From the Desk of Yossi Garr

Dear Parents,

Although we are thousands of miles away from where the main events of last night took place, the excitement surrounding the US. elections was felt very intensely here in Israel. There was something very moviang about watching the Nativ students, most of whom had just voted for the first time, take the entire election process so seriously. Over the past few weeks, we have watched as the absentee ballots were delivered to the office. Some were sent back in the mail while others were taken to the United States Consulate down the street.

In preparation for last nights election, a committee of Nativers was formed to prepare what was to be an exciting evening for all. At 1:30 in the morning, Israel time, Nativers started to gather in one of the social halls at Beit Nativ. A large screen was set up in order to allow the American news to be broadcasted for all to see. The hall was decorated with red, white and blue balloons and posters with facts about each of the Presidential candidates. Snacks and caffeinated drinks were served to help keep everyone alert. As the 2 a.m. hour approached (7 p.m. on the East Coast), the excitement in the room grew and the first exit polls were released. A special game of Jeopardy was played by the Nativers to test their knowledge of the candidates in this election, and election "rap songs" were written and performed to help us through the long night. Throughout the night as each of the states were called, Nativers cheered or were disappointed to see if their state voted the way they hoped. As the 6 a.m. hour approached, the room began to really fill up and the excitement of the evening hit new heights. During the last hour of the elections, the Nativers enjoyed a traditional American bagels and lox breakfast, and the anticipation of the impending results continued to grow. When the new President was finally announced, cheers, happy tears and clapping filled the room, while offers of condolence were given to those whose candidate did not win.

It was very special watching a group of young adults get so enthusiastic and passionate about one of the most important aspects of a democratic society – elections. The seriousness in which they followed the events of the night and the excitement of the process was something we can all be proud of.

Now that the U.S. elections are over, we will start focusing on the next two big elections ahead of us; the Israeli municipal elections next week, and the general elections for the Israeli Knesset that will be held on Feb. 10. There is no doubt that the next few months will prove to be very exciting on many levels.

Yossi Garr
Director, Nativ