Archived of BBYO`s 2005 eNewsletters
Transcription
Archived of BBYO`s 2005 eNewsletters
BBYO Newsletter Message from BBYO, Inc. January 2005 Issue 3 BBYO e-News The BBYO e-News is a new initiative designed to share news and events with BBYO members, parents, alumni, staff and devoted supporters. If you have information to share or comments about the BBYO e-News, please contact Abby Strunk at [email protected]. Thank you and enjoy! BBYO, Inc. News BBYO DEVELOPS BROCHURE TO GET TEENS INVOLVED IN THE 2005 BBYO SUMMER EXPERIENCE BBYOALUMNI.ORG TOPS 4000 REGISTRANTS BBYO, Inc., has just developed a brochure promoting its 2005 Summer Experience. With more program options than ever before, BBYO has a program to fit the needs of teens interested in travel, community service, outdoor adventure, leadership, the arts or Judaism. If you would like a supply of brochures to distribute at an event, please send your request to [email protected]. For more information on the 2005 BBYO Summer Experience or to register, visit www.bbyoprograms.org. BBYOalumni.org has recently received its 4000th registrant, making it one of the fastest growing online Jewish communities on the Internet. Visit bbyoalumni.org to reconnect with old friends and find out about upcoming alumni events in your area. J-SERVE: JEWISH TEEN DAY OF SERVICE PANIM: The Institute for Jewish Leadership and Values, the Jewish Coalition for Service and the North American Alliance for Jewish Youth are inviting proposals from institutions for $2500 grants to support their efforts to participate in the first ever national day of service for Jewish teens on April 17, 2005. For more information, contact Rachel Meytin at [email protected] or 301. 770.5070 x 201. BBYO ENHANCES ISRAEL INITIATIVES WITH NEW SHALIACH; ESTER DAVID PROVIDES TEENS WITH POWERFUL CONNECTION TO ISRAEL BBYO has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to connecting teens to Israel by hiring Ester David as its new full-time Israeli educator, or Shaliach. As an emissary of Israel, David will immerse American and Canadian teens in Israeli history, traditions and culture through an engaging educational program; spearhead BBYO's partnership with Israel at Heart; and promote travel to Israel through BBYO's new Passport to Israel (P2I) program. READ MORE BBYO LAUNCHES PASSPORT TO ISRAEL PROGRAM BBYO has just launched its new summer Israel travel program, Passport to Israel (P2I). Choose from three distinct trip options: Israel Journey (an experience perfect for first- timers); Trek Israel (geared to teens seeking outdoor adventure); and Kallah Israel (a kibbutz- based enrichment program that combines intensive Jewish studies with touring). For more information or to register, visit www.passport2israel.org. Alumni News BIG APPLE REGION HOSTS ALUMNI PICNIC In Fall 2004, the Big Apple Region hosted an alumni picnic at Eisenhower Park in Hempstead, New York. Alumni from decades past, joined by their families, got together to reconnect with old friends and build connections with new ones. Over thirty alumni and over twenty of their children participated in the event. For up-to-date information on alumni events, please visit www.bbyoalumni.org. http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue03/[8/5/2014 2:58:08 PM] BBYO Newsletter Chapter Happenings Congratulations to the spirited ladies of Aliah BBG #368 on the awards won at KIO's Regional Convention held in December: TO SUBSCRIBE OR TO SUBMIT NEWS, EVENTS AND COMMENTS FOR THE NEW BBYO E-NEWSLETTER, EMAIL [email protected] . Forward the BBYO e-News to friends or colleagues who may be interested. Most Creative Fundraiser (made and sold fleece scarves) Best Social Action/Community Service Program (Mark Levison Run/Walk for MLS) Most Enthusiastic Counterpart/Gizborit (Elise Rita Igdaloff) Morah of the Year (Valerie Rochelle Stern) Program of the Year (Silent Sophie's Return - kidnap & scary adventure in the woods) Most Enthusiastic Counterpart/N'siah of the Year (Jennifer Audrey Zacks) Best Spirit Video (yeah Aliah!!) Won the Spirit Stick BBYO In the News B'NAI B'RITH TODAY COVERS OHIO NORTHERN REGION'S BROTHERHOOD/SISTERHOOD CONVENTION B'nai B'rith Today (Allegheny/Ohio Valley Region) included an article on Ohio Northern Region's first brotherhood/sisterhood weekend convention, themed "Better Planned than Athens" (Nov/Dec 2004). THE JEWISH TRIBUNE OF CANADA FOCUSES ON BBYO TEENS IN MONTREAL AND OTTAWA BBYO teens from Montreal and Ottawa were the subject of Canada's Jewish Tribune article entitled, "Teens find life-long friendships and a home in BBYO" (Nov 18, 2004). DENVER'S INTERMOUNTAIN JEWISH NEWS FEATURES BBYO'S ISRAEL INITIATIVE The Intermountain Jewish News, Denver, CO recently covered a story on BBYO's efforts to connect teens to Israel, including partnerships with Israel at Heart and Tlalim Tours, as well as an organization-wide promotion of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (Nov 26, 2004). MICHIGAN REGIONAL CONVENTION RECEIVES COVERAGE IN THE DETROIT FREE PRESS The Detroit Free Press featured the Michigan Regional Convention in an article entitled, "B'nai B'rith Youth Convention: A week of bonding, fun, helpfulness" (Dec 28, 2004). The article can be accessed online at www.freep.com/news/locoak/holi28e_20041228.htm. THE HERITAGE FLORIDA JEWISH NEWS RECOGNIZES BBYO'S COMMUNITY EFFORTS Over the past few months, the Heritage Florida Jewish News has covered several stories on the BBYO North Florida Council, including the region's efforts to provide Christmas dinner to women overcoming drug addiction, a 'Puttin's on the Ritz's benefit brunch and fashion seminar and a car wash fundraiser. The newspaper also featured articles on the region's 'Fall-a-Palooza's convention, a 'Sunday in the park's event and BBYO's 2005 Summer Experience (Nov 2004 through Jan 2005). CANADIAN JEWISH NEWS FEATURES ECR'S SPIRIT CONVENTION Over the past few months, the Heritage Florida Jewish News has covered several stories on the BBYO North Florida Council, including the region's efforts to provide Christmas dinner to women overcoming drug addiction, a 'Puttin's on the Ritz's benefit brunch and fashion seminar and a car wash fundraiser. The newspaper also featured articles on the region's 'Fall-a-Palooza's convention, a 'Sunday in the park's event and BBYO's 2005 Summer Experience (Nov 2004 through Jan 2005). Has BBYO appeared in your local press? Please let us know by emailing [email protected]. Spanning over 40 regions and 15,000 members internationally, BBYO, Inc. is a worldwide, transdenominational, youth- led organization that provides opportunities for Jewish youth to develop their leadership potential and a positive Jewish identity. BBYO, Inc. * 2020 K Street NW, 7th Floor * Washington, DC 20006 * http://www.bbyo.org/ http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue03/[8/5/2014 2:58:08 PM] BBYO Newsletter BBYO ENHANCES ISRAEL INITIATIVES WITH NEW SHALIACH; ESTER DAVID PROVIDES TEENS WITH POWERFUL CONNECTION TO ISRAEL Continued from page 1: "BBYO is uniquely capable of providing thousands of teens with a better understanding of Israel and a thirst to connect to their Jewish homeland," said Matthew Grossman, BBYO's executive director. "Offering positive Israel education experiences is a critical step toward motivating Jewish youth to lead Jewish lives." First, David will work to spread her contagious enthusiasm for Israel to BBYO youth by sharing her personal experiences living in Israel. As an Ethiopian Israeli, David brings a unique perspective to educational topics such as the Ethiopian community, and other minority populations, living in Israel. Other issues David will explore include the Middle East conflict and military service, and on the lighter side, subjects like Israeli food, music and nightlife. Additionally, David will work hand-in-hand with Joey Low, BBYO board member and founder of Israel at Heart, to promote a better understanding of Israel and its people. Together, Low, who provided the funding for the Shaliach position, and David will open up avenues of understanding among Jewish teens by bringing Israeli peers to North American communities in order to share their life experiences. Finally, because there is no better way to open up avenues of understanding between the youth of North America and Israel than to provide them with opportunities to see Israel through their own eyes, David's ultimate goal is to encourage teens to travel to Israel through BBYO's re-energized summer Israel program, P2I. The program provides three distinct trip options for any Jewish teen wishing to spend three weeks in the Jewish homeland, whether it be a first-time visitor, an adventurer or someone seeking a spiritually-enriching, kibbutz-based experience. "I want to look back on this experience and see that North American teens have a better, more open understanding of Israel," said David, who will hold the Shaliach position for one year. "I want to see a significant increase in the number of teens that want to experience the rich beauty, history, spirituality and culture of my home, Israel." Back to Top http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue03/[8/5/2014 2:58:08 PM] BBYO Newsletter Message from BBYO, Inc. Febuary 2005 Issue 4 BBYO e-News The BBYO e-News is a new initiative designed to share news and events with BBYO members, parents, alumni, staff and devoted supporters. If you have information to share or comments about the BBYO e-News, please contact Abby Strunk at [email protected]. Thank you and enjoy! BBYO, Inc. News BBYO PROFESSIONALS GET A TASTE OF ISRAEL In January, five members of BBYO's professional staff visited Israel to get a taste of what teens will experience this summer on BBYO's Passport to Israel (P2I) program. After attending the North American Alliance for Jewish Youth Conference in Tel Aviv, the group set off on a four-day tour of Israel, where they visited some of the country's most famous sites including Masada, Ein Gedi, the Dead Sea, Jerusalem's Old City, the Kotel, the mystical city of Tzfat and so much more. The trip, which was funded by The Frances & Lillian Schermer Charitable Trusts, proved to be an incredible experience for the entire group. HELP BBYO REACH 12,000 ALUMNI ON THE WEB BBYOalumni.org already has over 4,200 alumni registrants. Help us reach 12,000 alumni by June. Register today at www.bbyoalumni.org and help spread the word to alumni. WHAT ARE YOU DOING THIS SUMMER? CLICK HERE TO READ WHAT THE GROUP HAD TO SAY ABOUT ISRAEL BBYO LAUNCHES ALEPH SOCIETY TO SECURE CRITICAL FINANCIAL BASE; SEVEN PHILANTHROPISTS ALREADY COMMIT $25,000 BBYO, Inc. has recently created the Aleph Society to comprise a group of philanthropic leaders willing to commit $25,000 annually toward the strengthening of the organization. Seven philanthropists have already accepted the charge to help secure the financial future of BBYO. BBYO's 2005 Summer Experience offers teens more program options than ever before. If you are interested in travel, community service, outdoor adventure, leadership, the arts or Judaism, we have a program for you. To learn more or to register, visit www.bbyoprograms.org. READ MORE Alumni News SAVE THE DATE FOR ALUMNI REUNION IN NYC SUMMER PROGRAM FEATURE: NITZOTZ An alumni happy hour for all 20-30 somethings in NYC will be held on April 18. Contact Amy Jablin at [email protected] if you are interested. BIKE ISRAEL If you are looking to visit Israel on the cheap, Hazon, a non-profit that runs outdoor and environmental programs is planning an amazing trip - a bike ride from Jerusalem to Eilat, over 5 days with riders from Israel and North America. The ride is a fun, fabulous way to experience Israel; it looks quite different perched on a bicycle seat. The full http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue04/[8/5/2014 3:00:45 PM] BBYO Newsletter Do you want to make a difference in the lives of others? Participate in BBYO's community service program, Nitzotz, and have a summer you will never forget. Spend two weeks in Washington, DC/Baltimore or Chicago lending a helping hand to communities in need while making friendships that last a lifetime. Visit www.bbyoprograms.org to learn more. title of the ride is 2005 Arava Institute Hazon Israel Ride: Cycling for Peace, Partnership & Environmental Protection, and as you can see by the name, you'll explore the countryside, meet new people, and learn about environmental issues in Israel and the Middle East. The ride is May 10-17, and even if you can't make it, please spread the word to folks who might be interested in participating in this unique experience. If you want to find out more information you can contact Hazon at 212.284.6812 or visit www.hazon.org. JDC JEWISH SERVICE CORPS VOLUNTEER PROGRAM EXPERIENCE ISRAEL BBYO recently launched its new summer Israel travel program, Passport to Israel (P2I), and over 100 teens are already signed up. If you are interested in traveling, making new friends and having the time of your life this summer, BBYO's P2I program is right for you. For more information or to register, visit www.passport2israel.org. JEWISH WOMEN INTERNATIONAL YOUNG LEADERS'S RETREAT Would you like to use your skills and commitment to Jewish life to help an overseas Jewish community? The JDC Jewish Service Corps sends self-starting, creative, college graduates and young professionals to work and live in international Jewish communities for one-year placements. The work varies by country but includes Jewish education, community outreach and development, as well as welfare/relief projects. The JDC provides housing, a monthly stipend, health insurance, and covers all work related expenses. Jewish Service Corps is an amazing cross-cultural experience and a chance to enhance professional and life skills. For fall 2005, JDC is looking to place volunteers in India, Ethiopia, the Former Soviet Union, Poland, Romania, Turkey and Vienna. Visit our website at http://www.jdc.org/how_volunteer.html. Or, contact Hannah Engle at 212.885.0874 or [email protected] for more information and specific job descriptions. REGIONAL NEWS KANSAS CITY BBYO HOLDS JOINT SHABBATON WITH NCSY In January, the Kansas City BBYO and the National Conference of Synagogue Youth (NCSY) held a joint Shabbaton in an effort to break down barriers between local youth groups. "I think there's a great energy and a lot of excitement for this cooperation," said Ali Stalorow, director of BBYO in Kansas City, prior to the event. "I've been watching the teens come together on this project, and they've really worked together well." READ MORE WISCONSIN REGION CO-SPONSORS JEWISH TEEN DAY OF DISCOVERY In January, Milwaukee-area Jewish teens had the opportunity to attend Getting to Know You, the community's first Jewish Teen Day of Discovery, co-sponsored by BBYO. The event featured sessions on a wide range of topics, including Israeli cooking, Jewish music, Kabbalah (Jewish mysticism), Israeli self-defense, Jews and tattoos, and halachic perspectives on homosexuality. "There are many Jewish teens that don't know enough about their Jewish identities, and consequently suppress their Jewish identities to the point of non-existence," said Gerad Bandos, BBYO member who helped plan the event and designed a website where teens could vote for their favorite topic choices. "If teens really are the leaders of tomorrow, it is important to be well rounded and knowledgeable." To read more about the event, visit: http://www.milwaukeejewish.org/content_display.html? ArticleID=143052 BBYOERS FROM EVERGREEN REGION HIT THE SLOPES IN ALASKA On March 18- 20 in Baltimore, MD, Jewish Women International will host a Young Leaders's Retreat entitled When Push Comes to Shove...It's No Longer Love! A Jewish Perspective on Gender, Power and Relationships, uniting 120 young Jewish men and women to http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue04/[8/5/2014 3:00:45 PM] Regional officers from Portland, Oregon and Seattle, Washington traveled over 2,000 miles to join 19 of their BBYO brothers and sisters in Anchorage, Alaska for a Teen Only Shabbaton on the Slopes. READ MORE BBYO Newsletter explore definitions of healthy and unhealthy relationships in a Jewish context. For more information, visit www.jwicalltoaction.org or contact 1.800.343.2823 or [email protected]. TO SUBSCRIBE OR TO SUBMIT NEWS, EVENTS AND COMMENTS FOR THE NEW BBYO E-NEWSLETTER, EMAIL [email protected] . Please forward the BBYO e-News to friends or colleagues who may be interested. BBYO In the News The winner of a new Israeli reality television show, "The Ambassador," will receive a job in New York with Israel at Heart, an advocacy group established two years ago by BBYO board member, Joey Low, which focuses on promoting a better understanding of Israel and its people. The show, featuring 14 young Israelis competing in the US, Europe and at home to win a job spreading a pro-Israel message around the globe, was covered by JTA (Jan 30, 2005). http://www.jta.org/page_view_story.asp?intarticleid=14981&intcategoryid=1 The Miami Herald's Neighbors Magazine included an article on BBYO's alumni website, www.bbyoalumni.org (Jan 27, 2005). The Kansas City Jewish Chronicle covered a joint BBYO and NCSY Shabbaton (Jan 21, 2005). The Heritage Florida Jewish News included an article on BBG, Lindsay Maizel, who will be attending Harvard in the fall (Jan 21, 2005). The Canadian Jewish News featured Lake Ontario regional director, Sharon Marcus. In the article, Marcus discusses returning to BBYO as a professional after being involved with the organization as a teenager (Jan 20, 2005). New York's Newsday featured several community service events hosted by the Nassau-Suffolk Region, including their annual "Trick or Treat" drive for canned foods and dry goods, which harvested more than 1,500 pounds of food for the Long Island Cares and the Harry Chapin Food Bank (Jan 9, 2005). The Arts & Life section of the Detroit Jewish News dedicated a page to highlight Michigan BBYO's efforts to assist the elderly by creating lap quilts during its 2005 annual regional convention, which drew nearly 400 participants (Jan 7, 2005). Has BBYO appeared in your local press? Please let us know by emailing [email protected]. Spanning over 40 regions and 15,000 members internationally, BBYO, Inc. is a worldwide, transdenominational, youth- led organization that provides opportunities for Jewish youth to develop their leadership potential and a positive Jewish identity. BBYO, Inc. * 2020 K Street NW, 7th Floor * Washington, DC 20006 BBYO PROFESSIONALS GET A TASTE OF ISRAEL Continued from page 1: I never thought I would be so moved by one place. From Masada to Tel Aviv to the Kotel, I really saw the power, which makes this our homeland. - Danny Glassman, Great Midwest Region membership coordinator ([email protected]) Being able to experience and actually touch history was one of the most satisfying aspects of the trip. - Lee Shaffer, Gold Coast Region regional director ([email protected]) This trip made me feel more connected to both the Jewish community and to my Jewish homeland. I am so excited for the teens traveling to Israel this summer to experience what we did. - Abby Strunk, senior manager of marketing and communications ([email protected]) http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue04/[8/5/2014 3:00:45 PM] BBYO Newsletter I know that our teens's eyes will be opened to so many new experiences that will also trigger new thoughts and discussions amongst themselves, bringing them back to our regions with an increased Jewish awareness and connection. - Erica Hymen, Central Region West assistant regional director ([email protected]) My sincerest "thank you" to the donors who helped make this trip a reality for me. I hope you take pleasure in the fact that you directly helped make possible the greatest experience in an individual's life - my own. More important, you have indirectly helped create the greatest experience in the lives of the teens I will now persuade to make the same journey. - Marc Geller, Ohio Northern Region assistant regional director ([email protected]). Feel free to e-mail the BBYO staff members with questions about their trip to Israel. Back to Top BBYO LAUNCHES ALEPH SOCIETY TO SECURE CRITICAL FINANCIAL BASE; SEVEN PHILANTHROPISTS ALREADY COMMIT $25,000 Continued from page 1: "BBYO is in a unique position to touch the lives of tens of thousands of Jewish teenagers around the world," said Lynn Schusterman, chair of the BBYO board of directors. "Making an investment in BBYO translates to making an investment in the future of the Jewish community." Named after a BBYO tradition in which a group of young leaders who charter a new chapter are called Alephs, the Aleph Society will establish a financial foundation during a critical juncture in BBYO's history. As an 80-year old organization that is newly independent, BBYO is capitalizing upon the opportunity to pursue a much more expansive approach to engaging Jewish youth, a move that requires significantly increased financial support. "As an alumni of BBYO, I know first-hand the incredible impact that this organization has on Jewish lives," said Aleph Society member, Dave Rensin. "I am dedicated to ensuring the financial stability of an organization that can do for so many others what it did for me and my wife Lia." In addition to its lead donors, BBYO is hoping to recruit a total of twenty Alephs by the end of its fiscal year in June, generating $500,000 of income. "I wasn't involved in BBYO when I was growing up, but I see tremendous potential in this organization to engage significantly more teens in meaningful Jewish experiences," said Aleph Society member, Howard Rosenbloom. "I want to do what I can to provide the necessary leadership and support to enable BBYO to reach the next generation of Jewish leaders." Back to Top KANSAS CITY BBYO HOLDS JOINT SHABBATON WITH NCSY Continued from page 1: Collaboration between the two entities began last year when Matt Rissien, president of Kansas City Council BBYO, attended NCSY's convention to adopt ideas for BBYO. In return, Todd Cohn, director of NCSY, spoke at the Mid-America Region BBYO Spring Regional Convention. Cohn saw the Shabbaton as an opportunity for two leading Jewish youth groups to come together for a common goal and share strengths. The event began with a convention for BBYO leaders and older NCSY participants, followed by an all-BBYO and all-NCSY limousine scavenger hunt and then a combined get-together. BBYO participants were housed overnight by members of the local Orthodox community. "This weekend may really spark some of the BBYO leaders to want to bring more Judaism into our programming," said Matt Rissien, president of Kansas City Council BBYO. "For a long time, the youth groups have been very divided," said Jill Shesol, the council's co-president. "It's really good to see people taking the initiative, because there really are a lot of people who are members of both youth groups. My hope is that BBYO will get a better understanding of NCSY and vice versa, and that this will lead to more inter-youth group programming." Back to Top BBYOERS FROM EVERGREEN REGION HIT THE SLOPES IN ALASKA Continued from page 1: Held at the five-star Alyeska Prince Hotel & Ski Resort in Girdwood, Alaska, the event was sponsored by Congregation Beth Shalom in Anchorage and coordinated by synagogue director Robin Dern. The event was created to achieve two major goals: develop a strong connection between Anchorage Jewish youth and BBYO members in the Pacific Northwest and to help BBYO members in Anchorage learn about the structure and principles of BBYO. Highlights from the weekend included beautiful Friday night and Saturday morning Shabbat services led by Anchorage teens, leadership training sessions by the Evergreen Regional Board, a talent show and karaoke party, and plenty of time for skiing, snow boarding and inner-tubing. At the end of the weekend the Anchorage president Yael Bortnick was presented with a gavel from regional president Aaron Norr on behalf of the entire regional board symbolizing the inclusion of Alaskan Jewish youth into Evergreen region and into the international BBYO network. Back to Top http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue04/[8/5/2014 3:00:45 PM] BBYO Newsletter Message from BBYO, Inc. March 2005 Issue 5 BBYO e-News The BBYO e-News is a new initiative designed to share news and events with BBYO members, parents, alumni, staff and devoted supporters. If you have information to share or comments about the BBYO e-News, please contact Abby Strunk at [email protected]. Thank you and enjoy! BBYO, Inc. News BBYO REACHES OUT TO PARENTS BBYO has just created a new brochure to share important information about the organization and its programs with the parents of prospective members. As BBYO strives to involve more Jewish teens in meaningful Jewish experiences, it recognizes that parents are a key part of the equation. Each regional director will be receiving a shipment of brochures by the end of the month. If you would like a supply of brochures to distribute at an event where parents will be in attendance or if you are a parent who would like a brochure, you can contact the regional director in your area or you can e-mail [email protected] HELP BBYO REACH 12,000 ALUMNI ON THE WEB BBYOalumni.org already has over 4,400 alumni registrants. Help us reach 12,000 alumni by June. Register today at www.bbyoalumni.org and help spread the word to alumni. WHAT ARE YOU DOING THIS SUMMER? GRAND ALEPH GODOL AND INTERNATIONAL N'SIAH PAY VISIT TO OVERSEAS DISTRICTS BBYO's 80th Grand Aleph Godol, Stephen Glatter, and 60th International N'siah, Rachel Schwager, spent two and a half weeks visiting BBYO's United Kingdom and Europe Districts in December. READ MORE BBYO's 2005 Summer Experience offers teens more program options than ever before. If you are interested in travel, community service, outdoor adventure, leadership, the arts or Judaism, we have a program for you. To learn more or to register, visit www.bbyoprograms.org. SUMMER PROGRAM FEATURE: DERECH ERETZ BBYO OFFERS ONE-OF-A-KIND KIBBUTZ-BASED ISRAEL EXPERIENCE BBYO is offering an unparalleled opportunity for Jewish teens to spend three weeks on a kibbutz this summer. The Kallah Israel program combines the simple joys of living on a kibbutz with expanded learning opportunities and plenty of active touring. Program highlights include volunteering on the kibbutz; harvesting in the field; bonding with local Israeli peers; cutting-edge learning sessions where teens discuss the meaning of being Jewish around the world; and active touring in Jerusalem's Old City, the mystical city of ancient Tzfat and so much more. Kallah Israel offers an incredibly unique way to connect to the Israeli people and help build the Jewish State. To learn more about this one-of-akind opportunity, visit www.passport2israel.org. BBYO SEEKS DIRECTOR OF JEWISH ENRICHMENT http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue05/[8/5/2014 3:01:33 PM] BBYO Newsletter Do you have a thirst for adventure? Rock climb, rappel, kayak and raft this summer with BBYO's Derech Eretz program. Enjoy two weeks on the West Coast "Sierra Adventure" or on the East Coast "New England Adventure. To learn more, visit www.bbyoprograms.org. BBYO is seeking a Director of Jewish Enrichment charged with deepening the commitment of our members to Jewish life and ensuring that Jewish learning is part of the culture of our organization. The director will be responsible for creating and/or enhancing the Jewish learning component in existing local, regional and international BBYO programs; working with field professionals to create new informal learning opportunities and programs; designing Jewish learning print materials and online resources; and training staff and youth leaders to integrate Jewish content into BBYO programs. READ MORE OVER 170 TEENS AND COUNTING Alumni News INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT'S REUNION More than 170 teens are already signed up for BBYO's re- energized Israel travel program, Passport to Israel (P2I). If you are interested in traveling, making new friends and having the time of your life this summer, BBYO's P2I program is right for you. For more information or to register, visit www.passport2israel.org. WANTED: INCREDIBLE TEENS DOING "PAWSOME" DEEDS. BBYO is sponsoring an International President's reunion at International Convention this summer in honor of AZA's 80th and BBG's 60th birthdays. We have heard from almost 40 past presidents, whose terms of service range from the 1930s through today. Past presidents will work with current BBYOers to make this last IC at camp memorable. If you are a past president or are in touch with any, please contact Amy Jablin at [email protected]. Also, as BBYO's alumni association continues to grow, we hope to coordinate more reunions; if you'd like to plan a BBYO summer program or reunion, please be in touch. WHERE YOUNG LIVES TAKE SHAPE: ALIZA KLINE Do you know a teenager who is making a difference in your BBYO community? Build- ABear WorkshopTM is taking nominations for its Where Young Lives Take Shape is a new feature of the BBYO e-News focusing on the accomplishments of BBYO alumni. This month, meet Aliza Kline, executive director of Mayyim Hayyim Living Waters Community Mikveh and Education Center, Inc. 2nd annual Huggable Heroes sm program which recognizes everyday kids in communities all across North America who go to extraordinary lengths to make life better for others. From collecting food for the hungry to raising money to bring the arts to the elderly, kids are making significant contributions. Go to http://huggableheroes.buildabear.com to nominate a BBYOer in your community by March 14. Those selected will be featured in the BuildA- Bear Workshop 2006 Huggable Heroes Calendar and honored within their communities throughout 2005. GIVE TO BBYO When Aliza Kline started 8th grade, she did not have one Jewish friend in her hometown. She was growing up in Colorado Springs, a one-synagogue town, which held Reform services on Friday nights and Conservative services on Saturdays. Her only exposure to Jewish teens came through attending summer camp in the Midwest. All of that changed once Aliza attended her first BBYO chapter meeting. Suddenly, she found herself surrounded by Jewish peers, who she found interesting and knowledgeable, and who made her feel comfortable in her Jewish skin. Aliza quickly immersed herself in the life of BBG and AZA. READ MORE http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue05/[8/5/2014 3:01:33 PM] BBYO Newsletter BBG ALUMNAE CO-AUTHOR BOOK TO HELP MOMS RAISE HAPPIER CHILDREN BBYO needs your annual support to reach thousands of Jewish teens. You can contribute to BBYO either through an unrestricted gift or by designating your gift to a specific fund, program or project. Two alumnae of the B'nai B'rith Girls, Devra (Gordon) Renner and Aviva (Kopelman) Pflock, have co-authored a book entitled, "Mommy Guilt: Learn to Worry Less, Focus on What Matters Most and Raise Happier Kids." READ MORE TO SUBSCRIBE OR TO SUBMIT NEWS, EVENTS AND COMMENTS FOR THE NEW BBYO E-NEWSLETTER, EMAIL [email protected] . Please forward the BBYO e-News to friends or colleagues who may be interested. REGIONAL NEWS COLLEGE-BOUND YOUTH PREPARE TO FIGHT BIAS ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES Fifty BBYOers from the Connecticut Valley Region who will soon be off to institutions of higher learning were recently advised about the negative reality of anti-Semitism, which could face them when they arrive. Susan M. Silverman, assistant director of the Center of Human Rights and Public Policy of B'nai B'rith hosted a discussion in an effort to help ease the concerns among parents and the Jewish community that youth are not prepared for the shock of a professor that expresses anti-Israel sentiments, for example. READ MORE WISCONSIN REGION'S JEWISH TEEN DAY OF DISCOVERY WAS MAJOR SUCCESS Over 160 Jewish teens, including 110 BBYOers attended Getting to Know You, the Milwaukee area's first Jewish Teen Day of Discovery held in January. The event featured sessions on a wide range of topics, including Israeli cooking, Jewish music, Kabbalah (Jewish mysticism), Israeli self-defense, Jews and tattoos, and halachic perspectives on homosexuality. BBYO was one of the sponsors of the event, and AZA member, Gerad Bandos, was a key planner. Gerad Bandos BBYO In the News BBYO's Eastern Canada Region appeared in The Jewish Standard for its Regional Spirit Convention, which was attended by 70 Jewish teens from Montreal and Ottawa (Feb 2005). The Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle included an 8-page feature on BBYO's 2005 Summer Experience; it was entitled "Local teens discover themselves and the world at BBYO summer programs." (Feb 2005). A new chapter in BBYO's Connecticut Valley Region was the subject of an article in the Ridgefield Press (Feb 10, 2005). The Kings Courier Bay News covered the addition of a new BBYO chapter in Manhattan Beach (Feb 7, 2005). The Columbia Jewish News dedicated a full-page spread to BBYO, including articles on BBYO's alumni website, as well as BBYO's fall Executives and International Membership Conference (Jan 2005). BBYO member, Amy Jennifer Rothstein, submitted an article to the Toledo Jewish News about her experience painting a Tree of Life mural with her fellow BBGers (Jan 2005). Has BBYO appeared in your local press? Please let us know by emailing [email protected]. http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue05/[8/5/2014 3:01:33 PM] BBYO Newsletter Spanning over 40 regions and 15,000 members internationally, BBYO, Inc. is a worldwide, transdenominational, youth- led organization that provides opportunities for Jewish youth to develop their leadership potential and a positive Jewish identity. BBYO, Inc. * 2020 K Street NW, 7th Floor * Washington, DC 20006 GRAND ALEPH GODOL AND INTERNATIONAL N'SIAH PAY VISIT TO OVERSEAS DISTRICTS Continued from page 1: "Members of BBYO, regardless of nationality, all seem to have the same presence about them," said the International Presidents. "They are outgoing Jewish teens who are excited to meet new people and thrilled to be part of this organization." The duo visited the United Kingdom during the district's National Spirit Convention where more than 150 members attended to cheer on their chapters. According to Rachel and Steve, BBYO in the United Kingdom bears a striking resemblance to BBYO in the United States. And, despite a language barrier, the BBYO experience in Europe, which is centralized in France, felt very similar to the North American BBYO experience as well. The visit was part of an effort to create a closer connection between North American members and their overseas counterparts. As a first step, the international districts will be encouraging their members to participate in BBYO's International Convention this summer. "What we have done is only the beginning of a real connection across the Atlantic," said the International Presidents. Back to Top BBYO SEEKS DIRECTOR OF JEWISH ENRICHMENT Continued from page 1: The qualified candidate is an ordained rabbi of any denomination and/or an experienced Jewish educator/teacher with a minimum of a master's degree in Jewish Studies/Education. The position requires a dynamic professional who has the temperament, skills and capabilities to work with youth, professional staff and lay leaders as a teacher, mentor, role model and motivator. This position will be staffed out of BBYO's downtown DC headquarters and will involve approximately 30% travel. Competitive salary commensurate with experience. If you are interested or know someone who might be interested in being considered for this position, please send a cover letter and resume to Sidney Abrams, Director of Human Resources via e-mail at [email protected]. Back to Top WHERE YOUNG LIVES TAKE SHAPE: ALIZA KLINE Continued from page 1: What Aliza found most appealing about BBYO was its total integration of Jews across denominations. "When we had services, it didn't matter if you were Reform, or Orthodox or Conservative. You felt comfortable at BBYO." After attending her first regional event, a Rocky Mountain Region convention, Aliza aspired to earn a leadership position in BBYO. "I remember seeing the International N'siah, Suri Duitch, who happened to be a member of my chapter, Rocky Mountain Chai 5179, and thinking that she was someone I wanted to be like." So, Aliza became the President of her chapter. She then went on to become Regional Rakkazit, which she considered to be her "dream job." As Rakkazit, Aliza managed the planning of regional conventions. (Even Aliza's dramatic installation where her hair caught on fire was not enough to keep her away from BBYO!) "BBYO really meant the world to me when I was growing up," said Aliza. "The social aspect of BBYO provided the perfect complement to my stressful academic life and gave me a place to flourish, while the more serious leadership side made me feel rewarded and prepared me for what was to come in my life." Aliza knew from BBYO that she was most comfortable around other Jews, so she decided to attend college at Washington University in St. Louis, which was about 35% Jewish. Here, Aliza continued her Jewish leadership involvement with Hillel. Soon, Aliza would take her BBYO experience to the next level, as she was selected to be the Public Policy Fellow at Hillel's International Center. Putting her convention-planning skills to use, Aliza was responsible for coordinating major conferences. More important, Aliza was gaining exposure to everything happening in the Jewish world, including working with professionals and lay leaders. Aliza's next steps took her to the University Student Department at the Jewish National Fund - JNF On Campus; to the New York University to pursue a Master's Degree in Public Administration; and to the American Friends of the Hebrew University, followed by a year in Israel working at the Jerusalem Open House, a LGBTQ Community Center focused on advancing the cause of social tolerance. When Aliza returned to the States, she met with author Anita Diamante, the founder of Mayyim Hayyim Living Waters Community Mikveh and Education Center, Inc. in Boston. Inspired by Diamante and committed to taking an ancient and powerful ritual - immersion in the mikveh and making it accessible to everyone for contemporary spiritual use, Aliza accepted the executive directorship. She was charged with http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue05/[8/5/2014 3:01:33 PM] BBYO Newsletter reinventing the rituals of immersion to serve the needs of a diverse 21st century Jewish community and building an institution that welcomed all who wished to enter. Under Aliza's leadership, Mayyim three years, Mayyim Hayyim has Newton, Massachusetts, where it and healing. It all contains three Hayyim has become an intimate and unique center for Jewish spirituality and learning. Over the course of gained thousands of supporters and raised $1.9 million to build its new facility, a beautiful Victorian home in provides two sparkling, kosher pools (mikvaot) for all to explore the water as a source for spiritual renewal spacious multi-purpose rooms for meetings, classes and celebrations. The Center is an innovative interdenominational learning resource specializing in the Jewish lifecycle and spirituality. Its pristine living water pools draw diverse types of Jews for diverse reasons: converts marking the beginning of their lives as Jews; men and women preparing spiritually for marriage; Jews honoring personal milestones with rituals, song and celebration; men and women recovering from addiction mark their milestones; adoptive families bringing children to enter the covenant of Israel; women learning the mitzvah of monthly ritual immersion; and Jews beginning anew after divorce, chemotherapy or infertility treatment. Aliza looks at her work with Mayyim Hayyim as an "incredible opportunity to help something bloom." And, she credits BBYO with putting her on such a meaningful path to living Jewishly. "Now that I do this work professionally, I am amazed by what we were able to accomplish as kids in BBYO. For me, BBYO really was a life-changing experience. It shaped who I am." Aliza is married to Rabbi Bradley Solmsen and has a one-year old daughter, Ela. For more information on Mayyim Hayyim, visit www.mayyimhayyim.org. To contact Aliza Kline, e-mail [email protected]. Back to Top BBG ALUMNAE CO-AUTHOR BOOK TO HELP MOMS RAISE HAPPIER CHILDREN Continued from page 1: Renner, a social worker, and Pflock, an early childhood educator, wrote the book to help parents who are experiencing negative emotions resulting from the judgments of others on their parenting abilities, as well as negative emotions brought on because of how they judge themselves as parents. Initially, the authors, along with a third author, Julie Bort, surveyed over 1,300 parents nationwide to determine how such negative emotions, primarily guilt, impacted their parenting experiences. Ninety-six percent of the survey respondents indicated they had guilt associated with parenting. The authors then took the areas where they identified the most guilt and addressed potential strategies for turning their negative feelings into something that would help them enjoy their parenting experience more. Renner was involved in the Connecticut Valley Region BBYO from 1982 to 1985; she is a former BBYO advisor and most recently was the Assistant Director for the St. Louis Council BBYO. Pflock is a Rocky Mountain Region alumna from 1981-84. The book will be available in bookstores nationwide in mid-March and is currently available for presale at www.amazon.com. For more information on the authors, the book and parenting, visit www.Parentopia.net. Renner is available for speaking engagements. She can be contacted via e-mail at [email protected]. Back to Top COLLEGE-BOUND YOUTH PREPARE TO FIGHT BIAS ON COLLEGE CAMPUSES Continued from page 1: Silverman, who coordinates diplomatic efforts between B'nai B'rith International and foreign ministers, their embassies in Washington, DC and various international organizations, began her talk by describing the role of BBI on the international scene. She also looked at global antiSemitism and what is being done by BBI and the international Jewish community to respond. She also discussed the difference between the old and new anti-Semitism, and finally she took a specific look at the college campus, detailing her own college experience at American University in Washington, DC. The BBYO members in attendance revealed confidence in their Jewish identity and pointed to their involvement in the organization and the support they find in their AZA/BBG chapters as significant contributors. They talked about programs and conventions which emphasize heritage and religion, and they described the feeling of solidarity they found meeting teens from all over North America. Back to Top http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue05/[8/5/2014 3:01:33 PM] BBYO Newsletter April 2005 Issue 6 RECONNECT WITH OLD FRIENDS BBYO, Inc. News BBYO QUADRUPLES NUMBER OF TEENS VISITING ISRAEL; P2I PROGRAM HAS CLOSE TO 300 REGISTRANTS AND COUNTING The downward trend in Israel travel that has been plaguing many Jewish youth organizations in recent years has experienced a major reversal within the world's leading trans-denominational youth movement, BBYO, Inc. With almost 300 teens already signed up and trips closing out fast, BBYO's re-energized Israel travel program, Passport to Israel (P2I), will provide more than four times as many teens as last year with an opportunity to visit their Jewish homeland. Over 4,600 alumni are currently registered on www.bbyoalumni.org . Help spread the word to alumni you know. READ MORE WHAT ARE YOU DOING THIS SUMMER? A BIG "THANK YOU" TO BBYO ADVISORS The week of April 17-23 is designated as National Volunteer Week in North America. We, at BBYO, would like to say Kol Hakvod (well done, thank you) to our 800+ volunteers that work throughout the year with our more than 16,000 participants across North America. Your dedication enables our members to learn, grow and succeed as young adults. Please accept our deepest gratitude for the work you are doing with the youth of BBYO. You should be proud of your involvement with the world's leading Jewish youth movement, and you should be confident that your time and effort is making a significant impact on shaping the Jewish leaders of tomorrow and, ultimately, ensuring Jewish continuity. BBYO's 2005 Summer Experience offers teens more program options than ever before. If you are interested in travel, community service, outdoor adventure, leadership, the arts or Judaism, we have a program for you. To learn more or to register, visit www.bbyoprograms.org. Alumni News BBYO ALUMNUS WINS PULITZER Charles Ornstein, a journalist for the Los Angeles Times, was one of a group of reporters recognized with the most coveted of America's journalism prizes, the Pulitzer Prize in Public Service for a series of stories that detailed how Martin Luther King Jr./Drew Medical Center in Los Angeles provided care so poor that it sickened and imperiled some patients. SUMMER PROGRAM FEATURE: KESHER L'YISRAEL Photo by the Los Angeles Times Spend one week learning about the land, the Ornstein is an alumnus of Kishon AZA #63 of Farmington Hills, Michigan (1988-92). He served as Aleph Gizbor and Aleph Moreh of his chapter and served as Regional AZA Aleph Sopher (1991-92). Charles participated in BBYO's Directions career development program in 1990 and participated in a BBYO Alumni trip to Israel in 1993. Of his BBYO experience, Ornstein says, "My years in AZA taught me the importance of leadership, teamwork, integrity and Judaism. Although I was very active in high school activities, I couldn't wait for weekend Kishon AZA events, retreats and even meetings. I made lifelong friendships through AZA--and my wife was an active BBG member in Texas. And, http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue06/[8/5/2014 3:02:24 PM] BBYO Newsletter people and the history of Israel, and spend another putting your knowledge to use in the nation's capital. For more information on BBYO's Connection to Israel program, visit www.bbyoprograms.org today. of course, serving as regional Sopher helped build my love of journalism." MORE THAN FRIENDS: FOR MANY ATLANTA COUPLES, BBYO ROMANCES MEANT LIVING HAPPILY EVER AFTER This article originally ran in the Atlanta Jewish Times (www.atljewishtimes.com) Simchas supplement. It was written by Amy Caplan. JOIN HUNDREDS OF TEENS IN ISRAEL THIS SUMMER It's well known that involvement in B'nai B'rith Youth Organization helps teens develop leadership skills and friendships with other Jews. Although they might not have been looking for love, for some Atlantans, BBYO helped them meet their life partners, as well. "It's a great place to meet your mate," says Sarah Blattner, who met her husband Marc, through the organization. "We have shared experiences, shared values. Marc and I have such a shared history." Are you interested in traveling, making new friends and having the time of your life this summer? If so, BBYO's Passport to Israel program is right for you. For more information or to register, visit www.passport2israel.org today. Trips are filling up fast. READ MORE HELP END HUNGER BBYO MEMBERS ENLIGHTEN 95-YEAR-OLDS TO BBYO PAST Who would think that it would take several teenage boys volunteering at a Senior facility to show two 95-year-old men what they had in common? At this season of Passover, people of faith are called upon to not only remember the hungry but also to take action to alleviate the worldwide problem of hunger. You can take action for free. Visit www.WorldManna.org now. Ben Coppersmith and Jerome Vogel, both residents of Gidwitz Place and Friends Center have known each other for some time. However, it was not until the summer of 2004, when BBYO members Jason Horowitz, Jason Rosen, Jon Herron and Noah Toppe came to volunteer as part of BBYO's two-week Nitzotz community service program that the two men discovered their common past; they were both AZA members. GIVE TO BBYO READ MORE BBYO needs your annual support to reach thousands of Jewish teens. You can contribute to BBYO either through an unrestricted gift or by designating your gift to a specific fund, program or project. REGIONAL NEWS GREATER JERSEY HUDSON RIVER REGION PRODUCES EXTREME MAKEOVER: JEWISH EDITION TO SUBSCRIBE OR TO SUBMIT NEWS, EVENTS AND COMMENTS FOR THE NEW BBYO E-NEWSLETTER, EMAIL [email protected] . More than 300 BBYOers from all over New Jersey and as far away as Albany, NY, attended the Greater Jersey Hudson River Region's Annual Judaism Institute. Using the popular TV show, Extreme Makeover, as the premise, the event served to reinvigorate the Jewish spirit of participants by making Jewish history, practices and experiences relevant to today's teens. Please forward the BBYO e-News to friends or colleagues who may be interested. The convention, co-chaired by Shara Hirsch of Hillsdale and Jordan Kaplan of Livingston, gave the delegates from more than 30 chapters - high school freshmen to seniors - a chance to get reacquainted and make new friends while engaging in Jewish programming. From the icebreakers to Friday night services to the programs, everything had a Jewish theme. READ MORE http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue06/[8/5/2014 3:02:24 PM] BBYO Newsletter ECR'S LEAH SCHWEITZER RECEIVES TEEN LEADERSHIP AWARD BBG member in Eastern Canada Region, Leah Schweitzer, was awarded the 2005 Grossman-Klein Family Teen Leadership Award in recognition of her outstanding dedication and service to the Jewish community. Leah, a 10th grader, serves as Chapter Mazkirah in Eastern Canada Region's BBYO and she also holds leadership roles with NCSY and at Yitzhak Rabin High School. Leah received her award at the Annual General Meeting of the JCC of Ottowa. MIAMI REGION PRESIDENTS RECEIVE AWARD FROM JCC The Dave and Mary Alper JCC in Miami honored Whitney Appelrouth and Jason Golzbein, the Miami region N'siah and Godol, for devoting countless hours to bettering the Jewish community. Whitney and Jason were two of six honorees representing "Four Generations of Lay Leadership." For more information, visit http://www.alperjcc.org/default.asp?n1=9&n2=41. OHIO NORTHERN REGION RECOGNIZED AS "COMMUNITY CHAMPION" Ohio Northern Region BBYO was nominated by the Jewish Community Federation of Cleveland as a "Community Champion" for its commitment to community service in the Greater Cleveland area. Three ONR BBYOers represented the organization at The Cleveland City Year "Idealism in Action" Luncheon held in March. Over 400 people were in attendance including Cleveland Mayor Jane Campbell. READ MORE ONR AZA SENIORS TAKE ON STAFF Some seniors from Ohio Northern Region's AZA couldn't graduate without showing up their regional staff on the basketball court. In a recent Staff vs. Seniors Basketball game, the AZAers came out on top with a final score of 47-40. NASSAU-SUFFOLK REGION LENDS HAND AT RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE Each month for the past 10+ years, a different chapter of BBYO's Nassau-Suffolk Region has prepared a meal for families at the local Ronald McDonald House. The idea behind the Ronald McDonald House is to provide a "home-away-from-home" for families of seriously ill children who are receiving treatment at nearby hospitals, in this case, Schneider's Children's Hospital. In order to feed the families, BBYOers get food donated or fundraise for the food by selling Passover chocolates, hosting garage sales, selling breast cancer bracelets, etc. READ MORE http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue06/[8/5/2014 3:02:24 PM] BBYO Newsletter MIAMI AND GOLD COAST REGION TEENS DASH TOWARD THE FINISH More than 110 Jewish teens from Dade and Broward counties participated in the annual BBYO Miami and Gold Coast Region Maccabiah games. Overall trophies for the games were awarded to Har'lev BBG and Zion AZA. BBYO In the News The Atlanta Jewish Times life cycle events supplement, "Simchas," featured four Atlantan BBYO couples in an article entitled, "More than Friends." See Alumni section above to read the article in its entirety (March 2005). Israel at Heart, an advocacy group founded by BBYO board member, Joey Low, was the subject of an article in Hadassah Magazine. Israel at Heart, a BBYO partner is an independent organization working to spread a positive Israeli message by sending delegations of young Israeli volunteers to share their "real life" experiences with Jewish and non-Jewish audiences in the U.S. (March 2005). Big Apple regional director, Hali Herman was quoted in a Jerusalem Post article entitled, "Where have all the young Jews gone?" In the article, Herman explains how today's Jewish youth programs struggle for time on teens's calendars because of other commitments like SAT courses and enrichment classes, for example (March 2, 2005). The Charleston Jewish Voice, Charleston, SC, ran an article about BBYO programs in the Dixie Council of Southern Region (Feb/March, 2005). Lisa Haubenstock and Elissa Bergman, senior BBYO members, told the Richmond, VA Jewish News why their time in BBYO has them excited about being involved with Hillel, the world's largest Jewish college organization. They explained how their involvement in BBYO helped them to form a strong Jewish identity and made finding a college campus with a strong Jewish community a priority. (Feb 21, 2005). The Redding Pilot, Ridgefield, CT, reports that the Connecticut Valley Region of BBYO has started new chapters in Ridgefield, North and South Salem, Katonah, Lewisboro, Georgetown, Wilton, Redding and Danbury with support from Temple Shearith Israel following tremendous success with a middle school introductory BBYO program (Feb 17, 2005). In an article entitled, "Dating's not dead, but teens find more fun in groups," the Seattle Times, Seattle, WA got the update on the teen dating scene from Alanna Mednick, regional board member of Evergreen Region BBYO. Alanna talked about the "group fun" atmosphere of BBYO social programs (Feb 2005). The Dayton Jewish Observer published a story on Dayton's annual Leadership Training Institute highlighting the character development opportunities, Jewish identity building, and social outlets of BBYO (Jan 2005). The Canadian Jewish News featured a BBYO inter-regional convention, which was attended by members from Montreal, Ottawa, Toronto, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Arizona. For more, visit www.cjnews.com/viewarticle.asp?id=5721 Has BBYO appeared in your local press? Please let us know by emailing [email protected]. Spanning over 40 regions and 15,000 members internationally, BBYO, Inc. is a worldwide, transdenominational, youth- led organization that provides opportunities for Jewish youth to develop their leadership potential and a positive Jewish identity. BBYO, Inc. * 2020 K Street NW, 7th Floor * Washington, DC 20006 BBYO QUADRUPLES NUMBER OF TEENS VISITING ISRAEL; P2I PROGRAM HAS CLOSE TO 300 REGISTRANTS AND COUNTING http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue06/[8/5/2014 3:02:24 PM] BBYO Newsletter Continued from page 1: BBYO has been providing Israel travel programs for decades but recognizes that today's teens have varied interests and expectations. So, the organization introduced trips to connect teens of the 21st century to Israel through the things that interest them most, including culture, ecoadventure, community service, mysticism and spirituality, and peer-to-peer contact with Israelis. BBYO is partnering with premier Israeli tour operator, Tlalim Tours, to bring teens the P2I program. With three decades of professional experience leading youth-oriented touring programs, Tlalim is the ideal partner to provide a safe, meaningful Israel summer experience for every Jewish teen wishing to spend three weeks in their homeland. "BBYO is committed to connecting an unprecedented number of Jewish teens to meaningful Jewish experiences," said Matthew Grossman, BBYO's executive director. "There is no point of connection more powerful than Israel. This summer is one step forward in ensuring a strong Jewish future." For more information on BBYO's Passport to Israel program or to register, visit www.passpport2israel.org today. Trips are filling up fast. Back to Top MORE THAN FRIENDS: FOR MANY ATLANTA COUPLES, BBYO ROMANCES MEANT LIVING HAPPILY EVER AFTER Continued from page 1: There are no hard statistics on how many teens who meet each other through the organization subsequently marry, according to Abby Strunk, senior manager of marketing and communications at national BBYO headquarters based in Washington, D.C. But if the Atlanta area is any indication, unions that result from convention romances and chapter parties are fairly common. Married BBYOers -- and all other alumni -- will have a chance to reminisce about their BBYO days of the past and catch up on the present when they converge in Atlanta June 10, 11 and 12 for one of the largest BBYO reunions ever. The reunion marks the 80th anniversary of AZA and the 60th anniversary of BBG. Sarah and Marc Blattner The Blattners just may be the highest-ranking BBYO couple, says Marc, a former grand aleph godol (president), of his marriage to Sarah Edelman, a former international s'ganit (vice president) of BBG. The Blattners, their daughter, Aliyah, 3 1/2 and son, Shai, 2, moved to Atlanta last July when Marc, 35, took the position of the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta's chief operating officer. For Marc, it was a return to his birthplace. Born in Atlanta, he was raised in Orlando, Fla., where he was a member of Orlando Rebels AZA #442. He served as president of the region before being elected grand aleph mazkir (secretary) for AZA and eventually, grand aleph godol (international president) for AZA. "BBYO was a place for me to grow personally, where I learned how to be a good listener and how to work with others. I loved my AZA days," he said. Sarah, now 34, and her family lived in Pittsburgh during her freshman year of high school. Pittsburgh's strong Jewish community made it "easy to be Jewish," said Sarah. But the following year, her family moved to Dayton, Ohio, where her mother insisted she join Chai BBG in the Kentucky-Indiana-Ohio region. Although she wanted to be rebellious, she "did it anyway. I had to make an effort," Sarah said. "Without BBYO I wouldn't have had much Jewish identity. I got really active really quickly." Within a year, she was president of the region. The next year, she served as BBG's international vice president for BBG. BBYO "was my entire social interaction," she said, adding that it helped her transition when she moved to a new city as a 10th-grader. "It helped form my Jewish identity." Marc remembers the first time he met Sarah in 1987 at an executive board meeting in D.C. "She walks in and I say 'Welcome to D.C. Would you like to go to lunch?'s Smooth guy that I was, I took her to Roy Rodgers." They remained friendly, seeing each other at an international summer program in Starlight, Pa. After high school, Marc went on to Emory and Sarah enrolled at Ohio State University in Columbus. But the summer after their freshman year, both worked as counselors at BBYO's camp in Pennsylvania. They remember meeting at the New York Port Authority to take the bus to camp. "We talked all the way to camp," Marc said, and they started dating soon after camp started. Marc even remembers the date of their first kiss - June 21, 1989 - beside the lake at camp. The couple worked at camp every summer through graduate school. They maintained a long-distance relationship, dating exclusively through college and communicating by letters. "I wrote her a letter every day for four and a half years," Marc says. "She still has them all." Their first time living in the same city came when Marc moved to Baltimore to attend graduate school and Sarah relocated there to become Baltimore Council BBYO director after graduating from graduate school. They became engaged in November 1993 and married a year later on Nov. 27, 1994 in Orlando. BBYO offers "a real education about people, about life, about experiences," Marc said, adding that some of their closest friends are those they met as teens in the organization. That's one reason why the Blattners are working on the committee to plan the upcoming reunion. Mindy and David Ellin http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue06/[8/5/2014 3:02:24 PM] BBYO Newsletter Mindy Maran, an Atlanta native, went to Briarcliff High School. David Ellin moved to Atlanta from Queens, N.Y., in 1973 and attended Riverwood High School. "We went to different high schools," Mindy said. "BBYO was what brought us together. It was both of our lives." Mindy was in Tikvah BBG from 1971 to 1976. (At the time, eighth-graders could join BBYO.) She served as president of her chapter, held positions on her chapter board and the Atlanta Council board and helped plan the 1976 Atlanta Council convention. When David moved South, his Northern friends had advised him "Don't tell anyone you're Jewish." Once David arrived in Atlanta, AZA members tried to get him to join BBYO. But, heeding his friends's words, he didn't admit he was Jewish. In time, though, "I finally realized there was no reason not to." He joined Thomas Makover AZA. "I ultimately got very involved," he said, serving as president of the chapter, chairing several committees and holding positions on the Atlanta Council board. BBYO, David says, was different in those days. "The JCC in midtown was the place to be," he said. He and his AZA friends spent the entire day there on Sundays, playing basketball and holding chapter meetings. Mindy and David met at an ice skating social for their chapters and became close friends immediately. They were dating by the end of their junior year in 1975. "One day we looked at each other and said this is probably more than friendship," David said. Their families are good friends, as well. In fact, their parents live across the street from each other. "We have pictures of us celebrating our 16th birthdays together at Benihana with both sets of parents," Mindy said. "When you meet your spouse in high school you really feel like you've grown up together." After high school, Mindy headed to Athens to study advertising at the University of Georgia, where she joined Delta Phi Epsilon sorority. David started at Tulane University in New Orleans and transferred to UGA in 1977. There he majored in business and joined Tau Epsilon Phi. David proposed to Mindy one Saturday night of their senior year on the steps of her sorority house. The two were married at Beth Jacob Nov. 9, 1980 - and will celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary this year. They are, David says, "tremendously happy." The Ellins live in Alpharetta with their three children, Caryn, 20, Jonathan, 18, and Marissa, 12, and are members of Congregation B'nai Torah. "Our children are friends with children of our friends from BBYO," Mindy said. "The cycle continues. "BBYO was probably one of the single most important factors in my life. It gave me my best friends, gave me a true love of my religion, all of my leadership skills. It prepared me for business. I'm sure I wouldn't do what I do if it weren't for BBYO," said Mindy, who is the director of JATCO -- Jewish Atlanta Teen Community Outreach - a division of the Center for Jewish Education and Experiences. "We are both huge supporters of BBYO, what it stands for and what it teaches kids," says David, who has worked for Innotrac, a marketing services company, for 20 years. The Ellins wanted their children to be exposed to the camaraderie, friendship and memories they associate with BBYO. "We really wanted her to have that experience," David said of their older daughter, now a junior at UGA. "If I had to define my teen years, it was all BBYO." Once out of college, David says, "I decided it was such a good experience, I wanted to give something back to it." He worked as an adviser to a chapter, which he calls "a phenomenal experience." The couple is still close with friends from BBYO, including a group that meets regularly for dinner and conversation. Artie and Sherie Gumer Artie and Sherie Gumer found themselves in the right place at the right time enough times to know it was right. They are a BBYO couple -- but Artie wasn't even involved with BBYO when he was in high school. The New York native was active in NFTY (North American Federation of Temple Youth), attending summer programs and acting as a song leader. But in college at McGill University in Montreal, Canada, Artie became a BBYO adviser and a song leader for the organization's leadership program in Starlight. He led music at the BBYO International Leadership Training Conference for a few years. Sherie Baer grew up in Nashville, Tenn. She attended BBYO conventions, served as president of her chapter, Music City BBG, and held positions on the Cotton States regional board and district seven board. "BBG was what I did in high school other than go to school. It represented an opportunity to develop friendships, hone leadership skills, learn Jewishly," she said. "It's where my desire to be a part of the community began." The two first crossed paths at a 1975 district leadership training conference in Shreveport, La. Sherie was graduating high school and Artie was finishing his junior year of college. "We had a convention romance," Sherie said, adding that they kept in touch for a few months and then saw each other again at a convention in Memphis, Tenn. After that conference, though, they lost touch for about five years. Sherie graduated from Tulane University and moved to D.C. to attend Georgetown University graduate school. Unbeknownst to Sherie, Artie also moved to D.C., to go to medical school at George Washington University. http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue06/[8/5/2014 3:02:24 PM] BBYO Newsletter In fact, at a BBYO convention in Sherie's hometown of Nashville, Artie asked a friend about Sherie. The friend - innocently but incorrectly -said Sherie was at Washington University in St. Louis. Disappointed, Artie returned to D.C. In March of 1981, he was about to record a song tape for BBYO and went to the Georgetown law school where he was to buy the tapes. As Artie was entering the building, Sherie was walking between classes - and then their chance meeting took place. "We happened to be in that exact same spot at the exact same time," Sherie said. "What are you doing here?" he asked, thinking she was in St. Louis. She asked him the same thing. "From that day on, we knew something would happen," he said. For her part, Sherie says she is glad she met her spouse at a young age. "There is always something about somebody who 'knew you when's and who has observed the person you've become." They became engaged on New Year's Eve later that year, and married August 15, 1982. After two more years in D.C., the Gumers moved to Philadelphia, where Artie completed his residency. Afterward, he had the opportunity to move and the couple chose Atlanta, partly because Sherie's sister and brother were here. For the Gumers, BBYO is not just a thing of the past. An obstetrician and mohel, Artie served as an adult board chair for BBYO and the Gumers are chairing the upcoming reunion. "For Sherie and me, it's fun to be doing this," Artie said. "It's a way for me to give back to the organization because it meant so much to me when I was in high school. I want to get other kids active and to love the organization. I'm more than happy to do it." Sherie agrees: "We believe in this organization," she said. "It is near and dear to our hearts." And they have passed on a love of BBYO to their children. When their son, Jason, now 18, was a student at North Springs High School, he served as a council officer and chapter officer and went to Israel with BBYO. The Gumers's daughter, Arielle, 16 and a junior at the Weber School, participated in recent ILTC and CLTC programs, where she found they were still using song books her father helped create. "I've seen my own kids benefit and grow," Artie said. "It's clear it's helped them develop a Jewish identity that is hard to establish with any other method. A service organization that fosters learning and fraternity and social action. -- what could be better?" Sheri and David Whiteman Sheri Silber Whiteman hails from Detroit. David Whiteman is from Windsor, Ontario, Canada, about 30-minutes away by car. He says BBYO was one of the few ways Jews in Windsor -- a town with a small Jewish population -- could socialize with other Jews. Sheri was 16 and David was 17 when they met at orientation camp in Starlight, Pa., and then on Israel Summer Institute, a trip to Israel. After they returned, Sheri's chapter, Machar BBG, had a party which David and three of his friends from his AZA chapter Herzl crashed. "We've been together ever since," said Sheri. "BBYO was my life in high school," Sheri said. "I lived for conventions and dances." The couple dated "long distance" for seven years while Sheri attended the University of Michigan and David, the University of Western Ontario. They never broke up or dated other people, Sheri said, adding that, long before the advent of e-mail, instant messaging and cell phones, they corresponded with letters and long-distance phone calls. Sheri said she knew early on "he would be a significant person in my life." David says he felt "contentment, satisfaction and lack of a need to look elsewhere." "Occasionally you will meet the person to spend the rest of your life with early on," he said. "We've shared each other's lives. I've known her brother and sister since they were kids. I knew her grandparents and they knew me." Soon after they met, their parents met and hit it off, as well. They are close friends to this day. In fact, the connection goes back even further. Sheri's father and David's mother knew each other in elementary school and both sets of parents found they had friends in common. "Everybody knew everybody at the wedding," Sheri said of the ceremony that took place June 14, 1987 in Detroit. They are the third generation of Windsor-Detroit marriages in his family After a honeymoon in Hawaii, Sheri and David moved to Vancouver for six years while David, now 43, completed his residency in plastic surgery. Then it was off to Washington, D.C., for a fellowship at Georgetown University. The Whitemans have lived in Atlanta for 12 years. They live in Peachtree Corners and are members of Congregation Beth Shalom. Sheri, 42, is a stay-at-home mom to Ari, 13, and Rachel, 10, who both attend the Davis Academy. "They know the whole story and think it's neat," she said of her children. "It's very unusual and very special." Says David: "We are each other's best friend." Back to Top http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue06/[8/5/2014 3:02:24 PM] BBYO Newsletter BBYO MEMBERS ENLIGHTEN 95-YEAR-OLDS TO BBYO PAST Continued from page 1: Their past involvement in the organization not only tied them to each other, but it also tied them in a very special way to the teens that visited with them. The four boys were anxious to speak with Vogel and Coppersmith, especially once they learned that the men knew Max Baer, a former international director of BBYO. Coppersmith proudly showed the youth a certificate he saved that was signed by Sam Beber, the founder of AZA. Both men spoke about the influence that AZA had on their commitment to community service, which continued well beyond their years in the organization. Jerome credits all his connection to Jewish knowledge and practice to AZA. According to Jerome, "AZA served as a unifier of kids. It brought us together." The group agreed that AZA was instrumental in helping to shape them as human beings. It appears that AZA is still uniting Jews, old and young alike. Back to Top GREATER JERSEY HUDSON RIVER REGION PRODUCES EXTREME MAKEOVER: JEWISH EDITION Continued from page 1: For instance, when delegates introduced themselves during icebreakers, they talked about their favorite Jewish athletes, entertainers, musicians, and politicians. For Friday night services, delegates had the choice of participating in a musical service, a service at the Wall in Jerusalem, a journey through Jewish history, or a health and healing service. On Saturday morning, delegates participated in an Extreme Synagogue Makeover, talking about the things they would like to see in their hometown synagogues, including more teen programming, gymnasium time, closer interaction with clergy, etc. In the most ambitious program of the weekend, delegates were blindfolded and taken on a virtual ride through Israel's history since the partition plan in 1947 to the present. They listened to the facts and figures but also heard audio of key events, including Israel's independence in 1948, sounds of war from 1967 and 1973, and the meeting of Yitzhak Rabin and Yasser Arafat in Washington. "The interesting twist, though, was that the delegates were split into two groups for this program - Israeli and Palestinian - and the history they learned was from that particular perspective," explained Judi Youngman, senior regional director of GJHRR BBYO. "So the teens had an opportunity to appreciate that historical events often depend on your perspective." In the end, though, both groups exited the program through one door - representing the doorway to peace. They then moved into a debriefing discussion group led by Ester David, BBYO International Sh'licha, who talked about prospects for peace from the perspective of an Israeli citizen. Other event highlights included a "Choices" program which demonstrated the limited choices that European Jews had during the Holocaust; community service work for the Bristol-Myers Squibb Children's Hospital and the Central New Jersey Jewish Home for the Aged; a Jewish arts program which included baking mandel brot, making Hebrew necklaces and mezuzahs; and a semi-formal dance. "This was really a fantastic convention," said Youngman. "Each program contributed to giving the teens a better understanding of their Jewish background and their opportunities for Jewish expression." Back to Top OHIO NORTHERN REGION RECOGNIZED AS "COMMUNITY CHAMPION" Continued from page 1: City Year is a community-wide partnership of government, foundations non-profit organizations and Cleveland's most dynamic private corporations, which seeks to promote the concept of national service. This year, City Year has united seventy 17-24-year-olds to produce a corps of powerful young idealists who recognize the virtues of sacrifice and commitment. BBYO's Greater Cleveland area teens were recognized for their work with the TASC project (Teens Actively Serving the Community). As part of TASC, they work to create a formal partnership with a local non-profit agency to do volunteer work on a regular basis with organizations like Stone Gardens, Menorah Park and the Ronald McDonald House. ONR has also coordinated fundraisers to help raise money for causes and scholarships, including a regional "Consuming for Cancer" and a Dance Marathon as part of the 2004 Federation Campaign for Jewish Needs Back to Top NASSAU-SUFFOLK REGION LENDS HAND AT RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE Continued from page 1: The efforts go beyond cooking a full-course meal of interesting ingredients; the BBYOers spend copious amounts of time getting to know the individual families. Not only are the members graciously thanked, but every helper also gains a little more self-awareness as they travel the path to being a good Jewish citizen. Careful to have the utmost respect and privacy for the families staying at the Ronald McDonald House during a time of great need, the members of NSR leave their mark on many hearts and secure a place in their own for putting the needs of others less fortunate as their highest priority. Back to Top http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue06/[8/5/2014 3:02:24 PM] BBYO Newsletter May 2005 Issue 7 RECONNECT WITH OLD FRIENDS If you have information to share or comments about the BBYO e-News, please contact Abby Strunk at [email protected]. Thank you and enjoy! BBYO, Inc. News BBYO IS A FAMILY AFFAIR By Ian Kandel BBYO is widely known as the world's oldest and largest Jewish teen-led organization that offers countless leadership, Jewish, community service and travel opportunities for Jewish teens everywhere. Regardless of which of the many ways Jewish teens can get involved in BBYO, the result is the same; they establish a strong commitment to the Jewish community at a young age. This is not only why BBYO has been a tremendous part of hundreds of thousands of Jewish lives, but it is also why BBYO is so highly regarded by parents everywhere as the type of involvement they want for their children. Over 4,700 alumni are currently registered on www.bbyoalumni.org . Help spread the word to alumni you know. SUMMER PROGRAMS ARE CLOSING OUT FAST Ryan, Ina and Jordan Enoch READ MORE REGIONAL NEWS JENNA WEINBERG RECEIVES EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AWARD BBYO's 2005 Summer Experience offers teens more program options than ever before. If you are interested in travel, community service, outdoor adventure, leadership, the arts or Judaism, we have a program for you. Register today, before it's too late. Visit www.bbyoprograms.org. Longtime Tulsa resident and local philanthropist, Jeanette Altman Frieden, has chosen her 2nd recipient of the Jeanette Altman Frieden Excellence in Education Scholarship. This year's winner is Jenna Weinberg of the North Texas/Oklahoma-Tulsa (NTO) Region. Jenna will be graduating from Jenks High School and going to the University of Indiana. She has a 4.0 and is currently N'siah of Nona Bloch Salomon BBG #243. READ MORE Jenna Weinberg volunteering SUMMER PROGRAM FEATURE: CLTC BIG APPLE REGIONAL DIRECTOR HONORED BY THE NORTHEAST QUEENS JEWISH COMMUNITY COUNCIL Hali Herman, the director of BBYO's Big Apple Region, has been selected by the Northeast Queens Jewish Community Council as one of three honorees, including State Senator Frank Padavan, for the instrumental role that she has played in putting BBYO on the map in the Northeast Queens area READ MORE http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue07/[8/5/2014 3:03:40 PM] BBYO Newsletter Prepare for chapter leadership in a hands - on, interactive way at BBYO's two- week Chapter Leadership Training Conference. Choose from summer camps in Wisconsin or Pennsylvania or the University of Judaism in Los Angeles. Hali Herman, third from left ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGION KICKS OFF J-SERVE IN BIG WAY CHILDREN OF ABRAHAM SEEKS PARTICIPANTS AGED 15-20 As one of the lead agencies to receive a grant from Panim, BBYO's Rocky Mountain Region (RMR) held an extremely successful Jewish Teen Day of Service (J-Serve). The region's "Mitzvahpalooza" event gave 160+ teens the opportunity to serve their community in a variety of ways. Teens performed community service at several locations around the Denver-area ranging from restoring an old, under-funded Jewish cemetery to helping at the Ronald McDonald House. Children of Abraham promotes interaction between Jewish and Muslim youth in 40 countries on 6 continents through a cyberinternship program, local chapters, partnerships on college campuses between Hillel and the Muslim Students Association and high school exchange programs. To learn more, visit www.children- of- abraham.org. READ MORE GIVE TO BBYO Alumni News FORMER GRAND ALEPH GODOL FINDS GRAND SUCCESS IN FASHION INDUSTRY In a span of just over ten years, Scott Sternberg went from leading the world's preeminent Jewish teen movement as BBYO's Grand Aleph Godol (1992-93) to working at a LA-based talent agency with some of the top names in the entertainment industry to making his mark on the fashion world. In April 2004, the former Ohio Northern Region BBYOer launched a clothing line, Band of Outsiders, which is now available in 18 stores in the U.S, Canada and Japan and soon to be in 35 stores around the world. BBYO needs your annual support to reach thousands of Jewish teens. You can contribute to BBYO either through an unrestricted gift or by designating your gift to a specific fund, program or project. To subscribe or to submit news, events or comments for the new BBYO e-Newsletter, e-mail [email protected] . Forward the BBYO e-News to friends or colleagues who might be interested. Scott Sternberg Barneys New York window. READ MORE STILL MAKING MEMORIES REUNION IN ATLANTA Wondering what happened to your old friends from BBYO? Curious to meet BBYO alumni? Want to reconnect to BBYO's current program and learn how you can be involved as an alum? Join us for BBYO, Inc.'s Still Making Memories Alumni Reunion taking place June 10-12 in Atlanta, GA. This event is for everyone - for those from Atlanta-area chapters and from chapters from across North America. Programs will include BBYO-style Shabbat services at Temple Emanu-El, a Saturday evening anniversary celebration at Zaban Park and alumni basketball games on Sunday. For registration information call 770.395.2557, visit www.atlantajcc.org or e-mail [email protected]. http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue07/[8/5/2014 3:03:40 PM] BBYO Newsletter BBYO In the News President Sam Rubin of Gottleib AZA in Fairfield, Connecticut was quoted in the Connecticut Post as a representative of BBYO attending a Holocaust Memorial service (May 2005). The San Diego Union Tribune reported that generally teen trips to Israel are on the rise and spoke with Lane Schlessel, BBYO's Director of Program Enrichment, regarding the success of the 2005 Passport to Israel program (May 2005). The Jewish Journal in South Florida recently interviewed the newly elected regional Godol and N'siah about their experiences in BBYO (April 2005). The Washington Jewish Week wrote about teen volunteers from AZA in Northern Region East working with members of the Shalom Chapter for teens with developmental disabilities to sort donated foods at the Manna Food Bank in Rockville, MD (March 2005). The Cleveland Jewish News reported that Jessica Solomon, Jordan Blimbaum and Tracy Levine, BBYO members in Ohio Northern Region, were recognized as "City Champions" at the "Idealism in Action" luncheon on March 14 (March 2005). The Jewish Community Voice featured members of the South Jersey region who worked with members of the Saltzman House Knitting Club to make over 50 blankets and other items, which will be taken and donated in Bulgaria during the annual winter trip (March, 2005). The JT News in Mercer Island covered the launch of the new Jewish teen basketball league in the greater Seattle area (March 2005). The Toledo Jewish News in Ohio reported on the BBYO Beau Sweetheart 2005 in Akron (March 2005). The Canadian Jewish News reported on BBYO Eastern Canada Region's annual convention, which brought together teens from Toronto, Montreal and Ottawa (March 3, 2005). The Columbus Telegram (OH), Cadillac News (MI), Kingsport Times (TN), Leader (NY), Greenville News (SC) ran an article entitled, "Dating's not dead, but teens find fun in groups," in which BBYO member, Alanna Mednick, talks about the group fun that can be found in BBYO (March 1, 2005). Members of the Orlando Rebels AZA chapter were recognized in the Florida Heritage Jewish News for volunteering to escort the women with umbrellas attending the Jewish Federation's Women Division campaign dinner during a rainy evening (February 2005). The Dayton Jewish Observer (OH) interviewed BBYO alumnus Larry R. Skolnick, who recently assumed the position of executive vice president of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton (Feb 2005). The Kentucky-Indiana-Ohio Regional convention was the focus of a recent article in the Dayton Jewish Observer (Feb 2005). The San Diego Jewish Times included an article on BBYO's Aleph Society, a group of philanthropic leaders willing to commit $25,000 annually toward strengthening the organization (Feb 25, 2005). The Jewish Western Bulletin in Vancouver reported on a collaborative effort between the youth of BBYO, NCSY, USY and Temple Shalom Youth. The teens worked together to organize a shopping spree at a local supermarket to collect food for the Jewish food bank (Feb 25, 2005). The Texas Jewish Post featured BBYO's Israel travel program, Passport to Israel (Feb 24, 2005). The Jewish Herald-Voice (TX) featured the Lonestar Region's leadership weekend (Feb 17, 2005) as well as its summer program promotion night (Feb 24, 2005). Has BBYO appeared in your local press? Please let us know by emailing [email protected]. Spanning over 38 regions and 16,000 members internationally, BBYO, Inc. is a worldwide, transdenominational, teen- led organization that provides opportunities for Jewish teens to develop their leadership potential and a positive Jewish identity. BBYO, Inc. * 2020 K Street NW, 7th Floor * Washington, DC 20006 http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue07/[8/5/2014 3:03:40 PM] BBYO Newsletter BBYO IS A FAMILY AFFAIR By Ian Kandel Continued from page 1: Ina Enoch, of Atlanta, Georgia, is a proud alumna and an even prouder parent. Ina was an active member of Ahavah BBG in Charleston, South Carolina. She attended BBYO's Jewish learning institute, Kallah, and the International Leadership Training Conference at BBYO's Perlman camp in Starlight, Pennsylvania before she served as Dixie Council S'ganit (VP) during the 1972-1973 programming year. It was because of the rewarding experience Ina had as a BBYO member, that she encouraged her sons, Ryan and Jordan, to join when it was their turn. Initially both boys were hesitant of the "whole youth group scene," but Ina was sure that it was the Jewish experience they needed. And as most mothers are, she was right. "Both boys soared in BBYO," Ina recalls. "They made long-lasting friendships and they quickly became chapter and Council leaders, both serving as Shaliach (Judaism and community service VP) at each level." Ina has gotten involved as welcomed area lay leaders Ina's involvement, she has are also able to effectively an active parent volunteer by participating in Atlanta's Adult Advisory Board for the past five years. Ina recently to her home for a fundraising event with Lynn Schusterman, chair of the BBYO, Inc. board of directors. Through come to greatly respect the professional staff as individuals who are not only able to relate to the teens, but who encourage the youth to foster their own leadership abilities. "BBYO gave Ryan and Jordan an environment to build self-confidence, practice public speaking, and develop their own creativity. Without a doubt the boys participation in BBYO has been a positive experience that will encourage future involvement in the Jewish community." Ina strongly believes that, "BBYO is a great way to keep Jewish teens Jewish." Jordan, an alumnus of Hazakah AZA, is a rising senior at New York University, and Ryan, a recent alumnus of Frank Fierman AZA, will be starting his freshman year at the University of Southern California. Ina is excited about another upcoming year of being involved in the Atlanta BBYO community. "We cherish the years we have spent in BBYO and we have set up a scholarship fund in honor of the boys to provide opportunities for other teens to participate in conventions and summer programs." ATTENTION PARENTS: All BBYO regions have volunteer opportunities for you to help strengthen BBYO locally. Contact your local office today to find how you can get involved! Back to Top JENNA WEINBERG RECEIVES EXCELLENCE IN EDUCATION AWARD Continued from page 1: Each year a Tulsa BBYO graduating senior is awarded a $10,000 scholarship to be used at the college of his/her choice for tuition, dorm fees, books, etc. This scholarship award is based on four criteria: a point system that rewards participation and leadership positions in BBYO as well as a cumulative GPA, an essay, an evaluation by Tulsa BBYO staff and financial need. Mazel tov to Jenna and many thanks to Jeanette Altman Frieden. She has created something that will inspire active BBYO participation, academic achievement and excellence in the community as a whole. Back to Top BIG APPLE REGIONAL DIRECTOR HONORED BY THE NORTHEAST QUEENS JEWISH COMMUNITY COUNCIL Continued from page 1: For the last four years, Big Apple Region has been an active member of the Council by sitting on various committees and involving BBYO teens in a number of events hosted by the Council, as well as providing support and guidance for programming initiatives. Gail Eisenberg, the Council's executive director, said that Herman was being honored because, under her leadership, BBYO has become a solid force in the region. Eisenberg feels that Herman's networking has increased BBYO's visibility in the local community and has enabled BBYO leaders to shine. She calls Herman "a great community team player." Herman will be honored at an installation breakfast on October 30, at which many of New York's political figures will be among the approximately 250 attendees. Partnerships such as the one between BBYO and the Council in the New York region will only serve to involve more youth in Jewish programming, leading to Jewish continuity in the community. Back to Top ROCKY MOUNTAIN REGION KICKS OFF J-SERVE IN BIG WAY Continued from page 1: "I have to admit that I was very surprised with the turnout," said Alexis Hailpern, RMR's engagement/outreach coordinator and Mitzvahpalooza 2005 event planner. "I received countless e-mails after the event from teens thanking me for introducing them to the value of community service. The kids really do care and want to make a difference in their community when you give them the opportunity." The day began with learning about Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) with Rabbi Joshua Katzan of the Hebrew Educational Alliance. The teens then boarded buses to their specific service sites. Upon arrival, they learned about Halachic (Jewish law) approaches to their specific service or to the goal of the specific service organization. The learning materials were developed by David Adelstein, RMR's regional director and Jewish educator and Hailpern. http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue07/[8/5/2014 3:03:40 PM] BBYO Newsletter Teens who delivered Passover baskets to the Jewish needy, for example, learned about "Ahavat Yisrael" or loving all fellow Jews, while teens who restored a Jewish overnight camp, the JCC Ranch Camp, learned about the Halachic opinion on the place and treatment of insects. Teens then performed their community service. "It was a great engagement event; social action and community service is a great way to engage unaffiliated teens. So many of the organizations that we helped out noted how great our BBYO teens were and they have asked us back for future opportunities," notes Hailpern, who is ready to plan Mitzvahpalooza 2006. Nationally, J-serve was the first ever North American day of service for Jewish teens. Corresponding with Youth Service America's National Youth Service Day, J-serve offered Jewish teens in both the U.S. and Canada a way to get involved in many of their local communities. JServe was supported in large part by a gift from the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation. Back to Top FORMER GRAND ALEPH GODOL FINDS GRAND SUCCESS IN FASHION INDUSTRY Continued from page 1: Immediately renowned for its ties designed for guys who don't where them, Sternberg's collection has expanded beyond the collar to include vintage-inspired shirts and pants that make a man stand apart without sticking out. Recently featured in GQ's Five Labels That Will Shape Your Style in '05 along with brands like Perry Ellis and Yves Saint Laurent, Band of Outsiders clothing has been spotted on famed musicians like Michael Stipe and Beck. "The idea of the line centers on the outsider. The quiet, cool and cunning individuals among a society of daft followers," said Sternberg who named the line after the 1964 Jean-Luc Godard movie about a trio who botch a robbery but look good doing it. Of his BBYO experience Sterberg says, "I think I probably came out of the womb as a Type-A, hyper-motivated leader. What my experience in BBYO taught me was how to take that energy and translate it to others, to get them behind whatever the cause was at the time, to connect with them as friends and colleagues, and to relax and have fun in the process." For more information on the clothing line, visit http://www.bandofoutsiders.com. Back to Top http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue07/[8/5/2014 3:03:40 PM] BBYO Newsletter June 2005 Issue 8 B-THERE. B-READY. B-LINKED. COMING FALL 2005. If you have information to share or comments about the BBYO e-News, please contact Abby Strunk at [email protected]. Thank you and enjoy! BBYO, Inc. News BBYO MEMBERS: CHECK YOUR MAILBOX FOR THE NEW SHOFAR This June, every AZA and BBG member can look forward to receiving an issue of the BBYO newspaper, the Shofar, in the mail. This marks the first time in five years that the newspaper has been printed and mailed to every BBYO member. Consistent with the organization's teen-led structure, the Shofar is written by members, for members. Among the article topics covered in the new issue of the Shofar are BBYO's new Passport to Israel program, being Jewish in the South and a feature on BBYO's Sh'licha, Ester David. Also included in the newspaper are messages from BBYO's 80th Grand Aleph Godol, Stephen Glatter, and 60th International N'siah, Rachel Schwager. RECONNECT WITH OLD FRIENDS If you would like to request copies of the Shofar for your chapter or region, please contact [email protected]. Over 4,800 alumni are currently registered on www.bbyoalumni.org . Help spread the word to alumni you know. SUMMER PROGRAMS ARE CLOSING OUT FAST Alumni News WHERE YOUNG LIVES TAKE SHAPE: RACHEL DOYLE Where Young BBYO e-News BBYO alumni. president and Lives Take Shape is a feature of the focusing on the accomplishments of This month, meet Rachel Doyle, founder of GlamourGals Foundation. At the age of 17, Rachel Doyle, a BBG alumna from Commack, NY, was running her own non-profit organization. GlamourGals is a community service program that brings teen volunteers into nursing homes to give women makeovers and facials. After such glamorous treatment, the women gain confidence and pride in who they are and how they look. Rachel's startup has grown to operate with 15 chapters in six states: New York, New Jersey, Ohio, Connecticut, Illinois and Florida. Last fall, GlamourGals had its first GlamourGals Leadership Training Institute http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue08/[8/5/2014 3:04:37 PM] BBYO Newsletter BBYO's 2005 Summer Experience offers teens more program options than ever before. If you are interested in travel, community service, outdoor adventure, leadership, the arts or Judaism, we have a program for you. Register today, before it's too late. Visit www.bbyoprograms.org. SUMMER PROGRAM FEATURE: ILTC in Manhattan, sponsored by Maybelline New York, and celebrated the completion of 1,500 makeovers since its inception. Rachel has been featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show and CBS's The Early Show. Rachel's work has also Rachel Doyle been profiled in numerous publications, including the New York Times, Glamour, and CosmoGirl. She was named one of the first "CosmoGirls of the Year." She was also the recipient of the Prudential Spirit of Community Service Award in 2001. Rachel recently graduated with a degree in Policy Analysis and Management from Cornell University's College of Human Ecology. In a recent interview conducted by Marin Stein, a communications intern at BBYO's International Office, Rachel explained how her experience in BBYO influenced her efforts to create a community service-based non-profit organization. I think first and foremost BBYO gave me the leadership and organization skills. I held chapter and regional positions and I was able to flex my public speaking muscles. BBYO summer camps (CLTC, ILTC, Kallah and IC) gave me the knowledge to write a mission statement and program outline for the organization. People would ask, "How did you know to write those things?" and I would say, "BBYO taught me!" READ MORE Are you a BBYO officer? If you are not signed up to be a part of International Leadership Training Conference, the "think- tank" of BBYO, where BBYO officers create program content and a vision for the future operations of AZA and BBG, visit www.bbyoprograms.org today. GIVE TO BBYO BBYO needs your annual support to reach thousands of Jewish teens. You can contribute to BBYO either through an unrestricted gift or by designating your gift to a specific fund, program or project. BBYO ALUMNI COUPLE CREATES OYBABY Inspired by their 6-month old son, Rob and Lisi Wolf founded OyBaby LLC with the mission to spark a lifetime of Jewish wonderment through sight and song. Rob, a former regional Godol from Ohio Northern Region, and Lisi, also a BBYO alumna, started OyBaby from their home office in Mercer Island, Washington in November 2003. Today OyBaby has shipped its acclaimed DVD, VHS and CD products for Jewish babies to 44 states and 5 countries. Jewish babies everywhere are clapping and singing to the first video designed especially for them. OyBaby combines colorful imagery of Jewish objects, children, puppets, and nature with fun and familiar Hebrew music that Rob and Lisi Wolf with their children David and Sadie both babies and grownups can enjoy. OyBaby products are sold at Judaica and gift stores nationwide, and online through Judaica websites, Amazon.com, and OyBaby's own website, www.oybaby.com. BBYO BIG APPLE REGION TO HOLD REUNION CORRECTION The May issue of the BBYO eNews inaccurately stated that fashion designer, Scott Sternberg, was an alumnus of the Ohio Northern Region. Sternberg was a member of the Kentucky Indiana Ohio region. To subscribe or to submit news, events or comments for the new BBYO e-Newsletter, e-mail [email protected] . Big Apple Region alumni from all generations are invited to attend the Second Annual Big Apple Region BBYO Alumni Reunion being held on Saturday, August 13 at 9pm at the Wyndham Garden Hotel at LaGuardia Airport. Enjoy an evening of dancing, dining and reminiscing. The cost is $80 per person. For more information, visit [email protected]. BBYO ALUMNI ELECTED TO MSU HILLEL BOARD Michigan State University recently announced its five new board members that have been elected to serve on the MSU Hillel Jewish Student Union executive board. Two of these new members, http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue08/[8/5/2014 3:04:37 PM] BBYO Newsletter Forward the BBYO e-News to friends or colleagues who might be interested. Ariana Segal and Danny Rosenberg, both of West Bloomfield, MI, are former members of BBYO. Ariana was elected vice president of programming and Danny was elected vice president of communications. BBYO ALUMNI AWARDED CREAGER MEMORIAL AWARD Jason Plotkin, former International AZA web chair and a life member of Lonestar Region's Jack Lubel AZA #2092 (Houston, TX), has been awarded the 2005 Creager Memorial Award at Sam Houston State University. This honor is bestowed each year to a graduating male senior who has made the most outstanding contributions to overall student life at SHSU. The Houston Chronicle has interviewed Plotkin for a feature story to run this summer in their weekly "Faces in the Crowd" series. REGIONAL NEWS NORTH STAR BBYO LEADS COLLECTION DRIVE AND OPTS TO DONATE PRIZE Members of North Star BBYO are active participants in a community service and social action program created by the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas. "Justice Squared" holds collection drives in which all youth groups work together to bring in donations, including books, food, toiletries, winter gear for refugees, clothing and school supplies. As of March, youth groups have collected 1,165 items to donate to those in need. The youth group who collects the most each month wins a prize of $50 towards an ice cream party, camera North Star BBYO or other prize. North Star BBYO collected the most clothing in both February and March, and won $100! In the sprit of tikkun olam, BBYO chose a different road and elected to donate the combined $100 prize to local charities. North Star participants are hoping to win the April prize as well but results are still pending! For more information: http://www.northstarbbyo.com/PastPrograms.htm NORTH STAR MEMBERS ATTEND THE TWIN CITIES COMMUNITY YOM HASHOAH COMMEMORATION CEREMONY On May 5, BBYO's North Star Region participated, as it has for the past 10 years, in "Unto Every Person There is a Name," a citywide ceremony during which participants read aloud the names of Holocaust victims. Before the ceremony, two BBYOers were on stage reading names while the others lined the halls of the synagogue in which the program was being held. Two participants of last year's March of the Living, Dori Moscowitz and Andrew Spencer, read a letter written by a concentration camp liberator. North Star Members Attend the Twin Cities Community BBYO IS FRONT AND CENTER AT COMMUNITY SERVICE DAY IN TORONTO BBYO members were part of over 150 teens from across Toronto that gathered to participate in a day of community service. T2:Tikkun Toronto linked teens from various youth movements in a day of Jewish service learning and hands-on experience at social service agencies throughout the city. Teens met and discussed tikkun olam (repairing the world) and gemilut hasadim (social action) before setting off to various sites in the city to participate in various community service activities including: rejuvenating the landmark Minsk Synagogue, working with the Ve'ahavta (a nonprofit http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue08/[8/5/2014 3:04:37 PM] BBYO Newsletter organization that responds to global crisis), collecting garbage while cycling through the city's Greenland, Community Service Day volunteering for the MS Walkathon, and assisting with in Toronto the community seder at the Baycrest Geriatric Alzheimer Unit. BBYO members learned the importance of contributing to their community and impacting the lives of others. T2:Tikkun Toronto is the local version of J-Serve 2005, the American national day of service for Jewish youth. BBYO organized T2:Tikkun Toronto with the participation of the Bathurst Jewish Community Centre, National Conference of Synagogue Youth (NCSY), United Synagogue Youth (USY) and Canadian Young Judea (YJ). NASSAU-SUFFOLK REGION HOSTED ITS ANNUAL SPRING PROJECT HOPE FOOD DRIVE On April 17, the Nassau-Suffolk Region of BBYO worked together to make Passover a little brighter and tastier for elderly members of their communities. Participants gathered early in the morning in a Syosset warehouse and bagged tons of groceries that would eventually be delivered to older residents who could not afford to pay for holiday groceries or shop for themselves. Like an old-fashioned assembly line, members of BBYO picked up items, everything from matzo to bitter herbs, and put them into bags. After the groceries were bagged, the volunteers packed up cars and headed out to make deliveries. Fran Haskell, the regional director of BBYO, said that Project Hope exemplifies the giving nature of the organization. "This is truly a mitzvah," she said. "There are so many people who need food but can't afford it or can't go out and get it. Today, though, we can really help people celebrate the holiday." READ MORE CENTRAL REGION WEST AND CARAVAN FOR DEMOCRACY THROW YOM HA'ATZMAUT BASH BBYO's Central Region West and Caravan for Democracy High School Edition joined forces on May 11 at Temple Beth David in Saratoga to learn about Israel and celebrate its 57th birthday. The event included an Israeli falafel dinner, a keynote speaker as well as an Israeli hip-hop dance party. The speaker, Donna Rosenthal, who is a renowned journalist and author of The Israeli's: Ordinary People in an Extraordinary Land, discussed different aspects of Israeli society, as well as several of the challenges and issues facing Israel today. The event was a great success, bringing together over 90 teens, including American and Israelis and BBYO members and non-members alike. For more information on Caravan for Democracy, visit www.caravanfordemocracy.org. BBYO In the News The Independent, a Kansas City newspaper, announced that the BBYO Chapter Nordaunian hosted its 70th Annual Matzo Ball Dance on April 9 at the Overland Park Convention Center in Kansas City, MO. Carey Hollerbach was crowned as the 2005 Matzo Ball Queen. More than 500 guests attended the ball, and the proceeds will be donated to the B.E.S.T. Foundation, which supports education and self-teaching programs for breast cancer awareness nationwide (May 7, 2005). Paul Lynch, Esq., JCC President, publicly thanked BBYO along with other Charleston Jewish community organizations that have helped make participation in the Charleston JCC grow by over 90%! Lynch stated in the Charleston Jewish Voice that "Today, the JCC is bursting with activity by people of all ages" (April-May 2005). Nassau-Suffolk Region BBYO completed its 29th Project Hope, a program that provides and http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue08/[8/5/2014 3:04:37 PM] BBYO Newsletter delivers food items to elderly and needy Jewish families during Passover. Thirty BBYO teens helped assemble large shopping bags with a variety of Passover products at the JCC of New Haven, according to the Connecticut Jewish Ledger (April 22, 2005). Over 60 teens gathered at the Rosen Centre in Orlando, FL on March 26 for the annual BBYO Jewish Prom. Teens came decked out in their most impressive dresses, suits and tuxes to enjoy an evening that included a Havdalah service, a kosher-style dinner, and hours of dancing and socializing with friends, as reported by the Florida Heritage Jewish News (April 22, 2005). Lester Sherman Okeon AZA hosted the first ever Memphis Jewish Community Youth Talent Show on April 10, at the Memphis JCC and featured 17 talented participants. According to the Hebrew Watchman, the BBYO talent show was a huge success. The first-prize winner received a $1000 scholarship for any BBYO Summer Program, any Judaic Camp or Israel Trip of their choice (April 21, 2005). In an interview with Adam Neiberg and Randi Diamond, recently elected AZA Aleph Godol (president) and BBG N'siah (president) in South Florida, the Jewish Journal learned that BBYO, with its 10 new chapters in the area, is experiencing a renaissance among Jewish teenagers. Both Adam and Randi had older siblings in BBYO and have followed in their footsteps and deepened their commitment to BBYO. Adam said, "BBYO has done a lot for my Jewish identity and I like the fact that I can have a leadership role in the community." Randi said, "Without BBYO, I wouldn't be who I am today" (April 21, 2005). The Rose Belz Kriger BBG held a successful series of programs in Memphis, TN, according to an article in the Hebrew Watchman. These programs have included a carwash at the Memphis JCC, a scavenger hunt, a "roast" in which new members were inducted, as well as an undefeated season in basketball (April 14, 2005). North Texas-Oklahoma Region BBYO leads the nation in the numbers of participants registered for BBYO's international summer programs, according to the Texas Jewish Report. Currently, 70 teens from this region will have the opportunity to experience travel, community service, outdoor adventures, leadership training, the arts, Judaism and Israel (April 7, 2005). BBYO members in Youngstown, OH participated in the annual Shoah Memorial Ceremony and the twelfth annual Community Holocaust Commemoration, held on May 5 and May 10, according to the Jewish Journal. This year's theme was From Liberation to the Pursuit of Justice in conjunction with the national theme set at the US Holocaust Memorial Museum (April 2005). The Stark Jewish News, Canton, OH, featured two BBYO members in an article describing BBYO's annual Beau-Sweetheart Weekend in Akron, Ohio. Marty Shankle and Lauren Porter were named Beau and Sweetheart, respectively. Canton set a record of 20 BBYO members in total to participate in the event (April 2005). The Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle reported on Milwaukee BBYO's "Community Walk for Israel." Those walking will bring an Israeli with him or her - symbolically. Each participant of the walk receives a tag with the name of an Israeli living in Sovev Kinneret, Milwaukee's Partnership 2000 region in Israel, which includes Tiberias and the area around Lake Kinneret. The walk is just one of the events planned for the two-day Milwaukee Celebrates Israel 2005 Event, May 1112 (April 2005). Has BBYO appeared in your local press? Please let us know by emailing [email protected]. Spanning over 38 regions and 16,000 members internationally, BBYO, Inc. is a worldwide, transdenominational, teen- led organization that provides opportunities for Jewish teens to develop their leadership potential and a positive Jewish identity. BBYO International Office 800 Eighth Street NW Washington, DC 20001 READ MORE OF BBYO'S INTERVIEW WITH RACHEL: Continued from page 1: What inspired you to create GlamourGals? GlamourGals was created in honor of my grandmother. She used to work for Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salon where she did the hair of famous socialites! Also, my nature is always to be creative and while being creative have fun and do something good for someone else. I thought recreating a salon experience that women of all ages could share in would be really neat. How did you launch a program for these extraordinary makeovers? http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue08/[8/5/2014 3:04:37 PM] BBYO Newsletter Well, I started developing the program when I was 16 in August of 1999 and my first makeover was completed in January of 2000. There was a lot of work that went into it. When I first went to a nursing home they told me I needed corporate sponsorship. I was like... what? So my idea of getting "corporate" sponsorship was to open the yellow pages and start calling places that had anything to do with makeup and photography. I finally had a break with a Mary Kay representative in my neighborhood who donated some makeup and helped with the first few makeovers. What were some difficulties you experienced when creating GlamourGals and how did you overcome them? I think with any new project or program it is about educating people. GlamourGals is new and no one else was or is executing a program like this so you need to convince people that it is a worthwhile organization to take part in. Also, there is so much work that goes into a creating a program. Some people think you just have an idea, and everything just happens and then everyone pats you on the back. You need to be committed and passionate about what you do because there are those moments (many of them) when its only you working late into the night or early in the morning and there is no one there patting you on the back. It is just you, and your passion to make a difference. How does GlamourGals affect people? I have been quoted before as saying that GlamourGals is magical. It really is. I started this program with the idea of connecting two generations in a way that made both groups feel beautiful and special. If anyone has ever volunteered before and you are meeting a group of people for the first time the room is usually dead silent. Even before a GlamourGals makeover the room can be silent. But once that makeover starts the room is immediately electrified with colors, laughter, and story sharing... I have never left a quiet makeover. The program is now in six states NY, NJ, OH, CT, IL and FL. With this growth the mission statement has evolved. What first started as a simple intergenerational program is now a great way for young women to gain non-profit leadership experience. GlamourGals is organized into Chapters, which are headed by a Chapter President. The Chapter Presidents are young women who recruit/retain volunteers, schedule makeovers, publicize events, hold fundraisers and attend leadership seminars. The young women run chapters like a "mini-nonprofit" franchise. Each Chapter President becomes part of a larger network of elite, young women presidents. To start a Chapter is easy... you just hit www.GlamourGals.org and go to "Get Involved." The information is there. What advice do you have for teens wanting to start their own organization? I think a lot of people think they want to start their own organization but they haven't done the research. Having a unique idea is always helpful. Make sure you have checked out if someone else is already doing what you want to do and if they are, jump on their project and make it better. It is much easier to improve upon something than trying to create your own thing from nothing. How can current BBYO members become involved in GlamourGals? There are multiple ways! BBGer's can start chapters! They already have at least 10 volunteers and the Position of Chapter President could be filled by the community service chair. They should hit www.GlamourGals.org and register! We also have cool events. I love to mix "media" type events with learning experiences for young women. On June 23, 2005 we are having an event called "Glamour in the City" and Sheila Johnson, CEO of Salamander hospitality (co-founder of Black Entertainment Television) is our keynote speaker. We're also having a GG art exhibit and live jazz. Estee Lauder is also sponsoring it! It is a great way to support GG, learn more about the program, network with other amazing young women and also possibly meet some celebrities. You can RSVP on www.GlamourGals.org. This October we are also going to have our second annual leadership training institute. Think red carpet meets leadership. Last year we had an awesome panel of speakers (everyone from a CBS news correspondent to an editor in chief of a teen magazine), luncheon, workshops and cool goodie bags from Maybelline New York. How do you see GlamourGals developing in the future? Since I am graduating this year from Cornell University my goal is to run this full time. I am working on obtaining the funds and sponsors to make this a nationwide program. Currently, there are hundreds of people in over 25 states that have emailed me to start a chapter from California to Virginia. We have even had international interest! Now, I am working on raising the funds to bring the program to them! Your leadership and creativity have made GlamourGals the successful organization that it is today. What advice can you give to today's BBYO members so that they can become creative leaders? Creating something is not something you can do successfully on your own. Maybe in the beginning you can, but in order for it to grow and fully develop you need a team. My advice is to surround yourself with talented and sincere people. At first that was my family, but now it is the mentors I have found. Do not be ashamed to say, "I am not the best at this." Be ashamed if you admit it and don't do anything about it. Rachel speaks regularly all over the country to schools, parents, teachers, senior citizens and business groups about her experiences and the GlamourGals Foundation. If you'd like to arrange for Rachel to speak to your group, please contact Amy Saltzman at [email protected]. Visit the GlamourGals website at http://www.glamourgals.org/home/home.cfm Back to Top NASSAU-SUFFOLK REGION HOSTED ITS ANNUAL SPRING PROJECT HOPE FOOD DRIVE Continued from page 1: Amanda Abrahams, the regional N'siah (president) of the Nassau Suffolk B'nai B'rith Girls, said she has been participating in Project Hope since becoming a member of BBYO in eighth grade and feels it is truly a memorable, and worthwhile experience. "I think it's great, because the kids get the opportunity to speak with people and put a smile on their faces," Abrahams said. "I think it's a great feeling for all of us to help somebody out." During the deliveries, Abrahams said she forms a special bond with the older residents she visits. "The people that we deliver to, most of the time, don't get visited that often," she said. "They like to hug us and tell us how much they appreciate us." Baldwin High School junior Brian Rosen is the Godol (president) of Aleph Zadik Aleph. He echoed Abrahams's sentiments. "This is our opportunity to give people the chance to participate in the holiday." Rosen acknowledges that teenagers are busy, with SATs, finals and social http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue08/[8/5/2014 3:04:37 PM] BBYO Newsletter obligations. However, he said that sacrificing a Sunday morning is well worth the reward. "It really only takes one morning of two hours to really give back and make a difference," he said. "It's important that you take the two hours out to change lives and help other people who can't help themselves." Back to Top http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue08/[8/5/2014 3:04:37 PM] BBYO Newsletter July 2005 Issue 9 B-THERE. B-READY. B-LINKED. COMING FALL 2005. If you have information to share or comments about the BBYO e-News, please contact Abby Strunk at [email protected]. Thank you and enjoy! BBYO, Inc. News OVER 1,500 TEENS PARTICIPATE IN BBYO'S SUMMER EXPERIENCE Summer is here, and over 1,500 Jewish teens from across the country and around the world are participating in BBYO's 2005 Summer Experience, which stretches from California all the way to Israel and includes everything from community service and outdoor adventure opportunities to leadership development experiences. READ MORE RECONNECT WITH OLD FRIENDS Partipants of Derech Eretz West Coast "Sierra Adventure" hiking in the Sequoia National Forest in California BBYO OFFERS TRIP TO BULGARIA DECEMBER BBYO's Youth Ambassadors in Bulgaria Program is a life-changing cultural exchange, which brings teens from across North America to Bulgaria for 10 days to explore their individual and collective Jewish identities. READ MORE Almost 5,000 alumni are currently registered on www.bbyoalumni.org . Help spread the word to alumni you know. GIVE TO BBYO Alumni News BBYO needs your annual support to reach thousands of Jewish teens. You can contribute to BBYO either through an unrestricted gift or by designating your gift to a specific fund, program or project. WHERE YOUNG LIVES TAKE SHAPE: DAN FIELDS To subscribe or to submit news, events or comments for the new BBYO e-Newsletter, e-mail [email protected] . Forward the BBYO e-News to friends or http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue09/[8/5/2014 3:05:19 PM] Where Young Lives Take Shape is a feature of the BBYO e-News focusing on the BBYO Newsletter colleagues who might be interested. Dan Fields (second from right) directs the cast of the Los Angeles revival of Arthur Miller's The Man Who Had All The Luck. accomplishments of BBYO alumni. This month, meet Dan Fields, Broadway director and founder of FineSilver Shows, a New York-based theatrical production company. Never content to just step in line and follow the leader, former Grand Aleph Godol (1983-1984), Dan Fields, turned the leadership skills he developed during his time in BBYO into a successful career on Broadway as resident director of Disney's production of The Lion King and founder of his own theatre company, Finesilver Shows. READ MORE INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENTS'S REUNION The upcoming BBYO International Convention marks the end of the 80th anniversary of AZA and the 60th anniversary of BBG. In celebration of this special time, BBYO is hosting an International Presidents's Reunion at Perlman Camp from August 19-21. Over 70 past presidents, ranging in years of service from the 1950's until today, have been contacted, and many are expected to join us at the last IC at Perlman Camp (the elected body of BBYO voted to move the time and location of IC due to teens's school schedules). This reunion will allow past presidents to meet one another, interact with the current BBYO teens and enjoy the excitement of International Convention. If you know any past International Presidents who have not yet been contacted, please email Robin Graham at [email protected]. ALUMNI MENTOR PROGRAM Are you a BBYO alum on a college campus? Remember juggling SATs, GPAs and college applications? Extra-curriculars and college tours with your parents? It wasn't forever ago, but think about how far you've come. BBYO teens today could sure use your help. Be a part of BBYO's new Alumni Mentor Program! Whether you are interested in answering questions about your campus, advising on the trials and tribulations of freshman year or sharing your thoughts on what thefacebook.com has done for your social life, please let us know. BBYO is offering a variety of ways to get involved as an Alumni Mentor this year. Contact Tali Golan at [email protected] for more information and to find out what mentorship possibilities are best suited for you. REGIONAL NEWS MICHIGAN REGION EXPANDS TIKKUN OLAM WITH FUNDRAISING AND COMMUNITY SERVICE http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue09/[8/5/2014 3:05:19 PM] BBYO Newsletter The teens of BBYO's Michigan region are no strangers to philanthropy and community service. This year, they helped pay for an ambulance in Israel and racked up over 2,800 hours of community service. READ MORE Michigan region teenagers present over $3,200 to Project Lifeline, a Detroit- area community initiative aimed at paying for an ambulance in Israel NORTH STAR BBYO JOINS THE CHEERFUL GIVERS "BIRTHDAY BASH" Cheerful Givers is a non-profit organization in which the North Star Region and Twin Cities Teen Connection have been participating since the beginning of the year. The organization collects birthday bags, bags containing several small children's gifts, for parents who can't afford to buy birthday presents for their children. READ MORE North Star BBYOers Anna Boykis, Regional Director Sarah Routman, Sheryl Moser, Cara Porter, Steven Kane, Katie Marron, Robin Molnar, Billy Hershkowitz, Mitch Bayer, Ari Hillman, Michael Kane, Becca Miner, Rachel Sachs participate in Cheerful Givers. NORTH STAR REGION CONTINUES KEEPING TABS FOR TZEDAKAH Do you know that 1,267 pop tabs weigh one pound? That over 483,000,000 tabs have been collected since 1987? That the members of North Star Region BBYO have collected over 300,000 pop tabs since 1996? BBYOers and other area agencies are collecting pop tabs to raise money for the Twin Cities Ronald McDonald House. The money raised by selling the tabs to a recycler lowers costs for families who stay at the house while their children who are ill undergo treatments at nearby hospitals. READ MORE BBYO In the News The Washington Post's Parade Magazine featured a quote from Atlanta regional Sh'licha Michelle Profis. Her quote and picture appeared in the FreshVoices section. Michelle said, "I lie awake at night thinking that this is the only time I have to be a kid. I know the issues I think are a big deal now won't seem important in a few years, and I have to remind myself that this is when I can let my parents worry for me." (June 19, 2005) The City of Eden Prairie, Minnesota recognized North Star Regional S'gan Anna Affias with the Dr. Jean Harris Scholarship for "high school students who reflect principles of human rights and http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue09/[8/5/2014 3:05:19 PM] BBYO Newsletter diversity." Life in the Prairie magazine quoted Senior Executive Regional BBYO Director Sarah Routman as saying that "Anna is that special young woman who really stands out to so many people. She always offers her friendship to anyone she is around and seeks out those who may need it more than others." (June 2005) Holocaust survivor Max Pohl and others spoke about their experiences to students age 12 and up during Dor L'Dor, a program organized by the BBYO Chesapeake Bay Region. Washington Jewish Week reported that the program took place in a community-wide event at which Maryland Governor Robert Ehrlich spoke. (May 12, 2005) The Jewish Advocate reported that New England Region BBYO is proud to welcome two new chapters this year - L'Chaim BBYO, Hull, and Judy Ann Levin BBG, Providence, RI. (May 6, 2005) The Youth Opportunities Advisory Board in Boulder, Colorado honored Boulder AZA president Nate Fox during National Youth Service Day. The Intermountain Jewish News reported that Fox also won the "best president" award at regional convention and his chapter was named the"most improved chapter in the region" and won the "program of the year" award. Fox noted that "[BBYO] was a fun way to get connected to Judaism again, not as something I was obligated to do but as an experience I chose." (May 6, 2005) The Jewish Press (Omaha, NE) announced that Emily Gillar won the BBYO MIT (Member in Training) of the Year award, presented at the BBYO 2005 Spring Regional Convention in Ashland, NE. (May 6, 2005) Hundreds of Long Island teenagers participated in the Nassau-Suffolk BBYO Region's annual Spring Project Hope food drive, as reported by the Oceanside-Island Park Herald. AZA Godol Brian Rosen said that Project Hope is truly a great opportunity to give people the chance to participate in the Passover holiday and that "over the years, it's really changed the lives of a lot of people, and has given the joys of the Jewish holiday to many." (May 5, 2005) See Article >> BBYO's AZA chapter Bereshis hosted a benefit concert in March for the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Wisconsin, according to the Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle. Over 140 people attended the concert, and over $1,000 was raised. (April 22, 2005) Has BBYO appeared in your local press? Please let us know by emailing [email protected]. Spanning over 38 regions and 16,000 members internationally, BBYO, Inc. is a worldwide, transdenominational, teen- led organization that provides opportunities for Jewish teens to develop their leadership potential and a positive Jewish identity. BBYO, Inc. * 2020 K Street NW, 7th Floor * Washington, DC 20006 * OVER 1,500 TEENS PARTICIPATE IN BBYO'S SUMMER EXPERIENCE Continued from page 1: With five summer programs completed and fifteen taking place throughout the months of July and August, BBYO participants have plenty of opportunities to learn, have fun and explore their Judaism amongst a community of Jewish teens who will become lifelong friends. CLTC, BBYO's two-week Chapter Leadership Training Conference, has already given 120 teens a wealth of Judaic and leadership knowledge to take back home and implement in their chapters. CLTC is BBYO's largest program, with 451 participants enrolled across seven different sessions and three different geographic locations, including summer camps in Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and the University of Judaism in California. "I walked into CLTC with no confidence and I walked out with confidence tattooed on my back," said Michael Chakoff of Hurricanes AZA in Miami Region, who recently finished CLTC 5 and feels as though he had a life-changing experience while he was there. "I feel like I approach people better. I didn't think I could ever have a position in my region but now I believe I can do it. CLTC gave me the skills to do it." Participants of the Derech Eretz West Coast "Sierra Adventure" gained a different type of knowledge and experience. This exciting Jewish environmental camping program provided teens with a greater appreciation for nature. Each day, teens participated in Shachar, morning communal time, before heading out on their daily outdoor adventure of hiking, rafting, canoeing, rock climbing, rappelling, kayaking or camping. For teens desiring a similar experience on the East Coast, there is the "New England Adventure." http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue09/[8/5/2014 3:05:19 PM] BBYO Newsletter Hop on a plane to Israel and you'd find about 350 teens engaged in similar activities as part of BBYO's Passport to Israel program. The three-week trip provides teens with an experience like no other - an opportunity for teens to discover Israel's beauty, history and culture through a uniquely active, hands-on approach. Activities include archaeological digs, hikes through the Galilee, an evening in a Bedouin tent, snorkeling in Eilat, exploring Jerusalem's Old City, rafting down rivers, floating in the Dead Sea, and so much more. Whitney Trompeter from Pittsburgh, PA is having an amazing time experiencing Israel with other Jewish teens from all over the world. "Learning the Jewish faith is totally different here. I feel a stronger connection to everything. It's incredible to learn what happened 2000 years ago and to see where it happened. You experience everything first hand." Kesher L'Yisrael just ended, giving 22 teens a greater knowledge and admiration for Judaism and Israel. Through speaking engagements, Israeli singing and dancing, visits to pro-Israel organizations and meetings with local congressional representatives, Kesher participants walked away with a variety of perspectives on Judaism, Israel's place in society today and its meaning as a homeland for the Jewish people. BBYO's Nitzotz Community Service program just came to a close in Baltimore/Washington, DC and is currently underway in Chicago, IL. Working to inspire an appreciation for the meaning and practice of tikkun olam, Nitzotz provides about 60 teens with two weeks of community service through a variety of local service providers. For example, the Baltimore/DC program featured an event that linked Nitzotz participants with youth from different faiths, including Israelis and Palestinians, to work on creative art projects. Other projects involved mentoring atrisk youth, doing construction to aid the homeless and "greening" urban areas. Anne Fischgrund, one of the youth coordinators on Nitzotz, said, "Seeing the reaction on the people's faces in the communities where we worked and knowing that we made a difference to them even if it didn't seem like a big deal to us was the most rewarding aspect of our trip." Jeff Hoffman, director of program initiatives for BBYO, is thrilled that so many teens are participating in BBYO's Summer Experience. "Never before have we had so many teens involved in such a variety of programs. From rafting in New England to lobbying on Capitol Hill to walking in the footsteps of history in Jerusalem, BBYO is offering Jewish teens meaningful Jewish experiences that really do change lives." BBYO is still looking for participants for IC, being held August 15-21, 2005 in Starlight, PA. For more information on the 2005 BBYO Summer Experience or to register for IC, visit www.bbyoprograms.org. Back to Top BBYO OFFERS TRIP TO BULGARIA DECEMBER Continued from page 1: Participants will study the unique history of Bulgaria's Jews during World War II as they hear first-hand stories from the elderly Jewish residents of Bulgaria. They will also have an opportunity to share North American BBYO programs and traditions with their Bulgarian counterparts, celebrate Shabbat, experience home life in Bulgaria and tour the country. Together, participants will experience the miracle of the resurgence of Jewish life in this Eastern European nation. And, since BBYO is teen-led, many of the programs are planned and implemented by the teens themselves. If you are interested in applying to or learning more about the Bulgaria program, visit www.northstarbbyo.com today. The application deadline is October 1. Back to Top WHERE YOUNG LIVES TAKE SHAPE: DAN FIELDS Continued from page 1: When Dan first joined AZA in Portland, Oregon, he realized that he really wanted to be involved, but his chapter was just getting too big to provide opportunities for everyone who wanted to take a leadership position. So, rather than sit back and wait for his time to take the lead, Dan started a new chapter, Chaim Weizmann #360, and became its first Godol. "I really loved planning events, and chapter leadership is what really hooked me into BBYO," Dan said. He took his love for leadership to the next level when he became regional S'gan and then Godol. As a sophomore, Dan attended Kallah, ILTC and International Convention. The very next summer, he was elected International Mazkir and planned International Convention. Later, he rose to the top spot of Grand Aleph Godol. http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue09/[8/5/2014 3:05:19 PM] BBYO Newsletter "BBYO really fed me the opportunities for finding what I loved to do," Dan said. "Everything that I do now professionally is in collaborative group settings. [In BBYO] I learned that allowing people to contribute their own ideas makes everything come out better, and I learned how to work collaboratively." Dan took this collaborative spirit with him to Broadway, where he became the assistant director and then resident director of The Lion King. As resident director, Dan was in charge of keeping the nightly performances of the show up to the high standard set by opening night. "With The Lion King, we were trying something that had never really been done before. The sound of the music, the feel of the costumes, the look of the scenery needed to be unified." Just as he did while in BBYO, Dan relished the chance to function as a team with his coworkers to try and create something that was consistent in all areas. It took over a year and a half of work prior to the first performance of The Lion King to put everything together. With such a uniquely complicated production, Dan wasn't sure exactly how everything was going to turn out. On opening night, however, Dan just sat in the audience and saw how well it all came together. "That was one of my most uplifting moments," he said. After The Lion King, Dan followed the pattern that he had established in BBYO and again moved up to a leadership position. "With The Lion King, I was a big part of the team, but I wasn't leading the team." So Dan took his creative energies and chased a theatrical dream. For almost ten years, Dan wanted to revive Arthur Miller's first Broadway play, The Man Who Had All the Luck, which hadn't been in production in the U.S. since its original run over 56 years earlier. With the money he made during his time with The Lion King, Dan set out to fulfill his dream. The only stumbling block left was that he was having difficulty obtaining the rights to the play. Through a friend, Dan secured a meeting with Miller at his home. "It was a little intimidating going up there, I was really nervous," Dan said. "Once I got up there he was very open and warm. He made some comments that ended up helping me execute the production." After his meeting with Miller, Dan was able to get the rights to the play and it opened in L.A. The production was a huge hit and well received by critics and audiences alike. "With that play I just stuck to the mission. It was incredibly satisfying. When you set out to do something, you have a dream for a long time, but a lot of things in life get side aside, get forgotten. But I felt really tenacious about that one." In addition to his work with The Lion King and The Man Who Had All the Luck, Dan also has played a role in a variety of other productions. As resident director at the Annex Theatre in Seattle he directed the World Premieres of A Little Heap of Beckett, The 20th Century, This End Up and Betty in Bondage. He assistant directed the original productions of Conversations With My Father (Seattle Repertory Theatre, directed by Dan Sullivan) Randy Newman's Faust (La Jolla Playhouse and the Goodman Theater, directed by Michael Greif), and Anton Chekov's The Seagull at Williamstown Theatre Festival featuring Christopher Walken, Gwyneth Paltrow and Blythe Danner. More recently, he produced the Broadway productions of plays by Richard Greenberg and Donald Margulies for Manhattan Theatre Club, and directed the national tour of The Graduate starring Morgan Fairchild as Mrs. Robinson. Dan knows that a career in the arts isn't the right path for everyone, but notes, "even if you don't end up in the arts, you want to be a supporter of the arts." "Being able to have an outlet for creative expression as an adult or as a young adult is really crucial," Dan said. "You should know where your creative outlets are and find out where your creativity can take you." Dan is always available to advise BBYOers or alumni who are considering or currently pursuing a career in the arts. He can be reached through email at [email protected]. Back to Top MICHIGAN REGION EXPANDS TIKKUN OLAM WITH FUNDRAISING AND COMMUNITY SERVICE Continued from page 1: The region chose to team up with the Michigan chapter of American Red Magen David for Israel's (ARMDI) Project Lifeline, a program aimed at showing the children and teens of Michigan that they have the power to send blessings of healing and strength to the children of Israel. Project Lifeline aims to raise enough money from organizations around Detroit to send an ambulance to Israel. This allows children in metro Detroit to connect directly with everyday http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue09/[8/5/2014 3:05:19 PM] BBYO Newsletter Israelis - mothers, fathers and children - who depend on Israeli emergency services (Magen David Adom or MDA) to save lives. Michigan region made Project Lifeline their main community service project this programming year. In order to have BBYO's name engraved on the ambulance, the region needed to raise at least $3,000. They accomplished this goal through numerous fundraisers, including selling candy, making pillows, selling cookie dough, and through chapter donations. In addition to all their work with Project Lifeline, Michigan BBYOers accumulated over 2,800 hours of community service by participating in a community-wide "special Olympics" where the teens volunteered to go to soup kitchens and seniors's homes, worked with special needs children and adults through the Friendship Circle, and volunteered at book drives and other community events. For more information about the American Friends of Magen David Adom and ARMDI, please visit www.armdi.org. Back to Top NORTH STAR BBYO JOINS THE CHEERFUL GIVERS "BIRTHDAY BASH" Continued from page 1: On Sunday, June 12, Cheerful Givers had a "Birthday Bash" at the Mall of America. Due to the region's participation with the organization, North Star BBYO was invited to be a celebrity guest and sing Happy Birthday on stage in the most creative way possible. In true Jewish youth group fashion, the BBYOers sang "Yom Huledet Sameach," followed by the original English version of "Happy Birthday." Celebrity guests included local DJs, Belle (from Beauty and the Beast), Donny Osmond, and more. The event was covered and promoted by a local Twin Cities radio station, Cities 97, and hosted by their morning DJ. In addition to the singing, the afternoon also featured the Minnesota Twins mascot, Pickles the Clown. North Star donated additional money to Cheerful Givers by buying Cheerful Givers bears for every BBYOer and Teen Connection member in attendance. For more information on Cheerful Givers, visit www.cheerfulgivers.org Back to Top NORTH STAR REGION CONTINUES KEEPING TABS FOR TZEDAKAH Continued from page 1: Since 1996, the project has become so popular in the Twin Cities area that BBYO decided to involve the Minneapolis Jewish Day School in efforts to increase awareness, community involvement and donations to the families of the Ronald McDonald House. A few times a year, BBYOers go to MJDS to collect pop tabs the students have been collecting. Almost every student in K-6 knows the BBYOers when they come down the hall prepared to collect pop tabs and are excited to share the thousands of pop tabs they have collected for this wonderful cause. Over the past 9 years, BBYO has developed a strong relationship with the Ronald McDonald House. Thanks to BBYO and other area agencies, the Ronald McDonald House has been able to significantly lower their costs for the families who stay there. Are you interested in keeping tabs with us? You can turn your pop tabs into your local McDonalds Restaurant, Ronald McDonald House or, if you are in the North Star region, at the North Star BBYO office. For information on how to start pop tab collections in other areas, please visit Ronald McDonald House Charities at www.rmhc.org. Back to Top http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue09/[8/5/2014 3:05:19 PM] BBYO Newsletter August 2005 Issue 10 B-THERE. B-READY. B-LINKED. COMING FALL 2005. If you have information to share or comments about the BBYO e-News, please contact Abby Strunk at [email protected]. Thank you and enjoy! BBYO, Inc. News BBYO DEVELOPS COLLEGE TOUR FOR TEENS; FIRST TOUR TO TAKE PLACE IN DC This fall, BBYO will offer its first-ever teen College Tour, a chance for high school sophomores and juniors to explore a wide variety of college options before they begin hunting for schools with their parents. From November 9-13, the BBYO College Tour will give Jewish teens the opportunity to explore colleges in and around the Washington, DC-area and provide them with strategies for getting into college and a first-hand account of Jewish life on campus. READ MORE GET YOUR BBYO GEAR PASSPORT TO ISRAEL IN THEIR OWN WORDS This summer, over 350 Jewish teens explored their Jewish homeland with BBYO's new Passport to Israel program. Some of them opted for the Israel Journey trip, an introductory experience, which combined a taste of Israel's most famous sites with the country's bestkept secrets. Others opted for the ultimate outdoors experience, Trek Israel, which challenged participants physically, emotionally and spiritually. No matter which trip participants chose, they had a uniquely active, hands-on opportunity to discover Israel's beauty, history, spirituality and culture. BBYO has just launched an eStore featuring everything from t- shirts and hats to ipod covers and carabiners. Visit www.bbyostore.com today! BBYO CALENDAR about their experience in Israel. CLICK HERE to read what some of the teens had to say BBYO AND BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL OFFER ALUMNI A FREE TRIP TO ISRAEL Do you have a passion for travel and new experiences? Do you enjoy making new friends? Are you a BBYO alum? If so, the Taglit-birthright Israel: Tlalim-BBYO Alumni Experience is for you. It is a 10-day adventure designed for anyone who wants to experience Israel's most well known sites along with its best-kept secrets. BBYO has just published its two- year programming calendar. If you are interested in ordering a calendar, contact [email protected] or 202.857.6549. READ MORE BBYO BULGARIA TRIP BBYO SELECTS ROBIN LEVENSTON TO FILL TOP DEVELOPMENT POST BBYO has just named Robin Levenston national director of development, making her responsible for the organization's financial resource development. Levenston rounds out a promising new team of up-and-coming Jewish professionals working to breathe new life http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue10/[8/5/2014 3:06:03 PM] BBYO Newsletter into the 80-year-old organization and, ultimately, involve tens of thousands more teens in Jewish life. READ MORE BBYO's Youth Ambassadors in Bulgaria Program is a life- changing cultural exchange, which brings teens from across North America to Bulgaria for 10 days in December to explore their individual and collective Jewish identities. To learn more, please contact [email protected]. Alumni News RECONNECT WITH OLD FRIENDS WHERE YOUNG LIVES TAKE SHAPE: TOD COHEN AND SHIRA LEVINE Where Young Lives Take Shape is a feature of the BBYO e-News focusing on the accomplishments of BBYO alumni. This month, meet Tod Cohen, vice president of government relations and deputy general counsel for eBay, and Shira Levine, senior manager of eBay's PowerSellers program. Almost 5,000 alumni are currently registered on www.bbyoalumni.org . Help spread the word to alumni you know. GIVE TO BBYO In just ten years eBay has gone from being an unknown URL to the most popular shopping destination on the Internet. While bringing together more than one hundred million registered members around the world, "the world's online marketplace" also brought together two business leaders with a shared past. Both alumni of BBYO (Tod was a member of Mountain Region and Shira was a member of Southern-Atlanta Region), the two colleagues find themselves reminiscing about their days in AZA and BBG. READ MORE YOUNG BBG ALUMNA LOSES BATTLE WITH CANCER BUT STIMULATES CHANGE BBYO needs your annual support to reach thousands of Jewish teens. You can contribute to BBYO either through an unrestricted gift or by designating your gift to a specific fund, program or project. Charlie Guild was an active member of Hannah Sennesh BBG of Northern California from 1993-1996 and extremely devoted to social action. Throughout her young life, she continuously gave to others in need. In 1993, BBYO recognized her selfless manner by awarding her the ACT (Actively Concerned Teens) award for a petition she created and brought to the UN to protest the treatment of women in Bosnia. Sadly, in 2003, this altruistic BBG alumna was diagnosed with stage four melanoma. To subscribe or to submit news, events or comments for the new BBYO e-Newsletter, e-mail [email protected] . READ MORE Forward the BBYO e-News to friends or colleagues who might be interested. ALUMNI MENTOR PROGRAM Are you a BBYO alum on a college campus? Remember juggling SATs, GPAs and college applications? Extra-curriculars and college tours with your parents? It wasn't forever ago, but think about how far you've come. BBYO teens today could sure use your help. Be a part of BBYO's new Alumni Mentor Program! http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue10/[8/5/2014 3:06:03 PM] BBYO Newsletter Whether you are interested in answering questions about your campus, advising on the trials and tribulations of freshman year or sharing your thoughts on what thefacebook.com has done for your social life, please let us know. BBYO is offering a variety of ways to get involved as an Alumni Mentor this year. Contact Tali Golan at [email protected] for more information and to find out what mentorship possibilities are best suited for you. BIG APPLE REGION ALUMNUS TAKES ON BINGHAMTON STUDENT ASSOCIATION David Belsky, Big Apple Region BBYO alumnus, was elected to the position of executive vice president of the Binghamton University Student Association as a freshman. READ MORE BBYO ALUMNUS ELECTED TO HILLEL BOARD BBYO alumnus, Andrew Frankel, was recently elected to the Hillel Board at the University of South Florida as VP of Religion. Frankel is a 2001 alumnus of Masada AZA #2245, now Miami Region. BBYO In the News The Atlanta Jewish Times announced that the Atlanta Council hosted a reunion June 10-12 at the Zaban Park JCC, with almost 300 alumni in attendance (June 17, 2005). Dan Israel wrote an article in The Atlanta Jewish Times about what he learned from his experiences in BBYO (June 10, 2005). The Jewish Herald Voice, a Houston newspaper, described BBYO's Passport to Israel trips as part of their article on Israel advocacy among Jewish youth (June 16, 2005). Michigan Region BBYO raised $3,230 for American Red Magen David for Israel (ARMDI), which will help buy an ambulance for Israel, according to The Detroit Jewish News (June 16, 2005). The Bucks County Courier Times announced that members of BBYO participated in the 4th Annual National Day to Prevent Teen Pregnancy (May 23, 2005). The Massachusetts Jewish Advocate reported that New England Region posted a nine percent membership increase during the 2004-2005 programming year. The article also mentioned regional godol Adam Kornetsky and regional n'siah Emma Reidy (August 4, 2005). BBYO member Alexandria Bear was recognized in the Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle for winning the 2005 JCC Jewish Teen Athlete/Scholar Award. Alexandria won a $500 scholarship (June 3, 2005). Has BBYO appeared in your local press? Please let us know by emailing [email protected]. Spanning over 38 regions and 16,000 members internationally, BBYO, Inc. is a worldwide, transdenominational, teen- led organization that provides opportunities for Jewish teens to develop their leadership potential and a positive Jewish identity. BBYO, Inc. · 2020 K Street NW, 7th Floor · Washington, DC 20006 · BBYO DEVELOPS COLLEGE TOUR FOR TEENS; FIRST TOUR TO TAKE PLACE IN DC Continued from page 1: The teens will take campus tours, visit admissions offices, see (and eat at) Hillels and meet other Jewish teens going through the same process. In addition, a college counselor will accompany the tour, offering tips on how finding the right school, preparing applications and organizing their time and activities while still in high school. Schools visited include the University of Maryland, American University, George Washington University, University of Virginia, George Mason, University of Delaware, and Goucher College. The trip is designed to give teens a taste of different campuses and universities so that they can find out which type suits them best. http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue10/[8/5/2014 3:06:03 PM] BBYO Newsletter Spaces on the trip are limited. Anyone interested in more information or in reserving a space should contact Tali Golan at [email protected] or 202.857.6562. Back to Top PASSPORT TO ISRAEL IN THEIR OWN WORDS Continued from page 1: "The trip lasted for only a month but the friendships will last a lot longer. I became more mature as a person because I feel more motivated to learn not just about Israel or Judaism, but also in school. I can tell that my college choices changed and what I wanted to do changed. I always went to camp before, where you are in a secluded environment. But in Israel you are thrown into a political situation. We saw history happening and I think that affected me so much. In America we take our religious freedom for granted, but you realize that other people have to leave their countries to come to Israel because of persecution. I see how important it is to be Jewish and how important it is to keep Judaism alive in my family, and why it is important to have a Jewish home state." –Jackie Franklin, Houston, TX (Lonestar Region) "Just going to Israel – I thought that would blow me away, but meeting and bonding with all the people [on the trip] was a great experience within itself. I'm a pretty quiet guy; I knew that going into it I was going to hang out with total strangers for a month and I'd have to open up. It just really helped me be more comfortable. Israel is the place for Jews. It's the safest I have ever felt – socially or physically – just because everyone there is so open and welcoming to strangers. And they want to make everyone feel like it's their home." –Sam A. F. Hunt, Cucamonga, CA (Southwestern Region) "The best part of the trip was the people, and the entire faculty was really good. The most memorable part was probably Jerusalem, seeing the old city, because I've always learned about it and it was really cool to actually see it. I learned a lot from the trip, it changed my views on a lot of different ideas. A lot of people in America think they know what's going on, that it's really two sided, really basic, but if you actually learn about it there is a lot more detail. Now that I've been there, I really want to go back. I want to go back as soon as possible. I recommend the trip very highly." –Jason Magid, Woodbridge, CT "I really liked the people and definitely my counselors. They were very important in making the trip. I felt comfortable with them. I was around the world in a totally foreign country but I still felt like I had a family that I could come to at the end of the day and talk to about my experiences. Originally I did not want to go at all, but I learned that there are a lot of different aspects to Israel. Whatever stereotype I had about Israel was crushed after the first week. There's so much more about the country that I think the regular Jewish American doesn't know about." –Danny Schwartz, Deerfield, IL "I really enjoyed going to the Kotel. It was a very wonderful and overwhelming feeling for me, just to know that there is so much history there. I felt a lot stronger about my Jewish identity while I was in Israel. Coming home that feeling is still with me. When we would do Shabbat services on the trip, it would be nice to see that everyone else in Israel would know these prayers and these songs. Being there and being with a bunch of Jewish people you realize that people actually left their homes to come to Israel because everyone feels so connected to the land. Now I feel a lot more connected to Israel after the trip. There is nothing to lose by going, and there is so much to gain. Everyone should really give it a try. Its so much fun!" –Orly Sibony, Van Nuys, CA (Pacific Coast Region) "We ended up at the Kotel (the western wall in Jerusalem) around one in the morning or later. We saw that there were over 100 people there and it was the middle of the night. Who goes to the Kotel at one in the morning? It was just amazing to see that people are really dedicated to Judaism there and it was just really cool. I think I understand being a Jew better and I understand where everything came from, why you do everything, what's so important about being Jewish and being friends with Jewish people. I wouldn't say that I'm a Zionist now but I really do appreciate Israel more and being a Jew more. Before it was just ‘oh yeah,'s I hear about Israel, our land, but now I really do feel connected to it. Now that I've been there and seen how people live, the history, I understand it better now." –Sandi Cohen, Hillsdale, NJ (Greater Jersey Hudson River Region) http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue10/[8/5/2014 3:06:03 PM] BBYO Newsletter Back to Top BBYO AND BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL OFFER ALUMNI A FREE TRIP TO ISRAEL Continued from page 1: Together, with friends old and new, you will have a hands-on opportunity to experience Israel's natural beauty, diverse culture and rich history. The 10-day trip includes: Visits to all the major touring sites including Jerusalem, the Western Wall, Masada, the Dead Sea, Tel Aviv, Jaffa, the Golan Heights and the Sea of Galilee. You will also experience a traditional Bedouin feast and the best of Israeli culture and nightlife. Truly memorable outdoor experiences which include rappelling, zip-lining, kayaking, camel trekking, hiking, snorkeling and swimming. The opportunity to meet, interact and form relationships with Israeli peers with similar interests. Top-notch staff including accredited Israeli outdoor guides/educators and dynamic North American peers. The opportunity to see old friends and meet fellow BBYO alumni from around North America. BBYO alumni ages 18-26 are eligible for this exciting experience. Dates for the first- ever trip will be announced in September. To be considered for the trip please email Amy Jablin at [email protected] with your name and email address. Only those who are registered at www.bbyoalumni.org will be considered. If you are looking for an exhilarating way to experience Israel, BBYO's alumni trip is your ticket. Back to Top BBYO SELECTS ROBIN LEVENSTON TO FILL TOP DEVELOPMENT POST Continued from page 1: "BBYO holds the key to the next generation of Jewish leaders, philanthropists and Jewish communal professionals," said Levenston. "The new direction of this organization is extraordinarily exciting and entrepreneurial. With the appropriate funding streams, BBYO has the potential to truly transform the Jewish community in North America and beyond." As a newly independent organization needing to establish its own financial footing, BBYO's future, and that of its teens, depends on securing additional sources of income among individual philanthropists, many of whom are AZA and BBG alumni; foundations; corporate sponsors; and other organizations. Levenston will spearhead the effort to expand BBYO's donor base, BBYO's primary source of income. A 13-year veteran to the field of Jewish communal service, Levenston is assuming her new role at BBYO after three years with the ASSOCIATED: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore, where she oversaw all activities of the Women's Department as vice president. Previously, she served as the associate regional director for United Jewish Communities Southeast Region based in Atlanta. She also spent six years with the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, FL handling legislative advocacy, community relations, Israel initiatives, community planning and allocations. "BBYO is on a path to revitalization and growth," said BBYO's executive director, Matthew Grossman. "Robin's experience in Jewish communal work, coupled with her energy, will be an excellent addition to an already dynamic staff and will help move this organization forward." Levenston received her Master of Public Administration from Florida Atlantic University and completed her non-profit management specialty at Georgia State University. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Judaic Studies from the University of Florida. Robin attributes her dedication and passion to Jewish causes in large part to a formative experience studying abroad at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in her junior year of college. Back to Top WHERE YOUNG LIVES TAKE SHAPE: TOD COHEN AND SHIRA LEVINE Continued from page 1: "BBYO gives us a lasting bond and a common understanding of what we experienced as teenagers," Levine said. While Levine did not hold any positions in her Southern-Atlanta chapter, BBYO remains a large part of her life, as she attributes her current success in eBay to her BBYO days. "It had definite career preparation benefits because you interacted with a lot of different people from different parts of the country and there was a good political hierarchy system," said Levine. "It was a good precursor to the corporate experience." This political hierarchy system is what initially stimulated Cohen to go into law. "My AZA days inspired my love for government relations," Cohen said. "I always enjoyed the process of elections and realized that the most important part of politics is the governing aspect." Cohen, who was Regional Godol of Mountain Region (1980-81), took the leadership skills he developed and transformed them into corporate skills. Originally eBay's first full-time public policy employee in March 2000 in Washington DC, he now leads the eBay government relations's efforts out of corporate headquarters in San Jose. He manages 25 people around the world who represent eBay, PayPal, among others, to help eBay advance its goals. "BBYO gave me an enormous amount of self-confidence and self-esteem professionally and a great ability to get things done," said Cohen. The Judaic knowledge and leadership skills Levine gained while in BBYO inspired her to become part of the board of trustees for AJWS, American Jewish World Service (www.ajws.org). Since 2003, Levine has actively promoted the importance for global development from a Jewish perspective. "Being involved as a teenager inspired a lifelong interest in staying active in the Jewish community and giving back," said http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue10/[8/5/2014 3:06:03 PM] BBYO Newsletter Levine. For eBay, Levine runs PowerSellers, a reward and retention program for eBay's largest sellers. In addition, Levine assisted with the development of eBay's initiative to help nonprofit organizations fundraise through eBay. eBay Giving Works enables users to list their items on eBay and donate part or the entire final sale price to a nonprofit organization. BBYO is involved in this initiative as a registered charitable organization. If you would like to raise money for BBYO through eBay's Giving Works program, go to www.ebay.com/givingworks and register as an eBay seller. Then, whenever you sell an item on eBay, simply select BBYO in the "Donate percentage of sale" area. By becoming a registered seller and donating a percentage of your sales, you can help BBYO with its fundraising efforts. Back to Top YOUNG BBG ALUMNA LOSES BATTLE WITH CANCER BUT STIMULATES CHANGE Continued from page 1: After being diagnosed, Charlie's positive attitude continued as she fought her horrible illness with all of her might. "She felt this happened to her for a reason, so she intended to do something about this disease," said her mother Valerie. Charlie was never given that chance. Nine months later, at the young age of 26, Charlie lost her life. Inspired by her daughter's philanthropic personality, Valerie Guild established the Charlie Guild Melanoma Foundation quickly after Charlie's death to fight for legislation to implement sun safety education for children and to raise money for skin cancer research. "You think that the worst thing you hear is that your child has cancer. After this experience, I found out that the worst thing you can find out is that your child has cancer and there is no treatment. Prevention is so important. I don't want to hear from one more person that their child has melanoma," Valerie said. The Charlie Guild Melanoma Foundation (CGMF) is leading a nationwide effort to raise awareness of skin cancer and melanoma and make it a disease that will soon cease to exist. At present, this task is nearly impossible. Melanoma is currently the fastest growing cancer in the United States and there have been no significant advances in the medical treatment or survival rate in the last 30 years, according to doctors in the field. "There are not enough people who say, ‘Oh my G-d, my child could be the next to get it,'" says Valerie. With the highest susceptibility ages ranging from 0-18, education is one of Valerie's top priorities. "Val is going to do incredible things," says Shayna Dunn who was a friend of Charlie's in BBYO and is moved by Valerie's passion for living Charlie's dream of beating cancer. "She has created this foundation based on what Charlie would have wanted." To help Valerie and the Charlie Guild Melanoma Foundation make strides in their fight to eradicate skin cancer, signing up to be Charlie's friend will help create a national advocacy database of people who could make skin cancer legislation a reality. When state or federal legislation is ready to be voted on, Charlie's friends will receive notification and be able to make their voices heard. "I would like to save as many lives as possible. To do that, you need a national effort. The people in power need to know that the American public cares about this issue," Valerie says. To learn more about the Charlie Guild Melanoma Foundation and to become a part of Charlie's friends, visit www.charlie.org. Here are some facts you should know from the American Cancer Society: Melanoma is now the fastest growing cancer in the U.S. There have been no significant advances in the medical treatment or survival rate in the last 30 years. Melanoma cases are increasing at an epidemic rate of 4% a year. Melanoma is the most common cancer in men and women ages 20-29 and the second most common from 30-39. If caught in the earliest stages, melanoma is entirely treatable with a survival rate of nearly 100%. If untreated and allowed to spread, there is no known treatment or cure. Back to Top BIG APPLE REGION ALUMNUS TAKES ON BINGHAMTON STUDENT ASSOCIATION Continued from page 1: BUSA is a separate entity from the University and manages a multi-million dollar operation, including the only completely student run bus service and volunteer ambulance corps in the country. As EVP, David is responsible for managing and developing all student groups on campus, as well as chairing the Student Assembly (SA), which is the legislative body of the Student Association. His biggest accomplishment so far is the creation of a Public Relations Department for the SA. "Engagement was a huge concept in BBYO throughout my senior year, and I brought that with me to college. Getting as many people involved was the goal, and better marketing can help get that accomplished." In addition to David's role with the SA, he serves as a member of the Hillel Board of Directors at Binghamton. And, he continues to be involved with BBYO, working as both the national media coordinator for BBYO summer programs and an advisor in Central Region East. "Both my experience participating in and working for BBYO have given me the skills to succeed in the next step of my life. My term has just begun, and I plan on applying to the Student Association a lot of what BBYO taught me." http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue10/[8/5/2014 3:06:03 PM] BBYO Newsletter Back to Top http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue10/[8/5/2014 3:06:03 PM] BBYO eNews - September 2005 September 2005 Issue 11 If you have information to share or comments about the BBYO e-News, please contact Abby Strunk at [email protected]. Thank you and enjoy! BBYO, Inc. News BBYO TO LAUNCH STATE-OF-THE-ART NETWORKING SITE TO CONNECT TENS OF THOUSANDS OF JEWISH TEENS FROM AROUND THE WORLD BBYO is on the brink of launching a new online community, which will revolutionize the way Jewish teens communicate with each other, while changing the way the organization does business. On October 2, b-linked.org will be launched, providing a venue for tens of thousands of Jewish teens to connect with each other and acquire resources about areas of interest, including college admissions, community service and travel. VISIT COLLEGES WITH YOUR FRIENDS b-linked is a response to the Jewish community's growing challenge to connect its youth to Jewish life. Building on its 80-history delivering world-renown leadership development programs to tens of thousands of Jewish teens, BBYO is using new approaches and emerging technologies to both engage its current AZA and BBG membership base, while also capturing the "hard-to-reach" Jewish teen market in ways that were once unimaginable. The proliferation of networking websites like Friendster, Facebook and My Space, coupled with market research, led BBYO to recognize that many Jewish teens can find Jewish experiences appealing if the point of entry is based on a community which they help build and, ultimately, their core interests. As a result, BBYO set out to develop an online arena where teens can: Are you a junior or senior starting to explore your college options? Join BBYO's first-ever teen College Tour, and visit all different types of colleges in the DC-area while having fun and making friends along the way. For more info or to register, contact [email protected] or 202.857.6562, or visit www.b-accepted.org. GET YOUR BBYO GEAR BBYO has just launched an eStore featuring everything from t-shirts and hats to ipod covers and carabiners. Visit www.bbyostore.com today! ALUMNI MENTOR PROGRAM Are you a BBYO alum on a college campus? Contact [email protected] to find Create a personal profile to share with others Stay informed about upcoming events, including social, travel, athletic, community service and leadership opportunities Communicate through message boards about their favorite topics Connect with people based upon common areas of interest, from music and movies to volunteer work and sports Make new friends with Jewish teens from all over the world Keep track of community service hours Get help with the college admissions process Share photos Shop for cool apparel and merchandise, and so much more! In addition, various sub-communities under the b-linked umbrella will enable Jewish teens to access information on areas that interest them: b-accepted will be the first community to launch, also on October 2. This site will provide tools to help college-bound Jewish teens with the admissions process. baccepted will feature a college search powered by The Princeton Review and Hillel, a personal organizer, as well as pertinent information regarding the application process, SAT exam and financial aid. Additionally, users will eventually be able to sign up for features like an alumni mentor service and a roommate matching message board. Future b-linked sub-sites include b-kind, which will be dedicated to community service. About 70% of high schools now require teens to fulfill community service requirements, so the site will enable teens to track their involvement and learn about service opportunities, while introducing teens to a fundamental component of Jewish life, tikkun olam. Other communities to be launched include b-inspired (Judaism and spirituality), b- http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue11/[8/5/2014 3:06:57 PM] BBYO eNews - September 2005 out about BBYO's new alumni mentor program. BBYO CALENDAR everywhere (travel), b-yisrael (Israel) and b-alive (health and wellness). b-linked is just one of many new approaches being used by BBYO to increase exponentially the number of teens participating in meaningful Jewish experiences, and ultimately inspire them to live Jewish lives. Stay tuned for additional BBYO initiatives! In the meantime, bready. b-excited. b-there on October 2 when b-linked.org goes live! BBYO, INC. MOBILIZES EFFORT TO ASSIST HURRICANE KATRINA VICTIMS When Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf States a little over two weeks ago, BBYO, Inc., quickly mobilized an effort to assist victims. Since that time, BBYO has welcomed displaced Jewish teens to programs, directed funds to the United Jewish Communities and sold close to 1,000 teen-created hurricane relief t-shirts with proceeds going to the American Red Cross. BBYO has just published its two-year programming calendar. If you are interested in ordering a calendar, contact [email protected] or 202.857.6549. BBYO BULGARIA TRIP "It is at difficult times like this that I am reminded of the significance of our work," said Matthew Grossman, the executive director of BBYO, Inc. "To witness a community of thousands of young people committed to carrying out the values and ideals that have been a part of the Jewish people for generations is truly inspiring." With over 40 regions across North America, BBYO is in a unique position to bring some semblance of normalcy back into the lives of many Jewish teens impacted by the hurricane. With that in mind, BBYO has instituted a policy waiving all membership and program fees and offering additional scholarships to all displaced Jewish teens wishing to take part in BBYO experiences. BBYO has also established a website - www.bbyocares.org - where the organization is selling teen-created "Hurricane Relief" t-shirts with all of the proceeds going to The American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund with the option for additional donations to UJC's fund. To date, almost 1,000 t-shirts have been purchased by people within both the Jewish and secular communities. BBYO's Youth Ambassadors in Bulgaria Program is a life-changing cultural exchange, which brings teens from across North America to Bulgaria for 10 days in December to explore their individual and collective Jewish identities. To learn more, please contact [email protected]. Give to BBYO BBYO needs your annual support to reach thousands of Jewish teens. You can contribute to BBYO either through an unrestricted gift or by designating your gift to a specific fund, program or project. In addition to the efforts being undertaken by BBYO's teen leadership and international office, countless projects are currently underway locally. In fact, BBYO's Cotton States Region, comprising the states of Tennessee, Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi, is organizing a national effort to raise awareness about and funds for disaster relief. Cotton States teens will be encouraging BBYO's 500 chapters across North America to collect funds and supplies for victims. For those wishing to make a direct contribution to disaster relief, BBYO's international teen presidents, Shauna Ruda and Brandon Rattiner, requested that BBYO members, their parents, staff and stakeholders make donations to the United Jewish Communities Humanitarian Relief Fund (www.ujc.org), which works to provide vital humanitarian aid to those in need. Finally, with approximately 1,800 BBYO families in the Gulf's surrounding areas, BBYO worked with UJC to identify dozens of families in North Carolina, Texas, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia and Florida who were able to open their homes to those who have been displaced. Those still interested should contact the Association of Jewish Family and Children Agencies (www.ajfca.org) or their local UJC/Federation offices. To contribute to the disaster relief efforts, please visit www.ujc.org or www.bbyocares.org. BBYO INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION AND PRESIDENTS'S REUNION A HUGE SUCCESS To subscribe or to submit news, events or comments for the new BBYO eNewsletter, e-mail [email protected]. Forward the BBYO e-News to friends or colleagues who might be interested. http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue11/[8/5/2014 3:06:57 PM] This August, over 300 BBYO leaders from around the world traveled to Starlight, PA to participate in the 50th International Convention at the B'nai B'rith Perlman Camp. The weeklong convention had a jampacked schedule that included innovative teen-led programs, world-renowned speakers, business meetings, and the elections of the 61st and 81st International Boards. The week culminated on Shabbat when 30 past International Godolim and N'siot joined the convention for an International Presidents's Reunion, and to participate in programs BBYO eNews - September 2005 with the teen participants. The convention, themed "Turn the Page," was the final IC held at Perlman. In order to accommodate the early school calendars of many schools, IC will now be held over President's Weekend in February. Throughout the week, participants had the opportunity to hear from leading experts on important topics such as the Jewish value of tzedakah, community service and the disengagement in Israel. Danny Siegel, founder of the Ziv Tzedakah Fund, addressed the convention on the subject of mitzvot and encouraged BBYOers to return to their communities as "Mitzvah Heroes." Lisa Buxbaum, founder of Soaring Words, a non-profit organization that provides emotional support to families and children with terminal illnesses, offered the participants a variety of ways to make a difference in the lives of these families. Comedians Scott Blakeman and Dean Obeidallah put a comedic spin on the situation in Israel in their presentation "Standup for Peace." Blakeman, an Israeli, and Obeidallah, an Arab, shed light on the conflict through their use of humor. Carl Shrag, a former editor of the Jerusalem Post provided the factual framework that helped to put "Standup for Peace" into perspective. Round-table discussions allowed the participants to meet with most of these experts in small groups to have their questions answered. Later in the week, participants successfully elected the 81st and 61st International Boards of the Aleph Zadik Aleph and B'nai B'rith Girls. Please read Meet the New I-Board to learn more. The International Presidents's Reunion gave past Godolim and N'siot a chance to return to Perlman for the last International Convention held there. It also gave participants the chance to meet former leaders of their organization. The past presidents played an integral role in the convention throughout the weekend, helping to lead prayers during services, and presenting awards during the International Awards Ceremony. Participants had the opportunity to meet with several presidents in a small group setting to ask them about their terms, and how the organization has evolved. The convention closed with the same enthusiasm and spirit that it began. The International Spirit Gavel and Cup were awarded to the AZAs of Kentucky Indiana Ohio Region and the BBGs of Central Region East respectively. These regions will guard the gavel and cup until IC 2006 to be held in Atlanta, Georgia over President's Weekend, February 16-20. MEET THE NEW AZA AND BBG INTERNATIONAL BOARDS Brandon Rattiner, a member of Philip Klutznick AZA #734 in the Rocky Mountain Region was elected to serve as the 81st Grand Aleph Godol. Brandon previously served as the 13th Grand Aleph Moreh. He plans to attend Tufts University after his term ends in August. "During my term as Grand Aleph Godol I don't plan on making any radical or revolutionary changes. I just believe that if the quality of everything we do increases, our organization would reach unimaginable heights," said Brandon. AZA Board from L to R: Jonathan Sadow, Jason Rosen, Brandon Rattiner, Bennett Marcus, Jeremy Gelman Shauna Ruda, a member of Neshama BBG #165 in the Rocky Mountain Region, was elected to serve as the 61st International N'siah. Shauna previously served as the 16th International Sh'licha. She plans BBG Board from L to R: Dina Finer, on attending American University in Washington, DC Nina Rosen, Shauna Ruda, Erica after her term ends in August. "Being a B'nai B'rith Robinson, Melissa Finger Girls for the past five years has shaped the character and person that I have become. I owe every interpersonal skill I have to this organization, every aspect of my Jewish identity, and every chance I've had to make a difference in this world," said Shauna. Bennett Marcus, a member of Long Beach AZA #488 in the Nassau Suffolk Region was elected to serve as the 81st Grand Aleph S'gan. Bennett is also currently serving as the Regional S'gan of NSR. "Our order will have to try out new ideas but with the correct guidance. I guarantee we can bring AZA to new heights that we have never been able to reach before," said Bennett. Jason Rosen, a member of Wayne AZA in the Greater Jersey Hudson River Region, Northern Council, was elected to serve as the 14th Grand Aleph Moreh. Jason is also currently serving as the Council Godol of GJHRR-NC. Jeremy Gelman, a member of Judge Saul Pinchick AZA #6 in the Rocky Mountain Region was elected to serve as the 81st Grand Aleph Mazkir. Jeremy is also currently serving as the Regional Godol of RMR. "International Board is an opportunity only a few select members of our Organization receive. I am appreciative that the Alephs of our Order put their trust in http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue11/[8/5/2014 3:06:57 PM] BBYO eNews - September 2005 me to serve this upcoming year and believe the five Alephs they elected will lead them back to glory," said Jeremy. Jonathan Sadow, a member of Exodus AZA #2505 in the Southern Region, Atlanta Council, was elected to serve as the 16th Grand Aleph Shaliach. Jon is also currently serving as the Council Godol of Atlanta Council. "The opportunity to propel BBYO into the future during a time of tremendous change and development is one of the greatest I could have," said Jon. Erica Robinson, a member of Henry Barnston BBG #318 in the Lonestar Region, was elected to serve as the 61st International S'ganit. Erica is also currently serving as the Regional S'ganit of LSR. "This organization has shaped me into the person that I am today. It has taught me the leadership skills that have brought me to this point in my life," said Erica. Nina Rosen, a member of BZB BBG in the Nassau Suffolk Region was elected to serve as the 16th International Aym-Ha Chaverot. Nina is also currently serving as the Regional AymHa Chaverot of NSR. "This year is full of promise and with hard work I think we have the ability to go above and beyond what is expected," said Nina. Melissa Finger, a member of L'Chaim BBG #1802 in the Big Apple Region, was elected to serve as the 61st International Mazkirah. Melissa is also currently serving as the Regional N'siah of BAR. Dina Finer, a member of in the North Texas Oklahoma Region, was elected to serve as the 17th International Sh'licha. Dina is also currently serving as the Regional N'siah of NTO. "In my term I plan to help every BBG find their own personal connection to Judaism, and that it's okay to believe differently. We will come together and unite as an order, proud of our differences, but proud together," said Dina. Alumni News WHERE YOUNG LIVES TAKE SHAPE: BRAD COHEN Where Young Lives Take Shape is a feature of the BBYO e-News focusing on the accomplishments of BBYO alumni. This month, meet Brad Cohen, an educator in Atlanta, GA who overcame his Tourette's syndrome to become Georgia's first year teacher of the year and authored the book Front of the Class: How Tourette Syndrome Made Me the Teacher I Never Had. On the surface, Brad Cohen's time in BBYO holding leadership positions and going on summer programs - seems no different than that of many other participants. Growing up with Tourette Syndrome, however, made every experience in Brad's life far from typical. Now a teacher in Atlanta, GA, Brad has chronicled his life's journey living with and overcoming Tourette's in his new book out this month, Front of the Class: How Tourette Syndrome Made Me the Teacher I Never Had. Tourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder which causes people to make noises and tics that they can't control. About 100,000 people in the United States have this hereditary disorder. Unfortunately, there is no cure for Tourette's. Brad participated in BBYO from 1988-1992 in the St. Louis Council of the Mid America Region as a member of Jeremiah AZA #2376. During his freshmen year of high school, a friend asked him to join BBYO. At first, Brad wasn't sure how people would receive him. Whenever he would make tics and noises, he explained why he was doing it if anyone asked. After a short time, Brad decided that the best way to educate his peers in BBYO would be to run a council-wide program on Tourette Syndrome. The program went so well that the organizers of spring convention that year asked for him to repeat the program for the entire region. "Right away, I was able to educate not only St. Louis, but all of the Mid America Region about Tourette's, so getting involved with BBYO was not hard at all." Brad said. Participating in BBYO's summer Israel trip as well as Kallah, ILTC and March of the Living exposed Brad to a much larger Jewish community. "At the beginning of every summer program I went on, I would get up and tell everyone about Tourette's. The more I did it, the better my self-esteem got, the more active I wanted to be, and the more leadership positions I took on." http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue11/[8/5/2014 3:06:57 PM] BBYO eNews - September 2005 Not only did Brad take on a variety of leadership positions within his local chapter, he also served as the President of St. Louis Council and eventually was elected to International Board as Grand Aleph Sh'liach. "When I was elected to the international board - that's a big deal. You are running against people from different states across the US." Brad said. "I was able to represent BBYO on the international level as a leader despite the fact that I had a disability. I was really excited that people were able to look past my disability and see me as a person." Not everyone in Brad's life, however, was as accepting as his friends in BBYO. When Brad was in 5th grade, his teacher made him stand in front of the class and apologize for making the noises that he could not control. "She told me to tell everyone that I was sorry and it wouldn't happen again, but obviously the noises continued." Brad said. "At that point I realized that I wanted to be that teacher that was there to support kids or give them a pat on the back. I wanted to be the teacher I never had." Brad's new book, Front of the Class: How Tourette Syndrome Made Me the Teacher I Never Had, explores Brad's personal struggles with Tourrette's and how he was able to overcome his disability to fulfill his dreams. "The reason I wrote the book is because my college newspaper did an article on me and so many people started contacting me about Tourette's to learn how I got through it with a positive attitude and became successful. I wanted to meet with each of them, but I didn't have the time, so I decided I needed to put my story down in a book," Brad said. Principal after principal refused to hire Brad because of his disability. Most people told him to give up on teaching altogether. Once Brad was able to get his first teaching position in an elementary school in Atlanta, he proved all of his critics wrong by winning the "Sallie Mae First Year Teacher of the Year of Georgia" award. "Just a year before, there were principals that told me that I couldn't be a teacher. I was able to prove them wrong. I was really proud of the accomplishment and it boosted my selfesteem again," Brad said. Brad attributes much of his personal success to his time in BBYO. "BBYO wasn't my life. It gave me a life," Brad notes. "The strategies, social skills and leaderships skills made me who I am today." Brad found in BBYO, for the first time, peers who respected him for who he was, regardless of his disability. "In middle school, I had no friends. I was the kid at lunch that sat alone while other kids paraded around me and made fun of the noises. BBYO was where people started to look past the outside and got to know me for who I was on the inside." Brad has recently been involved in speaking engagements across the country and is currently on a book signing tour. Front of the Class has been gaining steam, as People Magazine recently featured a four-page spread on Brad and the book in their September 12th issue. Brad was also featured on an episode of the TV program Inside Edition on September 15. In addition, Brad recently became engaged to his fiancé, Nancy. "I want to let people know that just because they have a disability, they can still be successful," Brad said. To learn more about Brad Cohen, Tourette Syndrome, or to buy a copy of Front of the Class: How Tourette Syndrome Made Me the Teacher I Never Had, visit www.frontoftheclassbook.com. YOU CAN GO HOME AGAIN! REMINISCENCES OF THE 2005 INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENTS'S REUNION BY MARCIA GOREN WESER, INTERNATIONAL BBG PRESIDENT 1961-62 The narrow, mountainous roads winding to Perlman Camp flooded my senses with memories from many years ago - of my wonderful sister BBGs and brother AZAs, of songs and prayers, of debates and discussions, of caring staff members and B'nai B'rith stalwarts such as Anita Perlman, Label Katz and Jack Spitzer. I felt like I did go home this past August - to the International Conventions of BBG and AZA, now celebrating http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue11/[8/5/2014 3:06:57 PM] BBYO eNews - September 2005 their 60th and 80th anniversaries, respectively. I had spent three summers at the camp in the '60s - could I go "home" again? All past presidents of BBG and AZA were invited to attend this momentous event, the last such summer convention to be scheduled at Perlman Camp (future ones will be held elsewhere). Twenty-seven of us attended, from Boston architect Elliot Rothman, GAG 195455, to last year's GAG Robbie Sadow and N'siah Emily Hyatt, both now college students. Every decade of the last half of the 20th century was represented. I felt transformed throughout the weekend. From the inspiring Friday evening Menorah lighting by the lake to beautiful Shabbat services and rollicking songfest and dancing that topped off the evening. From mealtime brachot to informal chats. From heated discussions of the weekly parashah to a rousing, spirited awards ceremony. It was thrilling. And the "kids" (as we called the conventioneers) made us feel beyond welcome - and we loved them for it! The spirit of BBYO is alive and thriving. It is flourishing even more than ever! I saw the creativity of BBYOers as I participated in the innovative Shabbat morning "Dr. Seuss"-themed service, compiled by Liz Zelman, reminding us to "Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind!" As I listened to the moving words of Rob Spitzer as he eulogized his father, Jack, honored in the 2005 Memorial Grove, I knew that dedication and commitment to a noble cause still mattered. Later I shared my experiences of BBG, responding to questions from conventioneers - and noted with awe their own insights into BBYO traditions and chapter and regional activities. The young people who came to chat during the weekend also confirmed for me that this "home" that is BBYO is continuing to do for them what it has done for thousands of us over the 60 to 80 years of its existence: train thoughtful, independent leaders. The world will be in good hands when these "kids" take charge. BBYO develops leaders who are knowledgeable about Judaism and the world, who are sensitive and caring. BBYO welcomes youth from all streams of our Judaism and honors the best within them. BBYO empowers young people through its programs to make a difference, through service and tikkun olam. BBYO sends many young people abroad, and to Israel (as I went), providing invaluable growth and opportunities which will serve them well in college and the workplace. It was also thrilling to meet my "presidential" peers. All of us were touched by the beautiful outdoor sculpture that was dedicated in our honor on the campus. As I read through our bios, I realized that all of us had used the lessons we'd learned in BBYO throughout our lives. We continue to pass on that BBYO legacy to others through our vocational choices and volunteer service in our communities across the nation. As we reminisced and enjoyed our homecoming, I realized that in some ways we never really left: BBYO will always be home for us - and I hope for all who were there at the 2005 convention and, indeed, for all BBYO alumni! WILL YOU BE AT THE UJC GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN TORONTO? The United Jewish Communities will be holding this year's General Assembly in Toronto, November 1316. BBYO will have a table at the exhibit center and encourages attendees to stop by to learn about BBYO's exciting new initiatives and opportunities for alumni. There will be a BBYO reception held Sunday, November 13, 5:30-6:30 pm, and alumni and friends are invited to attend. Please let us know if you'll be there by e-mailing [email protected]. BBYO In the News Members of B'not Lev BBG #2430 collected funds to assist Hurricane Katrina refugees. According to the Kansas City Jewish Chronicle, local BBYO members collected donations at chapter meetings and free BBYO membership is being offered to any Jewish teen displaced by http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue11/[8/5/2014 3:06:57 PM] BBYO eNews - September 2005 Hurricane Katrina and now living in the Kansas City area (September 10, 2005). The Phoenix Jewish Times announced that Tina Sheinbein, a former member of BBYO in the Phoenix area, was recently named part-time outreach and development director for the Jewish Free Loan Association of Greater Phoenix (August 19, 2005). Lindsay Hodin, a member of Northern Region East BBYO, and participant of BBYO's Passport to Israel program, was featured in an article in the Potomac Gazette about how Maryland teens spent their summer (August 24, 2005). The St. Louis Jewish Light announced that BBYO programs would return to the Wohl JCC under the leadership of the new St. Louis Council Director Brett Bunsick (August 24, 2005). BBYO members from Memphis, TN in a partnership with the B'nai B'rith Schloss Lodge collected stuffed bears for the 2nd Annual B'nai B'rith Cares for Kids Project. The Hebrew Watchman reported that these bears will be donated to the Memphis Child Advocacy Center and other organizations that serve needy, abused or neglected children. Has BBYO appeared in your local press? Please let us know by emailing [email protected]. Spanning over 38 regions and 16,000 members internationally, BBYO, Inc. is a worldwide, trans-denominational, teen-led organization that provides opportunities for Jewish teens to develop their leadership potential and a positive Jewish identity. BBYO, Inc. * 2020 K Street NW, 7th Floor * Washington, DC 20006 http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue11/[8/5/2014 3:06:57 PM] BBYO eNews - October 2005 October 2005 Issue 12 BBYO WILL BE AT THE UJC'S GENERAL ASSEMBLY. WILL YOU? If you have information to share or comments about the BBYO e-News, please e-mail [email protected]. Thank you and enjoy! BBYO, Inc. News THOUSANDS OF JEWISH TEENS REGISTER FOR BBYO'S NEW TEEN NETWORKING SITE Jewish teenagers around the world have a new way to connect with one another thanks to BBYO's new state-of-the-art networking site, blinked.org! registered Since its successful launch at the beginning of October, b-linked.org has attracted over 2,500 Jewish teens to sign up and become b-linked users, and this number is growing daily. The UJC will be holding this year's GA in Toronto, November 13-16. BBYO will have a table at the exhibit center and a reception on Sunday, November 13, 5:30-6:30 pm. Please let us know if you'll be there by e-mailing [email protected]. b-linked is a response to the Jewish community's growing challenge to connect its teens to Jewish life. BBYO is using new approaches and emerging technologies to both engage its current AZA and BBG membership base, while also capturing the "hard-to-reach" Jewish teen market in ways that were once unimaginable. JEWISH LEARNING OPPORTUNITY Here are just a few of the things that teens can do at b-linked.org: Limmud NY invites current BBYO members and alumni to attend its 2006 Conference January 13-16, at Kutsher's Resort in upstate NY. Scholarship money is available for current BBYO members and college-aged alumni through the Schusterman Family Foundation. For more information about Limmud NY, contact [email protected]. Give to BBYO BBYO needs your annual support to reach thousands of Jewish teens. You can contribute to BBYO either through an unrestricted gift or by designating your gift to a specific fund, program or project. GET YOUR BBYO GEAR BBYO has just launched an eStore featuring everything from t-shirts and hats to ipod Make friends with Jewish teens from all over the world Sign up for Jewish experiences, from leadership programs and community service events to basketball leagues, college tours and Israel trips Communicate through message boards about important topics Connect with teens based on common areas of interest, from music and movies to volunteer work and sports Use b-accepted, a college preparation site with articles that offer advice about anything and everything teens should know when applying to college And, that is just the beginning! Visit b-linked.org today, and see for yourself. COTTON STATES REGION SPEARHEADS INTERNATIONAL RELIEF EFFORTS Memberrrs of BBYO's Cotton States Region, which includes chapters in Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Alabama and Arkansas, are spearheading a National Jewish Teen initiativeYouth Aiding the Distressed (Y.A.D.) to raise awareness and funds for disaster relief in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. The teens developed programming resources not only for BBYO's 500 chapters around the world, but also for members of other Jewish youth organizations. Y.A.D. efforts culminated in an International Jewish Teen Relief Weekend, October 14-16. Jewish teens from New York City to San Francisco planned disaster relief awareness and fundraising events in their communities throughout the weekend. Katrina directly affected three states of the Cotton States Region. Members of CSR youth leadership immediately mobilized their membership to help with relief efforts. Members of Birmingham's Mesch AZA raised over $2500 for the Birmingham Jewish Federations Hurricane Relief Fund with their creative fundraiser Bounce for the Big Easy. Members of the Birmingham community were invited to drop coins, bills and checks into Mesch's http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue12/[8/5/2014 3:07:48 PM] BBYO eNews - October 2005 covers and carabiners. Visit www.bbyostore.com today! basketball goal as they bounced basketballs for bucks at the local JCC. The chapter also invited several speakers from both the secular and Jewish communities, including former New Orleans residents now residing in Birmingham, to add a personal touch to the event. To subscribe or to submit news, events or comments for the new BBYO eNewsletter, e-mail [email protected]. The five BBG Chapters in Memphis, TN banned together to provide free babysitting services for displaced members of the New Orleans Jewish Community currently residing in Memphis. This service will allow parents time to find new homes, secure jobs and rebuild a life for themselves in Memphis. Weinstein BBG in Knoxville, TN raised over $400 through a local carwash. Forward the BBYO e-News to friends or colleagues who might be interested. Many BBYO Regions are incorporating disaster relief efforts into events already on their calendars. Big Apple Region incorporated a short film from Aish.com entitled Starting Over: Rosh Hashanah & Katrina into their High Holiday Under the Stars overnight held during the International Teen Relief Weekend Oct 14-16. BAR members also collected donations for the Red Cross at their Welcome Back Kickoff Dance held in September. The city of Houston has absorbed approximately 50% of the displaced Jewish Community of New Orleans. Members of Lonestar Region BBYO have been actively participating in community based relief efforts including a truck drop-off for donations at their local JCC. On October 16 all Lonestar chapters participated in simultaneous fundraisers including car washes and bake sales to raise funds that will directly benefit members of the New Orleans Jewish Community now living in Houston. Members of Cyrus Adler AZA and Tikvah BBG got a chance to meet Houston Astros pitcher, Roger Clemens, when he stopped by their Y.A.D. bake sale on October 16! Members of Dixie Council have been busy raising disaster relief funds with their Necklaces for New Orleans fundraiser. They have already raised over $100 and plan to incorporate disaster relief programming into their Mind Body Attitude/Fraternity convention October 2830. Several Dixie Council chapters are working to directly improve the quality of life for displaced Katrina victims in their area by holding toiletry drives and other fundraisers. The Philadelphia Region plans to bring the Greater Philadelphia community together in early November for the Gift of Rock, an evening of music and fundraising that will benefit victims of Hurricane Katrina. Local teen bands are invited for some friendly competition in a battle of the bands organized by Philadelphia BBYO members. Many local businesses are showing their support for BBYO and Y.A.D. efforts through donations for the event. The members of Central Region West are keeping the spirit of New Orleans alive by selling Mardi Gras beads in their community. CRW welcomed Big Easy BBYO member Daniel Smolkin into their region with open arms after his family was evacuated from New Orleans. Smolkin has proven himself to be an asset to his new CRW BBYO community, using the skills that he learned this summer at CLTC to restart a chapter in Palo Alto, CA. The national youth leadership of other Jewish youth organizations including NFTY and USY have expressed solidarity with BBYO's Y.A.D. efforts. Both organizations disseminated Y.A.D. resources, provided by BBYO, to their membership and planned a number of drives and awareness programs for the International Jewish Teen Relief Weekend in numerous communities in North America. BBYO is making an effort to help Jewish teens who have been directly impacted by the hurricane. BBYO's 40+ regions will waive all membership and program fees as well as offer additional scholarships for displaced Jewish Katrina teens that choose to participate in BBYO experiences. At least twenty teens have already taken advantage of this opportunity. Through its new website, www.bbyocares.org, BBYO sold over 1,500 teen-created "Hurricane Relief" t-shirts raising approximately $8,000 for the American Red Cross and additional funds for the United Jewish Communities Katrina relief efforts. Are their disaster relief efforts being planned in your chapter, council or region? If so, tell us about them by e-mailing [email protected]. Alumni News WHERE YOUNG LIVES TAKE SHAPE: MARK BERNSTEIN Where Young Lives Take Shape is a feature of the BBYO eNews focusing on the accomplishments of BBYO alumni. This month, meet Mark Bernstein, co-publisher of the Hundreds of Heads advice book series. With a background in law, former District 7 Aleph Godol http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue12/[8/5/2014 3:07:48 PM] BBYO eNews - October 2005 (1976-1977), Mark Bernstein, turned the leadership skills he developed in BBYO into a successful career as an lnew media executive and now publisher of the Hundreds of Heads advice book series. Bernstein, who is a native of Knoxville, Tennessee, was a member of Winick AZA, and now divides his time between Atlanta and San Francisco. After two successful stints running Internet companies (including CNN.com) Bernstein and long time friend, Yadin Kaufmann, founded Hundreds of Heads Books in 2003. Bernstein points out that, Hundreds of Heads Books is a creation of his BBYO roots. Bernstein and Kaufman met through Kaufmann's wife, and Mark's friend from BBYO's International Kallah and ILTC (1974), Lori Banov Kaufman, who was BBG International N'siah (1976-1977). Lori is also a member of the Hundreds of Heads team, acting as a special editor on two of the series' titles How to Survive Your Baby's First Year and How to Survive a Marriage. Lori, a native of Charleston, South Carolina, and husband Yadin live in Rannana, Israel. When the Kaufmanns' son was about to begin his four-year college journey and had a million questions about what college life was like, they got the innovative idea to create the book series based on the wisdom of many people. They realized that if two heads are better than one then "hundred heads" would be even better." They recruited Bernstein and together they have published six books including the #1 best selling college guide, How to Survive Your Freshman Year. Ten additional titles are slated for release in 2006 and another six titles in production for early 2007. "America is awash today with too many self-proclaimed experts and many of these experts don't have any more valuable insight or knowledge than the guy next door who has been through that same experience," Bernstein says. "We determined that if we could put together the collective peer to peer advice of these 'real life' experts it would be of greater benefit." Hundreds of Heads survival guide books provide useful and applicable advice on life's major challenges, such as how to survive a baby, a teenager, a divorce, a marriage, dating, college, etc. Over twenty Hundreds of Heads interviewers, known as "headhunters," crisscross the country to interview people who have "been there, done that." Aside from the publishing business, Bernstein has a passion for making a difference in the world, and credits his passion for social service to his days in BBYO. "I think BBYO was a great training ground for teaching teamwork, creativity, organizational behavior and leadership," Bernstein says, "The skills I learned in BBYO have helped mold me into a good board member and the experience taught me better how to prioritize what is really important." Bernstein has served on the boards of many community and civic organizations, including the Jewish Community Federation of San Francisco, American Jewish World Service, Hands on Atlanta, Hands on Bay Area, Senior Citizen's Services of Metropolitan Atlanta, and the Atlanta Committee for Public Education. He has been recognized for his community service by receiving the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center Community Services Award, the WXIA Atlanta Community Service Award and the Metropolitan Atlanta United Way Golden Rule Award. Bernstein was selected by the World Economic Forum as one of its 100 Global Leaders for Tomorrow. Bernstein advises people to have a variety of life interests, be open, curious and be willing to take some risks. "One of my most important life lessons I learned in BBYO; you get out of things in direct proportion to what you put into them," he says. Excerpts from some of Bernstein's books can be found at b-accepted.org, BBYO's new college preparation website. For more information on Hundreds of Heads, visit www.hundredsofheads.com. BRYAN SCHWARTZ, JEWS OF COLOR: IN COLOR! Bryan Schwartz, an alumnus of Central Region West BBYO, brings the favorite camp song "Wherever You Go, There's Always Someone http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue12/[8/5/2014 3:07:48 PM] BBYO eNews - October 2005 Jewish" to life through his unique photography exhibit Jews of Color: In Color! Schwartz travels the world photographing small, isolated Jewish Communities in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. While these communities look like neighboring communities in their respective nations, they are special in that they have retained folklore and rituals connecting them with ancient Jewish traditions. Today these communities actively practice Judaism. The exhibit is currently on view at Washington DC's Sixth & I Historic Synagogue through November 28th. From DC, the exhibit will travel to the San Francisco Bay Area where it can be viewed from December through February. A similar exhibit will be on display in New York City from November through April. For more information about Bryan Schwartz's photography please visit www.scatteredamongthenations.org. ALUMNUS ELECTED TO HILLEL BOARD AT VIRGINIA TECH Jordan Effron, 2004 alumnus of FinE AZA, Richmond, Virginia (Eastern Region BBYO) was recently elected to the Executive Board of Hillel at Virginia Tech. He also currently serves on the Budget Committee and Holocaust Awareness Committee of the Virginia Tech's Student Government Association. BBYO In the News The Washington Jewish Week highlighted BBYO's international efforts to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina, which include waiving membership fees for displaced teens and fundraising through BBYO's newly established website www.bbyocares.org (September 22, 2005). Big Apple Region and their Regional Director Hali Herman were featured in the Queens Chronicle. The article reported significant contributions BAR members have made to the community including an outreach program for "special needs" students, fundraising efforts for Hurricane Katrina victims and announced a new chapter scheduled to start in October at the Rego Park Jewish Center. BBYO member Melissa Finger was quoted as to why she joined BBYO, "I just wanted to have an outlet, someplace to be with other Jewish teens." (September 29, 2005). The Pinecrest Tribune announced that Jason Kromirs, an alumnus of Michigan Region, has been named Regional Director of Miami Region BBYO. In other news, Miami BBYO members are currently developing an original script for the Ruth Gordon Impact Theatre, an innovative approach to Holocaust education, and will perform their play at the Robert Russell Theatre on February 9 (October 3, 2005). Former BBG International Presidents Michelle (Blumenthal) Caplan (1987-88) and Rachel Berger (1998-99) were featured in the Jewish Review for their participation in this summer's International Presidents Reunion at BBYO's International Convention (October 1, 2005). Members of Northern Florida Region BBYO became Jewish Pavilion volunteers when they visited Jewish residents of Merrill Gardens according to an article in the Florida Heritage Jewish News. The BBYOers hosted games for the residents including "Jewish Wheel of Fortune" and "Chai Q" (August 26, 2005). Omaha BBYO alumnae, Becky Kahn, recounted her experiences from this summer's BBYO Passport to Israel trip for an article in Omaha's Jewish Press. "Not only did I rediscover my Judaism, I made friendships that will last a lifetime in a place that took centuries to build" (September 2, 2005). The Ohio Jewish Chronicle announced that Amy Dicker, former associate regional director of Southwestern Region has joined the Columbus JCC as the Regional Director for Kentucky Indiana Ohio Region BBYO (September 8, 2005). Steven Kaltenbaugh, a Navy Seaman and BBYO alumnus from Northern Region East, appeared on the TV game show "Jeopardy" on September 19 according to the Baltimore Jewish Times. Kaltenbaugh is currently studying Korean at the highly competitive Defense Language Institute in Monterey, CA (September 9, 2005). According to the Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle, Jonathan Schutkin, a former Regional Aleph Godol of Wisconsin Region, has joined BBYO staff as the Assistant Regional Director of Wisconsin Region (September 2, 2005). http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue12/[8/5/2014 3:07:48 PM] BBYO eNews - October 2005 Has BBYO appeared in your local press? Please let us know by emailing [email protected]. Spanning over 40 regions and 16,000 members internationally, BBYO, Inc. is a leading trans-denominational, teen-led organization working to provide meaningful Jewish experiences to Jewish teens around the world. BBYO, Inc. * 2020 K Street NW, 7th Floor * Washington, DC 20006 * bbyo.org * b-linked.org http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue12/[8/5/2014 3:07:48 PM] BBYO - eNews BBYO'S 2006 SUMMER EXPERIENCE With BBYO, Jewish teens have over 20 options for Summer '06! From Israel travel and leadership to community service and outdoor adventure, teens can customize a summer that is perfect for them. To download a brochure and learn more, visit www.bbyo.org today. PASSPORT TO ISRAEL November/December 2005 Issue 13 Welcome to the combined November/December issue of the BBYO e-News. If you have information to share or comments about the BBYO e-News, please e-mail [email protected]. BBYO, Inc. News INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION MOVES TO ATLANTA; OPENS WITH SPECIAL CONCERT FEATURING LEAD SINGER OF GUSTER; CLOSES WITH RICK RECHT After 50 years of calling Camp Perlman in Starlight, Pennsylvania home, International Convention (IC) is on the move, changing locations from year to year. The 2006 IC, being held February 16-20 (President's Day Weekend), will be an exciting weekend that no BBYOer should miss out on! This summer BBYO is offering all Jewish teenagers the opportunity to participate in four distinct three-week programs in Israel, with eight different departure dates and a variety of extension options, allowing teens to mix and match P2I options to find the perfect Israel experience! To download a brochure, visit www.bbyo.org Or, visit passport2israel.org to learn more and register. MARCH OF THE LIVING 2006 International Convention is the largest gathering of BBYO's worldwide teen leadership each year. It is where BBYO's international order elects its leadership and engages in the governance that will shape the organization's future. Bringing together hundreds of BBYO participants from both year-round and summer programs, IC provides an opportunity to reflect on both organizational and individual accomplishments. Don't miss this reunion event where you are sure to reconnect with old friends while also making new ones. Any AZA or BBG member in good standing may attend. Register today! To kick off IC in Atlanta, there will be a special concert performed by The LeeVees, featuring Adam Gardner of Guster and Dave Schneider of the Zambonis, on Thursday, February 16 at The Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta, Zaban Park Branch. This concert will be open to Atlanta's Jewish Community. For concert time and ticket information, visit www.bbyo.org/ in early January. IC will close with another concert featuring Jewish rock star, Rick Recht. BBYO alumni are also invited to attend the show, as well as IC's Opening Ceremonies being held that same evening. For more information on IC alumni activities, contact Lindy Kramer. BBYO invites you to join thousands of Jewish teenagers from around the world for a two-week life-changing experience that marks the tragedy of the Holocaust and commemorates the establishment of the State of Israel. For more information, click here. BBYO RELEASES DIGITAL CAMPAIGN TO SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT B-LINKED http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue13/[8/5/2014 3:21:33 PM] In October, BBYO launched the first online community created exclusively for Jewish teens. Within less than three months, b-linked.org has become a vibrant community where more than BBYO - eNews SUMMER STAFFING OPPORTUNITIES What are you doing this summer? If you area junior in college or beyond and are interested in making a world of difference in the lives of Jewish teens, check out BBYO's summer staff opportunities. Visit our Careers webpage or contact Jeff Hoffman at 202.857.6632. 3,300 Jewish teens are connecting with one another, talking about everything from sports and music to Israel and community service, and utilizing tools that can help them through the college search process. Now, you can promote b-linked to Jewish teens that you know simply by downloading an Are you linked? digital campaign package, complete with desktop screensavers, AIM buddy icons and web banners. Click here to download now! BBYO HOSTS FIRST NATIONAL COLLEGE TOUR IN DC KEEP THE SPARK ALIVE As we celebrate Chanukah and reflect on the Festival of Lights, we welcome you to keep the spark that ignited your BBYO flame alive by making a contribution to BBYO. With your support we can continue to provide meaningful Jewish experiences to teens around the world all year round. If you choose to make a donation at this time, please remember to check with your employer to see if they have a matching gifts program and help BBYO leverage more funds to strengthen our programs. GET YOUR CHANUKAH T-SHIRT AT BBYOSTORE.COM Visit BBYO's new eStore today to get your $10 Chanukah tshirt! BBYO's eStore also features polos, hats, ipod covers, fleeces and more. Visit www.bbyostore.com today! SUBSCRIBE TO ISRAEL HIGHWAY This November, Jewish teens from across the country traveled to Washington, DC to participate in BBYO's first National College Tour. Over the course of four days, participants visited six diverse DCarea Universities: The George Washington University, Georgetown University, American University, Goucher College, The Johns Hopkins University and University of Maryland. BBYO's College Tour is designed to aide Jewish teens in the college admissions process, helping them to narrow down potential schools to apply to and visit with their families. READ MORE... BBYO LEADERS LEARN ISRAEL ADVOCACY AT AIPAC TEEN SUMMIT Earlier this month, the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation sponsored the AIPAC Schusterman Advocacy Institute High School Summit, a conference coordinated by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). A joint effort between AIPAC, BBYO, PANIM, and the Curriculum Initiative, the Summit brought more than 200 Jewish high school leaders from dozens of high schools, youth movements and community programs together to engage in political dialogue, learn advocacy techniques and develop strategies for promoting a strong US-Israel relationship in high schools across America. Katie Glueck, a BBG member from Kansas City, MO, was one of more than 60 BBYO members in attendance at the AIPAC summit. She found the program to be an invaluable learning experience. "The AIPAC High School Summit has provided me with essential tools and has allowed me to chart a course of action with regard to my pro-Israel future." For more information about BBYO's partnership with AIPAC and upcoming opportunities click here. BBYO ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH GIFT OF LIFE BONE MARROW REGISTRY Attention Teens: Are you aware that there is a publication devoted solely to Israel and created just for high school students? Visit http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue13/[8/5/2014 3:21:33 PM] Turning 18 has its benefits, and now the mitzvah of joining the Gift of Life Bone Marrow Registry for FREE is one of them! Thanks to a new partnership with Gift of Life, the only donor registry in North America dedicated to recruitment in Jewish communities, BBYO members will receive an invitation to request a free testing kit which will allow them to be tested to join Gift of Life's registry as a BBYO - eNews www.israelhighway.org/ to get weekly updates on news about Israel, the peace process, Israel trips, sports and entertainment, opinion pieces and more. volunteer donor. The Registry, which is linked to the international donor pool, provides life-saving matches for individuals in need of blood stem cell and bone marrow transplants to survive life-threatening illnesses. READ MORE... BBYO RELEASES 2005 YEAR IN REVIEW Alumni News WHERE YOUNG LIVES TAKE SHAPE: NANCY KAUFMAN In 2005, BBYO reached more Jewish teens with more meaningful Jewish experiences than at any time in the past decade, strengthened its infrastructure and spent the year making plans for future growth. To learn more about BBYO's fiscal year 2005 accomplishments, visit www.bbyo.org/ to download a copy of BBYO's Year in Review. B'NAI B'RITH INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIPS The B'nai B'rith Center for Human Rights & Public Policy, the public affairs, research and advocacy arm of B'nai B'rith International, has internship opportunities available. For more information, contact Susan Silverman To submit news, events or comments for the new BBYO e-Newsletter, e-mail [email protected]. Forward the BBYO e-News to friends or colleagues who might be interested. Where Young Lives Take Shape is a feature of the BBYO e-News focusing on the accomplishments of BBYO alumni. This month, meet Nancy Kaufman, Executive of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston. READ MORE... BBYO ALUM PUBLISHES BOOK TO ANSWER QUESTION: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE? What distinguishes a geek from a nerd, a democracy from a republic, and partly sunny from partly cloudy? For the first time, the answers to all such nagging mysteries are in one place. Marc Tyler Nobelman, a CVR BBYO alumni '90, has recently published his first adult book, What's the Difference?, available exclusively at barnesandnoble.com and Barnes & Noble stores. As a writer and cartoonist, Marc has authored more than fifty books and drawn forty times as many cartoons. His titles include How to Do a Belly Flop, 365 Adventures and Vocabulary Cartoon of the Day. He also writes regularly for Nickelodeon Magazine. His cartoons have appeared in publications including The Wall Street Journal, Barron's and Forbes. BROOKLYN BBYO ALUMNI REUNION PLANNED FOR JULY '06 Brooklyn alumni, Fran and Hank Fleischman, started with a list of 40 fellow Brooklyn BBYO alumni, which quickly grew to over 300. More than 65 alumni have already confirmed they will be attending. Are you a Brooklyn alum? Have you RSVP'd? The July 4th Reunion for Brooklyn BBYO Alumni will be hosted by the Fleischmans on Sunday, July 2nd, 2006 at 1-11 pm at their home in Merrick, New York. For more information about the event, please visit www.reunion06.com/. To find your old BBYO friends, please visit www.bbyoalumni.org/. Regional News BBYO RETURNS TO WESTCHESTER, NEW YORK For the past two years, BBYO has been working to identify key communitites throughout North America where exponentially more teens can be involved in meaningful Jewish experiences. One of the communities where BBYO saw significant room for growth was Westchester, New York. While Westchester boasted a strong BBYO community in the early 90's, and recently has had active members as part of the Greater Jersey Hudson River Region, it has not had a major presence in the region for several years. With the generous support from International Board member and Westchester resident, Andrew Suzman, BBYO was able to establish a Westchester BBYO Region and named Jessica Rothstein the new BBYO Program Director for the area. http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue13/[8/5/2014 3:21:33 PM] BBYO - eNews READ MORE... GOLD COAST TEENS SEE COLLEGE THROUGH JEWISH EYES Over the weekend of October 21-23, nearly 50 Jewish high school juniors and seniors from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties embarked on the 2nd Annual Gold Coast Region BBYO Junior/Senior College Tour. Over the course of the weekend, the teens had the chance to tour three major state universities in Florida, interact with Jewish college students and have an incredibly fun experience. READ MORE... NORTH STAR BBYO MAKES A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR COMMUNITY On Sunday, October 23, the BBYO members of North Star Region participated in Make A Difference Day, the biggest day of volunteering in the United States, sponsored by USA Today. BBYO members, with the help of community sponsors, planned a full day of activities for the entire community, including parents, other teens and young children. READ MORE... HELP HOSPITALIZED CHILDREN AFFECTED BY HURRICANE KATRINA Would you love an opportunity for your BBYO region/chapter to come together as a community and participate in an amazing hands-on community service project? Soaringwords, a non-profit organization devoted to helping millions of ill childen and their families heal, is inviting BBYO to participate in an exciting national initiative by helping to decorate quilts and pillows (on or around Martin Luther King Jr. Day), which will be donated by Soaringwords to 1,500 children hospitalized in Houston and New Orleans on Valentine's Day. Soaringwords makes the event turn-key by providing flyers, instructions for running the program, a Soaringwords DVD and a CD to play while BBYOers decorate the quilts. Please note, there is a fundraising component to this event to cover the cost of materials. Regions/Chapters wishing to participate should contact Erica Steen. BBYO In the News The launch of BBYO's new college site, b-accepted.org was announced in several Brooklyn, New York publications, including the Carroll Gardens/Cobble Hill Courier, Canarsie Digest, Park Slope Courier, Bay News, Brooklyn Heights Courier, Kings Courier, Brooklyn Graphic, Flatbush Life, and Bay Ridge Courier (October 2005). The Jewish Voice of Wilmington, DE featured an article written by CRE BBYO member, Oren Schragger, about his experience as a member of the USA soccer delegation to the 17th Maccabiah in Israel in July, 2005. The USA team finished fifth out of 14 teams in the youth competition (September 23, 2005). The Southfield Eccentric announced that Stacey Wolf, alumnae of Michigan Region BBYO, was recently appointed assistant director of Michigan Region. Stacy will be responsible for Detroit Teen Connection, community service programming and chapters in Oak Park, Hungtington Woods and Ann Arbor (September 25, 2005). The Fort Lauderdale Jewish Journal featured an article about BBYO's new Jewish teen networking site b-linked.org. BBYO member Dave Klipper of Davie, FL was quoted in the article, "By creating an online community of Jewish kids my age, we can more easily find one another, network and eventually get together to do those things we like doing" (November 3, 2005). The Jewish Review of Portland, OR and the Jewish Independent of Vancouver, BC featured articles about Evergreen Region's annual Jewish Education Converence (JEC). At this year's JEC, Evergreen Region members attempted to join the Guinness Book of World Records by braiding a 78-foot Challah (November 1, 2005 and November 4, 2005). The Jewish Herald-Voice of Houston, Texas announced that Lonestar Region http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue13/[8/5/2014 3:21:33 PM] BBYO - eNews BBYO recruited approximatey 200 new members this fall (October 20, 2005). The Hebrew Watchman of Memphis, TN announced that Memphis BBYO members raised close to $2,000 dollars for Katrina/Rita hurricane relief with their "Fill the Bucket" fundraiser, part of the national Y.A.D. (Youth Aiding the Distressed) weekend initiated by members of the Cotton States Region (November 10, 2005). The Oakland Press of Oakload County, MI featured an article about Michigan Region's Mind Body Attitude program that had over 65 women in attendance. The program included three informational sessions about yoga, body image and nutrition (November 21, 2005). The New Mexico Jewish Link announced that BBYO will be re-starting in Albuquerque (October, 2005). The Texas Jewish Post featured an article about North Texas Oklahoma's first annual "Teen Expo." Over 300 Jewish teenagers from the Dallas area attended the event sponsored by NTO BBYO which featured a fashion show and "Jam Session," as well as an inspirational speech from Becky Miller, Mayor of the City of Carrollton (October 27, 2005). Has BBYO appeared in your local press? Please let us know by emailing [email protected]. BBYO HOSTS FIRST NATIONAL COLLEGE TOUR IN DC (Continued) Guided by the expertise of a personal college counselor who traveled with the BBYO Tour, participants were able to gather information about the schools through a variety of sources including information sessions, guided tours and student panels. At each of the colleges, participants were also able to interact with BBYO alumni on campus who offered them insight into the transition from high school to college life. Despite a rigorous tour schedule, participants were able to kick back and enjoy the social benefits that college life has to offer including dinner and shopping on M Street in Georgetown, ice skating and a late night BBQ with Maryland Hillel. The highlight of the weekend was participating in University of Maryland's "Shabbat 1140" where over 1,300 Jewish students joined together for Friday night services and Shabbat dinner. A participant from River Vale, NJ found it "amazing to see 1300 students giving each other hugs and saying hello. We could really see the strength of the Jewish community on campus." College Tour participants can stay ahead of the curve through the college admissions process by using BBYO's new college preparation website, b-accepted.org, which includes the only college search engine featuring both Jewish and secular data, an application organizer and articles that offer advice about everything from choosing schools to how to write college essays. And, through a partnership with The Princeton Review (TPR), BBYO is offering all members 10% off TPR's renowned test preparation courses. Visit b-accepted today to learn more. BBYO has begun planning a National College Tour for Spring 2006. If you are interested in getting a head-start on your college search, e-mail Tali Golan for more information or check the b-accepted.org site for updates. To read about a local college tour that recently took place in Gold Coast Region please see Regional News. Back to Article BBYO ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH GIFT OF LIFE BONE MARROW REGISTRY (Continued) When Jay Feinberg, Founder and Executive Director of Gift of Life was diagnosed with leukemia a year after he graduated from college, his doctor told him that he needed to find a donor for a bone marrow transplant in order to survive. Since tissue type is inherited, like eye color and hair color, Jay's best bet of finding a match was from someone of the same ethnic background, an Ashkenazi Jew. Jay's friends and family tested thousands of individuals in his quest for a donor. At the last drive they organized, the last individual they tested turned out to be his miracle match. Jay realized the need to inform the Jewish Community about bone marrow donation in order to increase the number of Jewish donors in the worldwide registries. The Gift of Life Bone Marrow Registry has nearly 100,000 potential donors and is part of an international network available to patients in 40 countries. Jamie Konigsberg, a former International N'siah of the B'nai B'rith Girls ('01-'02) became involved with Gift of Life as a student at The George Washington University where she ran two successful donor recruitment drives, adding over 500 potential donors to the Gift of Life Registry. Jamie's first drive has already yielded five life http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue13/[8/5/2014 3:21:33 PM] BBYO - eNews saving matches and one transplant has already been facilitated. "I was thrilled to learn about BBYO's new partnership with the Gift of Life. This is a simple, yet powerful way for BBYO members to make an impact." Lynn Schusterman, President of the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation and Chair of BBYO said, "I am thrilled to see BBYO and Gift of Life partner in a campaign that will save lives and teach an emerging generation of young Jewish leaders not only of our obligation to repair the world but also of our power to give the gift of life." Joining the registry is easy, and involves only a swab of cells from inside the cheek to determine tissue type. For more information about BBYO's partnership with Gift of Life and to request a kit please visit www.bbyocares.org/. Back to Article WHERE YOUNG LIVES TAKE SHAPE: NANCY KAUFMAN (Continued) As member of Unity BBG in Brookline, MA, Nancy Kaufman established a strong connection to her Jewish identity, a love for Israel and a passion for social justice, as well as cultivated the leadership skills necessary to serve as the Executive Director of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston. In high school, Kaufman describes her experiences in BBYO as a monumental learning experience: "My Jewish identity was formed during those four years in a very substantial way. BBYO was the first place that I learned about the Holocaust; it exposed me to my Jewish heritage." For Kaufman, BBYO comprised all of her extracurricular activities in high school. She gained leadership experience as the Vice President of her chapter and region and served as Regional Jewish Heritage Chairwoman. Kaufman did not have a lot of resources as a teen, and when she became interested in BBYO's Israel Summer Institute she didn't have enough money to pay for the trip. The three week adventure cost $1,000, so Nancy turned to BBYO for help. She received a $500 scholarship, but this was only half of the battle. In her first fundraising experience, Nancy called her Uncle to ask him to match her BBYO scholarship. He agreed on the condition that she would give back to her community and speak about her experiences when she returned from her trip. "If it wasn't for the $500 scholarship from BBYO, I never would have been able to go to Israel, a teen trip to Israel is one of the most important things that can happen in a young person's life." Nancy returned from Israel and spoke about her experiences and has never stopped giving back to her community. Since her first trip to Israel with BBYO in 1967, just three weeks after the 6 Days War, Nancy has been back to Israel 19 times. She credits BBYO for her love of Israel. "The seed was planted, and it has been flourishing ever since." After high school, Nancy put the skills she learned in BBYO to work as a social activist. In college she became part of the anti-war movement. After college she attended social work school and became involved in community organizing, throwing herself into anti-poverty and homelessness work. In May of 1990, Nancy was attending a Yom HaShoah service at the State House as Massachusetts's Director of Health and Human Services under Governor Dukakis when she learned that the Executive Director position for the Jewish Community Relations Council would soon be vacant. She decided to apply for the Job. The position was perfect for Kaufman as it required her to combine both her love and commitment to social activism and her Jewish heritage. "[The JCRC] links the Jewish community to its urban roots and its roots in the former Soviet Union. Most of the work we do is mobilizing the Jewish community to pursue justice. We put learning grounded in Jewish texts into action, and train the community to be activists." One of Nancy's current projects is Telem, a Jewish service program aimed at involving Jewish teenagers in meaningful social action projects. Nancy encourages all BBYO members interested in pursuing a career in the Jewish community or as an advocate of social justice "to learn everything you can about what's Jewish about social justice, about what is 'just's about Judaism, and put the two together for they are inextricably linked. You need to be advocates for serious Jewish learning and social justice. When you put them together it is a winning combination. BBYO provides the opportunity and foundation for this." Back to Article BBYO RETURNS TO WESTCHESTER, NEW YORK (Continued) Rothstein is a former member of BBYO from Evergreen Region and has worked with a http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue13/[8/5/2014 3:21:33 PM] BBYO - eNews variety of organizations that have prepared her for her position as the Westchester Director. After graduating from Savannah College of Art and Design with a B.A. in Graphic Design, Jessica relocated to Savannah, Georgia where she served as the director of Camp and Youth Services of Savannah's Jewish Educational Alliance. While in Savannah, Jessica maintained her connection to BBYO as the advisor of Wexler Clark BBG in Dixie Council. As the new Program Director of Westchester BBYO, Jessica spent her summer becoming familiar with the Jewish Community in the Westchester area, reconnecting with Westchester BBYO alumni and meeting with teens and parents interested in what BBYO has to offer. As the Regional Director of BBYO, Jessica hopes to "open their eyes to the larger Jewish community in this area, exposing Jewish teens to cultural experiences within Judaism that will give them the opportunity to connect with their Jewish identity." Jessica is currently working with Westchester teens to plan a holiday toy drive for families affected by Hurricane Katrina. Many community organizations have expressed interest in partnering with BBYO on this project including several local synagogues. If you would like more information about BBYO in Westchester please contact Jessica Rothstein. Back to Article GOLD COAST TEENS SEE COLLEGE THROUGH JEWISH EYES (Continued) Dave Press, the Assistant Director of Gold Coast Region, designed the trip in 2004 as a means of retaining older members of BBYO, engaging unaffiliated Jewish teens and exposing South Florida's Jewish teens to the next step in the real world college - through their peers's eyes. The trip combines touring universities and getting a taste of college life with hands-on interaction with Jewish students and organizations at each of the campuses. Highlights from the tour included a traditional Israeli lunch at the FSU Hillel building, campus tours led by members of Jewish fraternity, Alpha Epsilon Pi and BBYO alumni and a student-led Havdallah service in a Hillel Sukkah. Chelsea Kesner, a junior in Chaverot L'Yad BBG in Coral Springs expressed how valuable she felt the trip was. "I don't have any older siblings, so when we first arrived at each campus, I felt overwhelmed. But after meeting Jewish students and getting a feel for what each school offered, I feel much more comfortable about what lies ahead of me. Now that I've seen that the next step [after BBYO] is Hillel, I'd like to stay active in Jewish life when I get to college." For more information about the GCR College Tour please contact Dave Press. Back to Article NORTH STAR BBYO MAKES A DIFFERENCE IN THEIR COMMUNITY (Continued) The goal of Make a Difference Day is to give people hands-on community service opportunities and to show them what they can do every day to help make a difference in their community. Four organizations were showcased in this year's Make a Difference Day: Soaringwords, Cheerful Givers, Camp Ripley and To Save a Life. BBYO members adopted Cheerful Givers as an ongoing project after participating at the Cheerful Givers "Big Birthday Bash" at the Mall of America last March. Cheerful Givers is a non-profit organization that donates birthday bags to families who would otherwise not be able to afford birthday presents. On Make a Difference Day, BBYOers held a "Birthday Bash" where they decorated and filled over 75 birthday bags. These bags were then donated to local food shelves where they will be picked up by families in need of some extra help to celebrate birthdays. For more information about North Star's Make a Difference Day, please contact Cara Porter. Back to Article Spanning over 40 regions and 18,000 participants internationally, BBYO, Inc. is a leading trans-denominational, teen-led organization working to provide meaningful Jewish experiences to Jewish teens around the world. BBYO, Inc. * 2020 K Street NW, 7th Floor * Washington, DC 20006 * bbyo.org * b-linked.org http://bbyo.org/news/newsletters/2005/issue13/[8/5/2014 3:21:33 PM]