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February 22, 2013
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12 Adar I 5773
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From the Head of School ~ Dr. David Portnoy
The truly extraordinary news this week from BBYO International - that Yavneh students will serve as Grand Aleph Godol (President) and Shaliach (VP for Judaics and Tikkun Olam) for the coming year - is one of the biggest stories to come out of the Dallas Jewish Community this year. And while you will no doubt be hearing and reading about this phenomenal achievement for months and years to come, consider the following:
Our Jewish history is filled with countless examples of against-all-odds triumph and survival, one of which
(The Festival of Purim) we will be celebrating this weekend. So it stands to reason that Yavneh - aka "little school that could" - would be notable not just locally, or even nationally, but globally, for the extra-special distinction of producing student leaders whose impact is felt far beyond our beautiful campus.
To Mika and Gary: We are so very proud of you, what you have accomplished, and what you will continue to accomplish, on behalf of our/your Jewish Community.
To those teachers, advisors, rabbis, friends and families who have supported them: Thanks to you as well. In the words of the African proverb, It takes a village.
On behalf of our students, faculty and staff, we wish you a peaceful and healthy Shabbat Shalom, and a Chag Purim Sameach!
~~ Dr. P
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To join in sponsoring the
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Yavneh Calendar
COMMUNITY EVENTS
FEBRUARY 24 ~
JCC - The Titanic
(w/ Ethan Fisher '16)
thru 25 ~
Women to Women Mitzvah Project
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Shabbat Shalom ~
Purim readiness continues as Rabbi Michael Friedman and Yavneh sophomores
Elvira Levi, Hadas Cohen, Erin Wernick, and Alexandra Lavi
visited the Akiba preschool class of YavnehMom, Rosa Levi!
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We hope you enjoy the Dvar Torah in this week's Snappy Sentiments and that you'll share and discuss them at your Shabbat table. Don't forget to join us tomorrow night for our Purim Megillah reading, dinner, and Senior '13 Shpiel! We hope to celebrate with our whole Yavneh Family.
Shabbat Shalom ~
Rabbi Meir Tannenbaum, Naomi Schrager, and the Judaic Studies Faculty.
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The Week in Review
S4S Mentors
Yavneh's Students4Students are truly living and giving the title of their organization as they volunteer as mentors to the first grade students of Hamilton Park Pacesetter Magnet in Richardson. The students read with the children, assist in their classroom assignments, and give the teachers time to review students' work, while the Yavneh Mentors keep the classrooms running.
"Friends, have you finished your morning folders," asked Lauren Siegel '14, who leads the program for her peers who, in two groups, work alternate 1-1/2 hours on Wednesday mornings at the school, in addition to painting sets for the school's upcoming sixth grade play. "Put a smile on your face and let's start our day."
The mentors and teachers at Hamilton Park Pacesetter Magnet call the students, "friends," allowing a warm and nurturing environment. "It relieves the intimidation and makes for a warm classroom," said Lisa Wright, who teaches the class that Lauren works in. "Our Yavneh mentors are terrific and they too bring smiles and a great feeling to our children."
"Lauren and her friends come in here on fire, ready to work, ready to be with the children," said
Ms. Wright. "The teachers totally look forward to Wednesday mornings - having the extra hands, even one day a week, makes a big difference for all of us."
Students4Students participants in the mentoring program are Niv Avneri '14,
Hannah Delagi '14, Shelby Gadol '13, Nathasha Guaqueta '14, Zachary Harmon '14, Alexandra Lavi '15, Katie Lerer '13, Elvira Levi '15, Mitchell Levinson '16,
Valerie Lopez '14, Risa Mond '16, Kayley Romick '13, and Lauren Siegel '14.
"You have to know how to read because it makes you smart," said Devon, one of Kayley's "friends." "I like when Miss Kayley helps me because she's really nice and she makes it lots of fun."
"I love everything about working with my students, everything!," said Kayley Romick '13. "They remember me from visit to visit and they seem excited when we come into the room. I see the impact we have on the children and, because I'm graduating soon, I only wish we'd started doing this earlier.
BBYO Honors
Yavneh Academy's mission statement reads of how the school readies its students and "prepares them to lead with integrity and honor." Mika Stein '13 and Gary Levine '14,
this week, represent that mission in definition as the two were elected to the International Board of BBYO/B'nai B'rith Youth Organization. Both Mika and Gary are members of NTO/BBYO's Rubin Kaplan #841.
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photo submitted by NTO/BBYO
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Mika, BBYO's 13-14 Grand Aleph Godol/ International President, is the son of the late Deborah Stein. Already accepted to New York University, where he plans to study media and communications, with the goal of becoming an entertainment agent or attorney, Mika will defer his freshman year, in order to represent BBYO. As Grand Aleph Gadol, Mika will travel from community to community to consult with teen leaders and staff and meet with community partners. He will also oversee the work of the rest of the International Executive Board.
"Mika has worked extremely hard and has come a very long way to become elected into this prestigious position," said Tracy Davis, Program Director for NTO/BBYO. "During Mika's term as Regional Godol, from December 2011 to December 2012, Mika took concepts he has learned and engaged in from all programs he's attended and put them into context in our unique region."
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photo submitted by NTO/BBYO
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Gary, the newly elected Grand Aleph Shaliach/International Vice President of Judaic Programming, Community Service and Social Action, is the son of Sylvie and Ian Levine, and the brother of Steven '16. As Grand Aleph Shaliach, Gary will remain in Dallas, working as a resource, advisor, and sounding board for his counterparts across the system. He will specifically focus on enhancing the Judaic content in programs in every community, overseeing initiatives that highlight Jewish values and themes. Gary and his BBG counterpart will also coordinate Kallah, BBYO's summer experience for Jewish learning, spirituality, and self-discovery.
"Gary is made for the Shaliach position," said
Ms. Davis. "He understands his Jewish roots and has a broad understanding of community. Gary always strives for program excellence in terms of Judaic content."
"I love the friendships I've made in BBYO and the experiences I've had," said Gary who is NTO/BBYO's current Regional Shaliach. "I have broadened my horizons of friendship and created bonds with kids I might never have met."
"Gary and Mika are two exemplary leaders amongst our student body. Although they lead in completely different styles, the constant between them is that they both stand for an unwavering commitment to Torah, Judaism, and the Jewish people," said Rabbi Meir Tannenbaum, Associate Principal/Judaic Curriculum. "I can only hope that they can take those values outside the hallowed walls of Yavneh and inspire and educate Jewish teens across the world."
Mika and Gary agree that both Yavneh and BBYO have given them the tools of leadership and respect and love for their Jewish tradition and heritage, gifts that will carry them in their new roles, but also throughout their lifetimes.
"This is an incredible thing for Dallas, BBYO, and for Yavneh Academy," said Yavneh's Head of School, Dr. David Portnoy. "We couldn't be prouder of these boys and we're thrilled they will represent all of us in the wonderful work they will do."
"I believe that what we've learned about how to run a chapter, is the exact model we'll follow to successfully lead a company, community organizations, and any other affiliation," said Gary, involved in Yavneh's Helping Hands for the Homeless, Mock Trial, and Students4Students. Gary's future includes attending a college with a strong business school after graduating from Yavneh next year.
"Both Yavneh and BBYO have given me a sense of commitment, and a desire to continue the spirit and values that I love," said Gary who served his Kaplan chapter for two terms as Shaliach and for one as Moreh (VP Brotherhood/Education).
"My Jewish education at Yavneh, and at the Ann and Nate Levine Academy, has been instrumental in teaching me those values and about Torah living and learning. As I write the dvrai Torah, that will now be used around the world, I'm proud of the education I have, and the knowledge and resources that are available to me, to help teach my peers appropriately. We as Jews are a small, but mighty People and I want to do, whatever I can do - even as a teen - to keep us as strong as we are."
Mika, whose passport is bound to become one full colorful example of his experience, will travel to many of the 20 countries in which BBYO is represented.
In addition to his regional leadership, Mika has also served as his chapter's Shaliach, Moreh, and two terms as Godol. A former JCC preschool, Wise Academy and Ann and Nate Levine Academy student, Mika too shared that his Jewish education has fanned his passion for Jewish learning and leadership.
"BBYO is family and friendship," said Mika, "and I can count on my brothers, and Sherrie and Tracy to always have my back. I never had brothers before - now I have 30 and then some."
"My grandfather, Moe Stein, has always taught me that Judaism is about love and heart. I want to share that through the service I give. My being Grand Aleph Gadol isn't about power but it's about love," said Mika, who has been involved in Yavneh's Helping Hands for the Homeless, Mock Trial, Students Against Terrorism, Theatre Club, and Uniting Students of Dallas. "It's about my being able to help my People thrive. I've learned that you can become involved, and make a difference, at every stage of your life."
click here to read the TJP's story
about Mika & Gary's success!
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Mitzvah Makers ~
Members of Yavneh's Helping Hands for the Homeless visited the Dallas' Genesis Women's Shelter to deliver a check for $17,000, monies the organization raised last semester. "It was very exciting to actually go to Genesis and see where the money we raised will be spent," said Dalya Romaner who serves as HHH co-President with Adam Steinbrecher. "We had a great event during Chanukah and it brought people together for a great cause, it raised awareness of Genesis, and an understanding of how much support for Genesis matters." "We are without words and could not be appreciative," Sarah Taylor, Director of Programs for Genesis Women's Shelter said at the December 12 fundraising dinner. "This gift literally helps us keep the lights on, our doors open, and allows us to provide safety and shelter in a warm community for so many." For battered women and their children, Genesis provides at no cost shelter, safety, counseling, and expert services including a24-Hour Hotline, emergency shelter, transitional housing, counseling, daycare, play therapy for children, an on-site school, case management, parenting classes, legal services, job readiness classes, and domestic violence education. 
Delivering the gift to Genesis' Director of Development, Bianca Jackson, was Dalya '14
and Adam '14 and HHH members is (left to right/front row) Sam Kleinman '14 and Adam Karnett '14, (left to right) Shanee Abouzaglo '14, Ronit Dickter '16, Adina Romaner '16, Risa Mond '16, Raquel Henkin '16, Michelle Friedstadt '14, Austin Jacoby '15, Dalya Romaner '14, Adam Steinbrecher '14, Itai Guttman '14, Jonathan Ochstein '16, Amitai Abouzaglo '16, Ori Guttman '15, David Steinbrecher '16, Hadas Cohen '15, Grant Prengler '15, and David Rudomin '14. (not pictured, Sarah Barnett '14, Gary Levine '14, Miranda Rudomin '16, Osher Saboni '14, Gaby Schultz '16, and Dania Tanur '14)
 Zoe Klein '09 has recently returned from a 10-day service learning trip to Ethiopia with the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC). During Zoe's trip, she and her peers distributed de-worming medication to over 500 children, they visited the sites of multiple JDC projects, and they helped local residents build a school library. The students also had the incredible opportunity to observe Dr. Rick Hodes, Alum Dad, at work. Zoe and friends visited two of Alum Dad, Dr. Rick Hodes, clinics; one in Addis Ababa and one in Gonder (where Yavneh's S4S students have built a schoolroom). "Perhaps one of my most treasured memories, and there are  SO many, was going to Dr. Rick's house for Friday night dinner," said Zoe, a Pre-Med Psychology major and Global Poverty minor at the University of Maryland. "Before we ate, my group and the multitudes of children that Dr. Rick has taken under his wing stood in a circle, held hands, and sang together. Afterwards, the 40 of us ate a yummy Shabbat meal of authentic Ethiopian food and had many memorable conversations." Having returned to Maryland, Zoe and her group are beginning work on multiple campus initiatives to support the JDC.  Jillian Herstein '12 is proud to have been assigned to the Philanthropy Committee of UT's AEPhi chapter. A freshman in the Plan II Honors Program in the College of Liberal Arts, Jillian's first project will support Sharsheret, an organization long supported by Yavneh and its families. "Giving back to the community is the most significant undertaking a group of college women can perform together," said Jillian. "My experiences at Yavneh, including participation in philanthropic events, instilled within me the desire to continue serving others, and I am honored to be a part of this committee." To learn more about the project Jillian is involved with click here.
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The Bulldog Score!!!
Well Wishes & Mazel Tov! Happy Birthday To:
February
24 Donna Miyara & Clara Wohlstadter 26 Sophie Lynn 28 Gary Levine
Mazel Tov To:
Ethan Fisher '16, who (with his brother) is in the cast of the JCC's Titanic.
2/24 * 2 & 7:30pm 2/28 * 7:30pm 3/2 * 8pm
To order tickets, call 214.739.2737 or purchase online at jccdallas.org Kayley Romick '13, a finalist for a Gold Medal from the Scholastic Art and Writing Foundation.
We wish comfort among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem to:
the family of Yavneh Board member and Dallas' Jewish Community devotee, Sheila Chapman z"l.
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The Bulldog Score!!!
Kol Hakavod and many thanks to seniors
Josh Lynn & Max Schnitzer for their commitment to the Boys Varsity Bulldogs.
The young men were celebrated at Tuesday night's
last home game and we wish them well in the future!
 "Slam dunks" to Coaches David Zimmerman on completing his first season at Yavneh, leading the Bulldogs to a 27  and 5 record, and to JV Coach, Zach Pollack for this week's wins taking him to 51 wins in five years! To all of our coaches, our players, and the fans in the stands - Todah Raba!  Congrats to Coaches Chris Walker and Eliza Lavi Hochman '05 and the  Lady Bulldogs for their efforts at the 8th Annual RASGHA Girls' Basketball Shabbaton!!!!
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March of the Living 2013
Yavneh's MOL travelers have partnered with World Wear Project, to provide shoes and clothing for those in need while raising funds for their experience. The collection bin which can accept items   including shoes, clothing, belts, purses, wallets, hats, caps, backpacks, stuffed animals, hard toys and pots and pans is located in the Yavneh parking lot against the back fence.
For more info about Yavneh's MOL tour, visit, www.marchofthelivingdallas.org
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College Cues ~~
Class of '13 University & Israel Program Acceptances
Kol Hakavod to the following students who have received college acceptances and scholarship offers. Updated acceptances are in bold. Seniors, be sure to send notice of your acceptances to info@yavnehdallas.org so that we can share your news!
Rachel Chanon ~ Indiana University, University of Denver, University of Kansas
Sam Coretz ~ Lynn University, SCAD/Savannah College of Art & Design,
St. Edward's University, University of Arizona, University of Tampa
Tamar Cohen ~ Hofstra University, University of Kansas
Lane Engelberg ~Drexel University (Honors College), Rochester Institute of Technology,
Southern Methodist University, University of North Texas,
University of Texas/Dallas, University of Houston
Karen Folz ~Southwestern UniversityQueens University Belfast,
Southern Methodist University (University Honors Program)
Shelby Gadol ~ Indiana University, Tulane University
Hannah Gartner ~ Arizona State University, Indiana University San Francisco State University,University of Central Florida,
University of South Florida
Rachel Goodman ~ Indiana University, New York University, Tulane University, University of Texas (Liberal Arts Honors) Jordan Haberer ~ Austin College, George Mason University, Indiana University, University of Kansas, University of North Texas Kelly Herson ~ University of Georgia, University of Michigan,
University of Wisconsin
Justin Katz ~ Indiana University, Texas A&M, University of Maryland,
University of Massachusetts - Amherst (Commonwealth Honors College)
Katie Lerer ~ Colorado College, University of Denver
Josh Lynn ~ Colorado State University, Southern Methodist University,
University of Denver
Shea Miller ~ Indiana University, Texas A&M, University of Georgia,
University of Maryland, University of Michigan, University of Wisconsin
Clara Moskowitz ~ University of Maryland (College Park Scholars),
University of Miami, University of Michigan, Northeastern University,
Tulane University, Young Judaea YearCourse Yosef Presburger ~ Texas A&M, University of Miami, University of Texas,
University of Texas/Dallas
Bradley Riche ~ University of Massachusetts/Amherst,University of Miami
Kayley Romick ~ Texas A&M, University of Georgia,
University of Texas (Plan II Honors), Vanderbilt University Rachel Rudberg ~ Austin College, Southern Methodist University,
St. Edward's University, Texas Christian University,
University of Denver
Max Schnitzer ~ Indiana University, Tulane University
Elie Schramm ~ University of Maryland (Honors College),
Yeshivat Eretz Hatzvi, Yeshivat Lev HaTorah, Yeshivat Reishit
Rachel Siegel ~ University of Texas (Plan II Honors), Yale University Yael Spirer ~ Indiana University
Mika Stein ~ New York University
Adam Wilensky ~ University of Kansas
Liora Zhrebker ~ Brandeis University, Indiana University
For more information on any of the programs of
Yavneh's Office of College Guidance, email Allyn Schmucker at
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Yearbooks are $85 - order deadline is March 15
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12324 Merit Drive
Dallas, TX 75251
214.295.3500 
Unless otherwise credited, Yavneh Academy's Etone is written, photographed, and produced by
Deb Silverthorn
Director of Communications
Community Liaison
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