By Micah Brandhandler, Rosh Eidah of Chalutzim

This week in Chalutzim has been one of the best yet.  We started off with our surprise Tiyul L’Park  where we went to Nagawaukee Park and played outside the whole morning until heading off to see “How to Train Your Dragon 2!”  All of the kids had a blast and were extremely excited to have a break from our routine.

The break from our routine continued when on Wednesday we had our Yom Tzava (army day)!  From the time we woke everyone up the kids learned about the IDF and felt as though they were being trained in the army.  We taught them how to walk, stand, and talk as if they were beginning soldiers in the army.  Near the end of the day we had our final masa and tekes in which we walked and ran around the entire camp and ended at the flagpole.  We raised the Israeli flag and sang Hatikvah.  Each of the madrichim handed out something very special to them as a gift to a different chanich that went above and beyond during the course of the day.  Ronen and Eli received the highest honors that day and received a special gift from Micah.  It is one of my favorite days on camp because it is fun to see everyone in a different light, but mostly because it gives the Israelis a chance to really connect with the kids on a level that few get to see.  They get to share their experiences and what it is like to live in Israel where everyone is required to go into the army.

We are looking forward to a nice and restful Shabbat, and next week will be crazy busy with Festikayitz and Yom Horim!

Chalutzim Parents:  Don’t forget to RSVP for Yom Horim if you haven’t done so yet.  Please email Micah:  osrui.chalutzim@gmail.com