By Bernice Malka, Living Bridge Coordinator
Originally posted here.
No one could miss the excitement on the faces of Mr. Tom Green and Mr. Simon Alfassi Yokneam mayor when they recently met again at city hall.
Some 18 years ago, it was Mr. Tom Green who encouraged the Jewish Federation of St. Louis to partner with Yokneam, mainly due to Simon’s vision for what was then a small development town and his commitment to the absorption of the new immigrants from the former Soviet Union and Ethiopia.
Tom and Karole Green led the St. Louis Leadership mission to the GA, joined by Andrew Rehfeld, Ph.D. and 14 lay leaders and professionals. Their last stop before returning home was at our partnership.
The mayor described the development of the city in the last 25 years to the thriving community of 22,000 people it is today and talked about the Hi Tech Park that hosts many successful industries. Representatives from Four of the leading companies presented their achievements and involvement in community programs.
Before arriving to the region the delegation was hosted by the border police of Magav Chof. They received VIP attention which included meeting the regional commander and a briefing about the security challenges of the area as well as learning about moral dilemmas the soldiers encounter on a daily basis., The highlight was a tour along the seam line and meeting with young officers doing tremendous work year long.
Dinner was at Kibbutz Dalia in the Megiddo regional council. People participating in the Jewish renewal movement taking place in the region joined for dinner. This unique and exciting activity is happening thanks to the support of the people of St. Louis. Many families are seeking new and exciting ways to express and practice Judaism.
Before leaving for the airport the people of Yokneam and Megiddo ensured that the partnership is your Home away from Home and our hope that the mutual commitment between these communities will continue.