At Kibbutz Ramat Rachel, located 820 meters above sea level, where the rolling hills of the Jerusalem pine forest meet the golden Judean desert, is the sprawling Ramat Rachel Hotel, Congress, Events, Sports and Spa complex. This four-star deluxe property is a winning combination of luxurious accommodations, outstanding views of Jerusalem and the Judean hills and extensive facilities.
The hotel has its roots as a hotel built in 1969 by the members of Kibbutz Ramat Rachel to serve groups of Israelis and tourists visiting Israel’s capital city. Today, the Ramat Rachel Resort boasts 164 rooms and an exclusive country club and health spa. A well known archeological site, containing the remains of an ancient fortress and village, serves as the backdrop for modern sculpture. The hotel is completely wheelchair accessible with ramps, wide doors, and specially designed rooms.
Rav Zev Shandalov served as the Rabbi of Congregation Kehilath Jacob Beth Samuel in Chicago, IL from 1999 until making Aliya in July 2009. His experience as being the rabbi of KJBS was unique in that he has grown up in his shul. His memories include, celebrating his Bar Mitvah and Aufruf in that very sanctuary. After making Aliya, Rabbi Shandalov worked in the tourism industry for a year and then returned to his primary love – teaching Torah. He currently teaches many private students, teaches in the local Yeshiva Tichonit and also teaches adult classes in his home.
Prior to becoming rabbi of KJBS in 1999, Rabbi Shandalov worked in private industry since 1981. He received semicha from the Hebrew Theological College in 1981 and his B.A. from Northeastern Illinois University in 1980. Rabbi Shandalov joined the RCA in 1999 and served on the Executive Committee. In addition, he currently he served as the president of the Chicago Rabbinical Council for three years. When asked what he is most proud of having achieved in his position as Rabbi he admits how much he truly loves working in the rabbinate: “Every day presents a new challenge and the goal is always to help others”. He is married to Andy (Shoichet) and has three daughters Daniella (24, married to Benny Rabin), Ayelet (22) and Eliana (19).
January, 2021
Sunday
August 26,2019
Awesome Job!
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