The International Life Pages of
Aleph Samuel Albert Perlen
Your 90th Grand Aleph Godol
Your Brother Aleph
The life and times of a southern Jew finding his way in the global
Jewish community.
To you taking the time to read my international life pages, I say thank you. I hope you
can find some value in this, I will try to give as much insight and thoughts as I can. I have
experienced a lot in my time in BBYO, and I hope to give you just a quick glimpse into
what I have learned.
In my time in BBYO, I have learned many critical lessons, but I intend to give you
deeper insight into the four that I think are not only the most valuable, yet the ones that I
have tried to focus on. I could write pages and pages about my time in BBYO, yet these
are the things that I want you to take from my time and make a part of your own BBYO
experience.
To start, here are the four lessons.
1. Have fun with everything that you do in BBYO.
2. Don’t be afraid to be yourself in BBYO.
3. Stick to your roots, and remember where you came from and how you got to where
you are.
4. Family and school always come first.
Lesson 1: Have fun with everything that you do in BBYO.
Your years in high school are supposed to be some of the best years of your life. When I
joined BBYO, I knew that it could be the catalyst in making sure that I had a good time
through all the hard times of school itself. I joined just wanting to have fun, and that is
what I did. BBYO to me has been an escape to where I can just kick back with guys and
have a good time and not worry about that next test or paper I have to work on. BBYO
should not be a hassle. BBYO should be something that you do to have a good time, and
if you are not having a good time, figure out different ways to make it exciting. AZA and
BBG can definitely feel like work at times, but that isn’t enjoyable if you are doing it just
to look good for that college resume. Your first few years in BBYO are some of the most
fun years ever, and you need to take advantage of it. The older you get, although it may
seem like more work being the leader in your chapter, having fun being that older
member will make it even better. Be goofy, lead fun programs, and loosen up! Nothing
you do in life should ever feel like work, it should feel like a rewarding, fun, and
enriching experience.
Lesson 2: Don’t be afraid to be yourself in BBYO
BBYO is a time for you to find out who you are as a person and as a leader. This journey
of life that BBYO takes you on is so special to BBYO, and you can’t match it to
anywhere else in the world at our age. Through this journey and through all the events of
BBYO, it is not only important to find out whom you are; it is also of the utmost
importance that you are yourself through everything. BBYO is a place where you should
feel comfortable being yourself, and you should do just that. You should never be afraid
to be yourself; we all play a part in making BBYO special. If you are goofy, be goofy. If
you like to speak your mind, you better damn speak your mind. I have found BBYO
members are some of the most accepting people, and I have learned this because I have
progressively been myself more and more through my years. Be yourself and you will
learn this too.
Lesson 3: Stick to your roots, and remember where you came from and how you got
to where you are.
To me, this is something that I learned almost when it was too late. My heart and home,
Athens of the South AZA #258, and Cotton States Region #72 mean the world to me. I
would do whatever I can to make sure both are perfect in their own ways. In BBYO, you
go through stages. Personally, I started being a strong chapter leader who had the
potential to reach for more and do more. I then became a strong regional leader before
getting more involved with the Grand Order of the Aleph Zadik Aleph. In the process of
transitioning through stages, it is very easy to forget about the stage and part you just go
through. For me personally, I was elected Regional Shaliach, then a week later was
elected chapter Godol. This was my way of trying to stick to my roots and help my
chapter, but I struggled to balance both. One of my biggest regrets in BBYO was not
putting a stronger focus on my chapter more when they could have used me. I was always
there as the older member, but I know I could have done more. Sticking to your roots and
remembering where you came from is so unbelievably important because those roots got
you to where you are. Whether your roots are your chapter or your region, you can’t
forget how you got to where you are not only as a leader, but also as an individual. When
I was elected Grand Aleph Godol, one of the key things I knew I had to do was remember
my roots being in Athens and Cotton States, and I hope I did my heart and home proud
this year.
Lesson 4: Family and school always come first.
I still remember my first meeting when I was chapter Shaliach for Athens of the South
AZA #258 my freshman year. Our advisor, Phillip Shmerling was talking to us about our
upcoming term and general expectations. One of the first things he said was, “Although
BBYO will be a big part of your life, it is family, school, then BBYO as priorities.” This
is something that stuck with me for the rest of BBYO; I just wish that I followed it more.
Keeping family as a priority was never a problem because I consider family to be the
most important thing in my life. My issue was the school then BBYO part. I love BBYO,
and my love for BBYO at times got in the way of doing work, just ask my regional
director, Kevin Falik or my parents. Don’t get me wrong, I was a solid student, I just
didn’t always have my priorities in line. I would wait to write that paper or study for that
test until the last minute because I would put my BBYO work first most of the time.
BBYO is incredible, but family and school should always come first.
This year on my travels, I have been to some of the most unbelievable places, and I have
met the best people while there. I want to thank every region for hosting me and making
me feel at home wherever I went. Here is a glimpse into my thoughts on my places of
travel as well as people who made my visits special as well as people who will continue
to make sure Sam Beber’s dream lives on.
Southern: Atlanta: Being one of my first visits, Atlanta will always hold a special place
in my heart. Not only was it my first, it was easily in the tops for me. Being from Cotton
States, Atlanta kids and CSR kids are not too different. Thank you for welcoming me into
your family and making my first so incredible. Josh Binderman- Dude I am so proud of
you! You are a special leader, and I can’t wait to see what you do in your term as Atlanta
Council Godol! Jayme Dinnerstein- I honestly don’t know you that well, but you were
so bubbly and fun when I met you at the convention. You are also best friends with Abby
Elster, so that is a big plus! Congrats on being Osher N’siah, and keep up the great work.
Jake Steel- Dude, incredible job this year as ATL Godol. You have transformed into an
incredible leader, and you should be proud of your work this year.
Lake Ontario Region: After spending so much time with Amanda, I knew I had to
check out where she comes from. I am so happy I made my way up north because y’all
rock! I had a great time at iRLTC with you and ECR, and I know you will continue to be
on the up swing. Matias Levy Hara- I am so happy that LOR made the decision to elect
you as their RAG. You will be unbelievable, and I am pumped to see what you do next
year. Eden Meisels- You are such a sweet and genuine girl, and I am so excited to see
what you do on board next year! Keep up the great work, and I hope to keep in touch.
NRE: DC: To say I have been to DC once or twice this year would be an understatement.
I am so happy I was in DC so much because it is one of the coolest places ever. I loved
dropping in on DC Council events, and I loved getting to know all the members in your
great council. Harris Block- You are going to take the role of DC Godol and totally
revitalize it. You are a special leader, and I can’t wait to see what you do. Aaron DaneEasily one of my favorite people this year. You and your family always made me feel
like I was at my own house, and thank you so much for being a great friend. Emily
Kader- I love you and you rock, I feel like that is all I need to say. Jules Jacobs- You
are doing a great thing starting SDJ, and you are an exceptional leader. Your future and
your chapter’s future is bright, keep trucking forward.
MAR: Omaha: Omaha, you surprised me. Coming in, I had no idea what to expect
besides an immense amount of AZA history. Omaha was one of the coolest and most
fascinating places I went this year. The history in Omaha is incredible, and it is great to
see Omaha AZA still going strong! Jordan Saag- You are quite the guy. I loved staying
with you, even though you can’t keep up with my Madden skills. You will do a great job
as Omaha Godol this year, let me know if you ever need anything. Also, your mom is one
of the nicest people ever. Nate Gendler- You are an incredible guy with a promising
future. You love AZA so much, and you care about everyone so much. It was great
getting to know you, keep up the great work and never hesitate to reach out to me.
MAR: KC: In my short time in Kansas City, I had such a fun time. Even though the
Royals lost, I had a great time at the Kickoff game! I also loved Matzah Ball and getting
to see what KC can do. Daniel Shafton- Congrats on being KCC Godol this upcoming
year! You are an awesome guy, and I am excited to see what you do this next year.
Rashard- Dude you are a character. I enjoyed getting to know you at the Royals game
and Matzah ball, and you spit some sick bars. Joel Gutovitz- Great job this year! Getting
to know and work with you has been a pleasure, and you have done an awesome job. And
congrats on the Madden games, you caught me on a bad day. You are such a genuine
guy, and good luck being a Jayhawk!
MAR: St. Louis: Wow, you guys have been all stars this year! Not only have you
shattered your membership goals, your program is strong and you are making a
difference. Getting to hang out at the Cardinals game was so fun, and St. Louis Council is
on the rise! Sam Kahn- Man, you have killed it this year! You have led St. Louis to new
heights, and you are just an awesome guy! I am glad we were able to hang out, and you
always have a place for holidays at Vanderbilt next year with my family. Max BaronAt first, I thought you were just a goofy and awesome guy. Little did I know, you were a
goofy, awesome, and incredible leader! I am so proud of you for becoming Godol, and I
know you will continue from Sam and grow St. Louis even more.
GMR: Although my visit was not very long, I had an awesome time with all of you! I
enjoyed destroying ultimate Frisbee and chillin with the guys. GMR is on the rise, and it
is due to the work everyone is putting in. Zach LeVay- Congrats on GMR Godol!
Although we did not get to spend a lot of time together, I enjoyed the time we did have,
and I know you will kill it next year. Pamela Kekst- Whenever I got to spend time with
you, I always enjoyed it. You took GMR to new heights and you should be proud of your
work.
South Jersey Region: SJR, you were a unique convention for sure. It was raining like no
other all weekend, but I think it brought everyone closer. Your separates were some of
my favorites I have seen this year, and I wish all regions had such strong separates. Leo
Dannenbaum- Getting to know you at RLTI was a pleasure. You may be young, but you
are already making a difference in SJR and Woodcrest. You have a promising future, and
I want to help where I can. Michael Rosenthal- To start, thank you for getting me
hooked on Walking Dead, it has changed me. You did an incredible job this year with
SJR, and they were lucky to have you as their leader.
Rocky Mountain Region: Denver was easily one of my favorite cities I have been to this
year, not just because of the sheer beauty, but also because of the incredible members of
RMR. RMR is a region built with strong tradition, and it was an honor to take part in it
all. I really felt like a part of the community, and it was great to do the wizard where it
began. Nadia Mowszowski- Not only do you have maybe the coolest accent in the order,
but you are also one of my favorite people I have met this year. You are so sweet, so
bubbly, and just a great person. You will do great as 165 N’siah, and I can’t wait to see
what the future holds for you. Dylan Lander- When I met you at Fall Convention, I
knew you had a promising future in AZA. You are an unbelievable leader, and RMR is
lucky to have you for a year and a half as its leader.
NER: When it comes to dances, I have attended quite a few this year. Although your
dance was not the biggest, it was one of the most fun no doubt. All of NER was super
into it, and it was great to see NER have an incredible showing! Trevor Brown- Dude
you are something special. In your short time in BBYO, you have made a huge
difference, and I so wish you could have been in BBYO for longer. I have loved getting
to know you, and let’s please keep in touch.
Michigan: I have to say, I can’t say I expected snow when I walked out of my dorm at
Fall Convention. I had an awesome time at convention with you all, but I also had a great
time before just getting to chill. Who thought ordering a pizza would be that hard but
fun? Sam Finn- First off, nice name. Second, I am so happy to have been able to get to
know you this year with working and with friendship. I am a proud member of Sam^3
with you, and I know our friendship will last.
Pacific Western Region: Coming into my PWR visit, I had no idea what to expect. All I
could expect was the camp since I had been there twice before. As a whole, you blew me
away as a region, Not only are you spirited, you are all very down to earth people I could
enjoy just talking to one on one. Keep up the great work, and keep growing and giving
LA Jews a good time. Justin Williamson- You inspired me with your performance at
convention and I hoe you know what I mean. You are an incredible leader, and I know
you will take PWR by storm this next year! Rotem Azariya- Before BOTC, I did not
really know you that well, but I really enjoyed our time together. You are a ball of energy
that has inspired so many BBGs in PWR. Keep up being awesome forever.
Central Region West: Living in a place where it gets to over 100 in the summer, and in
the single digits in the winter, I always dreamt of a place like the Bay Area. When I
worked out my visit to CRW, I was excited for this weather, but I was also excited to
meet the incredible members of CRW, which I had heard so much about. At LS, the
members of CRW shined, and I had an unbelievable few days. I was impressed with
y’alls BBYO knowledge and care for this great organization. Ron Miasnik- When I met
you at the SiWi meeting, I know you would do things in BBYO, just not this fast! I am
pumped to see you as Godol of CRW; I know you will do great things! Talia Clement- I
loved our time together both times I visited, even though you don’t know how to use
chopsticks. You are a special leader, and I know you will continue what Izzy started.
Idan Hovav- I am so proud of you and for what you did this year. I know you did not
always have it easy, but you made it through and always stuck to your beliefs. You care
so much about AZA, and I admire you.
Gold Coast Region: I really wish I could be in GCR longer because I loved my time
with you guys! I mean, who can’t enjoy the Florida sun in December? I loved getting to
meet with all the chapters. I know it hasn’t been the easiest bit, but I know you guys are
passionate and will be stronger than ever. Matt McCoy- MCCCOOOYYY! Sorry, I had
to do that. You are an awesome guy, and I always loved getting to talk to you. You
should be proud of your work this year.
Westchester: I wish my visit to Westchester was longer and the dance wasn’t postponed,
but it was awesome to see first hand the fast growing region in the order! Your chapters
are thriving, and your partnerships are awesome to see. Kyle Price- You are such a
fascinating guy in the best way possible. Getting to spend more time with you was
incredible, even though I won our Madden tournament. You will be very successful in
life if you stay to being yourself, let’s keep in touch in life.
Connecticut Valley Region: Whenever someone asks me this year what my favorite
convention was, I always say CVR really without hesitation. I had an incredible time at
Kallah, and it was just so well done and just a good time! You guys have killed it this
year, really setting the example to everyone on how to grow. Zach Alter- Getting to
know you better this year has been awesome! You are an incredible DJ, but a better guy
and a better friend. Jason Schoen- Congrats on Godol!!!! Getting to know you at Kallah
was awesome, and you are such a cool dude. You will rock it this year.
Lonestar: My visits to Lonestar have been very special to me because I feel like I have
actually been able to see Lonestar and your culture. You are truly a star of a region, and
your members really do love BBYO. It was an honor being a nom, and I loved getting to
participate in the Wheelchair basketball tournament. Barrett Dover- You are in front of
me as I write this, so, hello! You are an awesome dude and an awesome leader, and I am
so happy we have been able to work together. Also, I am happy you got your backpack
back! Logan Stalarow- You and your family are some of the nicest people I have ever
met. If I ever need anything at all, I know I can come to you and you will deliver within
hours. You have done awesome and I love you man. Andrew Berger- Over the two
visits, you have really stuck out to me as a promising leader. You have already done so
much for Reisbord, and I know you will continue to do great things. Sam EnnisThrough the last basically year and a half, you have been one of my closest friends I can
always count on. You are a smart, cool, and nice guy. Even though your running makes
me feel bad about myself, I love you dude.
Red River Region: I have to say, you guys were definitely the most interesting visit I
have had this year… I can’t really put it into words, but I love you all so much. You guys
are definitely a hidden gem, and I am so happy I made my way up north to hang with you
guys. Harlan Abells- The work you have done this year is incredible. You have worked
to put RRR on the map, and you made it happen. You are an incredible leader, and I am
so happy to have been able to work with you.
Kentucky Indiana Ohio Region: Coming into my KIO visit, I was pumped because I
knew that no president had visited KIO in a very long time. Damn, they all missed out.
You are all an incredible group of people that show really be recognized more. Even
though you are spread out your brotherhood and sisterhood are so strong, and I loved
Kallah with y’all. Hunter Cohn- You are a special leader, and it has been a pleasure
working with you. You have done incredible things for KIO and will continue to as well
as for the Grand Order. Jacob Spiegel- Although we did not have much time together,
you impressed me so much. You have done unbelievable work for your chapter, and I
know you will continue to as well as for KIO overall. Charles Bessen- You have quite a
lot to deal with having your chapter be a collection of goons. You work so well with
others, and you have done great for Drew Corson. Keep up the great work.
Wisconsin: You were one of my first scheduled visits for the year, and I didn’t even
come until March! As a region, I do not know if I enjoyed my time more with a group of
guys, especially as a regional board. You are all super cool people, and I am confident in
the future leaders of Wisco that I got to meet! Aaron Glazer- You are by far one of the
smartest people I have ever met. Your memory is unbelievable, and you use it to be
friends with everyone no matter what. I am so happy to have gotten to know you, and you
have done incredible things. Daniel Zvi- I am so proud of you for winning Wisco Godol
dude. You are definitely a character, but I know you will continue where Aaron has left
off. Hilary Miller- HilMil, I don’t even know how to explain you. You are such a unique
person, and I love every single moment with you. Keep being you. Sam ScribnerChillest dude in the order. You are not only a chill guy, but you are super nice and down
to earth which I love. Keep your head up, and kill Gizbor next year!
North Texas Oklahoma: Coming into the year, I knew I had to come to Dallas to see
what all the talk about NTO was about. Although coming for a convention did not work
out, Marathon Madness was a super fun time and I am glad o have been able to see
culture of NTO. Your chapters are strong and your membership can really make a
difference. Max Harberg- You are one of the nicest and coolest people I have met this
year. You are so genuine, and I am glad we have had the chance to work together, even
though we didn’t get to sing wagon wheel. Yoav Ilan- Getting to spend time with you
was awesome, and you should know you have done great this year and I know you will
continue to do more. Keep it up Yoav! Talia Vivier- I am so happy we got to meet at
Marathon Madness, you are so nice! I see a lot of Michael in you, and if you are anything
like your oldest brother, you will do great things in BBG and in life.
Southern: Dixie: I love Dixie Council. You may not be big in numbers, but your spirit
and passion for BBYO and being Jewish is alive and well. You are providing a Jewish
life for Jews in places where it is needed, and the sky is the limit. Ruthie Perlman- To
say you have taken Dixie by storm is an understatement. To see the work you have done
in Greenville is incredible, and I know you will rock as Dixie N’siah. Alex Millman- I
am so proud of you, and I know you will kill it as Dixie Godol. Don’t be afraid to ask
anyone for help at any time, I know you can do it.
Mountain Region: I love Mountain Region. Coming in, I had 0 expectations for
Mountain, and y’all blew me out of the water. Y’all were an incredible time, and I am a
proud brother now of Tubes AZA. It was another convention up top for me because it
was just an overall good time, even though it snowed in Arizona. Kenny Green- You did
an incredible job in your time as Godol not even just as a fill in role, but you really made
the job yours. You took it and ran, and I am proud of the work you did for Mountain and
you should be too. Josh Schreck- I am so proud of you for winning Mountain Godol!!!
Getting to spend time with you, I can tell you are an incredible leader and you will do
great things for Mountain. Ethan and Zoe Finkelstein- You two are a power sibling
group. I loved getting to know you both at Impact, but it was awesome getting to now
you both more on my visit to Mountain and Vegas. You are doing great things for Vegas,
and I know y’all will keep it up.
Ohio Northern Region: All year, we did all we could to make a visit to ONR happen,
and I am so happy we made it work. You all have been through so much this year, but
your community is strong, and I can see why people say y’all are one of the most special
communities. Andrew Levy- I know this year has not been easy for you, but you should
be so proud of your work this year. Getting to see you lead your region made me proud to
call you my bunkmate at Kallah. I hope to keep in touch in the future. Noah SussmanYou are going to smash it this year as ONR’s Godol, and I couldn’t be happier for you!
You truly deserve it, and I want to help you as much as possible.
Evergreen Region: Hannah Stulberg was one of my closest friends during BBYO, and I
had heard so much about EGR, I felt like I needed to visit! Seattle and Portland were
easily two of the best cities I have visited this year. The people and places were
incredible, and I love EGR. EC was so fun, and EGR definitely loved up to the title as the
chilliest region in the order. Robert Franco- Getting to spend more time with you was
incredible. You are a special person that more people should really start to know. I know
you will take Chapman by storm next year. Sol Nudelman- Congrats on EGR Godol!! I
am so proud of you, and you are so deserving of this honor. You are so genuine, and you
will rock the Pacific Northwest. Mai Texerman- You are one of the most spirited and
fun BBGs that I have met this year. You are so nice and easy to talk to, and you will
make EGR yours in your future. You have so much time left, and I know you will take
advantage of it.
Cotton States:
Earlier, I mentioned how family is my most important principle in which I live by. When
it comes to Cotton States, you are my family, literally and figuratively. My family has a
long history in Cotton States blood wise, but my CSR family is so much bigger than the
Perlen, Albert, Landau, Siskind, Geltzer family extended. Over my 5 years in Cotton
States, my family has extended to roughly 800 brothers and sisters spanning Tennessee,
Alabama, and Louisiana.
Cotton States, you have provided me with a place to feel safe, to feel comfortable, and to
feel loved when I needed it the most. What makes CSR special is that you could take the
me out of that statement, and insert any name of any member into that, and it would still
be true. In times of happiness, Cotton States opens their arms to everyone, and in
moments of sadness, we come together as one kehillah.
I take so much pride when I say that I am a life member of Cotton States region #72, and
not one day goes that I don’t thank Cotton States for what it has given in my development
as a leader. I came into CSR as a member wanting to do stuff with not knowing what, and
I left CSR knowing I can do anything in this world.
It is not easy being a Jew in the south always, but having a Cotton States family makes it
that much easier. Cotton States is dear to my heart now, and always will be, even after I
type my fraternally submitted and depart this organization as a teen. Serving as Regional
Aleph Godol of Cotton States will go down as one of my biggest achievements in my life
no matter where life takes me.
I love you Cotton States from the bottom of my heart, thank you for changing my life.
Past:
To the people who inspired me and made me proud to be a member of BBYO.
Todd Kay: You truly did change my life this summer, and I can’t imagine anyone else
being my leadership director. BBYO was lucky to have you, and I was lucky to call you a
friend. You changed the lives of thousands, and your memory will live on through the
youth and your family.
Whitney Perlen, Will Perlen, Harper Landau, Eden Siskind, Lily Siskind, Winston:
You are the family members who I have been in BBYO with and who inspired me to
bring family to others. I love you all so much, and I am so happy to have you all in my
life forever.
Yitzi Peetluk, Joey Notowich, Aaron Chasan: Being the Cotton States Godolim before
me, you all taught me so much about being an Aleph and a man overall. I am the leader I
am today because of each of you, and I thank you each for your mentorship and
friendship.
Oz Fishman, Logan Miller, Mika Stein, Samantha Levinson, Sarah Minion: You are
the past Grand Aleph Godolim and International N’siot that played a part in my
development an my drive to be here today. I have looked up to all of you, and your visits
and time spent with Cotton States and me have been special times. Thank you.
Barry Goldsmith Alex Metzman, Jamie Joyce, Mattison Asher, Josh Halper, Rickey
Olsen: You all played a role in Athens on making me fall in love with BBYO. You are
the ones that not only kept me coming back, but you made me want to do more and help
others like you did for me. I look up to all of you, and I want to thank you for changing
my life and the lives of other members in Athens of the South AZA #258. ODK for life.
Josh Rotker, Jacob Geltzer, Adam Biesman, Jake McCoy: You are all my best friends
in our grade from Nashville and in Athens, and I want to thank you for playing a crucial
part in my AZA experience in the grass roots. You are all incredible guys and I can’t
imagine BBYO without each of you.
Hannah Stulberg: Hannah, getting to meet you at Kallah was truly a blessing. I consider
you now one of my best friends in this world, and I trust you with anything and
everything. I would not have wanted to plan CLTC 7 2014 with anyone else and I loved
every moment of it.
Brian Meyer, Samantha Metz, Adam Goldberg, Wendi Albert, Laura Albert, Samantha
Notowich, Gabe Kisber, Elliot Slovis, Harper Weissburg, Judith Cohen, Ethan
Loftspring, Judith Rosenberg, Justin Sadle, Rebekah Durham, Brandon Myers, Jenna
Perlman, Josh Yazdian, Devo Hanai, Jacob Brown, Michael Vivier, Jacklin Shapiro,
Halle Herman, Maya Guthman, Ryan Dishell: Thank you for being there for me
through everything in BBYO and for playing a part in my time. You all are significant in
my life and I hope to keep in touch with all of you.
Present:
To the people who have continued to make my BBYO experience not just fun, but very
meaningful.
Max Meyer: Wow Max, I don’t even know where to start with you. I remember when we
were just counterparts when I was Regional Shaliach and you were chapter Shaliach. You
and Eli were my best counterparts even though I know nothing about your chapter ;)
Through the years, you have been one of my best friends in BBYO, and you mean the
world to me. I have worked with you a lot, and I have loved every single minute of it.
You are a special guy, and I hope I have touched your life as much as you have touched
mine. I know we will keep in touch and stay close, I love you dude. CLTC 7 2015 is
lucky to have you as not only a coordinator, but as a friend and inspiration.
Andrea Sklar, Ariana Rothman: I don’t even know where to start. On the March of the
Living, you two were some of my closest friends. What is so special though, is that you
continue to be two of the most special people in my life in your own respective ways. I
know I can always talk to you both about anything, and I would do anything for you both
and I hope you know that. I would even run through streets in a foreign country to get
your phone back. I have no worries about our futures, and I know we will all be in them
together in some capacity.
Kevin Falik: K-Fal, you are quite something special. In my time in BBYO, our
relationship developed to the point where we were basically family, oh wait, we are
family now. You challenge me daily, and you push me to be the best version of myself
that you know I can be. Our relationship has had many chapters, and like you said when
you discharged me as CSR Godol, I can’t wait for our next chapter together.
The Con-Artists: Y’all are my boys, and, we made it. You all made the March of the
Living not only a powerful experience, but a super fun one. Our raps on the back of the
bus made me laugh and smile, and I am glad we all still keep in touch. #WeMadeIt
Skylar Morley: You are quite a character, but in the best and most fun way. Your sense
of style, music sense, and pop culture always amaze me, and you are such a great guy.
Working with you this year has been a pleasure, please let’s keep in touch.
Alex Merritt: So, we were in the same dorm at Kallah and we didn’t talk much, that
sucks! I wish we talked more before this year because you are such an incredible guy. I
have enjoyed every moment working with you and spending time with you. Thank you
for your friendship this year; let’s continue this friendship past this year.
Jake Nitzkin: You are so tall… Not only are you tall, your big body is filled with such a
big heart. You are genuinely one of the nicest guys that I know, and you are so sincere at
it too. You care for every Aleph and BBG, especially when it comes to globalization.
You have done such an incredible job with globalization, and you should know that. I
love you Jake.
Jonah Moore: Dude, you are crazy. I don’t even know how to explain you, and I think
that is a good thing. You are such a fun guy to be with, and I love you dude. You brought
a unique being to board, and I loved it. If we are ever together again, shawarma is on me.
Amanda Freedman: To start, I feel like I have to say thank you for putting up with my
crap this year. I really don’t know how we did it, but we made it. You are easily one of
the, if not the most significant person in my life from this past year because of how close
we worked. I love you so unbelievably much, and I am so blessed to have been able to do
this year with you. I would not have done this year any other way, and you should be
proud of your work. Samanda will live on forever; I have no doubt in my mind.
Rachel Cohen, Gabby Mesnier, Roni Rose, Brittany Bruck: So how about this year
right? I have enjoyed working with y’all so much, and thanks for putting up with me this
year. I am well aware that I am not always the easiest to work with.
Ian Kandel: I have learned more this year from you than you even know. Getting to work
so closely this year with you has truly been a pleasure, and I don’t think people
appreciate the time and work you put in to enhance the Jewish future. I have endless
quotes and thoughts from you this year, and I promise they will stay with me and only
me. I value our friendship and partnership in working together, and I hope we can keep in
touch through the future. You are a visionary, and I can’t wait to see what you do in the
rest of your life because I know it will change the world.
Sean Lynch: You are really something. We missed you to start the year off, and the
impact that you made in the short time you have been back is remarkable. I know I can
always call you with a question and you will answer and talk to me. You are a cool dude
SLynch, I hope to keep in touch.
Natalie Spring: Getting to work with you and get to know you (and Mason) this year has
been awesome. You are an incredible person, and our initiatives and big campaigns
would not be the same without your leadership and dedication to them. If I am ever in
Boston, I will make sure to reach out to you. If Mason needs someone to read his speech
for GAG in 17 years or so, you have my number.
Joey Eisman: I remember our first day together at Board Retreat in June. We were with
Jonah, Roni, and Jake, and I told you I wanted this year to have one thing, ‘synergy.’
That is super random, but I remember we had a lot of fun with that word. If I ever have a
philosophical question, even if they are about 5 hour energies, you are my guy to ask.
You are so smart and genuine, and BBYO is lucky to have you. You do you Joey. Whoa.
Matt Grossman: Over this year, I have admired the work you have dedicated to this
organization. BBYO is where we are today because of your hard work and care for the
Jewish future. Under your leadership, I know BBYO is in good hands.
2014-2015 Godolim Team: Gentleman, it has truly been an honor to work with you all
this year. As a team, we have done so much, and you should all be proud of the work you
have done for your regions. We are all better as an organization because of your work.
Future:
To the members who will inspire others like my mentors, friends, and family have done for me.
Robin Du, Sam Canales, Boaz Kelner: There is so much I can say about each of you.
You are all caring, fun, and passionate leaders. My senior year, I wanted to try and find
Alephs who I saw myself in and whom I thought could do big things. It was not hard to
zero in on you guys. I love you all so much and the sky is truly the limit for all of you.
You make me proud everyday, and I know you all will continue to do great things in and
out of BBYO. Never hesitate to reach out to me; I want to be a part of your lives.
Dani Chaum: You are an absolute rock star and you should know that. When I met you
at MIT/AIT, I knew you were a special BBG. You are exuberant, caring, and nice to
everyone that you meet. Getting to spend 12 days with you at CLTC was special, and I
know you will do great things in life.
Noa Siskind: You are the last one in the family to be in BBYO. You have so much time
ahead of you and I am so proud of what you have done already Noa. Just remember,
create your own path in BBYO, don’t let anyone else in the family influence what you
want to do. I love you so much Noa, and I am so excited you are going to CLTC 5 this
summer; you will love it.
Colin Silverman: Dude, I am so proud of you, you don’t even know. On my visit in
September, I loved staying up talking until 3 am just becoming closer. You are a unique
leader that BBYO is lucky to have. I am so excited for this year you have ahead of you,
and I want to help you in any way possible. Never hesitate to reach out to me or anyone
else this year. Very few people know what you are going through, and I can talk
whenever.
Cole Pergament, Jake Davis, Matt Rabinowitz, Hunter Cohn: Gentleman, get ready.
Get ready for the best experience of your lives, and I am so excited for you all. You are
all incredible leaders, and you will all change AZA and the Jewish future for the better.
Lauren Keats: I am SO proud of you Lauren!!!! You are on of the most genuine and nice
people that I have met in BBYO, and I think you will do an incredible job this next year!
Don’t be afraid to really be yourself this year because people will love you, and you will
make a difference just being you. Let me know if you ever need anything at all.
Ellie Bodker, Steph Hausman, Meredith Galanti, Deena Notowich: You four are going
to change BBG. Getting to know you all this year in some form or another has been
incredible, and you will all do great things for BBG. You are all super spirited and smart,
and I expect nothing but the best from you all.
Eli Derrington and Sophie Levy: I could not be more proud of the both of you. You have
a great task ahead of you being the Presidents of Cotton States, but you two are set for the
task, and y’all are ready to change more lives of Jews in the south. You are both leaders
and you should know that.
Sammy Trup, Tash Cowan: You two are the future of UKI, take it and run like I know
y’all can. I loved getting to know you both on my visit to England, you are both rock
stars. Don’t be afraid to aim high and do big things. You better both go to IC next year!
Itzik Sedek, Tyler Jacobs, Sydney Lewis, Talia Stein, Rebekah Doochin, Noah Geltzer,
Gal Crouvi, Joseph Weil, Ben Harris, Efraim Hanai, Matthew Schwartz, Morgan
Evans, Vivian Herzog: You are all the future of Nashville BBYO. You are all incredible
leaders and people, and I know you will each do great things. Don’t be afraid to reach for
the stars and try new things.
The Grand Order of the Aleph Zadik Aleph: All I can say is thank you. Thank you for
giving so many Jewish boys the chance to become Jewish men over the last 91 years.
AZA is built off of the bases of fraternity, and I value my comrades and friends around
me so much more after these 5 years. You have changed my life, my family’s life, and
you have changed the Jewish people. This year, I have seen what AZA can do for a
person. Not much is more powerful then being able to sit in a separates and hear a
member tell a story on how AZA has saved their life.
One of my greatest honors this year has been inducting new members into AZA. This
ritual is powerful, and nearly brought me to tears on various occasions. Seeing members
just like I was as a freshman have the chance to be a brother is powerful and can’t be
replaced anywhere by anyone.
There is so much I can say, but in the end, I hope my work in my 5 years and the work of
the members worldwide speak for how incredible AZA is.
There are so many people I can talk about when it comes to my life pages, but it is
natural and expected to miss some. I am sorry I can’t talk about everyone; please do
not feel offended if you are not mentioned.
CLTC 7 2014: I honestly do not even know where to start when talking about y’all. Even
though we were only at Beber together for 12 days, it felt like forever considering the
strong bonds I made with you all. I can’t describe how much each of you means to me
not only in my BBYO life, but in my personal life too. Hannah and I could not have been
luckier when it comes to who attended CLTC 7 2014.
As you could maybe tell, no one outside of the CSR kids from CLTC was mentioned
previously. This was intentionally because every single person means the world to me,
and I know I would leave people out if I talked to everyone. It would also take forever. I
love you all so much, thanks for changing my life.
We don’t have a word for the opposite of loneliness, but if we did, I could say that’s what
I want in life. What I’m grateful and thankful to have found in BBYO, and what I’m
scared of losing when we wake up tomorrow after BBYO and leave this place.
It’s not quite love and it’s not quite community; it’s just this feeling that there are people,
and abundance of people, who are in this together. Who are on your team. But let us get
one thing straight: the best years of our lives are not behind us.
We’re so young. We’re so young. We’re 16, 17, 18 years old. We have so much time.
There’s this sentiment I sometimes sense, creeping in our collective conscious as we stay
at home after a program, quit on a meeting when we give in and don’t come out- that it is
somehow too late.
We don’t have a word for the opposite of loneliness, but if we did, I’d say that’s how I
feel in BBYO. How I feel right now. Here. With all of you. In love, impressed, humbled
scared. And we don’t have to lost that.
We’re in this together BBYO. Let’s make something happen to this world.
Fraternally submitted with an undying love for,
Athens of the South AZA #258, Cotton States Region #72, CLTC 5 2011, Chazak Echad
AZA #247, CLTC 7 2014, International Kallah 2013, March of the Living 2014, Impact
Chicago 2014, Rusty Smith, The Past, The Present, The Future, the 90th Grand Board of
the Aleph Zadik Aleph, the Grand Order of the Aleph Zadik Aleph and the 7 Cardinal
Principles upon which it stands,
I will forever remain,
Aleph Samuel Albert Perlen
Your 90th Grand Aleph Godol
Your Brother Aleph
And with that, I, Aleph Samuel Albert Perlen, accept life membership into the Grand
Order of the Aleph Zadik Aleph.