Winter 2013 | choref 5774
Minneapolis
Jewish Life
Thanksgivukkah The Holiday of a Lifetime Got an innovative idea? Let’s #MakeItHappen
Plus! A New Generation of Israel Advocates Grandparents Mission to Israel Support Federation at Rye Deli: Find out how inside!
OUR GLOBAL NETWORK
contents
AMERICAN JEWISH JOINT DISTRIBUTION COMMITTEE AMOS & CELIA HEILICHER MINNEAPOLIS JEWISH DAY SCHOOL BAIS YAAKOV HIGH SCHOOL
Home of the Frozen Chosen
BET SHALOM CONGREGATIONAL SCHOOL ENRICHMENT, DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH FOR EDUCATORS
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HILLEL: UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA ISRAEL CENTER ISRAEL MOVEMENT FOR PROGRESSIVE & REFORM JUDAISM JEWISH AGENCY FOR ISRAEL
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You Say You Want a Revolution
JEWISH COMMUNITY INCLUSION PROGRAM FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
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JEWISH COMMUNITY RELATIONS COUNCIL OF MINNESOTA & THE DAKOTAS JEWISH FAMILY AND CHILDREN’S SERVICE OF MINNEAPOLIS
Global Connections
JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF THE UPPER MIDWEST
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THE MASORTI MOVEMENT NATIONAL AGENCIES NECHAMA: JEWISH RESPONSE TO DISASTER RIMON: THE MINNESOTA JEWISH ARTS COUNCIL SABES JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER SHA’ARIM SHIR TIKVAH CONGREGATIONAL SCHOOL
What’s Jewcy: Quick News Updates Community Concierge Travels to Israel Heartworks: A Home Away from Home Goldfine Family Establishes Beautiful Legacy
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The Holiday of a Lifetime
SHOLOM
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TALMUD TORAH OF MINNEAPOLIS TEMPLE ISRAEL CONGREGATIONAL SCHOOL TORAH ACADEMY TWIN CITIES JEWISH COMMUNITY GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS PROGRAM
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WORLD ORT
From At-Risk to Entrepreneur Grandparents Mission to Israel Turning Students’ Passion for Israel Into Action
What’s Happening @ Federation? You Say You Want a Revolution Your One-of-a-Kind Thanksgivukkah Guide Got an Idea? Let’s #MakeItHappen!
In the Spotlight our Mission We build community, care for the welfare of Jews everywhere and maximize participation in Jewish life. Minneapolis Jewish Life is a publication of the Minneapolis Jewish Federation 13100 Wayzata Blvd., Suite 200 Minnetonka, MN 55305 Tel 952.593.2600 Fax 952.378.2876 www.jewishminneapolis.org
Thank you to our Corporate Partners:
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Empowerment through Entrepreneurship On
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Calendar of Events Photo Gallery
Cover Photo: John Gara / Justine Zwiebel / Macey J. Foronda / BuzzFeed Editorial & Creative Team Chief Executive Officer Stephen R. Silberfarb Editor Lisa Pollack Furman Associate Editor Daci Platt Graphic Designer Veronica Gagnelius Questions/Comments: mplsjewishlife@mplsfed.org
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A Beautiful Legacy
FEATURES
What’s Happening @Federation? I hope you're noticing a theme
throughout this issue and the last several issues of Minneapolis Jewish Life. Aside from a more appealing layout and timely features, what we're trying to convey in these pages is that Federation is on a mission. As the catalyst for so many important programs and opportunities in our community, the Federation’s reach is simply amazing. From meeting daily needs of vulnerable and struggling people here and around the world to engaging young adults in planning the Jewish community of the future, Federation's imprint is felt far and wide. Did you know that every Minneapolis child who receives a Jewish education is funded by the Federation? Or that nearly all of the incredible Israel experiences available to our children are made possible through Federation support? Or that through our work, tens of thousands of elderly Jews receive food and medicine that is literally saving their lives? While our work is vast, impactful and truly life changing — and we're proud of that — we also need to bring greater focus to our role in securing the Jewish future.
That's why in these pages we're reporting more stories about how teens, young adults and young families are getting more involved. From the 20/30 Project to The Revolution, to Israel advocacy training for teens and the launch of the innovation micro-grants project, Federation is dialed in to the Jewish future. All are featured in this issue. The just-released Pew Research survey indicates that young Jews are proud of being Jewish. That's fantastic. But is it enough to sustain a vibrant Jewish community? Federation is focused on creating Jewish engagement and leadership development opportunities that build Jewish pride, and transform it into ownership and action. It's the ownership and action — the sense of individual and collective responsibility — that will determine the future of our Jewish community. And I can’t wait to see it unfold! Stephen R. Silberfarb CEO of the Minneapolis Jewish FEderation
latest buzz about the #LIVEJEWISH The Minneapolis Jewish FederatioN “Working with Federation, we’ve gained more than we’ve given.” – Judy Goldenberg, recipient with her husband Herb of the 2013 Lifson Lifetime Achievement Award
"I feel very strongly about the need to keep our Jewish community strong, keep strong ties between our community and Israel, and lend a supportive hand to Jewish Communities around the world in need."
"I feel a commitment to support the Jewish community and Israel."
- Jodi Upin "Rimon: The Minnesota Jewish Arts Council has impacted my life as an artist in the Jewish community profoundly! It has opened doors for me to meet & collaborate with Jewish artists from all areas of artistic expression." - Paula Leiter Pergament
"I’m involved with Federation because charitable giving is like putting on one's underwear for your soul; something would be missing and awkward if that core layer of compassion were omitted!!" - Joy Liebman
- Osnat Zamir
"Visiting Susan's place was truly inspiring! It was amazing to actually see one of the places Federation is able to help fund and know that our donations are helping these teens make a positive difference in their lives."- Elly Zweigbaum
"I want to develop into a responsible leader within the Jewish community and the Federation can help hone these skills to better serve others." - Nick Styles jewishminneapolis.org
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HOME
What’s Jewcy? Quick News Updates A glimpse around the Minneapolis Jewish Federation and its local network
➜ Jewish Community Foundation Appoints Howard Kaminsky as Chair
As new chair of the Federation’s Jewish Community Foundation, Howard Kaminsky anticipates a flurry of activity in the next few years. “Our vision is to put renewed focus on raising long-term legacy funds,” said Kaminsky. The Foundation helps individuals and families make personal investments in causes and organizations that build a vibrant future for the entire Jewish community. Kaminsky, Managing Director of CBIZ MHM, LLC, has been active on the financial side of local Jewish organizations for over fifteen years, serving on the boards of Federation, Sholom Community Alliance, Jewish Family and Children’s Service, and Beth El Synagogue. After recently spearheading a committee that allowed the Jewish Community Foundation to be named as a trustee in areas such as Charitable Lead and Remainder Trusts, Kaminsky accepted the position of Foundation chair. Beyond renewing the focus on Legacy, Kaminsky has several other goals, including raising the Foundation’s profile in the financial community and making the Foundation experience more user friendly for community donors. “We have a lot of intelligent people who are passionate about the community; it’s fun to share ideas and make a difference,” said Kaminsky.
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➜ Federal Homeland Security Awards Enhance Safety of Minneapolis Jewish Community
In August, the Department of Homeland Security announced that nonprofit institutions* in the Minneapolis Jewish community have, for the fourth consecutive year, received federal Homeland Security awards to bolster their physical security and preparedness. The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) has been instrumental in helping Jewish agencies across the country secure these grants. At the behest of a JFNA-led coalition, Congress created the program at the Department of Homeland Security in 2005. This year, nearly $9 million went to Jewish institutions such as synagogues, JCCs, Federations, and museums around the country. “This is just one example of the important work JFNA does in our nation’s capital to advocate for important funding for Jewish communal security,” said Steve Silberfarb, Federation CEO. “The Minneapolis Jewish community has greatly benefited from this program, and is a safer place because of it.”
➜ Evan Stern Named 20|30 Project Manager!
Federation is pleased to announce Evan Stern as the new 20|30 Project Manager. Evan comes to us having gained grassroots organizing and engagement experience as part of Organizing for America and several local political campaigns. The 20|30 Project offers opportunities for all young Jews in their 20s and 30s to participate, contribute and benefit. Evan is dedicated to helping young adults engage in meaningful community experiences, develop leadership skills and give back to the community. With a new brand and a new face, the 20|30 Project is even more equipped to guide the next generation to create the Jewish future.
➜ Federation To Pilot New Disability Initiative
Photo above: William Daroff, Vice President for Public Policy and Director of the Washington Office of JFNA, with Federation CEO Steve Silberfarb after Daroff announced Homeland Security grants.
*For security purposes, we are unable to disclose the local recipients
The Minneapolis Jewish Federation was selected as one of seven pilot sites for a groundbreaking initiative to promote the inclusion of people with
home disabilities in the Jewish community. The Ruderman Family Foundation Opportunity Initiative, starting in 2014, will place young adults with disabilities in internships and fellowships at five Federations across the country, as well as in JFNA’s Washington office. The internships will not only provide young adults with disabilities with meaningful employment opportunities and career training, but will fill staff needs at Federations and further a culture of workplace inclusion. “By making people with disabilities more visible, we will raise awareness of the importance of inclusion, thus strengthening the Jewish community and benefitting us all,” said Jay Ruderman, President of the Ruderman Family Foundation. This landmark project is possible thanks to a generous grant by the Ruderman Family Foundation. “The Minneapolis Jewish community is continuing to set a national example for being welcoming and accessible to people of all ages and abilities,” said Federation CEO Steve Silberfarb.
➜ Local Organizations Honored Nationally for Innovation
For the third year in a row, Rimon: The Minnesota Arts Council, an initiative of the Minneapolis Jewish Federation, has been named one of North America’s top 50 most innovative Jewish organizations in the ninth annual Slingshot Resource Guide. Slingshot was created as a guidebook to help philanthropists diversify their giving portfolio to include the most innovative and effective Jewish organizations, programs and projects in North America.
Selected from hundreds of finalists, Rimon impressed Slingshot with its ability to enable Jewish artists to connect with Jewish organizations, allowing the two groups to collaborate toward building a vibrant Jewish community. “Our Jewish community in Minnesota isn’t large, but perhaps we are showing other regions how a vibrant Jewish culture can come to life through the work of a robust community of artists,” said David Harris, Rimon’s Executive Director. This year, Slingshot introduced a Disabilities & Inclusion supplement featuring 18 organizations across North America, including the Sabes Jewish Community Center’s Federation-funded Inclusion Department. The Guide recognized the JCC’s comprehensive range of programming options that meet the needs of persons with disabilities at all stages of their lives, as well as the way that the Sabes JCC embraces the inclusive model as a central component of its organizational mission. The complete Slingshot 13-14 Guide can be found at www.slingshotfund.org.
➜ Meet the Federation Babies!
The staff at the Minneapolis Jewish Federation has been busy ensuring the continuity of the Jewish people. We were proud to welcome four new babies to the Federation family this past year.
Stella, daughter of Judie Rothschild, Associate Director of Community Impact
Madeline, daughter of Matt Walzer, Philanthropy Officer
➜ Local Speakers Bureau Sets National Example
The Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas (JCRC) sent its Speakers Bureau codirectors, Holly Brod Farber and Sally Abrams, to Miami, Florida to teach the Greater Miami Jewish Federation how to establish a speakers bureau. To demonstrate a typical presentation, Farber and Abrams spoke to a church in Coral Gables, Florida. “We were honored and thrilled to accept the responsibility of becoming mentors to an emerging group of speakers in Miami. We used the benefit of our 12 years of experience to guide them in all aspects of this work, beginning nearly a year ago helping them lay the ground work for success,” said Abrams. For more on the JCRC Speakers Bureau, turn to page 16 to read about their work training Minneapolis teens to be strong advocates for Israel.
Seth, son of Lisa Furman, Director of Marketing & Communications
Samantha, daughter of Laura Taple, Associate Director of Community Partnerships & Engagement …And we have two more coming in 2014! jewishminneapolis.org
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HOME
Visiting Susan’s House, an on-the-job artist training workshop for youth at risk.
From the Desk of the Community Concierge I recently returned from Israel. Like many people, while in the Holy Land I had one of the most powerful moments of my life. It was a beautiful night. We had just finished eating dinner outside with an incredible view of Tiberius as the backdrop. Israeli music blasted from the speakers, and seventeen other women and I had our arms around each other singing at the top of our lungs. I’ve never felt more connected to a group of people. And most of us hardly knew each other. It was the second day of the first AISH/Minneapolis Jewish Federation/Jewish Women’s Renaissance Project joint mission to Israel. Despite our group of eighteen practically being strangers, we were connected by our Judaism, a bond that approximately 35,000 of us in the Twin Cities share. And like the women on my trip, the Jews in Minneapolis come from a wide range of backgrounds. Some of us are new in town and unsure how to break into the Jewish community. Others have been on the periphery our entire lives; born Jewish but not involved. And still others grew up as active participants in Jewish life, have a group of Jewish friends, and are beginning to realize that perhaps we have been unknowingly excluding others. Over our ten-day trip, I saw my travel-mates have eyeopening moments. The kind of moments that forever change your perspective on your own life and what it means to be part of a global Jewish people. Whether through our visit to Susan’s House, an on-the-job artist training workshop for youth at risk that is supported by 06
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our local Federation; one of the many Jewish classes we took; or that moment where eighteen strangers embraced in hugs, song and dance – we returned to Minneapolis with an undeniable bond. Like that feeling you have when you return from summer camp as a kid. I hope to carry forth that inspiration to each of you, my neighbors here in Minneapolis. I want to help you have your own eye-opening experiences as you discover all of the beautiful opportunities our community has to offer. So whether you are looking for your chance to travel to Israel or are simply in search of a place to go on Friday night for a Shabbat meal, as your Community Concierge, I am here to help you. In fact, I can’t wait to help you. Warmly, Laura Taple, Community Concierge
concierge@mplsfed.org ▪ 952.417.2312
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER AT @jewishmpls
home
Heartworks: A Home Away from Home Strengthening Hearts & Friendships for Minneapolis Seniors
Three times a week a group of seniors meet at the Sabes Jewish Community Center to exercise to the classic sounds of Louis Armstrong and Billie Holiday.
When you show up on time,” says Wetteland with a wink. “They’re a very sarcastic bunch,” she whispers. “We kid, we support, there’s a lot of humor,” says Engler.
“I figured they would rather listen to this than Miley Cyrus,” laughs their trainer, Jen Wetteland. The group, called Heartworks, is a safe place for seniors to exercise following heart events such as a heart attack or stent placement, although anyone is welcome to join.
Heartworks is one of the many programs at the Sabes JCC supported by Federation. As local partners, JCC and Federation work together to build Jewish community among people of all ages, from preschoolers to the seniors who benefit from Heartworks.
“I probably wouldn’t exercise without this group,” says Irv Grossman, who began attending Heartworks after a hiatus from exercising. “I used to work out every morning at 5:30 a.m.; I walked around Lake Harriet. And then I just stopped. There’s always a reason not to work out, but when I have a group of guys to keep me motivated, it gets me coming.”
The Heartworks group, which has been around for over 20 years, has moved on from just the workout sessions to a monthly breakfast where participants can socialize.
Wetteland ensures that her clients take part in a healthy amount of cardio, stretching and balance work and regularly measures their blood pressure.
❋ Senior programming:
But Heartworks provides much more than just physical benefits – the emotional benefits and sense of support are what keep members coming back week after week. These seniors have become each other’s extended family, supporting one another through illness and loss, and celebrating each other’s triumphs. “I was wallowing when my wife died,” said Harold Engler. “I started coming to the JCC just to get out of the house each day and not be alone. The program provided me with comfort and helped me heal.” “The camaraderie is wonderful,” added Jim Sherman. “We are like a family."
These seniors have become each other’s extended family, supporting one another through illness and loss, and celebrating each other’s triumphs.
“It’s about independence and purpose,” Wetteland says of the progam. “I look forward to working with these guys all week.”
The Minneapolis Jewish Federation helps vulnerable seniors in the Minneapolis and global Jewish community age with dignity, have their basic needs met and feel connected to the community.
2000+
Minneapolis seniors participate in fitness, social and recreational programming
800
frail, low-income seniors in Minneapolis receive critical support services
260
Russian-speaking, low-income Minneapolis seniors participate in religious, recreational & educational programming
21,000+ 190,000
Kosher meals on wheels are delivered to Minneapolis Jewish seniors of the world’s most impoverished elderly Jews receive life-saving food, medicine and companionship jewishminneapolis.org
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FEATURES
You Say You Want A
Revolution Intrepid young Jews begin redefining the Jewish community of the future
(L-R) Emily Mayer, Max Orenstein, Blayne Goldwasser
(L-R) Rabbi Jen Gertman, Mike Abelson, Max Fritz, Matt Walzer, David Milavetz
What do video games, JDate and a group of young emerging leaders have in common? Sam Glassenberg. You may not recognize the name, but since Glassenberg’s Eli Talk (a Jewish Ted Talk) he has become a leading influencer among young Jewish leaders. In his talk, Glassenberg speaks passionately about innovative ideas to build Jewish community for the next generation. Surprisingly, his professional background isn’t in the Jewish communal field – it’s in video games.
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Minneapolis Jewish Federation | Winter 2013
(L-R) Zoe Stern, Adam Goldfine, Sarah Rader
FEATURES
So where does JDate come in? Glassenberg, a JDate success story and CEO of Israeli video game company Funtactix, claims that JDate is better at growing Jewish communities than Hillel or Birthright. He believes the online dating service has created a Jewish experience so valuable that millions of people are not only opting in, they’re paying for it. If JDate can help solve a global problem by focusing on a consumer need, says Glassenberg, there are other solutions out there. “There’s an arsenal of exciting ideas within our grasp,” he says.
Whats your revolution? Thoughts from members of the Revolution:
new models for leadership, innovation and engagement. And, at the end of the journey, they will be prepared to catalyze new ways for young Jews to engage, lead and participate in Jewish life in Minneapolis and as global citizens. “The fascinating conversations at the Inaugural Summit set the stage for a really productive two years,” said Sarah Gruesner, Revolution Chair. “We’ve got a thoughtful, intelligent group, and I can’t wait to see the ideas that are generated during the course of this program.”
This call to action was the perfect message to kick-off the Revolution, a new learn-and-lead initiative through the Federation’s 20|30 Project. Motivated by a steady trend of younger generations “There’s opting out of “traditional” an arsenal Jewish life, the Revolution empowers participants to of exciting redefine the Jewish ideas community of the future.
Revolution participants were selected through an application process that focused on one critical question: how would you change our Jewish community if given the opportunity? They bring a of their professional within our majority skills, knowledge and Glassenberg, the keynote grasp.” experiences from outside of speaker at the Revolution’s the Jewish community; which, Inaugural Summit, sparked in Glassenberg’s opinion, can be applied a discussion about innovation that got to solving Jewish problems and creating the group thinking about what it really new and valuable Jewish experiences. means to be a catalyst for change. He challenged the group to think differently Glassenberg offered the example of and ignited passion, curiosity and a little engaging children in Jewish history by healthy debate. creating a mainstream video game where characters navigate through traditional “It was a very spirited and engaging Jewish stories. The idea was natural for dialogue,” said Evan Stern, 20|30 someone who creates games for a living. Project Manager. “Many participants admitted to not knowing about all of “But ask an expert in any other industry,” the opportunities that today’s Jewish says Glassenberg, “and they will come community has to offer, creating this up with better ideas to solve even bigger important notion that our community problems.” needs to look at investing in more advertising and PR to simplify the 'opt-in' process for more Jews.” Over the next two years, this group of 34 ambitious change agents will examine the community through case studies, more provocative speakers like Glassenberg, and field experiences. They will look at
Watch Sam Glassenberg’s talk “Can’t buy Jewish continuity? Sell it,” meet members of the Revolution, and see photos from the event on our blog, jewishminneapolis.wordpress.com
“I’d like to help our generation form its identity post-WWII. Who have we become this far removed from that event, and what do we want our grandkids to remember about this time in Jewish history?” — Josh Awend "I want to learn what speaks to Jewish millennials." — Giti Fredman “I hope we can develop new ways for people to participate in Jewish life." — Emmy Higgs Matzner "I hope that we can show other young professionals how many ways they can get involved and that the Federation can fit into their lives in whatever way they choose and can fulfill whatever needs they have." — Abby Schneider "As the Jewish person in my interfaith marriage, I am very interested in working on ways to further integrate couples and families into the Jewish community." — Michele Kaplan Clinard: “I’m very excited for the future of our Minneapolis Jewish community, and also to be a part of the Revolution. Who knows what the future will hold?” — Jacob Knopf "I thought the Revolution was so important and an amazing idea. I appreciate being involved in discussions like this, and look forward to future conversations as well." — Debbie Serber
jewishminneapolis.org
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FEATURES
Eat to Change Lives Rye Delicatessen, 1930 Hennepin Ave, is offering a tasty (and creative) Thanksgivukkah menu through December 8! Indulge in The Thanksgivukkah (turkey, gravy, cranberry, challah stuffing, spinach, all built on one incredible potato latke) and Rye Deli will donate a portion of proceeds to support the life-changing work at the Federation. It’s a win for your taste buds and the Jewish community!
Thanksgivukkah
Something special is happening this year. For the first time since 1888, Hanukkah falls on Thanksgiving, and Thanksgivukkah fever is sweeping the nation. We’ve put together a guide to enjoying this celebration of American Judaism, but you better act now – Thanksgivukkah won’t happen again in this lifetime. The Thanksgivukkah Table
Other Holiday Fare at Rye:
❋ Bourbon, Brown Sugar, and Pecan Noodle Kugel ❋ Sweet Potato and Spinach Latke with Cranberry Relish ❋ Deconstructed Green Been Casserole ❋ Horseradish Chive Mashed Potatoes ❋ Pumpkin Pie Sufganiyot with Cranberry Icing ❋ Plus a great selection of wine and signature cocktails!
The ideas for decorations combining Hanukkah and Thanksgiving are endless, so we turned to local interior decorator Cher Harris of Cher Design to create our beautiful holiday table. Somewhere along the line, blue and white became the “official” colors of Hanukkah. But this year, we’re deviating: orange gives our Thanksgivukkah table a decidedly fall feel, and the purple gives it a pop of contrast. Who knows: maybe next Thanksgivukkah — 79,043 years from now — orange and purple will be the official colors! We loved the look of shiny gelt spilling out of a rustic cornucopia, and cranberry applesauce for our delicious sweet potato latkes (see recipe courtesy of Patti Soskin, Owner of YUM! in St. Louis Park) in a glass turkey.
Ran Out of Oil? No problem! Check out the latkes at these Minneapolis hot-spots for Jewish-style food: ➔ Rye Deli ➔ Mort’s Deli ➔ Whole Foods ➔ Byerly’s ➔ Crossroads Deli ➔ Yum! ➔ Cecil’s (yes, it’s across the river!)
➔ TIS THE SEASON FOR TZEDAKAH!
Eight easy tips for making this Thanksgivukkah a holiday of giving thanks & tzedakah
❶ During Thanksgivukkah dinner, take a “gratitude break.” ❷ Make the tzedakah box the centerpiece on the table. ❸ Dedicate each night of Hanukkah to a cause that
❻
Teach your children about tzedakah with a free book from pjlibrary.org.
❼
Watch a movie with a philanthropic message and discuss.
❹ Set aside one night of Hanukkah to “give” to others. ❺ Pull out the art supplies and make-your-own
❽
inspires you.
tzedakah box.
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Minneapolis Jewish Federation | Winter 2013
Unlike Thanksgivukkah, giving should occur more than once every 70,000 years. Use the holiday as a chance to make a long-term commitment to your Jewish community. Find out how at jewishminneapolis.org/donate.
FEATURES
Thanksgivukkah recipes Andrew Zimmern's Pecan Tart
Photograph by Stephanie Meyer.
Gooey, sweet pecan filling nested in a buttery crust. The perfect end to a Thanksgiving dinner. Serve with rum raisin ice cream.
Ingredient List For crust: 1-1/2 cups flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 7 tablespoons chilled, unsalted butter 1 egg yolk 4 tablespoons ice water For filling: 1 cup pecan halves 1/3 cup packed brown sugar 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour 1/8 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup dark corn syrup 2 eggs 2 tablespoon butter, melted and cooled 1 tablespoon dark rum 1 teaspoon vanilla
Instructions For crust: Mix flour and salt together in mixing bowl. Cut butter into 1/2-inch cubes. Press butter chunks between fingertips and drop into center of bowl. Toss to coat. With fingertips, gradually work flour and butter together until mixture resembles coarse meal. Whisk egg yolk and 3 tablespoons of water together in small bowl to blend. Drizzle egg yolk mixture over flour mixture, tossing with fork. Stir dough until mixture begins to come together; press together with hands to form a rough dough. Turn out onto cool counter and press together into mound. Dough will not come together completely. (Sprinkle with enough remaining water to reach this consistency if dough is very crumbly at this point.) With heel of hand, smear a small amount of dough away from you on counter. Scrape up and continue with remaining dough, mounding smeared dough together on counter. Press mound into disk; wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours. For filling: Heat oven to 425°F. Roll out crust to 11-inch circle; line a 9-inch tart pan with crust. Trim edges and line with foil or parchment. Partially bake crust by weighing with dried beans or pie weights; bake for 12 to 14 minutes or until set. Remove foil and weights; bake an additional 3 to 4 minutes or until crust appears dry. Remove and let cool on wire rack while preparing filling; sprinkle with pecan halves. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F. Prepare filling by combining brown sugar, flour and salt in medium mixing bowl. Whisk in corn syrup, eggs, butter, rum and vanilla until blended. When oven has cooled to 325°F, place crust lined tart pan on shallow 10 x 15-inch baking pan. Pour filling into tart pan; bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until just set. Remove and let cool.
gingerball cocktail
The great taste of brewed ginger with a spicy kick of cinnamon whisky. A perfect addition to any Thanksgivukkah menu! Recipe by Wesley Gagnelius, Federation volunteer and Fireball brand ambassador. Get more recipes at: westhebarchef.com
YUM! Kitchen and Bakery's Sweet Potato Latkes
Ingredient List 1oz Fireball Cinnamon Whisky .5oz Domaine de Canton Ginger Liqueur splash of lime juice top with ginger beer Garnish with cherries Fill pint glass with ice, add whisky, liqueur, splash of lime juice and top with ginger beer.
Ingredients: Directions: -3 lbs. peeled & diced sweet potatoes Put all ingredients into food proces-1 egg sor and pulse until consistency is -1 large quartered onion smooth with small chunks. Place in a -1 Tbsp. salt bowl. Heat cast iron skillet with oil -1/4 tsp. pepper and ladle 1oz. pancake batter. -3/4 cup flour ❉ Not in the mood to cook? Call YUM! -1/4 cup corn oil
@952.922.4000 and ask about their holiday menu! jewishminneapolis.org
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GLOBAL
From At-Risk to Entrepreneur Israeli program uses business principles to turn lives around
It
sounds like a modern-day fairy tale: Raya, an Israeli teenager living in poverty and failing out of school, invents a product, wins an Israeli entrepreneurship competition, and flies to New York to pitch her invention to a global audience. But this fairy tale is reality. In fact, it is becoming a possibility for an increasing number of underprivileged children thanks to Federation’s work in Israel. Raya’s story began at a moshav in the Negev. Her multiple learning disorders were causing dire problems in school, and her family was in such financial turmoil that they couldn’t afford help. When a social worker suggested that Raya attend boarding school, the family felt it was their only choice. Her new school’s staff was trained in teaching students with special needs and offered extra resources aimed at underprivileged children, such as the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee’s program Turning Point. The aptly named Turning Point empowers at-risk Israeli teens to change the course of their lives, from a path that leads to poverty and distress to one that leads to stability and fulfillment. Thanks to these resources, Raya gained self-confidence in school. When Turning Point introduced an entrepreneurship competition, Raya was chosen to lead a team of five girls. The competition, called Network for Teen Entrepreneurs, helps teens discover their natural ability to learn new skills such as delivering presentations and interview etiquette. Raya’s team was challenged to develop an idea for something needed in Israeli society, create a business plan with the help of mentors at the school, and work with engineers to design the product. At first, Raya’s team struggled to come up with an idea. It was a visit home — to the moshav where Raya had felt like such a failure — that prompted her to develop her award-winning product.
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“My mother and I worked an entire day preparing food for our extended family, and when we went to use the stove, we realized we were out of gas,” said Raya. On the moshav, gas is kept in a canister and delivered only every two weeks. “How did we not know we were out of gas?” The question bothered Raya, who brought it up to her team when she returned to school. Her teammates had similar stories, and an idea was born: a gas meter. Named MADGAZ, this small device measures the level of gas in the canister and is connected to a gas meter in the kitchen that shows when the gas is running low so users can fill up in a timely manner. For moshavs across the country with limited access to gas, MADGAZ solved an all too common problem. Even with her newfound confidence, Raya was nervous. “I didn’t think we would succeed,” she said. But her team won the initial school competition, went on to win the regional competition, and finished first place in the national competition, where more than 450 students competed. “My family looks at me differently now,” said Raya with pride, “I am no longer Raya who has learning disabilities and has a hard time in school. Now I am Raya who won first prize!”
With Federation's support, Turning Point has reached over 6,400 15- to 18-year-olds in 66 locations across Israel through its mentoring, job-readiness and entrepreneurship education, and youth-run business venture program modules. This year alone, some 1,000 at-risk teens will participate in Turning Point programs.
FEATURES
MINNEAPOLIS JEWISH FEDERATION PARTNERS WITH THE SCHUSTERMAN PHILANTHROPIC NETWORK TO PROVIDE MICRO-GRANTS WITHIN JEWISH COMMUNITY The #MakeItHappen project empowers individuals around the world to submit ideas for creating Jewish experiences in their communities. The Minneapolis Jewish Federation will provide up to 10 micro-grants to individuals for projects in the Greater Minneapolis area. Along with Schusterman’s prioritization of projects that value service, innovation, inclusivity and connection to Israel and Jewish life, Minneapolis will give special consideration to those projects that connect to the Minneapolis Jewish community's strategic priorities (see below). Selected projects will identify creative means of engaging, serving, and leading local Jewish communities – from pop-up food trucks to musical mash-ups, Shabbat dinners to service projects.
SCHUSTERMAN’S PROCESS & GUIDELINES SUBMIT IT!
For a limited time, individuals 18 years of age and older can upload their inspiring ideas for a project, event or program that will make a difference in their communities and engage their peers in a meaningful Jewish experience. Terms and Restrictions apply.
share it!
Eligible ideas will be posted on the #MakeItHappen website where they can be shared with friends, fans and followers on Facebook, Twitter and anywhere else people like to convene and converse. Visitors to the site can search ideas by topic and location, “Like” their favorites and even contact the creators directly to assist them in making those ideas happen. The Minneapolis Jewish Federation will accept applications through January 15th and announce #MakeItHappen deci-
makeithappen! sions on a rolling basis (and notify recipients) through spring of 2014. Schusterman will also share additional opportunities for all people who submit ideas to help #MakeItHappen in their communities.
A few key details to keep in mind # A central part of the experience must have a specific nexus with Jewish life, whether it is cultural, educational, spiritual or social. # Special consideration will be given to those projects that connect to one of the Minneapolis Jewish community’s strategic priorities: • Creating a community of shared responsibility • Engaging the next generation in Jewish life • Strengthening our connection to Israel and Jewish peoplehood • Broadening leadership excellence • Enhancing and deepening the commitment to Jewish philanthropy
# Organizations cannot submit projects nor receive a micro-grant. They have to be submitted by an individual who is personally going to take the lead on making it happen.
Micro-grants are not intended to be small “operating grants” for existing projects. They are intended to support “experience grants” that enable specific programs/events that would not have occurred otherwise.
Visit jewishminneapolis.org/makeithappen.aspx
SUBMIT YOUR IDEA TODAY. jewishminneapolis.org
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HOME
Planning for the Jewish Future Goldfine Family Establishes Beautiful Legacy for the Community Being connected and involved in the Jewish community has always been of great importance to Harold and Cindi Goldfine. Over the years, they have had the chance to see what it takes to build a vibrant and caring community. Now, they wish to do their part to ensure the community they call home continues to thrive for generations. After decades of philanthropic partnership, the Federation’s Jewish Community Foundation was the natural place for them to turn to do just that. The staff at Tamar Fink, a family-owned insurance and wealth-counseling firm, worked with the Goldfines and the Foundation to determine a planned gift strategy that could work well for them. “We have been involved in a number of gifts that have resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars being given to charities,” explained Mike Abrams, Agent and Vice President of Marketing for Tamar Fink — and longtime close friend of Harold’s. The Family Philanthropic Fund they have established has provisions that will benefit seven local organizations, including the Federation. “This was one of the best examples of legacy giving and multigenerational philanthropy I’ve ever seen,” said Sally Forbes Friedman, an attorney at Bernick Lifson, P.A. and former Director of the Jewish Community Foundation. She was part of a team of professional advisors, including Mike Abrams and Ken Fink of Tamar Fink, Brad Frank of Barnes & Thornburg, LLP, the Goldfine’s attorney, and Mort Naiman, Director of the Jewish Community Foundation that helped structure the Goldfine’s new Fund at the Foundation. “By Harold and Cindi setting this up and having the foresight to think about their legacy in the community, they have created an opportunity to convene conversations about family philanthropy and have a philanthropic vehicle that can continue for another generation,” Sally said. Establishing their Fund at the Foundation enables the Goldfines to add donations and make distributions to public charities supporting causes that are important to them not only after they have passed, but during their lifetime as well. “We plan to have family meetings a couple of times each year to determine where the surplus should be given,” 14
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Harold explained. He notes that he and his wife’s legacy gift was a family decision, one that was thought of and discussed for a long time. “Cindi is a Lion of Judah and has a Lion of Judah Endowment, but we always knew that wasn’t enough and that one day we would do more.” He and Cindi are proud to see that their children, Elly and Mike Zweigbaum, Sara Goldfine and Blake Baratz and Marcy Goldfine, are already embracing the Jewish value of tzedakah in their lives. “It is easy to say ‘let’s let someone else do it,'” Harold acknowledged. “But at the end of the day you have to take that step and decide ‘I am going be the one to make a difference.'’’
"This was one of the best examples of legacy giving and multigenerational philanthropy I’ve ever seen.” What Will Your Legacy Be? Your legacy can reflect everything that is most important and meaningful to you. The Federation’s Jewish Community Foundation offers a wide range of giving options to help you achieve your personal philanthropic goals and leave a legacy that will endure for generations. Every individual has a unique family and financial situation. The Foundation takes great care as it fulfills the role of trusted advisor. Contact us today to discuss a planned gift strategy that will work for you. Mort Naiman, Director of the Jewish Community Foundation 952.417.2322 | mnaiman@mplsed.org
Grandparents Mission to Israel
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A Unique Bonding Experience
When Sharon Snyder approached the Minneapolis Jewish Federation for guidance in planning a trip to Israel with her grandchildren, she had no idea she would be helping to create the first ever Grandparents Mission to Israel. “Some of the most impactful memories my daughters have of my mom and dad, Nate and Theresa Berman, is their shared experience when they traveled to Israel together. Today, I am a grandmother and I want to recreate that experience with my very own grandchildren,” said Sharon. When she explained her trip to Federation Senior Philanthropy Officer Mort Naiman, he knew that other grandparents would treasure the chance to take their grandchildren to Israel. With Federation’s input and planning expertise, Sharon created the L’Dor V’Dor Grandparents Mission. The mission, which will take place from June 8-15, 2014, is aimed at participants aged 12-17 and their grandparents. “I’m excited to share
everything about this trip with my grandchildren,” said Sharon, who is chairing the mission. “We want them to see things they can relate to – to see Israel as someone their age would see it.” Mixing history, culture and tikkun olam, the trip is filled with interactive activities meaningful for both the grandparent and grandchild. Participants will experience an archaeological dig, have lunch with underprivileged children directly impacted by Federation, and spend an afternoon on a kibbutz – among many other unique Israeli activities. Through Sharon’s parents’ visits to Israel with her daughters, nieces and nephews, Sharon saw how important such a trip could be. “Both my parents and my daughters thought it was a wonderful experience,” she said, “And I know it affected my daughters’ choices to remain active in the Jewish community. But most importantly, the trip serves as a beautiful and meaningful bonding experience between a grandparent and a grandchild.”
Spots are still available for the L’Dor V’Dor Grandparents Mission – and parents are welcome to join as well. For information about participating in this mission, contact Alyssa Huck, Minneapolis Jewish Federation Events and Missions Manager: 952-417-2323 or ahuck@mplsfed.org
The trip serves as a beautiful and meaningful bonding experience…”
EXPERIENCE YOUR GLOBAL JEWISH COMMUNITY FIRSTHAND! A Federation mission is more than a trip, it is an adventure that will change the way you look at the Jewish world. Join us on one of these incredible journeys where you will see breathtaking sights, meet incredible people, taste amazing food, and experience what it really means to change a life and be part of a global Jewish community.
UPCOMING MISSIONS: Heart to Heart Mission to Israel February 9 – 13, 2014 Mission for women TribeFest: New Orleans March 16-18, 2014 For Jews in their 20s & 30s Minneapolis Mission to Cuba April 24-28, 2014 Chairs: Kerry & Scott Bader and Lisa & Mark Ratner
National Flavors of Israel Mission April 28-May 6, 2014 Local Chairs: Lori & Brad Fritz L’Dor V’Dor Grandparents Mission to Israel June 8-15, 2014 Chair: Sharon Snyder
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON MISSIONS, PLEASE CONTACT ALYSSA HUCK AT 952.417.2323 • AHUCK@MPLSFED.ORG jewishminneapolis.org
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Turning Students’ Passion for Israel into Action The voice on the video was loud and clear: “Palestinians paid the price for the Holocaust, even though they had no part in it.” “You’ll hear this often,” Sally Abrams told her classroom, “And by the end of the year – no, the end of this evening – you will be able to respond to it.” It was the fourth session of the Israel Leadership Fellows Program at Talmud Torah of Minneapolis, and the 16 teenage students were immersed in the history of Israel, digging back as far as Biblical times. “Our connection to the land of Israel goes back over 3,000 years,” Sally said to her class. "It wasn't dreamed up after the Holocaust. The most important ‘take-away’ tonight are two words, coined by Judea Pearl, father of slain Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl. Those words are ‘equally indigenous.’ When Arab leaders can acknowledge that both Arabs and Jews are indigenous to this land, we will be on the way to resolving the conflict.”
Building Future Leaders
The Israel Leadership Fellows Program trains students to be strong and capable advocates for Israel. The program, spearheaded by Sally Abrams and Bryan Goltzman of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas (JCRC), is a collaborative effort between JCRC, Talmud Torah, the National Council
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for Jewish Women (NCJW) and the Federation’s Israel Center. The program combines classroom learning with real-world mentoring. Each teenage participant is matched with a mentor from the JCRC’s Speakers Bureau or NCJW who will help them become the millennial voice for Israel advocacy. “The mentoring is the ingredient that brings this program to a different level,” said Abrams, “Eventually, students will organize their own speaking opportunity or initiate conversations with elected officials. Advocacy requires knowledge, organizational skills, relationship building and the ability to take initiative and think creatively. Students will have a chance to practice all these skills in real-world situations.” Israel advocacy is a major component of JCRC’s work. Volunteers and professionals strive to maintain strong support for Israel; ensuring fair and accurate Middle East media coverage, and advocating for a strong relationship between the U.S. and Israel to elected representatives, building support through presentations and programming. Last year, the JCRC Speakers Bureau gave 170 presentations on Israel or Judaism to the Jewish and broader community.
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across the country, the University of Minnesota included. “There are a few very active anti-Israel groups at UMN,” said Danielle Fink, Israel chair of the UMN Hillel Student Board. “They host events like rallies, discussions and Israel Apartheid Week [a series of events designed to paint a picture of Israel as an apartheid nation].” The Israel Leadership Fellows Program is equipping a new generation to continue carrying forward this important mission. “By educating local teens in the Twin Cities about Israel advocacy, we are truly building future leaders to help maintain the strong U.S.-Israel relationship,” said Steven Hunegs, JCRC’s Executive Director.
Strengthening Connections to Israel
The Minneapolis Jewish Federation’s Israel Center has been helping strengthen our community’s connections to Israel for years, particularly children, teens and young adults. “Through travel to Israel and the wealth of Israel programming available in Minneapolis, our kids and teens develop a love for the country,” said Eilat Harel, Director of the Israel Center of the Minneapolis Jewish Federation. “But when they go to college or into the real world, they will encounter those who are vehemently against Israel. This class is giving students the tools to transform their passion into advocacy.” College students are reporting anti-Israel sentiments on campuses
Several pro-Israel groups have formed on the UMN campus in recent years, and Hillel is also involved in Israel advocacy. In October, Hillel engagement associate Justin Held attended the Israel on Campus Coalition’s Campus Strategy Institute in Los Angeles, a program providing campus leaders with knowledge, training, ongoing support and financial incentives to create a campus with strong Israel advocates. Fink sees the most anti-Israel sentiments in her political science classes. “Most students will attend a university where the professors are not pro-Israel, which is very scary. It
"We want to engage the next generation, to turn passion for Israel into action." Fink. She told her group that war is ugly, and Israel – like all countries – is not perfect; then calmly explained the precautions Israel takes to ensure its army is one of the most humane in the world. “The other group members did not have much to say after that,” said Fink. Abrams hopes her students will be able to engage in just this kind of rational conversation after completing the Israel Leadership Fellows Program.
This class is giving students the tools to transform their passion into advocacy. is frustrating to be in a class where the professor is spreading lies about Israel and passing along this knowledge on to students and even future leaders in government.” Recently, Fink had the opportunity to diffuse a tense situation when a classmate suggested that Israel is known for violating international law. “My heart started to race,” said
“It takes strong leaders to bring a fair and sane perspective to the conversation about Israel,” wrote Abrams in an article on TC Jewfolk. “That is why we want to engage the next generation, to turn passion for Israel into action.”
HELP SEND MORE TEENS TO ISRAEL
They love Israel because they’ve been there!
All 16 Israel Fellows students have traveled to Israel with the help of scholarships from Federation’s Israel Center (learn more: jewishiminneapolis.org/Israel.aspx). You’ve seen how inspiring an Israel experience can be for a young person. Help us bring this life-changing experience to more teens and young adults in our community. jewishminneapolis.org/donate. jewishminneapolis.org
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SPOTLIGHT
Calendar of Events
December 2013
January 2014
Rimon Artist Salon Series Sunday, December 8, 2 pm Cowles Center for Dance Actor Susan Stein will present excerpts from her one-woman play based on the letters and diaries of Etty Hillesum, a young Dutch Jewish student in the early 1940s, whose intensely searching words reach out from their historical moment into ours. Theater director Carolyn Levy will join the dialogue. Contact David Harris at 952.381.3449, dharris@sabesjcc.org. 2013 Dreidel Dash & Post Dash Bash Sunday, December 8 Race Times: 10K - 12:30 pm at the St Paul JCC, 5K - 1:15 pm at Temple of Aaron, Maccabee Mini Mile: 2:15 pm at the St. Paul JCC , Post Dash Bash - 2 - 4 pm. Contact St Paul JCC at 651.698.0751 Tzedakah Bowl XVI Wednesday, December 25 8:30 am–6 pm Metrodome BOWL XVI Play flag football and ultimate frisbee to support camp scholarships. Contact: Evan Stern at 952.417.2335, estern@mplsfed.org
20|30 Project Happy Hour Thursday, January 30, 5:30–7:30 pm Location TBD. Contact: Evan Stern at 952.417.2335, estern@mplsfed.org
February 2014 Women’s Philanthropy Heart to Heart Mission February 9-13th Contact: Alyssa Huck at 952.417.2323 or ahuck@mplsfed.org SUPER SUNDAY Sunday, February 9 Minneapolis Jewish Federation In just two hours you can help transform lives by volunteering at Super Sunday, Federation’s largest peer-to-peer fundraising event! Contact: Alyssa Huck at 952.417.2323, ahuck@mplsfed.org
WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY 365 EvenT Thursday, March 20 All women making a minimum gift of $1per day ($365) will be celebrated at this spring event. More details to come. Contact: Alyssa Huck at 952.417.2323, ahuck@mplsfed.org
February 20|30 Happy Hour Thursday, February 27, 5:30–7:30 pm Location TBD. Contact: Evan Stern at 952.417.2335, estern@mplsfed.org
April 2014
March 2014 Rimon Artist Salon Series: Transfer of Memory Sunday, March 2, 2 pm California Building. Featuring photographer David Sherman and professor Leslie Morris on the subject of photography and memory. Contact David Harris at 952.381.3449, dharris@sabesjcc.org.
CALL FOR CHANGE PHONE-A-THONS Every month, there are two opportunities to join your neighbors and friends who care about the health and future of our Jewish community to "call for change." You’ll share snacks. You’ll bond over the occasional hang up. You’ll have friendly competition over who can raise the most money. But most importantly, you’ll change lives. 18
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Cirque Du Purim III March 15, 8:30 - Midnight FIVE EvEnt Center A Purim bash for the 20s and 30s Jewish Community. Contact: Evan Stern at 952.417.2335, estern@mplsfed.org
March 20|30 Happy Hour Thursday, March 27, 5:30 – 7:30 pm Location TBD. Contact: Evan Stern at 952.417.2335, estern@mplsfed.org
Women’s Author EvEnt: An EvEning with Elinor Lipman Thursday, April 3, 7 pm Oak Ridge Country Club Contact: Alyssa Huck at 952.417.2323, ahuck@mplsfed.org Save the Date International Lion of Judah Conference Sept. 7-10, 2014 . New York City Contact: Alyssa Huck at 952.417.2323, ahuck@mplsfed.org
☎ Sunday, DECEMBER 8, 12-3 pm ☎ Thursday, January 9th, 6-9pm ☎ Sunday, January 12, 6-9 pm ☎ Monday, MARCH 3, 6-9 pm ☎ Sunday, March 23, 12-3 pm All Phone-a-thons held at Federation office
SPOTLIGHT
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1. Marcia Cohodes, Luncheon Co-Chair; Rhonda Stein, Women’s Philanthropy Campaign Chair and Jane Ketroser, Luncheon Co-Chair at the 2014 Lion of Judah Luncheon 2. Rhonda Stein, Women’s Philanthropy Campaign Chair, Lisa Ratner, Women’s Philanthropy President, and Lori Fritz, 2014 Campaign Co-Chair at the Luncheon 3. Dr. Linda Ketover & Federation president Michael Barry at the 82nd Annual Meeting 4. Award winners Leora Itman, Nancy Olkon, and Ethan Roberts at the Annual Meeting 5. Darren Lederfine, Alex Levin, and Ross Menk at a 20|30 Project Happy Hour 6. Harold and Cindi Goldfine with King David Society & Pacesetter Dinner speaker Gordy Zacks 7. Judy and Herb Goldenberg, Lifson Lifetime Achievement Award Winners, at the KDS & Pacesetter Dinner 8. Noam Zadaka, Sammi Sudit, and Sarah Rader at the 20|30 Project Halloween Happy Hour 9. Tory Reiss, Noar Bitton, Rabbi Jen Gertman, Rachael Javitch, and Dan Canfield at Halloween Happy Hour 10. The Minneapolis Jewish ladies having dinner in Israel during a Federation/AISH/ Jewish Women’s Renaissance Project mission 11. Federation and JFCS professionals have lunch in the sukkah 12. Dr. Rick Nemer, Maimonides Society Chair, University of Minnesota President Eric Kaler, and Dr. Jamie Gaviser, Event Chair at the Maimonides Society Fall Event
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Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 3474 Twin Cities, MN
13100 Wayzata Boulevard, Suite 200 Minnetonka, Minnesota 55305
THE MAIN EVENT “We can’t wait to reveal the mystery headliner for this A-list event!” – Steve Silberfarb
ARIA | 105 N 1st, Minneapolis
THURSDAY, MAY 22, 2014 Couvert: $50/person • Minimum gift: $1000/household
Join the 1000@$1000 challenge today to secure your invite: jewishminneapolis.org/1000.aspx