Dear Parents:

This past week, NCSY Derech truly got to experience education and inspiration in our homeland. Specifically, the week started up in the Golan after an unforgettable Shabbos in Chispin. On our way back to the center of Israel, we got to ride Donkeys in Kfar Kedem, and visit the town of Tzippori, where we learned about Rabbi Yehuda Hanasi.

On Monday, the tone of our touring shifted as we prepared for the Three Weeks. In a more serious form of touring, we drove down to the Negev where we were able to hear first hand accounts from heroes who saved lives  on October 7th. Specifically, we met a man from Ofakim who was able to protect his community by using a bicycle to keep his safe-room locked. We also heard from a man who helped save lives in the Kerem Shalom community as he narrated a slide show presentation. Meeting these heroes and hearing their stories was simply unforgettable.

On Shiva Asar B'Tammuz, we experienced the Machon Hamikash museum in the Old City of Yerushalayim, where got to see the vessels of the Beis Hamikdash and truly visualize the experiences of the Kohanim. Our fast day ended with a kumsitz with words of Torah from Rabbi Jesse Horn of Yeshivat HaKotel.

Wednesday began with a 3AM wake-up for a sunrise hike up Masada. After shacharis, breakfast, and a tour, NCSY Derech made their way down the snake-path to float in the Dead Sea. Our trip then went on to learn about the community of Mitzpeh Yericho, where we met olim and Idit Eliyahu, the mother of fallen solider, Ariel Eliyahu (HY"D) who lost his life on October 7th.

After returning to Beit Meir, the boys got some rest and enjoyed a surprise Burgers Bar Mishmar, sponsored by members of the NCSY Derech parent body. Burgers Bar mishmar was the perfect way to spend our last night in Beit Meir before the free Shabbos. Thank you so much to our generous sponsors.

Just yesterday, NCSY Derech got to visit Shilo, the site of the Mishkan and the place where Channah davend to have a son. We also go to hear from Rabbi Dov Berkovits, a pioneer of modern day Shilo, who knows just about everything there is to know about Shilo.

At this point, we are just about half-way through the summer. Our boys are currently enjoying their free Shabbos weekend. I look forward to reuniting with the group on our way to Yeshivat Shaalvim this coming Sunday.

In conclusion, I want to stress that I am so impressed with your boys, and I want to help them in any way that I can. Therefore, please feel free to reach out to me if you want to discuss a personal matter!
I am here to partner with you to help your son grow. Thank you for your partnership!

Have a meaningful Shabbos!

Rav Yoni

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