Yavneh Academy of Dallas

SEPTEMBER 2011

      Elul & Tishrei 5771/5772

In This Issue
Faculty Feature ~ Rabbi Maury Grebenau
Class of 2011 ~ Dalit Agronin
Class of 2011 ~ Bryan Benaim
Class of 2011 ~ Justine Berman
Yavneh News & Review
Bruchim Habaim ~ Welcome
Mitzvah Makers
Yom Huledet Sameach, Well Wishes, and Mazal Tov!
Calendar Notes
Bulldog Sports
College Cues
Join Our Mailing List!

 A message from Don O'Quinn ~  

                                                            Head of School

springkids

 

After an intense summer of preparations, we are back in the classrooms, on the courts, and in the synagogue, doing what the students and faculty of Yavneh Academy does best! 

 

This year, Yavneh continues to move forward into technology-assisted learning, with three SMART Boards, which will greatly strengthen our interactive teachings in our Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science classrooms.  Our video production classes will start up in the Spring.  Yavneh moving into the future, while teaching the meaning of its past.

  

Please, enjoy the 2010-2011 year in review through the recently published, Bulldog bow Wow.  Click here to share in the memories!  We encourage you to share the best of Yavneh, and to invite your friends and family, with high school bound students, to join us for our Prospective Families' Open House - on Tuesday, September 20, at 7pm.

 

Wishing you all a healthy and happy New Year. 

 

May 5772 bring only goodness and strength.

 

 

This IS the Yavneh family.

 

 

 ~ Faculty Feature ~ Rabbi Maury Grebenau

Yavneh's Associate Principal, responsible for Staff Development Rabbi Grebenau, a native of New York who was raised in West Orange, New Jersey, is the son of Dr. Mark and Dr. Ruth Grebenau, and the brother of Julie. A lifelong attendee of Jewish day schools, between high school and college, Rabbi Grebenau spent a year in Israel at Yeshiva Ohr Yerushalyim. 

 

Rabbi Grebenau graduated with a BA in Mathematics (his first career choice was to become an actuary) from Yeshiva University, then from Yeshiva University where he received his rabbinic ordination at the RIETS Rabbinical Seminary and a Masters degree in Jewish Education from the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education and Administration.  "I realized I wanted to work with people and, as a teacher, there's no greater satisfaction."   

 

 

"I love the students at Yavneh; they are fresh, open- minded, and interested," said Rabbi Grebenau who teaches Judaic Studies; Jewish Thought and Law, Oral Law, and Prophets in the morning and Calculus in the afternoon. This year is the first he's got students in all four grades.  "It's meaningful to have the students learning classes in Judaic and General studies from the same person, truly the embodiment of Torah Umadda, Modern Orthodoxy and the modern world.  The kids respond to the curriculum and you want to be a part of their lives." 

 

"Rabbi Grebenau tries to expand the horizon of the class by bringing in problems and examples from almost every other subject that are related," said Yosef Presburger '13.  "Rabbi is one of those people who always listens carefully to every question a student has, and who shares his wisdom, always encouraging us to incorporate knowledge we have learned in other classes to his class."

 

Rabbi Grebenau's wisdom was enhanced further this summer, and this fall he returns to share more - that which he learned as a participant in the The Principals' Center, Graduate School of Education, at Harvard University. "The Principals' Center focused on many issues, providing new ways of thinking about education, how to move forward, to the best interest of our students," said Rabbi Grebenau, whose participation in the program was funded by a grant through the AVI CHAI Foundation.  "I came home with a greater resolve to enhance our staff development, and we'll build on programs already in place.  Last year I coordinated a meeting of math teachers from Yavneh and other day schools in the area, allowing us to share ideas and utilize the talent that is here in Dallas. That is definitely something we'd like to do more of."

 

"I'll build on that concept when I have the privilege of leading a session of Yom Limud (the community day of learning for teachers from throughout Dallas' Jewish educational system)," said Rabbi Grebenau.  "We'll be looking at the use of technology in our math and science classrooms and I know there's lots of exciting things happening in all of our schools."

 

Rabbi Grebenau's experience at Ohr Yerushalayim so influenced him that he now serves as one of Yavneh's Coordinators of Guidance for Post-Secondary Programs in Israel. Guidance Counselors. "Almost everyone who has taken the time to study in Israel has returned with a meaningful experience, a great opportunity, and memories that will last forever," he said. "It's a step out of the norm that gives the students an incredible chance to explore their roots, aim their goals, and start to think about what they are looking for in life." 

 

"My experience in Israel helped seal the previous four years of Judaic learning at Yavneh and, while I was unsure about spending the year in Israel before I went, now I'm sure that every Jewish teenager needs to spend at least a year in Israel on some Jewish learning program," said Asriel Agronin '09, a former Halacha and BC Calculus student of Rabbi Grebenau's, who is now studying computer engineering at the University of Texas at Dallas.  "Rabbi Grebenau made the initial recommendation that I go to Yeshivat Lev HaTorah and in the end, I spent two years there, not just one.  The opportunity solidifies a foundation in Judaism."

 

Rabbi Grebenau's always-present smile is due in great part to the joy he receives from his family, daughters Bayla and Noa and his wife Malka, who is an occupational therapist.  Rabbi Grebenau and Malka came to Dallas, originally to work with the Community Kollel of Dallas.  In 2010, Yavneh students gathered as baby Noa was named during morning services, taking lead roles in the occasion.

 

In his seventh year at Yavneh, Rabbi Grebenau has found that his own appetite, and love of learning of Torah, is insatiable. "It's my way of connecting with G-d and the more I study, the more I find to learn," he said. "The kids will ask me a question and I'm right there ready to look up what I don't know. The sea of the Talmud is so expansive and there's no end to learning. I love that."

 

Rabbi's "no end to learning," is another example he sets, as he's recently completed a 14-year study of the full Talmud.  "I started when I was 18-years-old when I began my yeshiva studies in Israel," said Rabbi Grebenau, who says he there were different degrees of study throughout the years.  "I'll start again because finishing once doesn't mean you know it all.  I certainly don't and there's much more I have to, and want to, learn."

 

"I think that to understand G-d is to study what He's told us to do," said Rabbi Grebenau who didn't studied each tractate in its entirety, but not necessarily in the order they are written.  "To learn that is to better understand what our job here is.  For me, that's to be the very best I can be."


~ Class of 2011 - Dalit Agronin
                          "Yavneh is: Family.  Home.  Challenging.

"I choose to come to Yavneh because I really wanted to continue my Jewish education and many of my friends were going to be here," said Dalit.   "The school has surpassed my expectations, and I am more fortunate for the things I have now.  Yavneh has made me such a happy person."

 

 "I love this school and even though the work load is strenuous, I am so excited to wake up in the morning knowing I am going to Yavneh." said Dalit.  "I love that I am friends with people, and really care about people, not just from my grade but from all four grades.  If one person is having a bad day, then we are all having a bad day.  I know that when my path crosses that of another Yavneh alum, it will be like we never left." 

 

"What I'll remember about Dalit is her enthusiasm in suggesting ideas to the class and her readiness to share helpful hints, allowing for her natural ability to be a leader," said Lourdes Linzey, a member of Yavneh's Science Faculty.  "Dalit was one of my best and most talented students when it comes to creating original and imaginative projects.  It's a pleasure to have such inventive student. I believe Dalit will be very successful at whatever life brings her."

 

Hoping to attend college in the Northeast, Dalit has begun the application process. "It's been hard to find 'just the right' school; one that has a great dance program, a great social work major, a strong Jewish community, and within a reasonable budget," said Dalit who would like to work in a hospital or for a government agency.

 

"Yavneh's teachers and administrators truly led by Mr. O'Quinn and his example, continue my extended family," said Dalit.  "They are always there to teach and challenge me but are also there to comfort me in times of need.   I can't belive any other school has teachers as dedicated and who spend their nights and weekends to help their students succeed."

 

Born in Philadelphia, PA, and raised in White Plains, NY until she moved to Dallas, in time to begin her fourth grade year at Akiba Academy of Dallas, Dalit is the daughter of David and Carol, and sister to Erez and Asriel '09. 

 

Dalit is a longtime member of Congregation Shaare Tefilla and a co-Founder and co-President of Students4Students, sharing the responsibility of raising funds to build a school in Ethiopia (see story below).  She is a Yavneh Student Ambassador, a member of the Mock Trial Team, the school's Parsha Committee - which raises student awareness of the Torah portion of the week, and a volunteer with the Elisa Project, which raises awareness about eating disorders.

 

Dalit has also volunteered at Medical City Dallas and participated in the Dallas Summer Musicals Performing Arts Intensive training program, with summertime meaning more time to tip on her toes, particularly when representing the Magnolia Dance Project.

 

Dalit, who spends 18-plus hours a week perfecting her dance, placed ninth at the Studio One Nationals dance competition, second in her Senior Duo, also sharing in the 1st Place Grand Champion Shootout program for Group Dance.  "You can't deny talent with results like that," said Amber Jordan, Creative Director and Owner of the Magnolia Dance Project.  "What I'd wish for Dalit, is for her to see we already do - that she's the best." 

 

"Dalit is passionate about everything and the thing I think she might be most passionate about, is making everyone proud of her.  Getting great grades, being an amazing dancer, being a good role model to the younger company members, getting in to the perfect school," said Ms. Jordan.  "On top of her ability and talent, the girls at the studio depend on Dalit's good nature and jokes to lighten the heaviest of days."

 

"I think I spend more time at Yavneh and Magnolia than anywhere," said Dalit.  "I consider myself the luckiest person to be surrounded by such great people and to have this amazing life."

 

Amazing - that word describes Dalit to perfection.  May you chassé through, what will no doubt be a successful life, with the lessons and heart of those who cared for you "when."

 


 ~ Class of 2011 -   Bryan Benaim
                  "Yavneh Is: Family.  Connection. Excellence.

"Yavneh's family atmosphere is what drew me here as a student.  Nowhere else can a student say they know the name of every kid in school.," said Bryan, the son of Ruth and Elie, and brother to Debby and Michelle.  "I knew Yavneh was unique in that it offered smaller classes and a closer relationship between teachers and students." 

 

Yavneh's extended day, with a dual-curriculum that runs from 8am to 5pm, is more than enough to complete the strong college preparatory education Bryan was looking for.  "It's a false accusation that the students at Yavneh do not receive a proper secular education," said the future architecture major, college applications just now on their way.  "Just like any other school, Yavneh allots the necessary amount of time needed for the core curriculum and students tend to succeed because relationships between the staff members and kids is very open, so no one feels hesitant to ask for help."

 

"Because Bryan is such a quiet and respectful young man you could miss the fact that he has a first-rate mind that is running full-blast all the time," said Assistant Principal and Social Studies Faculty member, Dr. Tim Cloward.  "He is so reserved that you have to pay close attention sometimes to catch his sly sense of humor or his witty and slightly off-kilter way of looking at the world."

 

"If you took the time to look at Byran's work, for instance, in my Advanced Placement U. S. History class or what he has produced recently for the Yavneh Bulldog, you would see he is both a talented writer and deep thinker," said Dr. Cloward.  "Don't be surprised when, in a few years, you notice that Bryan Benaim has done remarkable things."

 

A Dallas native and graduate of Akiba Academy, Bryan is a member of Chabad of Plano/Collin County.  A member of the Bnai Brith Youth Organization's (BBYO) Henry Monskty AZA 791, Byran serves as the chapter's Shliach, the Jewish Advisor. In his free time he enjoys playing sports, hanging out with friends, listening to music, and creating works of art.  Among Bryan's honors, was the opportunity to have his work displayed last winter at the Dahlia Woods Gallery, one of 36 unique works of 8" x 8" art by prominent local Jewish artists.  Proceeds from the sale of the artworks benefited the Special Needs Partnership of Jewish Family Service.

 

During summer respites, Bryan has worked as a counselor with the JCC's Camp Chai, and he's traveled to Israel with BBYO, on Trek Israel, a tour that included travel, hiking, volunteer work, and an introduction to the Gadna, a one-week army volunteer program.

 

A strong and regarded Yavneh Bulldog, who has played for the school's Junior Varsity and Varsity Basketball teams, Bryan is also a member of Yavneh's Health Occupations Organization and a reporter for Yavneh's The Bulldog Print newspaper.

 

"Bryan has a natural curiosity and skepticism that is essential for any good writer, particularly a journalistic one," said Sandy Hall Chiles, Advisor to The Bulldog Print.  "He has become so confident now compared to the shy and reserved freshman I first met three years ago. What I find most inspiring about him is his determination and tenacity to tackle meaningful in-depth stories."

 

"His first assignment on newspaper, immediately out of Journalism I, was a three-piece analysis of the basketball season," said Ms. Hall Chiles said of Bryan who has won a number of journalism awards.  "He covered both boys and girls teams' efforts as well as writing a prequel to the Sarachek Tournament which won a 1st Place award for Sports Writing from the Dallas Morning News.  He has definitely earned the bit of a swagger he has developed."

 

Swagger earned, writing and artwork talents matured, Bryan is bound to build for himself, and whatever community he makes his home, a legacy of architectural strength, and personal honor.

 


 ~ Class of 2011 - Justine Berman
              "Yavneh Is:  Challenging.  Unique.  Supportive.

"Through Yavneh's dual curriculum program, I have learned so much about my heritage and culture, as well as the General Studies required of me," said Justine, noting that the program's rigorous requirements provided significant lessons in time management - something she knows will be a tool to use throughout her academic career and beyond.  "Here, I found the opportunity to express my individuality and to reach my own personal potential."

 

"In Yavneh's small community, where students are friends with people in all grade levels, I was able to form tight knit relationships," said Justine.  "Nothing is too big or too small for the teachers and administrators who treat me with respect.  I really appreciate that."

   

"I could not ask for a more diligent, focused student.  She has exceptionally fine character, good common sense, a love for people and animals, and a compassionate heart," said Phyliss Beilue, a former member of Yavneh's English Faculty.  "Justine enjoys writing, and her work has a poetic quality.  I appreciate Justine's calming, positive presence in the classroom.  I know that she will use her talents to bless others in the future as she does now."

 

"Justine is a devoted and hardworking student," said Raffi Rosenzweig, a former member of Yavneh's Judaic Studies Faculty.  "Her ability to conquer adversity is truly remarkable and she uses her experience to help others overcome their difficulties as well.  Justine's relentless drive to improve is a tremendous skill that, along with her maturity and thoughtfulness, will lead to future success."

 

Justine, who was born in Johannesburg, South Africa, and who moved to Texas as a toddler, is the daughter of Leora Lurie and proud to set the example she does for her younger sister, Danielle.  A graduate of Akiba Academy and member of Congregation Shaare Tefilla, Justine is also an involved board member of YACHAD, an organization of the National Council of Jewish Disabilities, locally does programming for those with special needs.   

 

"I am proud of the growth and impact that Yachad has made in my community," said Justine who participated in YACHAD's National Leadership Conference earlier this year.  "YACHAD is an opportunity to integrate our lives with those with special needs."

 

Justine hopes to attend Texas A&M University, where she'd look toward a future as an avian or equine veterinarian, keeping her love for animals close to her career.  "I've been riding for about 10 years and I find time around the horses to be so peaceful," said Justine, is at the barn at least four times a week.  "When I'm not on my horse, or attending to school matters, my partner at my side are my birds, Mario, a Scarlet Macaw, and Honey, a White-bellied Caique. 

 

Summer schedules don't much differ for Justine who then gives more hours to her animals, also working and volunteering at Equest Therapeutic Horsemanship, an organization that assists riders with over 100 physical, cognitive and emotional diagnoses, Merriwood Ranch and Treetop Bird Center.  

 

Last fall, Justine was selected as Dallas' Sprint Youth Community Champion.  As the recipient of this award, Justine has received a $2500 grant from the Sprint Foundation, which she shared with the Equest.  "We are very appreciative of the donation on Justine's behalf to Equest," said Ellie Grant, Volunteer Director for Equest.  "$2500 might cover eight months of care for one of our horses, it might be a scholarship for six or more riders, and it might be used to purchase saddles for hundreds of riders to use."

 

Justine was also honored with the 2010 Equest Junior Volunteer Award, and a 2009 Rookie Volunteer of the Year award. At Equest, Justine's passion for almost five years, she is a volunteer captain, a schooler (for the horses), a trainer for the new volunteers, on the horspitality team, and volunteer for the Special Olympics and Chisholm Challenge. "I've always loved horses and coming to Equest started as a one-summer project.  That year I logged more than 300 hours."

 

"So many of us take for granted our physical and mental functions and to see the growth and development of the riders I work with makes me a better person," said Justine who assisted riders at the 2010 and 2011 Texas Special Olympics.  "You can see the progress of a rider in a year, some in a week, and whether it's in their walking, their speech, or otherwise, you see how they function better in everyday life."

 

"Justine is an incredibly dedicated and devoted volunteer," said Ms. Grant.  "She has a very special way with people and animals.  Her heart and empathy sets her apart from others, something very rare in such a young lady."

 

Justine is indeed a rare, young lady - strong, caring, kind, and living with intent.  The future for you is as wide as the brim of the hats at the Kentucky Derby!

 


Yavneh News & Reviews    

BACK TO SCHOOL

 

Yavneh began the 2011-12 year with enthusiasm, students and faculty ready for wisdom, development and the making the world a better place - the heart and soul of the spirit of the school. 

  

"We have students from across the economic and religious spectrum at Yavneh and the mix is tremendous," says Don O'Quinn, as he begins his fourteenth year as Head of School.  "The greatest complement our students give us is the oft repeated 'Yavneh is a family and everybody is somebody at Yavneh."

  

"Yavneh is a small school that thinks big and acts huge.  Our students are noted for their maturity, their caring about humanity, and their commitment to changing the world, said Mr. O'Quinn.  "These are traits that will take them from their teen years, to successful lives of meaning and concern, of professional prowess, and of honor.  Our students are engaged in activities, started by students, and the encouragement of student empowerment is key to our program."

 

Back to school activities included ice-breakers, a club and organization orientation, and just enough time for new students to learn their way around the campus, and the "veterans" to settle into their new roles as upper, and upper-upper classmen!

 

 

WRITING CENTER

 

A new year means new opportunities and growth for Yavneh students.In Room 921 of the High School building, that means a world of writing support, coordinated by Bonnie Atkins, a new member of our English Faculty.

 

The Writing Center is available Monday through Friday from 9am to 12:15 pm.

The Writing Center is an on-campus service for all members of our school community: students, faculty and staff working on writing projects or developing writing projects for curricula. Visitors receive support with idea generation, critical thinking, organization, editing and proofreading through one-on-one or small group tutoring. At the Writing Center, we aim to provide an environment rich in dialog, showing our visitors that writing does not have to be a painfully silent and lonely process.  

 

The Writing Center supports writing in all subjects, contributes to interdepartmental curriculum development, and acts as a hub for writing-across-the-curriculum efforts. We supply reference and pedagogy materials for teachers looking to develop a writing project as well as incorporate writing skills activities into their lessons.  

 

While we work to help each visitor strengthen his or her writing skills and the ability to communicate effectively, a larger goal includes helping visitors approach writing as a way to grow in intellectual curiosity and creativity and use his or her voice within the community.

 

"Writing can be a painful process and it is a job or discipline like any other.  I love helping students with their writing and I love to have written something great," said Mrs. Atkins, who, in addition to coordinating the Lab, teaches AP English III. 

 

Mrs. Atkins is a graduate of the University of Connecticut, with a bachelor's degree in English literature and of San Francisco State University, where she received her master's degree in teaching rhetoric and composition. "Some days are smoother than others. However, the thrill of a job well done, knowing that your blood, sweat and tears produced a text that others will read, understand, respond to and internalize is an amazing feeling.This is the reason why I write and support other writers."

 

The Writing Center can support students in many ways including lessons on how to:

Identify key questions for your teacher

Brainstorm initial ideas for topic and focus

Develop a plan for research

Organize notes and discover a thesis

Provide feedback on rough drafts

Show you proofreading strategies for final drafts

Develop personal style and tone within a draft

Revise after teacher feedback

 

For more info, email batkins@yavnehdallas.org or visit www.MrsAtkins.com  

 

 

 

THANKS TO ARTSFEST VOLUNTEERS 

Many thanks to Chad Baruch, Dr. Tim Cloward, Dia Epstein,  

Rabbi Maury Grebenau, Karen Hazan-Cohen,  

Donna Memran,  

Chris Northrup,  

Dan Prescott, Shani Romick, Allyn Schmucker,  

and Deb Silverthorn  

for volunteering to share the greatness of  

 Yavneh Academy 

      at the 2011 JCC ArtsFest.     

 

 


Bruchim Habaim ~~

   Yavneh's Guests Sharing Davening,  

         D'vrei Torah, & More









AUGUST 26, 2011 ~ 
RABBI SHOLEY KLEIN

VAAD HAKASHRUS OF DALLAS

 

Yavneh's Mitzvah Makers:

   Students, Faculty & Alumni ~

           Making a Difference


 

 

 

 

RUDBERG HAIRCUT

Kol hakavod to Rachel Rudberg '13,  

who donated 11 inches of her curly locks to Locks for Love.  The dainty dancer made her third such donation over the summer, making it possible for one or more children,

  to share in Rachel's super spirals!   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STUDENTS4STUDENTS 

Just as students began their studies on the Schultz Rosenberg Campus, the children near Azezo, in Northwestern Ethiopia, have begun their own lessons in a classroom - that provided by Yavneh's STUDENTS4STUDENTS and its supporters. 

  

For these more than 75 children, ages six to the middle teens, the previous "classroom," was the shady area provided by a Sera Worka tree - now, the Sera Worka is the name of the school, built in just four months - from March to June of this year.

 

"Shehechiyanu, vekiyemanu, vehigiyanu la zman haze," on behalf of JDC and those Ethiopian youngsters whose lives have been bettered because of your generosity-THANK YOU," said Tova Peretz, Associate with the International Development Program at the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee.  "Your students have so generously made possible this newly constructed  school building, bringing the children out of the elements, and into a facility where they can learn in a far more comfortable situation.  The children and their teachers realize who their benefactors are, the 'generous students of Dallas, Texas' and they hope they will someday get to meet some of the Students4Students representatives!"

 

Earlier this year, Students4Students co-Founders and co-Presidents Dalit Agronin '12, Jori Epstein '12, and Rachel Siegel '13, delivered a check for $10619.64 to Stan Rabin, a representative of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee.  "This is fantastic and we extend a 'Thank You' to the kids, and to Yavneh and their parents for instilling the values of tzedakah and gimilut chasadim, of charity and of acts of lovingkindness," said Mr. Rabin.   

"Our community has had a great impact

and it's wonderful to see the youth of Dallas putting forth such  

great efforts and with such success."

 

"Seeing the school completed showed me that hard work, persistence, and a strong will really can accomplish difficult tasks.  All forms of community service yield rewards, but literally seeing a concrete structure for students to learn in that they wouldn't have without our contributions remains a truly incredible feeling," said Jori Epstein '12.  "The pictures of the students learning put a smile on my face as I saw the reality of what we accomplished.  I hope through S4S, I can leave a legacy showing that Yavneh gives students the tools to succeed and achieve, and that students should take advantage of those resources and support to make a difference."

 

"The majority of the children are young but we've had a number of teens coming to learn, now that the classroom provides a more comfortable and productive learning space," said Manlio Dell'Ariccia, JDC Country Director for Ethiopia.  "This has been an incredibly successful program.  Our students parents, many of whom are poor farmers, are now much more eager to send their children to school, now that they can study within walls and under a roof and not anymore under the shadow of a tree.  The pictures of the children explain better than any words the difference the school has made in their lives."

 

"Since the very beginning, S4S has been determined to somehow express our gratitude for having been gifted with such an incredible education.  I can honestly say that knowing at the end of the day, 75-plus students in the world will have access to an education adds a smile to my face," said Rachel Siegel.  "Though I know that that number is miniscule compared to ALL the children ALL over the world in need of an education, at least I know that I did my best to try and reduce that figure.  Next, we are curious to discover where else we can make our mark in the world, no matter how small it may be."

 

"The feeling of this accomplishment is amazing, and the best part about it is that it never gets old.  I am so glad that I am fortunate enough to be in a group that can give kids a better education, which is the basis for everything.  With the right tools you learn you can grow and create a life for yourself," said Dalit Agronin '12. "I would like to tell the students that even though things may be tough, someone is always there fore you, people that love you, and even though it may not always seem like it, G-D is watching out for you."

 

Students4Students raised the monies to build a school for the children of Addis Ababa, spirited by the efforts of Dr. Rick Hodes, an American doctor who has devoted his life to helping the most desperate of Ethiopians in need of medical treatment.   The group has held a screening of Dr. Hodes' story in "Bewoket: By the Will of God" and "Making the Crooked Straight," and a book signing, with Marilyn Berger, the author of "This is a Soul; The Mission of Rick Hodes."

 

Dr. Hodes has adopted a number of Ethiopian orphans, three of whom; Semegnew, Mesfin, and Dejene '13, have attended Yavneh.  "The fact that I could adopt Semegnew, Mesfin and Dejene, assist in giving them a real future, and they could participate in efforts to give a future to other kids is the greatest thing I can think of," said Dr. Hodes.  "Mother Teresa said, 'I alone cannot change the world. But I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.'  And in our tradition, the Talmud says "mitzvah goreret mitzvah," one mitzvah leads to another."

 

Indeed the Students4Students have learned that  

portion of the Talmud, and put it into place. 

  

 

 

*** So many Yavneh Bulldogs, current and alum, spent the summer Makin' Mitzvahs!!! Send photos and  details of your summer adventures to info@yavnehdallas.org 

Yom Huledet Sameach,  

         Well Wishes, & Mazal Tov!

  

                

SEPTEMBER BIRTHDAYS 

 

Zac Schultz    2  Shelby Gadol   8  Rabbi Maury Grebenau    15  Dania Tanur

            17   Evie Denemark        21   Ben Calmenson & Ben Romaner

            22   Kelly Herson   24  Tova Kline       27  Shea Miller

            28   Jordan Prescott        30   Osher Saboni & Virginia Yates

 

MAZAL TOV to  

   

~~~ Ilana Wernick '12,  a member of Team Texas!  While the Wernick family cheered Ilana on in person, the Yavneh Family; students and faculty alike, gathered around monitors throughout the building to capture a moment of Ilana's Speed Climb during the 2011 International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) World Youth Championships.   

More than 650 athletes from 50 countries around the world competed in this year's event, held in Austria.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ilana, who competed in the Females 16-17 category, reaching the top of the  

98.4- foot-high wall, in 18 seconds, placed 25th overall in the world for her category.  For Ilana, who started climbing when she was just eight-years-old.   

This is her second visit to the World Youth Championship, her first, two years ago in France, where she placed 21st.

 

"I love the competition, but I also enjoy just climbing for fun," said Ilana who, to qualify for the World Youth Championships, placed in the top five at nationals. "Every time I climb I face a new challenge and I especially love the sense of accomplishment when I reach the top of a route." 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

~~~ Raquel Gershon, 

YavnehMom to Yoni '13,  

Eliana '09, and Benji '07 -

has released her second CD,  

     "Candlesticks of Silver."    

YavnehAlum, Eliana designed  

and created the cover!   

 

Mrs. Gershon will debut songs from the CD on September 18, during a concert at 1pm at Congregation

  Shearith Israel.   

       

  

OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES ~

 


We wish comfort among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem to: 

 

~~~ the family of Emanuel Rohan,
    the Husband of Valy, Father of Richard (and Terri) Rohan   

  and Grandfather of Emily '12, Sarah '10, and Abby.  

 

Calendar Notes ~ Mark it with a red pen! 

     YAVNEH CALENDAR

 

SEPTEMBER 

 

9 ~~    MOCK TRIAL @ 3pm

             Be a part of the 10th Anniversary Mock Trial Team!!!  Program meets  

             beginning today (and every Friday, at 3pm in the Yavneh Library). 

 

11 ~~  YEARBOOK CREW MEETING @ 10:30am

             MEETS AT STARBUCKS at PRESTON/FRANKFORD!!!

              Be a part of the memory making for 2011-2012  

 

13 ~~  SCHOOL YEARBOOK/ID PHOTOS - Library    

   

16 ~~ MOCK TRIAL @ 3pm    

  

18 ~~ YEARBOOK CREW MEETING @ 10:30am  

             MEETS AT STARBUCKS at PRESTON/FRANKFORD!

 

RAQUEL GERSHON'S  

   "CANDLESTICKS OF SILVER"

Concert @ Congregation Shearith Israel @ 1pm 

Celebrate the music of YavnehMom of  

Benji '07, Eliana '09, and Yoni '13! 

Advance ticket sales by phone 214 361-6606  

Adults/$15,  Seniors/$12, Students/$7.50  

 

Proceeds benefit KESHER, the special needs program of the Weitzman Family Religious School at Congregation Shearith Israel.  Call 214.361.6606 for reservations.  

 

20 ~~ YAVNEH PROSPECTIVE FAMILIES OPEN HOUSE @ 7pm  

             Please encourage your friends and family, with high school bound students,

             to join us for a Q&A and Info Session and tours of our Campus. 

 

23 ~~ MOCK TRIAL @ 3pm     

 

23 & 24 ~~ FALL SHABBATON @ YAVNEH!!! NOTE DATE CHANGE! 

 

25 ~~  YEARBOOK CREW MEETING @ 10:30am  

             MEETS AT STARBUCKS at PRESTON/FRANKFORD!!!

 

28 ~~  EREV ROSH HASHANA - FRIDAY SCHEDULE

 

29 & 30 ~~ ROSH HASHANA - NO SCHOOL

  

 

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

 

SEPTEMBER 

 

11 ~  CONG. BETH TORAH MEN'S CLUB - MARK ELFENBEIN @ 9:30am 

          The Community is welcome to enjoy a bagel breakfast featuring Mark   

          Elfenbein, host of the noontime sports show on 105.3 The Fan, and anchor of  

          its Cowboys post-game coverage.  $10/adults, $5 for students.

 

         COMMUNITY-WIDE COMMEMORATION ~  

                      10th ANNIVERSARY OF 9/11 @ 2pm         

          @ the Majestic Theatre - 1925 Elm Street, Dallas     

          Entire Community invited to participate in this 9/11 anniversary event,

          co-sponsored by the Catholic Diocese of Dallas, Jewish Community Relations  

          Council of Greater Dallas, Rabbinic Association of Greater Dallas, Islamic  

          Association of North Texas. For more information, call 214.615.5254

          or email JCRCDallas@jfgd.org

 

12 ~~  BNAI ZION PRESENTS BRYAN MARK RIGG @ 7pm

              Bnai Zion presents an evening with former U.S. Marine and Israel Defense  

              Force volunteer, Bryan Mark Rigg, author of Rescued from the Reich, and  

              Lives of Hitler's Jewish Soldiers. $5 minimum donation requested.

              RSVP to Avrille Harris-Cohen at Avrille.harris-cohen@bnaizion.org 

              or call 972-918-9200

 

The Bulldog Score!!!

   Sports Calendars, Scores, and more!

 VOLLEYBALL    

 

6 ~~ game against McKinney Christian has been CANCELED. 

 

8 ~~  vs. Lakehill Prep @ HOME GAME!

           6pm - Junior Varsity     

                       Varsity game follows 

 

19 ~~ vs. Cambridge - Time/Location TBA (please see 9/11 calendar)

 

20 ~~ vs. HSAA @ HOME GAME!

            6pm - Junior Varsity

                        Varsity game follows

 

22 ~~  vs. Covenant School @ AWAY GAME (Alpha Road Sportsplex)

             5pm - Junior Varsity

                         Varsity game follows

  

GIRLS SOCCER

All games played at Indoor Soccer Zone 

 

                                                11 ~~ Game @ 5pm (athletes to arrive at 4:30pm)

 

18 ~~ Game @ 5pm (athletes to arrive at 4:30pm)

 

25 ~~ Game @ 5pm (athletes to arrive at 4:30pm)

  

College Cues~

    Acceptances, Visits, Scholarship Information & More

College Representatives from far and wide make a point of visiting Yavneh Academy each year, sharing information, application details, and more about their schools.    

Juniors and Seniors are invited to attend but must bring a signed permission slip from your teacher. The form can be picked up in the counselor's office and at Mrs. Pitlik's desk. Students must present the form to the teacher at least one day prior to the session - and parents are more than invited to join us. 

 

Locations to be announced the day before each program.

 

STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY  

MAKE-UP WORK OR MATERIAL MISSED.

  

COLLEGE REPRESENTATIVE YAVNEH VISITS * 2011

 

SEPTEMBER  

6  ~  UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS @ 12:30 to 1:30pm.

 

12 ~ UNIVERSITY OF DENVER @ 3:15pm

 

13 ~ SAVANNAH COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN (SCAD) @ 12:15pm

         NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY @ 1pm

         UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND @ 2:30  

         UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN @ 4pm 

 

14 ~ BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY @ 12:15pm

         ST. EDWARDS UNIVERSITY @ 1pm 

         WESLEYAN COLLEGE @ 2pm 

         UNIVERSITY OF MASS/AMHERST @ 3:15pm 

 

15 ~ COLLEGE OF CHARLESTON @ 12pm  

         McGILL UNIVERSITY of CANADA @ 1pm 

         UNIVERSITY of CONNECTICUT @ 2pm 

         HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY @ 2:15pm

         LYNN UNIVERSITY @ 4pm

 

19 ~ UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO @ 1pm          

         GOUCHER COLLEGE@ 3:15pm 

  BOSTON UNIVERSITY @ 4pm

 

20 ~  GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (D.C.) @ 2:30pm 

 

21 ~ NEW YORK UNIVERSITY @ 3:15pm 

 

26 ~  TULANE UNIVERSITY @ 3pm 

 

OCTOBER  

 

5 ~ TUFTS UNIVERSITY @ 1pm  

       MUHLENBERG COLLEGE @ 2pm

       WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY in ST. LOUIS @ 3:15pm   

  

27 ~ BARNARD COLLEGE @ 2pm 

 

  

DALLAS AREA COLLEGE REP VISITS (NOT ON YAVNEH'S CAMPUS) 


 

SEPTEMBER  

11 ~ INDIANA UNIVERSITY DALLAS PREVIEW @ 5 to 6pm 

        Hilton Dallas Lincoln Centre
        5401 LBJ Freeway Dallas, TX 75240
        RSVP  to http://admit.indiana.edu/road/

25 ~ NYU INFO SESSION @ 2pm
         Omni Las Colinas
         221 East Las Colinas Blvd.
         Irving, TX 75039


OCTOBER     

 

9 ~  UNIVERSITY of MIAMI @ 2 to 4pm

        Dallas/Plano Marriott at Legacy Town Center

        7121 Legacy Town Center - Plano, TX  75024

         www.miami.edu/index.php/ug/events-UG/#info

 

 

~~ 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 

 

Please send all news and updates for the Yavneh Academy of Dallas e-zine to: info@yavnehdallas.org

Unless otherwise credited, photos by Deb Silverthorn & Yavneh's Enews is written and produced by
Deb Silverthorn

Director of Communications
Yavneh Academy of Dallas
12324 Merit Drive
Dallas, TX 75251
214.295.3500