Horshim Forest and Green Line Communities

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

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