Thursday
2/19/15
It was quite an ordeal to travel home. I had worried about New England weather impacting my travel plans, but it never occurred up to me to worry about Istanbul!
Eventually I travelled from Tel Aviv to Boston via Newark. Connection and customs went smoothly. The 11 hour flight felt endless, particularly because my television monitor did not work!
Enormous mounds of snow and huge icicles are here to greet me along with a sweet e mail from one of my students asking me what the favorite part of my visit was. I think I am seeing the beginning of a pen pal!
Thank you all for following my blog! I loved sharing my Haifa experience with you all!
Shalom,
Susan
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
New flight. Wednesday eve. 11 pm to Newark
Arrive Boston early morn. 7:43 on united. Will take cab. Thursday morning.
Travel is exhausting
Travel is exhausting
Snowstorm in Istanbul. Flight from Israel still delayed
Turkish air says the will not try to rebook me on alternative flights till they see what happens in 2 more hours. It is now 11:10am. Was supposed to leave at 9:50 am. So apparently the flight from Istanbul to Boston is also having weather delays. Not sure if there is any hope getting on it... Very frustrating! Am able to use Skype and the blog but email not working even though I am signed on to internet...
Flight Delay. Turkish air flight 82 Tel aviv to Istanbul!
It looks like I may miss my connection in Istanbul for flight to Boston. Frustrating as no one at desk to speak with us from Turkish Air. Waiting for an agent. And my emails are not going through! Perhaps the blog will get thru, so those expecting me home on Wednesday eve will understand if I do not arrive !
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Last Day in Haifa
Tuesday
1/17/15
Lovely good byes at the Reali school. The principal and teachers presented each of us with a wonderful book of photos about modern day Israel, along with a personal note of appreciation.
Later, friends from Newton, Marsha and Peter, accompanied by their daughter and son-in-law, who live in Tel Aviv, drove to Haifa to spend the afternoon & eve with me. . It was so nice to see them as we enjoyed a delicious dinner at a restaurant on Ben Gurion Ave, overlooking the lights of the Ba'hai temple gardens. Even the sudden heavy rainfall did not dampen our spirits!
The trip is everything I expected, and more. I return home, grateful for the country I live in and with renewed love and loyalty for Israel.
1/17/15
Lovely good byes at the Reali school. The principal and teachers presented each of us with a wonderful book of photos about modern day Israel, along with a personal note of appreciation.
Later, friends from Newton, Marsha and Peter, accompanied by their daughter and son-in-law, who live in Tel Aviv, drove to Haifa to spend the afternoon & eve with me. . It was so nice to see them as we enjoyed a delicious dinner at a restaurant on Ben Gurion Ave, overlooking the lights of the Ba'hai temple gardens. Even the sudden heavy rainfall did not dampen our spirits!
The trip is everything I expected, and more. I return home, grateful for the country I live in and with renewed love and loyalty for Israel.
Monday, February 16, 2015
Using Spanish to teach English in Haifa, and Tessie's story
Monday 2/16/15
Last class today at the Chugim school. I was working with an 11th grader whose English was excellent. We were reading a chapter written by Amy Tan. There was some complicated language. As I was trying to explain a definition, she inquired if I spoke Spanish? I explained my Spanish was limited (high school and college) and asked why. She explained that she was teaching her self Spanish by watching T.V. spanish speaking novellas. And so we shifted gears and used Spanish to commuicate when we were sorting out defnitions of English words she did not understand. After we completed the assignment, we enjoyed a "getting to know you conversation". In addition to learning English, she is also studying Arabic in school and is self taught in Spanish! Amazing.
I did errands in the afternoon. Last minute gift buying before I pack!
This evening's speaker was Tessie, an Ethiopian Jew who emigrated to Israel when she was 9 years old (1984). She and her family were observant Jews in Ethiopia (ate Kosher food, observed the Sabbath) and they walked for 3 days with 100 members of their community from Ethiopia to Sudan. They were in the camps in Sudan until they were finally air lifted to Israel.
They had never seen electriciy, running water, a bathroom or an airplane. When they tried to board them onto the plane the Ethiopians were terrified and ran into the woods. They had to send the police to gather them up and get them on the plane. As a child, she had never seen herself in a mirror. Had never seen a white person (was fascinated by the stewardess and her uniform) and did not know how to use the bathroom. Once they taught her to sit on the toilet, she saw the reflection in the mirror and could not understand why another little girl was in the room with her. She experimented, lifted her skirt, touched her hair etc. and finally realized she was looking at her reflection, and said "I discovered my self". It is too long to report on all the details of her journey, but you can imagine that it was a powerful and moving story. She described difficult adjustment to school, learning Hebrew, making friends etc. Eventually she finished school, joined the army and went on to officer training. When she was sworn in as an officer she explained it was the first time she felt that " Israel was my country". After the military she went to college, was the first Ethiopian woman at her college. Now married with 4 children and works as the director of a community service agency in the Ethiopian community.
Tessie shared laughter and tears as she told her story. We were all moved by her openess and willingness to share feelings, fears and achievements.
Last class today at the Chugim school. I was working with an 11th grader whose English was excellent. We were reading a chapter written by Amy Tan. There was some complicated language. As I was trying to explain a definition, she inquired if I spoke Spanish? I explained my Spanish was limited (high school and college) and asked why. She explained that she was teaching her self Spanish by watching T.V. spanish speaking novellas. And so we shifted gears and used Spanish to commuicate when we were sorting out defnitions of English words she did not understand. After we completed the assignment, we enjoyed a "getting to know you conversation". In addition to learning English, she is also studying Arabic in school and is self taught in Spanish! Amazing.
I did errands in the afternoon. Last minute gift buying before I pack!
This evening's speaker was Tessie, an Ethiopian Jew who emigrated to Israel when she was 9 years old (1984). She and her family were observant Jews in Ethiopia (ate Kosher food, observed the Sabbath) and they walked for 3 days with 100 members of their community from Ethiopia to Sudan. They were in the camps in Sudan until they were finally air lifted to Israel.
They had never seen electriciy, running water, a bathroom or an airplane. When they tried to board them onto the plane the Ethiopians were terrified and ran into the woods. They had to send the police to gather them up and get them on the plane. As a child, she had never seen herself in a mirror. Had never seen a white person (was fascinated by the stewardess and her uniform) and did not know how to use the bathroom. Once they taught her to sit on the toilet, she saw the reflection in the mirror and could not understand why another little girl was in the room with her. She experimented, lifted her skirt, touched her hair etc. and finally realized she was looking at her reflection, and said "I discovered my self". It is too long to report on all the details of her journey, but you can imagine that it was a powerful and moving story. She described difficult adjustment to school, learning Hebrew, making friends etc. Eventually she finished school, joined the army and went on to officer training. When she was sworn in as an officer she explained it was the first time she felt that " Israel was my country". After the military she went to college, was the first Ethiopian woman at her college. Now married with 4 children and works as the director of a community service agency in the Ethiopian community.
Tessie shared laughter and tears as she told her story. We were all moved by her openess and willingness to share feelings, fears and achievements.
Final Outing with the group, and no more rain today!
Sunday. February 15, 2015
Morning visit and tour of the campus of the Chaim Weitzmann institute and his home which is also on the campus. In addition to being a great scientist he was the first President of Israel. The institute has a visitors center with films and interactive displays which demonstrate the wide range of their research.
Morning visit and tour of the campus of the Chaim Weitzmann institute and his home which is also on the campus. In addition to being a great scientist he was the first President of Israel. The institute has a visitors center with films and interactive displays which demonstrate the wide range of their research.
Groundbreaking medical and technological applications that have emerged from basic research conducted by Weizmann Institute scientists include:
- Amniocentesis, a prenatal diagnostic test for the fetus
- Sophisticated laser systems for high-precision diamond cutting
- A method for growing hybrid seeds that prevents the transmission of disease from one generation to the next and helps protect edible plants from pests
- Affinity chromatography, a key tool for purifying biological materials in the biotechnology industry
- Living polymerization, one of the most fundamental techniques of the modern polymer industry
- For solving the structure of the ribosome, the cell’s protein factory, and revealing its means of action, the Institute’s Prof. Ada Yonath was awarded a Nobel Prize in Chemistry. Her research should speed the development of antibiotic drugs that are more efficient, especially against antibiotic-resistant strains.
In the afternoon we toured Ayalon Institute, a fascinating site of Israel's history. During the British Mandate period, there was a blockade on arms and ammunition. A secret factory was build underground on a hill located at an agricullural kibbutz ( collective farm). It was the size of a tennis court and hidden by a bakery and laundry which sat on top of the factory. 45 people worked underground, 6 days a week..... Their work made an enormous contribution to the success of the war for independence in 1948.
It was an excellent day giving us an interesting view back in time as well as looking ahead to the great research potential in this amazing country.
Back at the hotel this evening we had a farewell dinner for the patricians and leaders. Tomorrow will be my last day at Chugim sxhool and Tuesday the last day at Reali! Flying home on Wednesday weather permitting!
Saturday, February 14, 2015
Visit to Akko preserved Crusader City
Valentines Day. 2/14/15
Much is closed on the Sabbath, but most museums are open. Today 2 fellow travelers and I signed up for 5 hour trip to Akko ( Acre). This port city had been ruled by the Canaanites, then the Romans, Crusaders, Turks and British (until 1948 when Israel became a nation). Layers of these civilizations have been carefully uncovered and restored. The underground tunnels leading to the displays are extensive. We had a knowledgable guide, so despite more rain and wet shoes it was a good day excursion.
After a late afternoon power nap, I took a cab with one other volunteer to say good bye to my host family. Very nice people. I will see them in Cambridge in April when he is at Harvard for some research.
Just a few more days till I head home. It has been a marvelous month, but I am feeling ready to return to my normal life. Of course it has not been a normal winter in New Englad, so I don't really know what I am returning to.... Will enjoy the last few days and hope that there will be less rain and more sun to enjoy the final moments in Haifa. We were lucky to have 3 glorious weather weeks, when we arrived, so those are the Haifa memories on my mind to keep forever!
Much is closed on the Sabbath, but most museums are open. Today 2 fellow travelers and I signed up for 5 hour trip to Akko ( Acre). This port city had been ruled by the Canaanites, then the Romans, Crusaders, Turks and British (until 1948 when Israel became a nation). Layers of these civilizations have been carefully uncovered and restored. The underground tunnels leading to the displays are extensive. We had a knowledgable guide, so despite more rain and wet shoes it was a good day excursion.
After a late afternoon power nap, I took a cab with one other volunteer to say good bye to my host family. Very nice people. I will see them in Cambridge in April when he is at Harvard for some research.
Just a few more days till I head home. It has been a marvelous month, but I am feeling ready to return to my normal life. Of course it has not been a normal winter in New Englad, so I don't really know what I am returning to.... Will enjoy the last few days and hope that there will be less rain and more sun to enjoy the final moments in Haifa. We were lucky to have 3 glorious weather weeks, when we arrived, so those are the Haifa memories on my mind to keep forever!
Friday, February 13, 2015
Bus Ride, Art work, Hebrew songs, Wild rain and Hail
Another busy day. We had early start to the Ralli museum complex . On the way we stopped at a school to donate a punching bag for thepir gym, in appreciation for the principal's talk with us last week. We were supposed to tour the school but the rain was so bad the principal boarded the bus to accept the gift, to protect us from getting soaked in the rain!
The Ralli museums are dedicated to the Jews who perished in Spain and Portugal during the Inquisition. Sister museums are in South America. Art work collections rotate among these museums. Numerous sculptures surrounded the outdoor property as well as being on display indoors. Admission is free, they have no audio tours, no gift shop and no cafe. They explain that they are dedicated to keeping it simple and allow the visitor to experience the museum in one's own individual way.
On bus ride back from hotel we Sang Hebrew songs traditional to welcoming Shabbat. It felt like camp!
Back at the hotel we gathered for blessing over wine and challe to greet the Sabbath. After this a speaker gave a half hour presentation about the history of Zionism. Good informative history of post WW II efforts to form a Jewish State. Then a group of us walked to nearby restaurant for shabbat dinner. As we were leaving, the heavens opened and we were treated to a fierce hail storm. We waited it out in the safety if the restaurant and then carefully walked on icy paths back to hotel.
The Ralli museums are dedicated to the Jews who perished in Spain and Portugal during the Inquisition. Sister museums are in South America. Art work collections rotate among these museums. Numerous sculptures surrounded the outdoor property as well as being on display indoors. Admission is free, they have no audio tours, no gift shop and no cafe. They explain that they are dedicated to keeping it simple and allow the visitor to experience the museum in one's own individual way.
On bus ride back from hotel we Sang Hebrew songs traditional to welcoming Shabbat. It felt like camp!
Back at the hotel we gathered for blessing over wine and challe to greet the Sabbath. After this a speaker gave a half hour presentation about the history of Zionism. Good informative history of post WW II efforts to form a Jewish State. Then a group of us walked to nearby restaurant for shabbat dinner. As we were leaving, the heavens opened and we were treated to a fierce hail storm. We waited it out in the safety if the restaurant and then carefully walked on icy paths back to hotel.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Fierce Weather continues: wild & windy... good day tutoring & great visit to Haifa University
Thursday 2/12/15
Today's challenge was four 5th grade boys with limited English & boundless energy. The teacher did not provide an assignment & suggested we use the time for them to practice their conversational skills. The kids were so roundy, I used the hand signal for " time out " and told them we had 2 rules. They had to be nice to each other and they had to be nice to me! They laughed and settled down. I reached back into my memory of my own kid's elementary school experience and suggested each student have a turn, speaking in English and telling the group something nice about each of the other students in the group. They helped each other to find the English vocabulary words and really got engaged in the process. I then distributed sheets of paper and asked them each to write something nice about their teacher & give it to her when they returned to class, which they did. At the end of the day the teacher sought me out to show me the pile of papers. She was very pleased. since I am generally not around children, I have taken great delight in the tutoring experience!
This afternoon we had an outting to Haifa University. After an indoor tour of the facilities (too much rain to walk around campus) we went to a small conference room, learned about the various research programs.
Then 3 undergraduate students spoke with us. A young woman who participates in student United Nations. She has been on the Israel team at various international conferences and reports they have won many honors. She is of Ethiopian heritage, a political science major, smart, personable and an engaging speaker. The second student coordinates an online Ambassador program, which is a social media sight which responds to anti Israel and anti Semtic postings on the itnernet. And
the final student was a 20 year old Arab young woman ( approx. 30% of the university are Arab students) who speaks 5 languages. She feels linguistics is the key to creating understanding among groups. She has started a language program in the local community she lives in, for 4-7 year olds, teaching the Jewish children Arabic and the Moslem children Hebrew. Poised, talented, commited and articulate, at age 20! I left the presentation feeling great optimism about the quality of young people pursuing their education & dreams to build a peaceful, stronger nation.
Our final stop was at the marine science lab building. A professor presented an overview of the research and also discussed the recent discovery of the natural gas source under the Meditteranean. Later then we met with 2 PhD students and visited their labs. they briefly explained their projects. I took written material about the programs, but don't remember much of the details, as I grew tired and on information overload!
I hear more snow is expected in Boston this weekend. Hard to believe. ... Heading home 2/18/15, re-entry may be a challenge!
Today's challenge was four 5th grade boys with limited English & boundless energy. The teacher did not provide an assignment & suggested we use the time for them to practice their conversational skills. The kids were so roundy, I used the hand signal for " time out " and told them we had 2 rules. They had to be nice to each other and they had to be nice to me! They laughed and settled down. I reached back into my memory of my own kid's elementary school experience and suggested each student have a turn, speaking in English and telling the group something nice about each of the other students in the group. They helped each other to find the English vocabulary words and really got engaged in the process. I then distributed sheets of paper and asked them each to write something nice about their teacher & give it to her when they returned to class, which they did. At the end of the day the teacher sought me out to show me the pile of papers. She was very pleased. since I am generally not around children, I have taken great delight in the tutoring experience!
This afternoon we had an outting to Haifa University. After an indoor tour of the facilities (too much rain to walk around campus) we went to a small conference room, learned about the various research programs.
Then 3 undergraduate students spoke with us. A young woman who participates in student United Nations. She has been on the Israel team at various international conferences and reports they have won many honors. She is of Ethiopian heritage, a political science major, smart, personable and an engaging speaker. The second student coordinates an online Ambassador program, which is a social media sight which responds to anti Israel and anti Semtic postings on the itnernet. And
the final student was a 20 year old Arab young woman ( approx. 30% of the university are Arab students) who speaks 5 languages. She feels linguistics is the key to creating understanding among groups. She has started a language program in the local community she lives in, for 4-7 year olds, teaching the Jewish children Arabic and the Moslem children Hebrew. Poised, talented, commited and articulate, at age 20! I left the presentation feeling great optimism about the quality of young people pursuing their education & dreams to build a peaceful, stronger nation.
Our final stop was at the marine science lab building. A professor presented an overview of the research and also discussed the recent discovery of the natural gas source under the Meditteranean. Later then we met with 2 PhD students and visited their labs. they briefly explained their projects. I took written material about the programs, but don't remember much of the details, as I grew tired and on information overload!
I hear more snow is expected in Boston this weekend. Hard to believe. ... Heading home 2/18/15, re-entry may be a challenge!
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Wind, rain, hail and a flying roof!
Wednesday 2/11/15
Today was a crazy weather day! We were advised not to use umbrella as the would be dangerous in this kind of wind. While tutoring this morning a portion of a roof detached from an area adjacent to our classroom, and the wind kept knocking the detached roof against the side of our classroom building. The kids said it had happened last year and was repaired, apparently not well enough!
The kids are amazing. Especially impressed with some of the immigrants from Russia. So hard working and focused. I had an 18 year old today, who is preparing for his oral English exam, which will may qualify him for officer training in military, as well as college afterwards. He is the oldest of 3 children and described his mom as protective. I explained the concept of "helicopter parenting " and he laughed!
Since weather is so bad, Once we returned to the hotel after lunch we did not venture out again. Had my Hebrew class late afternoon. I am a slow learner... I can now count to ten and know about 10 other words. Language has never been a strong point. This evening We saw an Israeli documentary with English subtitles. I actually recognized a few words, so at least my ear is getting used to the sound of the language!
The film was about the 2006 war with Lebanon. Haifa was the primary target. News broadcasts showed many of the neighborhoods we now walk in. Very sobering.
The power of the documentary was how it highlighted the way Jews, Arabs and Christains helped each other during the attacks. There seems to be a harmony in this city unlike other parts of the country...
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Afternoon trip to Tzvat
Tuesday. 2/10/15
Excellent moring of tutoring with 4 groups of kids. I continue to be impressed with their eagerness to learn and ability to express themselves in a 2nd and sometimes 3rd languages. The more advanced students help the others. Today the English teacher gave us two poems to review and discuss. Fire and Ice by Robert Frost. And Richard Cory by Edward Robinson. ...
In the afternoon we headed to the ancient city of Tzvat. Visited an old synagogue and spent 2 hours shopping. Picturesque narrow winding streets with spectacular views. Barely any shoppers. The tourist season is very poor at this time.
Back in Haifa. The wind is howling. Nothing compared to Boston snow, but winds that are more fierce than I have ever experienced. We walked 3 blocks to a nearby casual restaurant and had to hold on to each other for fear the wind would knock us over. Hope it calms down by morning, as it is a 15 minute walk to school!
Excellent moring of tutoring with 4 groups of kids. I continue to be impressed with their eagerness to learn and ability to express themselves in a 2nd and sometimes 3rd languages. The more advanced students help the others. Today the English teacher gave us two poems to review and discuss. Fire and Ice by Robert Frost. And Richard Cory by Edward Robinson. ...
In the afternoon we headed to the ancient city of Tzvat. Visited an old synagogue and spent 2 hours shopping. Picturesque narrow winding streets with spectacular views. Barely any shoppers. The tourist season is very poor at this time.
Back in Haifa. The wind is howling. Nothing compared to Boston snow, but winds that are more fierce than I have ever experienced. We walked 3 blocks to a nearby casual restaurant and had to hold on to each other for fear the wind would knock us over. Hope it calms down by morning, as it is a 15 minute walk to school!
Monday, February 9, 2015
Monday. 2/9/15
Eli Beer: The fastest ambulance? A motorcycle | Talk Video | TED.com
https://www.ted.com/talks/eli_beer_the_fastest_ambulance_a_motorcycle?...
motor cycles, earthquakes and a government civics lesson
Monday. 2/9/15
Eli Beer: The fastest ambulance? A motorcycle | Talk Video | TED.com
https://www.ted.com/talks/eli_beer_the_fastest_ambulance_a_motorcycle?...Take a moment to view this Ted talk.Today the co founder of the company spoke with us and brought the motor cycleAmbulance to show us Most inspiring organization, staffed with 2000 volunteers andsmall paid staff!Earlier today, while at the school tutoring we did an emergency evaccuation drill to preparefor earthquake. We walked a few blocks away from school to a large open parking lot.(Understandably you don't go to bomb shelter for earthquake disaster. )' Very nice 16 year oldboy from one of my classes lead me to and from school, so I did not get lost!I had a break after school and before the ambulance presentation so fior the first timeI took the Carmelite without a Hebrew spreading person. Bought the ticket ( the vendingmachine has an English option) and took the fennicular down the mountain to aLocal shopping area for an hour.3:30pm was my Hebrew class. I find it very challenging, so I sit next to the teacher ,In the hopes that proximaty will increase my comprehension!We ended the day with a guest speaker, lawyer who provided an overview of Israeligovernment, court system, labor party system etc.... Thankfully there was no quiz at the end.
Sunday, February 8, 2015
Pioneer museum, Roman Ruins and modern day Kibbutz
Sunday Feb 8, 2015
We headed north of Haifa and explored 3 amazing destinations....
The Pioneer settlement Museum at Kibbutz Yifat tells the story of the early settlers in the 1920s? An excellent collection of farm equipment and compelling narrative postings as well as well informed guide made for an inspiring visit. More information and photos at yifmuseu@ Yifat.org.il. I will try to send photos by email as they capture the spirit if the place!
Next we headed to Bet She'An and archeological dig which as uncovered 10 % of a Roman city with housing, theatre, Roman baths etc. apparently is was buried in mud for generations, as there had been an earthquake (estimates it dates back to 749.) The guide was very knowledgeable and we had an interesting 2 hours. We learn that Israel has had an earth quake every 100 years and they are about due for another! Something else to worry about. Note : you can see the border with Jordan from these ruins. There must have been some practice military plane maneuvers today which were flying above for most of the time we toured. They were the only evidence of the modern world in this spectacular setting!
And finally we were invited to see the kibbutz one of our Israeli host families grew up on. It was settled by Hungarian Jews. still functions as an agricultural kibbutz, with some modern adaptations, Apparently in addition to raising cows to produce milk, they had a factory manufacturing water irrigation products , which was bought and operated for 6 years by John Deer and then sold to an Israeli company. We stopped into one of the homes for a brief visit and refreshment. There was some discussion about finding ways to encourage the young people to return to kibbutz life after their military service and years at university.
We showed them pictures of Boston snow, which the thought was " beautiful". I am quick to point out that Boston is beautiful in spring, summer and fall...
We headed north of Haifa and explored 3 amazing destinations....
The Pioneer settlement Museum at Kibbutz Yifat tells the story of the early settlers in the 1920s? An excellent collection of farm equipment and compelling narrative postings as well as well informed guide made for an inspiring visit. More information and photos at yifmuseu@ Yifat.org.il. I will try to send photos by email as they capture the spirit if the place!
Next we headed to Bet She'An and archeological dig which as uncovered 10 % of a Roman city with housing, theatre, Roman baths etc. apparently is was buried in mud for generations, as there had been an earthquake (estimates it dates back to 749.) The guide was very knowledgeable and we had an interesting 2 hours. We learn that Israel has had an earth quake every 100 years and they are about due for another! Something else to worry about. Note : you can see the border with Jordan from these ruins. There must have been some practice military plane maneuvers today which were flying above for most of the time we toured. They were the only evidence of the modern world in this spectacular setting!
And finally we were invited to see the kibbutz one of our Israeli host families grew up on. It was settled by Hungarian Jews. still functions as an agricultural kibbutz, with some modern adaptations, Apparently in addition to raising cows to produce milk, they had a factory manufacturing water irrigation products , which was bought and operated for 6 years by John Deer and then sold to an Israeli company. We stopped into one of the homes for a brief visit and refreshment. There was some discussion about finding ways to encourage the young people to return to kibbutz life after their military service and years at university.
We showed them pictures of Boston snow, which the thought was " beautiful". I am quick to point out that Boston is beautiful in spring, summer and fall...
Druze village with host family. And 6 pianos.....
Saturday 2/7/15
Today was the warmest day of the trip. Temperature was in the high 70s. One more day of good weather and then cool weather and rain is predicted.
Our host family took myself and another volunteer on a driving tour of 2 Druze villages. I did not learn much about the Druze community. The women wear a large white head covering, but it does not hide their face. The men wear smaller white caps. They appear to be industrious, many serve in the military and on the police force. The villages are high on the hills, surrounded by olive groves and other agriculture. The towns and streets seem crowded but peaceful.
We made a brief stop to look at a few stalls in the market area for a quick purchase. Our hosts are not browsers... Then a longer stop for leisurely lunch in the village. Food was tasty, exotic, nicely presented and most not spicy, so I thoroughly enjoyed it. The pita bread was fresh baked and delicious, as is all the bread in Israel!
This evening we went to a concert of 6 pianists and a few soloists on vocal. They performed in a theatre that seated about 1000 people for 2 hrs and 15 minutes with no intermission! They were wonderful!
It feels like I have been away from home for a long time, however each day provides great variety and my respect for this complicated, dynamic country continues to grow. Thinking of you all , dealing with the challenging winter weather, and wish you well!
Today was the warmest day of the trip. Temperature was in the high 70s. One more day of good weather and then cool weather and rain is predicted.
Our host family took myself and another volunteer on a driving tour of 2 Druze villages. I did not learn much about the Druze community. The women wear a large white head covering, but it does not hide their face. The men wear smaller white caps. They appear to be industrious, many serve in the military and on the police force. The villages are high on the hills, surrounded by olive groves and other agriculture. The towns and streets seem crowded but peaceful.
We made a brief stop to look at a few stalls in the market area for a quick purchase. Our hosts are not browsers... Then a longer stop for leisurely lunch in the village. Food was tasty, exotic, nicely presented and most not spicy, so I thoroughly enjoyed it. The pita bread was fresh baked and delicious, as is all the bread in Israel!
This evening we went to a concert of 6 pianists and a few soloists on vocal. They performed in a theatre that seated about 1000 people for 2 hrs and 15 minutes with no intermission! They were wonderful!
It feels like I have been away from home for a long time, however each day provides great variety and my respect for this complicated, dynamic country continues to grow. Thinking of you all , dealing with the challenging winter weather, and wish you well!
Friday, February 6, 2015
Prof Dan Schectman 2011 Nobel prize winner, fabulous guest speaker
Strengthening Ties in China
Technion President, Prof. Peretz Lavie, and Prof. Dan Shechtman visited China to deepen and strengthen collaborations with Chinese universities and schools
In mid-January, Technion President, Prof. Peretz Lavie, and Prof. Dan Shechtman travelled to China, along with Dr. Moshe Marom, the site Director of the Technion- Guangdong Institute of Technology in China. On this visit Profs. Peretz and Shechtman met with senior leaders of Peking University (ranked among the top universities in mainland China) to discuss future cooperation in areas including innovation, environmental engineering, chemistry and others. They also visited the HighThe visit to China aimed to deepen and strengthen Technion’s ties in China.
The Technion-Guangdong Institute of Technology (Technion-Guangdong) – a scientific-research institute of technology founded on the ‘Technion model’ – will be established in the Guangdong Province in southern China. Technion-Guangdong will be launched according to the 2013 agreement signed between the Technion, Shantou University (STU) and the Li Ka Shing Foundation. At the signing ceremony, STU Provost, Prof. Gu Peihua stated that Shantou University chose Technion as its partner from 74 potential partners that were carefully selected – “because the Technion had shown the world what the future university should do in order to deliver values of regional, national and international significance. What Technion has done to advance the Israeli economy through student and staff research and innovation is an example for Chinese universities to follow. If many universities in Guangdong and China do the same as Technion has been doing in Israel, an innovation-based economy will emerge.”
Our Vacation With Soul group is so impressed with the caliber of guest speakers willing to meet with us!
Today's presentation was on the need to educate the next generations to focus on Innovation and Technological Entrepreneurial development. His message : Failure is ok as long as you start again.
I wish I had taken more notes as he spoke. He is a polished speaker and a creative teacher. Even had his own TV show introducing young children to science!
After the talk we were all invited for a wonderful lunch at the home of one of the staff members from the office of the Boston- Haifa connection. There are so many fabulous vegitariam dishes served in Israel I am re thinking my eating habits!
Weather continues to be lovely. In the Mid to high 60s through the weekend. Then a week of cooler rainy weather is predicted. They really need the rain, and as long as it is not snow, we won't complain!
Thursday, February 5, 2015
A full Day of Volunteering
Thursday 2/5/15
The day began teaching 3 sessions at The Reali school. There is much concern there about the future of the school. Funding and political issues are putting it at risk. The older students are aware of the situation and are organizing a rally to show their support.
Later in the day we took a long walk down hill to volunteer at Likrat Shabbat. A food bank. We helped fill 2 cartons per family, which are delivered to households later in the day. One carton had fresh vegtables and a whole chicken and rice. The other carton had 2 loaves of bread, a dozen eggs, a plastic bag of milk, 10 avocados , a bag of tomatoes, head of cabbage... We took a public bus back up the hill. In addition to our group of volunteers there were lots of teenage kids helping to provide this community service.
Tomorrow is Friday so everything closes early for Shabbat. We have a guest speaker ( a Nobel prize winner. Dr. Dan Schectman speaking and then luncheon at the home of a staff member from the Boston Haifa connection office.
Saturday my host family is taking myself and one other volunteer to see a Druze village. I did a little research and found the following:
Daliyat el-Carmel is a Druze village high on the slopes of Mt. Carmel and has an exceptionally unique character. It is a colorful village that offers wonderful hospitality with a smile and is also very interesting. The Druze is an ethnic group that split off from Islam in Egypt about 1,000 years ago. According to the Druze, their religion is the renewal of an ancient faith that became a secret known only to the group’s sages. Daliyat el-Carmel was founded in the 17th century by Druze from Mt. Lebanon. To the south of Daliyat el-Carmel is another Druze village, Isfiya, which was united with Daliyat el-Carmel in 2003 into a single town whose official name is Carmel.
Daliyat el-Carmel’s colorful market, open on Saturdays, is only an excuse to come to this place. On the main street dozens of stores offer their varied wares and one can get lost in the abundance and
variety. Between the stores are many restaurants serving genuine Druze ethnic foods, bakeries that fill the air with the sweet smell of baklava pastries. Other food stands sell high quality olive oil, olives, pita bread and locally produced labaneh cheese. The flurry of activity, the colors, the new beside the old, and the village bustling with people are a multi-
sensational experience not to be missed. The market also has a few galleries where cultural evenings can be held, alongside the Druze hospitality.
There is always something new to see and do and experience!
The day began teaching 3 sessions at The Reali school. There is much concern there about the future of the school. Funding and political issues are putting it at risk. The older students are aware of the situation and are organizing a rally to show their support.
Later in the day we took a long walk down hill to volunteer at Likrat Shabbat. A food bank. We helped fill 2 cartons per family, which are delivered to households later in the day. One carton had fresh vegtables and a whole chicken and rice. The other carton had 2 loaves of bread, a dozen eggs, a plastic bag of milk, 10 avocados , a bag of tomatoes, head of cabbage... We took a public bus back up the hill. In addition to our group of volunteers there were lots of teenage kids helping to provide this community service.
Tomorrow is Friday so everything closes early for Shabbat. We have a guest speaker ( a Nobel prize winner. Dr. Dan Schectman speaking and then luncheon at the home of a staff member from the Boston Haifa connection office.
Saturday my host family is taking myself and one other volunteer to see a Druze village. I did a little research and found the following:
Daliyat el-Carmel is a Druze village high on the slopes of Mt. Carmel and has an exceptionally unique character. It is a colorful village that offers wonderful hospitality with a smile and is also very interesting. The Druze is an ethnic group that split off from Islam in Egypt about 1,000 years ago. According to the Druze, their religion is the renewal of an ancient faith that became a secret known only to the group’s sages. Daliyat el-Carmel was founded in the 17th century by Druze from Mt. Lebanon. To the south of Daliyat el-Carmel is another Druze village, Isfiya, which was united with Daliyat el-Carmel in 2003 into a single town whose official name is Carmel.
Daliyat el-Carmel’s colorful market, open on Saturdays, is only an excuse to come to this place. On the main street dozens of stores offer their varied wares and one can get lost in the abundance and
variety. Between the stores are many restaurants serving genuine Druze ethnic foods, bakeries that fill the air with the sweet smell of baklava pastries. Other food stands sell high quality olive oil, olives, pita bread and locally produced labaneh cheese. The flurry of activity, the colors, the new beside the old, and the village bustling with people are a multi-
sensational experience not to be missed. The market also has a few galleries where cultural evenings can be held, alongside the Druze hospitality.
There is always something new to see and do and experience!
Wednesday, February 4, 2015
Festival of the Trees
Tu B'Shevat, the 15th of Shevat on the Jewish calendar—celebrated this year on Wednesday, February 4, 2015—is the day that marks the beginning of a “new year” for trees. This is the season in which the earliest-blooming trees in the Land of Israel emerge from their winter sleep and begin a new fruit-bearing cycle.
This evening one of the host families invited all 15 participants and the 8 host families for a celebration dinner. The setting was their large modern home overlooking the lights of the city and campus of Haifa University! Prior to the meal is a short service, including tasting wine, dates, almonds, apples and strawberrires. There are a few songs and then a festive meal. You start with white wine, drink some and then add a drop of red wine. Drink more, add more red wine. And repeat . Until ultimately you have a glass of red wine. Wisely they used very small wine glasses!
This evening one of the host families invited all 15 participants and the 8 host families for a celebration dinner. The setting was their large modern home overlooking the lights of the city and campus of Haifa University! Prior to the meal is a short service, including tasting wine, dates, almonds, apples and strawberrires. There are a few songs and then a festive meal. You start with white wine, drink some and then add a drop of red wine. Drink more, add more red wine. And repeat . Until ultimately you have a glass of red wine. Wisely they used very small wine glasses!
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Rambam hospital: A Teaching hospital on the edge of Mediterranean
Tuesday
2/3/15
After a delightful morning of working with the students , we did an afternoon tour of the Rambam hospital. This medical center includes a 1500 car parking garage, which can be converted to a 2000 bed hospital, at times of war. It includes a 94 machine dialysis unit, Ebola isolation rooms, day care center for staff and medical and support staff with a total capacity of 6000 people! The conversion from garage to hospital takes 72 hours!
We met with one of the hospital administrators and one of the physicians. As you can imagine, the cost and manpower it took to complete this project was enormous and took about 4 years. Some of the other above ground, regular buildings looked over crowded and shabby. I think they have made some tough decisions about where to concentrate their resources...
The weather continues to be sunny and beautiful, though rain may surface next week. Tomorrow is my 1/2 way point . The days are going quickly. The journey is remarkable.
2/3/15
After a delightful morning of working with the students , we did an afternoon tour of the Rambam hospital. This medical center includes a 1500 car parking garage, which can be converted to a 2000 bed hospital, at times of war. It includes a 94 machine dialysis unit, Ebola isolation rooms, day care center for staff and medical and support staff with a total capacity of 6000 people! The conversion from garage to hospital takes 72 hours!
We met with one of the hospital administrators and one of the physicians. As you can imagine, the cost and manpower it took to complete this project was enormous and took about 4 years. Some of the other above ground, regular buildings looked over crowded and shabby. I think they have made some tough decisions about where to concentrate their resources...
The weather continues to be sunny and beautiful, though rain may surface next week. Tomorrow is my 1/2 way point . The days are going quickly. The journey is remarkable.
Monday, February 2, 2015
Daily LIfe and the big picture...
Monday
2/2/15
It was a good morning at Chugim school. Worked with 3 sets of kids. Of particular interest was twin girls, who I had also worked with last week. They are 10th graders. Parents are from the Ukraine. One describes her interests as math and science and the other as a writer and artistic. They recently collaborated on a project to make an anniversary book for their parents and took great delight in explaining how they kept their project "a secret" until the celebration dinner with their parents. They paid for the cost of the binding with earnings from one's work in the library and the other had save money from working this summer in a science museum.
The creative twin researched the internet and found a summer program at Brandeis for gifted H.S. students who want to study science. She thought this would be a good program for her sister. They asked me to secure more info about this, as they asked their teacher who did not know anything about it. They do not have guidance counselor in the school. I was able to speak with someone at the local Haifa-Boston connection office and forwarded the contact info to the student. It was nice to feel helpful. Once a social worker, always a social worker...
When ordering lunch today the shop keeper explained that every 7 years the country lets the land remain unplanted, as prescribed in the Torah. This is happening now. Therefore many of the fresh vegtables, that I am enjoying, are imported from other counties.
This afternoon, I ventured on my own to find a manicurist, about 6-7 blocks beyond the neighborhood I am familiar with. Was successful and on my walk back to the hotel, came upon several of my fellow travelers out and about. It made me feel that this is my (temporary ) neighborhood.
This evening, we had a guest speaker, an expert on terrorism. Very sobering. My take away, is that no one or two countries can possibly deal with this alone, it will take a multi nation coalition. It is remarkable that Israel can function as well as it does in the middle of such a hostile environment.
Tomorrow afternoon will be a tour of a major hospital/ trauma center. Guest speaker there will speak about emegency medical care.
I have seen reports of all the snow at home continuing. So sorry you are all dealing with such a harsh month.
2/2/15
It was a good morning at Chugim school. Worked with 3 sets of kids. Of particular interest was twin girls, who I had also worked with last week. They are 10th graders. Parents are from the Ukraine. One describes her interests as math and science and the other as a writer and artistic. They recently collaborated on a project to make an anniversary book for their parents and took great delight in explaining how they kept their project "a secret" until the celebration dinner with their parents. They paid for the cost of the binding with earnings from one's work in the library and the other had save money from working this summer in a science museum.
The creative twin researched the internet and found a summer program at Brandeis for gifted H.S. students who want to study science. She thought this would be a good program for her sister. They asked me to secure more info about this, as they asked their teacher who did not know anything about it. They do not have guidance counselor in the school. I was able to speak with someone at the local Haifa-Boston connection office and forwarded the contact info to the student. It was nice to feel helpful. Once a social worker, always a social worker...
When ordering lunch today the shop keeper explained that every 7 years the country lets the land remain unplanted, as prescribed in the Torah. This is happening now. Therefore many of the fresh vegtables, that I am enjoying, are imported from other counties.
This afternoon, I ventured on my own to find a manicurist, about 6-7 blocks beyond the neighborhood I am familiar with. Was successful and on my walk back to the hotel, came upon several of my fellow travelers out and about. It made me feel that this is my (temporary ) neighborhood.
This evening, we had a guest speaker, an expert on terrorism. Very sobering. My take away, is that no one or two countries can possibly deal with this alone, it will take a multi nation coalition. It is remarkable that Israel can function as well as it does in the middle of such a hostile environment.
Tomorrow afternoon will be a tour of a major hospital/ trauma center. Guest speaker there will speak about emegency medical care.
I have seen reports of all the snow at home continuing. So sorry you are all dealing with such a harsh month.
Sunday, February 1, 2015
Back in Haifa, After a Weekend in Jerusalem
Sunday
2/1/15
This was my 3rd visit to Jerusalem over a span of over 40 years. The city is still a startling combination of old and new. Modernization of the infrastructure, roadways, transportation and skyline is impressive. But within the gates of the old city, the modern world is mostly present
in the remarkable archaeological excavations and restorations. In fact, earlier today when doing the tunnel tour under the Wailing Wall, which is a maze of tunnels revealing multiple layers of civilization, we discovered to get from point to point, along the pathway, one often has to climb or descend multiple stairways. We were impressed to see that each staircase has a motorized lift to make the paths wheel chair accessible....the lighting and the ventilation system are very modern and they move large groups of people through a very intricate pathway. At the end when you exit the tunnel, the advise you to walk with a guard in front and back of the the group, as it goes through an area where there have been some problems in the past. We felt safe the entire day, walking with our guides.
I think we overdid it today. To recap: at 9:30am we walked to the old city for a 10:30am walking tour of the tunnels, as described above. . Later after lunch at an underground restaurant, in between the arches of the tunnels, a few of us signed up for another 2 hour walking tour of the holy city which took us thru the Christian, Armenian, Muslim and Jewish Quarters. The 2 hour tour went into over time and we had to leave at the 2 1/2 hours , as we needed to walk back to the hotel, collect our luggage and board the bus back to Haifa. One highlight of the afternoon tour was the walk along the rooftops of the city! (no worries it was safe we did not go close to the edges).
Earlier in the weekend we attended conservative services on the Saturday Sabbath, at a modern orthodox temple. The women still sit separately, but they do have prayer books with English translation. Very large sanctuary, some singing and a very long service. Arrived late and politely left early.
Later in the day the Israel Museum was open. It is a fabulous museum with extraordinary outdoor sculpture, gardens and several buildings. The exhibits are wonderful. We were there 3 hours and went our separate ways so each person could see what we were most interested in. I saw a large exhibit The Jewish Wardrobe, which traced Jewish dress code, over the centuries and among numerous counties with Jewish populations. Another exhibit : The Circle of Dance traced the development of dance in Israeli. From folk dance on the kibbutz to modern, interpretive dance in present day. The display had multiple video screens, music and excellent written narrative. The museum visit was a source of great joy. I left feeling great awe at what they have accomplished as a museum and how it reflects the strengths of the country.
The good news is that although shops are closed on Saturday for Shabbat, they do open Saturday evening. So after last night's dinner, we did walk to Ben Yahuda which is the shopping pedestrian street and got some browsing and shopping accomplished. Slept a bit on the bus ride back to Haifa.
Good night all!
2/1/15
This was my 3rd visit to Jerusalem over a span of over 40 years. The city is still a startling combination of old and new. Modernization of the infrastructure, roadways, transportation and skyline is impressive. But within the gates of the old city, the modern world is mostly present
in the remarkable archaeological excavations and restorations. In fact, earlier today when doing the tunnel tour under the Wailing Wall, which is a maze of tunnels revealing multiple layers of civilization, we discovered to get from point to point, along the pathway, one often has to climb or descend multiple stairways. We were impressed to see that each staircase has a motorized lift to make the paths wheel chair accessible....the lighting and the ventilation system are very modern and they move large groups of people through a very intricate pathway. At the end when you exit the tunnel, the advise you to walk with a guard in front and back of the the group, as it goes through an area where there have been some problems in the past. We felt safe the entire day, walking with our guides.
I think we overdid it today. To recap: at 9:30am we walked to the old city for a 10:30am walking tour of the tunnels, as described above. . Later after lunch at an underground restaurant, in between the arches of the tunnels, a few of us signed up for another 2 hour walking tour of the holy city which took us thru the Christian, Armenian, Muslim and Jewish Quarters. The 2 hour tour went into over time and we had to leave at the 2 1/2 hours , as we needed to walk back to the hotel, collect our luggage and board the bus back to Haifa. One highlight of the afternoon tour was the walk along the rooftops of the city! (no worries it was safe we did not go close to the edges).
Earlier in the weekend we attended conservative services on the Saturday Sabbath, at a modern orthodox temple. The women still sit separately, but they do have prayer books with English translation. Very large sanctuary, some singing and a very long service. Arrived late and politely left early.
Later in the day the Israel Museum was open. It is a fabulous museum with extraordinary outdoor sculpture, gardens and several buildings. The exhibits are wonderful. We were there 3 hours and went our separate ways so each person could see what we were most interested in. I saw a large exhibit The Jewish Wardrobe, which traced Jewish dress code, over the centuries and among numerous counties with Jewish populations. Another exhibit : The Circle of Dance traced the development of dance in Israeli. From folk dance on the kibbutz to modern, interpretive dance in present day. The display had multiple video screens, music and excellent written narrative. The museum visit was a source of great joy. I left feeling great awe at what they have accomplished as a museum and how it reflects the strengths of the country.
The good news is that although shops are closed on Saturday for Shabbat, they do open Saturday evening. So after last night's dinner, we did walk to Ben Yahuda which is the shopping pedestrian street and got some browsing and shopping accomplished. Slept a bit on the bus ride back to Haifa.
Good night all!
Saturday, January 31, 2015
Weekend in Jerusalem
Friday 1/30/15
Early start on the bus to Jerusalem. We stopped first to tour Herodium park.. Thpe fortress and palace of King Herod, crowned bt the Romans as King of Judea. In the third decade BCE he began the building complex. 62.5 acres on a huge man made mountain. For tourists to view the excavation sites: Lots of steps and steep hills to climb. In addition we explored the elaborate tunnel system which hold 4 cisterns. It was incredibly windy and we were outdoors for about 2 hrs, so it was a high energy day.
After we checked into our hotel, which is across from King david hotel, and next to an extraordinary building which houses the YMCA. If I did not email you photos , be sure to google this YMCA. It is an amazing piece of architecture .
Late afternoon we walked over to the Wailing Wall. I had been there in 1972 and again with our family in 1998. This time I was amazed at his many orthodox boys and men were participating. Their clothing and style of prayer are so foreign to me. That combined with the continued practice of segregating women, who must pray separately in screened off area is quite disturbing....
The day ended with Shabbat dinner in hotel dining room.
Thursday, January 29, 2015
Stepping back in history 1939 - 1948
This afternoon several of us visited an Immigrant Detention Camp: the Atlit Detention Camp.
As Jews attempted to enter Palestine during the Biritish Mandate period, their entrance into the country was restricted. Tens of thousands of detainees, many who have survived the camps, found them self in yet another camp, watiing to be released when the British opened up a certain number of spots on the quota system. Some where held in Haifa and other camps were set up in Cyprus (52,000) About 3000 Jews lost their lives in the struggle with the British.
Once the state of Israel was established in 1948, the camps served as waiting facilities to help new immigrants transition to life in Israel. At these centers, language lessons and job training were offered and Jewish social agencies worked with these new Israelis to find them housing and jobs.
After years of neglect, in 1986 the camp was restored as a national museum. Some of the original dormatory buildings and a recreated ship (similar to the Exodus) are on display. The creative use of film and small stages sets of scenes with animated figures on board the ship help to recreate the difficult environmment experienced by thousands, as they made the crossing to Haifa From the deck of the ship you can see the port of Haifa.
It was quite emotional to see and once again reminded me how fortunate I am to have been born in
a free country. A young woman guide, doing her 2 year national service, was our tour guide. There is great respect for their country's history and the efforts early pioneers who endured such hardship to start a new life and a new country.
As Jews attempted to enter Palestine during the Biritish Mandate period, their entrance into the country was restricted. Tens of thousands of detainees, many who have survived the camps, found them self in yet another camp, watiing to be released when the British opened up a certain number of spots on the quota system. Some where held in Haifa and other camps were set up in Cyprus (52,000) About 3000 Jews lost their lives in the struggle with the British.
Once the state of Israel was established in 1948, the camps served as waiting facilities to help new immigrants transition to life in Israel. At these centers, language lessons and job training were offered and Jewish social agencies worked with these new Israelis to find them housing and jobs.
After years of neglect, in 1986 the camp was restored as a national museum. Some of the original dormatory buildings and a recreated ship (similar to the Exodus) are on display. The creative use of film and small stages sets of scenes with animated figures on board the ship help to recreate the difficult environmment experienced by thousands, as they made the crossing to Haifa From the deck of the ship you can see the port of Haifa.
It was quite emotional to see and once again reminded me how fortunate I am to have been born in
a free country. A young woman guide, doing her 2 year national service, was our tour guide. There is great respect for their country's history and the efforts early pioneers who endured such hardship to start a new life and a new country.
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Day #9 and Haifa is beginning to feel a little familiar
Wednesday 1/28/15
Another excellent day with 8th and 12th graders. It is just a novelty for me to spend time with teenagers. These kids have captured my heart. Fortunately in one school, I have been assigned the advanced students, so communication is easy and they have so much to discuss! We are given assignments by the teachers, but they are usually flexible, so if the kids prefer to practice conversation and not stick to the lesson plan, that is ok.
Today, I spent an hour with 2 young men who are anticipating their military service within the year. They have already gone with classmates for a one week introduction experience and see their service as a time to learn new skills, gain maturity and contribute to their country. Not all will be in active military services. Some are sent to other settings (schools, hospitals etc...) depending on their abilities and the needs...... One young man mentioned that he has promised himself to read a book a week, so that when away in the military the " books in my head" will be with me.
Later today I met for coffee with my friend Dorene's colleague, Nir, who is the person who helped me arrange for transport from Tel Aviv to Hiafa. We had communicated by mail and phone and today finally met. So gracious to take the time from his busy schedule to meet with me.
Temperature is getting a bit cooler but still clear and sunny most of the time. Thinking about everyone on the East coast and hope that the temperature will soon rise and melt all that snow away!
Another excellent day with 8th and 12th graders. It is just a novelty for me to spend time with teenagers. These kids have captured my heart. Fortunately in one school, I have been assigned the advanced students, so communication is easy and they have so much to discuss! We are given assignments by the teachers, but they are usually flexible, so if the kids prefer to practice conversation and not stick to the lesson plan, that is ok.
Today, I spent an hour with 2 young men who are anticipating their military service within the year. They have already gone with classmates for a one week introduction experience and see their service as a time to learn new skills, gain maturity and contribute to their country. Not all will be in active military services. Some are sent to other settings (schools, hospitals etc...) depending on their abilities and the needs...... One young man mentioned that he has promised himself to read a book a week, so that when away in the military the " books in my head" will be with me.
Later today I met for coffee with my friend Dorene's colleague, Nir, who is the person who helped me arrange for transport from Tel Aviv to Hiafa. We had communicated by mail and phone and today finally met. So gracious to take the time from his busy schedule to meet with me.
Temperature is getting a bit cooler but still clear and sunny most of the time. Thinking about everyone on the East coast and hope that the temperature will soon rise and melt all that snow away!
Perhaps today was too busy?
Tuesday
1/26/15
In their enthusiasm to ensure we are not missing anything in Haifa, our leaders planned an afternoon tour of the Tecnion, an impressive 300 acre campus with fabulous educational programs on an undergrad and graduate level as well as a preadmission program to cultivate talented youth to qualify for admission after their military service. So after a full morning of tutoring in classrooms, a quick lunch and then extensive tour of the Technion, we had time for bowl of soup at hotel and then bus ride to concert hall on outskirts of city for an 8:30 performance. It was a lively concert so no one fell asleep... We are in agreement that tomorrow's pace should be more relaxed!
1/26/15
In their enthusiasm to ensure we are not missing anything in Haifa, our leaders planned an afternoon tour of the Tecnion, an impressive 300 acre campus with fabulous educational programs on an undergrad and graduate level as well as a preadmission program to cultivate talented youth to qualify for admission after their military service. So after a full morning of tutoring in classrooms, a quick lunch and then extensive tour of the Technion, we had time for bowl of soup at hotel and then bus ride to concert hall on outskirts of city for an 8:30 performance. It was a lively concert so no one fell asleep... We are in agreement that tomorrow's pace should be more relaxed!
Monday, January 26, 2015
Volunteer teaching 101
Monday Jan.26
I am reading worrisome blizzard predictions and thinking about everyone back home and along the east coast. Hoping you stay safe and warm and do not lose power.
Today was a remarkable day. Walked over to Chugin school, where the teachers Met us and accompanied us to our first classrooms. They had the four volunteers meet with the class in one large group for first session. About 32 kinds per class. After today we will work in smaller groups , 4-5 students with each volunteer. 3 of my classes were 10 th graders and one was a 7 th grade. Classes are 45 minutes. With 15 minute breaks in between. The kids had numerous question about life in America, our feeling about Israel's role in the world, inquiring if we felt safe in the US etc. the teachers are very positive and grateful for the time we are contributing. Wednesday's assignment in the 10th grade classes will be reading about and discussing Martin Luther King. Tomorrow I am at a different High School where the kids are researchin Greek Mythology.
after a quick lunch, I took a long walk down hill to an area called Hadar. (i went with a couple who has been on the trip 5 times, so their knowledge of the area and Hebrew was very helpful!) An immigrant neighborhood along the side if the mountain. Small shops and cafes. It is on cable car line, finicular, Which we took back up to hotel. 4 pm was our first Hebrew language class. Many of the participants are quite advanced, so she will separate us into 2 groups. I found it painful to feel so unprepared. Teacher will bring some more elementary teaching materials next time and we will see how Wednesday class goes...
This evening we had a fabulous speaker. He is principal of an elementary school for at risk kids. Very creative and high energy. The Boston Haifa connection contributes funds to support some special Ed programs there. No volunteers from our program are assigned there , yet, but we may go on a tour if our schedule allows.
I am reading worrisome blizzard predictions and thinking about everyone back home and along the east coast. Hoping you stay safe and warm and do not lose power.
Today was a remarkable day. Walked over to Chugin school, where the teachers Met us and accompanied us to our first classrooms. They had the four volunteers meet with the class in one large group for first session. About 32 kinds per class. After today we will work in smaller groups , 4-5 students with each volunteer. 3 of my classes were 10 th graders and one was a 7 th grade. Classes are 45 minutes. With 15 minute breaks in between. The kids had numerous question about life in America, our feeling about Israel's role in the world, inquiring if we felt safe in the US etc. the teachers are very positive and grateful for the time we are contributing. Wednesday's assignment in the 10th grade classes will be reading about and discussing Martin Luther King. Tomorrow I am at a different High School where the kids are researchin Greek Mythology.
after a quick lunch, I took a long walk down hill to an area called Hadar. (i went with a couple who has been on the trip 5 times, so their knowledge of the area and Hebrew was very helpful!) An immigrant neighborhood along the side if the mountain. Small shops and cafes. It is on cable car line, finicular, Which we took back up to hotel. 4 pm was our first Hebrew language class. Many of the participants are quite advanced, so she will separate us into 2 groups. I found it painful to feel so unprepared. Teacher will bring some more elementary teaching materials next time and we will see how Wednesday class goes...
This evening we had a fabulous speaker. He is principal of an elementary school for at risk kids. Very creative and high energy. The Boston Haifa connection contributes funds to support some special Ed programs there. No volunteers from our program are assigned there , yet, but we may go on a tour if our schedule allows.
Sunday, January 25, 2015
First Sunday in Haifa
1/25/15
Every day feels like Sunday. I am hoping once our teaching schedule begins tomorrow, some order will return to my week! Today we visited 3 schools and met with students and staff for a full day of orientation. Fortunately 2 of the schools are the ones I am assigned to, so I got. a good preview of the school and a general idea of how to walk there. Staff from the CJP Boston Haifa program accompanied us throughou the day and will go with us tomorrow to ensure we get to where we are supposed to be on time.
The first school, Chugim, is a public high school. We are working with sophomores. We had a very structured program. 15 volunteers in a circle. 15 students in a second circle around us. We faced each other, the leader offered a question for discussion and we had individual dialogues with our student for about 10 minutes, followed by some large group discussion. Then the students moved one seat to the right, another topic was introduced and another dialogue began. We repeated this with 5 students. Some were Native to Israel, others were immigrants. Their English is pretty good and they were enthusiastic participants. My favorite question was how did they get their name? Most of the Americans, followed the custom of being named after a deceased ancestor. Most of the Israelis had names with meaning representing a holiday or wish or feeling etc. there was a creativity to the way these children were named that reflected the creative energy of this young nation.
The next school was an elementary school. One of the first in modern Israel. Senior volunteers go have donated numerous artifacts from the agricultural beginning of this nation, and have created historic displays showing the life of the pioneers on the grounds and within the school bulding. Our guide was a retired teacher, who has worded for 15 years to create this display. We also saw a secret room, hidden behind bookshelves where arms were stored during the British mandate period when they fought for independence.
Finally the third school, Reali, was our longest visit. It is huge, several buildings and a petting zoo. It is a private elementary and middle school focusing on science. We will be working with the middle school age children. We met with the principal and teachers, were given folders with bane sap and ages of our students and assignments for week #1. This school utilizes project based learning and apse are expected to help students utilize computer as the research teir projects. Added to the challenge are the 70 concrete sets along side of the mountain we climb down to get to the school campus. Almost 1000 students at http this schoo!
This may be more info than you are inrpterms tend in, so I will sign off. The adventure continues...
Every day feels like Sunday. I am hoping once our teaching schedule begins tomorrow, some order will return to my week! Today we visited 3 schools and met with students and staff for a full day of orientation. Fortunately 2 of the schools are the ones I am assigned to, so I got. a good preview of the school and a general idea of how to walk there. Staff from the CJP Boston Haifa program accompanied us throughou the day and will go with us tomorrow to ensure we get to where we are supposed to be on time.
The first school, Chugim, is a public high school. We are working with sophomores. We had a very structured program. 15 volunteers in a circle. 15 students in a second circle around us. We faced each other, the leader offered a question for discussion and we had individual dialogues with our student for about 10 minutes, followed by some large group discussion. Then the students moved one seat to the right, another topic was introduced and another dialogue began. We repeated this with 5 students. Some were Native to Israel, others were immigrants. Their English is pretty good and they were enthusiastic participants. My favorite question was how did they get their name? Most of the Americans, followed the custom of being named after a deceased ancestor. Most of the Israelis had names with meaning representing a holiday or wish or feeling etc. there was a creativity to the way these children were named that reflected the creative energy of this young nation.
The next school was an elementary school. One of the first in modern Israel. Senior volunteers go have donated numerous artifacts from the agricultural beginning of this nation, and have created historic displays showing the life of the pioneers on the grounds and within the school bulding. Our guide was a retired teacher, who has worded for 15 years to create this display. We also saw a secret room, hidden behind bookshelves where arms were stored during the British mandate period when they fought for independence.
Finally the third school, Reali, was our longest visit. It is huge, several buildings and a petting zoo. It is a private elementary and middle school focusing on science. We will be working with the middle school age children. We met with the principal and teachers, were given folders with bane sap and ages of our students and assignments for week #1. This school utilizes project based learning and apse are expected to help students utilize computer as the research teir projects. Added to the challenge are the 70 concrete sets along side of the mountain we climb down to get to the school campus. Almost 1000 students at http this schoo!
This may be more info than you are inrpterms tend in, so I will sign off. The adventure continues...
Saturday, January 24, 2015
Shabbat in Haifa. Quiet day, most businesses closed
Sat. 1/24/15
The hotel is busy. Apparently because most Israelis have small apartments or homes and they want to celebrate Shabbat with extended family, they sometimes spend Friday night in a hotel, with family tables set up in the hotel dining room. No one has to worry about cooking and everyone enjoys being together. Additionally we learned that some of the larger employers give discounted hotel rates to their employees as a benefit. Tomorrow things will quiet down when they move out and we'll no longer have to wait so long for an elevator!
This morning several of us walked over to the Mane Katz art museum. Beautiful art collection in the artists former, home overlooking the harbor. Later we joined the entire group and had another walking tour up and down hills and stone stairways all the way down to the port, largest in the region, and thru the Arab sector ( where business are open) and we ate falafels and waked thru ancient streets and neighborhoods. All the food, including fresh fruits and veggies appear to be safe to eat..... I will need to do some leg stretches tonight as I am feeling all of the walking!
Tomorrow Sunday school and business reopen. Our orientation begins at 8:30 am. I believe we will visit both an elementary and High School for the training, which takes most of the day. We begin working with the kids on Monday!
Friday in Haifa
1/23/15
I think I am finally on the right time zone and sleep cycle. Today was a high energy day . We had a free day till the evening, so 2 travel companions and I headed to the top of Mt Carmel, overlooking the glorious grounds of the Baihai temple terraced gardens, shrines and related buildings. We joined a guided tour which involved climbing down 700 steps to make our way down to the bottom of the mountain with endless views of the landscape and sea. The weather was clear, mild and sunny which added to the beauty of the experience. i probably took a hundred photos of all the flowers, which I promise to edit before sharing with family and friends!
Tired and hungry we stopped at a cafe on Ben Guerion Street in the Gernan section of the city. Portions were so large, 3 of us shared one sandwich. A helpful waiter helped us to find a taxi back up the mount to our hotel.
Later we went with the whole group to a Friday eve shabbat service at a reform temple. The membershp seems to nostly be young families. Visitors were from Boston, London and N,Y.
After we went back to hotel to meet our host families and go to their homes for dinner. The final wonan traveler arrived about an hour before the dinner, and she is the other traveler assigned to this host fanily. Our hosts Moshe and Etti invited their children and grandchildren from Tel Aviv to join us, so it was a very lively evening, Etti is a good cook and made a marvelous chicken cauliflower dish. Am hoping to get the recipe to recreate it at home...
The days seem very full, I have 2 unread Jerusalem post newspapaers which I must read, as there is much to learn and several in the group appear to be very well informed...
good nite now.
I think I am finally on the right time zone and sleep cycle. Today was a high energy day . We had a free day till the evening, so 2 travel companions and I headed to the top of Mt Carmel, overlooking the glorious grounds of the Baihai temple terraced gardens, shrines and related buildings. We joined a guided tour which involved climbing down 700 steps to make our way down to the bottom of the mountain with endless views of the landscape and sea. The weather was clear, mild and sunny which added to the beauty of the experience. i probably took a hundred photos of all the flowers, which I promise to edit before sharing with family and friends!
Tired and hungry we stopped at a cafe on Ben Guerion Street in the Gernan section of the city. Portions were so large, 3 of us shared one sandwich. A helpful waiter helped us to find a taxi back up the mount to our hotel.
Later we went with the whole group to a Friday eve shabbat service at a reform temple. The membershp seems to nostly be young families. Visitors were from Boston, London and N,Y.
After we went back to hotel to meet our host families and go to their homes for dinner. The final wonan traveler arrived about an hour before the dinner, and she is the other traveler assigned to this host fanily. Our hosts Moshe and Etti invited their children and grandchildren from Tel Aviv to join us, so it was a very lively evening, Etti is a good cook and made a marvelous chicken cauliflower dish. Am hoping to get the recipe to recreate it at home...
The days seem very full, I have 2 unread Jerusalem post newspapaers which I must read, as there is much to learn and several in the group appear to be very well informed...
good nite now.
Thursday, January 22, 2015
The Zoo, Security Briefing and more
1/22/14
Today was a busy day. Begins with a glorious buffet breakfast of various cold salads , fruit, cheeses, breads and pastries, yogurts etc. I ate my first persimmon ..delicious.
We took a walking tour of the neighborhood. haifa is very green. .Lots of trees and plants, small shoppes, high rise hotels, small apartment buildings, and single family homes on narrow hilly streets. Reminds one of Southern California. Because of all the hills you often come upon an unobstructed view of the harbor, beach and open sea. Weather has been clear and sunny and in the high 60s during the day and cooler at night.
Took a walk thru the zoo, nicely landscaped but lots of steep hills to climb! Later, We gathered for a meeting at the hotel to review what to do if alam sounds. The bomb shelter is below the parking garage of our hotel. Apparently it can accommodate a few thousand people, is equipped with water and bathrooms. Everyone seems very matter of fact about staying calm and following procedures. If you are in your room when-you hear an alarm you are instructed to go to stairwell and make your way downstairs. Hopefully this is just an exercise in caution and life will remain peaceful.
this evening we walked to the home of one of the volunteer host families. All the volunteers and families met Each other and met the paid staff of Boston Haifa CJP office. Everyone is gracious and enthusiastic about the programs they sponsor, which include the school tutoring ESL program, as well as a mother child day program for immigrants and another educational program for the Ethiopian Jews.
my host family is Moshe and Etti. moshe teaches at Haifa University and will doing a sabbatical at Harvard in the Spring. Etti is a retired history teacher. They have two children and 4 grandchildren. His folks are holacaust survivors from Germany who settled in California. His dad had been a jeweler in Germany and worked as a dental technician in California. Moshe emigrated to Jerusalem in his 20s, where he met Etti at University. I will be joining them with their daughter and her family for Shabbat dinner tomorrow eve as well as most of the other Friday evenings. Good nite all!
Today was a busy day. Begins with a glorious buffet breakfast of various cold salads , fruit, cheeses, breads and pastries, yogurts etc. I ate my first persimmon ..delicious.
We took a walking tour of the neighborhood. haifa is very green. .Lots of trees and plants, small shoppes, high rise hotels, small apartment buildings, and single family homes on narrow hilly streets. Reminds one of Southern California. Because of all the hills you often come upon an unobstructed view of the harbor, beach and open sea. Weather has been clear and sunny and in the high 60s during the day and cooler at night.
Took a walk thru the zoo, nicely landscaped but lots of steep hills to climb! Later, We gathered for a meeting at the hotel to review what to do if alam sounds. The bomb shelter is below the parking garage of our hotel. Apparently it can accommodate a few thousand people, is equipped with water and bathrooms. Everyone seems very matter of fact about staying calm and following procedures. If you are in your room when-you hear an alarm you are instructed to go to stairwell and make your way downstairs. Hopefully this is just an exercise in caution and life will remain peaceful.
this evening we walked to the home of one of the volunteer host families. All the volunteers and families met Each other and met the paid staff of Boston Haifa CJP office. Everyone is gracious and enthusiastic about the programs they sponsor, which include the school tutoring ESL program, as well as a mother child day program for immigrants and another educational program for the Ethiopian Jews.
my host family is Moshe and Etti. moshe teaches at Haifa University and will doing a sabbatical at Harvard in the Spring. Etti is a retired history teacher. They have two children and 4 grandchildren. His folks are holacaust survivors from Germany who settled in California. His dad had been a jeweler in Germany and worked as a dental technician in California. Moshe emigrated to Jerusalem in his 20s, where he met Etti at University. I will be joining them with their daughter and her family for Shabbat dinner tomorrow eve as well as most of the other Friday evenings. Good nite all!
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
shalom from Haifa
1/21/2015
. Monday's flight to Istanbul left Boston and arrived on time. It was 9 hour flight, filled with all nationalities and ages. after a 2 hr layover in Istanbul, épée headed to Tel Aviv. My first flight I sat next to a lovely Turkish you woman, just completed graduate work at Columbia and go home for a 3 month visit to see her husband before returning to the states to job hunt! She is working on immigration issues to bring her husband to USA. Good conversation and watching a movie helped to pass the time on an arduous flight.
Note, the Istanbul airport has you land far from the terminal and carry your bags down the steps, board a bus and the up steps to get to the terminal. When you connect to the next flight it more walking and steps and yet another bus and more stops up to the plane. That explains why they post boarding time One hour before departure!
Arriving at Ben Guerion airport I marveled at how modern and beautiful the facilities are. Quire different from my earlier trips to israel . International arrivals is a huge hall with a recreation of the wailing wall, Jerusalem stone, leading you to immigration and customs. All very efficient , the lines were manageable and moved quickly, which might be an indication as to how fewer tourists are visiting now...
Driver Jacob, met me at arrivals. I was so glad for that, as I was worried about finding etc. it speaks about 90 minute drive to Haifa. Since it was dark I did not see much, though a good part of the ride was along the Meditteranean sea. Hotel is high on Mt Carmel. My view is of the, with many parks and the zoo and the sea within sight!
I met my fellow travelers in the dining room for beautiful israeli breakfast. Lots of fruit, veggies, cheese, pastries, breads etc. And another gorgeous view!
We took a walk to find the nearby bank, food market and other conveniences . Mid day one of the Israeli host families joined us and took us to the beach for a long walk and late lunch in outdoor cafe. They are most gracious, articulate and eager to welcome us.
Weather us sunny, temp high 60s and warmer in the sun! Apparently the recently had many days of rain so we were all grateful for the good weather.
I know my school assignments. 2 days a week with HS students and 2 days with elementary students. One of the volunteers assigned with me is stlill in the states. Apparently her passport expires soon and they would not let her board the flight, so she is in Boston working on getting an emergency passport. We hope to see her by the weekend!
. Monday's flight to Istanbul left Boston and arrived on time. It was 9 hour flight, filled with all nationalities and ages. after a 2 hr layover in Istanbul, épée headed to Tel Aviv. My first flight I sat next to a lovely Turkish you woman, just completed graduate work at Columbia and go home for a 3 month visit to see her husband before returning to the states to job hunt! She is working on immigration issues to bring her husband to USA. Good conversation and watching a movie helped to pass the time on an arduous flight.
Note, the Istanbul airport has you land far from the terminal and carry your bags down the steps, board a bus and the up steps to get to the terminal. When you connect to the next flight it more walking and steps and yet another bus and more stops up to the plane. That explains why they post boarding time One hour before departure!
Arriving at Ben Guerion airport I marveled at how modern and beautiful the facilities are. Quire different from my earlier trips to israel . International arrivals is a huge hall with a recreation of the wailing wall, Jerusalem stone, leading you to immigration and customs. All very efficient , the lines were manageable and moved quickly, which might be an indication as to how fewer tourists are visiting now...
Driver Jacob, met me at arrivals. I was so glad for that, as I was worried about finding etc. it speaks about 90 minute drive to Haifa. Since it was dark I did not see much, though a good part of the ride was along the Meditteranean sea. Hotel is high on Mt Carmel. My view is of the, with many parks and the zoo and the sea within sight!
I met my fellow travelers in the dining room for beautiful israeli breakfast. Lots of fruit, veggies, cheese, pastries, breads etc. And another gorgeous view!
We took a walk to find the nearby bank, food market and other conveniences . Mid day one of the Israeli host families joined us and took us to the beach for a long walk and late lunch in outdoor cafe. They are most gracious, articulate and eager to welcome us.
Weather us sunny, temp high 60s and warmer in the sun! Apparently the recently had many days of rain so we were all grateful for the good weather.
I know my school assignments. 2 days a week with HS students and 2 days with elementary students. One of the volunteers assigned with me is stlill in the states. Apparently her passport expires soon and they would not let her board the flight, so she is in Boston working on getting an emergency passport. We hope to see her by the weekend!
Sunday, January 4, 2015
15 days till departure!
On Dec 14th I had the chance to meet with my fellow travelers. There are 15 in the group. Half have participated in previous years. One couple has gone 4 times and another 6. They are most enthusiastic about the experience ! They spoke about their tutoring role with the kids and their friendships with their host families (for Shabbat dinners and other occassions). We saw thank you letters written by the children and also skyped with the host family who organizes some of the activities. Our leaders Carol and Steve have run the program for 9 years and have boundless enthusiasm and energy, We discussed some of the possible desitnations for our afternoon activities. It is a challenge to find things that will appeal to the returning travelers along with the new participants. I have confidence they will figure this out.
Everyone seems quite friendly and welcoming. None have travel schedules that coincide with mine, so traveling to and from Haifa I am on my own. Leaving Monday Eve Jan 19 and returning to USA Wed eve Feb 18. Will be on Turkish Air, connecting in Istanbul. Landing in Tel Aviv, I will find my way to Haifa with a sherut (shared taxi). Once I get to Haifa and connect with the group I will be very relieved!!! I don't think I can enter links or photos on this blog, but for those interested I will be at the Dan Panorama Hotel on Mt Carmel in Haifa. Apparently a great view, but a lot of hills to climb when walking in the neighborhood...
I promished myself to spend some time today organizing my list and packing, so that is the next activity. Trying to remind myself to pack light. So no more procrastinating... off to pack.
Everyone seems quite friendly and welcoming. None have travel schedules that coincide with mine, so traveling to and from Haifa I am on my own. Leaving Monday Eve Jan 19 and returning to USA Wed eve Feb 18. Will be on Turkish Air, connecting in Istanbul. Landing in Tel Aviv, I will find my way to Haifa with a sherut (shared taxi). Once I get to Haifa and connect with the group I will be very relieved!!! I don't think I can enter links or photos on this blog, but for those interested I will be at the Dan Panorama Hotel on Mt Carmel in Haifa. Apparently a great view, but a lot of hills to climb when walking in the neighborhood...
I promished myself to spend some time today organizing my list and packing, so that is the next activity. Trying to remind myself to pack light. So no more procrastinating... off to pack.
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