CAARI Program in Israel

Carmel Forest Day by Barbara and Elliott Rothman (Toronto, Canada)

2012-01-31T09:43:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
Today we met wjth a JNF forester, Alon, in the Carmel Forest, the site of the Carmel Forest Fire in the fall of 2011. Much needs to be done to clear thousands of acres of burned brush and trees and CAARI was there to help - we schlepped, carried and piled the brush! We also discovered that we weren't the only volunteers as we met 5 men from the Czech Republic who came for 2 weeks to work in the forest. The other assistants were a herd of goats who come to the forest daily to eat the brush. CAARI worked for the morning and then visited the Memorial to honor the people who were killed during the fire. We also visited the Fire Station and met the fireman who were the first responders to the tragic fire. A presentation by CAARI participant, Mel Wasserman (survivor of 9/11) was made to the Fire Chief. It was extremely moving. We, who attended CAARI last year, remember stopping at this spot last year to recall the tradegy. Another amazing day with CAARI. Shalom, Barbara and Elliott Warmest Regards,

"The Pioneer Spirit" by Mel and Sandy Wasserman

2012-01-28T01:59:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
CAARI continues its journey through Israel and enjoying the rich experience. Last night we were treated to an extrordinary dance and song performance! It was lively. colorful and a real slice of Israel! Thank you all who organized this wonderful event!

CAARI's Visit to Zichron Ya'acov
by Sandy and Mel Wasserman
"What's in a name... MORE about yesterday at Zichron Ya'akov" "Isn't it amazing what one person can do! Or rather, one family. Of course financial support has to be there, both initially and for follow up, but the dream and the inspiration and the task commitment is essential. The drive, the determination. That's the story of Zichron Ya'akov, the city we visited on Thursday. Baron Edmund de Rothschild had that dream, the finances and the commitment. The town, resting on a hill, is amazing. Picturesque, quaint... a mixture of the old and the new. Rough hewn cobblestone streets, with restaurants and small boutique stores. Views from the hill are of lush vegetation. And sitting among them, old houses with rich histories, telling the story of Israel's founding, and all within two intersecting streets.
One house, the Ahaaronson Family house, with separate small buidlings. So much history here. The story of Sara Ahaaronson - both a love story and a story of commitment to a cause, determination, and gumption. Bravery and courage.
....and, best for last - our visit to Ramat HaNadiv, The Rothschild Compound! The enormous grounds in which the crypt where members of this remarkable family are buried. Lush gardens - a fragrance garden labeled even in Braille, a palm garden, a rose garden. Landscaping. The bones of the Rothschilds were returned to Israel for burial in 1954, twenty years after the Baron died. The gates at the compound entrance bears the Rothschild coat of arms/family shield.
Lunch at a cafe on one of the two streets that make up the town of about 12,000, Zichron Ya'akov. Then a short walking tour of the part of the town, the old synagogue, the building that housed the administration of the Rothschild operations in Israel, now a museum(The building and museum of the first Aliyah), financed by the Arisohn family. The family founded Carnival Cruise line and Bank Hapoalim.
But of course we visited a winery, the Carmel Winery... and tasted wines, and visited the oak barrels in the basement and learned about the history of wines in Israel and Carmel wines. And had a tasty dairy dinner in the Carmel Winery Bistro. " CAARI is now ready to relax and enjoy their Shabbat weekend! Shabbat Shalom to all!

Tuesday, Jan. 24 by The Wassermans & Whitehill

2012-01-27T05:08:00.000-08:00

By Sandy and Mel Wasserman
Shalom! An amazing day today! We went to the JNF (KKL, Keren Kayemeth L'Yisrael) Park Canada forest and pruned trees! The forest is beautiful... not just trees. Made up of hills and valleys, it contains a lake, and picnic areas, and hiking trails... even SHEEP walking through! (Shepherds are invited to bring their flocks so that the grass can remain at a reasonable height) Our jobs were to use either saws or large pruning shears to trim and prune, starting from the ground up, to about 5 feet high. This winter pruning will hopefully prevent fires in the summer. We pruned for @ an hour and a half, stopped for a tea break (tea boiled on the site on a propane tank/stove, with sage and za'atar - YUM,) then worked some more. The sun was out, and it was glorious, as we stripped off layer after layer of jackets and sweaters. Next we drove around, saw more of the hills and valleys, passed the city of Modi'in, a booming new city populated by many Americans, Canadians, Brits. We stopped for a picnic lunch in an area with tables and benches, and even a swing. This KKL-JNF Park, funded and financed by Canadian money, used to be 4 Arab villages before the 6 day war.
We are BUSSSSSY! And loving it.
L'hitroa'ot,SANDY & MEL

by Rosalie Whitehill - Our speaker on Underwater Archeology, Kurt Raveh was fascinating. Never thought about it much......but, as he put it, if there were but one shipwreck a year in the ancient ports of Israel....that could mean as many as 5,000 ships buried in the sand around each port with myriad treasures waiting to be found......and in the film he showed, I realized we had with us, the Jacques Cousteau of Israel.

Monday, Jan. 23 - "Our Day" by Rosalie Whitehill

2012-01-27T04:00:00.000-08:00

Shalom,

It's Monday night here....and everything just seems to get better each year! We started going to our schools yesterday....and it was another new experience for me...I am working with 3rd graders this year (before I had groups of 4th, 5th and 6th graders, who were in at least their second year of learning English)...and understand VERY little English.....but they are anxious to learn.....and the little bit of Hebrew that I know helps. Today was our second day at school and the warmth of the youngsters smiles just add to my joy in being with them IN ISRAEL!!! This afternoon our group went to the Rabin Center ....my 3rd visit....and the best so far. I had been there before it was completed and open to the public, and we had more time this year than last.....and without seeing every item of interest, almost 3 hours flew by!!!! Tonite, after dinner, we had a folk dancing session at the hotel, with the same woman who runs the Saturday sessions on the boardwalk....fun, fun fun! Love you all.....and leilah tov! Rosalie PS - Also forgot to mention yesterday how truly awesome the Rabin Center is.....the museums here are the most creative and technologically advanced I have ever visited......and the results of Israeli planning are mind-boggling.....walking along the telling of Rabin's life concurrent with the life of Israel was fascinating......nothing I am capable of writing could do it justice.....and I think that may be the case with many of the places here in Eretz Yisroel

Dancing with the CAARI Stars!

Community Service begins and much more by Sandy & Mel Wasserman!

2012-01-22T12:36:00.001-08:00

Dear Family and Friends,
Today begins the first day of community service with CAARI participants filled with much anticipation! Taxis were there to bring everyone to their assignments. The past CAARI participants returned to their former assignments and were happy to see the smiles and greetings from the school administrators, children and the hospital staff. The new participants quickly got into the routine - ole pros!
From Mel and Sandy's blog: "...we returned to the hotel for lunch, then went on a tour- visited Independence Hall, the place where the State of Israel was declared a nation by David Ben Gurion on May 14, 1948. (It took place in Tel Aviv and not Jerusalem because Jerusalem was under siege!) A select 350 people had been invited to gather at 3:30 for a thirty two minute ceremony at 4 PM for this declaration on that date. Our guide told us, that of course one person told another, and many, many, more people showed up! Independence Hall and the sounds of that taped ceremony were very moving. The young woman who spoke to us about Independence Hall and its history, was a terrific spokesperson for Israel; her parents are Holocaust survivors, and she herself has three sons, two of whom are currently in the army defending the State. She was born in Israel, a sabra, and served as an officer in the air force. When this tour was over, a group of us thought we'd get some air, and since the afternoon was mild, we took a walk along Dizengoff Blvd, winding up at a most fantastic 3 level health food store with bulk nuts and fruits and grains, tahini and hummus from many nations, and a zillion other organic varieties of items like this that we buy at home. Ah, bliss!
After dinner, we listened to a most amazing lecture by Bar Ilan University Professor Mordechai Kedar. Professor Kedar's specialty is Arabic Studies; his detailed lecture was about the Shi'ites and the Sunis, and it informed us about the long history and influence of that history on the Middle East today. One of our program participants remarked that he believed we'd heard things most Americans, possibly even members of the State Dept may not understand regarding this topic, as fully as Professor Kedar described them, and I agree; our knowledge and media in North America is shallow and superficial.You can tell it was a busy, full day."

Greet & Meet in Tel Aviv - Jan. 19 and 21

2012-01-21T08:52:00.000-08:00

Dear Family and Friends,
The CAARI Program officially opened the community service portion of the program in Tel Aviv tonight! The group that had been touring in Eilat and southern Israel were warmly greeted by those that arrived from the States and Canada and the City Hotel Staff. "It is so wonderful to see freinds from the previous years and to see so many new faces, said Rosalie Whitehill (New York). I arrived early and was so surprised to see Sid and Nancy Golden (Toronto), Diane Abrams and Gloria Kaufman (New York) for breakfast - it was like I saw them yesterday. This is what is so wonderful about CAARI!"
The next morning a "Train the Tutor" workshop was presented by former CAARI participants to give ideas and techniques to new participants. Lots of great ideas were exchanged making all feel a little more comfortable about the upcoming community service work. CAARI will be working in 10 elementary schools throughout Tel Aviv, mostly in low socio-economic neighborhoods - and two local rehab centers.
CAARI participants enjoyed the sunny weather to get familiar with Tel Aviv - shopping at the shuk, visting with family and friends and there is always a "cafe afuk" at a local outdoor cafe!
"Blogged "by Rosalie Whitehill - Friday evening, many in the group went to the Orthodox synagogue nearby where last year, we thought the rabbi's singing and dancing really made the Kaballat Service come alive with joy......well, the congregation size has more than tripled.....and I could hardly believe when the rabbi addressed our coordinator( female) to ask about our group and then welcomed us.....we were a larger contingent of women than men. And, of course, we had a fun oneg....after our shabbat dinner. Saturday, I went dancing on the tayelet (boardwalk) and was so pleased to know just about every dance for the first hour......mostly oldies.....good for me...as I am an oldie."
Others joined Rosalie at the Folk Dancing and were amazed as they watched the dancers and listened to the rhymethic music. See the pictures for the weekend!
Wishing all our friends and family a Shabbat Shalom from CAARI.

CAARI's Fourth Day

2012-01-21T08:25:00.000-08:00

Written and photographed by Nahum Eisenstadt

The fourth day of the CAARI program, 19 January, began early with an hour drive from Eilat to a Kibbutz called Neot Smadar, once an abandoned IDF Nahal outpost, reestablished and reinhabited in 1989 by a group of determined pioneers from various cities in Israel with a dream to create a new environment, an environmentally friendly community in the form of a traditional collectivized kibbutz. We met one of the kibbutz members, Anat, who explained the first project of the kibbutz members was to build a tower that is still the major landmark. The membersa were not experienced engineers and made many mistakes that they would learn from later on pouring concrete etc. CAARI climbed the steps to the top for a breathtaking view of the surrounding country side. The kibbutz has a goat dairy, winery, pottery workshop and carpentry shop as well as vacation units that couples and small families can stay over for a week end. The last two pictures show the development of the kibbutz lands from the top of the tower built by the first kibbutz members together. The agricultural areas are the fruit of the assistance from the KKL-JNF that built the wastewater treatment and agricultural infrastructure for the olive trees and agriculture in this unique desert environment. The first picture shows the largest building on the kibbutz that contains the carpentry and pottery workshops and the tower that we climbed up to view the kibbutz fields.

CAARI Visits Town of Mitzpeh Ramon

2012-01-21T08:08:00.000-08:00

Written and photographed by Nahum Eisenstadt

Our fourth day of touring included a stop to meet the town council members of Mitzpeh Ramon, founded in the 1950's as a development town in the Negev. CAARI met a number of important figures in the devlopment of the town today. To begin with Joshua Schmidt a Phd in Anthropology who serves in the Town of Mitzpeh Ramon's, Department of External Relations, gave a brief history and overview of the development of the town from the first immigrants deported from North African countries as a result of the War of Independence through present day situation. We also heard from the head of the Education Department in the Town of Mitzpeh Ramon, Aryeh Broideh, about the two high schools and two Elementary schools that serve the more than 1200 school children in the town of Mitzpeh Ramom. He says that the problem is not money but getting good teachers to come to Mitzpeh Ramon and live there. He also emphasized the great contribution that KKL-JNF has made to the town through the years. Today the town is aproximately 5200 people and is planning on reaching 15,000. This picture shows the CAARI participants listening to the briefing by Joshua and Aryeh in the municipality meeting room adjacent to the Mayor's office.

CAARI in Mitzpeh Ramon

2012-01-21T07:57:00.000-08:00

Written and photographed by Nahum Eisenstadt

After the orientation and briefing about the town of Mitzpeh Ramon in the Municipality building meeting room, we went to visit one of the two high schools. This school is called the Shalom School where the peace strategy of Yitzhak Rabin is commemorated. It is an unusual school emphasizing the Arts, where both fine arts and performing arts and the exact sciences are both nurtured. Ronit, the principal, met us and showed us around. She is in the middle of the picture with the black shoes on. Here we are standing at the entrance of the school. We saw the science labs and classrooms and the performing arts rooms where there is a large auditorium for performing arts and a large studio for painting and sculpture etc.

Maktesh Ramon (Crater) Overlook

2012-01-21T07:45:00.000-08:00

Written and Photographed by Nahum Eisenstadt

The last stop before the three hour drive to Tel Aviv (for the beginning of the four week volunteer part of the CAARI program) was the famous overlook on the Danny Caravan Sculpture Promenade in Mitzpeh Ramon. This was made possible through the generous help of the KKL JNF which has made a tremendous contribution to this small and troubled town through the last 50 years.

This overlook, called Har Gamal, is a suspended wooden platform overlooking a 30 kilometer long erosive geological window made possible through millions of years of erosion by wind and water, not by the impact of meteors. It shows 250,000,000 years ago what was happening under one of the mountain ridges of the Negev. This pictutre shows the cold temperatures at 1000 meters(3300 feet) above sea level at the Har Gamal overlook on the Ramon Crater with some of our hardier CAARI participants.

Red Mountain Theraputic Riding Center at Kibbutz Grofit

2012-01-18T11:55:00.001-08:00

Written and Photographed by Nahum Eisenstadt

The CAARI program began its third touring day at Kibbutz Grofit's Red Mountain Thereputic Riding Center. The first picture shows Kathy shoval in the pink fleece jacket receiving the CAARI group at the Red Mountain Thereputic riding Center. In the back the horses are being mounted by children that are t receive horseback riding therapy. We met Ellen Reisal, Rafi Osmo and Kathy Shoval. Ellen Reisal, the center's psychologist, is shown explaining the therapy and why it is so successful with the most difficult physical and emotional challenged children and adults. Rafi is standing next to her. The other photos show the children receiving therapy on the horses and how they are used.

The JNF of America has contributed generously to this site's infrastructure and provide sscholarship money to children from the surrounding communities and Eilat that otherwise would not be able to receive this vital therapy. The results speak for themselves as do the children who are treated here.

Red Mountain Theraputic Riding Center at Kibbutz Grofit

2012-01-18T11:46:00.000-08:00

Written and Photographed by Nahum Eisenstadt

This is a picture of the CAARI participants in back of a special tree planted in honor of Neti Steinman's 90th birthday and her request to make a special donation through the JNF to the Red Mountain Theraputic Riding Center at Kibbutz Grofit. Neti was a long time CAARI participant (as was her daughter Joni) and is now one of our most trusted consultants. Her son Ralph, who passed away tragically one day before the public announcemnet was made, was one of the three recipients of the Nobel prize in medicine this past November. May his memory be a blessing for all.

Touring Kibbutz Ketura Home of the Arava Institute

2012-01-18T11:36:00.000-08:00

Written and Photographed by Nahum Eisenstadt

In back of the statue of Ruth that CAARI is posing on is 20 acres of solar panels that became functional only a few months ago. They supply power to the Israel Electric Company power grid and proved that this method of power generation is possible and efficient. It pays for itself inside of seven years and supplies five MW of electricity, enough to power 4 Kibbutzim in the area. There are 18,600 solar panels in this field. There is another field like this one planned to be built just south of the date palm grove on the east side of the Kibbutz fields on the Jordanian border that will be eight times bigger and supply 40 MW of power. Israel generates much less electricity using solar energy than other Western countries do at the moment. The goal is to reach 15% of generated power from solar energy.

Magical Botancial Tour of Kibbutz Ketura

2012-01-18T11:16:00.000-08:00

Written and photographed by Nahum Eisenstadt

These pictures show some of the experimental trees, herbs and plants that Dr. Elaine is domesticating and studying for their medicinal properties. The top picture shows the Medicinal herb section where research is done for Hadassah Hospital and Tufts University in Boston for molecules of various plants that have medicinal value. In the background you can see some of the over 3000 date trees of the Majole or Dekel Nur varieties that are so profitable due to their ability to be irrigated with extremely salty water. They also serve as a windbreaker for th stong winds that blow in the Arava Valley. The lower picture shows an endangered tree specie from the Ficus family called the Ficus Psuedo Sycomorous. Its bark is a known remedy for gangreen(sp) that was ground up and mixed with honey and applied to aflicted body part. The middle picture shows the tree from the Joseph story in the Book of Exodus, called "Nataf "in Hebrew or a Lalob tree in English, its Latin name is Balanides Aegypticus and it contains an antiproliforation chemical for Leukemia and will kill the bacteria in the Nile that causes Sistosimiasis.

Magical Botanical Tour on Kibbutz Ketura

2012-01-18T11:00:00.000-08:00

Written and photographed by Nahum Eisenstadt

The highlight of our third CAARI touring day in the Eilat area was our time with Dr. Elaine Solowey on Kibbutz Ketura. She was one of the founders of this Kibbutz in the early 1970's and her experitse in medicinal plants and trees and her experience sprouting extinct tree species with very old seeds was so impressive. Here we can see the oldest sprouted seed in the world named Methusalah a Judean date palm sprouted from seeds found at Masada between 1963-5 that date back to the first century C.E.

CAARI SUNSET CRUISE

2012-01-18T10:48:00.000-08:00

Written and photos by Nahum Eisenstadt

To end the day our brave 13 comprising CAARI 2012, boarded a double masted schooner named the Orionia, in the Eilat marina, and sailed into the setting Wednesday sun, heading south viewing the beautiful mountains of Edom, Midyan and the Eilat mountains in the setting sun. An open bar and Bar-B-Qued dinner help end another exciting day touring the many projects of JNF. Here we see some of the hardier participants posing on the Orionia deck. The setting sun halo can be seen in the backgound. The second photo shows Captain Ronen and the City of Eilat and mountains of Edom in the background as we had out to sea.

KKL- JNF Southern Arava R & D Center Yotvatah

2012-01-17T10:01:00.000-08:00

Written and photographed by Nahum Eisenstadt

Our first stop of the second day of touring with CAARI 2012 was the KKL-JNF Southern Arava Research and Development Center at Yotvatah. Amnon Greenberg, a member of Kibbutz Yotvatah and General Manager of the facility showed us some of the more impressive experiments that have yielded great results and improved the yields of garlic, pomegranites and dates. The bottom picture shows Amnon explaining to CAARI 2012 about the pomegranite trees in the background that are evergreen all year round and do not loose their leaves. Amnon has the green hat on and is shown in the bottom picture as CAARI listens attentively. This was the first facility in the 1960's to develop the drip irrigation and now it has developed a system which the plants use water only when they demand it using a uniquely devloped system of feedback and control and sensors that react when the plant needs to be watered.

Yotvatah Dairy and Kibbutz Tour

2012-01-17T09:49:00.000-08:00

Written and photographed by Nahum Eisenstadt

Our next stop was the Yotvatah dairy that is famous for its chocolate milk and dairy products from the early 1960's. It was the first kibbutz in the Southern Arava. Our guide Danny, explained about the kibbutz and how it has adapted to the needs of today. The first picture shows the first CAARI arrivals taking a well deserved break at the Pundak (Inn) at Yotvatah for shopping lunch and washrooms, posing with the local cows.

The bottom picture shows the dairy in the background and CAARI finished seeing the cows being milked. The middle picture shows the CAARI group in Eilat above them the cows tushes on the carosel that rotates slowly while the cows are hooked up to milking machines that imiditely process the milk into the many of the well know Yotvatah dairy products in Israel.

Timna Park Visit

2012-01-17T09:36:00.000-08:00

Written and photographed by Nahum Eisenstadt

Our last site for the day was Timna Park where we saw the audiovisual special effects of the circular bleachers that rotate and the special effects of the different screens that explain the copper deposits and the history of the park. Next we went to see the ancient mining site called The Arches that are snadstone arches where copper was mined as early as 6000 years ago. We then went to the smelting site where the copper ore was transported and smelted to pure copper ingots. You can see two CAARI participants from Ottowa, Judy and Simi, enjoying the mushroom formation in the smelting site in the bottom picture. In the middle picture, Elliot from Toronto is mining copper the old way in hopes to make a great trade when he smelts it and takes it to market in Canada. The top picture shows CAARI hiking up to the most ancient mines and galleries that have been dug and connect underground to each other.

Timna Park Visit

2012-01-17T09:21:00.000-08:00

Written and Photographed by Nahum Eisenstadt

The last site in Timna Park we saw was Solomon's Pillars, which really have nothing to do with Solomon. In the bottom picture we are seen in front of these Precambrian Sandstone Pillars that are impressively lit at dusk, next we hiked up to see the rock inscription showing a local Canaanite leader who worked his way to be the Pharoh's most trusted Minister making an offering to Ramsis III. It is located above an impressive mining temple in use for close to 4 millenia continuously discovered by accident. You can see the great motivation of the CAARI active retirees hiking up to the rock inscription.

The Ink Flag Memorial - Eilat Day

2012-01-16T08:57:00.000-08:00

Written and photos by Nahum Eisenstadt

Our last stop was a short city tour and explanation of the last operation of the War on Independence in March 1949. The picture is taken at the statue commemorating the raising of the "Ink Flag" by Bren (Avraham Eden), the Negev Palmach batallion commander. In the background is one of the many adobe huts that existed when the Negev Palmach soldiers reached Um Rash Rash as Eilat was called until March 1949.

CAARI at Underwater Observatory

2012-01-16T08:51:00.000-08:00

Written and photos by Nahum Eisenstadt

Our next stop was the world famous Underwater Observatory where we viewed the many aquariums of hard to see fish and coral, shark tank, sea turtle tank and egg laying island and the underwater tunnel that we can walk underwater and view through windows the coral, fish and animals of the Eilat coral reef and lagoon. This pictures shows CAARI viewing some of the harder to see animals that most had never seen before in special well lit tanks.

More CAARI on the Red Sea

2012-01-16T08:46:00.000-08:00

Written and Photos by Nahum Eisenstadt

The rest of the CAARI group touring the Dolphin Reef facility home to a number Bottle-Nose dolphins that all have distinctive personalities.

CAARI spent the morning and part of the afternoon enjoying the Red Sea sun and clear air recovering from jet lag.

CAARI-ing On The Red Sea

2012-01-16T08:42:00.000-08:00

Written and photos by Nahum Eisenstadt

Four of our 13 CAARI particpants decided to swim with the dolphins and see first hand behavior of these amazing mammals. We call these four our CAARI commando: Joel Weintraub from NY, Dolores Orlove from Chicago, Elliot Rothman and Barbara Rothman both from Toronto.

CAARI on the Red Sea

2012-01-16T08:36:00.000-08:00

Written and Photos by Nahum Eisenstadt

The Dolphin Reef is a unique beach front on the Red Sea that does not train dolphins to behave like humans but shows humans the world of dolphins and marine life said Omer the guide at the Dolphon Reef to the CAARI Program participants in our first stop for our Red Sea Day.

Omer is the tall fellow standing in front of the movie screen in the lecture room that CAARI began the touring day. A short lecture about bottle-nose dolphins and a number of short movies showing very sophisicated behavior of dolphins drew the CAARI participants into their Red Sea visit.

CAARI 1st Touring Day on the Red Sea

2012-01-16T08:25:00.001-08:00

Written by Florence Pape and Marilyn Gross, Photos by Nahum Eisenstadt

"Our first day of CAARI 2012 included the dolphins at The Dolphin Reef, The Underwater Observatory and a short Eilat tour, an amazing start to a wonderful trip." wrote Florence Pape and Marilyn Gross, two first time CAARI participants from Canada. Here we are the Red Sea the CAARI commandos departing from the Prima Music Eilat for the Dolphin Reef. As we were waiting for the last two people we thought to commemorate the 29th year of CAARI with this first picture.

Welcome to CAARI 2012

2011-12-19T07:28:00.000-08:00

Janaury 15, 2012 begins the 29 consecutive year for the CAARI Program, affliated with the Jewish National Fund of Canada, Israel and the USA. We in Israel are very excited to meet the group who will be traveling to Eilat, followed by 4 weeks in Tel Aviv, 4 days in the Galilee and conclude the 7 week program in Jerusalem.
Stay tuned for our unique program and meet the class of CAARI 2012!
Follow along with us. We welcome your comments.

Warm Regards,
Susan Horwitz and Nahum Eisenstaff (Israel CAARI Administrators)

LeHit'triot CAARI 2011

2011-03-04T05:53:00.000-08:00

Greetings,
Can you believe that this was the last day of the CAARI 2011? Where did the time go? Our tour continued this last day with some exciting and interesting places and some time for last minute shopping. The first stop was to the Menachem Begin Museum. For those of us that have been there before, it is still a fascinating place to visit. We were all impressed with Israel's museums - each has unique audio visual presentations. And..the Begin is no exception. On went the headsets and off we went with our guide through a maze of rooms, each describing Prime Minister Begin from childhood until his death. What could top this? Well, a visit to the newly renovated Israel Museum which just reopened last summer. Beautiful and well done! Neil gave a short tour of the Judaica and Archeology sections and then we were on our own to select are favorite exhibits.

So, ends CAARI 2011 - it was an amazing time - the participants (you were terrific) , the tours, the community service and the speakers, even the weather - all made this an exceptional program. And - let’s not forget the lasting friendships that were made.

We traveled from the Mt. Adir (on the northern border), to the Negev deserts and the Dead Sea. We climbed mountains, valleys, rode camels, trains and buses – oh - and taxis! We felt the spirit of the country and learned about the current issues as we heard from a variety of speakers from academics to government leaders, artists and ordinary citizens. We worked alongside Israelis helping in schools, hospitals and a food bank. We visited over 60 sites from throughout the country. What an memorable experience we had.

Neil and I want to thank YOU who made this program a success. We are sad to see you go, but so happy that you enjoyed your time on CAARI. We hope to see you next year in Israel!
Lehi'triot and safe travels,
Susan and Neil

From the Old City to the Botanical Gardens!

2011-02-26T06:13:00.000-08:00

Greetings,
The Old City is full of civilizations and cultures – from Greek, Roman, Mamuluks, and so on! We captured a little of this as we walked the Four quarters. We learned about walls, relics, battles, the Jewish High Priests, the First and Second Temple Periods - and so much more! We walked the quarters, walked the rooftops and challenged Susan who was trying to keep us all together! A highlight of the tour (no, it wasn't the sherutim - bathroom - stops) was the newly renovated Hurva Synagogue - wow, most impressive. And, of course, we didn't miss the tour of the Western Wall Tunnels. Time for a little coffee - now which Quarter were we in? Do you think that street sign "HaKKari" was the first CAARI Period or from the First or Second Temple Period?

On Wednesday afternoon we had a delightful tour of the Botanical Gardens - spring, flowers and sunny skies- what could be better? Oh...maybe the little train that we road through the gardens - a welcome rest for our weary feet. Dr. Michael Avishi, the first director of the Botanical Gardens, gave a splendid tour of this special garden in the middle of Jerusalem.

In the evening, we enjoyed our Farewell Dinner at Luciana's in the German Colony. Dee, your song was so fitting as you included everyone in the lyrics! We have lots of talent in the group - and will publish the 'works' of Sid Golden, Gloria Kaufman and Marcia Bercov!

As they say...a good time was had by all! Some of our participants left that evening as CAARI 2011 starts to come to a close.

Warm Regards,

CAARI 2011

A Very Special Day - Feb. 21

2011-02-23T19:18:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
Wish you could have been with us today - it was indeed very special. Our first stop was at Yad LaKashish, located near Jerusalem City Hall - an extraordinary place.

This is a non-profit organization that empowers and supports over 300 seniors and disabled Jerusalem residents on a daily basis by providing a creative work environment for them. We toured their workshops and watched as they diligently worked to make lovely gifts that they sell in the gift shop – yes, we did shop. They made cards, jewelry, tallit, embroidered tablecloths, challah covers, worked in wood, metal, paper mache and more. They spoke all languages and some of us spoke to them in Yiddish. Oy! Their website is http://lifeline.org.il/
Highly recommend a visit to this fanastic workshop.

Back on the bus to Mt. Herzl where Neil spoke about Theodore Herzl. We visited the graves of our fallen leaders - always a moving experience.

Our tour of Yad Vashem was indeed special. Most of us had been there before, but never had any of us had the experience that we had on this day. Our own CAARI 2011 participant, Nat Leipciger, a survivor of the Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp spoke to us. He began speaking to us at the site of the railroad car, on the grounds of Yad Vashem. He said that this was where it all began it began for him some 60 years ago - at a railroad car as the Nazis forced him and his family to board the train. From there we slowly and thoughtfully walked to the auditorium where for the next hour or so we sat and listened – silently. We were mesmerized as he shared his ‘story’ - we felt his pain and suffering as he told his story. Nate gave all of us a new meaning to the word ‘Holocaust’ and one we will never forget.
Later that evening we met with Chuck Kanafi, from the Foreign Ministry, who spoke on Israel and Turkey relations – all so relevant to what is going on in the news! What a Speakers Forum we have had these past 7 weeks!
Our CAARI 2011 days are coming to close – 3 more days. Wow – where did it go! We still have interesting places to visit.
CAARI 2011

Jerusalem Weekend - Feb. 19

2011-02-22T20:10:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
We had a wonderful Shabbat weekend! We began Friday with a CAARI speaker, Amotz Asa El – a leading journalist. His subject – “A New Middle East?” Nothing could be more relative and informative regarding today’s current situation. If any of you are interested in reading his column you can follow him on http://www.middleisrael.com/

Most of us took advantage of the sunny, warm weather and strolled through the city – some of shopped, explored Mechane Yehuda (the shuk/marketplace), visited with family and friends and attended evening services in area synagogues. Saturday, many of us walked the city, attended services and enjoyed a walking tour and visits with family and friends. All of which prepared us for our week in Jerusalem.
Sunday morning clouds were prevalent, and rain predicted, but that didn’t stop us. First thing in the morning, we headed to Hebrew Union College where we met Rabbi Shelly for a tour of the campus and Skirball Museum. Rabbi Shelly gave us a better understanding of the growing Reform community and the related religious issues in Israel.
From there we walked to Jaffa Gate and met with a representative from Jerusalem Foundation who is working with JNF on a project to restore the outside City Walls around Jaffa Gate and the green area adjacent to the walls. This is one of JNF – Toronto’s project.
Our day was not yet complete or the rain and winds over. We persevered through lunch at Mamila Mall and continued our tour of Jerusalem’s Artists Colony, known as Hotzot Hayotzer. We met very talented artists and saw their extraordinary crafts - from silver smiths, to modern jewelry with Roman glass, to paintings. We learned about their current situation regarding the eviction of this 40 year old area which was set aside for them by the former legendary mayor Teddy Kollek. The quality of their work is incredible and meeting them was very special. We wish them much luck and support in the attempt to remain in this area.
Well, that is that for the weekend and Sunday. Stay tuned for our next few days.
CAARI 2011

Desert Winery to Masada - Feb. 16 & 17

2011-02-18T23:56:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
Wednesday morning was not the best weather day unless you like the desert storms. But, that didn't stop our group! We had a great activity planned for the day - visiting a winery! After our sumptuous breakfast at the Hod Hotel we boarded the bus for the climb up to Arad and the Yatir Winery. This is a boutique winery that has won serveral international awards. The vineyards lie in JNF Yatir Forest, Israel’s largest planted forest - another JNF connection! Imagine grapes growing in one of the hottest regions in Israel, with little rain and located near a 2500 year old archeology site? We toured the vat room with Eti and the 'mashgiach' who closely supervised the vats, machinery and us! In a small room we sampled several of the wines and enjoyed the experience! In the afternoon some of us relaxed in the indoor salt water pools and spa treatments.

Thursday was our departure day from the Dead Sea - the weather was a little cloudy, but by the time we reached Masada the sun was shining and temperatures warming. Perfect day for touring this site. Many of us have toured this before, but today Neil, our guide, gave us a terrific tour and perspective on this spectacular World Heritage Site. We saw the magnificent mosaics in Herod's Western Palace (which had previously been under construction), viewed the Northern Palace, cisterns and of course, the synagogue. It was a super tour - not rushed, not hot, just right!

In late afternoon we arrived in Jerusalem- our home for the next week!
CAARI 2011

Dead Sea - R&R - Feb. 15

2011-02-16T21:36:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
Greetings from the Dead Sea where the weather in in the 70's and sunny. Ah..lovely! We have been floating in the Sea, taking advantage of the spa treatments and enjoying the pools! Our hotel is located on the sea. Nothing like seeing the blue sea, against the mountains of Moab - beautiful! This afternoon we hiked Ein Gedi Springs. It was the perfect time - the hyrax were scampering around and the ibex were gracefully climbing the mountains. What a site!
We can see that there are desert storms approaching, but that won't stop our wonderful CAARI group!
Wishing you well!
CAARI 2101

On Way to the Dead Sea

2011-02-15T22:51:00.000-08:00

Shalom,

It is hard to believe that we completed our 4 week community service portion of the CAARI program. We bid farewell to those that went back to the States and welcomed 2 more Canadians. Monday morning - we said goodbye to our friends at the City Hotel and headed south - destination, Dead Sea. On the way we made a special visit to the JNF 9/11 Memorial which is located near the entrance to Jerusalem. Very moving!

Our next stop was a camel ride, was lunch in Arad and a visit the studio of Israel's leading glass artist, Gideon Friedman. Wow - we were impressed!

Last stop - our hotel - the Hod Midbar! Weather great - perfect for our much needed rest.

Warm regards to all,

CAARI 2011

Community Service

2011-02-12T08:28:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
We can't believe that tomorrow will be our last day of community service and the following day we are leaving for the last 'leg' of our CAARI 2011 journey. It has been so wonderful - there really aren't words to describe how we all feel about the experience and the camraderie of the group.
We have volunteered in 7 schools in Tel Aviv, working with the Tel Aviv Education Department, 2 rehab hospitals - Ichilov and Reut Medical Center. Each of us has had a rewarding experience and feel our short 4 weeks has made a difference to us and to the students, principals, patients and hospital staff. We have been 'thanked' over and over, but we THANK them for the opportunity to work with them!

Others will be writing more. Here is Joy Cohen's (Toronto) impressions. Joy tutored English at HaGalil School.
"What a heartwarming feeling it is to walk into a school in Tel Aviv and be welcomed by children running to their classe, but waving to us and calling....'Hi Helen, Hi Joy!"
today was the last class of the week for us and we have only one more before we leave to return home. children in one of our groups brought us gifts of candy and a beautifully expressed thank you not, composed on a computer, which stated how much they appreciated the time we spent with them, helping with the conversational English.
We spend our mornings playing games, such as 'Simon Says', 'Head,Shoulders Knees & Toes', 'Hangman' and a variation of 'x's and o's' - all working on improving vocabulary, pronounciation and spelling, as well as having fun.
This was the first year that HaGalil has used the services of CAARI and we fell certain that they will request our services next year.
Regards,
Joy Cohen

Tel Aviv Tours - Feb. 10 - 11 - contributed by Rosalie Whitehill

2011-02-11T07:13:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
Wow - can't believe that our time in Tel Aviv is coming to an end. Where does the time go?

The past days we have had visited some special places. The first was Utopia Park, located in Kibbutz Bahan, outside of Netanya. We had a terrific guide show us through a rain forest environment, which included fish, birds and other animals. She described the amazing world of orchids.....7,000 varieties? All of us were busy with our cameras taking pictures of the breathtaking orchids, so many different colors, the animals and each other. And, of course - always time for ice cream and coffee.

Thursday was our rainy day - and rain it did - even flooded many of the streets! In the afternoon, after community service, we visited the Rabin Center. I had been there two years ago, when it was a shell of fantastic architecture by Moshe Safde....and we learned that they planned a museum, library and auditorium. Well, yesterday...we visited the completed museum....we were there about 3 hours....and at the pace we went, it would take 3 or 4 more visits to see and listen to ALL of the museum.....called the Israeli Museum at the Yitzhak Rabin Center. The purpose of the museum to explain what was happpening in Israel during the lifetime of Rabin and Rabin's life. Israeli technology is awesome - as we all wore headsets around our necks with earphones. - the headsets were activated by standing in front of one of the many....maybe over 100 TV monitors...to pick up the explanation of what was showing on the screen. Our wonderful guide could interrupt the recording at any time to get the group together. Since for most of the people, the time frames were familiar to us, it was truly an emotional experience.....filled with many historical facts that were new to many of us. I really loved the time we spent there....and it tied together so much of what we have seen and done in Tel Aviv....... can't wait to go again.....

Last night's speaker, Simi Shine, from the Office of Strategic Planning. She was a wonderful speaker. She talked about the situation in Egypt, as well as Israel's relationships with other Arab neighbors. She was very forthright in answering questions.

During the night we had heavy rains, but today (Friday) it is warm and sunny - good day to go to the crafts fair and enjoy Tel Aviv!
Wishing all of you a Shabbat Shalom.
CAARI 2011and Rosilie

Rainy Forest Day - Feb. 8

2011-02-11T06:04:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
Another rainy forest day - disappointing! But, our leaders, Susan and Neil, came up with a great 'game' plan! We boarded the bus around 9:30, giving us a chance to 'sleep in' after our long day in the Negev on Monday. As skies were clearing, we headed off to Jerusalem. First stop, the dramatic Chagall Windows at Hadassah Ein Kerem Hospital. Just beautiful! One of the representative spoke to us about the work that is being done here, including the Da Vinci Laser, a robot for abdominal surgery that leaves no scar - now being used at the hospital. Next, it was outside to see the trauma center with the heliport atop it, that can function on its own for a month in case of emergency, the 3 story addition to what is now the Charlotte Bloomberg Mother and Child Center and the spectacular new Davidson Tower - about half-built - which will have 19 stories,
Then - with our bagel lunch in tow - we headed for Latrun - Israel's Tank Memorial and Museum where we enjoyed our lunch under sunny skies.
This is the site of many tank battles during the War of Independence. We had a guide who was born in L.A. and is almost finished with his service who was absolutely wonderful in explaining about the tanks and the improvements the Israelis have made.

Before heading home, we stopped at Canada Park where many of the Canadians recognized the names of donors. Lovely JNF Park for all to enjoy!

Another great day - rain or shine!
CAARI 2011
(contributed by Rosalie Whitehill)

Negev Day - Feb. 7 by Rosalie Whitehill

2011-02-09T10:15:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
Monday started another exciting, interesting and wonderful week. After visiting Rishon LeZion Museum, a charming museum in the first Zionist community in Israel where our guide showed us the first school, pharmacy and so many little shops from the pioneer days. We saw an excellent film about the town and how they found water! After, we headed south to Beersheva, where we visited several sites connected to the JNF project of reclamation of the land around a dried up river bed, Nahal Beersheva - really amazing to see what has been done so far and how it has improved the community. Then we went to the Or Communities Center, where we learned about all the great work the people are doing to build and resettle in the Negev. The Center is not quite finished but it was quite impressive. Then we went to an established Or community...Givat Bar!! Then we visited the site of a new community, Carmit, that hopes to attract Anglos and will include a golf course....nothing really there yet....and I hope to see it again in a year.
Dinner was at Kibbutz Kramim, where we had a most interesting talk about the Kibbutz from Debbie Rulnick....a native Israeli of American parents.

Can't believe that this is my last week.

Rosalie

Better Place - Israel's Electric Car Company

2011-02-06T20:21:00.000-08:00

Great tour of this facility.Will explain later. Enjoy the pictures!

Week wrap up - Feb. 4

2011-02-04T03:32:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
It is hard to believe that another week has passed. Time is marching on and so are we. It has been another busy week - community service, touring and speakers. We wrote earlier about our visit to Jerusalem. To see more about CAARI - enter this link for an article on the KKL - JNF (Israel) website!
http://www.kkl.org.il/kkl/english/main_subject/latestupdates/kkl-jnf%20news%20%20-%202011/kkl-jnf%20news%20-%20february%202011/caari%20senior%20citizens%20volunteer%20group%20.x

The new CAARI participants are enjoying their community service and fitting right in. Rosalie Whitehill is teaching at Balfour with 3 others - this group walks to their school as it is about 5 blocks from the hotel. Others take taxis to the schools and the rehab centers. At noon they return and share their experiences.

Wednesday afternoon we had a tour focusing on the Jewish soldiers and heros who joined the British Army - fought in WWI and WWII. We visited the Jewish Brigade Museum, where Rachel, our guide, spoke so passionately about the history, the Brigade and the people who served. It was so interesting to learn about the dedication and contribution of these soldiers - men and women. From there we went on to the kibbutz where Hanna Senesh lived. We learned about her life through the guide and a video. On to dinner at the Port Cafe in Caesarea - lovely aftenoon and evening.

CAARI takes us to the most interesting places - you have to see this new museum in Holon. It is located just outside Tel Aviv and is just amazing. The exhibits may not suit everyone's taste, but certainly fascinating and the design of the building, by Ron Arad, is truly outstanding.

Today is Friday - a day for ourselves. Tonight is Shabbat dinner and our Oneg.

Wishing you a Shabbat Shalom and a lovely weekend.

CAARI 2011

Rained out Forest Day - Visit to Jerusalem for the Day

2011-02-01T11:57:00.000-08:00

This post is written by Rosalie Whitehill - New York

Today, Tuesday, was supposed to be our forest day.....but since it was scheduled to rain, our coordinators changed plans and we went to Jerusalem for most of the day....There we went to the headquarters of the JNF and it was interesting to note that they have books of contributors from 1901.....the beginning of JNF.....and they also had a display of the blue and white boxes...that we used to take around as kids.....asking for pennies and nickels to help buy trees in Palestine......before there was an Israel. It took many of us back to our childhoods....After that we had a very beautiful little ceremony where a grove of trees was presented to a Anice and Arnold Stark, a couple from Canada for all they do for JNF....Guess what.....I cried.

Then we went to the old city....where they have a new Jaffa Gate Plaza which goes over the road....and from which you can get the new Mamilla Mall....very, very upscale and pricey.
This city just keeps making improvements and there was building going on inside the Jaffa Gate as well....We had lunch in a charming beautifully renovated house run by a women who has spearheaded a movement for Arab woman, Nora, to assert their rights....and where they are involved in crafts so that they can become more independent. also very impressive..then a walk to get a magnificent view of the city from atop a convent.
In the late afternoon, our speaker was a counsellor from the Canadian Embassy......who was so very intelligent, articulate and well-qualified for her position....that she made the Canadians very proud, while many Americans....like me......wish we had people in our state dept. or embassies who could speak so well and cared so much about Israel. (they might care about Israel, but I have never heard so much support from a non-Jew with so much compassion and understanding)

So that brings me to the end of another GREAT day with my CAARI friends. Every year the program is better than the year before....and we are so busy.....no time for bridge. I AM LOVING IT!!!!

Wishing you all well,
Rosalie

New Arrivals - CAARI tours Negev

2011-02-01T11:08:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
The CAARI beat goes on! Sadly, we said l'hitriot (goodbye) to some of our CAARI friends who joined us for the first three weeks. Happily we greeted 13 new participants who joined the group. Our first day together was a touring day in the Negev. We visited Kibbutz Negba and met Meir who described the early days of the kibbutz and their efforts to turn back the Egyptians in the War of Independence. The impressive sculpture by Natan Rappaport overlooks the kibbutz's military cemetery. We also got to see some of the weapons that were used in the war. From there we traveled to Kibbutz Yad Mordechai which also fought against the Egyptian Army but tragically lost the fight after 6 days. We can only admire the soldiers who fought in these battles. After a little lunch we headed south, stopping the JNF Canadian reserviors at Nir Am where Neil described our view with Gaza in the distance. We continued driving south, stopping at a lookout and hillside to view Gaza and the Israeli communities along the border. This certainly gave us a new perspective of the area. Our final stop was the fabulous JNF-USA indoor playground in Sderot! Wow! We were there 2 years ago - it wasn't quite finished and now - a wonderful, safe place for the children to play!

CAARI 2011

Our days- Wednesday and Thursday - 26- 27 Jan.

2011-01-29T09:01:00.000-08:00

Ah, what a few days we have had. The weather has been superb! Our community service work continues every morning. During lunch at the hotel we talk about our morning experiences ... what the kids did ..what happened in rehab.. we all have something to say. Usually Susan comes in to say...time to go and we begin our afternoon touring adventures. On Wednesday we had a special treat. None of us really knew what to expect, except that we were going to Beit Guvrin. What was that? On the bus and off we went. The same for Thursday - we were going to Israel Aircraft Industries - would that be boring? Here is Rosalie's Whitehill's description of these 2 days!

"Wednesday was another marvelous day with the students....singing songs, chatting and laughing.....and they are so happy, their smiles and cheery thank you are priceless.

In the afternoon, we went by bus to Bet Guvrin....close to Jerusalem again....where we had an archeologist guide take us through some caves on Tel Maresha....we saw some caves that had what appeared to be pigeon cubbies cut into them, and then some bell shaped caves that were absolutely beautiful.....huge and colorful striations....and after that we went to the Valley of Ella, where the battle of David and Goliath took place....and our guide read from the bible as we were standing there. In the evening we had a speaker from the IDF - he is in public relations - now that is a challenging position!

Yesterday, Thursday, after school, we visited the Israel Aircraft Industry plant near the airport......saw many different models of drones that are developed by Israel for the rest of the world......also saw Gulfstream business jets that are built here before being sent to U.S. for glamorous finishing touches. Israeli technology and expertise in developing new products is awe-inspiring. "

Friday was a FREE day and the group enjoyed a variety of activities, some went to the symphony, others a museum, others shopped at the crafts market - it was a lovely day to enjoy the sunshine and warm temperatures. A group went to a neighborhood synagogue for a wonderful Shabbat service - what a way to welcome Shabbat. Dinner back at the hotel followed by the Oneg Shabbat.
Shabbat Shalom to all.
CAARI 2011

Forest Day, folkdancing and more.....

2011-01-25T12:28:00.000-08:00

Shalom,

Another wonderful day - worked in forest rebuilding ancient terraces and trimming olive trees.

Lunch at great restaurant in Kibbutz Tzora - Cafe Margo. Learned about spices at Tavlin. Danced with Sara and Micha. What a day! Will write more later, but wanted you to see the pictures!

CAARI 2011

CAARI picks fruit for Project Leket

2011-01-24T20:26:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
Another busy CAARI day and a great way to start the week. First of all the sun is shining and we love walking out of our hotel, looking to the right, for a view of the blue Mediterranean Sea! Our day started, of course, with breakfast and conversation about what we did over Shabbat! Some of us visited with family and friends, others went to shul, others went to the dancing along the board walk and others just rested!
All of us leave for our community service work in taxis in groups of 2 -4 people departing the hotel from 7:30 - 8:30. The children are so excited to see us and we are excited to see them. We feel we are making connections with them and see the progress in the their English conversation. Each of us has a different experience that we share with the group over our next meal - lunch - back at the hotel.
This afternoon we drove to an orchard in Rehovet to 'glean'. And...glean we did - we picked over 200 pounds of clementines. We were assigned to finish picking one of the fields. Not such an easy job picking fruit - you have to gently turn the clementine so not to damage the stem. MMMMMMMM - some of the damged fruits had to be eaten by us - pretty sweet and tasty! We did a 'mitzva' today! Natalie and Ron thanked us for our hard work - they were surprised that we were able to pick that much fruit - and they gave us all T-shirts - which we shall proudly wear!
Our evening activing was a speaker, Nicki Maor, from the Israel Religious Action Committee. She brought us up-to-date on the conversion issues which has been controversal here in Israel and the States and Canada.
Another great day! Tomorrow - a day in the JNF forest.
Shalom,
CAARI 2011

Sunday, Jan. 23 - Tel Aviv

2011-01-23T10:28:00.001-08:00

Shalom,

Great weather today, sunny and in the 60's. We are expecting rain at the end of the week, but right now we are enjoying what we have. We began our day with community service, lunch (got to eat) followed by an interesting visit to the Peres Peace Center in Jaffa with a magnificent view of the sea. We toured Jaffa and then...dinner at Maganda!

Having a great time!

CAARI 2011

TuBshvat Tree Planting by Marcia Bercov

2011-01-22T10:14:00.001-08:00

Hello again,
And Happy New Year. Well, another kind of New Year's celebration, this one the New Year of the Trees, Tu B'Shevat. All of Israel marks this holiday by planting trees in different parts of the country.
This event is organized by the Jewish National Fund, or Keren Kayemeth L'Israel, as it is known in this country. This year planting took place in three separate areas, one in the north, one in the south, and one in Modi'in, about half an hour's drive from Tel Aviv. Trees came from the JNF tree nursery, which CAARI visited on a previous trip. And the trees, countless flats of them unloaded from trucks onto the ground at the foot of prepared hillsides...what a sight. JNF staff prepared the ground, digging holes for the seedlings and placing a flag next to each hole, as a marker of the site and a souvenir for the planter.
For me, planting a tree in Israel in person give me a very special feeling of connection with the land.
For many years, this was something which our family did by proxy, so to speak, from Canada. We contributed money to JNF for trees to commemorate many kinds of occasions, like the birth of a child, a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, or in memory of someone who had passed away. JNF would then send a tree certificate to the family. Actually we have one sent by my Grandmother on the occasion of our marriage. But I digress. Today our group,having arrived early at the site, had the privilege of planting a tree before most of the people came. Mine is up on the hill, near a large rock where I hope the rain will collect and keep it well watered. After our group planted, Neil, our guide, recited the Blessing for the planting of trees in Israel, a very beautiful moment for everyone.
Then the crowds arrived - large groups of people, many families with young children whose faces lit up when they received their seedlings. Our group, located at two different stations at the bottom of the hill, handed out the seedlings, and some of us accompanied groups up the hill to help them. I escorted a large number of the most adorable little ones, probably about four years old, from the SeaHorse Nursery. Another memorable group consisted of half a dozen young soldiers, with rifles on their shoulders and seedlings in their hands.
In all, we distributed some 8,000 seedlings. What looks like a rocky hillside today will become a forest in years to come.
This is all for now. Shabbat is coming and we will welcome it very soon.
Shabbat Shalom and best wishes from Israel.
Marcia and Ron

TuBshvat Seder with CAARI

2011-01-22T09:27:00.000-08:00

Shalom!

We have been celebrating TuBshvat - the anniversary of the trees! Thursday night after dinner we had our annual Seder with all the dried fruits, wine and music. All enjoyed the festivities as you can see by the pictures. Thank you Gloria, Diane,Sid and Gidi for making this such a lovely 7 memorable evening!

Susan and Neil

First day of School - by Rosalie Whitehill (New York)

2011-01-19T08:37:00.000-08:00

Shalom you'all,

Today was the first day of community service for the group. All were excited, some a little apprehensive about how they would be received and what would happen. Around 7:30 the first group took off in the taxis and around noon they returned to the hotel with such smiles on their faces - "oh, it was great - better than expected.." They were full of stories and anxious to tell each other about their experience.

The following is Rosalie's account of the day.

Yes, it is almost sundown on another beautiful, sunny 63-66ish day in glorious Tel Aviv.....sorry for my friends in Plainview and family in Boston......but delighted for me!!!

Today was my first day back at my school.....now a 40 minute walk since our present hotel is further away......An aside.....in addition to the most accomodating staff I have ever experienced in Israel, the food is really good......a little less than other places on desserts, but that's fine with me.

Anyway, today was too easy for me.....I had all girls....3 classes of 2 and one class of one...(one of the girls is the sister of the boy whose family picked me up at the airport and she just grinned like a cheshire cat, the whole period)....and since she and the girl with her liked to sing, we sang songs in English and had a fine time.

This afternoon we had a tour of the first city hall of Tel Aviv on Bialik Street.....on of the first streets after the original settlers built their houses....It has been beautifully restored and I discovered that Dizengoff (first mayor of Tel Aviv) was great friends with Bialik (poet laureate of Tel Aviv) whose house is just accross the little plaza. Another place I had not visited before....for the past two years it was being restored so that it could open for Tel Aviv's 100th birthday last year.

If you read this far, I will add that my room-mate Diane is more than happy with this trip, really enjoying the people, what we do, and appreciating our coordinator and guide......all of which makes me feel good.

So that's the news of the day(s) and I continue to love Eretz Yisroel as much if not more than ever!!

love to all of you!!

Rosalie

Horshim Forest and Green Line Communities

2011-01-18T12:16:00.000-08:00

Shalom,

Busy day today - some of us began our community service assignments, others got to sleep in and others shopped at the craft market. All gathered for lunch and then we began an interesting journey to visit Horshim Forest and the communities along the Green Line. The visit to Horshim Forest held a special significance for Neil, our guide. A part of the forest was dedicated in memory of Hezi, Neil platoon commander who was killed by a bicycle bomber in 1997. Hezi's Father, a delightful gentleman who was in the Palmach and fought in the War of Independence, met us and took us through the park showing us wine and olive presses that they found in the area. He took us to a special lookout to show us the area and what is referred to as the "Green Line". This gave us a new perspective on the settlement situation.

If any of you have been reading the press you know that the head of the Labor Party, Ehud Barak, has left Labor and started his own Party. This all happened yesterday. Today we were previledged to have Gil Hoffman speak to us. Gil is the political reporter for the Jersualem Post. Wow - that is giving us the 'up-to-the-minute' story on the most current events!

Looking forward to tomorrow - we all will begin our community service.

Erev Tov,

CAARI

Tel Aviv

2011-01-17T08:49:00.001-08:00

Shalom,

We are getting acclimated to our 'home' in Tel Aviv - getting to know the neighborhood, including the laundry, drug store, grocery and of course, Paul, who sells the newspapers. Another group of 8 joined CAARI last night and now we are 33! Great group!

These are some of pictures of one CAARI speakers - who talked about the rehabilitating the Yarkon River - interesting project. We had a short bus tour of the area and some sites in Tel Aviv - in between the rain drops - yes, we are having some rain.

Today we had a morning orientation and learned about our community service assignments. Devora, from Tel Aviv Municipality welcomed us and told us that the students were looking forward to seeing us. That brought smiles to our faces.

In the afternoon we had a most interesting tour of the Shiff House and learned about banking and the history of Tel Aviv. Most unusual museum - and lots of interesting multimedia visuals.

Stay tuned...for tomorrow's blog.

CAARI

Friday - On Our Way to Tel Aviv by Susan Horwitz

2011-01-15T11:07:00.001-08:00

Greetings Family and Friends,
Friday morning we packed up, loaded the bus and said 'litraot' (goodbye) to our friends at the Colony Hotel. Our first stop in the morning was to the site of the tragedy in the Carmel Forest where a 'makeshift' memorial to honor the victims of the people that were trapped in the bus. d We paid our respects and said 'Kaddish'. It was a moving moment for the CAARI group. We continued our journey along the windy road, viewing the burnt and scorched trees and wondered how they were able to fight this fire in the rocky terrain and steep valleys. Ya'acov, the forestor from the Jewish Natioanl Fund, did tell us that they were taking away some of the burnt stumps and also allowing for the return of natural growth before planting. We could see some spring tulips peaking through the blackened ground - quite a contrast.
Continuing down the road we arrived at our next stop, Atlit, the detention camp during the British Mandate period. This visit tied in to our earlier visit to the Illegal Immigration and Naval Museum in Haifa. Our guide, Anna, was terrific. As we toured the 'barracks' and 'showers' she told us personal stories of those who were in the camp. It is amazing that they have such documented history of the detainees. As we were looking at the data, Gloria Kaufman, one of our participants, said that her cousin was detained at Atlit. Anna immediately located the name in the huge date base and in seconds were were viewing all the information and pictures of Gloria's cousin including a detailed account of the story of how she arrived in the camp. This camp is one of the JNF - USA projects and the newest part of the camp is the 'refurbished' ship that is similar to the ships that brought immigrants to the shores of Palestine after World War II. Through a variety of visuals the experience is described - very well done.
Now - time for lunch and so we headed to Zichron Ya'acov, a charming village from the late 1800's, which still maintains it cobblestoned main street lined with cafes and small shops. Some of us shopped and others enjoyed a bite of lunch and coffee.
Next stop - our home for the next 4 weeks, the City Hotel, located a block from the sea and off of the one of Tel Aviv's main streets - Ben Yehuda Street.
Some of us had time to wonder around the neighborhood, view the sun setting and attend services before our 'CAARI Family' Shabbat dinner and Oneg Shabbat.
Shabbat Shalom to all,
CAARI

Akko, Rosh Hanikra and Carmel Forest

2011-01-15T10:37:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
Another lovely day - sunny and temperatures in the 60's. However, the winds are a little stronger today - ah...a storm in the forecast?
Our bus headed north to the Crusader city of Akko. Wow - how did they built this fortress? We toured just a small portion of this immense structure, walking through the tunnels that led the Crusaders to the sea! From there we went to Rosh Hanikra for a ride in the cable car which took us to the breathtaking ghottoes. Lunch on the run....back on the bus to meet with JNF Forester to see the terrible destruction to the JNF forest from the Carmel Fire in early December. How sad to see the burnt trees and so very sad to learn about the the loss of life. The JNF is moving forward and planning for replanting. It is amazing to see that even with all the burnt trees one can see that the spring tulips will be blooming among the ashes.
In the evening, Professor Ronen spoke about Iraq and the future for the country. He gave us some real incite into this country and identified both positives and negatives.
Tomorrow we leave Haifa for Tel Aviv - what a wonderful week we have had.
All our best,
CAARI 2011

January 12- Mt. Adir, piano concert and more...by Marcia and Ron Bercov

2011-01-13T12:54:00.001-08:00

Hello from Haifa,
Reporting from this beautiful city as we begin another year CAARI Adventure this month. Once more the Bercovs joined the Canadian and American Active Retirees (CAARI) in Israel for a program of community service, touring, lectures and a good time with friends. All of this is through the Jewish National Fund, the organization which plants forest, builds water reservoirs, roads and even contructed an indoor playground in this extraordinary country. Our Tour Coordinator, Susan Horwitz, and guide, Neil Eisenstadt, bring a wealth of experience, knowledge and good humour which make CAARI a most wonderful way to visit Israel.
Where to begin...after only three days in this area, and already so many memorable events and places.....
This morning, for example, our group left bright and early, boarding the CAARI bus and greeting Moti, our excellent driver who had been with us a few times. Just an aside - Israel's roads tend to be narrow at the best times, with sharp curves in this mountainous part of the country, all of which Moti handles with ease. Thanks, Moti!
So, with Moti at the wheel, we headed north toward Akko, driving through a mixed residential and industrial part of the country. In spite of its size, Israel produces a large variety of products, like paint, concrete, has chemical processing and stone polishing using local limestone. The route continued north, through the small city of Naharyia to Mt. Adir along the northern border. We drove as far as we could into a small forest and from there we went by foot. From the view point there, we saw many small villages over the border in Lebanon. Guide Neil brought out his map of the country, explained about the history of the area, adding to what he told us on the drive.
(another aside, later we found out about the internal problems that Lebanon is experiencing...how appropiate that our visit was today).

The next stop, a CAARI first, took us to the top of a mountain for a private piano recital. Yes, that is correct. Yitzak Tavior, virtuoso pianst, composer and conductor, lives with his family in the area of Mt. Meron in the Galilee where he present concerts on Saturday mornings, but gave a command performance to our group this morning. The concerts take place in his studio, a large room with seating around three sides and clusters of potted plants forming a border around one side of his grand piano. On the walls hang large portraits of composers. Maestro Tavior welcomed us and explained that he was probably the only pianist who would serve refreshments at the intermission. He sat down, began to play, and we were entranced. The first part of his program included movements from Mozart and Beethoven sonatas and a Chopin Scherzo, all played with energy and sensitivity and great feeling. Then true to his words, he stood up walked over to the far side of the room and offered coffed, herb tea and cakes which his wife Liora had brought earlier. After everyone finished, Maestro Tavior walked back to the piano, opened the lid and over the keyboard and continues with a Brahms Intermezzo and a final work by Debussy. Sheer joy...
Back down to earth, we thank Maestro Tavior and reluctnatly left his studio driving through forest of pine to the ancient city of Safed. There we encountered mny other groups of tourists, including a Birthright group from Cornell, New York.
Next CAARI headed for the Hazor archeologial site, on the list of UNESCO International Heritage Sites. Here the work continues, excavating and discovering artifacts from ancient cultures. Last summer, for example, archeologists discovered 2 Hammurabi tablets with Acadian writing. I think this means lines, horizontal or vertical in combinations, but Neil really knows...
Yes, there is more to this day. Final stop Rosh Pina and a visit to the synagogue there and an media presentation of the story of Rosh Pina, one of Baron Rothschild's villages. Ah...a delicious dinner and back to Haifa.
Keep well and warm, especially Edmontonians who are expecting -25C tomorrow.

Best wishes and Shalom,
Marcia and Ron (Edmonton, Canada)

Haifa Tour by Marcia and Ron Bercov

2011-01-12T12:28:00.001-08:00

Shalom,

CAARI started off with a visit to beautiful Haifa this year. This city is home to a rich ethnic community, as reflected in a very special place, the Leo Baeck School. Our group was priviledged to visit the school, meet some of the students and learn about the Community Center associated with it. The Center works with a variety of ages and populations, such as students with special needs and new immigrants. Within the Ethipoian community, for example, some of the students receive full scholarships to university and participate in a University Leadership Training Program. The Center's director, a musician, started a choir with Arabs and Jews singing and perfoming togeher, while the Centre also offers summer day camp. Last summer the choir went to Italy to Peace Camp, which offered workshops on co-existence.

Our group was invited into a classroom of Grade 2 students who sang Hebrew songs for us, while doing sign language. They all wore colorful embroidered kipas in Sephardic style, more like a cap than a small disc. They also asked us questions, in English, like - "What is your favorite food?" Always a subject of interest! We met with a group of teenagers who had gone on an exchange to a religious school in Boston. By coincidence, two of the boys who had been billeted in the home of the daughter of a member of our group, whose family lives in Boston. We were all impressed with the work of this wonderful school and community center.

In the afternoon our group visited the Hecht Museum, named for one of the founders of Haifa University. Our guide, Amir, explained the Museum's collection of ancient artifacts was donated to the University was donated by Hecht himself. The collection includes an original mosaic floor from the 5th centery and a merchant ship from about 400 BCE.

Stay tuned for more...

Best Wishes and Shalom,

Marcia and Ron Bercov (Edmonton, Canada)

TUESDAY IN HAIFA : MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

2011-01-11T11:51:00.000-08:00

Our first stop today was at the Illegal Immigration and Clandestine Museum, and we were greeted by two women naval officers who looked about 12 years old! We were treated to a short documentary film of the establishment of Israel's Navy during the trials and tribulations of rescuing WWII 'survivors' of the camps who had lost everything. Special thanks Neil for arranging a private screening for me! The second film presented a very different Israeli Navy - no longer building boats from 'wreckage' but state of art ships and communications prevail. Very impressive indeed.
Next, we were taken to the Bahia Gardens - what a beautiful and serene place. Sad to say, I was to 'beat' to re-visit the Gardens! I just didn't feel like walking down 628 steps! But hats to those who did - I understand they had a great time as well as learning more about the Bahai Faith.
Then, it was time for lunch, so, off we went to the Carmel Centre which offers a great variety of restaurants, cafes and pastry shops. Neil, ever mindful of time, advised that we had 1 1/2 hours for lunch. Gloria (Kaufman) and I, ended up in a very nice cafe and had a thoroughly tasty lunch. Then the adventure followed, when, at 2pm Gloria received a call from Susan (our leader) asking why weren't you sitting in the bus - oy vay! We thought the the bus was leaving 2:10pm, so, plenty of time to enjoy are cappuccino in a real cup - famous last words. Then the balagan ensued: Gloria went ahead to pick up my package from the Pharmacy and to let Susan and Neil know that I was lagging behind! In tandem, I settled the bill and arranged for our coffee 'to go'! In spite of keeping everyone waiting ... all's well that ends well.
We spent the afternoon in Ussifyia, a Druze village up in the Carmel, where we were hosted by a charming young man, who talked about the Druze Community and its role in Israeli Society. His village was established over 500 years ago! In spite of his 17 years, he handled his presentation and the flurry of questions with great aplomb! We were served homemade pita topped with a choice tomato sauce or zatar - yummy, accompanied by a hot sweet tea. And, then we got back on the bus and headed back to our charming hotel in Haifa.
Our evening speaker was Albir Layyous, an engineer by profession, however, he is very involved in the family business - producing olive oil. As an adjunct to this, he began making olive oil products. We were all very interesed in the variety of products he has been developing and again the questions kept flowing. We were treated to a bar of olive soap scented with lavender, sage and tea tree oil - will we look 10 years younger tomorrow?
In closing, I would like to say how happy I am to be back with CAARI after a 2 year absence - I have really missed the programme, Neil and Susan and the member of my CAARI family.
Frances Dvorchik
Toronto

CAARI arrives in Israel - by Anice Stark

2011-01-11T11:42:00.000-08:00

Shalom,
What a way to begin our trip to Israel and CAARI! First time in our years of traveling to Israel, our plane in Toronto couldn't leave the airport! It was was frozen to the ground and needed special heavy duty equipment to move it. But - all is well, just about an hour late in arriving to Tel Aviv where Neil met us at the airport.

Since we arrived in Haifa it as been a very busy time, meeting new CAARI participants from both Canada and USA. We welcome all and hope they enjoy themselves. CAARI offers a great alternative to a winter in Canada!

Tomorrow we begin CAARI 2011 - yeah! The weather seems lovely - sunny with patchy clouds and in the 60's during the day. Our hotel, The Colony, is very charming and the staff is very attentive. This hotel is located in the German Colony on one of Haifa's main streets with a view of the Bahai Gardens and lots of cafes and restaurants nearby. One of the pictures is of Gloria Kaufman, Helen Buck and Sheila Rasking enjoying a 'cafe afuk'! The hotel itself is in a building built in 1905 and restored a couple years ago. WE are looking forward to our stay here.

All the best,

Anice and Arnold Stark (Toronto)

CAARI 2011

2011-01-08T00:20:00.000-08:00

Janaury 9, 2011 begins the 28 consecutive year for the CAARI Program, affliated with the Jewish National Fund of Canada, Israel and the USA. We in Israel are very excited to meet the group who will be traveling up to Haifa for the week, followed by 4 weeks in Tel Aviv, 3 days in Dead Sea and conclude the 7 week program in Jerusalem.
Stay tuned for our unique program and meet the class of CAARI 2011!
Follow along with us. We welcome your comments.
Warm Regards,

Susan Horwitz and Nahum Eisenstaff (Israel CAARI Administrators)

L'Hitraot to CAARI 2010 with Song

2010-03-15T04:09:00.000-07:00

Shalom,
CAARI 2010 is now history! It was a terrific year with an energetic group. We traveled from Metula to the Negev, learned about Israel from ancient to modern times, volunteered in schools, hospitals, worked in the JNF forests, picked fruit for food banks, packed some food boxes and handed out over 8000 trees on TuBshvat! We danced to the tunes of Gil on TuBshvat, hiked the Ramon Crater, took long walks (or short walks as Neil would say), shopped, shlepped, enjoyed the sunshine, warm temperatures and even the rain for few days. Our Speakers' Forum informed us on the many facets of Israel society - from journalist to artists to underwater archeology, professors and political activists ! And...we had fun!

People asked - what are you doing here? We would explain and Israelis would say -kol'akvod and thank you for being here with us!

We (Neil and Susan) want to thank each one of your for coming to Israel and being part of the CAARI Program. You are an inspiration!

The Petra Buddies summed up the experience with a new song - very clever, very catchy! Hit 'play' on the video! The words are below if you want to sing along. Thank you Sue Gitter for capturing this performance!

Wishing you a Peaceful and Happy Pesach with Family and Friends,
Warmest Regards,

Susan and Neil

"We Don't Want to go Home" by Roberta Jacobs, Karen Barnett, Karen Knoll and Sheila Raskin
Tune of : "I Don't Want No More of Army Life"

We are the Petra Buddies
Who cocktail every night!
and, while we were imbibing
We thought that we could write!

Arriving in jerusalem
our group was mighty small.
We bonded all together,
Especially at the Wall.

REFRAIN
Oh, we don't want to leave our Caari friends.
Gee Sue, we want to stay;
Oh, Neil, we want to stay;
We just don't want to go home.

The ramparts that we climbed on
The caves and tunnels, too
We walked in all 4 quarters
With all the other Jews!

Shwarma and falafel
We ate our fill of those.
Before we hardly knew it,
We couldn't zip our clothes!

REFRAIN

The road to Herodian
Neil said was not too far.
But, when we staggered to the top,
We could have touched the stars.

We're up at dawn most mornings
C-r-a-w-l-i-n-g out of bed;
students need our guidance
and patients need be fed.

REFRAIN

Our Hebrew is improving;
we sure are quite a team.
Now we know the difference
'tween sherute and sherotim.

We've travelled this whole country;
North, south and east and west.
We're heading home on Sunday.
Thank G-d, we need a REST!

Oh, sorry to have to leave our Caari friends Gee Neil, Shalom to you; Oh Sue, a fond a'dieu We're just so glad to go home!

My Impressions by Amy Glaser (Easton, MA)

2010-03-07T05:47:00.000-08:00

Shabbat - January 30, 2010

A special Shabbat for me once again. My friend Rella and I attended a concert in Abu Gosh. Abu Gosh is a scenic Arab village between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The village overlooks the hills of Jerusalem and has always had a positive relationship with Israel. The concert was held in a form Crusader Church in the Chapel of the Virgin Mary. The performance was a selection of 4 Bach Cantatas. What mixture of cultures!! Where else could this happen? Only - Israel!

Israelis say "thank you" - Friday, February 12, 2010

On this glorious day, our tour brought us to the beautiful Baron Rothschild's Garden and Tomb outside the charming village of Zichron Ya'acov. A spectacular beautiful park, including a fragrance garden, palm garden, cascading garden with an explanation of water use and re-use completed that at the garden. It's a peaceful, calming place to spend an afternoon.

On entering the park a woman guard approached me and asked about the CAARI group. Were we really volunteers? Were we from Canada and the USA? Why would we want to volunteer in Israel? I explained the program and how I had just retired in June. I had alwasy loved Israel and now had the time to give back to the Jewish Homeland! She was so touched and actually filled up with tears. A she hugged me, she said "thank you very much for your effort to my country!" I left her with a few tears too!

Our Trip to the Galilee by Anice Stark (Toronto, Canada)

2010-02-27T19:55:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends and Family,

Our trip up to the Galilee and Golan was one of nature and colour - the most colourful in all the years we have been travelling there. The profusion of flowers, the shades of the green fields were a feast to our eyes.

As we walked up the trail to see the Gilboa Iris we saw a sea of reds, blues, yellows, white garlic, large flowering fennel bulbs - I can't remember all the flower names - but just magnificent waist high growth. We saw only a few of the Irises as there weren't as many this year due to the lack of rain.

One of days, we walked the Bible Trail (a Canadian JNF Project) which overlooks the Jezreel Valley. While standing on the top of the hillside, looking down into the valley, we viewed all the planted crops - very geometrical in their shapes, everything in some state of growth, and many flowering trees. Even the scent came up to the hill where we were standing. All our senses were working and so were are emotions.

Other days included a hike at the Dan Nature Reserve, a visit to the mystical city of Safed which also included a trip to the newly built, Blue Valley Canadian JNF project on the outskirts of the city. We met the Director of the Canada Center in Metulla who took us on a tour of this amazing sports facility and some of us did a little bowling. Ok - we are are not ready for the Olympics! We went to Agmon Hula (another JNF Project) to witness the beginning of the spring bird migration - with the storks, pelicans, cranes and over 100 varieties of birds.
We concluded our trip on Friday (in the middle of pouring rain) with a chocolate experience at a candy factory in Degania and a visit to Zippori. We didn't even get wet! But we know this water is badly needed and will help continue to 'green the Galilee'.

Back in Tel Aviv for Shabbat and the Purim festivities and our departure Sunday evening. Oh where did the time go? Another wonderful CAARI experience!

Who are those masked people - could that be Susan and Neil getting ready for Purim?

Shalom and Hag Samach,

Anice Stark

Tuesday, Golan Artists

2010-02-23T21:11:00.001-08:00

Shalom,

Another wonderful day that most tourists don't experience. But, than again - the CAARI program is not like most tours. Today we spend with local Israel artists - from painters, sculptures, woodmakers, potters to Shimon who makes shofars.

Sorry this is short, but the Neil, guide is calling us and we don't want to miss a thing.

Will write more later.

CAARI 2010

Feb. 22 - the Gilboa

2010-02-22T22:16:00.001-08:00

Good morning,

It is a clear day as we drove up, up, up to the Gilboa. Wow - what a view of the Jezreel Valley and the wild flowers along the roadside are just gorgeous! We met Kacha (a retired army officer) who gave us an explanation of battles that were fought in the area. He also took us to the security fence so that we could understand the current situation and see first hand. The border is pretty close!

The day was perfect for a walk along the JNF Canada's Bible Trail and the view of the valley became more spectacular - with green farm fields, dozens of fish reservoirs and mountains in the distance. Time for lunch - a what a lunch! We dined at the local Spice Ranch - delicious salads, homemade breads, cheese and herb tea - perfect!

Shalom from the Kinneret,
CAARI 2010

Feb. 21 - Day 1 in the Galilee

2010-02-21T10:27:00.000-08:00

Greetings,
This morning that left Jerusalem for our week in the Galilee. It is hard to believe that this is our last week with CAARI 2010. Where oh where did the time go?
Our first stop was Gan Garu - you are probably asking what is this - we asked the same question. It is an Australian Zoo - with koalas, kangaroos, cockatoos, sheep, emus, and all kinds of birds, etc. We all ooed and awed and talked to the animals. Enjoy the pictures of us feeding the kangaroos.
Next stop - walking the scenic Gilboa Iris Trail. This is the time of year that the mountain is covered with a carpet of colorful spring flowers - just beautiful.
Final stop of the day was Kibbutz Gesher - whose history dates back to the early days of Statehood. It is located on the Jordan River - which serves as the border with Israel and Jordan. It is also the site of an early hydroelectric plant from the 1930's. This plant supplied both Israel and Jordan with electricity before the War of Independence.
Tonight we are spending the night at a lovely kibbutz, located on the Kinneret.
Shalom,
CAARI 2010

Friday, Feb. 19 - Jerusalem

2010-02-19T05:48:00.000-08:00

Shalom,

This morning Amotz Asa Al, Wall Street journalist and former editor of the Jerusalem Post, spoke to us reviewing Israel's successes and challenges this past year - from the economy, to political issues and diplomatic efforts. Most interesting and enlightening!

Our morning tour was another "off the beaten" track site - the Underground Prison from the British Mandate Period. Our guide told us interesting stories of those pre-State days including the sacrifices that young members of the Haganah made for the State of Israel and for Jews around the world.

We walked to Mechane Yehuda, Jerusalem's marketplace and Ben Yehuda Street- did a little eating and shopping. It is now late afternoon, shops are slowly closing and in another hour or so it will be Shabbat. However, the cafes are still filled with people enjoying the warm temperatures, good food and spirit of the day.

We want to take this opportunity to wish all of you a Shabbat Shalom and enjoy the weekend.

CAARI 2010.

Thursday - Feb. 18. - from the Negev to Jerusalem

2010-02-19T05:24:00.000-08:00

On the road again - leaving the Negev for Jerusalem. We will miss the wonderful breakfasts at our desert hotel - great cheesecake, scalloped potatoes, and the unusual spices and flavorings in the foods. They have jellies made from all kinds of fruits and vegetables - very tasty.

Today we experienced a desert special - a camel ride! Most of us took part - so enjoy the pictures. You can see we really had a good time and lots of laughs!

From there we went to Ammunition Hill - where the fierce 1967 battle of Jerusalem took place. We met with one of the fighters - Kacha - and saw the new exhibit - an impresssive JNF project.

In the evening we had an interesting speaker, Adam Seigel, who spoke on real estate in Jerusalem. We always wanted to know "how much"!!

Warm Regards from Jerusalem,

CAARI 2010

Wednesday, Feb. 17 - Hiking Mitzpeh Ramon & visits

2010-02-19T05:02:00.001-08:00

Hi,

The views are spectacular, the weather marvelous and we are enjoying a few days at this lovely hotel. Last night some of us took advantage of the pool before dinner. Would you believe it was so warm, we had to sleep with the windows open?

Our day started with a 3 hour hike in the canyon, visit to Sde Boker Environmental School where we saw the kids float preparation for the Purim Parade, and ended the day with a visit to Ben Gurion's Hut, gravesite and view of the Zin Valley.

Will write more details later.

CAARI 2010

Negev Visit - JNF Projects & Beersheva

2010-02-19T04:47:00.000-08:00

Hi,

We are on the road - driving south through the Negev. Will write details later, but thought you would like to see where we visited - Aleh Negev Facility in Ofakim and the new hydrotherapy pool, Nahal Beersheva (JNF Project in Beersheva) and Tel Beersheva.

No - we weren't doing construction work, but walking through the underground ancient water source in ancient Tel Beersheva - the reason for the hard - hats!

Having a great time!

CAARI 2010

Community Service Experience by Joan Hulkower, New York

2010-02-15T16:39:00.001-08:00

Looking back on the Community Service portion of the CAARI Program, I'm overwhelmed at the appreciation that I received from the staff at Ichilov Hospital's Rehab Department.

Apparently, they are short of volunteers and could not have been more grateful for the service that we did in the mornings.

When we came in at 8 AM we set up the breakfast trays and handed them out to the patients as they came into the dining room. Usually about 35 came in between 8 and 9:30 AM. Following breakfast, I helped make beds, sometime refilled lotions and paper towels in the room or walked with patients that needed extra ambulation.

On the last day the staff gathered us (there were 4 other CAARI participants who worked with me) in their kitchen, gave us gifts, thanked us for our help and hoped we would return next year. Being appreciated made it so worthwhile!

Joan

Neve Zedek Tour

2010-02-15T16:24:00.005-08:00

Shalom,

We are winding down our Tel Aviv stay - but not before we did a walking tour of the charming Tel Aviv neighborhood of Neve Zedek. A tour wouldn't be complete without a little ice cream.

Tomorrow, we pack up and head south - to the Negev. We will miss our wonderful staff at the City Hotel, the splendid Tel Aviv beach and off course all the children, teachers, administrators, nurses and patients at our community service assignments. What an enriching experience.

L'hitroiot to Tel Aviv,

CAARI 2010

CAARI in Tel AViv

2010-02-15T16:24:00.003-08:00

CAARI in Tel AViv

2010-02-15T16:24:00.001-08:00

Leket Project - Picking Fruit for the Needy

2010-02-10T14:06:00.001-08:00

We have had another busy week - working in the morning at our community service places, returning to the hotel for lunch and back out in the afternoon. The weather has been delightful and we are relishing being outdoors - especially when we hear about the storms in the mid-west, east coast and cold temperatures in Canada.

For the past 5 years, one of CAARI's projects was to spend an afternoon picking fruit at a local orchard for an non - profit organization called, Leket Israel, formerly known as Table to Table. They distribute surplus food to the needy that would otherwise be discarded to. Over 60 tons of food per week is transferred to 180 soup kitchens, homeless shelters, senior centers and other social service organizations around Israel.

Our task was to pick oranges - and pick we did - over 2220 pounds of oranges! Boy, were the Leket Staff impressed!

Warm wishes,

CAARI 2010

Forest Day Adventure by Marcia Bercov

2010-02-10T14:05:00.000-08:00

Hello,

Back to the work clothes again. Yesterday we put on our grubbies and headed off to Sataf Forest to prune olive trees and rebuild part of a stone wall. Finding rocks all over the ground, we filled bucket after bucket of assorted sizes to use as "backfill" for the wall, while Jamil, experienced wall builder, put the large stones in place. Hard work, but very satisfying, especially after seeing the result. After a morning like that everyone felt very happy to leave for Kibbutz Tsorah for lunch and more. In addition to delicious quiches and salad, the lunch included cheeses and bread both made on the kibbutz. But, wait, there's more. The Kibbutz also has a boutique winery, and lunch included wine tasting. The grapes come from three different nearby areas, and last year the winery produced ice wine! Yes, and without that inconvenient winter season. The grapes were picked and put into the freezer and the wine produced at a later time.
The weather has been warm and sunny in Tel Aviv. Hoping this finds you warm and well.
Best wishes and shalom,
Marcia and Ron

Feb. 8 - Ancient Lod Community Service Project & CAARI By Marcia Bercov

2010-02-10T14:02:00.000-08:00

Greetings from sunny Tel Aviv,

On Monday our CAARI group dressed in work clothes to travel, for our first time, to Lod to do some clean-up at an archaeological site. There we met our host Yuval Gadot, Professor of Archaeology at Tel Aviv University to learn about a new concept, Community Archaeology. This brings together children from many kinds of schools in the area - Arab, Bedouin, and Jewish - to clean up sites, dig, and collect artifacts as they learn about the past, while at the same time forming new friendships.
Lod is an ancient city and has been occupied continuously, with one civilization after another. At one time it became a Christian city, and tradition says St. George was born there, and he is buried at St. George's Greek Orthodox Church in the city. But back in the mid 8th century, Lod was a capital city, until Crusaders moved the capital to Jerusalem. Today Lod is home to many Ethiopian Jews. Well, getting back to the work clothes, our group started the not so glamorous, but necessary task of literally cleaning up an enclosed area called the Khan, an inn where people who travelled in caravans stopped for rest. Here, excavations have uncovered more levels of civilization. School children will visit the site and in time continue the work. Coincidentally, while our group was taking a lunch break inside the Khan, a class of children aged around 10 or 11 actually came inside with their teacher and a young lady who was doing a year of volunteer service. This is part of the effort to bring community pride and teach the residents about the history of their amazing city.

Shalom and Warm Wishes,

Marcia and Ron

Feb. 7 -IDF Museum by Marcia Bercov

2010-02-10T13:17:00.000-08:00

Shalom,

Today, after the morning community service, our group went to visit the IDF Collection House, actually the Museum of History of the IDF, Israel Defense Forces. It started as a depot for collection of tanks and weapons, and now comprises several buildings, for example, one with glass cases of rifles, and another building with walls of photographs of Ministers of Defense and Chiefs of Staff, along with a large number of gifts given by other governments. The museum also has cars used by former Prime Ministers.
That evening, a special guest, Kurt Hoyer, came to speak to our group. He works as a communications officer at the American Embassy in Tel Aviv. Finally I learned what people do inside those big buildings! It's a lot...

Keeping in touch,

Ron and Marcia