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Miami Jewish Film Festival - Reaffirms Its Mission To Foster Empathy And Understanding Through Cinema By Alan Goch - Jewish Connection News Jan 8, 2025 The Miami Jewish Film Festival (MJFF) proudly announces the program for its 28th edition which will be January 9th, 2025 - January 23rd, 2025. The Festival will showcase 110 feature films and 23 shorts from 25 countries, including 20 world premieres, 8 international premieres, 9 North American premieres, and 6 U.S. premieres. As the largest Jewish film festival in the world, 28th Edition will host over 80 in-theater screenings across eight venues in Greater Miami, including Miami Beach, Coral Gables, and North Miami. Additionally, an online component will make over 80 films available for streaming to audiences across Florida and the United States. The Festival’s opening night kicks off with the world premiere of Soul of a Nation, directed by Jonathan Jakubowicz. This inspiring and eye-opening film delves into one of Israel’s most turbulent chapters, chronicling the journey from crisis and division to unity and resilience following the October 7th tragedy. Featuring exclusive insights from influential leaders and a heartfelt vision of hope, the premiere will include an introduction by Jonathan Jakubowicz and Producer Claudine Jakubowicz, followed by a post-screening Q&A. The Festival’s closing night will feature the premiere of Matchmaking 2, the latest by renowned Israeli Filmmaker Erez Tadmor. This sequel to the beloved 2022 romantic drama is Israel’s biggest box office hit of the year, offering an endlessly witty and sweetly romantic take on a modern Romeo-and-Juliet tale starring some of Israel’s most dazzling young talents. This year’s festival will welcome 30 international guests, including Israeli superstar Michael Aloni (Shtisel) for the premiere of the gripping drama The Stronghold; legendary Florida-based Singer-Songwriter Janis Ian for the premiere of Janis Ian: Breaking Silence; Director Tom Nesher and Producer Anthony Bregman for the premiere of Come Closer, Israel’s official entry for the Academy Awards for Best International Feature Film; Hollywood actress Lisa Brenner (The Patriot) for the world premiere of her new film One Big Happy Family; Director Sandi Dubowski and film subject Amichai Lau-Lavie for the Award-Winning Sabbath Queen, presented under the stars at the Miami Beach Botanical Garden; and the comedy duo Eli Batalion and Jamie Elman (YidLife Crisis) for the world premiere of their latest film, Swedishkayt: YidLife Crisis in Stockholm. In light of recent tragic events in Israel and the rise of Antisemitism worldwide, the Miami Jewish Film Festival reaffirms its mission to foster empathy and understanding through cinema, with a spotlight on Israel’s vital role in the Jewish narrative. This year, the Festival proudly presents the world’s largest Israeli film program, featuring more than 30 premieres. “Made in Miami” movies this year, featuring several films receiving their world premieres. Among them is Miami Schmatta, a compelling exploration of the vibrant immigrant legacy that shaped the American garment industry, set against the colorful backdrop of Miami. Also premiering are Miami-based filmmakers Wendy Sach’s October H8te, a timely film about Antisemitism on college campuses following the October 7th tragedy, as well as Leslie Benitah’s Milk & Honey, Blood & Tears, a powerful documentary chronicling the resilience and recovery of Kibbutz Be'eri following the devastating October 7th attack. The film poignantly contrasts the kibbutz’s peaceful past with the harsh realities of survival and healing. MJFF’s Headliners program features standout selections and award-winning films from festivals worldwide. Tickets for the festival’s in-theater and virtual events go on sale and sales continue throughout the festival. In addition to individual tickets ($11-$54), the festival offers All-Access Theater Badges ($325) providing entry to all in-theater events and All-Access Theater Badges ($325) providing entry to all in-theater events and All-Access Virtual Passes ($249) giving access to all films streaming in the festival’s digital screening room. Full details and tickets to the festival can be found at: www.miamijewishfilmfestival.org Photo credit: Courtesy of United King Films Previous Next

Amidst Reports On Hostage Deal, 2 Ex-Hostages Raise Awareness In West Palm Beach Fundraiser At New Kosher Restaurant Grand Opening By Linda Chase - Jewish Connection News Jan 7, 2025 I was honored to be invited to this wonderful event where I met two ex-hostages who were held in captivity in Gaza for nearly a year after being kidnapped at the Nova Music Festival in Israel and arrived in West Palm Beach to meet with the local community and share their story. Amid reports of negotiations to release the remaining hostages, rescued hostages Almog Meir Jan and Andrey Kozlov are determined to raise awareness for the issue. Michelin Star Chef Eyal Shani held the grand opening of his brand-new Malka Kosher Restaurant in West Palm Beach on Sunday, in collaboration with the La’Aretz Foundation. The former hostages discussed the harsh conditions in which Hamas terrorists kept them in for eight months, along with the vitality of an imminent hostage deal. The two were kidnapped during the Nova Music Festival and spent eight months in captivity in Gaza until they were rescued by the IDF in June. Jan was attending the festival with friends, while Kozlov was a volunteer security guard. “We felt it was vital for the residents of South Florida to hear what the hostages experienced and are still currently experiencing,” La’Aretz Foundation Founder Shelly Pitman said. “We are thankful to Chef Eyal Shani, who graciously hosted the La’Aretz community once again. This outstanding community understands how critical each day is for the remaining hostages, and we must bring them home now.” In an emotional discussion with Netflix Star Maya Vander of “Selling Sunset,” Jan and Kozlov detailed the physical and psychological trauma they endured while in captivity. The audience was silent as the two explained in excruciating detail what October 7th was like for them and in the days and months after, along with the moment IDF soldiers came to rescue them. “In order to build the country, people immigrated – made Aliyah to Israel from across the world – basically drying swamps and building the country. This is what La’Aretz is doing now. It is the equivalent of the drying swamps of 100 years ago,” Ambassador Maor Elbaz-Starinsky, Consul General of Israel in Miami, said. “La’Aretz is the modern Zionism – to develop a great education system and support soldiers and reservists in need. Of course, rebuild the communities in the north and the south and help the internally displaced people from the north and south. The way this community has rallied together, has come together to support our people and the State of Israel is just unimaginable.” An IDF soldier who serves in a classified role and is also a singer who has captured the hearts of Israelis since October 7th. “M,” as he is known, performed several songs with his face covered to protect his identity in his American debut. While cherishing the all-new Floridian menu created by the Michelin Star Chef, guests supported the La’Aretz Foundation, which provides direct assistance to Israelis in need. The La’Aretz Foundation and its vibrant community of over 2,000 members has provided direct financial support for 300-plus Israeli families who have been impacted by October 7th, along with scholarships to 172 students serving in the reserves, and assisted 70 Aliyah applicants return to Israel. About The La’Aretz Foundation: The La’Aretz Foundation strengthens Israel through direct support by focusing on three fundamental areas. In times of need, La’Aretz provides timely financial aid to families in distress who lack government support, offers scholarships to ensure equal educational opportunities, and facilitates the integration of new Olim to make them feel at home. Photo: La'Aretz_A: Almog Meir Jan (right) speaks about his eight months in captivity in Gaza with fellow ex-hostage Andrey Kozlov (middle) in a discussion with Maya Vander during the La'Aretz Foundation's fundraiser at Malka Restaurant in West Palm Beach. Photo credit: Shay Cohen Previous Next

Volunteers Needed For Inaugural James Hardie Invitational Press Release Jan 7, 2025 Want to have an up-close look at some of the greatest pro golfers and NFL players playing tournament golf while raising money for South Florida charities? Then sign up to become a volunteer at the inaugural James Hardie™ Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational, which will be held March 31st, 2025 - April 6th, 2025 at The Old Course at Broken Sound in Boca Raton. For a $75 fee, every volunteer receives: Two polo shirts and one hat/visor. One volunteer badge. Two tickets per day. Volunteer parking and meals on scheduled workdays. One spot in the Volunteer Shotgun Outing (three shift minimum). Net proceeds benefit Boca Raton Regional Hospital, First Tee Gold Coast and Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County. The tournament will feature 26 Pro Football Hall of Famers competing alongside 78 PGA TOUR Champions professionals. Sign up to volunteer at: https://jameshardieinvitational.com/ Previous Next

United States Ambassador William Taylor Shares An Update On Russia’s War On Ukraine By Linda Chase - Jewish Connection News Jan 7, 2025 United States Ambassador William Taylor is a diplomat, government official and former military officer. He currently serves as Vice President of the Russian and European Center at the United States Institute of Peace. From 2006 to 2009 he served as United States Ambassador to Ukraine, and as Chargé D'affaires to Ukraine from June 2019 to January 2020. On Wednesday, January 8th, 2025 at 12:30 p.m., Ambassador Taylor will lecture at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) on Florida Atlantic University’s Boca Raton campus. He will also give a presentation at FAU’s Jupiter campus on Thursday, January 9th, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. During our conversation, Ambassador Taylor explained what needs to be done to end the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine. “A peaceful agreement between Russia and Ukraine is clearly going to have to be initiated between the two nations. Only those two nations can forge and agree to negotiations. Ukrainians need to convince the Russians that they cannot win on the battlefield and all of Ukraine’s allies (including the United States) need to support it. If the Russians can be convinced that they can’t win, they will be motivated to come to the negotiating table. Over 780,000 Russian soldiers have been killed during the conflict. The Ukrainians will not sacrifice their soldiers the same way Putin has and they (Ukrainians) will never stop fighting. Russia started the invasion and it must stop with the Russians coming to the table. Negotiations have still not been reached between the countries. Ambassador Taylor explained how the Russian-Ukraine conflict affects global security. “The Russian invasion is a challenge to the security of the US, Europe and all nations. Russia is trying to establish a precedent where a large, powerful, nuclear armed nation can invade its non-nuclear smaller neighbor and get away with it. That has dramatic significant implications for every nation around the world. We have a moral obligation to realize what the Russians are doing to Ukrainian civilians is just wrong.” Ambassador Taylor reflected on the optimism of the Ukrainians despite nearly three years of ongoing conflict. “Since the big war started on February 24th, 2022, I have been to Ukraine several times and have been amazed by the heroism displayed by the Ukrainians and their leader since the invasion began. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has declared from the start of the invasion (over 1,000 days ago) that Ukraine will win this war. When Ukrainians push forward aggressively their morality goes way up. Their determination is to win this war. They understand that if Russia wins there is no Ukraine. After more than 1,000 days, Ukrainians are tired, but their will to survive keeps them motivated.” For more information regarding the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at FAU, visit: https://olli.fau.edu/ollifau/category/category.aspx Previous Next

For The First Time Since October 7th - Birthright Israel Participants Return To Visit And Volunteer In Northern Israel By Linda Chase - Jewish Connection News Jan 8, 2025 Birthright Israel is excited to announce the launch of its winter season, with a special milestone: for the first time since October 7th, participants will return to visit the northern regions of Israel. This week, the first groups have already begun touring the historic city of Safed, marking the return of Birthright trips to this iconic part of the country. Additionally, participants in the Birthright volunteering program will begin engaging in volunteer activities in northern towns within the next few weeks. The winter season, which will run through March 2025, is expected to bring over 300 groups from around the world to Israel, with 6,500 young Jewish adults participating in life-changing 10-day trips, internships, and volunteering opportunities. In 2025, Birthright Israel will celebrate its 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone for one of the most impactful Jewish programs in history. Since its founding, more than 850,000 young Jews from across the globe have visited Israel through the program. The 25th anniversary will be commemorated with a series of events and announcements starting early next year. In addition to the traditional 10-day trips, Birthright Israel is preparing to welcome approximately 10,000 volunteers in 2025 through its expanding volunteering program. In response to the growing demand, the age limit for participation has been extended to 50 years old. This year alone, 8,500 volunteers participated in the program, underscoring the increasing interest in contributing to Israeli communities while deepening Jewish heritage connections. “Since the war began, we’ve been inspired by the remarkable resilience and unwavering determination of our participants to come to Israel,” said Gidi Mark, CEO of Birthright Israel. “Each day, I meet participants who are so happy to finally be here. They share how safe they feel and how deeply proud they are to be part of the Jewish people.”  Mark continued, “While the war has undoubtedly presented challenges, it has only underscored the vital importance of our mission. As we mark 25 years since our founding, Birthright Israel remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthening Jewish identity, fostering a connection to Israel, and building a strong sense of community. These values empower college students and young adults to confidently address and combat the growing Antisemitism worldwide. I urge every young Jewish adult to apply as soon as possible. Whether it’s the gift of a 10-day trip, an internship, a fellowship, or a volunteer program, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with your heritage and make lasting memories.” In the meantime, Birthright Israel has announced that while anyone can submit an application, summer trips will drop on January 14th via its website, and applicants will be able to choose their trip at: www.birthrightisrael.com Photo: Participants with the Mayor of Safed, Yossi Kakon - Photo credit: Nehemia Rosenfeld, courtesy of Birthright Israel Previous Next

Slow Burn Theatre Company Presents "Parade": A Story Of A Newlywed Jewish Couple, Who Are Struggling To Make A Life In The Old Red Hills Of Georgia Photo Credit Broward Center for the Performing Arts Feb 18, 2025 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.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 at: 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 . 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. For more information, visit: www.BrowardCenter.org - Or visit Slow Burn Theatre Company’s website at: http://slowburntheatre.org/ Previous Next

“The Abandonment Of The Jews” At 40: A Book That Saved Lives By Rafael Medoff Jan 7, 2025 This month marks the fortieth anniversary of the publication of David S. Wyman’s The Abandonment of the Jews, a book that changed the way we think about our nation’s history—and also saved lives. That is a rare achievement. Wyman (1929-2018), a Harvard-trained historian and grandson of two Protestant ministers, did not set out to write about the Holocaust. But he was puzzled by the reluctance of other scholars to confront the question of how America responded to the Nazi Genocide, so he decided to explore it himself. The Abandonment of the Jews: America and the Holocaust 1941-1945, was published by Pantheon in November 1984. Professor Wyman often spoke about how difficult it was for him, as a Christian, to find himself face to face with evidence of the meager response by American Christians, including our elected leaders, to news of the Holocaust. Sometimes he “cried for days” and had to take a break from his research. He said he “had been brought up with the belief that at the heart of Christianity is the precept that, when people need help, you should provide it.” Prior to the publication of The Abandonment of the Jews, the widespread assumption among the American public was that there was little or nothing the Roosevelt Administration could have done to save Jews from the Holocaust. Professor Wyman’s meticulous research demonstrated that there were many ways the U.S. could have aided European Jewish refugees, without interfering with the war effort or undermining America’s Immigration Laws. He documented how President Franklin D. Roosevelt and his State Department suppressed news about the Holocaust and ignored opportunities to rescue refugees. He exposed how U.S. planes struck within a few miles of the Auschwitz Gas Chambers—yet failed to bomb the railways and bridges leading to the camp, or the mass-murder machinery itself. The Abandonment of the Jews quickly rose to the New York Times best-seller list, and reviewers were nearly unanimous in their acclaim. “We will not see a better book on this subject in our lifetime,” Professor Leonard Dinnerstein concluded. Professor Hasia Diner wrote that Abandonment “systematically demolishes often repeated excuses for inaction.” The Abandonment of the Jews won numerous prizes, went through seven hardcover printings and multiple paperback editions, and was translated into German, French, Hebrew, and Polish. Most remarkably, the book also played a key role in the rescue of Jews from Ethiopia in 1985. A secret agreement between Israel and Sudan in 1984 had enabled Israel to begin airlifting tens of thousands of Jews from an area along the Ethiopian-Sudanese border. But an overly eager American Jewish journalist rushed to publish the scoop, prompting Sudan to suddenly halt the airlifts in January 1985. That left some 800 Ethiopian Jewish refugees stranded at the border. A team of Jewish activists, including Los Angeles Jewish Publisher Phil Blazer and Nate Shapiro of the American Association for Ethiopian Jews, flew to Washington to seek U.S. intervention. In meetings with members of Congress and Vice President George H.W. Bush, they distributed copies of The Abandonment of the Jews and pleaded with them not to repeat the indifference of the Roosevelt years. Senators Alan Cranston (D-California) and Rudy Boschwitz (R-Minnesota) and Congressmen Stephen Solarz (D-New York) and John Miller (R-Washington) spearheaded the bipartisan effort to press the Reagan-Bush Administration for action. Learning that Vice President Bush was scheduled to visit Sudan on diplomatic business shortly, Representative Miller went to see him. Citing The Abandonment of the Jews, Miller told Bush “that this was a chance to write a very different history than the history of America’s response to the Holocaust.” Sudan might refuse to let the Israelis land on its soil, “but Sudan would not be able to say no to the United States–if our government insisted,” Miller argued. On March 22nd, 1985, shortly after Bush’s meetings in Sudan, a fleet of U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules transport planes airlifted the 800 refugees from Sudan to Israel. The Vice President subsequently sent Professor Wyman a handwritten note of thanks and made a point of saying in a speech afterwards, “Never again will the cries of abandoned Jews go unheard by the United States Government.” CNN Anchor Wolf Blitzer, who at the time was the Washington correspondent for the Jerusalem Post, wrote: “Today’s direct and very active cooperation by the U.S. Government in helping to rescue Ethiopian Jews is in marked contrast to the documented abandonment of European Jewish refugees before and during World War II…[which has been] well-documented in David S. Wyman’s recently published book, The Abandonment of the Jews.” In 2008, Professor Wyman visited an Israeli air force base, where he met Major-General Amir Eshel, who was involved in the 1985 airlift operation, and Moshe Gadaf and Ami Farradah, who, as eight year-olds, were among the Ethiopian Jewish children who were rescued. Wyman described meeting them as one of the most moving experiences of his life. Forty years later, The Abandonment of the Jews remains the definitive study of America’s response to the Nazi Genocide. A handful of polemicists and pundits have tried to excuse FDR’s Holocaust record, but additional research in the field in recent years has only reconfirmed Professor Wyman’s original conclusion: President Roosevelt, “the era’s most prominent symbol of humanitarianism, turned away from one of history’s most compelling moral challenges.” Photo Taken by Author Dr. Medoff is Founding Director of The David S. Wyman Institute for Holocaust Studies and Author of more than 20 books about Jewish history and the Holocaust. His latest is Cartoonists Against Racism: The Secret Jewish War on Bigotry, coauthored with Craig Yoe. Previous Next

‘Shari & Lamb Chop’ Documentary At The Boca International Jewish Film Festival By Linda Chase - Jewish Connection News Jan 7, 2025 The Boca International Jewish Film Festival returns for its second season with the Florida premiere screening of the documentary “Shari & Lamb Chop.” The film will be presented during the festival’s Cinebash on January 27th, 2025, at the Wick Theater in Boca Raton. The evening includes a patron dinner beginning at 5:00 p.m., film screening and a live performance by Mallory Lewis (Shari Lewis’ daughter) and Lamb Chop. Film only tickets are available for $36. The festival runs from February 23rd through March 16th with screenings presented at both Movies of Delray and Cinemark Palace 20 in Boca Raton. “Shari & Lamb Chop” explores the legacy of Puppeteer and Television Host Shari Lewis through Mallory’s eyes. During our interview, Mallory (who tours performing the Lamb Chop Legacy Show) shared memories of her mother. “Mom was from the Bronx. My grandfather was Peter Pan the Magic Man (the official magician for the city of New York.) He was also a professor at the Yeshiva. My grandmother was a music teacher in the Bronx schools. Between them, my mother inherited both the magic and the music. She was surrounded by Vaudeville performers as a child and used to perform alongside her father. She learned all of the Vaudeville arts, but it was the ventriloquism that made her famous.” Mallory shared how her mother and Lamb Chop became cultural icons and changed the face of children’s television. “When mom got her first television series in 1956/57 she did something no other performers were doing at the time; she broke the fourth wall and looked into the camera and connected deeply with the children. Throughout her career, she treated children with respect and encouraged them to be their best self rather than just offering them mindless entertainment. In fact, mom was the creator of the term ‘edu-tainment.’ It is important to remember that when mom first began performing there were only three channels and most homes only had one TV, so likely most families were watching the same program. Unlike children’s performers of her time she did a very sophisticated show that appealed to parents as well.” “It was wonderful to grow up as Shari’s daughter and even to this day it is wonderful being her daughter. I am very blessed to always be greeted by people with the love that she engendered. My comments section on my Social Media is filled with people telling me how much my mother meant to them and how happy they are that I have kept the legacy alive for the last 25 years,” Mallory continued. Mallory shared her thoughts on her mother receiving the long overdue cinematic tribute she deserves. “Director Lisa D'Apolito is passionate about telling the stories of strong, smart, funny women, so mom‘s story spoke to her. I am very happy that the true story will be told. Not with mom being portrayed as a ‘cute little lady with a puppet’ but a more accurate portrayal of her as a three-dimensional woman and a brilliant business person.” For more information regarding the film festival, visit: www.JFilmBoca.org Photo credit is Brad Hood Previous Next

America’s Middle East Upheaval: Assessing Egypt and Jordan’s Opposition To Trump’s Gaza Refugee Plan https://jcpa.org - Dr. Dan Diker, Yoni Ben Menachem Feb 18, 2025 Pictured: Egyptian protesters at the Rafah crossing on the border with Gaza. (Screenshot) 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 Hamas-Israel 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. 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 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.” 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-assessing-egypt-and-jordans-opposition-to-trumps-gaza-refugee-plan/ Previous Next

Junior League Of Boca Raton - Hosts Talk By Heather Hirsch, MD, Expert On Menopause And Perimenopause By Linda Chase - Jewish Connection News Jan 7, 2025 The Junior League of Boca Raton (JLBR) will host a talk featuring Heather Hirsch, M.D. M.S., M.S.C.P., Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Founder of the Menopause & Midlife Clinic at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and now CEO of the Health by Heather Hirsch, M.D. Telemedicine Collaborative. Dr. Hirsch, who has appeared on Oprah Daily and in other national broadcasts, will speak about Perimenopause and Menopause. The talk will take place on January 23rd, 2025, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the Boca Raton Innovation Campus (BRIC), 500 T Rex Avenue, Boca Raton. The event is open to the community. There is no charge to attend the talk, but guests must register in advance. “Women take care of their families, their co-workers, and their community first, often neglecting their own health,” said Nikki Stelzer, President of The Junior League of Boca Raton. “We launched this year-long initiative with Baptist Health to encourage our members, as well as women all across our community, to focus on their own health and wellness.” Attendees will explore the stages of Perimenopause and Menopause in a special workshop led by Dr. Heather Hirsch, a leading Menopause expert in the field. Whether attendees are experiencing these changes, preparing for them, or supporting a loved one, this event offers essential guidance and is an opportunity to learn from a trusted voice in women’s health. Dr. Hirsch is Board-Certified in Internal Medicine, completed a fellowship at Cleveland Clinic, and founded the Menopause Clinic at Brigham and Women's Hospital while serving as faculty at Harvard Medical School. Her fellowship training included an emphasis on scholarly activity, the development of women's health curriculum, clinical research, and leadership. She is Certified by the Menopause Society and is a member of the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health. Dr. Hirsch's educational skills can be seen across her large Social Media accounts, invited grand rounds, media talks, and her down-to-earth, practical approach to leading women to live empowered and healthy lives. To register, call The Junior League at: 561-620-2553 About The Junior League of Boca Raton Throughout the year, JLBR members contribute more than 35,000 volunteer hours and donate more than $250,000 to support the organization’s mission of advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration and training. The Junior League currently focuses on two community issues, Child Welfare and Non-Profit Support. To learn more about the JLBR, please contact the JLBR office at: 561-620-2553. Or visit: www.JLBR.org Please credit Dr. Heather Hirsch. Previous Next

Jewish National Fund-USA Leads Critical Efforts For Rebuilding And Renewing Northern Israel Pictured: Talia Tzour Avner, Chief Israel Officer at Jewish National Fund-USA Feb 18, 2025 In response to the profound challenges facing Northern Israel, Jewish National Fund-USA is spearheading efforts to rehabilitate and rebuild communities devastated over the past year. On Monday, January 6th, 2025, the organization held a pivotal conference at the Cultural Hall in Kiryat Shmona, where it focussed on uniting local leaders and creating mission-driven communities to forge a more resilient future for the region. Talia Tzour Avner, Chief Israel Officer at Jewish National Fund-USA, emphasized the importance of the moment: "The profound crisis that has affected Northern Israel's communities in the past year presents us with a historic challenge – not merely to physically rehabilitate these communities, but to lead a deep process of renewed community building. We stand at a pivotal moment to reshape the social-community fabric that will guide the North for decades to come." The conference agenda included panel discussions on the challenges local authorities face in rebuilding efforts, breakout workgroups addressing critical areas like education, community resilience, and settlement, as well as recognition of mission-driven communities for their extraordinary contributions over the past year. "Jewish National Fund-USA has always believed that a community's true resilience is measured by its ability to face challenges, unite around a shared vision, and emerge stronger from crisis," Tzour Avner added. "This is the defining moment for mission-driven communities, which have proven to be vital social and moral anchors. We must harness their experience and knowledge to create an innovative model of community life in the North – one that integrates social commitment, economic resilience, and community strength." The event brought together local authorities, representatives from task-oriented groups, and civil society organizations to discuss comprehensive strategies for addressing the multifaceted challenges in Northern Israel. These include strengthening education and cultural systems, fostering economic growth, and creating support frameworks tailored to the evolving needs of the region’s residents. The conference also highlighted Jewish National Fund-USA's "Circle of Impact," a concept that emphasizes the interconnected and broader impact each of the organization's projects has on uplifting the entire land and people of Israel. For more information, visit: www.jnf.org/ways-to-help/support-israel Previous Next

Nova Music Festival Exhibition In Miami Recalls The Horrors Of October 7th By Linda Chase and Alan Goch - Jewish Connection News Jan 7, 2025 When visitors explore the immersive “Nova Music Festival Exhibition: October 7th 6:29 a.m. — the Moment Music Stood Still” now open at the Greenwich Studio in North Miami, the horrific realities of that dreadful day suddenly come to life. As you enter the exhibition, the timeline noting 6:29 is reflected on the floor near your feet. This is the precise time that rockets fired from Hamas were noticed in the sky. After entering the installation, visitors walk through a painstakingly, carefully created meticulous timeline complete with information, evidence and emotion from that morning. Four hundred of the 4,000 festival attendees were among the 1,200 Israelis murdered on October 7th. Charred remains from cars, bullet riddled portable toilets, clothes hanging on lines (including a pair of pants showing a hole where a festival goer was shot in the groin), tents, camping gear, as well as “Lost and Found” tables containing personal items such as shoes and toiletries, add to the authenticity of the exhibition. Interwoven among the remnants are actual videos taken by festival goers, as well as body-cam footage taken by Hamas Terrorists. Video testimonies featuring survivors, family members and responders are also featured in the exhibit. Several of the individuals who did survive are on site to share both their physical and emotionally-scarred experiences. Ofir Amir, who is still recovering after being shot in the leg by Hamas Terrorists, is one of the Founders and Producers of the SuperNova Music Festival. He also founded the Tribe of Nova Foundation. During our visit, Ofir explained why he created the nonprofit. “The goal of the foundation is to assist people impacted by the atrocities of the festival massacre by creating a community-based imitative that both empowers and heals. This includes financial aid, social integration, commemorative events, medical treatments, long term rehabilitation and therapy for both survivors and their families. All donations raised by the exhibition supports the Tribe of Nova Foundation and goes towards the healing journey of the survivors and their families. The foundation also memorializes the murdered victims and shares their stories.” “The exhibition originally premiered in Tel Aviv only weeks following October 7th. As founders of the exhibition, our objective was to create a powerful and educational exhibit that allows visitors to bear witness to the horrors that occurred at the Nova Festival.” Survivor Idan Itzhaki was very emotional as he recalled how something so special went so wrong. “I went to the festival with two friends. There were so many people dancing and celebrating. I was so happy and at 6:29 people started to panic and something beautiful turned into a nightmare.” During our conversation, Idan tearfully revealed that one of his friends is still missing. “I’m sharing my story in the hopes that people in Israel who need support will find it through my words.” After witnessing the brutality of the Nova Music Festival, the exhibit concludes with a large healing room. The space is intended for visitors to find solace after bearing witness to the harrowing events of the festival. Hanging high and bright in this sanctuary are the words “We Will Dance Again.” These inspiring words remind visitors that there’s life beyond the terror. It is also the space where the survivors recounted their experiences. The exhibition is located at Greenwich Studios, 12100 Northeast 16th Avenue and will be on display until mid-February. For more information, visit https://www.novaexhibition.com/about-the-exhibit Previous Next