Yaakov Weinstock’s summer is off to an outstanding start, thanks to the exceptional chabura he’s part of this year. Yaakov is thrilled to return to Beit Meir for his second year as a madrich—learning, growing, and sharing an unforgettable experience with a truly remarkable group. Originally from Hollywood, Florida, Yaakov spent four years at MTA followed by two and a half years at Yeshivat Sha’alvim. He is currently a freshman at Yeshiva University.

From coast to coast and beyond, Yaakov’s chabura brings together a diverse and talented group of guys, each contributing their unique energy and skills. Representing four states and two countries, the chabura spans the continent. The first member is Ariel Anidjar from Montreal, Canada, hailing from the Hebrew Academy of Montreal. Ariel infuses every chabura with vibrant energy while maintaining a calm, chill demeanor that instantly puts everyone at ease. Next is Tani Genack from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, proudly representing Hillel Academy of Pittsburgh. Tani is practically a pro-biker, conquering mile after mile on his bike while simultaneously covering daf after daf of Shas. Watching him excel both on the trails and in the Beis Medrash is truly inspiring. Yaakov’s chabura also includes Ariel Frankenthal from Chicago, Illinois, of Fasman Yeshiva High School. A man of many talents—whether it’s drawing, lifting weights, or mastering the grill—there’s nothing he can’t do. His sense of humor never fails to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Last but certainly not least, Simmy Sheinman from Cedarhurst, New York, proudly represents DRS. Simmy dominates the spikeball court with his signature powerful spike and, in his soft-spoken way, is an essential part of what makes this chabura so special. Together, these four remarkable individuals—each bringing their unique backgrounds, talents, and schools—create a chabura full of energy, inspiration, and true achdus.

This summer, Yaakov’s chabura is exploring the Jewish holidays through a variety of topics, including halachic and hashkafic perspectives. By deepening their understanding of these elements, the chabura will gain a greater appreciation for the opportunities for growth available throughout the year, if they remain attuned to what is offered.

This chabura has had an incredible summer so far, and with such a fantastic group, this is only the beginning. Stay tuned…

Raffi Weil is currently loving his first summer as a madrich on NCSY Kollel. After a short stint living in Los Angeles, Raffi grew up in Teaneck, NJ. After receiving a Yeshiva education from the Marsha Stern Talmudical Academy (MTA), Raffi spent two and a half years in Shaalvim. Raffi is now a sophomore at Yeshiva University, where he learns in Rabbi Rosensweig’s shiur. One of his summer highlights has been running a late-night Panoply game for the NCSYers. Raffi enjoys hanging out and learning with the NCSYers over the course of the summer.

Raffi’s chabura consists of some of the greatest guys on the program. The self-proclaimed “Pretzel Pioneers” are a group of motivated and driven post-sophomores who are looking to grow in their Yiddishkeit. Levi Altschul (from Chicago) shows up to chaburos every day excited to learn and makes great contributions in the sugyos. Ori Schloss (from Teaneck) brings smiles to the faces of the chabura members with his warmth and is great at coming up with parallels and משלים that relate to the topic at hand. Efraim Banks (from Boston) contributes to the chabura with his clever and insightful additions to whatever the group is learning, always shedding light on a new angle of the sugya. Aryeh Brand (from Chicago) enriches the chabura as a consistent reader and a source of laughter with his great sense of humor. Together, the chabura works as a team and enjoys each other’s company. The “pretzel” name was inspired by the idea that while there may be twists and turns in their journey, at the end of the day they are all connected.

This summer, Raffi’s chabura is learning about the “final test.” This is an examination of the Gemara in Shabbos (31a) that deals with the six questions a person is asked after passing away. The chabura has been discussing topics related to Talmud Torah, the value of honest business dealings, Mashiach, and what it means to be someone who embodies growth in both his conversations and mindset.

Raffi’s chabura hit the ground running and has grown together. They continue to learn seriously while also chilling and having meaningful discussions. The start of something great is blossoming—and there’s a lot more good to come from this group.

Eli Knapp’s fourth summer on NCSY Kollel (his second as a madrich) has been unbelievable and he owes it all to his chaburah. Eli hails from Bergenfield, NJ, where he has lived his entire life. He is an MTA alumnus, learned in Shaalvim for 2.5 years, and currently goes to YU.

Eli’s chaburah this summer is one for the ages. With the entire chaburah living along the East Coast there’s been tons of Eastern energy in the chaburah that has been palpable. Ari Spolter from Boynton Beach, Florida, attends Chofetz Chaim of Boca, and contributes to the chaburah with his thought provoking questions. Ari Rosenberg from White Plains, NY, who attends Yeshivat Frisch, keeps the boys on their toes with his quick witted comments. Aryeh Newman from Cedarhurst, NY, who attends MAY, is always ready to respond to any question that is thrown his way. Finally, Tzviki Zern who is also from Cedarhurst, N,Y and goes to MAY, brings awesome energy into the chaburah and is always excited to learn.

This summer, Eli’s chaburah is learning about Shabbos through the lens of halacha and hashkafa. Some topics include “Playing Sports on Shabbos”, “Inviting Non-Frum Cousins for a Shabbos Meal”, and “Wearing Shabbos Pajamas”.

The chaburah has been off to a dominate start and the guys are showing no signs of slowing down.