Dear Parents,

I can’t believe TJJ is almost over…The last couple of days have flown by!
Sunday was Tisha B’av and we took the kids back to Mt. Herzl at the end of the day to hear some more stories about our heroes and the price we have paid throughout the millenia for Israel and our people. It was very moving to watch the kids spend some time walking through the graves with tears in their eyes.
Monday saw us visit the ancient city of Shiloh, the site of the tabernacle in the times of Samuel. They got to see some artifacts that are dated to over 3200 years ago! Our day continued with a visit to the Psagot winery where we learned about the process of making wine and also the historical significance of the area. Our day and did with an epic concert and light show with fireworks at Yom NCSY.

In less than an hour we will be heading to the Old City of Jerusalem one last time and from there we will be departing to the airport. It has been a true honor and privilege to have been a part of this journey with your children. I was inspired by their connection that they made to their Jewish heritage and the land of Israel. I hope that they will cherish these memories for the rest of their lives.

I also know that these emails are sent to the parents of our beloved advisors so I want to take this opportunity to thank them publicly for their incredible selflessness and devotion the summer. Without them, this trip would have been very boring and unengaging. It didn’t matter whether it was getting up for a hike at 3 a.m. or going to bed at 2 a.m. after staff meeting, they were always there to make sure the kids are having as much fun as possible and growing throughout this trip in their Judaism. I honestly could not have asked for a better team this year!!

May we all merit to be in Jerusalem next year…am Yisrael Chai!!

Have a great summer!!

Avi

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