Print Barry Celebrates 75 Years, Symbolizing Resilience After October 7th
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
Print Barry's CEO, Ben Sussman, celebrated the company's 75th anniversary, highlighting its resilience and growth following the October 7th Hamas attack. The event, attended by 1,500 people, symbolized the community's recovery and commitment to rebuilding the Gaza envelope. The printing press resumed operations within seven days, signaling a return to normalcy and prompting government action. Sussman emphasized the importance of 'home' and the pioneering spirit in motivating residents to return despite ongoing security risks.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Print Barry's 75th-anniversary celebration symbolized resilience and recovery after the October 7th attack.
- CEO Ben Sussman expressed optimism about the company's growth and its role in rebuilding the Gaza envelope.
- The printing press resumed operations within seven days of the attack, with President Isaac Herzog present.
- The reopening of Print Barry signaled to the government that the region would be rebuilt.
- Residents are motivated to return to Kibbutz Barry by the concept of 'home' and the Zionist pioneering spirit.
- Sussman stated, "We came to save Print Barry, but it saved us."
Ben Sussman, CEO of Print Barry, shared his optimistic outlook on the company's future and its role in rebuilding the Gaza envelope communities, even after the devastation of October 7th. He described the company's 75th-anniversary celebration as a testament to its resilience, creativity, and strong community spirit. The event, attended by 1,500 people on each of two separate days, honored not only the company's history but also its remarkable recovery and growth since the Hamas attack.
Sussman recounted how the idea for the celebration arose in the immediate aftermath of the attack, serving as a symbol of hope and a commitment to rebuilding. He emphasized that Print Barry is not just recovering but is actively growing in terms of staff, business, and technology, acting as a beacon for the return of residents to the Gaza envelope. This active engagement, he believes, allows individuals to process trauma and look forward.
He detailed the rapid reactivation of the printing press within seven days of the attack, a moment marked by a ceremony attended by President Isaac Herzog. Sussman noted the visible change in the attendees' demeanor from one day to the next, indicating a growing sense of hope and determination. The reopening of Print Barry, he stated, signaled to the Prime Minister's Office that the region would be rebuilt, prompting increased government action.
Reflecting on the legacy of Kibbutz Barry's founders and the broader Zionist ethos, Sussman expressed a deep sense of connection to history and community. He acknowledged the inherent risks of returning to the kibbutz near Gaza but asserted that the concept of 'home' and the continuation of the pioneering spirit are powerful motivators. He believes their work is a continuation of the early Zionist endeavors and their destined role.
Sussman also touched upon the personal impact of the attack, including the trauma of his mother being taken hostage, which he described as a catalyst for regaining control over his life and destiny through the printing press. He stated, "We came to save Print Barry, but it saved us."