Tuesday…A SUNNY DAY! Finally!
We began our day with a trip to what we thought was the oldest house in Tel Aviv. We soon found out that the home Kobi took us to was actually the home of our beloved soldier, Nitzan!! We were welcomed into her home (which was in a small town, not in Tel Aviv) where her parents arranged a small party for us. They were so warm and friendly and explained to us the history and importance of their village. Also, it should be noted that they had an extremely fluffy puppy named Leelu. :-)
Next, we got on the bus to head to the real Tel Aviv. After a nice nap, we arrived to Rabin Square right in front of city hall. We all got together to learn about the history of Tel Aviv, and the assassination of the Prime Minister Yitzhach Rabin. Then, we had an arranged activity where we were divided into groups and had a list of questions to ask Israeli people in the square. When we presented our findings, we soon learned that many people have many different opinions and stories about Israel. We also learned that Israelis are very welcoming and eager to share with people. Also, Kobi ran a chocolate milk drinking contest. The milk came in a plastic bag which you had to open with your teeth, drink the milk, blow up the bag, and then pop it by stepping on it. Emily came out the winner in a race competing against Nate and Jasmine.
Then we headed to the apt. of a Rutgers University Alumna, Nina. She very kindly opened her roof for us to have a small party to celebrate Rabbi Reed’s Birthday and to welcome us to Israel. We then had some free time for shopping and food.
Next, we left and headed to Jaffa where we saw a beautiful lookout of Tel Aviv and the ocean. There, Kobi told us more stories of Tel Aviv and the importance of it to the beginning of Israel. After this, we got right back on the bus for a long drive back to Jerusalem.
After checking into the hotel and eating some dinner we gathered for a meeting to listen to a number of speakers. First, we heard from a representative from an organization that provides students with financial aid for opportunities to attend a post-college long term program in Israel. The next speakers were a bit more unique. They presented a clothing line of T-shirts which each carry a story significant to Israel and its people. These shirts are not only stylish but represent and support a number of causes. Our friends bought a few!
Then, to end the night, we had a serious talk about tomorrow’s visit to Yad Vashem, Israel's Holocaust Memorial. Members of the group shared their personal stories about their family history in the holocaust. The group showed support for each other and we are confident that our group will be extremely supportive tomorrow.
Till then,
--Alyssa Greengrass RU '13 and Emily Stanton RU '13.
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