In This Issue
	Israel Yeshiva Interviews @DRS Freshman Descend On Woodmere Return to Hunter Mountain: DRS Ski Trip DRS Launches New Kavod Habriot Campaign DRS Hosts Annual College Night

Freshman Descend On Woodmere

The first year of High School is full of challenges, and the Yeshiva is constantly working to ensure the comfort and success of our Freshmen by running a full year of programs and activities. One of the highlights of the Freshman calendar took place this past weekend at the annual DRS Freshman Shabbaton in Woodmere. The Shabbaton actually began during school on Friday, as the Freshman took over the gym for over two hours of 3 on 3 tournament basketball. Following the games, the students went to the homes they were staying at. In a true show of hospitality, Freshmen who live in the area hosted their classmates from other locations. The entire Freshman class, along with their Rebbeim, welcomed in the Shabbat with a beautiful Kabbalat Shabbat and Ma'ariv in the DRS Bait Medrash. Following the meal, the Freshman kicked off the theme for the Shabbaton, Kavod Habriot, which also corresponds with the theme for the entire Yeshiva over the next few months (see article below). The Freshmen, with a little help from their Senior mentors who joined the Shababton, were given props, a theme within Kavod Habriot, and an assignment: to develop the most entertaining and humorous skit they could, while incorporating all the items. Each team came up with some terrific results, and Rabbi Kaminetsky, Rabbi Brazil, and Mr. Feldman had a hard time deciding on a winner. It was then on to Rabbi Emerson's house for an incredible Tisch. With the chulent, kugel, snacks, and all the singing, led by Rabbi Kaminetsky, there was something for everyone. The group had the distinct privilege of being joined by Rabbi Herschel Billet, Rav of Young Israel of Woodmere, who spoke about issues one faces in the realm of Kavod Habriot. Shabbat Day continued the fun, as each shiur got together with their Rebbeim for a repeat of the famous "Freshman Melt-a-way Kiddush." The group then split up for lunch, going to the homes of the local Rebbeim. Rabbi Stern's shiur had a special lunch together in the Yeshiva. Shabbat concluded in a beautiful fashion, with beautiful singing led by the Rebbeim. Rabbi Emerson provided words of inspiration, as he told of the time he lost his famous Star Wars action figure collection. The festivities continued on Motzai Shabbat, as DRS hosted its annual "Freshman Night" at the JV Hockey game against HAFTR. Besides watching an amazing game (see Athletics Update), the Freshmen enjoyed pizza and special Freshman-only promotions during the intermission. The Shabbaton left the 9th graders anxious for more excitement, as we prepare for "Road Trip '04: Beantown," the Freshmen trip to Boston, on February 25-26.

Return to Hunter Mountain: DRS Ski Trip

It was dark and cold on Ibsen Street at 5:15am Sunday morning-that is, everywhere except on a Monsey Trails bus parked on the corner, full of almost 60 DRS students and Rebbeim, ready to head north for a great day in the snow. Yes, DRS was returning to beautiful Hunter Mountain for its annual Ski Trip! The group stopped along the way for Shacharit, and to enjoy a delicious Dunkin Donuts breakfast. After arriving at Hunter Mountain, all the skiers and snowboarders got their equipment, and off they went to the slopes. After a weekend full of snow, the conditions were great. The mountain was perfect for the group, as it offered a wide range of runs, from beginner to expert, and offered a ski school for those interested in lessons. By the time 12:30 rolled around, everyone was starving, and headed to the Ski Lodge for a special 'all you can eat' lunch buffet. After eating, it was back up the mountain, until the lifts closed. Everyone had a great time. There was even talk of making a ski Shabbaton next year, with two days to ski! Click HERE for more pictures from the Ski Trip! »

DRS Launches New Kavod Habriot Campaign

Whereas the very successful Mussar theme of the first semester was Tefila, DRS is focusing on the important theme of Kavod Habriot, respect for all creations for the second semester of 5764. Rav Ahsher Weiss kicked off the theme with a shiur from Eretz Yisrael on January 1st, and each shiur now spends fifteen minutes a day brainstorming of ways to increase the role that Kavod Habriot plays in our lives. This was also the natural choice of theme for the Freshmen Shabbaton. The boys were treated to an overview of six elements of Kavod Habriot from Tisch Guest Speaker Rabbi Herschel Billet, who spoke of the importance of respect for inanimate creations, non-jews, and even of future generations. The Shabbaton really helped the boys bond together as a group, elevating the level of respect from one to another.

DRS Hosts Annual College Night

College Night at D.R.S. brought together juniors and their parents for an informative evening as these students approach their senior year. Our Menahel, Rabbi Yisroel Kaminetsky, welcomed students and families and described the "Israel option," encouraging each student to partake of a year (or more) of Torah study in Israel prior to attending college. Principal Harvey Feldman gave an informative discussion about curriculum requirements and prospective electives in the senior year. Mr. Stuart Rahr, our Assistant Principal, described the new on-line SAT score reports that he had recently introduced at D.R.S. Our guest speaker was Ms. Chelsea Lavington of CUNY, who spoke about the various CUNY colleges and about the Scholars and Honors Programs at CUNY. To make the college application process as smooth as possible next year, Mrs. Hefter, Dir. of College Guidance, made available to each student a folder containing SAT applications, bio. forms, requests for letters of recommendation, and short/long calendars. She spoke about the deadlines involved in completing the application process and invited parents and students to meet with her on an individual basis to review next year's college options. There was a lively question and answer period at the conclusion of the program. The evening proved to be both informative and enjoyable. Next, we'll be talking to the Sophomores on Monday night March 15th.