Havalim (Ropes): Machon & Nivonim

Thomas Felman is our Rosh Havalim (ropes).  He recently graduated from Truman State University, with a double major in political science and philosophy of religion, and plans to attend law school.  This is his 5th summer on Tzevet (staff), and his first as Rosh Havalim.  Thomas stays in great shape year-round by weightlifting.  He views this chug (elective) as a real challenge for the chanichim (campers); for example, there are some chanichim who are afraid of heights.  They test their limits, and then improve their skills and exceed their limits over time.  They learn how to rely on themselves as well as the tzevet, challenge themselves, learn new skills, and ultimately succeed.  Thomas is ably assisted by Israelis Shaked from Kfar Saba and Eden from Haifa.   Photo, below, left to right: Thomas, Eden and Shaked.

Shaked just completed his 3 years of IDF service in the Tzanhanim (paratroopers), as a Senior Sergeant.  He has jumped out of planes 5 times — 3 times during the day, and twice at night.  He said that the hardest part of the jump was actually after he landed and had to find his way back to the target using a map (no gps!).  The parachute equipment weighs 40 kilos (close to 90 lbs) and he had to walk as far as 10 km (over 6 miles) with that equipment.  It his first time at our machane, and says it’s “Great!”.  Afterwards plans to travel to Peru and of course, climb Machu Picchu.

Eden just completed her army service, one day before leaving for our machane.  She served as a trainer in the Totchanim (artillery), and is an expert in all types of artillery including missile launchers.  She also describes her experience here as “Great!” and plans to travel afterwards.  The Machon and Nivonim chanichim are seen here donning the equipment, checking everything for safety, climbing the ladder, participating on the “pull team” for the rope that needs to be taut, and leaping into the swing!