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Chaburah Spotlight: Moti Schreck

After two incredible summers as an NCSYer, Moti Schreck now returns to Kollel for his first time as a madrich. Moti resides in Woodmere, NY, and is a proud alum of DRS Yeshiva High School. Moti has spent the last two years learning in KBY, where he excitedly awaits returning for a third year. Being a madrich has provided Moti with the chance to fulfill one of his greatest dreams—to teach Torah and play an active role in helping boys develop in their Avodas Hashem.

Moti has the privilege of coaching an all-star lineup from all across the Yeshiva High School league.

Leading off, fresh out of Heichal HaTorah, Akiva Tuchman takes the bat. Akiva has unwavering consistency, a remarkably high interest level, and is a real backbone of the group. Akiva’s positive nature and constant smile light up the chaburah every day.

Next, another Heichal HaTorah prodigy, Yehuda Zauderer, steps up to the plate. Yehuda is a serious masmid who promises to keep the chaburah on their toes by drawing from his deep background in Gemara to raise challenging questions and ha’aros. It is no surprise Yehuda came up big in leading the chaburah to its Torah Bowl victory.

Batting third, the TABC legend, Eli Hochberg. Eli brings an incredibly wide breadth of knowledge and analysis to the plate. Whether it’s through supplying an extra source nobody would’ve known or stepping up in trivia, Eli certainly has the credentials for this key role.

Next, a real powerhouse out of DRS, Moshe Shtern is batting cleanup. From within the learning to the varied chaburah challenges, Moshe draws on his creativity and leadership skills as he takes a lead role in guiding the chaburah. Some may even call him Madrich-Mo.

In the 5 slot, Benny Lazar, another dangerous bat out of DRS, steps up to hit. Benny’s curiosity, thirst for Torah, and philosophical bent combine to make him a pitcher’s nightmare. Refusing to take anything for granted, Benny utilizes his skills and motivation to give the chaburah big hits in big spots.

Last but certainly not least, David Gluck takes his crack at the ball. Hailing from Ohr HaTorah Yeshiva High School, David is a steady source of energy and never fails to come up in the clutch. David’s remarks in the chaburah are always on the ball and often make the chaburah rethink its understanding of the learning. It is exactly this type of quality, precise hitter the team needs to round out the lineup and seal the game.

With such an incredible group, Moti’s chaburah has been thriving, and there’s no doubt the rest of the summer will bring even bigger wins, both on and off the field.

 

Chaburah Spotlight: Daniel Lebowitz

This summer is Daniel Lebowitz’s third on NCSY Kollel, but his first as a madrich. This new role has been an absolute joy for him due to the incredible chaburah he has. Daniel grew up in North Woodmere, attended DRS, and after spending nearly two years in the Ayalon Valley studying in Yeshivat Shaalvim, he began attending YU this past April.

As mentioned above, the chaburah is made up of some of the best guys around. Hailing from Hillside, JEC’s very own Yonatan Feit brings thought-provoking questions and powerful parables. Fellow JEC talmid, Ephraim Klerer from Edison, adds keen insights. Ariel Warsawsky from MAY always brings excitement to the group. Heichal Hatorah’s Netanel Schwartz provides a calm and steady presence, balancing the group dynamic.

This summer, Daniel’s chaburah is discussing different topics within the broad themes of Torah, Avodah, and Gemilus Chassadim, including conversations about forcing tzedakah and Torah as the foundation of kedusha.

This summer has been amazing so far, and the chabura members can’t wait to keep the energy going.

 

Chaburah Spotlight: Yaakov Wienstock

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…

 

Chaburah Spotlight: Raffi Weil

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.

 

Chaburah Spotlight: Eli Knapp

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.

 

Chaburah Spotlight: Yisrael Einhorn

Yisrael Einhorn’s third summer on NCSY Kollel (his second as a madrich) has been absolutely electric, and he has his chaburah to thank for that. Hailing from Los Angeles, CA, Yisrael has been a part of the vibrant Jewish community there for the past 13 years. He’s a proud alum of YULA Boys High School, spent two years learning in Yeshivat Shaalvim, and currently attends Yeshiva University.

Yisrael’s chaburah this summer is like no other. While they come from opposite sides of the country, there’s a unique chemistry that’s been brewing since day one. Max Frager from Philadelphia, PA, who attends The Mesivta High School, brings thoughtful contributions and keen observations to every discussion. Yosef “Goobie” Gabay from Los Angeles, CA, a student at YULA Boys High School, adds a solid sense of humor and energy to the group. Eitan Gershov, also from Los Angeles and attending YULA, offers insightful perspectives that keep the conversations lively. Yisrael “Yaya” Hoffman, another Mesivta student from Philadelphia, keeps everyone on their toes with his engaging questions and sharp insights. Sam Noah from Los Angeles, also at YULA, provides a calm and steady presence that helps balance the group dynamic. Finally, Eli Tyszler, from Philadelphia and attending The Mesivta, rounds out the group with his quick wit and sharp mind.

This summer, Yisrael’s chaburah is exploring the circle of life through both halachic and hashkafic perspectives. Topics include (but are not limited to) “The Importance of Names,” “Judaism and Mental Health,” and “Leaving a Legacy.”

This chaburah has had an incredible summer so far, and with such a dynamic group, it’s clear that this is not the end, but just the beginning.

 

Chaburah Spotlight: BZ Scheinman

BZ Scheinman is returning to NCSY Kollel for his third summer, his second as a madrich on the program. Hailing from Woodmere, NY, BZ attended DRS, Yeshivat Sha’alvim, and has just completed his first year at YU. As the third Scheinman brother to attend the program, BZ has been considered a Kollel vet long before he ever stepped foot in Beit Meir.

BZ’s electrifying post-10th-grade chaburah brings together different in-town personalities, with just a sprinkle of out-of-town flair. All attending Kollel for the first time, the chaburah consists of six incredible NCSYers: Yosef Rosenberg, from Beit Shemesh, Israel (Ahavat Yisrael); Jacob Hanian, from Edison, NJ (MTA); Shua Kopstick, from Bergenfield, NJ (MTA); Gavriel Goller, from West Hempstead, NY (MTA); Kovi Adler, from Cedarhurst, NY (DRS); and Yehudah Weiss, from Lawrence, NY (DRS). Each member of the chaburah is tremendously unique, coming together to create an amazingly chill and enjoyable environment for learning.

This summer, BZ’s chaburah is bridging two worlds: mitzvos and SportsCenter. Each sugya deals with an individual mitzvah, diving into halachic discussions centered around practical cases that may arise in everyday life, providing the guys with both informative and useful Torah knowledge. The chaburah consists of ten mitzvah-based sugyas, collectively dubbed the “Top 10 Mitzvos.” Some of the fascinating topics they’re covering include “Writing a Sefer Torah: Does the Torah Discriminate Against Lefties?,” “Lashon Hara: One Bite, Does Everybody Know the Rules?,” and “Avodah Zara: Does the Torah Outlaw Percy Jackson?” The sugyas have proven to be a perfect mix of challenging and exciting material, and the chaburah is truly enjoying connecting Gemaras and machlokesim to these highly applicable cases.

BZ and his chaburah have enjoyed an amazing summer thus far and are looking forward to the rest of the summer, which will hopefully be an unbelievable opportunity to continue learning together and become even more tight-knit than they already are!
 
 

Chaburah Spotlight: Yis Kaminetzky

Yis Kaminetzky (one of the seven Kaminetz(s)ky staff members) is enjoying his third summer on NCSY Kollel and his first as a madrich. Yis hails from Teaneck, New Jersey, where he spent four incredible years at TABC, followed by two life-changing years in Shaalavim.

Yis has the unbelievable privilege of being the madrich of six superstars, both on and off the court. This has allowed the amazing chevra to remain undefeated in Chabura competitions throughout the summer. Starting off, hailing from Baltimore and attending TA (Talmudical Academy of Baltimore), we have Jake Lazerow, who is known for his long-range shooting and is always there to answer whatever Torah questions arise during Chaburahs. Next, we have the chill LA guys, Ezra Dror and Yitzy Posy, who both attend YULA and are always the first ones at Chaburahs. Ezra is a beloved member of the Chaburah, always ready to quote random Gemaras in Bava Kama to enhance our learning, while also being one of the best passers in NCSY Kollel. Yitzy (better known as the דברי יצחק) inspires those around him with his drive to grow and find the אמת, and he helps ensure the Chaburah stays on track when we get sidetracked. Rounding out the all-star team, we have the three TABC bochurim. Starting with Shlomo Wenger (Bergenfield), whose dominance extends far beyond the basketball and hockey courts to the stage (or amphitheater), where he is known for his incredible singing abilities. Next, we have Yonatan Faber (Teaneck), who, besides being one of the best shooters on Kollel, has an incredible ability to know how to chill but also when to lock in, helping set the tone for the Chaburah. Finally, we have the late-night owl Yos Kahn (Bergenfield), whose energy and random comments can light up any room and always keep the Chaburah on its toes.

This summer, the Chaburah’s limmud has focused on sugyot related to the moadim and how we can take the important yesodos from the moadim and use them in our everyday lives. Starting with day one, where we discussed the importance of routine and the reason we have Moadim, and leading to many other important sugyot like תלמוד תורה, dipping the apple in honey, and much more!

This superstar Chaburah has had an amazing and transformative summer thus far and is looking forward to finishing strong and staying in touch for years to come. With such a solid foundation and a bond that goes beyond the Beis Medrash, these guys are set to achieve great things together, long after the summer ends!

Chaburah Spotlight: Elliott Roessler

Elliott Roessler is from Los Angeles and attended Valley Torah High School. Yes, he “lives in the Valley.” After graduating, Elliott took his talents to Midrash Shmuel in Rechavia. He currently resides in LA, where he works during the day and learns in the morning and at night. This is Elliott’s first summer at NCSY Kollel, and he’s fortunate enough to lead a chaburah.

Elliott’s chaburah boasts an All-Star lineup of campers: Sammy Sebag from New York (DRS), Sammy Adler from New York (DRS), Jacob (Cobi) Roth from Florida (YTC), and Ariel Mazar from LA (Shalhevet).

The focus of Elliott’s chaburah is Hashkafa, and he’s eagerly looking forward to watching his chaburah continue to grow in this area throughout the summer. Elliott’s enthusiasm and dedication to his chaburah have already made a significant impact on the group. As they dive deeper into their Hashkafa studies, Elliott is excited to see the guys develop their own perspectives and strengthen their commitment to living a life of Torah and mitzvot. With such a talented and motivated group, the summer promises to be a transformative experience for everyone involved.

Chaburah Spotlight: Tani Engel

Tani Engel is enjoying his first summer as a Madrich on Kollel immensely, having been a camper there five years ago! Raised in Bergenfield, Tani spent his high school years at MTA before heading to Shaalvim for an amazing two years. He is now learning at YU and majoring in Biology.

Tani’s chaburah is nothing short of legendary, composed of guys from all across the USA! First up is Akiva Sunshine from Pittsburgh, who attends Hillel Academy. Akiva is always keeping the chaburah shining bright and would run across the country to find you a Teshuvos Igros Moshe or a relevant halacha you’ve never heard of when you need it. Next is Shlomo Shinensky, a Maryland native who attends YGW. Shlomo brings a unique rhythm to the chaburah and is an expert at drawing conclusions with such depth you might call them 3D. Then we have Tuvia Geller from Texas, who attends Texas Torah Institute. Tuvia passionately engages with the prepared chaburahs, often attempting (and succeeding) to completely dismantle them. Next, there’s Dovid Miller from Maryland, who also attends YGW. Dovid does a wonderful job of “tying the shoes” of the chaburah, keeping everyone from tripping up (also, pineapples!). Then there’s Aryeh Hershenson, another Maryland native who also attends YGW. Aryeh led the boys to a chaburah ball win and uses that same energy to contribute insightful ideas during chaburahs. Finally, we have Daniel Shanker from Missouri, who attends Yeshivat Kadimah. Snap, snap, snap—whenever you need a song, a story, a picture with gedolim, or basically anything, Daniel is your guy.

This epic chaburah spends an hour each day working through exciting sugyas, such as whether extreme ironing is allowed or if a few million chickens would beat a T-Rex in a fight. Additionally, the guys have spent time singing and reviewing well-known kumzitz songs, trying to understand their deeper meaning and drawing ideas from them to grow. Overall, the chaburah is truly incredible, and they are looking forward to finishing off the summer strong.