Bus # 14

BILZIN/BUSSEL

Miami Staff: SimonKaminetsky

Tour Guide:David Hyman

Please note that the itinerary is subject to change based on timing, weather and security considerations.

Monday, April 23, 2012

10:00 amEl Al charter flight arrives in Israel at NevatimAir Force Base.

Celebrate your arrival in Israel with soldiers from the IDF base in a moving ceremony. Hear from the Commander in Chief of the Israeli Air Force and/or another high-level speaker. Watch an impressive aerial demonstration.

1:30 pm Arrive at Yad LaShiryon, the Armored Corps memorial site and museum at Latrun, initially funded by Miami’s Arison Family. Each stone tells a story of the sacrifice and heroism of the fighters who fellin their prime during Israel’s War of Independence, allowing future generations to learn about the values of sharing and brotherhood, resourcefulness and immortality.We will be welcomed by a high-ranking official.

Enjoy apicnic lunch, followed by tree plantingin the Miami Forest.Established in 2010, the forest symbolizes the connectionbetween our community and its historical roots in this land.

4:30 pmCheck-in to hotels

6:30 pmDepart hotels for Safra Square via shuttle bus or on foot

7:00 pmArrive at Safra Square. The Mayor of Jerusalem, The Honorable Nir Barkat, and Ofer Bavly, former Consul General of Israel to Florida and Puerto Rico,will welcome us.

MEGA EVENT ONE: March in a special parade with live music and dancing down Jaffa Street to theJaffa Gate. Enjoy a spectacular surprise performance and delicious buffet-style dinner of Israeli delicacies and wines.

10:00 pmWalk to the Kotel (Western Wall) with Mission guides and take a moment for

(Optional)private reflection as we begin our journey in Israel.

Tour the Western Wall Tunnels – Head beneath the OldCity’s maze of buildings for a different perspective on the history of Jerusalem. The excavated tunnel is one of the city’s most phenomenal sites.

Overnight: The David Citadel Hotel, Jerusalem

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

6:30 amBreakfast service begins at your hotel

7:30 amBreakfast session: Israel update with Aluf Ben, Editor-in-chiefHa’aretz newspaper.

Morning-Afternoon: In the Footsteps of Lovers of Jerusalem

9:20 amMunicipality of Jerusalem and American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) Hands-On Project: As part of the ongoing friendship between the Municipality of Jerusalem, the Greater Miami Jewish Federation and our overseas partner, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), we will embark on a hands-on project in various city neighborhoods. Our work will create a true contribution to the welfare of Jerusalem’s residents. Each worksite has been selected by the municipality and Mayor Nir Barkat in cooperation with the Mishol and Better Together programs of the JDC, who will join us at the locations.JDC receives an annual allocation from the Greater Miami Jewish Federation/UJA Campaign.

11:00 amVisit the Hurva Synagoguewhich was originally built in the 1860s on a site where smaller synagogues had been erected and destroyed over the centuries. The Hurva (or by its full name, the Beit Ya’akov Synagogue in the Courtyard of the Ruin of Rabbi Yehuda Hassid) became the most magnificent and important synagogue and the center of life in the Jewish Quarter. Two days after the Jewish Quarter fell in May 1948 the Jordanians turned the synagogue into a pile of rubble for the second time in its history. A commemorative arch was erected at the site in 1977. It was later restored to its former glory and the newly rebuilt Hurva Synagogue was dedicated in 2010.

12:00 pmView the collection at One Last Day Museum, which features a photo exhibition by a British war photographer and reporter who accompanied the Jordanian Arab Legion on May 28, 1948, the last day before the Jewish Quarter surrendered during the War of Independence.

12:50 pmLunch in the Old City

2:20 pmVisitIr David, the Jebusite citadel captured by King David to build his capital city. Ir David was well-fortified with its own water source. Since it never belonged to any of the Israelite tribes, its selection by King David was unlikely to provoke jealousy. We will tour the archaeological excavationand walk in the footsteps of the architects and builders of the city and the many pilgrims that made their way to the Temple Mount 2,000 years ago. This visit also includes a walk through Hezekiah’s Tunnel.

4:00 pmDepart the Old City and head to Haas Promenade. See Jerusalem spread out before you with the Old City and the Temple Mount at the center. From the Haas Promenade, you can see the entire city in a magnificent panoramic view from east to west, from the Mount of Olives to the new city buildings.

6:00 pmJoin IDF soldiers in a moving ceremony for Yom Ha’Zikaron, memorializing Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of terror. Eat dinner with soldiers and gain a personal understanding of what this day means to them.

Be part of the Opening Ceremony for Yom Ha’Zikaron. Pay your respects by joining all of Israel as the country comes to a standstill at the sound of the one-minute siren at 8:00 pm.

Optional:National Evening of Song at the Knessetin memory of fallen soldiers

Overnight: The David Citadel Hotel, Jerusalem

Wednesday, April 25, 2012

6:30 amBreakfast service begins at your hotel

8:00 amVisit Yad Vashem, the Jewish people’s living memorial to the Holocaust. YadVashemsafeguards the memory of the past and imparts its meaning for future generations. Established in 1953 as the world center for documentation, research, education and commemoration of the Holocaust, Yad Vashemis a dynamic and vital place of intergenerational and international encounter. Various tours, accommodating both first-time and returning visitors as well as a tour for Poland Pre-Mission participants, will be offered.

10:15 amThe visit to Yad Vashem ends with a ceremony overlooking Jerusalem, commemorating the loss of six million Jews during the Holocaust and honoring Israel’s fallen soldiers. The ceremony will close with two minutes of silence, when Israel’s national mourning siren sounds. Throughout the country, bereaved families come together at military cemeteries and remember their loved ones. As the siren is heard, cars stop, life comes to a standstill and every citizen bows his or her head in honor, grief and remembrance.

12:15 pmLunch at Gavna, Gush Eztion with Dan Diker, Secretary General, World Jewish Congress

4:00 pmExplore the newly renovated Israel Museum with Museum Director James Snyder and the museum’s docent.

5:00 pmMEGA EVENT TWO: From Mourning to Celebration – Between Yom Ha’Zikaron and Yom Ha’Atzmaut – A spectacular evening on the grounds of the Israel Museum celebrating Israel’s 64th year of independence

The Israel Museum is the largest cultural institution in Israel and is ranked among the world’s leading art and archaeology museums. Founded in 1965, the museum houses encyclopedic collections, including works dating from prehistory to the present day. Its Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Jewish Art and Life wings feature the most extensive holdings of Biblical and Holy Land archaeology in the world. The Shrine of the Book and various galleries will open for a private tour with museum guides just for Mega Mission participants.

Enjoy food and wine at the Billy Rose Sculpture Garden at the Israel Museum. Hear from Natan Sharansky, Chairman of the Jewish Agency for Israel, a Federation overseas partner. Sharansky is also one of the most well-known former Soviet refuseniks; he spent 13 years in prison awaiting an exit visa to Israel. Participate in a meaningful ceremony around the Second Temple Model, depicting Jerusalem during the Second Temple period, reconstructing the topography and architectural character of the city as it was before its destruction by the Romans in 70 CE. Sing along to “Yerushalayim Shel Zahav” with legendary Israeli singer Shuly Nathan, who made this song world-famous.

Watch the magnificent fireworksdisplay overMount Herzl, proclaiming the commencement ofYom Ha’Atzmaut. Take your goodie bag with silly string and a bopper into the city streets and join the people of Jerusalem as they dance, cheer and celebrate Yom Ha’Atzmaut!

Overnight: The David Citadel Hotel, Jerusalem

Thursday, April 26, 2012

6:30 amBreakfast service begins at your hotel

7:00 amBreakfast session

Depart your hotel for Negev Adventure – Pioneers in the Negev

The Negev Desert, in Israel’s southern region, represents 60% of Israel’s land, and only 8% of its population. David Ben-Gurion, Israel’s first prime minister, had a vision for the Negev, which has become a reality. See the Negev’s breathtaking desert landscape, diverse ethnic communities, innovative agriculture and historic sites. Strengthening the Negev is vital to Israel’s security and future economic growth. Get a firsthand glimpse at how the Greater Miami Jewish Federation is playing a major role in this effort. One key area is our partnership with Yerucham — now in its fifth year — which focuses on building meaningful relationships between the two communities and is part of the Jewish Agency for Israel Partnership 2Gether Program.

10:30 amVisit Ben-Gurion’s Cabin in Sde Bokerfor firsthand insight into Prime Minister David and Paula Ben-Gurion’s private residence. Left just as it was the day he died, the cabin gives us a glimpse at the man and leader he was. An additional exhibit depicts Ben-Gurion’s love for the Negev.

Enjoy a wine tasting at one of the Negev’s boutique wineries and learn why Israeli wines are winning international awards.

12:00 pmVisit TZVI, the Hebrew acronym for Young People of Yerucham, a gathering place for young adults that supports and creates cultural, community and social programs.

1:30 pmMeet for lunch on Yerucham’s central lawn for a Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebration with residents. Enjoy traditional food and music by local bands performing on the central stage showcasing Yerucham’s diverse population.Watch a dance performance by the Yerucham Youth Dance Troupe with the Rikudim DanceTroupe of the Michael Ann Russell JCC, who are in Israelespecially for this event. After, visit exhibition tents presenting life in Yerucham and meet Yerucham community members.

4:00 pmYom Ha’Atzmaut at Masada

Atop a lone rock cliff at the western end of the Judean Desert lies Masada, combining natural beauty and deep meaning. We will ascend and tour King Herod’s private fortress thatbecame a base for a small band of Jewish zealots in revolt against the Romans following the destruction of the Temple in 70 CE. Although the rebels fought bravely, they were eventually overcome by a Roman siege, and according to the historian Josephus, chose mass suicide over surrender. Masada has come to symbolize the fierce determination of the people of Israel, but its tragic history raises questions about the price of freedom. Reach the mountain peak by cable-car or climb by foot to viewthedramatic desert backdrop amidst beautiful twilight colors.

Tour Masada with your guide and participate in an optional group B’nai Mitzvah Ceremony at the ancient synagogue.Participants come together at Masada with our Miami rabbis to offer a prayer for the security and welfare of the State of Israel in a meaningful ceremony. As we raise our voices in song, we will lift our eyes to the sky for a beautiful surprise!

Masada will be illuminated for abeautifultorchlightdescentby footdown the Roman Ramp on a candle-lit path to our next event.

MEGA EVENT THREE: As night falls, and with the spectacle of Masada glowing with lights, feast on dinner in the desert under the stars. Experience an extraordinary musical performance by dynamic Israeli singer Einat Sarouf that will get you dancing and singing into the night.

Overnight: The David Citadel Hotel, Jerusalem

Friday, April 27, 2012

6:30 amBreakfast service begins at your hotel

7:45 amDepart the hotel and board your pre-selected Options Day bus

Follow your path of special interest:

  • First Time Visitors
  • Art and Culture
  • In-Depth Art
  • Explore Tel Aviv
  • A Taste of Israel – The Food and Wine Trail
  • “Start-Up Nation” – High-Tech
  • Archaeology and History
  • Extreme Adventure
  • Medical
  • Legal
  • Thousands of Years of Jewish History in Hebron and Gush Etzion
  • Mind, Body and Spirit (Spa services available at an additional cost.)
  • Ein Gedi and the Dead Sea (Spa services available at an additional cost.)

Return to Jerusalem to prepare for Shabbat

5:15 pmKabbalat Shabbat – Enjoy a festive Kabbalat Shabbat ceremony in the Old City at the
Davidson Center. Join together in song and welcome Shabbat with hundreds of friends and family from Miami.

Walk to the Kotel and join the diverse Jewish communities praying at this holy site, each welcoming Shabbat in its own fashion or participate in services by bus near the southern Wall.

8:00 pmShare in festive Shabbat dinners at various hotelsled by Miami rabbis and cantors with lone soldiers (those who have no family in Israel) and students from Miami participating in Federation-supported programs including MASA and Nativ. An Oneg Shabbat will follow the dinners.

Overnight: The David Citadel Hotel, Jerusalem

Saturday, April 28, 2012

7:30-10:00 amBreakfast at your hotel

8:00-10:00 amWalk to the different synagogues and minyanim with your rabbi and join Shabbat services

8:00 amBus tour to Ein Gedi and the Dead Seadeparts for those with pre-confirmed reservations.

11:00 amWalking tour of Jerusalemdeparting from The David Citadel. Please register at the Hostess Desk at your hotel.

11:30 amText study – Enhance your Jewish learning at The David Citadel or the Inbal.

12:00 pmWalking tour of Jerusalem departingfrom The David Citadel.

1:00 pmTraditional Shabbat lunch at The David Citadel (Additional cost; reservation

required.)

2:00 pmWalking tour of Jerusalem departingfrom The David Citadel

2:30 pmBus tour and hike in the Judean Hillsfor those with pre-confirmed reservations.

3:00 pmWalking tour of Jerusalem departing from The David Citadel

OR
Text study – Enhance your Jewish learning at The David Citadel

Lunch and dinner on your own: Our hostesses can provide recommendations and make your reservations.

8:00 pmTake part in From Kodesh to Chol – HavdallahCeremony poolside at The David Citadel hosted by The Network, Federation’s under-40 division.

Enjoy the spectacular Sound and Light Show at the Tower of David. The walls of the Tower of David serve as a stage for a nighttime celebration of sights and sounds. Amidst the archaeological remains in the courtyard and to the sound of original music, the story of Jerusalem unfolds through giant, breathtaking, virtual-reality images. (Additional cost; reservation required.)

Tour the Western Wall Tunnels. Headbeneath the OldCity’s maze of buildings for a different perspective on the history of Jerusalem. The excavated tunnel is one of the city’s most phenomenal sites. (Reservation required.)

Overnight: The David Citadel Hotel, Jerusalem

Sunday, April 29, 2012

6:30 amBreakfast service begins at your hotel

9:30 amHear an exclusive briefing by Israeli President Shimon Peresin a special gathering for Miami Mega Mission Israel 2012 at Binyanei Ha’Uma.

Depart Jerusalem and drive north. Make several stops along the way following your bus track and special theme:The Jezreel Valley

12:15 pmVisit Beit Issie Shapiro, a multi-purpose organization that develops and provides servicesfor children and adults with developmental disabilities. It has played a leading role in promoting the inclusion of people with special needs in society and is a vigilant advocate for better legal provisions for this population. Founded in 1980, it has a measurable impact on some 30,000 people annually. Through its international affiliations, community education and training programs the organization reaches professionals in countries worldwide. Beit Issie receives an annual allocation from the Greater Miami Jewish Federation/UJA Campaign.

Lunch inBeit Issie Shapiro

3:30 pmDrive All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) through the Jezreel Valley, home to some of the most fertile farmland in Israel and wonderful vistas. The valley is named for the biblical city of Yizre’el that flourished under the reign of King Omri and was ultimately destroyed by the Assyrians in 732 BCE. It is also the site of the great battle between Saul and the Philistines. By the 1920,s there were already six Jewish settlements in the valley working to dry out its swamp lands.End your tour with a wine tasting.

6:00 pmMEGA EVENT FOUR: Time Stands Still – A Magical Evening at the Extraordinary Beit She’an Archaeological Park

An ancient city comes alive with a street fair featuring performers, bustling shops,artists and craftsmen from the Golan, Galilee and Pardes Channa-Karkur for your shopping delight. Savor an array of unique food,including traditional and contemporary fare, meats, pastries and sweets, as well as wine, as you journey throughtime to an era of magnificent flavors complete with street performers. Enjoy a magical, musical evening with the illustrious Broadway entertainer
Dudu Fisher, who will perform in Beit She’an’s 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheater.