger over Israeli settlements being built in the West Bank, but rarely dwell on the incendiary statements and cartoons that appear regularly in the Palestinian press. They also neglect to explain the history of the conflict, or report it inaccurately. And they rarely, if ever, highlight the huge number of Palestinians treated in Israeli hospitals, or the fact that Arabs live, work and shop safely, throughout Israel. Misinformation, along with omission of details, leaves the public without the proper information to formulate an opinion based on fact and truth.
January 2018
The Cougar Chronicle page 10
Return From Israel: Did You M(u)ss Us? The class of 2019 returned from the Alexander Muss High School in Israel program on November 30th, singing their way into the Barrack parking lot in an attempt to keep the “Muss spirit” alive. The
“Another highlight was spending the High Holidays in Jerusalem.” students lived and studied in Hod Hasharon, Israel, for three months and truly experienced Muss Magic. They became closer as a grade, closer to the land, and more knowledgeable and mature people. This year, Barrack had three amazing Core -- Israel and Jewish Studies -- teachers: Reuven Spero, Danny Stein, and Gavriel Porten. Each class was given the opportunity to form unique bonds with these teachers, unlike any other teacher-student relationship. The entire State of Israel became their
“The entire State of Israel became a classroom for the students.”
Kippur, and the insane dancing at a variety of shuls on Simchat Torah. The juniors have been excited to share their experiences, love for Judaism, and love for Israel with the rest of the Barrack community since they reentered Barrack in December.
Class of 2019 in the Golan Heights
Poland: A Muss Experience
There is nothing that could ever prepare a person for visiting the Holocaust sites of Poland. No matter how much a person may have
“We must inspire younger generations to stand strong and be proud of who they are, no matter what people tell them.” learned about the Holocaust prior, it is completely different when walking in the exact footsteps of our ancestors. Everything becomes more real, cruel, and scary. The feelings a person experiences while walking through Poland are like no other. There is no way of predicting beforehand how a person will feel, and that’s okay. A person may feel numb, shocked, scared, sad, or all of the above. Poland was by far the hardest experience of my life. I will never be able to unsee the things I saw. It is hard to think about the millions of people, just like us, who were tak-
en from their homes and told they were going someplace for a ‘better life’. We saw their shoes, glasses, hair, hairbrushes, and suitcases that looked just like our very own. As I walked through the concentration camps, I felt things I had never felt before. I wondered what I would have done if I was born during that era. Would I have survived? What would have happened to my family? All these thoughts crowded my mind, one following another. I still don’t think I understand the Holocaust, but I don’t think I ever will. The numbers are incomprehensible. It didn’t seem possible until that very moment how dehumanized the Jews truly were. We saw cases and cases of hair.
We neglect to realize how much our hair means to us; it is a part of who we are. And it was just one aspect of what was taken away from each person. Throughout the experience of seeing the terrible evidence of this horrific event, I realized how strong our people are. So many different groups of people have tried to wipe us out but we have survived. The Jewish people continue to fight back each and every “We neglect to day. It is awful that Pairs of glasses confiscaed from realize how much our so many people had prisoners during the Holocaust hair means to us; it is a to die but we must reand educate those who are not edumember all those who part of who we are.” survived. It is our duty to fight cated. We must make sure this can back. We must live our lives to the never happen again. We must infullest for those who never had the spire younger generations to stand This symbolized the ripping away chance to do so. It is the duty of strong and be proud of who they are, of the Jewish people’s’ identities. each one of us to live Jewish lives no matter what people tell them. Photo Credit: Molly Lavoe
Molly LaVoe Managing Editor
classroom. Whether it was learning about the Judges cycle from the Biblical period on Mount Gilboa, or learning about the modernday wars in the Golan Heights, every single day was a new adventure with something new to learn and something amazing to see. One highlight of the trip was Yam L’Yam (Sea to Sea), the fourday hike across the width of the country, which was where the class truly came together as one. Another highlight was spending the High Holidays in Jerusalem. It was incredible to see the swarms of people in white walking the quiet streets of the Old City on Yom Photo Credit: Joshua Berkowitz
Rosie Gertzman Executive Editor
CHRONICLE FEATURES
January 2018
The Cougar Chronicle page 11
Writing Has Become Just a Long Text Message
Molly LaVoe Managing Editor
Photo Credit: Gabriella Maze
In our day, texting is the most make what someone is trying to prevalent method of communi- say easier and shorter. Similarly, cation. The majority of middle students are using shorthand in school and high school students their writing, because they feel it have phones, and are on them all is quicker and easier than to write of the time; even some elemen- the actual word. Oftentimes, if the tary school students have them. word is just a few letters longer Phones are addicting and students than the abbreviation, shorthand is are sucked into the screen, creat- still used, showing the laziness of ing a bubble around themselves the students. It is understandable that blocks out all outside interactions. Due to the amount of time students spend on their phones, the language of texting has been carried over into school writings, essays, and answers on tests. The phone norm in society has From left to right: Molly LaVoe, Rosie taken over and has Eli Gordon affected many. Slang has become the proper way to be using abbreviations like “ur” to speak in this phone-absorbed so- (your), “2” (two, too, to) or “ly” ciety, so no wonder students’ writ- (love you), when texting, but this ings have been influenced by it. language should only belong to the While texting, shorthand or ab- texting world; it does not belong breviations are generally used to in formal essays or pieces. Not
only is this issue detrimental for the development of one’s writing abilities, it just looks sloppy and unprofessional. Maybe it is hard for one to transition from “texting language” to formal writing, but stronger attempts should be made. This phenomenon is happening, and there are not many ways to stop it besides using self-discipline. Ultimately, it is up to no one but ourselves to change the way we write and portray ourselves through writing. Most of the time, one texts according to how one would speak. This could include expressions Gertzman, and even vernacular words. Because students use these with friends and through the phone, they become normal. So, when it comes to writing, the way one speaks appears on the paper. Hearing oneself speak is the way that seems most normal and makes
the most sense. But, when writing, informal language is incorrect. Us-
“The phone norm in society has taken over and has affected many.” ing these words makes students look immature, and overuse of text language is a problem. Luckily enough, this is something that can be easily solved; it is simply an issue of being more aware. Although the world of writing has become corrupted by texting, it has not been destroyed. Living in today’s world, especially as a student, is difficult, but not impossible. Once in awhile, put down the phone, pop the “phone bubble”, and enjoy the surroundings. Though this is not a solution that can completely solve the ‘slang in writing’ problem, it is a start. If students make the effort to take a break from their phones, they are giving themselves the possibility of becoming more aware, and even becoming better writers.
CHRONICLE ARTS
January 2018
Helen Rudoler Centerspread Editor
The Cougar Chronicle page 12
The Story Behind Neverland
This year’s fall play, by the Barrack Repertory Company, was worlds different from last year’s Inherit the Wind. Contrary to Inherit the Wind’s serious themes, this year
“A key aspect of the play is imagination, to turn the wooden props and swapping costume pieces into a story.” the students performed Peter and the Starcatcher, a play detailing the background to the beloved story of Peter Pan. How did Peter get to Neverland? What is pixie dust? Why are Captain Hook and Peter enemies? All these questions and more are answered in this fast-paced, ninetyminute production. The play fea-
tures pirates, mermaids, and lost boys. Throughout the production, Peter struggles to find a home, until he finally reaches Neverland! The place where he believes he belongs. Few people would describe this play as average; in fact, it is quite bizarre. The props andsets are purposed to be dozens of different things. One must pay close attention to the props flying about the stage and the succession of quips and puns being tossed out in each scene. The story is told in a most unorthodox fashion: the characters swap between narrator and character, both telling the story and acting it out. One moment the characters are speaking to each other in some unknown language, the next they are facing out to the audience to explain that the language they were
speaking is ‘dodo’, a rare bird, only to then turn back to each other and continue their strange dialogue. A key aspect of the play is imagination; to turn the wooden props and swapping costume pieces into a story. In order to understand the show, the audience has to be willing to let go of certain realities, and embrace its ‘ridiculosity’. Unfortunately, even with an element of imagination, the play tends to be a bit confusing. One has to go in ready to be sufficed with the plentitude of clever puns and silly costuming, such as during the mermaid song wherein the entire cast is dressed up as mermaids. For months in the fall, the eleven actors, the stage manager, Dewey and Tony Oriente, and the crew, met after school and on Sun-
days to practice for the play. After cutting about half the music, the group still lacked the time to learn to harmonize and sing all the songs that were left, so there were a few cramming sessions immediately before the play. Then there was dialect training to nail down the British accents, and a deluge of blocking scenes and rearranging props in the most economical way possible. Flashlights and eyepatches had an uncanny way of disappearing at the most inconvenient times; there was a considerable amount of losing things, searching for them, and losing them again the next night. The bizarre play made for many challenges, but most importantly, the cast had a great time preparing and presenting the play -- so a good time was had by all!
Photo Credit: JBHA Facebook
Cast of Peter and the Starcatcher
In order from left to right: Madelyn Simon, Helen Rudolor, Ben Fisher, Ethan Simon, Rebecca Weinstein, Maya Patent, Alyssa Chelder.
January 2018
The Cougar Chronicle page 13
Honoring our City in a ‘Monumental’ Way
Elena Einstadt Staff Writer The Monument Lab worked on exposing people to different forms of monuments, specifically ones that do not always consist of a figure on a pedestal. Some examples include vacant lots, ruins, protests, murals, or film. These unconventional forms of monuments raise many questions about what an “appropriate monument for the current city of Philadelphia” actually should look like.
Photo Credit philly.curbed.com
The city of Philadelphia is home to a myriad of monuments ranging from the iconic statue of Rocky, to the figure of William Penn that is set atop Philadelphia’s City Hall. From September 16th to November 19th, the Mural Arts Foundation partnered with 20 artists and a curatorial team led by Paul M. Farber and Ken Lum, in order to create a forum, called The Monument Lab, for Philadelphians to contribute ideas about “what is an appropriate monument for the current city of Philadelphia” (http://monumentlab. muralarts. org/about/). Their mission aimed at “building civic dialogue and stoking historical imagination as forces for social change.” They created displays in 10 different sites all over Philadelphia. Many displays were located in parks, while the culminating display was being shown at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Jane Golden, the Executive Director of the Mural Arts program, states that a monument can be explained as something that “commemorates something or someone, in order to uplift and keep it in public memory -- an enduring symbol.”
To answer some of these questions, I interviewed Kaitlin Pomerantz, who is one of the many artists whose idea for a modern monument were shown at Washington Square Park. Pomerantz’s project, On the Threshold (Salvaged Stoops, Philadelphia), took old stoops from various Philadelphia neighborhoods to showcase them as an ode to ‘stoop culture’ and Philadelphia tradition. When asked whom she wanted to honor, Pomerantz responded that she was striving to bring attention to all the people of Philadelphia, not just the rich or important ones.
When asked who the storytellers of her monument were, Pomerantz explained that “something that attracted her to the stoop was how ubiquitous it is.” Most neighborhoods, whether affluent or impoverished, have houses with stoops. Pomerantz asked people to write down any stoop stories or memories. When asked if she had one and how it connected to her own values, she said that although a stoop is private property, “it also functioned as a democratic space.” Since Pomerantz comes from a Quaker background, she often thought about “the value of sitting and reflecting,” and felt as though the stoop was a very satisfying place to take part in these actions. Currently, monuments are especially controversial in our political climate. It is important to note, however, that this concept of the Monument Lab was conceived five years ago, before the present political controversy. Although the project connects with our current events today, it was not created as a response to them. It is a conception that monuments are about preserving history. Most monuments, however, are about finding meaning in historical experiences and events. History is a search for truth, whereas monuments focus more on preserving a memory. People face a similar search for meaning in life through their personal identities. Because of Barrack
students’ identities as AmericanJews, or Jewish-Americans, there are some questions about monuments displayed in our school that the students are confronted with. If the Monument Lab is about democratizing art and sharing ideas in public about new and old monuments, how should PhiladelphiaJews, and the Jews at our school, determine how they should be represented? Because Jews don’t all share the same views, is it truly possible to create a single monument that is ‘enduring’ to the entire Jewish community? And, is it possible to create one that will be appealing in the future? The purpose of the Monument Lab was to use art to “recognize diversity within commonality.” Within Philadelphia there are very diverse sets of ideas and opinions just as there are among Jews. As a pluralistic Jewish school, we are confronted with this concept daily; we are all Jewish, but we express our Judaism in many different ways. If Barrack had a discussion about the monuments that our school chooses to display, like ones representing Zionism, Israel, or the Holocaust, would the community find common ground about these issues, or would the discussion spark and bring out new and underrepresented ideas about the public art shown at Barrack? To learn more about the Mural Arts Project or the Monument Lab, you can visit: http://monumentlab.muralarts.org
Lady Gaga: Five Foot Two and Not Falling Short Devorah Solomon Staff Writer In the course of the movie, she also occurred more than three years ago, turns towards the camera to answer during a show on her Born This questions, during breaks in film- Way tour in 2013. She tried to hide it for about a month before giving in and cancelling the rest of her tour. This injury has stayed with her, and she is still often in excruciating pain. You feel her pain when she cries before performances, and when she gets injections at the doctor’s ofMarlene Gerais, one of Lady Gaga’s biggest fans, was shocked fice, sympathizing with her as she rewhen Lady Gaga came out from mains dedicated to her career and to her behind the screen. fans through it all. ing a music video or recording a Throughout the movie, Lady song. The viewers can truly see her Gaga shows her love for her fans struggle with her hip injury, which by always stopping to take pic-
Photo Credit iheart.com
Recently, I saw the new documentary: Lady Gaga: Five Foot Two. As someone whose life is largely publicized in magazines and on television, Lady Gaga shares even more in this movie. This film is a must watch for anyone who loves Lady Gaga, and for everyone who simply loves music. The movie describes Lady Gaga’s everyday life. This varies from her time in the studio, to family life, including a family member’s baptism, to doctor’s appointments for her hip injury. It shows her trying to distance herself from her past reputation, wanting to be taken seriously instead of always being associated with her crazy, exciting public personality. Towards the middle of the film, she creates a uniform for herself with her fashion consultant, consisting only of black and white t-shirts and jeans.
tures and sign autographs. She even surprised one of them with a visit. Marlene Gerais, one of Lady Gaga’s biggest fans, was brought into the New York offices of iHeartRadio, thinking she was recording a message to send to her, and was shocked when Lady Gaga came out from behind the screen. Her commitment to her work is admirable and is seen whenever she is preparing diligently for a new project, recording a song, shooting a music video, or preparing for the Super Bowl halftime show. Throughout these experiences, she persevered through her pain and sickness. Overall, this movie is a must see. If you do not already love Lady Gaga, you will love her by the end of this amazing documentary. I loved watching this movie and would definitely recommend it for anyone looking for a good movie to watch.
January 2018
The Cougar Chronicle page 14
“That’s all Folks” for Fall Sports
Photo Credit: JBHA Facebook
Devon Sandler & Stefanie Rose Editor-at-Large & Sports Editor
Varsity Girls’ Tennis: TCISL champions: 3-2 vs. Perk 12-4 for the season. The Barrack Cougars had a very successful season this fall in all sports! The Girls’ Varsity Tennis team had an outstanding season. Although they lost four matches, the girls did not let those losses get them down, persevering to win twelve of their matches. The team played against Perkiomen school in the Tri-County Independent League (TCISL) Championships and won a deserved victory worth celebrating. They also played in the Penn-Jersey Athletic Association (PJAA) Cham-
girls should feel extremely proud of their accomplishments this season because they played with everything they knew, and it definitely showed. They ended with a 12-4 record. The Middle School Girls’ Tennis team ended with a 0-7 record. Though the record shows
“They played with everything they knew, and it definitely showed.”
the results of the season, it does not show the devotion of these girls; it is just a number. During practices and games, these players put in an extreme amount of effort, hoping to succeed and win. The Girls’ Varsity Soccer team pionships against Doane Academy had a truly amazing season. These and tied for second place with New girls had their heads in the game Foundations Charter school. These with the mindset to win. Though
Photo Credit: JBHA Facebook
“Losing does not show one’s capability, skill, and love for the sport, it is only a word.”
they lost two games, they won thirteen. During the season, there were eight shutout games; what a job well done by the whole team! They tied three to three the first time they played Perkiomen, even with overtime. For the TCISL finals, Perkiomen was the team’s competitor. They played and left everything they knew on the field, and it showed with the victory of four to one. This team has every reason to feel extremely proud of what it has done and ended with a 13-2- 1 record. The Boys’ Varsity Soccer team wowed everyone with their record of 13-1- 2. Every time they played, they showed that they were there for one reason only -- to win. Their season included six shutout games, and only one loss of one to two against Perkiomen the first time they played them. The second time they played Perkiomen, they tied.
Varsity Boys’ Soccer: TCISL champions: 2-0 vs. Phelps 13-1- 2 for the season
The boys qualified for the TCISL finals, which were against the Phelps school. They played extremely well, and this resulted in a 2-0 win. This team’s season left people’s
“This team’s season left people’s jaws dropping in astonishment.” jaws dropping in astonishment. The Boys’ Junior Varsity Soccer team, though they only had eight games, played hard throughout the season. They lost three games, won three games, and tied two games. They even won a shutout game against the Phelps School, with a final score of 2-0. The Middle School Boys’ Soccer “A” team had a similar track record, finishing the season with an astounding four wins, four losses, and Continued on next page
Photo Credit: JBHA Facebook
January 2018 The Cougar Chronicle page 15 two ties. They only lost to schools unique season, with a 2-6- 2 record. when they get to high school. There had an amazing season and won in known for having an intense ath- While their record may not be su- may be losses, but that is how one the fields of effort and teamwork. letic department, but won against perb, the amount of skill on the team learns. Losing does not show one’s The JBHA Cross Country some other athletically-powerful is insane; many of these girls will capability, skill, and love for the team, known as the Running Couschools, demonstrating that they’re be a great addition to the GV team sport; it is only a word. These girls gars, did very well this season. strong compeAll memtition. The bers were dediMiddle School cated to imBoys’ Soccer proving their “B” team had time, ultimately an amazing leading to the season with team winning only two losses 3rd place in and four wins! the PJAA fiThough the nals. Though team consists they were faced of many sixth with some difgraders and ficult climates, new students whether hot to Barrack, and humid or they worked cold and rainy, as a team and everyone pershowcased severed and ran their incredwith a good atible soccer titude. There skills and was a lot of commitment self-improveto teamwork. ment this seaThe Midson, and everydle School one on the team Girls’ Soccer demonstrated team had a commitment. Cross Country: Senior Eli Gordon (third from right) takes 4th place in TCISL Cross Country championships (18:01)
Barrack Girls’ Soccer Ends on a High Note
Devora Solomon Staff Writer
intense, and a lot of pressure was eighth grader, having scored one. felt by the team. At half-time the During the second half, Perk unscore was 3-0, with Isabella Ja- fortunately scored a goal, but Jacobson protected the lead with an“The team rushed out other goal. By the time the buzzer sounded, the crowd and the team onto the field… in were ready to celebrate. The entire celebration.” team rushed out onto the field and the crowd erupted into cheers. Afcobson, a freshman, having scored ter the trophy was handed to the two goals, and Jessie Singer, an captains and the coach, the field
Photo Credit: JBHA Facebook
This past season, the Varsity Girls’ Soccer team played amazingly. The girls participated in two separate leagues, making it to the playoffs in both. For the Tri-County Independent State League, the TCISL, the girls faced Perkiomen, a long-time rival. The first half was suspenseful since the previous games against Perk ended with a tie and then a win. This game was
Varsity Girls’ Soccer: TCISL champions: 4-1 vs. Perk 13-2- 1 for the season
was filled with enthusiasm as the team took pictures and celebrated. Unfortunately, the playoffs for the Penn-Jersey Athletic Association, the PJAA, did not go as well, but the team is very pleased with the results of the TCISL game and everyone is very proud of the entire season. The record ended with 13 wins, one tie, and one loss.
CHRONICLE GAMES
January 2018
The Cougar Chronicle page 16
Chronicle Charisma: Topics in the Chronicle Shirin Kaye School News & Art Editor
WORDS: Chesed Comic Derekh Eretz Drama Faith Friendship Israel Media Mural Muss Myanmar
Across 2. The only shoes that will get you through the cold 4. The constant temperature this season 5. Christmas, Chanukah, and Kwanza are all… 9. A fun winter activity, but don’t slip! 10. Make sure to wear a puffy one this winter 11. A new friend to build 12. A fuzzy Arctic Animal 13. Best activity if you have a snow day and a hill Down 1. They keep your hands warm 3. Some have a pompom on top 4. What you light to keep warm 5. A beverage best served with marshmallows 6. A winter activity you’ll find in the Poconos 7. The worst kind of winter storm 8. No two are alike
Benjamin Dahan - Staff Writer
North Korea Poland Religion Slang Sports Writer
Winter Wonderland
Devora Solomon Staff Writer
Shirin Kaye - School News & Art Editor