MBI is over, and everyone has either made it home or are enjoying a few last days in Israel.
I wanted to say that it was a pleasure organizing this trip and from the discussions I had with some of the MBIers yesterday it was a fun and meaningful summer.
I hope everyone enjoys the rest of the summer and I wish everyone a healthy and happy new year.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Finishing up
As MBI was coming close to the end, the chanichim had one more morning excursion on Thursday. First they went to Yafo (Jaffa) and walked around shuk hapishpushim (the market of knick knacks). Here they got to haggle with locals and buy lats minute souvenirs.
After the shuk, they went to an amazing museum call Machon Ayalon, which used to be an underground ammunition factory before the independence war. The Hagganah (defense force)convinced a group of people who wanted to build a kibbutz to building an ammunition factory. They dug out an enormous underground hole in just weeks, while the British thought they were building a kibbutz. 40 people would go underground daily to make bullets. The kibbutz took in laundry as its source of income, and the access to the ammunition factory was under a washing machine that slides to the side to reveal a ladder. All 40 of the original workers were trained to climb down the ladder in record time. They made 250,000 bullets without a single mishap, and bullets were the one thing the Israelis did not run out of during their war for independence. Visitors walk down the ladder and view the machinery while listening to the story.
Thursday afternoon they began the sikkum (conclusion). The last few days were a mixture of reflections and introspections of their experience of being on MBI. They also had discussions about what they were taking home with them from the experience as well as about the movement and how they want be involved in the ken and their machaneh. They also had more fun and serious peer led peulot by kvutzah.
Along with these activities they also had a regular Shabbat schedule including kabbalat shabbat, rikud, musicale and of course a final mesiba (party).
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
In and around the Judean hills
In the last 2 days the MBIers have traveled around the of the Judean Hills taking the history of the area. On Tuesday morning the group participated in an archaeological dig with the KKL. Here in small groups they were taken down into a cave and were given the opportunity to sift through remnants of Jewish and Roman artifacts. This was a unique experience and nice way to get some shade in the continued heat wave Israel is currently experiencing.
In the afternoon the group headed to their final hostel, Kfar Hayarok where they had some time to settle in and then a had a machaneh wide activity run by the madrichim. Then in the evening each kvutzah ran one of their peer facilitated peulot.
On Wednesday morning the group headed out to a hike in the area that included going into a series of caves that are also rich in history. This is where the Bar Kochvah revolt took place. The Bar Kochvah revolt against the Roman Empire was the third major rebellion by the Jews and the last of the Jewish-Roman Wars. The goal of the rebellion was to regain independence from the Romans, who had destroyed the Second Temple in Jerusalem in 70 C.E. These caves were the military headquarters for Bar Kochvah and his men.
After the hike they went to Tel Azaka. This is the famous place that is said to be where the battle took place between David and Goliath. The MBIers walked up to a look out point and were entertained by skits that the tour guides and madrichim(counselors) put on for them re-enacting the story.
This took the better part of the day and in the afternoon the buses either went to a near by beach for a bit or back to the hostel and hung out by the pool.
On Wednesday evening the kvutzot had another self facilitated evening. A good way to wind down after an extremely hot day.
In the afternoon the group headed to their final hostel, Kfar Hayarok where they had some time to settle in and then a had a machaneh wide activity run by the madrichim. Then in the evening each kvutzah ran one of their peer facilitated peulot.
On Wednesday morning the group headed out to a hike in the area that included going into a series of caves that are also rich in history. This is where the Bar Kochvah revolt took place. The Bar Kochvah revolt against the Roman Empire was the third major rebellion by the Jews and the last of the Jewish-Roman Wars. The goal of the rebellion was to regain independence from the Romans, who had destroyed the Second Temple in Jerusalem in 70 C.E. These caves were the military headquarters for Bar Kochvah and his men.
After the hike they went to Tel Azaka. This is the famous place that is said to be where the battle took place between David and Goliath. The MBIers walked up to a look out point and were entertained by skits that the tour guides and madrichim(counselors) put on for them re-enacting the story.
This took the better part of the day and in the afternoon the buses either went to a near by beach for a bit or back to the hostel and hung out by the pool.
On Wednesday evening the kvutzot had another self facilitated evening. A good way to wind down after an extremely hot day.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Return Travel Day information
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Back to Jerusalem
After a challenging and fun weekend the MBIers finished up Machenh Tnua Achot, cleaned up their campsite and bade farewell to their new Israeli friends. The group headed back down to the Jerusalem area to the KKL campsite Nes Harim. After dinner they had a preparation peulah for Yad Vashem, the national Holocaust Memorial Museum. All of MBI watched the movie Gattaca. The film is about a society in which people are categorized as inferior and superior based on their genetic makeup and according to your genetic make-up you are predestined for a certain kind of lifestyle including your job. The main character is dissatisfied with his place in the world and has bigger aspirations for himself so he assumes the identity of someone else in order to achieve his dream of space travel. The basis of the peulah was to explore what a world looks like without shivyon erech ha'dam (equality of human value). Following the film each kvutzah had a short discussion about the concept of shivyon erech ha'adam.
Today MBI went to Yad Vashem had a guided tour through the museum. The museum which was which was recently renovated has a unique design. The building is a long triangle that at the end there are windows piping light and a promenade with a beautiful view of Jerusalem. In order to reach the promenade you have to criss-cross through each section of the museum, which spans from before the Holocaust looking at communities, through the end of the war exploring the many difficult topics and some of the more inspirational tales of righteous gentiles and the youth movements role in the war. The tour tries to focus on some of the aspects of the Holocaust and then ends by discussing the importance of Israel in our history as the Jewish people. The tour was followed by a processing discussion within the kvutzah with madrichim. This was a emotionally moving and important experience for all.
Following the museum the group headed to Har Herzl (Mount Herzl), a national cemetery in Jerusalem, named for Theodor Herzl, the founder of modern political Zionism. The cemetery was created as a burial place for national figures and fallen soldiers. Each group walked through the cemetery and the stories of some of the figures buried there such as Hannah Senesh and Yitzhak Rabin.
In the coming week there are several "peulah slots" which have been left unplanned. This was done intentionally to give the chanichim the opportunity to plan activities for themselves. This afternoon was set aside as planning time. Each kvutzah sat down and talked about the kinds f things they would like to do and then broke up into groups to plan the peulot. This is a really good opportunity for them to learn how to plan and execute a peulah for their peers. It also gives them a chance to contribute to the experience and take responsibility over what they would like to do in their last week.
After dinner they had a fun activity with all of MBI. Each kvutzah was given a genre of music and they had to pick a song and create a performance with dance and costumes to perform for everyone.
Today MBI went to Yad Vashem had a guided tour through the museum. The museum which was which was recently renovated has a unique design. The building is a long triangle that at the end there are windows piping light and a promenade with a beautiful view of Jerusalem. In order to reach the promenade you have to criss-cross through each section of the museum, which spans from before the Holocaust looking at communities, through the end of the war exploring the many difficult topics and some of the more inspirational tales of righteous gentiles and the youth movements role in the war. The tour tries to focus on some of the aspects of the Holocaust and then ends by discussing the importance of Israel in our history as the Jewish people. The tour was followed by a processing discussion within the kvutzah with madrichim. This was a emotionally moving and important experience for all.
Following the museum the group headed to Har Herzl (Mount Herzl), a national cemetery in Jerusalem, named for Theodor Herzl, the founder of modern political Zionism. The cemetery was created as a burial place for national figures and fallen soldiers. Each group walked through the cemetery and the stories of some of the figures buried there such as Hannah Senesh and Yitzhak Rabin.
In the coming week there are several "peulah slots" which have been left unplanned. This was done intentionally to give the chanichim the opportunity to plan activities for themselves. This afternoon was set aside as planning time. Each kvutzah sat down and talked about the kinds f things they would like to do and then broke up into groups to plan the peulot. This is a really good opportunity for them to learn how to plan and execute a peulah for their peers. It also gives them a chance to contribute to the experience and take responsibility over what they would like to do in their last week.
After dinner they had a fun activity with all of MBI. Each kvutzah was given a genre of music and they had to pick a song and create a performance with dance and costumes to perform for everyone.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Machaneh Tnua Achot
After a restful 3 days the MBIers were ready to reunite and to meet their Israeli peers from Hanoar Haoved veHalomed (the working and studying youth) at Machaneh Tnua Achot (sister youth movement camp). Teens from kenim (local branches) from all over the country flocked to Yaar Lavi camp site for a fun and challenging weekend.
On Thursday the MBI groups were matched up with kenim and each small group went on a short hike near the camp site. This was a great way to create informal but structured bonding time right off the bat. During the hike they took several stop where they played a variety of name games and ice breakers. During the hike they took a break to make their own traditional Israeli "hikers" breakfast of pita, salad and spreads.
After returning to the camp site each small group gathered for their first peulah (educational activity). This was another "get to know you" activity. Each chanich (camper) got a booklet entitled "my ken". They filled out the book drawing pictures and writing descriptions of their kenim and machanot (camps). This was an opportunity to start to learn about the differences and similarities between the two movements and to get an idea of the cultures that each of the chanichim are coming from. In the evening each small group had a fun activity planned and run by their madrichim.
Friday was an intensive but good and thought provoking day. They had several peulot throughout the day which challenged them and gave them new perspectives and ideas about topics they have already learned about. They had a peulah where they discussed their own Jewish identity and the connection between Judaism and Zionism. This was an eye opening experience for both the MBIers and the Israelis. Later they had a peulah about tzedek (justice) and tzedaka (charity). Here they discussed the differences and the impact that both forms of action have on the world, and how to incorporate these ideas into their lives. They also had a peulah about anti semitism and how the rest of the world views Israel using the recent Gaza flotilla raid as an example for the discussion.
Earlier in the day in order to break up the peulot they also had creative chugim (interest groups). There were a variety of chugim for the chanichim to participate in such as a "jam session" where people brought several instruments and played music, rikud where they taught each other dances, and making fimo (a kind of soft clay). This was an opportunity for them to meet new kids from other groups and to bond over their creative interests and talents.
In preparation for Shabbat in the afternoon some of the MBIers exlained Habonim Shabbat traditions including kabbalat Shabbat, havdallah and musicale. This was to make sure the Israelis understood what was happening when the MBIers hosted kabbalat Shabbat and to invite the Israelis to prepare musicale acts for the traditional Saturday night musicale. After dinner the camp participated in something called a salatron which is a crazy fun and ruach (spirit) filled competition. They have silly tasks such as eating a watermelon without using your hands, having an improv dance competition and who has the most team spirit. The energy from the activity carried them into a rousing rikud session. A good time was had by all.
On Saturday everyone enjoyed a sleep in followed by Hitkansut Boker (morning gathering). Here they had a "roll call" and sang the camp song before starting the day's activities. First they had a peulah about tikkun olam (repairing the world). This was an interesting discussion because each movement actualizes this concept in different ways and each chanich has different ideas depending on what is available to them in their home communities. In general the peulah was a good motivator for everyone to think about what they can be doing to help the world. Then they had chugim retzinim (serious chugim) which were led by the madrichim on a variety of topics.
Saturday was a very hot day so after lunch an impromtu water fight broke out which helped break the heat. Then in the afternoon they had mishpachot where the MBIers had a chance to check in with their home machaneh friends. Following mishpachot everyone participated in an activity about youth movements. This peulah was in the method of a museum where there were articles and pictures posted around a room and everypne waled around at their own pace taking it in. The articles covered topics such as the history of the youth movement in Europe, the Warsaw Ghetto uprising and their involvement in building kibbutzim. This was a good follow up to the discussions they had in the Ghetto Fighters Museum. After each group had an opportunity to be in the "museum" they all gathered to watch a movie about how Hanoar Haoved VeHalomed reacted when the war broke out in 2006. Hanoar Haoved, spent the summer running camps in the south of Israel and going into bomb shelters and running activities for kids.
In the evening a few of the MBIers hosted havdallah and musicale for the machaneh in what was a very nice end to the weekend.
On Thursday the MBI groups were matched up with kenim and each small group went on a short hike near the camp site. This was a great way to create informal but structured bonding time right off the bat. During the hike they took several stop where they played a variety of name games and ice breakers. During the hike they took a break to make their own traditional Israeli "hikers" breakfast of pita, salad and spreads.
After returning to the camp site each small group gathered for their first peulah (educational activity). This was another "get to know you" activity. Each chanich (camper) got a booklet entitled "my ken". They filled out the book drawing pictures and writing descriptions of their kenim and machanot (camps). This was an opportunity to start to learn about the differences and similarities between the two movements and to get an idea of the cultures that each of the chanichim are coming from. In the evening each small group had a fun activity planned and run by their madrichim.
Friday was an intensive but good and thought provoking day. They had several peulot throughout the day which challenged them and gave them new perspectives and ideas about topics they have already learned about. They had a peulah where they discussed their own Jewish identity and the connection between Judaism and Zionism. This was an eye opening experience for both the MBIers and the Israelis. Later they had a peulah about tzedek (justice) and tzedaka (charity). Here they discussed the differences and the impact that both forms of action have on the world, and how to incorporate these ideas into their lives. They also had a peulah about anti semitism and how the rest of the world views Israel using the recent Gaza flotilla raid as an example for the discussion.
Earlier in the day in order to break up the peulot they also had creative chugim (interest groups). There were a variety of chugim for the chanichim to participate in such as a "jam session" where people brought several instruments and played music, rikud where they taught each other dances, and making fimo (a kind of soft clay). This was an opportunity for them to meet new kids from other groups and to bond over their creative interests and talents.
In preparation for Shabbat in the afternoon some of the MBIers exlained Habonim Shabbat traditions including kabbalat Shabbat, havdallah and musicale. This was to make sure the Israelis understood what was happening when the MBIers hosted kabbalat Shabbat and to invite the Israelis to prepare musicale acts for the traditional Saturday night musicale. After dinner the camp participated in something called a salatron which is a crazy fun and ruach (spirit) filled competition. They have silly tasks such as eating a watermelon without using your hands, having an improv dance competition and who has the most team spirit. The energy from the activity carried them into a rousing rikud session. A good time was had by all.
On Saturday everyone enjoyed a sleep in followed by Hitkansut Boker (morning gathering). Here they had a "roll call" and sang the camp song before starting the day's activities. First they had a peulah about tikkun olam (repairing the world). This was an interesting discussion because each movement actualizes this concept in different ways and each chanich has different ideas depending on what is available to them in their home communities. In general the peulah was a good motivator for everyone to think about what they can be doing to help the world. Then they had chugim retzinim (serious chugim) which were led by the madrichim on a variety of topics.
Saturday was a very hot day so after lunch an impromtu water fight broke out which helped break the heat. Then in the afternoon they had mishpachot where the MBIers had a chance to check in with their home machaneh friends. Following mishpachot everyone participated in an activity about youth movements. This peulah was in the method of a museum where there were articles and pictures posted around a room and everypne waled around at their own pace taking it in. The articles covered topics such as the history of the youth movement in Europe, the Warsaw Ghetto uprising and their involvement in building kibbutzim. This was a good follow up to the discussions they had in the Ghetto Fighters Museum. After each group had an opportunity to be in the "museum" they all gathered to watch a movie about how Hanoar Haoved VeHalomed reacted when the war broke out in 2006. Hanoar Haoved, spent the summer running camps in the south of Israel and going into bomb shelters and running activities for kids.
In the evening a few of the MBIers hosted havdallah and musicale for the machaneh in what was a very nice end to the weekend.
Machaneh Tnua Achot
After a restful 3 days the MBIers were ready to reunite and to meet their Israeli peers from Hanoar Haoved veHalomed (the working and studying youth) at Machaneh Tnua Achot (sister youth movement camp). Teens from kenim (local branches) from all over the country flocked to Yaar Lavi camp site for a fun and challenging weekend.
On Thursday the MBI groups were matched up with kenim and each small group went on a short hike near the camp site. This was a great way to create informal but structured bonding time right off the bat. During the hike they took several stop where they played a variety of name games and ice breakers. During the hike they took a break to make their own traditional Israeli "hikers" breakfast of pita, salad and spreads.
After returning to the camp site each small group gathered for their first peulah (educational activity). This was another "get to know you" activity. Each chanich (camper) got a booklet entitled "my ken". They filled out the book drawing pictures and writing descriptions of their kenim and machanot (camps). This was an opportunity to start to learn about the differences and similarities between the two movements and to get an idea of the cultures that each of the chanichim are coming from. In the evening each small group had a fun activity planned and run by their madrichim.
Friday was an intensive but good and thought provoking day. They had several peulot throughout the day which challenged them and gave them new perspectives and ideas about topics they have already learned about. They had a peulah where they discussed their own Jewish identity and the connection between Judaism and Zionism. This was an eye opening experience for both the MBIers and the Israelis. Later they had a peulah about tzedek (justice) and tzedaka (charity). Here they discussed the differences and the impact that both forms of action have on the world, and how to incorporate these ideas into their lives. They also had a peulah about anti semitism and how the rest of the world views Israel using the recent Gaza flotilla raid as an example for the discussion.
Earlier in the day in order to break up the peulot they also had creative chugim (interest groups). There were a variety of chugim for the chanichim to participate in such as a "jam session" where people brought several instruments and played music, rikud where they taught each other dances, and making fimo (a kind of soft clay). This was an opportunity for them to meet new kids from other groups and to bond over their creative interests and talents.
In preparation for Shabbat in the afternoon some of the MBIers exlained Habonim Shabbat traditions including kabbalat Shabbat, havdallah and musicale. This was to make sure the Israelis understood what was happening when the MBIers hosted kabbalat Shabbat and to invite the Israelis to prepare musicale acts for the traditional Saturday night musicale. After dinner the camp participated in something called a salatron which is a crazy fun and ruach (spirit) filled competition. They have silly tasks such as eating a watermelon without using your hands, having an improv dance competition and who has the most team spirit. The energy from the activity carried them into a rousing rikud session. A good time was had by all.
On Saturday everyone enjoyed a sleep in followed by Hitkansut Boker (morning gathering). Here they had a "roll call" and sang the camp song before starting the day's activities. First they had a peulah about tikkun olam (repairing the world). This was an interesting discussion because each movement actualizes this concept in different ways and each chanich has different ideas depending on what is available to them in their home communities. In general the peulah was a good motivator for everyone to think about what they can be doing to help the world. Then they had chugim retzinim (serious chugim) which were led by the madrichim on a variety of topics.
Saturday was a very hot day so after lunch an impromtu water fight broke out which helped break the heat. Then in the afternoon they had mishpachot where the MBIers had a chance to check in with their home machaneh friends. Following mishpachot everyone participated in an activity about youth movements. This peulah was in the method of a museum where there were articles and pictures posted around a room and everypne waled around at their own pace taking it in. The articles covered topics such as the history of the youth movement in Europe, the Warsaw Ghetto uprising and their involvement in building kibbutzim. This was a good follow up to the discussions they had in the Ghetto Fighters Museum. After each group had an opportunity to be in the "museum" they all gathered to watch a movie about how Hanoar Haoved VeHalomed reacted when the war broke out in 2006. Hanoar Haoved, spent the summer running camps in the south of Israel and going into bomb shelters and running activities for kids.
In the evening a few of the MBIers hosted havdallah and musicale for the machaneh in what was a very nice end to the weekend.
On Thursday the MBI groups were matched up with kenim and each small group went on a short hike near the camp site. This was a great way to create informal but structured bonding time right off the bat. During the hike they took several stop where they played a variety of name games and ice breakers. During the hike they took a break to make their own traditional Israeli "hikers" breakfast of pita, salad and spreads.
After returning to the camp site each small group gathered for their first peulah (educational activity). This was another "get to know you" activity. Each chanich (camper) got a booklet entitled "my ken". They filled out the book drawing pictures and writing descriptions of their kenim and machanot (camps). This was an opportunity to start to learn about the differences and similarities between the two movements and to get an idea of the cultures that each of the chanichim are coming from. In the evening each small group had a fun activity planned and run by their madrichim.
Friday was an intensive but good and thought provoking day. They had several peulot throughout the day which challenged them and gave them new perspectives and ideas about topics they have already learned about. They had a peulah where they discussed their own Jewish identity and the connection between Judaism and Zionism. This was an eye opening experience for both the MBIers and the Israelis. Later they had a peulah about tzedek (justice) and tzedaka (charity). Here they discussed the differences and the impact that both forms of action have on the world, and how to incorporate these ideas into their lives. They also had a peulah about anti semitism and how the rest of the world views Israel using the recent Gaza flotilla raid as an example for the discussion.
Earlier in the day in order to break up the peulot they also had creative chugim (interest groups). There were a variety of chugim for the chanichim to participate in such as a "jam session" where people brought several instruments and played music, rikud where they taught each other dances, and making fimo (a kind of soft clay). This was an opportunity for them to meet new kids from other groups and to bond over their creative interests and talents.
In preparation for Shabbat in the afternoon some of the MBIers exlained Habonim Shabbat traditions including kabbalat Shabbat, havdallah and musicale. This was to make sure the Israelis understood what was happening when the MBIers hosted kabbalat Shabbat and to invite the Israelis to prepare musicale acts for the traditional Saturday night musicale. After dinner the camp participated in something called a salatron which is a crazy fun and ruach (spirit) filled competition. They have silly tasks such as eating a watermelon without using your hands, having an improv dance competition and who has the most team spirit. The energy from the activity carried them into a rousing rikud session. A good time was had by all.
On Saturday everyone enjoyed a sleep in followed by Hitkansut Boker (morning gathering). Here they had a "roll call" and sang the camp song before starting the day's activities. First they had a peulah about tikkun olam (repairing the world). This was an interesting discussion because each movement actualizes this concept in different ways and each chanich has different ideas depending on what is available to them in their home communities. In general the peulah was a good motivator for everyone to think about what they can be doing to help the world. Then they had chugim retzinim (serious chugim) which were led by the madrichim on a variety of topics.
Saturday was a very hot day so after lunch an impromtu water fight broke out which helped break the heat. Then in the afternoon they had mishpachot where the MBIers had a chance to check in with their home machaneh friends. Following mishpachot everyone participated in an activity about youth movements. This peulah was in the method of a museum where there were articles and pictures posted around a room and everypne waled around at their own pace taking it in. The articles covered topics such as the history of the youth movement in Europe, the Warsaw Ghetto uprising and their involvement in building kibbutzim. This was a good follow up to the discussions they had in the Ghetto Fighters Museum. After each group had an opportunity to be in the "museum" they all gathered to watch a movie about how Hanoar Haoved VeHalomed reacted when the war broke out in 2006. Hanoar Haoved, spent the summer running camps in the south of Israel and going into bomb shelters and running activities for kids.
In the evening a few of the MBIers hosted havdallah and musicale for the machaneh in what was a very nice end to the weekend.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Kvutzah Time
For the past few days the MBIers have been spending time bonding with their kvutzah. During the 3 days each kvutzah had a variety of peulot (educational activity) discussing the gay pride parades that happen in Israel and using it a lens to discuss equality in Israel, they had a peulah about their visions for the state of Israel, they had a discussion about equality within the kvutzah and they had a peulah preparing them for the camp they will have this weekend with Israeli youth from our sister youth movement Hanoar Haoved ve'Halomed. Along with the educational peulot they also had several fun activities to bring the group closer together.
One of the days of this time was spent on the kibbutz they are staying on. During this day was when a bulk of the peulot were run and the chanichim also had a chance to hang out and cool off at the kibbutz pool.
Another day was spent rafting down the Jordan river. The picturesque scenery makes for a very relaxing and refreshing activity. The Jordan valley is one of the hottest places in Israel so I am sure being in the water provided some relief from the heat. After reaching the end of the river, the group then had an opportunity to go on the ropes course run by the rafting company. A ropes course is a really good way to build trust amongst each other as the activities usually revolve around helping each other overcome fears or nervousness surrounding the course. They then got some more time to hang out on the grassy banks of the river and had an all you can eat make your pizza party. A nice break from schnitzel, the chanichim got a unique experience to make their own fire grilled pizza and experience "Israeli pizza" toppings. Some chanichim were bold enough to try corn on their pizza and are never going back.
The third day was spent learning about the kibbutz movement and Habonim's role within it historically and today. The group visited Kibbutz Kfar Hanassi, founded in 1948 and named for Chaim Weitzman, Israel's first president. Here the day was run by 3 Habonim graduates, Samo and Ryan from Australia and Nadav from our very own Machaneh Miriam. They began with a peulah about the kibbutz movement, its founding, what their vision was for Israel and the contributions they made throughout its history. They also discussed the changes the kibbutzim have been experiencing in recent decades. They had a tour of the kibbutz and had a chance to speak with a kibbutz member. They also enjoyed lunch at the kibbutz.
Overall this was a relaxing few days and hopefully brought the group closer together. The last few days were meant to help prepare the group for the coming weekend which will be challenging and fun.
One of the days of this time was spent on the kibbutz they are staying on. During this day was when a bulk of the peulot were run and the chanichim also had a chance to hang out and cool off at the kibbutz pool.
Another day was spent rafting down the Jordan river. The picturesque scenery makes for a very relaxing and refreshing activity. The Jordan valley is one of the hottest places in Israel so I am sure being in the water provided some relief from the heat. After reaching the end of the river, the group then had an opportunity to go on the ropes course run by the rafting company. A ropes course is a really good way to build trust amongst each other as the activities usually revolve around helping each other overcome fears or nervousness surrounding the course. They then got some more time to hang out on the grassy banks of the river and had an all you can eat make your pizza party. A nice break from schnitzel, the chanichim got a unique experience to make their own fire grilled pizza and experience "Israeli pizza" toppings. Some chanichim were bold enough to try corn on their pizza and are never going back.
The third day was spent learning about the kibbutz movement and Habonim's role within it historically and today. The group visited Kibbutz Kfar Hanassi, founded in 1948 and named for Chaim Weitzman, Israel's first president. Here the day was run by 3 Habonim graduates, Samo and Ryan from Australia and Nadav from our very own Machaneh Miriam. They began with a peulah about the kibbutz movement, its founding, what their vision was for Israel and the contributions they made throughout its history. They also discussed the changes the kibbutzim have been experiencing in recent decades. They had a tour of the kibbutz and had a chance to speak with a kibbutz member. They also enjoyed lunch at the kibbutz.
Overall this was a relaxing few days and hopefully brought the group closer together. The last few days were meant to help prepare the group for the coming weekend which will be challenging and fun.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Now they are officially leaders!
After soaking in the magical restful powers of the desert the MBIers closed out Shabbat with an emotional tekkes (ceremony) where they received their chultzah tnua (movement shirt). Today in the movement receiving a chultzah means you have reached the age of leadership and the time has come for you to choose how you want to be involved int he movement.
The ceremony took place at an amphitheater at Sde Boker overlooking the hills of the Negev. There were two representatives from each bus who spoke about what receiving the chultzah meant to them. Then 2 of the madrichot (counselors) spoke about leadership in the movement and their connection to the chultzah. Gil then spoke and everyone sang the movement's anthem, Od Lo Gamarnu. It was an exciting and emotional experience for all. You never forget the moment when you receive your first chultzah. Following the ceremony the MBIers had a proper medura (bonfire) with skits and singing into the night.
On Sunday Morning the group headed out to explore more of the wonderous desert. They went on a hike in Ein Avdat, which goes through the Avdat ruins. Avdat is an ancient desert city, which was inhabited by a Nabbatean tribe roughly 2,500 years ago. The city was a major stop on the trade routes, and the ruins exist there until today. Today the hiking trail takes you through the canyon which is a really cool experience to be so low and surrounded by the mountains.
Upon retuning to Sde Boker the group walked over the grave of David Ben Gurion which is located on the kibbutz. Here they learned about his contribution to the founding of the State of Israel and his vision for using the expansive and empty desert for settlement for the Jewish people.
After an exciting weekend the group said goodbye and headed off for "kvutzah time" The next few days they will be split up by their small bus group with just their own madrichim. This is going to be used a time to rest a bit and to bond with each other. Part of the reason to have buses and kvutzot is to foster deep relationships and to give the summer a machaneh feel even though they are traveling so much. These 3 days are meant to give the space for this to happen. Each bus will be on a different kibbutz in the north and will be participating in a variety of group bonding and fun activities on and off the kibbutz.
The ceremony took place at an amphitheater at Sde Boker overlooking the hills of the Negev. There were two representatives from each bus who spoke about what receiving the chultzah meant to them. Then 2 of the madrichot (counselors) spoke about leadership in the movement and their connection to the chultzah. Gil then spoke and everyone sang the movement's anthem, Od Lo Gamarnu. It was an exciting and emotional experience for all. You never forget the moment when you receive your first chultzah. Following the ceremony the MBIers had a proper medura (bonfire) with skits and singing into the night.
On Sunday Morning the group headed out to explore more of the wonderous desert. They went on a hike in Ein Avdat, which goes through the Avdat ruins. Avdat is an ancient desert city, which was inhabited by a Nabbatean tribe roughly 2,500 years ago. The city was a major stop on the trade routes, and the ruins exist there until today. Today the hiking trail takes you through the canyon which is a really cool experience to be so low and surrounded by the mountains.
Upon retuning to Sde Boker the group walked over the grave of David Ben Gurion which is located on the kibbutz. Here they learned about his contribution to the founding of the State of Israel and his vision for using the expansive and empty desert for settlement for the Jewish people.
After an exciting weekend the group said goodbye and headed off for "kvutzah time" The next few days they will be split up by their small bus group with just their own madrichim. This is going to be used a time to rest a bit and to bond with each other. Part of the reason to have buses and kvutzot is to foster deep relationships and to give the summer a machaneh feel even though they are traveling so much. These 3 days are meant to give the space for this to happen. Each bus will be on a different kibbutz in the north and will be participating in a variety of group bonding and fun activities on and off the kibbutz.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Shabbat in the Desert
This morning the MBIers woke up before the sun rose, and hopped on the buses to make their way to one of the most amazing and historical sites in Israel - Masada. After taking the shorter way to the top the MBIers were given time to walk around the site, and the madrichim also put on some role plays as some of the most famous historical personalities linked to Masada. One was Josephus Flavius, a first century Jewish historian, who gave an overview of the history of Masada, setting the scene. The second act was 2 women who lived on Masada who talked about what life was like. The third was Elazar Ben Yair, the leader of the Rebel Zealots against the Romans at Masada in 73 AD, who talked about what lead the group to commit suicide. Each group then had a short discussion about the choices made by those on Masada and how one makes choices in general. Masada is one of the most unique and remarkable architectural structures in the world - sitting atop a mountain that, at it's highest points, reaches almost 400 meters above the floor below. Masada has the ruins of Herod's temple, as well as all the signs of Jewish communal life, from the synagogue, to the mikvah, to the houses.
The MBIers then headed down from Masada by the winding snake path from which they had a spectacular view of the Dead Sea. After enjoying a hearty and well-earned breakfast at the Masada Youth Hostel they went to the Dead Sea, both the lowest and the saltiest area on the earth's surface. Here they relaxed at the beach and enjoyed floating around in the salty water.
The afternoon was spent travelling through the large machtesh in the desert, a huge naturally formed crater right in the middle of the Negev Desert. The machtesh is a universally studied phenomenon, as it is one of the few in the world that was not created by a meteor or impact of a large object, but rather by the movement of the land underneath it. It is an overwhelming experience to look over the cliffs of the machtesh and see the splendor of the huge sunken area.
The group then went to Kibbutz Sde Boker where they will be this weekend, to rest and prepare for Shabbat. The Sde Boker youth hostel has an amazing promenade where the chanichim can see the valleys and mountains of the desert. It is really a calming and beautiful place for Shabbat. This week Bus 2 was in charge of the Kabbalat Shabbat and oneg. This week they wrote their own lyrics about their trip so far to the tune of "Country Roads", a well known machaneh song.
The MBIers then headed down from Masada by the winding snake path from which they had a spectacular view of the Dead Sea. After enjoying a hearty and well-earned breakfast at the Masada Youth Hostel they went to the Dead Sea, both the lowest and the saltiest area on the earth's surface. Here they relaxed at the beach and enjoyed floating around in the salty water.
The afternoon was spent travelling through the large machtesh in the desert, a huge naturally formed crater right in the middle of the Negev Desert. The machtesh is a universally studied phenomenon, as it is one of the few in the world that was not created by a meteor or impact of a large object, but rather by the movement of the land underneath it. It is an overwhelming experience to look over the cliffs of the machtesh and see the splendor of the huge sunken area.
The group then went to Kibbutz Sde Boker where they will be this weekend, to rest and prepare for Shabbat. The Sde Boker youth hostel has an amazing promenade where the chanichim can see the valleys and mountains of the desert. It is really a calming and beautiful place for Shabbat. This week Bus 2 was in charge of the Kabbalat Shabbat and oneg. This week they wrote their own lyrics about their trip so far to the tune of "Country Roads", a well known machaneh song.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Headed Down South
This morning the group stopped back in Jerusalem where they took in the whole view of Jerusalem at the Haas Promenade. Here they learned about how much Jerusalem has grown since the time when it was just the old city. They also learned about the contentious issues of land and the the green line, which can be seen from the promenade.
After bidding farewell to Jerusalem for now the MBIers boarded the buses for the drive down to Ein Gedi. After lunch they went to Nahal David. This is a hike in a beautiful nature reserve which leads to several pools of water as well as a stunning waterfall. It was a refreshing refuge on another very hot day in Israel. During the hike along with many different plants and trees the MBIers were likely to see local animals such as ibex and small furry hyrex.
Later the MBIers got a chance to see some more animals up and close. After arriving to the Bedouin Hospitality where they will sleep tonight they took a little trek through the desert on camels. This was a new and exciting experience for all. It is exhilarating when the camels stands up and all of a sudden you are lifted into the air and can see out into the expanse of the empty desert.
When they returned to the hospitality site the MBIers were treated to a huge Bedouin meal for dinner, as well as given an insight into Bedouin culture. They were also treated to some delicious sweet Bedouin tea, and spent some time together as the whole of MBI hanging out under the starry desert sky. Tonight they will sleep in a big tent, ala bedouin style, before setting off to the historic site of Masada in the wee hours of tomorrow morning.
After bidding farewell to Jerusalem for now the MBIers boarded the buses for the drive down to Ein Gedi. After lunch they went to Nahal David. This is a hike in a beautiful nature reserve which leads to several pools of water as well as a stunning waterfall. It was a refreshing refuge on another very hot day in Israel. During the hike along with many different plants and trees the MBIers were likely to see local animals such as ibex and small furry hyrex.
Later the MBIers got a chance to see some more animals up and close. After arriving to the Bedouin Hospitality where they will sleep tonight they took a little trek through the desert on camels. This was a new and exciting experience for all. It is exhilarating when the camels stands up and all of a sudden you are lifted into the air and can see out into the expanse of the empty desert.
When they returned to the hospitality site the MBIers were treated to a huge Bedouin meal for dinner, as well as given an insight into Bedouin culture. They were also treated to some delicious sweet Bedouin tea, and spent some time together as the whole of MBI hanging out under the starry desert sky. Tonight they will sleep in a big tent, ala bedouin style, before setting off to the historic site of Masada in the wee hours of tomorrow morning.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Jerusalem and Tel Aviv
On Tuesday morning MBI headed out to a trail close to their accommodations in the Judean Hills, called the Sataf. The trail is made of up several man made terraces which provide stunning panoramic views of the entire area. The beautiful site is especially interesting since it focuses on reviving the ancient methods of terrace farming. It is fascinating to watch water from 2 springs being channeled to different crops planted on these terraced fields. This was a nice easy hike to start off the day.
The group then made their way into Jerusalem where they visited the Biblical Zoo. Here they had time to walk around the expansive zoo which hosts animals from all over the world. They also had an activity during their time in the zoo to learn the Hebrew names of the animals.
They then continued their relaxed day with chugim in Gan Ha'atzmaut (Liberty Park). Here the madrichim ran chugim revolving around the theme of Jewish history and Jewish identity. One of the more notable title was Jewish leaders and facial hair.
After what I am sure was an enlightening chugim session the MBIers headed over for an interactive history lesson about Jerusalem at the Time Elevator. The Time Elevator is a journey through the rich 3,000 year history of Jerusalem. Star of “Fiddler on the Roof,” Chaim Topol plays the lead character who amid crashing ceilings, splashing water, and other special effects, lead the group through an unforgettable journey moving through Jerusalem’s historic turning points; beginning with the City of David and ending in the 1967 Six-Day War. All in all an enjoyable and educational experience.
Later in the evening the chanichim got some free time to walk around the famous Ben Yehuda street in Jerusalem. Here there is an assortment of food vendors and souvenir shops for the chanichim to peruse.
Wednesday was a bit of a busier day. In the morning the MBIers got an amazing opportunity to visit the deaf museum in Holon. It is a fascinating glimpse into the world and challenges faced by those who are hearing impaired. Participants were given headphones that block out noise in order to become more fully immersed in the experience. Small groups of chanichim took their turns getting led through the exhibit. In the exhibit each group had different tasks such as expressing emotion with facial expressions and trying to ask qeustions and have a conversation without talking. Then each group had a chance to sit with their guide who is hearing impaired and ask them questions. The experience is truly captivating and inspiring.
The group then started their tour of Tel Aviv. The first stop was the Hertzeliya Hebrew Gymnasium. The chanichim started to learn about the history of Tel Aviv. The gymnasium was used as the first Hebrew High School in Israel as well as the cultural center of the Tel Aviv community at the time. Then they headed over to Independence Hall where they saw a video explaining the history of Tel Aviv and how it became the booming metropolis it is today. Then they sat in the very room that the Declaration of Independence was signed and heard snippets from David Ben Gurion's speech from the day of the signing declaring the end of the British Mandate.
The MBIers then went to Kikar Rabin (Rabin Square) where Yitzhak Rabin gave his last speech and was shot and killed. Here they discussed his impact on Israel and the peace process. They learned about the strides he had made and how he had re instilled hope in the people of Israel that peace was possible as well as the difficulties the country has faced since his death.
This evening the chanichim had a peulah with their madrichim in which they discussed the connection between Jewish history and Zionism, tying in all of the history they have learned and experienced over the past 2 days.
The group then made their way into Jerusalem where they visited the Biblical Zoo. Here they had time to walk around the expansive zoo which hosts animals from all over the world. They also had an activity during their time in the zoo to learn the Hebrew names of the animals.
They then continued their relaxed day with chugim in Gan Ha'atzmaut (Liberty Park). Here the madrichim ran chugim revolving around the theme of Jewish history and Jewish identity. One of the more notable title was Jewish leaders and facial hair.
After what I am sure was an enlightening chugim session the MBIers headed over for an interactive history lesson about Jerusalem at the Time Elevator. The Time Elevator is a journey through the rich 3,000 year history of Jerusalem. Star of “Fiddler on the Roof,” Chaim Topol plays the lead character who amid crashing ceilings, splashing water, and other special effects, lead the group through an unforgettable journey moving through Jerusalem’s historic turning points; beginning with the City of David and ending in the 1967 Six-Day War. All in all an enjoyable and educational experience.
Later in the evening the chanichim got some free time to walk around the famous Ben Yehuda street in Jerusalem. Here there is an assortment of food vendors and souvenir shops for the chanichim to peruse.
Wednesday was a bit of a busier day. In the morning the MBIers got an amazing opportunity to visit the deaf museum in Holon. It is a fascinating glimpse into the world and challenges faced by those who are hearing impaired. Participants were given headphones that block out noise in order to become more fully immersed in the experience. Small groups of chanichim took their turns getting led through the exhibit. In the exhibit each group had different tasks such as expressing emotion with facial expressions and trying to ask qeustions and have a conversation without talking. Then each group had a chance to sit with their guide who is hearing impaired and ask them questions. The experience is truly captivating and inspiring.
The group then started their tour of Tel Aviv. The first stop was the Hertzeliya Hebrew Gymnasium. The chanichim started to learn about the history of Tel Aviv. The gymnasium was used as the first Hebrew High School in Israel as well as the cultural center of the Tel Aviv community at the time. Then they headed over to Independence Hall where they saw a video explaining the history of Tel Aviv and how it became the booming metropolis it is today. Then they sat in the very room that the Declaration of Independence was signed and heard snippets from David Ben Gurion's speech from the day of the signing declaring the end of the British Mandate.
The MBIers then went to Kikar Rabin (Rabin Square) where Yitzhak Rabin gave his last speech and was shot and killed. Here they discussed his impact on Israel and the peace process. They learned about the strides he had made and how he had re instilled hope in the people of Israel that peace was possible as well as the difficulties the country has faced since his death.
This evening the chanichim had a peulah with their madrichim in which they discussed the connection between Jewish history and Zionism, tying in all of the history they have learned and experienced over the past 2 days.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
The many factes of Jerusalem
Finally after exploring the natural beauty of the North, MBI has begun to focus on Israel's bustling metropolises. The first stop was most historical and spiritual of cities in Israel - Jerusalem. First they explored the narrow alleyways of the Jewish Quarter of the Old City and made their way to the kotel (western wall). The Kotel is part of the surviving outer wall from the 2nd temple period, and is the most spiritual and central location of Judaism today. It was an overwhelming experience for the MBIers to come face to face with such a meaningful and historical place.
The group then headed to the Supreme Court Building. Here they received a full tour of the building where they learned about the architecture of the building and the significance of supreme court trials. Then each bus was split up into smaller groups and each group was given a role to play from a recent supreme court case. One group was the prosecution, one the defense and one the jury. This was a first hand way for them to really understand what goes into making the decisions and the arguments that occur within the rooms they were in. Some of the groups even got to act out the mock court case in an actual court room.
After what I am sure were heated and exhilarating debates the group headed over to one of Israel's most famous outdoor markets, Machaneh Yehuda. Here they were given a scavenger hunt and were tasked with finding things like the cheapest grapes, a specific nut vendor and the funniest shaped candy. This was an interesting and fun way to experience such a large and busy marketplace.
After dinner all of MBI had a tochnit erev (evening activity) called Beit Cafe (coffee house). All of MBI was split up into small groups ranging across machaneh and bus to give the chanichim a chance to get to know some new friends. In the small groups they received questions, both serious and silly to discuss in order to break the ice and start conversation. This was a nice relaxing night after their exciting day in Jerusalem.
The group then headed to the Supreme Court Building. Here they received a full tour of the building where they learned about the architecture of the building and the significance of supreme court trials. Then each bus was split up into smaller groups and each group was given a role to play from a recent supreme court case. One group was the prosecution, one the defense and one the jury. This was a first hand way for them to really understand what goes into making the decisions and the arguments that occur within the rooms they were in. Some of the groups even got to act out the mock court case in an actual court room.
After what I am sure were heated and exhilarating debates the group headed over to one of Israel's most famous outdoor markets, Machaneh Yehuda. Here they were given a scavenger hunt and were tasked with finding things like the cheapest grapes, a specific nut vendor and the funniest shaped candy. This was an interesting and fun way to experience such a large and busy marketplace.
After dinner all of MBI had a tochnit erev (evening activity) called Beit Cafe (coffee house). All of MBI was split up into small groups ranging across machaneh and bus to give the chanichim a chance to get to know some new friends. In the small groups they received questions, both serious and silly to discuss in order to break the ice and start conversation. This was a nice relaxing night after their exciting day in Jerusalem.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Ending week 2
On Friday morning the MBIers drove down to Haifa to explore one of Israel's most unique cities. Haifa, Israel's third largest city is built into the Carmel Mountain on the Northern part of the coast. Haifa is well known as being a coexistence city where Arabs and Jews have lived and worked together for years. To begin the siyur (tour) the chanichim gathered on a promenade above the Bahai Gardens. The Gardens are holy center for the Bahai religion. This is where people of the Bahai faith come to complete their pilgrimage. From this promenade you can see the gardens as well as the whole downtown area of Haifa.
Here the MBIers learned a bit about the history of Haifa and the demographics of the city. Then they ventured down into the Arab neighborhood of Wadi Nisnas. Because Haifa is on a mountain there are neighborhoods located in different natural formations. A wadi is a dried up river bed and this is evident when walking in this particular neighborhood. You have to descend into it and it is very narrow. The buildings are also small and close together. During the walk through the neighborhood the chanichim discussed the architecture of Wadi Nisnas as well as the layout of the city as a whole. Another interesting aspect of Wadi Nisnas is that every year local artists are asked to create murals and art installations to be featured in the neighborhood as part of a coexistence project. This is meant to bring beauty to the city as well as Arab and Jewish artists together. The trip to Haifa was the beginning of this week's theme where the chanichim will begin to examine democracy in Israel and the complexities of modern Israeli society.
After the tour of Haifa, the weekend began. Friends parted and either went off for free weekend or returned to the hostel in Shlomi for what I am sure was fun and relaxing two days.
On Sunday morning everyone was reunited at the beach for Yom Habonim Dror. This day is a relaxing, fun and exciting day where the chanichim have a chance to cool down in the water and meet their Habonim peers from around the world. The chanichim enjoyed some delicious food, beach volleyball, water games, and t-shirt swaps.
Here the MBIers learned a bit about the history of Haifa and the demographics of the city. Then they ventured down into the Arab neighborhood of Wadi Nisnas. Because Haifa is on a mountain there are neighborhoods located in different natural formations. A wadi is a dried up river bed and this is evident when walking in this particular neighborhood. You have to descend into it and it is very narrow. The buildings are also small and close together. During the walk through the neighborhood the chanichim discussed the architecture of Wadi Nisnas as well as the layout of the city as a whole. Another interesting aspect of Wadi Nisnas is that every year local artists are asked to create murals and art installations to be featured in the neighborhood as part of a coexistence project. This is meant to bring beauty to the city as well as Arab and Jewish artists together. The trip to Haifa was the beginning of this week's theme where the chanichim will begin to examine democracy in Israel and the complexities of modern Israeli society.
After the tour of Haifa, the weekend began. Friends parted and either went off for free weekend or returned to the hostel in Shlomi for what I am sure was fun and relaxing two days.
On Sunday morning everyone was reunited at the beach for Yom Habonim Dror. This day is a relaxing, fun and exciting day where the chanichim have a chance to cool down in the water and meet their Habonim peers from around the world. The chanichim enjoyed some delicious food, beach volleyball, water games, and t-shirt swaps.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Exploring the North
This morning the MBIers headed farther north to Rosh Hanikra, a geologic formation located on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea in the Western Galilee near the border with Lebanon. The Rosh Hanikra grottoes are cavernous tunnels formed by the sea action on the soft chalk rock. The grottoes branch off in various directions with some interconnecting segments. The chanichim went down to the grottoes and were mesmerized by the way the water gently ran up against the rocks and then seconds later came crashing down with great force.They also enjoyed the light and sound show which described the history and ancient legend of the grottoes.
In the afternoon the group went to the Lochamei Hagetaot Museum (The Ghetto Fighters Museum). First the MBIers were brought to a lookout point where you can see the whole museum and learned about the founding of the kibbutz and museum. Then they saw 3 different exhibits within the museum, the children's exhibit, the resistance exhibit and a new exhibit about Holland. The groups were led by members of Habonim Dror and Hanoar Haoved (our Israeli sister youth movement). In the exhibits and in the sikkum (conclusion) of the day the chanichim discussed people's ability to make choices in their lives of how they act and react in different situations. They also discussed the involvement of the youth movement in rebellion during the Holocaust and about how to relate the themes of rebellion and responsibility to their own lives. While difficult, this trip was also meaningful and inspiring for the MBIers to see that our movement did something back then and can still be active and strong today.
This evening MBI arrived at their next location; the Shlomi Youth Hostel. After dinner the chanichim had a peulah about chalutziyut (pioneering). This is a follow up to the several excursions this week revolving around early pioneering in Israel. Here they will discuss modern concepts of pioneering and how the values and dedication of the early pioneers in Israel can be relevant to their lives today.
In the afternoon the group went to the Lochamei Hagetaot Museum (The Ghetto Fighters Museum). First the MBIers were brought to a lookout point where you can see the whole museum and learned about the founding of the kibbutz and museum. Then they saw 3 different exhibits within the museum, the children's exhibit, the resistance exhibit and a new exhibit about Holland. The groups were led by members of Habonim Dror and Hanoar Haoved (our Israeli sister youth movement). In the exhibits and in the sikkum (conclusion) of the day the chanichim discussed people's ability to make choices in their lives of how they act and react in different situations. They also discussed the involvement of the youth movement in rebellion during the Holocaust and about how to relate the themes of rebellion and responsibility to their own lives. While difficult, this trip was also meaningful and inspiring for the MBIers to see that our movement did something back then and can still be active and strong today.
This evening MBI arrived at their next location; the Shlomi Youth Hostel. After dinner the chanichim had a peulah about chalutziyut (pioneering). This is a follow up to the several excursions this week revolving around early pioneering in Israel. Here they will discuss modern concepts of pioneering and how the values and dedication of the early pioneers in Israel can be relevant to their lives today.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
MBI powers through the heat
On Tuesday as the second day of Rafsodia began the heat wave continued. The good news is that everyone is very responsible and another day goes by without dehydration!
Rafsodia is a 2 day group building and outdoor training activity which will bring the group closer by working together to build a raft that they will then be able to sail across the Kinneret. The group arrived bright and early this morning and got to work. Each kvutzah was given materials and instruction for raft building (they were supervised of course). They spent today finishing up their rafts. In the afternoon all of the boats were completed, flags were hoisted and they were off.
This was a very hot and intense day of work on the banks of the Kinneret but everyone finished the day with a great sense of accomplishment and pride in their work. In celebration the group loaded onto another (larger) boat and "discoed" the night away.
On Wednesday the group headed back down to the shores of the Kinneret but this time to learn about the early pioneers at one of the most historically significant places by the Kinneret- the chatzer Kinneret (Kinneret courtyard) and cemetery. Founded in 1909, the Kinneret courtyard was the first agricultural training farm in the history of modern Israel, where young people would come through in small groups and learn to work the land, before leaving somewhere else for permanent settlement. The MBIers heard stories of young people from Eastern Europe who came to Palestine and the hardships, dilemmas, failures and numerous successes that they endured in their time at the chatzer.
Just across the road from the Chazter Kinneret is the old Kinneret cemetery. Here, the MBIers could hear the stories of some of the most famous personalities in the history of Israel and Zionism, ranging from the early Socialist Zionist thinkers and writers Moses Hess and Dov Ber Borachov, to the early Chalutzim (pioneers) Berl Katznelson and Rachel, the poetess to some of the integral figures of the modern state, such as Israeli song-writer Naomi Shemer. Needless to say, the MBIers left the day with a real feel of the spirit of the chalutzim and an understanding of the uniqueness of the young people who were so essential in the establishment of the Jewish State.
Due to the heat wave the hike of the Arbel Mountain was canceled this afternoon and the group headed back to Yaar Lavi for some relaxation and chugim. This evening the group headed out for their first "city" outing. They headed into Tiberias for pizur dinner and hanging out on the boardwalk. A pizur is when each chanich gets a certain amount of money and are allowed to walk around and have whatever they pleased for dinner. This was also their first opportunity to experience a bit of independent time at an outdoor market and peruse the Israeli goods.
Rafsodia is a 2 day group building and outdoor training activity which will bring the group closer by working together to build a raft that they will then be able to sail across the Kinneret. The group arrived bright and early this morning and got to work. Each kvutzah was given materials and instruction for raft building (they were supervised of course). They spent today finishing up their rafts. In the afternoon all of the boats were completed, flags were hoisted and they were off.
This was a very hot and intense day of work on the banks of the Kinneret but everyone finished the day with a great sense of accomplishment and pride in their work. In celebration the group loaded onto another (larger) boat and "discoed" the night away.
On Wednesday the group headed back down to the shores of the Kinneret but this time to learn about the early pioneers at one of the most historically significant places by the Kinneret- the chatzer Kinneret (Kinneret courtyard) and cemetery. Founded in 1909, the Kinneret courtyard was the first agricultural training farm in the history of modern Israel, where young people would come through in small groups and learn to work the land, before leaving somewhere else for permanent settlement. The MBIers heard stories of young people from Eastern Europe who came to Palestine and the hardships, dilemmas, failures and numerous successes that they endured in their time at the chatzer.
Just across the road from the Chazter Kinneret is the old Kinneret cemetery. Here, the MBIers could hear the stories of some of the most famous personalities in the history of Israel and Zionism, ranging from the early Socialist Zionist thinkers and writers Moses Hess and Dov Ber Borachov, to the early Chalutzim (pioneers) Berl Katznelson and Rachel, the poetess to some of the integral figures of the modern state, such as Israeli song-writer Naomi Shemer. Needless to say, the MBIers left the day with a real feel of the spirit of the chalutzim and an understanding of the uniqueness of the young people who were so essential in the establishment of the Jewish State.
Due to the heat wave the hike of the Arbel Mountain was canceled this afternoon and the group headed back to Yaar Lavi for some relaxation and chugim. This evening the group headed out for their first "city" outing. They headed into Tiberias for pizur dinner and hanging out on the boardwalk. A pizur is when each chanich gets a certain amount of money and are allowed to walk around and have whatever they pleased for dinner. This was also their first opportunity to experience a bit of independent time at an outdoor market and peruse the Israeli goods.
Monday, July 12, 2010
History, Sports and Raft building...What more could you want!
NOTE: For anyone being picked up in Haifa for Free Weekend. There is an outdoor parking lot next to the mall, this is where the drop off will be.
Yesterday kicked off the first full week of MBI. The group started with a hike in the morning at Nahal Amud. Nahal Amud is most well known as the only walkable valley that connects the upper and lower Galilee.
After exploring the flora and fauna of the Galilee, MBI headed over for a bit of interactive history at Kibbut Ifat. This is an interactive museum where the chanichim talk to characters from a pioneering settlement. They talked about the different jobs they had, how they dealt with their group dynamics, and what it was like to settle Palestine. After each group had met all of the characters they all came together for some good ol' rikud (folk dancing).
Later for their tochnit erev (evening activity) the chanichim had a rousing celebration for the world cup finals game. They chose which team they wanted to support, created cheers and had some friendly heckling of each other. There was a lot of ruach (spirit) in the small room where the game was being screened.
Today was the first day of Rafsodia. For most of day the MBIers were hard at work on the banks of the kinneret. In spite of the heat wave in Israel right now, no one has become dehydrated yet! this is an amazing accomplishment. Hats off the all of our responsible chanichim and madrichim.
As the sun set on a lovely and productive day the chanichim split up into their kvutzot and had a discussion about overcoming their dragons (dragons being a metaphor for personal challenges.) Rafsodia is a great opportunity to continue the bonding as a kvutzah and to really solidify their relationships before the touring of the country commences.
Yesterday kicked off the first full week of MBI. The group started with a hike in the morning at Nahal Amud. Nahal Amud is most well known as the only walkable valley that connects the upper and lower Galilee.
After exploring the flora and fauna of the Galilee, MBI headed over for a bit of interactive history at Kibbut Ifat. This is an interactive museum where the chanichim talk to characters from a pioneering settlement. They talked about the different jobs they had, how they dealt with their group dynamics, and what it was like to settle Palestine. After each group had met all of the characters they all came together for some good ol' rikud (folk dancing).
Later for their tochnit erev (evening activity) the chanichim had a rousing celebration for the world cup finals game. They chose which team they wanted to support, created cheers and had some friendly heckling of each other. There was a lot of ruach (spirit) in the small room where the game was being screened.
Today was the first day of Rafsodia. For most of day the MBIers were hard at work on the banks of the kinneret. In spite of the heat wave in Israel right now, no one has become dehydrated yet! this is an amazing accomplishment. Hats off the all of our responsible chanichim and madrichim.
As the sun set on a lovely and productive day the chanichim split up into their kvutzot and had a discussion about overcoming their dragons (dragons being a metaphor for personal challenges.) Rafsodia is a great opportunity to continue the bonding as a kvutzah and to really solidify their relationships before the touring of the country commences.
A Relaxed Saturday
First I would like to let everyone know that there have been some issues with some of the rental phones which are being replaced. This may be a reason why you have not heard form your child or have had trouble calling their phone. another reason could be because they are having an amazing time. Either way I have asked Gil to remind everyone to turn on their phones and call home.
On Saturday the MBIers had a day full of meaningful conversation and relaxation "chill time" They enjoyed a slight sleep in before devling into some important issues. The day included a peulah about why MBI is Israel and the importance of Israel to our movement and their own identities. An important topic to discuss and keep in mind throughout the summer as they travel around.
Along with this peulah they enjoyed 2 sets of chugim (interest groups) These are discussions and activities that are run everyday at machaneh and on Saturday usually take on a more serious tone. The first session of chugim was run by the madrichima dn the second set was run by some of the chanichim. This was an incredible opportunity for peer leadership and a way for the MBIers to share their interest with one another.
After dinner they took part in another amazing camp tradition, musicale. This is a time when anyone who wants to sign a song, play an instrument, read a poem, etc. can do so. Over the years musicale has been a space where kids can express themselves artistically.
From the sounds of it MBI has a lovely restful Shabbat in preparation for their first full week!
On Saturday the MBIers had a day full of meaningful conversation and relaxation "chill time" They enjoyed a slight sleep in before devling into some important issues. The day included a peulah about why MBI is Israel and the importance of Israel to our movement and their own identities. An important topic to discuss and keep in mind throughout the summer as they travel around.
Along with this peulah they enjoyed 2 sets of chugim (interest groups) These are discussions and activities that are run everyday at machaneh and on Saturday usually take on a more serious tone. The first session of chugim was run by the madrichima dn the second set was run by some of the chanichim. This was an incredible opportunity for peer leadership and a way for the MBIers to share their interest with one another.
After dinner they took part in another amazing camp tradition, musicale. This is a time when anyone who wants to sign a song, play an instrument, read a poem, etc. can do so. Over the years musicale has been a space where kids can express themselves artistically.
From the sounds of it MBI has a lovely restful Shabbat in preparation for their first full week!
Friday, July 9, 2010
Shabbat Shalom MBI
This morning the MBIers embarked on their first hike of the summer. They went to a stream called the Hatzbani. This is one of Israel's 3 main water sources that leads to the Jordan River. It sits at the foot of the picturesque Hermon Mountain. This is a great hike due its beauty and was a nice break from the heat as the MBIers had the opportunity to go in the water.
After the hike they drove to the camp site, Yaar Lavi (lavi forest) where they will be spending the weekend. Here they split up by buses and finished up the conversation from yesterday about kupa and then had some time to get ready for their first Shabbat.
Friday night on MBI looks very similar to Shabbat at machaneh. They started off the evening by sitting in groups by machaneh. At camp this is called mishpachot (families) and it is an opportunity for everyone to sit in smaller groups and reflect on the week. On MBI this is an opportunity to see all of their home camp friends who are on different buses.
Mishpachot was followed by Kabbalat Shabbat (a "ceremony" before dinner to bring in the Shabbat). During the 3 Friday's together each bus will responsible for preparing Kabbalat Shabbat. This week bus 3 serenaded everyone with a rendition of Summer Lovin' from the movie Grease.
Following their lovely song Gil, told a rosh story. He improvised a story using random objects he needed to include given to him seconds before he started. He then explained that the "rules of improv": be positive, smile and breath, can be an analogy for the way everyone can look at and experience the summer. He uses these methods in his life and believes that they can be an aid in creating an amazing experience this summer.
Following dinner the MBIers will be treated to an Oneg (a short and funny play) and then will will have the opporutnity to participate in one of our best camp traditions, Rikudei Am (folk dancing). Rikud is something that happens at all the machanot in a slightly different way so this is a great time for the chanichim to share their traditions and learn new dances.
After the hike they drove to the camp site, Yaar Lavi (lavi forest) where they will be spending the weekend. Here they split up by buses and finished up the conversation from yesterday about kupa and then had some time to get ready for their first Shabbat.
Friday night on MBI looks very similar to Shabbat at machaneh. They started off the evening by sitting in groups by machaneh. At camp this is called mishpachot (families) and it is an opportunity for everyone to sit in smaller groups and reflect on the week. On MBI this is an opportunity to see all of their home camp friends who are on different buses.
Mishpachot was followed by Kabbalat Shabbat (a "ceremony" before dinner to bring in the Shabbat). During the 3 Friday's together each bus will responsible for preparing Kabbalat Shabbat. This week bus 3 serenaded everyone with a rendition of Summer Lovin' from the movie Grease.
Following their lovely song Gil, told a rosh story. He improvised a story using random objects he needed to include given to him seconds before he started. He then explained that the "rules of improv": be positive, smile and breath, can be an analogy for the way everyone can look at and experience the summer. He uses these methods in his life and believes that they can be an aid in creating an amazing experience this summer.
Following dinner the MBIers will be treated to an Oneg (a short and funny play) and then will will have the opporutnity to participate in one of our best camp traditions, Rikudei Am (folk dancing). Rikud is something that happens at all the machanot in a slightly different way so this is a great time for the chanichim to share their traditions and learn new dances.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Day 2- Orientation continues
MBI orientation continues with a peulah (activity) this morning in which they discussed how MBI is similar and different than the machanot (camps) they are used to. They discussed traditions they want to bring from machaneh to MBI even though the schedule and pace are very different. One of the ideas they came up with will give the chanichim (participants) a bit of responsibility and input into activities that they do as a kvutzah (small group) and bus. They will volunteer to be involved in va'adot (committees). At machaneh some of the va'adot that are created are kupa (people in charge of deciding how to spend money) and ones that are in charge of running peulot.
Another standard machaneh tradition which will hopefully bring some stability and familiarity to MBI is Hitkansut Boker. This ritual at machaneh happens in the morning and the evening. It is a gathering of everyone at machaneh, where they take "roll call" of all the age groups and then sing songs to raise and lower the flags. Gil would like this to also be an MBI tradition as a way for the whole group to start the day together.
In the afternoon the group ventured out to a near by town called Tel Chai. Tel Chai is a town in northern Israel which is a site of a battle in 1920 against an Arab attack. Amongst the Jewish soldiers was a one-armed man named Joseph Trumpeldor who is most well known for being a zionist hero and for his saying, "It is sweet and honorable to die for one's country."
While in Tel Chai the MBIers enjoyed some historical skits performed by the madrichim (counselors) presenting the story of Tel Chai and Trumpeldor. They met a girl who lives in the village and told them what life was like in Palestine under the British Mandate, they discussed military strategy and reasons to stage a revolt with the hero of the story, Joseph Trumpeldor, and witnessed a re-enactment of the battle of Tel Chai.
After enjoying lunch in the Tel Chai youth hostel and taking in the beautiful views of the Northern Galilee, the chanichim returned to Pkiin and split up into kvutzot to talk about kupa. Part of this peulah was to discuss the point of kupa and how they want it to be a tool for bonding and setting a tone of equality amongst each other for the summer.
After dinner, the smaller kvutzot will have an activity with their madrichim in order to get to know each other better and forge the bonds we hope will form into beautiful long lasting friendships.
After 2 packed days I am sure everyone is looking forward to Shabbat which will look like a machaneh Shabbat, which will also provide a sense of familiarity to this new experience. This will also give everyone an opportunity to meet new people, have some time with their home machaneh friends and time to rest.
Another standard machaneh tradition which will hopefully bring some stability and familiarity to MBI is Hitkansut Boker. This ritual at machaneh happens in the morning and the evening. It is a gathering of everyone at machaneh, where they take "roll call" of all the age groups and then sing songs to raise and lower the flags. Gil would like this to also be an MBI tradition as a way for the whole group to start the day together.
In the afternoon the group ventured out to a near by town called Tel Chai. Tel Chai is a town in northern Israel which is a site of a battle in 1920 against an Arab attack. Amongst the Jewish soldiers was a one-armed man named Joseph Trumpeldor who is most well known for being a zionist hero and for his saying, "It is sweet and honorable to die for one's country."
While in Tel Chai the MBIers enjoyed some historical skits performed by the madrichim (counselors) presenting the story of Tel Chai and Trumpeldor. They met a girl who lives in the village and told them what life was like in Palestine under the British Mandate, they discussed military strategy and reasons to stage a revolt with the hero of the story, Joseph Trumpeldor, and witnessed a re-enactment of the battle of Tel Chai.
After enjoying lunch in the Tel Chai youth hostel and taking in the beautiful views of the Northern Galilee, the chanichim returned to Pkiin and split up into kvutzot to talk about kupa. Part of this peulah was to discuss the point of kupa and how they want it to be a tool for bonding and setting a tone of equality amongst each other for the summer.
After dinner, the smaller kvutzot will have an activity with their madrichim in order to get to know each other better and forge the bonds we hope will form into beautiful long lasting friendships.
After 2 packed days I am sure everyone is looking forward to Shabbat which will look like a machaneh Shabbat, which will also provide a sense of familiarity to this new experience. This will also give everyone an opportunity to meet new people, have some time with their home machaneh friends and time to rest.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Its the 1st day and here we go!
Today was the first full day of MBI Yud Tet 2010! The first few days are used an orientation period for the MBIers. During this time they will be meeting each other, starting to form friendships and will start to examine what being on MBI is all about. These next few days will be filled with games, discussions and a bit of traveling in the North.
In the morning the first thing they did was to split into buses and kvutzot. This year we have three full buses on MBI, with each split into two kvutzot. This is done in order to help build smaller and closer group relationships for the MBI-ers which will continue throughout the summer, almost all programs, peulot, and activities will be done in these smaller groups (kvutzot). The split was done through a fun game in which each person was given a piece of paper which had their character to play and also a character to look for. This then resulted in large circles of people looking for each other with a common characteristic between all of their pieces of paper (i.e. all vegetables), and these groups were their kvutzot.
They then all had a peula about values and what it means to live according to a value. They discussed which values they wanted to hold as important in their lives and how that relates to the kvutzah during the summer. As the first peula together of the summer the conversations were great.
The next stop was the historic city of Tzfat. This city has existed for hundreds of years on mountain tops in the upper Galilee and was the home for generations of scholars studying Jewish mysticism and kabbala. The MBI-ers got a chance to walk around the old city, through its stone walkways and corridors, and stopped for lunch in a park overlooking the beautiful view available from the city. They also went and visited a few of the old synagogues which are still there and are beautifully decorated by followers of different rabbi who lived there hundreds of years ago.
Tonight they will head to the hostel at Peki'in and after dinner will have another peula in their kvutzot building off of this mornings conversation. This evenings peula will focus on creating a safe and intimate environment for everyone in the kvutza to feel comfortable as they explore and get to know each other better over the rest of the summer.
It is certainly a packed and intense first day of the program that will start off a great summer.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
MBI has begun!
After a very long day of traveling for most of the MBIers they have finally made it to Israel!
The Toronto flight landed a few hours ago and is on its way to the first hostel. The JFK flight landed about a half an hour ago and they are currently going through customs and collecting their luggage.
I will post again later in the afternoon when the whole group is at the hostel.
The Toronto flight landed a few hours ago and is on its way to the first hostel. The JFK flight landed about a half an hour ago and they are currently going through customs and collecting their luggage.
I will post again later in the afternoon when the whole group is at the hostel.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Free Weekend Information
Friday July 16th
Haifa: 1:15pm at Lev Hamifratz
Tel Aviv: 2:00pm Reading Bus Station
Jerusalem: 2:30pm Parking lot of Israel Museum
Sunday July 18th- Same locations
Haifa: 9:15am
Tel Aviv: 9:00am
Jerusalem:8:30 am
Haifa: 1:15pm at Lev Hamifratz
Tel Aviv: 2:00pm Reading Bus Station
Jerusalem: 2:30pm Parking lot of Israel Museum
Sunday July 18th- Same locations
Haifa: 9:15am
Tel Aviv: 9:00am
Jerusalem:8:30 am
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Travel Day Information
Travel day information- Emergency Cell Phone number – 917-822-2330
I will also be updating in real time via twitter. I will update as domestic flights come in, updates from the bus and then later once they are all checked in and through security. I will also update the blog but later that night and the next morning. You can follow me at www.twiiter.com The name is hdnaprograms
American- JFK- ELAL #8 11:50pm
People who will be driving to the airport should arrive by 7:30pm. Habonim staff will be at the airport starting at 3 so you can come earlier. We will be in the ELAL check in area of terminal 4.
People originating in Maryland-
A bus will be at Montgomery Blair High School, 51 University Boulevard East, Silver Spring, Maryland 20901-2451 at 11:00am. Please be at the high school 15 minutes early so our chaperon, Mitch Gerber can make sure everyone is accounted for and so the bus can have a timely departure.
People originating in Pennsylvania-
The bus from Maryland will be stopping at the Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Road, Wynnewood, PA 19096. It will likely be at the JCC at 2:30 at the earliest. Jodi Weitzman will be the contact person for Pennsylvania families. She will be in touch with Mitch Gerber on updates if they are running late, etc.
People flying to NY-
Everyone should have received the domestic flight itinerary, if you have not please be in touch with me.
I have also sent out the booking reference and ticket number for the international flights so you can try to check the baggage all the way to Israel. To access this information you can visit www.elal.com and click on the manage my booking tab. Here you can put in the booking reference and the passengers last name to view the itinerary. You can bring this when you check in for the domestic flight. You can also use this information to check in early for the ELAL flight though this is not necessary and we will assist the check in process in New York.
We will meet all participants at their baggage claim areas and bring them to the ELAL terminal
We will have food at the airport for those who have long layovers or arrive around dinner time.
Canadian- Toronto- ELAL #104 7:55pm
Driving-
Please be at the airport by 4:45pm. The chaperon, Wayne will be collecting kids with domestic flight in the Air Canada Terminal. When they have all landed and collected their luggage they will go over to the ELAL terminal. This should be around 5:00pm. He will have a list with phone numbers of all of the MBIers and will make sure everyone is accounted for and checking in before going through security with everyone.
Flying in-
Wayne will be meeting all of the participants with domestic flights. He will be in the Air Canada baggage claim area. Once everyone has arrived he will bring them all to the ELAL terminal where he will assist check in and then once everyone on the flight is checked in he will take them through security.
If you are flying early, in the coming weeks Gil will be issued his summer phone and I will be in contact with you directly with the number in case there are issues meeting up with the group.
For those how have booked their own flights, our coordinator will meet them in the baggage claim area and there will be counselors waiting in the arrivals hall.
I will also be updating in real time via twitter. I will update as domestic flights come in, updates from the bus and then later once they are all checked in and through security. I will also update the blog but later that night and the next morning. You can follow me at www.twiiter.com The name is hdnaprograms
American- JFK- ELAL #8 11:50pm
People who will be driving to the airport should arrive by 7:30pm. Habonim staff will be at the airport starting at 3 so you can come earlier. We will be in the ELAL check in area of terminal 4.
People originating in Maryland-
A bus will be at Montgomery Blair High School, 51 University Boulevard East, Silver Spring, Maryland 20901-2451 at 11:00am. Please be at the high school 15 minutes early so our chaperon, Mitch Gerber can make sure everyone is accounted for and so the bus can have a timely departure.
People originating in Pennsylvania-
The bus from Maryland will be stopping at the Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Road, Wynnewood, PA 19096. It will likely be at the JCC at 2:30 at the earliest. Jodi Weitzman will be the contact person for Pennsylvania families. She will be in touch with Mitch Gerber on updates if they are running late, etc.
People flying to NY-
Everyone should have received the domestic flight itinerary, if you have not please be in touch with me.
I have also sent out the booking reference and ticket number for the international flights so you can try to check the baggage all the way to Israel. To access this information you can visit www.elal.com and click on the manage my booking tab. Here you can put in the booking reference and the passengers last name to view the itinerary. You can bring this when you check in for the domestic flight. You can also use this information to check in early for the ELAL flight though this is not necessary and we will assist the check in process in New York.
We will meet all participants at their baggage claim areas and bring them to the ELAL terminal
We will have food at the airport for those who have long layovers or arrive around dinner time.
Canadian- Toronto- ELAL #104 7:55pm
Driving-
Please be at the airport by 4:45pm. The chaperon, Wayne will be collecting kids with domestic flight in the Air Canada Terminal. When they have all landed and collected their luggage they will go over to the ELAL terminal. This should be around 5:00pm. He will have a list with phone numbers of all of the MBIers and will make sure everyone is accounted for and checking in before going through security with everyone.
Flying in-
Wayne will be meeting all of the participants with domestic flights. He will be in the Air Canada baggage claim area. Once everyone has arrived he will bring them all to the ELAL terminal where he will assist check in and then once everyone on the flight is checked in he will take them through security.
If you are flying early, in the coming weeks Gil will be issued his summer phone and I will be in contact with you directly with the number in case there are issues meeting up with the group.
For those how have booked their own flights, our coordinator will meet them in the baggage claim area and there will be counselors waiting in the arrivals hall.
MBI Reminder and Conference Call Summary
MBI Reminders and conference call summary
The final payment was due this week- if you have questions about your balance please be in touch with Yelena Adelman at money@habonimdror.org.
If you are contributing to kupa this is also due this week. The recommended amount is $140 and we would like this sent as a separate payment from the final payment.
Kupa is a communal fund of money that will be allotted to each bus. This will be used for day to day necessities such as replacing water bottles, replenishing sunscreen and toiletries. This is also a fund that can be used to buy the whole bus ice cream or to get a cake for someone’s birthday. This also covers the souvenir bus and MBI shirt they will all receive at the end of the summer. The way the money is spent is ultimately up to the participants on each bus.
If you would also like to bring spending money you can. Unless you are buying expensive gifts you do not need more than $100. The best way to bring this would be in cash, but a debit card is also acceptable. All of the money is collected and carried by the counselors and they keep track of how much each person has. They then organize getting the money transferred to shekels prior to a time when the MBIers will have a chance to go shopping. The 2 places they will have an opportunity to shop will be a market in Tel Aviv and on Ben Yehuda Street in Jerusalem.
Packing reminders
Sleeping bag- can be lightweight, does not get cold at night
hat
something that hold 3 liters of water (recommended camelback or similar product, water pouch can be placed in a backpack which can be used on day trips and hikes.
sturdy sandals (Birkenstock/naot/teva or chaco sandals) NO FLIP FLOPS- they cannot wear flip flops on day trips in cities.
NO TANK TOPS DURING THE DAY!
Closed toed shoes (sneakers or hiking boots) – they will be doing a project where they build rafts and then sail them across the Kinneret. For this they will need sneakers or boots that will get wet. They cannot wear sandals, or sandals with closed toes or crocs. They must wear real shoes. It is suggested that they bring an old pair of sneakers or a separate pair of shoes to hike in. They will have a few days after the rafting project before they hike again so this should them time to have their shoes dry out if they don’t bring a spare pair.
Luggage- the suggestion is to bring a duffel bag on wheels. In addition to checked luggage you can bring a carry-on plus a backpack. It has been suggested to brig nth sleeping bag and a backpack on the plane as carry on.
Cell Phones- if you want to rent a cell phone the easiest way to do this is through Israel phones. The order form can be found on our website. This is convenient as they will drop the phones off on the first day at the airport and then pick them up before the kids leave. Renting a cell phone will be the best way to be in touch with your child during the summer. They will not have access to internet and will have limited access to pay phones. Kupa can buy calling cards so kids can call home if they find a payphone or borrow a friend’s phone.
Passports- Gil, Rosh MBI, will carry all passports with him all summer. He travels with the group from place to place and will keep them either in his room in a safety lock box or with his during the day.
Free Weekend-
This will take place on July 16-July 18. Those who have filled out the free weekend form will leave the hostel, which will be north of Haifa on the morning of the 16th. There are 3 drop off points, Haifa, Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The exact locations and times will be worked out in the coming weeks and will be sent out to MBI families who will be responsible for getting that information to the hosts. Those who are not going out for free weekend will have a relaxing weekend at the hostel. There will be counselors staying with them who will run light programming. If you have not sent your form in please do so prior to July 5th. After this we will not accept new free weekend requests as we need to finalize bus arrangements.
Safety/security/supervision
In regards to safety and security, MBI gets daily updates about security issues. If for any reason the daily itinerary needs to be changed our coordinators in the Israel experience office organize a revised schedule. If there is a serious safety concern we revise the program in a way that puts safety at the highest priority. This happened in 2006, when the war in the north broke out; the program was moved to the south for the remainder of the summer.
In regards to supervision, there is a balance between giving MBIers freedom and space to be 16 year olds versus supervision and safety concerns. Most nights they will have unstructured free time and the counselors will be at the hostel or camp sight. They will also be around at night to enforce bedtime and make sure everyone is accounted for. During the day they are with the group the whole time during a hike or city tour. There will be a few times when the kids have time to walk around on their own but there will be boundaries set and counselors at those boundaries and kids will need to be in groups.
Blog- the blog will be used during the summer to update families about what the MBIers are doing day to day. I will speak to Gil everyday and get a rundown of what they have seen and discussed that day. I will update the blog every 2 days. The blog is not a way to communicate with me directly during the summer. I will be in NY all summer and will be available by phone and email for specific questions or concerns. The blog can be found at www.mbi2010.blogspot.com . you can get blog updates right to your email by signing up at www.feedmyinbox.com.
Tzevet (Staff)
We have 8 North American Habonim counselors, 2 Australian Habonim counselors, 3 Israeli counselors, and 2 Israeli tour guides. Each bus will have 3 Habonim counselors, 1 Israeli, 1 tour guide and medical/security personnel (medic).
Medical concerns
Kids who take medication can choose to carry their medication and be responsible for taking it themselves. If they do not want to do this the medic on the bus can carry it and give it out. They can also bring over the counter medication such as pain reliever. The medic also has over the counter pain reliever and fever reducer.
We contact parents in emergency medical situations only. During the summer kids go to the doctor often due to colds due to change in climate, strenuous activity, dehydration etc. Sometimes on Shabbat the only place to see a doctor is in a hospital but this does not mean it is an emergency. We ask for patience in regards to medical situations in general as your child may call home before I have a chance to speak with Gil, or will call you when they are sick but not call when they feel better. The time difference makes these situations tricky as well.
Drug/Alcohol Policy
This is a no tolerance policy. Anyone caught using or in possession will be removed from the program immediately.
Piercings and tattoos are also not allowed.
The final payment was due this week- if you have questions about your balance please be in touch with Yelena Adelman at money@habonimdror.org.
If you are contributing to kupa this is also due this week. The recommended amount is $140 and we would like this sent as a separate payment from the final payment.
Kupa is a communal fund of money that will be allotted to each bus. This will be used for day to day necessities such as replacing water bottles, replenishing sunscreen and toiletries. This is also a fund that can be used to buy the whole bus ice cream or to get a cake for someone’s birthday. This also covers the souvenir bus and MBI shirt they will all receive at the end of the summer. The way the money is spent is ultimately up to the participants on each bus.
If you would also like to bring spending money you can. Unless you are buying expensive gifts you do not need more than $100. The best way to bring this would be in cash, but a debit card is also acceptable. All of the money is collected and carried by the counselors and they keep track of how much each person has. They then organize getting the money transferred to shekels prior to a time when the MBIers will have a chance to go shopping. The 2 places they will have an opportunity to shop will be a market in Tel Aviv and on Ben Yehuda Street in Jerusalem.
Packing reminders
Sleeping bag- can be lightweight, does not get cold at night
hat
something that hold 3 liters of water (recommended camelback or similar product, water pouch can be placed in a backpack which can be used on day trips and hikes.
sturdy sandals (Birkenstock/naot/teva or chaco sandals) NO FLIP FLOPS- they cannot wear flip flops on day trips in cities.
NO TANK TOPS DURING THE DAY!
Closed toed shoes (sneakers or hiking boots) – they will be doing a project where they build rafts and then sail them across the Kinneret. For this they will need sneakers or boots that will get wet. They cannot wear sandals, or sandals with closed toes or crocs. They must wear real shoes. It is suggested that they bring an old pair of sneakers or a separate pair of shoes to hike in. They will have a few days after the rafting project before they hike again so this should them time to have their shoes dry out if they don’t bring a spare pair.
Luggage- the suggestion is to bring a duffel bag on wheels. In addition to checked luggage you can bring a carry-on plus a backpack. It has been suggested to brig nth sleeping bag and a backpack on the plane as carry on.
Cell Phones- if you want to rent a cell phone the easiest way to do this is through Israel phones. The order form can be found on our website. This is convenient as they will drop the phones off on the first day at the airport and then pick them up before the kids leave. Renting a cell phone will be the best way to be in touch with your child during the summer. They will not have access to internet and will have limited access to pay phones. Kupa can buy calling cards so kids can call home if they find a payphone or borrow a friend’s phone.
Passports- Gil, Rosh MBI, will carry all passports with him all summer. He travels with the group from place to place and will keep them either in his room in a safety lock box or with his during the day.
Free Weekend-
This will take place on July 16-July 18. Those who have filled out the free weekend form will leave the hostel, which will be north of Haifa on the morning of the 16th. There are 3 drop off points, Haifa, Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. The exact locations and times will be worked out in the coming weeks and will be sent out to MBI families who will be responsible for getting that information to the hosts. Those who are not going out for free weekend will have a relaxing weekend at the hostel. There will be counselors staying with them who will run light programming. If you have not sent your form in please do so prior to July 5th. After this we will not accept new free weekend requests as we need to finalize bus arrangements.
Safety/security/supervision
In regards to safety and security, MBI gets daily updates about security issues. If for any reason the daily itinerary needs to be changed our coordinators in the Israel experience office organize a revised schedule. If there is a serious safety concern we revise the program in a way that puts safety at the highest priority. This happened in 2006, when the war in the north broke out; the program was moved to the south for the remainder of the summer.
In regards to supervision, there is a balance between giving MBIers freedom and space to be 16 year olds versus supervision and safety concerns. Most nights they will have unstructured free time and the counselors will be at the hostel or camp sight. They will also be around at night to enforce bedtime and make sure everyone is accounted for. During the day they are with the group the whole time during a hike or city tour. There will be a few times when the kids have time to walk around on their own but there will be boundaries set and counselors at those boundaries and kids will need to be in groups.
Blog- the blog will be used during the summer to update families about what the MBIers are doing day to day. I will speak to Gil everyday and get a rundown of what they have seen and discussed that day. I will update the blog every 2 days. The blog is not a way to communicate with me directly during the summer. I will be in NY all summer and will be available by phone and email for specific questions or concerns. The blog can be found at www.mbi2010.blogspot.com . you can get blog updates right to your email by signing up at www.feedmyinbox.com.
Tzevet (Staff)
We have 8 North American Habonim counselors, 2 Australian Habonim counselors, 3 Israeli counselors, and 2 Israeli tour guides. Each bus will have 3 Habonim counselors, 1 Israeli, 1 tour guide and medical/security personnel (medic).
Medical concerns
Kids who take medication can choose to carry their medication and be responsible for taking it themselves. If they do not want to do this the medic on the bus can carry it and give it out. They can also bring over the counter medication such as pain reliever. The medic also has over the counter pain reliever and fever reducer.
We contact parents in emergency medical situations only. During the summer kids go to the doctor often due to colds due to change in climate, strenuous activity, dehydration etc. Sometimes on Shabbat the only place to see a doctor is in a hospital but this does not mean it is an emergency. We ask for patience in regards to medical situations in general as your child may call home before I have a chance to speak with Gil, or will call you when they are sick but not call when they feel better. The time difference makes these situations tricky as well.
Drug/Alcohol Policy
This is a no tolerance policy. Anyone caught using or in possession will be removed from the program immediately.
Piercings and tattoos are also not allowed.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
New Conference Call Number
Hello Families,
2 of the calls this week have had some technical difficulties so I am trying a new conference call number. This is for the call on Thursday June 10th at 1:00pm.
Here is the information.
Phone number- 1-218-936-4141
Code- 188962
Look forward to speaking with you
Shani
2 of the calls this week have had some technical difficulties so I am trying a new conference call number. This is for the call on Thursday June 10th at 1:00pm.
Here is the information.
Phone number- 1-218-936-4141
Code- 188962
Look forward to speaking with you
Shani
Friday, June 4, 2010
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Pre-MBI Conference Calls
Shalom MBI Families,
In the coming weeks I will be hosting conference calls, that will last about an hour. The purpose of these calls is to go over travel day logistics and general questions and answers. During the beginning of the call Gil Browdy, Rosh MBI will join to answer specific itinerary questions. The calls will be split up by region, so region specific travel information will be discussed. If you miss the call for your region you can join onto another call. After the calls are completed I will put up notes and important information that was covered in the call on the blog.
Here is the schedule. All times are Eastern time.
June 7- 12pm-driving to the airport/north east
3pm- Western states
June 8- 12 pm- Toronto
3pm- Western Canada
June 10- 1 pm Midwest
June 15- 12pm- Pennsylvania
June 16- 12pm- Maryland area
Please let me know if you have any questions.
In the coming weeks I will be hosting conference calls, that will last about an hour. The purpose of these calls is to go over travel day logistics and general questions and answers. During the beginning of the call Gil Browdy, Rosh MBI will join to answer specific itinerary questions. The calls will be split up by region, so region specific travel information will be discussed. If you miss the call for your region you can join onto another call. After the calls are completed I will put up notes and important information that was covered in the call on the blog.
Here is the schedule. All times are Eastern time.
June 7- 12pm-driving to the airport/north east
3pm- Western states
June 8- 12 pm- Toronto
3pm- Western Canada
June 10- 1 pm Midwest
June 15- 12pm- Pennsylvania
June 16- 12pm- Maryland area
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Friday, April 23, 2010
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Thursday, April 22, 2010
Updates on the website
Hello Families,
On our website, https://www.habonimdror.org/parents/mbi, you will find an itinerary for the summer and the rental phones form.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Shani
On our website, https://www.habonimdror.org/parents/mbi, you will find an itinerary for the summer and the rental phones form.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Shani
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
MBI international flight
For American Families
July 5th JFK- ELAL #8
Departs 11:50 pm
Lands: 5:15 pm (July 6)
July 5th JFK- ELAL #8
Departs 11:50 pm
Lands: 5:15 pm (July 6)
August 8th ELAL # 1
Departs: 1:00 am
Lands: 5:40 am
Anyone outside of the metro NY area will have flights or buses provided.
For Canadian Families
July 5th Toronto- ELAL #104
Departs: 7:55pm
Lands:2:05 pm (July 6th)
August 8th ELAL #103
Departs: 12:50 am
Lands: 6:50pm
Anyone outside of the Toronto area will be flown to Toronto.
After international and domestic flights are purchased you will be receiving more information.
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