On Friday night, Stanley Greenfield spoke and showed slides on their volunteer program on an Israeli Army Base.

It was fascinating to see how the Israelis have developed programs to teach volunteers from all over the world what it’s like to serve in the Israeli Army and to allow them to participate in the effort. Some people were a bit shocked to see the rather spartan accommodations, but it was clear how meaningful the program could be and how you could come out of the experience with a much greater appreciation for the difficulties that Israelis live in. The tremendous sense of satisfaction is something that you can only get from such altruistic volunteering.

The evening also featured a Birthday Blessing for Mel Sternberg. The oneg was truly spectacular.