Chesed Mission 2014/5774: Day 5

On the fifth day of our Chesed Mission we ventured out to the Israel Children's Museum in Holon, visited the largest children's hospital in Israel, Schneider's Children Hospital, celebrated the Bar and Bat mitzvahs of the boys and girls at Achuzat Sarah Children's Home, and concluded with an amazing rock climbing session with rehabilitating Israeli soldiers through Tikvot.

We began our day early Sunday morning with an hour bus ride up to Holon. Once we finally arrived the students were split into two groups. One group experienced "Dialogue in the Dark," which sensitizes people to the challenges of the blind, while the others where simulated to the challenges of being deaf at "Invitation to Silence." Both groups left the museum with great stories to tell about their thoughts and experiences and gave praise to their amazing tour guides. This experience allowed us to step into the shoes of people with certain challenges in order to understand what they go through and how to overcome those challenges. 

We then headed to one of the largest children's hospitals in Israel, Schneider's Children's Hospital. We were once again split into groups designated to visit each floor, distributing toys and explaining our "mission" to the parents and patients. Leaving the hospital you could feel the sense of accomplishment knowing that there was a smile on each child's face as they received their gifts. After a quick lunch at a mall in  Petach Tikvah, we maneuvered the coach bus skillfully around the narrow streets of Bnei Brak until we arrived at Emunah's Achuzat Sarah Children's Home. Achuzat Sarah serves as a safe haven for children who face many challenges at home. This home offers children-at-risk places to sleep, hot meals and most importantly, love and care for as long as they want. The Yeshivah of Flatbush girls were able to make beautiful mezuzahs with the girls at Achuzat Sarah, while the Yeshivah of Flatbush boys were defeated in exhilarating games of soccer and basketball with the boys of Achuzat Sarah. We ended our visit there with an amazing Bar/Bat Mitzvah celebration. Children from Achuzat Sarah who were celebrating their bar and bat mitzvah all received huge bags of goodies sponsored by the Yeshivah of Flatbush Elementary School Bat Mitzvah program and our Chesed Mission. Each bag contained personalized items such as tehilim and siddurim. We then danced and sang with all the children, which was a lot of fun.

To top off this exhilarating and action packed day, we met with a group of injured Israeli soldiers. They divulged in us their heart wrenching stories and each explained their personal connection to Project Tikvot, an organization that encourages and aids recovering soldiers to heal through the outlet of sports. We then had the opportunity to participate in a rock climbing activity with the soldiers, as they billeted us from the ground. Though every single one of us is inexplicably tired we look forward to what adventure awaits us tomorrow!  ~Merle Cohen

Chesed Mission 2014/5774: Day 4

Walking in the Machane Yehuda Shuk in Israel on Friday is always an experience. You know it's Erev-Shabbat when there are Jews everywhere while trying to bargain with store owners. Pre-Shabbos Ruach at the house of Pamela and Aba Claman was amazing. The view from the roof was just indescribable with breathtaking views of the old city. We heard an inspiring speech from Mimi who works for Thank Israel Soldiers. Friday night dinner was extra special with a touching message from Avi the Soldier, and ex army commander who shared with us his personal stories in the army. During Shabbat day many alumni who are studying in Israel for the year came to visit. They joined us for some singing during lunch.

After an amazing and restful Shabbat with multiple bar-mitvahs we finally got to spend time with our brothers and sisters that defend Israel. While pulling into the army base and walking the hill to enter the mess hall we saw many Israeli soldiers filling the room. The base commander gave an emotional speech and told us that our support keeps him and his men going. Rabbi Besser then recited a meaningful tefillah for the soldiers. The dancing then began. The smiles that we put on the soldiers faces as we explained why we are in Israel were priceless. We told them that we were in Israel to support and praise the work that they do. As teenagers ourselves we always try to think what we are doing next but in reality we are only one year younger than these soldiers! By meeting and speaking to the soldiers it really helped us understand what they do and how much they sacrifice for us. After giving out packages of warm clothing for the chayalim and chayalot we mingled and shared personal stories. One soldier told me a story about how he was on border patrol and was faced with a split second decision only at the young age of 18. Tonight really showed me how much these young men and woman sacrifice for Israel and for the Jewish people! ~Ben Fried

Chesed Mission 2014/5774: Day 3

Today, after another great breakfast at the hotel, we were off to the Michael and Lola Goldstein Emunah Day Care Center to visit needy children. This center services poor families and offers therapy for parents in order for them to build healthy family lives. We got a chance to interact with the children by dancing, bubble blowing and planting for Tu BeShvat. Towards the end we had a Shabbat party with them. I noticed that after only spending two hours with them it was very hard for us and the children to say goodbye.

We then got a chance to visit Machane Yehuda and buy some Shabbat treats. Looking forward to spending time together with the STEM trip and alumni at the Inbal hotel. Shabbat Shalom! ~Victor Dweck

YOF Israel STEM Trip 2014/5774 - Day 0 & 1

The STEM trip to Israel was scheduled to leave New York on Tuesday night, And we were truly psyched to get going! Unfortunately, it didn't go quite as planned. After mechanical difficulties with the plane our flight was delayed for over 3 hours, the passengers were finally ordered to exit the plane. The flight would be rescheduled for the next day at 4 pm. We were sad that we would miss some of the great activities that were planned but things came together anyway.  In spite of the difficulty it took to get here, we finally landed in Israel on Thursday morning, 9 AM Israel time. 

With no time left to waste, we went straight to the Technion and met with Dr. Harry Yuklea, serial entrepreneur and professor at the Technion. Although we did not get to go through with our original plans, talking to Dr. Yuklea about the university and its innovations were eye opening. He explained to us the idea of the new playground-looking devices placed throughout the city that are actually used for exercising. We even got to try them out. We were each given a book about the technion's contribution to Israel and the world, and were invited to try to come back to learn at the Technion some time in the future. 

We then went to Elbit, a company that creates electronic defense systems and integrated battle systems. There we met with Arik, head of the department specializing in air-force pilots helmets. He showed us the evolution of the helmet and the new technology developed over the years. The latest one, that we even got to try on, has a device that senses the motion of the pilot's head and shoots a missle in that direction. It also displays information on the glass of the helmet in front of your eyes. We were able to learn how many specific details and measurements are taken into consideration when creating such a device.

It was time for Mincha and we used the opportunity to drive to a beautiful lookout over the B'Hai Temple. We heard inspiring words from Kobi, our tour guide, with a special directive to each of to 'sim lev' put our hearts into everything we do.

Exhausted and hungry, we went back to the hotel for a lovely dinner and Tu b'shvat Seder, led by our tour guide, Kobi. We played games and learned about different fruits and about each other. Despite the hardship we faced getting here, the trip seems to be off to a great start. We can't wait to see what's in store for next! ~Rebecca Zami & Shaina Tstastkis

Chesed Mission 2014/5774: Day 2

Today was the first official day of Chesed Mission 2014. We started the day by visiting Ilanot, a school for children with cerebral palsy and other disabilities. The children put on a musical performance for us, taking great pride in their choir.  Afterwards, we socialized with them and looked through the shuk they set up for Tu B'shvat.  Some of us even got to help the children with their animal therapy. Next we continued to Karmei Ha'ir, a small soup kitchen in Jerusalem which serves hot meals to people in need. While the girls peeled potatoes and carrots, the boys cleaned dishes and served food to the visitors.

After a lunch break in the Hadassah hospital mall, we gave out presents to the children who are patients there. Big or small, girl or boy, Jewish or non-Jewish, there were no distinctions; whether it was a toy, pillow, or a piece of clothing, everyone received a gift. Personally, I was very affected by a young boy named Yitzchak. He was laying in bed with a frown on his face and his arm in a cast.  My friends and I brought him a toy car, and after realizing he didn't want company, we left. We later returned, and his father gave us a heartfelt thank you, saying Yitzchak had been in a car accident the day before and was extremely upset, but our visit cheered him up. As we walked out the door, I turned around and saw Yitzchak smile for the first time as he played with his car.

Next we went to Shalva, where we met the founder, Kalman, and heard the amazing story of his son, Yosi, who is known as the "Helen Keller of Israel." We then had a dance party and rikkudim with all the children there. After a break for free time, we had the opportunity to hear from a panel of speakers organized by Our Soldiers Speak. We met a military reporter from the Jerusalem Post, an army major, and a female medical commander. All three of them described army life in Israel, and how vital the IDF is to the survival of this state. Visiting all these places made me personally realize how lucky I am, and how I should take more time to appreciate all the blessings in my life. Today was truly an amazing day. Looking Forward to day two tomorrow...
~Shani Zenilman

Chesed Mission 2014/5774: Day 1

The 12th annual Chesed Mission took off on Tuesday night, January 14th for a non-stop chesed experience in Israel. A group of 50 students and 5 faculty members, led by Rabbi Naftali Besser, decided to spend their winter break in Israel visiting the sick, dancing with soldiers, volunteering in soup kitchens, interacting with special children, and so much more. Right after we got off the 10 hour plane ride it was straight to the kotel to pray Arvit. For a first timer, the experience was breathtaking. The bus filled with students and faculty drove through the beautiful scenery of Jerusalem. We got off the bus at the kotel and the first timers in Israel participated in the famous Chesed Mission tradition: to kiss the floor by the kotel. It was ceremonial with everyone gathered around and pictures being taken. Then the boys and girls separated to their sides of the kotel to pray aravit, which was a very spiritual experience. After that we headed back to the hotel to unpack and go to dinner on Emek Refaim. I can't wait for more days in Israel and the chesed that starts tomorrow. The fun has just begun. ~Michelle Anzaroot

Flatbush Students Clowning Around

Last week Yeshivah of Flatbush students were found clowning around - quite literally. Our students had the unique opportunity to participate in Areyvut's Mitzvah Clown Program in an effort to bring joy, laughter and smiles to those in need of them. In this program, students learn about the mitzvah of Kavod HaBriyot (human dignity) and Bikur Holim (visiting the sick) while at the same time learned Mitzvah Clowning skills to enhance their friendly visits. Students learned how to apply clown make-up, create balloon animals and undergo role play exercises to better prepare them for their friendly visit. The training at Yeshivah of Flatbush was generously sponsored by Ezra and Shifra Hanon in memory of Rabbi Ezra Labaton a"h.

The students put their training and clown skills to the test when they visited the elderly at the Haym Salomon Home for Nursing and Rehabilitation. It was great seeing all of the smiles and laughter generated from our students's clowning visit. Each month, following the initial training and friendly visit, the Yeshivah of Flatbush Mitzvah Clowns will go on site visits to local senior centers and other facilities.

Falcon's Nest Notes: It’s All about the Serve

It’s All about the Serve: Varsity Girls Volleyball Sweeps HANC behind Solid Team Serving 

The Varsity Falcons move to 6-3 on the Season

Any experienced player will tell you that in volleyball, as in tennis, each successful point is set up by a quality serving game. This was never more evident that in Tuesday (12/24/13) night’s Girls Varsity Volleyball match-up against HANC, a true doubleheader – the two Varsity squads would play one best 3-out-of-5 match followed immediately by a second tilt. With the Hurricanes making the trip to Brooklyn for the double-decker, a great amount of volleyball was on tap for the Varsity Falcons and their fans. And the home fans, out in great and vocal numbers, would not be disappointed.

One of Danielle Shalam's many service aces

Renee Sutton returns the ball

For the first time all season, the team showed real consistency in placing their serves in bounds, and – with the exception of game 2 of the first match – it led directly to a total domination of their opponents from HANC. In the beginning it was Danielle Shalam, and in the end it was Danielle Shalam. And, in the middle many of her teammates – notably Celia Tawil, Eileen Sutton, Becky Waldman and Renee Sutton - also stepped up to repeatedly rip off runs of three, four or five consecutive service points. But, it was D. Shalam who really set the tone when she took the ball for the second time through the rotation. With the Falcons holding a relatively small lead over the Hurricanes, she delivered serve after serve after serve with power and precision, keeping the Hurricane defense off balance and unable to find any answers. When the dust settled, Shalam had run off 9 consecutive points, putting the game virtually out of reach and setting the tone for the night.

Animated fans Rock the Falcon's Nest!

Game two of match one brought complacency to the Falcons, and with it a lack of concentration. Between errant serves and weak returns, the Flatbush volleyballers found themselves in a dogfight. To their credit, they dug deep, regained their focus and closed out the Hurricanes by a score of 25-21. The four point victory in game two of the opening match was the closest HANC would come all night. Flatbush quickly returned to form in game three, closing out the opening match with a 25-14 win.

Celia Tawil delivers a power serve

After a quick break, the teams returned to the court for match number two of the doubleheader. Behind solid serving and consistent returns throughout the match, the Falcons dominated their guests. At times, the team demonstrated a rhythm not often seen before in passing the ball to set up better return placement, and even played a number of balls overhead for a spike or two (as demonstrated by Celia Tawil and Eileen Sutton)! With every player getting significant opportunity to contribute, the Falcons swept the Hurricanes off the floor, winning each of the three games by a double-digit margin.

Eileen Sutton plays above the net

With exams and a long winter break just ahead, Coaches Shterenzer and Lifshutz knew this was just what the doctor ordered. And, with confidence now at an all-season high, the victories should “serve” the team well as they prepare for what hopes to be a deep play-off run!

Coaches Jen Lifshutz and Evelyn Shterenzer review the line-up
with Senior Co-Captain Danielle Shalam

Nest Notes: 

With the sweep of HANC, Flatbush moves to 6-3 on the season with one match left to play. That match will be the second match of a JV/Varsity double-header with Division-leading Central, with the JV game set for a 7:00 start. It is the final home game of the regular season for the Falcons and it will be Senior Night. Our graduating Seniors will be recognized before the Varsity game on Wednesday, January 29th. Come out, show your support and cheer your team to victory. GO FALCONS!

Biannual Blood Drive: Winter 2013

On Monday, December 23, 2013 students, teachers, and volunteers rolled up their sleeves to give the gift of life. Yeshivah of Flatbush Joel Braverman High School held its biannual blood drive, where volunteers were able to donate their time and blood to a worthy cause. Over 150 pints of blood were collected by the New York Blood Center. Thank you to all of our donors for helping us reach our goal and we will hopefully see you all again in April. A special thanks to Mr. Blumenthal and student commissioners for helping coordinate this event. Tizku l'mitzvot.

Students Attend Sephardic Rabbinical College Night of Learning

Rabbi Avi Harari Sharing Dvrei Torah

On Wednesday night, December 25th, a group of students attended the Sephardic Rabbinical College Night of Learning for some Dvrei Torah and a nice dinner from Hunan sponsored by Ami and Ralph Sasson. The students who attended enjoyed chavruta learning with the members of the SRC Kollel, and speeches from esteemed rabbis. The event also featured special remarks by alumnus and current YOFHS Judaic Studies teacher, Rabbi Avi Harari. All who attended had a great and meaningful time.