Yeshivah of Flatbush Winter Bulletin 2022

BULLETIN —— Y E S H I V A H

O F

F L A T B U S H ——

Adar II 5782 • Winter 2022

“Judaism led ordinary people to lead extraordinary lives.” — Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, Z"L

2|

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

Letter from the

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Dear Flatbush Family,

I

am pleased to share the Winter 2022 Bulletin with all of you. It was hard to choose which stories to include, since there are so many beautiful moments that happened in our Yeshivah between students and teachers, students and parents, and students and their friends.

We hope the warmth comes through as we share our Lishmah learning events, Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary parent-child programs, and creative student educational initiatives. We hope you join in our excitement as we share how many Middle School students opt to participate in our new after-school Mishmar program. We are thrilled to note the progress in JBHS Head of School Rabbi Joseph Beyda's religious growth initiatives as they continue to enhance our already robust weekly student offerings.

Last summer, we celebrated two pillars of our community, Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari and Mrs. Shifra Hanon, at a spectacular event that honored their lasting legacies at YOF. We joined together again for our Annual Auction in January that captivated viewers as magician and mentalist Mr. Asi Wind showed off his tricks.

In October, we lost our irreplaceable Principal Emeritus Rabbi Dr. David Eliach Z”L. Members of our faculty met to share memories of his teaching style, as well as his dedication to education on every level.

We hope you enjoy reading about all of the wonderful ways in which our children learn and grow here at YOF, with the immeasurable help, enthusiasm and commitment from their talented teachers.

Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Rothman Executive Director

Yeshivah of Flatbush

RABBI DR. RAYMOND HARARI (HS ‘72)

WINTER 2022 |

3

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)

President Mr. Abie J. Hidary (ES’91, HS ’95)

Yeshivah of Flatbush Elementary School Head of School Rabbi Yahel Tsaidi Principal, Middle School Rabbi Dr. David Hertzberg Co-Principal, Middle School Rabbi Ronn Yaish (HS ‘92) Principal, Lower School Mr. Robert Berkman Associate Principal, Judaic Studies, Lower School Mrs. Chani Gratzman

4|

Director of Guidance Dr. Etty Mizrahi (ES ’97, HS ’01) Director of College Guidance Ms. Amber M. Long

Photographer Mr. Jake Hirsch

Principal Emeritus Rabbi Dr. David Eliach, Z”L

Design Bottom Line Marketing Group

Yeshivah of Flatbush Executive Office

Yeshivah of Flatbush Elementary School

Executive Director Rabbi Dr. Jeffrey Rothman

919 East 10th Street Brooklyn NY 11230 718-377-4466

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, Early Childhood Mrs. Debbie Levine Greenbaum

Director of Admissions, Elementary School Mrs. Norma Shamah

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

Editor-in-Chief Ms. Michelle Olveira Editorial Assistants Ms. Faith Edeson (ES ’04, HS ’08) Mrs. Michelle Kopylov (ES ’97, HS ‘01)

Associate Principal, General Studies, Lower School Director of Teaching and Learning Rabbi Dr. David Saltzman

Director of Student Services Dr. Nicole Yossef

Yeshivah of Flatbush Bulletin Staff

Director of Development Mrs. Hila Stern

Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School Al and Sonny Gindi Campus 1609 Avenue J Brooklyn, NY 11230 718-377-1100

Yeshivah of Flatbush Executive Office 975 East 13th Street Brooklyn, NY 11230 718-377-4040

@yofhs @yoflatbush @yofladiesauxiliary Facebook.com/YeshivahOfFlatbush Facebook.com/YOFHS Facebook.com/YOFALUMNI

18

YOF’s Double Blessing

Enhancing Your Religious Spirit

Dozens of students opt to learn after school with Judaic studies faculty members.

8 22 10

9

Bringing Torah Home to Our Children Parent Lishmah Learning

12 13 29 30

Saturday Night Live

A popular new Lower School parent-child Motzei Shabbat learning program, “Veshinantam,” kicked off last fall.

Daniel Duke

14

16 17

Paving the Way

The Shifra Hanon Pathfinders Department cultivates experiences inside and outside of the classroom to help students explore who they are.

Lifting Off in Style Seventh and eighth graders in Mr. Paul Schwartz’s science classes prepared for takeoff.

YOF's Bouquet of STEM Programs

JBHS Ed Tech Trainer Ms. Tziri Lamm added an additional title to her resumé — STEM Coordinator.

The Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary has been busy bringing our students a variety of exciting events since the beginning of the school year.

23

The Parent School Partnership committee, dedicated in honor of Esther and Jack A. Hidary, seeks to elevate the discussion between parents and educators.

24 25

The JBHS Jason Botnick A"H MEMORIAL HEBREW PLAY

Early Childhood students filled each day of Chanukah with another activity, art project or event.

Hearts of Gold

A Paramount Partnership

If your Elementary School child has been banging on pots, humming scales or playing air ukulele this past semester, that’s probably our fault.

Lighting the Way

College-Going Culture Gains Momentum The Class of 2022 has applied to college "Early" in more significant numbers than any previous senior class in recent school history.

JBHS Head of School Rabbi Joseph Beyda is excited to bring new school initiatives.

YOF Plays a New Tune

11

Come on Over

YOF welcomed nearly a thousand students and parents last November to the JBHS Open House.

Celebrating Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari and Mrs. Shifra Hanon.

Familiar Face, Familiar Place

20 21

Sports Highlights

Current and former Flatbush Falcons had a rare opportunity to play some hoops at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on February 3rd.

26

Around Town

28

Art for All

A new program at JBHS makes beginner artists feel at home.

Alumni Highlight: Jeffrey Lax Reunions Classes of: 1970, 1995, 2010, 2011

35

TABLE of CONTENTS

3 6 7

Letter from the Executive Director

32

Remembering the Lives of Rabbi Dr. David Eliach Z"L & Moshe Gnatt, A"H

Thank You To Our Annual Donors

34

Everyone's a Winner at the YOF Auction "Win It in a Flatbush Minute" was a win all around.

36

SAVE THE DATE! YOF Elementary and High School Graduations WINTER 2022 |

5

Familiar FACE, Familiar PLACE The Joel Braverman High School recently welcomed a familiar face back to a familiar place—but in a new role. Rabbi Joseph Beyda may have only become the Head of School this past summer, but his initiatives are already taking shape and bringing about important changes.

“W

e are focusing now on a new long-term direction and vision of the school. There is more external interaction with parents, the Boards and universities than ever before,” explained Rabbi Beyda. “As part of a listening tour, we facilitated a dozen roundtable meetings with groups of parents to hear their perspective on the strengths and growth opportunities of the Yeshivah,” he continued. “I am in the process of meeting with our staff members in groups to hear their perspectives and opinions. The school continues to conduct tailored surveys to listen to the voices of parents, students, faculty and staff. Our leadership team is also in the process of visiting a dozen other exemplary schools of various types, to learn about different models, styles and best practices in education and then to use what I’ve learned to execute meaningful change.

Some of Rabbi Beyda’s new initiatives began with a wave of changes in the high school leadership team in terms of personnel, structure and divided responsibilities. For example, Associate Principal Ms. Esther Hidary’s attentions lean towards teaching and learning but newly appointed Associate Principal Rabbi Yigal Sklarin’s role centers on student advancement.

Assistant Principal Rabbi David Galpert’s main focus is on making sure students experience “everything that makes Flatbush Flatbush,” shared Rabbi Beyda.

“I have tremendous confidence in the entire team to carry out our school mission,” expressed Rabbi Beyda.

“One of my goals is how to make Flatbush more predictable, supportive and student-centered, including in the direction we lead them outside of the classroom.”

6|

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

There is a strong emphasis on religious growth and JBHS is now adding even more afterschool learning to a schedule that was already chock-full of choices. More room is being made in teachers’ schedules for them to connect with students outside of the classroom.

A 20-year veteran of JBHS, Rabbi Beyda first started at YOF as a Torah studies teacher, then became a grade advisor, Assistant Principal and then Principal. Once he became Head of School, “One of my primary shortterm goals has been to ‘step outside’ of myself and my surroundings to properly orient myself and formulate a clear vision of how to successfully lead the Yeshivah in the years to come,” he shared.

Rabbi Beyda stressed the importance of students valuing what they discover about themselves as well as what topics they want to grow into. Students need to have the ability to handle a multitude of challenges and yearn to give back and contribute to society. Luckily, JBHS has a large body of alumni who return to the school and give lectures, offer internships through the Shifra Hanon Pathfinders Department, and send financial support to the school.

“My team and I are developing an exciting vision to guide our school into the next five years, ten years and beyond. We want all of our students and alumni to feel connected to Flatbush and feel like they are part of Flatbush for life—not just for the four years they attended school here,” concluded Rabbi Beyda.

r u o Y g n i c Enhan

s u o i g i Rel rit i p S

by Rabbi Joseph Beyda Head of High School

Finals time usually means that students are laser-focused on studying for the many exams they take over a two-week period.

Understandably, students have historically bolted out of school after each day’s exams in order to go home to study for the next day’s test.

T

his year was different. A group of students felt that, “just because we have exams, doesn’t mean we shouldn’t make time to study Torah.” And so they did. Over two dozen students stayed after school each day to learn with a variety of Judaic Studies faculty. Given our increased dedication to religious growth and Torah learning, this was the culmination of an excellent semester.

One of my top priorities in my new role is to ensure that we do all that we can to foster religious growth in our students. This effort starts in the classroom. Led

by Associate Principal Esther Hidary, all of our Judaic Studies Departments (Talmud, Tanakh, Halakhah, Jewish History and Hebrew) have worked hard to consider how their curricula and classroom styles align with our mission of creating graduates committed to the observance of Torah u’Mitzvot. One example is our newly developed “Connect with the Siddur'' course being given to 12th grade students, which is designed to empower students to use their knowledge and skills to understand and connect with tefilah. “This class allows us the opportunity to have meaningful conversations about important philosophical topics ranging from the purpose of prayer to free will and divine intervention,” says Associate Principal Rabbi Yigal Sklarin.

However, the classroom is just the beginning.

Rabbis and other Judaic Studies teachers have made it their focus to connect with students informally at lunch, as well as during free periods and after school. Led by Rosh Bet Midrash Rabbi Avi Harari (ES ‘99, HS ‘03), our after-school learning team of Rabbi Zelig Prag, Rabbi Avraham Hayoun, Rabbi Yitzchak Rosenblum, Rabbi

Yosef Yanetz, Rabbi Avi Churba, Ms. Talia Harcsztark, Ms. Samantha Chabot (HS ‘17), Rabbi Etan Tokayer and Rabbi Joseph Mizrachi (ES ‘77, HS ‘81), provide our students with opportunities to learn Torah beyond the regular school day and at a variety of venues. For instance, many teachers have opened their homes to host Shabbat meals for their students. On Hanukkah, faculty and students hosted grade-wide parties which combined fun, food, friendship and learning. In the words of Rabbi Avi Harari, “by learning Torah outside of the classroom and after school hours, students and teachers build stronger relationships, as the boys and girls realize that religious growth isn't a subject — it's a way of life.”

Each morning and afternoon our students partake in meaningful tefilot in our Minyan program. Following Shacharit, students have the opportunity to discuss topics related to Tefillah with their Minyan mentors, who are either teachers or YOF graduates. To enrich this experience, Minyan leaders Rabbi Yitzchak Rosenblum and Ms. Michal Schulman enlisted faculty members to create short videos explaining the blessings of the Amidah so that our students will be able to better focus on this key prayer they recite several times each day.

As we work to return to pre-Covid life, our students are delighted to participate in Seminar, led by our incomparable Dean of Students, Rabbi Naftali Besser. "The return of Seminar gives our students the opportunity to reconnect with their peers, faculty, advisors, and Hashem on a higher level," says Assistant Principal Rabbi David Galpert. "They are able to grow spiritually together by experiencing Shabbat, singing, dancing, and discussing meaningful topics all together which is what the Flatbush spirit is all about."

The Yeshivah is pushing itself to provide more for our students and, as evidenced by the Finals anecdote, our students are seizing the opportunity and reaching even higher. “Religious growth is central to the Yeshivah of Flatbush mission,” says Rabbi Avi Harari.

We’re all in on this. Nothing is more important.

RABBI AVI HARARI (ES ‘99, HS ‘03) • SAMANTHA CHABOT (HS ‘17) • RABBI JOSEPH MIZRACHI (ES ‘77, HS ‘81)

WINTER 2022 |

7

YOF e n u T w e N Plays a

If your Elementary School child has been banging on pots, humming scales or playing air ukulele this past semester, that’s probably our fault.

A

s part of YOF’s mission to empower, educate, and inspire its students, Yeshivah of Flatbush has recently introduced an exciting new music program for Early Childhood, Lower School, and Middle School, in partnership with The Center’s Encore Music Outreach Program, directed

by Dr. Samuel Torjman Thomas.

“Music has benefits in the academic lives of our students, by cultivating creative thought, building teamwork, and inspiring expressivity,” shared Dr. Torjman Thomas. “Unique to the Jewish people is an inherent, Torah-based value on music as a means for enlivening and invigorating the neshamah. In short, my hope is that our burgeoning YOF music program enriches our children’s development, while engendering respect and love for the musical arts."

The partnership between YOF and Encore Outreach incorporates our school’s goal to develop music skills, literacy and appreciation, including Hebraic and Judaic

elements. Atideinu and Nursery students are learning music and movement through Ivrit b’Ivrit with Tomer Cohen. First graders are developing active listening skills through music appreciation segments and guided listening with Hillai Govreen. Second graders are focusing on rhythmology with Kushaiah Hooper. Third graders are beginning melodic literacy through the harmonica by working with Moshe Elmakias. Fourth graders are participating in vocal arts workshops, including songwriting skills and solfege (a system that assigns a syllable to each note of a scale), with Joanne Vance. Fifth graders are learning how to play the ukulele with Mr. Elmakias.

The Encore music faculty is also adding to different grade-level Chagigot ceremonies – violin/vocals in first grade and percussion in second grade – to raise the level of celebration. Middle School students are taking music as part of the elective modules in a series called “Musical Explorations,” highlighting different areas of practice, theory, and appreciation.

During the spring semester, the program aims to engage students in culminating activities, such as a recital or audio/visual project, as well as to introduce students to the work of several of New York City’s professional musicians. YOF is also looking forward to a music faculty concert, and a special performance for Early Childhood students.

As an added bonus to YOF’s partnership with Encore Outreach, YOF students receive priority placement for all private music lessons and group classes in Encore at The Center. Parents can learn more by emailing music@scclive.org.

8|

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

Lighting TheWay

Chanukah was a joyous occasion for all of the Early Childhood students. Every day was filled with another activity, art project or event.

S

tudents gathered in the hallway for a beautiful candle-lighting ceremony during which they said the blessings for each candle and sang Chanukah songs alongside Ms. Carol Geliebter on keyboard.

The next day, Early Childhood students were invited to a special Chanukah Movie Experience with glow sticks, snacks, and dancing as they watched a Sesame Street film. Midweek, the A2s giggled as they popped thousands of bubbles during the Amazing Bubble Show. Atideinu, Nursery and Kindergarten students enjoyed an interactive performance from Musical IQ, during which they drummed along to the Chanukah story.

In addition, students and their parents enjoyed in-class chagigot with treats, interactive table activities and songs for Chanukah.

WINTER 2022 |

9

The JBHS Jason Botnick A”H Memorial Hebrew Play, " Beauty and the Beast," transformed the Khezrie Auditorium stage into a world of Disney magic in December as the cast and crew of more than four dozen students performed ‫ היפה והחיה‬entirely in Hebrew.

A

fter two years of theater being largely virtual, the entire YOF family was excited to be invited back in person for a live performance and fun night out.

From the multi-level set to the hand-painted backdrop to the beautifully made costumes, the show, directed

by Ms. Sally Grazi-Shatzkes, was Broadway caliber.

10 |

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

‫היפה‬ ‫והחיה‬ The JBHS Jason Botnick A”H

The annual Hebrew Play is performed in memory of Jason Botnick, A”H who was himself a magnetic performer during his high school years.

Special thanks to Mr. Mordy Weinstein and the JBHS choir and chamber choir who opened the night with two beautiful acapella songs. “Beauty and the Beast” was created in collaboration with pianist Mr. Danny Shatzkes, set designer Mrs. Rebecca Grazi-Siev, and construction manager Mr. Stanley Sorscher.

JASON BOTNICK (ES ‘90, HS ‘94) • REBECCA GRAZI (ES'02, HS'06) • SALLY GRAZI-SHATZKES (ES'95, HS '99) DANNY SHATZKES (ES '94, HS'98) • STANLEY SORSCHER (ES'62) • MORDY WEINSTEIN ( ES' 03, HS '07)

BRINGING TORAH HOME TO OUR CHILDREN: Parent

g n i n r a e L h a m h s i L

Parent education and connection between school and home is always a priority at YOF. Ms.Yaffa Setton, MS, CCC-SLP, engaged YOF parents in an eight-week series titled “Tefilati: Understanding and Elevating Our Prayers”.

M

s. Setton began the series teaching about the history of tefilah, citing multiple sources of both revered male and female figures in Tanach who have turned to Hashem in prayer. In the classes that followed, she focused on the prayers themselves, addressing a different prayer for each class. Participants gained a deeper understanding of Birkot Hashachar, Pesukei d'zimrah, Birkot Shema, Shema, and Amida. Students completed the course with an appreciation for the purposes of our prayers, learned how to best engage in prayer and delved into the true meaning of what we say. Ms. Setton is currently studying in Nishmat’s Yoetzet Halacha program. We look forward to learning with Ms. Setton again this spring.

Aside from Ms. Setton’s series of classes, parents were also invited to participate in monthly parenting classes, led by Head of Elementary School Rabbi

Yahel Tsaidi and JBHS Associate Principal Ms. Esther Hidary. Rabbi Tsaidi’s focus is on infusing middot into our children and our homes, while Ms. Hidary’s discussions are geared towards parenting teens using the Torah’s lessons as a guide. Dozens of parents have benefited from these group discussions over the last few months.

“As parents, we often discuss the primacy of our children’s middot above all other attributes in their development. The challenge is that, unlike other subject areas, there is no time in the day when we focus exclusively on middot. Similarly, there is no time when middot are not a relevant and observable area of focus. The essence of teaching middot begins with our own process of thinking, analyzing, learning and ultimately embodying those middot ourselves as models for our children,” shared Rabbi Tsaidi.

YAFFA SET TON (HS ‘05)

WINTER 2022 |

11

ART for ALL More than two dozen students have been participating in Art For All, a new arts initiative at JBHS coordinated by art faculty member Ms. Mia Erdos.

L

ooking for ways to add more art into the school day, Ms. Erdos came up with the idea of making a time for art accessible to all students, no matter what artistic level of understanding or talent they already have.

“Our goal is to broaden the students’ knowledge of what art can be,” explained Ms. Erdos.

Out of the seven Art For All evening classes scheduled for the year, half are given by faculty members who alternate with special guest teachers throughout the year. So far, Art for All welcomed YOF alumnus Joe Grazi, a renowned artist and animator who gave a stop-motion animation workshop on creating short videos.

“I loved the Art For All session I attended because it gave me the opportunity to introduce myself to using tissue and colored papers into my art. I learned different methods of creativity that I otherwise would not have tried. Art For All is important because it not only gave me a glimpse into a new style but it also showed me how broad the definition of art really is,” shared senior Rena Angel.

Faculty guests have included Mr. Jason Novetsky who led a session on life drawing and arranged for a student model. Participants who did not feel that they had adequate drawing skills were given other choices, while others decided to challenge themselves. Another night’s paint workshop, also led by Ms. Erdos, asked students to look at artist Wassily Kandinsky’s works to try to understand how he created his paintings. Students

12 |

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

MIA ERDOS (ES ‘10, HS ‘14)

listened to music, then incorporated inspiration from the music into their own paintings.

They also used artist Henri Matisse’s idea of collage cut-outs to add another element of creativity to their work.

Future programs may include mosaics, graphic design, ceramics and 3-D printing.

“It is very important for me to have personal connections with the students, and this program allows me to meet so many more of them thanks to our great turnout at every event,” shared Ms. Erdos.

A popular new Lower School parent-child Motzaei Shabbat learning program, “Veshinantam,” kicked off last fall. Even though many of the nights were frigid, the Elementary School auditorium was filled with the warmth of Torah learning, as children played Parashabased Kahoot! games with their parents, lit Havdalah and Chanukah candles together, and enjoyed pizza.

H

ead of School Rabbi Yahel Tsaidi’s vision for this program was twofold. “Our first objective was part of a larger movement to continue providing more and more Torah engagement with our students and families.

The second objective was to initiate a program that specifically focuses on providing a platform for our parents and children to learn Torah together.”

Upon entering the auditorium, students receive door prizes and raffle tickets to win gifts such as a scooter, basketball or miniature drone.

At each table are learning booklets that parents read and discuss along with their children.

“The most beautiful thing about this program is that every week we have a different grade invited. Parents are able to spend one-onone quality time with their child while sitting at the table playing a game and sharing their knowledge about the Parasha. You see children and parents walking out of the program with big smiles asking about when the next program will be happening to make sure they won’t miss it,” shared Lower School Associate Principal, Judaic Studies, Mrs. Chani Gratzman.

Faculty member Mrs. Adina Izkowitz coordinates the program with Judaic Studies Coordinator Mrs. Chani Laufer and YOF's Benut Sherut, Hadas Ben Michael and Hila Yoseph.

Parents are able to spend one-on-one quality time with their child while sitting at the table playing a game and sharing their knowledge about the Parasha.

WINTER 2022 |

13

The Shifra Hanon Pathfinders Department cultivates experiences inside and outside of the classroom to help students explore who they are, nurture their interests, and develop professional skills.

PAVING theWAY D

irected by Ms. Caroll Dweck-Sutton, the department offers curated opportunities for students of all ages to discover and expand their academic pursuits, talents and career ideas.

Student interns gain priceless hands-on exposure in the field of their choice, as well as help with building their college portfolio, perfecting their resumé, practicing mock interviews, and learning how to network with industry professionals.

14 |

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

Pathfinders’ Curated Speaker Series Dedicated by the Triangle Capital Group offers students a chance to try out an aspect of the job right here at YOF. For example, architect Ms. Batya Cohen asked students to create an architectural floorplan, and culinary expert Ms. Eileen Missry asked students to come up with their own menu for catering an event.

Future medical students experienced their dream job in real life—and in real time. Students watched a live kidney transplant surgery through a program with the Liberty Science Center. Another medical field learning opportunity involved students hearing from six panelists in the medical field. Panelists included Dr. Mal Azar (dentist), Ms. Sara Cohen (physician’s assistant), Mr. Eli Dayon (medical resident), Dr. Mike Mizrahi (general practitioner), Ms. Margo Rusinowitz (occupational therapist) and Ms. Shirley Shalom (nurse practitioner).

Committee members shared their thoughts, fears and advice from having several years on the job. This panel was also the launch of the Medical Mentorship Program, led by Mr. Eli Dayon, where students interested in healthcare are paired with a mentor in their field of choice.

Students interested in real estate signed on for a threeday real estate finance and investment course taught

by Professor Eric Stern of Fordham University, where they worked on an independent project to analyze a property and determine its investment value.

CAROLL DWECK-SUT TON (ES ‘08, HS ‘12) • DR. MAL AZAR (ES ‘03, HS ‘07) • ELI DAYON (ES ‘07, HS ‘11) • DR. MIKE MIZRAHI (ES ‘00, HS ‘04)

Ms. Orly Wahba from Life Vest Inside, an organization that spreads kindness around the globe, inspired many students during her lecture that they do have the power to change the world. Several students further engaged the idea by enrolling in Ms. Wahba’s online course in social entrepreneurship.

“In addition to resume and college-portfolio building, our main goal in the Pathfinders

skills, and to have fun. We at Pathfinders are here to help students navigate those opportunities so that they can truly maximize their four years at Flatbush,” shared Ms. Dweck-Sutton.

Knowing that students aren’t always positive about where their future career direction will lead, Pathfinders holds an annual Career Day for juniors and seniors. More than 40 alumni and other professionals held sessions. The theme of this year’s event, held in midDecember, was “In the Office and Beyond”. To prepare for the program, students took a career assessment test to gain a deeper understanding of their interests. Students attended two panel sessions, followed by a debrief session with their teachers and members of the Pathfinders and Guidance teams to further delve into their passions as they relate to careers.

Future medical students experienced their dream job in real life—and in real time. Students watched a live kidney transplant surgery through a program with the Liberty Science Center.

Department is to help students learn about their own unique talents, interests, and strengths. We believe that one of the best ways to gain selfawareness is to get involved! Flatbush offers hundreds of opportunities to gain knowledge, gain

MARGO RUSINOWITZ (HS ‘08) • SHIRLEY SHALOM (HS ‘07) • PROFESSOR ERIC STERN (ES ‘96, HS ‘00) • ORLY WAHBA (HS ‘01)

WINTER 2022 |

15

eventh and eighth graders in Mr. Paul Schwartz’s science classes participated in the Mars Project last November. The project focused on how to best prepare for a rocket launch, and ended with the creation of several 3-D printed rocket ships. Each class was separated into five teams.

S

Team 4: Food and Water. Knowing that they wouldn’t have enough space for food and water to last two years, this team had to figure out how to provide these essential items without bringing them on board. They decided they could grow plants.

Team 1: The Medical Team. This team had to decide what would be necessary for the two-year roundtrip journey. They were told there would be six astronauts, including one physician and had to prepare for all medical outcomes. Team members designed slides explaining areas of medical preparation.

Team 5: Design the Spaceship. This team’s job was very important since it had to incorporate the needs of the other teams in the design.

Some groups decided to use the 3-D printer to create their rocket ships, and others designed their ships on Google Slides. Technology Integration Specialist Ms. Danielle Orville trained each group individually in TinkerCad and advised students how to improve their designs.

Team 2: The Activities Team. This team prepared activities to keep the astronauts healthy, covering three areas physical health, mental health and recreational health.

Team 3: Exploration. This team defined what was being researched on Mars, including water, minerals and any signs of possible life. They also had to figure out what equipment would be needed.

16 |

Daniel Duke

LIFTING e l y t S n OFFi

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

“Projects like these are so imperative because it they bring out the individual creativity of the kids,” shared Mr. Schwartz.

“Working as a team introduces students to the intricacies of teamwork, including sacrifice, compromise and consensus – all skills that they will need to be successful out in the real world.”

YOF's

Bouquet of

STEM Programs

This past September, JBHS Ed Tech Trainer Ms. Tziri Lamm added an additional title to her resumé — STEM Coordinator. Aside from teaching English and coding classes, she is involved with myriad projects to challenge students and inspire them to be technologically creative.

elect to take the computer science track, which Ms. Lamm also oversees. Freshmen are taught web design and Python courses and sophomores learn engineering. This semester sophomores will be working towards CIJE Innovation Day, a culminating event that marries all of the concepts and skills that the students learned in their tech classes this year which led to their own unique inventions.

“The ability to unify existing STEM programming in school will allow us to be able to build and expand on it,” explained Ms. Lamm. “More than giving students programming and engineering skills, computer science teaches students to think critically, solve problems and collaborate authentically.”

Ms. Lamm’s multi-faceted new role also includes her collaboration in creating two eSports leagues in a partnership with Lost Tribe, an organization that works to facilitate a safe space to connect Jewish teens online as they compete in organized video gaming competitions. Both leagues will be competing this spring.

O

ne of many of Ms. Lamm’s projects is Innovation, a multidisciplinary offering run by MIT and a non-profit organization. Working with faculty members Justin Engel, Ariella Falack and Rabbi Yitzchak Rosenblum, students created a social initiative called Little Red Box to help students re-establish connections to their peers that suffered during COVID. The students created, sold, and distributed gift packages with a focus on “paying it forward.” At press time, students are preparing for their second drop, after the first round of 100 boxes sold out in under two hours.

As part of JBHS’s push for students to become technologically savvy, freshmen and sophomores can

ARIELLA FALACK (HS ‘05)

WINTER 2022 |

17

YOF’S DOUBLE BLESSING

Celebrating Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari and Mrs. Shifra Hanon All photographs courtesy: C. Schvarcz Photography

Hundreds of Yeshivah of Flatbush community members joined to honor and celebrate Rabbi Dr. Raymond Harari and Mrs. Shifra Hanon, two pillars of our community, on August 24, 2021. The event recognized both Rabbi Harari and Mrs. Hanon for their decades of commitment as teachers, mentors, and trailblazers.

R

abbi Harari was gifted with a Sefer Torah that now resides in the Joel Braverman High School’s Benhaim Bet Midrash. Mrs. Hanon’s children and spouses named the Shifra Hanon Pathfinders Department in her honor. We are grateful to have both Rabbi Harari and Mrs. Hanon as part of the Yeshivah of Flatbush legacy. We know that they will always be part of our family and that we will continue to see them at JBHS - Rabbi Harari as a teacher and mentor, and Mrs. Hanon as a volunteer in many of our programs.

We want to convey our gratitude and Hakarat Hatov to all who attended, contributed, and worked on making this beautiful event a success.

We hope you enjoy these photographic highlights of the evening.

18 |

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

WINTER 2022 |

19

COME ON OVER

YOF welcomed nearly a thousand students and parents on November to the JBHS Open House.

H

ead of School Rabbi Joseph Beyda, YOF President Abie Hidary, and 2015 alumnus Raymond Braha spoke to the group in the Khezrie Auditorium before Associate Principal Esther Hidary introduced a video slideshow. After the assembly, groups were broken up into sessions led by faculty members including “Connecting to Torah and Mitzvot,” given by Rosh Bet Midrash Rabbi Avi Harari and the Religious Growth Team, “Helping You Plan for Your Future,” led by the College Guidance Department and the Shifra Hanon Pathfinders Department, and “Student Leadership and Athletics,” led by Assistant Principal Rabbi David Galpert.

Associate Principal Rabbi Yigal Sklarin and a group of student ambassadors were also on hand to answer questions.

Guests stayed for a meet-and-greet lunch and toured the Student Activities Fair. Thank you to Ms. Sally Hamway, Ms. Hana Hasson, Ms. Darlene Salzman and Ms. Alyssa Shamah and the rest of the Open House team for all of their dedication to this impressive event.

EARLY COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES An early congratulations to the Class of 2022, whose members have been admitted to several outstanding colleges and universities so far, including: • Binghamton University (SUNY) • Brandeis University • Cooper Union • Drexel University • Duke University • Fordham University • Hofstra University • Long Island University • Marymount Manhattan College • New York University • Pace University • Rutgers University • St. John’s University • University at Albany (SUNY) • University of Maryland • University of Miami • Wagner College

20

| Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

COLLEGE-GOING CULTURE GAINS MOMENTUM The Class of 2022 has applied to college "Early" in more significant numbers than any previous senior class in recent school history. Additionally, most seniors submitted applications to at least one college by December.

“E

arly” includes both Early Action and Early Decision plans where students complete applications by an earlier deadline and receive their results before Regular Decision news lands in the spring, and all students decide where they will attend college. For many applicants, it is an opportunity to pursue a first-choice college or potentially secure admission at their school(s) of choice and complete the process before the final semester of senior year. However, this opportunity does not come without a great deal of work.

Most Early deadlines fall from the beginning to the middle of November, which requires students to have all applications, essays, and any supplements and (if applicable) test scores prepared by those deadlines. While 43% of the class applied to a school under at least one of the Early plans, 24% submitted a binding Early Decision application, an increase of more than 10% over the last two senior groups.

Additionally, a significant number (44%) of the class applied to CUNY’s Macaulay Honors College, a most coveted program for our students that also moved its deadline up to mid-November.

To prepare for the compressed timeline, the College Guidance Department offered a college essay boot camp before the end of the last school year as well as access to essay-writing tools for students to use during the summer and into senior year. College advisors also utilized group application workshops and more individual meetings in September and October. This enabled students to complete as many application components as possible with the direct support of the department. Seniors again had the opportunity to apply to most colleges and universities without the pressure and burden of standardized testing (i.e., ACT and SAT exams). Most Flatbush seniors (nearly 80%) utilize colleges’ testoptional or blind policies this cycle.

Many unknowns remain about how college testing requirements will change for future senior grades.

However, in December, the college advisors assured families during their Sophomore College Night and Junior College Kickoff programs that they would share relevant updates over the coming months.

The department’s monthly Conversations with College Guidance initiative has also seen notable increases in attendance. All high school parents are welcome to attend these informal sessions, which take place monthly on Zoom. Stay tuned for YOF Daily Updates, social media, and grade chats for session announcements and news about additional programming in the future.

Since there were only three-and-a-half school days in September 2021, the seniors and their college guidance counselors navigated weeks and months of decision-making and loads of application work in essentially one month (October). Despite the intensity of those weeks, the College Guidance Department is pleased with the uptick in Early activity; it signifies an increased level of engagement and preparation for the college search and application process.

WINTER 2022 |

21

Hearts of The Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary has been busy bringing our students a variety of exciting events since the beginning of the school year, creating an influx of new volunteers, programs and initiatives under the leadership of presidents Ms. Esther Mishan and Ms. Sheila Shamah.

I

n October, the Welcome Back Carnival, dedicated in memory of Dr. Albert Montague A”H, offered students the chance to win prizes, enjoy treats such as cotton candy and fried Oreos, and decorate tzedakah boxes as they learned about the mitzvah of giving. Even though the event happened in the rain, nothing could have kept scores of children from having a great time.

Keeping up with the school spirit, the “Meet the Ladies Auxiliary” luncheon, held at the home of Ms. Amy Betesh, was filled with enthusiastic parents eager to get involved with future event planning.

The Chanukah Extravaganza, featuring the Fire and Ice Chanukah Show, dinner and donuts, kept the Elementary School bustling after hours with candle-lighting projects and offered quality family time.

Meaningful moments were shared between mothers and daughters as they gathered for the Challah Bake in

22 |

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

the JBHS Laniado Gymnasium and participated in the mitzvah of challah baking. JBHS Services Coordinator Yvette Beyda began the program as the daughters started working on beautiful challah covers. Mothers listened to Ladies Auxiliary board member Ms. Zahava Harari. Once the challah had fully risen, Ladies Auxiliary board member Ms. Aliza Salem gave a demonstration on how to create a six-strand braid for the challah. The night was sponsored in memory of Lily Madeb A”H by her grandchildren and in memory of Sema Pollac A”H by the Evenhar grandchildren.

As part of the Heart of Gold Committee’s new chesed initiative, third grade classes participated in “Appreciation Day,” geared towards recognizing the school nurses, family services representatives, maintenance, security, bus drivers, lunch staff and other volunteers. The students wrote thank you cards and then distributed them to the specific workers. The project was a great way for third graders to show hakarat hatov. Other chesed programs planned by the Committee included student trips to The Center to cook for the SBH food pantry, visits to senior citizens, and a second grade clothing drive, during which the students collected thousands of hats, scarves and gloves for a homeless shelter.

In January, Lower School students engaged in a creative Tu B’Shvat program, sponsored in memory of Moshe Ben Rena, A”H, by blending smoothies with a bicycle, learning about tree planting and making platters for doctors and other community heroes. They also said berachot for the refuah shlema of Yitzchak ben Chanom Chana, tinok ben Dubba Leah, Chaya Sarah bat Simcha and Avigayil Perel bat Esther.

Thank you to the Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary for bringing these projects to our students, and to all of the event sponsors, board members and volunteers for making YOF feel like one big Flatbush Family.

ZAHAVA HARARI (HS ‘03) • MAYA AYASH (ES ‘97, HS ‘01) • TIFFANY BEYDA (ES ‘94, HS ‘98) • JACKIE KOPYT (ES ‘06, HS ‘10) • PENINA ROTH (HS ‘09)

AParamount Partnership The Parent School Partnership committee, dedicated in honor of Esther and Jack A. Hidary, seeks to elevate the discussion between our parents and educators to create a mutually supportive environment both in school and at home. This collaborative endeavor strives to ensure consistent messages and learning experiences for students across the educational platform.

T

he first two classes of the year were offered to parents in November. “Bringing School Strategies Home” gave parents the opportunity to learn how to apply different school strategies using methods from Responsive Classroom to enhance their child’s executive functioning skills at home. Parents participated in engaging sessions led by faculty members Mrs. Maya Ayash, Mrs. Tiffany Beyda, Mrs. Claudia Esses, Mrs. Jackie Kopyt, Ms. Penina Roth, Mrs. Paulina Salem, Ms. Sara Schonfeld, and Mrs. Rachel Srour.

“Self Reflection: Mind and Body Image Workshop” for 8th grade girls and their relatives discussed strategies to boost self-confidence. After Director of

Student Services Dr. Nicole Yossef and 8th Grade and High School Advisor Ms. Dovrat Levi introduced the program, faculty member Mrs. Marialisa Maiman led participants in a seated stretching sequence with positive affirmations.

Participants then watched a video about mothers and daughters and the reciprocal relationship they have in developing each other’s self-esteem. JBHS Project SAFE teacher Mrs. Penina Ginsberg presented concrete ways to enhance self-esteem. Following the presentation, guests participated in breakout groups that touched on the power of words, making healthy choices and the role of social media.

In late December, Middle School parents joined their children for a parent-child book club moderated by faculty member Mrs. Jaclyn Cohen. The book, “Out of My Mind” by Sharon Draper, is a touching, first-person narrative from a child with cerebral palsy about how she perseveres to overcome life's everyday challenges. Students and parents enjoyed refreshments and shared their insights and feelings about the book.

Thank you to the Parent School Partnership Committee, Nicole Oved, Rena Ashear, Paulina Azrak, Amy Betesh, Sarah Chalouh, Michele Cohen, Esther Mishan, Jessica Lazerowitz, Gina Samstein, Amy Sasson, Rachel Tabush, Middle School Co-Principal Rabbi Ronn Yaish, and Assistant Directors of Campus Life Tiffany Beyda and Paulina Salem, for their hard work on ensuring this program's success.

PAULINA SALEM (ES ‘01, HS ‘05) • RACHEL SROUR (ES ‘01, HS ‘05) • DOVRAT LEVI (ES ‘85, HS ‘89) • RENA ASHEAR (ES '86, HS '90) • PAULINA AZRAK (ES '08, HS '12) • SARAH CHALOUH (ES '01, HS '05) MICHELE COHEN (ES '00, HS '04) • ESTHER MISHAN (ES '01, HS '05) • JESSICA LAZEROWITZ (ES '88, HS '92) • GINA SAMSTEIN (HS '73) • AMY SASSON (ES '87, HS '91)

WINTER 2022 |

23

T

hen, this year, while participating in a baseball practice, new football Coach Joey Maswary approached him about giving football another shot. Joseph soon rediscovered his love for football.

Second Time's

CHARM

A

For 12th grader Joseph Kamkhatchi, football was a done deal. With a little nudge, he decided to give it another try.

Not by accident, the team started to improve and reeled off a series of wins, projecting themselves into the playoff picture. Now being utilized as a receiver, Joseph scored touchdowns in three consecutive games as the Falcons rolled into the #5 seed in the league. A disappointing 5 overtime loss in the playoffs could not put a damper on the Falcons’ season as the blending of coaching and player talent set the base for future success.

Aside from football, Joseph is an integral part of his family’s jewelry business, yet he maintains a 90+ average. “I like being busy,” said Joseph, “but one of the most important things I’ve learned here at Flatbush is how to manage your time. I always manage to find a little time for Thursday Night Football and friends.”

“There’s always a place for guys like Joseph, with his positive attitude,” said Coach Joey Maswary.

Sixth grade basketball player Barbara Sasson approaches everything she does with great passion.

B

arbara’s coach, Renee Dweck, describes her as “an excellent listener who applies what we’re teaching right into her game.”

Coach Dweck remembers when Barbara took ahold of a skill from an earlier practice which involved learning how to fake out your opponent and drive to the basket.

Barbara modestly describes herself as a “great defender, but I need to have a little more patience when I’m shooting.”

An honors student in both Hebrew and English since the 2nd grade, it is no surprise when she applies her academic skills to the basketball court. She understands that rushing through your shooting motion often leads to missed shots, and that a halfsecond delay to align your feet and body with the shooting motion creates more success.

From

BASKETBALL usiness To Small B

24 |

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

JOEY MASWARY (ES’16, HS’20)

But Barbara’s attention to detail is also evident off the court. She started a small, but successful business selling bejeweled scrunchies and donated 10% of her proceeds to the SBH Food Pantry. YOF is lucky to have such a driven student as part of the Flatbush Family.

BATTLES s y a l c r a at B Current and former Flatbush Falcons had a rare opportunity to play some hoops at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on February 3rd.

All photographs courtesy: Captured by Tymel

C

ompeting against local rival HAFTR, our Girls Varsity Basketball team lost a close one in the first game, but then our Boys Varsity returned the favor by edging the Hawks 42-40. To conclude the evening, teams of former players from both schools engaged in the first ever Alumni Classic.

Even some YOF fathers and sons played for some quality time together. Everyone emerged with terrific memories of competing in a world-class arena.

WINTER 2022 |

25

AROUND TOWN Flatbush Highlights

Meaningful Mishmar

The Mishmar hour of learning, which is voluntary, typically attracts approximately 150 students and never focuses on the next test or an upcoming assignment. It is a way for students to connect to learning on a different and more personal level, together with their morot and rabbanim, exploring the weekly parasha, Jewish thought, Mishnah and many other topics outside of the regular school day offerings. Students focus on gems of wisdom from the Torah that are relevant to their lives.

Students leave inspired after enjoying dinner together, their souls filled with uplifting ideas.

E

very Thursday afternoon after school, a slew of students eagerly rush to the Bet Midrash for Middle School’s newest learning program– Thursday Night Mishmar.

"All week long, students approach me asking if there will be Mishmar this week. They eagerly await the engaging informal learning groups and quality time spent with their teachers," shared Mishmar Coordinator Rabbi Amichai Gez.

Chesed Helpers

T •

26 |

hroughout the year, students in our Elementary and High schools are encouraged to participate in chesed activities. Here is just a sampling of a few YOF programs:

The 6th grade girls Chesed Team, sponsored by the Douek Family Foundation, recently completed a sixweek program. Chesed activities included a flower market with proceeds going to the Morris I. Franco Cancer Center, a bake sale and a time to deliver challah to seniors. Participants also wrapped gifts and made cards for children in need and stocked the SBH Food Pantry. Thanks to the dedicated group

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

CELIA GINDI (ES ‘02, HS ‘06)

of mothers who volunteered weekly to chaperone and facilitate the program, to Ms. Adele Dwek for spearheading the program and The Naomi Houllou A”H Ladies Auxiliary Heart of Gold committee.

•

The Elementary School observed Israel’s Honor Day, ‫ יום ההוקרה‬recognizing IDF soldiers wounded in battle in Israel. The delegation, under the organization Together-for-Them, arrived to a warm welcome from our Middle School students. Early Childhood students showed their excitement with songs they learned for the occasion. Lower School students expressed words of thanks to the soldiers for all that they do to protect Am Yisrael and Eretz Yisrael.

•

Freshmen and Sophomores had a special chesed and learning program in October. Students said Tehillim for those who needed a refuah shelemah, prepared food for the SBH Food Pantry, wrote Shabbat notes to parents, and learned about Parashat Hashavua with their Judaic studies teachers. They also heard from Mrs. Celia Gindi about the importance of chesed to start their day.

•

A group of 12th graders went to buy food for Shabbat and then delivered it to needy families in the community as part of the Oneg Shabbat program. The students raised money themselves to pay for the groceries.

Mass Without Confusion

JBHS

science teacher Paul Cohen’s class collected carbon dioxide gas in a Snapple jar. Using the change in mass, and applying the gas laws, the students were able to calculate the molecular weight of carbon dioxide.

Turning the Page

YOF

is delighted to share the news that 11th grader Bella Shatzkes has been appointed as a U.S. Senate Page for this semester.

Bella was selected from a large pool of applicants, with Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer as her sponsor. She will spend the

SURVIVOR STORIES

second half of her junior year living and learning on Capitol Hill in the Senate Page School and working on the Senate floor as an employee of the federal government.

This competitive and prestigious appointment is only available to 30 junior students in the entire nation each semester.

Bella will be representing the state of New York.

M

iddle School students in the Names, Not Numbers© program completed their video interviews of six Holocaust survivors, following months of intensive preparation. The project began with history sessions conducted by Rabbi Dr. David Hertzberg, followed by students researching the biographies of the assigned survivors. The students also learned interviewing skills led by a professional journalist and developed thoughtful interview questions. In meaningful dialogue, students learned of each survivor’s harrowing story, such as riding on the Kastner train or being a partisan who hid in the forest, aside from being introduced to the ghastly life in ghettos and concentration camps.

Students are now editing and crafting their two-hour interviews into a powerful documentary film that will premiere at YOF this spring.

The documentary will then be archived for future generations in Israel’s Yad Vashem, the Hebrew University Library in Jerusalem, and Yeshiva University’s Gottesman Library.

The Names, Not Numbers© program is dedicated by Dr. Lawrence A"H and Suzanne Fishman Holocaust Education Fund.

Audibly Absorbed

E

arly Childhood joined Scholastic in celebrating World Read Aloud Day by listening to great books read to them by Lower and Middle School teachers and administrators, including Head of School Rabbi Yahel Tsaidi.

DR. LAWRENCE FISHMAN, A"H (ES'42)

WINTER 2022 |

27

Remembering A Life:

Rabbi Dr. David Eliach, Z”L

A

fter the Flatbush Family lost its Principal Emeritus, Rabbi Dr. David Eliach Z"L, in October, faculty members and staff who were close to him or had learned from him over the seven decades that he graced our halls, gathered in the JBHS library to share memories and stories of him.

It was very important to Rabbi Eliach that teachers learned how to teach to the whole person.

He rarely, if ever, called in sick, and, even during the pandemic, held mentoring sessions over the phone. His legacy is strong, and his teachings live on in all of us.

Remembering Former YOF Music Director

“I

MOSHE GNATT, A”H YOF was sad to learn of the recent passing of our former beloved music director, Mr. Moshe Gnatt A”H, who worked here from 1972 to 1994 in both the Elementary and High Schools. His daughter Sharon shares a bit about him.

28 |

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

t is with great sorrow that my sister Annette and my brother David join me in announcing the passing of our beloved father, Moshe Gnatt, on Saturday, October 16, 2021. A Holocaust survivor with a fervor for living and an indomitable spirit, he was a master educator, talented musician, and seasoned performer who taught music to thousands of children all over the world. I am humbled by the sheer number of messages and emails I am receiving from Dad’s former students upon hearing of his death. Music was his passion, and he used his special gifts to infuse all those around him with its wonder and magic.”

SHARON EPEL (ES ‘67, HS ‘71) • ANNET TE BERGER (ES ‘80, HS ‘84) • DAVID GNAT T (ES ‘70, HS ‘74)

Alumni Highlight:

Jeffrey Lax In April 2019, after attending a public campus event at Kingsborough Community College, where I have been a Professor since 2004 and Business Department Chair since 2011, I was accosted by five faculty members who participated in an anti-Semitic on-campus group called the Progressive Faculty Caucus (PFC).

T

he PFC comprises about 100 faculty members who spew hatred, actively (and proudly) harassing and discriminating against Zionist and observant Jews on campus.

They knew I was an observant Jew and targeted me –before having even met or spoken to me– just for that reason.

These angry faculty members surrounded me in my chair and refused to let me exit the room. One of the men, PFC member and English professor Matthew Gartner said, “We’re not done. We’re just starting.”

Gartner has a history of anti-Semitic behavior. A student in 2015 had shared that when he asked for two days off to observe a Jewish holiday, he was told if he didn’t like the rules then he should have gone to an all-Jewish school. But Gartner has many PFC allies. CUNY BDS leader, Intifada supporter and fellow Kingsborough English professor Anthony Alessandrini used campus space to raise money for a deeply anti-Semitic organization that has ties to a U.S.-recognized terror organization. Alessandrini had also written articles defending terror attacks against Jews and had referred to Ashkenazi Jews as White Supremacists.

and hostile environment on campus. After a comprehensive almost year-long investigation, the EEOC substantiated all of my claims in February 2021, finding that Jews on campus were “discriminated and retaliated against…on account of religion and that [CUNY] failed to take immediate corrective action creating a hostile working environment, all in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.” What should have been a monumental victory for Jewish people after a long and grueling fight, has been anything but that. Although I am a department chair who reports directly to Claudia Schrader, the president of Kingsborough, she has refused to communicate with me since the EEOC sided with me.

The Chancellor, Félix V. Matos Rodríguez, is wellaware of the case but has chosen not to respond.

"The complicit inaction by CUNY leaders and the PSC-CUNY faculty union emboldens the anti-Semitic activity that has been pervasive across so many CUNY campuses. Nearly 300 mostly-Jewish faculty members, including myself, have resigned from the Professional Staff Congress CUNY union for its abhorrently antiSemitic and anti-Israel resolution in June 2021."

This past October, I, along with some of my amazing colleagues, formed a group called Students And Faculty for Equality at CUNY (S.A.F.E. CUNY) so that we could support each other. In only four months, we have gained over 1,100 followers on Twitter (@ SAFECUNY) and are working closely with a number of national Zionist organizations to bring awareness of the campus battle and support to those under attack due to their Zionism or Judaism.

Other members of the PFC have posted vile antireligious content on various media. In September 2018, a PFC member published an article complaining of their “struggle” against a “network of Zionists” among the faculty at Kingsborough. In December 2019, a flyer was distributed across campus accusing Orthodox Jews of bathing in urine and feces and being vectors of disease.

In May 2019, I decided to file a complaint with the Equal Opportunity Employment Commission (EEOC), documenting the harassment, discrimination,

JEFFREY LAX (ES ‘87, HS 91)

WINTER 2022 |

29

1970

Class

Reunions 1970

1995

1970

THE CLASS OF 1970 returned on October 3rd for their 50th (+1) reunion! Fifteen months after their initial reunion date, over 80 alumni were finally back to visit their old home on Avenue J. Alumni came from as close as down the block to as far away as California, Colorado and Florida. In the midst of the 2020 lockdown, some of these graduates started their own weekly Zoom calls to connect and support each other. Now up to about 70 participants, these biweekly calls include not only alumni in the U.S. but also some in Israel. The ties that bind really shine through for this special group. A special thanks to the reunion committee, Esther Baruch, Charyn Goldstein Atlas, program MC Harvey Kaminski, Steve Schonfeld, Bill Schulder, and Judy Schwartz. A special thanks to Steve Schonfeld for directing and producing a heartfelt slideshow for the class.

1995 THE CLASS OF 1995 had been preparing for their reunion on November 14th for over a year by meeting monthly on Instagram Live, thanks to Shirley (Beyda) Catton and David Sitt. These virtual events allowed members of the class to reconnect ahead of the event and have some laughs as Shirley and David interviewed classmates.Thank you to the members of the reunion committee, Shirley Beyda Catton, Yvette Esses Hidary, Deborah Hanon Berger, Michelle Ishay-Cohen, Elan Kornblum, David Sitt and Eli Weiss. A shout out to Yoni Berg and Andrew Harary for making the 125 attendees laugh and helping them remember the best parts of high school.

2010

2011

2010 THE CLASS OF 2010 came home on October 17th for their postponed 10th reunion. Over 160 alumni and guests returned to the Yeshivah. It was an incredible time to reconnect with their classmates and members of the faculty. Alumni explored the expanded high school building and shared memories with each other.

A big thanks to our speakers, Rabbi Joseph Beyda, Rabbi Naftali Besser and the reunion committee, Albert Alsaygh, class speaker, Teddy Chattah, Sara Cygler and Rena Nasar-First. As well as a special thanks to our program hosts Steven Appelbaum and Rita Tobias.

30 |

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

2011 FOR THE CLASS OF 2011 “four years for the rest of your life” isn’t just a slogan, it’s a life philosophy. Over 250 alumni and guests came to the reunion from near and far. This crowd was YOF’s largest reunion attendance in recent memory! They were impressed by the building and were excited to see so many of their former teachers and peers. Thank you to our hardworking reunion committee: Ralph Azrak, (the evening’s MC), Charles Harary (class speaker), Joy Mamiye Bijou, Susan Mossery Terzi, Ali Rishty Cohen and Sarah Shalam Hazan (slideshow producers), and our comic relief, Arlette Tebele Kassin. We could not have made this event such a success without you rallying your fellow classmates.

Thank You For Supporting Our Reunions Class of 1970 Reunion Sponsors: Philip Band, Beth Berson Kolevzon, Sarah Blank Dine, Richard Diamond, Eliot Falk, Stu Feigenblatt, Helen Fortgang Epstein, Malka Fraenkel Sprei, Paul Frieden, Claire Gabe Gabor, Martin Geller, Israel Goldstein, Warren Green, Rafael Harpaz, Isaac Hazan, Ronny Hersh, Ahvie Herskowitz, Leonard Ingber, Aaron S. Kaiser, Harvey Kaminski, Ruth Kappel Sternlicht, Nina Kreiger Weinstock, David Mandelbaum, Erwin Mermelstein, Jeffrey Nadel, Sigla Narzisenfeld Potter, Judy Nasar Haimm Tawil, Dorothy Rosenson Prager, Victor Hymie Sasson, Janet Scharf, Jonathan Schiff, Steven Schonfeld, Elliot Shaller, Toby Shoulson Schnall, Bernard Sorscher, Arthur Weiner, Leo Weinreich, Myron Yaster

Class of 1995 Reunion Sponsors: Avi Abel, Howard Abrahams, Saryn Ash Haddad, Yaakov Babich, Tzachi Baitner, Yoni Berg, Evelyn Bukchine Gugel, Jack Cohen, Morris Dabah, Yochanan Donath, Yael Dotz Feldman, Juliette Douek Saka, Nathan Dweck, Susan Eckstein Iszak, Morris Elbaz, Meredith Finkel Fruhmann and Gary Fruhmann, Dan Friedlander, Jaclyn Hanan Marcos, Jason Hanan, Cynthia Hazan Levi, Michelle Ishay-Cohen, Elan Kornblum, Eric Lalo, Ilona Rozenberg, Eddie Sassoon, Amy Schneider Hiller, Sarita Setton Salama, Ness Shalom, David Sitt, Jimmy Sitt, Joey Wahba, Eli Weiss, Eddie Wipper

Get Involved!

Alumni bonds run deep at YOF. For many of our alumni, the friendships made here last a lifetime! Reunions are a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with classmates, teachers and staff and learn what is going on at the Yeshivah today.

We encourage you to get involved, volunteer to speak to our students about your career, attend an adult learning class, provide an internship, mentor a current student or recent graduate, take advantage of Jewish learning opportunities with faculty.

Join our alumni network, www.flatbushalumni.org.

Learn about the Yeshivah's events, network with professionals in your field and reconnect with old classmates.

We want to thank all of our sponsors and reunion committee members for their support and tireless efforts on behalf of their classes. Mazel Tov and Mabrouk to the classes of 1970, 1995, 2010 and 2011.

For questions about upcoming reunions, contact us at alumni@flatbush.org.

1971: September 11, 2022 1996: March 27, 2022 1972: Fall 2022 1997: Fall 2022 2012: Fall 2022 Follow us on Facebook at Instagram!

Facebook: @yofalumni Instagram: @yofalumni

Class of 2010 Reunion Sponsors: Stanley Chera, Lior Goldberg, Lilly Haddad Azar, Esther Levy-Chehebar, Eddie Mamiye, Yvonne Missry Tawil, Rena Nasar-First, Alex Torgueman

Class of 2011 Reunion Sponsors: Ralph Azrak, Fred Bijou and Joy Mamiye Bijou, Louis Franco, Danielle Frastai Tawil, Charles Haddad, Ezra Mosseri, Ali Rishty Cohen, Michael Safdieh, David Sitt, Morris Zeitouni, Dodi Zenilman

WINTER 2022 |

31

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 is filled with many exciting and robust offerings.

The donors below have made annual gifts and dedicated the following programs:

PILLARS ($72,000+) THE NAOMI HOULLOU A”H LADIES AUXILIARY Dedicated by Avi Houllou

CHAMPIONS ($50,000+) DR. ALBERT MONTAGUE A”H STEM INSTITUTE Dedicated by Julie and Steven Montague ELEMENTARY SCHOOL MATH DEPARTMENT Dedicated by Sarah and Salomon Harari ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TEFILLAH PROGRAM Dedicated in Memory of Ralph J. Harary A”H ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BOYS & GIRLS JUNIOR VARSITY BASKETBALL TEAM Dedicated by Sarah and Salomon Harari JBHS BOYS & GIRLS VARSITY BASKETBALL TEAMS Dedicated by the Oved Family JBHS HISTORY DEPARTMENT Dedicated by the Bailey, Jerome and Horovits Families

SCHOLARS (36,000+) FLATBUSH FAMILY SHABBATON Dedicated by Haddad Brands Family Foundation JBHS EVENING OF THE ARTS Dedicated by Trina and Joe Cayre and Family

32 |

PARENT SCHOOL PARTNERSHIP Dedicated In Honor of Esther & Jack A. Hidary POLAND HERITAGE TRIP Dedicated by Rachel and Jeff Sutton

AMBASSADORS ($26,000+) ARCHON SERVICE SOCIETY ASSEMBLY NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTION CEREMONY Dedicated by the Hanan Family COOKING FOR A CAUSE Dedicated In honor of Marlene and Steven R. Shamah EARLY CHILDHOOD PKRE READING IN PAJAMAS Dedicated by Terry and Isaac Silvera FIRST GRADE CHAGIGAT SIDDUR Dedicated in honor of the First Grade Students and their Tefilot by the Shamie Family GRANDPARENTS’ DAY Dedicated by Sharon and Michael Haddad and Nellie and David Haddad NAMES, NOT NUMBERS© Dedicated by Dr. Lawrence A”H and Suzanne Fishman Holocaust Education Fund PEGASUS LITERATURE & ART MAGAZINE Dedicated by Laura & Joe R. Tawil

NEW ORLEANS CHESED MISSION Dedicated by Steven Montague in honor of his wife Julie

WELCOME BACK TO SCHOOL CARNIVAL Dedicated In memory of Albert Montague A”H

PATHFINDERS CURATED SPEAKER SERIES Dedicated by Triangle Capital Group

YOM HA’ATZMAUT CELEBRATION Dedicated by the Mamiye Family

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

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

PILLARS ($72,000+)

Sarah and Salomon Harari Harary, Beyda, and Sassoon Family Claudia and Avi Houllou Adele and Louis Shamie

CHAMPIONS ($50,000+)

Anonymous The Bailey, Jerome and Horovits Families The Fouerti Family Ralph S. Gindi Foundation Haddad Brands Family Foundation Limor and Dr. Ralph Madeb The Mamiye Foundation / Marlene & Hymie Mamiye Julie and Steven Montague The Oved Family Debbie and Jack Saadia

SCHOLARS (36,000+)

Joe and Trina Cayre Foundation I. Chera & Sons Foundation Hidrock Properties The Judaica Mall Llc Helene and Alan Shamah & Sally and Joey Shamah Terry and Ike Silvera Beatrice and Jeffrey Sutton Rachel and Jeff Sutton Triangle Capital Group

AMBASSADORS ($26,000+)

Bella and Albert Bukai Lisa and Lee Cohen Alice and Steven Goldman Sharon and Michael Haddad, Nellie & David Haddad Morris Hanan and Sons His International Tammi and Solomon Mosseri Nakash Family Foundation Nicole and Darren Oved Robyn and Seymour Sammell Cynthia and Albert Setton Marlene & Steven R. Shamah and Family Betty and Joseph Sitt Morgan and Abraham Sultan Laura and Joe R. Tawil

LEADERS ($18,000+)

Reneé and Steven Adelsberg Alice and Harry Adjmi Victoria and Jack Aini Yafit and Yousef Althkefati Chehebar Family Foundation Frieda and Joseph Franco Lillian and Eli Haddad Michelle and Victor Hakim Diana and Joseph Hedaya Sally and Zouki Jaradeh Amy and Steven Sasson SDI Technologies / Ihome Jamie and Mickey Shamah and Sons Rachel and Morris Tabush Nathalie and Mitchell Vilinsky

PATRONS ($10,000+)

Odette and Nathan Accad Gladys and Richard Adjmi Lillian and Joey M. Allaham Vicky and Abe M. Anteby Racquel and Bobby Ashkenazi Amy and Joseph Betesh Elliot & Raymond Betesh & Family Sol Betesh and Sons Foundation Chalmé Family - Elliot R. Chalmé Foundation Gail and Jojo Chehebar Mazie & Eddie Chehebar Ninette and Jaret Feldman Franco Foundation Raquel and Joe A. Franco Sarah and Jack Franco Adele and Dr. David Khaski Rachel and Morris Lincer Dr. Isaac Madeb Rachel and Ricky Novick Ami and Ralph J. Sasson Elaine and Nathan Shalom Freda and Alberto Smeke Raquel and Raymond Srour Gail and Saul Tawil Jeanne and Ralph Zirdok

WINTER 2022 |

33

Everyone's a Winner at the

YOF Auction This year’s YOF Annual Auction, “Win It in a Flatbush Minute,” was a win all around.

Each and every minute was packed with energy and excitement.

T

he show centered on our best assets—our students! Parents, students, alumni, faculty, donors, and the community at large tuned in from the convenience of their homes to watch the show. We had 4,000 separate logins — when accounting for families watching together, that amounted to approximately 20,000 viewers!

The stage of the Joel Braverman High School's Khezrie Auditorium was transformed by Hana

34 |

Y E S H I VA H O F F L AT B US H

Hasson, YOF Events Coordinator, to a high-quality professional set on par with top productions in the country. The evening started with inspiring Divrei Torah from our Heads of School, Rabbi Yahel Tsaidi and Rabbi Joseph Beyda. At the heart of the night’s entertainment was our interactive game show, consisting of fun challenges and mind-blowing tricks performed by world-renowned mentalist and magician, Mr. Asi Wind. The Elementary School and High School choirs showcased the musical talents of our students.

Mr. Abe Haddad (Auction Chairman) and Mr. Abie Hidary (YOF President) along with Mr. Eric Stern (Board Member) and Mr. Abe Hanan (YOF Treasurer) served as our co-hosts for the night, thanking our many sponsors and all those who contributed to the success of the event. We had over 1,000 donors and surpassed all prior fundraising goals for a recordbreaking year. The night concluded with our raffling off the many great prizes to lucky winners. One thing is for certain, everyone who participated came out a winner.

We are thankful to our entire Flatbush Family for participating and we look forward to greeting you in person at more events in the future.

FOUNDERS ($500,000+) Anonymous Avi Houllou

BUILDERS ($250,000+) Anonymous

BENEFACTORS ($100,000+)

A gift to the Endowment Campaign is an investment made today with benefits that last forever. We love that the income the school gets every year from our donation will B"H continue to benefit and bless our family and many families in our community for many generations to come.

— Jack and Stephanie Mosseri

Securing Our School's Future!

T

he only way to ensure our Yeshivah's future is to take care of our future generations, and that is why you should consider making a planned gift to the Endowment Campaign.

Creating an Endowment for YOF will ensure the kind of community we want to create for our children and grandchildren. We invite you to partner with us now and make an impact for the next 100 years.

To make a planned giving gift for the Flatbush Forever Fund, please contact Hila Stern at hstern@flatbush.org or call 718.377.4040 x110.

Anonymous Joe and Trina Cayre Foundation Suzanne and Dr. Lawrence A”H Fishman Dr. Ira H. Gewolb A”H Shifra and Ezra Hanon and Family Renee and Albert Laboz Marlene and Hymie Mamiye Adele and Louis J. Shamie The Wichs Family

PILLARS ($72,000+)

Reneé and Steven Adelsberg Stephanie and Jack Mosseri

CHAMPIONS ($50,000+) Anonymous Anonymous Blumenthal Family Gail and Josef Chehebar Claire and Robert Frastai Marjorie and Jack J. Gindi Morris Hanan and Sons Hidrock Properties Oved Family Raquel and Albert Pardo Sarah Shamah Foundation Susan and Sam Shamie Terry and Isaac Silvera Beatrice and Jeffrey Sutton Triangle Capital Group Nathalie and Mitchell Vilinsky

SCHOLARS ($36,000+)

Lisa and Lee Cohen Helene and Alan Shamah and Family

AMBASSADORS ($25,000+) Anonymous Sarah and Salomon Harari

LEADERS ($18,000+) Tamar and Dov Deutsch Nina and Michael Shamah Shari and Saul Tawil

PATRONS ($10,000+)

Anonymous Benzaken Family Maggie and Elliot Betesh Elizabeth and Joe Braha Rabbi Marvin Chertok and Family Ninette and Raymond Cohen Pauline and Moey Shabot WINTER 2022 |

35

PRESORTED FIRST-CLASS MAIL U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

BROOKLYN, NY PERMIT NO. 1110

Yeshivah of Flatbush Executive Office 975 E 13th Street Brooklyn, NY 11230

BottomLineMG.com

Save the Date...

... for the Elementary and High School graduation ceremonies!

ALUMNI NAME AND YEAR

Yeshivah of Flatbush | www.flatbush.org