SPRING 2015 EDITION
GettinG AheAd!
How Olim are fulfilling their professional dreams in Israel
Home is where
your hear t is
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LIVING ISRAEL
CO-FOUNDER’s NOTE
NBN Founders: Rabbi Yehoshua Fass and Tony Gelbart.
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elcome to our Spring 2015 edition of Living Israel. In the spirit of Pesach, I want to share a few thoughts with you.
The Talmud instructs us to drink four cups of wine at the Seder commemorating the four different wordings of redemption found in Parshat Vaera: Vehotzeiti (took out), Vehitzalti (saved), Vegaalti (redeemed), Velakachti (took you). However, there is one more reference of redemption, Veheiveiti (brought you) — that should seemingly require us to drink a fifth cup at the Seder. Common practice is to have that fifth cup at the table— but not to drink it, as this cup is famously referred to as the cup of Eliyahu Hanavi. Our commentators explain that although the Jews who were enslaved in Egypt experienced all four stages of redemption, they were punished due to their lack of enthusiasm for the Land and the sin of the Meraglim (spies) that caused them not to enter Israel. Thus, they never experienced a Veheiveiti, coming into the Land of Israel.
as if we had been redeemed. We sing Hallel as if we had witnessed G-d’s miracles. We eat Matzah as if we ourselves had hurried out from slavery. And yes, we also have the same challenge of Veheiveiti— moments after the Exodus— the challenge to experience the longing and enthusiasm to enter Eretz Yisrael. The fifth cup on the table represents the option of Veheiveiti— the very option that the Jews had moments after the Exodus from Egypt. That same option is available to our nation today. As Olim move to Israel and embrace this gift that Hashem has bestowed upon us, it is my fervent hope that soon we will all be drinking that fifth cup. Wishing you and your loved ones a Chag Kasher Ve’Sameach!
The question then is: why do we have the fifth cup on our table at all?
Rabbi Yehoshua Fass
The answer is, on the night of the Seder, we are instructed to reenact the visceral experience so we view ourselves
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Founded in 2002 by Rabbi Yehoshua Fass and Tony Gelbart, Nefesh B’Nefesh in cooperation with the Israeli
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Government and The Jewish Agency for Israel, is dedicated to revitalizing Aliyah from North America and the UK by removing or minimizing the financial, professional, logistical
4 A Day At the Office With New Olim 9 Making My Professional Dreams Come True in Israel
and social obstacles of Aliyah. The support and comprehensive social services provided by
11 How One Oleh is Helping to Transform the Way People Drink Water
Nefesh B’Nefesh to its almost 50,000 newcomers has ensured that over 90% of its Olim have remained in Israel. 1-866-4-ALIYAH info@nbn.org.il www.nbn.org.il
14 From Small Town England to the Government of Israel
16 Meet the Olah Chef Who is Turning Up the Heat on Gourmet Cuisine in Israel
#LiveLoveIsrael
20 Pesach Recipes from More of Israel's Top Olim Chefs living israel Spring 2015 Edition Senior Editor Rachel Sales Sales IMP Group LTD: Gidon Katz Dorit Basal- Einav Ecker Photography Michael Alvarez-Pereyre Design verticalloop.com For all magazine inquiries,
22 36 Hours with a Lone Soldier 24 36 Hours with a Jerusalem Family 26 How to Live Financially Smart in Israel
28 5 Financial Tips Before Making Aliyah
31 How Olim Are Using Their Jobs to Impact Israel
email: LivingIsrael@nbn.org.il If you would like to contribute to our efforts in building Israel one Oleh at a time, contact donate@nbn.org.il or visit nbn.org.il/give
35 5 Ways that Olim Kick Back in Israel 36 Inside 4 Beautiful Olim Homes 40 4 Questions with Tal Brody
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A day at the office with New OLIM How 7 Olim are bringing their skills to the Israeli Workforce
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ince becoming a member of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in 2010, Israel is officially recognized as one of the richest countries in the world. With internationally renowned companies and up-and-coming start-ups, the Israeli work world has become an excellent environment for Olim. The local emphasis on talent rather than past experience makes it possible for driven Olim to break into top companies, rise through the ranks, and take part in developing Israel’s economy.
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Norman Cohen, 61 Previous location: Wesley Hills, New York. Year of Aliyah: 2014. Before Aliyah: Software Engineer, Google. Current Position: Software Engineer, Google Israel. Six months before making Aliyah, Norman Cohen visited Google’s Tel Aviv office to see if there might be an opening for him. But he was advised that it would be easier to find a position once he had actually moved to Israel. In his first few weeks in Israel, Norman continued working on a U.S.-based project remotely, from the Google office in Tel Aviv before he was hired to work for Google Israel full-time. Professional growth is not the only benefit that Olim can expect to find while working in Israel. In addition to contributing a percentage to mandatory pension plans, companies are often familyoriented, providing flexible work hours for parents. Another benefit to working in the Jewish homeland is that Olim no longer need to save their vacation days specifically for the chagim. Instead, companies are closed during these national holidays—and often during chol hamoed too. For many, the Israeli workplace is a home away from home, with coworkers grabbing lunch together, taking part in yoga classes after work, and enjoying “Yom Kef” (staff day) tours throughout Israel. Workplace attire is often casual, with employees wearing jeans and sneakers.
“Working for Google Israel is ideal. Not only is it one of the best employers in Israel, but now I get to live nearby two children and five grandchildren.”
Also, with socialized healthcare available to all and not connected to one’s workplace, entrepreneurs have nothing holding them back from pursuing their passions in the Start-Up Nation. Here are seven Olim who have found extraordinary fulfillment in the workplace— both professionally and personally.
Norman @Google
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Adam @ SundaySky
Zo @WeWork
Aryeh @AutoKing
Zo Flamenbaum, 29
Adam Vinokoor, 32
Aryeh Deverett, 53
Previous location: Atlantic City, New Jersey. Year of Aliyah: 2011. Before Aliyah: Customer Assurance, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa. Current Position: Founder, School of Shine // Works out of WeWork Co-Working Space.
Previous location: Edmonton, Alberta. Year of Aliyah: 2010. Before Aliyah: Communication Coordinator, West Edmonton Mall. Current Position: Content Manager, SundaySky.
Previous location: Toronto, Ontario. Year of Aliyah: 2012. Before Aliyah: President of the Canadian Division, SPAR. Current Position: Founder, AutoKing.
Zo Flamenbaum was tired of getting bogged down by the day-to-day grind. So, she decided to make a change by changing both her life and the lives of others. She founded School of Shine, a community for women who want to focus on the positive aspects of life. “Tel Aviv is a great place to start a business because anything is possible here. The opportunities are endless, whether you create them yourself or bump into someone who wants to work together. There’s not a ‘no’ culture here. Instead, there’s an, ‘Okay, we’ll figure it out’ culture. People create things all the time.”
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With marketing experience from his work at the biggest mall in North America, as well as English language skills, Adam Vinokoor was an attractive job candidate for start-ups. But even while applying for jobs, he continued to build his resume by creating his own website, taking on freelance clients and networking. “It’s never easy to get your first job. But in start-ups, if can get your foot in the door and perform well, you can rise through the ranks quicker than you would in a traditional company.”
An entrepreneur who had previously sold a business in Canada, Aryeh Deverett discovered a business opportunity in the auto repair field in Israel. He launched AutoKing, an auto repair shop in Beit Shemesh, with the goal of bringing American service and technique to Israel. “I came to Israel thinking, ‘What can I do for Israel?’ I wanted to create jobs. So far, I’ve created 11. If you want to be in business anywhere, you have to have perseverance and keep your eye on the ball.”
Talya @Autodesk
Amir @TEVA
Talya Rachel Judovits, 28 Previous location: Livingston, New Jersey. Year of Aliyah: 2008. Before Aliyah: Graduated from Rutgers University. Current Position: Community Manager, Autodesk.
Speak to one of our experienced employment advisors to explore opportunities in Israel’s workforce. Contact employment@nbn.org.il or visit nbn.org.il/workforce
Joshua @ Wix
Amir Wolfe, 48
Joshua Bub, 29
Previous location: St. Louis, Missouri. Year of Aliyah: 2014. Before Aliyah: Associate Medical Director, Monsanto. Current Position: Global Occupational Physician, Teva Pharmaceuticals.
Previous location: Victoria, British Columbia. Year of Aliyah: 2011. Before Aliyah: Graduated from the John Molson School of Business, Concordia University. Current Position: Email Marketer, Wix.
After studying Hebrew at an Ulpan, Talya Judovits sent her resume to Nefesh B’Nefesh’s employment division and was recruited for both her first and second jobs. At each of these offices, Talya made friends and solidified her community.
When Nefesh B’Nefesh sent Amir Wolfe a job description from Teva about a position that was similar to his job in the States, he became set on landing an interview. He let Teva know that he would be in Israel visiting his daughter, and that he would be happy to meet. Two rounds of interviews later, he was hired.
"My workplaces here have been like second homes to me, helping me to read Hebrew documents, giving me pep talks, and encouraging me to have more chutzpah. In Israel, work gets really personal. Your colleagues can become your best friends, and if you're lucky like I was, your family."
“The first step in finding a job in Israel is having a realistic view of what the opportunities are. Then you’ll realize that you can make it— and even grow. But it takes work— no matter where you are.”
After nabbing his position at Wix, one of Israel’s hottest companies, Joshua Bub was pleased that he not only found his daily work interesting. He also enjoyed his company’s perks, including breakfast, soup and sandwiches in the evening; beer on the rooftop; and fantastic parties. “Many Israeli companies give Olim the chance to work at interesting jobs with minimal experience. This is because they’re really looking for character. They want to see that you’ll get along with the team, that you’re hard-working, that you can learn on the go, and that you work well under pressure.”
To see our full photoshoot of Olim in their offices, visit www.nbn.org.il/OlimAtWork
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Making My Professional Dreams Come True in Israel
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or many, making Aliyah is only the beginning of the journey. Pursuing a fulfilling career is the next step to building a life in Israel. For people with innovative ideas, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a little bit of chutzpah, Israel provides the perfect playing field for achievement. Here are the extraordinary stories of a gourmet chef, a marketing genius, and an international media advisor— Olim who, already successful, saw their successes skyrocket in Israel.
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How One Oleh is Helping to Transform the Way People Drink Water
“T
here is no elevator to success, you have to take the stairs,” are the bold words plastered on SodaStream’s front entrance. It’s a Sunday morning, and the marketing department is buzzing. Behind large glass windows, people huddle next to computer screens. Multicolored SodaStream machines, ready to infuse flavored bubbles into any plain glass of water, line almost every ledge.
Barak Orenstein, a soft-spoken 36-year-old, is fully immersed in his work, several open binders strewn across his desk. He’s only been in Israel for eight months, and yet, as SodaStream’s Global Brand Building Communications Manager, he’s already helped create “Water Made Exciting,” SodaStream’s repositioning brand. In the coming months, he’ll be launching a worldwide major ad campaign. With its strip malls and huge parking lots, SodaStream’s Airport City base may look like anytown, North America. But for Barak, the highpaced Israeli start-up culture makes SodaStream vastly different from the Canadian work culture of Barak’s past. But, this was exactly the change that Barak was seeking. He turned down jobs in New York and Paris in order to make his mark in Israel.
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An Israeli Success Story in Canada Born to Israeli parents in Winnipeg, Barak may have grown up 6,000 miles from Israel, but his childhood was filled with Hebrew, Israeli music, Israeli food, and biannual trips to Israel. After graduating from the University of Winnipeg, Barak headed to Israel for two internships at e-commerce companies. “I’ve always had this pull to Israel, and I wanted to explore my roots and get a taste of the ‘Start-Up Nation,’” said Barak. “The dot coms were booming in Israel, and I was able to gain fantastic experience in my field.” Barak returned to business school, and began his career at L’Oreal, where he learned the nuts-and-bolts of marketing luxury and mass products. From there, he entered the world of beverages, and quickly rose through the ranks, working on brand strategy for Absolut Vodka, Badoit Sparkling Water, and Evian Natural Spring Water. At Evian, Barak helped launch the Roller Babies’ viral video, which won a Guinness World Record for most viral video ad of all time.
Barak Meets Michelle, Israeli-style Professionally, Barak was at the height of his career. But, personally, Barak wanted to settle down. At the suggestion of his brother, a Rabbi in Montreal, Barak joined Jdate, and soon after, he met Michelle, also a Canadian born to Israeli parents. The two spent their first date eating hummus and playing matcot (Israeli paddleball). They married in 2012 and Michelle gave birth to their daughter, Eden, in 2013. “We always shared a love of Israel, but we were intent on building a life in Toronto,” said Barak. “Then, after Eden
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was born, we started to think, what kind of childhood did we want her to have? We realized that we wanted her to be exposed to the Jewish holidays and speak Hebrew and enjoy the things about Israel that we’d only experienced from afar.” Having grown up hearing his name mispronounced, Barak also wanted to be in a place where his daughter’s name would no longer be mangled. Barak began looking into job opportunities in Israel, sending his resume to Nefesh B’Nefesh’s employment department and Israeli recruiters. He landed a series of Skype interviews for a marketing position at SodaStream. While on vacation with his family in Orlando, Barak learned that he’d nabbed the job. “We jumped for joy because we knew that it was going to be a life-changing experience for the three of us,” said Barak. “It was going to change the trajectory of our lives.” Two months later, the family of three touched down in Israel and settled into their new home in Kiryat Ono.
Acclimating to Work Amidst War Only a week after landing in Israel, Barak started working at SodaStream. A day later, Operation Protective Edge broke out. Barak soon adapted to running to SodaStream’s bomb shelters, checking in with Michelle and then returning to his office. “Huddling with my co-workers really made me feel like we didn’t just share professional goals— we were all in this together as Jews,” said Barak. The atmosphere at SodaStream is full of energy, and Barak quickly adjusted to people bursting into his door with ideas and listening to his co-workers’ extremely honest opinions. “I’ve learned a lot about business courage— how to take risks, make rapid-fire decisions, and voice my convictions without hesitation,” said Barak. “SodaStream is like a huge playground. We get to have fun, try new things, be creative, and bring things to life.” The company knows how to let loose, too. Since arriving at SodaStream, Barak has attended a SodaStream movie night, celebrated their new factory’s opening in Lehavim, and enjoyed Chanukah by sharing songs and sufganiot with local school children. Barak believes that SodaStream is a worldwide success story. “Irrespective of race, religion, and background, people love our products,” said Barak. “We are changing the way people drink water and helping people live healthier lives.”
I’ve learned a lot about business courage— how to take risks, make rapid-fire decisions, and voice my convictions without hesitation.” Bubbling with Excitement Now almost a year in Israel, the Orensteins have entered into a sweet routine. Michelle works with children with autism, and Eden returns home each day from her gan (daycare) singing Hebrew songs. When not working, the Orensteins explore Israel, visit Barak’s parents in Ashkelon, and take Eden to the Ramat Gan Safari. Barak especially treasures Shabbat in Israel. “It’s a pure family day, when we can just enjoy the peace and quiet that descends on Israel,” said Barak. The couple is also expecting their second child, due in September. When Barak decided to move to Israel and leave the security of his past professional life, people told him he was crazy. But, with talent and determination, Barak was able to find a position that not only advanced his career, but added meaning to his life. “There’s nothing like being able to work for an Israeli-born and -bred company, and make a difference,” he said. “There’s nowhere else we’d rather be. We’re just bubbling with excitement — both in work and in life.”
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From Small Town England to the Government of Israel
O
ne morning, Jason Pearlman found himself sitting around a table with the Prime Minister, a foreign head of state, several journalists, and advisors. As the foreign press liaison in Israel's Government Press Office, this was a typical meeting for him to attend. Yet, Jason was still shocked that this was his everyday life. Having grown up in Sunderland, England, Jason had dreamt of working in the Jewish community. But he had never imagined that he would have the opportunity to play such an active role in history. Then, Jason and his wife, Yael took the first step by making Aliyah.
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A Jewish Activist in England Jewish activism was always in Jason’s blood. His great-grandmother was one of the British delegates to the Zionist Congress in Basel in 1903 and his grandparents had helped establish the Sunderland Jewish community. As a teenager, Jason became involved in Bnei Akiva and soon saw his future in Israel. “My great-grandparents came out of Russia and Poland, and I had the chance to change history and bring my family to live in Israel,” said Jason. “I was once asked what generation British I was. I simply replied… last.” After graduating from Brunel University, Jason became the media director at the Board of Deputies of British Jews, and was involved in creating Holocaust memorials and combatting anti-Semitism in the UK. Later, in the Department of Public Affairs at the Israeli Embassy in London, Jason responded to Israeli boycott attempts and was part of the public relations efforts during the Second Lebanon War. Then, in 2006, Jason, Yael, and their 11-month-old baby boarded Nefesh B’Nefesh’s second flight from the UK, ready to start their lives in Israel.
Overcoming Hardships Only five months after settling into their new home and enrolling in Ulpan, Jason and Yael learned that Yael had lymphoma. “We thought that we would have to go back to the UK. Our parents weren’t here, and we had a baby at home,” said Jason. Jason reached out to a cousin who worked at a London-based hospital in order to get his advice on what they
should do. The hospital’s lymphoma specialist was an Iranian Muslim who immediately said, “Don’t move. Stay where you are. You couldn’t be in a better place than Israel.” In Israel, Yael received life-saving treatment and drugs that were not available in the UK until a few years later. After Yael went into remission, she gave birth to her second child, only to fall ill again. This time the doctors recommended a stem cell transplant to be done at Rambam Hospital in Haifa. Jason said, “We are so thankful for our family and for her good health". Following her recovery, Yael jumped into her new life in Israel. She joined Blue Crown Capital, an independent mortgage consulting and brokerage firm in Israel, where she helps Olim buy property in Israel. She also became involved in her Modi'in shul, hosting kiddushes to welcome new community members. “I always wanted to act upon my Zionism and not just experience Israel from the sidelines,” said Yael. “Sometimes I look around and think, ‘Wow, I made Aliyah.’ I can’t imagine living anywhere else.”
Joining the Government of Israel With both focus and an openness to opportunity, Jason set out to build his career in Israel. While studying at an Ulpan and working part-time at a media analysis organization, Jason learned that there was an opening in the Government Press Office. He networked with people who worked there, completed the application, took the admissions test, and was hired. As a new Oleh, Jason found that the government was a fantastic place to work. “If anyone will welcome you to Israel, it will be the people who have devoted their lives to serving the country’s people,” said Jason.
As the foreign press liaison, Jason worked on the visits of President George Bush, Pope Benedict and Pope Francis, and other key figures visiting Israel from all over the world, and spoke with journalists covering Israel. “So often, the media gets it wrong,” he said. "But there is also a lot of misunderstanding as to how the media works, what the process is, and how the reality that we see here ends up looking so different on the page or television screen. At the end of the day, we must understand how to work with the media, not against it.” After leaving the press office, Jason moved into the corporate world of public relations, but continued to work alongside some of Israel’s most senior government offices, forging a link between the wider world and Israel. With the Tourism Ministry, he helped bring to Israel the Chilean miners who survived the mine collapse and assisted with some of Israel’s biggest tourism conferences and events, including the Jerusalem Marathon. He also worked on issues of employment in Israel’s Arab and ultra-Orthodox communities, as well as on public diplomacy projects to promote Israel’s image around the world. Last year, Jason was hired to work as the foreign media adviser of the Office of the President of Israel. For Jason, the position is a dream come true. “President Rivlin is an incredible figurehead and a true visionary for the future of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state,” said Jason. “The chance to take part in this— even in a small way— is what Aliyah is all about.”
The chance to take part in this—even in a small way—is what Aliyah is all about." 17
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We feel like we really belong here. It’s like marrying the right person. We just feel complete.”
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Meet the Olah Chef Who is Turning Up the Heat on Gourmet Cuisine in Israel O
n a typical day, Zissie Spivak, 29, heads to Machaneh Yehuda, Jerusalem’s outdoor market. Without a shopping list in hand, she loads her cart with whatever catches her eye—red peppers, green herbs, and yellow spices. Israel is her muse, the ingredients are her palette, and cooking is her art. Zissie returns to her apartment in Modi’in and spreads out the ingredients on her island. The sun streams in through the window, and Zissie gets to work.
Dreaming of Israel with No Aliyah Date
Zissie, who is married to Brian Spivak and the mother of two toddlers, has already expanded her business, Chef Zissie, since making Aliyah less than a year ago. This Boston University Culinary School graduate not only serves as a personal chef, creating original menus based on her clients’ tastes, but she also teaches a knifeskills class, helping people become more confident in the kitchen. She’s also cooking up a few groundbreaking business ideas in Israel.
But six months into their new life together in Queens, Zissie experienced an internal crisis. She couldn’t live outside of Israel. “I told Brian, ‘I know that I married the right person, but I need to live in Israel. Every day that I’m not in Israel, I’m not happy.”
Growing up in Boston, Zissie always planned on making Aliyah—that is, until she met Brian. Like Zissie, Brian had spent many of his vacations in Israel. But he never wanted to move there. Zissie was ready to find someone who was more on board with her Aliyah plans, but her sister encouraged her to reconsider. After less than a year of dating, the couple got engaged.
Zissie expected Brian to be frustrated with her. But instead he responded, “Zissie, of course we’re going to live in Israel. Do you think I’d take that away from you?”
The couple created a five-year plan. While working as a consultant for a few start-ups, Brian began to devote his spare time to Aliyah research. He read books about Israeli history and spoke to everyone he could about the upcoming move. “Every single person who I spoke to about our plans either said, ‘You’re so lucky,’ ‘I wish I could do that,’ or ‘I regret not doing that when I was young,’” said Brian. By the time the family of four boarded the Nefesh B’Nefesh flight to Israel in August 2014, Brian was just as excited as Zissie.
Cooking Up a Storm While settling into their apartment in Modi’in, the couple enrolled in Ulpan, and Brian found a job at an American real estate company in Tel Aviv. Zissie relaunched her professional website and soon began receiving inquiries from her New York clients’ friends. “I thought I’d start working in November but it turned out that I was completely booked only three weeks into my Aliyah,” she said.
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Israeli neighbors and friends also started to connect Zissie to their business contacts, and some of their meetings turned into full-fledged business ideas. With an Israeli naturopathic physician, Zissie is working on creating quick and easy recipes for people with different health needs. With partners in the food industry, Zissie is working on a gluten-free line. Zissie also cooks healthy lunches for people in Modi’in, with three-day and five-day plans. Instead of using tons of oil, as is common in Jewish dishes, Zissie adds different herbs and spices to dishes that her clients find delicious. All of her customers have come through word-of-mouth. “In Israel, people are generous with their knowledge and information,” said Zissie. “As soon as they hear I’m a chef, they start connecting me with anyone they know who might be interested.”
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Though Zissie occasionally receives catering requests for big events, she always turns them down. “In my business, I work with my clients individually, getting to know about their tastes and needs in order to create customized meals for each of them,” said Zissie. “Just talking to them and seeing how they react to new tastes makes all the difference.”
In Israel, people are generous with their knowledge and information." With so many business plans in the works, Zissie still makes sure to wrap up each day at 1 PM when she picks up her daughters from gan (daycare). Only after they go to sleep does she resume cooking.
A Life Full of Flavor Between a new job, a burgeoning business, and raising two daughters, the Spivaks have a full plate. But Brian makes time for weekly ice hockey games in Holon and the couple often heads to Tel Aviv for a night out. On Shabbat, the family attends their local shul and joins their new friends for meals. “It’s incredible to have friends from all over the world who live in Israel because of a dream that we all share,” said Brian. Less than a year in Israel, the family is thrilled with their new life. “We feel like we really belong here,” said Zissie. “It’s like marrying the right person. We just feel complete.”
For a delicious Pesach recipe from our gourmet Oleh chef, visit: bit.ly/pesachsoup
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PESACH Recipes from More of Israel's Top Chefs Fresh Fruit Carpaccio with Lemongrass and Chili Glaze and Chocolate Sabayon b y J o s h St e e l e , M a s t e r C h e f F i n a li s t a n d NBN O l e h 2 0 1 4
What's the best part of celebrating Pesach in Israel? During Pesach in Israel, there are hundreds of restaurants with 'special' menus, hundreds of activities, and everyone wishing each other a chag sameach.
FOR THE F r u it C a r p a ccio Selection of fruits of choice 2 mangoes 24 raspberries 4 kiwis 2 pineapples
What's your secret ingredient for Pesach? Most spices are still kosher for Pesach so finding them is very important so that your food can still taste great. Also, there's no reason to not use the myriad of year-round recipes that are perfect and never call for chametz.
Lemongrass and C hili Gl a z e 100g sugar Piece of lemongrass split in half 1 chili, seeds removed 30ml maple syrup 30ml lemon juice 50ml water
C hocol a t e a n d R e d W i n e S a b ay o n 75g sugar 75ml dry red wine 4 yolks 30ml water 18g cocoa powder 30g finely chopped dark chocolate 100ml whipping cream 60g slivered almonds 1 tbsp water 1/2 tsp salt 50g dark chocolate
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I NS T RU C T I O NS
Add all syrup ingredients to a pot, bring to a boil and simmer for 20 minutes and let cool in the pot. Strain and keep in the fridge until ready to serve. Slice the fruit thinly and arrange on serving plates. Cover with cling film and gently pound with a large spatula so there is an even thickness. Manipulate until beautiful. These can be made ahead of time and stacked in the fridge until ready to serve. For the sabayon, whisk the first five ingredients in a metal bowl to blend. Set it over a pot of simmering water, a Bain Marie, and beat until thick until temperature reaches 160째F. Remove from heat, add chocolate and continue whisking until cooked. Whisk cream and fold into mixture and then refrigerate for at least an hour. Mix almonds with water and salt and roast in the oven for 10 minutes at 356째F watching carefully to make sure they are brown and don't burn. To assemble, brush the glaze on the fruit, add 2-3 quenelles of the sabayon and sprinkle with some almonds and shavings of chocolate.
Shortcut Shakshuka J a m i e G e ll e r , J o y of K o s h e r a n d NBN Olah 2012
What’s the best part of celebrating Pesach in Israel? There’s so much to choose from! Just being in Israel, one Seder, traveling and exploring all of Israel with my family and extended family over Chol Hamoed, and the fact that the whole country is celebrating together.
What’s your secret ingredient for Pesach? It’s the same as my secret and favorite ingredients year-round: great quality olive oil and a lots of fresh lemon to finish and brighten almost any dish!
I NGRED I EN T S
1 tbs olive oil 1 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp paprika 1/4 tsp fresh cracked black pepper, plus more for serving 1/8 tsp cayenne or chili flakes, or more to taste 2 (14-ounce) containers Sabra Moroccan Matbucha 6 large eggs 1/2 tsp kosher salt Torn cilantro leaves, for serving
I NS T RU C T I O NS
Preheat oven to 400°F. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add cumin, paprika, black pepper and cayenne, and cook, stirring for 1 minute. Pour in Sabra Moroccan Matbucha and give a quick stir to combine. Using the back of a spoon make a well in the Matbucha and gently crack an egg into the well. Repeat with remaining eggs. Season eggs with salt. Transfer skillet to oven and bake until eggs are just set, 7 to 8 minutes for runny yolk or 9 to 10 minutes for firm yolk. Alternatively cover and poach on the stovetop. Garnish with additional fresh cracked black pepper and sprinkle with cilantro. Serve immediately, hot from the pan and scoop onto plates at the table.
© Yulia Davidovich | Dreamstime.com
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36 Hours with a
Lone Soldier
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or lone soldiers, weekends off base are treasured for catching up on sleep and spending quality time with friends. Asaf Stein, affectionately referred to as “Dr. Golani,” put his academic career on hold to join the Israeli Army’s Golani Brigade after earning his PhD from the University of Alabama. Asaf, who is a 2015 Bonei Zion recipient, is now nearing the end of his army service where he has served as a combat soldier, while living on Kibbutz Ramat Hakovesh. With his trademark positive attitude, Asaf shows us what it’s like to shift from the physically taxing army life to the sweet calmness of the kibbutz.
Thursday 6:00 AM Festive Meal After an all-night operation, we return to our base exhausted and hungry. Luckily, an arucha chagigit (festive meal) is waiting for us as a reward for our hard work. I fill my plate with toasted pita, hummus, hamburgers, and a few types of salad. Then, I head to my room, which I share with seven other guys. I tumble into my bed and fall asleep.
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11:00 AM Army Briefing When I wake up from my nap, I’m feeling more refreshed. I make my bed, organize my area, and shave. Then, my unit has a short meeting with our officer. We review our mission and discuss how we’ll spend the rest of the day. Because I’m 30, my officer is eight years younger than me. Yet I not only respect him, but I also learn a lot from him. I feel very fortunate that my officers have been such impressive people. The other soldiers are great too. They’re very diverse— secular and religious, Ashkenazi, Yemenite, Ethiopian, and Iraqi. I’m the only American, which is great because it forces me to speak Hebrew all the time.
1:30 PM Getting Organized After lunch, we delve even deeper into getting organized and accounting for our weaponry. It’s meticulous but important work. We clean our guns, make sure we have the correct number of night goggles, and return our maps. We’re heading home tomorrow, and everything needs to be secure and locked before we go.
7:00 PM
Team Night There’s nothing left to do before our break, so we have an erev tzevet (a team night). Instead of eating food from the dining hall, we order pizza. We all sit around and joke with one another. The guys turn on the soccer game and start going nuts. Even though I’ve been in Israel for two years, I still don’t care about soccer, so I volunteer to do guard duty. Someone always needs to be guarding the base, and I don’t mind the work. I get into full gear and bring a cup of coffee with me. It’s a nice break
from the intense physical training, and it gives me a chance to think. Sometimes a friend will stop by for a few minutes, but tonight, everyone’s focused on the soccer game.
FRIDAY 6:00 AM Home Sweet Home I’ve already been up for two hours, doing the last bit of organization before we can all head home. When you know you’re going home, it never feels too early or too cold to get up. I’m currently based very close to my home, Kibbutz Ramat Hakovesh. It’s a beautiful kibbutz near Kfar Saba, and one of the oldest in Israel. It’s also home to several other lone soldiers from all over the USA, as well as Hungary and South Africa. I hop on the first bus to Kfar Saba and do some food shopping for the weekend. From there, I take a bus to the kibbutz. When I arrive, it’s still early in the morning. For some guys, it could take most of the day until they get home.
9:00 AM
Exhaustion Hits In the army, you’re always fighting exhaustion. On my days off, I love to relax. First, though, I need to drop off my laundry at the kibbutz’s laundromat. They have a special service for soldiers, in which you can hand in your laundry on Friday and get it back on Saturday night. Then, I head to my room, which is located in a little lone soldier neighborhood. I’ve been living there for a year and a half, and it really feels like home. On my wall hang a few certificates of excellence from the army, as well as a map of Israel. I put stickers on every place I’ve been. I add a few stickers and then fall into a deep sleep.
1:00 PM Exploring Israel A few weeks ago, I told my kibbutz father about the amazing views that I see while riding home from my new base. Today, he has planned to drive me to Salit, a community nearby, to see some other incredible views. We hop in his car and drive east. As we ascend the mountain, he tells me about the history of the area. My kibbutz father grew up in Israel and fought in the Six Day War and the Yom Kippur War. His story is the history of the State of Israel, and seeing the country with him is like having a private tour guide. We park the car and follow the trail until we reach the edge of the ridgeline. We look out and see the entire Sharon plain and all of the coastal cities— Hadera, Netanya, Caesarea, and even Tel Aviv.
7:00 PM Shabbat Dinner with Family After relaxing for a few hours on my front porch, I head to my kibbutz family’s home for Shabbat dinner. My kibbutz mom oversees the lone soldiers on the kibbutz, and she’s always trying to help me out. In the winter, she bought me socks and warm clothing— even after I told her it wasn’t necessary. When I was sick, she made me soup. When I’m home for the weekend, she bakes cookies for me to bring back to the base. So, I’m pretty popular with the other soldiers— at least on Sundays. My kibbutz parents’ children and grandchildren live nearby and join us for Shabbat dinner, too. My kibbutz mom makes Hungarian goulash, one of her specialities. After dinner, we drink coffee and talk. When I’m ready to go, my kibbutz mom sends me home with a few boxes of leftovers. I kick back a few beers with friends, breathe in the fresh air, and turn in for the night.
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Explore the different communities in Israel to find the right fit for you. Contact prealiyah@nbn.org.il or visit nbnb.org.il/community
36 Hours in
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or families in Jerusalem, the end of the week is a time full of socializing, preparing for Shabbat, and basking in beautiful moments of togetherness. After moving to Israel from Riverdale, New York, Deena and Jonathan Pulitzer show us what it’s like to transition from the bustle of the work week to the peacefulness of Shabbat.
Thursday 6:15 AM Shacharit and School Jonathan heads to our shul for Shacharit. When he returns, he takes our daughter to her gan, which is right next door, and then drives to his office in Tel Aviv. He works for a multinational company as a senior director for the corporate venture capital division. I take our six-yearold to her school in Katamon before heading off to the Israel Democracy Institute, where I work as the Director of Development. Our nanny is at home with our baby.
9:00 AM Busy at Work Jonathan’s morning is off to a busy start. The first order of the day is a meeting with a local start-up. He learns about the company’s work in order to determine if there is an investment opportunity. Then, Jonathan meets with a new Oleh, who is looking for career advice. In my Talbiyeh office, I return to my tasks from the previous day— working with the Institute's scholars to disseminate our message to a
broader public, while cultivating donor relationships and facilitating the grant writing and donor communications process.
moshav outside of Jerusalem. Half the restaurant is enclosed in glass and looks out onto a green garden with a waterfall.
4:15 PM
1:00 PM
Gymnastics & Art
Family TIME
Thanks to my organization’s flexible hours for parents, I am able to pick up our daughter from her gan. Our other daughter is part of a carpool. Thursday is their day for chugim (after school activities). For our older daughter, there’s gymnastics in Katamon. Our younger daughter attends an art chug that’s taught in English.
My parents live in the German Colony, and every Friday afternoon, the whole family gathers at their place. My siblings, Jonathan, and I sit around and talk, while the cousins play together.
7:00 PM Cooking for Shabbat Jonathan works late on Thursday nights, so I start cooking for Shabbat. Because we both work full-time, we aren’t able to go food shopping ourselves. Luckily tons of stores deliver now—including Mizrahi B’Shuk, a fantastic green grocer in Machaneh Yehuda Market. It will be just us for Friday night dinner, and we’ll have guests for Shabbat lunch. After I finish cooking, I spend a few more hours working and corresponding with my colleagues in the States.
Friday 8:30 AM Breakfast in Beit Zeit
5:00 PM Kabbalat Shabbat The shul in our complex is a mix of young and old, families and singles, and Olim and native Israelis. Jonathan takes the girls to Kabbalat Shabbat. There’s a playground right next door, where they play with their friends. When they return home, the baby is already sleeping and Jonathan and the girls sit on the couch and review the parsha together. They read stories from two books—Tell Me The Story of the Parsha, which is in English, and then Mifgash Shabbat, which is in Hebrew. They also discuss a parsha worksheet that my daughter received at school.
6:30 PM Shabbat Dinner Shabbat dinner is simple. We sing a few zmirot and bench out loud with the girls. Shabbat is all about spending time as a family. There’s nothing else like it.
On Friday mornings, it’s an unspoken tradition for couples to go out for breakfast, while their children are at school. We head to Derech HaGefen, a beautiful dairy cafe in Beit Zeit, a
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How to Live
Financially Smart in Israel LIVING WITHIN YOUR MEANS Because most Olim come to Israel without jobs lined up, creating a budget is crucial. Though Olim receive a sal klitah, a financial package from the Israeli government, it isn’t enough to sustain a family during their first few months in Israel. In the beginning, Olim will need to dip into their savings. Labinsky recommends that Olim put together a budget both before making Aliyah and after making Aliyah in order to track their expenses and make sure they aren’t spending more than they mean to.
W
hat’s the biggest concern that people face before making Aliyah? According to Baruch Labinsky, a financial planner and the author of A Financial Guide to Aliyah and Life in Israel, it’s finding a job that is both suitable for them and that enables them to afford to live in Israel. Another related concern, he said, is adjusting to a new financial culture. “I always recommend that new Olim take a step back, look at their current financial situation, and try to project how it’s going to change,” said Labinsky. While acclimating to a new culture will take time, Olim can prepare for Aliyah by making sure they understand their spending habits and needs and by gaining a basic understanding of Israel’s financial system.
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“While moving to a new country, you end up with a lot of extra expenses—a new home, a new car, and tutoring for your kids,” said Labinsky. “Putting together a budget can help Olim make proper decisions and learn how to live within their means again.” For new Olim, the main challenge is often making the switch from an American lifestyle to an Israeli lifestyle. “Sometimes people will say, ‘I can’t make it in Israel,’ said Personal Finance Consultant Rifka Lebowitz, who runs the "Living Financially Smarter in Israel" Facebook group. “But a native-born Israeli family can make it with the same salary.” One small adjustment that can make a big difference is buying Israeli food products instead of American ones. Also, while many American households can subsist with only one working parent, most Israeli households require two working parents. Understanding how to make these changes in Israel takes time. “Everyone wants to be able to integrate into a new society and support themselves,” said Labinsky. “Budgeting is an iterative process, and if you keep track of it, you’ll get the proper feedback you need to make good decisions.”
SAVING FOR THE FUTURE
GETTING PROFESSIONAL ASSISTANCE
In addition to mastering day-to-day financial planning, Olim will want to ensure that they are planning for the future, too. Fortunately, a portion of Israeli employees’ monthly salaries goes to Israel’s National Insurance, which covers health insurance, old-age pension, disability pension, unemployment, and a range of other services. All companies in Israel are also required to make a monthly pension contribution for their employees’ retirement. Additionally, many companies contribute monthly percentages to another savings plans called Keren Hishtalmut, which becomes available every six years and is tax-free in Israel. Self-employed individuals can set up these savings plans for themselves with special tax benefits.
Goldstein met with a couple in their early 50s, who had recently made Aliyah and wanted to buy property in Israel. They planned to take money from their IRA and 401K— which would have cost them a penalty because they were younger than the mandated age of 59.5. “We stopped them from making that mistake,” said Goldstein. “We found more creative ways for them to purchase property, first advising them to wait and rent, and then to take out a mortgage when the time was right.”
In Israel, 17.5% to 28% percent of one’s salary goes to one’s savings each month, as compared to less than 5% in the US. According to Labinsky, this is why the average Israeli is able to have financial stability once they retire. While some Olim choose to set up supplementary savings plans in Israel through their banks or the Israeli stock market, many maintain their investments in their home country. Douglas Goldstein, a Certified Financial Planner who has written books about financial planning in Israel, says that Olim need not transfer all of their money to Israeli banks. Sometimes Olim find that American banks won’t allow them to maintain their investments with an overseas address. Goldstein recommends finding an American brokerage firm in Israel that can help manage these dilemmas.
FILING YOUR TAXES For most Olim, Tax Day will still only strike once. In Israel, taxes are deducted from one’s paycheck each month. However, self-employed people will need to file their Israeli tax returns in June. Labinsky recommends hiring an American accountant working in Israel, who understands the nuances of both countries’ tax laws.
For new Olim who are juggling a new language, a new culture, and a new career, getting financial guidance from professionals is crucial. Labinsky advises building a relationship with one’s banker too. “Go in and ask questions and find the best way that the system can work for you,” he said.
NOT SETTLING Understanding Israel’s financial culture is challenging, but it shouldn’t be demoralizing. “A lot of times, people just accept their wages and their jobs,” said Lebowitz. “If you want to make more than you’re making, don’t just accept how things are. Over time, be sure to make connections, move up the ladder, and ask your company for a Keren Hishtalmut.” Part of the Aliyah process is learning how to be more Israeli. In learning to live financially smart in Israel, Olim need not hold back from demanding answers and dreaming big. “There’s a fine line between being too scared to make Aliyah because of money concerns and feeling like you need to be realistic about things. But you can do this,” said Lebowitz. “We’re living here. We’re making it here. You can too.”
Ready to start financially planning for Aliyah? Speak to an NBN Aliyah Advisor to get your questions answers. Contact prealiyah@nbn.org.il or visit nbn.org.il/finances
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5 Financial Tips Before Making Aliyah Don’t let financial concerns hold you back from fulfilling your dreams. Get your finances— and expectations— in order. Here are five tips that will help you come to Israel financially prepared:
1. Research Your Future Salary Whether you’re planning to continue working in your field, or make a career switch, it’s best to check out the range of salaries you can expect. Nefesh B’Nefesh’s website provides information on salaries in diverse fields.
Should you bring all of your money to Israel? Should you keep your investments where they are? Be sure to discuss these questions with an investment advisor.
3. Create a Budget for Israel 2. Be Aware of Your Start-UP Costs Moving to a new country means that you’ll need to make a lot of big purchases—from furniture to major appliances to a car. Make sure you account for these costs before you leave.
4. Get Professional Advice
Living expenses will vary depending on where you live, where you work, and the size of your household. Check out Nefesh B’Nefesh’s sample monthly budgets and tweak them according to your needs.
5. Speak to Israeli Friends In Israel, people are a lot more open about their finances, often discussing their salaries and rents with people they've just met. So, don’t hold back. Ask your Israeli friends to tell you what you can expect.
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How Olim Are Using Their Jobs to Impact Israel
I
n Israel, volunteerism is a core part of the culture. Israeli children spend many hours each week involved in community projects through their youth groups. Through the army or Sherut Leumi, young adults dedicate a few years of their lives to serving the country. In Israel’s diverse and dynamic nonprofit sector, people continue to make a difference through their work. New Olim, who come to Israel with passion, drive, and the desire to contribute to Israeli society, find themselves making a bigger impact than they ever imagined possible. Here are four Olim who dreamt of making Israel a better place— and then got to work.
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Joseph Gitler Chairman and Founder of Leket “The can-do spirit of Israel permeates Leket. We saw there was a need for our work, so we said, let’s get our hands dirty and make this a reality.” While living in Ra’anana and working in the hi-tech sector, Joseph Gitler began noticing unmet poverty in Israel. From corporate cafeterias to big events, there was a bounty of leftover food that was not reaching the people who needed it most. In 2003, Leket started as a one-man operation with Gitler picking up food from smachot (events) and redistributing it. Twelve years later, Leket is an integral part of Israel’s feeding infrastructure. With the help of a staff and over 55,000 volunteers, Leket feeds over 100,000 Israelis each week.
Lisa Mensh Occupational Therapist at Tel Hashomer Hospital “When people are injured in Israel, I don’t need to feel helpless. I can actually make a difference by helping them begin the recovery process.”
We saw there was a need for our work, so we said, let’s get our hands dirty and make this a reality." 34
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As an occupational therapist in Florida, Lisa Mensh did not love her work. Then she was hired to work in the hand surgical unit at Tel Hashomer Hospital, and her position became more meaningful than ever before. Mensh reads about wounded soldiers and car accident victims in the news and then has the opportunity to treat them as her patients. She makes splints and helps her patients start moving— encouraging them to work past their pain, heal, and return to daily life.
Debbie Niderberg Co-Founder and Executive Director of Hidden Sparks “It would be unimaginable to me to be involved in a successful educational program in the US and not bring it to Israel when it could be of so much value here. There's a reason why I traveled this path. Education is the contribution that I can make". As a Co-Founder of Hidden Sparks, a nonprofit organization that trains teachers to support diverse students in the classroom, Debbie Niderberg has helped impact more than 1,400 teachers and 15,050 students in the US. After making Aliyah in 2009, Niderberg decided to bring their work to Israel. In partnership with Agudah L’Kidum Chinuch, Hidden Sparks launched its program in three Israeli schools in 2014 and plans to expand to six schools in 2015. By giving teachers strategies to work with students with diverse learning needs and training school-based mentors, Niderberg hopes to transform the Israeli classroom experience for teachers and students.
Arie Hasit Acting Rabbi of Noar Masorti “There are a lot of disenfranchised Israelis who haven’t yet found an approach to Judaism that is meaningful to them. I want to be involved in helping them bring that meaning to their lives.”
Looking to launch a meaningful career in Israel? Contact employment@nbn.org.il or visit nbn.org.il/inspiration
As a student at Harvard, Arie Hasit was friends with Mark Zuckerberg and the fourth person to register for Facebook. But Arie took a different path. After writing his senior thesis on politics and identity in Israeli hip hop, Arie followed his passion and headed to Israel. Arie served in the Israeli Army, and then enrolled in the Schechter Institute’s Rabbinical Seminary. Today, he is the Acting Rabbi of Noar Masorti, the Masorti youth movement in Israel. Through his work, Arie works with hundreds of young people, studying Jewish texts, discussing religious questions, and most of all, supporting them in incorporating Jewish values into their everyday lives.
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Israel. A new destination. Your new destiny. start here:
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5 Ways that Olim
Kick Back in Israel I
sraelis work hard, and they play hard too. Between dance and music festivals, wine tastings, theater, museum exhibitions, national parks, and gallery openings, there are endless opportunities for socializing, entertainment, and personal enrichment. English-language events are held throughout the country, too, with Nefesh B’Nefesh alone running over 100 each year. Check out the top 5 ways that Olim let loose:
Israel’s good weather lasts for more than half the year, which means that there is ample time for outdoor festivals of every kind— from culinary to music to spiritual to dance. The Israeli Wine Tasting Festival, which takes place at the Israel Museum, comes right in time for the chagim and features a wide selection of kosher wine. During the Sounds of the Old City Festival, Israeli bands dot the ancient quarters, spilling local tunes into every inch of the holy city. Also, don’t miss the Karmiel Dance Festival, which brings 5,000 Israeli and international dancers to Karmiel for 80 performances.
2. Concerts Last year, top artists, like Justin Timberlake and Neil Young, flocked to Israel. Israel also saw dozens of other concerts of all genres, including Hasidic, classical and jazz. With exuberant crowds and top-notch security, performers know that in Israel, they’ll receive a warm welcome and always feel safe.
3. Nature Whether you love rolling hills or desert dunes, Israel has it all— and each is only a short drive away. Immerse yourself in Israel’s nature, hiking one
of Israel’s rugged trails, riding the Mediterranean waves, or picnicking in the park. Families with children love Israel’s ubiquitous playgrounds, which often feature massive and colorful jungle gyms.
4. Marathons For Jewish runners, there’s no better adrenaline rush than when you’re running alongside thousands of other Jewish people, with the Old City’s Walls behind you. Marathons in Israel not only take runners through paths steeped in ancient and modern history, but they also provide a wonderful way for locals to raise money for organizations that they support. Looking for a shorter run with some added fun to keep you pepped? Check out the Color Run, where you’ll be sprayed with colored powder when you least expect it!
© Israeltourism | Flickr.com
1. Festivals
5. Cultural Events From theater to museums to film festivals to lectures, Israel offers ample opportunity for art enthusiasts. Head to the Cameri Theater for a professional production with English subtitles, learn about Israeli history at some of the best museums in the world, catch the latest films at the Haifa International Film Festival, and join an intimate parlor meeting with an Israeli politician.
Join an NBN event near you or attend an online webinar. For the full events schedule, visit nbn.org.il/calendar
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Inside 4 Beautiful Olim Homes
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or new Olim, getting settled in Israel not only involves finding a house. It also means turning that house into a home. Many Olim create that homey atmosphere by merging the style of their past homes with Israeli designs, which may include American furniture coupled with Jerusalem stone. Jessica Gertel, an interior designer and Olah, recommends adding warmth, color, and texture to create a cozy feel. “Sometimes very small changes can make a large impact,� she said. Four Olim families opened the doors of their homes to show us how they created living spaces they love in the country they love.
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Ron and Nina Jerusalem What inspired you in designing your home? We made the decision to bring what we loved to Israel, including the desk where my father wrote as a journalist for The New York Times. We also knew that we would want to continue gardening, so we found an apartment that opens up to a terrace on all sides. There, we plant all kinds of fruit trees— kumquat, olive, and lemon— and enjoy getting to know Israel’s horticulture. How does it feel to make a home in Israel? It’s been an absolutely wonderful experience. Most of our grandchildren and great-grandchildren are here, and our apartment has become a hub for all of them.
Doug and Linda Rosh Pina, Upper Galilee What inspired you in designing your home? We had been living in a 100-year-old colonial house in the States, and our home in Rosh Pina is also a 100-yearold historic house. We love old houses because they have character. Our new home originally had three separate pavilions, including a barn. So, when we renovated the home, we connected the spaces, turned the barn into my studio, and merged the old with the new. How does it feel to make a home in Israel? We feel at home. We moved to Israel to live a full Jewish life, connected to the land and the chagim. Building a home in Israel made our decision feel more permanent. Why did you choose to live in Northern Israel? We think it’s the most beautiful part of Israel, and because both of us telecommute, we knew that we could live anywhere. We had spent vacations in Rosh Pina since 2004, and we just fell in love with the place and the community.
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Shlomo and Zehavit Efrat What inspired you in designing your home? We wanted to integrate the design and architecture that we loved from our lives in the US and Canada into our new home in Israel. Our large windows capture the beautiful Judaean landscape, while the carpeting in our home creates a cozy feeling for our children. How does it feel to make a home in Israel? Building a home in Israel was a work of love. We not only wanted to create a comfortable living space for our family in Israel, but we also wanted to beautify Israel.
Discover all you need to know about finding your home in Israel. Contact prealiyah@nbn.org.il or visit nbn.org.il/homes
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Eric and TamAR Even Shmuel, Southern Israel What inspired you in designing your home? We knew we wanted an open layout so that the family could be together all the time. We also chose to paint the rooms different colors— orange, blue, yellow, teal, and purple. Colors are bright and cheery, and they make people happy. How does it feel to make a home in Israel? Growing up in Jewish day school and camp in America, we were taught that the ultimate goal was to move to Israel. To actually be able to achieve that goal is unbelievable. We look around and think, ‘Wow, we did this.’ Why did you choose to live in Southern Israel? We were looking to move to a Hebrew-speaking environment, and we liked that Even Shmuel was a religious community that was just starting up. We felt like we could make our mark. Also, Even Shmuel is only an hour drive from the airport, which was important to us because Eric travels to the US every month.
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4 Questions with Tal Brody A
n American-Israeli basketball player who left the NBA to join Maccabi Tel Aviv, Tal Brody led his team to win the European Cup Basketball Championship in 1977. Today, he is a Goodwill Ambassador of Israel and the recipient of the Bonei Zion Lifetime Achievement Award.
1. You first came to Israel to play basketball. What made you decide to give up a spot in the NBA and to build a life in Israel? In 1965, I was picked 13th in the NBA draft, but the NBA was different at that time. I joined the Baltimore Bullets— now the Washington Wizards— as a guard, and I thought the team was overloaded with guards. So, when I had the chance to play in the Maccabiah Games, I believed it was a great opportunity. Afterwards, the managers of Maccabi Tel Aviv asked me to join the team. They thought I could take the team to a different level, give the team encouragement, and change Israel’s attitude toward basketball. The challenge was appealing, and I decided to take a year out of my life to play in Israel. After we made it to the last round of the European Champion and I saw what basketball was doing for morale in Israel, I chose to stay.
© Government Press Office | Photo: Sa'ar Ya'acov | Flickr.com
2. What were some of the highlights of being a professional basketball player in Israel?
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When I first started playing, the country was going through a very tough time with the Six Day War, the Arab boycott, and a serious recession. I saw that basketball was bringing smiles to people’s faces and that the Prime Minister and Minister of Defense began attending games. We kept winning in countries behind the Iron Curtain and in Western Europe, and I saw what these victories meant for Jews around the world. As a basketball player in Israel, I felt like I was a part of history.
3. How did you feel about bringing the European Cup Championship to Israel with Maccabi Tel Aviv? Ten years after making it to the final round of the championship, we won the European Cup Championship. Winning was a realization of a dream and the reason why I had first decided to play basketball in Israel.
4. What are your goals as a Goodwill Ambassador of Israel? My goals are to tell people in the US and Canada what Israel is really like— what my daily life is like and why I came to Israel and stayed. I want to share Israel’s achievements and Israel’s active sports life. I answer questions about Israel’s security situation and explain that my wife, children, and grandchildren feel safe in Israel.
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