Well MBI has come to a close and everyone is safely back home aside from those who remained in Israel. With all the hours and effort put in to the building and running of MBI, it was rewarding to be at the airport and see the new friendships, connection to the movement and the love of Israel that this wonderful group came back with. It is always exciting to see a new group of young leader come back with energy and excitement.
Thank you to all of the chaperones for all of our buses and flights which made the travel day a success. Of course a thank you goes to the MBI tzevet(staff) led by Gil and Jacki(our technical director) for all of their hard work and dedication to the creation of an incredible experience for the MBIers. Their guidance, knowledge and leadership paired with the experience and know how of our program providers the Israel Experience, made MBI Chai so special. And of course thank you to all you parents for your support throughout the program.
This year and especially the last month have been an incredible learning process for me and I am glad that overall things have gone quite well and I am always open to and wanting to receive any constructive feedback you might have for the future. We will be sending out a feedback survey at the beginning of next week.
I hope everyone has a great rest of their summer.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
On their way home
All of the MBIers that are coming home today are on their way.
All of the flight have taken off and are scheduled to arrive on time.
All of the flight have taken off and are scheduled to arrive on time.
MBI is coming to an end
Yesterday the MBIers continued the sikkum (conclusion). They participated in a variety of peulot with their kvutzah(small group), machaneh (camp) and with all of MBI.
The morning began with an activity with all of MBI. Even though all seven camps have similarities each camp has a distinct personality and traditions. The kids split up into groups by camp and decided on a song that represented their camp and then taught it to the rest of the MBIers. This was a way to share in each others cultures and bring a new tradition back to their home machaneh. It is always exciting to return to camp teach them something you learned from friends at other camps.
They then split up by their kvutzot and had a peulah about their ideal visions for society and how they can be a part of creating those visions. The peulah began with creating society as it is and their ideal society out of food items. Even though they had worked so hard to create their societies they could not resist munching on their creations while discussing the positive impact they can have on society and how they can work towards their ideal.
After lunch everyone gathered together to begin the long process of saying goodbye. They were given paper and other art supplies and they created "warm fuzzy books". These are books that they can pass around and write notes to each other about the experience they had on MBI.
Following this the kids sat by machaneh with a madrich from that area and discussed the coming year and the role that they will or want to have in the ken. (regional year long activities). They discussed the responsibilities they have as someone who has completed MBI in the movement and how they can be active until next summer.
After dinner the MBIers enjoyed one more musicale and then celebrated by having their final mesibah (party).
This morning the MBIers participated in a volunteering project with Shulchan l'Shulchan (Table to Table). Shulchan l'Shulchan rescues excess, unserved food that would otherwise be destroyed from catered events, bakeries, army bases, perishable food manufacturers, farmers and packinghouses. They then transport the food to non-profit organizations throughout Israel serving people in need. The MBIers were at a farm helping pick produce that would otherwise be neglected.
After returning to Nordiya, each kvutzah sat for one last time together to say their final goodbyes and receive their bus and MBI tshirts. Before dinner they had a tekkes siyum (concluding ceremony) in which Gil said some nice words about how enjoyable this experience was for him as a first time Rosh and everyone sang the movement anthem. After this they will have dinner and head to the airport.
The morning began with an activity with all of MBI. Even though all seven camps have similarities each camp has a distinct personality and traditions. The kids split up into groups by camp and decided on a song that represented their camp and then taught it to the rest of the MBIers. This was a way to share in each others cultures and bring a new tradition back to their home machaneh. It is always exciting to return to camp teach them something you learned from friends at other camps.
They then split up by their kvutzot and had a peulah about their ideal visions for society and how they can be a part of creating those visions. The peulah began with creating society as it is and their ideal society out of food items. Even though they had worked so hard to create their societies they could not resist munching on their creations while discussing the positive impact they can have on society and how they can work towards their ideal.
After lunch everyone gathered together to begin the long process of saying goodbye. They were given paper and other art supplies and they created "warm fuzzy books". These are books that they can pass around and write notes to each other about the experience they had on MBI.
Following this the kids sat by machaneh with a madrich from that area and discussed the coming year and the role that they will or want to have in the ken. (regional year long activities). They discussed the responsibilities they have as someone who has completed MBI in the movement and how they can be active until next summer.
After dinner the MBIers enjoyed one more musicale and then celebrated by having their final mesibah (party).
This morning the MBIers participated in a volunteering project with Shulchan l'Shulchan (Table to Table). Shulchan l'Shulchan rescues excess, unserved food that would otherwise be destroyed from catered events, bakeries, army bases, perishable food manufacturers, farmers and packinghouses. They then transport the food to non-profit organizations throughout Israel serving people in need. The MBIers were at a farm helping pick produce that would otherwise be neglected.
After returning to Nordiya, each kvutzah sat for one last time together to say their final goodbyes and receive their bus and MBI tshirts. Before dinner they had a tekkes siyum (concluding ceremony) in which Gil said some nice words about how enjoyable this experience was for him as a first time Rosh and everyone sang the movement anthem. After this they will have dinner and head to the airport.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Uncovering history
On Monday MBI spent the morning exploring the hills of Jerusalem in a series of activities run by the JNF/KKL (Jewish National Fund). This included a short hike and learning about the history of the area. They then went down into a series of caves that are also rich in history. This is where the Bar Kochvah revolt took place. The Bar Kochvah revolt against the Roman Empire was the third major rebellion by the Jews and the last of the Jewish-Roman Wars. The goal of the rebellion was to regain independence from the Romans, who had destroyed the Second Temple in Jerusalem in 70 C.E. These caves were the military headquarters for Bar Kochvah and his men. The groups also took part in an archeological dig looking for remnants of Jewish and Roman artifacts.
In the afternoon MBI visited an old underground ammunition factory called Machon Ayalon. The Hagganah (defense force)convinced a group of people who wanted to build a kibbutz to building an ammunition factory. They dug out an enormous underground hole in just weeks, while the British thought they were building a kibbutz. 40 people would go underground daily to make bullets. The kibbutz took in laundry as its source of income, and the access to the ammunition factory was under a washing machine that slides to the side to reveal a ladder. All 40 of the original workers were trained to climb down the ladder in record time. They made 250,000 bullets without a single mishap, and bullets were the one thing the Israelis did not run out of during their war for independence. Visitors walk down the ladder and view the machinery while listening to the story.
In the evening after returning to Nes Harim the groups started the sikkum (conclusion process)with a peulah discussing the relationships that they created on MBI and in Habonim and how they can continue those and create those kind of friendships in their life outside of machaneh (camp).
In the afternoon MBI visited an old underground ammunition factory called Machon Ayalon. The Hagganah (defense force)convinced a group of people who wanted to build a kibbutz to building an ammunition factory. They dug out an enormous underground hole in just weeks, while the British thought they were building a kibbutz. 40 people would go underground daily to make bullets. The kibbutz took in laundry as its source of income, and the access to the ammunition factory was under a washing machine that slides to the side to reveal a ladder. All 40 of the original workers were trained to climb down the ladder in record time. They made 250,000 bullets without a single mishap, and bullets were the one thing the Israelis did not run out of during their war for independence. Visitors walk down the ladder and view the machinery while listening to the story.
In the evening after returning to Nes Harim the groups started the sikkum (conclusion process)with a peulah discussing the relationships that they created on MBI and in Habonim and how they can continue those and create those kind of friendships in their life outside of machaneh (camp).
Monday, August 3, 2009
Shabbat and Back to Jerusalem
After a few days apart on kibbutz the MBIers were happy to be together for their final Shabbat. On Saturday morning they had chuggim (interest groups) which were run by both madrichim and chanichim. This is a time for them to sit in small groups and have discussions about a specific topic of interest. These discussions range in topics pertaining to politics, music, philosophy, nature among many others.
After chuggim they had michpachot (families) which was time for them to sit by machaneh (camp) and have a check in with their home camp friends. This is a time for them to talk about camp and to share stories from each buses experience.
In the evening the MBIers had a peulah in preparation for their visit to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust memorial museum in Jerusalem. On Sunday they went to the museum and had a guided tour through the museum. The museum which was which was recently renovated has a unique design. The building is a long triangle that at the end there are windows piping light and a beautiful view of Jerusalem. In order to reach the light you have to criss-cross through each section of the museum, which spans from before the Holocaust looking at communities, through the end of the war exploring the many difficult topics and some of the more inspirational tales of righteous gentiles and the youth movements role in the war. The tour tries to focus on some of the aspects of the Holocaust and then ends by discussing the importance of Israel in our history as the Jewish people. The tour was followed by a processing discussion within the kvutzah with madrichim. This was a emotionally moving and important experience for all.
Following the museum the group headed to Har Herzl (Mount Herzl), a national cemetery in Jerusalem, named for Theodor Herzl, the founder of modern political Zionism. The cemetery was created as a burial place for national figures and fallen soldiers. Each group walked through the cemetery and the stories of some of the figures buried there such as Hannah Senesh and Yitzhak Rabin.
After an emotional morning, the group spent the afternoon taking in the sights, sounds and scents of Machaneh Yehuda, the largest and busiest outdoor market in Israel. This gave the chanichim a chance to see one of the staples of life in Israel and to be amongst Israelis in their day to day routine.
In the evening MBI had musicale, a Saturday night tradition at camp where chanichim are given the chance to show off their musical talents. Many a friendship has been formed over a common love for songwriting, musical instruments and singing.
After chuggim they had michpachot (families) which was time for them to sit by machaneh (camp) and have a check in with their home camp friends. This is a time for them to talk about camp and to share stories from each buses experience.
In the evening the MBIers had a peulah in preparation for their visit to Yad Vashem, the Holocaust memorial museum in Jerusalem. On Sunday they went to the museum and had a guided tour through the museum. The museum which was which was recently renovated has a unique design. The building is a long triangle that at the end there are windows piping light and a beautiful view of Jerusalem. In order to reach the light you have to criss-cross through each section of the museum, which spans from before the Holocaust looking at communities, through the end of the war exploring the many difficult topics and some of the more inspirational tales of righteous gentiles and the youth movements role in the war. The tour tries to focus on some of the aspects of the Holocaust and then ends by discussing the importance of Israel in our history as the Jewish people. The tour was followed by a processing discussion within the kvutzah with madrichim. This was a emotionally moving and important experience for all.
Following the museum the group headed to Har Herzl (Mount Herzl), a national cemetery in Jerusalem, named for Theodor Herzl, the founder of modern political Zionism. The cemetery was created as a burial place for national figures and fallen soldiers. Each group walked through the cemetery and the stories of some of the figures buried there such as Hannah Senesh and Yitzhak Rabin.
After an emotional morning, the group spent the afternoon taking in the sights, sounds and scents of Machaneh Yehuda, the largest and busiest outdoor market in Israel. This gave the chanichim a chance to see one of the staples of life in Israel and to be amongst Israelis in their day to day routine.
In the evening MBI had musicale, a Saturday night tradition at camp where chanichim are given the chance to show off their musical talents. Many a friendship has been formed over a common love for songwriting, musical instruments and singing.
Saturday, August 1, 2009
MBI Return Travel Repost
Flights
Return to Newark
EL AL LY 27
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 12:05 am Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Newark, Newark, NJ, USA(EWR) 04:45 am Term. B
The bus to PA/MD will meet the kids at Newark airport.
Bus Information
Keneseth Israel, Elkins Park PA- 8:30am
White Marsh Park and Ride, White Marsh MD- 10:30am
Montgomery Blair High School, Silver Spring, MD- 11:30am
Return to JFK
EL AL LY 1
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 01:00 am Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 John F Kennedy Intl APT, New York, NY, USA(JFK) 05:40 am Term. 4
There will be Habonim staff at JFK to help MBIers find their connecting flights.
Return to Toronto
Delta DL 153
Depart: Wed. 05 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 11:35 pm Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 05:50 am Term. S
Delta DL 5492
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 07:45 am Term. S
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Lester B Pearson Intl, Toronto, ON, Canada(YYZ) 09:57 am Term. 3
There will be a Delta representative meeting the MBIers to take them to their connecting gate.
Return to Vancouver
Delta DL 153
Depart: Wed. 05 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 11:35 am Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 05:50 am Term. S
Delta DL 1105
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 08:20 am Term. S
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City, UT, USA(SLC) 10:19 am Term. 2
Delta DL 4870
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City, UT, USA(SLC) 10:55 am Term. 2
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Vancouver, Vancouver, BC, Canada(YVR) 12:19 pm Term. M
There will be Delta staff at all connections to help MBIers find their connecting flights.
If your child is not traveling home on this day.
The best place to pick them up is at the airport. The group will be there starting at 8:30pm to check in. If you would like to make alternate plans or need further information please be in touch with Shani directly.
Return to Newark
EL AL LY 27
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 12:05 am Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Newark, Newark, NJ, USA(EWR) 04:45 am Term. B
The bus to PA/MD will meet the kids at Newark airport.
Bus Information
Keneseth Israel, Elkins Park PA- 8:30am
White Marsh Park and Ride, White Marsh MD- 10:30am
Montgomery Blair High School, Silver Spring, MD- 11:30am
Return to JFK
EL AL LY 1
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 01:00 am Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 John F Kennedy Intl APT, New York, NY, USA(JFK) 05:40 am Term. 4
There will be Habonim staff at JFK to help MBIers find their connecting flights.
Return to Toronto
Delta DL 153
Depart: Wed. 05 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 11:35 pm Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 05:50 am Term. S
Delta DL 5492
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 07:45 am Term. S
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Lester B Pearson Intl, Toronto, ON, Canada(YYZ) 09:57 am Term. 3
There will be a Delta representative meeting the MBIers to take them to their connecting gate.
Return to Vancouver
Delta DL 153
Depart: Wed. 05 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 11:35 am Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 05:50 am Term. S
Delta DL 1105
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 08:20 am Term. S
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City, UT, USA(SLC) 10:19 am Term. 2
Delta DL 4870
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City, UT, USA(SLC) 10:55 am Term. 2
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Vancouver, Vancouver, BC, Canada(YVR) 12:19 pm Term. M
There will be Delta staff at all connections to help MBIers find their connecting flights.
If your child is not traveling home on this day.
The best place to pick them up is at the airport. The group will be there starting at 8:30pm to check in. If you would like to make alternate plans or need further information please be in touch with Shani directly.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Saying goodbye to kibbutz and reuniting with MBI
The MBIers continues to enjoy the time with their kibbutz friends. On Wednesday all of the kibbutzim headed out for their day or overnight trips. Activities ranged from kayaking down the Jordan river, banana boating on the Kinneret, taking some beautiful walks in the Golan to an area with natural pools. The rest of the their time on kibbutz also included more pool parties and evening activities.
after a relaxing few days the MBIers said goodbye to their new Israeli friends and headed to the Sataf to meet up with the rest of MBI. The Sataf is a short hiking trail and spring in the Judean Hills near Jerusalem. This was a nice way to start their last Shabbat together and nice way to cool down as they had a chance to get a little wet and splash around in the stream.
After lunch the group headed to their next hostel, Nes Harim which is tucked away in the hills of Jerusalem where they had the afternoon free to reconnect with friends they hadn't seen in a a few days and prepare for Shabbat.
For Shabbat, they enjoyed a lovely story told by Gil describing the types of choices he has had to make in his life and after dinner each kvutzah (group) presented a few memorable moments from their MBI experience which of course was followed by traditional Friday night rikud (folk dancing).
after a relaxing few days the MBIers said goodbye to their new Israeli friends and headed to the Sataf to meet up with the rest of MBI. The Sataf is a short hiking trail and spring in the Judean Hills near Jerusalem. This was a nice way to start their last Shabbat together and nice way to cool down as they had a chance to get a little wet and splash around in the stream.
After lunch the group headed to their next hostel, Nes Harim which is tucked away in the hills of Jerusalem where they had the afternoon free to reconnect with friends they hadn't seen in a a few days and prepare for Shabbat.
For Shabbat, they enjoyed a lovely story told by Gil describing the types of choices he has had to make in his life and after dinner each kvutzah (group) presented a few memorable moments from their MBI experience which of course was followed by traditional Friday night rikud (folk dancing).
MBI Return travel information
Flights
Return to Newark
EL AL LY 27
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 00:05 Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Newark, Newark, NJ, USA(EWR) 04:45 Term. B
The bus to PA/MD will meet the kids at Newark airport.
Bus Information
Keneseth Israel, Elkins Park PA- 8:30am
White Marsh Park and Ride, White Marsh MD- 10:30
Montgomery Blair High School, Silver Spring, MD- 11:30am
Return to JFK
EL AL LY 1
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 01:00 Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 John F Kennedy Intl APT, New York, NY, USA(JFK) 05:40 Term. 4
There will be Habonim staff at JFK to help MBIers find their connecting flights.
Return to Toronto
Delta DL 153
Depart: Wed. 05 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 23:35 Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 05:50 Term. S
Delta DL 5492
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 07:45 Term. S
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Lester B Pearson Intl, Toronto, ON, Canada(YYZ) 09:57 Term. 3
There will be a Delta representative meeting the MBIers to take them to their connecting gate.
Return to Vancouver
Delta DL 153
Depart: Wed. 05 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 23:35 Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 05:50 Term. S
Delta DL 1105
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 08:20 Term. S
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City, UT, USA(SLC) 10:19 Term. 2
Delta DL 4870
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City, UT, USA(SLC) 10:55 Term. 2
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Vancouver, Vancouver, BC, Canada(YVR) 12:19 Term. M
There will be Delta staff at all connections to help MBIers find their connecting flights.
Return to Newark
EL AL LY 27
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 00:05 Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Newark, Newark, NJ, USA(EWR) 04:45 Term. B
The bus to PA/MD will meet the kids at Newark airport.
Bus Information
Keneseth Israel, Elkins Park PA- 8:30am
White Marsh Park and Ride, White Marsh MD- 10:30
Montgomery Blair High School, Silver Spring, MD- 11:30am
Return to JFK
EL AL LY 1
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 01:00 Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 John F Kennedy Intl APT, New York, NY, USA(JFK) 05:40 Term. 4
There will be Habonim staff at JFK to help MBIers find their connecting flights.
Return to Toronto
Delta DL 153
Depart: Wed. 05 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 23:35 Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 05:50 Term. S
Delta DL 5492
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 07:45 Term. S
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Lester B Pearson Intl, Toronto, ON, Canada(YYZ) 09:57 Term. 3
There will be a Delta representative meeting the MBIers to take them to their connecting gate.
Return to Vancouver
Delta DL 153
Depart: Wed. 05 Aug. 2009 Ben Gurion APT, Tel Aviv, Israel(TLV) 23:35 Term. 3
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 05:50 Term. S
Delta DL 1105
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Hartsfield Intl APT, Atlanta, GA, USA(ATL) 08:20 Term. S
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City, UT, USA(SLC) 10:19 Term. 2
Delta DL 4870
Depart: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City, UT, USA(SLC) 10:55 Term. 2
Arrive: Thu. 06 Aug. 2009 Vancouver, Vancouver, BC, Canada(YVR) 12:19 Term. M
There will be Delta staff at all connections to help MBIers find their connecting flights.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Some Pictures
Since they are on kibbutz I have received some pictures from one of the madrichim. There are not pictures of everyone as this is from one person's camera but here is a little taste of MBI.
Kibbutz Time!
Yesterday afternoon the MBIers parted ways and headed off to kibbutz. After arriving to their kibbutzim in the evening the chanichim met the Israelis who are hosting them for their time on kibbutz. After playing some name games and "breaking the ice" the kids split off to drop off their luggage and meet their host families and relax.
Today most of the chanichim cooled off by the pool or beach and continued to spend time with their kibbutz peers. Most of the kibbutzim also had another "get to know you" peulah (activity) as well as a discussion about the kibbutz and how they have changed from their beginning to become what they are today.
After more relaxing time in the afternoon each kibbutz had an evening activity.
Kibbutz Afik enjoyed a bit of friendly competition with a Iron Chef style cooking challenge where small groups were given ingredients and they had to cook dinner using those ingredients. When they completed everyone got to enjoy each others "concoctions".
Kibbutzim Afikim and Ein Gev met up for the night and enjoyed dinner and pool party.
Kibbutz Shamir enjoyed a nice relaxing movie night in the kids moadon (club house).
Kibbutz Chanita were welcomed with a nice home cooked meal with their host families and then all of the kids came to the moadon (club house) for a kumzitz (sing along) where they taught each other Hebrew and English songs they know from camp.
Kibbutz El Rom endured some "labor" and had a pizza party where they took part in cooking their dinners.
Kibbutz Gvat took a little field trip to creek off the kibbutz during the afternoon and then relaxed with a movie.
Kibbut Moledet ended out their first day with a pool party and night swimming.
All of the kids have enjoyed their first day on kibbutz and will all be heading out on their tiyul(trip) tomorrow.
Today most of the chanichim cooled off by the pool or beach and continued to spend time with their kibbutz peers. Most of the kibbutzim also had another "get to know you" peulah (activity) as well as a discussion about the kibbutz and how they have changed from their beginning to become what they are today.
After more relaxing time in the afternoon each kibbutz had an evening activity.
Kibbutz Afik enjoyed a bit of friendly competition with a Iron Chef style cooking challenge where small groups were given ingredients and they had to cook dinner using those ingredients. When they completed everyone got to enjoy each others "concoctions".
Kibbutzim Afikim and Ein Gev met up for the night and enjoyed dinner and pool party.
Kibbutz Shamir enjoyed a nice relaxing movie night in the kids moadon (club house).
Kibbutz Chanita were welcomed with a nice home cooked meal with their host families and then all of the kids came to the moadon (club house) for a kumzitz (sing along) where they taught each other Hebrew and English songs they know from camp.
Kibbutz El Rom endured some "labor" and had a pizza party where they took part in cooking their dinners.
Kibbutz Gvat took a little field trip to creek off the kibbutz during the afternoon and then relaxed with a movie.
Kibbut Moledet ended out their first day with a pool party and night swimming.
All of the kids have enjoyed their first day on kibbutz and will all be heading out on their tiyul(trip) tomorrow.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Tnua Achot (sister movement) ends and Machatz (kibbutz) begins
This morning the MBIers had one last "wrap-up" peulah with their new Israeli friends at the camp with Hanoar Haoved. After this peulah all participants gathered together and sang a few songs they had learned together over the weekend and had a closing ceremony where they received a chultzah tnua (movement shirt) signifying their completion of the camp.
After goodbyes were said and emails were exchanged the MBIers loaded onto the buses and headed off to their kibbutzim, where they will meet another group of Israeli teenagers and experience a different sector of Israeli society.
The kibbutzim are as follows.
Group 1A-Tilly and Michal
Kibbutz Gvat
Group 1B- Sarah and Tamir
Kibbutz Afikim
Group 2A- George and Mirjam
Kibbutz El Rom
Group 2B- Shnel, Na'ama and Yali
Kibbutz Ein Gev
Group 3A- Reut and Maya
Kibbutz Afik
Group 3B- Fabian and Arik
Kibbutz Shamir
Group 4A- Leah and Yonah
Kibbutz Chanita
Group 4B- Elon and Meital
Moledet
I have created a map of the kvutzot and have added the link here.
http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=109425717699132861453.00046fb1fac0b7ef08632&ll=32.558678,35.392971&spn=0.142657,0.234489&z=12
After goodbyes were said and emails were exchanged the MBIers loaded onto the buses and headed off to their kibbutzim, where they will meet another group of Israeli teenagers and experience a different sector of Israeli society.
The kibbutzim are as follows.
Group 1A-Tilly and Michal
Kibbutz Gvat
Group 1B- Sarah and Tamir
Kibbutz Afikim
Group 2A- George and Mirjam
Kibbutz El Rom
Group 2B- Shnel, Na'ama and Yali
Kibbutz Ein Gev
Group 3A- Reut and Maya
Kibbutz Afik
Group 3B- Fabian and Arik
Kibbutz Shamir
Group 4A- Leah and Yonah
Kibbutz Chanita
Group 4B- Elon and Meital
Moledet
I have created a map of the kvutzot and have added the link here.
http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=109425717699132861453.00046fb1fac0b7ef08632&ll=32.558678,35.392971&spn=0.142657,0.234489&z=12
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Machane Tnua Achot in full swing
On Friday the MBIers set off from the picturesque Judean Desert and headed to Ya'ar Lavi (Lavi Forest) for the highly anticipated Sister Movement machane, with chanichim from our sister movement in Israel, Hanoar Haoved Vehalomed(NOAL). The MBIers were split into smaller groups, and introduced to the group from Hanoar Haoved that they would be spending their educational activities together with. They spent their first afternoon together learning each other's names, backgrounds, and languages. It provided the MBIers with a great opportunity to expand their hebrew vocabulary, and also to help in strengthening the english levels of their Israeli partners.
Afterwards they had a peula(activity) where they exchanged their movement experiences, and examined some of the differences between Habonim Dror and Hanoar Haoved. While Habonim Dror North America is largely structured around our machanot(summer camps) and kenim activities during the year, the Israeli structure is quite different. While they do have summer camps, they are often 5 days to a week long and the focus is much more on the activities in the ken. In most areas the ken meets 1-2 times a week and clearly plays a different role then in North America. It was a great exchange of ideas and sparked a great energy and connection between the MBIers and the NOAL Israeli participants. It also armed the MBIers with some great ideas to bring back to their movement and their communities.
After a hearty shabbat meal together, the MBIers partook in a great Hanoar Haoved activity, the Salatron. Salatron is a night activity which is often done in the movement in Israel, where small groups compete in fun challenges and tasks, based around creating things together as a group. Once the laughter died down, the MBIers took over and led their counterparts from Hanoar Haoved in a long and tiring session of Rikudei Am (Israeli folk dancing).
On Shabbat, the MBIers and the chanichim from Hanoar Haoved spent a bonding and relaxing day together. They did 2 educational activities together, which examined concepts in Judaism such as tzedaka and tikkun olam, and how they relate to them within their families, their movements, and their communities. They also did shabbat chuggim together, which gave MBIers the opportunity to run small discussion groups on issues prevalent within their own lives and societies, and another platform with which to engage and learn together with their Hanoar Haoved counterparts.
The evening was spent with the whole of MBI together, in 2 of Habonim Dror North America's favourite shabbat activities - Medura and Musicale. It allowed the MBIers and the Israelis to express their collective acting and musical talents, and was another way which brought them together, and created real friendships.
Today the MBIers and the chanichim from Hanoar Haoved spent the morning doing a short tiyul (hike), which also inolved a great Israeli camping pastime, bishul b'shetach (outdoor cooking). The MBIers cooked laffot (flat bread) galore, and had plenty of labne (white cheese), vegetables, and zatar to spice it up. It was a warm and delicious start to the day!
The MBIers then spent the afternoon in their small groups talking about the differences and similarities that they had learnt and seen from their two days together, and examining what things they could take from the other movement and incorporate into their own machane/ken experience.
The evening was spent doing an activity that is well known within both movements - bet cafe (coffee house). Here, the MBIers and Israeli chanichim had a chance to enjoy each other's company in an informal setting, where they were given coffee, tea, and snacks, and could talk over anything and everything that they wanted. It also gave them a chance to get to know some other people outside of their small group.
Tomorrow, the MBIers will be finishing things up on Machane tnua Achot, and saying goodbye to their newly made Israeli friends, and will be heading off to their kibbutzim for the kibbutz period. They will be hosted by families on their respective kibbutzim, and will get to experience modern kibbutz life and it's different facets, from kibbutz work, to communal dining, to one of the kibbutznik's favorite summer activities - pooltime!
Afterwards they had a peula(activity) where they exchanged their movement experiences, and examined some of the differences between Habonim Dror and Hanoar Haoved. While Habonim Dror North America is largely structured around our machanot(summer camps) and kenim activities during the year, the Israeli structure is quite different. While they do have summer camps, they are often 5 days to a week long and the focus is much more on the activities in the ken. In most areas the ken meets 1-2 times a week and clearly plays a different role then in North America. It was a great exchange of ideas and sparked a great energy and connection between the MBIers and the NOAL Israeli participants. It also armed the MBIers with some great ideas to bring back to their movement and their communities.
After a hearty shabbat meal together, the MBIers partook in a great Hanoar Haoved activity, the Salatron. Salatron is a night activity which is often done in the movement in Israel, where small groups compete in fun challenges and tasks, based around creating things together as a group. Once the laughter died down, the MBIers took over and led their counterparts from Hanoar Haoved in a long and tiring session of Rikudei Am (Israeli folk dancing).
On Shabbat, the MBIers and the chanichim from Hanoar Haoved spent a bonding and relaxing day together. They did 2 educational activities together, which examined concepts in Judaism such as tzedaka and tikkun olam, and how they relate to them within their families, their movements, and their communities. They also did shabbat chuggim together, which gave MBIers the opportunity to run small discussion groups on issues prevalent within their own lives and societies, and another platform with which to engage and learn together with their Hanoar Haoved counterparts.
The evening was spent with the whole of MBI together, in 2 of Habonim Dror North America's favourite shabbat activities - Medura and Musicale. It allowed the MBIers and the Israelis to express their collective acting and musical talents, and was another way which brought them together, and created real friendships.
Today the MBIers and the chanichim from Hanoar Haoved spent the morning doing a short tiyul (hike), which also inolved a great Israeli camping pastime, bishul b'shetach (outdoor cooking). The MBIers cooked laffot (flat bread) galore, and had plenty of labne (white cheese), vegetables, and zatar to spice it up. It was a warm and delicious start to the day!
The MBIers then spent the afternoon in their small groups talking about the differences and similarities that they had learnt and seen from their two days together, and examining what things they could take from the other movement and incorporate into their own machane/ken experience.
The evening was spent doing an activity that is well known within both movements - bet cafe (coffee house). Here, the MBIers and Israeli chanichim had a chance to enjoy each other's company in an informal setting, where they were given coffee, tea, and snacks, and could talk over anything and everything that they wanted. It also gave them a chance to get to know some other people outside of their small group.
Tomorrow, the MBIers will be finishing things up on Machane tnua Achot, and saying goodbye to their newly made Israeli friends, and will be heading off to their kibbutzim for the kibbutz period. They will be hosted by families on their respective kibbutzim, and will get to experience modern kibbutz life and it's different facets, from kibbutz work, to communal dining, to one of the kibbutznik's favorite summer activities - pooltime!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
The lowest place on earth!
This morning the MBIers woke up before the sun rose, and hopped on the buses to make their way to one of the most amazing and historical sites in Israel - Masada. The MBIers trudged up a path known as the snake trail - a winding staircase that leads the way up to the peak of the mountain. The group arrived just in time for one of the most beautiful sites one can see - the sun rising above the Moab mountains, reflecting down onto the Dead Sea. The MBIers were given an in-depth tour of the site, and the madrichim also put on some role plays as some of the most famous historical personalities linked to Masada, including King Herod, the last Hasmonean king, and Elazar Ben Yair, the leader of the Rebel Zealots against the Romans at Masada in 73 AD. Masada is one of the most unique and remarkable architectural structures in the world - sitting atop a mountain that, at it's highest points, reaches almost 400 metres above the floor below. Masada has the ruins of Herod's temple, as well as all the signs of Jewish communal life, from the synagogue, to the mikvah, to the houses.
As the temperature started to rise, the MBIers headed down from Masada the easy way - on the sites state-of-the-art cable cars! While the group panted and huffed their way up to the top in the morning, they barely broke a sweat on the way down, with the Dead Sea right in front of their eyes.
The MBIers then headed into the hostel at Masada where they enjoyed a hearty and well-earned breakfast. They then headed out to the Dead Sea, both the lowest and the saltiest area on the earth's surface. The Dead Sea is currently in a hotly-contested competition for the world's '7 natural wonders'. The MBIers got a chance to float around for a while, before the heat of the sun set in and they headed indoors - to the Ein Gedi hostel. There the MBIers got the chance to nap right through the afternoon, after a long morning of hiking and soaking up the sun.
After dinner, the MBIers did an educational activity to prepare them for the coming days, where they will be spending some time with our sister movement, Hanoar Haoved Vehalomed (working and learning youth) at Machane Tnua Achot (Sister movement camp). The MBIers will be leaving the serene and tranquil surrounds of the Judean Desert tomorrow to head off to the machane, where they will be doing educational activities with 16 year old members of Hanoar Haoved from all over the country. It gives the MBIers a great opportunity to hear what it is like for young Israelis growing up in a youth movement, and in Israeli society. And, like every year, there will definitely be some strong friendships made, that will last well beyond the machane itself.
As the temperature started to rise, the MBIers headed down from Masada the easy way - on the sites state-of-the-art cable cars! While the group panted and huffed their way up to the top in the morning, they barely broke a sweat on the way down, with the Dead Sea right in front of their eyes.
The MBIers then headed into the hostel at Masada where they enjoyed a hearty and well-earned breakfast. They then headed out to the Dead Sea, both the lowest and the saltiest area on the earth's surface. The Dead Sea is currently in a hotly-contested competition for the world's '7 natural wonders'. The MBIers got a chance to float around for a while, before the heat of the sun set in and they headed indoors - to the Ein Gedi hostel. There the MBIers got the chance to nap right through the afternoon, after a long morning of hiking and soaking up the sun.
After dinner, the MBIers did an educational activity to prepare them for the coming days, where they will be spending some time with our sister movement, Hanoar Haoved Vehalomed (working and learning youth) at Machane Tnua Achot (Sister movement camp). The MBIers will be leaving the serene and tranquil surrounds of the Judean Desert tomorrow to head off to the machane, where they will be doing educational activities with 16 year old members of Hanoar Haoved from all over the country. It gives the MBIers a great opportunity to hear what it is like for young Israelis growing up in a youth movement, and in Israeli society. And, like every year, there will definitely be some strong friendships made, that will last well beyond the machane itself.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Adventuring through the South
Yesterday morning the MBIers started by doing an educational activity together, and discussing their experiences thus far, and talking about what was to come. They then had lunch at Sde Boker, before heading to the grave of David Ben-Gurion, who is buried at Sde Boker. Ben-Gurion was the first prime minister of the state of Israel, and one of the most influential and important figures in the development of Zionism and the creation of the Jewish State. The MBIers then travelled to kibbutz Sde Boker, for a tour of Ben-Gurion's hut. David Ben-Gurion lived the final years of his life as an active member of this flourishing desert community, and lived out the last stages of his life following his dream of 'making the desert bloom.'
The MBIers then had some free time in the evening before dinner, to mingle amongst old machane friends, as well as make some new ones. It was also a perfect time for lots of pictures to be taken, with the breathtaking view of the desert mountains behind them. Just before dinner the MBIers had a tekkes (ceremony) together, where they all received their brand new movement chultzot (shirts), which they will hopefully use for years to come!
After dinner, the MBIers were taken out for a treat, only possible in the desert. The 'scorpion hunt' is one of the highlights of every year of MBI, and this year was no exception. Guided by professional guides, each bus was taken out to search for scorpions under the night sky. Groups travelled round with UV flashlights, hoping to catch a glimpse of this small but dangerous desert animal. Scorpions illuminate under UV light, so it was exciting to see the sight of a small, scuttling scorpion in the desert sand for all. But don't worry, we're glad to report that there were no bites! Aside from the odd mosquito or two.
This morning the MBIers woke up early and headed off for two of the desert's most beautiful hikes and landmarks. The morning hike was done in Ein Avdat, which goes through the Avdat ruins. Avdat is an ancient desert city, which was inhabited by a Nabbatean tribe roughly 2,500 years ago. The city was a major stop on the trade routes, and the ruins exist there until today.
The afternoon was spent travelling through the large machtesh in the desert, a huge naturally formed crater right in the middle of the Negev Desert. The machtesh is a universally studied phenomenon, as it is one of the few in the world that was not created by a meteor or impact of a large object, but rather by the movement of the land underneath it. It is an overwhelming experience to look over the cliffs of the machtesh and see the splendour of the huge sunken area.
The MBIers then headed off to Kfar Nokdim, a Bedouin hospitality site. Here, the MBIers were treated to a huge Bedouin meal for dinner, as well as given an insight into Bedouin culture. They were also treated to some delicious sweet Bedouin tea, and spent some time together as the whole of MBI around a large bonfire.
The MBIers will spend tonight sleeping in a big tent, ala bedouin style, before setting off to the historic site of Masada in the wee hours of tomorrow morning.
The MBIers then had some free time in the evening before dinner, to mingle amongst old machane friends, as well as make some new ones. It was also a perfect time for lots of pictures to be taken, with the breathtaking view of the desert mountains behind them. Just before dinner the MBIers had a tekkes (ceremony) together, where they all received their brand new movement chultzot (shirts), which they will hopefully use for years to come!
After dinner, the MBIers were taken out for a treat, only possible in the desert. The 'scorpion hunt' is one of the highlights of every year of MBI, and this year was no exception. Guided by professional guides, each bus was taken out to search for scorpions under the night sky. Groups travelled round with UV flashlights, hoping to catch a glimpse of this small but dangerous desert animal. Scorpions illuminate under UV light, so it was exciting to see the sight of a small, scuttling scorpion in the desert sand for all. But don't worry, we're glad to report that there were no bites! Aside from the odd mosquito or two.
This morning the MBIers woke up early and headed off for two of the desert's most beautiful hikes and landmarks. The morning hike was done in Ein Avdat, which goes through the Avdat ruins. Avdat is an ancient desert city, which was inhabited by a Nabbatean tribe roughly 2,500 years ago. The city was a major stop on the trade routes, and the ruins exist there until today.
The afternoon was spent travelling through the large machtesh in the desert, a huge naturally formed crater right in the middle of the Negev Desert. The machtesh is a universally studied phenomenon, as it is one of the few in the world that was not created by a meteor or impact of a large object, but rather by the movement of the land underneath it. It is an overwhelming experience to look over the cliffs of the machtesh and see the splendour of the huge sunken area.
The MBIers then headed off to Kfar Nokdim, a Bedouin hospitality site. Here, the MBIers were treated to a huge Bedouin meal for dinner, as well as given an insight into Bedouin culture. They were also treated to some delicious sweet Bedouin tea, and spent some time together as the whole of MBI around a large bonfire.
The MBIers will spend tonight sleeping in a big tent, ala bedouin style, before setting off to the historic site of Masada in the wee hours of tomorrow morning.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Gearing up for an exciting new week
After a relaxing weekend for all the MBIers reunited on Sunday afternoon in Tel Aviv for a few hours of sightseeing. Then they headed to Jerusalem where they joined up with hundreds of other teens on summer programs for the Israel Experience Mega Event. This is a concert sponsored by our program provider for all participating groups. This was very exciting for the MBIers to be surrounded by so many teenagers and to meet up with friends on other programs. They also saw two Israeli supergroups at the event - Hadag Nachash and the Idan Reichel Project - live on stage!
Today MBI headed for their first day in the most historical and spiritual of cities in Israel - Jerusalem. They started their day in the Davidson Center of the old city of Jerusalem, which is situated right next to the Kotel (Western Wall). The Davidson Center is a museum of archaeological finds and discoveries in the area, and also has an excellent interactive exhibit which shows an electronic model of the 2nd temple, and when the MBIers clicked on certain areas, it showed the reality of how it looks today. From the marketplace, to the entrances to the Temple, to the Temple mount itself, the exhibition gave the MBIers a great insight into the life and times of Jerusalem's old city 2000 years ago.
The Davidson Center is also the entrance to the southern excavations of the old city of Jerusalem. These ruins are the remains of the city of David, the first permanent residence over 3,000 years ago, built by King David. In the excavations, the MBIers got a chance to walk around and feel the sense of community and structure that were parts of Jewish life in David's citadel, and the beginnings of the legacy of Jewish settlement in Jerusalem that thrives to this day.
The morning was rounded out with a tour of the Jewish quarter of the old city, starting with the Kotel. The Kotel is part of the surviving outer wall from the 2nd temple period, and is the most spiritual and central location of Judaism today. It was an overwhelming experience for the MBIers to come face to face with such a meaningful and historical place. The MBIers also went on a tour of other well known sites in the Jewish quarter, including the historic Hurva synagogue. Built in the 17th century, the synagogue was destroyed in the war of Independence, except for one arch which stood alone for 6 decades. The synagogue is now in the process of being rebuilt.
After lunch, the MBIers headed to the Time Elevator in Jerusalem. This unique experience gives a visual history of the city of Jerusalem while the viewers stay in their seats, occasionally bring moved around or even having water sprayed on them to heighten the interactive element of the experience. It is an activity which is always enjoyed, and gave the MBIers another fun and unforgettable way of learning about the history and beauty of Jerusalem - in the past and today.
The MBIers then settled onto their buses for a long drive down to one of the most beautiful and peaceful areas of Israel, the Negev Desert. The MBIers arrived at Sde Boker, the desert kibbutz and settlement that was home to David Ben-gurion in his later years, just in time for dinner.
The evening was a time for MBIers to relax with some informal time together, under the bright and tranquil starry sky of the desert. After a number of days of hustle and bustle, a night in the peaceful serenity of the desert was a welcome change!
Today MBI headed for their first day in the most historical and spiritual of cities in Israel - Jerusalem. They started their day in the Davidson Center of the old city of Jerusalem, which is situated right next to the Kotel (Western Wall). The Davidson Center is a museum of archaeological finds and discoveries in the area, and also has an excellent interactive exhibit which shows an electronic model of the 2nd temple, and when the MBIers clicked on certain areas, it showed the reality of how it looks today. From the marketplace, to the entrances to the Temple, to the Temple mount itself, the exhibition gave the MBIers a great insight into the life and times of Jerusalem's old city 2000 years ago.
The Davidson Center is also the entrance to the southern excavations of the old city of Jerusalem. These ruins are the remains of the city of David, the first permanent residence over 3,000 years ago, built by King David. In the excavations, the MBIers got a chance to walk around and feel the sense of community and structure that were parts of Jewish life in David's citadel, and the beginnings of the legacy of Jewish settlement in Jerusalem that thrives to this day.
The morning was rounded out with a tour of the Jewish quarter of the old city, starting with the Kotel. The Kotel is part of the surviving outer wall from the 2nd temple period, and is the most spiritual and central location of Judaism today. It was an overwhelming experience for the MBIers to come face to face with such a meaningful and historical place. The MBIers also went on a tour of other well known sites in the Jewish quarter, including the historic Hurva synagogue. Built in the 17th century, the synagogue was destroyed in the war of Independence, except for one arch which stood alone for 6 decades. The synagogue is now in the process of being rebuilt.
After lunch, the MBIers headed to the Time Elevator in Jerusalem. This unique experience gives a visual history of the city of Jerusalem while the viewers stay in their seats, occasionally bring moved around or even having water sprayed on them to heighten the interactive element of the experience. It is an activity which is always enjoyed, and gave the MBIers another fun and unforgettable way of learning about the history and beauty of Jerusalem - in the past and today.
The MBIers then settled onto their buses for a long drive down to one of the most beautiful and peaceful areas of Israel, the Negev Desert. The MBIers arrived at Sde Boker, the desert kibbutz and settlement that was home to David Ben-gurion in his later years, just in time for dinner.
The evening was a time for MBIers to relax with some informal time together, under the bright and tranquil starry sky of the desert. After a number of days of hustle and bustle, a night in the peaceful serenity of the desert was a welcome change!
Friday, July 17, 2009
Fun in the Sun
After a few days of sightseeing and taking in a great amount of Israel's history, everyone enjoyed a relaxing day on the beach at Yom Habonim Dror (Habonim Dror Day). This is a day hosted by the World Office of Habonim Dror, where anyone who is in Israel from Habonim Dror is invited to come to the beach at Sdot Yam. This includes MBI, the British, South African and Dutch teen trips, the Australian gap-year students, movement graduates who have made aliyah, and members from all over the world visiting Israel. It is a very exciting sight to behold especially for MBIers who are getting their first taste of what it is like to be involved in a worldwide organization.
Most of the day was spent playing in the water, eating scrumptious food, and meeting peers from different countries. In the afternoon the group had a formal meet and greet activity where they sat in small mixed groups and introduced themselves to participants from other countries. After this activity they were greeted and inspired by our World Secretary, Silvio Joskowicz who told them how happy he was to see them in Israel.
After a pleasant day at the beach the group headed back to Nordiya and packed for free weekend. This morning the group headed off in different directions to meet up with Israeli family and friends or stayed back at Nordiya to enjoy a rejuvenating weekend.
Most of the day was spent playing in the water, eating scrumptious food, and meeting peers from different countries. In the afternoon the group had a formal meet and greet activity where they sat in small mixed groups and introduced themselves to participants from other countries. After this activity they were greeted and inspired by our World Secretary, Silvio Joskowicz who told them how happy he was to see them in Israel.
After a pleasant day at the beach the group headed back to Nordiya and packed for free weekend. This morning the group headed off in different directions to meet up with Israeli family and friends or stayed back at Nordiya to enjoy a rejuvenating weekend.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Discovering Israel's Metropolis
This morning the group left from Hukuk and the surrounds of the kinneret to the hustle and bustle of Israel's metropolitan center, Tel-Aviv. The MBIers started this morning in the old port city of Jaffa, in the southern reaches of the Tel-Aviv area. There they heard the stories and legends of Jaffa, ranging as far back as the biblical Jonah, who left on his perilous sea journey from the port of Jaffa, through to Napoleon's conquest of Jaffa, and as late as the Israeli War of Independence and it's effect on the Arab population in Jaffa.
The MBIers then got a chance to take in the beauty of the ancient Jaffa port through lunch, which they ate overlooking the soothing waters of the Meditarraenean. Then they were given some free time to scout out and rummage through the potential treasures and gifts in the Jaffa Flea Market, Shuk Hapishpushim.
In the afternoon the MBIers travelled into the heart of Tel-Aviv, stopping first at the Hall of Indendence for a guided tour. The museum was created in the same house that was used to make the declaration of Independence for Israel on May 14 1948, which was originally the house of Tel-Aviv's first mayor, Meir Dizengoff. It gave the MBIers a chance to hear David Ben-Gurion's original speech of Independence in the hall in which it was given.
Then the MBIers went off to Rabin Square, right in the centrer of Tel-Aviv. The square was originally named the King of Kings square, until the assassination of Yitzhak Rabin in 1995. There the MBIers were able to see firsthand the tragedy of the Rabin assassination, and the public outcry in its' aftermath, through the commemorative exhibition and memorial. The MBIers were able to see the damaging effects of the assassination on Israeli democracy.
During the evening the MBIers did a photography activity on Shenkin street, in the commercial heart of Tel-Aviv. In small groups, the MBIers journeyed around the streets of Tel-Aviv, soaking up the sights and sounds of the Tel-Aviv shopping district, through the lens of the camera.
Once the group arrived back to base in Nordiya, they had an activity to make collages of their new-found understandings of Tel-Aviv. It gave them a creative outlet to express the new concepts and horizons that they had learnt through the day.
Tomorrow the MBIers will be going to Yom Habonim Dror at the beach at Sdot Yam, the annual event that Habonim Dror Olami holds for all Israel program participants, olim, and workers, which is attended by up to 1,000 Habonim Dror members from all over the world! It's definitely going to be another day of highlights for the MBIers.
The MBIers then got a chance to take in the beauty of the ancient Jaffa port through lunch, which they ate overlooking the soothing waters of the Meditarraenean. Then they were given some free time to scout out and rummage through the potential treasures and gifts in the Jaffa Flea Market, Shuk Hapishpushim.
In the afternoon the MBIers travelled into the heart of Tel-Aviv, stopping first at the Hall of Indendence for a guided tour. The museum was created in the same house that was used to make the declaration of Independence for Israel on May 14 1948, which was originally the house of Tel-Aviv's first mayor, Meir Dizengoff. It gave the MBIers a chance to hear David Ben-Gurion's original speech of Independence in the hall in which it was given.
Then the MBIers went off to Rabin Square, right in the centrer of Tel-Aviv. The square was originally named the King of Kings square, until the assassination of Yitzhak Rabin in 1995. There the MBIers were able to see firsthand the tragedy of the Rabin assassination, and the public outcry in its' aftermath, through the commemorative exhibition and memorial. The MBIers were able to see the damaging effects of the assassination on Israeli democracy.
During the evening the MBIers did a photography activity on Shenkin street, in the commercial heart of Tel-Aviv. In small groups, the MBIers journeyed around the streets of Tel-Aviv, soaking up the sights and sounds of the Tel-Aviv shopping district, through the lens of the camera.
Once the group arrived back to base in Nordiya, they had an activity to make collages of their new-found understandings of Tel-Aviv. It gave them a creative outlet to express the new concepts and horizons that they had learnt through the day.
Tomorrow the MBIers will be going to Yom Habonim Dror at the beach at Sdot Yam, the annual event that Habonim Dror Olami holds for all Israel program participants, olim, and workers, which is attended by up to 1,000 Habonim Dror members from all over the world! It's definitely going to be another day of highlights for the MBIers.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Exploring the Kinneret and the Northern coast
Having taken in much of the beauty and uniqueness of the northernmost area of Israel, the MBIers set out due south on an exciting day around the kinneret (Sea of Galilee). The morning started with a hike down one of the most beautiful declines in the area, Mt. Arbel. The Arbel is the only free-falling cliff surrounding the kinneret, and has a picturesque view of the lake and its surrounding settlements the whole way down. The history of the Arbel dates back to the Roman period, where it was often used as a place of torture and criminals or political enemies of the Roman Empire were thrown off the cliff. Nowadays, the only thing that can be torturous about the climb is the summer sun in Israel, but thankfully all of the MBIers have become accustomed to drinking water regularly and putting on their sunscreen.
After a well-earned break and a hearty lunch, the MBIers spent the afternoon at one of the most historically significant places by the Kinneret- the chatzer Kinneret (Kinneret courtyard) and cemetery. Founded in 1909, the Kinneret courtyard was the first agricultural training farm in the history of modern Israel, where young people would come through in small groups and learn to work the land, before leaving somewhere else for permanent settlement. The MBIers heard stories of young people from Eastern Europe who came to Palestine and the hardships, dilemmas, failures and numerous successes that they endured in their time at the chatzer.
Just across the road from the Chazter Kinneret is the old Kinneret cemetery. Here, the MBIers could hear the stories of some of the most famous personalities in the history of Israel and Zionism, ranging from the early Socialist Zionist thinkers and writers Moses Hess and Dov Ber Borachov, to the early Chalutzim (pioneers) Berl Katznelson and Rachel, the poetess to some of the integral figures of the modern state, such as Israeli song-writer Naomi Shemer. Needless to say, the MBIers left the day with a real feel of the spirit of the chalutzim and an understanding of the uniqueness of the young people who were so essential in the establishment of the Jewish State.
The MBIers then drove off to Hukuk, a kibbutz guest house not far from the chazter, to have dinner. After dinner they did a big MBI-wide activity, involving lot of fun and giving them an ability to both see long time camp mates and also meet new friends who aren't on their bus.
On Tuesday after a delicious breakfast the chanichim had a peulah (educational activity) discussing their connections to Israel. In small groups they filled out booklets answering questions and illustrating the different aspects that create a connection to Israel and what they want to get out of MBI in relation to Israel. They then discussed how they can both love and criticize Israel responsibility.
After a thought provoking morning they set out for Rosh Hanikra, a geologic formation in located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea in the Western Galilee near the border with Lebanon. The Rosh Hanikra grottoes are cavernous tunnels formed by the sea action on the soft chalk rock. The grottoes branch off in various directions with some interconnecting segments. The chanichim went down to the grottoes and were mesmerized by the way the water gently ran up against the rocks and then seconds later came crashing down with great force.
After this lovely excursion MBI headed to Akko, a coastal city just north of Haifa. Akko is the second oldest port city in Israel and a stop for the crusaders in the 12th and 13th centuries. Akko is well known as being a city of coexistence with Jews and Arabs. the chanichim enjoyed a scavenger hunt around the city run by the tour guides. Some of the stops included walking along the city wall, visiting the old crusader fortress, checking out the fresh produce and fish at the shuk (open air market)and enjoying the local fare such as baklavah and knaffe (a sugary cheese snack).
Following two eventful historic locales the MBIers went to Tiberias where they enjoyed some free time on the Tayelet (boardwalk) for dinner and shopping before embarking on the disco boat. This was an opportunity for the kids to let loose and enjoy some music and dance for the evening.
An updated itinerary is now on the website at www.habonimdror.org on the MBI Chai page. There have been minimal changes so it looks similar to previous itineraries.
After a well-earned break and a hearty lunch, the MBIers spent the afternoon at one of the most historically significant places by the Kinneret- the chatzer Kinneret (Kinneret courtyard) and cemetery. Founded in 1909, the Kinneret courtyard was the first agricultural training farm in the history of modern Israel, where young people would come through in small groups and learn to work the land, before leaving somewhere else for permanent settlement. The MBIers heard stories of young people from Eastern Europe who came to Palestine and the hardships, dilemmas, failures and numerous successes that they endured in their time at the chatzer.
Just across the road from the Chazter Kinneret is the old Kinneret cemetery. Here, the MBIers could hear the stories of some of the most famous personalities in the history of Israel and Zionism, ranging from the early Socialist Zionist thinkers and writers Moses Hess and Dov Ber Borachov, to the early Chalutzim (pioneers) Berl Katznelson and Rachel, the poetess to some of the integral figures of the modern state, such as Israeli song-writer Naomi Shemer. Needless to say, the MBIers left the day with a real feel of the spirit of the chalutzim and an understanding of the uniqueness of the young people who were so essential in the establishment of the Jewish State.
The MBIers then drove off to Hukuk, a kibbutz guest house not far from the chazter, to have dinner. After dinner they did a big MBI-wide activity, involving lot of fun and giving them an ability to both see long time camp mates and also meet new friends who aren't on their bus.
On Tuesday after a delicious breakfast the chanichim had a peulah (educational activity) discussing their connections to Israel. In small groups they filled out booklets answering questions and illustrating the different aspects that create a connection to Israel and what they want to get out of MBI in relation to Israel. They then discussed how they can both love and criticize Israel responsibility.
After a thought provoking morning they set out for Rosh Hanikra, a geologic formation in located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea in the Western Galilee near the border with Lebanon. The Rosh Hanikra grottoes are cavernous tunnels formed by the sea action on the soft chalk rock. The grottoes branch off in various directions with some interconnecting segments. The chanichim went down to the grottoes and were mesmerized by the way the water gently ran up against the rocks and then seconds later came crashing down with great force.
After this lovely excursion MBI headed to Akko, a coastal city just north of Haifa. Akko is the second oldest port city in Israel and a stop for the crusaders in the 12th and 13th centuries. Akko is well known as being a city of coexistence with Jews and Arabs. the chanichim enjoyed a scavenger hunt around the city run by the tour guides. Some of the stops included walking along the city wall, visiting the old crusader fortress, checking out the fresh produce and fish at the shuk (open air market)and enjoying the local fare such as baklavah and knaffe (a sugary cheese snack).
Following two eventful historic locales the MBIers went to Tiberias where they enjoyed some free time on the Tayelet (boardwalk) for dinner and shopping before embarking on the disco boat. This was an opportunity for the kids to let loose and enjoy some music and dance for the evening.
An updated itinerary is now on the website at www.habonimdror.org on the MBI Chai page. There have been minimal changes so it looks similar to previous itineraries.
Monday, July 13, 2009
Free Weekend Information
Hello Families,
Here is the free weekend information.
Friday July 17th, buses will be departing from Nordiya at 9am
Drop off points -
Tel Aviv (2 buses) at Reading Terminal parking lot (arrival at 9:30am)
Jerusalem at Gan HaPa'amon parking lot (arrival at 10:30am)
Haifa at Kenyon Lev HaMifratz parking lot (arrival at 10:00am)
If you are picking up at Nordiya please be there at 8:30 am.
Pickups will be at the same places on Sunday July 19th.
Timing:
Tel Aviv 1:00pm
Jerusalem 12:15pm
Haifa 11:15am
If Israeli hosts have any questions or emergencies regarding free weekend they should be in touch with Gil Browdy at 052-604-8330.
Here is the free weekend information.
Friday July 17th, buses will be departing from Nordiya at 9am
Drop off points -
Tel Aviv (2 buses) at Reading Terminal parking lot (arrival at 9:30am)
Jerusalem at Gan HaPa'amon parking lot (arrival at 10:30am)
Haifa at Kenyon Lev HaMifratz parking lot (arrival at 10:00am)
If you are picking up at Nordiya please be there at 8:30 am.
Pickups will be at the same places on Sunday July 19th.
Timing:
Tel Aviv 1:00pm
Jerusalem 12:15pm
Haifa 11:15am
If Israeli hosts have any questions or emergencies regarding free weekend they should be in touch with Gil Browdy at 052-604-8330.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Week #1 ends and we welcome in week #2
After a strenuos and exciting first week, MBI spent Shabbat relaxing at the beautiful Tel Hai youth hostel. On Saturday after breakfast the MBIers split up by machaneh (camp) and spent a few hours checking in and talking about their week. This was a really meaningful time for the chanichim to come together with their camp friends and share their experiences and their feelings about the trip so far.
After lunch, each small kvutzah (small group) sat together and had a peulah called Beit Cafe (coffee house). This was a time for the MBIers to sit in small groups and get to know their kvutzah better. This was a time for them to talk about their interests, home life, school and camp experiences. After Beit Cafe until dinner everyone enjoyed some free time. This was unstructured time for MBIers to hangout, meet new people and nap.
After dinner they had the traditonal camp saturday night activities of Havdallah, a ceremony in which we say goodbye to Shabbat and welcome the new week. They also had Musicale and Medura, two acitivities where the kids are able to show off their talents through singing, musical and comedic acts.
After a restful Shabbat, MBI headed off for their first hike. They went to a stream called the Hatzbani. This is one of Israel's 3 main water sources that lead to the Jordan River. Its sits at the foot of the picturesque Hermon Mountain. This is a great hike due its beauty and was a nice break from the heat as they had the opportunity to go in the water.
After a morning hike MBI traveled into the Golan to an area called Har Ben-Tal. This is an old IDF lookout point with a great view of Syria. Here the chanichim learned about the Yom Kippur war and the long and difficult battle that the IDF faced. They learned about the tradegy of the Yom Kippur war and the political complexities of the Golan Heights today. Since the military bunkers are still there the kids also got to briefly see what it would have been like to be a soldier at this lookout. The group then went to the Golan Heights Visitors Center where they watched an audio-visual light show called Kesem Hagolan about the history and importance of the Golan Heights.
MBI then travelled back to the hostel, enjoyed dinner and a bit of rest time and then had a peulah (educational activity) about chalutziut (pioneering) in preparation for tomorrow activities where they will learn about Israel's early pioneering movement.
After lunch, each small kvutzah (small group) sat together and had a peulah called Beit Cafe (coffee house). This was a time for the MBIers to sit in small groups and get to know their kvutzah better. This was a time for them to talk about their interests, home life, school and camp experiences. After Beit Cafe until dinner everyone enjoyed some free time. This was unstructured time for MBIers to hangout, meet new people and nap.
After dinner they had the traditonal camp saturday night activities of Havdallah, a ceremony in which we say goodbye to Shabbat and welcome the new week. They also had Musicale and Medura, two acitivities where the kids are able to show off their talents through singing, musical and comedic acts.
After a restful Shabbat, MBI headed off for their first hike. They went to a stream called the Hatzbani. This is one of Israel's 3 main water sources that lead to the Jordan River. Its sits at the foot of the picturesque Hermon Mountain. This is a great hike due its beauty and was a nice break from the heat as they had the opportunity to go in the water.
After a morning hike MBI traveled into the Golan to an area called Har Ben-Tal. This is an old IDF lookout point with a great view of Syria. Here the chanichim learned about the Yom Kippur war and the long and difficult battle that the IDF faced. They learned about the tradegy of the Yom Kippur war and the political complexities of the Golan Heights today. Since the military bunkers are still there the kids also got to briefly see what it would have been like to be a soldier at this lookout. The group then went to the Golan Heights Visitors Center where they watched an audio-visual light show called Kesem Hagolan about the history and importance of the Golan Heights.
MBI then travelled back to the hostel, enjoyed dinner and a bit of rest time and then had a peulah (educational activity) about chalutziut (pioneering) in preparation for tomorrow activities where they will learn about Israel's early pioneering movement.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Come Sail Away
On Thursday the MBIers had an early morning start to complete the boats. They worked through the morning and by the afternoon each group had completed construction and were ready to test out their creations. After two days of hard work 8 boats successfully sailed across the Kinneret.
For everyone involved this was amazing opportunity to bond with their kvutzah over a shared project and to work together to accomplish such a big task. It was also great for the madrichim to help their chanichim and to watch them create something they could take pride in. All in all Rafsodia was a success and great way to kick off MBI.
When all of the boats were disassembled the headed up to Tel Hai, where they enjoyed a quick dinner and all went to bed early to rest up for their first day of touring.
On Friday the well rested group headed to the Tel Hai monument to learn some early Israeli history. Here they enjoyed some historical skits performed by the madrichim presenting the story of Tel Hai and Trumpeldor. The MBIers met a girl who lives in the village and told them what life was like in Palestine under the British Mandate, they discussed military strategy and reasons to stage a revolt with the hero of the story, Joseph Trumpeldor, and witnessed a re-enactment of the battle of Tel Hai.
After a morning of history the chanichim enjoyed a packed picnic lunch before an afternoon of Kabbalah and mysticism. They headed up to Rosh Pinna, a community north of the Kinneret. Rosh Pinna, was founded in 1882 and is one of the oldest Zionist settlements in Israel. They then visited the city of Tzfat. In the 16th century Tzfat became the center of Kabbalah and many religious leaders moved to this city. It remains a very religious city and a symbol of the Kabbalah movement as well as the home of large artist colony. The chanichim enjoyed a walking tour of this quaint city, visiting the old synogouge and viewing religious art.
The chanichim then headed back to the hostel to get ready for their first Shabbat together. After a bit of time to rest and shower the chanichim gathered on the main lawn at the youth hostel with great view of the Golan Heights. It was a lovely location to start Kabbalat Shabbat. They enjoyed a traditional machaneh Kabbalah including mishpachot(machaneh time) and a rosh story told by Gil. Later tonight each kvutzah will perform a short skit or song for the rest of the group and they will then have rikud and some free time to hang out.
Everyone is looking forward to a meaningful and restful Shabbat.
For everyone involved this was amazing opportunity to bond with their kvutzah over a shared project and to work together to accomplish such a big task. It was also great for the madrichim to help their chanichim and to watch them create something they could take pride in. All in all Rafsodia was a success and great way to kick off MBI.
When all of the boats were disassembled the headed up to Tel Hai, where they enjoyed a quick dinner and all went to bed early to rest up for their first day of touring.
On Friday the well rested group headed to the Tel Hai monument to learn some early Israeli history. Here they enjoyed some historical skits performed by the madrichim presenting the story of Tel Hai and Trumpeldor. The MBIers met a girl who lives in the village and told them what life was like in Palestine under the British Mandate, they discussed military strategy and reasons to stage a revolt with the hero of the story, Joseph Trumpeldor, and witnessed a re-enactment of the battle of Tel Hai.
After a morning of history the chanichim enjoyed a packed picnic lunch before an afternoon of Kabbalah and mysticism. They headed up to Rosh Pinna, a community north of the Kinneret. Rosh Pinna, was founded in 1882 and is one of the oldest Zionist settlements in Israel. They then visited the city of Tzfat. In the 16th century Tzfat became the center of Kabbalah and many religious leaders moved to this city. It remains a very religious city and a symbol of the Kabbalah movement as well as the home of large artist colony. The chanichim enjoyed a walking tour of this quaint city, visiting the old synogouge and viewing religious art.
The chanichim then headed back to the hostel to get ready for their first Shabbat together. After a bit of time to rest and shower the chanichim gathered on the main lawn at the youth hostel with great view of the Golan Heights. It was a lovely location to start Kabbalat Shabbat. They enjoyed a traditional machaneh Kabbalah including mishpachot(machaneh time) and a rosh story told by Gil. Later tonight each kvutzah will perform a short skit or song for the rest of the group and they will then have rikud and some free time to hang out.
Everyone is looking forward to a meaningful and restful Shabbat.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Let the fun begin
After a very long 2 days of traveling the chanichim (campers) from Vancouver finally arrived in Israel yesterday and joined up with MBI just as they were finishing dinner.
After relaxing for a bit the chanichim were split into their buses as well as their smaller groups within the bus.
This year there are 4 buses with 4 counselors and tour guide on each bus. In order to further the idea of "kvutzah" (tight knit group)and to give MBI a camp type feeling each bus is split into 2 smaller groups with designated madrichim (counselors) for that group. This allows for activities in smaller groups and helps foster a closer relationship amongst chanichim and madrichim.
After splitting up into buses they had some activities run by the madrichim. This included a few rounds of name games and bit of getting to know you activities before heading to bed to rest up for a very exciting day.
Today, July 8th, MBI started a project called Rafsodia. This is a 2 day group building and outdoor training activity which will bring the group closer by working together to build a raft that they will then be able to sail across the Kinneret. The group arrived bright and early this morning and got to work. Each kvutzah was given materials and instruction for raft building (they were supervised of course). They spent today building the foundations for their rafts and 3 groups even have their masts assembled. The rest of the materials will be delivered tomorrow morning and each group will then finish their rafts.
This was a very hot and intense day of work on the banks of the Kinneret but everyone finished the day with a great sense of accomplishment and pride in their work. They will spend tonight on the beach near the Kinneret with a cookout for dinner made by Habonim Dror members who live in Israel. This is a great opportunity for MBIers to meet more people involved with Habonim Dror in Israel. Tomorrow they will finish the project and head north to Tel Hai where they will enjoy a restful Shabbat.
I have created a map which includes markers of all the hostels they will be staying at. The link is:
http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=109425717699132861453.00046e33278008d408742&z=8
After relaxing for a bit the chanichim were split into their buses as well as their smaller groups within the bus.
This year there are 4 buses with 4 counselors and tour guide on each bus. In order to further the idea of "kvutzah" (tight knit group)and to give MBI a camp type feeling each bus is split into 2 smaller groups with designated madrichim (counselors) for that group. This allows for activities in smaller groups and helps foster a closer relationship amongst chanichim and madrichim.
After splitting up into buses they had some activities run by the madrichim. This included a few rounds of name games and bit of getting to know you activities before heading to bed to rest up for a very exciting day.
Today, July 8th, MBI started a project called Rafsodia. This is a 2 day group building and outdoor training activity which will bring the group closer by working together to build a raft that they will then be able to sail across the Kinneret. The group arrived bright and early this morning and got to work. Each kvutzah was given materials and instruction for raft building (they were supervised of course). They spent today building the foundations for their rafts and 3 groups even have their masts assembled. The rest of the materials will be delivered tomorrow morning and each group will then finish their rafts.
This was a very hot and intense day of work on the banks of the Kinneret but everyone finished the day with a great sense of accomplishment and pride in their work. They will spend tonight on the beach near the Kinneret with a cookout for dinner made by Habonim Dror members who live in Israel. This is a great opportunity for MBIers to meet more people involved with Habonim Dror in Israel. Tomorrow they will finish the project and head north to Tel Hai where they will enjoy a restful Shabbat.
I have created a map which includes markers of all the hostels they will be staying at. The link is:
http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=109425717699132861453.00046e33278008d408742&z=8
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
MBI has begun!
After a long day of traveling all of the chanichim of MBI 2009 have arrived in Israel.
Today the chanichim relaxed, got to know each other and the madrichim, playing bonding games and name games.
The last group of kids will be meeting up with the group and then MBI will be under way.
Free Weekend Information
Friday July 17th, buses will be departing from Nordiya at 9am
Drop off points -
Tel Aviv (2 buses) at Reading Terminal parking lot (arrival at ~9:30am)
Jerusalem at Gan HaPa'amon parking lot (arrival at ~10:30am)
Haifa at Kenyon Lev HaMifratz parking lot (arrival at ~10:00am)
If you are picking up at Nordiya please be there at 8:30 am.
Pickups will be at the same places on Sunday July 19th.
Timing:
Tel Aviv 1:00pm
Jerusalem 12:15pm
Haifa 11:15am
Friday July 17th, buses will be departing from Nordiya at 9am
Drop off points -
Tel Aviv (2 buses) at Reading Terminal parking lot (arrival at ~9:30am)
Jerusalem at Gan HaPa'amon parking lot (arrival at ~10:30am)
Haifa at Kenyon Lev HaMifratz parking lot (arrival at ~10:30am)
Pickups will be at the same places on Sunday July 19th.
Timing:
Tel Aviv 1:00pm
Jerusalem 12:15pm
Haifa 11:15am
Please let me know if there are any questions.
Shani
Today the chanichim relaxed, got to know each other and the madrichim, playing bonding games and name games.
The last group of kids will be meeting up with the group and then MBI will be under way.
Free Weekend Information
Friday July 17th, buses will be departing from Nordiya at 9am
Drop off points -
Tel Aviv (2 buses) at Reading Terminal parking lot (arrival at ~9:30am)
Jerusalem at Gan HaPa'amon parking lot (arrival at ~10:30am)
Haifa at Kenyon Lev HaMifratz parking lot (arrival at ~10:00am)
If you are picking up at Nordiya please be there at 8:30 am.
Pickups will be at the same places on Sunday July 19th.
Timing:
Tel Aviv 1:00pm
Jerusalem 12:15pm
Haifa 11:15am
Friday July 17th, buses will be departing from Nordiya at 9am
Drop off points -
Tel Aviv (2 buses) at Reading Terminal parking lot (arrival at ~9:30am)
Jerusalem at Gan HaPa'amon parking lot (arrival at ~10:30am)
Haifa at Kenyon Lev HaMifratz parking lot (arrival at ~10:30am)
Pickups will be at the same places on Sunday July 19th.
Timing:
Tel Aviv 1:00pm
Jerusalem 12:15pm
Haifa 11:15am
Please let me know if there are any questions.
Shani
Monday, July 6, 2009
MBI Day #1
Hello MBI Families,
The Toronto flight and the NY flight have arrived in Israel safe and sound and are on their way to the youth hostel in Nordia.
The madrichim are excitedly waiting their arrival and have been working hard for the last week planning for an incredible summer.
If you have any questions throughout the summer please feel free to be in touch with me. I will be in NY for the duration of the program.
Free weekend information will be settled in the next day or 2 and I will post that information on the blog and send out an email. Due to the overwhelming number of requests I am asking that parents be in contact with the host families in Israel.
Again, if you have any questions please be in touch.
Shani
The Toronto flight and the NY flight have arrived in Israel safe and sound and are on their way to the youth hostel in Nordia.
The madrichim are excitedly waiting their arrival and have been working hard for the last week planning for an incredible summer.
If you have any questions throughout the summer please feel free to be in touch with me. I will be in NY for the duration of the program.
Free weekend information will be settled in the next day or 2 and I will post that information on the blog and send out an email. Due to the overwhelming number of requests I am asking that parents be in contact with the host families in Israel.
Again, if you have any questions please be in touch.
Shani
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
A few more reminders
Hello Families,
As MBI approaches quickly there are a few more packing reminders.
Your child should make sure to pack swimsuits (1-2) and towels (1-2).
VERY IMPORTANT!!
Please make sure your child has their passport before leaving for the airport!
Here in the office and the staff is Israel are busily preparing for what is going to be a great summer. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Shani
As MBI approaches quickly there are a few more packing reminders.
Your child should make sure to pack swimsuits (1-2) and towels (1-2).
VERY IMPORTANT!!
Please make sure your child has their passport before leaving for the airport!
Here in the office and the staff is Israel are busily preparing for what is going to be a great summer. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Shani
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
MBI 2009 International Flight Information
Hello MBI Families,
Here is the MBI international flight information.
NY
ELAL
Mon July 6 #12 depart 2:20 am land 19:45
Vancouver
Delta
July 5 YVR-ATL #1804 depart 11:51 Am lands 7:54Pm
July 5 ATLTLV #152 depart 10:35 Pm lands 5:25Pm
Toronto
Delta
JUL 5 #6433 YYZ-JFK 100Pm 249Pm
JUL 5 #86 JFK-TLV 755Pm 255Pm
Here is the MBI international flight information.
NY
ELAL
Mon July 6 #12 depart 2:20 am land 19:45
Vancouver
Delta
July 5 YVR-ATL #1804 depart 11:51 Am lands 7:54Pm
July 5 ATLTLV #152 depart 10:35 Pm lands 5:25Pm
Toronto
Delta
JUL 5 #6433 YYZ-JFK 100Pm 249Pm
JUL 5 #86 JFK-TLV 755Pm 255Pm
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Reminders from the Conference Call
For anyone who missed the conference call here is a reminder about what your child needs to bring.
2-3 liters water bottle. The best thing to get is called a camelback. It is a pouch of water with a straw and it sits in a backpack that can also be used on hikes. This is very important!
A good pair of sneakers or hiking boots.
A good pair of sandals. They will not be able to wear flip flops during city tours.
A hat
A sleeping bag
Due to the extremely hot weather and strong sun tank tops will not be allowed to be worn during the day.
If anyone has further questions please contact the office.
2-3 liters water bottle. The best thing to get is called a camelback. It is a pouch of water with a straw and it sits in a backpack that can also be used on hikes. This is very important!
A good pair of sneakers or hiking boots.
A good pair of sandals. They will not be able to wear flip flops during city tours.
A hat
A sleeping bag
Due to the extremely hot weather and strong sun tank tops will not be allowed to be worn during the day.
If anyone has further questions please contact the office.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Camp Health Advisory
Hello Parents,
The Habonim Dror Camping Association Executive Director, along with several other Camp Executive Directors and Israel program directors have sent out the following message.
Many camps and programs have been affected by swine flu. It is apparently spreading throughout the United States and several non-Habonim camps have staff and campers affected.
We have not received any warnings from our program provider in Israel or from the Israeli Ministry of Health that is dangerous to travel to Israel. I have also brought this issue up to Gil, Rosh MBI and we want to assure you that the health and safety of our participants is our top priority.
This being said if your child is feeling sick or exhibiting flu-like symptoms please take them to a doctor prior to the trip.
The Habonim Dror Camping Association Executive Director, along with several other Camp Executive Directors and Israel program directors have sent out the following message.
Many camps and programs have been affected by swine flu. It is apparently spreading throughout the United States and several non-Habonim camps have staff and campers affected.
We have not received any warnings from our program provider in Israel or from the Israeli Ministry of Health that is dangerous to travel to Israel. I have also brought this issue up to Gil, Rosh MBI and we want to assure you that the health and safety of our participants is our top priority.
This being said if your child is feeling sick or exhibiting flu-like symptoms please take them to a doctor prior to the trip.
MBI Travel day information
Hello Families,
Here is all of the travel day information.
Vancouver- Delta #1804 11:51 AM
Chaperon- Efrat Gal-Or- 604-721-5293
She will be at the airport early and will have a list of all the participants flying on this flight. Once everyone is there she will take the kids through security.
Toronto-Delta #6433 1:00pm
Chaperon- Assaf Gal-Or
He will be at the airport early and will have a list of all the participants flying on this flight. Once everyone is there he will take the kids through security.
Bus Transportation
Chaperons- Torrie Partridge (202.212.9190)and Jake Passel (703-899-3553)
Montgomery Blair High School - 3:00pm
51 University Blvd
Silver Spring MD 20901
For families who will be at Moshava visiting day
Target- 4:30
580 Marketplace dr
Bel Air MD 21014
Pennsylvania- 6:00
Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel
8339 Old York Road
(US Route 611 & PA Route 73)
Elkins Park, PA 19027
People Driving to JFK airport
Please be at the airport by 10pm
Drop off at Terminal 4- ELAL.
There will be Habonim Dror staff at the airport to meet all domestic flights as well as everyone being dropped off and the buses.
If there are any issues or questions during the day please call the Habonim Dror emergency cell phone- 917-822-2330.
Here is all of the travel day information.
Vancouver- Delta #1804 11:51 AM
Chaperon- Efrat Gal-Or- 604-721-5293
She will be at the airport early and will have a list of all the participants flying on this flight. Once everyone is there she will take the kids through security.
Toronto-Delta #6433 1:00pm
Chaperon- Assaf Gal-Or
He will be at the airport early and will have a list of all the participants flying on this flight. Once everyone is there he will take the kids through security.
Bus Transportation
Chaperons- Torrie Partridge (202.212.9190)and Jake Passel (703-899-3553)
Montgomery Blair High School - 3:00pm
51 University Blvd
Silver Spring MD 20901
For families who will be at Moshava visiting day
Target- 4:30
580 Marketplace dr
Bel Air MD 21014
Pennsylvania- 6:00
Reform Congregation Keneseth Israel
8339 Old York Road
(US Route 611 & PA Route 73)
Elkins Park, PA 19027
People Driving to JFK airport
Please be at the airport by 10pm
Drop off at Terminal 4- ELAL.
There will be Habonim Dror staff at the airport to meet all domestic flights as well as everyone being dropped off and the buses.
If there are any issues or questions during the day please call the Habonim Dror emergency cell phone- 917-822-2330.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
MBI Kupa
Hello MBI families,
I am writing to remind you that the recommended amount for kupa is $150 and that we prefer this as a separate check aside from the final payment.
If it is easier, especially for Canadians to have this charged to a credit card we can do that but we do prefer checks in US funds.
Please be in touch with me or Yelena, financial director at money@habonimdror.org if you have any questions.
Shani
I am writing to remind you that the recommended amount for kupa is $150 and that we prefer this as a separate check aside from the final payment.
If it is easier, especially for Canadians to have this charged to a credit card we can do that but we do prefer checks in US funds.
Please be in touch with me or Yelena, financial director at money@habonimdror.org if you have any questions.
Shani
Monday, June 8, 2009
Another Update- Western States Call
The Western States call has been rescheduled. It will now be on June 11 at 4pm east coast time.
I have been informed that we are not in EST but in daylight saving time. So to avoid confusion, the times noted for the conference call are current east coast time.
Please be in touch if you have any questions.
Shani
I have been informed that we are not in EST but in daylight saving time. So to avoid confusion, the times noted for the conference call are current east coast time.
Please be in touch if you have any questions.
Shani
Update to Conference Call Schedule
The Maryland conference call has been moved to Thursday June 18 at 12pm (noon).
All calls are eastern standard time.
All calls are eastern standard time.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
MBI conference calls
Hello MBI families,
In the coming weeks I will be holding conference call by area. During this call I will discuss travel information as well answer questions. Gil Browdy, Rosh MBI will also be on the call to introduce himself and answer questions about the itinerary.
The schedule is as follows:
June 8
12pm - families who are driving to the airport (NY, NJ, MA, CT)
4pm- Western States (California, Oregon, Washington)
June 10
1pm- Camp Tavor (Chicago, Detroit)
June 11
1pm- Toronto
June 15
4pm-Vancouver
June 17
1pm- Pennsylvania
June 19
1pm- Maryland
The conference call call in number is 218-936-7988 and the pin code is 194815.
Speak to you then. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Shani
In the coming weeks I will be holding conference call by area. During this call I will discuss travel information as well answer questions. Gil Browdy, Rosh MBI will also be on the call to introduce himself and answer questions about the itinerary.
The schedule is as follows:
June 8
12pm - families who are driving to the airport (NY, NJ, MA, CT)
4pm- Western States (California, Oregon, Washington)
June 10
1pm- Camp Tavor (Chicago, Detroit)
June 11
1pm- Toronto
June 15
4pm-Vancouver
June 17
1pm- Pennsylvania
June 19
1pm- Maryland
The conference call call in number is 218-936-7988 and the pin code is 194815.
Speak to you then. Please contact me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Shani
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
MBI 2009 Flight information
Shalom MBI Families,
Welcome to the MBI 2009 blog. This will be the main site for updates throughout the summer. I will be updating the blog regularly with news from Israel. Feel free to share this website with other members of your family who would like to know what your child is up to this summer.
The following is the international flight information for this summer.
NY
ELAL
Mon July 6 #12 depart 2:20 am land 19:45
Vancouver
Delta
July 5 YVR-ATL #1804 depart 11:51 Am lands 7:54Pm
July 5 ATLTLV #152 depart 10:35 Pm lands 5:25Pm
Toronto
Delta
JUL 5 #6433 YYZ-JFK 100Pm 249Pm
JUL 5 #86 JFK-TLV 755Pm 255Pm
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Shani
Welcome to the MBI 2009 blog. This will be the main site for updates throughout the summer. I will be updating the blog regularly with news from Israel. Feel free to share this website with other members of your family who would like to know what your child is up to this summer.
The following is the international flight information for this summer.
NY
ELAL
Mon July 6 #12 depart 2:20 am land 19:45
Vancouver
Delta
July 5 YVR-ATL #1804 depart 11:51 Am lands 7:54Pm
July 5 ATLTLV #152 depart 10:35 Pm lands 5:25Pm
Toronto
Delta
JUL 5 #6433 YYZ-JFK 100Pm 249Pm
JUL 5 #86 JFK-TLV 755Pm 255Pm
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Shani
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