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May/June 2006, Volume 52 |
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Dear Friends,
After a dynamic year with our students – FSU Selah, Latin American ulpan and Ethiopian Ofek 2, we part ways. No sooner however, do we see our charges off into the world, than we begin busy preparations for the new students.
Our routine is not something we take for granted. We have been blessed with no casualties during the most recent spate of rocket attacks. Although we are completing our fullest year with 330 students, we can't know how many immigrant students will choose to come to Ibim next year. We hope for the best so we can continue our work of absorbing young immigrants and molding a part of Israel's future.
We appreciate your concern for us and know that you share our dream of quieter times.
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It's here – up and running – although a bit basic. Announcing the Ibim, student-made website…
http://sela-ibim.fotopages.com/
Come visit to get a taste of Ibim, and let us know what you think. | Best Regards,
Soni Singer and the entire staff of
the Ibim-San Diego Student Village
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On Top of the World at Masada
 Stirring up a veritable dust storm, thousands of new immigrant students ascended Masada, marking the culmination of their Jewish Agency academic programs. Ibim was there in a big way with 200 representatives who enjoyed a historical tour and dinner before the sound and light show. Educators may  disagree as to the kind of emphasis put on the end of the Jewish rebellion based out of Masada, but the students concurred that historically and physically, the place is amazing. From the building of Herod's castle to the cloak and dagger story of its reconstruction; from the stupendous view to the striking desert topography, Masada is a must, and for better or worse, a riveting chapter of Jewish history.
Parting is Such Sweet Sorrow
After ten months of rigorous academic and social preparation, the Ibim students will set off to make their way in the world. They will leave the intimacy of Ibim: the staff, their counselors, their friends, but they can already see the glittering lights of independence and feel the adrenalin kicks of the challenges ahead. Equipped with spoken, as well as written Hebrew, enriched English, math and a knowledge of Jewish and Israeli heritage, now they will be full participants in the Israeli adventure. A few of the students will be lucky enough to head back to the FSU to spend time with their families before getting on with their lives in Israel. Some will enter the university preparatory programs in the fall, some will go to the army, and others will begin work immediately.
At a big party, the students and teachers gave their blessings and said their goodbyes. A festive supper was followed by home movies produced by the counselors portraying the ins and outs, ups and downs and funny moments of their exciting year on Ibim. Singing and dancing went on until the morning.
 
Where Credit is Due
Two of Ibim's outstanding students, Andrei Lomko and Daria Plotkina were awarded the Alexei Naikov scholarship. Alexei, who had been a Selah student at Ibim, was killed in the line of duty as a soldier protecting a school bus in the Gaza Strip. His family comes to Ibim every year to distribute the scholarship. | |
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Our Best Buddies
 Every year, Ibim becomes a home to young Israelis who volunteer a year of their time before enlisting into the army for two or three years. Our band of youth this year were particularly creative and energetic, leading the way in the conception and organization of innumerable events. In addition, they were always on hand to help, listen and act as personal examples of an exemplary Israeli spirit. They will all be soldiers imminently and the entire staff at Ibim wishes them a productive and safe service. (l-r): Sasha and Maayan in the Educational Corps, Nivi as an instructor in the Homefront Command and Amir in the Engineering Corps.
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For more information about Ibim-San Diego Student Village:
Contact Soni Singer, Director, SoniS@jafi.org
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