Sunday, February 26, 2012

IC 2012

International Convention 2012 was hands-down the best experience I’ve had thus far in the B’nai B’rith Youth Organization. I felt a true sense of unity amongst teens from around the world- I think that was what struck me most about IC. I truly felt like I was part of a global organization. This experience completely changed my perspective of BBYO. I could not wait to get to the meeting on Tuesday to share with my chapter the huge impact that the International Order had made on me. The programming was outstanding from the entertainment to the numerous electives we chose from on Shabbat to our day of Service in Atlanta, Georgia on Friday. Each day at IC was meaningful, whether it was the outstanding keynote speaker or regional cheer sessions. I can’t wait to go again next year, and to double Miami Region’s delegation!



-Ilana Ladis

Sunday, February 5, 2012

Is IT in you?

After a long hot shower, one not operated by a rusty silver button, there is still dirt under my toe nails. My knees are bruised and scabby. My muscles are stiff and achey. I can't stop chanting "Sha-sha-shabbat shalom". All in all, MIT/AIT 2012 was a success.
MIT/AIT was the oil that Miami Region needed to get its gears turning powerfully once more. I could see that sentiment in the eyes of everyone in attendance, from the newest members to the oldest veterans.
BBGs who previously stumbled across the menorah pledge principles were reciting them with ease. Every Aleph was chanting "Up You Men" at the top of their lungs. Older members realized their leadership role in the region and inspired the younger souls.
The programming, coordinated by Adrain Koenigsberg and Ethan Kalish with the help of an awesome steering committee, touched upon everything from BBYO public relations to the importance of kindness and acceptance. It was impactful, insightful and delightful.
Two special guests attended the event: song leader Eric Hunker and Grand Aleph Godol
Oz Fishman. Oz offered great advice; Eric offered heart-warming melodies. Both were a pleasure to host.
MIT/AIT had the highest attendance of any Miami Regional convention in the last decade. Moreover, it was the first MIT/AIT for the majority of attendees. With numbers like these, that means that just under half the Region is now infected with more potential energy than a rollercoaster at the top of a peak. Miami, let's ride this wave of energy all the way into the weekend of Regional Convention.

Submitted with undying love for MITs, AITs, and N'Shamah BBG #2441, I remain,
Grace Esther DeWitt,
Undeniably proud 8th ever Regional Mazkirah

Sunday, September 18, 2011

The Start of the 8th Programming Year

Hey there Miami Region!
Welcome to our blog, and to the first post of the 2011-2012 term.
I'll start by congratulating our 8th ever Regional Board on the progress they've/we've made so far. Planning has officially begun for the year, and our first regional program has already taken place: the Matisyahu concert.
Dates have already been decided on for several of our regional programs, and those dates are the important content of this post. So let's get to it!
Miami Beach Informational Mtg (at Temple Emmanuel)- September 19
Parent/Teen Meet & Greet (at Menchie's in South Miami)- September 20
LTI (Leadership Training Institute)- September 24-25
Regional Kickoff- October 1 or 2
Kallah- November 11-13
MIT/AIT- February 3-5
Regional Convention- May 18-20

In addition, AIPAC takes place from November 6-8, the Global Day of Jewish Learning is on November 13, and AZA/BBG Shabbat is on November 11.

More information to come via Facebook, email, etc.