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Yavneh Academy of Dallas
May 7, 2009 *** 12 Iyar, 5769
Mazal Tov to the Class of 2009
Yavneh Academy of Dallas'
14th Commencement
May 17 at 3pm
Congregation Tiferet Israel |
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Greetings from Mr. O'Quinn |
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 May is upon us and the busy process of ending the year has begun. The senior class is returning from its March of the Living trip and are reappearing to bring an end to high school careers and to prepare for graduation. Juniors and seniors are preparing for Advanced Placement examinations in English, U.S. History, and Calculus. Teachers are hurrying to conclude a year which has seen many holidays within the school week. The junior class is beginning to take on the responsibilities of leadership that have been passed on by the Class of 2009.
Swine Flu is upon the Metroplex, and it comes in the midst of the Texas season for allergies, colds, and flu. We are working to prevent an outbreak at Yavneh. Should one occur, we would need to close the school. We have increased cleansing of common areas with disinfectants. When a student shows possible flu-like symptoms, we are sending them to the school nurse. If she reports that a referral may be flu, we are sending the student home for isolation and/or treatment. Though the swine flu is described by physicians as no more virulent than any of the other strains of flu, the fact remains that it is a new strain to which we have not developed a natural resistance. In such cases quick referral for treatment seems to be the wisest action. Because flu spreads so easily in a closed room, we will hold a student, who doesn't have transportation, in the office until a parent can come.
2008-2009 has been a year of concerns from the larger world. The election, the world news, the economic crisis which has impacted several of our families, and personnel changes have all been issues which have raised concerns. However, none of these things have prevented faculty and students from working very hard and often very creatively.
This year students have been accepted to more universities than ever before, this year more students went on March of the Living than ever before; this year more students are spending a year in Israel than ever before; this year more money was raised for charity than ever before; this year students received over $1,300,000 in merit scholarship offers from 142 university acceptances---more than ever before. And in spite of the financial state of the world, Yavneh lost not a single student because of inability to pay. This year has seen great achievements because of the trust and commitment of parents, because of the ongoing commitment to excellence of the student body, because of the ongoing support of Yavneh's donors and volunteers, and because of the many blessings of a G-d who sees us.
May Yavneh always be worthy.
Best wishes for a happy, restful, and adventurous summer.
Don O'Quinn
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Faculty Feature ~ Joanna Richardson ~~ Richardson |
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 "Yavneh Academy of Dallas, this is Joanna, may I help you?" is the welcome that comes from Yavneh's front office receptionist, Joanna Richardson. New to Yavneh this year, Joanna has quickly picked up the spirit and sunshine that is the voice of the school. "Yavneh seemed like an interesting place from the start and I love the kids and faculty here," said Joanna. "I'm always pulling someone aside for a little 'Judaism 101' and I've learned so much in my short time here."
A Virginia native, the daughter of Joseph and Wilma (obm), and sister of Amelia, Joanna moved to Dallas 33 years ago. A former administrative assistant at Alcatel and ARCO, she also worked as the office manager at Operation Kindness.
An animal lover for all of her life, Joanna and her husband Lev are the "parents" of five dachshunds and one bulldog. "Frodo," "Dudditz," "Principessa," "Penny," "Nina," and "Ollie," complete the couple's acre in Parker.
Six is the smallest number of pets the Richardson's have had in ten years with 14 the high. "My husband used to travel a lot for business and it seemed that every time he went away, another set of paws made their way into our home."
"I was president of the Carrollton Humane Society for five years and it's tough to say 'no' to a animal in need," said Joanna. "The south has more strays and homeless animals than anywhere else in the United States and it's an ongoing problem."
Joanna's hobbies include making beaded jewelry and reading mysteries. Before "mothering" her many pups, Joanna enjoyed traveling the world, taking 10 cruises with her mother in the 1980's. I loved Greece and France and the time to just see so many things in so many places."
"I have an enthusiasm for learning and life," said Joanna "and so do the kids at Yavneh. For someone with my personality, and I LOVE talking to people, Yavneh is a great match."
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Yavneh '09 ~ Sol Weiner |
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 Spirit. Spirited. Spiritual.
These words are at the core of Sol, who thinks deeply, lives fully, and searches always. "I've appreciated that teachers here encourage us to ask questions and to explore," he said. "It's easy to have a relationship with them because they are always learning and studying as well. Here, I've gained an ability to think outside the box and I've developed my creative thinking."
"Sol is exceptionally talented in wit and humor and at the same time, he also possesses a mature nature and a lovable personality," said former Judaic Studies faculty member Rabbi Uri Grosberg. "I was fortunate to have Sol in my class during my time at Yavneh and feel that we had a great time learning as well as dancing to our Shabbas song. I know he will actualize our Torah learning, and combine it with his talents to build a successful life. I look forward to hearing about all of his accomplishments!"
"High school would have been miserable without my friends and without smiling and at Yavneh that's what it's about," said Sol who transferred to Yavneh in the middle of his freshman year after attending Greenhill for most of his education. "Yavneh students are fun and different from anywhere else I know. We are always looking to have a good time in whatever we do."
In the fall, Sol will continue his search for his future by travelling or volunteering through AmeriCorps Service.
Yavneh's campus was definitely missing something during this year's fall semester, as Sol spent the semester at The Woolman Semester in Northern California. "It was a semester to explore and to study and I got everything out of it I hoped for," he said. "It was an experience that allowed me to actively participate in my education." During the program Sol traveled to Mexico to study issues related to the border and to California's Central Valley to study the food chain and agriculture.
Sol has worked at Tom Thumb, volunteered at First Presbyterian Church Ministries Stew Pot and Saturday School, and as a counselor at Echo Hill Camp. He enjoys reading contemporary western fiction and non- fiction, the history of the 20th century, and other "fine pieces of literature."
A native of San Antonio, Sol is the son of David and Danielle and younger brother to Sadie.
The family belongs to Congregation Tiferet Israel. A great weekend includes "Shabbat dinner with my family, bluegrass music on Sunday, and spending time with friends and family."
Sol is a strong presence in Yavneh's music ensemble. "Music is a tool for creative exploration and I love it," he said. "Kim (Corbet) is a great teacher and we're always encouraged to bring in ideas."
Spirit. Spirited. Spiritual. Sol. |
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Yavneh '09 ~ Elizabeth Weinstein |
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 "I decided to come to Yavneh because, having gone to Solomon Schechter Academy for all of my life, I wanted to continue attending a Jewish private school. I've always enjoyed the Judaic classes and the Jewish environment. Once I visited Yavneh, I could see that it did not matter here if you were a sophomore or a junior, everyone is friends. It is easy for me to consider myself friends with everyone in the school, and that is something that I could not have had at any other school. For these reasons I love being at Yavneh."
"It would be difficult to find a more conscientious student than Elizabeth. Her work always demonstrates that much time and thought have gone into it, and her gentle nature adds so much to he classroom environment," said English teacher, Phyllis Beilue. "Elizabeth has many admirable qualities, but I particularly appreciate the manner in which she takes responsibility for her learning. She responds beautifully to instruction, is quick to seek improvement of her skills, and always gives her best effort."
A Dallas native and the daughter of Jeff and Debbie, Elizabeth is the elder sister to Aryn and Max. She plans to study marketing or journalism in college, hoping to work in corporate marketing or to work for the production of a magazine, such as the layout and design of the pages, or perhaps as an editor.
"I also enjoy that if there is something that you are passionate about it is easy to pursue, that there is such a community, family-feeling at Yavneh," said Elizabeth.
"One might not expect this reserved young woman to be the amazing athlete that she is, but her success in sports is not surprising if one considers her work ethic," said Mrs. Beilue. "Elizabeth has a compassionate heart, and she will find ways to serve in the future as she does in the present."
Elizabeth is on the bottom of the family tree of many generations of members at Congregation Shearith Israel. She was a member of BBYO's Kravitz chapter where she served as Mazkirah (secretary) and MIT Mom. She is a four-year member of Yavneh's Tennis team, co-founder of Hashinui, Yavneh's environmental organization, and a four-year team member of the yearbook and second-year editor.
"Elizabeth is the ultimate student. She comes in every day and won't let me start teaching until she is ready to get every single word" said Rabbi Meir Tannenbaum. "She has grown so much in her Talmudic skills and I am so proud of her accomplishments in my class. Elizabeth has also matured and become a responsible leader who can always be counted on to get the job done."
A competitive gymnast through the JCC since she was just eight-years-old, Elizabeth has flipped into a coach there for the last four years. In her "free" time, Elizabeth, who also worked at Camp Interlaken as a Counselor-in-Training, enjoys putting together scrapbooks and creating and editing movies and slideshows.
Elizabeth constantly finds herself cartwheeling into our hearts and she'll definitely score a 10 in life.
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Yavneh '09 ~ Shelley Widom |
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 A former Solomon Schechter pre-schooler, Shelley returned to Jewish day school as a sophomore, transferring from Vines High School to Yavneh. "I found a Jewish community here and that's important to me. I have teachers I can identify with, and I've learned in classes that I believe have prepared me for college."
"Shelley is the life and soul of any class," said Rabbi Peretz Shapiro. "She is bubbly and effervescent - never shy to venture her opinion yet humble and enthusiastic in her desire to learn and acquire knowledge. Shelley's appreciation and regard for Chumash grew significantly in the space of one year and was an absolute pleasure to behold. I wish her much success in her ongoing journey into Judaism and hope she never loses her flair and spunk."
"Good art is not always produced by those with inborn talents but those who are motivated to learn; that's Shelley in a nutshell," said art teacher, Monica Ribald. "She was open to try new ideas, learn new skills, and apply them accordingly. She came to class with the biggest smile and energy few students exhibit - especially after lunch. She was a pleasure to teach and had that Yavneh spirit."
The daughter of Pam and Steve, and sister of Abby and Mandy, Shelley was born in Boston and moved to Dallas when she was just two-years-old. Family travels are on the top of Shelley's memory list whether it be to France, Italy, Spain, or Greece (the site of her favorite spot, Santorini). "I love learning about different cultures and I love spending time with my family," said Shelley for whom a great weekend includes midnight TV reruns and I-Hop or Dunkin' Donuts runs with Dad and shopping with Mom.
Shelley has worked at Swenson's Ice Cream Parlor, Camp Chai, and volunteered at a number of programs including holiday events at Golden Acres. A former MIT-Mom for her Kravitz chapter of BBYO, Shelley is a member of Yavneh's environmental club, Hashinui. Shelley has also hit the volleyball court as a Yavneh Bulldog and worked on the yearbook committee. Just returned from the March of the Living, Shelley couldn't express the specialness of having shared that experience with her friends from Yavneh.
"What I most appreciate about Shelly is her bubbly enthusiasm," said Dr. Tim Cloward. "I will always remember her performances with our volleyball team. She played with the type of spirit and good-will that literally infected the entire team. She brings that type of spirit to everything she does. She will be very difficult to replace."
As Shelley enters university studies, she does so to study to become an elementary school teacher. "I really believe that the younger you are, the greater effect a teacher can have on you. I had amazing second and fourth grade teachers and I want to be that for someone."
Any child learning reading, 'riting, and 'rithmetic from "Miss Shelley," will be a lucky kid!
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Yavneh '09 ~ William Zalstein |
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 "I enjoy Yavneh because it has amazing teachers; teachers that become friends to you, and people that you can learn from even outside the classroom," said William. "Students are successful because teachers are successful. Obviously it gets a little hectic having 10 periods a day, but when teachers are willing to put in extra time and you have students that are genuinely interested in their studies, everything has a way of working itself out."
"William is someone who is noticed and many of the younger students look up to him as a role model," said Rabbi Maury Grebenau. "It is a testament to his responsibility and also a tremendous responsibility. We know that William will always rise to the occasion and lead in a way that makes his family, community, and his Yavneh family proud."
"The student body at Yavneh is amazing," said William. " Everyone is friends with everybody. There was a good atmosphere when I visited as a eighth grade student, and I knew I wanted to continue my Jewish education. At Yavneh, I lucked out. I didn't really know what I was getting myself into when I came in as a freshman, but four years later, I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. Yavneh truly is a family - it sounds corny but it's true. Some of my classmates and I have been together since kindergarten and even those that I've just met in the last couple of years have become some of my closest friends."
William will spend next year in Israel, traveling and learning at Yeshiva Chai Yisroel in Jerusalem. "I can't wait to live in a place I've learned about my whole life," said William. "At Yavneh, I've fallen in love with prayer and praying, and I feel that prayer works. About six months ago I decided to start keeping Shabbat, to follow the obligations, and now I can't imagine living my life any other way. The best part? My afternoon Shabbos-nap!"
A forever Dallasite, William is the son of Cherie and Russell, and Michael. He is the baby brother of Jacqueline '07, Elizabeth, Joseph, Kitty, and Chris. A member of Congregation Tiferet Israel, William has worked at Sprouts, for TXU, for Camp Mazal, and he's volunteered for the JFS Food Pantry. He's been a member of Yavneh's yearbook staff and a Yavneh Bulldog basketball player for four years.
"William is one of the most intense students I have had the pleasure to teach. He is very focused on his goal and is willing to really put in the effort to accomplish that goal," said ARabbi Grebenau. "William brings a great deal of talent to Yavneh, both in the classroom and on the basketball court. William's talent and tenacity make him a person who can accomplish much."
"There are no adjectives that can adequately describe my experiences with Yavneh basketball," said William. "I have learned too much and had too much fun. I'd love to be a high school basketball coach someday and bring that to the next generation."
"It is rare that a basketball player at any level gets to leave at his absolute best," said Coach Chad Baruch. "but William's last quarter as a Bulldog - when he willed our team to victory over Yeshiva Atlanta in the last game of the season - were his very best, and I will always remember that about him. In the end, he cared too much about Yavneh basketball to let that team lose its final game."
William's been a slam-dunk for Yavneh and is certain to score points throughout his life, no matter what he does!
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AP Testing ** Important Information |
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Students taking the AP tests will need to bring: Several sharpened No. 2 pencils with erasers for completing the multiple-choice answers sheets Pens with black or dark blue ink for completing areas on the exam booklet covers and for free-response questions.
Social security number for identification THIS IS OPTIONAL. If provided, it will appear on the AP Grade reports.
For AP Calculus Exam, bring up to two calculators and extra batteries with necessary capabilities.
A sweater or hoodie just in case it is cold in the room.
Testing will begin promptly at 9am. Those testing will be asked to be in the physics room ready to begin at 9am. Instructions take approximately 30 minutes and testing will take between 3 and 3 ½ hours depending on the test.
REMAINING AP EXAMS:
Friday, May 8 @ 9am
US History
Wednesday, May 13 @ 9am
English Language and Composition |
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Yavneh News & Review ~ |
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HASHINUI ~~~
Yavneh's Hashinui/"The Change," a student founded and run environmental organization was among the recipients of the first annual Mayor's Environment Excellence Awards (MEEA) were presented by Mayor Tom Leppert,
along with the Dallas City Council and Environmental Health Commission on
April 8.
(photo courtesy Diane Benjamin)
Among those recognized by the Mayor's Environmental Excellence Award were large and small businesses, non-profit and not for profit organizations, governmental agencies, and schools and students who have taken steps to turn "there has to be a better way" into "leading by example."
"Hashinui was started as a serious organization that would take on serious environmental issues at responsible levels and the acknowledgement of our work shows great respect," said Mica Esquenazi '09 who, in 2006 co-founded the organization with fellow seniors Emily Cohen, Corey Kleinman, and Elizabeth Weinstein. "We want the community to become more responsible and the students of Yavneh and Hashinui have taken a lead in that."
Through an Environmental Festival, brochures and e-newsletters about "Eco-Kosher" and on-campus recycling programs, Hashinui's goal to call upon members of the community to make a "change" in their lifestyles and become environmentally sound, have been raised. The October festival raised much awareness, and many dollars that allowed Hashinui to plant 150 trees in Israel and India.
"To be noted from the Council Chair is impressive and we appreciate the support of our own Councilwoman Linda Koop and Yavneh friend and supporter Diane Benjamin," said Don O'Quinn, Yavneh Academy's Head of School, delighted at the first citywide recognition to his students who were addressed by Council District 11 Councilmember Linda Koop. "This award represents the devotion of our young people, from our freshmen to our seniors and I believe this is just the beginning."
"As a Commissioner and community member, I'm very proud of the students and all the great effort and commitment they've given to this cause," said Diane Benjamin, Environment and Health Commissioner, District 13 who, as the Grandmother of Ilana Wernick '12, refrained from voting in the school category because of her connection. "They set an incredible example to us all."
"These awards are an opportunity for the Commission to increase awareness of the many entities in our community that are setting the examples by promoting environmental concerns in a positive way," said Mrs. Benjamin.
At the start of the 2009-2010 school year, the Weinbaum Yeshiva of Boca Raton, Florida will host the organization's second chapter. "It's awesome to see the dream come true," said Mica. "To know that others appreciate and want to continue our work makes it all worth it."
EIMATAI ~~~
 Yavneh students Jacob Greif, Brittney Herson, Joshua Karnett, Zoe Klein, Rebecca Lipinsky, Elan Kogutt, Aaron Liener, Miles Pulitzer, Gabby Steinbrecher, and Sarah Weiss participated in the 2009 Spring Eimatai Conference in New York City.
The Eimatai Project was created in 1999 to motivate, develop and train future Jewish leaders. Though only eight years old, Eimatai stems from a long history of leadership training at Yeshiva University. Now a part of the Yeshiva University Center for the Jewish Future, Eimatai provides each student leader with a challenging opportunity to discover the world's many opportunities and complexities, and a chance to learn more about him/herself as an individual, leader, and Jew.
I thought Eimatai was a very fun and beneficial experience for all of us," said Sarah Weiss '11. "We attended lectures led by Yeshiva University students and met other Jewish kids from different schools around the country and, through leadership sessions, the other students and I were able to gain new skills and to work together to plan a new program for Yavneh."
"Yavneh Cares", a program to be connected to Uniting Students of Dallas (a previous Eimatai success for Yavneh students), will have students organizing monthly community service programs for our peers to participate in."
"The Eimatai leadership conference is a great opportunity for budding Yavneh leaders to sharpen their leadership skills and build connections that will help them be active members of their community, in high school and beyond," said Aaron Liener '09, President of Students Against Terrorism which was founded at Eimatai, seven years ago. "Eimatai gives its participants stimulating training sessions, thought-provoking presentations, and ample hands-on experience."
"Eimatai is a wonderful opportunity for our students to interact with other dynamic young Jewish leaders, both from other high schools and from the Eimatai staff of YU and Stern students," said Coach Chad Baruch who has directed Yavneh's Eimatai participation for many years. "Yavneh's students always lead the way at Eimatai!"
In addition to Students Against Terrorism and Uniting Students of Dallas, Eimatai has also been the groundbreak program for Yavneh's Hashinui/The Change Environmental organization and HELP/Helping Everyone Live Peacefully.
SPORTS NIGHT AWARDS ~~~ Yavneh's 2009 athletes and coaches were celebrated on April 2. Kol Hakavod to a year of dedication, inspiration, and all-out effort by our students and coaching staff.
LADY BULLDOG BASKETBALL  Captain's/MVP Award: Corey Kleinman Newcomer Award: Ilana Wernick Offensive Player: Ali Feinstein  BULLDOGS JUNIOR VARSITY BASKETBALLCaptain's Awards: Zev Klein & Shimi Wolk
Newcomer Award: Sefi Elbaz
Offensive Player: Michael Bierman
Defensive Player: Sahar David
 BULLDOGS BASKETBALLCaptain's Award: William Zalstein Junior Captain's Award: Miles Pulitzer MVP: Elan Kogutt  LADY BULLDOGS JUNIOR VARSITY VOLLEYBALLCaptains Award: Sarah Weiss MVP: Tori Weinstein
 LADY BULLDOGVOLLEYBALL
Captain's Award/MVP:
Corey Kleinman
Newcomer Award:
Emily Rohan 
LADY BULLDOGS TENNIS Captain's Award/MVP: Leigh Bonner Newcomer Awards: Samantha Danilewitz & Jasmin Sidisin
BULLDOGS TENNIS
Captain's Award/MVP:
Jonathan Sulski
YOM HAZIKARON ~~~ Yavneh students represented our family well at the Dallas Jewish Community commemoration of Yom Hazikaron, Israeli Memorial Day. Leigh Bonner, Noa Waks, Josh Karnett, Gabby Steinbrecher, Brittany Barnett, and Emily Rosenfeld each gave meaningful readings with respect and honor to the many thousands of soldiers, and victims of terrorism, who have lost their lives in Israel's 61 years. 
YOM HAATZMAUT ~~~ "It's hard to believe that in all of our lifetimes, none of us has lived without the State of Israel," said Naomi Schrager. "It was a dream come true and continues to be a homeland for all of us, the home of our heritage, our history, and our hearts."
 Yavneh students and faculty created a delicious Israeli lunch buffet, created blue and white art projects, and wrote letters to soldiers to celebrate Israel's 61st birthday!  Yom Huldedet Sameach!!! BULLDOG PRINT AWARDS ~~~
Yavneh's 2008 Bulldog Print team also received a Silver Star from the Interscholastic League Press Association. The following students received Individual Achievement Awards; Zeke Quittner-Strom (First Place/NewsWriting), Sarah Rohan (Honorable Mention/NewsFeature), Mica Esquenazi (Honorable Mention/EditorialWriting), Arye Zucker (Second Place/SportsAction), Brittney Herson (Second Place/Feature Writing), Peter Bokov (Honorable Mention/Personal Column), Arielle Burstein (Third Place/Personal Opinion Column) Micah Steinbrecher (Honorable Mention/Personal Opinion Column), Arye Zucker (First Place/Sports Column), Daley Epstein & Micah Steinbrecher (Third Place/In-Depth News/Feature Package), David Fine (First Place/Computer Art), Brittney Herson (Third Place/Page One Design), David Fine (Third Place/Feature & Entertainment Page Design), Micah Steinbrecher & Daley Epstein (Third Place/Double Truck Design). |
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Shabbat Shalom ~~~ Friday guests share davening and dvrei Torah! |
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 April 3 ARIEL WOGEL
Special Guest April 24
RABBI ISRAEL LASHAKNCSY Southwest Regional Director Former Yavneh Faculty Member |
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Yavneh Mitzvah Makers |
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 LOCKS FOR LOVE ~~~
Seniors Eve Moel and Ariella Coretz got new styles and gave much of their hearts when they recently got new "dos" and donated their hair to Locks for Love, a public non-profit organization that provides hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children in the United States and Canada under age 18 suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis. Many Yavneh students have participated in this mitzvah through the years, these young ladies our most recent "models" of excellence. Kol Hakavod!
THE AUBIEMUR PROJECT ~~~
Arielle  Burstein, a former Locks for Love donor herself, has aligned with Brian Fobi, a Ph.D. candidate at Yale and summer session teacher at Duke University to help bring computer literacy to Cameroon. Brian, whose father is from Cameroon, was there last year on a film project when he met with a group wanting to help bring computers into the schools for students in grades one to 12.
Computers and monetary donations are being collected around the United States and they will be shipped to Cameroon at the end of summer. To arrange for donation of a computer, please post Arielle Burstein in the subject line of an email to tapoutreach@gmail.com
Monetary donations can be mailed to:
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Color Wars * 2009 |
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Lit Cafe 2009 |
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 The talent of Yavneh's students. in song, music, art, and poetry and creative writing, shone through at the 2009 Lit Cafe. Many thanks to the members of our English and Art faculty for their support, creative classrooms, and wonderful programming. The 2009 Literary Journal, a yearlong compilation of the students' work, was distributed at the event. Congratulations to David Kravitz (Editor), Asriel Agronin & Peter Bokov (Layout Editors), Zoe Klien, Laura Kreditor, Aaron Liener (Creative Writing Editors), Mica Esquenazi (Arts Editor) and Eve Moel (Cover Art) |
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Yom Huledet Sameach, Well Wishes, and Mazal Tov! |
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MAY
1 Sheera Krengel & Deb Silverthorn, 4 Rabbi Peretz Shapiro, 5 Jared Katz & Rabbi Howard Wolk, 6 Alexa Meyers, 7 Rabbi Meir Tannenbaum, 12 Ali Feinstein, 14 Evan Mitzner, 15 Joe Lerer & Annette Wolk, 19 Michelle Tanur, 20 Rhonda Russell, 23 Paige Koeppel & William Zalstein, 24 Chris Walker, 28 Adam Sallmander, and 31 Emily Cohen
Mazal Tov to:
~~~ Yavneh's own Athletic Director, Chad Baruch J.D. who was recently honored with the "A Standing Ovation - Staff Appreciation for an Outstanding Volunteer of 2008," presented by the State Bar of Texas for his exceptional contributions in 2008 to the Bar's continuing legal education efforts. Coach Baruch received the award from the staff of TexasBarCLE, the Bar's division for providing continuing legal education and one of the premier providers in the nation. Coach Baruch was praised for his having spoken for TexasBarCLE an incredible 14 times during 2008, his service as Course Director of the Bill of Rights 2008 program and the Advanced Consumer and Commercial Law 2008 course.
~~~ to Benji Cheirif '02 and Leah Snyder, and their families, on their recent engagement.
Condolences to:
~~~ Aviv Schor '07 and his family on the loss of his Grandfather, David Pactor.
~~~ Ben Romaner '12, Leslie Schultz, and the Schultz Family on the loss of Rae Block, Ben's great-aunt and the sister of Leslie Schultz.
~~~ Arye '08, Sarah '04, and Deena Zucker '01, board president Michael Zucker, and the entire family on the loss of their grandmother and mother, Vivian Zucker.
May God comfort you among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
Please send us your exciting news and updates to share with the Yavneh family of friends and supporters to info@yavnehdallas.org
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Mark it with a red pen ~ |
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YAVNEH CALENDAR
MAY
14 ~~~ GRADUATION REHEARSAL @ 12:30pm at Congregation Tiferet Israel
Ladies in dresses and men in slacks (no jeans). Appropriate shoe attire please as well. Class graduation photo will be taken.
17 ~~~ GRADUATION @ 3pm at Congregation Tiferet Israel
25 ~~~ MEMORIAL DAY * NO SCHOOL
28 ~~~ EREV SHAVUOT * FRIDAY SCHEDULE
29 ~~~ SHAVUOT * NO SCHOOL
JUNE
1 ~~~ FINALS * JEWISH THOUGHT & LAW, ENGLISH
2 ~~~ FINALS * CHUMASH, ESSENTIALS, MATH
3 ~~~ FINALS * HEBREW, SOCIAL STUDIES
4 ~~~ FINALS * TALMUD, ETHIC, SCIENCE
LAST DAY OF SCHOOL
AUGUST
13 ~~~ NEW FAMILY ORIENTATION @ 6pm in the Student Lounge
BACK TO SCHOOL PICNIC @ 7pm at Churchill Park
17 ~~~ FIRST DAY OF 2009-2010 SCHOOL YEAR
COMMUNITY PROGRAMMING
MAY ~~~
1 to 17 ~~ "AND THEN THEY CAME FOR ME" @ DCT
Dallas Childrens Theatre presents this multi-media presentation that introduces childhood friends of Anne Frank who survived. Call 214.978.0110 for more information or to purchase tickets.
3 to June 7 ~~ WOMEN'S BASKETBALL @ the JCC
All games played on Sunday nights at 8 and 9pm. Ladies 18 years and older are eligible and only females will be allowed in the gym during play. All referees, scorekeepers, and staff members are female. Pre-registration required by calling Jon Mize at 214.368.4709. The fee for this six week league is $35.
14 to 17 ~~ RABBI SHLOMO RISKIN * DALLAS SCHOLAR IN RESIDENCE
Community Kollel of Dallas hosts Rabbi Shlomo Riskin Rabbi Riskin, Chief Rabbi of Efrat Israel, Chancellor, Ohr Torah Stone Institutes, internationally renowned educator, speaker and author. Rabbi Riskin is the founding rabbi of Lincoln Square Synagogue in New York City, and a strong advocate of leadership roles for women within traditional Judaism, a pace-setter in the movement to build bridges between religious and secular Jews in Israel and a champion of social justice and humanitarian concerns.
MAY 14 * 8pm @ Congregation Shearith Israel
"The Ethics of War"
MAY 16 * Following 9am services @ Congregation Shaare Tefilla
"Making Sefirah Count: The Meaning Behind the Omer"
MAY 16 * 6:15pm @ Congregation Shaare Tefilla
"Where Modern Orthodoxy Differs"
For more information contact, Shirley Rovinsky 214.295.3525
17 ~~ 2nd ANNUAL ZWEIG END OF SCHOOLYEAR BASH
TopGolf @ 8787 Park Lane (in Dallas) from 1:30-4:30pm
All proceeds go to the Gladys Golman/Faye Dallen Education Fund, which provides grants to area schools and institutions to train religious, pre-school and day school teachers to enable children with learning differences. $18/person, $72/family maximum. Kosher food available.
25 ~~ SPECIAL NEEDS FAMILY DAY @ the JCC
9:30am - 2pm * $18/family * Learn cutting edge techniques on dealing with disabilities, including Autism, Asperger syndrome and ADHD. * Hear from experts on a wide variety of topics, including: legal and financial planning for a special needs family, understanding and responding to your child's sexuality and dealing with sorrow and disappointment. * Full day of youth programs (from infant care through college age), for both children with special needs and their typically functioning siblings, including supports groups, sports & games. * Enjoy a Kosher lunch with a resource fair on special needs programs and resources in our community.
To register, call Melissa Bernstein at 214.239.7134. For more information or for sponsorship opportunities, call Rabbi Jay Weinstein at 972.661.0127.
31 ~~~ "JORDY PORDY" * 7pm @ BETH TORAH
"Jordy Pordy: Taking the Bull by the Horns" is a solo performance piece that explores the themes of self-identity, family, community, religion, and the overall strength of the human soul. Dallasite Jordan Herskowitz recounts many hilariously awkward anecdotes of being a professional mascot and his move to Oklahoma. The show is linked with Richie's Spirit Foundation, started in memory of Richie Herskowitz, Jordan's brother, who died in 2007. For tickets and information, call 972.234.1542 ext 3. |
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From the Development Office ~~ |
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The 2008~2009 Annual Fund is underway and we look forward to a year of 100% participation from our Yavneh families, faculty, and support from the community.
Many thanks to all who have contributed to our campaign.
For more information, or to make a donation, call Don O'Quinn or LuAnn Pitlik at 214-295-3500 or email info@yavnehdallas.org |
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College Cues ~ Visits, Scholarship Information & More! |
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Notes from Allyn Schmucker ~ College Guidance Counselor
Mazal Tov to the Class of 2009 on their college & university acceptances. More than $1.3 million dollars in merit scholarships have been offered to our 2009 graduating class members. The Class of 2009 has received over $1.3 million in merit scholarships.
Kol Hakavod!
ASRIEL AGRONIN ~~ Northern Arizona University, NYU Polytech, Purdue, Syracuse University, Texas A&M, University of Miami, University of Texas/Dallas, Yeshiva Lev HaTorah, Yeshiva Machon Lev, Yeshiva University,
MICHELLE BACH ~~ Florida State University, San Diego State University, Savannah College of Art & Design, University of Arizona, University of Florida, University of Georgia
SARAH BLASNIK ~~ Savannah College of Art & Design, University of North Texas, University of Texas/San Antonio, Young Judaea YearCourse
PETER BOKOV ~~ Clark University, Indiana University, Tulane University, University of Kansas, University of Miami, and UT-Dallas
EMILY COHEN ~~ American University, Case-Western Reserve, Clemson University, Drexel University, George Washington University, The Israel Experience, Texas A&M, Tulane University, University of Connecticut, University of Maryland, University of Miami, University of Vermont
ARIELLA CORETZ ~~ Brookhaven College
SHAYNA DUNSKY ~~ Boston University, Rutgers University, Tafnit B'nai Akiva, Tulane University, University of California/Los Angeles, University of Michigan, University of Pittsburgh
MICA ESQUENAZI ~~ Brandeis University, NATIV College Leadership Program, Rice University, Stanford University, Tulane University
ELIANA GERSHON ~~ Indiana University, Ithaca College, NATIV College Leadership Program, University of Connecticut, University of Michigan
SARA GREENBERG ~~ Eckerd College, Goucher College, Hendrix College, McDaniel College, Ohio Wesleyan, Rollins College, University of Denver, and University of Tampa
BRITTNEY HERSON ~~ Brandeis University, NYU, SMU, USC, University of Texas/Austin.
PATRICE KHUNTEYEV ~~ St. Edwards University, Texas Tech University, University of Texas/San Antonio
ZOE KLEIN ~~ Boston University, Machon Maayan, Rutgers University, Tulane University, University of Maryland, University of Pittsburgh
COREY KLEINMAN ~~ Eckerd College, Indiana University, University of Arizona, University of Colorado, University of Denver, University of Kansas
DAVID KRAVITZ ~~ Rutgers University, University of Illinois, University of Maryland (Jimenez-Porter Writers' House), University of Pittsburgh, University of Texas/Austin, Yeshiva Eretz HaTzvi
LAURA KREDITOR ~~ Boston University, Drexel University, Hofstra University, Machon Maayan, Northeastern University, Rutgers University, St. Edwards University, Stern College, SUNY-Albany, and Towson University
AARON LIENER ~~ Tulane University, University of Maryland, University of Texas/Austin, Yeshiva Eretz HaTzvi, Yeshiva Ohr Yerushalyim
MICHAEL MELTZER ~~ Case Western Reserve, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Georgia Institute of Technology, Young Judaea YearCourse, Purdue, Syracuse University, Texas A&M, University of Colorado at Boulder, University of Maryland, Virginia Tech, Worcester Polytechnic Institute
ALEXA MEYERS ~~ Savannah College of Art & Design, University of Arizona, University of Kansas
JONATHAN MISHLER ~~ University of Arkansas
EVE MOEL ~~ Adelphi University, American University, University of Texas/Dallas, Adelphi University
ARIEL OSTERREICHER ~~ Collin College
ZEKE QUITTNER-STROM ~~ Grinell College, Tufts University, University of California/Santa Barbara, University of California/Santa Cruz, University of Colorado/Boulder, University of Rochester
NATALIE TAUB ~~ Arizona State University, Hofstra University, Indiana University, University of Arizona, University of Colorado/Boulder, University of Denver, University of Kansas, University of Tampa, University of Texas
ETHAN WARANCH ~~ Prescott College, University of Arkansas
ELIZABETH WEINSTEIN ~~ Emory University, Tulane University, University of Arizona, University of Denver, University of Wisconsin
SHELLEY WIDOM ~~ Hofstra University, Simmons College of Arts & Sciences, University of Arizona, University of Hartford, University of Kansas
WILLIAM ZALSTEIN ~~ UT-San Antonio, Yeshiva Chai Israel
SENIORS: We will need to mail a final transcript to that college or university. It is important that you make sure your community service hours are complete and posted on your transcript. In order to graduate, you must complete your community service requirement. Please take a few moments to update your service hours then turn them in to LuAnn Pitlik.
When you finally make that all important decision about college, you will need to notify those schools to which you applied but will not attend. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO WRITE A WITHDRAWAL to each school in which you were accepted. A template can be found on the February Senior Times or stop by the counseling suite to get a sample copy.
COLLEGE REPRESENTATIVE VISITS ~~~
The spring is a good time to learn about colleges and universities as many representatives will be visiting the Metroplex - some making direct stops at Yavneh.
If you are interested in learning more about a particular college, check the college website to see if there will be representatives coming to Dallas. and to sign up "for more information." You will certainly be contacted by those schools should they be coming to the Dallas area.
"THINKING ABOUT COLLEGES," a new tool from College Board is now available at www.collegeboard.com/quickstart. MY COLLEGE QUICKSTART is an interesting and insightful activity for Juniors and their parents. The password, to this college search and SAT prep program, provided free of charge, is printed on the top and bottom right-hand side of your PSAT score report.
THE ROAD TO COLLEGE
Any interested sophomores or juniors and parents who would like to learn about the process of applying to college are invited to Washington University in St. Louis to participate in "The Road to College," a college planning conference. There is no cost to attend the program on Thursday, June 11 or Tuesday, July 28. Both programs are scheduled from 7:30am to 11:45am and will be held on the Washington University campus. Students interested in attending may register on-line at www.roadtocollege.wustl.edu Contact Mrs. Schmucker for more information.
TEXAS A&M ** Spend the day with the Corps
The spend the day with the Corps (SDWC) program is an official campus visit to Texas A&M university each summer for rising juniors and seniors as well as their parents.
SDWC provides an outstanding opportunity to gain valuable invaluable information about the University and the Corps of Cadets. Activities throughout the day include a university admissions application workshop, presentations from various departments around campus including scholarships and financial aid, involvement with Cadets, Staff and ROTC representatives and tours. During check-in, prospective students and families will be able to visit the many resource tables representing A&M's different college departments, organizations, and college preparatory agencies. This fun and informative day will end with a "Fightin Texas Aggie" Yell Practice.
When is SDWC offered this summer?
June 26, 2009 (Must register by June 12)
July 24, 2009 (Must register by July 10)
To reserve your space in the program, you must register on-line at www.aggiecorps.org. Once registered, you will return the SDWC Camp & Enrichment Liability Waiver form along with the $25 non-refundable registration fee to the Corps Recruiting Office.
UT APPLICATION DEADLINES
Rising Seniors: The University of Texas is moving the 2010 fall freshman application deadline to DECEMBER 15, 2009. Students will need to pay close attention to the SAT/ACT test dates. Applicants to fall 2010 should consider taking the test at the end of the Junior year or at the very beginning of the Senior year. Those who have not taken the SAT or ACT when they become Seniors will have few options available for getting official test scores to UT Austin by the fall deadline. REMEMBER that all items need to be complete by the deadline for an application to be considered on time.
COLLEGES THAT CHANGE LIVES
AUGUST 16 * 3pm @ Hilton Lincoln Centre
Colleges That Changes Lives (CTCL) schools meet with families so that you can learn about this distinctive group of colleges and universities. The CTCL program features admission officials from the schools profiled in the third edition of Colleges That Change Lives by Loren Pope. (For the complete list of colleges, see your Junior Notebook, Section 1-last page or see Mrs. Schmucker) The program will begin with a panel discussion designed to encourage students to make the college search process a well-informed journey that leads to the best possible outcome: finding the right college fit. A college fair follows. CTCL is free of charge and no pre-registration is required. I highly encourage juniors and seniors to attend this event where they will be able to engage in enlightening discussions and have opportunities to meet with representatives from each school. For more information visit www.CTCL.org
*** The Senior Times, distributed to Yavneh seniors each month is filled with information and scholarship opportunities. Parents and students should also be sure to take advantage of the scholarship box outside the Counseling Office on the first floor of Yavneh. For general college and planning questions and information, email aschmucker@yavnehdallas.org |
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March of the Living ~ 2009 |
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Gifts for babies, birthdays, or anniversaries? Visit marchofthelivingdallas.org to help support Yavneh students participating in the 2009 March of the Living tour. The link will connect you to Amazon.com and, with no extra charge to you, MOL benefits! RAFFLE TICKETS ON SALE NOW  LAST CHANCE * WINNER PULLED JUNE 1 ** $10/each
Many thanks to The Blasnik Family for donating this beautiful 3/4 carat necklace, appraised value approximately $1,500.
To purchase tickets, call Doris Klein at
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 PEACE around the world is something we pray for everyday! Wear PEACE from around the world and support the March of the Living Tour.
T-shirts are $15 and available in the Yavneh office.
Call 214.295.3500 for more information.
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Yavneh SpiritWear - On Sale Now! |
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Yavneh SpiritWear is On Sale Now!
Ties, Hoodies, Class T-Shirts, and more are available in the school office. Don't miss out, don't miss the spirit!
Dress Yavneh - Be Yavneh!
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Inklings from Israel |
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 from Emily Brill '08 ~~~
WOW!
What a year it has been. I could easily say, without a doubt, the best year of my life. I have grown up and learned so much while being in Israel and I have connected in an extremely meaningful and comfortable way to Judaism. I started off my year living in Bat Yam and volunteering with mentally disabled adults. Although the language barrier and living in a new place were difficult at first, that quickly changed. Every day was a new and exciting adventure in the Holy land.
Feeling more relaxed with the language, and after making so many new friends, I made my way to the beautiful Hadassah Youth Hostile in Jerusalem where I studied classes such as Tanach, Zionism, Maimonides and my favorite, Lost Jewish Communities. The environment was much like I was used to from Yavneh and my teachers were so passionate and caring. At the end of my time in Jerusalem I had noticed many changes in my mindset, and one big one was that I decided I wanted to make Aliyah. I feel as if Israel has done so much for the Jewish people and I just want to give back as much as I can.
Right now I live in Rishon L'Tzion, the friendliest city in Israel and I believe it's the best part of my program. The first Zionist community, this city is filled with so much history and so much to learn. I am again volunteering, but my experience here is one like none other and it has honestly changed my life. I am volunteering at the Israeli Guide Dog Center for the Blind where the staff has welcomed me with big arms and big hearts.
The non-profit Center is a non-profit organization that provides services to those who in need, without cost. Volunteering here has changed my whole outlook on those who are blind and living with disabilities. Working side-by-side with blind staff members has helped me to see the lives these people can live. The guide dogs really give those who are blind a chance to see the world.
The dogs, all Labradors, Golden Retrievers, or German Shepherds, who are the most obedient dogs I've ever seen, are bred and born at the center and given to foster families until they are about five-months-old, when they are returned for training. Now, a month-long training course for the blind people begins and, while it won't be easy to see the dogs leave, the smiles on the faces of the owners and the dogs will be worth it. The most rewarding part of my entire year in Israel will be to see my dogs given to the people that need them.
This is truly an incredible place and an amazing year!
Shalom from Israel!
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Deb Silverthorn
Director of Communications
Yavneh Academy
12324 Merit Drive
Dallas, Tx 75251
phone: 214/295-3500
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