Our First Night

Last night my 1/2 full plane landed safely at Ben Gurion airport.  Clearly, many people have canceled trip to Israel.  The hotels and restaurants are not full of their usual hustle and bustle.  While Israelis are trying to go on with life as usual, there is a bit of a change in the atmosphere.  For instance, my sister in law suggested that I keep my cell phone next to the bed at night in case a siren goes off and I know where it is to grab it.  As I went to sleep I made sure my glasses, phone and passport were within reach.  Thankfully it was a quiet night in Tel Aviv with no sirens.  People are simply more alert and staying close to home.

The marked decrease n the height of tourism season is clearly having an impact already on Israel.  And, terrorism is about disrupting daily life, in every way.  Hurting the tourist industry in Israel is one of the many ways Hamas seeks to upset Israel.  I am so incredibly proud that we have so many community members here right now.  From students on Onward Israel programs, to travelers on the Melton trip, to our Federation volunteers who participated in the Campaign Chair and Directors Mission and the Campaigner's Mission, and others who are here for other experiences Western Massachusetts is showing its love and support of our Jewish homeland.  I am very proud of everyone who is here.   All of our Israeli friends and family have not let this go unnoticed.  Once again, they also say, THANK YOU for coming and being with us right now.

Our Western Massachusetts presence means so very much to every Israeli that we know and all of those who we meet.  Pictured here are some of our happy and safe community members at the opening program for the campaigners mission.  I will continue to post about out journeys.  Good night from Tel Aviv.