Top Secret Ballet – 10.18.10

I had driven past Beit HaOleh several times over the past few weeks. At some point we learned that Beit HaOleh actually offers some services to olim, including activities for children at very reduced prices. Last week, Ester and I decided to stop in and see what information they had. We piled everyone out of the car into the tired looking structure.

Inside, we found a woman at a desk. After telling her the purpose of our visit, she informed us that we needed to meet with Sonia. Unfortunately, Sonia was not in that day. We asked this woman for a pamphlet or brochure or printout or anything that had some information about the activities offered for the children. She told us that we needed to meet with Sonia. Sonia would be in on Sunday.

On Sunday morning, Ester called Beit HaOleh hoping to speak with Sonia. Sure enough, Sonia was in and took the call. Ester asked Sonia if she could fax or e-mail the information about the activities offered. Sonia told her that she needed to meet with her in person. No information shall be transmitted via fax or e-mail. (I'm thinking back to Inspector Gadget and the instructions that would self-destruct).

So today, a visit to Beit HaOleh preempted a visit to Misrad Hapnim and the bank. After all, we needed to meet with Sonia.

I expected to find Sonia situated behind a two-way mirror or similar contraption in order to conceal her true identity. But instead, Sonia was at her desk in the office closest to the entrance of the building. We did not even have to go through any security clearance to enter the office and sit down.

Torah SheBa'al Peh – Sonia told us the information we requested about the activities offered – ballet, theatre, soccer, art, etc. We were allowed to take notes, but no printed material would be distributed under any circumstances. This was Sonia's information, and it was going to stay that way.

It would seem to me to be more efficient to have a pamphlet/brochure available for people. What if Sonia can't make it into work one day? What if Sonia goes on vacation? Sonia cannot go on vacation.

We opted to sign one of our girls up for ballet. She had taken ballet in Florida and was overjoyed to continue her dance lessons. The first class was actually today. So, a little bit later in the afternoon, we returned once more to Beit HaOleh. My daughter did not understand all of the instructions given by the dance teacher, but she followed along well and caught on quickly. She had a great time and is very much looking forward to her next class on Thursday. Thank goodness for Sonia.