|
"Crossroads is a program that enables Jewish teenagers to explore
their Judaism while building up stronger faith. Rabbi Horwitz starts each
program by finding an interesting secular topic and connecting it to
Judaism and having us discuss it. I personally have found deeper faith in
Judaism because of this program.“
C. L. - student - Pikesville High School, Baltimore, MD
"I just wanted to thank you so much, personally, for
speaking at our school earlier this week, I greatly appreciate it. I
think that our student body really needed that presentation and it was a
big eye opener. I think we are very "sheltered" in terms
of our school and many students just don't see the bigger picture....
Your presentation taught me a lot and I will now be a lot more careful
and cautious while searching the web. Thank you so much again for taking
the time to come to our school."
N. G. - student - Northwest Yeshiva High School, Seattle, WA
(MySpace and the Curse of Doom presentation)
"As a student of many Jewish classes, I've heard a lot about how God
creates miracles on a daily basis,
but never has this been so evident than through Shlomo Horwitz's
presentation about how Israeli forces destroyed Iraq's nuclear reactor.
As he spoke from the point of view of the different characters involved,
it felt as if the event was unfolding right in front of our very eyes.
His presentation really spoke to those of us who are visual learners
(especially the little model airplanes he used).
As he went on with the story, God's hand in it all became clearly
evident. Even though all of us in the room
believed in God's goodness, hearing this story with all the factual
details, made us believe with a real basis,
rather than believing blindly. Rarely does an event occur in which God's
intervention for the benefit of his
people is so adamantly clear. Mr. Horwitz explained this to us along
with the concepts of bitachon and hishtadlus,
showing us how we still do need to make an effort, but ultimately it is
all in God's hands. And, more importantly,
he taught us, through this incredible event, that God will intervene on
our behalf when we put in our effort,
even if it is on a smaller scale than the miracle of how the 8 planes
survived despite their fatal odds. Most of the time, it can look like
the outcome was of our own work, however it is always God who provides
the materials for us to accomplish anything."
Leah Gottfried,
Michlelet Esther, Jerusalem, Israel
"You did a fantastic job!!!!...the way that you tell the
stories makes everyone want to listen."
M. H. - student - Boston, MA
"I really enjoyed your program! My favorite part was probably when
you put yourself into the character of a teenager faced with problems
that teens go through everyday. It really let us teens connect to you
more, because it seemed like you understood what we as a group go
through. I also enjoyed the way you presented the problem of missionaries
for Jews for Jesus...I definitely feel more prepared to face the
challenges ahead! Thank you for an excellent program!
S. J. - student - Boston, MA
"Your program was amazing and I learned so much. You taught me how
to look at any situation completely and how it figure it out. You asked
some incredible questions! I loved how you included the audience in
everything that you did it made it that much more fun and exciting. Thank
you so much for teaching me!"
P. H. - student - Boston, MA
"You are an amazing speaker!!!! I enjoyed hearing you speak and you
had such interesting topics and stories to tell. Usually when I hear
people speak, I tend to get distracted and antsy. Your speeches were
different. I sat there and listened the entire time and absolutely loved
the way you spoke. Thank you sooo much for coming to our Winter Regional
and putting the time and effort into making our weekend so much better.
THANK YOU."
D. R. - student - Connecticut
"I just want to say thank you for an awesome eye-opening
presentation. I really enjoyed the part about the Jews for Jesus
missionaries and the fallacies they tell and how they manipulate text in
order to serve their own agenda."
J. N. - student - Worcester, MA
"Crossroads, engineered by Shlomo Horwitz is a unique program for
high school youth that is truly a necessity for every Jewish community.
It gives us an opportunity to learn outside of school, often about topics
that are not discussed in school. Many of the topics are things we are
interested in and specifically asked to learn more about. The topics
range from unfamiliar stories in Tanach or the Gemara to Moshiach and the
authenticity of our Torah. I was first persuaded to attend a Crossroads
by the hard-to-miss, neon pink sign and the cool topic ("If Moshiach
comes, can I quit school?") and I haven't missed one ever since. I
find the hour that I'm at Crossroads to be one of the most productive and
enjoyable hours of my entire Shabbos. The time really flies by and I'm
left wanting to learn and talk more about whatever it is we were
discussing.
A.R. - student - Bais Yaakov, Baltimore, MD
"To me, Crossroads is an honest look at the tougher issues in
Judaism, and a chance to view these issues from all angles (for example,
not just hiding behind the standard answers to problematic questions that
our Rebbes gave us in elementary school.) I have enjoyed both the topics
themselves and the way in which they have been presented, in a creative
and fully interactive style. I am looking forward to next year's crop of
Crossroads as an opportunity to delve deeper into each issue and to
understand a little better the Judaism we live each day."
J.W. - student - Beth Tfiloh, Baltimore, MD
"l am letting you know how interesting I truly thought your program
was - it really made me think about the ways that some people will trick
others into believing in false beliefs (anti-missionary program). I
really enjoyed hearing the situations that you brought up concerning
Judaism and topics relating to Jewish customs and beliefs...it was a
plesure to be there.
D. F. - student - Boston, MA
"Outstanding. I can't imagine how much research was done to
synthesize the essence of the story into the characters' monologues.
Thank you for making history come alive. The presentations were so
engaging!"
Fran P. - participant, Beth Tfiloh Adult Education Program,
Baltimore, MD
"Thank you very much for coming to NYHS to present on the
"Curse of Doom"... each consecutive group raved about how
amazing the presentation was... I thought it was amazing the way you
presented the issue by introducing us to "Mike" and bringing us
back to the time of Chi'el... you - and I don't know how - were able to
do an amazing job. I was riveted from the beginning, and, as soon as I
came home, discussed the issue with my parents and siblings. I would,
unquestionably, participate in any future Jewish Crossroads programs I
could. Once again, thank you for the insights you shared and for bringing
the topic up in the first place."
L.R. - student - Northwest Yeshiva High School, Seattle, WA
(MySpace and the Curse of Doom presentation)
"Thank you so much for coming to SKA to do your presentation.
I think it is very important for us to hear the Arab side of things so
that we can learn how to adequately combat that sort of propaganda. I
believe that your presentation is excellent and very well done. Thank you
so much for caring about Israel enough to do this
presentation."
M. W. - student - SKA/HALB, Five Towns, NY
"I really found your presentation at the Yeshiva Atlanta
Shabbaton enlightening...I really think that the way you had the
audience interact with your characters was extremely smart. Most
speakers just go on, occasionally taking a question. They rarely
ask a listener to think at that specific moment, right during the
presentation. I guess they just hope the people will think about it
afterwards, because they go from subject to subject so quickly. You
really made a point about how people can be so different on the inside
than they appear to be...That's something I've been thinking about
recently, and then I remembered how my teacher gave us your e-mail, so I
decided to type something up to you."
D.R. - student - Yeshiva Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
“I have to tell you that I really enjoyed Crossroads this year,
and that I'm looking forward to next year. Crossroads has been a
wonderful program for me because it gave me a different and new type of
discussion, as opposed to those that I am generally exposed to in the
classroom, on topics that really interested me, and that I probably would
not have had much of a chance to hear about otherwise. I had some
questions on the topic of Bechira (Free Will) to which I had never
received satisfying answers before Crossroads, and I am really grateful
to Shlomo Horwitz for taking the time to research my questions and then
present the answers in a class that really made things clear and left an
impression on me.“
C. B. - Bais Yaakov, Baltimore
"Raid on the Sun was
amazing! I definitely enjoyed the style of performing vs.
lecturing, it gave the whole story a more realistic side. You were
one of my favourite speakers of the weekend!"
J.S. - student - Ottowa, Canada
"What you said about intimacy really meant a lot to me."
J. G. - student - HTC High School, Chicago, IL
"...an excellent performance, entertaining, educational,
and all-around excellent."
A. M. - student - Boston, MA
“Crossroads
is different than any other shiur (lecture) I've gone to. In most
Shiurim, I sit down and fidget while the lecturer lectures. Even if the
speaker permits questions, very few listeners ask them, because the
speaker is too intimidating, or the questions asked are viewed as
insignificant or unintelligent. Crossroads is the exception. Finally, I
find myself interested, asking questions and actually learning. The class
is not a lecture, it's a discussion. This way, we, as the audience, don't
feel embarrassed to ask questions. The speaker incorporates each question
into the discussion making the participants feel that the speaker is
talking with them, rather than to them. The sincerity of the speaker is
obvious and each topic is thoroughly researched so that I always feel
like I gained something.“
B. M. - student - Bais Yaakov, Baltimore
"I really enjoyed
and was moved by your presentations... the messages which you
brought across are going to be very useful for me in university.
M.C. - student - CHAT High School, Toronto, Canada
“It was a really interesting way to present something that we
are ordinarily not educated about. It had a great impact on everyone, and
I definitely learned a lot.“
P. K. - student - Long Island, NY
“In my opinion, Crossroads is an excellent program. It is
something I personally look forward to when I come home from Yeshiva for
Shabbos. You get to cover a topic that deals with Judaism and is also
very interesting. Your opinion always seems to be right in a way, which is
not always so in school. It deals with something serious and still it's
delivered in a comfortable, laid-back way. I have recommended friends to
come and I still will.“
D. Z. - student - Ner Israel High School, Baltimore
“Crossroads, led by Shlomo Horwitz, gives high school girls a
chance to really make something of their Shabbos. When normally one would
just hang out, we now have an opportunity to learn about things that
always bothered us and really get answers. It is done in a discussion
form which makes it extremely interesting and makes the ambiance very
relaxing and encouraging. Topics range from Masada to Moshiach to a
Jewish Wedding and what they all mean. I feel very privileged to have
someone so dedicated to Crossroads, and I think that one feels the
dedication when she goes to the shiur. I just want to thank you for a
wonderful year of shiurim. I gained so much.“
S. Q. - student - Bais Yaakov, Baltimore
"It was an intellectual opportunity to learn about history in
a very interesting and enjoyable way."
Adrian D. - participant, Beth Tfiloh Adult Education Program,
Baltimore, MD
"Thank you sooooo much!!! You did a really great job and
taught me a lot I things I didn't know before."
J. M. - student - SKA/HALB, Five Towns, NY
"I think the presentation you put on for us was
unbelievable."
N.F. - student - MJ Berman Hebrew Academy of Greater Washington,
Rockville, MD
"I really enjoyed your presentation about miracles and the
nuclear reactor. It was fun to watch because of the visuals and the way
you changed characters - MUCH more interesting then listening to a
speech, even if the speech is on your favorite topic. I'm glad you
presented than way, please keep it up."
J.G. - student - Toronto, Canada
"I
really enjoyed your program...it was a very interesting and creative way
of doing a presentation. I enjoyed that it was something different, and
new and not just another lecture where the speaker just stands at the
podium and speaks. Hoping I have the privilege of hearing another
presentation!"
E.C. - student - Ottowa, Canada
I thought the programs
were interesting and I enjoyed your method of using different
characters - it made it more personal.
R.M. - student - Toronto, Canada
|
"Shlomo Horwitz's session was captivating, powerful, and
incredibly informative. The NCSYers were completely blown away by his
presentation."
Rabbi Steven Burg, NCSY National Director
"The program has very profound pedagogical perspectives as
well as Jewish content which is made very palatable and relevant. I
commend this program to all."
Rabbi Tzvi Hersh Weinreb, Ph.D. Executive Vice President, Orthodox
Union
"I wanted to thank you for the wonderful series of classes
you presented at Mercaz this fall. "Jews Adrift: A Dramatic Look at
Jews Who Lost Their Way" examined four groups of Jews who fell
through the cracks by choice or by circumstance. Through the use of
creative drama you succeeded in getting participants to both appreciate
and understand the historical settings surrounding four distinct Jewish
groups who were lost to Judaism. Your sessions were so creative and
captivating that people returned week after week. The feedback I
have received describe you as an "excellent teacher," "dynamic"
and "engaging." I hope you will consider coming back next
fall."
Sandy Vogel, Director, Beth Tfiloh Adult Education Program,
Baltimore, MD
"Shlomo Horwitz combines a deep knowledge and love of Judaism
and Jewish History with a creative and dynamic approach towards teaching.
The student is brought to the edge of his or her seat by a riveting and
thought-provoking performance that is both educational and entertaining.
No doubt, students of all ages will gain from Rabbi Horwitz's approach to
teaching and learning."
Scott J. Goldberg, Ph.D. Director, Institute for University-School
Partnership Azrieli Graduate School Yeshiva University, New York, NY
"Rabbi Horwitz successfully ran his Jewish
Crossroads programs for over 120 Jewish teenagers and staff at our
recent NCSY Winter Regional. We chose the topics of 'Dark Side of
the Internet' and the 'The Jewish Missionary' (Holy Ghost). Rabbi
Horwitz's presentations were both believable and well thought-out. His characters
confronted our participants and encouraged them to take greater
consideration of the issues discussed. They
experienced very real and timely Jewish concepts about contemporary
issues. The audience was engaged throughout the program and was
encouraged to participate and interact with Rabbi Horwitz and his
characters. An added bonus was that Rabbi Horwitz made himself available
to address questions and lead discussions throughout Shabbat."
Rabbi Shmuel Miller, Regional Director, New England Region of NCSY
I experienced Rabbi
Shlomo Horwitz's educational performance and I was extremely surprised
and impressed. As Program Director of a Yeshiva in Israel, this was
probably the most important and meaningful experience that my students
had during this year "outside" of the Beit Midrash, although Rabbi
Horwitz's program halped my students come closer to Hashem and to the
Beit Midrash. I thought my students would be skeptical and sarcastic,
but instead they were mesmerized. Rabbi Shlomo Horwitz is a great
presenter and very charismatic. I highly recommend taking him for your
program/school or Yeshiva.
Naftali
Abramson, Director of Student Programs, Yeshivat Sha’arei Mevaseret,
Mevaseret Tzion, Israel
"Dear Shlomo, on behalf
of the students of Michlelet Esther I want to thank you for your
informative and creative program. The students came away from the
program with new information from a historical perspective. More
importantly, the program provided them with a practical lesson in a
number of important hashkafa foundations. The program created a very
positive buzz in the student lounge and many students were interested in
studying the source material. Yasher koach and we look forward to your
next trip to Israel."
Rav Ari Winter, Michlelet Esther, Jerusalem, Israel
(student feedback on
other side)
"Thank You so much for coming to our school yesterday. I felt that
the Rabbi Akiva presentation really brought home to the kids that Rabbi
Akiva was someone truly special and that people can truly change and
become remarkable. The fact that our kids were so well behaved was truly
a testament to how entertained they were. Our eighth grade were
privileged to hear Raid on the Sun an interactive presentation on the
amazing involvement of Hashem in the destruction of Iraq's nuclear site.
You really brought home the message of how we can relate to Hashem and
see Hashem in a way that was uplifting and inspirational for teachers and
students. We were able to successfully launch our initiative of a G-d
Blog by utilizing the positive energy that we felt after you
"miraculously" described the wonders of events in the world
being guided by the hand of Hashem."
Rabbi Moshe Shields, Dean of Middle School, Melvin J. Berman
Hebrew Academy, Rockville, MD
"Your talks for the teens in the school and at the Jewish
Teen Center were wonderfully received and kept the kids interested and
engaged. Your talks to the adults over Shabbos were very attention
grabbing, created much dialogue (even late at night), and brought forth
many positive comments. Your sources were Torah-true ones and gave us
insights into some difficult and perplexing subjects. It is obvious that
you put much effort and thought into preparing your presentations."
Rabbi Yaakov Meyer, Aish Ahavas Yisroel, Denver, CO
“Shlomo Horwitz is a gifted educator and storyteller...The program
is creative, out-of-the-ordinary and stimulating. Shlomo has the ability
to tailor his topics to a range of ages, maximizing the potential for
interaction as a part of the participatory educational experience. Shlomo
slips easily into the various roles of storyteller, historian, actor (in
a host of “we were there formats), and rebbe as he transports students
into a world beyond their usual learning milieu. The programs are the
result of enormous amounts of research and are sprinkled with Shlomo's
own life experiences and lessons learned from some of the greatest
educators of our generation. I am delighted to recommend Shlomo and the
Crossroads program in the most enthusiastic terms to anyone who
understands the value of informal education as a means for reinforcing
the formal lessons and subjects taught to our youth.
Lawrence M. Ziffer, Executive Vice President, Center for Jewish
Education, Baltimore, MD
"Thank you so much for bringing your "show" to our
Shabbaton. To quote the kids,"That guy was awesome"! "Tell
you the truth the guy when he was doing Jihad made me really mad'! "
The Nerve of those guys"! Obviously your point hit home. It didn't
feel at all like a speech and I know that because during your Jihad presentation
there was palpable anger in the audience. Some of the kids almost had to
be restrained! I also liked that it brought the kids to not just catcall
but to articulate some well thought out responses. The whole thing felt
very real and far from the category of "another good speech".
We all know they hear plenty of speeches on a Shabbaton, but what they
really need is for our points to hit home which you obviously
accomplished. Keep up the good work and can't wait to see you at the next
one!
Rabbi Yitzchok Dinovitzer, Associate Regional Director, Atlantic
Seaboard Region of NCSY
"I had the privilege of seeing Rabbi Horwitz's program Raid
on the Sun and was thoroughly captivated. Both the adults and children in
the audience were mesmerized as they were pulled in to the fascinating
"back story" regarding the Israeli bombing of the nuclear
facility in Iraq. The deeper lessons regarding faith, persistence and
moral responsibility were presented in the words of the Ramchal and
Rabbenu Bachya in a manner that brought their insights alive using a
uniquely creative teaching style that students will find compelling and
easy to absorb. I highly recommend this program. "
David Pelcovitz, Ph.D. Straus Professor of Psychology and
Education Azrieli Graduate School, Yeshiva University
"Shlomo Horwitz is on to something. He presents complex yet
relevant issues in a user-friendly format. Spanning the ages we are
offered a spectrum of Torah-true responses in a coherent and digestible
fashion. Horwitz has the authors personally address the audience. What
great fun, what a great learning tool."
Rabbi Binyomin Friedman, Congregation Ariel, Dunwoody, GA
"Thank you for coming for Shabbos and inspiring our
teenagers. The feedback has been outstanding and I know that the
kids all got a lot out of your visit.
Rabbi Efrem Goldberg, Senior Rabbi, Boca Raton Synagogue, Boca
Raton, FL
"The kids learned a lot in an enjoyable, original, and
refreshing format about challenging topics in an engaging way...You
have adapted the approaches of Psychodrama by Jacob Moreno and
Bibliodrama by Peter Pitzele and taken it to the next level for kids to
appreciate while using great stories and research."
Rabbi Elisha Paul, Headmaster, Yeshiva Atlanta, Atlanta,
GA
“I was privileged to hear Shlomo Horwitz's presentation on
Animal Rights ('Hold
the Burgers') at a recent educational seminar. As a professional
educator for many of years, I am well aware of the challenge in conveying
sophisticated concepts, particularly to a teenage audience. Shlomo's
unique role-playing style, along with his comfortable, warm rapport with
the teens, allowed him to keep the attention of a room-full of youngsters
for over an hour. More than an entertainer, he was able to challenge them
to think, participate, argue, and enjoy. Beyond that, he is a pleasure to
deal with on a professional level. I look forward to having him join us
in the future, and wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone involved in
education."
Rabbi Yehoshua Kohl, Director of Education, The Gateways
Organization, NY
"Your inspirational words strongly impacted on the students
and helped create an incredible connection to Judaism that they will
carry with them throughout their lives. Your presence at the Shabbaton
was invaluable to us all."
Rabbi Glenn Black, Regional Director, NCSY Canada
"Your marvelous presentations added immeasurably to the
success of our Shabbaton."
Rabbi Dr. Jerold Isenberg, Chancellor, Hebrew Theological College
/ Fasman High School, Chicago, IL
"Somehow you are able to address the needs of beginners and
advanced students with the same inspiring thought. You always come up
with a fresh approach that really touches the mind and heart of the
listener. We love having you each year as a presenter at our High Holiday
Learners' Service. Yasher Koach.
Rabbi Shlomo Porter, Director, Etz Chaim Adult Education Center,
Baltimore, MD
“Your presentation really gave our students a realistic sense of
what is going on in Israel as well as the passions that drive the issues.
Many students and faculty members commented to me on how informative and
engaging they found the program. I am certain that high school students
of varied and diverse backgrounds would benefit from hearing the program
you presented to us. Your ability to connect with teenagers is uncanny
and I'm glad that the field of Chinuch has you as an adjunct
professor."
Rabbi Moshe Stavsky, Principal, Hebrew Academy of Nassau County,
Uniondale, NY
"You spoke to excellent effect, holding the pupils' attention
and winning their respect with clear, well-documented and powerful
argument. I admired the way in which you ensured that the pupils' initial
discomfort and defensiveness disappeared and were replaced by absorption
in what you were saying and growing agreement with the message that they
set a proper value upon living autonomously and with self-respect. It was
an inspiring and very effective session, the result of meticulous
preparation and much reflection and wisdom."
Mr. Philip Skelker, Headmaster, Immanuel College, London, England
"Shlomo’s enactment of world issues in an entertaining
character format really entertains a teenage group while involving them
in the discussion of world issues. It was amazing to see the lineup of
students (from CHAT of Toronto) after the show just to engage in further
conversation with Shlomo about current Jewish cultural issues. I’ve never
seen anything like this before. This was truly an incredible experience
for us all.”
Scott Newman, Senior Event Coordinator, HWAY Tours, Toronto,
Canada
"Thank you so much for the excellent presentation you gave
last night which was so well received by the interesting mix of teachers
who attended your session. You presented with a clear love of your
subject matter and a passion for the need to present this with feeling
and understanding in order that the students develop a strong sense of
who the people in Tanach really were and that they were indeed real
people experiencing real events. You managed to blend authenticity with a
contemporary mode without losing any sense of propriety or deference - a
rare combination indeed."
Mrs. Judith Nemeth, Dean, MST College, London, England
"Shlomo Horwitz did a program for our organisation recently.
His presentation combines charm, wit and Jewish wisdom in a novel and
accessible format, as he assumes the guise of different personalities (or
in our case, in a presentation called "Touched by an Angel",
different angels, an 18th century rabbi, and even an infamous
talmudic sage-turned-heretic). Shlomo's innovative educational approach
both engages and edifies. Invite him once, and you'll want him
back."
Rabbi Rashi Simon, Director, Kesher Kehila, London, England
"Rabbi Horwitz captivated our students with his
well-thought-out and highly structured presentation. He enabled
them to empathise and identify with historical
characters, bringing torah and history to life. His
message came accross clearly and powerfully, and was understood
in a vibrant and deep way. It was a presentation that was both
profound and entertaining and was immensely enjoyed by all."
Ruchama Stern, Jewish Studies Educator, Hasmonean Girls School,
London, England
"Thank you Shlomo for your recent trip to the UK and for your
presentation for seed on the Arab/Israel conflict. It was very well
received. You challenged our audience to think outside of the box and
highlighted the need for a sophisticated response to the issue. All
of this within an entertaining and engaging framework. Thank you and come
again!"
Rabbi Malcolm Herman, Programmes Director, Seed UK, London,
England
"Having attended many talks and lectures, it was fascinating
for the boys at Hasmonean to hear something a little different and Rabbi
Horwitz is exactly that. The way in which he brings to life characters
from the past, Jewish, non-Jewish, religious and non religious, had our
students captivated and all in a style that is more Hollywood than the
Beit Hamidrash, yet the message was just as clear. Rabbi Horwitz brought
together a wide range of sources but enhanced our students understanding
of G-d's role in everything using examples from both the Torah and the
modern day State of Israel. Above all, what makes the talk so outstanding
is the passion behind Rabbi Horwitz's voice as he seeks to educate in a
unique and successful way."
Aaron Djanogly, Informal Education Department, Hasmonean Boys
School, London, England
"It is rare to find a deeply knowledgeable Torah educator who
has the creative courage to break out of the box of conventional teaching
methodologies and convey Jewish insights in a fresh and exciting manner.
Rabbi Shlomo Horwitz is one of this rare breed. His use of role playing
and theater arts to engage his students of all ages is a wonderfully effective
and engaging way to educate, inspire, and motivate. After having seen
Rabbi Horwitz in action, I can whole-heartedly recommend him for almost
any type of audience."
Rabbi Joel Zeff, Rosh Hayeshiva, Ohr Torah Stone
Institutions-Israel
"We were fortunate enough to have Jewish Crossroads open our
students’ minds and hearts in a truly unique way. Even our most
hard-to-reach students were responsive to both the dramatic segment as
well as the follow-up segment."
Rabbi Elchanan Jay Weinbach, Head of School, RTMA JEC High School,
Elizabeth, NJ
"Thank you for your presentation today on Yom Yerushalayim.
Your very real portrayal of Gadi clearly held the attention of our entire
Upper School student body and gave them a real taste of the urgency and
emotion of those days in June, 1967...we are certainly interested in
having you come back and make other presentations here at the
MJBHA."
Rabbi Avi Levitt, Principal, MJ Berman Hebrew Academy of Greater
Washington, Rockville, MD
"We all know about the new worlds that the Internet can open
up for our students - pornography, aggression, and opportunities to meet
shady people and waste valuable time. The Crossroads program “Curse
of Doom educated our students to be more vigilant in using the
Internet and emphasized the importance of safety. The program kept
our students engaged and helped create a shared language among the
students and between students and teachers that is so important when
discussing difficult problems. Curse of Doom is particularly
effective when coupled with a meaningful discussion in class following
the program."
Rabbi Benjy Owen, Dean of Torah Studies, Northwest Yeshiva High
School, Seattle, Washington
"Our students were both entertained and educated by your
stimulating delivery."
Yocheved Feinerman, Student Activities Coordinator, Yeshiva
University High School for Girls, Holliswood NY
"The dialogue with your character forced the girls who wished
to respond to the challenge to think, formulate ideas, draw from their
past knowledge, and articulate responses which were then challenged
again. The girls were clearly engaged. The source material you gave out
near the end was very important. The girls like to see the actual sources
and the illegitimacy of the German's interpretations can only be seen in
context on the actual sources." (Poison
Pens program)
Mrs. Rookie Billet, Principal, Ma'ayanot High School for Girls,
Teaneck, NJ
"I've worked with a lot of creative educators over the years.
When it comes to engaging young people in a way that captures and holds
their attention, and most importantly encourages them to think and grow,
Shlomo is superb."
Shimon Apisdorf, award-winning author, Rosh Hashanah Yom Kippur
Survival Kit
"Shlomo targeted and captured the complex intellectual
and emotional dynamic of each and every Talmid. Utilizing
his unique personality and professional style he combined
Divrei Chazal with entertaining anecdotes as he dramatized
provocative scenes from Tanach. In the process he was able to
accomplish the goal of many educators. He motivated students to think,
analyze, and apply the eternal word of G-d to their own contemporary
world. Students and faculty still fondly recall the great lessons of
truth that Shlomo presented."
Rabbi Zvi Kamenetzky, Fasman Yeshiva High School, Skokie, Illinois
"Shlomo Horwitz presents our youth with the thought provoking
creativity necessary to engage young people, and to stimulate their
development as thinking Jews. Rarely does the Jewish community encounter
simultaneously such innovation and authenticity."
Moshe Bane, Senior Vice President, Orthodox Union
"I found Rabbi Horwitz's presentation (Curse
of Doom) to be thoroughly thought-provoking, entertaining and
extremely educational. The way he wove Navi with the relevant issues
facing our youth today allowed both to come alive and in a very new and
special light. I wholeheartedly recommend any junior high or high school
interested in fostering an open dialogue with their students to avail
themselves of Rabbi Horwitz's presentation."
Rabbi Avraham Stulberger, Principal and Rosh Hayeshiva, Valley
Torah High School, Los Angeles, CA
"'My
name is Abdul Rachman.' With this introduction, Mr. Shlomo Horwitz
from Crossroads began his presentation, giving SKA students and faculty a
glimpse into the mind of a Palestinian-American. Opening their eyes to
the Arab mentality, he presented their arguments and viewpoints regarding
Jews. With the bang of his clapboard, he reverted back to himself, and
proceeded to debunk every argument 'Abdul Rachman' had given for hating
Jews. Finally, he explained how we are the correct guardians over Israel,
as he assumed the role of Rabbi Yehuda HaLevi...the girls were enthralled
by the presentation, asking questions and getting involved. Mr. Horwitz
definitely sparked the girls' interest in his creative, informative and
powerful presentation."
Rabbi Jeff Rothman, Assistant Administrator, SKA/Hebrew
Academy of Long Beach, Five Towns, NY
“You really connect with the children in an amazing way. They walk
away from your talks feeling more challenged intellectually and at the
same time more spiritually, and connected to their Jewish roots. You have
keen insights into various Jewish topics and your honesty and integrity
come forth front and center when you speak.
Rabbi David Finkelstein, Director, Shoresh Youth Organization,
Frederick, MD
"Shlomo Horwitz's programs at Westchester Hebrew High School
were very engaging and stimulating for our students. With 'full
disclosure' ensuring that no one felt duped or misled, Shlomo assumed the
identity of a Jihad activist for one of his sessions. The students were
challenged to understand and clearly present their viewpoint as proud
Jews who identify strongly with Israel. His second program focused on
battling peer pressure. In subsequent classes, teachers were able to
build on those points and flesh them out further. It was an exciting,
educational program that was enjoyed by all."
Dr. Nancy Block, Director of Student Affairs, Westchester Hebrew High
School, Mamaroneck, NY
“Shlomo Horwitz has a genuine gift to teach teenagers about
important issues in a way that they can relate to the issue. Everyone was
extremely impressed with all of the programs that he ran over Shabbos and
I highly recommend the Crossroads Program for every community.
Josh Broide, Youth Director, Boca Raton Synagogue, Boca
Raton, FL
"Thank you so much for your recent visit to Yeshivat Yavneh
and for your captivating and well-presented assemblies to our students.
Both the students and the teachers in attendance were mesmerized during
the informative, yet entertaining talks. The feedback was most positive
and I hope we can have the opportunity for you to speak at our school
again."
Rabbi Moshe Dear, Headmaster, Yavneh Hebrew Academy, Los Angeles,
CA
“Thank you for honoring us with your very thorough and most
fascinating lectures on the Lost Tribes and "Who were Chazal?. Both
the topics and interactive presentation were greatly enjoyed and
appreciated by all.
Mrs. Rivka Segal, Director, Women's Institute of Torah
"Rabbi Horwitz has a knack of captivating an audience by
getting "in character" - children and adults alike are
entranced, and forget they are listening to a dramatization. They follow
Shlomo into the world he has created, and engage with him first-hand at
the level of ideas, emotions and passion. The audience walks away not
with a hum-drum take-it-or-leave-it idea, but with a thought provoking
experience that has now become part of who they are."
Rabbi David Fohrman, Director, Hoffberger Foundation for Torah
Studies
“Thank you very much for your remarkable presentation to the
students. It was a real treat to have you address the students,
especially with your extraordinary style of production, which they
enjoyed immensely.
Rabbi Howard Bald, Principal, Yeshivat Rambam Middle School/High
School, Baltimore, MD
“Your presentation was innovative and original. Our students
walked away not only entertained but also more knowledgeable.
Mrs. Chana Tannenbaum, Director, Shaalvim for Women, Jerusalem,
Israel
“Our students were taken with the information you presented and
personal way you related with them. By developing a character called Gadi
Allon, you have created a means by which to transmit the story of an era
through the eyes of an individual. I am sure that any school that seeks
to further their students' education in this subject area [Paratrooper in
Jerusalem] would be happy to experience this presentation.
Rabbi Joshua Levy, Principal, Torah Academy of Greater
Philadelphia, Ardmore, PA
"Shlomo Horwitz is the featured lead guitarist on my
Baltimore shows and has been my friend since childhood. He has founded a
phenomenal organization which helps Jewish teens get in touch with their
Judaism. Shlomo is not just a guitarist and friend but a creative innovator
who is to be lauded for this work."
Lenny Solomon, Shlock Rock founder
"I want to thank you for your excellent presentation to the
Hebrew Culture Club of Long Island teenagers at the end of their
Washington trip...many of the attendees had never been to a shabbaton and
their knowledge of Judaism for some was minimal. Others are veteran
NCSYers who think they know it all. Both groups of teens agreed this was
one of the best parts of the trip, even though you had the challenge of
being the third speaker of the day. Your creative presentation about
missionary work was captivating and you held their attention throughout
all 3 identities you took for the speech. In our evaluations after the
trip you received the highest score from most of the participants and all
of us look forward to having you join us again at a future event. Thanks
again and continued hatzlacha in all your wonderful work."
Rabbi Jon Green, Regional Director, Long Island NCSY
Shlomo created, conducted and drove a time machine that brought back
his mesmerized audience to a very emotional and special time in our
history. He enabled the adults to vividly remember a very special time
and illustrated that special time to the youth who were born after the
fact. All were moved; all truly grasped the significance and all left the
performance better people."
Rabbi Elly Krimsky, Assistant Rabbi, Beth Sholom
Congregation Potomac, MD
I wanted to thank you for your presentation on Yom Yerushalayim. The
way that you weave first-hand accounts together into one person's words
created a very vivid picture for the students...Your style caught their
attention and gave them a view and appreciation that an ordinary lesson
would not have captured.
Rabbi Mordechai Soskil, Middle School Principal, Beth Tfiloh
Community School, Baltimore, MD
-
|
