Dig Isreal's past during 'experience'

A display of Israeli culture will be just a short drive away Sunday.

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The eighth annual Israel Experience will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Augusta Jewish Community Center, 898 Weinberger Way, Evans.

"We changed it to the summer when more children could participate," said Leah Ronen, the executive director of the Augusta Jewish Federation and Community Center. "This year, we have brought two very special elements."

New to this year's event is "Dig the Past," a replicated Israeli excavation site where children and adults can search for buried artifacts from biblical times, such as pottery, coins, mosaic tiles and jewelry. An experienced archaeologist will be on hand to help in the search, Ronen said.

"They are exact replicas," she said. "They also will have the opportunity to restore the pottery vessels, (and) they get to keep the vessel that they've restored."

At 3 p.m., the Israeli Scout Caravan will perform a music and dance show.

"They get people in the audience to get up and dance, too," Ronen said.

Activities and arts and crafts for children will be available throughout the day. Those wishing to sample a slice of Israeli cuisine can purchase food from vendors.

The 2007 Oscar-winning short West Bank Story will be shown at the event. People also can partake in a virtual tour of Israel during "Walk the Land."

Admission is free. The price is $3 to participate in the replicated dig and $1 for each activity.

For details about the event, call (706) 228-3636 or visit www.augustajcc.org.

if you go

What: The eighth annual Israel Experience

When: 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Sunday

Where: Augusta Jewish Community Center, 898 Weinberger Way, Evans

Cost: Free admission; $3 for dig; $1 for children's activities

More: (706) 228-3636