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Week of 26 Adar II - 3 Nisan / March 30 - April 5
Shabbat Tazria

End of Choref Zman: During the final week of the zman, special Pesach shiurim were given, in Gemara, Halacha, and Machshava. The Rosh Hayeshiva shlita delivered the concluding shiur, in which he discussed the dual function of matzah as both bread of affliction and bread of freedom. The shana alef Israeli talmidim went with their Ram, Rav Benzion Algazi, to Yerushalayim, where they learned through the night at the Beit Midrash of Rav Mordechai Eliyahu shlita and at the Kotel.

The Rosh Hayeshiva was invited to speak as part of a day-long conference in Bet-El in memory of Rav Zvi Yehuda Kook zt"l. A bus full of talmidim and avreichim went to hear the shiurim and sichot from many of Rav Kook's outstanding disciples.

Parents' Shabbaton: The Yeshiva hosted the parents and families of the shana bet Israeli talmidim, most of whom began their active military service just before Pesach. The Dining Hall was specially arranged for the Shabbat meals, with the families sitting at individual tables around the perimeter, and the remaining talmidim sitting in the center. After Havdalah, the Rosh Hayeshiva wished each talmid a Chag Kasher Vesameach, as they departed for bein hazmanim or for the duration of their service.

Week of 19-25 Adar II / March 23-29
Shabbat Shemini

Eshkolot Hakerem: The talmidim of Rav Yishai Buchris published a journal called Eshkolot Hakerem containing divrei Torah by the talmidim on topics in Ketuvot and other halachic topics. The writing of the articles was the culmination of an educational process of researching and clarifying the topic in seder and shiur. A special thanks to Yogav Barda who handled the typesetting and layout.

Army-Prep Seminar: A special seminar was held to provide additional chizuk to the second-year talmidim who, G-d willing, will be enlisting in the coming weeks. They heard shiurim and sichot by the Ramim on both halachic and hashkafic topics, as well as practical advice from older talmidim based on their experiences. We wish them all a safe military service, and a safe return to the Yeshiva at the conclusion of their active duty.

Torah Tape Library Online: The KBY website is proud to announce a new feature, "order tapes online." The Irving and Marian Lerner Torah Tape Audio Center at KBY was endowed by the Lerner brothers in '99, in honor of the 50^th wedding anniversary of their parents. The library has grown tremendously over the past few years and now loans out to talmidim approximately 200 tapes every week. You, too, can now order tapes of many Ramim on a broad variety of topics. (Tapes are $6.00 @ including shipping and handling.) We also ask any alumni who have clear recordings of Maran Rosh Hayeshiva zt"l to please send copies to the Yeshiva, so that they can be added to the Audio Center.

Melaveh Malka: A special Melaveh Malka was held to mark the end of the zman. The guest speaker was Rabbi Stewart Weiss, an Oleh from Dallas in '91, whose son, Ari Weiss hy"d, was killed six months ago in a battle in Shechem. He spoke about his son, who had a great love for Eretz Yisrael and saw the future of all Am Yisrael there, and who served as a paradigm of achdus in his otherwise irreligious unit. Rabbi Weiss showed a picture taken 15 minutes before Ari was shot hugging one of his comrades; an American oleh with a sabra, Ashkenazi with Sefardi, religious with irreligious. They fought together, ate together, and were shot together. (The friend was seriously wounded.) Rabbi Weiss emphasized that we must concentrate on what have common; the Arabs are united in their hate of us, and we need to be unite in our shared heritage. A friend of Ari, Shlomo Katz, who is a singer, also came with his guitar and led very leibedik music, singing and dancing.

Week of 12-18 Adar II / March 16-22
Shabbat Tzav

Purim: On Ta'anit Esther, Hamashgiach Rav Rivlin shlita gave a sicha on the topic, "Purim - Ki'purim," in which he pointed out connection and common elements of Purim and Yom Hakipurim. In the afternoon, the Beit Midrash was redecorated with streamers, balloons and small humorous and "punny" posters. After Megillah reading, the entire Yeshiva sat down for a seuda, which was followed by singing and dancing in the houses of the Israeli Ramim, while the overseas talmidim held a special "Purim shpiel." Everyone then gathered in the Dining Hall for the Purim Chagiga, which featured music by the Shalhevet Orchestra , lively singing and dancing, and a skit and video prepared by the shana dalet Israeli talmidim. (The Rosh Hayeshiva shlita, who is recuperating from a broken leg, danced with the talmidim in a wheelchair and also tried his hands at playing the drums.) As usual, Rav Friedman led a group of talmidim at night and in the morning to the Herzfeld Geriatric Hospital in the nearby city of Gedera to read Megillah for the patients and to sing and dance with them.

On Purim morning, people were busy delivering Mishloach Manot to each other and to their Rebbeim. Most of the Israeli talmidim returned to their families for the seuda, while the overseas talmidim ate together in the Dining Hall, and then went out to dance and "participate" in the seudot of the local families. After Ma'ariv many talmidim traveled to Yerushalayim, where they participated in Shushan Purim festivities and joined those Rebbeim living in Yerushalayim for their seudot. Photos from this Purim are available at the photo gallery.

Operation Torah Shield III: The Yeshiva is proud and happy to welcome back for Purim seven of its overseas alumni who came to Israel as part of OTS3: Jonathan Brand, Rabbi Daniel Feldman, Adir Posy, Uriel Rabinovitz, Yisroel Schachter, Ephraim Shapiro, Akiva Moshe Stechler and Akiva Willig. Rabbi Feldman led an all-night mishmar on Thurs. night, which incorporated the weekly chutznik chabura and also a siyum by Micky Ellman.

Talmidim of the Yeshiva helped the elderly residents of Herzfeld prepare the sealed rooms. We pray for the continued safety of Am Yisrael and of the soldiers of the American and British coalition in their war against Iraq.

Mazal Tov to David Koren upon his marriage to Tamara Yakobiv.

Week of 5-11 Adar II / March 9-15
Shabbat Vayikra

Rabbi Yosef Blau, Mashgiach Ruchani of Y.U., and Rabbi Y. Twersky, of the Frisch Academy in New Jersey, visited the Yeshiva and delivered shiurim to the overseas talmidim.

Zachor and Amalek: The Beit Midrash was decorated in preparation for Purim, and Parshat Zachor was read in the traditional nusach Sefard, Ashkenaz, Yemenite and Tunisian/Yerushalmi. In addition, R. Ori Fisher of the Kollel published a 136 pp. booklet on the mitzvah of Zachor and the destruction of Amalek. The three major essays of the work are available online at the KBY website. A limited number of copies will be available through a representative at YU shortly before or after Pesach. If you are interested in ordering a copy ($5), please email your name and telephone number.

Rav Yisrael Friedman, a talmid of the father of Hagaon Rav S.Y. Elyashiv shlita, and one of the people who was instrumental in establishing the Ministry of Religion at the beginning of the State of Israel, was the guest speaker at the Melaveh Malka. His anecdotes and sharp "vortim" were most stimulating! He also described his role in the development of the Yeshiva, specifically in regards to the Max and Rose Cohen Office Building and Brainin Study Building.

Mazal Tov to Rav and Rabbanit Dovid Kav upon the birth of a grandson.
Mazal Tov to Gadi Peretz and Rachel Tourgeman upon their marriage.

Week of 28 Adar I - 4 Adar II / March 2-8
Shabbat Pekudei

Jubilee Convention and Concert: 2,500 alumni, friends, talmidim and family members of the Yeshiva gathered to pay tribute to Yeshivat Kerem B'Yavneh at the major Jubilee convention and concert, held at Heichal Hatarbut in Tel-Aviv. The occasion was graced with the presence of the Israeli Chief Rabbis, Rav Yisrael Meir Lau and Rav Eliyahu Bakshi-Doron shlita, and of Housing Minister Mr. Ephraim Eitam, head of Mafdal, all of whom praised the Yeshiva for the prominent role it plays in the Torah world and in Israel.

At the entrance to the hall a large photo exhibition, which spanned thirty panels, portrayed the fifty-year history of KBY. The highlight of the evening was a skit staged by two professional actors, which interwove within it a multimedia presentation about the Yeshiva, reminiscences of Maran Rosh Hayeshiva Harav Goldvicht zt"l, highlights of KBY's history, such as the Israel prize it received in 5761, pictures of the 27 fallen soldiers and of MIA Yehuda Katz, and a dvar Torah by RHY Rav Mordechai Greenberg shlita. The audience was captivated by the show, and was transported years back through the years, as if in a time-tunnel.

The evening concluded with a concert, featuring three of the leading Israeli tenors in Jewish music, Dudu Fisher, Yisrael Rand and Yaakov Motzen, accompanied by the Jerusalem Philharmonic orchestra. A special thanks goes to Mr. Urie Lieberman, Director of Public Relations, who dedicated months of preparation, and to Mr. Meir Kaiserman, Chairman of the Jubilee Alumni Committee, and all of the other people whose help made the unforgettable evening the success that it was.

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, studying and learning in a specially designed seminar intended to spiritually prepare them 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 Rebbeim, Rav Aryeh Stern and Rav Kalman Ber. They were based in the settlement of Keshet, and visited sites throughout the Golan and heard from various military people and settlement leaders, including alumnus Rav Erez Madmon, who is serving as a "Rav Chativa" (Batallion Chaplain) near the Lebanese border. The Shabbaton helped greatly to strengthen and motivate the group before going beyond the walls of the Yeshiva.

Meanwhile, the fifth year Israeli talmidim spent Shabbat in Ateret, a yishuv north of Yerushalayim, accompanied by Rav Tzion Luz and Rav Ari Katz, who also delivered shiurim to the community. In addition, the talmidim joined with the community for a tish and for seudah shlishit

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 the "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.

Mazal Tov to Rav and Rabbanit Moshe Stav (photo) upon the Bar Mitzvah of their son Shmuel.

Week of 21-27 Adar I / Feb. 23 - March 1
Shabbat Vayakhel

Belechtecha Baderech: The Winter 5763 edition of Belechtecha Baderech, KBY's semi-annual Torah journal, is now available. In addition, after much effort, the Belechtecha articles from the last ten years are now available online, with a user-friendly search index by author, source, topic, and edition. This new feature adds over 300 Hebrew articles on a broad range of topics to the website.

Mazal Tov to R. Yossi and Tehilla Eini of the Kollel upon the birth of a son.
Mazal Tov to Menachem Blumenthal upon his marriage.
Mazal Tov to Har'el and Penina Fedida upon their marriage.

Week of 14-20 Adar I / Feb. 16-22
Shabbat Ki-Tisa

Israeli Postage Stamp: The Israeli Postal authority issued a stamp honoring the Hesder movement, on the occasion of KBY's Jubilee year. The stamp portrays two students learning together, one wrapped in a talit and one wearing an army uniform. The tag at the bottom of the sheet displays an old photo of Kerem B'Yavneh's Bohm Beit Midrash.

Yehuda Katz – MIA: On Motzei Shabbat, the Yeshiva gathered for a Melave Malka in honor of Yehuda Katz, a KBY talmid missing-in-action since '82, when he disappeared in the battle of Sultan Yaakov during the Lebanon War. After hearing opening remarks from the Mashgiach shlita, we were privileged to hear Yehuda's father and brother, who spoke about Yehuda and told stories of what happened during the years after he disappeared. (Yehuda's mother and sister were also present.) Two of Yehuda's contemporaries, Moshe Roth and Yaakov Hadas, also spoke of Yehuda as one of the most outstanding talmidim of the Yeshiva, one who was very close to Maran Rosh Hayeshiva zt"l. The talmidim were very moved by what they heard, and we continue to pray for Yehuda's safe and quick return.

Mazal Tov to Itamar Vizel upon his marriage to Avigail Simon.
Condolences to Rav Dovid Kav shlita upon the loss of his brother.

Week of 7-13 Adar / Feb. 9-15
Shabbat Tetzaveh

8^th Yahrzeit of Maran Rosh Hayeshiva zt"l: The Yeshiva commemorated 7 Adar, the Yahrzeit of founding Rosh Hayeshiva, Maran Harav Chaim Yaakov Goldvicht zt"l, with an "Atzeret Zikaron" in his honor. In the morning, a bus of Ramim, avreichim and talmidim traveled to the gravesite at Har Hamenuchot in Yerushalayim to say Tehillim, where the Rabbanit was present. In the afternoon, a memorial assembly was held in the Bohm Beit Midrash, at which the Rosh Hayeshiva shlita spoke on the topic, "Eved Ne'eman." Rav Shlomo Daichovsky shlita, who was formerly a Ram in the Yeshiva and currently serves as a member of the Beit Din Hagadol, spoke on the topic, "Adar I and II." Rav Moshe Mayernick shlita, son-in-law of Maran Rosh Hayeshiva zt"l, spoke on the topic, "Shekulah keneged kol hamitzvot," and explained the phrase to mean that certain mitzvot, such as Talmud Torah and Yishuv Eretz Yisrael, serve as keys to all the others, and therefore a person is obligated to make an extra effort to seek after these mitzvot even at times that he is technically not obligated. After Ma'ariv, Rav Rivlin concluded the program with a shiur, "The Mishkan and the Temple."

Rabbi Y. Twersky, of the Frisch Academy in New Jersey, visited the Yeshiva and delivered a shiur to the overseas talmidim.

Overseas Shabbaton in the Golan: The overseas talmidim, accompanied by Rav Stav, went on a tiyul to the Golan. They were based in the settlement, Keshet, where they spent Shabbat, and visited sites in the Golan, including a winery (where they tasted of the wine!) and a museum of archeological relics.

Shabbat Gibush: About fifty of next year's incoming Israeli students gathered together for a "Shabbat Gibush" at the Yeshiva. They had a panel discussion with the Rosh Hayeshiva and Ramim on Leil Shabbat about learning at KBY, and heard shiurim from the Rosh Hayeshiva the Mashgiach during the day. The solid group raises high expectations for next year, as well!

Week of 30 Shevat - 6 Adar I / Feb. 2-8
Shabbat Teruma

The Yeshiva was honored to have Rav Avraham Rubin shlita, renown posek from Rechovot, give a shiur to the Kollel on Hil. Nidah.
Rav Shlomo Moshe Amar shlita, Chief Rabbi of Tel-Aviv - Yaffo, give a shiur as part of the Kerem Avraham Fri. Morning Community Kollel. He discussed the need to have a masoret (tradition) as to the kashrut of wild animals, even if they appear to have split hooves and chew their cud, based on a case pending before him.

Four families of the Kollel – Berkovitz, Kallah, Roness, and Zitter – who were recently blessed with girls joined to make a kiddush for the community. We wish them all Mazal Tov and much nachas from the newborns, as well as from their other children.

On Motzei Shabbat, a special melaveh malka was held in commemoration of the eighth yahrzeit of Maran Harav Goldvicht zt"l. Rav Kalman Ber and Rav Ari Katz shlita related stories of the Rosh Hayeshiva zt"l and transmitted of his Torah. A special video of the RHY was also screened.

Mazal Tov to R. Ze'ev and Tehilla Roness upon the birth of their daughter, Chemda Tova.

Week of 23-29 Shevat / Jan. 26 - Feb. 1
Shabbat Mishpatim

Mishpat Ivri: The Yeshiva was honored to have Rav Ratzon Arusi shlita, the Chief Rabbi of Kiryat Ono, give a shiur as part of the Kerem Avraham Fri. Morning Community Kollel. Rav Arusi is very involed in mishpat ivri and in encouraging the use of rabbinical batei din for monetary claims. He discussed the case of a guest who found a sweepstakes-winning soda cap, and concluded that the host is entitled to the prize, and that the guest is obligated to alert the host as a form of hashavat aveidah. In the spirit of mishpat u'tzedakah, it would be appropriate for the host to give something to the guest for finding the winning cap for him.

Shabbat in Mevasseret: The shana dalet Israeli talmidim spent Shabbat with the Rosh Hayeshiva in Mevasseret Zion, accompanied by their Ram, Rav Zvi Birnbaum. On Leil Shabbat, at the tish, they heard from one of the founding alumni of KBY, Rav Shabtai Zelikovitz shlita, who served for many years as the director of the Mevasseret Educational Center. He spoke about the mindset of the Israeli youth at the time of the early days of the Yeshiva, almost fifty years ago, and of the GaCHeLeT (Gar'in CHalutzi Lomdei Torah) Movement. He left the talmidim with the message that they should aspire for greatness. On Shabbat afternoon they went on a tour of Mevasseret and of nearby Motza, where there are remains of an ancient synagogue.

On Election Day, the Rosh Hayeshiva shlita delivered a shiur on the Topic, "Bechirot min HaTorah Minayin?" in which he discussed the halachic basis of elections and of a government elected by the people. He concluded with the pasuk, "u'vacharta bachayim" – the ultimate choice of a Jew!

Ilan Ramon z"l: The Yeshiva shares in the sorrow and the shock over the death of Ilan Ramon z"l, the first Israeli astronaut, who perished in the Columbia tragedy. R. Shai Walter, director of KBY's Machon Lekiddush Hachodesh, was responsible for the creation of the "Halacha and Space – Chukot Shamayim" website, which consolidated the halachic material generated by Mr. Ramon's questions about the observance of Shabbat and mitzvot in space. The site has been dedicated in memory of Mr. Ramon z"l, and talmidim of the Yeshiva have undertaken to learn the six Sidrei Mishna in his memory.

Mazal Tov to Director Mr. Eli and Chava Klein upon their 50^th wedding anniversary. We wish them many more years of happy and healthy life together, ad me'ah ve'esrim.
Mazal Tov to R. Achimeir and Esther Kallah upon the birth of their daughter, Hadas.
Mazal Tov to R. Nachum and Mira Zitter upon the birth of their daughter, Hadar.

Week of 16-22 Shevat / Jan. 19-25
Shabbat Yitro

The Yeshiva was happy to welcome the numerous young alumni and the parents of current students who came to visit KBY over the past few weeks. Our door is always open, and we look forward to continuing the special bond of Torah formed during the years of learning here.

In an interview with ABC News (Channel 9) in Florida about the shuttle flight of Ilan Ramon, Rav Chaim Konikov (Chabad Jewish Community Center, Spacecoast, Florida), mentioned the "Halacha and Space" website. The site, hosted by KBY's Machon Lekiddush Hachodesh, contains articles and Responsa relating to the observance of mitzvot in space.

The Rosh Hayeshiva shlita delivered a shiur in Ashdod on Motzei Shabbat to alumni of the Yeshiva, as part of the 50 shiurim series in honor of KBY's Jubilee celebration. He spoke of the role KBY talmidim played 40 years ago in fighting on behalf of Shabbat in Ashdod Port, when first Ram of KBY, Rav Sinai Adler, later became Rav of Ashdod.

Week of 9-15 Shevat / Jan. 12-18
Shabbat Beshalach

KBY Jubilee Shabbat in Petach Tikva: As part KBY's Jubilee Celebration, the Yeshiva held a program of shiurim and sichot for alumni, centered in the Petach Tikva area. The Yeshiva was represented by the Rosh Hayeshiva, Rav Kalman Ber, and Rav Aryeh Stern shlita, each of whom gave three shiurim or sichot at different shuls throughout the city. On Motzei Shabbat, alumni gathered from nearby cities for a beautiful Melave Malka in Moshav Nechalim, where the Rosh Hayeshiva spoke again, as well as MK Zevulun Orlev. In addition a panel discussion was held on the topic, "Educational challenges during the past fifty years – Each generation and its leaders," moderated by Rav Eliav Vizel.

Meanwhile, the Yeshiva was honored to host Rav Mordechai Willig shlita, a Rosh Yeshiva at YU and alumnus of KBY, for Shabbat. He led a tish and Q&A session on Leil Shabbat, and delivered a number of shiurim and sichot over the course of Shabbat and Motzei Shabbat. The talmidim enjoyed the opportunity to hear him.

Mazal Tov to Yakir Cohen upon his marriage.
Mazal Tov to Rosh Hayeshiva Rav Mordechai and Bilha Greenberg upon the birth of a grandson.

Week of 2-8 Shevat / Jan. 5-11
Shabbat Bo

The Yeshiva was honored to hear a sicha by Rav Yoel Cohen, the "Chozer" of the Lubavitcher Rebbe's sichot. He spoke about the special, supernatural, nature of Am Yisrael and of every Jew, as expressed through the birth of Yitzchak and through brit Milah. (This sicha will be available next week, IY"H.)

Shabbaton in the Old City: The overseas talmidim spent Shabbat in Old City, accompanied by Rav Ahron Silver, Rav Shlomo Friedman, and Rav Ari Katz shlita. They left Fri. morning for a tour of Machon Hamikdash and the "Burnt House." Afterwards they settled in at the Sephardic Center, in the heart of the Old City, where they spent Shabbat.
Following Kabbalat Shabbat at the Kotel and Seudat Shabbat, they had an Oneg Shabbat with Rav Nebenzahl shlita, Chief Rabbi of the Old City, and Rav Rephael Posen, the KBY Chazan for the Yamim Noraim (who also led them in davening on Shabbat). As a special surprise, Rav Simcha Hakohen Kook shlita, Chief Rabbi of Rechovot, whom they happened to meet at the Kotel, stopped off to addressed the talmidim. On Motzei Shabbat they were led on an interesting tour around the Old City, visiting the Churva Shul, the Cardo and Batei Machseh, where orphans were housed to protect them from being taken by the Christian authorities. Afterwards, they went to the Rosh Hayeshiva's house for Melave Malke, where they were joined by Rabbi Lavi Greenspan, before returning to the Yeshiva.

Mazal Tov to Dayan Binyamin and Bluma Be'eri shlita upon the marriage of their daughter, Michal, to Noam Kornwasser.
Mazal Tov to R. Netanel and Shaindi Berkovitz of the Kollel Dayanut upon the birth of a daughter, Penina.

Week of 24 Tevet - 1 Shevat / Dec. 29 - Jan. 4
Shabbat Va'era

MK Visit: Kerem B'Yavneh was honored by a visit of Member of Knesset Rav Yitzchak Levi, a KBY alumnus and former head of the Mafdal (Religious National) Party, who came to speak about the past accomplishments and current efforts of the Mafdal on behalf of religous Zionism. He fielded questions from the audience and stated that the Mafdal is the only "home party" for Yeshivot Hesder. In a recent sicha, "Eretz Yisrael - Despite All!," the Rosh Hayeshiva shlita discussed the importance of Eretz Yisrael as Am Yisrael's natural habitat, where only there it can reach complete fulfillment of life.

The Yeshiva hosted Rabbi Yaakov Sussman, a Rebbe at the Beis Medrash L'Torah (Hebrew Theological College) in Skokie, Il., for Shabbat. The talmidim had the privilege of hearing numerous shiurim and sichot from him over the course of Shabbat.

Mazal Tov to Rosh Hayeshiva Rav Mordechai and Bilha Greenberg shlita upon the birth of a grandson.
Mazal Tov to Avraham Meir upon his marriage to Rina Stern.

Week of 17-23 Tevet / Dec. 22-28
Shabbat Shemot

Eli Birnbaum, the Jewish Agency Aliya representative, came to speak with the talmidim about aliya-related issues. He dealt with many relevant topics, such as university, army, professions, and, of course, oleh "zechuyot." Afterwards, he answered specific questions, and offered his assistance in the future.

Pu'ah Conference: A group of Ramim and Kollel avreichem attended a conference on male fertility sponsored by Puah Institute (Poriut U'refuah Al pi Hahalacha). This organization, which is backed by many of the leading gedolim, is involved in counseling, supervising and assisting in all matter relating to fertility in accordance with halacha. The conference, which was very well attended, combined presentations by both leading rabbinic and medical figures.

Mazal Tov to Mr. Bernard Hochstein, Chairman of the Board and President of American Friends of KBY, and Mr. and Mrs. Michael Hochstein, member of the Yeshiva's Executive Board, upon the marriage of their grandson and son, Amos to Rae Ringel.

Week of 10-16 Tevet / Dec. 15-22
Shabbat Vayechi

10 Tevet: In addition to commemorating the beginning of the siege of Yerushalayim, 10 Tevet was declared by the Israel Chief Rabbinate as "Yom Hakaddish Haklalli" for victims of the Holocaust. The Rosh Kollel Rav Zechariah Tubi delivered a shiur on the topic, "Risking One's Life to Save Others," which was a very relevant question during the Holocaust.

Rav Moshe Dimantman: As part of a joint initiative of the Yeshiva and KBY alumni in North America, Hagaon Rav Moshe Chaim Dimantman shlita, former Ram of KBY for 30 years, was sent on a coast-to-coast visit to mark the opening of the Jubilee year of Yeshivat Kerem B'Yavneh. Rav Dimantman met with alumni and delivered shiurim to them, as well as to local yeshivot and kollelim, and was received enthusiastically by all. His visit touched many of our alumni, lighting a spark and evoking emotions of their days at KBY. Young alumni who met and heard him for the first time were overwhelmed by the shiurim, and they considered him to be a "tremendous hit."

Rav Dimantman visited Toronto, Los Angeles, Chicago, Manhattan, Teaneck, Lawrence and Queens. The highlight of his two-week visit was his participation at the 3^rd Annual KBY Alumni Shabbaton & Melave Malka in Teaneck, New Jersey. Over the course of his weekend in New York/New Jersey, he also delivered a short shiur to talmidim and alumni at YU, whose students were spellbound by his Divrei Torah. Many of those who attended his shiurim requested the Yeshiva to bring him to North America for additional visits.

KBY Alumni Shabbaton: Under the aura of "Chazak, Chazak, V'nitchazek," the 3rd Annual KBY Alumni Shabbaton & Melave Malka was held in Teaneck, New Jersey. Hundreds of KBY alumni, friends and high school students participated at the many shiurim that were delivered. Rosh Hayeshiva, Rav Mordechai Greenberg shlita, headed a delegation from the Yeshiva that included Rav Moshe Stav and Rav Ari Katz. Hagaon Rav Moshe Chaim Dimantman joined the group of Rebbeim, as did Rav Shaul Feldman, former Ram currently on shlichut as Rabbi of the Bnei Akiva movement in North America.

A beautiful atmosphere prevailed throughout the Shabbat at Congregation Bnai Yeshurun, including the seudot – replete with zmirot and Divrei Torah. The committee chairmen, Manny Adler, Dr. Yitzchak Belizon and Rabbi Ben Kelsen, put together an incredible program with the help of many other committee members and young alumni who joined their efforts. The Rosh Yeshiva, who spoke on the theme of Unity, stressed the importance of alumni continuing to strengthen their bonds with Eretz Yisrael and Torat Yisrael. Among the alumni who gave Divrei Torah during the course of Shabbat were Rabbi Ben Kelsen, Jason Schwartz and Rabbi Pinchas Weinberger, Rav of the Young Israel of Teaneck.

Melave Malka: Congregation Keter Torah was a beautiful setting for the extraordinary Melave Malka that took place Motzei Shabbat with the participation of a nice contingent of older alumni that added special flavor to the event. Many came, drawn by the presence of Rav Dimantman and the shiur that he gave immediately prior to the Melave Malka. A special Q&A session for high school students and their parents, orchestrated by Rav Stav and Rav Katz, was well received. Feedback from alumni and high school students was most positive. Many alumni expressed the desire to already set a date for a 4th annual Shabbaton, and some high school students expressed their strong desire to study next year at KBY.

Alumni Rabbi Leon Well and Rabbi Daniel Feldman reminisced about their years at KBY. Rabbi Well mentioned this his two brothers, Don and Harvey, are also KBY alumni, and that all three were among the founding members of the KBY overseas program. Rabbi Feldman expressed gratitude to KBY, and in particular to Rav Blachman, for the continued kesher that he has with the Yeshiva. He fondly mentioned that there is nothing to "remember" or to "reminisce" about KBY because all is still in the present – there is a continuing connection with the Yeshiva. Those who attended the Melave Malka also enjoyed viewing old videos of the Yeshiva and glancing at photos in the exhibit.

Rabbi Marc S. Volk, Executive Director of American Friends of Yeshivat Kerem B'Yavneh, and Urie Lieberman, Director of Public Relations of Yeshivat Kerem B'Yavneh, convey their thanks on behalf of the Yeshiva to all those who attended the Shabbat, to the dedicated Teaneck committee and young alumni who made the event possible, and especially to the Rosh Yeshiva for continuing to give his full support, together with Mr. Klein, to carry out this Alumni Shabbaton from year to year.

Rav Hershel Schachter: Meanwhile, KBY was privileged to host Rav Hershel Schachter shlita for Shabbat. The talmidim and families benefitted from hearing numerous shiurim and sichot from him throughout Shabbat, as well as a Q&A session on Leil Shabbat. After every shiur he was flocked by students who wanted to hear more and ask additional questions – a true fulfillment of Pirkei Avot: "Hevei shoteh betzama et divreihem."

Mazal Tov to Rav Ephraim and Rivka Rubinstein upon the birth of a grandson.
Mazal Tov to Yishai Miller upon his marriage to Leah Abramov.

Week of 3-9 Tevet / Dec. 8-14
Shabbat Vayigash

A blood drive was held in Beit Brainin on behalf of Magen David Adom. Yishar Koach to the organizers and to the many talmidim, avreichim and staff who donated blood.

Israeli Shabbaton in Zefat: The first-year Israeli talmidim spent Shabbat in the holy city of Zefat, accompanied by the Rosh Hayeshiva shlita and their Ramim, Rav Benzion Elgazi and Rav Yitzchak Levi. The talmidim left the Yeshiva very early Fri. morning, and davened Shacharit in Meiron at the kever of R. Shimon b. Yochai. Afterwards they traveled to Amuka and various holy sites in Zefat, included the kever and mikveh of the Ari Hakadosh.

On Leil Shabbat they davened at the shul of Chasidei Kosov, which was lively and full of inspiration. Following the meal, they had a tish with the Rav Elazar Kenig, head of the Breslov community, which was similarly very leibidik and enjoyable. To cap off the uplifting day, they took out their Gemarot for the nightly daf yomi shiur with Rav Elgazi.

Shabbat morning they davened at the shul of Mahari Abuhav (the author of Menorat Hamaor). In the afternoon they had a guided tour of the city of Zefat and a shiur by the Rosh Hayeshiva shlita. On the long ride back Motzei Shabbat, Rav Elgazi held a Gemara chidon on the bus, concluding a wonderful Shabbat together.

"Go, My Son!": The guest speaker at the Melave Malka was Rav Avi Shapiro, son of the author of "Go, My Son!" The book is a true autobiography of Rav Chaim Shapiro, a Yeshiva bachur who escaped Poland from the Germans during World War II and made his way all across Russia, continuing to observe Shabbat, kashrut, and Tefillin throughout the entire time, despite all the difficulties and trials. Rav Shapiro told additional stories about his father, and emphasized the significance of actively fulfilling the mitzvot personally, to be a true servant of Hashem, and not seeking to relegate the mitzvot to others to do on our behalf.

On Motzei Shabbat, Rav Zion Luz delivered a shiur in Elkana to alumni of the Yeshiva on the topic, "8-9-10 Tevet."

Week of 26 Kislev - 2 Tevet / Dec. 1-7
Shabbat Mikeitz / Chanukah

Chanukah 5762: Once again, the Yeshiva celebrated Chanukah with a rich and varied program of shiurim, sichot, dancing, mesibot, jelly doughnuts, and activities. One of the highlights of the program was a shiur Mon. afternoon by Rav Shlomo Amar, the Chief Rabbi of Tel-Aviv, who visited KBY for the first time. He discussed the special status of oil in halacha, and was introduced by Rav Yona Metzger, Rabbi of North Tel-Aviv, and an alumnus of the Yeshiva, who spoke about the cherished nature of Chanukah lights. In addition, there were sichot by the Rosh Hayeshiva, the Mashgiach, Dayan Beeri, and Rav Shlomo Fisher shlita, who explained the deeper meaning of the various allusions to Chanukah.

The Chanukah Mesibah took place Tues. night, featuring the Shalhevet Orchestra, with singing, dancing, and, of course, sufganiyot. Substantial cash awards were distributed to about twenty talmidim who succeeded in a test on all of Masechet Kiddushin (which was learned last choref zman), as 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. The Rosh Hayeshiva introduced the Mesibah with a brief dvar Torah in which he explained the important role music plays in the service of Hashem.

The overseas talmidim had a two-day program at the Aish Hatorah Discovery Seminar in Yerushalayim. Shabbat was quiet, with almost all the talmidim and many of the families away for Chanukah.

Hebron at KBY: Kerem B'Yavneh, in conjunction with the local council of Chevel Yavneh, hosted about 45 children from Kiryat Arba and Ma'aleh Chaver (on Mt. Hebron) for two days of fun, activites, sports, and crafts. They arrived Tues. morning from their settlements and enjoyed sports and a crafts activity in Ashdod. Throughout the afternoon and evening there were craft activities, learning and basketball for the boys, a puppet show and a movie, and, at night, they participated in the Yeshiva's Chanukah Mesibah. They slept overnight at the various families of the Yeshiva, and went the next day on a trip to the olive plantation and oil press in nearby Bnei Darom. A big Yishar Koach to Mrs. Drorit Yoskowitz and Rabbanit Rachel Amsalem who oversaw the program, and to the families that hosted them for candle lighting, supper and sleeping.

Jubilee Events: Mr. Urie Lieberman, Director of Public Relations, flew to New York to help in the final arrangements for the two events opening the festivities in North America of the Yeshiva's 50^th anniversary:

The special visit of Hagaon Rav Moshe Chaim Dimantman shlita, who will be giving shiurim in Toronto, Los Angeles, Chicago and the greater New York area.
The Alumni Shabbaton and Melave Malka that will take place, G-d willing, next Shabbat in Teaneck.

Information about Rav Dimantman's itinerary and about the Shabbaton, as well as online reservation for the Shabbaton, are available at the KBY website.

Mazal Tov to R. Shai and Miri Buzaglo of the Kollel upon the birth of a son, Shalom Nisim.
Mazal Tov to R. Dvir and Dikla Cohen of the Kollel upon the birth of a son.

Week of 19-25 Kislev / Nov. 24-30
Parshat Vayeishev

The Rosh Hayeshiva shlita delivered a shiur on Chanukah in Karnei Shomron to alumni of the Yeshiva.

Rav M.M. Blachman was in England where he delivered shiurim in a number of places and met with prospective talmidim for next year.

Shabbat Chanukah: On Leil Shabbat, the Rosh Hayeshiva and Ramim shlita held a Q&A symposium at the tish. Amongst the topics addressed were techelet, proper dress for talmidim, the goals of the Yeshiva, Hesder, and living in Israel. The complete Chanukah schedule is available on the KBY Bulletin Board.

Melave Malka: On Motzei Shabbat, the Israeli Ramim held mesibot Chanukah for their talmidim. Meanwhile, the overseas students paticipated in a very enjoyable and well-attended Melave Malka for Bnei Yeshivot in Yerushalayim, sponsored by Aloh Na'aleh, a new organization dedicated to enouraging aliyah. Amongst the speakers were Rabbi Ze'ev Leff shlita, who emphasized that even if one needs to be overseas for some time, he should adopt means to motivate return to Israel, and Rabbi Sholom Gold, who spoke energetically about the state of the American Jewish community and the need for aliyah.

Mazal Tov to Guy and Eliraz Roitman upon their marriage.

Week of 5-11 Kislev / Nov. 10-16
Parshat Vayeitzei

Yeshivat Kerem B'Yavneh shares in the pain and the shock of the people of Hebron and of the families of the soldiers who were murdered on Shabbat. Representatives of the Yeshiva participated in a number of the funerals.

Mazal Tov to Rosh Hayeshiva Rav Mordechai and Bilha Greenberg upon the birth of a granddaughter.

Week of 28 Cheshvan - 4 Kislev / Nov. 3-9
Parshat Toldot

Tiyul to Mitzpeh Ramon: The overseas talmidim spent Shabbat at Mitzpeh Ramon, a small town in the Negev, accompanied by Hamashgiach Rav Avraham Rivlin and Rav Rephael Katz, who came this year to KBY after serving a number of years as Rabbi in South Africa. The town sits adjacent to Makhtesh Ramon, the largest of numerous erosion craters surrounded by high cliffs that form part of the topography of the Negev. The talmidim left early Erev Shabbat and hiked through the crater, and on Shabbat they toured the town and visited the local Hesder Yeshiva.

Mazal Tov to Yoni and Anat Privas upon the birth of a son, El'ad Yaakov.

Week of 21-27 Cheshvan / Oct. 27 - Nov. 2
Parshat Chayei Sara

KBY Website: The KBY website, kby.org, has been thoroughly revamped, making it both more attractive and more useful. New features include an enhanced photo gallery, direct menu links to frequently visited pages, and a sophisticated calendar-of-events. Browse it for the many divrei Torah, both written and audio, and to keep updated of Yeshiva news and events during this Jubilee year.

A very interesting Carlebach-style Melave Malka was led by Rav Shalom Brodt of Yerushalayim, interspersing songs, stories, and Divrei Torah based on the Sefat Emet and Rav Nachman of Breslov.

Week of 14-20 Cheshvan / Oct. 20-26
Parshat Vayeira

In a joyous reversal from previous weeks, former talmid Tamir Kalfa was brought to the Yeshiva for a few hours from Tel Hashomer Hospital to celebrate Melave Malka in Beit Orfus. Tamir was first brought to the Beit Midrash, accompanied by many of his friends, and expressed his joy at being back once again. Hamashgiach Rav Rivlin and Rav Aryeh Stern spoke at the Melave Malka, and wished Tamir a full recovery and a return to the seats of the Beit Midrash.

Mazal Tov to Rav Zechariah and Rachel Tubi upon the marriage of their eldest son, Avi, to Michal Tal. Sheva brachot was held in KBY for the Yeshiva families, as well as the Shabbat Chatan, in accordance with the Sephardi custom of celebrating the Shabbat after the wedding.

Week of 7-13 Cheshvan / Oct. 13- 19
Parshat Lech Lecha

Machon Lekiddush Hachodesh: The Institute for Kiddush Hachodesh Studies, under the direction of R. Shai Walter, began its seventh cycle of lectures. A strong group of over fifty participants arrived from throughout Israel, and spanning the spectrum of Orthodox Jewry. The twenty-week lecture series includes the basics of the Jewish calendar, shiurim in the halachic and practical aspects of kiddush hachodesh, and also the mathematical and physical aspects of lunar and planetary motions.
The Institute was honored with a special visit by Avraham and Ruth Draisin of Montreal, Canada, who came to the Yeshiva recently. The Draisins have decided to support the furthering of the goals of the Institute with a generous endowment.

Director Eli Klein was overseas in North America helping form various celebration plans for the Yeshiva's 50^th Anniversary in New York, Toronto, Chicago and Montreal.

Shabbat at Yishuv Carmel: The Rosh Hayeshiva shlita, along with Rav Ari Katz, led a group of about 45 talmidim for Shabbat at the settlement, Carmel, in the hills of Hebron. They traveled from Yeshiva in a bulletproof bus, and stopped first to daven mincha at Me'arat Hamachpela. They stayed at the local mechina kedam tzevai, and on leil Shabbat held a tish for the community. On Shabbat morning they were hosted by various families in the yishuv, and for Seuda Shlishit the community joined the Yeshiva. Both the talmidim and the community emerged strengthened and inspired.

Rav Chanoch Teller, the renown author and story-teller, was the guest at the weekly Melaveh Malka. He spoke of the importance of chesed and related many stories about it.

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

Week of 30 Tishrei - 5 Cheshvan / October 6-12
Parshat Noach

Choref Zman 5763: The Yeshiva reopened for Choref Zman on Sun., the first day of Rosh Chodesh Cheshvan. This year is the fiftieth year of Yeshivat Kerem B'Yavneh, which began in Cheshvan 5714. The Jubilee year was inaugurated by a special shiur by Rav Yisrael Meir Lau shlita, the Chief Rabbi of Israel. The Rosh Hayeshiva shlita delivered the opening sicha, "Of Kerem B'Yavneh and Yerushalayim" (available in audio and text), in which he spoke of the revolutionary significance of Kerem B'Yavneh in the perception of what a Jewish State is. The Yeshiva is continuing to learn the first perek of Masechet Ketuvot in the morning, and the Rosh Hayeshiva gave a shiur klali, "Ma'avirin et hamet milifnei hakallah," during the course of the week.

Shabbat was, of course, an "in" Shabbat, and the Yeshiva was full. On Motzei Shabbat, a packed bus of talmidim went to hold a Melaveh Malka with Tamir Kalfa at the Tel Hashomer Rehab Center, while Rav Rivlin led an inspiring and uplifting Melaveh Malka for those who remained. For a schedule of Shabbatot for the zman, click Choref 5763.

Rain: Israel began saying the request for rain, "vetain tal umatar livracha," on Motzei Shabbat, 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 already, whereas one who comes for a brief visit should mention it in Shema Koleinu.