Mikvah Yisrael – Embassy Speaker – Feb. 7

After community service and lunch we headed to a place about 15 minutes outside Tel Aviv – to Israel’s first agriculture school, Mikvah Yisrael from 1870. The school is still in existence today as vocational agriculture school. This historic site is on the list of heritage sites of the Society for the Preservation of Israel Heritage Sites which is supported by JNF of America. One of the highlights was the lovely synagogue built in a French style. In the time preceding the establishment of the State this place served as the training center for the Hagana and was the place where many weapons, including the Davidka were discovered – a bit of Israel’s history ‘off the beaten’ path.

Following the tour, we met with the US Embassy’s Political Counselor who spoke about the relationship between the USA and Israel and the ongoing issues. She reaffirmed the visit of President Obama in March and perhaps the upcoming visit by the new Secretary of State, John Kerry.

The Canadian American Active Retirees in Israel, CAARI, offers active seniors a unique opportunity to experience Israel. The program is designed to explore the biblical landscapes, follow the footsteps of the early pioneers, and envision the future of our Homeland. The CAARI Program includes community service, tours, a speakers forum and the camaraderie of the CAARI Family. The Program is designed for to feel, touch, hear and see Israel from the mountains to the desert, from sea to sea, and from ancient to modern.

Links: Jewish National Fund USA : https://www.jnf.org/