Hello everyone! My name is Shlomo (Lawrence) Netzer and I am from Lawrence, New York and I go to Lawrence High School! This summer I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to return to Yad B’Yad for the second time.

To be honest, I didn’t think it was possible for me to have a more fun and awesome summer than I did last year but much like Aliza boy was I wrong. During this summer I not only was able to participate once again in all the amazing activities from last summer but I was able to experience so many new and exciting things with so many new and exciting people. For example, just a few days ago, through the encouragement of all my new friends and counselors on the trip, I went swimming and paddle boating in Eilat for the first time. In the beginning I was nervous about it but once I got into the water and starting swimming around with my friends all my worries faded away. Even when we there was an activity that I did last summer it was an entirely new experience because I got to spend it with so many new and amazing people.

I know all the amazing memories I have made this summer will stick with me forever. From learning about Israel and the unbelievable accomplishments that have happened and continue to happen here to learning all about the lives and experiences of all the participants on this trip. Every moment of the summer both big ones and small have come together to make this summer so unforgettable. Even though the summer is soon coming to a close the memories, friendships, and experiences will stick with all of us for years to come.

I am so thankful for all the hard work and energy the staff have put in to make this summer so great. No matter how random or strange a request we may have they without question do everything they can to help us out. If we are ever feeling down, tired, nervous, or curious we know that they will always be there to talk things through, support us, and encourage us. I also want to thank my fellow participants for helping make my summer so enjoyable. Even though we may have all began our summer from different places and mindsets now only 4 weeks later we have all united as one and created a caring, comfortable, open, and inclusive environment. Our achdus skills are legendary.  

I know that the friendships I have made over this summer will continue long past when our flight lands in America. I am so excited for the many many reunions soon to come. I can’t wait to chill with people on Central Avenue, at Yachad shabbatons, and at Simchaton. We are all now part of the Yad B’Yad family and family is forever.