An English woman leaves her native land, becomes a convert and moves to Israel. Though single, she adopts two children from a foreign country, brings them to Israel and has them converted. Ilan Shachar tells her tragic story in “Dilemma,” where we learn that all does not end happily ever after, since this is not a fairy tale but real life.

Rabbi Michael Melchior is a man with an optimistic view of the future of Judaism, despite the differing approaches of its various streams. In an article written by Carol Novis, we get a refreshing insight into the life of this remarkable man. Formerly of Denmark, Rabbi Melchior came on aliyah in 1986 and has devoted himself solely to humanitarian issues. His quiet, unpretentious manner, belies his considerable accomplishments. Rabbi Melchior has served with distinction as a member of the Knesset and on the boards of many prestigious organizations.

Born in South Africa Hymie worked in the family store and in 1945 married Rose. They followed their children to Israel in 1981. A sports lover, Hymie especially enjoyed playing bowls. Always very modest and helpful to all he became active in ESRA, was on the executive committee and served as treasurer.

UK born and a tailor all his life, Nat and his wife Freda followed their 2 children to Israel settling in Raanana in 1986. Nat continued to work as a tailor in Israel finally setting up a workroom in his own home.

Israel Trakeniski, for 15 years in Israel, an economist, has volunteered at the ESRA Techushons where he works with special needs children. His other voluntary work includes working with ambulance teams, teaching for Magen David Adom and teaching scuba diving to youth at risk.

Born in the UK "with a pencil" in his mouth Denis Shifrin is known to ESRA readers as our "in house" illustrator. With Habonim, art school and marriage in the UK Denis came on aliyah in 1948. A founder of Kfar Hanassi he then worked in printing and publishing - founding his own advertising and publishing company. He also worked for the Mossad for more than a decade.Now in his retirement Denis sculpts wooden kinetic miniatures as well as illustrates for ESRA and other publications.

With an engineering degree from Manchester University and his love of flying Mike Gal had the ideal background and the desire to help Israel. Smuggled in to Israel in 1947, his flying abilities were well used and he also helped establish the countries first commercial airline. In the 1960's he had a change of career - he became the first native English speaking guide in the country and with his wife Bracha established their own tour firm. He guided many interesting and famous people on their visits to Israel.

In 1959 at the age of 28 Rosemary Levin was injured in a car crash in Rhodesia – now Zimbabwe - where she lived with her husband and young family. With much rehabilitation and help she lived a full life with her husband and family. In 2009 she entered the Guinness Book of records as the longest living quadriplegic.