Fall 2006
A Publication of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County
Volume 2, Number 1 \ A Guide for Jewish Living and Giving in Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Highland Beach Donor Spotlight Having come from humble beginnings, philanthropists Harvey and Phyllis Sandler understand the importance of helping their fellow Jews in need.
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Campaign Sets Record Federation President and CEO William S. Bernstein applauds the generosity of the Jewish community for supporting the record-setting 2006 Annual Campaign that raised $21,350,000.
Lions Roar The Federation sent one of the largest delegations in the country to the International Lion of Judah Conference in Washington, D.C.
On The Fast Track Metro, the Federation’s new division for people in their 30s, 40s and 50s, already is generating considerable interest.
Legislation Benefits Donors
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International intrigue, an evening of inspiration and the opportunity to mingle with some primetime TV stars will all be part of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County’s 2006-2007 event season that promises to provide something for everyone. With former CIA director George Tenet, “Paper Clips” principal Linda Hooper and Tia Carrere and partner Maxim Chmerkovskiy of the hit ABC-TV show “Dancing with the Stars,” all the ingredients are in place for a thrilling season. And there’s much, much more, including the annual Super Sunday phone-athon, always one of the highlights of the year, and the debut of a new Federation division.
A new IRA bill allows older individuals 70 1/2 or older achieve their philanthropic goals with the Federation with no adverse tax consequences.
Getting An Education College Advocacy Forum provides important answers to troubling questions for students.
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Chai Lights. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Beneficiary Focus . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Country Clubs . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
F E D E R AT I O N O F F I C E R S Chair Etta Gross Zimmerman Vice Chairs Steven Bedowitz Alan Cornell Warren Greenspoon Thomas R. Kaplan Ellen R. Sarnoff Ted Struhl Treasurer Ira M. Gerstein Assistant Treasurer Michael J. Weinberg Secretary Albert Gortz Assistant Secretary Roxane Frechie Lipton Immediate Past Chair Lawrence D. Altschul President & CEO William S. Bernstein, MSW
FEDERATION/UJA CAMPAIGN Vice Chair Steven Bedowitz Chair, Women’s Division Ellen R. Sarnoff 1st Vice Chair Campaign, Women’s Division Cindy Orbach Nimhauser Vice Chair Major Gifts, Women’s Division Kinnie Gorelick Metro Division Co-Chairs Jill Deutch Debra Halperin Jonathan Louis
Chai Lights SUPPORT OF FEDERATION HELPS ENSURE A BRIGHTER TOMORROW By Etta Gross Zimmerman, Chair
After a very busy summer – one in which we worked hard to strengthen Israel by visiting the country and raising emergency funds – I think it’s time we take a deep breath and think about tomorrow. Tomorrow in the Jewish world is exemplified in countless ways. We have generous donors who have endowed their annual gifts. Some have even set up supporting foundations. That is their personal commitment to a community they have come to love and care about. Tomorrow also takes shape every day on our campus and throughout South Palm Beach. From Mommy and Me, to a Jewish day school education, and all the way through high school and adult education, we educate the current generation – and the next one – so that the Jewish people have a brighter tomorrow filled with knowledge of Jewish practices and values. Our community also participates in a meaningful way in programs such as birthright israel and March of the Living, again as an investment in the Jewish tomorrow we aspire to achieve. These activities also take place throughout the world and Israel. My travels over the summer provided a few snapshots that made me optimistic about our Jewish tomorrow. I traveled to the Ukraine and studied with a leadership training program in Eastern Ukraine where young adults are striving to recapture the Jewish life and leadership that the Nazis and Communism failed to annihilate. These young adults are similar to salmon swimming up stream. After all, isn’t it easier to just go through life without responsibilities to the Jewish people and community, especially in the former Soviet Union? I also was in Israel where I witnessed the overwhelming youth volunteerism during the war. More than 50,000 teens were instrumental in supporting the vulnerable populations during the most challenging of circumstances. I also visited with American Jewish teens who stayed during the war to counsel children whose lives had been scarred by terror. These teens were determined to make a difference in these fragile lives. All of these experiences gave me hope for a better Jewish tomorrow. I know that our community’s support of these imperatives will result in a brighter Jewish tomorrow. These are our children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews – many of whom we may never get to know. But it’s just one of the many pivotal reasons why your support of the Annual Campaign and the Jewish Community Foundation is so important. In advance, let me thank you for joining me and our community in ensuring a better Jewish tomorrow. Shalom,
CAMPAIGN PROFESSIONALS Vice President, Campaign & Community Development Jason M. Shames Vice President, Women’s Division Marla Weiss Egers Associate Vice President, Campaign Operations Jennifer Koenig
Etta Gross Zimmerman This publication is produced by the Marketing & Communications Department of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. Vice President, Marketing & Communications Andrew M. Rose
Marketing & Communications Manager Erryn Abiri
PR/Editorial Director Rick Adelman
New Media Manager Steve Sicherman
Creative Director Kara Clapp
Graphic Designer Gladiola Quintanilla
Administrative Assistant Phyliss Mazin
If you’re interested in underwriting this publication or advertising, please contact the Marketing & Communications Department at (561) 852-3177.
DONOR SPOTLIGHT S A N D L E R S A LWAY S G I V E T H E I R A L L As a child, Harvey Sandler recalls that his family wasn’t very involved with charity – mainly because every dollar that came into the home was needed to live. His wife, Phyllis, also from humble beginnings, remembers tossing a few spare coins in her mother’s little blue tzedakah box in the kitchen. Having grown up in difficult financial circumstances, the Sandlers have a greater appreciation of the challenges faced by those in need. That’s why over the years they’ve enthusiastically supported the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County’s crucial mission – to help Jews locally, in Israel and throughout the world. They are among the Federation’s leading supporters. “Our blessings are not ours to keep,” said Phyllis. “They are ours to share. There are people who are hurting and we need to help them. We feel it’s our responsibility to help our brothers and sisters around the world.” The Sandlers, who live in St. Andrews Country Club in Boca Raton, have contributed to more than 100 charities over the years. They began donating to the Federation movement through the United Jewish Appeal around 25 years ago when they lived in New York. They’ve found that their philanthropic dollars go further with the Federation because the organization supports so many different causes. “The Federation knows where the need is,” Harvey said. “They can allocate their funds to the right place at the right time.” The Sandlers understand that, through the Federation, their money supports hundreds of programs, including feeding senior citizens in Boca Raton and the former Soviet Union, providing educational opportunities for children and adults here and overseas and enabling new immigrants to transition into Israeli society. “It would take a great deal of work for someone to be able to identify individual causes,” said
Phyllis. “We trust that the Federation can do that for us. We know that all these people are taken care of well.” Like Jews everywhere, the Sandlers were deeply troubled by the war in Israel over the summer and are concerned about the country’s ability to rebuild its economy and remain safe and secure in increasingly hostile surroundings. “First of all, if we don’t help, who will?” Harvey asked. “Because they have to rebuild infrastruc-
“Our blessings are not ours to keep. They are ours to share. There are people who are hurting and we need to help them. We feel it’s our responsibility to help our brothers and sisters around the world.” tures and bring in food and goods, the Israelis need so much more money than ever before. I think that right now Israel is really fighting for the world. They are fighting a war that will protect our freedom.” The Sandlers have tried to increase the size of their gifts every year and urge others to do the same – especially now that the needs in Israel are so acute. Israel’s precarious situation is one of the reasons why the 2007 campaign is critical. “I remember hearing as a little girl, ‘If anything happens to Israel …,’” said Phyllis. “I couldn’t even imagine it then. But now it’s different. They are getting blamed for everything. I think they are
Phyllis & Harvey Sandler
taking the hits for us right now.” Phyllis is also concerned that the world’s generally negative view of Israel is indicative of growing anti-Semitic sentiment. “It is a very scary time that we are living through,” she said. “I think it’s reminiscent of how it used to be, when my parents talked about how nobody paid attention to what was going on in Europe. How everyone went about their business and no one would listen when they would get reports of what was happening in Germany.” Philanthropy, the Sandlers agree, is one of the most effective methods of combating anti-Semitism while also setting an example for others to follow. They are confident that their children and grandchildren will carry on the family legacy. “We want them to know how good it feels to give,” said Phyllis. Said Harvey: “It seems like every year we say the same thing, but I think this year it’s particularly important that everyone steps up and gives until it feels good. The reality is that when you give a lot, you walk away realizing that you have made a big difference in peoples’ lives. And that feels great.” For more information on contributing to the Federation’s Annual Campaign, contact Jason Shames, Vice President, Campaign and Community Development, at 561-852-3127 or jasons@bocafed.org.
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ISRAEL UPDATE I S R A E L A K E Y C O M P O N E N T I N U J A / F E D E R AT I O N A N N U A L C A M PA I G N The events of the past summer in Israel proved that even in her darkest moments, our homeland can count on the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County. Within days after the Ketyusha rockets started falling on Israel, the local Jewish communities of Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Highland Beach began mobilizing their resources. By the time the bombings stopped, more than $3 million was raised. But the fact is that Israel has always occupied a special place in our Annual Campaign. Federation’s support of Israel throughout the year is one of the bedrocks upon which our campaign is built. Both directly and through affiliated agencies, including the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), our Federation supports numerous programs that aid thousands of Israelis every year. We address the most fundamental needs, such as hunger, by providing supplemental food packages and facilities like soup kitchens for Israel’s most needy. Unemployed Israelis
receive vocational training and counseling and help finding a job. Children at risk who are coping with family crises and problems in school get help through educational and residential programs. Elderly Israelis, who face the same challenges as our senior citizens, receive home health care and visits for shut-ins. We also help set up residential programs for the ill and frail in addition to many other supportive initiatives. Individuals with special needs receive special attention through vocational and life skills training that enable them to be proud and productive members of Israeli society. One of Israel’s biggest challenges is making sure that new citizens are functioning in their new surroundings. Many Jews making aliyah need Hebrew language training and help finding housing and good jobs. Ethiopian Jews, rescued from poverty and despair, require job training and help with the language. In addition, Ethiopian children, whose lack of proficiency in Hebrew and other school subjects puts them at great risk of becoming drop-outs, are provided remedial assistance – even the pre-schoolers.
Security, of course, is an ongoing concern in Israel and your contributions help us purchase the equipment and upgrade the facilities that keep Israelis safe from terrorism. By supporting the Annual Campaign, donors are also providing for and protecting their brothers and sisters in Israel.
Q & A W I T H F O R M E R M O S S A D D I R E C T O R D A N N Y YAT O M Chai Life recently had the opportunity to interview former Mossad Director Danny Yatom, who will be featured at the Evenings of Valor on Dec. 13 and 14.
Q: The recent war in Lebanon placed a major strain on the current government. How do you see the future playing out for Kadima and Olmert?
Major Danny Yatom
A: The war in Lebanon created a lot of problems for the government. There were many questions concerning the lack of capabilities and major mistakes related to (Prime Minister Ehud) Olmert, (Defense Minister Amir) Peretz and (IDF Chief of Staff Dan) Haluz. Kadima may face the same fate as DASH (Democratic Movement for Change) and Shinai (an antireligious party), which vanished after one or two terms. I think that an inquiry committee will produce very difficult findings concerning Olmert, which may lead to his resignation.
Q: Your name has surfaced as a possible contender for the Labor Party head. Are you considering this? A: Yes. I decided to run for the position of the chairman of the Labor Party. Q: The war on terror, as it is being portrayed in the media, isn’t all that effective. What strategies would you have used in the past, and what strategies would you use now? A: The war on terror is highly difficult and
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YOU
We have redefined giving by putting you in control of your own Jewish philanthropy.
A trusted name in Jewish philanthropy for many decades, the Federation is now expanding our donor services to match individual and family desires with the vital needs of the Jewish community. Through the Center for Jewish Philanthropy, our team of development professionals will work with you – and your children and grandchildren – to plan both immediate and long-term philanthropic investments that can leave an indelible impact on the future. We can help you to make intelligent decisions about your philanthropy, inside and outside the Jewish community, with the flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances. By working with multiple generations, we can also help you establish a tradition of family philanthropy. The CJP can help you explore innovative approaches to maximize the impact of your philanthropy. We can set up a donor-advised fund to help you manage your overall giving, and we can provide coaching to trustees, staff and family members who are taking on leadership roles. Our Center for Jewish Philanthropy offers you a number of vehicles to achieve your personal goals:
• UJA/Federation Annual Campaign • Planned Giving & Endowments • Corporate Outreach
• Supplemental Gift Opportunities • Capital Projects
Take the first step by contacting our giving specialists today at 561-852-3127.
LOOKING BACK F E D E R AT I O N R A I S E S R E C O R D $ 2 1 , 3 5 0 , 0 0 0 It was a banner year for fundraising at the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County – and not just because the 2006 UJA/Federation Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs shattered all previous records by raising $21,350,000 in unrestricted funds, compared to $20,050,000 in 2005, according to preliminary figures. During the fiscal year ending August 31, 2006, the Federation raised an additional $3,250,000 through two special emergency campaigns – $450,000 in hurricane relief following the Katrina and Wilma storms in the fall of 2005, and $2.8 million from 3,100 donors for Israel in July and August 2006 after the attacks by Hezbollah on Israel, including an allocation of $500,000 from the Jewish Community Foundation.
The Federation raised $2.8 million over the summer for the Israel Emergency Campaign.
The unrestricted
Additionally, Federation raised $350,000 in corporate sponsorship and underwriting, an increase of $100,000 from 2005, plus $300,000 in restricted funds, bringing total resource development under Federation auspices to a record of nearly $25 million in 2005-2006. “The success of this year’s Annual Campaign and the additional funds raised for emergencies and other purposes once again illustrate the enormous generosity of the Jewish community of South Palm Beach County and its strong commitment to assisting Jews in need locally, in Israel and in more than 60 countries around the world,” said Federation President and CEO William S. Bernstein. Bernstein credited the Federation’s key volunteers, including Etta Zimmerman, Chair of the Federation’s Board of Directors; Steve Bedowitz, General Campaign Chair; Dottie Seaman, Women’s Division Chair; and Ellen Sarnoff, First Vice Chair of Campaign for the Women’s Division. “We have a terrific group of dedicated volunteer leaders,” said Bernstein. “They invest a great deal of time and energy into their roles here at Federation and should be acknowledged for their fine efforts.”
Israel Under The Stars in Mizner Park was once again a highlight of the season.
Corporate Sponsorship and Underwriting .......... $350,000 Israel Emergency Campaign ........................... $2,800,000 Hurricane Relief .................................................. $450,000 Annual Campaign ......................................... $21,350,000
UJA/Federation Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs, which increased $1.3 million from 2005 to 2006, is the central fundraising vehicle of the Federation, enabling the organization to plan for, and address, the philanthropic, cultural, educational and social-service needs of Jews in the south county Jewish community, in Israel, and in more than 60 countries worldwide.
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F E D E R AT I O N R A I S E S R E C O R D T O TA L ( C O N T I N U E D ) Accounting for a significant portion of the Annual Campaign was the Federation’s Women’s Division, which made history by raising more than $10 million for the first time since the organization was established in 1989. The Women’s Division raised $10,108,721 from 5,464 women. Last year, the Women’s Division raised $8,823,609 from 5,789 donors. “Our Women’s Division is one of the most powerful and influential groups of its kind in the Federation system, and not just because of their participation in the annual campaign,” Bernstein said. “Many are in leadership positions nationally, and we often have the best attendance of any community at national women’s events.” The 2006 UJA/Federation Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs was just about to get under way last year when Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf Coast of the U.S. A few weeks later, Wilma made a direct hit on the Boca Raton and Delray Beach areas. Federation respond-
ed with a community-wide outreach and raised $450,000. Wilma’s impact on the local Jewish community was severe, causing $750,000 in damages on the Federation campus alone, and creating the first-ever deficit in the history of the organization. The increased dollars raised in the annual campaign helped the organization overcome the shortfall. When the Israel-Lebanon conflict began in July 2006, Federations across the U.S. were called into action to raise emergency funds. The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County responded quickly by hosting a community-wide solidarity rally, which attracted 1,500 people to the organization’s west Boca Raton campus, and conducting direct mail and advertising campaigns, telemarketing sessions, country club parlor meetings and synagogue meetings. “The initial response to the Israel Emergency Campaign was remarkable, considering there
are far fewer donors in the area during the summer months,” said Jason Shames, V.P., Campaign and Community Development. The funds raised were initially used to relocate children and other vulnerable populations from the northern border towns of Israel to the central and southern areas of the country. Since the cease-fire, contributions have been used to help victims of the recent war who require ongoing trauma counseling, temporary housing while their homes are rebuilt and vocational training due to layoffs or the closure of their businesses. The 2007 UJA/Federation Annual Campaign is generously sponsored by Mercedes-Benz of Pompano. For more information on contributing to the Federation’s Annual Campaign, contact Jason Shames, Vice President, Campaign and Community Development at 561-852-3127 or jasons@bocafed.org.
In Perspective OUR CAMPAIGN YEAR
2006 was a special year. The Annual Report will tell you why. The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County is proud to present the 2006 Annual Report, an in-depth look at a record-setting year. Included are profiles of our agencies, photo galleries, donor lists and important financial data. For a copy, call 561-852-3177 or email phylissm@bocafed.org.
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A SEASON OF STARS ( C O N T I N U E D F R O M F R O N T PA G E ) The season kicks off on Dec. 13 and 14 with Evenings of Valor. Tenet, the featured guest speaker, was appointed CIA director in 1997 and served under two presidents. Also on the program will be Israeli Knesset member Danny Yatom, who served as the director of the Mossad, Israel’s secret intelligence service, from 1996-98. Evenings of Valor is generously sponsored by FMSbonds.
Former CIA Director George Tenet
Former Mossad Director Danny Yatom
Hooper, who inspired an extraordinary Holocaust project with her students at Whitwell Middle School in Tennessee, will speak at the Jan. 31 Lions of Judah Luncheon, a special Women’s Division event. Hooper’s students, struggling to grasp the concept of the Holocaust and its victims, collected six million paper clips. The event changed the entire town forever and was portrayed in the awardwinning film, “Paper Clips.” This Women’s Division event is sponsored by FMSbonds and the Sandelman Foundation.
Linda Hooper
Renowned author Jennifer Weiner, whose second hit novel, In Her Shoes, was made into a
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2005 movie starring Cameron Diaz, Toni Collette and Shirley MacLaine, will be the keynote speaker and will sign books at the Women’s Division $500+ Luncheon – Stepping Up on March 8. Chairs are Jill Deutch, Kathy Green and Beth Mishkin. Stepping up is sponsored by the Sandelman Foundation.
Donors will certainly experience a night to remember on Feb. 26 when Carrere and Chmerkovskiy headline The Main Event – Dancing with the Stars, a dinner dance with a ballroom dance theme. Chair is Judy Levis Markhoff and co-chair is Paul Markhoff. The celebrities will meet, greet and mingle with guests before taking the stage for what promises to be a fantastic performance. Carrere waltzed into the public spotlight when she performed the por una cabeza as the villain June Skinner opposite Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1994 action hit, “True Lies.” Prior to “True Lies,” Carrere also won the part of Cassandra in “Wayne’s World.” Other roles followed in “The Immortals” and “High School High” and as the voice of Nani in “Lilo and Stitch.” Chmerkovskiy, born and raised in Russia, emigrated to the U.S. 14 years ago and opened the Rising Stars Dance Academy in New Jersey, which has produced national and international champions. He is one of the creators and is a board member of Dance Team USA, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing opportunities to American youth
in mind, body and spirit. Dancing With The Stars is sponsored by the Adolph & Rose Levis Foundation, Mellon Private Wealth Management, Proskauer Rose LLP and the Sandelman Foundation.
Maxim Chmerkovskiy
Tia Carrere
Another highlight of the upcoming season is the introduction of the Federation’s new Metro Division, an innovative division designed to engage a new generation of Jewish leaders. Federation Metro will be driven by people in their 30s, 40s and 50s with energy and ideas. Metro corporate sponsors are the Sandelman Foundation and Regions Bank.
Season highlights will also include: • Lion of Judah Outreach, Jan. 10: Northern future and present Lions of Judah are invited to the Museum of Art Fort Lauderdale for a captivating exhibit about the treasures from the Holy Land.
lion o f
J u d a h
• “Backwards in High Heels: Based on the life of Ginger Rogers,” March 18: Due to a generous contribution from Carole and Barry Kaye, Federation will offer a sneak preview at Florida Stage in Manalapan to the Federation’s major donors • Super Sunday, March 18. The Federation holds its largest community fundraiser, which generated more than $1 million last season.
For more information or a brochure listing all of the community-wide Federation events, contact Melissa Costner, at 561-852-3160 or melissac@bocafed.org.
I S F E D E R AT I O N ’ S L E A D C O R P O R AT E S P O N S O R Mercedes-Benz of Pompano is the Federation’s lead corporate sponsor for the 2007 season. The sponsorship by Mercedes-Benz of Pompano, under new ownership, represents the largest corporate commitment made to the Federation for the upcoming campaign year. General manager Robert W. Crolic said his dealership is excited to be joining forces with South Palm Beach County’s largest and most trusted Jewish fund-raising organization. “It’s great to be associated with an organization that focuses on charitable causes in the community,” said Crolic. “We’re going to be involved in a variety of venues to help raise money for the Federation.” Federation President and CEO William S. Bernstein said the partnership between Mercedes-Benz of Pompano and the Federation illustrates how the corporate and non-profit world can work together to benefit the community. “We value the commitment that Mercedes-Benz of Pompano has shown to our Federation,” Bernstein said. “I’m
confident that our relationship will continue to flourish in the coming years.” As part of the lead sponsorship, Mercedes-Benz of Pompano will be recognized at campaign events throughout the year and be acknowledged on a wide range of promotional materials, according to Caryn L. Nashban, the Federation’s Director of Corporate Development. Nashban said the dealership’s sponsorship is a prime example of how more and more businesses are making commitments to charitable causes. “An increasing number of corporations recognize the value and importance of cause-related marketing,” said Nashban. “Companies like Mercedes-Benz of Pompano clearly see the benefit of making an investment in their communities.” For more information about the Corporate Partners Program, contact Caryn Nashban, Director of Corporate Development at 561-852-3239 or carynn@bocafed.org.
F E D E R AT I O N PA RT N E R S W I T H A M E R I C A N E X P R E S S T O O F F E R D O U B L E R E WA R D POINTS FOR DONORS American Express: Don’t make a gift without it.
is enrolled in the Membership Rewards program.
For a limited time, donors who use an American Express card to pay their contributions to the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County can earn double Membership Rewards points in a limited-time-only promotion being offered by the credit card company.
Bonus points will be credited to a donor’s Membership Rewards account within 6-8 weeks after charges appear on a billing statement. The maximum number of points a donor can earn during the promotion is 25,000.
The promotion began Oct. 1 and runs through Dec. 31, 2006. Donations must be made with an eligible AMEX card that
For more information and to make your contribution, visit www.jewishboca.org/AMEXpromo.
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Principal Gifts F O R M E R C I A D I R E C T O R G E O R G E T E N E T, I S R A E L’ S YAT O M H E A D L I N E F E D E R AT I O N ’ S K I C K O F F E V E N T everyone in the community,” said Marlene Silver, Leadership Gifts Chair with husband Martin.“These are two very powerful speakers.”
George Tenet
Danny Yatom
George Tenet, who served Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush as CIA Director, and former Mossad Director Danny Yatom will address security issues in the United States and around the world as guest speakers at the Evenings of Valor, the season kickoff event of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County’s 2007 Annual Campaign. Tenet, a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and Yatom will appear on Wednesday, Dec. 13 at the Leadership Gifts and King David Society annual gathering at St. Andrews Country Club. Donors who make a $55,000 minimum family contribution or a $25,000 minimum individual contribution are entitled to attend. Tenet and Yatom will speak again at St. Andrews on Thursday, Dec. 14 at the Joshua Society and Crown of Judah Celebration. Minimum individual contribution is $10,000. Cocktails and dinner begin both nights at 6 p.m. Couvert is $136 per person. “From the standpoint of current world events, from domestic terrorism to the volatile climate in Israel, North Korea and Iran, we think this is going to be a very informative evening for
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Tenet’s seven-year term as CIA Director from 1997-2004 was the second-longest in U.S. history. On Dec. 14, 2004, Bush awarded Tenet the Presidential Medal of Freedom, one of the two highest civilian awards in the U.S. Yatom, a retired Major General who served in three wars with the Israel Defense Forces, was director of the Mossad, Israel’s version of the CIA, from 1996-98. Yatom, a member of the Israeli Knesset, and Tenet will participate in a panel discussion about the difficulties in assuring and securing freedom across the globe. “Anyone who attends these presentations is going to walk away with information that they may not get in the mainstream media,” Silver said. King David Society Chairs are Helene and Roy Schwedelson, Joshua Society Chairs are Eydie and Ira Holz and Caren and Michael Weinberg and Crown of Judah Chairs are Phyllis Seresky and Dorothy Meyers Wizer.
Principal Gift Recognition Levels
Minimum family contribution of $100,000 to the Annual Campaign
Minimum family contribution of $55,000 to the Annual Campaign
Minimum individual contribution of $25,000 to the Annual Campaign
Evenings of Valor is sponsored by FMSbonds. The 2007 UJA/Federation Annual Campaign is sponsored by Mercedes-Benz of Pompano. For more information on Evenings of Valor, contact Rachel Harman, Development Director, at 561-852-3120 or rachelh@bocafed.org.
Minimum individual contribution of $10,000 to the Annual Campaign
Evenings of Valor is sponsored by FMSbonds
EXCITEMENT BUILDS FOR FEDERATION MAIN EVENT LEADERS PRACTICE THEIR MOVES FOR “DANCING WITH THE STARS” Now that “Dancing with the Stars,” ABC-TV’s smash hit, has made ballroom dancing fashionable again, several key leaders from the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County have dusted off their dancing shoes and are heading to the Fred Astaire Dance Studio in downtown Boca Raton in anticipation of the Federation’s largest community-wide event of the season. “The Main Event – Dancing with the Stars,” will be held on Monday, Feb. 26 at the Boca West Country Club beginning at 5:30 p.m. The fundraiser will star actress Tia Carrere and professional Maksim Chmerkovskiy, who teamed during the show’s second season. Also appearing will be singer Willa Ford who danced on the show this season. “I have watched the show faithfully for three seasons and came up with the concept of modeling our fundraiser after the show,” said event chair Judy Levis Markhoff, one of the Federation’s primary benefactors. “I think this is going to be the most successful and widely-attended Main Event in the history of the Federation.” Federation leaders who have volunteered to practice their dance moves for a special video to be shown at the event include event co-chair Paul Markhoff, Judy’s husband; Steven Bedowitz, Federation vice chair; Ellen R. Sarnoff, Women’s Division chair; Jan M. Silverman, Beth and Joe Mishkin and Carol Winig. “Dancing with the Stars,” the American version of the British hit series, “Strictly Come Dancing,” ranked among the top five most-watched shows in 2006 with the season finale drawing 27.5 million viewers. Carrere, best known for her role as the villain Juno Skinner in Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 1994 action hit, “True Lies,” and Chmerkovskiy, one of the world’s top-ranked professional dancers, will socialize with guests before taking the stage. Then, some of the ladies in attendance will have the opportunity to dance with Chmerkovskiy. Eight professionals from the Fred Astaire Dance Studio will also be part of the show, after which guests will be invited on to the dance floor. Markhoff believes the TV show’s soaring popularity and the dinner dance format will help attract a broader segment of the South Palm Beach County Jewish community. A minimum pledge to the Annual Campaign of $1,000 per couple or $500 per individual is required. “Our achievements as a Federation are remarkable,” Markhoff said. “Yet we need to raise much more to effectively serve the needs of Jews in our local community, Israel and around the world. Gatherings such as this always touch my heart because when you’re in a room filled with caring, committed individuals, you’re reminded of the essential work that we do.”
Judy Levis Markhoff and Paul Markhoff, co-chairs of “The Main Event – Dancing with the Stars”
Dancing With The Stars is sponsored by the Adolph & Rose Levis Foundation, Mellon Private Wealth Management, Proskauer Rose LLP and the Sandelman Foundation. For more information, call the Federation at 561-852-6014 or visit www.bocafed.org.
Save the date Dancing With The Stars Monday, February 26, 2007 Starts promptly at 5:30 p.m. Boca West Country Club Maxim Chmerkovskiy
Tia Carrere
For more information, contact Melissa Costner, Special Events Director, 561-852-3160 or melissac@bocafed.org
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Women’s Division
T H R E E W O M E N , T H R E E U N I Q U E S T O R I E S F R O M I S R A E L AT W O M E N ’ S D I V I S I O N E D U C AT I O N D AY Three prominent women, including a high-ranking career officer in the Israel Defense Forces, will offer their unique perspectives on the challenges of daily life in Israel at a special Jewish Women of the World program sponsored by the Federation’s Women’s Division. The Second Annual Dottie Lipson Educational Journey, which last year drew an overflow crowd of 350, will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 5 at Boca West Country Club in Boca Raton. Registration is at 9:30 a.m. with the program and luncheon from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Couvert is $40.
Brig. Gen. Yehudit Grisaro, Chief of Staff Advisor On Women’s Issues
Brig. Gen. Yehudit Grisaro, the IDF’s Chief of Staff Advisor on Women’s Issues and Head of the Senior Personnel Department, will be joined by former CNN Middle East Correspondent Linda Scherzer and feminist leader Paula Mills, a Brookline, Mass., native who made aliyah in 1982. Lipson, a longtime Federation lay leader, is underwriting the series designed to provide a platform for Jewish women to relate their personal and compelling experiences. Event cochairs are Rosa Golish and Dania Kier Kronick. Grisaro, 44, born and raised in the town of Kiryat Shmona near the Lebanese border, has held many important positions in the IDF since entering the army as a First Lieutenant in 1983. She was named Chief of Staff Advisor and elevated to her current rank earlier this year. Scherzer, a public relations and media consultant, has extensive experience covering the Arab-Israeli conflict. As CNN’s correspondent in Jerusalem from 1988 through 1993, she covered the first Palestinian uprising, or Intifada, and the Gulf War.
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Paula Mills is a key figure for feminist organizations in Northern Israel
Mills, who has lived in Moshav Habonim since making aliyah, is a key figure in feminist organizations in northern Israel. For more information about the Women’s Division, contact Marla Weiss Egers, Vice President, Women’s Division at 561-852-3138 or marlae@bocafed.org.
Linda Scherzer, former Middle East correspondent for CNN and Israel Television
L A R G E D E L E G AT I O N AT T E N D S I N T E R N AT I O N A L L I O N S C O N F E R E N C E
The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County’s largest delegation ever
Federation sent one of the largest delegations in the country to the United Jewish Communities/Federations International Lion of Judah Conference (ILOJC) in Washington, D.C., where more than 1,500 women philanthropists pledged $21 million to the 2007 Annual Campaign and $9 million to the Israel Emergency Campaign.
“I want to emphasize, to support the work that you do, that any time you do anything in America to heal this country, to help bridge the divide, to help people get together, you are strengthening the ability of your country to be a force for peace and decency against terror and nihilism in the rest of the world,” former President Bill Clinton told the gathering.
More than 70 women from South Palm Beach County attended the September biennial conference, which was sponsored by UJC’s National Women’s Philanthropy. The event attracted participants from across North America and around the world. Delegates at the three-day conference addressed critical issues affecting the Jewish people and shared their philanthropic goals and philosophy.
Other conference speakers included former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright; U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. John Bolton; Dan Gillerman, Israel’s Ambassador to the U.N.; Dalia Itzik, Speaker of Israel’s Knesset; and Karnit Goldwasser, wife of Ehud Goldwasser, one of the Israeli soldiers kidnapped by Hezbollah this past summer.
Lions give a minimum gift of $5,000 apiece to the Annual Campaign and account for approximately a quarter of the national campaign’s nearly $900 million yearly total.
Cindy Orbach Nimhauser, Ellen R. Sarnoff, Marla Weiss Egers and Ruth Nussdorf
“We were very proud to have so many people in our community take part in such a wonderful experience,” said Jeanne Fibus, co-chair of the local delegation along with Wendy Pressner. “There was a tremendous feeling of unity with all these women.” Three women represented the Federation on the ILOJC Committee: ILOJC campaign chair Etta Gross Zimmerman, chair of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County; Rani Garfinkle, chair of National Women’s Philanthropy; and Roxane Frechie Lipton, chair of the Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Awards.
Lyna Zommick, Shirley Grallnick and Etta Gross Zimmerman
Roxane Frechie Lipton and Carol Levin
(Continued on page 14)
Dr. Carol Smokler, Carol Levin, Neal Sedaka, Rani Garfinkle, Etta Gross Zimmerman (photograph by Robert A. Cumins)
Victoria Garfinkle, Rani Garfinkle and Suzy Garfinkle Chevrier (photograph by Robert A. Cumins)
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L A R G E D E L E G AT I O N AT T E N D S I N T E R N AT I O N A L L I O N S C O N F E R E N C E ( C O N T I N U E D )
Lions roar on capital tour on September 12, 2006
Beverly Weiss, Rochelle Gendler and Jeanne Fibus
Esther Sherman and Karen Altschul
Lions gather at Fort Lauderdale Aiport
Carol Levin and Wendy Pressner
(Continued from previous page)
Ellen R. Sarnoff, Carol Levin and Cindy Orbach Nimhauser
“It was an amazing experience,” Pressner said. “I thought our women were incredible and the conference was even more special because 1,500 women were so unified in terms of purpose and philanthropic giving. I wish everyone in our community, no matter how much they donate, could experience this conference.”
For more information about the Women’s Division, contact Marla Weiss Egers, Vice President, Women’s Division at 561-852-3138 or marlae@bocafed.org.
F I R S T F E M A L E R A B B I F R O M F L O R I D A D E L I V E R S O P E N I N G P R AY E R T O U . S . C O N G R E S S Rabbi Amy Rader, associate rabbi at B’nai Torah in Boca Raton and a Federation Lion of Judah, became the first female rabbi from Florida to deliver the invocation in the U.S. House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. “I was deeply honored to represent the Jewish community to our elected officials,” said Rader, who gave the invocation on Sept. 14. “It is important that our leaders recognize the diversity of our country and hear the sincere prayers for peace and security that Jews share
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with our neighbors.” As a Lion of Judah, Rader contributes at a level of $5,000 or more to the Federation’s Annual Campaign. The mother of four children, Rader accepted the invitation from Rep. Clay Shaw’s office to deliver the opening prayer. Her prayer highlighted a statement by Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, who said that when he marched on Selma, Ala., with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., he felt that he was “praying with his feet.”
“My prayer asked for God’s help to move our prayers from our lips to our feet,” she said. “We need to take action and leadership in the world on behalf of so many who don’t have the privilege of democracy, freedom and equality.” For more information about the Women’s Division, contact Marla Weiss Egers, Vice President, Women’s Division at 561-852-3138 or marlae@bocafed.org.
AGENCY PARTNERS LOCAL Adolph and Rose Levis Jewish Community Center Donna Klein Jewish Academy Federation Transportation Services Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Center Harry and Jeanette Weinberg House Hillel Day School of Boca Raton Israel Program Grants Jewish Association for Residential Care (JARC) Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) Jewish Education Commission (JEC) Kosher Konnection
Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities Grant (NORC) Ruth Rales Jewish Family Service Shirley H. Gould House Solomon Schechter Day School of South Palm Beach County The Community Kollel Torah Academy of Boca Raton Volunteer Resource Center Weinbaum Yeshiva High School
Founding Agencies JEWISH ASSOCIATION FOR RESIDENTIAL CARE The Jewish Association for Residential Care provides group homes, apartments and vocational training for adults with developmental disabilities and endeavors to promote independence, dignity and selfrespect for clients.
DONNA KLEIN JEWISH ACADEMY Donna Klein Jewish Academy, for students K-12, promotes academic excellence in general and Jewish studies, encouraging students to celebrate and embrace life-long learning and be knowledgeable, productive and responsible citizens.
RUTH RALES JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE Ruth Rales Jewish Family Service works with families and individuals of all ages, offering mental health and support programs, senior services and case management, social and educational programs and much more.
ADOLPH AND ROSE LEVIS JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER The Adolph and Rose Levis Jewish Community Center offers programs to preserve, transmit and strengthen Jewish continuity for Jews of all beliefs by enriching personal, cultural, social and physical development.
Federation Agencies JEWISH EDUCATION COMMISSION The Jewish Education Commission provides educational opportunites for students by creating, coordinating and implementing programs and services for children, teens and adults.
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OUR COMMUNITY... OUR W FEDERATION AGENCIES (continued) FIRST TIMERS TEACHERS TRIP: Sponsored by the JEC, 16 teachers and one staff member take a 10-day trip to Israel that includes visits to historical sites, meetings with other educators and seminars. The project is targeted to the 50 percent of area Jewish day school teachers who have never been to Israel and aims to make the Jewish homeland a focal point in their teaching. ISRAEL PROGRAM GRANTS: The JEC distributes $500 and $1,000 grants to young adults who study in Israel for periods of more than three weeks.
JEWISH COMMUNITY RELATIONS COUNCIL The Jewish Community Relations Council, the public-policy, community relations and advocacy arm of the Federation, promotes a safe and secure State of Israel and an American society that is democratic and pluralistic.
Other Local Agencies BOCA RATON COMMUNITY KOLLEL Staffed by a team of six Rabbinic scholars, the Kollel, attempts to increase awareness and practice of Jewish heritage and religious tradition among all Jews, regardless of denomination. Founded in 1996, the Kollel offers free classes and participates in programs in various informal community settings including synagogues, federations, schools and businesses throughout Palm Beach and Broward counties.
FEDERATION TRANSPORTATION SERVICES (FTS) A department of the Federation, FTS works with the Florida Department of Children and Families, Palm Tran and the Area Agency on Agency to transport seniors and developmentally disabled adults to activities of daily living such as medical services, social services and employment. FTS operates 16 vehicles totaling 340 seats and provides nearly 80,000 one-way trips per year.
REGIONAL/NATIONAL birthright israel B’nai B’rith Youth Organization, Gold Coast Region Florida Association of Jewish Federations/Government Affairs Committee
Florida Hillel Council Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life
BIRTHRIGHT ISRAEL Provides free 10-day intensive trips to young Jews ages 18 to 26 who have never visited Israel. A variety of itineraries feature holy and historical sites and multi-day encounters with Israeli peers.
B’NAI BRITH YOUTH ORGANIZATION, GOLD COAST REGION (BBYO)
ORLD... OUR RESPONSIBILITY A worldwide trans-denominational organization which brings youth leadership and community service opportunities, Jewish education, a connection to Israel and positive identity and social opportunities to thousands of teens.
FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF JEWISH FEDERATIONS/GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS COMMITTEE (GAC) Through the pooled resources of all Florida Federations, the GAC provides for a lobbyist stationed in Tallahassee to advocate on behalf of the Jewish population and facilitate state funding of local projects. Funding has been secured for local programs such as an employment program for the disabled administered by JARC, for a Holocaust survivor assistance program administered by JFS and for Federation Transportation Services.
FLORIDA HILLEL COUNCIL (REGIONAL) With a Jewish university student population of more than 30,000 at six centers, the Florida Hillel Council provides support and programming to undergraduate and graduate students on the local level, keeping their ties to Judaism strong during the formative college years.
HILLEL: FOUNDATION FOR JEWISH CAMPUS LIFE (NATIONAL) The national level of Hillel provides support services to the regional offices and local Hillel chapters such as recruitment of personnel and fundraising advice.
ISRAEL/OVERSEAS American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) Jewish Agency For Israel (JAFI) Nefesh b’Nefesh New York Association for New Americans (NYANA)
Partnership 2000, Kiryat Bialik Ethiopian National Project United Jewish Communities (UJC) World ORT Union
UNITED JEWISH COMMUNITIES (UJC) The umbrella organization represents 155 Jewish Federations and hundreds of independent communities across North America. The UJC promotes a wide agenda of programs and services that address domestic and global issues by acting as the central clearinghouse of funds raised through the Annual Campaign. SCHOOL PERFORMANCE AND COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT, ETHIOPIAN NATIONAL PROJECT (ENP SPACE): Provides scholastic assistance for low-performing Ethiopian Israeli students, addresses the needs of youth in crisis and strengthens community through leadership development programs.
AMERICAN JEWISH JOINT DISTRIBUTION COMMITTEE (JDC) Founded in 1914 to assist Jews in Palestine affected by World War I, the JDC serves as the overseas arm of the UJC/Federation system, sponsoring programs of relief, rescue and renewal in more than 60 countries. The JDC helps impoverished Jews in the former Soviet Union and in Central and Eastern Europe, responds to crisis-related needs in Israel, maintains communal Jewish institutions in Asia and Africa,
AGENCY PARTNERS ISRAEL OVERSEAS (continued) responds to the economic crisis affecting Latin American Jews and coordinates global programs that address Jewish and non-sectarian needs. GLICKMAN TRAINING CENTER: Located in Kiryat Bialik, the Center provides training for caregivers of the elderly Israeli population, which has grown by 50 percent in 10 years and now numbers over 650,000. PARENTS & CHILDREN TOGETHER, KIRYAT YAM: PACT supports Ethiopian Israeli immigrants and their children, from birth to age six, by providing healthcare, after-school programs, Hebrew language instruction and employment training for parents. WARM HOMES FOR RUSSIAN IMMIGRANTS, KIRYAT YAM: More than 100 Warm Home programs throughout Israel help elderly immigrants from the former Soviet Union adjust to their new environment. Small groups of immigrants meet at least twice a week at the home of a host family.
JEWISH AGENCY FOR ISRAEL (JAFI) JAFI, founded in 1929, works worldwide with three primary goals: aliyah, Jewish-Zionist education and partnerships with Israel. More than three million Jews have been brought home to Israel and supported in their transition through programs such as Keshet (which reunites immigrant soldiers living alone in Israel with their parents), the Fund for Lone Immigrant Students and Soldiers, the Fund for Preventing Immigrant Student Dropouts, JAFI funded absorption centers and many others. ACHARAI (FOLLOW ME): Developed in conjunction with the Israel Defense Force (IDF) and held in Kiryat Bialik, the program helps up to 100 disadvantaged 12th-graders prepare for and successfully complete a full term of meaningful service. HOT MEAL PROJECT, YOSEFTAL HOUSING OF AMIGOUR, KIRYAT YAM: The program provides the staff and materials to prepare meals for residents who cannot cook for themselves, facilitating socialization and interaction among residents at the Yoseftal Housing facility. PARTNERSHIP 2000, KIRYAT BIALIK: Through exchange programs, Partnership 2000 seeks to create a “living bridge” between Boca Raton and its sister city in northern Israel, Kiryat Bialik.
NEFESH B’NEFESH Nefesh B’Nefesh, founded by Rabbi Joshua Fass, formerly of the Boca Raton Synagogue, has revitalized North American aliyah, providing olim with the resources necessary to move to Israel and function in the society.
NEW YORK ASSOCIATION FOR NEW AMERICANS (NYANA) Founded in 1949 to resettle over 45,000 Jewish refugees in the aftermath of World War II, NYANA now rescues and resettles refugees of all faiths and provides housing assistance, employment services, health care and social and psychological counseling.
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$5 off any in-store purchase at Boca Judaica. This coupon entitles you to $5 off any purchase at Boca Judaica. BOCA JUDAICA FEDERATION CAMPUS Cultural Arts Building
9901 Donna Klein Boulevard Boca Raton, Florida 33428-1788 (561) 852-5085 BOCA JUDAICA YIDDISHKEIT Mission Bay Plaza
20437 State Road 7 # C3 Boca Raton, FL 33498 (561) 558-9580 Use this card towards the purchase of merchandise or services at Boca Judaica. This card is redeemable for merchandise and services only and will not be exchanged for cash or credit. This card cannot be used in combination with any other sale or special promotion. Please treat this card like cash. Boca Judaica is not responsible for the unauthorized use of lost or stolen cards. Lost and stolen cards cannot be replaced.
Metro Division
A NEW GENERATION OF JEWISH LEADERSHIP IS ON BOARD WITH FEDERATION METRO IT’S FULL STEAM AHEAD FOR FEDERATION’S NEWEST DIVISION FEDERATION METRO ROUTES Metro Business Metro Women
Metro Community
South Florida’s Jewish community isn’t just growing; it’s evolving. Results from last year’s demographic study revealed that from 1995 to 2005, the Jewish community of South Palm Beach County increased by nearly 20 percent. During that same 10-year period, the number of Jewish families with young children in Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Highland Beach doubled. In response to the explosive growth of the younger population, the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County went outside the box to create Federation Metro, an exciting new division designed to engage a new generation of Jewish leaders. “If we want to maintain our relevance, we must respond to the changes within our community as well as to the changes taking place in the world around us,” Debra Halperin, co-chair of the Metro division, says. “This new division will help us to better respond to contemporary issues.” Halperin, one of three co-chairs heading up the organization, speaks excitedly about the new division. “The traditional Federation model doesn’t always resonate with the post-Holocaust generation,” she explains, “For whatever reason, there are a lot of younger Jews who can’t relate to the broad scope of the Federation’s annual campaign like their parents did; they want to be more hands-on with their philanthropy. Federation Metro, she says, “is tailor-made for people who want to make a difference on a more personal level.” Federation Metro is targeted towards individuals in their 30s, 40s and 50s looking to make meaningful connections within a Jewish context. According to Co-Chair Jill Deutch, the Metro theme indicates this segment of the community’s forward momentum. “We all have our own unique gifts. We
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may come from different backgrounds and have different priorities,” she says, “but we’re all going in the same direction.” Federation Metro offers three paths through which individuals can launch
their own philanthropic journey. The Metro Business track features a speaker’s series as well as networking and mentoring opportunities. Metro Women is a fast-moving committee driven by a new approach to outreach and personal development. Metro Community provides an avenue for social interaction ands hands-on volunteer opportunities. On the way to strengthening the Jewish community at home and abroad, each path will lead to opportunities for personal enrichment, social fulfillment and career enhancement.
The Metro Business networking series is sponsored by HomeBanc and Kluger Peretz Kaplan and Berlin. The Summary Report of the 2005 South Palm Beach County Jewish Community Study was prepared by Ira M. Sheskin, Ph.D., Director of the Jewish Demography Project of the Sue and Leonard Miller Center for Contemporary Judaic Studies and an Associate Professor in the Department of Geography and Regional Studies at the University of Miami, and was released in January 2006.
“We don’t want to pigeonhole this group,” says Co-Chair Jonathan Louis, “If we are going to successfully meet a new world of challenges, our community needs to develop not only resources but vision. It’s an exciting time in the community; this could develop in any number of ways.” All of which can significantly impact the future success of the Jewish community in South Palm Beach County.
The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County provides a common resource for Jewish institutions in Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Highland Beach through the UJA/Federation Annual Campaign and the Jewish Community Foundation. Federation programs also fund programs in Israel and 60 other locations worldwide.
The Metro Division is sponsored by Regions Bank and the Sandelman Foundation.
For more information, please call 561-852-3100 or visit www.jewishboca.org.
JANUARY 18 Metro Ben Gurion Society Event Cocktails & Conversation Guest Speaker: David Friend, Editor of Creative Development, Vanity Fair Home of Pam & Howard Kaye, 7:00 pm
JANUARY 16
Individual Minimum gift of $1000 (one per household) is required to attend. $36 per person couvert.
Metro Lion of Judah Outreach Why I am proud to be a Jew and a United States Marine
Event Chairs: Robynn & Ira Ginsberg Naomi & Rich Steinberg
Guest Speaker: Josh Mandel, served as an Intelligence Specialist in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves
For additional information, please call (561) 852-3271 or register online at: www.bocafed.org/metro.
Home of Marissa Hollander, 10:00am Event Chairs: Marissa Hollander, Karen Dern & Marcia Beckerman For additional information, please call (561) 852-5093.
Ben Gurion Society event generously sponsored by: Brown’s Interior Design
Metro Division Sponsors: Regions Bank and the Sandelman Foundation
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Jewish Community Foundation N E W I R A L E G I S L AT I O N A L L O W S P H I L A N T H R O P I S T S T O F U L F I L L G O A L S W I T H F E D E R AT I O N Thanks to new legislation recently passed in Washington, D.C., older individuals can use their IRAs to achieve their philanthropic goals with the Federation – with no adverse tax consequences. Under the Pension Protection Act of 2006, individuals 70 1/2 or older, for a limited time, can instruct the trustee of their IRA to make a direct distribution of up to $100,000 per year to Federation. The gift counts toward the individual’s annual IRA distribution requirement. This charitable IRA rollover opportunity is only available for gifts made in 2006 and 2007. Unlike a cash withdrawal from an IRA, an individual’s direct contribution will not be taxed. The gift will not be eligible for a charitable tax deduction, but it will not count toward the annual percentage limitation of a donor’s other
deductible gifts. The direct contribution cannot be made to donor advised funds, supporting organizations, charitable remainder trusts or in exchange for gift annuities. Donors are encouraged to earmark their gifts to: • the UJA/Federation Annual Campaign • the creation of a permanent Lion of Judah Endowment (LOJE) fund with the Women’s Division or a Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment (PACE) fund with the Men’s Campaign. Funds can also be used to make up the difference for LOJEs or PACEs that are under-funded.
specific field of interest through the Jewish Community Foundation Federation officials are also encouraging financial advisors to inform their clients of the new legislation and giving opportunities. The Federation’s prestigious Mitzvah Society recognizes professionals who have referred clients to the Jewish Community Foundation, resulting in a closed gift. Mitzvah Society members will be recognized at the organization’s 3rd annual cocktail reception on Feb. 1, 2007. For information, contact Jewish Community Foundation Executive Director Leah Siskin at 561-852-3151 or leahs@bocafed.org.
• the creation of permanent endowment funds for Federation’s partner agencies for a
F O R M E R C E N T U RY V I L L A G E R E S I D E N T L E AV E S $ 4 8 7 , 0 0 0 L E G A C Y G I F T For 20 years, Rose Schneer led a quiet and unassuming existence in Century Village, a retirement community in west Boca Raton. The former school teacher, who died in 2003 at the age of 87, enjoyed the occasional meal out but basically kept to herself. During her life, Schneer had never donated to the Federation. That’s why it was such good news when the Jewish Community Foundation, the Federation’s planned giving arm, received $487,000 from her estate.
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Schneer, who was not married and had no relatives in Florida, had accumulated her wealth through intelligent investments and obviously thought the Federation would be a worthy recipient. Federation has since established the Rose Schneer Unrestricted Endowment Fund to perpetuate her legacy for generations. Schneer’s gift may be used as the Foundation sees fit. Foundation Chair Tom Kaplan and Executive Director Leah Siskin would like Schneer’s gift to be an example for others in the community who
can impact non-profit organizations such as the Federation through careful estate planning. “What we have found,” said Kaplan, “is that by explaining all the wonderful things we do at the Foundation, we can create an opportunity where people can perpetuate not only the charitable gifts they have made during their lifetimes but create a true legacy for future generations.” For information, contact Jewish Community Foundation Executive Director Leah Siskin at 561-852-3151 or leahs@bocafed.org.
That’s why the Jewish Women's Foundation awarded a grant to support a new program in Israel that will help break the cycle of child abuse and domestic violence. Women helping women – A force that can change the world.
ELI – THE ISRAEL ASSOCIATION FOR CHILD PROTECTION A good choice. Child abuse and domestic violence are silent diseases that no one wants to talk about. But they exist – even within the Jewish community. The problems can be magnified in Israel, where the continuing stresses of terrorism, economic uncertainty and immigrant acclimation contribute to cruelty, neglect and even sexual abuse against an estimated 40,000 children. With the help of the Jewish Women’s Foundation of South Palm Beach County, ELI (The Israel Association for Child Protection) is instituting a new program that is designed to aid abused girls who will work on feelings of self-esteem, their ability to trust others, and their personal right to be
protected from abuse to help prevent them from becoming battered women. As a Trustee of the Jewish Women’s Foundation, you have the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of Jewish women and girls. For more information, contact Jill Hagler, Associate Foundation Director, at 561-852-5015 or jillh@bocafed.org.
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JEWISH COMMUNITY F O U N D AT I O N EVENTS PROFESSIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE MITZVAH SOCIETY COCKTAIL RECEPTION
Thursday, February 1, 2007, 5:30 p.m. Location Private home Honoree: Craig Donoff, Esq. Call: Carolyn Rose, 561-852-3142 JEWISH WOMEN'S FOUNDATION COCKTAIL RECEPTION Tuesday, March 6, 2007, 5:30 p.m. The Old Course at Broken Sound Country Club, Boca Raton Speaker: Erica Jong Couvert: $50
F E D E R AT I O N ’ S J E W I S H W O M E N ’ S F O U N D AT I O N OFFERING $30,000 IN GRANTS The Jewish Women’s Foundation (JWF), an initiative of the Federation’s Jewish Community Foundation, is offering grants of up to $10,000 to 501 (c)(3) organizations that have programs which improve the status of Jewish women and girls in South Palm Beach County, Israel or in any Jewish community overseas. The programs must address a genuine need and provide measurable results. Applications must be filed by Jan. 2, 2007. Grants will be announced on March 6 and distributed by April 30. A total of $30,000 will be distributed this year.
The JWF also has positions available on its Board of Trustees for women who seek to touch Jewish girls’ and womens’ lives through effective grant making. The Jewish Community Foundation is the planned giving and endowment arm of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, which serves Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Highland Beach. For a grant application, to become a trustee or for further information, call Jill Hagler, Associate Foundation Director, at 561-852-5015 or jillh@bocafed.org.
The JWF, formed in 2003, last year awarded its first cycle of funding, distributing $21,000 to three organizations. The JWF received 17 grant proposals – eight local projects and nine overseas.
Call: Jill Hagler, 561-852-5015 LION OF JUDAH ENDOWMENT ULTIMATE THANK YOU
Thursday, March 29, 2007, 11:30 a.m. St. Andrews Country Club, Boca Raton Speakers: Letty Cottin Pogrebin and Abigail Pogrebin. This luncheon honors those women who have committed to endowing their annual Lion-level gift at $100,000 and above. Call: Jill Hagler, 561-852-5015 Sponsor: Schwimmer-Halperin Group at Merrill Lynch Global Private Client PROFESSIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE 23RD ANNUAL SEMINAR FOR PROFESSIONALS
Thursday, May 10, 2007, 4:30 p.m. Woodfield Country Club, Boca Raton Speaker: Susan Porter CPE credits available Call: Carolyn Rose, 561-852-3142
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JCF EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CHAIR Thomas R. Kaplan VICE CHAIR David Pratt CHAIR, INVESTMENT COMMITTEE Michael Beckerman CHAIR, LION OF JUDAH ENDOWMENT COMMITTEE Dorothy Seaman
CHAIR, PROFESSIONAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE Elyssa Kupferberg CHAIR, JEWISH WOMEN’S FOUNDATION Francine Cole CHAIR, GRANTS COMMITTEE Jerome Altheimer VICE CHAIR, GRANTS COMMITTEE Michael Lipton
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Charles Ganz VICE PRESIDENT, FEDERATION EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, FOUNDATION Leah B. Siskin
P R O F E S S I O N A L A D V I S O RY C O M M I T T E E K I C K O F F
Linda Melcer, Kickoff Chair, gave awards of appreciation to event sponsors Marjorie Horwin of Daszkal Bolton, LLC and Sue Wandersman of Prestige Nursing Services
David Pratt, Foundation Vice Chair; Elyssa Kupferberg, PAC Chair; Leah Siskin, Foundation Executive Director; Thomas R. Kaplan, Foundation Chair; William S. Bernstein, Federation CEO & President
More than 80 professionals attended the first PAC event of the season, chaired by Linda Melcer and held at US Trust. The event, co-sponsored by Prestige Nursing Services and Daszkal Bolton, LLC, provided a wonderful opportunity for professionals to re-connect after an active summer.
PAC vice-chair David Katzman worked with membership committee co-chairs Larry Blair and Marc Margolies on recruiting several new potential members to attend the event to learn more about this prestigious group and the work it accomplishes on behalf of the Jewish community. Tom Kaplan, Foundation Chair, welcomed everyone, gave an overview of the Jewish Community Foundation and explained the importance of the PAC.
Elyssa Kupferberg, PAC chair, announced the $10 million goal set by the PAC’s Governance Committee to be raised this season through outright gifts of cash, endowments, life-income plans and bequests. The first bequest to the 2007 Campaign in the amount of $300,000 was announced. This major gift was a wonderful way to begin the season.
PAC Members Steve Belson and Fred Weinstein
Professionals interested in PAC membership should contact Carolyn Rose, Director of Professional Advisory Relationships, at (561) 852-3142 or carolynr@bocafed.org. Mitzvah Society Members Mitchell Starr, Carol Lasek and Howard Bienenfeld
Save the Date Jewish Community Foundation Professional Advisory Committee Upcoming Events
Roundtable Series Date:
Jan. 18, 2007
Date:
March 22, 2007
Time:
7:45 am – 9:15 am
Time:
5:30 pm – 7:30 pm Cocktail Reception
Breakfast Meeting Place:
Broken Sound Country Club
Place:
TBD
Topic:
Heckerling Update
Topic:
TBD
Sponsor: Bernstein Global Wealth Management
Co-Chairs: Steve Belson & Mark Schaum
Mitzvah Society Cocktail Reception
23rd Annual Seminar for Professionals
Date:
Thursday, Feb. 1, 2007
Date:
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Time:
5:30 pm
Time:
4:30 pm
Place:
Private Home
Place:
Woodfield Country Club
Honoree: Craig Donoff, Esq.
Speaker: TBD
Chair:
Co-Chairs: Seth Marmor &
Donald Tescher, Esq.
Mary Sue Donahue
Co-Chairs: Stuart Bloch & Marjorie Horwin
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JCRC
Jewish Community Relations Council
FORUM ANSWERS KEY QUESTIONS FOR STUDENTS HEADING OFF TO COLLEGE
Jerry Kiewe speaks to students at the Israel College Advocacy Forum.
What would you do if you heard a speaker say that the Holocaust never happened or your roommate told you she had never seen a Jew before? Providing answers to those troubling questions is one of the purposes of the annual Israel College Advocacy Forum sponsored by the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC). This year’s event is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. in Zinman Hall on the Federation’s West Boca Raton campus. Guest speaker will be Michael Brooks, executive director of the University of Michigan Hillel. Brooks, one of the country’s outstanding Jewish educators, heads one of the most active Jewish campuses in North America. The Israel College Advocacy Forum, in its seventh year, is designed for incoming college freshmen, high school seniors and their parents. The 2006 program featured Jerry Kiewe, vice president of PANIM: The Institute for Jewish Leadership and Values, one of the most trusted, innovative and successful Jewish educational organizations in America. Kiewe explained why Jewish students accustomed to the insular environment of South Palm Beach County may find a different atmosphere on
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many college campuses. Four student activists with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) and Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach illustrated through skits how students should respond to anti-Semitic and antiIsrael sentiments.
Jewish students in his class? “You can’t win a scholarly debate with a professor,” he said. “You’re not going to be able to do a lot. Your best recourse is out of the classroom. Talk to students about what he said and try to minimize his effects on the other kids.”
The program also included remarks from Darin Diner, executive director of Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach, and Dr. Leon Weissberg, executive director of the Federation’s Jewish Education Commission.
Boca Raton native Russell Semmel, an AIPAC activist and recent graduate of the University of Florida, said passion for Israel is “necessary but not sufficient.
“College campuses are the front lines of battle for Israel advocacy,” said Kiewe. “You basically have three types of people – those who love Israel, those who hate Israel and those who you may be able to persuade. That’s who you want to speak to.” Diner urged attendees to take advantage of organizations such as Hillel, which provide support and help Jewish students connect, regardless of their level of religious observance. He said Hillel can provide continuity for students from large Jewish communities who are away from home for the first time. “Like it or not, you are going to be pegged as Jewish students on campus,” Diner said. “People are going to want you to know the answers to Middle East questions. They’re going to ask you, “What is this holiday all about?”
“Begin a conversation with a person who has never talked about Israel,” said Semmel. “That’s potentially one more pro-Israel advocate.” Deadline to RSVP for the 2007 program is Jan. 26. Call 561-852-3159 or email jcrc@bocafed.org.
C A N D I D AT E S ’ F O R U M The JCRC co-sponsored a Candidates’ Forum in October at Temple Beth El of Boca Raton. A voting booth demonstration preceded the forum, in which the candidates expressed their views. Candidates who attended: • U.S. House of Representatives: Ron Klein, Neil Evangelista
Kiewe explained that in a situation where anti-Semitic literature is being distributed, students should inform the Anti-Defamation League or Hillel. Also, letters can be written to the college newspaper. Just don’t ignore the incidents, Kiewe said. How about a professor who insists on delivering an anti-Israel diatribe despite the objections of
The Candidates’ Forum at Temple Beth El
C A N D I D AT E S ’ F O R U M ( C O N T I N U E D ) • State Senate, District 30: Ted Deutch, Karl Dickey • State House, District 87: Ed Kopf • State House, District 91: Christian Chiar “The JCRC always encourages American Jews to learn about the issues we care about and what is at stake in every election,” said JCRC Chair Steve Mendelsohn. “It is important that we familiarize ourselves with the candidates and discuss issues of particular interest
to the Jewish community such as support for Israel, the U.S. role in international events, health care, public education and services for the frail elderly.” Other forum co-sponsors included the American Jewish Committee, the National Council of Jewish Women and Temple Beth El. For information on the Jewish Community Relations Council, call 561-852-3159 or email jcrc@bocafed.org.
JEWISH AGENCIES RECEIVE $539,288 FOR PROGRAMS cians’ “proven friendship” with the Jewish community and their understanding of the importance of these projects to reach people who need help. “The strong support we receive from our government partners validates the credibility of the services our agencies provide,” she said. Rep. Adam Hasner, JARC president Peter Sachs, Sen. Dave Aronberg and JARC executive director Dr. Debra Hallow
The 2006 Florida Legislative Session was a positive one for South Palm Beach County’s Jewish community as Jewish agencies received a record $539,288 for programs to help broaden efforts to assist vulnerable populations. Three projects that received grants included: • New funding for supported employment for the disabled for the Jewish Association for Residential Care (JARC); • Recurring and new funds for Holocaust Survivor Assistance for Ruth Rales Jewish Family Services (JFS); and • Continuation of funds for transportation services for seniors and the disabled. JCRC Director Elise Dolgow said the funding reflected Gov. Jeb Bush and local politi-
Dr. Jaclynn Faffer, executive director of Ruth Rales Jewish Family Services, was very pleased with the funding. “We are thrilled that our elected officials join us in recognizing and supporting the increased need for in-home services for the most frail in our community the survivors of the Holocaust,” she said. “By doubling our funding from $100,000 to $200,000 we can enhance our services and enable more survivors to age in place with dignity.” JARC leaders formally thanked State Sen. Dave Aronberg and Rep. Adam Hasner for their roles in securing $235,000 at their Legislative Appreciation Day. For information on the Jewish Community Relations Council, call 561-852-3159 or email jcrc@bocafed.org.
JCRC OFFERS ONGOING S U P P O RT I N D A R F U R PROTESTS The JCRC, in its continuing support of community events protesting the ongoing genocide in Darfur in western Sudan, will again co-sponsor a rally on Jan. 28, 2007 from 1-4 p.m. at Temple Beth El of Boca Raton. The synagogue in located on NW 4th Ave. between Palmetto Park Rd. and Camino Real across from St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church and next to the Congregational Church. The event is being sponsored by the Save Darfur Coalition of South Palm Beach County. “We’re doing everything we can to promote awareness of this issue in the Jewish community,” said JCRC Director Elise Dolgow. The most recent community rally took place in September at the Genocide Memorial in front of the St. David Armenian Orthodox Church in Boca Raton as part of the national Save Darfur Coalition’s Ten Days of Action. The protest culminated with a rally in New York’s Central Park that called for the immediate deployment of U.N. peacekeepers to Darfur. Participants in the Central Park rally included Sara Agler, daughter of Rabbi Richard Agler of Congregation B’nai Israel in Boca Raton, and Claire Chevrier, granddaughter of Rani Garfinkle, a Federation board member. Sara Agler and Chevrier are seniors at Spanish River High School in Boca Raton. Since 2003, according to the Save Darfur website, the Sudanese government-sponsored genocide has killed more than 400,000 men, women and children, forced 2.5 million Darfurians from their homes and left more than 3.5 million individuals reliant on humanitarian aid. For information about the genocide in Darfur and activities to end it, go to www.SaveDarfur.org and SaveDarfurSPB@gmail.com. For JCRC information, call 561-852-3159 or email jcrc@bocafed.org.
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JEC
Jewish Education Commission
FILM FORUM RAISES $31,500 FOR MARCH OF LIVING The 5th annual Kristallnacht Film Forum, presented in November by the Federation’s Jewish Education Commission (JEC), raised $31,500 for the March of the Living Scholarship Fund. Twelve films with Holocaust themes were shown at two sites – Sunrise Cinemas at Mizner Park in Boca Raton and Sunrise Cinemas at Deerfield Mall in Deerfield Beach. Proceeds from the event will enable 11th- and 12th-graders from South Palm Beach County to participate in the March of the Living. The students travel to Poland for one week, visiting the concentration camps and commemorating Yom Hashoa (Holocaust Commemoration Day), then proceed to Israel to celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel Independence Day) for the second week of this unique experience. “The event was a tremendous success,” said JEC Director Dr. Leon Weissberg. “We plan to raise $20,000 more so we can send 60 kids on the March of the Living.”
The film forum’s opening night also marked the public debut of “Refuse: The Warsaw Ghetto Project,” a unique art exhibit presented by Dr. Peter Salomon, a Boca Raton gastroenterologist. Based on recovered photos, Salomon painted the portraits of actual Warsaw Ghetto residents on pieces of discarded trash or refuse, symbolizing the attitude toward Jews during the Nazi regime. “Our tradition teaches us never to forget any parts of our history,” said KFF chair Rebecca Michel. “It is the mission of the KFF committee to foster memory of the single most catastrophic event of the 20th century – the Holocaust. The Jewish Education Commission tied together Kristallnacht, contemporary films about the Holocaust and the March of the Living as a bridge to never forgetting.” For information, contact Jewish Education Commission at 561-852-6045 or email jec@bocafed.org.
Sunrise Cinemas owner Nancy Dreir, theater manager Morris Zryll and Dr. Leon Weissberg of the JEC.
Morris Zryll, Dr. Leon Weissberg and former JEC chair Helen Cohan.
KIRYAT BIALIK TEACHERS VISIT Even as Hezbollah rockets rained down on innocent civilians in northern Israel this summer, at least one resident in the vulnerable community of Kiryat Bialik said peace with the Arabs is possible. “I’m an optimist,” said Yehudah Wagner, one of three school principals from Kiryat Bialik who visited with Federation staff members in August. Wagner, along with Yona Taller and Dr. David Assido, spent a couple of days in west Boca Raton before traveling to Duke University for a Coalition for the Advancement of Jewish Education (CAJE) conference. Kiryat Bialik is the Federation’s partnership city through Partnership 2000, a program which promotes relationships between Israeli communities and Jewish communities throughout the world. “We have peace with Egypt and Jordan,” said
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Wagner. “So peace is possible. But I don’t know if it will be in my lifetime.”
said this war was complicated because the opponent is radical Muslim fundamentalism.
The educators described a tumultuous existence in Kiryat Bialik, where lives were constantly interrupted by air raid sirens that sent people scurrying to bomb shelters. Thanks in part to money raised by the Federation, some Kiryat Bialik youngsters escaped the trauma by being moved to safe overnight camps in central and southern Israel.
“We are fighting not just for Israel but for a free world,” said Wagner. “We are strong and we are right.”
But missiles launched from just inside the Lebanese border killed one person and injured others in Kiryat Bialik. Buildings and homes were destroyed.
“We need it,” said Wagner.
The educators agreed that except for a very small percentage of the population, Israelis believed the battle against Hezbollah was a just one. But they
Israelis, the educators said, were thankful for the monetary and moral support they received from Jewish communities around the world.
For information, contact Jewish Education Commission at 561-852-6045 or email jec@bocafed.org.
Distinguished Lecture Series December A Passover Landscape Illumination on the Exodus Rabbi MatthewBerkowitz Dec. 7, 2006 Anshei Shalom Dedicated by Helen and Mark Cohan in memory of our beloved parents Esther and Herman Cohan.
Sign up!
Soul and Afterlife Rabbis Shimon Feder & Avi Meth Dec. 14, 2006 Anshei Shalom Dedicated by Sosha and Irving Ginsberg in memory of our beloved daughter Julie Gail Berger.
For the Is Aronin Inner Circle – 5767 Season of the Distinguished Lecture Series $5 per lecture at the door. All lectures begin promptly at 10:00 a.m.
January The Europeans Interest With Modern Israeli Literature Avraham Dov Horowitz Jan. 4, 2007 Anshei Shalom Dedicated by Wilma Lieberfarb in memory of beloved husband Daniel Lieberfarb.
U.S.- Israel Relationship Today AIPAC’s National Summit Debbie Meline Jan. 11, 2007 Anshei Shalom Dedicated by Helen and Mark Cohan in memory of our beloved parents Sabina and Jacob Mager.
Jews as Professional Athletes … Is This a Job for a Jewish Boy? Dr. Abe Gittelson Jan. 18, 2007 Anshei Shalom Dedicated by Joan and Mark Mendel in memory of Aaron Posnik, our Zayde and basketball star.
The History of Jews in France Marie Feldman Jan. 25, 2007 Anshei Shalom
Temple Anshei Shalom of West Delray, 7099 West Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach, FL 33446
Dedicate a lecture to honor an inspirational person in your life. For more information, contact the Jewish Education Commission’s Department of Adult Education Services at 561-852-6045 or jec@bocafed.org.
February
March
JOSHUA – He Fought … Walls Tumbled … and More Rabbi Jack Riemer Feb. 1, 2007 Chabad Dedicated by Karen Altschul, Rose Weitz and Dorothy Wizer in honor of Florence Melton “Our Hero”
Aliyah in the 21st Century Israel Aliyah Office – Rosie Segal & Nechama Horwitz Feb. 8, 2007 Chabad
Updated View of Kashrut – It’s More Than Just a Blessing Rabbi Mordechai Fried Feb. 15, 2007 Chabad
Jews in Journalism The Palm Beach Post – Steve Gachet Feb. 22, 2007 Chabad
Journey Through Genesis Rabbi Matthew Berkowitz March 1, 2007 Anshei Emuna Dedicated by Dr. Leon & Toni Weissberg in memory of Sam Weissberg
Anti-Semitism in Today’s World ADL – Gary Levin March 22, 2007 Anshei Emuna
A Peace of Judaism Meridith Gould March 8, 2007 Anshei Emuna
Talking to God Through the Language of Love Rabbi Dan Levin March 15, 2007 Anshei Emuna Dedicated by Rebbitzen Frances Sacks in memory of Rabbi Dr. Louis Sacks.
Inner Circle Lecture Dr. Leon Weissberg March 29, 2007 The Forum at Deer Creek
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MELTON PROGRAM A REAL GIFT FOR ADULTS When Elaine Kleinman of Boca Raton decided a couple of years ago to give herself a gift, she didn’t run off to a fancy boutique or the local jeweler. She enrolled in the Florence Melton Adult Mini-School. The experience was priceless. Like hundreds who have graduated from the school in its 14-year history, Kleinman speaks in glowing terms of the Jewish historical and cultural knowledge she gained. One reason Kleinman decided to explore her Judaism was so she could better relate to her Modern Orthodox daughter, Judy, who lives in Israel. Her Melton education has also opened lines of communication with her husband, Hank. “I wanted to understand my Judaism better,” said Kleinman, who came from a Reform background. “Melton was marvelous.” Melton classes are held at the Federation’s west Boca Raton campus on Tuesday evening and Friday at lunchtime, at B’nai Torah Congregation in Boca Raton on Tuesday morning and at the Weinberg Center at Military Trail and Atlantic Ave. in Delray Beach on Monday afternoon and Wednesday morning.
The school’s two-year program, developed at the Melton Center for Jewish Education at The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, requires only a two-hour-perweek commitment for 30 weeks during the school year. The program, administered by the Federation’s Jewish Education Commission, has no pre-requisites, homework, grades or exams.
Kleinman said his wife would return excitedly from her classes. “She’d say, ‘Do you know what I learned today?’ “ said Hank. “She and I had never really had any active discussions of Jewish topics. Our daughter became Orthodox a long time ago so we had a keen awareness of what it means to be observant. But we really didn’t talk about issues.”
“Classes became a top priority for me,” Kleinman said. “I wouldn’t miss them. The nice part is that if I couldn’t make my regular class there were alternative days.”
Over the summer, the Kleinmans visited their daughter and her family who live in Zichron Yaacov, just south of Haifa. After a few days the Kleinmans joined around 40 other participants in a Melton seminar in Jerusalem. The group’s plans to visit the north of Israel were sidetracked by the war with Hezbollah.
Hank Kleinman, who was raised in a traditional Conservative home, didn’t formally sign up for Melton but sat in on some classes with his wife and was impressed. “I think what Elaine gained from Melton – and I did also – is that it gives you a much deeper appreciation of your religion and how our history affects our lives today,” he said. “The teachers discuss current issues and the way we behave and interact in society in the context of the Torah and other readings. The thing about Melton is that just about everyone who gets involved becomes a missionary for the program.
“My husband and I both have graduate degrees from college,” Elaine said, “and I can tell you that these Melton instructors in Israel were the best teachers we’ve ever had. Their background and the way they presented the material was so expansive. And because of the war they basically had to change the curriculum over night. They did a great job.” For information about the Melton Adult Mini-School, contact Director Barbara Kabatznik at 561-852-6050 or barbrak@bocafed.org.
(Continued from page 4) – Q&A WITH DANNY YATOM (FORMER MOSSAD DIRECTOR)
complicated. It’s an asymmetric war that has to be fought differently than a regular war. My main observation is that along with a firm war against terror, Israel has to initiate diplomatic steps. Only a combined effort military and diplomatic may bring a cessation of terror.
Q: You were Mossad director at the same time as George Tenet was CIA director. How much information was shared on al Qaeda then? A: At that time cooperation between Mossad and CIA was extensive. We shared information and even executed combined operations. Al Qaeda was at the beginning of its activity and was not at the top of the priorities list.
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Q: Was there enough credible evidence to predict the Sept. 11 terror attacks? A: There was no evidence in my time as Mossad’s director nor during my term as chief of staff for the Israeli government. But there was an assessment that terror might operate against American and European targets.
cooperation between all the democratic states and their security organizations.
Q: What do you see as the biggest threat to Israel? A: The Iranian program to achieve military nuclear capability. It is a threat to the very existence of Israel.
Q: Could 9/11 have been prevented?
Q: What can be done about it?
A: That’s impossible to say in a credible way.
A: There should be an international effort to block it first by sanctions. The strategy should not exclude military action.
Q: How do you see the war on terror playing out? A: There needs to be extensive international
2007 COUNTRY CLUB EVENTS ADDISON RESERVE ADDISON RESERVE PACESETTER Monday, February 5, 2007, 6:00 p.m. Sponsor: JPMorgan ADDISON RESERVE GOLF DAY Monday, March 19, 2007, All day For more information call: Rachel M. Harman, Development Director, 561.852.3120
BROKEN SOUND
GOLD COAST
Sponsors: Bernstein, Kaplan & Krauss LLC and Mellon Private Wealth Management
Sponsor: Citigroup Private Bank
DINNER DANCE Sunday, March 4, 2007 For more information call: Janet Izaak, Assistant Director, Campaign Operations, 561-852-3190
BOCAIRE
Sponsor: Mellon Private Wealth Management LION OF JUDAH OUTREACH HIGH TEA Monday, December 4, 2006, 2:00 p.m. BOCA GROVE PACESETTER: INSIGHTS INTO ISRAEL February 11, 2007, 6:00 p.m. For more information call: Ida Novack, Development Associate, 561-852-3342
LION LEGACY OUTREACH Monday, December 18, 2006, 2:30 p.m.
For more information call: Alex Rosenberg, Development Director, 561-852-3128
NEW NEIGHBOR’S TEA Thursday, January 18, 2007, 7:00 p.m.
HAMLET
For more information, call: Ida Novack, Development Associate, 561-852-3342
BOCA WOODS Sponsors: Branham Reality Inc and Mellon Private Wealth Management
DELAIRE LION OF JUDAH OUTREACH Wednesday, January 10, 2007, 8:30 a.m. BBQ & GOLF FUN DAY Thursday, March 1, 2007 , 12:00 p.m. For more information call: Michele S. Sheppard, Development Director, 561-852-3169
BOCA POINTE
GLENEAGLES
SPORTS DAY/DINNER DANCE Monday, March 5, 2007
Sponsor: Mellon Private Wealth Management
BOCA WEST Sponsors: Mellon Private Wealth Management and Solomon Bardes & Flank LION OF JUDAH OUTREACH PROGRAM Thursday, December 14, 2006, 3-5:30 p.m. OPENING EVENT Sunday, December 17, 2006, 7:00 p.m. DISCOVERY TOUR Tuesday, January 16, 2007 9:30 a.m - 1:30 p.m
For more information call: Dina Burg, Assistant Director, Campaign Operations, 561-852-3188
Sponsor: US Trust
Sponsors: Bernstein, Kaplan & Krauss LLC and Mellon Private Wealth Management
For more information call: Maureen Melcer, Development Associate, 561-852-3113
HAMLET FUN DAY Tuesday, February 28, 2007
PACESSETTER/MORASHA Thursday, February 1, 2007, 5:45 p.m.
For more information call: Nancy Schwartz-Eige, Development Associate, 561-852-6034
For more information call: Heidi Schrage, Development Associate, 561-852-3132
HAMLET LION OF JUDAH OUTREACH Wednesday, January 17, 2007, 11:30 to 2:00 p.m.
POLO CLUB
CAMPAIGN KICK-OFF Thursday, December 7, 2006, 5:00 p.m.
BOCA LAGO COMMUNITY FEDERATION DAY Monday, February 12, 2007
Sponsor: FMSbonds
BOCA WOODS KICK OFF Thursday, December 7, 2006, 4:00 p.m.
BOCA GREENS
BOCA LAGO
LION OF JUDAH OUTREACH EVENT Wednesday, January 10, 2007 HOMES & HEROINES Monday, March 12, 2007
BOCA WOODS GOLF DAY Thursday, March 15, 2007
For more information call: Nancy Schwartz-Eige, Development Associate, 561-852-6034
4-PART EDUCATION SERIES Monday, Jan. 8, Feb. 5, Feb. 19 & Mar. 19, 2007
Sponsor: Mellon Private Wealth Management
PRO-AM GOLF DAY Thursday, February 8, 2007, 10:00 a.m.
BOCA GROVE
KICK-OFF EVENT Thursday, December 7, 2006
DISCOVERY DAY/CHANUKAH CELEBRATION Monday, December 11, 2006, 8:45 a.m. DINNER DANCE Tuesday, March 6, 2007, 6:00 p.m. For more information call: Nancy Schwartz-Eige, Development Associate, 561-852-6034
GREATER DELRAY
POLO CLUB PACESETTER December 7, 2006, 6 p.m. POLO GOLF DAY January 28, 2007 POLO CLUB CAMPAIGN CLOSING March 25, 2007, 4-6 p.m. For more information call: Rachel M. Harman, Development Director, 561-852-3120
ST. ANDREWS Sponsor: FMSbonds LION OF JUDAH OUTREACH Wednesday, January 10, 2007, 8:30 a.m. WOMEN’S FUN DAY Monday, February 5, 2007, 8:30 a.m. NIGHT OF APPRECIATION Monday, March 5, 2007, 6:00 p.m. For more information, call: Michele S. Sheppard, Development Director, 561-852-3169.
STONEBRIDGE STONEBRIDGE KICK OFF Thursday, December 7, 2006, 7:00 p.m. STONEBRIDGE GOLF DAY Monday, February 26, 2007
Sponsor: Whitsyms Nursing Registry
For more information call: Janet Izaak, Assistant Director, Campaign Operations, 561-852-3190
ANNUAL GREATER DELRAY BREAKFAST SERIES Monday, January 8, 2007, 9:00 a.m. Monday, Febuary 5, 2007, 9:00 a.m. Monday, March 5, 2007, 9:00 a.m.
WOODFIELD
WOMEN’S PHONE-A-THON Sunday, January 21, 2007 9 am - 12:00 Noon
CAMPAIGN PHONE-A-THONS December 6, 20, 2006, 5:00 p.m- 7:00 p.m. January 10, 17, 24, 2007 5:00 p.m- 7:00 p.m. February 7, 14, 21, 2007, 5:00 p.m- 7:00 p.m. March 28, 2007, 5:00 p.m- 7:00 p.m.
For more information call: Dina Burg, Assistant Director, Campaign Operations, 561-852-3188
For more information call: Heidi Schrage, Development Associate, 561-852-3132
MARTINI MINGLE OUTREACH Tuesday, February 6, 2007 Sponsor: Gateway Insurance PACESSETTER Tuesday, February 6, 2007 Sponsor: Rafael Cabrera, M.D., FACS For more information call: Call: Sarah Berkowitz, Senior Development Associate, 561-852-3188
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Thank you for your Commitment to our Community. The Jewish Federation of South Palm
In partnering with South Palm Beach
Beach County is honored and privileged
County’s largest and most trusted Jewish
to have Mercedes-Benz of Pompano as
fund-raising organization, Mercedes-Benz
the exclusive sponsor for the 2007
of Pompano is demonstrating its commit-
UJA/Federation Annual Campaign.
ment to charity and the community. We eagerly anticipate Mercedes-Benz of
We applaud general manager Robert W.
Pompano’s
representation
at
major
Crolic and Mercedes-Benz of Pompano
Federation events throughout the year.
for continuing to support the Federation in its vital mission of helping Jews locally, nationally, in Israel and in 60 countries around the world.
The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County is deeply appreciative of your support.
To contact Mercedes-Benz of Pompano, please call 954-590-9798