Stand Up & Speak Out With Adela Cojab Jewish Connection News May 2, 2025 In A World Increasingly Marked By Division, Misinformation, And Antisemitism, One Voice Rises Above The Noise To Champion Truth, Resilience, And Identity: Adela Cojab. With Unwavering Passion And Clarity, Cojab Has Become A Leading Figure In Jewish Advocacy And Education, Inspiring A New Generation To Embrace Their Heritage And Stand Up For What’s Right. On Monday, May 12th, 2025 and Tuesday, May 13th, 2025, David Posnack JCC & Michael-Ann Russell JCC will host two evenings that promise to empower and energize the Jewish community. "Stand Up & Speak Out: The Jewish Response to Today’s Challenges" will feature Adela Cojab in person at two venues: the David Posnack JCC in Davie and the Michael-Ann Russell JCC in North Miami Beach. These events are more than just lectures—they are calls to action, urging attendees to engage, educate, and elevate Jewish voices in a time of great need. A Voice Born from Experience Adela Cojab’s journey into activism didn’t start in a boardroom—it began on the front lines of campus life. Cojab attended New York University and graduated from the Gallatin School of Individualized Study with a degree in Middle Eastern diaspora studies in 2019. She was president of the pro-Israel group Realize Israel, she faced firsthand the rising tide of antisemitism and anti-Zionism on college campuses. Her response: She refused to be silent. In 2019, she famously filed a federal complaint against NYU under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, citing the university’s failure to protect Jewish students from discrimination and harassment. Her bold move sent ripples through higher education, challenging institutions to recognize and address antisemitism with the same gravity as other forms of hate. Since then, Cojab has become a sought-after speaker, educator, and advocate. Her work has taken her from the United Nations to international conferences, and now, to South Florida—where her message is more vital than ever. A Night of Empowerment Attendees of "Stand Up & Speak Out" can expect more than just a speech—they’ll be part of a movement. Adela Cojab brings a unique blend of personal experience, academic insight, and motivational energy. She addresses complex issues with clarity, discussing how young Jews today can maintain pride in their identity while navigating often-hostile environments. Her message resonates deeply with audiences of all ages, but especially with students and young adults, many of whom are confronting antisemitism on campuses, online, and in social spaces. For them, Cojab offers guidance—and hope. She equips attendees with practical tools: how to engage in dialogue, respond to misinformation, and build coalitions that support a vibrant and inclusive Jewish future. Organized by Claudia Tabacinic, these two events are not to be missed: Monday, May 12th, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. David Posnack JCC – Lippman Reception Room https://www.givebutter.com/adela Ticket: $36 for adults, $18 for students and Maccabi members Tuesday, May 13th, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. Michael-Ann Russell JCC – Alan and Diane Lieberman Theater https://www.marjcc.org/MAGENLIVE Ticket: $36 for adults, $18 for students and Maccabi members Whether you’re a parent, student, educator, or simply someone passionate about Jewish continuity, these events offer a rare opportunity to engage with one of today’s most compelling Jewish voices. Building a Brighter Future What sets Adela Cojab apart is her belief in the power of youth. She doesn’t just speak to young people—she speaks with them, recognizing their potential to lead. Her events often turn into forums for dialogue, where students share their experiences, fears, and triumphs. In return, Cojab offers mentorship, encouragement, and a network of support. At a time when Jewish communities around the globe face significant challenges, Cojab’s message couldn’t be more urgent. She reminds us that being Jewish is not something to hide or defend—it’s something to celebrate. With antisemitism on the rise, and misinformation spreading rapidly online, silence is no longer an option. "Stand Up & Speak Out" is not just an event—it’s an invitation. An invitation to become informed, to be inspired, and to take action. Join Adela Cojab and the South Florida community for two unforgettable evenings of courage, clarity, and commitment to Jewish identity! For more information, visit: https://givebutter.com/adela - Call: (305) 522-3290. Or email: ctabacinic@gmail.com. Let this be the moment where we stand together, speak proudly, and shine brightly—for ourselves, our communities, and the generations to come! Previous Next

Hollywood Art And Culture Center Announces Three New Art Exhibitions South Florida Sun Times Oct 8, 2025 Hollywood Art And Culture Center, Celebrating Its 50th Anniversary, Has Announced Three New Art Exhibitions For The Fall/Winter Season. Dennis Scholl: A Day Of Four Sunsets And Felice Grodin: Where Do I Go From Here? Will Be On Display From Saturday, October 18th, 2025 Through Sunday, January 4th, 2026 And Brian Reedy: Gothic Pop Prints Will Be On Display From Saturday, October 18th Through Sunday, November 2nd In The Main Gallery Space. An Opening Reception Will Take Place On Saturday, October 18th, Beginning At 6:00 p.m. On Sunday, October 19th, The Center Will Host Its Free Arts Day With Complimentary Admission From 12:00 p.m. Noon To 4:00 p.m. Including A Print Making Workshop With Brian Reedy. “We’re thrilled to close out our Golden Anniversary Season with the thought-provoking, evocative art from top South Florida-based multimedia creators,” said Jennifer Homan, Executive Director of the Hollywood Art and Culture Center. “The Center is committed to providing a dynamic space that brings art to life. These exhibitions offer three distinct visionary interpretations through form, style and approach. We hope audiences of all ages will find something inspiring that resonates with them and sparks conversation.” A Day of Four Sunsets presents a new body of work by Miami-based artist Dennis Scholl, exploring the poetics of space exploration through assemblages of NASA memorabilia. The exhibition takes its title from astronaut John Glenn’s experience of witnessing four sunsets as he orbited Earth in 1962, evoking themes of time, memory, and the sublime vastness of the cosmos. Scholl’s work, rooted in the language of historical artifacts and collective memory, arranges space exploration ephemera into compositions structured by the dodecagon — a recurring motif in his practice that represents cyclical time and cosmic order. Over the past decade, he has meticulously gathered NASA-related materials, including mission patches, declassified documents, photographs, and newspaper clippings, integrating them into intricate assemblages that reframe our understanding of humanity’s relationship with the unknown. Scholl’s work gives us an insight into his keen collector’s eye and his skill at design and storytelling. In Untitled (Viking Orbiter II), photographs of Mars captured using surface imaging are arranged in thoughtful compositions. Visitors will find themselves viewing a piece of history transported back to 1969 with the work Untitled (Man on Moon). This exhibition contains more than 14 works of art that immerse the viewer into the history and collective memory of outer space, the universe, and astronauts. From real space food to sculptures created using space gloves, to viewfinders with images of the universe, this exhibition will fascinate science, history and modern art enthusiasts alike. As a filmmaker, Scholl has chronicled untold stories across art, music, and cultural history. His feature documentaries have explored a forgotten 1950’s abstract painter, the rise of 1960’s soul music in Miami, the vanishing Jewish communities of Miami Beach in the 1970’s, a Cuban ballerina’s pursuit of freedom in the 1990’s, and the voice of the greatest jazz singer of the 21st century. His films have been showcased at over 100 international film festivals, including Sundance, SXSW, and DOC NYC, earning numerous accolades, including 23 regional Emmys from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. His documentary The Last Resort was acquired by Netflix, and his latest film, Naked Ambition, examines the legacy of Miami’s legendary pinup photographer, Bunny Yeager. Scholl’s work—both visual and cinematic—questions how history is archived, remembered, and reframed, offering a conceptual dialogue between past and present. Through the excavation and reconfiguration of historical materials, he constructs a liminal space where personal and collective memory collide, forging new narratives from the remnants of the past. Felice Grodin's architectural training informs her drawings, intricately weaving together elements of imagination, the future, and the past. Where Do I Go From Here? features more than 10 new works, some of which were created during Grodin’s time as a Center 2025 Spring Artist in Residence. With meticulous care and references to ancient civilizations, Grodin renders lines into complex arrangements of circles and curves, creating dynamic three-dimensional forms and exploring the concept of mental boundaries. Her art transports viewers to a psychological realm reminiscent of maps, cities, landscapes, and speculative future worlds. These ink drawings on mylar can sometimes rely on chance, or automatism, liberating not only the creative process, but inviting viewers into the surreal. Felice Grodin is a visual artist and cultural agent who creates the real from the virtual through experimental and transdisciplinary projects. An artist with a background in architecture, her show Felice Grodin: Invasive Species (2018-present) was the first AR (augmented reality) only contemporary art exhibition in the United States. Her work hovers between the digital and analog realms, creating immersive experiences that have an impact on reality. She lives and works in Miami Beach and received a Bachelor of Architecture from Tulane University and a Master of Architecture with Distinction from Harvard University. Gothic Pop Prints by Miami Artist Brian Reedy features more than 10 custom linoleum block prints. The Center commissioned Reedy to create a work about Lizzie Borden inspired by Lizzie the Musical, which will be performed Saturday, October 18th - Saturday, November 1st at the Hollywood Central Performing Arts Center. In addition to the Lizzie Borden print, the exhibition features the macabre and spooky iconography of hauntings, oddities, and the afterlife in an expressionist and graphic style. Reedy’s woodblock prints combine his eye for graphic design, the skill of European medieval woodcuts and Japanese woodblock prints into modern pop culture masterpieces. Reedy creates modern works of art using the painstaking process of block printing, the craft of hand carving wood blocks to transfer ink to paper. Brian’s expertise in this art form has provided a unique combination of traditional print making with pop-culture iconography and themes. A guided tour of the exhibition will take place on Thursday, December 4th, at 7:00 p.m. An artist talk will take place on Saturday, December 13th, at 1:00 p.m. On Saturdays, November 15th and December 20th, at 6:00 p.m., a free curator tour/Downtown Hollywood Art Walk will be conducted. These exhibits were made possible through support from the City of Hollywood, Broward County Cultural Division, Broward County Board of County Commissioners, Max Chira and Family, State of Florida Division of Arts and Culture, National Endowment for the Arts, Community Foundation Broward, David and Francie Horvitz Family Foundation, Josephine S. Leiser Foundation, Memorial Healthcare System, The Windhover Foundation & Quadracci Family, Kofsky Weinger, PA, and Helen Ingham Foundation. For more information, please visit: www.artandculturecenter.org . About Hollywood Art and Culture Center Founded in 1975, the Hollywood Art and Culture Center is an award-winning NonProfit Organization dedicated to showcasing the arts for all ages. Year-round programming, which includes exhibitions, Broadway and summer camps, live theatre, education, documentary films and more, contributes to its continued success as a leading cultural institution that strives to improve connection, communication and well-being through art and cultural experiences. The Center also operates Cinema Paradiso, a 72-seat art-house movie theater as part of its strategic plan to establish programs for emerging and established local filmmakers, and offer workshops for film, sound design, editing, music production, animation and motion design. It also serves as a dedicated space for screenings of first-run independent films. The Center is supported by its members, guest admissions, public partners and private entities. It is located at 1650 Harrison Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020. For more information, call: (954) 921-3274. Or visit: www.artandculturecenter.org . Previous Next

Paint The Town Hallandale Beach Thu Jul 15 2021 05:10:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Despotism Is the New Normal: Looming Threats to Freedom in 2022 Thu Jan 13 2022 05:05:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Aventura Film Series Continues: Brighton 4th, A Story of Parental Sacrifice and The Love of a Father Fri Mar 18 2022 04:07:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

American Jewish Committee (AJC) Miami and Broward Jan 7, 2025 Was honored to host a Diplomatic Lunch Meeting with Levente Magyar, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade of Hungary and H.E. Szabolcs Takács, Ambassador of Hungary to the United States. Photo credit to US Embassy of Hungary- Lilla Hillier Previous Next

Aventura Branch Library Happenings Discover Your Jewish Genealogical Roots, Tai Chi, LEGO At The Library And Much More Aventura Digest Mar 19, 2025 The Aventura Branch Library Has A Wide Variety Of On-Line And In-Person Events. There Will Be Furry Tales, Parkinson's Support Group, E-Device Advice And Much More. Some Events May Require You To RSVP, So, Please Go On-Line To Register At: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura - Or For More Information Prior To Attending The Event, Call: (305) 931-5512. Tai Chi: Thursday, March 20th, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Enjoy the benefits of this ancient Chinese practice that includes breathing techniques, posture correction and gentle, fluid movements. Led by certified instructor Laura Flagel. Please wear sneakers and comfortable clothing. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 12 years of age and up. Discover Your Jewish Genealogical Roots: Thursday, March 20th, 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Discover your family history with expert guidance from Paulette Bronstein, President of the Jewish Genealogical Society of Greater Miami. Whether you're new to genealogy research or have some experience, this workshop is a fantastic opportunity to learn how to trace your roots and uncover your ancestral stories. For more information, contact: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Creative Kids: Thursday, March 20th, 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Enjoy a dynamic art program designed to help kids explore their inner creativity, from painting to collage. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 6 - 11 years old. e-Device Advice: Thursday, March 20th, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Need help with your electronic device? Instructors from Generation Technology will be available to assist you. Please bring your device for hands-on learning. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Furry Tales: Saturday, March 22nd, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Read your favorite stories alongside a friendly dog! Help your child improve their literacy skills and boost confidence by reading to a Therapy Dog. Bring your own book or choose from the library's collection. Presented by the Alliance of Therapy Dogs. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . Ages 0 - 12 years old. Renaissance Dance: Saturday, March 22nd, 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Let's dance! Join the Society of Creative Anachronism to learn history through Renaissance dance. Practice the medieval dances of Italy, France and England, the foundation of American square dancing. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 12 years of age and up. Learn To Speak Haitian Creole: Saturday, March 22nd, 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Join us for immersive language classes and learn how to speak Haitian Creole. Classes are suitable for beginning to intermediate learners and are a great way to acquire basic language proficiency for workplace use or to enhance conversational skills. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 12 years of age and up. Introduction To Computers: Saturday, March 22nd, 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Learn the basics of computers, including how to use a mouse and keyboard, write in a Word document, browse the internet, use email and more! Taught by instructors from Collective Sistahood. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Monthly Book Club: Saturday, March 22nd, 2:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Join your peers for a lively book discussion. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Parenting Class - Learn The Emotional Needs Of Your Children: Monday, March 24th, 9:30 a.m - 11:00 a.m Weekly advice sessions for parents of children ages 0-6 offered by Cayuga Centers in conjunction with The Children's Trust. Topics covered include positive discipline, attachment, communication, setting limits, and more led by Maria Soledad Lizarraga, B.A. Psychology and Developmental Specialist, PACE Program. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Chess Club: Monday, March 24th, 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sharpen your Chess skills by playing with others! Fun for beginners and more advanced players alike. Meets in the auditorium. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 8 years of age and up. Kids Learn Tech - Presented By Tech 4 Now: Monday, March 24th, 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. Be prepared for success in today's digital world! Learn essential skills in coding, computer navigation, internet safety and how to conduct research. Please bring your own laptop or tablet. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 8-12 years old. Lunar Meditation With Romie: Tuesday, March 25th, 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Meditation brings greater happiness, focus and sleep quality. Help support your emotional and spiritual wellbeing with these lunar meditation sessions. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Falun Gong Meditation & Exercise: Wednesday, March 26th, 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Northeast-Dade Aventura Virtual Programs Room Falun Gong is an ancient, high level Chinese practice that uses gentle movements and meditation to cultivate the body, mind and spirit. Join us online or in person. Registration is required for online participants. Zoom link will be emailed to registrants. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Overcoming Stress & Anxiety With Meditation: Wednesday, March 26th, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Let your mind's cares and tensions melt away during this unique session of deep, progressive relaxation and gentle breathing exercises. Enjoy an uplifting, guided meditation and "mind massage" from a highly experienced meditation instructor. Steve Pollack's soothing voice supports you in opening your heart, focusing your mind, clearing chakras, and uplifting your energy. For more information, please contact: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. AARP's Senior Planet Tech Thursdays - All Things Zoom: Thursday, March 27th, 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Attend classes designed to empower older adults with the skills to master technology, wellness and lifelong learning. Whether you're looking to navigate the digital world, improve your health, or connect with others in your community, our knowledgeable instructors are here to guide you. Presented by AARP's Senior Planet. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 55 years of age and up. LEGO® At The Library: Thursday, March 27th, 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Bring your creativity and have fun building with LEGO® blocks! Adult supervision recommended for younger children. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: email lefrakp@mdpls.org . 6 - 12 years old. Parkinson's Disease Support Group: Friday, March 28th, 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. This one-hour support group is designed for those suffering with Parkinson's Disease and their loved ones. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Applause For Words - A Workshop For Writers: Saturday, March 29th, 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Conference Room This monthly workshop is for anyone interested in writing fiction or non-fiction with the hope of one day publishing their work! Facilitated by author Elaine B. Johnson, each session will provide a safe and fun environment for participants to learn about the process of becoming a successful writer. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years of age and up. Blood Pressure Screenings: Thursday, April 3rd, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Free Blood Pressure Screening offered by the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 19 years and up. Color Me Happy: Thursday, April 3rd, 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Join us for fun and simple coloring activities. Materials will be provided. For more information, please contact the branch at: (305) 931-5512. Or: lefrakp@mdpls.org . 6 years of age and up. Some of the above events are On-line. To register, go to: https://mdpls.org/branch-northeast-dade-aventura For more information, feel free to contact the Aventura Branch At: (305) 931-5512. The Aventura Branch Library is located at 2930 Aventura Boulevard, Aventura, Florida 33180. Previous Next

Royal Dames Of Cancer Research To Kick Off 2026 Tiara Ball Season - Annual Luncheon Will Bring Together Fashion, Friendship And Philanthropy In Support Of Cancer Research South Florida Sun Times Sep 17, 2026 Royal Dames Of Cancer Research, Inc. Will Launch Its 2026 Tiara Ball Season With The Annual Royal Dames Of Cancer Research Fall Luncheon & Fashion Show On Thursday, October 1st, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. To 2:00 p.m. At Lauderdale Yacht Club In Fort Lauderdale. The Fall Luncheon will kick off the organization’s “Dancing Queens”-themed Tiara Ball season, which will culminate with the 56th Annual Tiara Ball on Saturday, November 14th, 2026 at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa. The Tiara Ball, chaired by Bonnie Mitten, is Royal Dames’ primary annual fundraiser in support of its mission to fund Cancer Research. The luncheon and fashion show will celebrate fashion, friendship and philanthropy while supporting the Royal Dames’ mission of funding Cancer Research. Professional models will take to the runway for a true fashion show experience, showcasing high-end couture and elegant fashions from renowned luxury designers, presented by The Colonnade Outlets. “The Fall Luncheon is a wonderful opportunity to bring our community together as we begin another Tiara Ball season and continue the important work at the heart of the Royal Dames,” said Sophia Mylona, President of Royal Dames of Cancer Research. Guests will also have opportunities to support the mission through raffles and live and silent auctions featuring an array of experiences and packages. Highlights include a three-hour private yacht cruise for up to 10 guests aboard My Amore 59, complete with champagne, fine wine and gourmet hors d’oeuvres, as well as a full event-planning package for up to 50 guests in South Florida, including event design, budget planning, vendor coordination, floor plan design, itinerary creation and day-of-event management, and more. Royal Dames of Cancer Research traces its history to Dr. Joel Warren’s request for $250,000 to support Cancer Research. Warren approached Fort Lauderdale resident Theresa Castro, who was inspired to create an organization dedicated to funding Cancer Research. One hundred of Castro’s friends each pledged $2,500, leading to the creation of Royal Dames of Cancer Research, Inc. in 1969. Since its founding, Royal Dames has contributed more than $7.68 Million in support of Cancer Research at Nova Southeastern University (NSU). The organization continues to support Cancer Research in pursuit of a cure. The Royal Dames of Cancer Research Fall Luncheon & Fashion Show will take place Thursday, October 1st, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Lauderdale Yacht Club, 1725 Southeast 12th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33316. Tickets, tables and sponsorship opportunities are available at: https://rdfall26.givesmart.com . For more information about Royal Dames of Cancer Research, visit: https://royaldames.org . Or call: (954) 546-0868. Editors’ note: To access high-resolution photos from last year’s luncheon, visit: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/u6zo44ijee9e6qhy9jqlr/AD7Frvm7kxwkgEPQSjF_J78?rlkey=sjy2nrfgegp8bl2g1srommevv&dl=0 Photo Credit: Al Evans, Downtown Photo Fort Lauderdale About Royal Dames of Cancer Research, Inc. Founded in 1969, Royal Dames of Cancer Research, Inc. is dedicated to funding research to find a cure for Cancer. The organization has raised millions of dollars in direct support of Cancer Research at Nova Southeastern University (NSU). A community of volunteers, Royal Dames advances its mission through fundraising, philanthropy and community engagement. For more information, visit: https://royaldames.org The Fall Luncheon will kick off the organization’s “Dancing Queens”-themed Tiara Ball season. The Fall Luncheon will kick off the organization’s “Dancing Queens”-themed Tiara Ball season. Previous Next

Drum Tao Offers Entertainment That Can't Be Beat Wed Feb 21 2024 17:17:00 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

‘Never Again' In Focus - Aventura Police Department Chief Michael Bentolila & Global Law Enforcement Leaders Gather At Auschwitz For An Intense Training Program Aventura Digest May 20, 2026 In The Shadow Of One Of History’s Darkest Sites, More Than 120 Senior Law Enforcement Leaders Gathered This Week In Poland For A Program With An Urgent Mandate To Translate Memory Into Action. The seminar, titled “Operationalizing Never Again Not On Our Watch 2026,” was hosted at the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation in Oswiecim, adjacent to the former Nazi death camp Auschwitz. Organized in partnership with the Rutgers University Miller Center on Policing and Community Resilience and the University of Virginia, the program brought together police leaders, policymakers and security officials from across the United States, Europe and beyond for an intensive period of study and discussion. Among the highest-ranking participants were New Jersey State Police Acting Superintendent Jeanne Hengemuhle, New York Police Department Executive Director Amy E. Bishop, Washington DC Metropolitan Police Department Assistant Chief Tasha Bryant and Royal Canadian Mounted Police Superintendent Sanjaya Wijayakoon, alongside Senior European Leadership including German Police Union Federal Chairman Jochen Kopelke. Their presence underscored the program’s reach into the upper ranks of global policing at a moment of heightened concern over extremism, antisemitism and other forms of hate. For the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation, the convening reflects a broader educational mission that has, over the past decade, engaged tens of thousands of diplomats, military personnel, law enforcement officials and educators in Holocaust based training programs focused on tolerance, human rights and ethical leadership. Participants spent time in Oswiecim combining historical study with professional dialogue. They toured the remains of the Auschwitz Birkenau camp complex, engaged in seminars on the role of state institutions in enabling atrocities and took part in discussions designed to connect those lessons to contemporary policing. “Law enforcement officers hold immense authority and responsibility,” said Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Director General Jack Simony. “Our responsibility is to ensure that the lessons of the Holocaust are not confined to history but are actively shaping how today’s leaders confront bigotry, hatred and the dehumanization of others.” The program’s structure reflects a growing emphasis on professional audiences particularly those entrusted with public authority. While Holocaust education has long focused on students and the general public, institutions like the Auschwitz Jewish Center have increasingly tailored their work to judges, diplomats and law enforcement officials, arguing that such groups play a decisive role in preventing hate and protecting vulnerable communities. “Never Again is not a slogan it is a responsibility,” said Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Chairman Simon Bergson. “By bringing together leaders from across countries and disciplines we are building a community committed to recognizing warning signs and acting before prejudice and hatred escalate into violence.” The delegation reflected that international scope. In addition to senior American officials, participants included police leaders and union representatives from Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands and Estonia as well as officials from Canada, Kenya and Australia. Many hold positions that shape training standards, departmental policy and national policing strategy. The program was led by Paul Goldenberg, Chair of the initiative, alongside colleagues from Rutgers and the University of Virginia and featured a mix of lectures, site visits and small group discussions. For many, the setting itself a short distance from the barracks and crematoria of Auschwitz served as a stark reminder of how ordinary institutions including police forces were once drawn into systems of persecution and mass murder. “In Oswiecim, where the consequences of hatred were carried out with the participation of ordinary institutions, we are consistently reminded that the line between protection and persecution is defined by human choices,” said Tomasz Kuncewicz. “Programs like this are about equipping today’s leaders with the awareness and moral clarity to ensure that authority is always used to defend human dignity, never to erode it.” Sessions focused on the incremental nature of authoritarianism, the normalization of bias and the ethical obligations of officers when confronted with unlawful or discriminatory directives. The delegation included senior law enforcement officials from across the United States and abroad. including: • From Arizona: Cochise County Sheriff’s Office Captain Tim Williams. • From California: San Mateo Police Department Chief Ed Barberini. • From Colorado: Denver Sheriff’s Department Major Keri Adcock; Boulder Police Department Deputy Chief Ron Gosage; Colorado State Patrol Captain Wesley Kartus; Colorado State Patrol Lieutenant Colonel Joshua Downing. • From the District of Columbia: Metropolitan Police Department Assistant Chief Tasha Bryant; Metropolitan Police Department Captain Gavin Nelson. • From Florida: Aventura Police Department Chief Michael Bentolila; St Lucie County Sheriff’s Office Reservist Adam Dobrin. • From Maryland: Montgomery County Department of Police Captain Kathy M. Estrada; Hyattsville Police Department Deputy Chief Laura Lanham. • From Massachusetts: Massachusetts State Police Lieutenant Colonel Daniel Tucker; Wellfleet Police Department Reserve Officer Marc Spigel. • From Minnesota: Minneapolis Police Department Bureau Chief Ganesha Martin. • From New Jersey: New Jersey State Police Acting Superintendent Jeanne Hengemuhle; South Brunswick Police Department Captain Jeffrey Russo; Monmouth Junction Police Department Chief Raymond J. Hayducka; Cinnaminson Police Department Chief William Obuchowski; New Jersey State Association of Chiefs of Police Executive Director Mitchell Sklar. • From New York: New York Police Department Executive Director Amy E. Bishop; Suffolk County Police Department Assistant Commissioner Elizabeth Daitz. • From North Dakota: North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation Chief Agent Casey Miller. • From Tennessee: Knoxville Police Department Captain Tracy Hunter; Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Director David Rausch. • From Texas: Harris County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant Joseph Saavedra; Collin County Sheriff’s Office Sheriff AJ Skinner. • From Virginia: Virginia State Police Lieutenant Colonel Norman Gray; Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office Major David Hill; Louisa County Fire and EMS Deputy Chief Chris Lee. • From Washington: Seattle Police Department Lieutenant Dorothy Kim. • From Australia: Queensland Police Service Assistant Commissioner Virginia Nelson. • From Belgium: Antwerp Police Department Chief External Relations Karl Hereen; Antwerp Police Department Commissioner Bob Davits; Local Police Antwerp First Inspector Van Bogaert Koen. • From Canada: Royal Canadian Mounted Police Superintendent Sanjaya Wijayakoon. • From Estonia: Estonian Police and Border Guard Prefecture Head Vaiko Vaher. • From Germany: German Police Union Federal Chairman Jochen Kopelke; German Police Union Deputy Chairman Sven Huber; Bavarian State Police Colonel Bernd Burger; Lower Saxony Police Detective Superintendent Damian Janitzki. • From Kenya: Anti-Terrorism Police Unit Chief Inspector Alvince Osura. • From Netherlands: Dutch Police Union Strategic Advisor Michel Oz; National Police Superintendent Koen Simmers; Dutch Police Union President Vanessa van den Berg. • From Portugal: Public Security Police Superintendent Rui Paulo Domingues Neves. As the program concluded, participants departed Oswiecim with a shared charge to carry forward the lessons of a place synonymous with human destruction into institutions tasked with protecting life and liberty. For the Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation, the hope is that such efforts will ensure that remembrance is not passive but operational embedded in the daily decisions of those who wield authority in societies around the world. The Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to harnessing the lessons learned from the Holocaust to combat hatred and bigotry through educational programs and by providing direct humanitarian aid to victims of mass atrocities. It supports survivors of genocides and other tragedies, including Ukrainian refugees and those impacted by Hamas's October 7 attacks. The Foundation maintains the Auschwitz Jewish Center, the last remaining synagogue in Oswiecim (Auschwitz) and serves as the primary institution dedicated to preserving the memory of the town's Jewish community while addressing hate. To date, over a million people have visited the center, more than 300,000 students participated in its educational programs and tens of thousands of diplomats, military and law enforcement personnel and educators, have taken part in its educational initiatives on tolerance and the Holocaust. For more information, visit: https://ajcfus.org/ . More than 120 senior law enforcement leaders gathered this week in Poland for the seminar. (Photos, Courtesy of the AJCF) The mission is to engaged tens of thousands of diplomats, military personnel, law enforcement officials and educators in Holocaust based training programs focused on tolerance, human rights and ethical leadership. Policymakers and security officials from across the United States, Europe and beyond came together for an intensive period of study and discussion. “Law enforcement officers hold immense authority and responsibility,” said Auschwitz Jewish Center Foundation Director General Jack Simony. Previous Next

The Broward Center Kicks Off 2024: Legendary Musicians, A Broadway Blockbuster, Comedy And Family Theater & More January 4, 2024 Share The Broward Center and AEG Presents bring An Evening(ish) with Gary Janetti to the Amaturo Theater on Saturday, January 6th, 2024 at 8:00 p.m. The Writer and Television Producer of Family Guy, Will & Grace, Vicious and The Prince will read essays from his bestselling books Do You Mind If I Cancel? and Start Without Me. He will be highly caffeinated and promises to answer questions from the audience with hopefully entertaining responses. He will also be available to meet guests, take photos and sign books. A double bill of The Commodores and The Spinners gets 2024 off to a soulful start in the Au-Rene Theater on Sunday, January 7th, 2024 at 7:00 p.m. One of the greatest Motown/R&B/Funk artists of all time, The Commodores delivered hit after hit, including: “Machine Gun,” “Sail On,” and “Brick House” garnering nine Grammy® Nominations and taking home the award for “Nightshift.” Six-time Grammy® Nominees, The Spinners defined the smooth sound of Philadelphia Soul and topped music charts with the hits “I'll Be Around,” “Could It Be I'm Falling in Love,” “Working My Way Back to You” and “Cupid.” Come see how the world could be when Broadway in Fort Lauderdale presents Hadestown in the Au-Rene Theater Tuesday, January 9th, 2024 - Sunday, January 21st, 2024. Welcome to Hadestown, where a song can change your fate. Winner of eight 2019 Tony® Awards including Best Musical and the 2020 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, this acclaimed new show from celebrated Singer-Songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and Innovative Director Rachel Chavkin (Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812) is a love story for today... and always. Intertwining two mythic tales — that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife Persephone — Hadestown is a haunting and hopeful theatrical experience that grabs you and never lets go. The Bank of America Broadway In Fort Lauderdale 2023/2024 Season is made possible with the generous support of Title Sponsor Bank of America and Presenting Sponsor Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. Bank of America Broadway in Fort Lauderdale is presented by Florida Theatrical Association in partnership with Broadway Across America and the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Performance times vary. Get ready for a night of real Irish comedy, accent included, as the TRUISTComedy Series brings David Nihill: Shelf Help Tour to the Amaturo Theater on Thursday, January 11th, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. Having left Dublin, Ireland, where he was born and raised until the age of 22, Nihill got drunk on travel, living and working in 12 countries while visiting more than 70. His shows draw on his wide travels, cultural observations, attempts at language study, (occasional) international drinking session(s) and being a mildly confused immigrant. Nihill is the winner of the Prestigious Annual San Francisco Comedy Competition (previous finalists include Robin Williams, Ellen DeGeneres and Dana Carvey) and runner up in The Moth's Largest U.S. Grand Slam Storytelling Competition. He recorded his debut special for Dry Bar Comedy in 2019 and has been featured on: www.TED.com - Amazon Prime Video, Sirius XM, NPR, Huffington Post, The Irish Independent and Ireland AM, among others. JM Family Enterprises presents the Smart Stage Matinee Series Performances of The Frog Prince in the Amaturo Theater on Friday, January 12th, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Family Fun performances will take place Saturday, January 13th, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. This fairy tale demonstrates why you shouldn’t judge anyone by their appearance and delivers an important message about treating everyone equally. These performances are recommended for Grades K-3 and support the ELA, SEL, Music and Dance Curricula. Just as she promised in her hit song, Karla Bonoff will deliver her music “Personally” in the Amaturo Theater on Saturday, January 13th, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. The Singer-Songwriter’s hits include: "All My Life,” which won a Grammy Award for Linda Ronstadt and Aaron Neville and was ranked by People Magazine as one of the top five most popular wedding songs. Bonoff has toured with Bonnie Raitt, John Prine, J.D. Souther and others building up a passionate audience and delivering in sold-out houses. The TD Jazz Series brings accomplished Guitarist, Producer and Prolific Filmmaker Jesse Cook to the Amaturo Theater on Sunday, January 14th, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. Since playing all of the instruments on his debut release, Tempest, more than 25 years ago, Cook has created a musical legacy encompassing selling more than two million albums, recording five PBS specials, garnering more than 25 million views on YouTube and generating over 400 million streams of his songs. His 11th studio album, Libre, was chosen 2021 Album of the Year by JazzTrax and features his band’s unique brand of rhythm and rhumba. Grammy Award-Winning Singer-Songwriter Judy Collins performs in the Amaturo Theater on Tuesday, January 16th, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. Through her performances and iconic 55-album catalog, Collins has inspired audiences with sublime vocals, boldly vulnerable songwriting, personal life triumphs and a firm commitment to social activism. She is esteemed for her imaginative interpretations of traditional and contemporary folk standards and her own poetically poignant original compositions. Her stunning rendition of Joni Mitchell's "Both Sides Now" from her Landmark 1967 Album, Wildflowers, has been entered into the Grammy Hall of Fame while her dreamy and sweetly intimate version of "Send in the Clowns" won "Song of the Year" at the 1975 Grammy Awards. American Rock Band Mr. Big comes to the Amaturo Theater as part of the Cleveland Clinic Rock Series on Thursday, January 18th, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. Mr. Big combined two popular musical trends of the Rock Scene in the mid- to late-80’s: a particular brand of Hard Rock focused on melodies and listener-friendly choruses together with an impressive technical proficiency, then called shredding. The group is best known for its hits “To Be With You,” “Just Take My Heart” and a cover of Cat Stevens' “Wild World.” With a smooth blend of Country Music and Southern Rock, Multi-Platinum and Grammy® Award-Winning Zac Brown Band will light up the stage in the Au-Rene Theater on Saturday, January 27th, 2024 at 8:30 p.m. as part of the Broward Performing Arts Foundation’s “Toes in the Sand” Annual Celebration. Zac Brown Band has had Six Consecutive Albums reach the top 10 of the Billboard 200 Charts and Five Consecutive Albums Debut at number one on Billboard’s Country Albums Chart. With three Grammy Awards including Best New Artist in 2010, Zac Brown Band has sold more than 30 million Singles and nine million Albums, amassed over 11 billion Catalog Streams, achieved 16 number one Radio Singles and are the second act to top both the Country and Active Rock Formats. Zac Brown Band currently holds the record for most consecutive sold-out shows at the iconic Fenway Park, and as a result, was inducted into the Fenway Music Hall of Fame in 2022, joining music icons Paul McCartney and Billy Joel. Presented by long-time Broward Center supporters Charles and Laura Palmer, the Annual Celebration begins with an exclusive cocktail reception, followed by dinner, the concert and an after-show party with DJ Laz with proceeds from the evening benefitting the education and enrichment programs at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets to the concert itself are also available. The Kansas “50th Anniversary” Tour of fan favorites and deep cuts that have rarely been played live comes to the Au-Rene Theater as part of the Cleveland Clinic Rock Series on Sunday, January 28th, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. Drawing from a legendary catalog of a half-century, the band will play such hits as “Carry On Wayward Son,” “Dust in the Wind,” “Point of Know Return,” “Play the Game Tonight” and “Fight Fire with Fire.” This concert is generously underwritten by The LaBate Family. Also at the Broward Center in January are the Symphony of the Americas: Trailblazers! On January 9th, 2024 - Gold Coast Jazz Society presents Tierney Sutton & Shelly Berg Trio on January 10th, 2024 Pavlo in Concert: The Santorini Tour on January 19th, 2024 and Quick2Love Foundation, Inc. Presents #AnniFLOetry on January 20th, 2024. Ticketmaster is the only official ticketing service of the Broward Center and The Parker. Buy tickets online at: www.BrowardCenter.org - Or: 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.org - Like us on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenter - And: www.Facebook.com/BrowardCenterEducation - Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @BrowardCenter, subscribe to our channel at: www.YouTube.com/user/BrowardCenter and join the conversation with #BrowardCenter. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org < Previous News Next News >

ZOA Coalition Wins AZM Tribunal Appeal To Restore Betar USA Leader Ronn Torossian To The ZOA Coalition Slate Jewish Connection News Sep 18, 2025 ZOA Coalition And The ZOA Are Very Pleased That The American Zionist Movement (AZM) Tribunal Unanimously Ruled Today In Favor Of ZOA Coalition’s Appeal To Restore Betar Usa leader Ronn Torossian to the ZOA Coalition Slate. Betar Is An Important Organization, Involved In Protecting Jews From Antisemitism On The Streets And On Campuses. ZOA And ZOA Coalition Are Proud To Have Successfully Stood Up For Betar And Its Leader, And For Standing Up For All The Candidates And Organizations On Our Slate And All Like-Minded Groups And Individuals. Sadly, several months ago, the “Kol Israel” slate (sponsored by the “Stand with Us” organization) filed a claim with the chairs of the AEC (U.S. Area Election Committee) to disqualify Betar USA leader Ronn Torossian, and to throw Ronn off the ZOA Coalition. Mr. Torossian had criticized a leading member of the Kol Israel/Stand With U.S. slate for boasting about personally boycotting Israel beyond the pre-1967 Armistice line (meaning boycotting Judea-Samaria and much of Jerusalem). Criticizing positions of parties and candidates is allowed under the applicable election rules. Criticizing candidates for boycotting Judea-Samaria is especially appropriate, in light of the World Zionist Congress resolutions (initiated by ZOA Coalition) to stop WZC delegates and groups from supporting anti-Israel boycotts, including boycotts of Judea-Samaria. Nonetheless, the AEC chairs wrongly and unfairly disqualified Mr. Torossian and threw him off the ZOA Coalition slate, without even specifying how any of Mr. Torossian’s statements violated any election rule. ZOA/ZOA Coalition Attorney Liz Berney immediately appealed the AEC chairs’ wrongful ruling to the AZM Tribunal. Today, the AZM Tribunal unanimously ruled that Mr. Torossian did not violate the election rules, and restored Betar USA’s leader to the ZOA Coalition slate. Back in February, Mr. Torossian was also subjected to being called extremely vile names by the individual on the Kol Israel/SWU slate who bragged about boycotting Israel beyond the pre-1967 Armistice line. After ZOA brought this up to the AEC chairs, the individual on the Kol Israel/SWU slate resigned. A continuing disturbing aspect of this matter is the role of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). Around the same time when Kol Israel/SWU filed to try to disqualify and remove Betar USA’s leader, the ADL listed Betar USA – which defends Jews – as a “hate group,” along with actual haters such as Louis Farrakhan and David Duke. A leading ADL official is a leading member of the Kol Israel/SWU slate. It is possible that he initiated ADL’s shameful, improper listing of Betar USA as a hate group. In the wake of the AZM Tribunal decision today in favor of Betar USA’s leader, ZOA again urges the ADL to remove its harmful, unwarranted Betar USA hate listing.  The ZOA Coalition hopes that all slates and delegates will “bury the hatchet” and work together harmoniously for the good of Israel and the Jewish people at the upcoming World Zionist Congress. Previous Next