Yeshivah of Flatbush 2024 Summer Bulletin

BULLETIN

President

Mr. Abe Hanan (ES ’90, HS ’94)

Yeshivah of Flatbush

Houllou Elementary School

Head of Elementary School

Rabbi Yahel Tsaidi

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 High School

Rabbi Joseph Beyda

Associate Principal,

Director of Teaching and Learning

Ms. Esther Hidary (HS ’94)

Associate Principal,

Director of Student Advancement

Rabbi Yigal Sklarin

Associate Principal, Director of Student Life

Dr. Michael Atlas

Assistant Principal, Director of Student Experience

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 Admissions

Ms. Sally Hamway

Director of Guidance

Dr. Etty Mizrahi (ES ’97, HS ’01)

Director of College Guidance

Ms. Emily Mottahedeh

Yeshivah of Flatbush

Executive Office

Executive Vice President

Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Rothman

Chief Financial Officer

Ms. Aliyah Kozirovsky-Ratsen

Director of Development

Mrs. Vicky Amzalag

Director of Information Technology

Mr. Joe Cruz

Director of Finance

Mrs. Faigie Gelbstein

Director, William S. Levine Family

Shoah Institute

Rabbi Dr. David Hertzberg

Director of Operations

Ms. Esther Kizelnik

Director of Admissions

Ms. Sonia Shacalo

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

Bottom Line Marketing Group

Yeshivah of Flatbush

Houllou Elementary School

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EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT Letter from the

ith the school year wrapping up, I find myself reflecting through a multifaceted scope; a heavy heart for all that we as a Jewish nation have endured since October 7th, and also immense pride and awe for how we as a YOF family have banded together to offer support to our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisrael - an experience that is certainly shaping our students in unimaginable ways.

With four Achdut Missions to Israel, as well as our annual Chesed Mission, the Yeshivah has cultivated an environment to inspire our students to learn and explore while honoring our devotion to Israel. Our connection to and love of Israel also means that it is imperative that we share and learn from our vast community’s stories—both modern-day, such as hearing from survivors of the October 7th atrocities, as well as the stories of long ago, including our Names, Not Numbers© program, Witness Theater performance, and recent trip to Poland to visit Auschwitz. We can never forget to “Never Forget”.

The past year was filled with inspiration, as we welcomed IDF speakers and October 7th survivors,

held an important benefit concert for Yishuv Shlomit starring Ishay Ribo, and celebrated Yom Ha’atzmaut together with another great concert featuring Noam Buskila. Our 12th grade students were excited to receive their college acceptances that included Yeshiva University, Yale, University of Pennsylvania, Columbia, Brown, Cornell, MIT, Harvard, and other impressive schools, as well as dozens of students who are planning on spending their gap year learning in Israel. Hundreds of high school students were encouraged to sign up for speaker lectures and internships to follow their passions.

We look forward to a new school year in September, with many new spaces. We anticipate that all of the classrooms in the original high school building will have been substantially upgraded. Upgrades include new floor-to-ceiling windows, HVAC units, and naturallylit stairwells. College Guidance and Shifra Hanon Pathfinders Department offices will have moved into new spaces as well. A special thank you to all of our donors who generously contributed to the Capital Campaign and to all of our Annual Donors who continue to push the Yeshivah forward.

As the school year comes to a close, we wish you a happy, healthy and relaxing summer and can’t wait to see you in September!

Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Rothman Executive Vice President

Standing Proudly Witness Theater

‘ s“We Are Here” affirms our Jewish strength.

This year’s Witness Theater cohort, a group of five Holocaust survivors and 16 YOFHS 12th grade students, performed their original theatrical production, We Are Here, on May 5th and 6th for Yom HaShoah.

We Are Here, written and directed by YOF YOFHS Director of the Arts and Creative Arts Therapist Sally Grazi-Shatzkes, was the culmination of the year-long Witness Theater program. Witness Theater is an intergenerational journey that invites Holocaust survivors to share their stories of survival with students who will ultimately reenact their stories. Working together every week, the two generations build strong relationships as they explore issues of war, loss and trauma. The stories shared are especially poignant now, in this time of widespread antisemitism and unrest across the country.

The program, now in its 12th year, began as usual in early September. The group spent the first few weeks getting to know each other before starting to share stories from the Holocaust. But just a month later, “all certainty as we knew it crumbled to dust and blew away into the real-life nightmare that was October 7th,” shared Ms. Shatzkes.

At that point in the process it was difficult to imagine how the group would tackle the topic of the Holocaust at a time when everyone was experiencing a current and ongoing collective trauma. However, the

students and adults clung to each other for hope and strength. Ultimately, the group discovered that their very existence represented living proof that “Am Yisrael Chai” – WE ARE HERE – and that the Jewish people would continue to thrive.

Months later when Stefania Hecht (née Kohn), a beautiful and inspiring survivor from the group, passed away at the age of 96, students and adults clung to each other for comfort once again. With Stefania’s presence still very much alive in their hearts, Stefania’s daughter, Vivi, narrated her parts in between recordings of her mother’s voice that were played throughout the performance.

Stefania was a teenager in 1943 in Romania when the war began. When her community was rounded up by the Nazis, Stefania and her siblings were forced to live in an animal stable in the ghetto. They were eventually sent to Auschwitz where she was separated from her siblings, whom she never saw again. Soon after, Stefania was chosen to work in a German ammunition factory at the Hohenelbe labor camp in 1945, where she worked until liberation.

Eugene “Yani” Halpert was 5 in 1942 in Bardejov, Czechoslovakia. Yani’s family hid in a friend’s attic before later embarking on a 90-mile trek to Mikulas, a town in the Tatra Mountains. Yani stayed with a gentile family for a few months and then joined the rest of his family in

SALLY GRAZI-SHATZKES (ES ‘96, HS ‘99)

a bunker which they had dug into the side of a mountain. Yani and the 40 other Jews in the bunker, including the Torike Rebbe, were liberated by the Russians

Sofiya Sirotinskaya (née Goldina)  was only 2 1/2 years old in 1941 when she fled Minsk with her mother and one of her brothers, while her other brother, Marik, 8, was away at summer camp. She remembers her mother always writing letters to see if anyone knew of Marik. She was given false hope when someone thought they knew of him, but it was a different boy. After the war they learned that Marik had been killed.

Zhanna Lipnitsky (née Gurevitch) was a little girl in Kiev when the Nazis invaded in 1941. Her father, a champion wrestler, had some connections that enabled him to secure a train ride out of Kiev for his wife and daughter before he was drafted into the Soviet army. Zhanna’s mother found shelter in a cottage with an elderly couple. In exchange for work on their collective farm, she and Zhanna lived there for four years. Zhanna’s mother worked all night so that she could care for Zhanna during the daytime.

Tova Schiff (née Danzinger) was 5 in 1943 in Satmar, Hungary. She remembers a happy childhood with her sister until the Nazis invaded and moved her community to a ghetto. Tova, her sister and their mother were spared from the ghetto as well as the transports to Auschwitz because they had government protection since her father had died in service for the Hungarian army.

“These stories, beautifully narrated by those who lived them and depicted by our students, are a testament to Jewish strength and hope. The show commemorates the past while allowing us to rejoice in our present and to hope for building and thriving in our future,” shared Ms. Shatzkes.

TheWitnessTheaterprogramisbeinggenerously supportedthroughTheWilliamS.LevineFamily Shoah Institute.

TheWitnessTheaterprogramisacollaboration of Selfhelp Community Services, Inc., UJAFederation of New York and YOFHS. The program also receives generous support from theConferenceonJewishMaterialClaimsAgainst Germany,CarolandCarlHess,theMiriamand ArthurDiamondCharitableTrust,andtheRobert and Trudy Gottesman Philanthropic Fund.

Lasting Lessons

Names, Not Numbers© connects 8th graders with Holocaust survivors to preserve their stories.

With each passing year, it is becoming even more important to preserve the testimony of Holocaust survivors. If we don’t bear witness, then, as survivor/ writer Eli Wiesel famously said, “We are guilty, we are accomplices.” To fulfill this sacred responsibility, the elementary school is proud to participate in a unique project, Names, Not Numbers©: A Lasting Way to Teach the Lessons of the Holocaust. This interactive, multimedia Holocaust project was created by gifted educator, Tova Fish-Rosenberg.

Since the beginning of the school year, 58 eighth grade students worked with professionals, including a newspaper journalist and a filmmaker, on the production of a Holocaust documentary film, Names, Not Numbers©: A Movie in the Making. The film tells the story of seven Holocaust survivors and touches on their lives before the war, as well as on their

experiences during and immediately following the Holocaust. In the interviewing process, the students learned about courage and emunah firsthand from these inspiring individuals. It is an experience that will stay with them forever.

As the culmination of this year’s NNN project, the students, along with their parents and the survivors, celebrated the film’s premiere in May. As 300 parents, teachers, and guests filled the auditorium to view this powerful film, one could feel the palpable warmth and pride that permeated the room. Project coordinator, Barbara Zelenetz, welcomed the packed room and acknowledged the presence of six of the survivors: Mrs. Marion Freilich, Mrs. Dagmar Green, Mrs. Claire Grunwald, Professor Asher J. Matathias, Mrs. Erika Salczer, and Mrs. Renee Silver, and their

families. Middle School Principal Rabbi Alan Berkowitz welcomed everyone and set the tone for the evening, followed by Executive Vice President Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Rothman who thanked Ms. Fish-Rosenberg and all those who worked tirelessly to make the program a success. Director of the William S. Levine Family Shoah Institute, Rabbi Dr. David Hertzberg, reinforced the concept of courage in the face of adversity.

Student representatives, Joseph Belenkiy and Savannah Blake Betesh, expressed, “Names, Not Numbers© has changed our view on the world. Hearing the survivors’ stories has made us realize that we must appreciate everything that we have and that it is our generation’s job to speak out and combat anti-Semitism, especially now, after the horrific events of October 7.”

Head of Elementary School Rabbi Yahel Tsaidi concluded the evening by reminding students that they are not only witnesses to the stories of these survivors, but they also hold the responsibility of taking on the values these survivors have taught us.

Names, Not Numbers©: “A Movie in the Making,” can be viewed at tinyurl. com/nnn2024film.

Names, Not Numbers© is generously supported by a prominent national foundation.

Names, Not Numbers© is dedicated by Reneé and Steven Adelsberg.

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

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Inspiration Israel

Both the High School and Elementary School welcomed a plethora of speakers who made an enormous impact on students and faculty alike. From pro-Israel politicians, to October 7th survivors, to former IDF members, students were inspired by powerful and meaningful voices throughout the spring semester.

Even though Congressman Ritchie Torres has received death threats and has had his office surrounded by anti-Israel protesters, the first thing he told YOFHS students was that “I will always be pro-Israel, whether it’s good for my career or not.”

The Bronx-born Torres first visited Israel in 2014. He visited Masada, Yad Vashem and Sderot and learned about the relentless rocket fire that has been plaguing that city’s inhabitants. This spring, he revisited Israel, but this time he saw the destruction of Kibbutz Nir Oz, and met with one of the Nova Music Festival producers to hear his story. Being pro-Israel should be “an American value, included in our national DNA,” Torres expressed.

YOFHS also welcomed another staunch pro-Israel supporter, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. He started off his speech sharing what made him similar to the students—he grew up in Brooklyn and went to nearby Midwood High School. He shared a story of a Jewish family he knew that always kept a suitcase packed—a fear the family kept with them throughout generations. As long as Jews are still made to feel that they must keep a packed suitcase, his job to protect Jewish rights and support Israel’s existence must be front and center. “I want to make it clear on a global stage that Israel has a right to exist as a democracy in the Middle East and as a homeland to the Jewish people,” said Jeffries.

Besides pro-Israel supporters, YOF also heard from October 7th survivors. In May, special guest speaker Dana Cohen told her tragic story during a women’s brunch to more than 70 women, including 12th grade girls, at the home of Yael Sassoon. Ms. Cohen, now a single mother of six, lives in Yishuv Shlomit. Her husband Aviad A”H was murdered by Hamas as he tried to help others. YOF’s first Achdut Mission to Israel participants met with her last November.

Nissim Louk, the father of Nova Festival victim Shani Louk, spoke about his faith in Hashem, and his resolve to honor his daughter’s legacy. He feels Shani symbolizes innocence and beauty in the face of brutality. The high school also heard from Nova survivors Daniel and Neria Sharabi who saved 30 people as they helped them hide under a tank. The brothers spoke to and sang with YOFHS students, and danced for the first time since the Nova festival at our Rosh Chodesh rikkudim.

A strong desire to share the stories of those who lost their lives and those who survived are what inspired Amit and Tomer Ades to speak at YOFHS about the 36 hours of horrors they experienced with their three young children as they hid inside the bomb shelter of their home in Kfar Aza.

“We could hear the bullets eating through the walls of our house, as well as the grenades,” shared Amit. To keep their children from panicking, they celebrated their son’s birthday on October 8th as they hid from Hamas. Once they were rescued, they had to prove to their parents that they had, in fact, survived, since so many people were massacred. The third Achdut Mission toured Kfar Aza with Tomer.

Rabbi Leo Dee, who lost his wife and two of his daughters in a separate terror attack in the spring of 2023, made separate visits to the elementary and high school. He described recognizing that the extreme emotional pain he was feeling from the loss of his beloved family members needed to be converted into a message of hope and inspiration that he wanted to share with others. He explained that the natural Jewish way of dealing with loss is to “get up” from it, as we “get up” from after sitting shiva.

YOF’s younger students extended a warm welcome to El Ami Ambassador, Retired Brigade General Avigdor Kahalani. The Elementary School choir performed for him and other IDF soldiers injured in the line of duty. Early Childhood and Lower School students waved Israeli flags in solidarity. Middle School students listened to the soldiers’ heroic stories that focused on emunah and having a strong connection to Hashem.

YOFHS Associate Principal Rabbi Yigal Sklarin, coordinated many of these speaker visits. The Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary helped arrange Ms. Cohen’s inspiring brunch.

Israel Pride

YOF’s support of Israel rang true on two important holidays for the Jewish people.

Yom HaZikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut were wellrepresented at both the high school and elementary school in a number of meaningful ways. YOF’s goal to instill a love of Israel in every student is part of our mission, and we recognize both holidays with the utmost respect for what they both symbolize to the Jewish people. The high school commemorated Yom HaZikaron by having students engage in interactive sessions to discuss topics including Mesirut Nefesh, everyday heroes, and fallen soldiers. Students and faculty recited tefillot together, heard poignant insights, and watched moving videos about the sacrifices made for Medinat Yisrael. Tanakh faculty member and Shaliach from Israel Or Badihi, lit a memorial candle in honor of a fallen soldier who had once been his student. That same evening, high school students and faculty joined together to transition from Yom HaZikaron to Yom Ha’atzmaut as they heard from Associate Principal Rabbi Yigal Sklarin and several students about their experiences on the Achdut and Chesed missions. They had a rikkudim together to end the evening.

On the day of Yom Ha’atzmaut, Middle School students learned the mitzvah of Achdut and the importance of greeting others with a good countenance (Bsever Panim Yafot) in honor of the memory of IDF fallen soldiers. Students were provided personalized pamphlets featuring a hostage’s story and prayed for his/her safe return. Alumnus Jacob Ruben shared his experience as a Sergeant Major in the IDF and emphasized the role YOF played as a cornerstone in his Jewish life. Lastly, Rabbi Natanel Elyashiv spoke to the students and highlighted the resilience of IDF spirit and the enduring presence of Am Yisrael. Students also embarked on a Walk-a-Thon in Manhattan Beach, to raise money for important tzedakot in Israel, chosen by the Ve’ahavta committee.

Israel’s Independence Day was celebrated by Early Childhood students as they gathered for an assembly where they sang, learned about Israel’s history, and decorated a cake with 76 candles. The day included eating blue and white donuts, and dancing with friends and teachers in the schoolyard as they donned their handmade blue and white hats and necklaces.

Lower School students enjoyed an action-packed day beginning with a “tour of Israel” through classrooms that each represented a different city. Students took part in making pitas and salt art, and watched a video on the geography of Israel. They enjoyed a parade proudly showing their love for Medinat Yisrael, as 5th grade leadership students handed out candy. The parade culminated with dancing and singing.

Israeli singer and IDF paratrooper Noam Buskila performed for high school students early in the day, then came back to perform again for all YOF families. The concert was kicked off by an elementary and high school choir performance, led by Ricky Sasson, and greetings from Head of Elementary School Rabbi Yahel Tsaidi. To accompany the family concert, YOF recreated an authentic shuk, with a spice market, Israeli foods and snacks. A portion of the proceeds from the shuk were donated to host a meal for the chayalim. The afternoon also featured activities for kids including a Boot Camp and an art project that was donated to an army base.

Yom Ha’atzmaut CelebrationisDedicatedbyTheMamiyeFamily.

Joel Braverman High School Choir is Dedicated in Memory of Ethel Gordon A”H & Ruth Peres A”H. The Elementary School Ve’ahavta Chesed Program is Dedicated by The Douek Family Foundation.

Advice Expert

Guest speakers inspire YOFHS students across the field.

The Shifra Hanon Pathfinders Department at YOFHS cultivates experiences inside and outside of the classroom to help students explore who they are, nurture their interests, develop their professional skills and explore career options. Throughout the year, dozens of speakers, many of whom are YOF alumni, have shared their professional insights, clarified expectations, and offered advice to hundreds of our high school students. Here are some who graced our classrooms during the Spring semester.

MICHAEL HARARY

PAULETTE JEMAL

CEO and founder of Crack’ N Up Crackers, and FRIEDA COHEN

Business consultant at EY Consulting Services

This dynamic duo shared insights on their successful business ventures and offered invaluable tips for aspiring entrepreneurs. They also discussed their dedication to combating antisemitism through ‘Enough is Enough’ (EIE) and the ways in which their day jobs and EIE consistently inform one another.

RACHEL HARTMAN and DAVID HARTMAN, Engineers

This sibling pair introduced students to circuit design in an engineering lab. After reviewing the basics of circuitry, students built a traffic light circuit that changed from red to yellow to green based on a set timer.

DR. BOBBY HASSID

Interventional Cardiologist, New York-Presbyterian Hospital-Columbia and Cornell

After weeks of learning about the heart, the Pre-Med Club heard Dr. Hassid discuss details of his job and how he trained to become a doctor.

JACK JEMAL

Real Estate Acquisitions and Asset Management

Students interested in real estate gained valuable insights into the diverse career opportunities within the field from Jack Jemal. Jack also presented students with a case study on a commercial property in the Bronx to help them learn about the many factors involved in sourcing and securing a tenant to lease a property.

Cookbook Author and owner of @themarriedwife Paulette shared the process of creating her own cookbook, “Cook.” Students were arranged into groups where they participated in different activities picking specific themes, cuisines and cookbook styles to learn the beginnings of how to create their own cookbook.

RAQUEL LEVY MIZRAHI

Associate, Bergstein Flynn and Knowlton PLLC

Raquel spoke to students about her law school experience and current career in real estate law. She gave them tips for college, taking the LSAT, studying for the bar, and discussed what to expect when planning to pursue a law career.

RUTHY ZALTA, LMHC

Ruthy gave a “Therapy 101” presentation to the Psychology Club. Students learned about a variety of psychological disorders including Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and OCD. By the end of the presentation, the students were able to diagnose a case study and come up with some ideas for treatment.

It was very interesting to learn about how the medical field works and get an insight into what it’s like to be a cardiologist. It was also helpful to hear tips that can help us reach our goals. Dr. Hassid told us to keep an open mind and not limit ourselves to exploring only one field because you never know what new things may interest you.

“ “

— Freshman Valerie R. Tabush

Many of these speakers came to YOF as part of the Shifra Hanon Pathfinders Department Curated Speaker Series dedicated by Triangle Capital Group.

COLLEGIATE

Confidence

The Class of 2024 was prepared from the start to conquer the college process.

Deciding on a college is an exciting time when our students are avidly thinking about their passions and interests. However, the college process itself can be stressful and requires a great deal of energy. Our students have all benefited from a new streamlined, intentional and organized college process that values providing individualized college support in a nurturing environment.

Amidst the complexity and ever-evolving nature of the college process, the College Guidance department is committed to ensuring that students feel supported and empowered in their decisions. The College Guidance team advocates and partners with all students throughout every aspect of their college journeys – from crafting balanced college lists and preparing strong applications, to building resumés and writing essays.

“My counselor gave me ideas, helped me build off of the ones I already had and always had my best interests in mind. It was tough to choose a college once my acceptances came back, but there were so many amazing people that I could lean back on for support and advice,” shared Bella Shamayeva, who will be attending NYU Stern School of Business in the fall.

Beyond helping with these process-oriented tasks, the department has created a safe space for students to share their frustrations, anxieties and concerns. “We want students to feel welcome, to share

laughs with their counselors, and to know that they have someone to turn to without judgment,” explained Ms. Emily Mottahedeh, Director of College Guidance. “Having a solid backbone of support during something as complex as applying for college is essential,” added Bella.

As the College Guidance team began working with the Class of 2024, the students were already well-positioned to begin applying to college. They had been prepared with a year-long college process curriculum in their junior year, participated in mandatory meetings with their parents and counselors, and were given academic advisement.  Students began their senior year with a clear idea of what they needed to do alongside a counselor who was eager and ready to help them.

“The College Guidance department worked hand in hand with me editing essays, emailing college representatives, and ultimately helping me make the decision of the college that was best for me. Ms. Mottadeheh provided me with insightful advice on building a compelling application and gave constant encouragement and constructive feedback which was extremely helpful,” said Robert Falack, who will be attending Northeastern University in the fall.

“When I first met Robert, he was overwhelmed by the idea of making a college choice. He felt torn between multiple institutions and constantly worried about making sure he could best present himself in his applications. However, what set Robert apart was his willingness to put in the time and effort to make the choices that were right for him – even when those choices were difficult. We spent countless hours together talking through his wants and needs, what he hoped to communicate in his application, and of course, writing and rewriting his many supplemental essays,” explained Ms. Mottahedeh.

Class of 2024’s Aliya Abergil said the team helped her “stay on top of deadlines and advocated for me to get the Torah In Action Scholarship at Yeshiva University, where I will be attending in the fall.”

The College Guidance department’s goal is to continue to provide Flatbush students with the kind of counseling and information they need to feel confident in their college choices and make it through the college process successfully.

Creative Community

Early Childhood students use different mediums to express their love of Israel and their own imaginations.

Early Childhood parents viewed hundreds of students’ creative works at a spectacular art fair this past March, titled “Beyond a Paintbrush – An Exploration of Abstract Art”. In addition to personal creations, each class created a whole-class showpiece that was auctioned off to raise money for Yishuv Shlomit, the community that YOF has been helping to rebuild since October 7th.

Early Childhood teachers picked the themes for their classes and inspired students to create unique pieces by allowing the children to choose their own style and mediums. Students designed their pieces by using process art, which emphasizes exploration and

self-expression, with the basic idea that children are the drivers of their own artistic creativity.

To create their masterpieces, A2s made paintings with bubbles in fluorescent colors, tape, watercolor ice cubes, cotton balls, vegetable stamps (celery and peppers), tye-dying, and bubble wrap.

Atideinu created various 3-D art pieces using clay, recycled materials collected from home, wood, a variety of hanging mobiles made from CDs, papier maché objects, letters from their names and 3-D bead sculptures.

Nursery students created snowmen from various materials, decorated numbers using various colorful textiles, designed buildings, created trees, represented water in a variety of mediums, placed wheels on a variety of objects, and celebrated their individuality by designing self-portraits.

Kindergarten students focused on the theme of creating Judaic works of art tied to Israel. Pieces included mosaic menorahs, Torah scrolls, art depicting the Seven Species and the Seven Days of Creation, Shabbat,  the Kotel and their personal notes, the shape of Israel in a variety of ways and the flag of Israel.

In all, the art fair raised $3,000 for Yishuv Shlomit and showed how intensely our students felt about using their imagination and choices to create beautiful works of art.

Home Leaving

YOF bids farewell to Early Childhood Director Debbie Levine Greenbaum

The elementary school family bids a loving farewell to Early Childhood Director Debbie Levine Greenbaum, after a YOF career totaling close to four decades. Morah Debbie’s creativity, love of children, and goal to “spark the magic in every child” has been evident throughout her years here. The proof? Since she was appointed director in 2004, she has gradually grown her department to include more than 30 Early Childhood classes –there were only nine when she started.

A Boston native, Morah Debbie came to Flatbush without having any relatives or close friends. “Flatbush became my family. I loved the warmth, kindness and generosity of everyone I had met, and I loved being here. My fellow teachers really enveloped me, and the Sephardic community here made me a part of their community,” she shared. Morah Debbie enjoys how so many different cultures are represented at the Yeshivah. “Over the years we’ve intertwined the Ashkenazic and Sephardic communities.” They all bring their different histories and customs to the table, “like a quilt that encompasses everyone with so many different intricate components.” She added that even though Brooklyn is so far from Israel in distance, working with so many Israeli teachers “brings it so much closer to me…it makes Israel come alive for me.” She continued that it is “really the teachers’ own commitment to Israel that teaches the children to love our land,” including the weekly parasha, songs, and large map of Israel inside of every classroom, along with a second clock showing the current Israel time of day.

Aside from strengthening the bonds she felt with Israel, “Each person whom I have met here at YOF has added a different piece to my life’s puzzle,” Morah Debbie explained. Her close relationship with Assistant Director Cheryl Weinberger has always worked so well. “Since I focus on education and Cheryl focuses on psychology, working with

her has broadened my horizons. Our hands make the gloves work well. We are a perfect team.” She also highlights working with Early Childhood Special Projects Manager Miriam Sabbagh, who helps create beautiful books, educational materials, games and bulletin boards for the children.

“Once I found the right people, everything grew. I feel blessed that we three work so well together. Cheryl and Miriam helped me to focus my creativity in the right direction so that our puzzle pieces fit together so beautifully.” shared Morah Debbie. “We could never have accomplished what we have done without the extended staff that are so dedicated and give tirelessly to our EC program.”

“Debbie carries the Yeshivah of Flatbush flag with her everywhere she goes. She lives and breathes the Yeshivah’s mission and celebrates everything we stand for. Her dedication to our level of excellence and deep connection to Torah and Medinat Yisrael are second to none. Her imprints on our Yeshivah will be with us forever,” said Rabbi Yahel Tsaidi, Head of Elementary School.

Some of the everyday things she will miss include her camaraderie with the entire staff, the Head of Maintenance Jean Louisaire and his assistant Rose, Parent Representative Iris, hearing Hebrew in the hallways, and of course, engaging with all of the children. An enduring part of her job are the connections that she has made throughout the generations of students she has taught. She still keeps all of her old class lists. She now teaches the children of her former students and considers them her “grandstudents.”

Although Morah Debbie’s heart will always remain tied to the Yeshivah of Flatbush, she is looking forward to her move to Florida, where she is excited to “get somewhere, start something and spark the magic in more people.”

“Flatbush never felt like a place of work. It meant everything to me. It felt like my home.”

Respecting Remembering and

The Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary held meaningful events throughout the semester that helped the sick, celebrated our teachers, and memorialized a beloved student.

Spring was action-packed at the Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary! At both the Elementary School and YOFHS, students–and teachers engaged in creative, meaningful events throughout the semester.

At the Elementary School, first graders participated in a gradewide challah bake after winter break, and later donated the challah to the SBH food pantry. When March rolled around, students were busy prepping and assembling their themed mishloach manot in efforts to raise money for the Michael Kameo Foundation. Parents then stopped by the Purim Pop-Up to shop vendors, have lunch, and purchase from the misloach manot selection which included exclusive YOF packages.

For the 3rd Annual Haircuts for Chesed, the Multi-Purpose Room became a salon for the more than 30 elementary school girls who had their hair cut so it could be donated to make wigs for sick patients in Israel.

Over the past three years, the High School Ladies Auxiliary has been organizing the Jack Levy A”H Fitness Day, in memory of a beloved 2021 high school graduate.

YOFHS and Jack’s entire family come together annually during Jack’s birthday month of March to celebrate something that was very important to him – staying positive and healthy both mentally and physically. On March 13th, the Ladies Auxiliary planned an assembly for all of the high school students so they could hear from members of Jack’s family and share memories of Jack. Following the assembly, students spent the whole day participating in various activities with guest speakers, trainers and food demonstrations.  It was a very meaningful day for all.

At both the elementary and high school, the two Ladies Auxiliary teams jumped back into action after Pesach to show teachers how much they are appreciated. YOF’s dedicated group of teachers go above and beyond their teaching duties every day for their students.

At the elementary school, the coffee bar and pastries kicked off Teacher Appreciation Day while teachers watched class video montages and read personalized thank you letters from students. At the high school, Ladies Auxiliary offered a beautiful outdoor buffet luncheon catered by Ouri Nidam. A video played during the luncheon that incorporated students and teachers at different events throughout the year. Teachers at both schools donned their “tote-ally” awesome bags and felt the appreciation.

In mid-May, just in time for Mother’s Day, the excitement and energy rolled into the Spring Shop, which featured a transformed MultiPurpose Room that was stocked with jewelry, makeup, teddy bears, frames and more! Students lovingly purchased gifts for both Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, with the new addition of a men’s table. Later in May, the annual Edith Wachsman A”H Memorial Annual Auction and Bake Sale featured lunch, baked goods, books, and Torah-inspired class lectures.  As the school year comes to a close, the Ladies Auxiliary looks forward to its Annual Tennis Tournament in July.

Special thanks to Iris Bukobza and Maggie Betesh for their help coordinating the day, to Bertha Sabbagh for her graphic design talent, and to friends of Jack’s family for their support. Thank you to Elementary School Ladies Auxiliary Presidents Sarah Chalouh and Beatrice Sutton, Elementary School Ladies Auxiliary Chair Esther Mishan, and YOFHS Ladies Auxiliary Presidents Limor Madeb and Nicole Oved for all of the care, planning and ingenuity that went into all of the events throughout the year.

Our Commitment

Head of High School Rabbi Joseph Beyda reflects on the importance of YOF’s loyalty to Israel–especially now.

In 2000, not long after the breakout of the Second Intifada, I led a group of members in my synagogue on a solidarity mission to Israel. Tourism in Israel had almost completely dried up in the wake of suicide bombings and other terror attacks, and we felt the need to show our support. I distinctly remember the deeply emotional thoughts Rabbi Shlomo Riskin shared with us. “Americans need to make a choice,” he stated passionately. “Is Israel Disneyland or the Motherland?” He went on to explain that the former is a place you visit when the weather is good, the deal is right and the lines are short. You visit your mother when she needs you most.

Over 20 years later, that exhortation stuck with me. Among my first thoughts after getting word of what happened in Israel on October 7th was, “The Yeshivah of Flatbush has to send groups of students and faculty to Israel - no matter what.” Certainly, we had to answer questions such as, was it safe for us to go? Could we help in any way? Would we be more of a burden to people than a support? In the second and third week of October, the answers to these questions were far from apparent, but the resolve of our leadership team grew stronger as we discussed it internally. Love for Israel and its people are at the beating heart of our school. How could we not be there for them in their time of greatest need?

Early on, it was obvious that the war would not be a quick one. We wanted to do our best to provide a “continuous presence” in Israel, not just a “one-time thing.” Staff and parents were welcome to join, but we would run the trips with a focus on students. We wanted Israel to see that our students cared about her and we wanted to teach all of our students, those who would make a trip or not, that being in Israel at a time of distress is an essential, enduring and uncompromising value.

Six months later, our four missions with over 100 students and another 50 or more adults who accompanied them have proven that our commitment was well worth the time, energy, worry and resources dedicated to these initiatives. During that time, our school undertook countless activities to reinforce love for Israel in our students. Our dedication to these trips exponentially empowered everything else we did.

As anyone who has been in Israel since October 7th can testify, Israelis profoundly appreciate the visits of those who do not live there. The obvious comparison is the power of a shiva call, where the presence of a comforter strikes the deepest of chords with a mourner. Our brief time sharing a smile, a hug, a kind word and the like creates unbelievable amounts of love. There is no doubt that being in Israel makes “all the difference in the world.”

However, as an educational institution, our primary responsibility is the education of our students. As important as it is to impact Israel, it is more important we impact our students. In this, I believe we were even more successful than whatever we accomplished for Israelis.

First and foremost, I think back to the mindset of many American Jews in the second and third week of October. Those who were in Israel over Sukkot, perhaps understandably, scrambled to get the first flights out of Israel. Many parents who had children studying in Israel brought them home. Most people canceled previously planned trips. It was important for us to change that narrative.

The Yeshivah of Flatbush’s commitment to be in Israel as early and as often as we were in those early months, has changed the hearts and minds of our people. That is our core mission as educators. For the students who made the journey, the experience was life-shaping. Whether it be visits to the rehab wing at Tel haShomer, seeing firsthand the difficult work at Machaneh Shura, standing in Har Herzl for azkarot or paying shiva calls to grieving families—our students learned lessons about areivut and ahavat Yisrael which could not be obtained in thousands of classroom hours. For our students who were not able to make the trip, there was a palpable sense of pride and love of Israel that was felt by our entire student body and our teachers.

This is an excerpt from Rabbi Beyda’s original Prizmah article, which can be found at tinyurl.com/yofcommitment.

YOF Teams Make the Shot

On and Off the Court

By Matt Malc, Director of Basketball

The spring basketball season provided incredible memories, but it’s the way our student-athletes represented the Yeshivah of Flatbush on and off the court that made us all proud. With this season in the books, we are excited to look ahead as we continue to build our program into the preeminent Jewish basketball program.

A new era in Flatbush basketball this year saw many new initiatives including our first ever 5th grade girls and boys teams, new travel gear, spring and summer training offerings and other exciting activities. Our high school teams were excited to play in the new Triangle Capital Gymnasium in front of packed crowds on a nightly basis.

All 12 of our elementary school and high school teams saw incredible success on the court — each making runs into the playoffs. Special congratulations are in order for our 7th grade boys who beat Magen David Yeshivah in a thrilling game to claim the championship! Another congratulations goes out to our 8th grade girls who, after an incredible back-and-forth thriller, won the championship over North Shore Hebrew Academy. The varsity boys team won the school’s first ever Cooper Invitational Championship over Magen David in Memphis, Tennessee.

“My favorite team moment this year was winning the championship at the Cooper Invitational tournament. It started off our season on a great note and we had a great amount of fun,” shared 12th grader Beni Keda. However, “the most special part of being on the team was that we were a family. I had the privilege of being able to get help from any of my teammates, whether it was on or off the court.”

Lastly, our boys and girls varsity basketball teams finished the season with high national rankings. Boys varsity finished 4th in the country and girls varsity finished 11th .

YOFHS seniors were true leaders on and off the court. They were a pleasure to coach, easy to cheer for and will leave our sports program in a great place. Their impact will be felt for years to come and we wish them the very best in their next chapter. We thank everyone for their support this season and we are excited to get back to work to build upon our recent successes.

“My favorite moment from this year was our experience in the LA tournament and how much we learned from it as a team. We started off 0-4 but then our team made huge progress. To me, the most special part of being on the team is the ability to grow as a leader, player, and having a special bond with my teammates that will last forever,” shared 12th grader Merle Kassab.

JBHS Boys and Girls Varsity Basketball Teams are dedicated by The Oved Family.

G ALS to Live By

Once Middle School girls exclaimed how much they loved the soccer unit in gym class with PE teacher Ms. Maiman, the idea was born to try to eventually create a Middle School girls soccer team.  However, since students came to the program exhibiting different skill levels, there was a need to get everyone on par with each other. Thus, the need for a soccer clinic was apparent.

Once I scored the first goal, I knew I wanted to get better at soccer,” exclaimed 6th grader Rebecca Rose Eisenberg.

Between April 1st and May 20th, 30 girls eagerly participated in five practice sessions at Ms. Maiman’s free, after-school soccer clinic.

“We covered the basic skills of soccer – passing, shooting, dribbling and controlling (trapping) the ball. Students worked on developing their passing and receiving skills which was also a great way to encourage teamwork. We also worked on positions, with many asking to be goalie,” shared Ms. Maiman.

The girls also worked on developing their positional sense on the court, which is often the biggest challenge. “It was reassuring that the last game ended in a 3-3 tie since the girls had come into the clinic at various skill levels,” explained Ms. Maiman. The students are highly motivated, with the majority of the students being from the 6th and 8th grades. The sixth graders are very passionate about being on a team next year.

“The Athletics Department was thrilled to add the Middle School Girls Soccer clinic this spring after offering an elementary school hockey clinic during the winter. The ability to enhance more of our students’ experiences through these clinics is a highlight. In addition, having a special teacher/coach like Ms. Maiman lead the clinic makes it that much more impactful for our students,” shared Athletics Director Adam Ginsburg.

AROUND TOWN

Flatbush Highlights

Fair Trade

Fourth graders became successful business partners during the Reina Varon A”H Business Fair, as they sold tangible items and donated the proceeds ($16,000!) to various tzedakah funds. Students learned how to run a business, including the concepts of sales and profit, as well as the ability to work as part of a team.

Whipping Up Chesed

Class 5-338 dedicated its time at SBH assembling food boxes. Class 7-419 lent a hand at Aishel Shabbat, preparing Shabbat packages to be delivered to those in need. Class K236 went to The Center to make mini pizzas for the SBH Food Pantry. They also brought freshly baked pizzas and sang songs for the seniors. Thank you to our parent volunteers who joined in these mitzvot.

Many Blessings

Proud 1st graders received their first siddur in February. The beautiful program was a blend of both Sephardic and Ashkenazic tefillah melodies and demonstrated how well the students were ready for this significant milestone. Each child was handed his or her own siddur by Head of Elementary School Rabbi Yahel Tsaidi. In a special tribute, students dedicated the last chagigah songs in honor of the IDF soldiers and our brothers and sisters in Eretz Yisrael.

Book Smart

Thirty-seven YOFHS and Middle School students enjoyed lunch and lively discussions for the Partners in Reading Book Club after reading the dystopian science fiction novel, “The City of Ember,” by Jeanne DuPrau. Students discussed the book’s themes and answered questions posed by high school mentors. Students worked on posters describing a utopic vs. dystopic society.

Taking Notes

Class A1 students received a special surprise as part of their unit on music making, when class parent Solomon Harari, father of Ezra, came to play the saxophone and teach the students about the

Getting Into Shape

SHand in Hand

In February, YOFHS students joined others to form a human chain in front of the U.N. to advocate for the release of the hostages. Afterwards, they had the unique opportunity to get a private U.N. tour from Odelya Azulay, Head Spokesperson for Israel’s Permanent Representative to the U.N., Gilad Erdan. Aside from international displays, students visited the General Assembly hall and Security Council chamber and sat in on an Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) session.

Tea Time

Seniors in Ms. Mica Bloom’s AP Literature class enjoyed an end-of-year high tea together after finishing “The Importance of Being Earnest” by Oscar Wilde. They ate delicious treats similar to the treats eaten by the wonderful characters in the satirical play. Perhaps cucumber sandwiches will become a new favorite at YOF!

everal students participated in a hands-on sculpting class with alumna Raquel Esses. The group learned how to mold something in their imaginations into reality with air-dry clay, pinch pottery, coil and slab building.

Business Savvy

Seniors in Dr. Abe Tawil’s Special Topics in Business course captured Zoom interviews with leading experts on controversial topics including crypto vs. traditional banking, the future of Neuralink, the value of sports endorsements, using virtual reality as an educational tool, and the pros and cons of leasing opposed to renting. The students summarized what they learned on posters they presented to the class.

RAQUEL ESSES (SHALAM, ES ‘11, HS ‘15)

How Two Alumni Answered Israel's Call

AlumniHighlights

Since October 7th, a remarkable group of medical professionals have provided crucial support, traveling to Israel to bolster its healthcare system. We recognize the selfless contributions of the following alumni doctors who answered the call to serve in Israel’s hour of need, demonstrating their solidarity and expertise.

DR. BORIS KHODORKOVSKY (HS ‘93)

Dr. Boris Khodorkovsky emigrated from Russia to the U.S. in 1991. While he only attended the Yeshivah of Flatbush from 10th through 12th grades, he stressed how formative those years were in impacting his career choices and strengthening his love for Eretz Yisrael. After graduating from YOFHS, Dr. Khodorkovsky (M.D. FACEP) pursued his passion for medicine, earning his Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Yeshiva University and Doctorate in Medicine from Albert Einstein College of Medicine. In 2005, he completed his Emergency Medicine residency at SUNY Downstate and became a full-time faculty member at the Department of Emergency Medicine at Staten Island University Hospital. Dr. Khodorkovsky currently serves as Associate Chair of the Emergency Department and Director of Performance Improvement at Staten Island University Hospital.

Dr. Khodorkovsky sought an opportunity to volunteer with the Israel Ministry of Health but found no openings for ER doctors. Undeterred, Dr. Khodorkovsky joined “MiluEm” (EM= emergency medicine), an organization founded by ER doctors, and traveled to Jerusalem’s Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital in January 2024. As a tertiary hospital, Hadassah received soldiers transported by helicopter from hospitals in southern Israel that were at capacity. During his time volunteering, Dr. Khodorkovsky was struck by how united Israelis have become, with a deeply emotional appreciation for international volunteers, saying, “It’s not only about physical help; it’s about showing solidarity.” He is certain that their positivity and unification will lead them to victory.

“We need to show solidarity and be proud of our Zionism,” said Dr. Khodorkovsky. His journey serves as a beacon, inspiring others to stand with Israel in times of need.

JOSHUA SHATZKES (ES ‘92, HS ‘96)

Dr. Joshua Shatzkes has been practicing medicine in the New York area for 15 years, specializing in Cardiology and Vascular Medicine.

In 2018, Dr. Khodorkovsky became a Wexner Fellow, expanding his Jewish knowledge and confidence to exercise transformative leadership in the Jewish community. However, it was a conference in Philadelphia on October 9, 2023, that sparked his journey to Israel. Moved by the events of October 7th,

After the October 7th massacres, in a remarkable display of solidarity, Dr. Shatzkes joined forces with the IL-USDocAID Initiative to support Israel’s healthcare system during its time of crisis. Dr. Shatzkes spent two weeks volunteering with Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national emergency medical service, providing critical care and assistance in areas affected by the conflict.

Dr. Shatzkes’ journey was made possible through the support of the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation and Nefesh B’Nefesh, which enabled him to put his expertise to use in a new and challenging context. He found inspiration in the resilience and strength of the Israeli people and the importance of international collaboration in times of need.

As he reflected on his experience, Dr. Shatzkes emphasized the “unprecedented worldwide unity of Am Yisrael.” His selfless contribution serves as a testament to the power of solidarity and the dedication of medical professionals to making a positive impact in times of crisis.

Welcome Home 50th Reunion

Class of 1974

YOFHS

welcomed 75 alumni from the Class of 1974 to celebrate their 50th reunion on March 31, 2024. It was a joyful event where old friends could reconnect. The walls of the Commons exhibited images from 1974 that brought back many memories.

YOF Executive Vice President Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Rothman greeted the class, followed by a compelling keynote speech and dvar torah from Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari. There was also a special tehillim and tribute to the chayalim serving in Israel. Two YOFHS Chamber Choir students sang the National Anthem and Hatikvah.

Reunion Committee Chair Marshall Dumont shared some heartfelt words and memories before the guests watched a memorial for classmates who passed away. They were also shown a nostalgic slideshow and heard notes from classmates in Israel who were not able to attend. Alumni Coordinator Elizabeth Stern shared inspiring stories and facts about alumni successes and YOF’s advancements over the years. The tour of the new facilities left everyone in awe.

As a memento of the special occasion, each classmate received a thoughtful swag bag, complete with a range of goodies including a beautifully printed journal featuring current bios, contact information and photos of their fellow classmates. When we say, ‘Four Years for the Rest of Your Life,” we truly mean it!

We extend our gratitude to our dedicated reunion committee members: Marshall Dumont, Mark Feit, James Gelfand, Richard Gussow, Bettina Wallenstein Kramer, Jeff Marcus, Lee Miller, Shelley Feit Steiner and Joyce Gindi Tawil. Thank you for your tireless efforts in making this a memorable event.

STAY CONNECTED!

To stay up to date on the latest alumni news, please follow us on Instagram@yofalumni and on Facebook under Yeshivah of Flatbush Alumni.

Annual Scholarship Dinner 2024

On Wednesday, May 22nd, the Yeshivah of Flatbush community gathered at the home of Miriam Saba for the Annual Scholarship Dinner, an event that will be remembered for years to come. Miriam’s home was elegantly transformed into a vibrant oasis, with lush florals creating an inviting atmosphere that perfectly captured the spirit of celebration and gratitude. We honored two extraordinary families, Claudie and Avi Houllou, and Adrienne and Joey Shamie, whose dedication to education and our institution is truly inspiring.

The evening was a testament to the enduring legacy of both families, who have made significant contributions to our institution. The Houllou family’s gift, naming the

Elementary School, will have a lasting impact on our students and community. We were also privileged to hear from Louis Shamie, a member of our Board of Trustees and a current parent, who movingly paid tribute to his parents, Adrienne and Joey Shamie. He highlighted their profound impact on their family, community, and the world at large, showcasing the wide-ranging effects of their philanthropy and commitment to education. We are humbled to have both families as part of our school family, as parents and grandparents, and are privileged to bear their name within our school.

The evening also featured a special guest speaker, Camille Joseph Varlack, Chief of Staff to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who emphasized the vital importance of education and the need for community partnerships in combating antisemitism. Her powerful words resonated deeply with our guests.

YOF extends its heartfelt hakarat hatov to all of the donors who have contributed to the Yeshivah, enabling our school to continue fulfilling our mission to Empower, Educate, and Inspire our students.

Capital Campaign Donors

VALEDICTORIANS ($15,000,000+)

Claudie and Avi Houllou

THE MINYAN ($1,000,000+)

Adrienne and Joey Shamie Family

Terry and Ike Silvera

Triangle Capital Group

FOUNDERS ($500,000+)

Stephanie and Jack Mosseri

Vicky and Alberto Saba

Adele and Louis J. Shamie

BENEFACTORS ($100,000+)

Annie and Elliott Azrak

Joe and Trina Cayre Foundation

Lisa and Lee Cohen

Etty and Jack Benzaken

Valerie and Elliot Betesh • Joyce and Raymond Betesh

Rochelle and David Beyda

Vivian and Abraham Dushey

Michelle and Victor Hakim

Tammi and Solomon Mosseri

Rachel and Albert Pardo

Yaffa and David Rosilio and Family

Robyn and Seymour Sammell

The Jay and Avital Cohen Foundation

Jennifer and Shawn Safdie

Melodie and Martin Scharf

Jamie and Mickey Shamah & Sons

PILLARS (72,000+)

Cheryl and Victor Azrak

CHAMPIONS ($50,000+)

Odette and Nathan Accad

Gladys and Richard Adjmi

Alice and Harry Adjmi

Gail and Jojo Chehebar

Grace and Jack Dayan

SCHOLARS ($36,000+)

Mazie and Eddie Chehebar

Sharon and Steven Sutton, Barbara and Jesse Sutton & Family

AMBASSADORS ($26,000+)

Eva and Louis Galpern

Michelle and Victor Gindi

LEADERS ($18,000+)

Merav and Ezra Dweck

Mike Arje & The Ethel Peres Gordon Foundation

PATRONS ($10,000+)

Melissa and Joseph Smouha

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 Yeshivah of Flatbush 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 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

JBHS HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR

Dedicated in Memory of Ethel Gordon A”H & Ruth Peres A”H

PARENT SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP

Dedicated by Leah and Alexander Reyngold

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

NAMES, NOT NUMBERS©

Dedicated by Reneé and Steven Adelsberg

PEGASUS LITERATURE & ART MAGAZINE

Dedicated by Laura & Joe R. Tawil

WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOL CARNIVAL

Dedicated by Jeffrey Sutton in honor of my wife Beatrice

Annual Donors

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

BENEFACTORS ($100,000+)

Claudia and Avi Houllou

The Moise Y. Safra Foundation

PILLARS ($72,000+)

The Jay and Avital Cohen Foundation

Ralph J. Harary Foundation

Adele and Louis Shamie

CHAMPIONS ($50,000+)

The Bailey, Jerome and Horovits Families

Jody and Zvi Benhaim

Douek Family Foundation

Haddad Brands Family Foundation

The Mamiye Foundation /Marlene and Hymie Mamiye

The Oved Family

Helene and Alan Shamah & Sally and Joey Shamah

Shayne and Eli Zami

SCHOLARS (36,000+)

Mike Arje & The Ethel Peres Gordon Foundation

Maggie and Elliot Betesh Fund

Joe and Trina Cayre Foundation

Century 21 Associates Foundation Inc.

Gabriel and Marcelle Chehebar Family

Alice and Stevie Goldman

Morris Hanan and Sons

Hidrock Properties

Stephanie and Jack Mosseri

Tammi and Solomon Mosseri

Leah and Alexander Reyngold

Robyn and Seymour Sammell

Marlene and Steven R. Shamah & Family

Terry and Ike Silvera

Triangle Capital Group

AMBASSADORS ($26,000+)

Reneé and Steven Adelsberg

Lisa and Lee Cohen

Ralph S. Gindi Foundation

His International

Alberto & Elliot Sutton & Families

Laura and Joe R. Tawil

LEADERS

($18,000+)

Lillian and Joey M. Allaham

Paulina and Ralph Azrak

Nadya and Gennadiy Belenkiy

Elizabeth and Steven Betesh

Gail and Jojo Chehebar

Grace and Jack Dayan

Lori and Harold Dweck

Frieda and Joseph M. Franco

Raquel and Joe A. Franco

Chantal and Al Gindi

Diana and Joseph Hedaya

Dr. Isaac Madeb

Limor and Dr. Ralph Madeb

Nicole and Darren Oved

The Joseph Safra Foundation

Cynthia and Albert Setton

Deborah and Jack Setton

SDI Technologies/ iHome

Beatrice and Jeffrey Sutton

Rachel and Morris Tabush

Rachel and Igor Vatelman

PATRONS ($10,000+)

Alice and Harry Adjmi

Gladys and Richard Adjmi

Vicky and Abe M. Anteby

Racquel and Bobby Ashkenazi

Etty and Jack Benzaken

Amy and Joseph Betesh

Freda and Zeke Faham

Marcy and Steven Feldman & Family

Chalmé Family - Elliot R. Chalmé Foundation

Franco Foundation

Sarah and Jack Franco

Lisa and Alan Jemal

Jack A. Kassin & Family

Adele and Dr. David Khaski

Erika and Ruvin Levavi

Rachel and Ricky Novick

Charles and Brenda Saka Family Foundation

Amy and Steven Sasson

Danielle and Michael Sasson

Juliette and Eddie Setton

Elaine and Nathan Shalom

Betty and Joseph Sitt

Freda and Alberto Smeke

Bella and Toby Souleiman

Jeanne and Ralph Zirdok

Endowment Funds

The best way to ensure our Yeshivah’s future is to take care of our future generations, and that is why you should consider making a legacy gift to the Yeshivah of Flatbush. We invite you to partner with us now and make an impact for the next 100 years.

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+)

Dr. Ira H. Gewolb A”H

Joe and Trina Cayre Foundation

Marlene and Hymie Mamiye

Renee and Albert Laboz

The Wichs Family

PILLARS ($72,000+)

The Jay and Avital Cohen Foundation

Helene and Alan Shamah and Family

Morris Hanan and Sons

Oved Family

Renée and Steven Adelsberg

Terry and Ike Silvera

CHAMPIONS

($50,000+)

Anonymous

Blumenthal Family

Gaye and Sheldon Hoffman

Beatrice and Jeffrey Sutton

Claire and Robert Frastai

Gail and Jojo Chehebar

Hidrock Properties

Marjorie and Jack J. Gindi

Nathalie and Mitchell Vilinsky

Rachel and Albert Pardo

Sarah Shamah Foundation

Susan and Sam Shamie

Triangle Capital Group

SCHOLARS ($36,000+)

Haddad Brands Family Foundation

Lisa and Joseph Jemal

Lisa and Lee Cohen

Ronit and Hagai Laniado