Yavneh's physics students have, in Naftali Hirschberg, one of their own - just a few years ahead as he too wore a Yavneh  

Cap & Gown, walking the commencement aisles in the Class of 2005. After graduating from Yavneh, Mr. Hirschberg traveled to Israel, studying Electronic Engineering, and then teaching Business Calculus at Yeshivat Machon Lev in Jerusalem.  "As a teacher, I most want to share a fundamental understanding of physics and how it relates to each and every aspect of each student's life."

"Mr. Hirschberg is such a great teacher because he's not much older than us, yet he knows so much. He gives us a role model in the science fields and provides us with confidence of what an Yavneh alumni can become," said David Dunsky '12.  "He really makes physics fun and he explains the core concepts so you can understand the branches of physics. He'll help students who have a hard time memorizing equations by putting in his or her own variables. V=IR can become v=puppy*kitty cat. Everyone laughs at this but it really helps some students.

"Through physics, I can admire the beauty of nature and use various equations to find out how the world works," said David.  "With Mr. Hirschberg, there is always a sense of awesomeness when we have a 'eureka' moment. It's obvious that he loves the mathematical beauty of nature, and he transfers that to his students.

A graduate of Akiba Academy before Yavneh, Mr. Hirschberg believes that Yavneh's dual curriculum presents a challenge that can be met by any student.  "I think that the Judaic subjects help students in all aspects of their lives, including their secular subjects," he said.  "Every Jewish student should have a Jewish education and I believe it is our obligation to know our history and the mitzvot that we as Jews need to uphold."

Mr. Hirschberg attended Yavneh long before its present home on the Schultz Rosenberg Campus.  Studying at Congregation Tiferet Israel, in the portable buildings that stood in our current parking lots, and at our Park Central interim campus, "I am in awe of the beauty of the new campus."

"Working with Mr. O'Quinn, side-by-side, is definitely interesting. Even though I am no longer his student I still feel I am learning so much from both from his knowledge of physics as well as his teaching style," he said.  "The best part is being a part of Yavneh's faculty is to be a part of the students' most formative years.  The most challenging is making sure that every student realizes their potential, as they all learn at different speeds."

"Mr. Hirschberg always has an amicable, funny and easy going attitude," said Jordan Cope '14.  "As a Physics teacher, and as an alumni he will occasionally tell us about his previous teachers and his experiences at the school.  He's always nice to anyone and he provides us with humorous comments and almost every student agrees that he provides our classroom with an enjoyable atmosphere."

Thinking back on his favorite courses here, it's no surprise that Mr. Hirschberg cites physics with Mrs. Faubion.  "I enjoy how everything works. It's amazing that the math always works, and there are almost always multiple ways of reaching the same conclusion.  My years at Yavneh left me with a sense that hard work pays off, as does a good memory!" 

A LOOK BACK AT NAFTALI HIRSCHBERG'S OWN SENIOR FEATURE

CLASS OF 2005

Coming to Yavneh Academy from Akiba was the obvious course of action for Naftali Hirschberg, who wanted to attend high school with his friends. The connection to those friends, the new friends he made, and the open relationship he found with his teachers was cause to stay.

"Because our classes are often very small, we're allowed more time individually with the teachers," he said. "That strong relationship grows because I've been able to have many of my teachers for several of my high school years."

"Naftali could be described as an 'understated learner," said Mrs. Faubion. "He is such a quiet, reflective, and intuitive thinker who takes in all the information and then processes it quickly. He has a rich potential, a great sense of humor and, together, this winning combination will allow him succeed in whatever he wishes to pursue."

In the summer between his junior and senior years, Naftali audited a course at Southern Methodist University in electric circuit analysis and interned with two professors and their graduate students in the fields of electrical engineering and physics.

"I fondly recall Naftali would often put a journal prompt on the board alongside mine," said English teacher Phyllis Beilue. "He would challenge his classmates with references to mythology, obscure group names of animal families, or brain teasers. As an avid reader, he always has a wealth of information on which to draw. I appreciate Naftali's focus and commitment in making the most of his opportunities."

Naftali, captain of Yavneh's Mock Trial team, president of the Chess Club and involved with Students Against Terrorism, was born in Dallas, is the son of Roy And Leni Hirschberg, and brother to Kayla, Adina, and Ariana.

"Naftali is a delightful young man with a charming personality and ready smile, said Mrs. Beilue. " I know he has a bright future."

"I've enjoyed Yavneh because even though there are rules, students are still afforded a great amount of freedom," said Jared, a graduate of the Levine Academy, who came to Yavneh to continue his Jewish education and because he knew of the strong college preparatory General Studies program.  "I think that the students learn to balance their studies and prioritize well and, I personally feel, that despite the split day, I've received a great all-around education."

"The students and faculty are like a family to me, and that atmosphere has been the best part of high school for me," said Jared, echoing the sentiments of many of his classmates. "From the second I walked on campus, I felt at home."

"Jared is more than the ideal student," said Rabbi Meir Tannenbaum.  "He has demonstrated outstanding leadership and maintained a clear sense of purpose.  He is consistently pleasant, he never complains of his schedule, and he tackles assignments with dedication and a smile.  It is this work ethic and positive attitude that have made Jared a joy to teach."

A Dallas native and graduate of Levine Academy, Jared is the son of Debbie and Bruce, and the older brother of Justin '13 and Jenna.  A longtime member of Congregation Anshai Torah, where his family is very involved, Jared is also a member of BBYO.  Having served five terms as the local David Berger Chapter Shaliach, the Judaic/Community Service coordinator, Jared is currently Regional Aleph Shaliach.  "Being the Aleph Shaliach is my biggest accomplishment and I am very proud that I hold this position," he said.  "My job was to the make sure that all eight chapters in the region incorporated Judaism and community service into their programs and to plan the Regional Kallah.   

At Yavneh, Jared has played for both the Junior Varsity and Varsity Bulldog Basketball teams, he's been a member of the Chess Club and member and co-Captain of the Mock Trial team.  He has worked as a counselor at the JCC's Camp Chai, and enjoyed summer travels to Colorado to visit family members.   

Accepted to Indiana University, University of Massachusetts/Amherst, Syracuse University, in the fall, Jared will pack his bags for New England as a freshman at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.  "I chose UMass because the sports management program is the best in the country bar none. I felt really welcomed and I love the campus. I liked everything about the school and committed as soon as I came home from my visit," said Jared, with dreams of one day becoming an agent or perhaps a football scout. 

Jared's calm demeanor and constant ability to get along with almost anyone, and his constant desire and actions that put others first, are likely to make him a winner on any court!

"The best part, and the toughest part, about attending Yavneh has been the responsibilities given to the students," said Zev.  "So many of our organizations are student run, which gives us great pride, but living up to our expectations, joining clubs one feels passionate about, and devoting many the many hours necessary for success, while still being a strong student, can be tough."

"Zev is kind, unassuming, and mature-a person of great moral fiber," said Naomi Schrager.  "His pure commitment to Judaism and community has always been clear and this dedication is truly admirable in a teenager."

Zev is a member of Congregation Shaare Tefilla and he has served on the board and as an advisor of YACHAD, a local chapter of the National Council of Jewish Disabilities."Two of the main points of YACHAD are to bring happiness to, and to make friends with, the group's members," said Zev, the group's designated photographer who took his role as memory maker seriously.  "I hope that I was able to do the former and know I have done the latter.  From the experiences I shared, I will take an understanding of people of all abilities, this something that will serve me well always."

He played on the championship Junior Varsity Basketball team for two years, finishing his career as a prominent member of the Varsity squad.  A member of Hashinui, Yavneh's environmental organization, and of Students Against Terrorism, he also served as a member of the General Board. Zev, who would choose to live his dream life in Bora, Bora - if they had a kosher restaurant, spent last summer as a counselor at Camp Stone, where he spent many years as a camper. 

Accepted to Derech Etz Chaim, Drexel University, Florida International University, Lynn University, SUNY/Binghamton, and the University of Pittsburgh, Zev's next step after graduation is to spend a year at Yeshivat Derech Etz Chaim in the Har Nof area of Jerusalem.  Once he returns, Zev will make the east coast his home, warm jacket required, as he'll attend SUNY/Binghamton, to study business with a possible minor in criminal justice.  The location, the people, the classes, and the Jewish presence - including its hosting of the largest Chabad on a campus in the U.S., was what made Binghamton, "the" place for Zev.      

"While Zev Klein didn't start out here in Texas he certainly exemplifies the best Texan values," said Dr. Steven Goldfine.  "He is soft-spoken, upright, to the point, loyal to his classmates and honest. It has been a pleasure to have him in class and a privilege to watch him grow over the last two years."

Ever the gent, and certain to be one holding the door open, Zev has made great impact on the community since he and his family, including his parents Mordecai and Doris, and sisters Zoe '09 and Talia '14, moved to Dallas, where he attended seventh and eighth grades at Akiba Academy.  

While a native of Pittsburgh, the concept of "southern hospitality," was probably deep in his soul, long before he arrived.  It's just too much a part of who he is.

Following sister Corey '09, and setting the trail for Sam '14, Jamie has made Yavneh a place to remember.  "I was interested in pursuing my Jewish education and, from my first visit, I knew Yavneh was a great environment to be in - you feel like family here, and there's an opportunity to get to know all of the students and to really connect with each other.  It does not really matter what grade you are in, everyone ends up feeling like family, the faculty included." 

"Yavneh's administrators and teachers are very welcoming - they will sit down with you and go over anything you need help with," said Jamie, "you can talk to them at almost anytime."

"Few people have grown and come out of their shell as much as Jamie. She went from being a quiet, almost shy ninth grader, to being one of the most beloved, and excited seniors," said Naomi Schrager. "She is sincerely interested in learning and is meticulous about paying attention in class; her participation, invaluable."

"I think Jamie shines the brightest when you see her interaction with others. She is incredibly gifted in working with young children, and she shows such a true and genuine sensitivity to them. Jamie, who is kind, and very helpful, has developed very mature friendships and it is easy to see why people want to be her friend."

With hopes off a career in sports management, Jamie's backpack is bound for the University of Georgia. Also accepted to San Diego State University, the University of Arizona, and the University of Missouri, Jamie loved the campus and the school's reputation on many levels. 

The Dallasite daughter of Nancy and Jay, and a graduate of Levine Academy, Jamie is a member of Congregation Shearith Israel and Yavneh's Spirit and Chesed clubs. Summer campers at Akiba Academy's Camp Kulanu have had the blessing to have Jamie at their side, this summer yet again, certainly making memories for all.

A Lady Bulldog, a starring force on the Volleyball and Basketball teams throughout her four years at Yavneh, Jamie has been a member of the Pride All-Stars competitive cheer squad for almost eight years.  She credits her coach Jason Dollar with pushing her and giving her the motivation to reach for the stars.  BREAKING NEWS - Congrats to Jamie, and thanks for the push Coach Dollar!  At press time Jamie received notice she's made the cheer squad at UGA!!!  Once a Bulldog, forever so!

An athlete first in her heart, for Jamie a great day "off" is a day on the court, on a field, or cheering up a storm. "Sports have always been a part of my life," said Jamie who started as a gymnast when she was three and has never lost her competitive rush.  "My whole family is involved in sports and as I'm always competing in something year 'round, I am always learning something new!"

"When I first came to Yavneh, I was very nervous to try out for the basketball team because I had not played very much. After just a couple of practices with Coach Samuels and Coach Walker, I really fell in love with the sport. They taught me so much of what I know today and I would not be the athlete or person I am today without their help. 

Learning new, teaching others, from Yavneh's Bulldogs to those in Georgia, always scoring soundly, Jamie leaves Yavneh a winner all-around.

POETS, WHO KNOW IT(s) ~~

Congrats to Yavneh's Brittany Barnett '11, Kayley Romick '13, and Sarah Weiss '11, finalists in the Dallas Public Library's 2010-2011 "Express Yourself" Youth Poetry Competition.  The students will receive awards and have their work published in the 2010-2011 Express Yourself Anthology.

"As part of our ongoing efforts to encourage our students to explore their personal creativity, every year we send in a packet of student poetry to the Dallas Public Library's annual competition," said Dr. Tim Cloward, noting that the competition is open to all school-age kids in the city of Dallas, with more than 2000 entries submitted every year.  "We have had great success over the years, in having our students' work recognized, and, in the last five years,  

 no other school has registered as many finalists.  

Yavneh's previous "Express Yourself" winners and finalists include

2009-2010 ~~ Joe M. and Doris Russell Dealey Award of Achievement Rebecca Schisler, and finalists Evan Mitzner, Libby Panipinto, and Bess Reisberg 

2008-2009 ~~ Mitchell Blumka & Daniel Moskowitz

   2007-2008 ~~Liora Cohen, Sarah Epstein, Eliana Gershon, Brittney Herson and Ethan Prescott

2006-2007 ~~ Sarah Epstein & Leigh Bonner

      2005-2006 ~~ Micah Steinbrecher

1999-2000 ~~ Judah Greenberg

Congratulations continue to Abbie Denemark '11, Zoe Elewitz '11, SaraJane Goldenberg '11, and Faith Medina '11, honored with the publication of their creativity in the inaugural edition of  

"Tale of One City."  This internet literary/arts magazine for Dallas high school students is funded through the Big iDeas program at Southern Methodist University.   

The students work can be read at http://www.taleofonecity.com/ 

WORLDQUEST   

Kol Hakavod to Freshman Jordan Cope who organized Yavneh's debut into the Academic World Quest Competition (and to Jordan's Dad, James, who trekked the students to UT Arlington for the event).  Jordan, and his fellow freshman classmates Jason Epstein, Gary Levine, and Adam Steinbrecher, participated in the competition that covered topics including Current Events, Energy, World Religions, Freedom of the Press, Millennium Development Goals, Global Governance and International Organizations, Global Health, and Geography.

"With the support of Mr. O'Quinn and history teacher Ari Dembo, we battled against 89 other teams, consisting primarily of juniors and seniors from across the Metroplex," said Jordan.  "We were pleasantly surprised with our outcome. when placing pretty well. This competition

is not only a five-hour test, but also  an opportunity to  

socialize with other students with similar global interests,  

to gain a better perception of the world, and to hear fascinating and influential guest speakers."

"By kick-starting Yavneh's affiliation with World Quest, I can only hope  

that this will lead to a revolution in which more students will desire to explore

their inner thirst of their global knowledge," said Jordan.   

CHILI COOKOFF  

Many thanks to Yavneh's Chili Chef Martin Appell who returned for the umpteenth year to direct our attempt at putting the Yavneh fire into our chili.  Not at all a one-man operation, many thanks to those who sliced, diced, stirred, and served - chili and a healthy dose of all that is Yavneh great!

Todah Rabah to Shanee Abouzaglo '14, Shane Appell, Ella '14 & Joy Baum Janis Gail, Holly Lynn,  Donna Memran, Yosef Presburger '13, Dalya '14 & Ron Romaner,  Sharon Shalet, Deb & Jonah Silverthorn,  

Barbara, David & Sarah '11 Weiss  

Students Against Terrorism hosted the neighboring   

booth with the tastes and cooking talents of  

Chef Keggan Luskey and his support staff;  

Valerie Lopez '14, Logan Luskey '14,  

Jonathan Sulski '11, and Noa Waks '11.  

WORLD HISTORY PRODUCED BY - US!

The Freshman World Geography course students are headed for Hollywood - well, maybe for Yavneh's first floor video studio where they produced video travelogues, featuring the geography, history and places of interest of Israel, England, Greece, Italy, China, Japan, Russia and Australia.

Eight groups of students created scripts based on their research and including a 2-day itinerary for any prospective traveler. Once the script was completed, still pictures, music and videos were added in order to enhance the productions.

"With much excitement the students learned to edit what they shot, import all their extra assets and to create 10-minute travelogues," said creative Social Studies teacher, "Director," Ari Dembo.  "My goal for the project was to get them to research a country in an interesting and holistic way, to teach some of the basics of video production and editing, and to allow them to be as creative as possible in the format of their show."

Mr O Quinn, Sarah McWhorter and the IT dept, and everyone have been so supportive for this new style project. "The students have been so excited and they are totally self motivated in completing the project," said Mr. Dembo, with nods of appreciation to Mr. O'Quinn and Yavneh's IT support,  

Sarah McWhorter, for their backing and guidance.  "It has been a great experience."

STUDENTS AGAINST TERRORISM'S  

POINTS FOR PEACE BASKETBALL TOURNEY

Yavneh Academy's Students Against Terrorism sponsored Points for Peace Basketball tournament raised close to $50,000 to benefit NATAL Israel Trauma Center.  Hundreds of participants, ages 6 to adult, spent a community day at the Jewish Community Center shooting, scoring, and coming together to help those from afar. P4P Special Edition, an opportunity for those living with special needs to participate, made certain everyone in the community  

had the chance to be a part of this meaningful day. 

"Working with P4P I am constantly reminded and aware of the privilege of freedom we have as Jews in both Dallas and America but I am also aware of those my age in Israel who do not always have such freedom and safety," said Points for Peace President, Leigh Bonner '11, who has been involved with the organization for five of its nine years.  "I am proud to be a part of an organization that impacts the Yavneh family and the greater Dallas community."

"Each year it is heartwarming to see the appreciation of the chosen beneficiary," said Leigh.  "This year Points for Peace raised an all time high of close to $50 000 and we send a 'Thank You' to the Dallas community for helping us reach this goal. We are excited that these funds will be used to further at home therapy programs offered to families in Sderot who have been victims of terror.  NATAL was chosen as they incorporate the practical treatment of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder into the advancement of the awareness and knowledge of that condition, due to war and terror."

NATAL provides much needed immediate and long-term therapeutic treatment to patients as well as training for professionals through core services including: 1) toll-free hotlines - for children and adults, 2) a Clinical Unit which offers a range of individual and group therapies all across Israel, 3) a Social Therapeutic Club for those suffering from chronic trauma symptoms, 4) Community Outreach Unit and Mobile Unit which offer therapeutic treatments in homes and workplaces in Israel's conflict zones, and 5) a Trauma Studies Center which provides the training of mental health professionals specifically in the field of trauma.

Yavneh's Points for Peace committee includes Leigh Bonner '11, Jake Greif '12, Kelly Herson '13, Elan Kogutt '11, Benji Liener '12, Jordan Prescott '12, Mina Pulitzer '12, Emily Rohan '12, Jonathan Sulski '11, Noa Waks '11, and Shimi Wolk '11.

Since 2002, SAT has, through learn-a-thons, "Points for Peace," the sale of "StandStrong4Israel" bracelets, and other programs, raised close to $500,000. Monies have supported an Israeli family whose son was injured in a bombing, and they have paid for half of an ambulance for the Magen David Adom.  Donations have been sent to support Camp Koby, which provides a camp program to children of families struck by terrorism, the Keren Malka Foundation which provides long-term no-cost loans of specialized and expensive home equipment; walkers, standers, special wheelchairs, bath inserts, bed lifts and more, as well as to ATZUM, which supports families whose lives have been shattered.

"Working with the students of Yavneh was amazing. It was difficult to believe that we are talking about teenagers and I felt welcome all the time," said Judith Bar Hay, a Group Facilitator and Coordinator of the Mobile Unit for NATAL's Community Outreach Unit. "They worked very hard to arrange a good time for me, beyond the meetings and programs I participated in It was a great honor to work with this wonderful team."

"The donation from Points for Peace will allow NATAL to continue to serve as a multidisciplinary treatment center for victims of terror and war-related trauma, to improve the quality of life for our patients, and to progress and lead the treatment, prevention, public awareness and research of trauma to strengthen the resiliency of Israeli society" said Bar Hay.  "Through the members of Students Against Terrorism, and those who participated in this event, we can see the next generation of American Jews who are devoted and committed to Israel. They are aware about our challenges and want to participate on building Israeli resilience and hoping for peace."

"The SAT participants learn how to work as a team, how to organize and execute a complex activity, and how to run a large non-profit organization," said Don O'Quinn, Yavneh's Head of School.   

"The hundreds of thousands of dollars that have been sent in support of

Israel and those affected by terrorism, is an incredible accomplishment.  Every year I'm proud of these kids and this year is no exception."

Rosie Bernstein, Amanda Steinborn, Skylar Van Norman, and Megan Lacritz, the "Cupcakez," won first place for the 5th/6th Grade Girls division and raised $2100 for P4P, the most of any team!

Winners in the 9^th Annual Points for Peace tournament were (1^st/2^nd grade) the Superstars; Orianna Even, Zander Feinstein, Jess Kirshenbaum, Tom Oster, (3th-4th grade girls) the Hornets; Shayna Daniel, Ashley Isenberg, Caroline Simpson, and Ava Stanley (3^rd/4th grade boys) the Fab 4; Alexander Murphy, Eli Minsky, Reid and Ryan Zlotsky, (5^th/6th grade girls) the Cupcakez who raised $2100, the most of any team; Rosie Bernstein, Megan Lacritz, Amanda Steinborn, and Skylar Van Norman (5^th/6th grade boys) the Jets; Jack Brewer, Avery Lampert, Braden Prengler, and Charlie Weitz, (7^th/8^th grade girls) the Mike n' Ikes; Hadas Cohen, Alexandra Lavi, Elivra Levi, and Erin Wernick, (7^th/8^th grade boys) Suppa' Ballin'; Bennett Dubrow, Paxton Lewis, Anthony Willoughby, and Brock Wright (9^th-12^th grade girls) the Mustangs; Anna Gerber, Jamie Kleinman, Emily Rohan, and Cara Tolmas, (9^th-12th grade boys) Ryan Brown Team; Ryan Brown, TJ Cline, Derek Jeanes, and Nick Sorsby, and (Adult Men) Charney Team; Rick Charney, Isaac Heller, Scott Hotchkiss, and Ryan Zea.

"This was one of the best events we've ever had," said Students Against Terrorism president, Jonathan Sulski '11.  "It went off with out a problem and ran smoothly thoughout."

For more information or to make further donations to Students Against Terrorism, please visit www.studentsagainstterrorism.org/ 

Bruchim Habaim ~~

Yavneh's Guests Sharing Davening, D'vrei Torah, & More

MARCH 4 ~~

Tikvah Juni  

Member/Advocate -  

The National Jewish Council for Disabilities 

Rabbi Mike Friedman  

YACHAD director

YACHAD members welcomed Tikvah and shared in weekend of Shabbaton to celebrate the Special Needs Inclusion Shabbat at Congregation Shaare Tefilla

MARCH 11 ~~

Dr. Gerald Schroder

Physicist/Author   

Genesis and the Big Bang

The Science of God: The Convergence of  Scientific and Biblical Wisdom  

The Hidden Face of God: Science Reveals the Ultimate Truth  

God According to God:  

     A Physicist Proves We've Been Wrong About God All Along

APRIL BIRTHDAYS 

4 Dalit Agronin & Adina Mandelcorn   5 Jonathan Sulski   8 Emily Rosenfeld   9 Sandy Hall-Chiles

17 Daniel Granat 18 Monica Ribald   19 Cayli Fowler    23 Amy Lopez     

24 Dalya Romaner   26 Liora Dickter & Yoni Gershon and   29 Lane Goldenberg

OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES ~

 JFS FOODBANK ~~

Last minute Pesach cleaning and you still have chumetz on your hands?  Deliver all to JFS and share in the mitzvah of feeding another!  Kol Hakavod to Jason '14 and Jori '12 Epstein for spearheading Yavneh's participation in the Feinstein Foundation/JFS Food Drive. Every food item and/or cash donation made to Jewish Family Service's Food Pantry counts! NON-PERISHABLE, UNOPENED food or toiletries can be donated until April 30, directly to JFS.

ELIMINATING ETHIOPIAN POVERTY ~~  

Mesfin Hodes is continuing to collect clothing, school supplies, and financial donations for the residents, young and old, of the Lemlem Orphanage as well as Mission of Charity, the orphanage he lived in as a young boy.  Returning home for the summer, Mesfin will be shipping the goods received, and delivering them along with food and other necessities.  Donations of luggage, worn or new, would also be appreciated as a tool to transfer the donations.  Donations may be delivered, after the Pesach break, to Yavneh Academy of Dallas (note: EEP).  For more information, email info@yavnehdallas.org

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

APRIL

21~~  WOLFSTEIN'S DELI KOSHER PASSOVER LUNCH @ ANSHAI TORAH  

           Lunches served at 11:50am and 12:40pm -- No Charge 

           5501 W. Parker Road - Plano, 75093  

           Yavneh students are invited to join the students of Plano West and Plano Senior High

           for a Passover Kosher Lunch. 

MAY

10 ~~ ISRAEL INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION

          4:30pm @ JCC Dallas

15 ~ BNAI ZION ANNUAL BRUNCH  10am @ Westin Galleria

        DEBBIE & ERIC GEROGATOS - ZELDA & SHAWN MASH           

        Proceeds benefit AHAVA Village for Children & YouthBnai Zion's Village for  

        abused and neglected children.  For reservations or more information, call  

       Avrille Harris-Cohen at 972.918.9200 or email avrille.harris-cohen@bnaizion.org 

22 ~~ 4th ANNUAL ZWEIG FAMILY END OF SCHOOL BASH

           SUPPORTING GLADYS GOLMAN/FAYE DALLEN SPECIAL NEEDS FUND

           2 to 4:30pm @ 300 DALLAS BOWLING (3805 Belt Line Rd in Dallas)  

           $18/person.  Teams are encouraged 

BULLDOG BASKETBALL

Congratulations to the Bulldogs, who finished 10th out of 24 teams at the 2011 Red Saracheck Tournament in New York. The team lost its opener to host MTA, but rebounded to defeat teams from Maryland and Canada before losing the Tier II championship to Miami Hillel.   

  Elan Kogutt '11 was named to the All-Tourney Second Team.    

                           Lynn University, Simmons College, University of Missouri, Wheelock College

                       Lynn University, SUNY/Binghamton, University of Pittsburgh

Elan Kogutt ~~ Boston University, New York University, University of Maryland,  

                           University of Texas/Austin, Yeshivat Orayta

Noa Waks ~~ University of Maryland, University of Miami, University of Texas/Austin

Sarah Weiss ~~ Machon Maayan, SUNY/Binghamton, University of Maryland,  

                            University of Michigan,  Northeastern University

Shimon Wolk ~~ Reishit Yerushalayim, Rutgers University, Yeshivat Shaare Mevaseret Tzion

                             Yeshiva University

~~ YAVNEH COLLEGE GUIDANCE

For more information regarding scholarships, application deadline, and any other college related issues, read the Senior Times or check in with Allyn Schmucker, Yavneh's College Guidance Counselor at 214.295.3500 or email aschmucker@yavnehdallas.org 

The Steinbrecher Family, including kids Adam '14, Micah '11, Gabby '12 and future   Yavneh Bulldog David, celebrated David's   bar mitzvah in Jerusalem in December.

After reaching the banks of the Kinneret to conclude a cross-country trek and  

caring for the wounded and ill, Jewish and Muslim alike, in the back of Jerusalem  

ambulances, among a dozen other equally defining adventures, I have come to  

recognize these past months for their life changing nature.

Micah with Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, Chief Rabbi of England

Coming to Israel, I was intimidated by the intensity of learning  I expected to encounter at Yeshivat Eretz Hatzvi in Katamon,a religious neighborhood in eastern Jerusalem. Since then, the  15-hour learning day (with breaks) has become an indispensableaspect of life in Israel. The day begins at 7:15am, with pre-davening classes,  and ends with independent study at 10pm. This program's rigor engenders  

an environment rife with unique ideas and subjects not available in a high school curriculum,  

while encouraging discourse with a select group of top students from all over the world. 

Magen David Adom, Israel's ambulance service,

has become an integral part of my Israel experience.  

As a MDA volunteer, I am able to scratch the surface

of Jerusalem in a way that is impossible otherwise. MDA brings its

paramedics face-to-face with people at their most desperate hour,  

across an incredibly diverse environment, while establishing

a level of responsibility and importance that I  

have never before encountered. 

These months present an intermediary period between

childhood and adulthood; a limbo absent of influences and

responsibilities that direct the course of values one ultimately

finds himself in following a home environment.  

It presents a time of deep contemplation that, from my own experience, is not possible otherwise.

I hope that all graduating seniors take the time to  

consider the advantages and disadvantages of a gap year program.

Yavneh students reuniting in Jerusalem!  Sophie Geller '10, Ethan Prescott '10, Brad Alhadef '08, Paige Koeppel '10, Micah Steinbrecher '10, Miles Pulitzer '10, Jackie Peiser '10, Libby Panipinto '10, Sarah Rohan '10, Mina Pulitzer '12, Julie Meltzer '10, Rebecca Lipinsky '10, and Daniel Moskowitz '10.