Join the northwest community for a day filled with song, dance, energy, and some very energetic, entertaining, and informative visitors — the Israel Scouts Tzofim Friendship Caravan! The fun begins on Sunday, August 1, 2010, from 10:30 a.m. until noon, at Congregation Or Shalom, 21 Hawthorn Parkway, Vernon Hills, when this teen group takes preschoolers, their parents, and grandparents on a free “trip” to Israel via music, dance, arts, crafts, stories, and snacks. Their visit to this area concludes with a community concert, which takes place at 7 p.m. at Congregation Beth Judea, located on Route 83 and Hilltop Road in Long Grove. The event is free, but the cost for a kosher barbeque dinner prior to this event – by reservation only — is $10 for adults, $7 for children between three and seven years old, and $30 for families. More information about this portion of the event is available by emailing LNeiman@bethjudea.org, or by calling 847-634-0777. Formed in 1995, the nonpolitical and nonsectarian Friends of Israel Scouts (Tzofim) program was created to develop and maintain a connection between the people of Israel and the United States, promoting tolerance and respect among people of all faiths. The Tzofim Friendship Caravan consists of ten highly motivated 16 and 17 year olds who travel around North America each summer as emissaries, sharing their lives in Israel with their audiences in an entertainment venue. Both programs are open to the public. For additional information about these programs or about Congregation Or Shalom, contact Andi Freier at 847-362-1948.

10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m.