Today almost 352 new immigrants simultaneously arrived in Israel from New York and Toronto.  I have just returned from JFK International Airport where I was able to say good bye to the 217 olim from the U.S.  This is the first time ever that three flights of olim (including one from London) landed at the same time in Israel. 

At JFK, the olim were pleased to find in addition to the NBN staff, two of their Shlichim (Akiva Werber and I) as well as two employees (Elie Klein and Jaclyn Mishal) were present and available to help tackle any last minute obstacles.  Jeanette Fridman helped to assist the press by interviewing many of the olim.  Shoulder bags (which were sent from Israel) where given to olim as a gift from the Jewish Agency.  

In spite of the situation in Israel, the olim were excited that their dream to move to Israel is finally becoming a reality.  Many of the olim expressed their excitement to the press.  A formal goodbye took place at a Farewell Ceremony.  During the ceremony, everyone enjoyed cake and refreshments.  

Faith Devorah Segal and Yehuda Forte, a Home and Together volunteer, flew with the olim on behalf of the Jewish Agency. Throughout the flight, they were available to assist the olim with last minute emergencies and offer information about programs in Israel.

The farewell ceremony, organized and conducted by Nefesh B' Nefesh, included the following VIPs:  Daniel Liwerant, Co-Chairman Aliyah and Klitah Committee, Jewish Agency Board of governors; Daniel Ayalon the Israeli Embassador to the United States; Moshe Vigdor the Executive Director of the Jewish Agency, Meir Nitzan, Head of Delegation of North America, Jewish Agency for   Israel; Russell F. Robinson Chief Executive Officer Jewish National Fund; Rabbi Marcelo Julio Rittner, Chief conservative Rabbi, Mexico; Dr. Stephen Kutner, Medical Director of (JHI) Jewish Healthcare International; Tony Gelbart & Rabbi Joshua Fass, Co-Founders, Nefesh B'Nefesh.

In response to our Press Release and cycle of advertisements (printed by the Jewish Agency), several Journalist arrived at the airport to cover the story. Additionally, we assisted several journalists which joined our Canadian flight on behalf of the Jewish Agency. Press Kits were given to all of the journalists (those on the flight as well as those just covering the departure).  The journalists in Israel are currently being further assisted by Michael Jankelowitz for briefings and special Jewish Agency tours.  David Karp took professional photos and sent them in a timely manner to all of the relevant media. A special team recorded the entire event to complete a program for the Israeli Television Network.     

Overall yesterday's flight departure from JFK was successful.  Dina Gidron has reported a successful departure from Toronto as well.  I want to thank my partners NBN, those at the airport, as well as all of the employees and shlichim of the North American and Israel offices for the wonderful work and effort they invested in preparation for these Aliyah chartered flights. 

Reported by Michael Landsberg