JewishConnection
DEDICATED TO ENGAGING, INFORMING, & INSPIRING THE JEWISH COMMUNITY
FromMiami’sJewishBeginning,ThereWasIsidorCohen
By Sylvia Gurinsky
In June, 1896, Isidor Cohen, a young merchant, was beginning his first summer in Miami and was already experiencing business ups and downs, mosquitos, snakes, rats and hot weather. Nevertheless, he wrote in his diary, “This is going to be a wonderful city.”
Greater Miami has had its own ups and downs, but Cohen’s prediction has generally been correct. And he and his family have been among the reasons for that success.
Cohen had arrived in February, 1896, two
months before the first train. He tried to negotiate with Julia Tuttle for land on the north side of the Miami River. She recommended he take a job clearing land.
“I tried to impress this naïve lady that the last labor of this character my race had performed
was in the land of Egypt, and that it would be a violation of my religious convictions to resume that condition of servitude,” he later wrote.
After starting on the south side of the river,
History,Culture,MusicAndReflectionIntertwine
“Jerusalem Of The Rhine & The 80th Anniversary Of The Liberation Of Dachau” River Cruise
South Florida Symphony Orchestra and participating South Florida synagogues are proud to announce a once-in-a-lifetime journey, “Jerusalem of the Rhine & The 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of Dachau.” This exclusive and highly immersive voyage takes place Tuesday, June 24th, 2025 - Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025.
“This incredible travel experience promises world-class service, fine cuisine, award-winning guest speakers illuminating Jewish history and local culture, and incredible music along the scenic Rhine River,” said Jacqueline Lorber, President and CEO of South Florida Symphony Orchestra. Guests will begin their journey with two nights at Le Meridien Munich, then set sail for six nights aboard the newly launched and refined river ship, The Gentleman. The boutique floating hotel will traverse the picturesque cities of Bavaria with its historic Jewish sites and medieval landmarks along the Rhine River, ending in cosmopolitan Dusseldorf. A special visit to the Dachau Concentration Camp during the 80th anniversary year of the camp’s liberation en route to Nuremberg and a specially curated private symphony performance will take place that afternoon.
“Together, amidst the beauty, we will visit Dachau and pay homage to those who stood before us,” said Rabbi Cheryl and Rabbi Andrew Jacobs of Ramat Shalom Beth Israel. “We cannot think of anything more powerful than standing shoulder to shoulder as a blended com-
munity, both remembering those who were lost while celebrating the resilience that defines our tradition.”
This unique journey will explore regions once known as Ashkenaz, the cradle of early Jewish settlement and influence – home to the joy of Yiddish, the inspired intellect of Rashi, and Jewish Halakhic jurisprudence - including Speyer, Worms, and Mainz, collectively referred to as “The Jerusalem of the Rhine.” The region also inspired the most significant German poets, Goethe and Heine, as well as composers like Mozart, Liszt, Schumann, Beethoven, and Wagner.
“This cruise is a profound opportunity to connect with the beauty, resilience, and history of Jewish culture,” said Rabbi Mark Goldman of Temple Kol Ami Emanu-El. “As we sail through the heart of Germany, we honor the legacy of our ancestors while embracing the transformative power of music and art.”
This experience will be further illuminated through specially arranged visits and talks from Renowned Scholar Dr. Alexandra Richie, award-winning Author, Historian, and Presidential Scholar, The National WWII Museum, Michael Gans, Clinical Social Worker/Therapist, MSW, MS, MA, LCSW, Author, Scholar, and Holocaust Expert and Dr. Andrew Gottlieb, Professor of Politics of the MENA, Middle East and North Africa and Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU Board Member.
Travelers will also enjoy a curated dining
experience with Culinary Personality Joan Nathan, a multiple award-winning Jewish Cookbook Author, The New York Times Food Writer, and TV Host, and an enriching Shabbat experience with South Florida’s most beloved Rabbis and Cantors aboard The Gentleman. This is all accented by beautifully arranged private orchestral performances by featured guest performers curated by the South Florida Symphony Orchestra. “Everything about this journey promises to be significant and notable. I am especially thrilled that the incomparable South Florida Symphony Orchestra, along with local musicians, will weave gorgeous music throughout our experience, making it even more memorable and meaningful,” said Cantor Jodi Rozental of Ramat Shalom Beth Israel. “We all know that music transcends words in any language, speaking directly to our hearts and souls, and these moments will certainly be a highlight.”
The historic cruise starts at $3,999 per person. For more information or to reserve a cabin for the “Jerusalem of the Rhine & The 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of Dachau,” please call Transcend Cruises at: (773) 3514004. Email: sales@transcend.cruises. Or visit one of the co-sponsoring organization’s websites:
South Florida Symphony Orchestra: https:/ /transcend-cruises.com/SFSO2/ Temple Kol-Ami Emanu-El: https:// transcend-cruises.com/TKA/
Temple Ramat Shalom Beth Israel: https:// transcend-cruises.com/RSBI/ Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU: https:// transcend-cruises.com/JewishMuseum
AboutSouthFloridaSymphonyOrchestra
Founded in 1997 in Key West by Music Director Maestra Sebrina María Alfonso, the now Fort Lauderdale-based South Florida Symphony Orchestra (SFSO) is celebrating its 27th Season. SFSO is dedicated to enriching cultural music experiences for residents and visitors in Monroe, Miami-Dade, and Broward Counties. Guided by the belief that music is pivotal to thriving communities, SFSO brings vibrancy and engagement with the arts via innovative programming and transformative educational initiatives. A pioneer in its commitment to symphonic music for underserved communities, its Symphony in the Schools program has touched the lives of over 125,000 students since its inception in 1997. SFSO was recently named the first Partner in the Arts for The Parker by the Broward Center for the Performing Arts and has been recognized by the Broward County Cultural Division as a “Major Cultural Institution,” one of only a handful of organizations to be so honored.
Foraperformancescheduleandseasontickets,visit:https://southfloridasymphony.org -Call:(954)522-8445.Oremail: info@southfloridasymphony.org.
From the stages of the lower east side to the bright lights of Broadway, L’Chaim is a musical journey that pays tribute to the Jewish legacy of musical theatre. Rooted in history, heritage, and tradition, enjoy the most iconic songs from the stage of past and present and the historical stories that go with them.
History, Heritage, Tradition...L’Chaim!
MemorialFor Miami-Dade Mayor’sMother HeldAtChabad
A Shloshim Memorial Service honoring the life of Lois May Jaffin Levine, the mother of Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, was held this week at Chabad Chayil in Miami-Dade North.
The program began with a heartfelt performance by children from Chabad’s CHAP Program, a daily after-school program for Jewish public school students. The children sang a song about the neshama, setting a reflective tone for the evening.
Rabbi Moishe Kievman of Chabad Chayil then taught 2 Mishnas corresponding to Lois May’s Jewish name, Leah Malka, with a Kabalistic Chassidic explanation based on the teachings of The Rebbe. The Kel Maleh Rachamim prayer was led by Rabbi Zalman Gansburg from Chabad of Palmetto Bay.
Mayor Levine Cava read two poignant poems her mother wrote shortly before her passing, offering a glimpse into her mother’s wisdom. Everyone there joined together in singing a chapter of Tehillim, followed by Kaddish and the traditional verses of condolences.
The mayor was presented with a (https://BuildChabad Chayil.org) plaque representing a dedicated square foot in the new Chabad Chayil center currently under construction in Highland Lakes. Her name will also be on permanent display together with all others that are dedicated square feet or any part of the building.
The event, which drew community members and local leaders, exemplified the values of faith, family, and community that Lois Levine instilled in her loved ones.
Mayor Levine Cava, the first Jewish and first female mayor of Miami-Dade County, has been a trailblazer in public service. Overseeing a government with more than 28,000 employees and serving nearly 3 million residents, she manages an annual budget of $13 Billion. Originally from Brooklyn, she was first elected as a Miami-Dade County Commissioner in 2014 and became mayor in 2020, securing re-election in 2024.
The Memorial service was organized by Rabbi Moishe & Layah Kievman. Rabbi Kievman who helped the mayor place Mezuzahs in her office when she was first elected, and has made sure she has Shmura Matzah for her Passover Seders said that: “We are lucky to have a mayor who understands the needs of each community and makes it her business to do whatever she can to help. When there was an issue with the Jewish schools throughout the county being faced with a choice of either opening up their schools to everyone, thus losing their identity, or to give up on funding, we turned to Mayor Levine Cava. The mayor called all involved parties to that meeting and made sure all issues were resolved before the meeting finished. Can you imagine the nachas of hundreds of Jewish children being able to attend Jewish schools, given to her late mother?”
The memorial ended with the mayor together with everyone there making blessings on different types of food. Giving hundreds of merits to her mothers soul.
[1] Barry Snyder with Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. [2] Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava talking with Rabbi and Layah Kievman and Avremel. [3] Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava accepts the BuildChabadChayil.org plaque. [4] Kievman family with Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.
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Keller’sKornerToddGolden
By Neil Keller - Welcome to Keller’s Korner.
This
column
will cover the men’s basketball Head Coach for the Florida Gators, Todd Golden. He was born on July 7, 1985 and as of this writing, he is coaching the sixth ranked team in the country. The Florida Gators had a huge and loud crowd when we attended the February 4, 2025 game against the Commodores of Vanderbilt.
Todd always loved the sport of basketball. He grew up in Phoenix, Arizona and led Sunnyslope High School to the 2002 Arizona 4A state championship in basketball. From there he played guard for St. Mary’s College of California from 2004 to 2008. The Gaels made the 2005 and 2008 NCAA Tournaments. Todd graduated as the Gaels’ all-time leader in free-throw percentage (83.2%) before the record was broken by future NBA player Matthew Dellavedova.
From 2008 to 2010, Todd played for Maccabi Haifa in the Israeli Basketball Premier League. He also competed in the 2009 Maccabiah Games playing for the USA. Todd added to me, “Bruce Pearl also coached me in 2009 in Israel in the Maccabiah Games.” Bruce is now the Head Coach of the Auburn Tigers.
After playing a few years in Israel, Todd became an Assistant Coach for Columbia University and then Auburn and finally the University of San Francisco. Todd’s big promotion happened on April 1, 2019, when USF announced Todd would be the Head Coach of the Dons. Todd stayed there until the 2021-2022 season as bigger developments came into his life.
At the age of 36 years old, Todd was named the Head Coach of the University of Florida on March 18, 2022. Now Todd was coaching in the big-time Southeastern Conference.
The Gators won 24 games during the 2023-2024 season and Todd led them into the SEC finals against his mentor Bruce Pearl and Auburn. The Gators fell to the Tigers but the campus in Gainesville got Gator fever. One of their biggest fans is freshman Eden Rose. She is a die-hard basketball fan that gets in line hours early to sit in the front row. Eden is easy to spot wearing her foam Gator hat. She added, “I love the games, but it is also very exciting to wait in line with other students who love the team too.”
Now in the 2024-2025 season, the Gators are rolling. As of February 7, 2025, they are ranked 6th in the country. I mentioned to Todd that of the 6 top ranked teams in men’s basketball, three had Jewish coaches. He is aware that they are Bruce at Auburn, Todd at Florida and Jon Scheyer at Duke.
When asked if he had any comments to three Jewish coaches who have had such similar success, he responded, “It is definitely something that I am proud of. I think it is a really unique situation and cool to see. Obviously, I know Jon (Scheyer) pretty well, but Bruce is family to me.”
As of this writing, Auburn is ranked #1 in the nation and they have a showdown with Florida on Saturday, February 8. It will be Jewish coaches Bruce Pearl vs. Todd Golden. Also, it should be noted that Steven Pearl, Bruce’s son, is an Associate Coach for the Tigers. When asked about Steve, Todd said, “Steve is one of my best friends.”
As for the showdown, Todd said, “I owe a lot to them (Bruce and Steve) in terms of my success as a coach. I am proud to be coaching Florida, and I am excited to try to beat Bruce on Saturday.” Note, on February 8, the Gators did upset the #1 ranked Auburn Tigers in Auburn, 90 to 81.
Florida Gators men’s basketball Head Coach (L) Todd Golden with Neil Keller. (Photo Courtesy of Alyse Sachs)
Cohen soon moved to the north side, where most of the business was. He quickly became part of the growing community, joining most of the new organizations except the Tuxedo Club – because he didn’t own a tuxedo.
In July, 1896, Cohen voted to officially incorporate the city of Miami. He took note of the Black men
who voted and spoke in favor of the new city and wrote favorably about them. His book, “Historical Sketches and Sidelights of Miami, Florida,” was published in 1925 – the first locally published book with a positive look at the Black community.
In the beginning, things looked favorable for the growing Jewish community as well, with an 1896 Commemoration of the High Holy Days. But two fires and a Yellow
Fever Epidemic before 1900 temporarily reduced the size of that community.
Cohen didn’t give up. In 1904, he married Ida Schneiderman, the widow of another early Miami Jewish merchant, and adopted her son, Murray. Isidor and Ida added two more children – daughter Claire and son Eddie, who had the first Bris in Miami in 1908.
The growth extended far beyond
the family. In 1912, Isidor and Ida were among the founders of Beth David Congregation, the city’s first and oldest Synagogue. In 1941, Ida Cohen was a principal creator of what’s now Miami Jewish Health Systems. After World War 2, the Cohens were among the founders of Mount Sinai Medical Center. During the 1950’s, Claire Cohen Weintraub helped to begin what is now the Frost Science Museum.
By the time Isidor Cohen died in 1951, Miami was on its way to becoming a major international center. Today, members of his family continue as community leaders.
In January, the City of Miami honored Cohen by naming the street just north of Beth David Congregation for him. Such an honor is long overdue for a primary founding father of Jewish Miami.
[Cover left] Recently the City of Miami celebrated Isidor Cohen, a true pioneer of Miami, with the naming of Isidor Cohen Road. The event, held with family and friends present at the Center for Jewish Life at Beth David, 2625 SW 3rd Ave, honored his legacy of community growth, cultural inclusion, and vision for our city’s future. (Pictured: All descendants of Isidor and Ida Cohen.)
[Cover Right] Isidor Cohen was the father of Greater Miami’s Jewish community - Credit: www.museumoffamilyhistory.com
[1] Ida Cohen, wife of Miami’s first permanent Jewish settler, Isidor Cohen - Credit: www.museumoffamilyhistory.com
[2] Isidor and Ida Cohen and family with Claire Weintraub (Right) - Credit: www.floridamemory.com
[3] In January, the City of Miami honored Cohen in a ceremony by naming the street just north of Beth David Congregation for him.
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America’sMiddleEastUpheaval
Assessing Egypt and Jordan’s Opposition To Trump’s Gaza Refugee Plan
President Donald Trump’s recent suggestion to “clean out Gaza” and send its displaced population to neighboring Egypt and Jordan either temporarily or beyond, has sent shock waves through the Arab world, breaking decades-long understandings on the Palestinian issue.
Many Arab leaders in the Middle East are deeply concerned over Trump’s Oval Office meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which signals a significant realignment between their two countries over the future of the Middle East.
Trump’s proposed initiative to pressure Jordan’s King Abdullah and Egypt’s President Al-Sisi, both recipients of billions of dollars of U.S. aid, has reset, even if only perceptually, the Middle East chessboard. Already in his first two weeks in office, Trump has proven that he “speaks Middle East.” He has already forced Hamas and Israel into a three-stage hostages-for-terrorists deal. He has also dared to do what no U.S. president has done –delivering an electric shock over the Palestinian issue to two major Arab allies of the United States.
Trump’s plan, it should be said, has triggered a flurry of urgent meetings, statements, and warnings by the major Arab powers including Saudi Arabia.
The plan and its tension-filled response sets the stage for a possible clash between the United States and Israel, on the one hand, and the Sunni-Arab establishment, on the other. No doubt, the Iranian regime will also exploit these differences. However, Trump is determined to disrupt the decades-long failed paradigm that has only prevented the resolution of the Arab-Israeli conflict.
For their part, Abdullah and Al-Sisi have expressed in no uncertain terms their opposition to Trump’s plan to resettle Palestinians from the Gaza Strip in their respective countries.
Jordanian and Egyptian opposition to the Trump plan presents a major security and diplomatic challenge for the region, as it forges a pathway to confrontation with the U.S. Administration.
Trump’s groundbreaking declaration represents the first time in modern Middle Eastern history that a U.S. president has suggested such a far-reaching proposed solution that breaks the decades-long Arab-U.S. understandings on the “two-state solution.”
From the Arab world’s viewpoint, the initiative signals a U.S. retreat from Trump’s 2020 “Deal of the Century.”
Trump has wasted no time advancing the idea. On January 27th, 2025, Trump told reporters during an Air Force One flight that he had spoken with al-Sisi regarding the relocation of Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt.
He said, “I want them to live in a place without violence. Gaza has been a hell for so many years, and they could live in much better and more comfortable areas.”
Trump clarified his approach to “friend-foe” diplomacy.” He noted, regarding al-Sisi, “I have helped him a lot, and I hope he will help us. I think he will take in Palestinians from Gaza, and I believe the King of Jordan will do the same.”
For his part, Abdullah’s central concern reflects a longstanding conspiracy theory that Israel considers Jordan a Palestinian state, and intends to flood the kingdom with millions of Palestinians from the West Bank, Judea and Samaria and Gaza. Jordan is not alone in rejecting the U.S. initiative. Egypt and the Palestinian Authority (PA) have also panned the plan. However, no sitting Israeli prime minister has deemed Jordan to be a Palestinian state.
Jordan’s and Egypt’s sensitivity to Trump’s plan is deeply rooted in their common fear that, since the beginning of the October 7th War, Israel has been quietly planning to repopulate Gaza and establish new Jewish communities there.
The drama tearing across the Middle East does not come as a surprise to regional observers. Since the beginning of the HamasIsrael war, the issue has become a primary focus of the Arab and Muslim world.
Muslim Brotherhood-led protests have taken place in Jordan in support of Hamas in Gaza, threatening the stability of the monarchy. Abdullah is deeply concerned about maintaining power. It is commonly understood and confirmed by Israeli security officials that Abdullah opposes any American initiative that could be perceived as harming Palestinian rights and interests in Gaza as well as the West Bank. Abdullah’s position is a reflection of the regime’s fragility and fears of self-preservation.
Al-Sisi faces a similar predicament. The Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt also poses a threat to regime stability. Both leaders are actively seeking ways to remove the plan from the U.S. Middle East agenda.
There is a precedent. While Egypt and Saudi Arabia supported Trump’s call during his first administration for the resumption of negotiations between Israel and the PA, 1 Jordan aligned with the PA in rejecting his January 2020 “Deal of the Century” peace plan, 2 despite its inclusion of a Palestinian state in some 70% of Judea and Samaria a.k.a the West Bank.
role in securing international aid for Egypt—whether directly from the U.S. or through its Gulf allies. Moreover, any diplomatic confrontation with Washington over the Palestinian issue could expose Cairo to both internal and external pressures that it cannot afford.
Senior Israeli political and military officials estimate that the Egyptian leadership is relying on several factors:
Widespread Palestinian rejection – The PA and Hamas will oppose Trump’s plan.
Total Arab rejection – Jordan and other Arab nations will refuse to cooperate.
Shifts in U.S. priorities – Egypt is betting that over time, U.S. foreign policy or the administration’s direction may change.
Egypt and Jordan now face a significant challenge in dealing with Trump’s determination to implement his migration plan for Palestinians from Gaza.
It is understood in American political circles that Trump is
motivated to win a Nobel Peace Prize and “when he decides on something, he goes all the way to make it happen.”
Trump’s initiative to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan is seen by Egyptian and Jordanian leaderships as a redesigned and reengineered version of the previous “Deal of the Century.”
The U.S plan has set off a fierce chain reaction. Senior Palestinian officials said PA Chairman Mahmoud Abbas, Egypt, and Jordan are coordinating their opposition, 3 to Trump’s plan with Saudi Arabia by strengthening their strategic ties with the European Union, Russia, and China.
The stakes are high.
Egypt and Jordan rely heavily on annual U.S. economic and military aid. Trump’s recent decision to cut off foreign aid to Jordan sends a powerful message to these countries and others in the region. Both Egypt and Jordan face severe economic difficulties, including foreign currency shortages, large external debts, and the challenge of providing their populations with basic necessities such as food and fuel.
On January 28th, the London-based Al-Araby Al-Jadeed news outlet reported that Egypt is adopting a “strategic patience” strategy—waiting and attempting to manage the crisis through careful calculations behind closed doors. Egypt understands that any direct confrontation with Trump could damage its political and economic ties with the United States.
Egypt is fully aware of the precariousness of its situation. Its multidimensional relationship with the U.S. is not solely political but also includes significant financial and military support. The sensitivity of this relationship requires al-Sisi and Abdullah to step gingerly when working with the Trump administration.
Egypt fears that an outright rejection of Trump’s plan could complicate its relations with Washington, which plays a central
Arguably, Trump should have received a Nobel prize in his first term following the signing of the Abraham Accords, but this did not happen for political reasons.
Egypt and Jordan are attempting to buy time to prevent implementation of Trump’s plan and that only massive public protests in Egypt and Jordan, rallying around al-Sisi and Abdullah’s leadership, could possibly deter Trump from implementing his proposal.
It is not unreasonable to assess that Hamas and the PA will join forces to incite the Palestinian public against Trump’s plan. The issue is already gaining traction in Palestinian media and on social networks.
In fact, on January 31st, 2025, several thousand people protested, 4 – with the support of the Egyptian regime – on the Egyptian side of the Rafah Border with Gaza against Trump’s plan.
In sum, the Trump plan represents a loud, opening salvo of American primacy in the Middle East, reversing both the Obama and Biden administration’s policy of appeasement.
Trump’s bold declaration and follow-up moves have created conditions for a near-term collision with some of America’s Arab allies, which has far-reaching implications for Israel.
However, it is possible that Trump’s bold assertion of American power and its use of economic leverage and military aid will succeed in softening Jordanian and Egyptian opposition to his plan, thus setting a new American-driven paradigm for U.S. policy in the Middle East. It could also foretell a completely unexpected pathway to regional security stability and a possible U.S.imposed mitigation of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Credit: https://jcpa.org/americas-middle-east-disruption-assessingegypt-and-jordans-opposition-to-trumps-gaza-refugee-plan/
https://jcpa.org - Dr. Dan Diker, Yoni Ben Menachem
on the border with Gaza. (Screenshot)
Egyptian protesters at the Rafah crossing
[Above] “Wish at the Wall makes this dream a reality, showing them that despite their medical challenges, they are capable of incredible things.” [Right] Yehudah Zellermaier will serve as Chai Lifeline New York’s Regional Director.
ALifelineOfCompassion&Strength
Ensuring Every Jew Confronting Illness Or Crisis Is Embraced with Unwavering Support
Chai Lifeline is an international support network, providing social, emotional, and practical assistance to children, families, and communities impacted by medical crises and trauma through a variety of year-round programs and services.
Their vision is to ensure every Jew confronting illness or crisis is embraced with compassion, strength, and unwavering support.
JourneyofResilience
This year’s trip will feature the introduction of the Rosenberg Jerusalem Experience and holds special significance, as it was postponed in 2024 due to the outbreak of war following the tragic events of October 7th. In addition to visiting Israel’s iconic landmarks such as the Kotel, Masada, and the Dead Sea, participants will engage in meaningful encounters, including meeting wounded IDF soldiers at Sheba Medical Center, paying tribute to the victims of October 7th at the Nova Music Festival site, and hosting a barbecue for soldiers. They will also visit “Hostage Square” in Tel Aviv to show support for families of hostages.
“This trip is so much more than a journey to Israel; it is a celebration of resilience and hope,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. “The teens on this trip have faced unimaginable challenges, and through this program, we are honored to provide them with a life-changing experience that brings joy, confidence, and connection to their heritage. We are deeply grateful to the Hartman and Rosenberg families for their generosity in making
this program possible.”
Accompanied by wheelchairs, walkers, and respirators, these teens and their parents will experience Israel’s rich culture and spirituality. The trip alternates annually between teenagers who have completed cancer treatment and those living with chronic illnesses or disabilities, ensuring each group receives the specialized support they need.
Joining the group this year is Rabbi Shay Schachter, Camp Simcha Rabbi and a prominent advocate for hostage families, who will provide spiritual guidance and support throughout the trip.
“For many of these teens, a trip to Israel would otherwise be impossible,” said Rabbi Scholar. “Wish at the Wall makes this dream a reality, showing them that despite their medical challenges, they are capable of incredible things.”
YehudahZellermaierAppointedAsDirector
Chai Lifeline, is pleased to announce the appointment of Yehudah Zellermaier, LCSW, as the new Director of its Greater New York region. Zellermaier brings over 15 years of experience in social services and nonprofit leadership to the organization.
Prior to joining Chai Lifeline, Zellermaier served as Managing Director of the Brooklyn Hub at the Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty, where he significantly expanded programs and services, overseeing the buildout and operations of the new social services center in Boro Park. His extensive experience also
includes roles as Executive Director of the Boro Park Chesed Center and Director of Operations at the Met Council, where he managed multiple large programs serving thousands annually.
“We are thrilled to welcome Yehudah to the Chai Lifeline family,” said Rabbi Simcha Scholar, CEO of Chai Lifeline. “His proven leadership and dedication to community service align perfectly with our mission to support children and families facing serious illness. We look forward to the positive impact he will have in the New York region.”
In his new role, Zellermaier, who holds a Master of Social Work from New York University and is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, will lead a dedicated team of professionals and volunteers to enhance Chai Lifeline’s comprehensive support programs, including case management, crisis intervention, hospital services, meal delivery, transportation, i-Shine after school programming, and a range of services for children and families confronting serious illnesses. “I am honored to join Chai Lifeline and contribute to its vital mission,” said Zellermaier. “I look forward to working with the team to provide compassionate support to families in our community during their most challenging times.”
Chai Lifeline is an international support network providing emotional, social, and practical assistance to children and families impacted by illness and crisis.
Books&BooksIsProudToPresent:OnBeingJewishNow
An Evening With Talia Carner, Dara Levan, Amy Ephron, Zibby Owens And Debbie Reed Fischer
On Being Jewish Now is an intimate and hopeful collection of meaningful, smart, funny, sad, emotional, and inspiring essays from today’s authors and advocates about what it means to be Jewish, how life has changed since the attacks on October 7th, 2023, and the unique culture that brings this group together. On October 7th, 2023, Jews in Israel were attacked in the largest pogrom since the Holocaust. It was a day felt by Jews everywhere who came together to process and speak out in ways some never had before. In this collection, 75 contributors speak to Jewish joy, celebration, laughter, food, trauma, loss, love, and family, and the common threads that course through the Jewish people: resilience and humor. Contributors include Mark Feuerstein, Jill Zarin, Steve Leder, Joanna Rakoff, Amy Ephron, Lisa Barr, Annabelle Gurwitch, Daphne Merkin, Bradley Tusk, Sharon Brous, Jenny Mollen, Nicola Kraus, Caroline Leavitt, and many others. On Being Jewish Now is edited by Zibby Owens, bestselling author, podcaster, bookstore owner, and CEO of Zibby Media.
Books&BooksEvent
Books & Books is proud to present an evening with Talia Carner, Dara Levan, Amy Ephron, Zibby Owens, and Debbie Reed Fischer discussing their contributions in On Being Jewish Now: Reflections from Authors and Advocates (Zibby Books, $12.99).
Dateandtime
Monday, February 24th
8:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Location
Florida 33134
TV agent and model booker.
PanelistsTaliaCarner
Novelist Talia Carner is formerly the publisher of Savvy Woman Magazine, a marketing consultant and a lecturer at international women’s economic forums. An award-winning author of six novels and numerous stories, essays and articles, she is also a committed supporter of global human rights. Carner has spearheaded ground-breaking projects centered on female plight and women’s activism.
PanelistsAmyEphron
Amy Ephron is a bestselling and awardwinning novelist of both adult and children’s novels. Amy Ephron has spent some of her life chronicling Los Angeles & New York and places in-between. From her Los Angeles Times’ Magazine column “Palm Latitudes” to New York Times T Magazine column “L.A. POV,” and Contributor and Contributing Editor at Vogue & www.Vogue.com. Some of these pieces appear in her collection, “Loose Diamonds.”
PanelistsDaraLevan
Her desire to impact others through words began as a young girl. When her grandmother lived in a nursing home, she interviewed the residents and wrote their stories. She was 12 years old at the time and living in her hometown, North Miami Beach. Dara devoured books of all genres and still does but her favorites are women’s fiction, family sagas, and evocative, life-affirming stories.
Communicating and connecting with others continued throughout high school. Dara earned a B.A. in English and a minor in Journalism at Indiana University. Those four years prompted profound transformation. She will never forget those weeks.
She didn’t fully pursue her life’s passion and
purpose until 2017 when she launched Every Soul Has a Story®. The journey is all about the people she met along the way. What began as a blog has expanded to include a podcast, an inclusive space in which she interviews inspiring guests from around the globe. She’s realized that we can write and rewrite our own stories.
PanelistsDebbieReedFischer
Debbie Reed Fischer is a best-selling author and speaker, praised by Kirkus Reviews for “balancing weighty issues with a sharp wit.”
Debbie’s father was a USAF colonel and diplomat, so she and her brothers grew up in many places, including England, Greece, Florida, New York, and the Washington D.C. area.
Before the age of thirteen, Debbie had trekked through Egypt on a camel, floated on a gondola in Venice, played hide and seek in palaces and castles, gotten lost in the underground cisterns of Istanbul, climbed the Leaning Tower of Pisa, hiked the Samaria Gorge in Crete, touched the pillars of StoneHenge, and much, much more. Through it all, she dreamed of writing novels and film scripts, and is lucky enough to have done both. She is grateful to have had an upbringing surrounded by many languages and cultures. Best of all, she had a dad who loved books and a mom who loved storytelling, especially tales about her childhood in Guantanamo.
A graduate of the University of Miami, Debbie majored in Screenwriting and Judaic Studies with a minor in English. While still a student, she contributed to the critically acclaimed book Tropical Diaspora: The Jewish Experience in Cuba, the very first study on the Cuban-Jewish community, which included interviews with her mother and relatives. After graduation, she went on tour singing and dancing with the U.S.O. during Operation Desert Storm. Debbie worked for many years as a film/
Debbie has contributed to numerous anthologies, non-fiction books, and articles. She is a speaker and writing instructor, presenting at literary conferences, universities, schools, and author panels. Her short story This is What I’ll Tell You in Coming of Age: 13 B’nai Mitzvah Stories (Albert Whitman & Company) is semiautobiographical, with a portion of the proceeds going to organizations fighting Antisemitism. When she’s not writing, Debbie can be found at concerts with her husband Eric, watching her sons Louis and Sam play hockey, or searching for the perfect café con leche. She divides her time between South Florida and North Carolina. Connect with Debbie on Instagram and Facebook. Founding member of: www.theartistsagainstantisemitism.com.
PanelistsZibbyOwens
Zibby Owens is the creator and host of award-winning podcast Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books and has been dubbed “NYC’s Most Important Book-fluencer” (Vulture). She is the Co-founder and CEO of Zibby Books publishing house, Zibby’s Bookshop in Santa Monica, CA, and creator of “the Zibby-verse” community of book lovers.
Zibby is the author of the novel Blank, Bookends: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Literature, the children’s book Princess Charming, and editor of three anthologies including On Being Jewish Now. Follow her on Instagram where she tells it like it is. www.zibbyowens.com
Follow her on Instagram: @zibbyowens and subscribe to her Substack: www.zibbyowens. com.
AboutTheEvent
The event will take place at the Books & Books in Coral Gables at 265 Aragon Avenue, Coral Gables, Florida 33134. Tickets are FREE and books will be available for purchase at the event.
All profits will be donated to Artists Against Antisemitism.
[l-R] Panelists Talia Carner • Panelists Dara Levan • Panelists Amy Ephron • Panelists Zibby Owens • Panelists Debbie Reed Fischer
80YearsOf Remembrance
On January 27th, 1945, The Nazi Concentration Camp Of Auschwitz Was Liberated By The Soviet Red Army
www.gov.il - During World War II (1939-1945), multiple Concentration Camps were established by the Nazis across Europe, the “Final Solution” to a problem they saw as unbearable: the Jewish existence.
Adolf Hitler believed that eradicating Jews from the world would make it a better place, enforcing a monstrous ideology on the minds of influenceable men. Thousands blindly followed this narcissistic leader into discarding all human values, and unapologetically unleashed hell upon millions.
Jewish men, women, and children were deported from their homes by their very own neighbors. Transported by the hundreds on trains, the innocent victims made their way to an inevitable doom – the Holocaust.
Among the major camps were Chelmno, Belzec, Sobibor, Treblinka, and Auschwitz, which was divided into three sections: Auschwitz I – the beginning of the end: Jewish prisoners were separated from their loved ones upon arrival, forming groups by age and sex. There, the victims were given a striped prison uniform, their heads were shaved, and their arms were tattooed with
and are accepted in many countries, the insecurity is permanent;
The one place Jewish communities feel at home is the State of cratic country in the Middle East in hopes of finding the exact same thing our ancestors were deprived of 80 years ago: the right
As we commemorate International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we mourn the lives of those who were brutally murdered and those who never saw the light of day. Entire generations were erased, binding the Jews of today to never forget what was, and
RememberingJoeHess BelovedPhilanthropicLeader&HolocaustSurvivor
The Greater Los Angeles Jewish community and beyond mourn the loss of Joe Hess, a cherished Holocaust survivor, philanthropist, and community leader, who passed away on January 21st, 2025, at the age of 92. Born on June 25th, 1932, in Fulda, Germany, Joe’s incredible life story was one of resilience, determination, and dedication to making the world a better place.
Joe was just six years old when he and his sister, Ilse, bid farewell to their parents for the last time, escaping Nazi persecution via one of the last Kindertransports to England, where they lived with a foster family. In 1948, they immigrated to the United States, settling in Millville, New Jersey. After completing high school and beginning studies at Rutgers University, Joe joined the U.S. Air Force, where he began his distinguished career in aerospace and defense. While stationed in Boston, he met and married Margie (Z”L), his devoted wife of 68 years. In 1954, Joe was joyfully reunited with his father, Max, whom he had believed perished during the Holocaust.
Professionally, Joe excelled as a government technical manager, international aerospace consultant, and United Nations vol-
unteer. He worked at the Air Force Cambridge Research Labs in Massachusetts and, in 1968, moved to California to serve as Director of Space Division for the U.S. Department of Defense. Joe also developed workshops worldwide to help developing nations harness space technology for societal benefit. As Vice President of the International Arid Lands Consortium, he addressed critical issues in arid and semi-arid regions globally.
Joe’s enduring legacy is deeply intertwined with his nearly 30year partnership and leadership with Jewish National Fund-USA, where he served as National Campaign Chairman, Vice President of Zones and Regions, and President in Orange County before moving to Los Angeles. “If Israel had existed, my parents would have been saved,” was a sentiment that fueled his tireless efforts. Joe’s vision and leadership were instrumental in securing Israel’s water future, contributing to the creation of over 250 water reservoirs and helping the organization achieve NGO status at the United Nations. His contributions were recognized with Jewish National Fund-USA’s prestigious Tree of Life® Award and Legacy Society Heritage Award. As a proud Century Council
member, Joe inspired countless others to join him in ensuring a vibrant future for Israel and the Jewish people.
Jewish National Fund-USA Chairman, Dr. Sol Lizerbram remarked, “Joe was one of the founding fathers of the modern Jewish National Fund-USA. His leadership, vision, and commitment are woven into the fabric of everything we’ve achieved for Israel. His impact will be felt for generations.”
Joe was a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and greatgrandfather, and will be deeply missed by his family and numerous friends. His warmth, wisdom, and unwavering dedication will continue to inspire those who knew him.
To honor Joe Hess’ memory and his enduring impact, contributions can be made to Jewish National Fund-USA at: www.jnf.org/donate - Or a tree can be planted in Israel at: www.jnf.org/treeOr call: 1 (800) 542-8733. For more information, contact Sharon Joy, JNF-USA National Campaign Director at: sjoy@jnf.org.
[Above] Joe Hess (2nd from Left) a cherished Holocaust survivor, philanthropist, and community leader passed away on January 21, 2025, at the age of 92.
[Top Right] Joe Hess on a previous visit to Israel. [Middle Right] Joe reuniting with his father in 1954.
[Bottom Right] L-R: Joe hess z”l, lauren lizerbram, marjorie hess z”l, and dr. sol lizerbram.
TheBrandeisCenterandJewish AmericansforFairnessin EducationAgreewithHarvard toSettleTitleVILitigation
Today, Plaintiffs The Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law and Jewish Americans for Fairness in Education (“JAFE”) announced that they have reached an agreement to resolve their claims against Harvard University. As part of the settlement, Harvard has agreed to implement a series of steps, building on measures that Harvard has undertaken over the past year as a part of its commitment to combating antisemitism. Harvard and the Brandeis Center look forward to working together in these efforts.
The agreement resolves claims raised by the Brandeis Center and JAFE on behalf of Harvard students in a federal lawsuit. Under the agreement, and consistent with Harvard’s existing Non-Discrimination and Anti-Bullying Policies (“NDAB”), which prohibit discrimination on the basis of ancestry, religion, national origin, or political beliefs, Harvard will incorporate the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (“IHRA”) definition of antisemitism including accompanying examples applied in the manner described in guidance issued by the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (“OCR”) in 2021 and 2024.
Harvard will accordingly consider in the same manner the IHRA definition and examples when evaluating NDAB complaints raising allegations of antisemitic discrimination or harassment.
In addition, Harvard shall post online a Frequently Asked Questions document (“FAQ”) relating to the NDAB, which shall be available online in the same location as the NDAB, clarifying that both Jewish and Israeli identity are covered by the NDAB; that the NDAB include among their protected categories shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics as well as political beliefs; and that the IHRA definition will be used as described above. The FAQ will include the following statement: “For many Jewish people, Zionism is a part of their Jewish identity. Conduct that would violate the Non-Discrimination Policy if targeting Jewish or Israeli people can also violate the policy if directed toward Zionists. Examples of such conduct include excluding Zionists from an open event, calling for the death of Zionists, applying a ‘no Zionist’ litmus test for participation in any Harvard activity, using or disseminating tropes, stereotypes, and conspiracies about Zionists (e.g., ‘Zionists control the media’), or demanding
a person who is or is perceived to be Jewish or Israeli to state a position on Israel or Zionism to harass or discriminate.” The FAQ will include a list of examples of conduct that, provided that the required elements under the policy are met, may constitute prohibited discriminatory treatment or discriminatory harassment in violation of the NDAB.
Under the agreement, Harvard will also reaffirm at least annually that antisemitism will not be tolerated and that, consistent with the OCR Guidance, as described in further detail above, Harvard will consider the IHRA definition of anti-Semitism and examples in applying the NDAB. Harvard will also prepare a public annual report for the next five years that covers Harvard’s response to discrimination or harassment based on Title VIprotected traits (with a lookback at disciplinary responses to NDAB complaints based on allegations of antisemitism since October 1, 2023). These reports will catalog Harvard’s response to complaints based on allegations of antisemitism, consistent with FERPA, and assess Harvard’s treatment of such complaints against its treatment of complaints based on allegations of other forms of bias.
To carry out these undertakings, Harvard will hire a designated individual for Harvard’s Office for Community Conduct (“OCC”) who will have responsibility for consulting on all complaints of antisemitism and for supervising the preparation of the annual reports required under the settlement. Harvard has also agreed to provide expert training on combating antisemitism and the IHRA definition for OCC staff involved in reviewing complaints of discrimination, and Harvard will broadly promote annual training for the University community focused on recognizing and combating antisemitism. The OCC director will also ensure that Title VI and Harvard’s NDAB policies will be enforced equally, applying a single standard for all students, including Jewish and Israeli students.
Harvard will also invest additional academic resources to study anti-Semitism and will establish an official partnership with a university in Israel, in addition to programs the University currently has in place with Israeli universities. Harvard will provide an opportunity for the Brandeis Center to host a variety of events on campus. In addition, Harvard Kennedy School will provide an opportunity for three alumni of that school to organize and host an on-campus event, consistent with the relevant guidelines that apply to active student groups, on the substantive issues of Israeli Jewish democracy.
As part of this settlement with Brandeis Center and JAFE, which includes monetary terms, Harvard has not admitted to any wrongdoing or liability.
A Harvard University spokesperson said, “Today’s settlement reflects Harvard’s enduring commitment to ensuring our Jewish students, faculty, and staff are embraced, respected, and supported. We will continue to strengthen our policies, systems, and operations to combat antisemitism and all forms of hate and ensure all members of the Harvard community have the support they need to pursue their academic, research and professional work and feel they belong on our campus and in our classrooms.”
Kenneth L. Marcus, Founder and Chairman of the Brandeis Center and the former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Education stated, “We are heartened that Harvard has agreed to take numerous important steps necessary to creating a welcoming environment for Jewish students. When fully and faithfully implemented, this agreement will help ensure that Jewish students are able to learn and thrive in an environment free from antisemitic hate, discrimination, and harassment. We thank those within Harvard, including administrators, faculty, students, and alumni, who have worked tirelessly to achieve this result. In turn, we look forward to working with Harvard on the important work in this agreement to ensure that the rights of all students are protected.”
Photo Credit Kris Snibbe / Harvard University
JewishFamilyHomeCareOnceAgainAwarded WithThree2025BestOfHomeCareAwards
Jewish Family Home Care (JFHC) – a not-forprofit agency – is honored to announce that it once again received three 2025 Best of Home Care Awards from Activated Insights, formerly Home Care Pulse, the leading firm in experience management for post-acute care. The awards include the Leader in Experience, Provider of Choice and Employer of Choice. JFHC received all three awards in 2024 and both the Best of Home Care® – Provider of Choice and Employer of Choice Awards from Activated Insights in 2023.
JFHC provides multi-reach, non-medical home quality home health care for Broward County, Florida seniors from all reaches of life and any faith. JFHC is one of the largest providers of home health care providing assistance to Holocaust survivors and anyone in Broward County needing in-home care. Providing service to more than 400 clients, including over 300 Holocaust survivors, JFHC offers services such as home health aides, companions, housekeepers and certified nursing assistants. It delivers tailor-made home health care plans, with special consideration to patients’ physical and emotional needs, as well as their family’s budget.
The Leader in Experience Award is the highest recognition awarded by Activated Insights and is given to select home care businesses that consistently rank among the very highest in 10 or more quality metrics. As a Leader in Experience, JFHC is now recognized among the top 10% of home care providers participating in the nationwide Activated Insights Experience Management program.
This accomplishment demonstrates JFHC’s long-term dedication to excellent care and quality improvement. To qualify for this award, 10% of JFHC’s clients and caregivers were interviewed each month by Activated Insights. Over 12 months, JFHC received high client and caregiver satisfaction ratings in areas such as caregiver training, compassion of caregivers, communication, scheduling, client/caregiver compatibility and more. Using feedback from clients and employees, as well as quality benchmarks from Activated Insights, the JFHC management team set goals to reach the highest level of experience possible.
The Best of Home Care® – Leader in Experience Award highlights the topperforming home care businesses in the nation. Activated Insights believes that by honoring these providers, families looking for in-home care for a loved one will be able to recognize and choose a trusted home care provider.
The Provider of Choice and Employer of Choice Awards are granted only to the top-
ranking home care providers, based on client and employee satisfaction scores gathered by Activated Insights. JFHC is now ranked among a small handful of home care providers across the country who have proven their ability to provide an exceptional working experience to employees and the highest quality care to clients. Best of Home Care providers have contracted with Activated Insights to gather feedback from their clients and caregivers via live phone interviews each month. Because Activated Insights is an independent company, it can collect honest and unbiased feedback.
“We are proud to once again be honored with the 2025 Best of Home Care® – Leader in Experience, Employer & Provider of Choices
awards from Activated Insights,” said JFHC CEO Robin Miller. “Each of these awards is a true testament to our commitment to providing exceptional in-home care to our families, as they are based on testimonials from both our clients and our caregivers. This wouldn’t be possible without my incredible team who shares my passion for excellence and delivering the best results to our clients and their families. Knowing that we’re making a difference in the lives of others fuels our passion and commitment to exceeding expectations every day.”
“At Activated Insights, our mission is to help post-acute care businesses create an experience that goes beyond client and caregiver expectations; ultimately improving outcomes for all
stakeholders in the care continuum,” says Bud Meadows, Chief Executive Officer of Activated Insights. “When we see agencies like Jewish Family Home Care that have so effectively provided outstanding care and employment experiences, we know we’re on the right track. Jewish Family Home Care has worked extremely hard to prioritize high-quality care and employment, and their work hasn’t gone unnoticed. These awards allow them to show proof of quality to potential clients and caregivers.”
TofindoutmoreaboutJFHC’scommitment toexcellence,pleasevisit:www.JFCares.orgOrcall:(954)908-5677.
JFHC CEO Robin Miller
SlowBurnTheatreCompanyPresents“Parade”
A Story Of A Newlywed Jewish Couple, Who Are Struggling To Make A Life In The Old Red Hills Of Georgia
Slow Burn Theatre Company presents “Parade,” a powerful and poignant musical revival based on the true story of the trial and lynching of Leo Frank, as part of its 2024/ 2025 Season supported by American National Bank and Visit Lauderdale through Sunday, February 23rd in the Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.
Winner of the 1999 Tony awards for Best Score, Jason Robert Brown, who also wrote the lyrics and Best Book of a Musical, Alfred Uhry as well as the 2023 Tony for Best Revival of a Musical, “Parade,” co-conceived and directed on Broadway by Harold Prince, follows a newlywed Jewish couple, Leo and Lucille Frank, who are struggling to make a life in the old red hills of Georgia. When Leo is accused of an unspeakable crime, it propels them into an unimaginable test of faith, humanity, justice and devotion.
Hailed as an “an essential American musical” by Variety, “Parade” is a “phenomenal production that feels more poignant and powerful than ever,” according to Entertainment Weekly. Time Out New York writes, “What you hear at this Parade…will echo for a long time to come.”
Directed by Slow Burn Theatre Artistic
Director and Carbonell Award winner Patrick Fitzwater and presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), Slow Burn’s riveting and gloriously hopeful production features lead actors Justin Albinder* (Leo Frank) and Mikayla Cohen (Lucille Frank) joined by Kevin Patrick Martin* (Hugh Dorsey), Michael Hunsaker* (Britt Craig), Erik Schark* (Judge Roan/Old Soldier), Jessica Balton (Mary Phagan), Joel Hunt (Frankie Epps), Kareema Khouri* (Minola “Minnie” McKnight/Angela), Chaz Rose* (Newt Lee/Jim Conley/Riley), Michael Materdomini (Governor John Slanton), Landon Summers (Tom Watson/Detective Starnes), Ana Marie Calise (Mrs. Phagan), Nolan Montgomery (Young Soldier/Fiddlin John/others), Bridget Rose Pirrota (Iola Stover), Erica Gouldthorpe (Monteen/others), Sofie Poliakoff (Essie/others), Allyson Rosenblum (Sally Slanton), Steven Ross-Dybash (Mr. Peavy), Eli Jacobson (Officer Ivey/others), Austin Gladstone (Luther Rosser/others), Elizabeth Sackett (Nurse/others), Sam Hoffman (Mr. Turner/others) and Sara Sun Park (Nina Formby/others).
The creative team features direction and
musical staging by Fitzwater joined by Music Director Travis Smith, Lighting Designer Eric Norbury, Scenic Designer Nikolas Serrano, Costume Designer Rick Peña, Technical Director Timothy Dickey, Production Stage Manager Jeffry George* and Assistant Stage Manager Jolie Rubinchik*.
Single tickets to Slow Burn Theatre’s 2024/ 2025 Season are on sale now. Supported by American National Bank and Visit Lauderdale, the season continues in the new year with “Something Rotten!” from Saturday March 29th – Sunday, April 13th and “The Bodyguard The Musical” from Saturday June 7th – Sunday, June 22nd.
Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.orgOr: www.Ticketmaster.com - By phone at: (954) 462-0222; in person at the Broward Center’s AutoNation Box Office.
The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 Southwest Fifth Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information visit: www.BrowardCenter.orgLike us on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/ BrowardCenter - And at: www.Facebook.com/
BrowardCenterEducation - Follow us on Twitter and Instagram: @BrowardCenter. Subscribe to our channel at: www.YouTube.com/user/BrowardCenterAnd join the conversation with #BrowardCenter.
Major support of Slow Burn Theatre Company is provided by the Broward County Cultural Division, the Cultural Council and the Broward County Board of County Commissioners. Sponsored in part by American National Bank and Visit Lauderdale. Student and community complimentary tickets are subsidized and underwritten by the Salah Foundation and the Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation.
The Broward Center 2024/2025 Season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation, AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Nicklaus Children’s Health System.
Formoreinformation,visit: www.BrowardCenter.org-Orvisit SlowBurnTheatreCompany’swebsiteat: http://slowburntheatre.org/
Photo Credit Broward Center for the Performing Arts
AventuraArts&CulturalCenterPresentsTheShvesters&More
Transforming classic Yiddish and Jewish melodies into Sophisticated, Contemporary Harmonic Arrangements
The City of Aventura has an entertaining Lineup in store for you featuring Yiddish and Jewish melodies, a Piano Festival with Ilya Itin and more. This celebration of talent and artistry promises unforgettable experiences for every audience.
Timeless, dazzling, and distinctive, The Shvesters, transform classic Yiddish and Jewish melodies into sophisticated, contemporary harmonic arrangements on Thursday, March 20th at 8:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Recognized for their tight harmonies, soulful grooves and rich improvisation, The Shvesters (Chava Levi and Polina Fradkin) have gained a reputation for their unique, refreshing interpretations of Yiddish standards and traditional Jewish songs. The duo has garnered widespread attention, with media coverage from The Jewish Journal, Voice of America, and The
Grammys and sold-out concert halls in New York, Paris, Tel Aviv and beyond. The Shvesters are finally bringing their music to the stage in Aventura, supported by pianist Moshe Elmakias, with a performance that is sure to transport the audience to another world.
Miami International Piano Festival presents Ilya Itin, known for his extraordinary range, power, quality of sound and command of the piano, on Sunday, March 23rd at 5:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Since capturing the Gold Medal, BBC Audience Award and Contemporary Music Prize at the 1996 Leeds International Piano Competition, Itin has performed throughout the world bringing his powerful musical imagination and mastery to wide ranging repertoire.
Itin’s “Russian Marathon” concerts at the Miami International Piano Festival captured his
historic recording of all 24 Preludes of Rachmaninov, and Prokofiev’s 7th and 8th Sonatas performed in one day. He released his newest recording of the complete Debussy Preludes on vinyl and high-definition audio in 2016 and his Princeton recital in July 2015 that featured beloved works by Rachmaninov and Scriabin will also be released as a state-of-theart high-definition recording of the live performance. London’s Daily Telegraph reported, “Itin’s is a rare and exciting artistry indeed … Poised, pure, and ravishing in its range of colour, Itin’s playing is a prime example of a superb technique put at the service of an inquiring and imaginative mind.”
Tickets to all shows are on sale now.
Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - By
phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 4620222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307. The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter.
TheBrowardCenterforthePerformingArts managestheAventuraArts&Cultural Center,a14,864-Square-Foot, 330-SeatWaterfrontComplexthathosts performingarts,culturalandeducational programmingforallages.
The Shvesters transform classic Yiddish and Jewish melodies.
ExperienceHistoryAndCulture During L’Chaim: A Toast To The Jewish Legacy Of Broadway
In an enchanting celebration of music, history and heritage, the City of Aventura presents L’Chaim: A Toast to the Jewish Legacy of Broadway on Thursday, February 20th at 8:00 p.m. at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center.
A musical journey from the stages of New York’s lower east side to the bright lights of Broadway, L’Chaim: A Toast to the Jewish Legacy of Broadway is a musical journey that pays tribute to the Jewish legacy of musical theater by exploring and celebrating the unique role of Jewish composers and lyricists from Irving Berlin to the Gershwins, from Stephen Schwartz to Stephen Sondheim, and Kander & Ebb and Bock & Harnick.
In the production, four Jewish performers accompanied by a live band deliver iconic songs
and share the historical stories that go with them. This unforgettable performance takes audiences on a musical journey from the humble stages of New York’s Lower East Side to the dazzling lights of Broadway, highlighting the profound influence of Jewish composers and lyricists who shaped the world of musical theater.
Audiences will experience the timeless melodies and beloved lyrics that have defined Broadway, while discovering the cultural and historical significance of the Jewish legacy in the arts.
Tickets to all shows are on sale now.
Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center. Buy tickets online at: www.aventuracenter.org - By
phone at: (877) 311-7469. Or: (954) 4620222. Or in person at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center box office Wednesday through Saturday from 12:00 p.m. Noon to 5:00 p.m. and 90 minutes prior to each performance. For Group Sales, please call: (954) 660-6307.
The Broward Center for the Performing Arts manages the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, a 14,864-Square-Foot, 330-Seat Waterfront Complex that hosts performing arts, cultural and educational programming for all ages.
Parking
Free parking is available in the lots adjacent to the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center in front of the Aventura Community Recreation Center and the Aventura City of Excellence School.
Valet service is available for most performances at $20 per vehicle. We accept major credit cards or mobile payment apps including Apple Pay and Google Pay. Valet parking is located at the main entrance of the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center, in the circular drive. There is a convenient drop-off area in front of the building.
The Aventura Arts & Cultural Center is located at 3385 Northeast 188th Street, Aventura, Florida 33180. Join the conversation, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram @aventuracenter or #aventuracenter.
Formoreinformation,visit: www.aventuracenter.org
StrengtheningCommunitiesAcrossIsrael:7,495 Volunteers Impact Over 122,000 Lives
A Jewish National Fund-USA Grassroots Initiative dedicated to strengthening communities across Israel, has released new data showcasing its transformative impact on the country’s northern and southern regions. According to the latest report, its initiative has mobilized 7,495 active community volunteers, who in turn serve over 122,600 beneficiaries through educational, cultural, and social welfare programs.
These dedicated community members—comprising educators, secular and religious leaders, students, and artists—work together to assess local needs, develop programs, and create sustainable solutions that foster resilience and unity.
KeyImpactHighlights:
• Be’er Sheva leads in impact with nearly 1,000 volunteers supporting 42,000 beneficiaries, including students, educators, and members of the Mountain Jewish and religious Zionist communities.
• Kiryat Shmona and Sderot emerge as strongholds of resilience, with 290 and 640 active members, respectively, reaching thousands through social welfare and education programs.
• Diverse community engagement: Jewish National Fund-USA’s programs support Druze communities in towns like Beit Jan and
Members of MAKOM communities in Israel are people who participate in mission-driven communities that work to improve society.
AMovementofGrassrootsChange
“This is more than a network of communities—it’s a movement that brings people together, empowers local leadership, and builds
of Impact, whereby each initiative helps the organization’s strategic aim of attracting 800,000 new residents to Israel’s north and
create vibrant, self-sustaining communities across Israel.
CircleofImpact
The volunteer-driven initiative plays a critical role in Jewish National Fund-USA’s Circle that no community is left behind.
• Implant Reconstruction
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• Over Dentures
• Extractions
“Every program, initiative, and project we ment opportunities, economic growth, and community resilience, which are all essential elements in boosting the population of Israel’s frontiers,” said Jewish National Fund-USA Chief Israel Officer, Talia Tzour Avner.”
Formoreinformation, visit:www.jnf.org/makom
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• Soft Based Dentures
• Repairs & Relines While You Wait
• Cosmetic Bleaching
• ZOOM As Seen On ABC’s Extreme Makeover
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