Jason and I met in Ulpan Etzion almost five years ago. Both he and Tahg
became good friends of mine, helping me out with hebrew homework and strongly motivating me to keep fit! I'd go jogging with them on a regular basis. Its hard to believe that such a wonderful, sweet and caring person has left this world at such a young age.
My prayers are with Jason's family.
May he always be remembered.

Gabi (Levine) Link - (Efrat)
gabriellelink@hotmail.com

Douglas M. Baron

Tahg - Thanks for forwarding the memorial web site to me. The outpouring from friends and family alike are testimony to the fact that Jason was a person who possessed great character - something I sensed from viewing the pictures on your web site. You or whoever created the memorial page should be proud because you permitted a community of friends, family and innocent bystanders an avenue to mourn the loss of a powerful, caring and adventurous soul - one worthy of emulation. His tragedy is a tragedy for all.

Dugie

Tahg - After reading a JTA article (reprinted below) about your friend Jason, I discovered your power point tribute. Even though I don't know Jason or you I felt the need to respond (which is not my usual modus operandi) because I saw a little of myself in those pictures. I was moved by the pictures which, at least to me, said volumes about Jason's character and persona. I felt like I knew him. I was one of those who stumbled innocently into Israel at 22, studied in Yeshiva (not a politically correct move in 1980 for a then reform Jew), joined the Israeli civil guard, experienced the ecstasy of the country, its people and our religion, worked out daily which often meant running around the entire perimeter of the walls of the Old City or farther (something that may not be wise today), left Israel for D.C. to work as a lobbyist and then off to law school before beginning my career and family. I could see from your pictures that Jason had many similar experiences and was on a path vaguely similar to mine, albeit in a different decade. That was the heart-warming part of your tribute - the fact that others continue to benefit from and are motivated by the profundity of Israel and everything for which it stands and has to offer. The tragic part is the premature loss of your friend under, perhaps, suspect circumstances which prevented him from completing his hopes and aspirations in this world.
May the light of your menorah candles burn brightly and bring comfort to you and his family. I am confident that the light he shed on those who were fortunate enough to know or be touched by him will not be forgotten.

dbaron@thompsoncoburn.com