Senior Israel Experience

Danielle Shares her thoughts

2012-01-23T06:39:00.002-06:00

Jamie Reflects

2012-01-18T22:30:00.002-06:00

Jamie was a fabulous guide through Jerusalem and the North

Eyal

2012-01-18T22:28:00.002-06:00

Eyal, one of the Israeli Counselors, shares his thoughts

2012-01-18T22:25:00.004-06:00

Mrs. Susnow serenades with ukelele

Time out for donkeys who help the date trees

Cannot resist a snooze on the branches

Final Night Banquet. Great Food

2012-01-18T22:17:00.002-06:00

How many people have a mountain named after them?

2012-01-18T22:13:00.004-06:00

Reflecting as the trip draws to a close, the greatest value of CJHS's Senior Israel Experience is the advanced level of discourse in which the students engaged. They confronted the major issues facing Israel today: What does it mean to be a Jewish state? Whatever the Jewish character is, how to balance this with the democratic value of protecting Israeli Arabs' rights? What is the best policy regarding the territories and "East Jerusalem." We heard from experts, politicians, and everyday people from a variety of perspectives. The students sought to understand each person and his or her views. Sometimes this challenged students' long-held assumptions, other times it reinforced their positions. Overall, students realized the complexity of the situation and that this trip is an introduction and invitation to delve deeper. Our superior tour guide, Jamie Salter, made the intense learning relevant and fun for our group. We provided opportunities to reflect and process at critical steps along the way. This trip strengthened student interest in spending more time in Israel to take the next step in the life-long process of developing a strong and nuanced relationship with the modern state of Israel.

The other major takeaway is the closeness of the grade after sharing such an intense experience. The students are very conscious of taking the next step in their life journey beyond high school. For many, this was the first time back in Israel since the Schechter trip in eighth grade. The experience in Israel at these transitional times in life allowed them to measure their growth individually and their capacity to develop a more sophisticated relationship with Israel. This experience afforded them the opportunity to enjoy the deep bonds of friendship in the unique setting of our Jewish homeland. The memories of this trip nurtured and will seal these relationships for a lifetime.

Our two Israeli madrichim, Eyal and Danielle, served as great role models and friends. At our celebratory dinner tonight on Lake Kinneret in Tiberias, students presented Eyal and Danielle with gifts and paid tribute to the wonderful contribution they made to our group. Dr. Auslander and Mrs. Susnow provided the vital link for our students back to our CJHS community. Together, we created a dynamic and supportive learning community.

My favorite part of the trip happened unexpectedly. Two nights ago, when we arrived at the Youth Hostel on the Kinneret, we encountered other guests at the hostel, German students traveling through Israel with a group from their Catholic high school. Within an hour of checking into the hostel, all of our school's staff and a majority of the students informally gathered around tables engaged in discussion with the Germans. At the end of the evening, three CJHS students and about ten German students stayed back to enter into a more conscious dialogue about the issues. I was awed by the transformational power of this honest and direct exchange. We slowly built up to the main topic that tragically links our two peoples -- the Holocaust. The German students shared their struggle with their nation's dark history three and four generations later. Two of the three CJHS students shared how their grandparents were personally affected by the Holocaust. Ironically, the hometown in Germany of one of the CJHS student's grandmothers was only fifty miles away from the German students' school. The German students asked our students what they thought that survivors would like them to know. Our students spoke about the legacy of their grandparents: education about the Holocaust, understanding the importance of Israel for the Jewish people, and building mutual respect between our peoples today. This chance encounter is one of many examples of the intense experiences our students have had throughout the trip.

We look forward to the seniors sharing this experience with the students at Tefillah on Tuesday at CJHS. This will be one of a series of planned activities that the seniors will participate in to extend their learning and relationship with Israel back home at CJHS.

Posted by Rabbi Ruven Barkan

2012-01-18T13:19:00.001-06:00

Impromptu meeting with students from Frankfort, Germany near day's end at the youth hostel

2012-01-18T13:11:00.001-06:00

Chocolate Factory Action Shots

2012-01-18T13:06:00.005-06:00

Gamla

2012-01-18T13:02:00.006-06:00

At Gamla

Go To Youtube for Video Clips

2012-01-17T14:53:00.002-06:00

Remember to click on our Youtube link to view short video clips of our trip:

http://www.youtube.com/user/gauslander?feature=guide

Some more have been added today.

Rainbow After the Storm

2012-01-17T14:31:00.003-06:00

Our day began with a stroll down to the shores of the Kineret, just meters (or yards, for the metrically challenged) away from the hostel where we are staying. While we walked, we noticed tall wooden structures, and we continued to walk across a sandy field until we reached the Kineret itself. Our guide shared with us that the wooden structures that now stood somewhat in the distance were the lifeguard posts that were built with the intention of hovering right beside the water, but now stood half a football field away. The reality of water scarcity in Israel is not shocking, but seeing the lonely lifeguard posts sitting lonely in the distance was a real reminder of how real the water crisis is, and we then understood why the buttons on the toilets look different, and why Israelis turn the faucet off while they rub the shampoo into their hair.

I did extensive research on the water crisis in the Middle East for my Middle Eastern Studies research paper, and I became familiar with the security and strategic implications of water control. We drove past the National Water Carrier that was constructed in the late 50's-early 60's by Israel, and that was seen as an aggressive act of water diversion not only by the Arab countries of the region but by the larger global community. We witnessed the inhabitants of the Galilee's attachment to the Golan and Galilee region and the symbolic significance of the Kineret.

An interesting opinion that I discovered while researching the topic was that even if peace were somehow achieved between the Arabs and Israelis, the water conflict would still exist and challenge the region. However, if the water crisis were resolved, peace might be far more achievable. My research showed me that while ideological differences polarized the Arabs and Israelis from the time of Israel's independence, conflicts over water were the underlying causes of the many skirmishes and wars during Israel's beginning years. Israel discovered that if she was to exist and prosper, it was vital to secure sustainable water access. Likewise, the Arab countries recognized that if Israel were denied access to water, she would struggle to survive. Thus, from the inception of the Arab-Israeli conflict, water lay at the heart of the tension.

While we walked down to the shores of the Kineret this morning, we were greeted with a cool rain that continued throughout the entire day. The rain provided an interesting perspective on the water conflict, because we pray three times a day for God to provide Israel with rainwater, and before our eyes, the Kineret was swallowing the drops of water from the sky. At the same time, the rain was a burden, prohibiting our group from doing the hike that was planned (we visited Tel Chai instead), and also making our volunteer gardening experience rather challenging. (To briefly elaborate on the latter point, we volunteered for Ayalim, an organization that reaches out and helps less privileged communities with various projects. Our group was given the task of hoeing weeds from the land, digging holes, and planting trees. We returned to the bomb shelter that was being used as a youth lounge dripping in mud and water, though we had fun and felt accomplished.)

Throughout the trip, we have been exposed to various conflicts that have challenged, confused, and engaged my classmates and me. From the tensions between Israel and her neighboring countries, to the conflicts within Israel, both within the Jewish community and regarding the Jewish relations with the other people living in Israel, our eyes were opened to the many challenges and dilemmas that face the Jewish State. As this trip winds down, many of us are finding that our views have shifted and that we must now reevaluate the way we think about and connect to Israel. Standing at the Kineret was, for me, a great way to put into perspective the intellectual, spiritual, and religious journey that I have undergone these past few weeks. The water conflict is one that is as complex as any; however, the paradox of the rainfall showed me that the solution to conflicts is often a complicated process that is sometimes in our control and sometimes not. Israel's water sanitation, diversion, and conservation efforts assist her struggle to preserve the vital resource, but sometimes all that can be done is pray for rain. Even when the rain fell, we found that we were not entirely pleased with that situation either, even though we understood that it was helping a greater cause. Likewise, all of the conflicts that we have confronted are extremely multifaceted and complex and may or may not have clear-cut solutions. The rain may start to fall, meaning the wheels of resolution may start turning, and even when this stage comes, the conflict still exists and may still go unresolved.

As we drove back to our hostel at the conclusion of the day's activities, we peeked out the windows of the bus to see a complete and clear rainbow illuminating the beautiful landscape. I also want to mention that on Shabbat I walked to the Kotel, and I saw a rainbow straddling the Temple Mount as I walked away. Just like in the story of Noah, these rainbows were beautiful reminders of the light at the end of the tunnel, and these natural phenomena were the perfect send-off for me to return back to the States after this intense experience that I shared with my classmates these past few weeks.

Posted by Benjy Forester

Community, Chocolate, and Hot Water

2012-01-16T13:58:00.004-06:00

I've learned about many different things on this trip and, as the trip has progressed, themes have started to appear in my experiences. One major theme is community. Not exactly new but hear me out. We began the day in the Golan Heights on Kibbutz Hannaton with a pluralism workshop led by Rabbi Yoav Ende that reminded me of my world religions course last summer at Brandeis. The ultimate goal of pluralism is to create a cycle of learning and dialogue that does not compromise your own identity in the process. Kibbutz Hannaton uses this process to create a pluralistic Masorti (Conservative) community that thrives off of an inherent value of interaction between diverse groups.

After tefillah, we left Hannaton for the ancient ruins of the citadel of Gamla. I found it far easier to enjoy the natural surroundings (including vultures, small cliff-dwelling rodents, and some unusual flora) during the hike down than the steep hike back up the way we came. But enough kvetching, let me tell you about what I saw when I got there. Actually my first memory is a sound. After all of the modern problems and conflicts, it was nice to finally hear the crunch of ancient pottery beneath my feet. This sound reminded me of why I fell in love with archaeology in the first place. To think that these potters shaped the clay with their own hands thousands of years ago sends shivers down my spine. But I digress. When we reached the site where the synagogue once stood, our tour guide told us about what it must have been like to live here. The idea that the Beit Knesset, translated as a meeting house, may not have simply been the house of prayer that a shul is today struck me. The center of spiritual community at that time was still the Temple; the original synagogue was just a communal JCC. Also, the story of this steep city on a hill parallels Masada but appears to have been a far more desperate situation. As the story goes, about 5,000 Jews jumped off the cliff rather than be captured by the Romans. There still appears to be some holes in the story, but worth exploring more at some point.

But enough heavy stuff, let's talk about the fun that our community had. We started that afternoon with something that everyone could bond over...CHOCOLATE!!! We visited the De Karina Chocolate factory. After viewing a short film, we each made our own chocolates. I can't believe how much I ate and how thick the hot chocolate was. The only conflict here were between white, milk, and dark chocolate lovers, but a compromise was reached. What else is there to say about such an agreeable subject. We then rounded out the day with a trip to the Hamat Gader hot springs that had such a strong odor of sulfur that I could smell it through my stuffy nose but was otherwise incredibly enjoyable. The water was so warm and cleansing when combined with the bracing cold air of Israel in winter that it naturally brought our community together. Today was not only fun; it also highlighted what draws together our own community here in the Holy Land. Relationships are just as central to the communities formed in the ancient city of Gamla as they are to the modern CJHS class of 2012.

Posted by Erik Howden

Our journey to the North

2012-01-15T12:48:00.002-06:00

After saying goodbye to Jerusalem this morning, we got back on the bus and drove to the north for the first time on this trip. After a lengthy bus ride, we arrived in Givat Haviva, which is a a kibbutz that rents out its facilities to the IDF for three reasons. The first reason is to enable soldiers to finish their high school degrees. The second reason is that this kibbutz helps non-Jews in the army convert into Judaism. And the third reason is to focus on soldiers who come from problematic homes.

The first person we met with was Lydia Eisenberg, who is originally from Wales. She made aliyah due to the terrible anti-Semitism there.She reviewed with us the complexity of the conflict. However, the main part of our visit to Givat Haviva was to meet with an Israeli-Arab, Amir. Amir is different than any of the other Palestinians that we have met with previously because he is an Israeli citizen and should have all of the same rights as a Jew living in Israel. However, he shared with us that he does not receive the rights that he should be getting and that is a major issue for him. Amir just wants equality for all Israeli-Arabs. Many of the students and teachers challenged Amir, saying that the Israeli-Arabs need to do more on their part in order for them regain full rights. Amir also shared with us that one of the reasons why Israeli-Arabs do not have equal rights is because there is no constitution in Israel. After a lengthy dialogue with Amir, he drove with us and showed us two Israeli-Arab villages which are on the green line. Amir showed us his house and the difficulty that he had receiving a permit for his house. He also took us to his parents' house, which was nearby. Last, he showed us that there is a house that is literally built into the security fence separating Israel and the West Bank. Overall, we all gained a lot of knowledge from Amir.

After leaving Givat Haviva, we enjoyed another lengthy bus ride to Kibbutz Hannaton, where we are spending the night. We listened to a panel of three kibbutz members, who shared their journeys to this specific kibbutz. In addition, they shared with us what it means to live on a pluralistic kibbutz. Overall, everyone thought today was amazing and we all gained lots of knowledge. Good night from the north.

Posted by Noah Chasin

Saying Goodbye to Jerusalem

2012-01-14T10:56:00.003-06:00

Shavua Tov. Shabbat just ended and the group is going one last time to Ben Yehuda Street. Some students walked to the Kotel today as the rain let up and actually saw a brilliant rainbow. We had a wonderful Shabbat which capped off a very stimulating week. We began our stay in Jerusalem by focusing on the political divisions. We toured the security fence and gained a greater understanding of the complexities involved from both Israelis and Palestinians as a result of erecting the fence. We toured East Jerusalem and met with a Palestinian man in front of his home. We listened to an Israeli and a Palestinian who lost close relatives in the years of the struggle between the two sides. We toured the Jewish and Christian quarters of the Old City as well as El Aksa Mosque. We explored the future of Masorti Judaism, Charedi life, and processed religious pluralism. We visited the settlements and absorbed views from both the left and the right. We had a stimulating class at the Conservative Yeshiva. The group had a great time with students at Beit Guvrin, a mechina designed to work with students for one year before they enter the Israeli Army. On Friday, we volunteered in a soup kitchen and later got soaked in a cold Jerusalem rain. We did a lot and learned a lot. At the end of the week, we discussed where we began politically and how that may have changed. One student shared his confusion, but we explored the notion that this trip only opens up the doors of learning, and the rest is up to him. How he will continue to integrate what he learns will be a lengthy venture.

So we say good bye for now to Jerusalem and head to the North. We will stop at Kibbutz Hannaton. Much more to follow.

Video Clips

2012-01-14T10:35:00.001-06:00

The ability of the video to communicate with the blog has been hampered by deep political divisions within the two systems. Therefore, we have worked hard to reach a compromise solution in order for you to view the video . All clips are stored in my YouTube account. Click on the link below to view the clips that we do have. There will be much more.

http://www.youtube.com/user/gauslander?feature=guide

Judea and Samaria

2012-01-12T14:22:00.001-06:00

We started off our day discussing the issue of Settlements in the West Bank. The Senior Class had the opportunity to meet with representatives from both sides of the current dispute. Our first speaker was Leor from the organization Peace Now. Leor presented the more left-wing view on the issue. Leor did a good job covering all issues related to the settlements and gave the class a great insight on the topic from a more liberal stance. We then crossed into the West Bank to visit Kfar Etzion, a Jewish Settlement located just south of Jerusalem. After learning about a brief history of the area, we toured with Eve Harow, a former Efrat Local Council member, who provided us with a view of the settlement issue from a more right-wing perspective. Eve discussed the history behind the settlements by taking the class on a tour of the region around the city of Efrat. After listening to both speakers, their words really opened my eyes to the different sides of the political spectrum. I am glad I had the opportunity to formulate some of my own views on the topic. The group had some time before heading to Beit Guvrin and stopped at a Stalagmite Cave discovered about 30 years ago. This little sidelight tour provided an interesting view of part of Israel that is little known. We then traveled to Beit Guvrin to visit with Israeli teens on a program called Mechina. This program is designed for Israelis who are in a gap ear and about to enter the army. We played some ice breaker games and broke into small group discussions. Everyone had a delightful time as they were great hosts who used the brief time with us to get to know us better. After our dinner with the Israeli teens, we journeyed back to Jerusalem for a meaningful reflection about our experiences today.

Posted by Danny Hochberg

Judaism and Its Differences

2012-01-11T15:37:00.001-06:00

First off, all the way from Israel, I want to wish my amazing mother a very happy birthday!

Yesterday, we struggled with the conflict of faiths in Jerusalem and saw how Jerusalem is in fact the city of three religions. Today, however, we struggled with an even more important and internal conflict with the Jews living in Israel. This is the issue of living in Israel, in a Jewish state, but believing in different forms of Judaism. Today, we saw the real spectrum of Judaism in Israel. We started off the day by hearing from Rabbi Andy Sacks, who represented the Masorti Movement (the Conservative Movement in Israel), and he told us about the future of the Masorti Movement in Israel. He discussed how the issues of the Masorti are hurting because of how the courts control all other issues regarding marriage, conversions, and divorce.

We then took a 10-minute bus ride in the cold and rain to a mainly Charedi neighborhood in Jerusalem to see how Charedi life in Jerusalem was different. For us as students, this was a chance to get a peek into a side of Judaism that some, if not most of us, have never seen. There, we met with Yehoshua Weinberger, who spoke on behalf of his community. He gave us a tour of an all girls' school. Walking into this meeting with Mr. Weinberger, a lot of my classmates, including myself, did not know what to expect and we did not know exactly what we were going to hear, as many of us had many questions for Mr. Weinberger. As we got off the bus, Jamie told us that in order to respect the community that we were about to walk into, boys and girls needed to walk separately. Although, I was a bit skeptical in doing so, I reminded myself of a theme that I have brought myself back to many times on this trip, which is to respect others even though I did not agree to their way of doing things. Mr. Weinberger gave us our tour and then talked with us about the issues his specific community believes in and how the stereotype of "Charedi" has been given at times a bad name. Our grade really pushed Mr. Weinberger to really think about the issues and I believe many people in the grade, including myself, took away a better understanding of not only his views but a better understanding of what we believe as Conservative Jews.

After our talk with Mr. Weinberger, we then had a nice lunch on Ben Yehuda. After lunch, we found ourselves back at the Fuchsberg Center discussing our final end of the spectrum for today. We met with a representative from Women of the Wall. This an organization that was founded by women who go to the Kotel every Rosh Chodesh and daven together. Although, I personally had some issue with this organization, I believe that the conversation with the representative from Women of the Wall strengthened my own beliefs. After a very intense day of back and forth between the internal conflict of Jews in Israel, our grade had a chance to relax and play some games with our Israeli staff members, Eyal and Danielle. We then went to have our final speaker of the day, a representative from Tav Hevrati, an organization that strives for social justice for people with disabilities in Israel and specifically justice for workers in restaurants. This was the end of our speakers for the day and we all got to blow off some steam and headed over to Emek Refaim for dinner and a lot of schmoozing time. Personally, I got to have dinner at an awesome Italian restaurant with my cousin, Rachel, who is in the army in Israel. It was great to see her and hear from her and to hear what she is up to in the army.

These past couple of days have been very intense on every level for every single person in our grade. There is a feeling in the air with everyone that our time as high schoolers and our time at CJHS is in fact coming to end. The time we are spending with our friends and the class of 2012 in the holiest of lands is something we will never forget. I touched on the theme of respect, a theme in which not only Israelis and Palestinians are working on, not only a theme Jews in Israel are working on, but this a theme for us a grade. We have come together and shown not only our staff, but our community at home that what we have here in Israel is something special. On days like these, I sit down and thank my parents so much for sending me on a trip of a lifetime and a trip in which I feel more educated about the issues of conflicting visions of Judaism. As I sat at Aroma (the Israeli version of Starbucks, just ten times better) with our tour guide Jamie, Jonah and Benjy Forester, we discussed the idea of respect and the question of what is our purpose as Jews if we live in a land in which Jews can't get along and how do we expect to have peace with the Palestinians, if we as Jews can't even get along.

What a day it was!

Posted by Aaron Freeman

Skewed Myths

2012-01-10T15:02:00.003-06:00

Thomas Friedman, in his book From Beirut to Jerusalem, says, quoting Ludwig Wittgenstein that "if you ask a man how much is two plus two and he tells you five, that is a mistake. But if you ask a man how much is two plus two and he tells you ninety seven, that is no longer a mistake. The man you are talking to is operating with a wholly different logic...."

As we walked up the creaking entrance to the temple mount this morning and looked over as the charedim and tourists huddled close to the Western wall, and then as we exited the ramp into a plaza full of women in hijabs or burqas and families whispering greetings to one another in Arabic, I thought that no other thought could better describe the split reality of the Old City.

We began our day praying underneath Robinson's Arch at the southern corner of the Western Wall. We then walked through the narrow streets of the Arab meat market between freshly slaughtered goat carcasses, careful to avoid the blood running towards the sewers, and as we emerged from the dark streets we found ourselves overlooking the entire city bathed in mid-morning light. Our walking tour took us through the cavernous Church of the Holy Sepulchre, where we watched like tourists while the members of six different Churches knelt at the burial place of Jesus. After lunch many of us visited the temple mount and gazed at the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock. As we left the plateau, both in awe of the Muslim prayer space and somewhat resentful of our position as "mere visitors" to what was once our center, a friend of mine said, "It's as if we're in a different country."

We encountered the most obvious example of dual-reality in the City of David, when we met with a Jewish man who had traveled beyond the Green Line to settle in a formerly Arab neighborhood. While we saw just as much passion and desire in his eyes as we saw in those of the Palestinian refugee with whom we talked yesterday, we heard an entirely different story. We heard a story in which the same facts and the same events had been flipped, and had led not only to a different outlook but a different "logic." Two plus two was no longer anything definite.

In Jerusalem, facts are fluid and myths are all that is real. The myth of IDF aggression against Palestinian civilians comes to blows with the myth of a Jewish right to the land based on archaeological excavations, and the same facts flow from one side to the other in an argument which will never end because neither side can step outside of its reality and see the other.

Our day ended at home in the Fuchsberg Center, where we heard from representatives of the Interfaith Encounter Association (IEA). The IEA provides a meeting place for myths; events that bring Jews, Christians and Muslims together in an apolitical setting allow these two groups to acknowledge, if not accept, the validity of each other's myths. I see two potential ends to the conflict we have been studying: either one myth will win and drive the other out by force, or the two will intertwine to create a new future in which both are recognized.

Posted by Benji Fleischacker

Jerusalem: Political Divisions

2012-01-10T02:14:00.001-06:00

Today's focus was very serious and enlightening for the entire group. We began with a lecture by Neil Lazarus, who took us through a historical perspective of the political divisions in Israel and Jerusalem specifically. He began with a film that opened with Yerushalayim Shel Zahav and focused on how much of Jerusalem do we really know, and how much do we want to know. Are we satisfied with the beauty of the song and the vision of Jerusalem, or do we need to include all the warts? Jamie, our guide, then took the group on a tour of the security fence, raising questions throughout the tour of the location of the fence, who wanted it in the first place, and how it affects both Israelis and Palestinians. He elaborated on the difficulty Palestinians have traveling from one side of the fence, or is it called a wall, to the other. The side that they live on to the side where they work, grow their crops and so on.

We then met up with one of the Rabbis for Human Rights, Rabbi Arik Ascherman, who reviewed for the group the overall goal of RHR and the experiences that he has had reaching out to the Palestinians who HE felt were being oppressed by Israel. He raised many questions about the need for Israel to assume such a role or whether their goals could be accomplished in a more humane fashion. He believes that as Jews we have an obligation to treat others with dignity and respect and sees that as a way of building bridges. Rabbi Ascherman then took the group to a Palestinian Village where we met a Palestinian man in front of his home. The overriding issue was ownership of land. The Palestinian man concluded that the Israelis only want war and although he is friends with Israeli Jews, he does not any faith in the government. He told stories of harsh treatment, which included several nights spent in Israeli jails.

As we were leaving, we met up with his next-door neighbor, an Orthodox Jew. He spoke briefly and very emphatically claimed that all the land was Jewish and that Palestinians have absolutely no claim to it. What he had to say made most people very uncomfortable but showed the extreme views held by many settlers.

We boarded the bus and headed back to Fuchsberg (the USCJ base in Jerusalem), where we listened to two members of the Parents' Circle, an organization of Israeli Jews and Palestinians who have lost close family members. Both spoke of the grief but their need to reconcile this grief and begin to speak with people from the other side. Avraham spoke about a son he lost over 30 years ago and believes the effort that he is making to establish bonds with Palestinians is the best way to heal. The Palestinian woman, Siham, spoke of her losing her brother as he was shot at close range by an Israeli soldier who she knew. After a period of grief and anger, she felt that the best way to heal would be to meet with this soldier and have him come to her home and meet her family and learn what they had lost. This has yet to happen. This session was a highly emotional and enlightening experience for the entire group.

Poster's Note: at this stage we are having difficulty posting pictures and videos at Fuchsberg. We hope this can be resolved soon.

The Refugee Issue In Tel Aviv

2012-01-08T14:23:00.001-06:00

In the last several years, several thousand refugees have flooded into Israel, some legal and some not legal from mostly African countries like the Sudan. As of this date, over 40,000 refugees have settled in Southern Tel Aviv which historically has had a population of people of lower or no incomes, a high crime rate and many migrant workers. Binah, a social action and study organization which has a liberal perspective, is actively working with these people and trying to promote education about the very complex issue. Binah has organized a gap-year program in Tel Aviv where students volunteer to help immigrants.

As the 27 of us walked through a neighborhood in Tel Aviv filled with African refugees, I struggled with the feeling in the pit of my stomach. I was unsure of exactly the reason, but simply observing the poverty and hardships faced by the residents of the neighborhood pained me. As we walked deeper into the neighborhood, witnessing more atrocities, the reason for the feeling I had suddenly dawned on me. Although what I was seeing upset me, the fact that I was seeing it without the ability to do anything to solve it upset me more. What right did we as the American tourists have to come in and impose on their town? It seemed to me that we were using someone's home as somewhat of a tourist attraction, something nearly impossible for me to reconcile.

After I made the point to one of my friends, she responded that there might be a reason. It was true that at the time it felt like nothing more than an observation of the hardships that life can bring, but our group was also being educated on exactly that. Often education is the first step towards advocacy, and this solution could be the case in our group as well. As we boarded the bus and looked out the window one last time, students spoke about the ways they could help and the possibilities of taking a gap year in Israel and helping this village. That alone was inspiring, proving that although the situation had at first been difficult, it had in fact resulted in a thought provoking experience for many.

Posted by Jill Merrick

The Streets of Tel Aviv

2012-01-08T13:39:00.002-06:00

This morning we split up into four groups with colored bandanas to distinguish the groups. The overall goal was to travel Tel Aviv on foot for over 2 1/2 hours to learn more about Tel Aviv and pick out various landmarks. Groups were given scavenger-hunt-style clues and had to find information along the way. Each clue led to a location where the next clue could be found. In addition, we were instructed to find various people along our route--twins, an ultra-Orthodox Jew, an IDF soldier, a person with tattoos and piercing (Gothic) and so on. When we found each of these, we took a picture with that person. Most groups had difficulty finding an IDF soldier until we reached our final destination (Independence Hall). Many group salso had trouble finding an ultra-Orthodox Jew. The group I was with did not see one throughout our journey but were able to find a tattoo parlor and a couple "Gothics." The overall goal was to gain a better sense of Tel Aviv, and our adventure in the morning help set the tone. Jamie, our guide, asked us how Tel Aviv looked to us. Since this was the first city built by Jews in 2000 years, is this the city we wanted it to be? The morning's adventure was the beginning of examining this question.

Tel Aviv Arrival

2012-01-07T09:46:00.004-06:00

Our group traveled to Tel Aviv through the Negev Desert. We got to see what could not be seen when we arrived Monday evening: spectacular desert landscapes for miles and miles. It was truly breathtaking. As we got closer to Tel Aviv, we made a brief stop to use the facilities and found a kosher McDonalds. Several students seized the opportunity to buy a Big Texas, a giant hamburger with all the stuffings. It was pricey, but worth it according to those who ate the burger.

We then arrived at the Deborah Hotel in Tel Aviv and quickly brought the luggage to our rooms. Dinner at the hotel followed as we were right on schedule to go see the Na Lagaat performance at the Theater for the Blind and Deaf at Jaffa old port. Before the show, we met up with Noah Weinberg and his family. It was great to see them and share our experiences. We hung around the cafe in the theater, which is serviced by waitstaff who are deaf.

The show presented about 15 different actors who told the story about being deaf and blind in short scenes, highlighting the experiences of several cast members. The story told of their yearnings, frustrations, hopes and dreams. It was meticulously choreographed and assisted by sighted and hearing people. The periodic beat of a drum signaled to the performers the need to change scenes or places. Everyone knew their roles and it became very clear just how much time and effort it took to put the show together. After the show, the entire audience (the theater was packed) was invited up on the stage to interact with the performers assisted by those who were sighted and hearing.

After returning to the hotel, the students received information about boarding the bus the following day for their destinations in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The following two days will be spent with family in Israel, friends, friends of family, etc. Shabbat Shalom.

Saying Good-bye to Kibbutz Keturah

2012-01-06T06:51:00.003-06:00

Yesterday afternoon, we all packed up and left Kibbutz Keturah to head up to Tel Aviv. For the brief intense time that we were at Keturah, we were all very impressed with the kibbutz, the scientific initiatives it has taken, and most of all the people. Yuval, a 31-year-old Israeli, was most engaging and knowledgeable. He first welcomed us, took us on a very informative tour, told us of his impending marriage, and it began to feel like we have known him for years. At the wrap-up meeting, all students gave him a standing ovation. Then there was Yoni, who took many students on an expedition to explain the geology of the region, how the Arava Valley was formed, and how the rocks we were standing on took their present shape. He spoke with compassion and a great deal of knowledge. I spoke with him afterward and learned that he was not a geologist but a chiropractor who lived with his family on Long Island, New York before deciding to come to Israel and live a less hectic life. He, his wife, and two children have been here for five years. We also met kibbutz members from the United States, Great Britain and other countries. One woman was from Oklahoma City and has been on Kibbutz Keturah for over 30 years. Her three children grew up and one moved back to the U.S. and now lives in Boston. She reflected that this may be some payback for her leaving her own family. Overall, she has no regrets and felt that her children growing up on a kibbutz provided a great experience whereby they were part of a strong community. All those I spoke with talked about how the kibbutz was managed, and although there were disagreements from time to time on the management of the kibbutz, people generally agreed that things ran very well. They all mentioned that they lived on the kibbutz for a common purpose: to be part of a strong, caring, supportive, and loving community.

Oh, by the way, we all ate very well. With all the positives mentioned about the kibbutz, the food gets high marks. A good variety of food, well-managed dining hall, and lots to eat. On a personal note, my being a chocoholic was greatly enhanced by one breakfast meal that was served with pancakes. There was certainly maple syrup to put on the pancakes, but who wanted maple syrup when hot, gooey chocolate sauce could be used as a topping?

With very fond memories, we say good-bye to Kibbutz Keturah.

Rachel Aaronson reflects on desert experience

2012-01-05T06:26:00.000-06:00

Josh Ferri reflects on desert experience

2012-01-05T06:23:00.002-06:00

Desert Survival Experience

2012-01-05T06:14:00.002-06:00

All too often people get stuck in the material world; however, the expanse and bareness of the desert allows one to reflect on the opportunities presented in life. On this desert survival experience, we went into the middle of the desert. We cooked our food over a campfire, had alone time at night, and also went on a morning hike. To me, the most powerful experience of this time spent in the desert was the time I spent alone, reflecting on my life, especially the opportunities presented to me on this trip. As I looked up at the stars on the cool desert night, hearing the silence of the desert, I was reminded to appreciate everything I have and make the most of every experience. The desert can be a harsh, inhabitable land, but it can also be an amazing place where one can find him or herself and connect to our ancestors.
Posted by Jeff Budweg

Dr. Tareq Abu Hamed

2012-01-04T08:31:00.000-06:00

Arava Institute for Environmental Studies and Dr. Tareq Abu Hamed

2012-01-04T08:21:00.002-06:00

Wednesday morning, January 3 was spent mostly learning about the Arava Institute and the Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation. We met with three students at the Institute, one American, one Israeli and one Jordanian. The institute brings together Israelis (Arabs and Jewish), Jordanians, and Palestinians, as well as students from other parts of the world. In order to solve environmental problems in the Middle East, Israelis, Palestinians, and Jordanians must work together because the water they drink all comes from the same sources. They breathe the same air and share the same ecosystems. In the process of learning together, they learn how to work together even though they come from different cultures. The three students focused on their working relationship and what they have learned about the other students' cultures.

Dr. Tareq Abu Hamed received his Ph.D. in chemical engineering and is the first director of the Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Conservation. Dr. Abu Hamed made a strong case for studying renewable energy, as the current sources for energy are time-limited and present other problems, such as danger (nuclear reactors) and cost. By collaborating together, Israel and Jordan stand to gain much. Their research focuses on sustainable agriculture, water management, and long-term socioecological and renewable energy projects (solar energy). Dr. Abu Hamed showed the group the solar panels and discussed how they are used and the care given to them in order to become most effective. Everyone in the group was impressed with the presentation made by Dr. Abu Hamed.

Kasui Dunes Adventure

2012-01-04T06:32:00.002-06:00

The morning tour of Kibbutz Keturah and neighboring sites

2012-01-04T06:27:00.002-06:00

Yuval leading the morning tour

At Kibbutz Yotvata

Harnessing solar energy

Ice Cream Stop

Some of the hundreds of date trees lining
Kibbutz Keturah

Yuval showing the group the solar energy plant
at Kibbutz Keturah

Breakfast at the kibbutz after hike up the mountain

2012-01-04T06:18:00.001-06:00

From the Mountaintop

2012-01-04T06:15:00.000-06:00

Climbing up to the Mountain Overlook

2012-01-04T06:10:00.001-06:00

Off and Rolling

2012-01-03T13:22:00.001-06:00

Tuesday was an exciting and action-packed day for the seniors. Taking advantage of our early morning start, we climbed up a mountain that overlooked much of the surrounding area. We all had to take a few minutes to relax after reaching the top of the mountain, as the climb up the steep mountain was quite steep. However, the view was great and it helped us paint a picture of where we are in the Negev. Seeing Jordanian hills right across the border was very cool, as it showed us just how close we were to a neighboring country. After davenning Shacharit, we headed back down the mountain to eat breakfast at the kibbutz.

Another highlight of the day was visiting some of the solar panel fields that are in the area. It was especially interesting for me to learn that the Israeli solar panel company that builds many of the solar panels we saw is planning to sell panels to other countries in order to better the environment all around the world. The detail that I found to be most inspiring about these visits was that people who live in the Negev, the hottest and most isolated part of Israel which has never been thought to be completely worth investing in, are the ones taking the initiative to find more sources of energy. It was empowering to see that people who do not live in some of Israel's spotlight cities (Tel-Aviv, Jerusalem, etc.) are fighting to make a change and are actually succeeding.
Later on, we headed to Kasui Dunes. Running around and diving in the sand was both fun and extremely tiring. The whole grade really seemed to enjoy running around and then cooling down with conversations on what I think is the softest sand on Earth.What followed was the day's most meaningful activity, in my opinion. Each person (student, teacher, and counselor) was instructed to find his or her own place to sit and think. After settling in my spot, perched up on a peak of a mini-mountain, I could not look away from the sunset until the sun had finally set. The time we spent by ourselves allowed us all to think about various topics, such as our connection to Israel, the satisfaction of completing the first semester of our senior year, our expectations for the two-and-a-half weeks that lie ahead, and many other interesting things.

Today was definitely a stuffed and exciting day, and we all can't wait to experience the rest of this great trip!

Posted by Adam Schrag

Hiking and Touring Tuesday

2012-01-03T06:08:00.002-06:00

We had a very ambitious morning beginning with a hike before breakfast up one of the nearby mountains. Although not a great distance, it was very steep and extreme care had to be taken. Shacharit services were held once we reached the top. We then toured Kibbutz Yotvata which is described by Nic Levy, followed by a tour of the Arava Power Company, which harnesses the energy from the sun and is used to power the entire kibbutz. On the bus, our guide, Yuval, announced that he is getting married on Lag B'Omer, and everyone is invited. At our home base, Kibbutz Ketura, Yuval showed us a number of important current projects at the kibbutz. The first is a very substantial plant using Algaetechnologies; pure antioxidants are made from algae, and they are so good that many drug companies and food companies are willing to pay well for the antioxidants. Very, very fascinating. We also saw the numerous date trees where over 400 tons of dates are grown each year. Trees from Morocco and India have been planted on the kibbutz to make medicine and cosmetic oils. Finally, there is a very substantial solar energy plant that produces 5 megawatts of power, which is enough to supply 3-4 kibbutz communities.

Needless to say, we have eaten very well. We had a wonderful breakfast outside after the hike. The temperature now is in the 70s and sunny. It gets much cooler at night. We are off to the Kasui Dunes for play and a powerful solo experience.

Many pictures from this morning will be published in a Picasa web album. Stay tuned for more information

Kibbutz Yotvata

2012-01-03T05:52:00.001-06:00

Today we visited Kibbutz Yotvata, whose major industry is dairy farming. So as to be more self-sufficient and green, they have a facility that enables them to collect methane (natural gas) from cow manure. From this process, they are able to reduce their waste and generate power for the kibbutz, in total saving them 600,000 sheqels a year in energy costs. Water is also a by-product of the manure. The facility itself is small, holding only 50,000 liters of manure, but the pungent odor can be smelled from far.

Posted by Nic Levy

2012-01-02T17:16:00.003-06:00

Yuval speaking to the group shortly after arrival at Kibbutz Keturah

The group listens to Yuval and then are given keys to the rooms at the kibbutz. Early wakeup tomorrow for hike. Stay tuned.

At O'Hare Airport Before Leaving for Newark

2012-01-02T17:08:00.004-06:00

The plane left 30 minutes late but arrived on time due to a medical emergency of another passenger.

ARRIVALS

2012-01-02T16:58:00.001-06:00

We are finally in Israel! After twenty hours of traveling from Chicago to the southern tip of Israel at Kibbutz Ketura, everyone is happy to be here. We met our madrichim, Danielle and Eyal. Now the question is to sleep or not to sleep. Either way, we will begin the day at 7:30 a.m. with a hike up to an overlook of the Arava desert where we will absorb our natural surroundings as we do Shacharit (the morning service). I am grateful for this unique opportunity to experience Israel with the senior class of 2012. There is a wonderful feeling among this group that should continue to guide us as we explore the complexities of our beautiful homeland.

Posted by Rabbi Barkan

The End

2011-01-18T15:34:00.003-06:00

Our second to last day was defined by relaxation and reflection. Having dealt with a plethora of issues and explored the multitude of sides of Israeli life, we devoted today to purely enjoying the country and each other. In the morning, we went on a gentle hike around Gamla, at the top of the Golan Heights, a few kilometers west of the Syrian border. The site of the beginning of the first Jewish rebellion against the Romans in 67 CE, the area today is an impressive showcase of the beauty of the north of Israel. Overlooking the mountain and the ancient fortifications, we connected to the past directly by understanding that we were the links to the future and through us the memory of the past would live on. Then, we walked the short course to the waterfall, admiring the vultures and other birds of prey that inhabit the valley below.

Back on the bus, we embarked on perhaps the most entertaining hands-on activity of the trip by visiting the De Karina Chocolate Factory located on a kibbutz in the Golan. We watched an educational video about the production of chocolate and then saw first-hand the factory floor, where raw chocolate was melted down and then shaped into all sorts of delicacies including truffles, bars, and pralines. As master chocolatiers skillfully handled the chocolate, we marveled at how this substance which somany of us treasure so greatly, actually goes from bean to consumable form. Then, in a workshop room next door, we got to design our own chocolates, using pre-made shells, chocolate syrup (dark, milk, and white) and raw chocolate. Hibernating artists among us finally got their chance to shine. As we waited for our creations to cool down, we treated ourselves to genuine hot chocolate and stocked up on souvenir goodies.

After lunch, we made our way to the Hamat Hot Springs, where we enjoyed an early evening sulfur bath. Although the smell was difficult for the nostrils, the beneficial properties of the water refreshed and re-energized the many of us who frolicked in the pool. Included was a leisurely dinner and some down time, an opportunity to kick back, talk, and just purely enjoy each other. After a break back at the hotel, we got down to the serious business of reflection, of trying to come to terms of what this trip has meant for us. First, we recalled the places, people and things we had seen. Then we wrote, focusing on the question of what we would bring back with us, of what from this trip would live on in our memories and in our psyches.

“I have gained a greater appreciation for the intricacies of the holy land of Israel. I have explored the wondrous beauty of its cities, deserts, and hills; while also recognizing the harsh realities of Israel and the Middle East. While this experience has not changed my view that Israel cannot be my homeland, I now appreciate the allure that overcomes each Jewish American who makes Aliyah, while I also can clearly identify my serious challenges with Israel. I sometimes struggle to find meaning in Israel, but I still identify myself as a Zionist who strongly supports the democratic and holy ideals of Israel, while also recognizing that Israel cannot survive solely by idealistic aspirations. Overall, Israel is holy place for me, where Judaism is enlightened and where I feel comfortable, safe, and spiritual.”

Iszy Licht

As our trip winds down tomorrow in Tel Aviv, we will be returning to the states, to CJHS, to our regular lives. Fairly soon, the mundane concerns of that world will return and take up our attention and this trip will settle comfortably into the recesses of our memories. But we certainly will not forget it. All the details may not remain clear, but the general impressions, connections, and relationships forged throughout our three weeks in Israel will stay with us, always there, always reminding us of what a great and meaningful time it was, always inspiring us in our future endeavors. We set out on a long journey to discover the hidden sides of Israel not always evident in tourist trips or sightseeing excursions; in the process, we believe we discovered a lot about ourselves and the role that Israel plays in our developing identities. Collectively and individually, each of us is returning home with new insights and new dreams, dramatically affected by our experience. We are grateful to all those that made this possible, and we are thankful to ourselves, each and every one of whom played his or her part in making the Senior Israel Experience what it was. As the culminating event of our CJHS careers, there could not have been a more powerful and transformative way to give meaning to our four years.
Thank you.

A Personal Reflection

2011-01-17T16:56:00.002-06:00

"Perhaps my most eye-opening experience occurred today. We arrived in Kiryat Shemona to paint railings, plant trees, and prepare soil for a garden. Rabbi Barkan pulled me aside in the midst of my chalutz-esque labor and led me up some stairs. My initial reaction was to run through a mental list of things he might get me in trouble for. I could lie and tell you I'm perfect and don't ever get into trouble, but perfect sounds rather boring to me.

Anyways, we reached the top of the stairs and came across two men sitting on a bench. One was your typical black-hatter: tzitzit, pe'ot, a suit, the whole nine yards. The second man was a conservative Moroccan Jew who fiddled around with his cigarette. We began discussing (strictly in Hebrew) the values of co-existence, both within Judaism and between Jews and Arabs. The Hasidic Jew quickly refuted my prejudice by pointing out that in Kiryat Shemona, Jews live under one denomination, regardless of their level of observance. Beyond that, in response to Rabbi Barkan's question regarding inter-faith relations, both men smirked. The notion of actually disliking Arabs seemed so foreign to both these men that they asked if Rabbi Barkan was serious.

Their city, brushing up against the Lebanese border, is a constant target of terrorism and its stresses. Yet Rabbi Barkan and I selected two random pedestrians who were among the purest people I have ever met. They gave me an impression of their lives that could not be found in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, or even a kibbutz. There are no Hasidim, Masorti or Reform Jews in Kiryat Shemona. There are no Arabs either. There are only people, people who believe in God, and more importantly, each other.

In an exaggerated CJHS fashion, those people come together and unconditionally love each other. Their business with God is only between them and God, with no opposition despite the vast spectrum of religious affiliations. Who better to discuss the issue of co-existence than an ultra-orthodox rabbi, a conservative Rabbi, a, with all due respect, scraggly looking, cigarette smoking immigrant, and a teenage boy? The more important question: where else would this happen but Israel?"

Jake Rudolph

Traversing the North

2011-01-17T11:51:00.003-06:00

Little is more important to the realization and maintenance of strong group connection and understanding than a little time apart. After an intensive two weeks together, we all went our separate ways to celebrate this past Shabbat. The majority stayed in the environs of Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, others went further afield, but all benefited from time together with family and friends outside the CJHS circle. After minor hiccups (and other bodily functions) we were all re-united on Sunday morning and set our course due north. The final days of our trip will be spent exploring northern Israel and its fascinating history, culture, and geography.

Sunday took us to Givat Haviva, an educational center in the Wadi Ara valley focusing on a variety of concerns including Israeli-Arab co-existence, Arabic language school, and an educational program for the IDF. Our seminar leader Lydia, a Welsh Jew who has lived on a kibbutz in the area for the last forty years, enlightened us with her personal experiences with anti-Semitism in Wales, her decision to make aliyah, and her work over the past decades toward facilitating and promoting understanding between Israeli Jews and Israeli Arabs. The center is located near the Green Line, in an area called the little triangle, which is home to 15,000 Jews and 150,000 Israeli Arabs. We spent a part of the day learning the history and the unique set of circumstances that have faced this rather substantial portion of the Israeli population through many years of conflict, intifadas and peace overtures. As they have struggled to both accept themselves as Israeli citizens and somehow maintain their Arab roots, so we too struggled to understand the effects this reality has had on the development of Israel.

The abstractions of the classroom were powerfully brought to the ground when we visited the Arab village of Barta’a. Immediately following the War of Independence, the Green Line cut this village directly in half, with the eastern half under Jordanian rule and the western half under Israeli rule. Families were literally split apart and the town lived under two governments technically in a state of war with each other. This situation continued for nearly twenty years, when in the wake of the 1967 war, the entire town once again came under Israeli control, with the exception that those in the west were Israeli citizens and those in the east were not. During the intifadas, when the Palestinians in the east participated in the hostilities, their neighbors in the west did not, causing further tensions within this town. After the security fence was constructed, Barta’a was a rare exception when the fence did not run along the Green Line, but rather included the entire town within the Israeli side. Today, the Green Line is literally a ditch that runs through the middle of town. We walked around the village, spoke to some of its inhabitants, tried to get their perspective of things. Overall, it was definitely an eye opening experience of this, yet another, complex side of Israel.

We spent the evening in Kibbutz Hannaton, one of the fledgling kibbutzim of the Conservative (Masorti) movement in Israel. We heard its rabbi speak of the challenges of establishing and maintaining a pluralistic religious institution and share some of our thoughts on the matter. The night concluded on an especially high note as we watched our very own Bears advance over the Seahawks in the playoffs.

The next day took us even further north, to the very border with Lebanon. As we drove next to minefields and looked into the Lebanese countryside, we heard from our new tour guide Nero of the various issues and successes in this part of the country: the historical conflicts of 1982 and 2006, the ongoing conflict with Hizbullah, the success story of draining the swamps and creating fertile agricultural communities, the struggles to extract adequate water from the land, and the natural beauty of the Galilee region. We went on short nature walk through the Banias, an ancient site connected to many peoples and cultures that have made a part of their history in the Middle East (starting with the ancient Israelites, and continuing through the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, and finally the Jews in the modern day). Walking on slightly muddy ground, we weaved and turned our way through this nature park, finally ending up by the beautiful waterfall, where we stopped for pictures.

After a pizza lunch and some reflection, our afternoon was spent in Kiryat Shemona, working with an organization called Ayaleen. Founded by Israeli youth as a national service organization to supplement army service, the program settles young adults in towns and villages throughout the Galilee and the Negev, allowing them to integrate and interact with the surrounding communities. Especially focusing on either underdeveloped areas or those areas suffering from urban decay, these youth aim at revitalizing neighborhoods and making them friendlier, safer places to live. When it came to Kiryat Shemona, the area was suffering from a high crime rate, drug addiction, and a general sense of despair and inability to escape. Within seven years, things have gradually started to turn around and the community is starting to thrive once again. Our students spent time painting fence railings, planting trees, and preparing the soil for a future memorial garden. Contributing directly to the betterment of this community inspired us in many ways and helped us see the vision of a sector of Israeli youth who are dedicated to keeping Israel a vibrant and environmentally aware nation. As evening approached, we drove through Tiberias toward our home for the next two nights at Ohalo Manor, a beautiful hotel overlooking the Sea of Galilee. After a filling dinner and some fun games, we retired for the night, preparing for our second to last day here.

Making Our Way Back Up North

2011-01-13T10:08:00.002-06:00

"After a chilly night, we davened, dined, and dashed. Our next stop was the heart-shaped wonder of Machtesh Ramon, a naturally formed crater named for the Romans who used the area as a trade route. Breaking from the expansive wilderness that transformed our last few days, we toured the home of David Ben Gurion, former Prime Minister and champion of the Negev. After discussing the character of Ben Gurion, we sang Hatikva around his gravesite as the sun set over the mountains.

In the evening, we began our brief stay at Mashavei Sadeh with "Refusenik", a documentary detailing the journey of Soviet Jewry. A part of our exploration of the demographic makeup of Israel today, the documentary explained the desires of over 3,000,000 Soviet Jews to leave the USSR, the government's refusal to allow them to, and what it meant to live in such refusal. Our students were suprised to learn of the immense efforts of world's Jewry to free the Soviet Jews, especially in the United States.

As we finished our last full day in the south, the bond forged between the group and the land became even more apparent. Nearly all of us have been to Israel before, and each time we are asked if we "connected". For many, answering in the affirmative was a way of appeasing expectant teachers or group leaders. It seemed like what we were supposed to say. This time, there was a shift. The individuals in the class of 2011 seemed to truly find something in the desolate beauty of the sandstone and granite, something powerful and inexplicable. We want to stay in touch with this place, by means physical or cognitive. This blogger has a feeling we will all find a way to do so."

Aliza Small

After waking up in our luxurious lodgings and davening, we piled onto the bus and continued our drive north to the development town of Yeruham. Founded in the early 1950s, it was one of the many such towns designed to accommodate the sudden influx of Jews Israel experienced in the first decade of its existence. The task of absorbing the DPs, the emigrating Jewish refugees from the Middle East, and all others eager to make the new state their home was challenging: the population literally more than doubled and all those people needed jobs, places to live, and the attendant infrastructure. Israel engaged in a decade of building. One solution was to develop the Negev, with many towns springing up from the ground and constructing all the appropriate buildings. Schools, hospitals, houses and apartments, stores, community centers, synagogues. Many of these towns still stand today and are struggling in their self-definition in the 21^st century. The same problems that accompanied their founding are no longer as relevant, so they in some ways are socio-economic dinosaurs, not attracting the residents and the investment to make the community thrive.

We discovered this by walking the streets, interviewing the people, getting of glimpse of this, yet another way of life in Israel. What we discovered surprised us. While many expressed the traditional stereotype of “wanting to escape this dead end town,” some expressed their love for it and defended their decisions to raise their families here. We visited a community center, a technology building, and a school and understood a little bit more about this side of Israel. We concluded our time in Yerucham by making paper kites and drawing our “visions for the future” on them. Flying the kites, with some soaring high and others failing to make flight, we learned relevant lessons about the need to persevere with certain visions, the need to drop or step aside with others.

We left Yerucham and made our way for the heart of modern Israel, Tel Aviv. A modern metropolis in the Middle East, the city boasts a big population and has everything a modern city should have. As we get ready for dinner and our outing at a play performed by the deaf and blind, we also prepare for our Free Weekend, where our students will stay with friends or relatives throughout Israel.

Although our time here is gradually drawing to a close, there is still plenty left. We wish you a wonderful upcoming Shabbat and will return on Sunday with new updates. Kol tuv.

r

24 Hours in the Desert

2011-01-13T10:05:00.001-06:00

"For some, the desert is a place of clear skies and deep breaths. Not so for our seven brave warriors of mild sickness, who were held back at beautiful Kibbutz Ketura for some much needed r&r. Staying with them was our incomparable blog master, Mr. Marchenko. Many thanks to him for his beautiful blogging thus far! His brief hiatus will end shortly.

After a lovely breakfast, we left Kibbutz Ketura and made our way to Yutvata for some famously delicious dairy. Our stomachs filled (perhaps inconveniently), we set out for the 24-Hour Desert Experience.

As the expanse of land became more majestically desolate, the presence of kibbutzim dwindled. 6 miles north of Eilat and flanked by visible Egypt and Jordan, we arrived at our campsite and found it expertly set up by Avia and Ofer, the unofficial nature brigade.

Ofer served as our teacher for the excursion. Standing above a section of the Syrio-African rift, we were taught to locate ourselves on the planet. At the tip of the crossroads between Africa and Asia, our place in the world became both clear and minuscule.

Armed with mind-boggling geography, we began the day's hike. Beforehand, it was described as a nice ambling path, looping through canyons and impressive mountain views. The scenery was indeed wonderful, but the incline of the wadi left many with sore legs. Still, the ongoing lessons in desert geology and botany was well worth it. at many points, the port city of Aqaba was visible over the hills, reminding us just how close we were to Israel's southernmost point.

Post-hike, we returned to the camp for some tent arranging, down time, and a good 'ol pot of camping soup. Some students took time to wander down the mountain paths, exploring the rocky plateaus and miniature canyons of the Negev as the sun set. We then gathered for dinner by the fire, prepared by the staff and students. Stomachs full and shoes dusty, the students participated in a stealthy game of capture the flag by moonlight, sneaking like ibex through inch-high brush and perilous stones.

The temperature dropped steadily as the moon rose higher. Bundled up around the fire, Ishai, our madrich, taught everyone how to identify constellations and spot Polaris. Following the crash course in astronomy, the true spirit of our grade emerged once again. As the flames turned to embers, we reflected on transitions and the courses of our lives. Just as we sat at the crossroads of tectonic plates, countries, and continents, so too do we stand at a crossroads of our respective life journeys.

Though the fire died and the winds picked up, we dozed off still contemplating. The gorgeous silence that permeated our surroundings will stay with us for quite awhile. Artistic credit for this blog entry goes to oseh ma'aseh breishit"

Aliza Small

"Kibbutzniks"

2011-01-10T05:38:00.005-06:00

In the itinerary, this morning’s first event was described simply: “hike to mountain overlook for tefillah.” But it failed to do justice to the majesty that we encountered. Following a narrow, windy, and rocky path, we made our way out of the kibbutz and into the mountains of the Negev. Harrowing at points, gently sloping at others, we ascended a series of peaks while the beautiful vista expanded around us. Each time we arrive at an apparent peak, thinking we had arrived, gigantic chunks of the mountains were revealed to us. This happened literally three times, but we finally arrived at the top and overlooked the Arava Valley below us to the east and the continuation of the Negev to the west. Many have tried but few have been capable of describing the stunning natural beauty of the mountains and the valleys of this region. As we began davening, many thoughts turned to Moses and Sinai and the conditions faced on that mountain. Looking out, if we for a second imagined that the road was not there, nor the green leafy patch of the kibbutz, the landscape cannot have changed much over the past couple of thousand years. As we learned, the Arava valley, which forms the natural border between Jordan and Israel in the south, sits on the Afro-Syrian ridge, where two tectonic plates meet and are apparently rubbing against each other (to the point that over the last 19 million years, the land of Israel and the land of Jordan have been moving in opposite directions, around 150 kilometers, to be exact). But with human settlement here, the view was similar to that beheld by the ancient Israelites, and davening in this space, high above the earth and nature’s glory was a sacred experience. The way down, while quicker, was far scarier because we were constantly looking down at the ground far, far away. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAyygi_Ecz8

After an al fresco breakfast outside, we learned about efforts on the kibbutz to introduce organic farming to Israel. While some strides have been made, Israel still lags behind in these efforts compared to the United States. Nonetheless, more and more Israelis are becoming interested in growing and buying produce certified as organic and there are movements within the so-called eco-kosher community to bring together kashrut and organic ideologies. At Ketura, the community organic garden is still quite small and there are no plans for commercial organic farming as of yet, but there is an educational component to it, as well as hands on. We mulched in the vegetable garden and weeded the flower one.

After lunch and some down time, we boarded the bus and headed back out to the Negev. Ascending up out of the Arava valley, we entered a lonely stretch of road, surrounded by the hilly and rocky desert on both sides. Stopping seemingly in the middle of nowhere, we got off the bus with nothing but vast expanse on either side of us, with an Air Force base and the Sinai deep in the horizon to the west. After another minor trek upwards, we ascended a peak where we found the famous Negev sand dunes. We took off our shoes and socks and enjoyed a good hour in the finest, softest sand almost anywhere on the planet. Careening down the hill, then scrambling up for more, it was a physical yet extremely entertaining time. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zp1Y5lmGdBw

What followed was perhaps one of the most meaningful experiences of the trip, if not entire lifetimes.

As the sun set to the west, we separated, each individual finding a spot of solitude in the dunes, looking out at the seemingly infinite stretch of mountains and desert. Sitting, alone, we were left to our thoughts, our feelings, cut off from everything but ourselves and the majestic power of the earth. For a good hour, we sat, reflected, interrupted only briefly by the sound of the shofar to let us know it was time to write about our experience. In the process, the remaining light of the day faded, as twilight descended on the desert in the light of the infant moon. After days and days of interactions and engagement with others and ourselves, suddenly, swiftly all that was removed. In an instant, we were transported into a timeless, eternal world that has not changed for millions of years, vigilantly standing still through night and day, winter and summer, war and peace. The power of the land truly took hold of our imaginations here.

Afterwards, around the campfire and over s’mores, we shared our experiences. To some, it was about beholding the immenseness of the universe, of feeling really small in a really large space, surrounded by billions of stars and galaxies, each with their own story to tell. To others, it was about the transformative silence, the most incredible silence there is: total to the point that paper falling to the ground or pencil writing on paper were literally deafening. And in that silence, in that tranquility, was an incredible connection to the past, to the present, to ancestors, and, most importantly, to a universal feeling of peace. Some described it as the ultimate act of solitude, an entrée to a live show of the cosmos unfolding. Still others referred to the overpowering loneliness, both physical and emotional, that overtook them and refused to let go. Some literally cried in a cathartic cleansing, while others mentioned the obvious and undeniable removal from the monotony and routine of patterned life. For some, although being in Israel for the 7^th time, it was only on this trip, and especially during this experience, that they realized a true connection to the country and a true love of the land. And finally, perhaps most importantly, the most commonly expressed feeling was one of connection between the students, of the veritable and tangible love that exists after years and years of knowing, trusting, and engaging with each other. Hearing student after student express this emotion lifted the spirits of the entire group above and beyond. As the fire began to die out and the stars, infinite in number, penetrated our consciousness, something nearly miraculous happened. Without a plan or announcement or warning, one by one the students began rising, standing shoulder to shoulder. As others realized what was happening, they too joined, without a single word, until finally the circle became complete, and we, a small group in the middle of a vast desert, formed an unbreakable whole, cemented by song. That singular memory will live in our hearts and minds forever. In fact, our guide David from the kibbutz, in all earnestness, told us that out of the hundreds of trips to the desert that he has conducted in his life, he has never, ever seen what he saw tonight --- the reflections, the insights, and the communal bond that holds together this unique and wonderful group of students. If there was ever a higher purpose to this trip, we found it tonight.

Back on the bus, back on the kibbutz, we ate a barbecue dinner and retired for the night, having rediscovered this beautiful connection between ourselves. Tonight we shall sleep like kings.

Down South

2011-01-09T16:08:00.005-06:00

In a strange twist, the Jerusalem skies darkened with rain as we made our way to four different shuls for Shabbat services only to clear up for a wonderful evening of dinner and relaxation. Shabbat presented us with a great opportunity to re-charge, re-focus and resume our experience.

Early this morning, with bags packed, we boarded the bus, powered up the iPod, and began the long scenic drive south. The hills of Jerusalem, packed as they are with buildings and structures, gradually were replaced by the rolling Judean hills as we made our way out of the city and into the open country. From the bus, the mountains themselves seemed to be moving, swaying as if waves in an ocean, stretching back as far as the eye could see. Beautiful mounds, blending into each other, reminded us that this land is not just one of religious and cultural beauty but of immense natural beauty as well. The stones, rocks, and formations, in themselves not so complex, came together to create a vivid and stirring image. Seamlessly, far off at first, the road wound its way nearer to the Dead Sea; with ears popping, we had descended a whopping kilometer and a half below Jerusalem to reach the lowest point on planet Earth. The majestic power of the water merited a quick stop to say hello and take some pictures, and we were on our way again, swaying rhythmically to the beats of the bus. Driving past Massada but not stopping was a welcome reminder that we are not tourists here and have a more important mission.

Our home for the next two days will be Kibbutz Ketura, located half hour north of Eilat, in the middle of the Negev. As we pulled in, we witnessed the powerful vistas of the Jordanian mountains to the east and the Negev mountains to the west, and sandwiched in between, the expanse of the desert and the buildings of the kibbutz. Our experience of communal living started with hearing a lecture from a professor at the Arava Institute, a college located on the premises of the kibbutz that specializes in environmental research. Among its many endeavors is exploring renewable energy resources, whether through photovoltaic cells, biomass recycling, or hydrogen-boron automobile technology. Offering degrees in renewable energy and bringing together Israeli Jews, Israeli Arabs, Jordanian Arabs, and non-Middle Eastern students, the Institute is one of a kind in that it promotes co-existence through engaging in studies devoted for future sustainability. Many students responded to this newly acquired knowledge with desires to spend significant time at this kibbutz during their college years. Afterwards, standing at a symbolic spot of a bunker from the 1967 war we appreciated just how much has happened since then by looking at the future home of the first solar power plant in Israel and the thousands of boxes holding the solar cells. Knowing that Israel is at the forefront of research and technology of this type is a comforting experience.

Our evening was spent on the waterfront promenade at Eilat, taking in the sights, sounds, and tasty delicacies of this resort town. With three hours of free time, we had a wonderful opportunity to get a full sense of this town, some of us even choosing to go to great heights… http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FLICK0H8zI

We returned to the kibbutz and heard from a panel of current kibbutz residents, all our age, who discussed the beauty, challenge, and reward of living on kibbutz. The fundamental difference of communal life from the kind of life we are all used to was compelling and insightful to behold. Composed of some 150 permanent members and 350 part-time residents, these kibbutzniks have chosen to forsake private property and personal income (two fundamental realities of the modern world) and instead engage in a cooperative enterprise aimed at creating a better life for themselves. Whether through the aforementioned Institute or through the dairy farm or through a specialized algae growth and processing facility (which produces a special anti-aging product commonly found in health foods, medicines, and cosmetics), all are engaged in meaningful work for the sake of collective, not individual success. Many are raising their families here, teaching timeless and essential values that often fall away in the world outside. Spending a couple of days here will definitely teach us an alternative viewpoint on life and we definitely look forward to seeing where it will take us.

Shabbat Shalom!

2011-01-07T07:45:00.004-06:00

Spending Shabbat in Israel is special; spending it in Jerusalem is down-right magical. As we prepare for Shabbat and say farewell to our long, complex week, we rejoice in everything we’ve been able to do, see and experience.

Our morning started with a learning session at the Conservative Yeshiva located within our hostel complex. Reading texts from the Talmud, Midrash, and Tanach, we focused on the idea of power, its possession and the attendant responsibilities. The Jewish people have, for the majority of their history, been dispossessed of power, in political and other senses. But through Israel, they have gained power but also discovered that having power brings all sorts of other responsibilities, pressures, and obligations that those that are dispossessed do not have. After a brief hevruta session, we engaged in marvelous and challenging discussions of the ramifications of the acquisition of such power and what it means.

From there, we went on a Tikkun Olam mission to an organization very similar to the Ark in Chicago. As previously stated here, in the states, we may not always think about the complex social pyramid in Israel and the fact that the gap between rich and poor is quite substantial. For a variety of reasons, the impoverished of Israel form a multitude with needs, hopes and dreams that are regularly not being met by the ebb and flow of society an large. And so organizations such as this one exist to meet both immediate needs through a food pantry and a soup kitchen serving thousands of Israelis and more long-term needs through vocational training and medical services. After watching a video and interacting with the clients, we went to the warehouse where we made packages for the poor by filling bags with all sorts of essential food supplies. Needless to say, such a direct form of Tikkun Olam really brought home the potential that humans have for contributing to change in a society.

Our pre-Shabbat afternoon concluded with a visit to the Jerusalem Market, a frenzied bazaar offering the entire array of Middle Eastern delicacies, vegetables, meats, and everything else in between. Showcasing the most vibrant of Israeli life, our students filed through the alleys and the stalls, tasting the best of what Jerusalem has to offer. And now, we’re preparing for candle-lighting and our first Shabbat in Israel as a group. We are grateful for being here, thankful to all of those who made it possible, and wishing all our parents, friends, and loved ones a wonderful Shabbat.

Shabbat Shalom!

Further Down the Rabbit Hole

2011-01-06T15:54:00.002-06:00

For many Jews in the United States, Israel is an ideal. It is the Jewish home, defined by images, symbols, hopes and dreams, connected with via prayers, trips, and advocacy. We learn about it, hear about it, form our opinions and conceptions. But from thousands of miles away, the reality of life here may not always translate. As we are discovering, it is an amazing but also a very complex society filled with unique challenges and visions.

Our day began on the other side of the Green Line, the border between Israel and the territories occupied by Israel in the wake of the 1967 war. Known by many names, with each name carrying its own loaded connotation, these territories are home to many people. The majority are Palestinian Arabs who have either lived here since before 1948 or as refugees of the War of Independence. A growing minority are Jewish settlers who, for a variety of reasons, have chosen to make the West Bank their home. Our first stop was in the series of Jewish towns and villages that make up Gush Ezyon. Riding in an armored bus, we crossed the checkpoint into Area C (which remains under Israeli military control) and made our way through the Judean Hills to Gush Ezyon. There, we watched an informative video that traced the history of Jewish settlement of this region in the 1920s and 1930s, during the British Mandate. The settlements were lost during the War of Independence, but when Israel regained the territories during 1967, the children of the original Gush Ezyon settlers decided to reclaim their ancestors’ lands and to restart the settlement. Today, it is a diverse and thriving community of several kibbutzim that engage in a variety of agricultural pursuits. The Jews living here see it as a continuation of their parents’ and grandparents’ hopes and dreams.

Next, we went to Efrat, a town built on a series of seven hills over the last thirty years. We were joined by Bob Lang who told us the history of the town, pointing out the schools, the community centers, and the synagogues that today serve some 2,000 families, a slight majority of whom are native Israelis with the rest immigrants. Bob presented us with his viewpoints, about peace, about why he is living here, about the future of Israel. His views are representative of many who live in Efrat: they live here because it is the heart of Biblical Israel, the site of the earliest dwellings of Jews and the paths traveled by the Patriarchs. Asked about what he envisions as the solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, especially in light of settlements in the West Bank being considered one of the remaining unresolved obstacles to peace, Bob unveiled for us his ideal of a one state solution, with Israel stretching from the Mediterranean to the Jordan River, a democracy integrating all those that live there. It was a powerful testament of one man’s convictions and world-view that drive and motivate him in living his life in the way he has. After intense questioning from our students, they emerged more knowledgeable and aware of the variety of views Israelis hold regarding Israel’s future.

As we made our way back across the Green Line, we went to an institute that specializes in the cross-roads of modern technology and Halachic law. We were treated to a wonderful demonstration by its executive director who spoke about the challenges of keeping Shabbat in the modern world and the institute’s efforts to allow the use of technology in ways that do not violate the Shabbat restrictions. Ranging from basic grama mechanisms that govern the use of lights and telephones, to more complex structures like metal detectors, video surveillance, and computers, we learned about the innovative ways being explored in Israel to both minimize the violations of Shabbat restrictions by people like doctors and to fully incorporate oneg Shabbat via modern technology.

After a short break and dinner, we returned to the themes of conflict and peace by meeting with an organization called the Parents’ Circle, composed of families from both sides of the conflict who have lost loved ones to it. In powerful and moving speeches, an Israeli and a Palestinian described their life stories, focusing on their experiences of loss and reconciliation. Hearing a bereaving Israeli admit that the only thing that gave meaning to his life after his loss was the opportunity to share and connect with Palestinians with similar situations was a touching and deeply meaningful experience. We all know the immediate responses to loss of this kind (sadness, anger, desire for revenge) and the efforts of this organization to overcome all of these to arrive at something more significant are true testaments to working toward peace at the grassroots level. Whether by setting up anonymous telephone conversations between Israelis and Palestinians or by tireless lecture campaigns throughout Israel and the territories, the Parents’ Circle is bringing their vision of peace and co-existence to prominence.

For most of us, our night concluded with viewing a powerful drama about yet another side of Israel. Called Ajami, the movie centered around this neighborhood of Jaffa where the lives of Jews, Arabs, and Bedouins are mixed in complex and intricate ways. Various plotlines, from the nearly tribal settlement of blood feuds among Arabs and Bedouins, the illegal immigration of workers from the West Bank, the difficult job of the police to mediate disputes between Arabs and Jews, and the desperate need for money for its impoverished residents, came together in dramatic fashion to demonstrate yet again that life in Israel is far from simple.

These glimpses into the life of Israel are coming together to form a more complete picture. While Israel definitely remains an ideal, it is one that is being adorned with all sorts of new, heretofore unconsidered images and realities. It is our hope that in the end, even with all this complexity in tow, we will appreciate it even more.

What is Israel?

2011-01-05T15:33:00.004-06:00

A major goal of this trip is to gain some insight into the realities of life in modern Israel. Of course, such a task is infinitely diverse and complex and we cannot hope to fully understand it all. But little by little, we are chipping away and getting some sense of what it means to live here today.

What is Israel? Israel is a military society, where the IDF forms a fundamental part of Israelis’ awareness. We began our day with a visit to an organization founded about a decade ago dedicated to preparing and sending care packages to soldiers in the IDF. Some of our students prepared bags full of clothing, food, and other essential articles, while others wrote letters of encouragement and support. Based on commentary afterward, our students found it meaningful to make a difference in this way, especially after interacting with some troops who came to pick up the packages. Please check out their website at www.apackagefromhome.org and help if you can.

What is Israel? Israel is a religious society, but one that struggles with religious pluralism. We heard from Izhar Hess, the executive director of the Masorti movement in Israel. Officially, many aspects of religious life in Israel are controlled by the Chief Rabbinate, which, with its orthodox bent, has often presented obstacles to Jews practicing within the Reform and Conservative strains of Judaism. For instance, weddings can only be conducted by rabbis via the Rabbinate, and many couples are now choosing to get married outside of Israel, often due to complaints that the ceremonies officiated by these rabbis are devoid of feelings and emotions. Some thirty years ago, the Masorti movement, which is the name of the Conservative movement in Israel, emerged to represent more egalitarian strains of worship and has consistently represented various causes since that time. We learned about its efforts to conduct marriage ceremonies, to promote the conversion of many Soviet Jewish immigrants, to assist with the Bar and Bat Mitzvahs of teenagers with special needs, and to support the growth of more and more Conservative congregations. Discovering the challenges and rewards of being a non-Orthodox religious Jew in Israel was definitely an eye-opening and moving experience.

What is Israel? Israel is a sovereign nation facing tremendous challenges in the security arena, both today and throughout its history. In the afternoon, we returned to our study of co-existence by learning about the history of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by visiting various sites that brought that history to life. At a panoramic overlook of the city, we saw the border boundary that separated Israeli controlled West Jerusalem from the Jordanian controlled East Jerusalem from 1948 to 1967 and discussed what it meant when Israel re-conquered and annexed East Jerusalem during the Six Day War. Moving further south, we saw the Har Homa development block, which was built after the 1993 Oslo Accords in the territory of East Jerusalem and discussed the impact of such settlements on any future agreement. And finally, and perhaps most powerfully, we visited the southern boundary of present-day Jerusalem at Gilo, overlooking the Palestinian village of Beit Jala. For the first time during the trip, we saw the Security Barrier and discussed the reasons for its construction and the impact it has had. Finally, we made our way to Rachel’s Tomb, which just ten years ago stood on the open road from Jerusalem to Bethlehem, but today stands overshadowed by a special corridor surrounded on both sides by massive concrete walls. Needless to say, the mixed feelings and emotions of going to a holy site while being entirely engulfed by these gigantic drab walls were powerful and begged for much reflection. We returned to the hostel and for some time discussed the emotions of the day thus far.

What is Israel? Israel is a political democracy, harboring many viewpoints across the political spectrum. In the early evening, we heard from a speaker representing Peace Now, an organization that works across the Zionist political spectrum in order to educate and raise awareness of the possibilities and obstacles to peace. We learned about their activities with regard to Settlement Watch, which monitors the building of settlements in the territories (since they are officially under military control, that information is not readily available to the public) and about their general awareness and publicity campaigns. Students asked important questions about the current state of peace negotiations and the possibilities of peace in the near future.

And finally, to conclude our day, we returned to the themes of our morning by meeting with a mechina, which is a pre-military gap year service organization for Israeli youth. Led by alum Jacquie Zaluda, our students visited the parents of Gilad Shalit who have been holding a daily sit-in for him for some six months right outside our hostel. We then returned and discussed the delicate and complex situation faced by the IDF and Israeli society with regard to Gilad and why, after nearly four and a half years, he still remains in captivity in Gaza. For our students to have an intimate session with peers only a few years older and to discover the type of life they lead had a tremendous effect on their awareness.

So, our answer to the question grew more complex but we are far from finished. So many pieces of the puzzle remain and we shall continue our search.

In the Middle of Everything

2011-01-04T15:36:00.004-06:00

Our first full day really set the tone for the entire trip. Ostensibly, the theme for today was the exploration of the dominant cultures and ethnicities that have historically made Jerusalem their home. By looking at them closely and examining how they have co-existed, as well as at the attendant tensions, we became more aware of how the city has absorbed these traditions in quite a unique way.

We began at Robinson’s Arch, located at the southern end of the Western Wall, where we davened, standing on excavated stones dating back to Roman times and looking up at the Wall as it appeared to passersby some two thousand years ago. Because the Kotel is considered an orthodox synagogue, we were not be able to hold egalitarian prayer services there and had to make do with the more removed, but also more private and quiet, area of the wall. From there, we made our way up to the Temple Mount and saw the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock up close, while discussing the reality of what it means for Jews not to be able to freely visit the Temple Mount and why the situation historically turned out this way. For nearly everyone in our group, this was the first time we were able to ascend up, which proved to be a deeply reflective experience.

After this immersion in the Jewish and Muslim experience of the Temple Mount, we made our way across the Jewish and Muslim quarters of the Old City to the Christian Quarter, where we visited the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the site considered by Christians to be the location of the crucifixion and the resurrection of Jesus, which makes it among the holiest of sites of Christianity and explains a great deal of the importance of Jerusalem for those of the Christian faith. Weaving around the tight and ancient spaces of the Old City, we had a solid break for lunch and reconvened at the City of David, an archaeological site just outside the Old City that houses some of the very first remains of a Jewish presence in Jerusalem, dating back over three thousand years. Buried under ground during Jordanian rule over East Jerusalem, it was discovered shortly after 1967 and has since also become home to some 80 Jewish families who consider it to be the true heart of Jewish Jerusalem and have made it a point to live here. We were privileged to visit the home of one of these families and hear about the views of those choosing to live here and their responses to questions about what it means to live in contested territory.

After the City of David, our evening was spent listening to a speaker from a group called Ma’aglei Tzedek that specializes in licensing Israeli businesses, mostly in the food service industry, in just and humane conditions for their customers and workers. Because Israeli laws concerning handicapped access and employee rights have a difficult time being enforced, this group has taken it upon itself to get businesses to agree to its standards, thereby ensuring that justice is carried out in this way. Our day concluded with dinner on Emek Refaim street, a quaint bohemian neighborhood full of restaurants and shops.

One of the areas we are looking at closely during our trip is the intersection of Jewish, Muslim, and Christian histories, religions, and cultures and how all of them have legitimate and important stakes in Jerusalem. Some parts of this complex relationship have been worked out, such as the division of the Old City, but some parts, such as the final status of East Jerusalem, have not and remain thorny and intricate dilemmas to be resolved. By actually looking at the situation on the ground, learning about the history and the current reality, and speaking out about our views and opinions, our students are getting important real life insights into how Jerusalem operates in real time. While we are far from any conclusions, today was an energizing and tremendously thoughtful start to our journey.

It Has Begun

2011-01-03T13:39:00.000-06:00

After much anticipation and preparation, thirty three of our seniors, along with four staff, have made it to Israel. We are here, tired, jet lagged, but we are here. So begins an eventful, educational and inspirational three weeks, during which time we hope to make many memories and share them with you. Please comment, share your thoughts, let us know what your impressions are. Tomorrow, Tuesday, January 4th, will be our first full day and what a memorable one it shall be. The Old City, the heart and soul of Jerusalem.

Check in soon.

2009-01-17T11:11:00.001-06:00

Since we last wrote, we've been busy, busy, busy...

On Thursday, we spent the day near (and in) the Dead Sea, including a gorgeous morning hike at Nachal Arugot. We returned to Jerusalem just in time for dinner, which was followed by some free time on Ben Yehuda Street.

On Friday, we looked at collective memory and identity in the State of Israel. In the morning, we were at Yad Vashem, where students participated in two separate tracks--one for those who had never been in the new museum, and a separate experience for those who had already been there.

We also spent some time at Har Herzl, Israel's military cemetery, where our madricha guided us around several sections, including the graves of Theodor Herzl, Hannah Senesh, and a few soldiers who were just buried this past week. We also met a woman whose son died in the Second Lebanon War, and she shared her son's story with the group.

With these experiences in mind, we began our final Shabbat on the program. We divided up and went to four different synagogues last night and two different synagogues this morning to get a better sense of the davening experiences available in Jerusalem. Our meals were filled with singing, and students spent this afternoon playing frisbee, basketball, SET, and just hanging out.

We are getting ready to head to our Final Banquet right now. When we return to the youth hostel, we all have to pack, and some of us might catch a few hours of sleep before we leave around 4:30 a.m.

We look forward to seeing you in Chicago tomorrow.

Shavua tov.

Tuesday: A Day of Surprises and Adventures

2009-01-14T15:27:00.000-06:00

Tuesday was filled with surprises and adventures as we explored some fascinating areas of Tel Aviv. We began our tour in the neighborhoods of Neve Tzedek/Neve Shalom, where we learned about the founding of this specific area and Tel Aviv as a whole. Students role-played a conversation among Tel Aviv's founders regarding whether their new city should be religiously Jewish or culturally Jewish, which led to an incredible discussion of whether this is a Jewish city or an Israeli city. (The answer, by the way, is Yes.) Many of our misconceptions about the cultural and economic capital of Israel were debunked; as it turns out, Tel Aviv has more than 5,000 synagogues and plenty of religious activity coexisting with nightclubs, ballets, other fine arts, and the stock exchange.While leaving this neighborhood, we saw a crew filming something--it turned out that the show being filmed there is similar to Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.

After lunch, we went to Hechal Atzmaut, the Hall of Independence, which is where the State of Israel was declared on May 14, 1948. We were reminded that this building was first Meir Dizengoff's home in the new Hebrew city of Ahuzat Bayit (which became Tel Aviv), then an art museum, before it became the place where David Ben-Gurion read the Scroll of Independence on that historic day. (For those who remember our Yom Haatzmaut celebration at CJHS this past spring, when we reenacted the Declaration, it was exciting to once again be in this room that we recreated in the CJHS gym. The setting looked pretty familiar!)

We also had a big surprise when one of our students got a special phone call: she's an aunt!

We then had time to wander around Nachalat Binyamin, the artists' colony, where many students and staff found lovely gifts for friends, family, and themselves. We walked to dinner and then, already a bit exhausted, we headed toward our evening program.

Our evening was to be at Na Laga'at, the only blind-deaf theatre program in the world. Just as our bus arrived at the theatre, Leora, our madricha, announced a special surprise for the group. "Direct from Gaza," she said, and all eyes turned to the front as Didi, our beloved madrich/guard/medic boarded the bus. Pandemonium ensued; we have never seen the kids get off the bus so quickly, as they hurried to hug Didi. After a week of basically not sleeping, Didi said, he was granted 24 hours of leave to visit his grandmother, who lives near the theatre, so he was thrilled to surprise us as well. He was only able to stay with us for about a half-hour; though the time was short, it was exciting for everyone to reconnect with our friend.

We walked into Na Laga'at and sat down at their cafe, Kapish, which is run by deaf waiters, so everyone has to communicate in sign language. (They also have a restaurant called Blackout, which is run by blind waiters and gives diners the experience of eating in total darkness.) Following tea, cake, and a Hebrew Sign Language lesson at Kapish, we entered the theatre for Lo Al Lechem L'vado (Not on Bread Alone), a performance done entirely by actors who are both deaf and blind. The show was extraordinary.

Exhausted, we returned to Jerusalem late on Tuesday night.

Wednesday was a whirlwind. We started with a lecture from Chicago native Gil Hoffman, who is the chief political correspondent for the Jerusalem Post. He spoke with us about his journalistic interactions with political figures and his perspective on the current situation. We then spent much of the day focusing on democracy and law in the State of Israel, with visits to the Supreme Court, the Knesset, and the Menachem Begin Center, where we had a tour and then participated in a Knesset simulation activity.

Tonight, we had a low-key evening; many students spent time with friends and family, and others just hung out at our youth hostel.

On Thursday, we are spending our day around the Dead Sea, with a great hike planned, as well as an exploration of Qumran, the place where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found.

As we shiver in our warm clothing and fleeces in 40-50 degree weather here, we hear that it's ridiculously cold and snowy in Chicago. We are thinking of you and will see you all very soon.

Desert Survival Experience

2009-01-12T13:51:00.000-06:00

On Sunday morning, we met at our designated locations in Tel Aviv, Modi'in, and Jerusalem following our free Shabbat, and we headed toward the Negev Desert. Upon arrival, we met the guides for our 24-hour Desert Survival Experience and began our first hike. We divided into three small groups to cook lunch together in a competitive atmosphere. We cleaned up lunch and spent the next couple of hours hiking through the Negev until we reached our campsite, where tents were already up, sleeping bags and mattress pads awaited us, and our guides had prepared a delicious, hearty meal. We had an evening activity in which each person had private, personal space in the desert to reflect and contemplate the vastness of our surroundings. We roasted marshmallows and sang songs around a bonfire. Some students headed to tents, while others preferred to sleep under the stars.

This morning, we arose bright and early at 5:45 a.m. in order to begin and complete our hike before the hottest part of the day. The conclusion of today's hike was an exciting rappelling experience. Our guides provided a closure activity for our Desert Survival Experience; we headed to the bus and a delicious lunch in Ein Gedi.

We arrived in Jerusalem by mid-afternoon, giving everyone time to take much-needed showers and get some rest. Tonight, we heard a lecture given by a scholar and specialist in Middle Eastern studies and Arabic from Ben-Gurion University, who presented historical information, including the origins of Hezbollah and Hamas.

This evening, a doctor came to Beit Shmuel to meet with a number of students who had a variety of ailments. Rest assured that we are taking good care of everyone! Tomorrow, we have a full day planned in Tel Aviv. Look for the next post on Wednesday night, as we will not return to Jerusalem until very late on Tuesday.

Our Friends in Kiryat Gat

2009-01-08T14:48:00.000-06:00

Today was dedicated to the partnership between CJHS students and teens in Kiryat Gat. Our day began, as usual, with tefillah, which concluded with an open conversation--conducted in Hebrew and English by students and staff on both sides--about tefillah at CJHS and within Conservative Judaism.

We spent much of the morning on an intense hike through the Jerusalem mountains, as we traced some of the steps taken in 1948 by soldiers in the War of Independence. After we reached the top of the mountain's trail, we roughed it down stone, dirt, and other obstacles to reach the bottom of the hill. Throughout the trek, we heard the students from both schools conversing together in both English and Hebrew, discussing topics ranging from politics to history, from getting a driver's license to the situation in Gaza. The hike concluded with the opportunity to make our own lunches, as the students mixed and baked pita bread over an open fire and roasted bananas, apples, and other items to supplement the hummus, salads, corn, and pickles that were provided for us.

After lunch, all of the students traveled to Rishon L'Zion, where we collaborated on a Tikkun Olam project. We went to a drop-off center for large amounts of clothing, and students sorted jeans and jackets--currently the agency's greatest need--from a veritable mountain of clothing.

We took a brief stop at the Har'el Mall for dinner before returning to Kibbutz Tzuba for closing activities. In the lobby of the kibbutz hotel, we had an impromptu singing session before the CJHS students received small gifts from our Kiryat Gat friends and everyone exchanged phone numbers and email addresses. We even had time to sing a bit more together!

Our Kiryat Gat friends left for their ride home, and we look forward to seeing them in Chicago in three months!

Our evening concluded with a class meeting. The staff shared information about the free Shabbat, which begins tomorrow morning, and the Outdoor Desert Experience we will have on Sunday and Monday.

Please be aware that the blog will not be updated until Monday night, and we may not have reliable cell phone service in the desert on Sunday and Monday.

As our students travel through much of Israel to spend time with friends and family for Shabbat, we'd like to take this time to wish Mr. Rose's family mazal tov on the birth of a new daughter, Gvt. Cohen a refuah shelema (a complete recovery), and to all of you, a Shabbat Shalom.

Goodbyes and Hellos

2009-01-07T14:40:00.000-06:00

Our day began with a couple of farewells:

Farewell to Kibbutz Hannaton, as we departed for the South this morning.

Farewell to Dr. Schaffner, who we dropped off in Tel Aviv in anticipation of his flight back to the States early tomorrow morning.

Our main destination for the day was Neot Kedumim, a Biblical preserve which features every plant and many of the animals in the Bible, Mishnah, and Talmud. Here, we were just finishing our lunch when a bus arrived with our new and old friends from Kiryat Gat. This is the beginning of two days of intense meetings and workshops between students from the two schools. We spent the afternoon together at Neot Kedumim, taking part in leadership and bonding activities that included making za'atar and herding sheep.

In the evening, we arrived at Kibbutz Tzuba, our home for the next couple of days. We had dinner together and participated in a great program planned by the Kiryat Gat staff, in which we explored Jewish identity among Israeli and Diaspora Jews and then had an intense discussion of the military operation in Gaza.

Tomorrow, our 50+ (combined) students will hike and complete a Tikkun Olam project together in Rishon L'Zion.

Caroline Musin

Claudia Linda

Rabbi Ruven Barkan

Up North

2009-01-05T11:53:00.000-06:00

When we last wrote, we had just heard about the ground forces entering Gaza. This became a very personal experience for us, as our madrich (counselor) had to leave our group to join his army unit on Saturday night.

Sunday morning, we left Jerusalem and headed to the North, with a stop at Givat Haviva for a different perspective on the Israeli/Palestinian issues than we had experienced in the previous week. Our day ended with our arrival at Kibbutz Hannaton (just in time for dinner!). Following dinner, we had a lengthy and emotional sharing experience with each person in the program commenting on the current news and discussing reactions to being in Israel at this particular time.

This morning, we headed to Mt. Arbel, where we rode donkeys. When we reached the top of the mountain, we had a magnificent view of the Kinneret (Sea of Galilee). From there, we had a rather strenuous hike down the mountain. Our next stop was Tzfat, where we were delighted to welcome Rabbi Barkan to our group! Our activities in Tzfat included hearing a kabbalist artist talk about his experience with Kabbalah and how it influences his artwork. After a bit of time shopping, we participated in singing and dancing with some spirited residents of Tzfat.

Tonight, we are back at Hannaton watching a movie, The Syrian Bride, which will prepare students for our Druze experience tomorrow.

We are excited to send congratulations and best wishes on the birth of Ms. Gitlin's baby!

Shavua tov!

2009-01-03T13:53:00.000-06:00

Do your kids help make Shabbat dinner at your home? If not, know that they are more than capable! Friday's theme was Tikkun Olam, and we spent the morning at Ichlu Re'im Soup Kitchen. Our students and staff peeled and chopped potatoes, chopped onions, inspected rice, chopped salad vegetables, cleaned fridges, shlepped boxes, mopped floors, set up tables, and more, all to help prepare Shabbat dinner for some of Jerusalem's neediest residents.

We stopped next at Machaneh Yehuda, the outdoor shuk in Jerusalem, where students explored the fun of bargaining while purchasing lunch and goodies for a group oneg. Following Machaneh Yehuda, we had time to prepare for Shabbat.

Rested, showered, and in our loveliest clothing, we began Shabbat with a student-led program to put us in the mindset for a day of rest. We davened together at Beit Shmuel and enjoyed a delicious dinner. After dinner, another group of students led the class in a bonding activity.

This morning, we walked to Ma'ayanot, a Conservative congregation in Talpiot. Members of the congregation hosted our students and staff for Shabbat lunch following tefillot. We davened mincha there and then returned to Beit Shmuel.

Following havdalah, we had dinner and participated in a drummers' circle, an extraordinary experience of energy and sound which will make more sense when you see your children's pictures.

Tomorrow morning, we leave Jerusalem for several days in the North. We want to reassure you that our entire itinerary has been and will continue to be cleared by the security authorities in Israel on a daily basis and will be modified as needed. We do not know whether we will have access to internet in the North, so our blog may be on hiatus for a few days.

If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to call any of us on the staff (keeping in mind the time difference).

Shavua tov!

Caroline Musin
Claudia Linda
Ted Schaffner

2009-01-01T12:59:00.000-06:00

We have great news--it has stopped raining, and the sun has come out! (However, it's still a brisk 40 degrees.)

To continue our discussion of the three religions of Jerusalem, our day began with an exploration of the importance of the city to Muslims and included an update on the situation in Gaza. We then took a bus tour of the city focusing on the impact of geography on Israel's security issues.

We received security clearance to visit Gush Etzion this afternoon, where we learned about the origins and history of the area through a film at Kibbutz Kfar Etzion. Afterward, we met with a man who lives in Efrat who spoke about his perspective on peace and security for the State of Israel, with a special emphasis on settlements.

Tomorrow morning, we will help prepare Shabbat dinner at a soup kitchen, and then we'll go to the shuk to prepare for our own Shabbat festivities, which we began planning tonight.

Our next update will be after Shabbat. Until then, Shabbat Shalom!

The Oldest Part of Jerusalem

2008-12-31T09:44:00.000-06:00

Today, we hoped to start with tefillah at the Kotel, but steady rain put a stop to those plans. After tefillah and breakfast at our youth hostel, we went to the City of David, the oldest part of Jerusalem. We walked through remarkable archaeological excavations, including the recently discovered foundations of the gates to David's palace. We were welcomed into the home of a woman who has lived in the City of David for the last 12 years; over tea, popcorn, and other treats, she gave us her perspective of Jewish life in what was until very recently an exclusively Arab village.

After the City of David, we davened mincha and ate lunch at the Conservative Yeshiva, where we also received an introduction to Christianity in preparation for our afternoon touring in Ein Kerem. This tour included Mary's Spring, the Church of the Visitation, and the St. John Ba Harim (in the Mountains) Church.

We took some time to rest at our base and then spent a couple of hours at the Malcha Mall, where everyone received money and selected their own dinners. Tonight, the kids are having a quiet New Year's celebration on our floor of the base.

Tomorrow, we are looking forward to more activities in and around Jerusalem, and the cessation of the rain.

Happy New Year!

Caroline Musin
Claudia Linda
Ted Schaffner

12/30/2008

2008-12-30T14:28:00.000-06:00

Dear Parents,

Today was our first full day in Israel, and it was wonderful! We started our day at the Conservative Yeshiva, where we learned with Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Shmuel Lewis about pluralism through the lens of Hillel and Shammai.

Next, we went to the Israel Museum, where we learned about the Second Temple period. We looked at a baseball-diamond-sized model of Jerusalem at that time; interestingly enough, this model used to sit next to the Holyland Hotel, and a few years ago, it was moved to the Israel Museum. (Not a small task...) We then headed into the Shrine of the Book, where some of the Dead Sea Scrolls found in Qumran are kept, and we learned that the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls is considered the greatest find in all of Jewish history.

We spent the afternoon in the Jewish Quarter of the Old City, starting with a picnic lunch. We took a group picture there and hope to soon have the capability to add pictures to the blog. We started our tour of the Jewish Quarter by going to a rooftop vista at the precise center of the Old City. From there, we were able to see all four quarters--Jewish, Christian, Armenian, and Muslim--and therefore better understand the geography of the area. While in the Jewish Quarter, we went to a cluster called The Four Sephardi Synagogues (even though one was actually Ashkenazi) and saw a number of other sites before heading to the Kotel, where students davened mincha and saw a presentation by Sharsheret HaDorot (Chain of Generations) as an introduction to the Kotel.

Our evening included dinner and a bonding activity led by our Israeli madrichim.

Today was also punctuated by many visits from CJHS alumni!

Tomorrow, we look forward to an early morning walk to daven Shacharit by Robinson's Arch, the area of the Kotel where Conservative and egalitarian minyanim are permitted. We will spend the morning in the City of David, and the afternoon in Ein Kerem, where we will learn about Christianity as part of our study of the three religions of Jerusalem.

For our free evening, we will spend some time at Malcha Mall, which is indoor and secure. secure mall.

We have now activated our blog. You can read this post and all future posts at http://seniorisraelexperience.blogspot.com/. There is a place on the upper righthand side where you can subscribe to the blog and get alerts when we post a new message.

Caroline Musin
Claudia Linda
Ted Schaffner

December 29, 11:30 p.m.

2008-12-30T00:53:00.000-06:00

December 29, 2008
11:30 p.m., Jerusalem

Dear Parents,

After many hours of travel, we have finally arrived in Israel! Our day was permeated by the celebration of one student's birthday across many, many time zones, as well as the newness of Israel to our three students who are here for the first time. Upon arrival, we ascended to Jerusalem, met our Israeli staff, and enjoyed a delicious dinner and welcoming activity before heading off to bed; we are all exhausted!!

Unfortunately, we are not able to get our cell phones until Tuesday morning, so we wanted to get this message to you as soon as possible-we are here! Please keep in mind that if we receive the phones as expected at 9:30 a.m., that is 1:30 a.m. in Chicago, so plan on hearing from your children later in the day.

This evening, we on the CJHS staff met with David Keren, Director of USY Programs in Israel, and our contact from the Israel Experience, as well as our two Israeli staff members. (One is a regular madricha-counselor-and the other is a madrich, who serves as a counselor and guard and is also a qualified medic.)

A few words about the planning of our trip: The Israel Experience is the travel agency of the Jewish Agency for Israel, and is responsible for all of the youth programs and tours in Israel. The Jewish agency has a security team that approves the itinerary for every youth program in Israel, in advance and on a daily basis. The security team receives minute-by-minute updates on areas of concern and makes decisions about restricting access to those areas. When they have an alert, our staff receives the message immediately.

As a result of recent events, our schedule for the next few days has been adjusted. Tuesday's schedule remains the same. On Wednesday, although we will still examine the three religions of Jerusalem, we will not be going to the Temple Mount or the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Our Israeli staff has arranged for us to visit Mt. Zion and Ein Kerem instead.

On Thursday afternoon, we will take a hike through the Jerusalem mountains rather than visit Gush Etzion.

We look forward to keeping in touch with you on a regular basis. We are going to establish a blog to make communication easier on our end. We'll let you know as soon as the blog is set up.

Caroline Musin
Claudia Linda
Ted Schaffner