New Beginnings

by Ryan Nadel
http://www.jpost.com
September 7, 2006

The dreams of 230 new immigrants came true as they landed in 
Israel yesterday afternoon. The Nefesh B'Nefesh aliya organization 
flight, in conjunction with the Jewish Agency, brought a unique 
mixture of new immigrants to Israel. "This flight was mainly made up 
of singles and retirees," said Yael Katsman, director of communications 
for Nefesh B'Nefesh. The group of newcomers consisted of immigrants 
from Canada and over 20 states in the United States. 

The recent war with Lebanon did not appear to dissuade participation. 
"Our expectations were right on course. Our numbers were not 
affected," remarked Katsman. Among the new olim, The Jerusalem 
Post here profiles three participants. Their experiences as they settle 
in Israel will be documented in an ongoing series, New Beginnings, 
which will appear on our pages in the next few months. 

David Levy 

Age : 27
New location: Tel Aviv
Occupation: Advertising 

David first came to Israel to study at Tel Aviv University at the age of 
24. During his year of study he decided to extend his stay and 
do his Master's degree in Middle Eastern History in Israel. 

"There's something about this place. It's the energy," explained 
David, about what kept him here and inspired him to eventually 
make aliya. 

"Everyone knows that Tel Aviv has the most beautiful women. 
It's the best place for singles, and I love the night life. But not having 
any family here is a little rough," he added. 

David said that the recent war strengthened his commitment to 
make aliya. 

"Whoever wants to come will come regardless. You know what you 
are getting in to." 

Azriel, Doreen, and Zohar From 

Ages: 27 (son Zohar: 21 months)
New location: Moshav Gimzo
Occupation: Azriel - architect, Doreen - social worker 

"This was the right time for us to come, both as a family and in our 
careers," explained Azriel, regarding his family's decision to make 
aliya now. "Our son is almost two years old. My wife and I now have 
some career experience. It made sense to move now," he added. 
Both Azriel and Doreen spent two years studying in Israel after high 
school. "Since studying here, we knew we wanted to live here," 
said Azriel. They chose to come at this time to coincide with the 
Jewish New Year "In my mind, this is a time of new beginnings, 
a time to embark on new areas of life," he said. 

Nicole Vahlkamp 

Age: 22
New location: Tel Aviv
Occupation: MBA student at Tel Aviv University 

Nicole's regular visits to Israel while she was in high school sparked 
her love of the country. A visit during the second Intifada affirmed to 
her the need for Jews to support Israel by visiting and living here. 

"This is not just a country to visit during the good times. I want to be 
here for all of it, for the good times and the bad times," said Nicole. 

Nicole chose to express her dedication and ideological support of 
Israel by making aliya and continuing her studies here. 

Though Nicole does have an Israeli boyfriend, she made her decision 
to move here independently, and said that having the support of her 
boyfriend and his family makes the move a lot easier.