Dear Ed committee members,

Beolow is an e-mail we received from Lisa Preiss, our LA staff member in TA. Lisa was at the welcome party for the student delegation from New Community Jewish High School who arrived at Ironi Tet in TA for a two week visit. NCJHS sent 44 students and 6 staff members, which is the largest delegation we have had so far!

Thank you to both schools and the staff for making it happen,

Ahuva Ron

Dear All,

Last night I waited with over 200 kids, staff and parents of Ironi Tet High School for the arrival from the airport of 45 tenth graders from the New Community Jewish High School. There was much excitement as the kids descended from the busses and were picked out by their Israeli hosts who helped them with their luggage.

The welcoming reception was held in the school auditorium which was decorated to the nines with Israeli and American bunting. There was music, drumming, and upbeat speeches by the Principal, the head of the parents’ committee, the head of the students’ committee, Mordechai (twinning coordinator from NCJH), MK Avram Burg and myself. (Unfortunately, Naama Tsabar was ill and could not make it).

Noteworthy were Avram Burg’s opening remarks: (I am loosely quoting him, as I did not take notes)

“Years ago, when I was Chairman of the Jewish Agency, the LA Federation came to me with the request that they create a partnership with the city of Tel Aviv.

‘No way,’ I said. ‘We are all Bolsheviks here! You shouldn’t partner with the rich city of Tel Aviv — find an outlying community!’

They did not heed my advice, and as I look out at all of the people gathered here in Yad Eliahu, I realize now that I was wrong. Obviously, the LA Federation has created a wonderful program, and I wish you continued success.”

He then went on to speak of the importance of Jewish identity and building Israeli – Diaspora relations.

I followed him with a short talk about the reasons for this Partnership, and why the LA Federation financially supports this endeavor. I promised the hundreds gathered there that I would let those involved in the Partnership’s creation know that this was the biggest exchange ever, and how nice to see how the Angelinos arrival in Israel is having an impact on the entire school community.

I know that hosting 45 kids is a huge undertaking and many people, both in LA and in Israel, were thanked from the podium. I am sure that all of you deserve much praise for your hard work.

Lisa Preiss