Summer 5765

Gush Katif Families: In the aftermath of the eviction of the Gush Katif settlers, the Yeshiva hosted close to twenty families from Gan-Or settlement for about two weeks. Most have moved on already to new locations, while five families will stay through Succot, until they are able to relocate.

Belechtecha Baderech 5765: The Yeshiva's annual Torah journal, Belechtecha Baderech, was published during kayitz zman. It is available at the website in both Word (.doc) and Acrobat (.pdf) formats, or can be ordered through the Israel Yeshiva office.
The website has also begun featuring each week an article from the Yeshiva's Jubilee sefer, "Mi'Peirot Hakerem," containing close to one hundred essays by rabbinic alumni of the Yeshiva. (Check the "New This Month" box on the Torat Yavneh page.)

Mazal Tov to Rav and Mrs. Moshe Amsalem upon the birth of their son Elchanan.
Mazal Tov to Rav and Mrs. Meir Orlian upon the bar-mitzvah of their son David.
Mazal Tov to Mr. and Mrs. Urie Lieberman upon the bar-mitzvah of their son Elisha.
Mazal Tov to Rav and Mrs. Kalman Ber upon the marriage of their daughter Chani to Avraham Felheimer.
Mazal Tov to Rav and Mrs. Ahron Silver upon the marriage of their son Eliezer to Dina Shulman.

Week of 10-16 Tammuz / July 17-23
Parshat Pinchas

• Groups of talmidim have gone to learn at Yeshivat Torat Chaim in Neve Dekalim.
• Almost the entire Yeshiva went to participate in the massive rally in Netivot, and many stayed for the march at Kfar Maimon, where another contingent from the Yeshiva joined them later.
• During the three days of the march, 24-hour-a-day learning was maintained in the Beit Midrash.
• Additional Tehillim were said. (You can join our online Tehillim program, click here.)
• A substantial sum was raised on behalf of Gush Katif farmers, as part of the "Sowing in Faith" campaign.
• A mishmar was held Thurs. night.
• Talmidim and Yeshiva youth have been distributing orange solidarity ribbons at the nearby intersection of Givat Washington.

Mazal Tov to Mr. and Mrs. Urie Lieberman upon the marriage of their son Aryeh to Yael Neuman.
Mazal Tov to Dudi Bitan upon his marriage to Shimrit Danin.
Mazal Tov to Elazar Hopfstater upon his marriage to Bracha Korn.

Week of 16-22 Adar II / March 27 - April 2
Parshat Shemini (Parah)

Alumni Reunion of Yom Kippur Era: On Motzei Shabbat there was a moving reunion at the Yeshiva of alumni from the Yom Kippur War era. The guest speakers were Rav Mordechai Sabato of Ma'ale Adumim and Dr. Chagai Ben-Arzi, KBY alumnus, both close friends of Dov Indig hy"d, who was killed during the Yom Kippur War. The reunion, together with the Indig family, celebrated the publication of Michtavim L'Talya, a year-and-a-half correspondence between Dov and a non-religious high school girl on issues of Judaism. The event emphasized our responsibility to reach out to the non-religious and their thirst for spiritual knowledge, as evidenced through the progression of the letters. The event was filmed in preparation for a future program on the alumi from that special era.

Mazal Tov to Dayan and Rabbanit Binyamin Be'eri upon the birth of a grandson.

Week of 9-15 Adar II / March 20-26
Parshat Tzav (Purim)

On Purim morning, Rav Friedman took a large group to Kaplan Hospital, and Rav Meir Orlian returned with a group to Harzfeld, as part of the Ohev Shalom V'Rodef Shalom Program. In a major initiative, joint Mishloach Manot were arranged for the Kerem B'Yavneh families through the G'mach Yad Yissachar & Yitzchak. This project raised 12,000 NIS for the organization, which distributes food packages to some 600 families weekly. The Israeli talmidim returned to their families for the seuda, while the overseas talmidim ate together in the Dining Hall. On Sun., when the sedua was held in Yerushalayim, the overseas talmidim joined in the Purim Seudah with Rav Blachman. Many photos from this Purim are available at the website's photogallery.

Mazal Tov to Avi Levy and Dikla Cohen-Zemach upon their marriage.

Week of 2-8 Adar II / March 13-19
Parshat Vayikra (Zachor)

Parshat Zachor: The Beit Midrash was decorated in preparation for Purim. Parshat Zachor was read in the traditional nusach Sefard, Ashkenaz, Yemenite and Tunisian/Yerushalmi cantillation.

Alumni Melave Malka: A melave malka was held in Yerushalayim commemorating the tenth yahrzeit of Maran Rosh Hayeshiva Harav Chaim Yaakov Goldvicht zt"l. Speakers included Rosh Hayeshiva Rav Mordechai Greenberg, Rav Sinai Adler (first KBY Ram), and Rav Yeshaya Hadari (former KBY Mashgiach). In addition, Rabbis Daniel Shilo of Kedumim, Eliezer Lev Yona of Bet-El, Yitzchak Shilat of Maale Adumim, and Ari Katz of Gush Katif, spoke of their fond memories of the late Rosh Hayeshiva zt"l. A multimedia presentation of the Rosh Hayeshiva zt"l was screened.

Mazal Tov to Rav Gavriel and Hila Saraf of the Kollel Dayanut upon the birth of their daughter, Avigail.

Week of 25 Adar I - 1 Adar II/ March 6-12
Parshat Pekudei

Seminar for Enlisting Israeli Talmidim: The shana bet Israeli talmidim, who will soon begin their active service in the IDF, spent three days, including Shabbat, in the Golan, in a specially designed seminar intended to prepare them spiritually towards enlistment in the army. The Torani seminar dealt with many halachic and emunah aspects of their army service in the coming months, such as Shabbat and Kashrut in the army. They were accompanied by the Mashgiach Rav Avraham Rivlin shlita and their Ramim, Rav Aryeh Stern and Rav Zvi Birnbaum. They were based in the settlement of Keshet, and visited sites and military bases throughout the Golan. They also heard from various military people and settlement leaders, including alumnus Rav Erez Madmon, who is serving as a "Rav Chativa" (Battalion Chaplain) near the Lebanese border. The Shabbaton was carried by high spirits and fine behavior of the talmidim, and helped greatly to strengthen and motivate the group before going beyond the walls of the Yeshiva.

Mazal Tov to Yaniv Busi upon his marriage to Hila Trabelsi.
Mazal Tov to Rav and Rabbanit Zion Luz shlita upon the bar-mitzvah of their son, Harel. Harel read the Torah in Moroccan trup, following the footsteps of his brother Aviad three years ago.

Week of 18-24 Adar I / Feb. 27 - March 5
Parshat Vayakhel

On Motzei Shabbat, a gala siyum was held nearby honoring the Daf Yomi and other Torah learning groups of the Gedera and Ashdod region, many of which are led by KBY Ramim and avreichim. The event was graced with the presence of Hagaon Rav Mordechai Eliyahu shlita, who spoke of the importance of Torah and of learning halacha daily. A great Yishar Koach to the Gedera religious council and Rav Benzion Algazi for organizing this inspiring siyum, and to owner of Chatzar Hamalka Hall, who mainly sponsored the event. (Photos of the event are available at the website's photogallery.) This event was a public expression of appreciation to Kerem B'Yavneh for all that the Yeshiva has done for the neighboring communities. With the new cycle, an English language Daf Yomi shiur is being given in Yeshiva by Rav Zevi Roness in the morning, in addition to the established Hebrew shiur in the evening.

Beit Meir Shabbaton: On Erev Shabbat, the overseas talmidim set out for a "Tanach ba'shetach" shiur about David and Goliath with Rav Rivlin at Tel Azeika (near Beit Shemesh). This was followed by a visit to the Sorek stalagmite caves. They spent Shabbat at Ramot Shapira in Beit Meir, accompanied by Rav Shlomo Friedman and Rav Zevi Roness. The tish was led by Rav Yochanan Fried, Rav of Moshav Beit Meir, and R. Yitzy Goldberg, member of Ohr Yerushalayim Kollel, both of whom are KBY alumni. On Shabbat they heard a shiur from Rav Shlomo Friedman on the topic of Purim Meshulash, and visited the "Masrek" nature reserve. Details of the program are available at the website's bulletin board.

Mazal Tov to Rav Sharon and Meirav Yust upon the birth of a daughter.
Mazal Tov to Rav and Rabbanit Blachman upon the marriage of their daughter, Avigail, to Meir Steinholz.
Mazal Tov to Rosh Hayeshiva and Rabbanit Greenberg upon the birth of a granddaughter.
Mazal Tov to Hamashgiach Rav and Rabbanit Rivlin upon the birth of a granddaughter.

Week of 11-17 Adar I / Feb. 20-26
Parshat Ki-Tisa

Shabbat Gibush: About fifty of next year's incoming Israeli students gathered together for a "Shabbat Gibush" at the Yeshiva. This was already the second group of incoming talmidim to spend Shabbat at Yeshiva this year. On Leil Shabbat they had a panel discussion with the Rosh Hayeshiva and Ramim about learning at KBY, and on Shabbat morning they had kiddush at the houses of the avreichim. During the course of Shabbat they heard shiurim and sichot from the Rosh Hayeshiva, Hamashgiach, and the first year Israeli Ramim. The dedicated group reflects the continued success of the Yeshiva.

Mazal Tov to Rosh Hayeshiva and Rabbanit Mordechai Greenberg shlita upon the birth of a grandson.

Week of 4-10 Adar I / Feb. 13-19
Parshat Tetzaveh

10th Yahrzeit of Maran RHY zt"l: The tenth yahrzeit of Maran Rosh Hayeshiva Harav Chaim Yaakov Goldvicht zt"l was commemorated with a day full of Torah. In addition to shiurim by the Rosh Hayeshiva , Rav Dovid Chai Kohen, and Rav Moshe Meyernik shlita, which are available in audio online, representative alumni from the decades shared their memories of Maran Rosh Hayeshiva zt"l. On the morning of the yahrzeit, tehillim were recited at the kever. We wish a refuah sheleimah to Rabbanit Miriam Goldvicht, who was unable to attend this year.

Rav Schachter shlita: The Yeshiva was privileged to hear shiurim from Rav Hershel Schachter shlita. He spoke to the overseas talmidim and the Kollel, and delivered a shiur klali in the Beit Midrash, and returned again on Fri. to speak to the adult education Kollel Yom Shishi.

5th Annual Shabbaton and Melave Malka: Over 150 alumni participated in this year's Shabbaton and Melave Malka, held at Congregation B'nai Yeshurun in Teaneck. The event commemorated the tenth yarzheit of Maran Rosh Yeshiva Harav Chaim Yaakov Goldvicht zt"l, and many Divrei Torah were delivered in his memory. Rav Moshe Stav and Rav Shlomo Friedman flew in from Israel for the Shabbaton, and also delivered shiurim to the community. The strong alumni participation and inspiring Divrei Torah generated a beautiful atmosphere that permeated the entire Shabbat. Dr. Yitzchak Belizon greeted the alumni and gave a short Dvar Torah on Friday night. Teaneck/ Bergenfield congregational leaders, Rabbi Zvi Sobolofsky and R. Kenneth Schiowitz, both KBY alumni, spoke at the Fri. night tish. KBY alumnus Yechiel Rothblat represented the young alumni families and spoke during lunch of the importance of showing hakarat hatov to the Yeshiva.

KBY alumni Rabbi Menachem Feinsond ('61,'62) and Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald ('67,'68) spoke at the Melave Malka, bringing back many special memories of their times at KBY and of the Rosh Yeshiva zt"l. Earlier in the evening, Rabbi Boruch Simon delivered the Sol Scheiner Memorial Shiur, which was nicely attended. Director Eli Klein spoke fondly of the 30 years he worked together with Rav Goldvicht zt"l, and noted that anyone who worked with, or who was close to, the Rosh Yeshiva zt"l clearly felt the malchut emanating from him.

Chaburot were held on Shabbat for high school students considering KBY for the coming years. (We thank alumni Rabbi Ari Zahtz, David Zahtz, Adir Posy, Mickey Ellman and Rafi Stohl for their efforts.) A special Q&A program for the high school students and their parents was held prior to the Melave Malka, with the participation of Director Eli Klein, Rav Stav and Rav Friedman, allowing an open discussion about the students' plans to study at KBY.

Concluding the event, Rabbi Aryeh Lebowitz ('95, '96) , Rabbi of DRS and of the Kehilla of N. Woodmere, brought about a good deal of laughter reminiscing about his first days at KBY. He spoke very highly of the overseas Rebbeim at KBY and mentioned how important it is to keep an ongoing kesher with them, even many years after leaving the Yeshiva.

The Yeshiva thanks all for attending. A big Yishar Koach to Rabbi Marc S. Volk, Executive Director of American Friends of KBY, Mr. Urie Lieberman, Director of Public Relations, the entire New York office staff, the Housing Committee, and all others involved in organizing this wonderful event. (The program of community shiurim during the Shabbaton can be viewed at the website's bulletin board.)

"One Nation in the Land": An essential essay on the topic of Jewish Unity by the Rosh Hayeshiva shlita was translated into English by Rav Meir Orlian as part of the Ohev Shalom V'Rodef Shalom program. The publication, which may be viewed online, was distributed at the Melave Malka, which was attended by Rabbi and Dr. Chelst, who sponsor the program. Copies of the pamphlet may be ordered from the New York office free of charge, while supplies last.

Mazal Tov to Rav and Rabbanit Zion Luz upon the birth of their son, Yosef Chaim, named in part for Maran Rosh Hayeshiva zt"l.

Mazal Tov to Rosh Hayeshiva Rav Mordechai Greenberg shlita upon his completion of Shas, in conjunction with the Daf Yomi. He made a special Melave Malka for the Yeshiva's educational staff at his house in honor of the occasion.

Week of 27 Shevat - 3 Adar I / Feb. 6-12
Parshat Terumah

Talmidim of Rav Shaul Feldman spent Shabbat with him in Ramat Beit Shemesh, together with the Rosh Hayeshiva shlita.

A Melaveh Malka was held in commemoration of the 10th yahrzeit of Maran Rosh Hayeshiva zt"l. Rav Kalman Ber shlita related stories and showed a video about the Rosh Hayeshiva zt"l.

Week of 20-26 Shevat / Jan. 30 - Feb. 5
Parshat Mishpatim

Gush Katif Rally: Many talmidim and residents of the Yeshiva joined 150,000 other Jews in a massive rally outside the Knesset on behalf of Gush Katif and the Shomron settlements. May Hashem thwart the plans of our enemies, and guide the government of Israel properly.

London 50th Anniversary Dinner: The Rosh Hayeshiva, Rav Silver and Rav Birnbaum shlita were in London for Shabbat, in conjunction with the 50th Anniversary Dinner held there. They spoke at numerous shuls to packed audiences, including a shiur by the Rosh Hayeshiva to alumni at Ner Israel . Details of the program are available on the website's Bulletin Board.

The Dinner was held the following Sun. evening at the Mellenium Hotel Mayfair, and drew close to 300 people. The Guest of Honor was Director Eli Klein, for 40 years of dedicated sevice. Honorees were: Rabbi David Meyer, Rabbi David Radomsky, Conrad & Ruth Morris, and Leo & Susan Noe. The Sol & Mushi Steinbock Award was presented to Michael & Rachel Steinbock and Benji & Stephanied Steinbock. The guest speaker was Mr. Yehuda Avner, former Israeli ambassador to England. A wonderful alumni British Friends committee, chaired by Richard Levy did an extraordinary job in organizing this most successful event.

Mazal Tov to Avi and Naomi Chermon upon the birth of their son, Emanuel Ephraim. The couple left the Kollel two and a half years ago to settle in Har Bracha, just south of Shechem.

Week of 13-19 Shevat / Jan. 23-29
Parshat Yitro

Refuah Sheleima to the daughter of R. Shai and Vered Walter, Na'ama Tzipora bat Vered, who was hospitalized with a serious bacterial infection. She has been recuperating since then, and recently returned home after three weeks in the hospital.

Week of 6-12 Shevat / Jan. 16-22
Parshat Beshalach

Rabbi Parnes shlita of Lander's College gave a shiur to the overseas talmidim.

Overseas Shabbaton in Yerushalayim: The overseas talmidim spent Shabbat in Yerushalayim, accompanied by Rav Moshe Stav shlita and Rabbi Zevi Roness, who organized the exciting Shabbaton. They left Fri. morning for the completion of the Aish Hatorah Discovery Program (which they began on Chanukah) Afterwards they settled in at Beit-Gesher, a youth center near the Old City, where they spent Shabbat.

They davened Kabbalat Shabbat at the Kotel, heard a sicha from Rav Nebenzahl shlita, and visited various tishes in Mea Shearim. A planned tour of Yemin Moshe on Shabbat day was rained out. On Motzei Shabbat they had a Melaveh Malka with Rabbi Lavi Greenspan, a KBY alumnus, and then visited the Gush Katif sit-in at the Knesset, where they were addressed by Rav Ahron Silver shlita and a Gush Katif representative. The complete program is available on the website's bulletin board.

Meanwhile, in the Yeshiva, next-year's Israeli applicants came together for a Shabbat Gibush. They had a joint tish with the Rosh Hayeshiva and Ramim, and heard from each of the three first-year Israeli Ramim at the Seudot.

Alumni Reunion of Song: Appropriately, on Motzei Shabbat "Shira," alumni from the early years of KBY gathered together for a nostalgic Melaveh Malka. They sang nigunim from KBY in years past, led by Rabbi Dr. Posen and Rav Yisrael Ariel, accompanied by a musician and keyboard. They were joined by the Ramim, avreichim and current talmidim, who were drawn in by the enthusiasm. This memorable evening was professionally recorded and filmed on video, towards producing a CD that will be sent out to the pioneering alumni in Israel and overseas.

Week of 29 Tevet - 5 Shevat / Jan. 9-15
Parshat Bo

YU Roshei Yeshiva: Rabbi Yitzchak Cohen shlita gave an inspiring "mussar schmooz" about the value of Talmud Torah to the overseas talmidim. Rabbi Zvi Sobolofsky shlita, a KBY alumnus, spent Shabbat at Yeshiva and spoke a number of times.

Three Kollel families sponsored a Seuda Shlishit for the Yeshiva community in honor of the birth of their daughters: Tzipora Orlian, Chana Rina Roness, and Tiferet Shoham. Mazal Tov to the families.

Aloh Naaleh Melaveh Malka: On motzei Shabbat, KBY talmidim attended the third Annual Aloh Naaleh Melaveh Malka at the Renaissance Hotel, which drew close to 500 talmidim from 20 Yeshivot. The guest speaker was Rabbi Sholom Gold, who indicated that when the Neviim speak about Kibbutz Galuyot they are speaking to each and every Jew - to put Aliya on his agenda! Music was provided by Chaim Dovid and his band.

Week of 21-28 Tevet / Jan. 2-8
Parshat Va'era

Eshkolot: The Yeshiva's weekly parsha sheet, Invei Hakerem, is being continued in a new format, under the name "Eshkolot."

Rav Kook shlita: The overseas talmidim had a Melaveh Malka at the house of Rav Simcha Hakohen Kook shlita, Chief Rabbi of Rechovot. He spoke about the importance of tefilla on behalf of Israel, Yerushalayim and Gush Katif, and portrayed some of the history of the Ashkenazic and Sephardic communities in Old Yerushalayim.

Mazal Tov to Director of Public Relations, Mr. and Mrs. Urie Lieberman, upon the birth of their first grandson, Shachar Neriya.

Week of 14-20 Tevet / Dec. 26 - Jan. 1
Parshat Shemot

On Leil Shabbat they davened at the Breslov shul, and, after the meal, had a tish with the Rav Elazar Kenig, head of the Breslov community. On Shabbat day they davened at the Yeshivat Hesder of Zefat, had a guided tour of the city of Zefat, and heard a shiur by the Rosh Hayeshiva shlita. They also heard from Moshe Dayan, an actor who became a ba'al teshuva.

Mazal Tov to R. Lior and Dikla Karavani upon the birth of a daughter.

Week of 7-13 Tevet / Dec. 19-25
Parshat Vayechi

Week of 29 Kislev - 6 Tevet / Dec. 12-18
Parshat Vayigash

On the last night of Chanukah, at a special assembly in the Beit Midrash, awards were distributed to talmidim who succeeded in tests on all of Masechet Bava Kama and Makkot (which were learned last year). This was part of the Mifal Bekiut B'Shas Program, in memory of KBY's twenty-eight kedoshim and endowed in memory of Moshe Hagar z"l. This was followed by a sicha by Rav Chanan Porat (available in Real and MP3 format), and, later in the evening, the Chanukah Mesibah. The Rosh Hayeshiva and Dayan Be'eri shlita led the dancing, joined by the talmidim, who enjoyed plenty of sufganiyot.

Week of 22-28 Kislev/ Dec. 5-11
Parshat Miketz

Chanukah: Once again, the Yeshiva celebrated Chanukah with a rich and varied program of shiurim, sichot, dancing, mesibot, jelly doughnuts, and activities. This year's sichot and shiurim are available online in MP3 format. Amongst the guest speakers were Hagaon Rav Moshe Dimantman shlita and Rav Chanan Porat, MK and KBY alumnus.

Week of 15-21 Kislev/ Nov. 28 - Dec. 4
Parshat Vayeishev

19 Kislev Hisva'adus: A special Melaveh Malka was held in honor of 19 Kislev, the anniversary of the deliverance of the first Lubavitcher Rebbe (Ba'al Hatanya) from imprisonment in Czarist Russia. The guest speaker was Rav Yosef Ginsburg, Rav of the Omer Regional Council, who writes a weekly halacha column in the Chabad parsha sheet (Sichat Hashavua)and also holds a PHD in Physics.

Week of 8-14 Kislev/ Nov. 21-27
Parshat Vayishlach

Rav Neriah zt"l: This week's Melaveh Malka was dedicated to the memory of Rav Moshe Zvi Neriah zt"l, founder of Yeshivat Kfar Haroeh and pioneer of Yeshivot Bnei Akiva, whose yahrzeit is 19 Kislev. Rav Zev Roness screened a video, Shirat Chayav, and stressed the need to express hakarat tova to the man who established the high-school system at which most of KBY alumni studied.

Mazal Tov to Rav and Mrs. Ori Fisher upon the birth of their son, Naftali.

Week of 1-7 Kislev/ Nov. 13-20
Parshat Vayeitzei

Ohev Shalom V'rodef Shalom: Rav Meir Orlian spoke at the Melaveh Malka on the topic, "One Nation, Indivisible, Under G-d: The Recipe for Achdus?!" – inaugurating this year's "Ohev Shalom V'Rodef Shalom" Program, sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Chelst of Southfield, MI. He discussed the notion of "Knesset Yisrael," which spiritually binds all of Israel together into one, unified organism, and serves as the basis for understanding the necessary ingredients and central role of achdut in Am Yisrael. Other speakers on the topic will be featured during the year.

Mazal Tov to Rav and Mrs. Zev Roness upon the birth of their daughter, Rina Chana.

Week of 23-29 Cheshvan / Nov. 6-12
Parshat Toldot

After checking-in to the beautiful Vishnitz Hotel, those who wished went for a quick tour of the kevarim of the Chazon Ish zt"l and Rav Shach zt"l. Then the talmidim rushed to get ready for Shabbos and davening at the awe-inspiring Ponevezh Yeshiva. There, accompanied by Rav Stav and Rav Feldman shlita, they heard a quick history of the Yeshiva, and davened Mincha, Kabalat Shabbat, and Maariv. It was a truly amazing experience. After davening, they split into groups of two or three, and made their way around Bnei Brak, map in hand, to the homes of different families for Seudat Shabbat, which many say was the second most successful event of the shabbaton. The most successful event, many say, was simply walking around Bnei Brak on Shabbos! To see an idealistic community, where the busiest streets were trafficked by hordes of Shabbat-observant Jews, was one of the most inspiring events of the Shabbos. The Shabbos meals were very educational, allowing the talmidim to experience the life of the Bnei Brak residents, and allowed for very interesting conversation. That evening, many made their ways to the ruach-filled tishes in the area.

After Shacharit on Shabbos morning, Rav Feldman gave a very educational drasha on the topic of Kiruv, followed by a very, very good Shabbos lunch at the hotel. Lunch was followed by Mincha at the shul of Hagaon Rav Chaim Kanievsky shlita, where the bachurim congregated outside his home for a blessing of "Bracha v'Hatzlacha." After resting and Seudah Shlishit, where the bachurim heard a drasha on the parsha from Rav Stav, the talmidim headed off to the home of Hagaon Rav Aharon Shteinman shlita, for some more "Bracha v'Hatzlacha" and a few words of chizuk. They then returned to the hotel for a double-feature Melaveh Malka. They were first addressed by Rav Kasman who gave a Carlebach-style drasha, that was very inspiring. He was followed by Rav Pheuffer, a native Bnei-Brak resident, who recently returned from extended shlichut in South Africa. He explained the importance of learning based on the words of the Nefesh Hachaim. All in all, the Shabbaton was very successful, and as many bachurim from Shana Bet so eloquently put it: "The Best Shabbos Ever." A big Yishar Koach to R. Zvi Davidson, who organized the event.

Rain: The rain began! We thank Hashem for the blessing of rain, and pray that this year should be one of ample water and sustenance.

Mazal Tov to Rav and Mrs. Meir Orlian upon the birth of their daughter, Tzipora.
Mazal Tov to Rav and Mrs. Etai Shoham upon the birth of their daughter, Tiferet.

Week of 16-22 Cheshvan / Oct. 31 - Nov. 5
Parshat Chayei Sara

Rabbi Mordechai Willig shlita gave a shiur to the overseas talmidim on the topic of migo. He also spoke about the spiritual impact that Eretz Yisrael has on those who come to learn here.

Shabbat in Gush Katif: A large group of talmidim spent Shabbat in the settlement of Katif, guests at the Katif H.S., headed this year by Rav Ari Katz. They were led by the Rosh Hayeshiva shlita, who gave a shiur to the entire community, and Rav Aryeh Stern. On motzei Shabbat, the talmidim had the privilege of hearing a shiur from Rav Yigal Kaminetsky shlita, Chief Rabbi of the Gush Katif settlements. The Shabbat mutually strengthened both the talmidim and the settlers. Other talmidim participated in Shabbat Hevron.

Week of 9-15 Cheshvan / Oct. 24-30
Parshat Vayeira

Mazal Tov to R. Yaakov and Miri Darchi upon the birth of a son.

Week of 2-8 Cheshvan / Oct. 17-23
Parshat Lech Lecha

Rain: Israel began saying the request for rain, "vetain tal umatar livracha," on 7 Cheshvan, whereas outside of Israel it is not said until the beginning of December. The poskim rule that talmidim who are here for the year should begin saying it already, whereas one who comes for a brief visit should mention the request in Shema Koleinu.

The Melaveh Malka featured Rav Moshe Lichtman, translator of "Em Habanim Semeichah," "An Angel among Men" (about Rav Kook zt"l), and a new work: "A Question of Redemption." He spoke about zechut avot and zechut Eretz Yisrael, and the merit that Eretz Yisrael provides even for those who seem far from observance.

Mazal Tov to Dor Fishman upon his marriage.

Week of 25 Tishrei - 1 Cheshvan / Oct. 10-16
Parshat Noach

Choref Zman 5764: The Yeshiva reopened for Choref Zman on Thurs., the first day of Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan. The Yeshiva is continuing to learn the first perek of Masechet Bava Batra in the morning, and the second perek in bekiut.

Mazal Tov to Dayan and Mrs. Binyamin Be'eri upon the birth of a grandson.

Week of 18-24 Tishrei / Oct. 3-9
Shemini Atzeret (Simchat Torah) - Bereishit

25^th Annual Succot Dinner: The first decade of KBY talmidim, foremost amongst them Rosh Hayeshiva Rav Mordechai Greenberg shlita, were the Guests of Honor at the 25^th Annual Kerem B'Yavneh Yerushalayim Dinner. The Dinner, which was held in the succah of the King David Hotel, was attended by almost 400 guests, and served as an "alumni reunion" for tens of KBY old-timers. The speakers mentioned the great involvement of founding Rosh Hayeshiva, Maran Harav Chaim Yaakov Goldvicht zt"l, who arrived at a desolate desert area with twelve pioneer talmidim. The first decade of talmidim laid the groundwork of the Yeshiva. They established the "Hesder Program," the Rabbanut and Dayanut Kollels, the Overseas Program, and the Teachers' Training Institute. Their dedication paved the road for the creation of a new Torah movement which now includes tens of Hesder Yeshivot and thousands of Zionist Bnei Torah.

Rav Greenberg shlita acknowledged the good wishes of the other speakers, and requested their continued involvement in supporting the Yeshiva. The Yeshiva's administration then presented him a plaque noting ten years of his tenure. Rabbi Dr. Raphael Posen, who served as emcee, noted the Yeshiva's growth and development under the leadership of Rav Greenberg. Chairman of the Board, Mr. Bernard Hochstein, who also chaired the evening, asked everyone to serve as fundraiser for the Yeshiva and other Jewish causes, and in this way "free the institutions from their dependence on the government."

Rav Yosi Sarid, the alumni representative of the first decade, reminisced of the sense of comeraderie then, which continues even now. This feeling was manifest in the congenial atmosphere of the evening. The unofficial "Elders of Yavneh" choir sang marching songs from the period of the establishment of the Yeshiva, and drew along the entire crowd with their enthusiasm. Formal entertainment was provided by the "Musicalish" choir and the talented youngster, Michael Yitzchaki, and a fascinating multimedia presentation was played in the background. The Jubilee sefer, "Mi'Peirot Hakerem" - which contained close to a hundred Divrei Torah from alumni - was distributed to the dinner guests. Photos from the Dinner are available at the photogallery.

Shemini Atzeret (Simchat Torah): The Yeshiva came to life for Simchat Torah, with most of the talmidim and families returning from their Succot stays. Hakafot were held throughout the day, after Maariv, Shacharit and Mincha. The Rosh Hayeshiva shlita was honored as Chatan Torah, and Mr. Eli Klein as Chatan Bereishit. As customary, the Yeshiva families ate together in the Dining Hall together with the talmidim. On Motzei Yom-Tov, a group of Kollel families and talmidim, went to participate in Hakafot Sheniyot in the nearby city of Aseret, while others joined the city of Sderot in the Negev, which was the target of recent missile attacks. Meanwhile, the overseas students observed the second day of Yom Tov as Simchat Torah, and were joined in their dancing and singing by the Ramim and Avreichim, led by former madrich, Adir Posy

Mazal Tov to Rosh Kollel Rav Zechariah and Rachel Tubi shlita upon the birth of a grandaughter, Hadas.

Week of 11-17 Tishrei / Sep. 26 - Oct. 2
Shabbat Succot

Mazal Tov to R. Uri and Ruti Gonen upon the birth of a son.

Week of 4-10 Tishrei / Sep. 19-25
Yom Kippur

Yom Kippur: Once again, the Yeshiva was full for an inspiring Yom Kippur davening, led by Rav Posen and Dayan Be'eri shlita. We hope that the prayers of all Klal Yisrael were accepted, and that we will be blessed with a year of peace, health and prosperity.

Mazal Tov to R. Aviram and Tzurit Litvack upon the birth of a son.

Week of Elul 26 - 3 Tishrei / Sep. 12-18
Rosh Hashana - Parshat Ha'azinu

Rosh Hashana: The Beit Midrash was filled with talmidim, Yeshiva families, and guests for Rosh Hashana. Some tables were removed, and extra chairs were added to accommodate the large crowd. The Sefardim, who do not say piyutim during chazarat hashatz, held a separate minyan in accordance with their customs in Beit Orfus. On the first day of Rosh Hashana, Rav Kav shlita spoke before shofar blowing, and on the second day the Rosh Hayeshiva shlita spoke.

Week of 19-25 Elul / Sep. 5-11
Parshat Nitzavim-Vayeilech

Selichot: The Ashkenazim began reciting Selichot (while the Sefardim have been saying since the beginning of Elul). The Rosh Hayeshiva shlita introduced the Selichot with a sicha, and Rabbi Posen, who serves as the Chazan on the Yamim Noraim, led the Selichot.

Mazal Tov to R. Yosi and Tehilla Eini upon the birth of a son, Yedidya.

Week of 12-18 Elul / Aug. 29 - Sep. 4
Parshat Ki-Tavo

Targum Onkelos: A reception was held by Rabbi Dr. Rephael Posen – Yamim Noraim chazan and teacher at the Teachers Training Institute at KBY – upon the publication of his work, Ha'akivut Hatargumit B'Targum Onkelos. The sefer is an outgrowth of his doctoral dissertation. The Rosh Hayeshiva shlita and other KBY staff members attended the reception.

Teveria Shabbaton: The talmidim woke up early Fri. morning, and left for a Shabbaton in Teveria. They davened Shacharit at Kever R. Shimon b. Yochai in Meiron, and afterwards toured the holy sites of Zefat and Teveria. They were accompanied by the Rosh Hayeshiva shlita, Rav Blachman, and Rav Roness, who gave divrei Torah on Shabbat. The talmidim returned to the Yeshiva late Motzei Shabbat - tired, but in great spirits from a wonderful Shabbat.

Week of 5-11 Elul / Aug. 22-28
Parshat Ki-Teitzei

Week of 28 Av - 4 Elul / Aug. 15-21
Parshat Shoftim

On Fri. morning the overseas talmidim went to daven Shacharit at the Kotel. Afterwards they heard a shiur by Rav Silver shlita, spent some time in Mea Shearim and Geula, and then returned to Yeshiva for Shabbat.