New Cities from Old: Jewish Culture Redefined in a Changed Reality

First, apologies to those who cannot send a comment. If you contact Franceen at fdonnellan@paloaltojcc.org , she can probably help you. Today's theme took in much of Tel Aviv. This was almost the exact itinerary as the last time I was in Tel Aviv on a JCCA study trip. At first I was disappointed, but the truth is I was needing a day to rest, so I napped on the bus each time we were there and just let the experience wash over me. We went to the mosaic at Shalom Tower and then to Independence Hall. It was nice to be in both places, but you'll have to re-read my emails from last trip to get a sense of what was there. We did read some of Bialik's poems while sitting on steps overlooking his home. The house is being renovated, so were could not go in. I usually like to people watch when I am in Tel Aviv as then I know what fashions will be coming to US in next year or two. This year I was surprised to see that everyone looked just like us. Flat/ballet shoes, loc rise pants, big dangly earrings, and short jackets are still in. So you don't need to buy new clothes - but new accessories never hurt :-). I did buy a pair of incredibly dangly Ayala Bar earrings - Marty will definitely refer to them as "accessory abuse." We had a fabulous dinner in the Yemenite quarter of Tel Aviv. I've not been there before and it was interesting to see yet another part of the city. It is hot here - even for Israeli standards, but they claim the heat wave will break in time for Shabbat. I will try to write again soon, but I'm not sure if business center will be open on Shabbat and then on Sunday we go up North for two days. We will be staying in small guest house, so I am not sure I will be able to access internet. I will try, but you may not hear from me until next Thursday. Please do keep checking in. Shabbat Shalom to you all from Jerusalem, Randi