Yeshivah of Flatbush Summer Bulletin 2023

BULLETIN

Summer 2023 • ג"פשת ןויס

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Letter from the

am proud to share this Summer Bulletin with you after completing another great year at the Yeshivah of Flatbush. Our students have been enjoying even more creative programming and we have been blessed to spend yet another Yom Ha’atzmaut together as a Flatbush Family.

Our JBHS students continue to be motivated to study and learn on their own, as you will read in a beautiful article about a boys group that has been studying Gemara together. In March, JBHS welcomed a group of 70 students from the Escola Beit Yaacov in Brazil and incorporated learning, chesed and even a sports outing into the students’ three-day visit. The adaptability and good spirit exhibited by students and staff has been helpful and appreciated as we move along at a great pace and aim to complete our JBHS construction project for the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year. We have begun to use our new Multimedia Studio as a place for audio and music recording and video production, as well as music and drama classes. Over the Pesach break, we began upgrades to the Chehebar Building including new HVAC systems, and started building new office space for our administration and other departments. The Main Gym and administrative offices are scheduled for completion this September.

Although the walls stayed intact at the Elementary School, we changed things up a bit with additional programming. For Yom Ha’atzmaut, we created a full day of fun activities for our Middle School students off-campus, where our students enjoyed each other’s camaraderie and worked together during Color War (blue and white teams, of course). Students experienced a meaningful year participating in the Ve’ahavta Chesed Campaign, as they learned about and raised tzedakah for a different organization each month.

Our guidance programs at both the Elementary and High School continue to build up our students’ self-confidence and encourage kindness and middot towards others. The Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary planned a slew of events to engage our children in chesed, offer them creative outlets, and, perhaps most importantly, enjoy family time together during meaningful celebrations.

As you can see, we aspire to Empower, Educate and Inspire our students every single day here at the Yeshivah of Flatbush. There are still many options available if you wish to partner with us for the high school construction campaign. If you would like to become more involved at the school, at any level, please reach out to me at jrothman@flatbush.org and we can work together with you to finish each year even better than the year before.

Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Rothman Executive Vice President

President

Mr. Abe Hanan (ES ’90, HS ’94)

Yeshivah of Flatbush Elementary School

Head of Elementary School

Rabbi Yahel Tsaidi

Principal, Middle School

Rabbi Dr. David Hertzberg

Principal, Middle School, Director of Academic Development

Rabbi Alan Berkowitz

Co-Principal, Middle School

Rabbi Ronn Yaish (HS ’92)

Head of Student Life

Mr. Robert Berkman

Associate Principal, Judaic Studies, Lower School

Mrs. Chani Gratzman

Associate Principal of General Studies, Lower School/Director of Teaching and Learning

Rabbi Dr. David Saltzman

Assistant Principal of General Studies, Lower School

Ms. Marie Angel

Director, Student Services

Dr. Nicole Yossef

Director, Early Childhood

Ms. Debbie Levine Greenbaum

Yeshivah of Flatbush

Joel Braverman High School

Head of School

Rabbi Joseph Beyda

Associate Principal

Ms. Esther Hidary (HS ’94)

Associate Principal

Rabbi Yigal Sklarin

Assistant Principal

Rabbi David Galpert (ES ’05, HS ’09)

Dean of Students

Rabbi Naftali Besser

Rosh Bet Midrash

Rabbi Avi Harari (ES ’99, HS ’03)

Director of Guidance

Dr. Etty Mizrahi (ES ’97, HS ’01)

Director of College Guidance

Ms. Emily Mottahedeh

Principal Emeritus

Rabbi Dr. David Eliach, Z”L

Yeshivah of Flatbush

Executive Office

Executive Vice President

Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Rothman

Director of Annual Giving

Mrs. Vicky Amzalag

Director of Informational and Instructional Technology

Dr. Christine L. Coleman, DPS

Director of Finance

Mrs. Faigie Gelbstein

Director of Operations

Ms. Esther Kizelnik

Director of Marketing and Communications

Ms. Ilana Lax

Director of Capital Campaign

Mrs. Norma Shamah

Yeshivah of Flatbush

Bulletin Staff

Editor-in-Chief

Ms. Michelle Olveira

Editorial Assistants

Ms. Faith Edeson (ES ’04, HS ’08)

Mrs. Michelle Kopylov (ES ’97, HS ‘01)

Photographers

Mrs. Florence Levy (ES '04)

Mrs. Roslyn Solomon

Design

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Northern Hospitality

JBHS welcomes South American Yeshivah students from São Paulo.

welcomed 70 sophomore students from the Escola Beit Yaacov of São Paulo, Brazil the week of March 13th. After several years of planning, the students finally arrived to a warm welcome from students and staff.

JBHS

The Escola Beit Yaacov had been researching yeshivot in America that were similar to its own and reached out to Head of School Rabbi Joseph Beyda, who graciously invited the school to come and tour the campus and spend time with Flatbush students for three days. The Brazilian students were accompanied by Escola Beit Yaacov’s Head of School Gracia Klein, Rabbi Binyamin Karaguilla, Rabbi Toive Weitman, Jewish Studies Director Chani Begun and several faculty members.

“What brings us together is the fact that we are Jews... something so beautiful that we will experience together over the next few days,” said Assistant Principal Rabbi David Galpert.

On the first day of the students’ visit, they were invited into the Khezrie Auditorium with several Flatbush students to watch a slideshow from each school. Freshman Emily Tarrab shared a speech describing “a day in the life” of a Flatbush student, and Gabriel from the Escola Beit Yaacov described his school. The Brazilian school is a trilingual, 1,000-student institution where students speak Portuguese, Hebrew and English. Most of the students possessed a firm mastery of English and were able to speak and mingle with Flatbush students and teachers effortlessly.

Following the assembly, students were dispersed into different classes where they participated in icebreaker activities including rounds of speed-dating-like questions where the students changed seats every few minutes.  Afterwards, both Brazilian and Flatbush students helped prepare food for the Sephardic Bikur Holim food pantry during Cooking for a Cause. Next, students took part in an inspirational program led by Dean of Students Rabbi Naftali Besser before enjoying a beautiful dinner.

The next morning, the group spent a day of chesed in New Jersey at the Special Children’s Center where they got a surprise concert from singer Yaakov Shwekey. The day ended with a New Jersey Devils hockey game where the Brazilian students cheered for the home team alongside Flatbush students.

“Our students expanded their borders by making new friends from a country they previously knew little about. We are already looking forward to growing the program for next year,” expressed Rabbi Beyda. Many of the students exchanged contact information so they could stay connected.

On the third day, the Brazilian students were offered a taste of what learning at Flatbush is like. Small groups of the visiting students were placed in classrooms across the school and participated in discussions. A few Flatbush students who spoke fluent Portuguese were happy to translate some concepts to their guests. In one of the math classes, both sets of students were pleased to find they all could practice the quadratic formula together.

For their final afternoon, Rosh Bet Midrash Rabbi Avi Harari gave a shiur about the weekly parashah. As a meaningful memento, the Brazilian students were presented with their own Kol Yaakov siddur. They were happy to learn that there is an everlasting welcome to return to Flatbush on any future New York City trip they might take.

“What we gained most from this trip was the value of hachnasat orchim (hospitality for guests). We were treated well far beyond our expectations – and we had high expectations!” shared Ms. Begun.

Thank you to Rabbi Beyda, Rabbi Galpert and Student Experience Coordinator Esther Spigel for arranging the program and to YOF Board member Jack Mann for helping to make the initial connection.

Cooking for a Cause is dedicated in honor of Marlene and Steven R. Shamah.

Pre-Pesach trips for Elementary School students lets them experience art in a new way.

Three Pre-Pesach trips led students on Biblical discoveries and introduced them to an Impressionist master. Fifth grade classes and Humanities Plus program 8th grade students were guided through the ancient Egyptian halls of The Metropolitan Museum of Art by Met Museum Educator Elana Kaplan. Humanities Plus students also experienced an immersive Monet exhibit, led by Mrs. Barbara Zelenetz, Chair of Liberal Arts and Humanities Plus Coordinator.

In conjunction with their units on both Sefer Shemot in Chumash and Pesach in Dinim, 5th graders were able to see Sefer Shemot through the lens of ancient Egyptian art. During the tour, they saw a woven basket similar to the one Moshe was placed in on the Nile River, as well as huge statues of Pharaohs that helped them understand how subjugated and weak the Jews felt in Egypt. Students discussed Egyptian art from the perspective of a Jewish slave and were able to connect what they saw with stories of Pesach and Yetziat Mitzrayim. Students also participated in a scavenger hunt to learn more about the Temple of Dendur, sarcophagi, and other Egyptian artifacts.

Eighth grade students explored the culture of ancient Egypt through relics and artifacts. When they saw the enormous sculptures of Hatshepsut and discussed who the Pharaoh was at the time of תאיצי םירצמ — the exodus from Egypt — they began to explore the possibility that Hatshepsut could have actually been the Pharaoh of the Oppression and that Thutmose III was the Pharaoh of the Exodus. They also viewed the boat models from the Tomb of Meketre that showed the importance of the Nile and helped them visualize why םד תכמ (the Plague of Blood) was so devastating. The model of Meketre's granary helped the students understand Yosef’s job responsibilities as they learned how grain was gathered and stored.

The highlight of their visit was seeing the Temple of Dendur, where students experienced what ancient Egypt really looked like. After seeing the sculptures of Sakmet (goddess of the plague) and other carvings of deities, the students had a better understanding of why the people of Israel had to leave Egypt in order to worship Hashem.

In early spring, Humanities Plus students took a trip to see “Claude Monet: The Immersive Experience.” This 360-degree digital art exhibition brought Monet’s gardens to life and introduced the students to the artist’s Impressionist work in Giverny. Inspired by the images surrounding them, many of the students sketched flowers at the exhibit that were then incorporated digitally into the moving pictures across the wall. This feeling of virtual reality enveloped the students in the art and made them feel as if they were part of the installation.

Kickoff Kick off A Proper

Middle School students enjoy a full-day sports program to celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut.

Middle School students may have been split up into teams, but they were a united front celebrating Yom Ha’atzmaut. For the first time, Middle School students spent an entire day celebrating Israel’s 75th birthday, but instead of in classrooms or in the auditorium, they were at a new venue — Socceroof in Sunset Park! Socceroof, an indoor sports facility, served as the perfect spot for Middle School students to compete in about a dozen different Color War activities. Split into the blue team (melachim), and the white team (shoftim), the titles were fitting for this celebratory day, as the students participated in relay races, bubble soccer, regular soccer, dodgeball, European handball, tug-of-war, kickball and flag football.

Despite competing against each other, both teams demonstrated good sportsmanship and camaraderie among their peers. Teams were asked to create a banner that showcased their team spirit and creativity along with an anthem that reflected their team values and goals. “There was so much energy and school spirit! I have been singing the songs we made all week!”, exclaimed 8th grader Michelle Sutton.

“As students wore their team colors, they cheered and supported each other with pure joy and excitement. They felt truly alive and connected to their team, school and Medinat Yisrael,” shared Ms. Dovrat Levi, Associate Director of Student Engagement and High School Advisor.

“All the boys are still doing the stomps in the halls and in class! It left such an impression on us!”, added 8th grader Abigail Siri. At the end of the day, the blue team took home the trophy, but students were happy to be treated to a barbecue dinner together and participated in a kumzitz before they returned home.

“We always believed in our students that they would rise to the occasion and present an amazing Color War, but we witnessed something that surpassed the faculty’s wildest expectations. Everyone had fun, participated and learned a lot. It was a very special day,” shared Rabbi Ikey Tawil, Mashgiach Ruchani.

“The program was a celebration of unity and teamwork. Students came together to show their true colors while leaving behind any differences and embracing the power of togetherness,” Ms. Levi added.

Listeners Dedicated

Inspired Gemara students keep the learning chain going as they continue to meet together from the previous school year through today.

JBHSfaculty member Rabbi Avi Churba inspired students to continue their independent Torah learning from Pesach 2022 through to today.

Back in November, 11th graders who had begun learning Masechet Ta’anit with Rabbi Churba as sophomores the previous year, celebrated a siyum and were featured in a video about their inspirational learning experience. The learning did not stop there — these devoted students, motivated by their teacher, still continue to meet during Monday and Thursday lunch breaks and after school on Tuesdays in the BenHaim Bet Midrash, and on Sundays at Bnei Yitzchak. They even continued meeting during the summer of 2022 in New Jersey to continue their Gemara studies.

Junior Claude Grazi explained that these classes were the first time that he was learning Masechet outside of the classroom. “Seeing the boys’ dedication and consistency was very inspirational to me.”

Junior Shlomie Katash echoed his classmate’s sentiments. “We remained strong, having classes twice a week throughout the summer. Rabbi Churba is our fire and our spirit.”

Over the summer, about a dozen students met with Rabbi Churba every Sunday morning at Beit Yosef in Deal for a

morning filled with prayers, breakfast and learning. But on many Thursday nights, the group met for a full-evening affair in Lakewood where they would have class, visit various community rabbis, and enjoy a beautiful dinner together. Dinners were held at Beth Medrash Govoha, at a local restaurant, or in Rabbi Churba’s home.

“We are so proud of the commitment to Torah learning by this outstanding group of students,” shared Rabbi Joseph Beyda, Head of School. “They pushed themselves and one another to achieve a wonderful milestone in learning – and I know this is just the beginning!”

Junior Ralph Braha offered the idea of starting a learning program for freshman students with Rabbi Churba, since they had more free time to be able to get involved. Rabbi Churba agreed, and a group of about a dozen freshmen (and a few sophomores) eagerly started learning twice a week on their lunch breaks with him as well. “Getting the chance to learn with Rabbi Churba early in their high school years is a nice thing for them to have. I thought it would be a good opportunity for the freshmen that they would take advantage of and appreciate,” explained Ralph.

Freshman Judah Beyda and Rabbi Churba conversed at the beginning of the year about possible Gemara learning opportunities. "Rabbi Churba immediately made time in his busy schedule for us to learn with him twice a week,” said Judah.

“What was most inspiring to me was seeing all of the High School boys balance time for learning with their active social lives and schoolwork. Seeing the same group of students 3-4 times a week builds a sense of camaraderie… we are all close and we are all friends,” shared junior Victor Braca, who created the siyum video for YOF.

Youcanwatchthevideoattinyurl.com/yofmasechetlearning.

NATION Celebrating

An extended Flatbush Family spends a meaningful evening together dedicated to Israel’s 75th birthday.

Nearly 4,000 Flatbush parents, students, staff and community members gathered at the Coney Island Amphitheater on Yom Ha'atzmaut to celebrate their love of Medinat Yisrael. This YOF production, featuring famous singers Mordechai Shapiro and Joey Newcomb, was one of a kind.

“While our community consists of many different backgrounds and traditions, it is on this day that everyone gathers to commemorate, to pray, to celebrate and to show gratitude for the greatest gift Hashem has given us, as one unified people – דחא בלב דחא שיאכ,” shared Elementary Head of School, Rabbi Yahel Tsaidi. The event space was designed to make guests feel transported to Jerusalem. Upon entering the venue, guests came upon “Machane Flatbush,” an Israelistyle shuk, that brought with it the smells and flavors of the Jewish homeland. Popular Israeli snacks and drinks from Holon, ice pops from 32 F, and a

barbecue dinner from Prept by Ray T, were available throughout the night. YOF exclusive concert merchandise was also for sale so attendees could have a memento from the night.

A meaningful Yom HaZikaron program began with a siren that signaled a moment of silence to honor those who lost their lives. After the Elementary School choir, led by Ricky Sasson, performed two beautiful and moving songs, Rabbi Tsaidi addressed and welcomed the crowd. JBHS Head of School Rabbi Joseph Beyda led the huge group in a powerful Tefillah Chagigit with several students who joined him onstage for Hallel. The JBHS choir and chamber choir, led by Mordy Weinstein, rocked the house and warmed up the crowd for special guest Joey Newcomb. Families had a great time singing along to a popular favorite, “Thank You, Hashem.”

Photos: Courtesy of C. Schvarcz Photography

Throughout the evening, kids waved flags, interlocked arms, and held electric candles and thundersticks as they sang together. Next, the famous Mordechai Shapiro had guests dancing nonstop during his epic performance, which included famous hits “B’yachad” and “Ani Yehudi”. The night also included a spectacular light show. As a special surprise, the Flatbush Elementary School Chamber Choir, led by Eric Stern, took the stage to perform with Mordechai Shapiro. The evening ended in true YOF fashion when JBHS Dean of Students Rabbi Naftali Besser joined Mordechai Shapiro on stage for “Hatikvah.” Hearing and watching thousands of Flatbush Family members of Klal Yisrael sing together was a beautiful moment to behold.

"I'm so proud to be a part of a Yeshivah community which demonstrates its support for Medinat Yisrael in such an inspiring way. Love for Israel, achdut, gratitude to Hashem and togetherness pervaded every moment of the program," added Rabbi Beyda.

Special thanks to Special Events Coordinator Hana Hasson and Events Associate Esther Chehova for all of the effort they put in to make sure this spectacular evening was a success.

The Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration is dedicated by the Mamiye Family.

Competitive

SPIRIT

Star-Spangled Students

Early Childhood celebrated American Day during Presidents’ Week. Kindergarten students competed in a round of presidential Jeopardy where they had to know the name of the first president and the type of house in which President Lincoln lived. Students wore red, white and blue, learned about the presidents, country symbols and famous landmarks, and sang popular folk songs.

The Great Escape

Lower School students transformed into robots as part of a Math Escape the Room competition. Each grade was given interactive puzzles and problems designed to help students practice grade-specific math skills and fluency. First graders solved addition problems with sums up to 20, 2nd graders practiced addition and subtraction of two- and three-digit numbers, 3rd graders worked on basic multiplication facts, 4th graders tackled long division with remainders, and 5th graders practiced multiplication and long division algorithms with numbers up to the ten-thousands.

Chidon Hotshots

Kol Hakavod to the more than 60 Middle and High School students who participated in the Chidon HaTanach National Competition. For the 6th grade Middle School Division, Joseph Namer came in 7th place; for 7th and 8th grades, Sylvia Mizrahi came in 6th place, Ralph Beyda came in 13th place, Jed Glaser came in 15th place and Bnaya Ben Hamou came in 17th place. Faculty members Mrs. Naomi Suberi-Busany and Rabbi Avraham Benhamu prepared the students well for this challenging competition.

Yale Tales

This spring, the JBHS Math Team traveled to Yale University to participate in the annual MMATHS competition as one of eight yeshivot in attendance. The students competed in individual and team rounds, and senior Elisha Kahan competed in a lightning final round. The Flatbush team placed second in the team round, and Elisha placed fourth in the individual contest.

Partners Junior

A new initiative for 11th graders helps students feel confident about their college applications.

The College Guidance Department introduced a new college curriculum this past February for juniors that will make them feel more comfortable and less anxious about the college application process. The curriculum is designed by Ms. Emily Mottahedeh, Director of College Guidance, who feels it is necessary to begin the college process earlier in order for students and families to be both better educated and prepared.

Juniors will attend weekly lessons facilitated by the College Guidance Department that focus on the college admissions process, from helping them understand how colleges read applications to teaching them about the CUNY and SUNY systems. Students will be introduced to best practices in college research and will work closely with the college guidance team to brainstorm, develop and draft strong college essays.

The college guidance curriculum is designed to be student-centered and allow students the opportunity to be better prepared for the often anxiety-provoking and

overwhelming college application process that awaits them in their senior year. Together with their experienced college counselors, they are provided a safe space to learn, ask questions and develop an in-depth understanding of the college process. It is also an opportunity for the college counseling team to spend time with the students they work with and build meaningful and trusting relationships.

Each of the ten lessons, written by Ms. Mottahedeh, encompasses student-centered learning and hands-on activities that encourage students to take ownership of their college process. On any given week, students will be taught by a different member of the College Guidance Department, allowing them to not only build relationships with their own designated counselors, but to hear from varying professionals in the field.

Since launching the curriculum, there has been a stark difference in students’ understanding of the changing college landscape and process, and they have built lasting relationships with their college guidance counselors along the way. It is rare to visit the College Guidance Office without spotting eager juniors sitting with their counselors asking questions, choosing elective courses, or discussing various colleges that may be a good fit for them. The energy and positivity in the space is palpable and it is clear that students feel comfortable and supported by the counseling team.

The department hopes that each and every student, regardless of class section, academic performance, professional aspirations or family history, has equal access to a curriculum that educates and empowers them to be partners in building their own futures. Together, counselors, students and families can work together to ensure that students have college options that fit their specific wants and needs.

The JBHS College Guidance Department is dedicated in Memory of Ruth and Ralph Gindi A"H.

Silence THE POWER OF

The Flatbush Family community came together on Yom Hashoah to see Witness Theater: The Sound of Silence. This production was a dramatization of the real-life stories of five Holocaust survivors, as portrayed by 16 YOF students, and was the culmination of nine months of heartfelt partnership between them.

Inspired by the question “what do we do when words fail – when language cannot accurately describe a particular story or feeling?”, this year’s production centered on what we hear and feel when there is silence. The show explored the quietness of peace, indecision, loss, freedom and hope and transitioned between silent pantomime acting and dialogue scenes.

Remember Stories to

Middle School commemorated Yom Hashoah with a moving program. A choir of seventh and eighth grade students sang “Last Night I Had the Strangest Dream,” “Legacy,” and the Sh’ma. Four Middle School teachers lit candles in memory of family members who perished. Students heard from Mrs. Claire Grunfeld, a survivor of the Debrecen ghetto, the Strasshof labor camp, and the Kastner train, who shared her story and described how her belief in Hashem is what kept her alive. As an aside, several Middle School students who worked with Ms. Grunfeld in the Names, Not Numbers© program this year were all inspired by the strength she found in both family and in Hashem.

Lower School’s fourth and fifth grade students participated in a program themed “Remember Me,” a testimony to the resilience of the children who survived the Holocaust. Students were introduced to the poem “A Prayer for Children” by Ina Hughs. They watched a short film about former Israeli Supreme Court Justice Aharon Barak and how his mother hid him in a sack to smuggle him through the ghetto gates in Kovno, Lithuania to a local gentile farmer’s safe haven. After the film, several fifth graders

“Over the last nine months together, we have challenged ourselves to truly be present in the moments where we could not find words — moments that would have been undermined if we had tried to put language to them,” shared JBHS Director of the Arts, Drama Therapist and Witness Theater facilitator/playwright Sally Shatzkes. This was evident onstage as audience members witnessed the respectful relationships that the students and survivors developed during their time together.

TheWitnessTheaterprogramisbeing generouslysupportedthroughTheWilliam S.LevineFamilyShoahInstitute.

Witness Theater was conceived by Irit and Ezra Dagan and developed by JDC-Eshel in Israel. It was brought to New York in 2012 by Selfhelp Community Services, Inc. This year’s Witness Theater Program is a collaboration of Selfhelp, UJA-Federation of New York and Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School. The program also receives generous support from the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany (Claims Conference), Carol and Carl Hess, the Miriam and Arthur Diamond Charitable Trust, and the Robert and Trudy Gottesman Philanthropic Fund

put on a musical presentation. The program included the lighting of six yahrzeit candles to commemorate the six million Jews who perished in the Shoah, followed by YOF faculty member Rabbi Shilo Sharoni’s recitation of the Kel Maleh Rachamim prayer and “Hatikvah.” YOF faculty members Ms. Helen Ender and Ms. Shaindy Finkiel coordinated this impactful program.

Yom Hashoah programming is part of The William S. Levine Family Shoah Institute.

The Names, Not Numbers© ProgramisdedicatedbyDr.LawrenceA"H and Suzanne Fishman Holocaust Education Fund.

Early

Engineers

Middle School’s 6th and 7th grade students participated in myriad activities for ST2EM Day, led by Elementary School STEM Coordinator Danielle Orville. Throughout the day, students had the opportunity to interactively explore various aspects of science, technology, engineering, and math.

Since ST2EM Day corresponded with Lag B’Omer, students reflected on the connection between Lag B’Omer and ST2EM education during a speech by faculty member Rabbi Moshe Zidele. One of the related projects, wood art, taught students about the chemical reaction that allows wood to be burned without a flame. Students also tried their hand at bow and arrow making.

Participants combined engineering, electricity, and art to create unique circuit designs with conductive dough to make a “squishy circuit”. They also put their engineering skills to the test by building towers made with toothpicks and gumdrops. The Science Olympics provided a range of exciting scientific challenges that required individual and group participation. Students explored cause and effect with Rube Goldberg machines and used everyday objects to build complex creations. The Bath Bomb activity introduced

Across the

Grid

During the month of May, many graduating seniors opted to participate in “Learning for Life” courses offered at the high school in conjunction with the Shifra Hanon Pathfinders Department. One of these courses, Spreadsheet Bootcamp, was particularly popular – and practical. JBHS partnered with Tosa, an international organization that offers a universally recognized standard test for measuring spreadsheet skills.

“Spreadsheets are used in every career path as well as on a personal level. Expertise in using a spreadsheet is one of the most useful skills a student can graduate with,” explained JBHS STEM Coordinator Tziri Lamm.

Students used Google Sheets to analyze three years of data from a mock business account to see how spreadsheets can help users make predictions and recommendations. This

young learners to chemistry and the scientific method by experimenting with the chemical reactions behind creating a fizzy reaction. In addition, participants also explored the kashrut behind Boba Tea and then engineered it themselves! Students learned how geometry can also be tasty as they created their own edible stained glass.

CIJE returned this year with Drone Olympics and taught students how to use the program Scratch to code autonomous drones. Finally, the Songwriting/Recording workshop provided an opportunity for participants to showcase their musical talents, learn about music production, and record their own song using a Digital Audio Workstation.

Thank you to the Middle School faculty who came together to make ST2EM day an incredible experience.

The Dr. Albert Montague A”H STEM Institute is dedicated by Julie and Steven Montague.

exercise will be helpful at any internship or real-life job. Thirty students were certified earlier this year after taking a Data Analysis course with Ms. Lamm in the fall semester, and 12 more were recently certified.

Senior David Marcus, who is currently holding an internship at an e-bike rental service company, shared, “This is the single most useful skill that I have learned for my job. I am using it every day.”

All students begin the course with a pretest that establishes a baseline that can be used to track their growth. More than 70% of students began the course as Beginners and nearly 70% of them finished as Productive or Advanced — a jump of 2-3 levels, on average.

REFLECT Time to

Early Childhood students and their parents explored the function, physical properties, beauty, and curiosity of mirrors during the annual PKRE (Parents and Kids Read for Enjoyment) event that occurred over four days in February. In anticipation of the event, children received an invitation along with a pair of complimentary pajamas. Teachers planned ahead for the “Marvels of Mirrors” theme by covering tables and bulletin boards with mirrored sheets and tin foil. However, the theme really came to life when students and their parents arrived for the program and "stepped through the looking-glass" into a lobby installation that was inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Through the Looking-Glass. Students delighted in looking at themselves in concave, convex, and distorted funhouse mirrors. Afterwards, students headed to their classrooms where they engaged in relevant mirror activities including creating patterns and discovering multiple reflections using hinged mirrors, decorating handheld mirrors, using one-axis mirrors to view the unfinished halves of reflection symmetry drawings and using mirrors to make self-portraits. The fun continued as students and parents gathered on the carpet for themed read-alouds that featured mirror-themed children’s books. Teachers shared reading tips and strategies with parents and stressed the importance of reading aloud to their children.

On Thursday, March 23rd, JBHS students and staff participated in the second annual Jack Charles Levy A”H Fitness Day, with the theme of “Food for Fuel.”

To kick off the event, over 70 of Jack’s classmates joined Rabbi Besser, Dean of Students, on Wednesday night for an inspiring shiur to elevate Jack’s neshama. The next day, family and friends of the Levy and Podolsky families joined students and faculty during the morning’s Opening Sessions where they heard various speakers remember Jack and discuss his legacy.

Jack was known for giving encouragement to others who needed it. In the process of discovering that reaching his own health and fitness goals brought him greater confidence, Jack set out to help others recognize their strengths and build upon them. With this year’s focus on Food for Fuel, Mrs. Sandy Zohni, a registered dietician, spoke about fueling our bodies for health. Throughout the day, students participated in fitness sessions including boxing, self-defense, yoga, strength training, cardio, and Zumba, and tried their upper body strength on the Hang Bar Challenge. Students also joined cooking sessions where they made delicious pre and post workout snacks. We thank the incredible team of moms and faculty who organized the event.

Special thanks to Jack’s dear friends who helped plan the event and organize the Wednesday night shiur.

PKRE Reading In Pajamas is dedicated by Terry and Ike Silvera in honor of their daughter Victoria.

PREVAIL

Anew Elementary School anti-bullying campaign was rolled out to kindergarten through 8th grade students in the spring. Children have been engaging in different character-building initiatives to help them further develop the Flatbush Five traits of kindness, honesty, respect, humility, and responsibility. The Student Services Department, directed by Dr. Nicole Yossef, partnered with SAFE to help our students understand the meaning of bullying as well as the possible consequences of being bullied.

Kindergarteners discussed the book “Wrinkled Hearts” by Tracy Hoexter and talked about ways to use kindness to “unwrinkle” someone’s heart. First through fifth grade students watched a slideshow and discussed bullying scenarios with teachers and guidance team members.

Middle School SAFE classes reviewed YOF’s anti-bullying policy and discussed the definitions of bullying, conflict and harassment. They reviewed the four elements of bullying: the behavior must be deliberate or intentional, the behavior must be ongoing, the bullying can be from

CollectiveCounseling

In February, the JBHS Guidance Department and SAFE teams, in collaboration with Project SAFE and CCSA (Communities Confronting Substance Use & Addiction), held a substance use awareness program for sophomores.  The program consisted of a lecture by an educational personal recovery speaker followed by psychoeducational sessions where students learned the risks and effects of substance use.

In May, sophomore girls participated in a wellness program facilitated by SAFE and Guidance, which focused on the balancing of emotional, spiritual, and physical wellness and culminated with an eye-opening educational presentation focused on balanced nutrition by Ms. Ruthie Mosseri, RD.

In March, the juniors participated in a Purple Day program, an initiative led by our very own junior student Purple Day “fellows,” who completed an 8-week training course in collaboration with Shalom Task Force. The goal of Purple

one person or from a group of people, and the behavior would be hurtful. Students were also shown videos that represented different ways a child could be bullied, whether it be physical or verbal, social or in cyberspace.

To connect parents to what their children had learned, the Parent School Partnership Program invited parents to a “Crash Course on Bullying.” Guest speaker Debbie Nehmad from Project SAFE, administrators and guidance team members led discussions on how to help children navigate challenging social situations and build a culture of kindness. Our goal with these initiatives is to help our students develop exceptional character and middot as individuals and as members of our community.

The Elementary School Student Services Department is dedicated by Avital and Jacob Cohen.

The Parent School Partnership Program is dedicated in honor of Esther and Jack A. Hidary

Day was to raise awareness about domestic violence and what constitutes a healthy relationship. Shelly Shaoul, Natalie Sasson, Emma Dayan and Sam Sutton led an assembly for their grade that included a personal and educational story emphasizing hallmarks of healthy relationships and warning signs of unhealthy relationships.

The next day, seniors participated in their own wellness program.  Senior girls learned about the importance of keeping a balanced body image. They heard a powerful personal recovery story, learned warning signs and tips of eating disorders from an expert clinician, and participated in empowering positive affirmations with Sari Dana. Simultaneously, senior boys learned about the risks and dangers of gambling from Mr. Ike Dweck, founder and CEO of The SAFE Foundation.

Best in the

The Shifra Hanon Pathfinders Department at JBHS cultivates experiences inside and outside of the classroom to help students explore who they are, nurture their interests, and develop their professional skills. The main goals of the department are to help students with self-discovery, get them involved in extracurricular activities, explore career options, and develop professional skills.

One of the ways students learn about real-world career experience is through the Curated Speaker Series. Speakers this year include:

• Jill Gindi: Ms. Gindi is a Fashion Sales Director at BlankNYC, who manages and oversees company sales. She spoke about the various fields within fashion, including designing, merchandising, buying, selling, planning and marketing.

• Rina Cohen: Ms. Cohen is a Senior Planning Executive at UJA. She explained the planning of one of UJA’s Ukraine Relief initiatives and encouraged students to create their own plans for combating the teen mental health crisis.

• Dr. Richard Waxman: Dr. Waxman is head of the Cognitive Neuropsychology Lab at Teachers College Columbia University. He discussed his lab’s research on Alzheimers and schizophrenia.

• Sol Werdiger: Mr. Werdiger is the founder and CEO of Outerstuff as well as Board Chairman of Agudath. He shared his stories and insights about his work and about being a Jewish community leader.

• Ezra Ashkenazi: Mr. Ashkenazi is the President and CEO of SDI Technologies. He addressed the importance of professionalism, personal branding, and incorporating Jewish values into business.

• Sophia Chabbott: Ms. Chabbott is the founder of Testament Beauty. She described working in the fashion industry and how she started her own company.

• Medical Panel: Dr. Monique Hanono, Dr. Jeffery Althoz, and Lenora Dagmy all spoke about their journey into the medical field.

• Real Estate Panel: Eric Setton, Marc Saadia, and Carolina Aziz work in three different roles at three different companies. They offered advice about different job opportunities and the importance of networking.

• Louis Shamie: Mr. Shamie is an investor in Zimmer Partners, a hedge fund. He explained how to succeed in investing and in life.

• Maya Abitbol: Ms. Abitbol is a Senior VP of Sales and Hedge Fund Practice Leaders AT WHERE. She discussed the importance of networking, negotiating, and empowering yourself at work.

• Judah Cohen: Dr. Cohen is a climatologist who is the Director of Seasonal Forecasting at AER (Atmospheric and Environmental Research). He described his research on the impacts of snow cover and sea ice variability on winter climates.

• Kim Kushner: Ms. Kushner is a culinary educator and bestselling author of four cookbooks. She talked about her passion working in the culinary industry.

• Athalie Alexander-Arrington: Ms. Alexander-Arrington is the Associate Director of Admissions at St. George’s University of Medicine. She spoke about different tracks in the medical field and how to prepare for medical school.

• Gaston Kroub: Mr. Kroub is a YOF faculty member and lawyer. Students watched clips of a Supreme Court argument on a trademark case.

• Shelly Schmool: Ms. Schmool is a photographer at ByShelly photography. She discussed the creative process behind photo shoots and stressed how every setback can be an opportunity to grow your business.

• Joseph Hedaya: Mr. Hedaya is a businessman with experience in wholesale, e-commerce, and real estate. He discussed tools and tips to accumulate small savings over time that can lead to a big payout later on.

The Shifra Hanon Pathfinders Curated Speaker Series is dedicated by Triangle Capital Group.

Students hear from professionals to gain insight into different career paths.

Gifts

The Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary held a fun and meaningful event every month of 2023.

The Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary planned a multitude of well-loved events for students and parents. Here is a roundup of almost all of the great activities, led by Ladies Auxiliary Co-Presidents Esther Mishan and Sarah Chalouh, with the help of dozens of parents.

January

Fathers and father figures volunteered at the Elementary School lunchroom on January 2nd for Dads Do Lunch to hand out lunch and sell snacks to Lower and Middle School students. With strong teamwork, they provided all the children with their delicious meals. They said Birkat Hamazon with the children before the students went back to class.

February

Students participated in a delicious medley of activities at the annual Tu B’Shvat Fair. The brightly decorated room had multiple bicycles that students needed to pedal in order to blend the ingredients to make smoothies. Other children created their own fruit kebabs and made their way around the “Beracha Bar,” testing all of the different dried fruits that were on display while checking off cards making sure to hit each and every beracha. After completing the berachot, students redeemed their cards in exchange for a fruit-themed keychain.

Early Childhood students dug for vegetables in sensory bins, chopped fruit with safety knives and decorated a mini tree. The event was spearheaded by parent Robin Rahmey.

Creative Corner, a new event spearheaded by Ms. Marlene Stern and Ms. Limor Madeb, gave students the opportunity to get their creative juices flowing by partaking in various art projects including Build-a-Bear, Legos, Model Magic, bracelet beading and accessory decorating.

March

More than 25 vendors came to the Elementary School for a Purim Pop-Up event to sell mishloach manot and other Purim-related products. Fourth graders determinedly packaged and sold mishloach manot as a chesed initiative, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Michael Kameo Foundation. The day also featured a costume “mommy and me” class with Ms. Racquel Sutton, a meaningful shiur led by Middle School Mashgiach Ruchani Rabbi Ikey Tawil highlighting the greatness of Malkat Esther, and cooking

demonstrations by Ms. Sarah Hanan, Ms. Julie Ebani, Ms. Lauren Bibi and Ms. Marjorie Eida.

Later in March, the annual Haircuts for Chesed event turned the multi-purpose room into a full beauty salon. Over 30 girls, as well as several of the girls’ mothers, donated their hair to help make wigs for cancer patients at Zichron Menachem in Israel. Head of Elementary School Rabbi Yahel Tsaidi and faculty member Mrs. Rachelle Tawil addressed the Middle School girls with heartfelt messages about chesed and sacrifice. It was truly inspiring to see the willingness of those who participated in this tremendous mitzvah.

April

First grade students participated in a special challah bake to benefit Sephardic Bikur Cholim (SBH), coordinated by the Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary Heart of Gold Committee. SBH representative Julie Cohen spoke to the children about the meaning of chesed. Ms. Aliza Salem, mother of first grade student Mia, shared her baking tips and explained the steps of baking challah. The mitzvot and berachot were made for the refuah shelemah of Chaya Sara bat Simcha and Rut Frieda bat Debbie

May

The Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary Annual Edith Wachsman Memorial Bake Sale and Chinese Auction was held at the beautiful home of Adele and Louis Shamie. Speakers included JBHS Dean of Students Rabbi Naftali Besser, Testament Beauty’s Sophia Chabbott, parenting coach Tammy Sassoon and JBHS Associate Principal Esther Hidary. The Flatbush Family enjoyed a tea-themed afternoon complete with a delicious lunch, incredible baked goods, portraits by photographer Shelly Schmool, and coffee from Crawford’s.

ALUMNI: Sarah (Shamah) Chalouh (ES '01, HS '05) • Marjorie (Dweck) Eida (ES '98 HS '02)

Keren (Pardes) Kameo (ES ‘06, HS ‘10) • Esther (Hanon) Mishan (ES '01, HS '05)

Stephanie (Sutton) Mosseri (HS '96) • Robin (Chalme) Rahmey (ES ‘07, HS ‘11) Adele (Greenberg) Shamie (ES ‘02, HS ‘06) • Louis Shamie (HS ‘02) Marlene (Levy) Stern (ES ‘99, HS ‘03)

Double

Time

Both 6th and 7th Grade boys basketball teams win championships.

For the second straight year, the Boys 7th Grade Basketball team captured the Metropolitan Jewish Day School Basketball Championship, defeating HALB, 42-34. The Flatbush Falcons jumped out to an early lead and never trailed, using a balanced attack and relentless defense to take the victory.

“Our game plan was to do what we have been doing all year — focus on being the best we could be defensively. Proud of our guys for how hard they go in practice. I think that fueled us to get off to a good start tonight,” shared Coach Abie Rosow.

Joe Barnathan led the team with 16 points, Jacob Bucobza added 14, Jacob Levy 5, Joseph Feldman 4 and Ray Betesh 3.

“We relied on our defense and our poise to hold the lead,” continued Coach Rosow. “We didn’t get rattled when things didn’t go our way. Staying composed and ‘next play’ mentality has been stressed all year”.

When asked about the team’s focus on winning the championship from day one, Coach Rosow concluded, “What we talk about with the team is the journey and the process and doing things the right way day in and day out – the results will take care of itself.”

But the 7th graders weren’t alone in their drive for a championship win. The 6th Grade Boys Basketball Team defeated YHT, 65-60, in overtime, before a packed crowd at North Shore High School.

Morris Ashear powered the Falcons with a game high 26 points but did not do it alone.

Elliot Azar’s three-point basket at the start of overtime gave Flatbush the lead and they did not relinquish it. “It was definitely our toughest and most challenging game of the season,” said winning Coach Gus Kennedy. “All of our guys played with so much heart and resiliency. They refused to lose, especially to a well-coached and talented team like YHT.”

Flatbush lost only one game all season and the Falcons’ fans and supporters surrounded the team in celebration when the buzzer sounded.

“I’m so proud of our team and of the commitment they and their parents made to earn a championship. For many of them, it’s the first team they’ve ever played on so now they understand what it takes to be successful,” added Coach Kennedy.

A Year High Gear in

JBHS tennis and volleyball teams show their talents.

When Danielle Tawil and Dave Suskin were hired this year to coach girls and boys varsity tennis, respectively, they probably didn’t know the level of talent they were inheriting. But even if you get the keys to a luxury car, you still have to drive it correctly.

They have done just that. Coach Danielle’s team has roared through the regular season of the Yeshiva League, winning all six matches convincingly and setting themselves up as the #1 seed in the Eastern half of the league. Dave’s team is 4-0 and with two matches to go at press time, can equal that performance by closing out the regular season.

“The girls have been terrific,” said Coach Danielle, who also teaches at Flatbush. “I’d like to think that we’ve helped them get better, even by a little bit, but Arielle (Kamin, assistant coach) and I understood we started with a good bunch. The energy and excitement they brought to the court match after match wais unparalleled.”

“I’ve been really impressed with the way the team has competed so far,” said Suskin. “The performances from our returning players and energy from the younger ones have been excellent, with the full depth of the team on display.”

“Both coaches have done exceptional jobs,” said Barry Neuberger, Director of Athletics. “It’s not easy understanding the talent you have and still helping them improve, but they’ve done it exactly right.’

When a flood destroyed the Laniado Gym floor in December, it wiped out any opportunity for Boys Varsity Volleyball tryouts, practices and home matches. An arrangement with Kingsborough Community College gave the Falcons a home nest, temporarily, the team was coming home.

“We are grateful for our friends at Kingsborough who’ve helped us when we faced a dire situation”, said Mr. Neuberger. “Everybody has been motivating each other,” explained Coach Charles Harary. “Their competitive spirit has been creating a culture of positivity despite not having a home court.”

“Because we were together so often for practice and tryouts, it showed the commitment of the players on the team and strengthened our bond,” said senior Eli Mizrahi.

Senior Ezra Kababieh added, “Although not having a home gym was a disadvantage, it actually helped us succeed in a different way. The brotherhood we formed with one another through all we’ve experienced made us stronger.”

of Giving Tzedakah The Satisfaction

Students learn the power of chesed by seeing firsthand how their donations help the Jewish community.

The Elementary School Ve'ahavta Chesed Campaign has featured a different chesed organization every month since September. Throughout the year, the campaign continued to be a truly immersive and allencompassing experience for the students. At the end of each month, students were asked to bring in their tzedakah pouches and drop their donations into a large tzedakah box. Donations were sent to each organization. Here is a summary of the latest campaign programs.

Chodesh Sh’vat

Bet Elazraki in Israel is home to more than 200 children in need of a safe and nurturing place to live. Lower and Middle School sent a list of questions to the children, and in return, each class received a video from the child that answered their questions. Personalized quilts were designed for each child based on their video. Students’ designs were then scanned onto quilts that will be sent to Bet Elazraki.

Chodesh Adar

Pantry Packers helps feed people in Israel who face nutrition insecurity. Volunteers deliver packages of non-perishable household food items to families, and deliver ready-to-eat meals to seniors at home. When Pantry Packers visited YOF, students participated in various packaging activities. Early Childhood students made beautiful placemats. This chesed program raised awareness about food insecurity in Israel and encouraged students and family members to make a positive impact in helping others in need.

Chodesh Nissan

Helen Keller Services for the Blind is an organization that helps indiviuals who suffer from vision loss develop independence. Professional instructors gave sensitivity training to YOF students and showed them how the organization trains visually impaired clients to use technology to help manage their daily lives.

Chodesh Iyar

Todah L’Tzahal (Thank Israeli Soldiers) empowers, embraces, and educates current IDF soldiers and also assists their transition back into civilian life after completing their service. Students wrote thank you cards and letters to express their appreciation to the soldiers for their commitment and sacrifice for all of Am Yisrael. Additionally, YOF extended the theme of hakarat hatov by selling gratitude grams that allowed students to thank family members, teachers, and friends for their invaluable roles. Funds raised were used to organize a pizza party in Israel for the IDF soldiers. Soldiers received the students’ notes and watched a video from YOF showing the Flatbush Family’s gratitude. Early Childhood students made signs for the party. The event was documented through photographs, recordings, and interviews with the soldiers to demonstrate the meaningful and impactful nature of a sincere and simple gesture of thanks.

Chodesh Sivan

Chai Lifeline’s mission is to help fulfill the social, emotional, and everyday needs of families impacted by illness, trauma, or loss through creative programming and practical assistance. Lower School prepared care packages to be delivered to children in need. Middle School held an auction to benefit Chai Lifeline, run by students and for students, coordinated by Ms. Dovrat Levi, Associate Director of Student Engagement.

The Elementary School Ve'ahavta Chesed Program is dedicated by The Douek Family Foundation.

JBHS Students

Mission on a

19th Annual Chesed Mission to Israel returns for the first time since 2020.

Over winter break, 60 JBHS students and faculty members embarked on the 19th Annual Chesed Mission to Israel after a two-year, pandemic-related hiatus. Upon landing in Jerusalem, the group prayed at the Kotel, many for the first time. The rest of their trip was spent doing good for others, building awareness of the less fortunate, and spending quality time with children and adults alike who needed someone to talk to.

At Meshi, Afikim, Shalva, Adi (Aleh), Hakshiva (founded by alumna Adi Kahn), Keren Or and Bet Elazraki, the students celebrated Tu B’Shvat by decorating planters, planting flowers, playing basketball and holding dance parties with disabled, mentally challenged, visually impaired and special needs children. Two of the children at Afikim received a year of services dedicated by the class of 2021 in memory of Lisa Didia A”H.

Students purchased handmade art and met with the artists at Yad LaKashish, a workshop for the elderly, and at Susan’s House, a space that employs teenagers facing various challenges. They delivered gifts to sick children at Hadassah Hospital, visited with heart surgery patients at Save a Child’s Heart and packaged food at Pantry Packers for elderly Ethiopian Jews.

To show their solidarity with IDF soldiers, they distributed gifts at several army bases, and spent a solemn visit to Har Herzl. The Chesed Mission also hosted a breakfast for lone IDF soldiers at the Michael Levin A”H Base.

Students spent the rest of their time visiting The Blind Museum in Holon, shopping at Machane Yehuda Shuk, and taking a Jeep tour of Gush Etzion with counterterrorist Steve Gar. On the tour, they passed through Derech Avot, where they stopped at an ancient mikveh and saw the memorial for Ari Fuld A”H and the three soldiers who were kidnapped in 2014.

They spent a beautiful Shabbat in Jerusalem before heading back home from a trip they will remember for a lifetime.

This year’s Chesed Mission is dedicated in memory of Mr. Raymond Mosseri A”H. ה״ע לזמ ןב םימחר, a man of consistency with his religion, family, and charity, by his children and grandchildren.

AROUND TOWN

Flatbush Highlights

Giving 100%

Kindergarten classes celebrated the 100th Day of school on March 9th. Students participated in 100-themed activities and writing prompts. They created cereal necklaces, stacked cup towers, connected chain links, and decorated paper hats with 100 design elements. Morah Ninette’s K134/136 students took a trip into the future to see how they would look at 100 years old.

Poetic Pop-Ins

In celebration of National Poetry Month, Lower School students enjoyed a visit from a Pop-in-Poet. Faculty and staff members visited classrooms to expose students to the genre of poetry. Students listened to the poems, discussed the unique style of poetry, and explored the messages conveyed in the poems.

Culmination Jubilation

Sixth grade girls and their mothers celebrated their Bat Mitzvah together with a delicious dinner and lively dancing. The theme was Day 6 of Creation: Man and Animals. The girls learned a few Torah sources together with their mothers and discussed what it means to be created “םיקולא םלצב”. The students then introduced a slideshow which showed pictures of the five Bat Mitzvah events that led up to this special night. At the end of the night, each student was presented with a beautiful keriyat shemah al hamittah. The Bat Mitzvah program was coordinated by Ms. Evelyn Benhamu, Ms. Naomi Hamui and Ms. Rachelle Tawil.

7th grade boys and their fathers celebrated their Bar Mitzvah together with a beautiful morning of tefillah, breakfast, and learning in honor of this milestone. The Bar Mitzvah program is coordinated by Rabbi Avraham Benhamu. Mazal Tov and Mabrook!

Playing with Patterns

Ms. Michal Schulman’s Fashion & Design class visited the Textile Art Center where the students learned about indigo, a mysterious dye that has been documented since the 4th century B.C.E. After understanding the history and science behind the indigo dyeing process, the students experimented with several shibori techniques to create patterns on the cloth samples.

Flatbush Family Fun

Flatbush Family gathered together for the first ever Purim day celebration! The morning began with Middle and High School students reading Shacharit and Megilat Esther. Lower School students exchanged mishloach manot and enjoyed a carnival complete with a magic show, live music and face painting. YOF guests enjoyed a mesibat Purim and had the opportunity to give matanot l’evyonim.

Something Fishy

In early May, 60 students set sail out into Peconic Bay aboard the Fin Chaser with JBHS faculty members Rabbi Charles Safdieh and Ms. Annie Savdie. This dedicated group of fishermen and women left at 4:30 AM to head out to Greenport, Long Island but it was certainly not for naught—the group caught more than 800 porgies! Many of the students brought their catch of the day home to their families for dinner. The trip was coordinated by Rabbi Joseph Mizrachi.

4:4

YOF hosted the FIRST Lego League Explore Expo in April. Four YOF Elementary School teams competed against four other schools in coding, creativity, perseverance, and design skills. All four of our teams won awards — two teams won for coding skills, and two teams received awards for design skills and perseverance. The students all learned valuable information about energy and how it is used in our daily lives. The Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary helped make this event possible, along with several coaches, mentors, and volunteers.

The Dr. Albert Montague A”H STEM Institute is dedicated by Julie and Steven Montague.

Welcome

Back!

The Class of 1973 celebrates its 50th Reunion.

Thank you to the more than 75 alumni and friends who attended the 50th Reunion of the Class of 1973 in April. The reunion provides alumni with a wonderful opportunity to revisit the Yeshivah and relive the memories that were formed at Flatbush. The reunion committee worked tirelessly to create an unforgettable day and Flatbush thanks them for their dedication to the Yeshivah:  Leon Bijou, Ellen Geller Kamaras, Kim Leviton-Kramer, Reena Levine Seltzer, Lisa Steinberg Snow, and Sandy Wohlstadter. Special thanks to our guest speakers, Executive Vice President Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Rothman and YOF Past President Jack Rahmey.

While coming to a reunion is a great time to reconnect with old friends and classmates, it is also an opportunity to experience the Yeshivah today. Classmate Jack Rahmey gave the reunion guests a tour of the newly renovated High School building. Mr. Rahmey was instrumental in the planning and implementation of the “Blueprint for Excellence” capital campaign. Everyone enjoyed seeing the recent advancements that were made and how YOF has transformed over the years. At Yeshivah of Flatbush, we are always innovating and building for our future community leaders.

“One of the joys of a reunion is that we get to spend time with the same people we knew when we were young. Our reunion felt like a lot of good friends coming together and seeing who we have become as adults and sharing notes on what has taken place over the years.”

— Leon Bijou

After more than five decades of service, Dr. Joel Wolowelsky (HS '63) is retiring from the Yeshivah of Flatbush in June to make Aliyah. During his tenure, Dr. Wolowelsky made extraordinary contributions in leadership, scholarship, programming and student advisement. Generations of students have directly and indirectly benefited from Dr. Wolowelsky’s insight, commitment and care. We wish him luck and appreciate all of his years of dedicated service to the Yeshivah of Flatbush. He graduated from JBHS in 1963.

If you would like to submit a note of appreciation to Dr. Wolowelsky, please visit tinyurl.com/drwolowelsky by June 20, 2023 and it will be included in a book the school is creating for him.

Classes of 1998 and 2013 please be on the lookout for information on your reunion in Fall 2023! We look forward to welcoming you home and seeing you soon!

MAZEL TOV TO DR. JOEL WOLOWELSKY ON HIS RETIREMENT!

COLOR YOFof The Many

The YOF Annual Auction catered to a huge turnout of YOF supporters — in full color.

On Saturday night, January 14th, over 1,000 Flatbush Family members gathered together at Industry City for the YOF Annual Auction: Flatbush in Full Color. The theme signified that YOF students begin their time at Flatbush with an open canvas. Their experiences here Empower, Educate and Inspire them to fill their canvas with a menagerie of glorious colors.

On the evening of the auction, guests were greeted by a larger-than-life video of Abe Haddad, Auction Chair. As they made their way up the stairs, they became immersed in colors that were added to the blank canvas of the Industry City space. Attendees enjoyed walking through the art gallery-style presentation of prizes. Performances by YOF students who are part of the Elementary School Chamber Choir led by Eric Stern, the Elementary School Choir led by Ricky Sasson, and JBHS Chamber Choir vocalists conducted by Janet Pichotto, opened the evening. The performances were made all the more special with the stunning backdrop of the New York skyline. As adults enjoyed mingling and catching up over the numerous food and drink options, students were

having even more fun at the ice-skating rink, which also provided a kaleidoscope of colors. Despite the chilly winter temperatures, our youngest guests skated the night away. After a few spins on the ice, guests headed indoors where they warmed up with hot chocolate and freshly baked cookies. The evening then proceeded towards the moment everyone was waiting for–the auction drawing! As YOF President Abe Hanan, former YOF President Abie Hidary, and Abe Haddad announced the winners, they reminded everyone that being part of the Flatbush Family makes us all winners.

Scholarship Dinner Annual 2023

The 2023 Annual Scholarship Dinner, held on Thursday, May 4th, was graciously hosted by Marjorie and Isaac Gindi. The evening’s discussion honed in on the accomplishments of the JBHS building over the past decade and explained the importance of laying the groundwork for the future. The evening was complete with inspiring speakers, delicious food, and an all-encompassing appreciation for the Yeshivah and its generous supporters.

Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari, former JBHS Head of School and current faculty member, honored Joe and Trina Cayre and thanked them for the tremendous impact they have made on the Flatbush community. YOF alumnus Jacob Mosseri shared his personal Flatbush experience, and highlighted the support and encouragement he received from his teachers and rabbis that enhanced his love and appreciation of Torah and mitzvot.

YOF recognizes its generous Annual Donors and wants to express its deepest gratitude. A donation to the Annual Campaign directly supports the YOF Scholarship Fund which provides over $11,700,000 each year in tuition assistance. This year, the money is helping 711 students, representing 393 families.

Your continued commitment allows YOF to fulfill its mission to Empower, Educate, and Inspire its students. To echo YOF President Abe Hanan, “With your support for our Blueprint for Excellence campaign and everlasting commitment to the Yeshivah, we will continue to be able to provide what is best for all of our children and for future generations.”

To make a donation to the YOF Scholarship Fund, please contact Mrs. Victoria Amzalag, Director of Annual Giving, at vamazalag@flatbush.org or visit www.flatbush.org/donate.

Corporate Sponsors Thank You to Our

Scholar Sponsor Diamond Sponsors Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Annually Named Programs

We are pleased to continue with our donor recognition program that acknowledges the important role of our major donors in advancing the YOF mission.

The Annual Naming Program for ANNUAL DONORS of $26,000 and above with multi-year commitments is filled with many exciting and robust offerings. The donors below have made annual gifts and dedicated the following programs:

PILLARS ($72,000)

THE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENT SERVICES

DEPARTMENT

Dedicated by The Jay and Avital Cohen Foundation

CHAMPIONS ($50,000+)

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEFILLAH PROGRAM

Dedicated in Memory of Ralph J. Harary A”H

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

VE’AHAVTA CHESED PROGRAM

Dedicated by The Douek Family Foundation

JBHS BOYS & GIRLS

VARSITY BASKETBALL TEAMS

Dedicated by the Oved Family

JBHS COLLEGE GUIDANCE DEPARTMENT

Dedicated in Memory of Ruth and Ralph Gindi A”H

JBHS HISTORY DEPARTMENT

Dedicated by the Bailey, Jerome and Horovits Families

YOM HA’ATZMAUT CELEBRATION

Dedicated by the Mamiye Family

SCHOLARS (36,000+)

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

Dedicated in Honor of Natalie and Eli Greenberg by Adele and Louis Shamie

FLATBUSH FAMILY SHABBATON

Dedicated by Haddad Brands Family Foundation

JBHS EVENING OF THE ARTS

Dedicated by Trina and Joe Cayre and Family

THE SHIFRA HANON PATHFINDERS DEPARTMENT

CURATED SPEAKER SERIES

Dedicated by Triangle Capital Group

AMBASSADORS ($26,000+)

COOKING FOR A CAUSE

Dedicated in Honor of Marlene and Steven R. Shamah

ARCHON SERVICE SOCIETY ASSEMBLY

NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTION CEREMONY

Dedicated by the Hanan Family

EARLY CHILDHOOD PKRE READING IN PAJAMAS

Dedicated by Terry and Isaac Silvera

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEFILLAH DAY

Dedicated by the Maggie and Elliot Betesh Fund

GRANDPARENTS’ DAY

Dedicated by Sharon and Michael Haddad & Nelly and David Haddad

KINDERGARTEN SCIENCE FAIR

Dedicated by Leah and Alexander Reyngold

*NAMES, NOT NUMBERS©

Dedicated by Dr. Lawrence A”H (ES ‘47) and Suzanne Fishman Holocaust Education Fund

PARENT SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP

Dedicated in honor of Esther & Jack A. Hidary

PEGASUS LITERATURE & ART MAGAZINE

Dedicated by Laura & Joe R. Tawil

* Names, Not Numbers© is part of The William S. Levine Family Shoah Institute

Annual Donors

We would like to recognize the generous contribution made by our Annual Donors to our Yeshivah.

BENEFACTORS ($100,000+)

The Jay and Avital Cohen Foundation

Claudia and Avi Houllou

Debbie and Jack Saadia

Adele and Louis Shamie

Shayne and Eli Zami

PILLARS ($72,000+)

Harary, Beyda, and Sassoon Family

CHAMPIONS ($50,000+)

The Bailey, Jerome and Horovits Families

Jody and Zvi BenHaim

Century 21 Associates Foundation Inc.

Douek Family Foundation

Ralph S. Gindi Foundation

Haddad Brands Family Foundation

The Mamiye Foundation / Marlene and Hymie Mamiye

The Oved Family

SCHOLARS (36,000+)

Joe and Trina Cayre Foundation

Alice and Stevie Goldman

Morris Hanan and Sons

Tammi and Solomon Mosseri

Leah and Alexander Reyngold

Robyn and Seymour Sammell

Helene and Alan Shamah & Sally and Joey Shamah

Terry and Ike Silvera

Triangle Capital Group

AMBASSADORS ($26,000+)

Lillian and Joey M. Allaham

Elliot & Raymond Betesh & Family

Maggie and Elliot Betesh Fund

Lisa and Lee Cohen

Sharon and Michael Haddad & Nellie and David Haddad

HIS International

Dr. Isaac Madeb

Marlene and Steven R. Shamah & Family

Betty and Joseph Sitt

Morgan and Abraham Sultan

Rachel and Morris Tabush

Laura and Joe R. Tawil

LEADERS ($18,000+)

Reneé and Steven Adelsberg

Victoria and Jack Aini

Terri and Jojo A. Chehebar

Lori and Harold Dweck

Marcy and Steven Feldman and Family

Frieda and Joseph Franco

Raquel and Joe A. Franco

Lillian and Eli Haddad

Michelle and Victor Hakim

Diana and Joseph Hedaya

Hidrock Properties

Limor and Dr. Ralph Madeb

Nicole and Darren Oved

The Joseph Safra Foundation

Deborah and Jack Setton

SDI Technologies / IHome

Jamie and Mickey Shamah & Sons

Freda and Alberto Smeke

Raquel and Raymond Srour

Alberto & Elliot Sutton & Families

Alison and Richard Sutton

The Stern and Blond Family

Nathalie and Mitchell Vilinsky

PATRONS ($10,000+)

Odette and Nathan Accad

Alice and Harry Adjmi

Gladys and Richard Adjmi

Vicky and Abe M. Anteby

Racquel and Bobby Ashkenazi

Amy and Joseph Betesh

Elizabeth and Steven Betesh

Chalmé Family - Elliot R. Chalmé Foundation

Gail and Jojo Chehebar

I. Chera & Sons Foundation

Adelle and Ralph Dweck

Ruby and Steven Dweck

Franco Foundation

Rachel and Richard Franco

Sarah and Jack Franco

Celia and Jason Hoffman

Jack A. Kassin and Family

Adele and Dr. David Khaski

The Laboz Family

Erika and Ruvin Levavi

Rachel and Ricky Novick

Charles and Brenda Saka Family Foundation

Ami and Ralph J. Sasson

Amy and Steven Sasson

Juliette and Eddie Setton

Elaine and Nathan Shalom

Victoria and Hymie Shamah

Louis and Lorraine Shamie Philanthropic Fund

Bella and Toby Souleiman

Gail and Saul Tawil

Jeanne and Ralph Zirdok

The best way to ensure our Yeshivah’s future is to take care of our future generations. We would like to thank our legacy gift donors for partnering with us.

VALEDICTORIANS ($6,000,000+)

William S. Levine Family

The William S. Levine Family Shoah Institute

THE MINYAN ($1,000,000+)

Anonymous

FOUNDERS ($500,000+)

The Hanon Family

The Shifra Hanon Pathfinders Department

Avi Houllou

The Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary

Julie and Steven Montague

Dr. Albert Montague A”H STEM Institute

BUILDERS ($250,000+)

Stephanie and Jack Mosseri

Adele and Louis J. Shamie

BENEFACTORS ($100,000+)

Joe and Trina Cayre Foundation

Dr. Ira H. Gewolb A”H

Renee and Albert Laboz

Marlene and Hymie Mamiye

The Wichs Family

PILLARS ($72,000+)

Renée and Steven Adelsberg

Morris Hanan and Sons

Oved Family

Terry and Ike Silvera

Helene and Alan Shamah and Family

CHAMPIONS ($50,000+)

Anonymous

Blumenthal Family

Gail and Josef Chehebar

The Jay and Avital Cohen Foundation

Claire and Robert Frastai

Marjorie and Jack J. Gindi

Hidrock Properties

Rachel and Albert Pardo

Sarah Shamah Foundation

Susan and Sam Shamie

Beatrice and Jeffrey Sutton

Triangle Capital Group

Nathalie and Mitchell Vilinsky

SCHOLARS ($36,000+)

Lisa and Lee Cohen

Haddad Brands Family Foundation

Lisa and Joseph Jemal

Ronit and Hagai Laniado