Bus # 16
Lefton/Podhurst/Schwartz
Miami Staff: Marc Fishman
Tour Guide: George Horesh
Please note that the itinerary is subject to change based on timing, weather and
security considerations.
Monday, April 23, 2012
10:00 am
El Al charter flight arrives in Israel at Nevatim Air 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 fell in 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 a picnic lunch, followed by tree planting in the Miami Forest. Established in 2010, the
forest symbolizes the connection between our community and its historical roots in this land.
4:30 pm
Check-in to hotels
6:30 pm
Depart hotels for Safra Square via shuttle bus or on foot
7:00 pm
Arrive 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
the Jaffa Gate. Enjoy a spectacular surprise performance and delicious buffet-style dinner of
Israeli delicacies and wines.
10:00 pm
(Optional)
Walk to the Kotel (Western Wall) with Mission guides and take a moment for
private reflection as we begin our journey in Israel.
Tour the Western Wall Tunnels – Head beneath the Old City’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 am
Breakfast service begins at your hotel
7:30 am
Breakfast session: Israel update with Aluf Ben, Editor-in-chief Ha’aretz newspaper
Morning-Afternoon: From the Tanach to Modern Times in Jerusalem
9:20 am
Ir David, the Jebusite citadel captured by King David to build his capital city, 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 excavation and walk
through the newly unearthed tunnels from the Second Temple period leading from the City of
David to the Western Wall and the Temple Mount. We will be walking 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.
11:40 am
Spend time at the Kotel (Western Wall), laying your hands on one of Judaism’s holiest sites and
connecting to 5,000 years of Jewish struggles and joys.
12:20 pm
Proceed to the Cardo, the excavated remains of the main thoroughfare of Roman Jerusalem.
Today, the Cardo has returned to its former use as the Jewish Quarter’s shopping avenue. In
ancient times, it was a hub of economic life.
12:40 pm
Lunch in the Old City
2:15 pm
Municipality 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.
4:00 pm
Visit the Menachem Begin Heritage Center, a living memorial and national tribute to this Nobel
laureate, courageous fighter, fearless leader and former prime minister of Israel who worked for
the freedom, future and security of the Jewish people in their own land.
6:00 pm
Join 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 Knesset in memory of fallen soldiers
Overnight:
The David Citadel Hotel, Jerusalem
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
6:30 am
Breakfast service begins at your hotel
8:00 am
Visit Yad Vashem, the Jewish people’s living memorial to the Holocaust. Yad
Vashem safeguards 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 Vashem is 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 am
The 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.
In the Footsteps of Israel’s Independence Fighters
12:15 pm
Hear the heroic story of Gush Etzion’s Jewish settlers from the early 1920s, and the battles that
took place during 1948. Known as the southern gateway to Jerusalem, this strategic area
comprises the block of communities that defended Jerusalem against the invading armies from
the south in the War of Independence. Lay a wreath at ‘The Oak Tree’ the enduring symbol
of Gush Etzion, representing the yearning to return to this area rich with Jewish history.
1:00 pm
Lunch and briefing at Gavna, Kfar Etzion with Dan Diker, Secretary General, World Jewish
Congress
4:00 pm
5:00 pm
Explore the newly renovated Israel Museum with Museum Director James Snyder and
museum docents.
MEGA 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 fireworks display over Mount Herzl, proclaiming the commencement
of Yom 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 am
Breakfast service begins at your hotel
7:00 am
Breakfast 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 am
Visit the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) Ayalim Village at Ma’ale Shavit in the heart of the
Negev. Ma’ale Shavit is home to 20 students who are working to create a new community
dedicated to the late Yitzhak Shavit, who was Senior Vice President of Communal Advancement
at the Jewish Federations of North America. Known by all as Itzik, Shavit was a great supporter of
Ayalim and a close friend to many at the Greater Miami Jewish Federation. JAFI Ayalim receives
an annual allocation from the Greater Miami Jewish Federation/UJA Campaign.
12:00 pm
Travel to Beit Galeria (the Gallery House) at Moshav Ashalim, a community village in
the Ramat Negev region. See the sculpture garden of Margalit Kitay Wizman, whose clay
sculptures represent complex themes from the Bible, the desert, good and evil and love.
1:15 pm
Enjoy a wine tasting and lunch at Carmey Avdat and meet founders Hannah and Eyal Izrael,
who established this farm on the wine route in the Negev near Sde Boker.
4:00 pm
Yom 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 that became 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 view the dramatic 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 a beautiful torchlight descent by foot down 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 am
Breakfast service begins at your hotel
7:45 am
Depart the hotel and board your pre-selected Options Day bus
Follow your path of special interest:
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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 pm
Kabbalat 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 pm
Share in festive Shabbat dinners at various hotels led by Miami rabbis and cantors with lone
soldiers (those who have no family in Israel) and students from Miami participating in Federationsupported 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 am Breakfast at your hotel
8:00-10:00 am Walk to the different synagogues and minyanim with your rabbi and join Shabbat services
8:00 am
Bus tour to Ein Gedi and the Dead Sea departs for those with pre-confirmed reservations.
11:00 am
Walking tour of Jerusalem departing from The David Citadel. Please register at the Hostess
Desk at your hotel.
11:30 am
Text study – Enhance your Jewish learning at The David Citadel or the Inbal.
12:00 pm
Walking tour of Jerusalem departing from The David Citadel.
1:00 pm
Traditional Shabbat lunch at The David Citadel (Additional cost; reservation
required.)
2:00 pm
Walking tour of Jerusalem departing from The David Citadel
2:30 pm
Bus tour and hike in the Judean Hills for those with pre-confirmed reservations.
3:00 pm
Walking 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 pm
Take part in From Kodesh to Chol – Havdallah Ceremony 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. Head beneath the Old City’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 am
Breakfast service begins at your hotel
9:30 am
Hear an exclusive briefing by Israeli President Shimon Peres in 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 of Geopolitics accompanied by our scholar-for-the-day Col. (Res.) Dany Tirza.
Col. Tirza is in charge of planning the security fence between the West Bank and Israel. He
specializes in the geography of Judea and Samaria, the Jordan Valley, and Jerusalem and has
taken part in formulating Israel's security positions in negotiations with the Palestinians.
12:15 pm
Drive to Katzir Scenic Lookout where this Jewish community in the heart of an Israeli-Arab
population will open a window to understanding the diversity of Israeli society. On the border of
the Green Line, this observation point overlooks Wadi Ara and Um Al-Fahm, a region in Israel
highly populated by Arab citizens.
12:45 pm
Lunch in Katzir
2:15 pm
Visit Reichan Check Point to view the Security Fence, which is aimed at enhancing the security
of Israel and Israeli settlements. Learn about the day-to-day challenges, risks and security
undertakings of the personnel who operate within a civilian population, and the on-the-ground
significance of the Security Fence.
3:45 pm
Meet award-winning Israeli author Meir Shalev at the Slick in Nahalal. Shalev was born and
raised in Nahalal, Israel’s first moshav (cooperative community), and moved to Jerusalem, where
he lives today. Shalev’s novels have been bestsellers in Israel and globally, and have been
published in over 20 languages. Shalev’s latest novel, My Russian Grandmother and Her
American Vacuum Cleaner is the true, yet totally unbelievable chronicle of his grandmother.
6:00 pm
MEGA 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 through time 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.
Overnight:
Galei Kinnereth Hotel
Monday, April 30, 2012
7:00 am
Breakfast service begins at your hotel
9:15 pm
Visit the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) University of Miami Semester in the Galilee.
Launched in, UGalilee is UM’s semester program in Israel on the modern campus of ORT’s
Braude College of Engineering in Karmiel, where the countryside is the classroom. The
program combines lectures with field work taught by UM and Israeli faculty in program tracks
including Judaic/Israel studies, history, anthropology, international studies, geography and
philosophy. Last year, UM’s Pre-Med Program approved pre-med courses that are accepted in
fulfillment of requirements for pre-med, pre-dental, health and science programs. Similar tracks
for Communication/Journalism and International Studies are now in the final stages of discussion
12:15 pm
In 2006, the Greater Miami Jewish Federation began a partnership with the Ethiopian-Israeli
community in the town of Pardes Channa-Karkur. A few years ago, the Federation initiative in
Pardes Channa-Karkur undertook a complete renovation of Drucker Park, an area located in the
middle of the deteriorated Drucker Complex, which has become an eye-sore and breeding
ground for vandalism. Working with the local residents both Ethiopian and not, a plan was
developed and implemented to turn the area into an inviting park used and vigilantly maintained
by residents. When the renovation was completed, Miami’s 2008 mission painted two large wall
murals, two sidewalk games and cement benches. Miami Mega Mission participants will join local
residents in repainting the benches and sidewalk games that have faded from extensive use.
2:00 pm
All buses join together at The Memorial Gardens at Ramat Ha’Nadiv for a presentation by
author and commentator Dr. Daniel Gordis, Senior Fellow at the Shalem Center in
Jerusalem. Ramat Ha’Nadiv is a natural gem dedicated to the memory of Baron Edmond de
Rothschild and his wife. The garden, which focuses on creating sustainability, features exquisitely
designed gardens with a gracious combination of European formality and Mediterranean-style
plantings in a place of rare tranquility.
Participate in a Caucus by bus at Ramat Ha’Nadiv, where you will have an opportunity to meet
with members of your bus to share your feelings about the Mega Mission experience.
Afternoon
Visit Zichron Ya’akov, located at the end of the Carmel Mountain Range overlooking the
Mediterranean Sea. Founded in 1882 by Baron Edmond de Rothschild, the town’s charming
historic city center has been restored and the main street, Derech HaYayin, features coffee
shops and boutiques selling locally made crafts, jewelry and antiquities.
6:30 pm
MEGA EVENT FIVE: Farewell Party at S’dot Yam, a kibbutz near Caesarea on the shore of the
Mediterranean Sea. Watch the sun set over the water as you enjoy dinner and drinks at this
closing celebration.
 For those departing on late-evening commercial flights: Bus directly to Ben-Gurion Airport
 For those on the charter flight: Return to your hotel in Jerusalem for an overnight stay before departing
at 10:00 am on May 1
 Poland Pre-Mission group departing on May 1: Freshen up and rest before 1:00 am departure to BenGurion Airport
 For those on the Poland Pre-Mission group departing May 2: Depart for Tel Aviv for two nights
Shalom Ve' Lehitraot!