Jewish Travel

Karl Vick and the Crime of Misleading the Public

2011-01-24T22:55:00.000-05:00

Karl Vick and the Crime of Misleading the Public

By Dovid Efune

There is something wrong with TIME Magazine's Jerusalem Bureau Chief Karl Vick.

By now many readers will agree that the publication is long bereft of any shred of journalistic integrity when it comes to matters relating to Israel.

Taking a page from the 'Pallywood' script, Vick has continuously parroted the diabolical rhetoric of Israel's worst enemies and failed to fulfill his basic responsibilities as a journalist. When skimming through the list of his recent articles for TIME, one might mistake him for a Palestinian propaganda minister. He continues to lacerate Israel and its leaders, and describes Palestinian personalities in glowing terms.

In his latest article, entitled 'Israel's Rightward Lurch Scares Some Conservatives,' Karl Vick, who was the author responsible for accusing Israelis of not caring about peace in the now infamous cover story, accuses Israel of 'taking a page from neighboring authoritarian states.' He also refers to Israel as having a 'Secret Police,' and states that 'self-righteous indignation is a staple position for the Israeli public.'

The catalyst for the article was recent new legislation introduced by government coalition partner Yisrael Beiteinu including a bill that calls for "stripping the citizenship of any Israeli convicted of espionage." Vick also criticized new legislation that calls for inquires to be made into the funding of NGO's operating within Israel on all sides of the political spectrum (a small fact that he neglected to mention.) The article is riddled with perverse insinuations, is factually inaccurate, presumptuous and paints with a broad brush.

It seems that there are some elementary Middle East realities that Vick has failed to internalize; in his last article he neglected to differentiate between 'Peace' and 'the Peace Process.' Now, he negates the legitimacy of Israel's elected government, labeling representative leaders as extreme, suggesting that they act on their own accord against the will of the people.

If one who didn't know any better was reading the article, s/he might be left with the impression that Israel is headed for an authoritarian takeover.

Scratch beneath the surface, and Vick will discover that what is in actuality taking place is that Israel is faced with a reality in which terrorist organizations and NGO's collaborate and support each other in working to undermine Israel's security . It also must deal with foreign governments that are sponsoring politically-motivated groups (who carry the banner of humanitarian work), as well as a large influx of illegal immigrants that is threatening the financial stability of many Israelis.

Israelis are very aware of the unique threats that they face and their elected leaders are working to address these challenges in a comprehensive and results-oreinted fashion. There is no reason for any country to accept extensive and aggressive belligerent meddling in its internal political affairs by any foreign government, and Israel is now finally beginning to address this interference.

TIME Magazine is a staple in many American households and is likely to be amongst the most widely read periodicals worldwide, and so, if Vick is ignorant on these matters, than this influential magazine is guilty of gross irresponsibility. But if Vick is informed and is acting out of malice by twisting the realities on the ground, than it is only a matter of time before he oversteps his mark and will be forced to resign in shame.

The Author is the director of the Algemeiner Journal and the GJCF and can be e-mailed at defune@gjcf.com. Please visit www.gjcf.com for more information.

12/30-1/2 New Year's Weekend Camping Trip to Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada

2010-12-16T12:55:00.000-05:00

Great trip for everyone, including Jewish singles. Fantastic area.

Jewish Outdoor Adventures

New Year's Weekend Camping Trip to

Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada

Thursday, Dec. 30, 2010 through Sunday, Jan. 2, 2011

(Please forward this invitation to any friends who may be interested)

Join us over New Year's Weekend for a Jewish Outdoor Adventures' holiday weekend in colorful Valley of Fire State Park, known for its stark beauty, undulating landscape of petrified dunes and gorgeous red sandstone formations, including such evocative names as Arch Rock, Beehives, Seven Sisters and Silica Dome. You'll see not only petrified wood, but also examples of rock art left by ancient peoples at several sites in the park. It's one of the most photogenic locations in the Southwest, especially at sunset when the rocks glow deep red. Located less than 10 miles from Lake Mead National Recreation Area, 40 miles from Hoover Dam and approximately 50 miles from Las Vegas, there's plenty to do not only in the park but in the vicinity as well. To join this adventure, all you need is a sleeping bag, pad and tent (or you can share one), or if you prefer the motel option, just pack your bags.

Key Details of this Adventure

Campground Details

We will camp in group campground # 1. There will be picnic tables, running water, pit toilets and fire rings. Showers are available nearby the campground for an additional fee, or in camp with our propane powered portable hot water shower system.

Lodging Option

For anyone who loves the outdoors but is uncomfortable sleeping in a tent, there are several motel options in the small town of Overton (15 miles away) or Echo Bay (20 miles away). If you choose this option, you will need to make your own reservations (simply Google motels in these towns) and are responsible for your own payment.

Cost

$135 early bird (payment received by Friday, December 10), including campsite fees, camping gear, supplies, and all meals (kosher and delicious, including salmon, chicken and pasta, with a vegetarian option for those who request it in advance); $160 thereafter (payment received from Saturday, Dec. 11 on). Note that there is a park usage fee of $20/day for each car to be paid at the entrance gate, amounting to $60 per car for the weekend, to be divided by all carpool passengers. Cost of transportation via carpool is not included, nor is any possible day-use fee for visiting nearby attractions. Minimum age is 25 years old. Sorry, but no pets. JOA reserves the right to deny anyone's request to join this trip.

Gear Details

Stoves and lanterns will be provided, as well as all cooking equipment and sumptuous food for all meals. The key camping items you need to bring are a tent, sleeping bag and a sleeping pad which can be rented from REI or A16 or typically borrowed from friends.

Transportation

Via carpool. The list of participants will be shared periodically as it is updated so everyone can coordinate carpooling. Cost will be shared among carpoolers. Valley of Fire State Park is about 325 miles from Los Angeles (an hour northeast of Las Vegas), or approximately a five-hour drive.

Weather

In late December, it is typically mild or warm during the day (in the 60's), and likely cold at night (40's to upper 30's). We will be making roaring fires each night.

RSVP Info

Please email JOA promptly if you wish to RSVP. Spots will only be secured once a payment is received. Your reservation is confirmed once payment is received and you have been emailed with a formal confirmation. If you RSVP and then delay your payment and it is received after all the spots are filled, you will be waitlisted for any spot that may open up.

To make a payment via PayPal click the following link and follow the instructions. It is quick and easy.

https://cms.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/?cmd=_render-content&content_ID=marketing_us/send_money

Payment should be sent to amialoncpa@yahoo.com (simply copy and paste this email into the "to" field).

Early-bird amount is $135 by Friday, 12/10/10, $160 thereafter.

Note: Space is limited. Reserve your spot early!

Cancellation Policy

50% refund for cancellation by Monday, 12/20/10. No refunds thereafter.

Note that we will proceed with the camping trip even in the event of inclement weather. However, in the rare chance that the park closes due to weather conditions, we will obviously cancel the trip and refund all participants.

Logistics

Will be sent about 10 days prior to the trip date, to those who RSVP. Campers will be assigned to help out for dinner preparation and cleanup during the weekend.

Links

Valley of Fire State Park: http://parks.nv.gov/vf.htm

Lake Mead National Recreation Area: http://www.nps.gov/lake/index.htm

Liability Release

Please be advised that Jewish Outdoor Adventures (JOA) is a Not-For-Profit organization. It operates without a budget and it has no profits. It does not carry any insurance. All funds collected are used for the benefit of participants. You participate in this and any other JOA activity at your own risk. A liability release form must be signed (only once) before participating in JOA activities. If you have not signed one before, please ask for it and it will be emailed or faxed to you. You will need to sign it and return with your payment.

For more information contact

Lew Groner: lgroner@jewishfoundationla.org Office, (323) 761-8722; Cell, (310) 770-7962

Ami Alon: JewishOutdoor@Yahoo.com, (310) 858-6875

Office (310) 858-6875

Cell (310) 926-1344

JewishOutdoor@Yahoo.com

http://jewishoutdooradventures.com/

Jewish Outdoor Adventures | 9025 Wilshire Blvd Ste 303 | Beverly Hills | CA | 90211-1827

Jan Boston JALSA Annual Meeting Jewish Alliance for Law and Social Action

2010-11-19T11:59:00.000-05:00

JALSA's 9th Annual Meeting - January 16, 2011
Temple Ohabei Shalom, Brookline
Featuring Congressman Barney Frank
Honoring Albert Wallis and David Friedman
Brunch 10:30 a.m. Election of Officers

Dec 2 Phoenix, Arizona Grand Menorah Lighting

2010-11-11T01:04:00.000-05:00

For the First Time ever: Chanukah Menorah Lighting at WestGate

Join the West Valley Jewish Community for the Grand Menorah Lighting at Westgate City Center Thursday evening December 2nd at 5.30
pm sharp at Fountain Park.

The event will feature a giant menorah lighting with city dignitaries. Live Jewish music will be presented by the Jews Brothers!
Traditional holiday foods of donuts & latkes will be served!

Each participant will be entered into a Grand Raffle!

Dreidels and Gelt handed out for all the kids with Holiday Crafts, Balloon Art and Face painting!

"Chanukah's a time for celebrating the freedom to openly celebrate our values; this Menorah lighting proclaims that message to the
world", said Rabbi Sholom Lew, Director of Chabad West Valley. "We appreciate WestGate's eagerness to bring a comprehensive Holiday
spirit to the town. There is no better way to spread the holiday spirit than with a Chanukah program that symbolizes Unity, Light &
Joy."

Hanukkah marks the victory of the Jews against Greek persecution and religious oppression 21 centuries ago.

The menorah lighting is symbolic of the oil found in the Holy Temple in Jerusalem following that victory. The small supply of oil
burned for the eight days needed to consecrate new oil for the tabernacle.

The heart of Hanukkah is the nightly menorah lighting, with one candle on the first night, two on the second and so forth until the
eight lights are lit.

"We are encouraged to publicize the message that lighting one light in the darkness makes a difference," Lew said.

The ensuing eight days are saturated with meaning and tradition. Together we celebrate the triumph of freedom over oppression, of
spirit over matter, of light over darkness.

As part of the Chanukah outreach campaign, Chabad of the West Valley joins thousands of Chabad Centers across the globe that stage
similar public displays of the Menorah and its symbolic lights. From Australia to Africa, Columbia to Hong Kong, New York City's
Ground Zero to the White House Lawn, hundreds of thousands will experience the joy of Chanukah with Chabad.

For more information contact Chabad of the West Valley 602.375.2422 or log on to: www.iChabad.org or WestGate at 623.772.4051.
www.westgatecitycenter.com . Also online, check out the photo album to view pictures from last year's Chanukah festivities

Also online, check out the photo album to view pictures from last year's Chanukah festivities

Media Notice: The events are open to all reporters, journalists and photographers; your coverage is invited. Rabbi Sholom Lewwill
be on hand to answer questions.

We invite you and your entire family to explore this multi-faceted holiday and its observances at: www.ichabad.org/chanukah. Our
pages are chock-full of great content and lots of fun for the entire family, beginner and scholar alike.

Jewish Singles Travel Africa, Belize, Ski Trips. Plus Networking and Free Events in Chicago

2010-11-10T18:59:00.000-05:00

To get the Best Price and Cash Back on some events be sure to mention

JEWISH NETWORK

STEPPIN' OUT ADVENTURES: UPDATES AND REMINDERS

This is the Chicago version, if you live in another city, please let us know..

we have special newsletters with local events for other cities.

We often send updates to our monthly newsletter. We've been getting a lot of questions about which trips are Steppin' Out only trips and which are collaborative efforts.
This year Steppin' Out launched Do Good Adventures and part of our focus will be to work with individuals and custom groups/organizations who want an adventure and/or an adventure that includes Service/Volunteer components. Some of our Steppin' Out trips will include the service component, but most of those trips are focused on activity, culture and camaraderie We will be offering approximately 6 a year. But we still want to be a valuable resource to you and we have made arrangement with our outfitters to be a part of some of their trips.

We are still working on the second half of 2011- but for the first half the Steppin' Out trips include Belize, Tanzania, The two Ski trips, & Morocco in the Spring.

The others we are either promoting or sending a group to be a part of another group. There are certain trips where Steppin' Outers comprise much of the group.

Sincerely,
Robin Richman
Steppin' Out Adventures

Belize: Sun When You'll Want it Most

It's going to happen soon... the days are getting shorter, it's going to start getting colder and come end of January, you're going to crave the sun and being active outdoors. Imagine staying in a screened, rosewood cabana with thatched roof and private bath at an ecofriendly
lodge in southern Belize as featured on the Jan/Feb 2010 issue of National Geographic Traveler. From here you will experience Belize's wild jungle. Based on a beautiful river and
surrounded by lush, tropical gardens, we will be amongst the friendly Mayan people who live in small,
traditional villages of 15-30 families in the rain forest.Take advantage of this amazing itinerary that has us hiking waterfalls and caves, learning to make chocolate from the locals, horse back riding and relaxing on the beach.
January 29- Feb. 6, 2011
Price is $2600, but save $100 if you sign up this week. After December 15, price goes up to $2775. (includes all meals, internal flights, all activities, accommodations, etc.) Read more about the trip here.

Ski Trips: Join us for a Party on the Slopes

Get ready to mingle on the slopes.. an amazing way to meet fun spirited people like yourselves. We've been crafting parties on the slopes for over 10 years!

We're going to Telluride Feb. 20-27 (shorter options available) . Telluride is a laid back, mining town where the town's care-free attitude is contagious. One of the most scenic mountains in
Colorado. And while it might be laid back, our accommodations are four star-- the only ski-in ski out hotel in the whole resort, and it comes with all the bells and whistles, including the largest spa and indoor climbing wall in Colorado! All skiers welcome, but
for those looking for a ski challenge, this mountain has some extra challenging runs. The trip is coordinated so there are all different kinds of activities to meet and get to know different groups of people at breakfasts, special mountain lunches, dinners and happy hours. Check out all the information here

The second ski trip takes you the week of March 6-13 (shorter options available) to Steamboat Springs, home of the deep powder and natural hot springs! Known for true western hospitality, and friendliness of the mountain, Steamboat offers one of the biggest ski mountains in North America! 142 trails make Steamboat the 2nd largest mountain in Colorado with terrain for all level skiers and snowboarders. Steppin' Out hosts some great Après Ski parties not only on the slopes, but post après ski in the hot springs under the stars. Find all the information and pricing here

AFRICA SPECIAL FOR SKIERS: Wondering why I'm putting an Africa Special in the Ski Trip section? Because I'm leaving to take a group to South Africa next week and I have to review the contracts with the hotels before I go.. That means, I'm giving you another incentive to sign up early. $75 off the current price and an additional $50 off for anyone who brings someone new...

Costa Rica and Other Winter Holiday Trips

You want to get away over the Winter Holiday Break?
Steppin' Out isn't doing our own trips during this time frame but we have picked a few that we think have a Steppin' Out style and we hope you'll enjoy.

Costa Rica: Our outfitter in Costa Rica is organizing a Jewish Singles trip Dec. 25- Jan. 1st. This is the 4th year we've done this with them and people who have gone have had a great time. Come experience the fantastic spectrum of Costa Rica's natural wonders. As you travel from mountain top forest in Monteverde to the active Arenal volcano to the carribean coast you will truly become enveloped in the richness of the land and its stunning scenery. Discover the country's real
treasures through sea kayaking, horse back riding, hiking or biking. Read the details of the trip here.

Morocco Express: This trip is a snapshot of the trip that Steppin' Out is planning in May. The local operator that we are using to handle our trip in May does monthly departures. The trip is open to all but our May trip is a little more active, a little more interacting with community and nicer hotels. But this one is relatively inexpensive. Info here

Thailand- Hike, Bike and Raft: This trip has all the elements of a trip if we were putting it together ourselves. It's active, basic accommodations but you see the areas that we would do. We hope to make this a Steppin' Out departure one day. More info here

Morocco in May and the Festival of Roses

From the colourful, chaotic medinas to the moody desert landscape, Morocco is a land filled with wonder and rich culture. It is extremely friendly, even in the markets there is little hassling. While of course we have to be beguiled by the lively souqs and tumultuous market squares of Marrakech, we spend more time out of the cities and off the beaten track villages. We'll leap into this land of extraordinary beauty on atwelve -day adventure through crisp mountain scenery, spectacular sheer gorges and picturesque towns, exhilarated by cycling trips, mule treks and canyon explorations, and touched by the warm hospitality of Moroccan villagers and nomads. We should be in the small towns during the Rose Festival which is supposed to be spectacular. Plod through the Sahara in a camel convoy, and camping under the stars. Learn to master Moroccan couscous, ancient pottery techniques and explore a seaside town favoured by Jimi Hendrix. More information here

Robin Richman
Executive Director
Steppin Out Adventures
Do Good Adventures
www.steppinoutadventures.com
www.DoGoodAdventures.com
Toll free and Fax: 877.264.7694
Mobile: 773.960.7477

SEE OUR ARTICLE IN PERSPECTIVES IN PHILANTHROPY:
http://www.smithbarney.com/pdf/perspectives_philanthropy.pdf
**************************************************
"Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving
safely in an attractive and well preserved body, but rather to skid in
sideways, chocolate in one hand, red wine in the other, body thoroughly
used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO HOO!!! What a ride!"

What's Up?

Follow the Sun: Belize

Winter Heats Up: Ski Trips 2011

Costa Rica and Winter Holiday Breaks

Morocco in May

International Networking in Chicago

New Years Eve in Chicago

Comped Tickets to Wine Tastings and More

A CHICAGO NETWORKING EVENT:
Dec. 9 at the Ballroom on Erie Street.

Please join us on Thursday, December 9th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. for a networking reception with the International Volunteer Network of Chicago. A lively group of professionals and consulate representatives will be mingling at The Ballroom at 12 East Erie (12 E. Erie St., Chicago). Network internationally without leaving the city. This event will highlight VolunTourism opportunities both nationally and internationally.

Steppin' Out will be introducing its new division, Do Good Adventures, and highlighting information and tips on VolunTourism. And of course we'll test your knowledge with some interactive games. Many Chicago Consulates and Trade Commissioners will be in attendance as well with information on tourism and service opportunities in their countries. Also participating as event partners are Classic Party Rental, Just For Fun Entertainment and Phil Stefani Signature Events & Restaurants.

Tickets ordered in advance are $35.00 ($45.00 at the door) and cover your entrance to the event, appetizers, beer and wine.
To register, click here

NEW YEAR'S EVE PARTY IN CHICAGO

Who cares if it's cold, it's hot, hot, hot HERE
Friday, December 31st, 8:30 PM to 4:00 AM
NOVA (NOVA has rented out Soundbar for NYE)
226 W Ontario, Chicago, 60654
Join 1,200 guests as we ring in the New Year at NOVA, Chicago's # 1 NYE Party!
Yes, ticket prices will increase as more are sold....BUY NOW to lock in
the lowest price!
For Information, go here

Events and Parties in Chicago

LINCOLN PARK YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

COMPED INVITATION:

LPYP want Steppin' Outers to check out what their networking group is all about and has offered us a number of COMPED tickets to their next two events. Email us to get on the guest list.

WINE TASTING & COCKTAILS at District Bar : 220 W. Ontario
Frisk Wines, Dalmore Scotch, Gosling Rum & Jefferson Bourbon Nov. 11, 2010 6:00- 8:00 pm

6th Annual Peppermint Bash
Nov. 19, 6:00-9:00 pm
Chocolate & Peppermint Martinis, Classic Cocktails, Great Chicago Chefs, Chocolate Companies & Tables and Raffles. DJ Music Masters will be spinning all the greatest Holdiay Tunes.
Grossinger City Autoplex. 1520 Dayton, Chicago, 60614

Steppin' Out Adventures | 3721 N. Military Rd NW | #B | Washington | DC | 20015

Nov 15 and 17 Holocaust Survivor and Daughter to Perform in Twin Piano Recitals

2010-10-26T13:44:00.000-04:00

NEWS from
HOLOCAUST MUSEUM HOUSTON

Download Print-Quality Photos at:
www.hmh.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2010

MEDIA CONTACT:
Ira D. Perry
Director, Marketing & Public Relations
Office: 713-942-8000, ext. 103
Mobile: 832-277-5693
E-mail: iperry@hmh.org

Repeat of A Sellout Performance
Holocaust Survivor and Daughter to Perform in Twin Piano Recitals
at Holocaust Museum Houston

HOUSTON, TX (Oct. 26, 2010) - A Holocaust survivor who was able to turn his childhood dream of becoming a musician into reality following that grim period in history will perform twice this November with his daughter in twin piano recitals at Holocaust Museum Houston.

Survivor Al Marks and his daughter, Karen Marks Aarons

Survivor Al Marks and his daughter, Karen Marks Aarons, will conduct two performances of "A Journey of Musical Memories." The event will begin with a 6 p.m. reception, followed by the concert at 7 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 15, 2010, and Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2010. The father-daughter duo will grace the Albert and Ethel Herzstein Theater at Holocaust Museum Houston's Morgan Family Center with the music of Ira Gershwin, Johannes Brahms, Edith Piaff, George M. Cohan and other composers.

Seating is limited, and advance reservations are required. Tickets are $15 for Museum members and $25 for non-members. Visit www.hmh.org/RegisterEvent.aspx to reserve seats online. All proceeds will go to support the Museum's ongoing mission and educational programming.

Born in Budapest, Marks and his two parents were deported from his Hungarian birthplace to Auschwitz in 1944. After losing both of his parents to the gas chambers and crematoriums that took 6 million lives during the Holocaust, Marks was transported to the Melk camp. On July 8, 1944, the U.S. Air Force bombed Melk by mistake on the way to Vienna, causing more than 600 casualties and leaving Marks with a piece of a bomb in his chest that remains there to this day.

After the attack, Marks was moved to Ebensee, his last camp before liberation. On May 4, 1944, the Schutzstaffel (SS) tried to execute all the prisoners in the camp by forcing them into tunnels they had dug during their imprisonment and then collapsing the tunnel entrance, suffocating all those inside. Marks and the other prisoners resisted entering a certain deathtrap, and he believes that if General George S. Patton's Third Army had not liberated the camp the very next day, the prisoners would have been doomed.

Arriving as an orphan in Houston on Jan. 8, 1948, Marks attended high school during the day, worked during the afternoons and spent his weekends at the Houston Conservatory of Music for piano lessons. After leaving for a two-year tour in Korea with the U.S. Army, Marks returned to Houston and met and married Sarah Dvoretzky, his high-school sweetheart. They have three children.

Marks' piano playing became his career for 50 years. He was an orchestra leader for a variety of engagements, his most endearing one when he played for the Apollo 17 commanders a day after they returned from the moon.

Aarons followed in her father's footsteps by also entering the classical music field. She received her bachelor of music degree from the North Carolina School of Arts, where she studied with Clifton Matthews, before gaining her master's degree in music from the Saint Louis Conservatory of Music, studying with Pamela Mia Paul and Jozsef Kalichstein. Currently, Aarons is an accompanist for several churches and choral groups and presents mini-recitals both as a soloist and duo-pianist with her father.

The concerts are underwritten by Three Brothers Bakery, Houston Pecan Company, Ellen and Dan Trachtenberg and Eileen Reed, with special thanks to Continental Airlines, the official airline of Holocaust Museum Houston.

Holocaust Museum Houston is dedicated to educating people about the Holocaust, remembering the 6 million Jews and other innocent victims and honoring the survivors' legacy. Using the lessons of the Holocaust and other
genocides, the Museum teaches the dangers of hatred, prejudice and apathy. Holocaust Museum Houston is free and open to the public and is located in Houston's Museum District at 5401 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004.

For more information about the Museum, call 713-942-8000 or visit www.hmh.org.

Morgan Family Center • 5401 Caroline St. • Houston, TX 77004 • TEL: 713-942-8000 • FAX: 713-942-7953 • E-mail: info@hmh.org

October 20 Jewish Museum Prague Cinegogue Film Series

2010-10-14T12:25:00.000-04:00

PREMIERE – DON'T MISS – ONLY ONCE A YEAR!

The Jewish Museum in Prague presents this year's premiere in its CINEGOGUE film series   When? 10/20/2010, 7:30 pm Where? The Spanish Synagogue, Vezenska 1, Prague 1 What? JEWISH LUCK / ŽIDOVSKÉ ŠTĚSTÍ / ЕВРЕЙСКОЕ СЧАСТЬE /  יידישע גליקן  A silent film by Alexander Granovsky from 1925 with a new score composed and performed by Milos ORSON Stedron in a unique space with unforgettable atmosphere  Tickets Bohemia Ticket International http://www.bohemiaticket.cz/WBS/ang/frame0.php?cobj=0&cpre=158147  Jewish Museum in Prague http://www.jewishmuseum.cz/aindex.php   Bonus A guided tour of the Spanish Synagogue at 6:30 pm  Special – Second chance to win tickets on FaceBook Join the Jewish Museum in Prague on FaceBook, stay tuned and and win two tickets!  Partners Strings of Autumn www.strunypodzimu.cz BERG Orchestra www.berg.cz  Due to limited seating we recommend early reservation and ticket purchase. We look forward to seeing you there!   Please do not hesitate to contact me for further information. With kind regards Noemi Holekova

May 24 Jewish Heritage Trip to Portugal with TAMU Hillel

2010-10-01T16:53:00.000-04:00

Jewish Heritage Trip to Portugal,

May 24 - June 1 2011

TAMU Hillel is organizing a Jewish Heritage Tour to Portugal in May of 2011. To learn about this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity please go to our TAMU Hillel Website at

http://www.tamuhillel.org/travel/

Click on the Portuguese flag to see updated photos and schedule.

Questions about Travel? Please contact our travel agent

Barbara Panzer <barbarapanzer@tramex.com>

Or call her Austin number at (512) 795-5177

--

B'shalom u-vrachah,
In peace and blessings,

Rabbi Peter Tarlow
TAMU Hillel Foundation
800 George Bush Dr.
College Station, Texas, 77840
(979) 764-8402 (home)
(979) 696-7313 (office)

July 2011 Jewish Travel to Germany, Berlin and Munich

2010-09-22T15:10:00.001-04:00

TRAVEL: Berlin and Munich

Allianz-AJC Third Generation Initiative
In Affiliation With Germany Close Up
July 1-10, 2011

AJC and Allianz SE, one of Germany's leading financial services companies, in cooperation with Germany Close-Up, have embarked on a 5-year groundbreaking cooperation to bring young American Jewish professionals on an annual study trip to Germany along with German peers working at Allianz. Together, this unique group will explore German-Jewish history, including corporate history during World War II, and will meet with top-level government representatives, business leaders, scholars, and leaders of the German Jewish community. The first year of the trip was an outstanding success, with intense, ongoing discussions among the American Jewish and German participants.

Join us for this unique week-plus-Shabbat experience which will focus on the German past and present and challenges and opportunities in the German-Jewish relationship today and in the future. Participants will be encouraged to become active participants in the ongoing German-Jewish relationship.

Cost: $600 (includes international travel, hotel, and most meals on the ground in Germany)

Eligibility: Must live in NY, LA, San Francisco or Washington, DC and must be between 25 and 39-years-old

For more information and online application: www.ajc.org/access

Deadline: March 1, 2011

Before You Go

Become articulate and informed:

— Participate in two webinar training sessions

— Receive an in-depth briefing packet with background articles and materials

— Join an online group to share information and thoughts with other participants and trip leaders

While In Germany

Serve as an AJC ambassador:

— Experience modern Germany

— Meet with leading German politicians, parliamentarians and staff

— Join discussions with Israeli and US diplomats

— Interact with Germany's Jewish community

— Engage with Allianz colleagues; make contacts in the German business sector

— Explore two of the most dynamic cities in Europe: Munich and Berlin

Returning Home

Engage your community:

— Present your experiences locally

— Submit pieces to local papers and write online

— Participate in future AJC international engagement work with German journalists, military officers and diplomats

— Join a prestigious alumni network and reconnect in Fall 2011

Sep 26 South Florida Jewish Adventure Club Catamaran Sail and Snorkel

2010-09-16T11:36:00.000-04:00

Catamaran Sail, Splash, Snorkel, & Swim with the Jewish Adventure Club

When: Sunday, September 26 at 12:30 to 4:30 pm. Arrive by 12:30 for sign-in and boarding. Ship sails at 1:00 pm sharp!

Join us for a Catamaran ride on the Spirit of Lauderdale. We set sail up the intercoastal waters into the Atlantic Ocean.

Sails up, sea breezes and salt air increase everyone's taste for fun. We will listen to music and breaking waves provide...

To save your spot for this event, you must go to
www.facebook.com/l/5919c1jXAAOTwybkh6QPPRE9QnA;www.meetup.com/jewishadventure

September Israel travel

2010-09-01T10:06:00.000-04:00

Israel Newsletter Israel Offers In this Edition

September Newsletter
Israel Offers

In this Edition....

First of all
Dan Hotels News
Occupancy for Rosh Hashana
New from Israel -about EasyJet
Israel's latest tourism statistics
Hatachana (The Station)
Eilat hoteliers complain about the summer.
Jewish Heritage Tour of Israel- leader wanted!
Warning if you travel to Europe - travel insurance
Tel Aviv wins an award
Vote for the Dead Sea!
Travel Tips
Mamilla - Quiz - Last question!
Our products

First of all

This month brings an end to our Mamilla Hotel quiz - so please get your answers in no later than 15th September.

Our new quiz will start in the next newsletter which will be published on 1st October, with a great prize of 2 free tickets with Jet2.com from Manchester to Tel - Aviv. We thank Jet2 for their support and we shall enjoy looking at the questions they set our subscribers each month.

Some of you may notice this month the lack of special offers - which indicates either the hotel sales managers are on holiday - or their forward reservation books for the next three or four months look good. I would go with the later - which means that most probably we can expect deals for the winter, but they will come in so late that you have already made your plans, let alone the cost of your flights will be prohibitive because it is all at the last minute. When will they learn?

El Al' new service from Ben Gurion to Eilat starting at £7.00 (plus tax) each way per person add on, has caused quite a stir and I would expect this introductory fare to last a few months - until the new service gets known and supported. So folks this really is the bargain of the month.

This month, I have included a Jewish Heritage itinerary, why you may ask? Well, the reason is simple - we are looking for a suitable leader for such a group. A leader who will be charismatic and who potential participants would like to travel with - any ideas? Click here to be considered.

I have had reason this month to get involved on behalf of some client with claims against a few low cost airlines owing to cancelled flights. The most important thing if you have a claim is to keep every receipt for extra hotel accommodation, meals and transportation and if you had to fly with an alternative airline then you must keep the boarding card. Believe me, they are not rushing to refund you and they look for every loophole not to!

Dan Hotels News

Mickey Federmann, Chairman of the Dan Hotels Corporation recently unveiled the plaque outside the group's newest hotel the Dan Jerusalem. The hotel the largest in Jerusalem is situated on Mount Scopus and provides wonderful views of Jerusalem and the surrounding areas. Purchased at a cost of $47 million this property has become the Dan's fourth Jerusalem hotel. The Dan's flagship is the world renowned King David, a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, and home to all visiting dignitaries and celebrities from overseas. Dan Hotels, which has been leading the Israeli tourist industry for over 60 years, now has 1161 guest-rooms in the country's capital, and as Ami Hirschstein, the company's President commented: "Adding this hotel to our chain shows our optimism and commitment for future tourism to Jerusalem. We are planning to invest another 20 million NIS over the next couple of years to renovate and upgrade the hotel so that it meets the Dan's high standards."

Also present at the opening ceremony was Nir Barkat, Jerusalem's mayor who came to convey good wishes and congratulations on behalf of the people of Jerusalem who have watched the group grow and develop alongside the State of Israel.

The Dan Jerusalem is situated on the slopes of Mt. Scopus near the Hebrew University and Hadassah Medical Center and is only a seven minute drive to the city center and 40 minutes to Ben-Gurion International Airport. It is within easy reach of major tourist attractions and entertainment venues in both the old and newer parts of Jerusalem.

Within the hotel is Jerusalem's largest Spa facility. Open daily (with the option for men and women hours only), there are two swimming pools one inside (open all year round) and one outside (only open during the summer months), a modern well equipped fitness room and a wide range of luxurious beauty treatments. Afterwards guests can relax in the Jacuzzi or wet or dry sauna, or visit the authentic Turkish bath.

The Dan Jerusalem Hotel can provide different venues for conferences and banquets, ranging in size from 25 500 people. The vast pool area and two attractive Mediterranean terraces are perfect options for outdoor venues. The hotel houses several pieces of attractive and unusual pieces of art, displayed around the hotel's public areas. With 505 luxury guest-rooms, the extra facilities and amenities available and now under the auspices of the award winning Dan Hotels Corporation the Dan Jerusalem is sure to be a great success.

Busy Rosh Hashana expected in Eilat
The Israel Hotel Association expects an 80% hotel occupancy rate nationwide over Rosh Hashana (Jewish New Year) holiday in September. The Hotel Association expects the occupancy rate in Eilat and the Dead Sea hotels to reach 90-95%, reach 85-90% at kibbutz guest houses, and up to 90% in Haifa.

However, the Hotel Association expects an occupancy rate of just 70% in Tel Aviv hotels, and 65% in Jerusalem.

Hotel Association director general Shmuel Zuriel said, "Jerusalem and Tel Aviv mainly rely on foreign tourists, not domestic tourism, so traditionally they have lower occupancy rates over Rosh Hashana."

The Hotel Association expects hotels in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv to have low occupancy rates over Sukkot as well: just 50% in Tel Aviv and 70% in Jerusalem. Zuriel said, "This is rather disappointing, as Sukkot in Jerusalem is traditionally considered a sought-after holiday by evangelical pilgrims. As for Tel Aviv, this is a repeated pattern: fewer businesspeople, who normally stay at hotels in Tel Aviv, come to Israel during September, affecting hotel occupancy rates."

easyJet launches Tel Aviv-Basel route

easyJet plc one of the world's low-cost pioneers, has inaugurated a Tel Aviv-Basel route, with three weekly flights on Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday. Fares begin at 35.90 (about NIS 170) one-way.

In practice, however, the number of seats at this fare are very limited, as usual with low-cost airlines. The flights leave Ben Gurion Airport at 1:40 pm and arrive at 17:20 pm.

easyJet is also expanding its route between Ben Gurion Airport and Luton Airport north of London to include a Friday flight. The airline will now make seven weekly flights on this route, up from six. From the end of the month, easyJet will operate four weekly flights between Tel Aviv and Geneva.

easyJet is currently Britain's largest airline, and the fourth largest in Europe, carrying 46 million passengers in 2009. It began flying to Israel in November 2009.

As a low-cost airline, easyJet sells tickets on its website. Each fare has a very limited number of seats. Passengers must also pay for additional services, including luggage handling at check-in.

Belying the promises of especially low fares, an investigation found that "low cost" is not necessarily cheapest. For example, for the week of Rosh Hashana (September 6-13), reservations on British Airways for full service flights from Tel Aviv to London are more than 10% cheaper than the limited service flights on its rival, easyJet.

British Airways is offering a round-trip fare of $688 between Ben Gurion Airport and Heathrow (including meals and luggage handling). El Al Israel Airlines Ltd. is offering a round-trip fare of $721 to London. easyJet's fare is ₤490 (about $760), not including meals and luggage, to the more distant airport at Luton.

MINISTRY OF TOURISM STATISTICS FIRST QUARTER 2010

The Ministry of Tourism has published some very interesting statistics of visitor arrivals to Israel. This of course includes all arrivals from all ports of entry, including day visitors on a cruise and of course tourists crossing over from Egypt and Jordan.

I have taken a few to compare against the UK

                           Jan.           Feb           Mar        Total 3 months      2009 total        2008 total
UK                     9,218        11,656      17,995       38,869                   172,409            187,059
France              11,514        20,603      24,833       56,950                   260,780            263,517
USA                 41,488        37,163      58,109     136,760                   548,034            616,567

Just looking at the above extraction - there are a few interesting points:-

1. The French are way ahead of the UK in spite of the fact that our population figures are similar. This is down to the huge traditional support from the much larger French Jewish community. Which is highlighted by the marginal drop in 2009 compared to 2008.

2. The USA is 5 times larger than the UK and looks as if in simple statistical terms, they have a long way to go to realise their full potential.

Tel Aviv's first tourist trap
The transformed Hatahana train station on the Tel Aviv-Jaffa border joins the ranks of Capri's Blue Grotto.

In Tel Aviv, as a string of complexes geared toward entertainment, culture, tourism and shopping near their completion, the battle over public space, leisure habits and resources invested has reached its peak. Only time will tell if the pockets of resistance to the sweeping trend will persevere. In the meantime, the theme parks abound.

The complex at the Tel Aviv Port has established itself as the country's yuppie stronghold; the Jaffa Port, which the city's Arab residents have again been deprived of, is trying to find its way; Tel Aviv's Sarona complex, the former Templer colony, is taking shape as another luxury area featuring a park, a preservation, office towers and elegant residences; and on the Tel Aviv-Jaffa border, the old train station Hatahana was recently refurbished and is shaping up as the city's first tourist trap worthy of the name.

First the White City, the beach and the vibrant night life were enlisted to help the causes of tourism, real estate and branding. Now the Hatahana complex is picking up the slack, keeping pace with leading tourist traps around the world.

While tourist traps may have acquired a bad reputation, they do give sites added value. With the many charms of the Italian island of Capri - its fragrant lemon orchards, wonderful vistas and Axel Munthe's grand Villa San Michele - none come close to the Blue Grotto, the mother of all tourist traps.

Millions sail all the way to the cave, hold their breath as they make their way through the scary entrance and part with their hard-earned money only to find that it's barely a cave and hardly blue. Those who return from Capri keep this well-kept secret to themselves, perhaps because they don't want to admit to having fallen for the trap or simply because it makes no difference.

A tourist trap is an experience of its own, leaving its own unique mark in the photo album and in one's memory - just as much as the real thing, if not more so. After all, without its Blue Grotto, Capri would be just another run-of-the-mill tourist site.

Parting tourists from their money

Like every self-respecting tourist trap, Hatahana is also purporting to be the real thing. While the complex is marketed as a historic site "that preserved its original character," after not functioning as a train station for some time, what remains are prehistoric background props. This gives off an effect resembling the television series "The Flintstones," which created a kind of taste of the schizophrenia of modern life during the Stone Age.

No trains or vehicles travel along the train tracks, preserving their original character, while the station's surrounding facilities have been turned into cafes, boutiques, a souvenir shop and one store with nothing - which no self-respecting tourist trap would be without. The complex was mistakenly crowned "the next hot thing in Tel Aviv." But a tourist trap is a tourist trap; the cooler revelers will see through the forgery and stay away. Tourists from Paris or Rishon Letzion, however, will innocently wander through the refurbished area, scan through clothes selling for the price of a mortgage, search in vain for something else of interest and agree "Wow, look how nice they made this place."

From the start, one could have guessed that Hatahana was destined for commercialization. Residents of nearby Neve Tzedek called for the complex to be allocated for educational institutions to serve the needs of the community, but this was rejected. Around five years ago, the renovation plans were disclosed by the Tel Aviv municipality, the owner of the land, at a well-publicized event. At that event "the complex" was on one side, in its last moments of unrealized charm; on the other side, developers considering the land's inherent potential longed, as in every tourist trap, to separate the tourist from his money. Tel Aviv Mayor Ron Huldai said at the time, if memory serves correct, that one day "a place" of its own would open there. As far as anyone knows, Huldai has no business of his own there, but the plans were realized.

Perhaps Hatahana could not have become anything else than what it is today. Like every architectural-historical treasure in the world that has exhausted its original purpose, its fate fluctuates between two extremes: razing and destruction, or alternately, preservation and overload. Demolition is considered barbaric, but on the other hand, preservation, with all its cultural and aesthetic value, is a fast track toward commercialization, development, higher prices and tourist traps.

Tel Aviv has not reinvented the wheel. Anyone who's traveled abroad is familiar with tourist traps in the guise of preservation projects. Many even seek them out and have their reasons for doing so. It could be campaigns marketing "authenticity" (subsidized by the local tourism ministry ), quaint "historical" German villages or "traditional" fishing villages. Hatahana now joins this illustrious group.

Both sides of the equation

The synthetic feel of the refurbished Hatahana is another indication it has become a tourist trap. Except in Israel, unlike in the quaint German village, there is no reason to worry. The locals will not leave the complex in the same condition as when it first opened for long. Before the area has been filled completely, it's already apparent there has been some deviation from the preservation guidelines, as well as clashes between preservation and function. Add in natural wear and tear and minimal maintenance, and it won't be long before the complex is authentic the way no other tourist trap has managed to be. One can already imagine stalls and stands - and not the kind found in the organic market on Fridays, with yuppies in front of windows displaying brand-name fashions, colorful umbrellas, t-shirts at closeout prices. When that happens, perhaps the complex will longer be the next hot thing in Tel Aviv, but it will at least be lively.

The illusion behind Hatahana is not in the harmless trap it has set for tourists, but in the declarations that have accompanied it from the start: that it would connect Tel Aviv and Jaffa. This is a task assigned to every development project on the border between the two cities, a border that has only grown thicker over the years.

With regard to Hatahana, these are cynical, empty statements that mock the locals. The complex is another brick in the wall separating Tel Aviv from Jaffa, one which camouflages itself with forced innocence as a venue for culture, art, leisure and the like for the general public. This is not the way to develop a connecting link, this is not the way to repair the divide between Jewish Tel Aviv and Arab Jaffa, this is not the way to do historical justice - which could have seen both sides of the equation thriving, beyond the commercial success of another exclusive boutique.

At tourist season height, Eilat hotels not full

Eilat hoteliers believed that Israelis who were planning vacations in Turkey would come to them instead, and raised prices, but the tourists did not come.

Hopes that Israelis would take summer vacations in Eilat rather than Antalya following tensions with Turkey did not materialize in July, and it is now clear that things will be the same in August as well. Hebrew daily "Ma'ariv" reports that, for the first time in many years, Eilat's hotels are not full in August, and that the an average occupancy rate is 80%.

Ophir Tours deputy CEO Yehuda Zafrani said that Eilat hoteliers had believed that Israelis who were planning vacations in Turkey would come to them instead. The hotels therefore raised prices, but the tourists did not come, as Israelis chose not to take costly vacations.

Eilat's hotels are now launching last-minute discounts of up to 30% to persuade Israelis to go to the resort town. Club Med Eilat, for example, has cut the price for a couple from NIS 1,800 a night to NIS 1,350.

Isrotel Ltd. admits that it is disappointed by the occupancy rate at its hotels, which stands at 80-85%, compared with its expectations of full occupancy. "This is not the usual situation at this time of year," said the company.

JEWISH HERITAGE TOUR Wednesday arrival (11 nights)

Wednesday - Ben Gurion Airport / Tel Aviv
Arrival at Ben Gurion Airport, where you will be met by a Diesenhaus Unitours representative and transferred to your hotel. Overnight in Tel Aviv.

Thursday - Independence Hall / Mini Israel / Latrun / Yad Mordechai
Start the day with a visit to the Independence Hall where the establishment of the State of Israel was declared; Next, drive to Latrun to visit the new "Mini Israel" park including miniature models of the most important sites and buildings in the country. Continue to visit the Ayalon Institute, once an ammunition factory for the Hagana, the underground movement before May 1948.Proceed to Yad Mordechai, named after Mordechai Anilevitz, leader of the Warsaw Ghetto; Visit the restored battle fields of the war of liberation and learn about their heroic story. Overnight in Tel-Aviv.

Friday Tel Aviv
Visit the Diaspora museum. Drive around the main streets of Tel Aviv, center of business and entertainment of Israel. Stop at Rabin's Square, place of assassination of Prime Minister Itzhak Rabin. Continue to Old Jaffa, an 8000 year old port city; Visit the ancient ruins and walk around the restored artist's quarter. Visit Neve Tzedek, the first neighborhood of Tel Aviv, built in 1909 and Nahalat Benyamin, the pedestrian street of the city with its musicians, hand made jewellery and artifacts. Next, stop at Sheinkin, the lively and colorful street especially known for its unique shops, café life and youthful ambiance. Overnight in Tel-Aviv.

Saturday - At leisure
Overnight in Tel Aviv.

Sunday - Caesarea / Beit Shearim / Haifa / Acre
Drive north to Caesarea, once the Roman capital of the region. See the excavations of the Crusaders' city, the Roman Aqueduct and the amphitheatre which has been restored as a concert venue. Proceed to Haifa for a panoramic view from Mt. Carmel and visit "AF AL PI CHEN", the naval museum of the illegal immigration to Israel at the time of the British mandate. Drive to Acre; walk along the old harbor and local market. Continue to the northernmost point of Israel at Rosh Hanikra. Descend by cable car into the limestone Grottos. Overnight in a Kibbutz guesthouse.

Monday - Safed / Tel Facher / Banias / Tel Dan / Tel Hai
Drive to Safed, centre of Kaballa movement; Visit the JOSEPH CARO and the HA' ARI synagogues, the most important synagogues in the city; stroll around the Artist's quarter. Enjoy a Jeep tour to the foot of the Golan Heights. Continue to the Golan Heights, visiting an observation point over the city of Kuneitra, and the Syrian territory. Stop at Tel Facher, a former Syrian army camp; Visit the Banias springs. Next, a visit to Tel-Hai; See the "Roaring Lion" monument and learn about the heroic battle of Josef Trumpeldor and his comrades in 1920. Overnight in a kibbutz guesthouse.

Tuesday - Beit Shean / Beit Alpha / Gan Hashlosha / Jerusalem
Drive to Tiberias to visit Rambam's grave. Proceed to Beit Shean, also called "Scythopolis", the biggest archeological park in Israel with beautiful excavations from Roman and Byzantine periods. Stop at Beit Alpha to see the beautiful mosaic floor of a Byzantine synagogue. On to Gan Hashlosha, (Sachne) where you will have an opportunity to enjoy the water springs located at the foot of the Gilboa mountain, the famous mountain where King Saul was killed in the battle against the Philistines. Continue via the Jordan valley to Jerusalem. Stop at Mount Scopus for a blessing as you enter the city. Overnight in Jerusalem.

Wednesday - Jerusalem: The Old City
Tour the old city of Jerusalem. Start with a visit to the tomb of King David on Mount Zion. Walk along the Cardo, the ancient Roman road; Visit the four Sepharadic synagogues in the Jewish quarter, all beautifully restored after 1967 war. Tour the Kotel Tunnels; Visit the Davidson Center and walk through the Cardo, to the local Arab bazaar. Walk through Jaffa gate to the David's Tower museum to see the ancient remains of the city beginning with the first Temple period. Overnight in Jerusalem.

Thursday - Jerusalem: The New City
Celebrate the Bar-Mitzvah ceremonies at the Kotel (Wailing Wall). Continue to Mea Shearim and learn about the unique lifestyle of the Ultra orthodox communities. Drive by the Knesset, Israel's parliament and see the Menorah with the biblical emblems. Next, visit the Israel Museum, the Shrine of the Book where the Dead sea scrolls are housed and the new Holyland Model a miniature replica of Jerusalem as it was during the Second Temple period. Drive to mount Herzl, the military cemetery and Yad Vashem, the memorial to the Holocaust. Visit Ammunition Hill, a former Jordanian army stronghold that was conquered by the Israeli army in the Six Day War and converted into a national memorial site and museum. Overnight in Jerusalem.

Friday - Qumeran / Massada / Dead Sea
Drive through the Judean desert to the Dead Sea. Stop at Qumeran, the site where the Dead Sea scrolls were found. Continue to Massada, ascend by cable car and tour the ancient fortress, visiting the remains of the walls, palaces, synagogue, the bathhouses etc. Descend by cable car.
Next stop is for lunch and Spa facilities at one of the leading hotels in the area. Overnight in Jerusalem.

Saturday - At leisure
Overnight in Jerusalem.

Sunday - Jerusalem / Ben Gurion Airport.
After breakfast, transfer to Ben Gurion Airport for departure.

Holiday insurance warning for travellers to Europe

If you're travelling to Europe this summer and you forget this essential holiday item, you'll be in big trouble!

Imagine this. You're having a wonderful time on holiday, somewhere in Europe. Suddenly disaster strikes. You hurt yourself, badly, and need to go to hospital where you're charged hundreds and hundreds of pounds for the treatment you receive.

But you're OK. You've got travel insurance. No need to worry about the cost of it all. Right?

Wrong.

There was one crucial thing you forgot to pack. Something much more important than sunscreen, teabags and all the other things you actually remembered: an EHIC.

What's an EHIC? It stands for European Health Insurance Card, and entitles the citizens of the European Union to access public sector healthcare (e.g. a doctor, a pharmacy or a hospital) for free, as if you were a national of the country you are visiting. So as well as the emergency care you need, you will get hospital treatment for things most travel insurance policies won't cover you for such as maternity care or managing the symptoms of a pre-existing or chronic condition that arises while you're abroad.

It's free to get, but it's not a replacement for travel insurance as it won't cover you for cancellation, baggage cover and, most importantly, air ambulance back to the UK, which can cost £15 a minute and lead to huge bills.

Plus, even with an EHIC, you may find you are forced to pay for the treatment upfront and then go through the painful process of trying to get a refund while you are in the country, or even worse, after returning home. Problems with the card's reimbursement process have been reported in Spain, Slovakia, Denmark, Hungary, Austria, Slovenia, Liechtenstein, Germany and Bulgaria, with the European Commission currently investigating why this is happening.

So, the fact is, you still need travel insurance. But don't assume you can take out a decent policy and not bother with the card. This week, it's emerged that increasing numbers of travel insurers are refusing to offer travellers any cover if they travel to Europe without a valid EHIC.

This means that, if you take out a travel insurance policy and fail to read the small print, and that small print states you must have an EHIC, you could later find that any claim you make on the policy is rejected.

Worst of all, even if you have an EHIC, you may find it's expired. It's only valid for five years and then you have to renew it.

On the positive side, some insurers will now agree to waive the excess (typically £50 to £100) on claims where you do have a valid EHIC which you have used to get free treatment.

That's why, at lovemoney.com, we are warning travellers who plan to go to Europe this summer to apply for the EHIC today - before it's too late.

Here's everything you need to know about EHIC when travelling in Europe.

Which countries does the EHIC cover?

Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden. It doesn't cover the Channel Islands.

How can I get one?

The EHIC is free to get and can be kept with your passport. To get one, you need a national insurance number or NHS number. You can apply for one online via www.ehic.org.uk be careful to apply using that address as there are scam sites out there. Alternatively, apply over the phone by calling 0845 606 2030 (or if you hate 0845 numbers, like I do, call the cheaper alternative 0191 212 7500) or pick up a form from the Post Office. Parents, remember each child must have their own card. The process takes less than five minutes and the card will be sent to you by post.

How do I use it to get treatment?

Simply hand it over to the doctor, hospital or pharmacist when you need treatment. If they claim not to accept it, stand your ground and use consular services if necessary. You may need to pay upfront and then claim it back. Try to get a refund before you go home, but if this is not practical, call the NHS Overseas Healthcare team on 0191 218 1999 to get a form for a refund.

National Geographic ranks Tel Aviv among world's top beach cities

'Call it Miami Beach on the Med. Tel Aviv is the Dionysian counterpart to religious Jerusalem.'

They may be hot, crowded and swarming with jellyfish, but Tel Aviv beaches are apparently a world-class asset.

National Geographic yesterday published a list of the world's 10 best beach cities and rated Tel Aviv alongside Barcelona, Rio de Janeiro, Nice (on the French Riviera ) and Cape Town.

The prestigious magazine's article says: "Call it Miami Beach on the Med. Tel Aviv is the Dionysian counterpart to religious Jerusalem. In the 'bubble,' as it's known for its inhabitants' tendency to tune out regional skirmishes, some restaurants, discos, and clubs are open until dawn.

By day, the scene shifts to the city's promenade and eight miles (13 kilometers ) of beach literally steps from town."

Tourism Ministry Seeks 'Floating Voters' for Dead Sea Contest

The Dead Sea is great for floaters, but no floating voters are allowed, say tourism officials, who want your vote to make the "lowest point on Earth" officially one of the "New Seven Wonders of the World."

As part of its global marketing effort to promote the Dead Sea as a unique tourist destination and as a finalist in the New7Wonders of Nature online campaign, the ministry has launched a dedicated multi-lingual Dead Sea website. It also has posted a social media campaign to include Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.

Under the slogan "The Deepest Wonder of the World", the English-language website will shortly be available in Russian, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Chinese and Korean. It also will link to the campaign voting pages and serve as an information resource about the region and the Dead Sea's candidacy in the New7Wonders of Nature contest.

Visitors to the website can access information on the natural, religious, historical and cultural sites in the Dead Sea area as well as accommodation, attractions and the Dead Sea's health remedies.

Tourism Minister Stas Misezhnikov said, "The Dead Sea, one of Israel's natural and tourism treasures, offers visitors a unique experience rich in history, archaeology and wellness. With this online campaign, we invite veteran fans and supporters of the Dead Sea, and those who are discovering it for the first time, to visit and vote for it in the campaign."

The Dead Sea has consistently remained among the top 14 of the 28 finalists since the final stage of the New7Wonders of Nature campaign began in July 2009. Other finalists include the Amazon River, the Galapagos Islands, the Grand Canyon, the Great Barrier Reef and the Maldives.

About a billion votes are expected to be cast before campaign ends on November 11, 2011 and it is estimated that the winning seven finalists will need to secure about 300-400 million votes.

The Dead Sea is one of Israel's most popular tourism sites, attracting approximately 45 percent incoming tourists.

Travel Tips

Q. What is the best cruise line/ship?

A. There is the short answer and the long one. Lets start with the 'long one' You might as well ask me 'What is the best hotel?' The answer really relates more to your taste and appreciation of service. So because it is very personal, it is impossible really for me to answer the question unless you add - 'for you'.

So the best cruise line for me is the Azamara Club Cruises and the best ship - is the Azamara Quest. Smaller than the huge cruise ships - with premium service - best cuisine and because it is a smaller ship you get to visit a wider range of ports of call. Having just returned from a great cruise with them you will see my article about my experience next month.

QUIZ THE MAMILLA HOTEL
The Latest 5 star deluxe hotel to open in Jerusalem!

Located in the heart of the City, with magnificent views of the Old City walls, the Tower of David, Jaffa Gate, and alongside Jerusalem's new shopping and entertainment experience, the Alrov Mamilla Avenue. Mamilla Hotel, the newest of luxury hotels in Jerusalem, brings world-class superior design and lifestyle hospitality to Jerusalem and Israel. Guests and visitors will enjoy exceptional accommodations together with exclusive restaurant and bar venues, holistic well-being spa and gym, as well as events and banqueting spaces, that blend sophistication and modern international style with the unique and rich culture of Jerusalem.
The prize. The Mamilla Hotel agree to give the winner of the competition 1 twin bedded room on bed and breakfast basis for 4 nights arriving on a Thursday and departing on a Monday on a complimentary basis. The following conditions apply.

The validity of the prize is from 1st October 2010 till 1st March 2011
The prize is subject to availability and excludes peak periods, religious and national holidays.
The prize has no cash value
The prize in non transferable.

Question 1. What is the name of the Mamilla Hotel's sister property in Jerusalem?
Question 2. What and where is Mamilla?
Question 3. What specific feature will run throughout this hotel?
Question 4. The Mamilla Hotel is part of which hotel group?
Question 5. Name three of the hotels restaurants and/or bars.
Question 6. What is the name of the general manager of the hotel?
Question:7. How many rooms does the Mamilla Hotel have?
Question 8. On what street is the hotel located?
Question 9. What is the grading of the hotel?
Question 10. The hotel has a unique feature between the bedroom and the bathroom - what is it?
Question 11. How long is the walk from the hotel to the Old City of Jerusalem?

LAST QUESTION!

Question 12. In no more than 50 words - please state why you wish to stay at the Mamilla Hotel

Rules:

Each month a new question will be set till the 12th month and the last question.
Closing date for all the 12 answers to be in is 15th September 2010
The correct answers and name of the winner will be published in the Israel Offers Newsletter for October 2010
Answers can be submitted by e-mail or posted to: -
ITS, 429 430 Royal Exchange, Old Bank Street, Manchester M2 7EP. The judges will not enter into any correspondence regarding the quiz
The judges are made up from Management representatives of ITS and The Mamilla Hotel Jerusalem

OUR PRODUCTS

Visit our booking one stop shop Israel web site www.israelin1.com - well worth a 'surf!' Besides our reservations department dedicated to the individual traveller to Israel, we also have departments that handle cruises and specialist group bookings. Our groups department handles all types of groups on a worldwide basis. From pilgrimages to weddings* and from study tours to trade missions to our most popular escorted tours.

Should you book a wedding/bar mitzvah group with us we contribute £10.00 for each person (booked on a package) who attends the function, in order to present a cheque for the bride/groom/bar mitzvah, as a present. So, if say 40 people flew to Israel and stayed in hotels, to attend your family function, we would present you with a cheque of £400.00 made out to the person celebrating!

To arrange your bat/bar mitzvah in Israel you should contact Tony Sachs at Jerusalem Property Management Services, 33 King George St. POB 7217Jerusalem 91071 Tel: +972-2-6245977; Fax: +972-2-6234484; Mobile: +972-52-5319292; Email: jpms@netvision.net.il; Web: http://www.jpms.co.il

To book your flights, hotel accommodation, car hire, airport car parking and travel insurance click here

Our reservations department handles bookings for individuals to Israel, to include fly drive, flights, and hotel accommodation and regular day tours.

We also produce a Newsletter for the pilgrim market - you can subscribe by going to our web site and on our home page following the link www.itstravel.co.uk

Not forgetting that we are bonded with ABTA as a tour operator (V1178) and as a travel agent (C6694), we are also licensed with the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL 2893) and an accredited IATA agent (91284771). So your payments are 100% protected, our professionalism is assured and you are getting the best value, for we are licensed to deal directly with the airlines and all the supplier.

Regards

Adrian

For more details on anything related to this newsletter call

Free phone 0800 0181 839

Oct 24-Nov 2 AFSI Chizuk Mission to Israel

2010-08-30T14:56:00.000-04:00

1751 Second Ave, New York, NY 10128

Tel: 212-828-2424; Fax: 212-828-1717; afsi@rcn.com; www.afsi.org

Contact: Helen Freedman, Executive Director

August 30, 2010

INVITATION TO JOIN AMERICANS FOR A SAFE ISRAEL FOR SHABBAT CHAYE SARAH IN HEBRON AND ANOTHER UNIQUE CHIZUK MISSION TO ISRAEL OCT. 24-NOV. 2, 2010

As AFSI has done since 1994, we are once again sponsoring a unique trip to Israel that enables participants to see the real Israel. In addition to the wonderful sights, sounds, and smells of Israel that are available to all tourists, AFSI's missions incorporate visiting the places, and meeting the people on the ground in Israel who are making the difference in preserving the heritage of the Jewish people.

AFSI's belief in a whole Israel, "yisrael shlayma", takes people to Sderot, to the new communities of the displaced persons from Gush Katif, to Nir Oz, Yevul, and the Haluzia desert, and to Israel's Grand Canyon, the Machtesh Ramon. The mission will travel to the Negev, to the Hebron hills, to Kiryat Arba and Hebron. Experiencing Chaye Sarah in the Isaac Hall at the Ma'arat HaMachpela is described as a life-changing experience for many. Visiting the Temple Mount in Yerushalayim, and touring east Jerusalem are essential parts of the mission, as is a tour of the Shomron communities. Meetings with the lay leadership as well as Knesset members and IDF personalities are all part of the experience. Expert guides and local guides accompany the group at all times.

Participants make their own flight arrangements, planning to meet the group on Monday morning, Oct. 25, 8 AM, at Ben Gurion airport in Israel. Most people arrange to fly from Newark on El Al's 2:15 flight. For information regarding the cost for the land portion of the trip, which includes guides, transportation, entrance fees, hotels, all breakfasts, most dinners, and some lunches, please contact AFSI: 212-828-2424; afsi@rcn.com. Deposits are due immediately with full payment by Oct. 4, 2010.

March 2011 Holocaust Study Trip to Germany, Austria and The Netherlands

2010-08-30T10:24:00.000-04:00

NEWS from HOLOCAUST MUSEUM HOUSTON

2011 Holocaust Study Trip Scheduled for Germany, Austria
and The Netherlands

HOUSTON, TX (Aug. 30, 2010) - Holocaust Museum Houston will host an affordable, educational tour of Germany, Austria and The Netherlands next March for docents, volunteers and friends of the Museum.

The tour runs from March 12 to March 24, 2011, but registration is required by Dec. 15, 2010.

The trip will focus on Western Europe and the narratives of Holocaust history and memory and will provide in-depth explorations of Holocaust history, suited to those interested in studying and experiencing authentic sites of the Holocaust era.

The trip will begin in the city where the Nazis rose to power, Munich, Germany. Participants will explore Munich's history through its landscape, architecture and historic sites, learning the storied history of these structures and spaces. From Munich, participants will take a one-day excursion to Austria to visit Mauthausen and Salzburg and then return to Germany to continue explorations there before heading to The Netherlands.

Chaja Verveer - a child survivor, HMH Board member and commissioner of the Texas Holocaust and Genocide Commission - will travel with the group, offering a very personal and unique experience to her fellow travellers.

The cost for the escorted motorcoach tour is $3,750 per person based on double occupancy. Insurance and airfare are additional.

For more information about the trip, download the trip itinerary at www.hmh.org under the "Education" tab or e-mail education@hmh.org.

Holocaust Museum Houston's Morgan Family Center is free and open to the public and is located in Houston's Museum District at 5401 Caroline St., Houston, TX 77004. For more information about the Museum, call 713-942-8000 or visit www.hmh.org.

If you have other questions or comments, please e-mail us at info@hmh.org or call 713-527-1603.
.

Morgan Family Center 5401 Caroline St. Houston, TX 77004 TEL: 713-942-8000 FAX: 713-942-7953 E-mail: info@hmh.org

Sept 2 Montreal Fantastic Jewish Outdoor Labor Day Weekend International Event

2010-08-18T00:48:00.000-04:00

Happy "AWE-Wednesday!"

These Awe-some moments are brought to you by
Mosaic Outdoor Clubs of America!
Enjoy reading them each "AWE-WEdnesday" leading up to
Mosaic's 20th Anniversary International Event.

Come find YOUR AWE MOMENT this Labour Day,
Sept. 2-6th, 2010!

Limited spaces are still available! To learn more and register, go to:
www.mosaicoutdoor.org

"I remember my first Mosaic International Labour Day weekend in West Virginia in 2001. It was thrilling meeting all these amazing people and there were all these great events to take part in: a tour of architect Frank Lloyd Wright's masterpiece house "Fallingwaters" and white water rafting -- all new and exciting experiences. And the area around the camp was so lush! As a Canadian, I was used to colder lakes and was shocked when I first swam in that Virginian lake and it felt so warm -- like a bath --
and I have yet to swim in a lake as warm as that one since!"

~ Julie S., Mosaic member, Ottawa, Canada

"To me, the International Event over Labor Day weekend has become very special. It's about exploring a new place, seeing old friends and meeting new ones, and getting a chance to do things I don't normally get to do, like hike in the hills, try a rope slide, rock climb, canoe and whitewater raft -- or just sit around the campfire after an active day toasting marshmallows to a guitar sing-a-long.
These are memories I hold dear!"

~ Elisa T., Mosaic member, Boca Raton, Florida

"The International Event is a trip you'll remember your whole life -- especially the people you meet. If you're new to the outdoors -- or even if you're not -- taking a trip with Mosaic is a unique opportunity to travel with people that really know and love nature. Mosaic members include world class photographers, biologists, scientists, activists and environmentalists. And you'll make great friends, as I did, with extremely knowledgeable outdoor enthusiasts from all over the world."

~ Andrew W., Mosaic member, Gainesville, Florida

You're Invited!

So grab a friend and join us at Mosaic's 20th Anniversary International Event
Labour Day Weekend 2010, in Québec, Canada!

To learn more and register, go to:
www.mosaicoutdoor.org

Mosaic Outdoor Clubs of America | 8116 Arlington Blvd, #177 | Falls Church | VA | 22042

Why People Hate Israel

2010-08-17T17:20:00.000-04:00

Israel Through European Eyes

Every few months, Israel is publicly pilloried in the international media and on university campuses around the world for some alleged violation of human rights, real or imagined.
...

But whatever the ostensible subject, and regardless of whether Israel's political leaders and soldiers and spokesmen do their work as they should, we know for certain that the consequence of this future incident, a few months from now, will be another campaign of vilification in the media and on the campuses and in the corridors of power-a smear campaign of a kind that no other nation on earth is subjected to on a regular basis.

...

To put this in slightly different terms, it's not the maintenance of a security zone in South Lebanon, or Israeli control of the Gaza Strip, or a raid on a Turkish blockade runner's boat that is reponsible for what is happening to Israel's position on the world stage. These specific instances of Israeli policy are, for our opponents, nothing but symbols of something deeper and more hateful that they see revealed time and again when they look upon the state of Israel and its deeds. And until we understand what this deeper issue with Israel is, I believe we'll remain powerless to understand the progressive growth of the hatred toward us-and powerless to fight it.

The rest of this letter will be devoted to trying to get at what that underlying objection to Israel is.

...

In 1962, a Berkeley professor named Thomas Kuhn published a book called The Structure of Scientific Revolutions, which went on to become the most influential academic book of the last half century

...

scientists are trained to see the world in terms of a certain framework of interrelated concepts, which Kuhn calls a paradigm

...

Those facts that can't be made to conform to the reigning paradigm are overlooked entirely or dismissed as unimportant.

Kuhn was famous, of course, for pointing out that things don't go on like this forever. The history of science is punctuated by shifts in the dominant paradigm

...

As Kuhn points out, even a mountain of facts will not change the mind of a scientist

...

How, then, do scientists come to change their minds? Kuhn says that in many cases, they never change their minds-and that an entire generation has to pass before the scientific community enters a new paradigm:

"How, then, are scientists brought to make this transposition? Part of the answer is that they are very often not. Copernicanism made very few converts for almost a century after Copernicus' death. Newton's work was not generally accepted, particularly on the Continent, for more than half a century after the Principia appeared. Priestley never accepted the oxygen theory, nor Lord Kelvin the electromagnetic theory, and so on.. And Max Planck, surveying his own career in his Scientific Autobiography, sadly remarked that 'a new scientific truth does not triumph by convincing its opponents and making them see the light, but rather because its opponents eventually die, and a new generation grows up that is familiar with it.'".

http://books.google.pl/books?id=9LDdUH8Szb8C&lpg=PP1&dq=The%20Structure%20of%20Scientific%20Revolu&hl=en&pg=PP1#v=onepage&q&f=false

quoting a passage from The Origin of Species in which Darwin suggests that even the most brilliant scientists will likely be unable to adjust to his theory of natural selection.

...

Although I am fully convinced of the truth of the views given in this volume., I by no means expect to convince experienced naturalists whose minds are stocked with a multitude of facts all viewed, during a long course of years, from a point of view directly opposite mine.. [B]ut I look with confidence to the future-to young and rising naturalists, who will be able to view both sides of the question with impartiality.

(Charles Darwin, On the Origin of Species (New York, 1889), vol. II, pp. 295-296. Quoted in Kuhn, p. 151.)

Kuhn's ideas have had an immense impact on the way the scientific enterprise is understood in the universities.

...

Read the whole article here
www.jidaily.com/4fU

August 15 Rhode Island International Film Festival Films at JCC

2010-08-13T14:21:00.000-04:00

Join us Sunday, August 15 as we host three Rhode Island International Film Festival Films

The Jewish Community Center of Rhode Island will host 2 showings (three films in all) as part of the Rhode Island International Film Festival.

The films will be shown this Sunday, August 15.

Please see details below. JCC members will be charged a reduced fee for admission. Please be sure to bring and show your membership card. Movies will be shown in the social hall.

Members: $5 per session

Non-members: $10 per session

For more information about these movies or the Festival, please visit the festival website.

Films

2:00 PM Me and the Jewish Thing (Denmark/Israel, 2009. 42 minutes)

Directed by Ulrik Gutkin

'Me and the Jewish Thing' is a cheerful and confronting documentary study of the collision of two cultures. The documentary paints an intimate picture of what it means to be a non-religious Jew in Denmark today.

(part of the same session) Esther and Me (USA, 2010. 33 minutes)

Directed by Lisa Geduldig

A touching and humorous portrait of San Francisco Jewish nursing home resident Esther Weintraub.

4:00 PM Valentina's Mother (Israel, 2008. 75 minutes)

Directed by Matti Harari and Arik Lubetzky

Paula is 79 years old and lives alone and lonely in Israel, until a friend brings her a Valentina, a Polish girl, to take care of her. Valentina stirs in Paula old, repressed memories from the Holocaust. Slowly she reveals the fabric of her life to the Polish girl.

Jewish Community Center of Rhode Island
401 Elmgrove Ave.
Providence, Rhode Island 02906
401-861-8800

Jewish Community Center of Rhode Island | 401 Elmgrove Ave. | Providence | RI | 02906

August 20 Connecticut Jewish Singles JWeekend at Club Getaway

2010-08-11T21:25:00.000-04:00

Friday 20 August 2010

Jewish Singles JWeekend at Club Getaway: Fri 8/20. Mention JewishNetwork. and save $25. Join Jewish singles from all over the Northeast for a phenomenal weekend. Play every sport under the sun. Head out on new adventures. Take lessons from a Pro. Dine on an abundance of delicious food. Socialize. Dance all night. Laugh. Relax and just have fun at this beautiful and rustic weekend resort on 300 acres overlooking a sparkling lake. Only 90 minutes from New York City by car or Getaway bus and 2 1/2 hours from Boston. Grab a buddy, or come by yourself and make new friends everywhere you go. Club Getaway, Berkshire Mountains, Kent, Connecticut, United States, Victor Fink, 877-777-6055, $379, Jewish, Singles, Club Getaway

Mention JewishNetwork.com and save $25.

You pick the activity, you pick the pace. The day is yours, and so are the choices. Choose from dozens of fun sports and adventures to cool parties and entertainment. Or just kick back, relax and enjoy the warmth of the sun and the friendliness of the crowd.

Whether you are shooting hoops, targeting the bull's eye, or just plain aiming for a great time.

Please note that this is a sample schedule. The actual activity schedule will vary slightly for each weekend. Holiday Weekends have additional vacation time.

Friday Night
5:30 - 9:00 pm Welcome Arrivals Begin!
5:30 - 9:00 pm Join us for Welcome Drinks and Hors D'oeurves on the Lake Side Deck
8:00 - 9:00 pm Meet the Staff and Weekend Campers
9:00 - 10:30 pm Family Style Welcome Dinner with Free Flowing Wine in the Mountain House Dining Room
10:30 pm Join us in The Boat House Lounge for Opening Party, Champagne and Dancing with DJ Craig Cruise. Or Play Volleyball & Basketball under the Lights.

Saturday Morning
8:00 am Early Risers! Morning Coffee and Continental Breakfast
8:00 - 9:00 am Early Morning Mountain Hike
8:30 - 10:00 am Sumptous Buffet Breakfast
9:00 - 10:00 am Yoga with NYC's OM Yoga
9:00 - 10:00 am Advanced Tennis Lessons with Pro Ken
9:00 am - 7:00 pm Lounge by the Lake, Relax and Socialize on the Deck
9:30 - 10:00 am Morning Stretch
9:30 am - 5:30 pm Waterfront Open: Ski, Kayak, Swim, Boat, Canoe, Row, Bounce and Bound on the Water Trampoline and the Climbing Wall Iceberg
10:00 - 11:00 am Basketball Clinic with Former NY Knicks Hollis Copeland
10:00 - 11:00 am Fly on the 350' Aerial Zip Line
10:00 - 11:00 am Cardio Kickboxing with Jen Fitness
10:00 - 11:00 am Intermediate Tennis Lessons with Pro Ken
10:00 - 11:30 am Mountain Bike on Single Track Trails for Beginners
10:00 - 11:30 am Rock Climb - Rappel Down a Rock Ledge
10:00 - 11:30 am Volleyball Clinic - Bump, Set & Spike
10:30 am - 12:00 pm Road Biking - Easy Ride on 21 Speed Specialized Bikes
10:30 am - 12:30 pm Hike Along the Appalachian Trail
11:00 am - 12:00 pm Kayak Class on the Lake
11:00 am - 12:00 pm Learn to Fly on the Trapeze
11:00 am - 12:00 pm Pilates with Jen Fitness
11:00 am - 12:00 pm Challenge the Climbing Wall
11:00 am - 1:00 pm Scuba Class
11:30 am - 12:30 pm Arts & Crafts
11:30 am - 12:30 pm Archery Class
11:30 am - 12:30 pm Golf Lessons with Silo Ridge Pro
11:30 am - 1:00 pm Bike Trip to Town of Kent
11:30 am - 1:00 pm Mountain Hike to Scenic Overlook
11:30 am - 1:00 pm Co-ed Volleyball - Open Play
11:30 am - 1:00 pm 3 on 3 Basketball with Hollis Copeland
11:30 am - 1:00 pm Beginner Tennis Lessons with Pro Ken
12:00 - 1:00 pm Cooking Class with Connecticut Culinary Institute
12:00 - 1:00 pm Trapeze
1:00 - 2:00 pm International Lunch Buffet under the Tent

Saturday Afternoon/Night
2:00 - 3:00 pm Tennis Tournament
2:00 - 3:30 pm Basketball Clinic with Hollis Copeland
2:00 - 3:30 pm Rock Climbing
2:00 - 3:30 pm Intermidiate Road Biking - 10 miles
2:00 - 3:30 pm Mountain Bike II - Single Track Trails Intermediate
2:00 - 3:30 pm Archery Class
2:00 - 3:30 pm Co-ed Volleyball Tournament
2:00 - 3:30 pm Latin and Swing Dance Class with Lucky
2:00 - 3:30 pm Walk to Kent for Shopping or Ice Cream
2:00 - 4:00 pm Advanced Trapeze
2:15 - 4:45 pm Trip to Local Vineyard
2:30 - 4:30 pm Mountain Bike II - Single Track Trails Intermediate
2:30 - 4:30 pm Arts & Crafts
3:00 - 4:30 pm Fly on the Bungee Trampoline
3:00 - 5:00 pm Scuba Class
3:30 - 5:00 pm Advanced Road Bike
3:30 - 5:00 pm Swing Dancing with Lucky
3:30 - 5:00 pm Wine Tasting with Wine Expert Horst
4:00 - 5:30 pm Co-ed Keg Softball
4:30 - 5:30 pm Bike Trip to Town for Ice Cream
4:30 - 5:30 pm Yoga with NYC's OM Yoga
4:30 - 5:30 pm Collage Art Class
4:30 - 7:00 pm Lakeside Happy Hour: Live Music, Complemantary BBQ Grill and Drink Specials
4:30 - 6:00 pm Texas Hold'em Poker
8:00 - 9:30 pm Restauratore Italiano under the Tent followed by Rob and The River Boys Live
9:30 pm The Awsome 80's Party at the Boat House Lounge with DJ Craig Cruise. Aerial Acrobatic Show. Dancing till the wee hours.
12:00 am Midnight Campfire with Live Music and S'mores

Sunday
8:30 am Early Morning Coffee and Continental Breakfast
9:00 - 10:30 am Sumptous Buffet Breakfast
9:00 am - 2:00 pm Lounge by the Lake, Relax and Socialize on the Deck
9:30 - 10:00 am Early Morning Stretch
9:30 am - 2:00 pm Waterfront Open: Ski, Kayak, Swim, Boat, Canoe, Row, Bounce and Bound on the Water Trampoline and the Climbing Wall Iceberg
10:00 - 11:00 am Intermediate Tennis Lessons with Pro Ken
10:00 - 11:00 am Yoga with NYC's OM Yoga
10:00 - 11:00 am Volleyball Clinic - Bump, Set & Spike
10:00 - 11:30 am Bike to Town of Kent
10:00 - 11:30 am Single Track Trails for Beginners
10:00 - 11:30 am Golf Lesson with Silo Ridge Pro
10:00 - 11:30 am Rock Climb - Rappel Down a Rock Ledge
10:00 am - 12:30 pm Walk to Town
10:30 am - 12:30 pm Arts & Crafts
11:00 am - 12:00 pm Kayak Class on the Lake
11:00 am - 12:00 pm Fly on the 350' Aerial Zip Line
11:00 am - 12:00 pm Pilates with Jen Fitness
11:00 am - 12:30 pm Archery Class
11:00 am - 12:30 pm Mountain Hike to Scenic Overlook
11:00 am - 12:30 pm Latin and Swing Dance Class with Lucky
11:00 am - 1:00 pm Scuba Class
11:30 am - 12:30 pm Mountain Bike II - Single Track Trails Intermediate
11:30 am - 12:30 pm Beginner Tennis Lessons with Pro Ken
11:30 am - 1:00 pm Intermidiate Road Biking - 10 miles
12:00 - 1:00 pm Kayak Class on the Lake
12:00 - 1:00 pm Dodgeball Team Challenge
12:00 - 1:00 pm Kick Boxing with Jen Fitness
12:30 - 2:00 pm Challenge the Climbing Wall
12:30 - 2:00 pm 6 Mile Scenic Bike Trip
1:00 - 2:00 pm Lakeside Live Reggae Band
1:00 - 2:00 pm Kayak Class on the Lake
1:00 - 2:00 pm Fly on the Bungee Trampoline
2:00 - 3:00 pm International BBQ Buffet Lunch
2:30 pm Awards Presentation with CG Staff
4:00 pm Hugs & Goodbyes Car and Bus Departure

Israeli Soldiers Intentionally Targeted by Lebanese Snipers

2010-08-03T16:30:00.000-04:00

Consulate General of Israel to the Midwest

August 3, 2010

Israel Clarifies:

IDF Soldiers Fully Within Israeli Territory, Intentionally Targeted

UNIFIL and LAF Knew of Maintenance Work Well in Advance

WASHINGTON - Earlier today, Lebanon army snipers targeted Israeli soldiers that were positioned along the Lebanese border in northern Israel. At the time, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were within Israeli territory, performing routine maintenance work. Specifically, the IDF was in a border area located east of the internationally recognized "Blue Line" (the border between Israel and Lebanon), and west of Israel's security fence adjacent to the Israeli town of Misgav Am - thus, within Israeli territory.

Today's maintenance work, tree trimming, had been fully pre-coordinated with UNIFIL. In July, the IDF patrolled the area in question with UNIFIL, and discussed the maintenance work to be performed. Today, the IDF informed UNIFIL that this maintenance work would be carried out later in the day. UNIFIL asked the IDF to delay the work for a few hours, which the IDF did. UNIFIL then gave notice to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) three hours beforehand. The LAF knew well in advance that this routine maintenance work would be performed today.

Israel suffered casualties from LAF sniper fire intentionally directed at soldiers who were 250 feet (80 meters) away from the maintenance work. The IDF immediately returned fire with light arms, followed by artillery reinforcements. Several minutes later, an Israel Air Force (IAF) helicopter fired at the LAF Battalion Command Center in Al-Taybeh, damaging several LAF armored combat vehicles.

Israel holds the Lebanese government responsible for this incident, and for grossly violating UN Security Council Resolution 1701. Israel joins the international community in calling upon the Lebanese government to take hold of the situation and prevent any further escalation.

August New York Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy Insider Tours

2010-08-02T15:39:00.000-04:00

Further information contact:
Laurie Tobias Cohen, Executive Director
Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy
212-374-4100, ext. 1

Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy announces this year's Insider Tours of the Lower East Side

This Week: Thursday, August 5th - 1:45PM
Sunday, August 8th - 11:45AM

Lo Down Link Here: http://www.thelodownny.com

Tours will start at The Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy Kling/Niman Family Visitor's Center,(under construction) 400 Grand Street (between Clinton and Suffolk Streets) across from Citibank.

To accommodate visitors interested in experiencing the sacred sites and rich history of the Lower East Side, the Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy (LESJC) is continuing its program of scheduled public tours initiated last year. Each tour will be approximately 90 minutes.

Fees for the Insider Tours $12 adults and $10 seniors/students. Children under six are free. Reservations are not required. Tours will take place rain or shine.

Two Insider Tours will be offered:
1) Thursday, August 5th - 1:45PM "CROSSING DELANCEY"

Participants will see the stunning beauty of the Angel Orenanz Cultrual Foundation's interior (formerly Congregation Anshei Chesed); the oldest surviving structure built as a synagogue in New York City.

Visit the magnificently restored Congregation Chasam Sopher, the oldest continually operating synagogue in New York City.
Participants will have the opportunity to browse Streit's Maztoh Factory Outlet, the only family-owned and operated matzoh company in the U.S., and snack on irresistible confections at Economy Candy. (Food costs not included).

2) Sunday, August 8th - 11:45AM "BIALYSTOKER THE BEAUTIFUL"

Participants will view the exterior of Beth Hamedrash Hagadol, former home of the largest Russian-Jewish congregation in the United States.
The Bialystoker Synagogue, the largest active congregation on the Lower East Side today. The Bialystoker Synagogue features a richly painted ceiling with signs of the Zodiac, and hand-painted murals on the walls.
Participants will also learn about Shteibl Row and visit Congregation Beth Hachasidim De Polen, an original 19th Century shteibl (a one room prayer or study hall).

The Tour will include a discussion of the Henry Street Settlement and Lower East Side Mikvah.
*Venues may change.

Call (212) 374-4100 x 1 or 2 to register or for further information.
E-mail info@nycjewishtours.org

For information/reservations, call:
(212) 374-4100 x1 or 2
Email: laurietobiascohen@nycjewishtours.org

The Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to preserving, sharing and celebrating the Jewish heritage of the Lower East Side. Private customized tours available by appointment.

Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy | 235 East Broadway | New York | NY | 10002

Jewish Nature Travel Videos with Mosaic Outdoor Clubs of America

2010-08-02T13:27:00.001-04:00

Jewish Nature Travel Videos with Mosaic Outdoor Clubs of America

August 18 Jewish New York Jabotinsky Memorial Douglas Feith keynote speaker

2010-07-30T21:16:00.000-04:00

1751 Second Ave, New York, NY 10128

Tel: 212-828-2424; Fax: 212-828-1717; afsi@rcn.com; www.afsi.org

Contact: Helen Freedman, Executive Director

August, 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

JABOTINSKY MEMORIAL, AUGUST 18, PARK EAST SYNAGOGUE, NYC

AMERICANS FOR A SAFE ISRAEL/AFSI and the Nordau Circle, invite the entire community to Park East Synagogue, 163 East 67^th Street, between Lexington and 3^rd Avenues, NYC, on Wednesday evening, August 18, 7:30PM, for a memorial service on the occasion of the 70^th anniversary of the death of Vladimir Ze'ev Jabotinsky, and to mark the 130 years since his birth.

Douglas Feith, Former Deputy Under Secretary of Defense, will be the keynote speaker. He echoes the sentiments of the 'Lone Wolf', Jabotinsky, as evident in his New Republic article of May 16, 1994: "To delegitimize the settlements is to attack Zionism the framework that produced the State of Israel at its foundation. This is so because the legal basis for Jewish settlement in the territories is the same as the basis on which the State of Israel was declared in 1948."

AFSI has dedicated this year of 2010 as the Year of Jabotinsky. An essay contest program is being conducted in Israel, and in the U.S., AFSI has published a pamphlet authored by William Mehlman, AFSI's Jerusalem Chairman. The pamphlet, entitled JABOTINSKYTHE MAN AND THE VISION, has been distributed widely to schools, libraries, synagogues, and to our Christian Zionist friends. Copies of the pamphlet will be available at the memorial service, and a special discount will be offered for Shmuel Katz's definitive two volume biography of Jabotinsky, LONE WOLF.

Jabotinsky's remarkable career as a Zionist leader, writer, journalist, soldier, and prophet, illustrates the highest ideals in Zionism. Thirty years ago, Prof. Benzion Netanyahu, the father of Israel's present Prime Minister, gave a speech at the University of Haifa, on the occasion of the 100^th anniversary of Jabotinsky's birth. He stressed Jabotinsky's "firm opposition to the surrender of any right which the Jews possessed as individuals and as a nationto the symptoms of compromise and appeasement which he saw in the responses of the Zionist leadership." It is hoped that Israel's leaders, and the Jewish people, will gain strength and guidance from the prophetic, practical, and heroic message of Ze'ev Jabotinsky.

Contact AFSI: 212-828-2424, afsi@rcn.com for additional information.

May, June New York 92Y Tribeca Jewish Shavuot and Shabbat Dinner

2010-05-17T15:13:00.000-04:00

200 Hudson Street | www.92YTribeca.org | 212.601.1000

Jewish Life Events

Wed, May 19; Session 1 6:30 pm, Improv 7:30 pm, Tasting 8:30 pm; Session 1: FREE, Improv & Tasting $15

EXPLORE, IMPROV, TASTE: SHAVUOT 2010

Join the 92YTribeca Jewish Life community for a special celebration of Shavuot, the holiday that commemorates the giving of the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai. First, EXPLORE: 92YTribeca's Rabbinic intern Hayley Siegel and The New Shul's Rabbi Dan Ain will lead a text-based exploration of Moses and Aaron's distinct personalities and leadership styles during this dynamic and fascinating story in the Torah. Knowledge of Hebrew is not required for this session. Then, IMPROV! Justin Krebs, improv teacher extraordinaire and founder of The Tank, will draw upon the participation and talents of the audience for our creative Bibliodrama of Shavuot's events. And finally, TASTE! Get a delicious dairy reprieve in the form of cheesecake and specialty drink tasting. 92YTribeca Chef Russell Moss will pair four different kinds of cheesecakes with four different specialty drinks.

*JUST ADDED* Fri, Jun 4, 7:30 pm, $30 adv / $35 door

RJENERATION SPRING SHABBAT DINNER

Are you interested in exploring the richness of the unique Russian-Jewish-American identity? 92YTribeca welcomes back rjeneration, a community of young professional Russian-speaking Jews, for their second downtown Shabbat.

www.92YTribeca.org/JewishLife

About 92YTribeca

92YTribeca is the 92nd Street Y's downtown arts and culture venue in New York City. Opened in October 2008, 92YTribeca presents music, comedy, film, theater, talks, classes, family events, and Jewish community and holiday programs in a versatile, street-level, modern space at 200 Hudson Street. In addition to the mainstage and screening room, the venue houses an art gallery, lounge, bar, café, seminar and meeting rooms, and free Wi-Fi around the space. With programs developed by a professional curatorial team in partnership with staff, local artists and arts organizations, new-media companies, fellow presenters, and community and cause-based organizations, 92YTribeca aims to engage a diverse community of young people from around the New York area with smart, relevant programming that encourages participation and conversation. For more information, visit www.92YTribeca.org.

Montreal Unveiling of the Segal Centre’s Exciting 2010-2011 Performing Arts Season

2010-05-03T14:05:00.000-04:00

Canada events, performances, shows, things to do

------------------------------------------------------------

From: Suzanne Shugar

Segal Centre for Performing Arts, Your Key to Culture: first-class theatre tickets, music, dance, and cinema

MONTREAL, May 3, 2010– The Segal Centre for Performing Arts will unveil its inspiring and exciting 2010-2011 season on Thursday, May 6th. Blessed with rave reviews and remarkable success at the box office this season, the thriving performing arts destination has augmented its high quality theatre, music, dance, cinema and performing arts education programming for 2010-2011. The Segal Centre's innovative, inspiring and entertaining program schedule will interest people of all ages and backgrounds, building on its reputation to create cultural bridges through the performing arts.

Where: Segal Centre for Performing Arts
5170 Chemin de la Côte-Ste-Catherine, Montreal

Who is available for interviews?

Directors, and performers including celebrated actress Françoise Faucher 2010 recipient of a Governor General Performing Arts Award for Lifetime Achievement

Artistic Director, Bryna Wasserman
Executive Director, Manon Gauthier

When: Thursday, May 6, 2010

10am-12pm
10:00 - 10:30 - media check-in
10:30 - 11:00 - official launch in main theatre (cameras are welcome)
11:00 - 11:45 - interview opportunities

Refreshments will be served

For more information or to schedule an interview, contact:

Suzanne Shugar                            Émilie Hervieux
Director, Public Relations               Media Relations
Segal Centre for Performing Arts     Segal Centre for Performing Arts
514-739-2301 ext. 8302                  514-739-2301 ext. 8365
sshugar@segalcentre.org               ehervieux@segalcentre.org

Centre Segal des arts de la scène | Segal Centre for Performing Arts

5170 Côte-Ste-Catherine, Montréal, Quebec, Canada H3W 1M7 Tel. (514) 739-2301 Fax (514) 739-9340
© 2010 Segal Centre for Performing Arts

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Classical music records and vinyl recordings for sale

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May Israel Travel

2010-05-02T11:39:00.000-04:00

From: Adrian Cohen

Israel Offers
In this Edition....

First of all
Special Offer - Blue Bay Hotel Netanya
Special Offer - Mecure Suites Bat Yam
El Al news
New cave find in Israel
A gem in the Galilee
Rent a bike in Tel Aviv
Car rental news in Israel
Travel Tips
Mamilla - Quiz
Our products

First of all

Where do I start? Well what a month! In the first instance people who booked their package with a tour operator were much better off than those who were D.I.Y. travel agents (see this month's Travel Tips below) who booked their own travel arrangements. We entered into unchartered territory last month and this was a very serious and costly incident for the industry and it looks as if this will not be the last of its kind. However, in spite of hundreds of thousands of people being affected by this, I do not expect a flood of people booking their holidays with travel agents in the future. Only when this occurs a few times will the penny drop with the travelling public- that being your own travel agent is not always cheap and cheerful.

Now to the day to day issues.

The big question is how are we going to increase the number of tourists to Israel? I suppose you have to go back in time to find the answer. Some of you may know the name Bruce Lyons - who along with his wife Heda put Eilat on the map for the UK market. The Federman family opened the Kate Dan in June 1947 and put Tel Aviv and later many other Israeli cities on the map. Both are examples of hard work of great tourism visionaries and entrepreneurs. As we all know 'Rome was not built in a day' and I know that everyone in our industry wants Israel to be a world tourism player - not tomorrow but yesterday!

But there are excellent signs. First Julie Birchill wrote an excellent article for the Times - click here to read it - then last month there was an excellent write up in Time Magazine on Tel Aviv - so we are moving in the right direction sadly it takes 'time!' (apologies for poor pun).
Blue Bay Netanya

Kindly note the following special rates will apply at the above hotel during August 1 - 31, 2010

The rates are per day and subject to a minimum stay of 3 consecutive nights

This offer is valid for bookings received at our office up to June 13, 2010.

$ 124 per person in double room
$ 210 per person in single room
$ 116 per person in triple room
$ 24 per child under 12 years sharing room with parents

Rates are based on standard type room and include full Israeli breakfast

Mercure Suites Bat Yam

Kindly note the following special rates will apply at the above hotel during August 1 - 31, 2010

The rates are per day and subject to a minimum stay of 3 consecutive nights

This offer is valid for bookings received at our office up to June 8, 2010.

$ 132 per person in double room
$ 230 per person in single room
$ 119 per person in triple room
$ 25 per child under 18 years sharing room with parents

Rates are based on suite type room and include full Israeli breakfast
Bike Riding Flies on El Al

Bike riders like El Al. The Israeli airline is the only known international carrier to allow passengers to travel with their bicycles free of charge.

"Israel is passionate about cycling and, as Israel's national carrier, so are we," says Uri Danor, EL Al's senior executive in Britain and Northern Europe. He points out that Israel's varied nature, its Biblical heritage and the climate attract cycling tours.

In order to encourage bicycling, El Al has hooked up with a mountain biking club to offer a discount on bike rentals for the airline's passengers. Tours include cycle paths in Judea and Samaria and an "Israel Heritage" charity bike trek.

Israel has invested in bicycle paths in major cities, while the "Nature Trail" extending from the northern to southern border has attracted thousands of hikers, although many of the paths are not suitable for bicycles.

Taglit-Birthright Israel offers 10-day "Israel by Bike" tours that include the Western Wall, Tel Aviv, the Golan Heights, Masada, the Dead Sea, camel riding and rafting down the Jordan River.

Israeli researchers explore unchartered Galilee cave

"A journey to the depths of the earth," is the way cave researcher Dr. Yinon Shivtiel, his eyes glistening, describes the first time he rappelled down into a cave just discovered in the Galilee.

Every first entrance into a cave is exciting, he says, referring mainly to his experience a few weeks ago when he rappelled 150 meters into the second deepest cave in Israel.

The cave was found near the Galilee mountain town of Peki'in by an amateur spelunker from Safed, Yuri Lisovates, who reported it to Shivtiel and his colleagues at the Hebrew University's Cave Research Unit.
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Shivtiel says there are others like Lisovates, "a very small group of people, mainly immigrants from the former Soviet Union, for whom this is a sport."

He says he understands why they love caves. "Discovering a cave is a rare experience. All your senses are awake: You know that you're the first to go in, you rappel in by rope into the unknown. You don't know when you'll hit the bottom - after 49 meters, 100 meters or in this case 150 meters. On the way you find stalactites and large chambers and spaces.

The deepest cave discovered in Israel to date is near the Druze village of Beit Jann on Mount Meron. Shrouded in legend, it is dubbed by locals "the whale's mouth." The first attempt to enter it was made in the 1960s, but explorers only reached 50 meters in. In 1984, spelunkers from the Cave Research Unit rappelled in and determined that the cave is 157 meters deep.

Lisovates says the equipment they use nowadays to take measurements, which includes firing a laser beam, is much more precise than in earlier times.

Shivtiel says the Cave Research Unit plans to enter the cave near Beit Jann some day soon to measure it again. "Then we'll know which is the deepest cave in Israel."

But even after that, the "journey to the depths of the earth" will go on, because the Galilee has so many caves, only a few of which have been revealed.

"This is a world of stalactite and stalagmite caves, vertical shafts and branching crawl spaces that are some of the most beautiful in the world. The authorities should treat seriously the stalactite caves that have been discovered in recent years, beyond purely scientific interest," Shivtiel says.

Scientists and amateurs question locals when they survey the Galilee for caves. "We talk to people who know the outdoors, including elderly shepherds who remember stories from their childhood about big caves. Another way to find a place where there might be a cave is to find dolines - underground springs created when rock dissolves and sinks," Shivtiel says.

The new cave was discovered when Lisovates and his friends noticed a crack in rocky ground in a dense forest that an ordinary person would not notice. "Air was coming out of the crack, and if you have experience looking for caves, you realize that when your standing on rocky ground and air comes out from under your feet - you're on to something," Shivtiel says, revealing a professional secret.

Despite the passion to discover new caves, the ground cannot be damaged and, of course, the crevice cannot be widened. "You squeeze into the crack and go very slowly into the cave. It's sensational," Shivtiel says.

And a word to the wise: Pack an extra rope before you start your descent. "You don't know how deep you'll be going," Shivtiel warns.

A Gem in the Galilee

I first met ceramic artist Tzafra Porat in January when I dropped by her studio on Kibbutz Kfar Giladi.

I was immediately impressed by her range of creative designs and by the artist herself, for whom ceramics is clearly a labor of love. As I entered, Tzafra, who was seated at the potters' wheel working on her latest creation, stopped, wiped her clay-covered hands and welcomed me warmly. She spoke briefly about herself and her work.

Born in Kiryat Tivon just over 60 years ago, Tzafra's personal history and that of the State of Israel are closely entwined. As a young girl she was active in the Labor Youth Movement and later met her husband, Yankele, her Nahal commander during military service in the Sinai.

She joined him on Kfar Giladi where she raised three girls and took on a variety of different jobs. In her spare time she participated in a weekly ceramic workshop at the local Tel Hai College. "That was the day of the week I really looked forward to," she says.

Following a two-year sojourn in London in 1986, where her husband served as an emissary for Habonim-Dror, they returned to the kibbutz where a terrible tragedy befell the family. Their youngest daughter, six-year old Raheli, was killed in a car accident near the family home. From the depths of despair and pain she came to the conclusion that life had to continue. A year and a half later Lior was born. He currently serves in the air force.

Following the privatization of the kibbutz, Tzafra decided to pursue her life's dream and open a ceramics studio and gallery selling a wide variety of rustic-style tableware. She can be found in her studio seven days a week and admits that "while it's hard work, I enjoy every moment. I return home exhausted but happy."

As for many Israeli households, Remembrance Day and Independence Day are bittersweet days for Tzafra and her family where personal loss (Yankele's brother, a pilot, fell on a mission 41 years ago) is closely followed by celebration. Tzafra belongs to the generation born soon after the establishment of the state and she is fiercely proud of the free, independent, Jewish state.

Having raised a family under the constant threat of Katyusha rockets and terrorist infiltrations, she remains optimistic.

"Though we live in the shadow of security uncertainties, we enjoy a happy and full life," she says. "I raised my children in the lush scenery of the North and despite everything, I never dreamed of giving up and leaving."

Carrying my new purchases, I take my leave of Tzafra content in the knowledge that I shall soon return to the Upper Galilee and the charming studio in Kfar Giladi.

Tzafra Porat can be reached at (050) 726-5955.

2,000 bicycles to be available for rent around Tel Aviv

After a two-year delay, Tel Avivians may soon be able to rent bicycles The Tel Aviv municipality signed the NIS 100 million deal to grant the bicycle franchise to logistics firm FSM.

Within a year, some 2,000 bicycles will be available at some 100 points around the city. Customers will be able to rent the bikes with a credit card - to prevent theft - and will not be restricted to only Tel Aviv residents. There will be annual subscription plans available, along with the possibility of just renting the bikes by the hour.

There will be about 500 meters between the bike racks at the rental stations, and customers can pick up a bike at any station and return it wherever they choose. The stations will be built in central locations such as theaters, hospitals and train stations. The system is modeled after the one in Paris.

The franchisee will be required to monitor the number of bikes at each location and balance the numbers of bikes available between stations, so that every point has bikes ready for rental. There will be room for 20 bikes at each station. Customers can use the service on a one-time basis or can buy subscriptions.

FSM is owned by publicly traded Fridenson Logistic Services (51%), Eytan Shamir (24.5%) and Lior Mertens (24.5%). Deutsche Bahn, one of the world's largest train operators, will supply the equipment for the project as it also runs bicycle rental services.

The city will buy the equipment for NIS 40 million, and FSM will operate the rental service and maintain the bicycles and other equipment for 10 and a half years, with an option for an additional five years - for NIS 5 million a year. The city and the franchisee will split the revenues from the rentals equally, but the city will also guarantee FSM a minimum of NIS 2 million of rental income a year.

The clock on the franchise period will start to run in a year. The rental stations will have a computerized payment system - in three languages. FSM will also be required to set up an Internet site with information and to provide a customer service call center.

Tel Aviv published an international tender two years ago to operate and maintain such a bicycle rental system all over the city. The project was frozen after FSM was the only bidder, and its bid came in much higher than the city's estimates. The municipality thought part of the problem was that the tender was too small with too few bicycles, and therefore too expensive. To lower costs, Tel Aviv approached its neighboring cities, such as Ramat Gan and Petah Tikva, to join in a metropolitan bicycle rental network - but nothing came of the idea.

In the end, Tel Aviv decided to go it alone, and has already paved some 100 kilometers of bike paths.

The Transportation Ministry will partially subsidize the plan.

Car rental pick up - drop off at Ben Gurion Airport.
Please be aware of new procedures for picking up / dropping off rental cars at Ben Gurion International Airport:

According to the Israel Airport Authority's decision, as of April 11th 2010 the Car Rental Centre returns from Ben Gurion Airport Terminal 3 to its previous location, in Terminal 1. Therefore, as of this date, all car Pick Ups / Drop offs will be at the new location.

Clients of all the car rental companies will be taken from Terminal 3 to the new location by the means of a joint Bus Shuttle service.

Vehicle Pick up: When leaving the Arrival Hall, clients will have to follow the signs directing them.
Travel Tips

OUR PRODUCTS

Visit our booking one stop shop Israel web site - www.israelin1.com - well worth a 'surf!' Besides our reservations department dedicated to the individual traveller to Israel, we also have departments that handle cruises and specialist group bookings. Our groups department handles all types of groups on a worldwide basis. From pilgrimages to weddings* and from study tours to trade missions to our most popular escorted tours.

Our reservations department handles bookings for individuals to Israel, to include fly drive, flights, and hotel accommodation and regular day tours.

We also produce a Newsletter for the pilgrim market - you can subscribe by going to our web site and on our home page following the link www.itstravel.co.uk

Not forgetting that we are bonded with ABTA as a tour operator (V1178) and as a travel agent (C6694), we are also licensed with the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL 2893) and an accredited IATA agent (91284771). So your payments are 100% protected, our professionalism is assured and you are getting the best value, for we are licensed to deal directly with the airlines and all the supplier.

Regards
Adrian

www.itstravel.co.uk

May Krakow (Crakow) Poland Jewish events at the Center for Jewish Culture

2010-05-02T11:33:00.000-04:00

Center for Jewish Culture, Krakow, Poland

ul. Meiselsa 17, 31-058 Kraków
tel. +48 12 430 64 49, 430 64 52
fax +48 12 430 64 97
info1@judaica.pl

Wednesday, May 5th, 6:00 p.m.

Music and Metaphor in Charcoal
- vernissage of drawings by Mateusz LENART, student of Academy of Fine Arts in Krakow.

Friday, May 7th, 7:00 p.m. *

5th FELIX MENDELSSOHN MUSIC DAYS IN KAZIMIERZ
May 7 ? 15, 2010

INAUGURAL CONCERT
by ZEMLINSKY QUARTET of Prague:
Frantisek SOUCEK (1 violin),
Petr STRIZEK (2 violin),
Petr HOLMAN (viola),
Vladimir FORTIN (cello).
works by F. Mendelssohn, R. Schumann, J. C. Arriagi.

Saturday, May 8th, 7:00 p.m. *

CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT
by Daniel PIÓRO (violin, Great Britain) and Carson BECKE (piano, Canada).
works by W. A. Mozart, F. Mendelssohn, F. Chopin.

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Classical music records and vinyl recordings for sale, vintage collection

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Sunday, May 9th, 7:00 p.m. *

CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT
by LEIBNIZ TRIO of Germany:
Hwa-Won PYUN (violin),
Lena WIGNJOSAPUTRO (cello),
Nicolas RIMMER (piano).
works by W. A. Mozart, M. Ravel, F. Mendelssohn.

Monday, May 10th, 7:00 p.m. **

Dominican Basilica in Krakow
ORGAN CONCERT
by Andrzej BIALKO
works by J. S. Bach, F. Mendelssohn, F. Liszt.

Tuesday, May 11th, 8:30 p.m. *

CHOPIN FOR GUITAR, guitar concert by Jan OBERBEK.
works by F. Chopin in transcriptions by J. N. Bobrowicz and J. Oberbek.

Wednesday, May 12th, 7:00 p.m. *

CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT
by SLOVAK QUARTET of Bratislava:
Juraj TOMKA (1st violin),
Eduard PINGITZER (2nd violin),
Július SOSKA (viola),
Martin TAZKY (cello)
and Jan Jakub BOKUN (clarinet, Poland)
works by F. Schubert, F. Mendelssohn, W. A. Mozart.

Thursday, May 13th, 7:00 p.m.**

MENDELSSOHN & CHOPIN
- film evening under the patronage of Associazione Mendelssohn in Milan.
Program:
Mendelssohn inedito (The Unknown Mendelssohn) - documentary written by Roberto PROSSEDA and Angelo BOZZOLINI, FATAKA, 2009, 55 min., in Italian with English subtitles
Chopin's Aftertlife - documentary directed by Ophra Yerushalmi, a New York pianist, (2005, 50 min., in English).

Friday, May 14th, 7:00 p.m. *

PIANO RECITAL
by Marcin KOZIAK
works by F. Chopin.

Saturday, May 15th, 7:00 p.m. *

CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT
by QUARTET of Salzburg:
Michaela GIRARDI (violin),
Peter LAGGARTNER (viola),
Jeremy FINDLAY (cello),
Elena BRASLAVSKY (piano).
works by W. A. Mozart, F. Mendelssohn, R. Schumann.

Saturday, May 15th, 11:00 a.m.

Book Auction
- organized by RARA AVIS in Krakow.
Detailed information available at www.raraavis.krakow.pl

Monday, May 17th, 7:00 p.m.

Israel ? What's next?
- meeting with editor Roman FRISTER, journalist of Israeli press in Poland.

Thursday, May 20th, 7:00 p.m.

On What Was Krakow Built?
- lecture by Prof. Maciej PAWLIKOWSKI, Mineralogy Sciences Commission of the Polish Academy of Sciences.

Monday, May 24th, 7:00 p.m.

LITERARY PROGRAM
Sometimes It Is Not Easy to Defend Yourself. Determinants of Jewish Attitudes at the Time of Occupation
- promotion of the book by Grzegorz Kolacz and meeting with the author.

Saturday, May 29th, 7:00 p.m.

Concert of Arias and Songs
by Ewa NIEZGODA (soprano) and Anna Szyniarowska (piano).
works by W. A. Mozart, G. Handel, G. Bizet, P. Tchaikovsky, E. Grieg, I Paderewski.
* by invitations or tickets only (tickets available at the Center)
** free admission

EXHIBITIONS AT THE CENTER FOR JEWISH CULTURE

Music and Metaphor in Charcoal
- exhibition of drawings by Mateusz LENART, student of Academy of Fine Arts in Krakow.
Exhibition will be open until June 3rd, 2010

May 7-15 Krakow, Poland FELIX MENDELSOHN MUSIC DAYS

2010-04-29T12:04:00.000-04:00

The Judaica Foundation - Center for Jewish Culture

5th. FELIX MENDELSSOHN
MUSIC DAYS
May 7-15, 2010

The detailed Program
of the F. Mendelssohn Music Days is available
on our web site http://www.judaica.pl/temp/dni_mendelssohna_program_2010.pdf

Centrum Kultury Żydowskiej, ul. Meiselsa 17, Kraków
www.judaica.pl

May 12 Noah Alper New York Bagel founder

2010-04-15T16:56:00.000-04:00

San Francisco, California

AJC's Business & Technology Committee is pleased to invite you to hear Noah's New York Bagel founder Noah Alper discuss his new book Business Mensch.

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

6:30 pm reception, 7:00 pm program

$20.00 per person

Location provided upon RSVP

sanfrancisco@ajc.org
415-777-3820

About our Speaker
NOAH ALPER

Alper writes about the power of integrating life experience and spirituality into one's path as an entrepreneur. After a failed business (selling Israeli products to born-again Christians), he found his way to traditional Judaism and started a small bagel shop in Berkeley, founded and run on the Biblical injunction to "lech lecha" - to embrace one's journey while contributing to the community through volunteerism and "tzedakah" - justice. Alper writes with fervor about the necessity of ethical business dealing and the power of integrating life experience and spirituality into one's path as an entrepreneur, and-especially in these trying economic times-honing the ability to innovate, adapt and evolve.

"Business Mensch" is a quick-reading business memoir with both personal and spiritual advice on how to become a "business mensch". He suggests having a little chutzpah, treating both employees and customers right, and taking time off when necessary. This book is about achieving financial success while remaining loyal to timeless values.

REVIEWS

"Alper, the founder of Noah's Bagels (sold to Einstein Bros. for $100 million), offers uplifting business wisdom from his own rocky path to success. This earnest book shines with Alper's conviction, business savvy and decency while he acknowledges the joys of a financial success, he ends with his eyes on the prize. "What's important is providing for your family, conducting yourself with integrity and living a life of meaning."

-PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY, Sept. 12, 2009.

"Noah Alper, in this book, teaches you lessons from his 35 years as an entrepreneur. Four of his six major ventures succeeded, and in this business, that is great. Noah's Bagel leveraged his distinctly Jewish roots, as does this book...I do not think you will read a more honest book this year.

-MYJEWISHBOOKS.COM, September, 2009

Camino Tassajara

Classical Music records and vinyl recordings for sale

Austin Texas Jewish Business Network

2010-04-13T12:24:00.000-04:00

Good event for Jewish singles in Austin, Texas

Austin Texas Jewish Business Network

NOW FREE ENTRY, Starting Earlier, and Many More Exciting Changes

Next Meeting, Tues. April 20, NEW TIME: 6:15-7:50 at the Jewish Community Association of Austin, 7300 Hart Lane

Hear Exciting Speakers, Exchange Business Leads, and Job Opportunities, Promote Your Business, and/or Come Socialize and Network with other Austin area attendees, at Our 3rd Tuesday, Monthly Meetings

Our April Featured Speaker, the always informative, Andy Lobsenz, Anco Auto Specialties, LobsenzA@AncoAuto.com

TOPIC: Strategies for Purchasing your Next Vehicle

Andy Lobsenz is a consultant has negotiated the purchase of many new and used vehicles. He has handled almost every type of scenario that can
occur. He will be presenting how to purchase a vehicle. The presentation will include:

· How to purchase a new or used vehicle

· How to negotiate the best price

· How to determine which vehicle best meets your needs

· How to equip your vehicle (including safety equipment)

· Recent Toyota safety concerns

· Maximizing your rebates

· How to sell your old vehicle

· Payment options

· Lease vs. Purchase

AGENDA:

6:15-6:30 Arrival/Individual Networking
6:30-6:45 or 7:00 Self-Introductions (beneficial to know who offers what you may need)
6:45-7:30 or 7:00-7:45 Speaker (any over time additional questions can be emailed to the speaker or asked at dinner)
7:30-7:35 or-7:45-7:50 Announcements and Clean Up (public announcements about any Jewish community events)
8:15 Optional Dinner at Dave and Buster's (where much of the productive, fun networking actually takes place)

DOOR PRIZES: Two $25 gift certificates to Austin's newest Jewish owned business, Yo So Cool frozen yogurt, with two locations to serve you. Courtesy of Rachel and Henry Kalinsky.

I'm also introducing a new game to the group. The more you come, the more chances you have to win up to $500! Learn more at the meeting.

BRING: Business Cards, Company Literature, Promotional Items, Visual Aids, Samples, and/or Resumes

Members of the JCAA & Jewish Community, of All Ages, Single or Married Welcome.

Email Jody Lockshin, jody@austinjbn.org with questions, comments, to volunteer to speak, and/or to contribute a door prize.

April 13 Austin Texas Jewish Business Network Job Club

2010-04-13T12:14:00.000-04:00

Austin Texas Jewish Business Network

CONNECT FORWARD Job Club - Join us April 13th! We are back at the J From: Suzy

THE CONNECT FORWARD Job Club

UNEMPLOYED? UNDEREMPLOYED?

Acquire instructive job search information

Connect to others

Share information

Build sustaining networks

Learn from informative guest speakers

When: Weekly Tuesday meetings

Time: 9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

Where: The JCAA - 7300 Hart Lane, Austin, TX 78731

(Tell security guard you are here for job club)

Conference Room 150C (Enter double doors of main building)

Facilitator: Suzy Drapkin, Career Development and Planning Strategist/Principal of Career Achievers 512-590-2545; sdrapkin@careerachievers.com

Fee: Free - Open to anyone interested in receiving positive and constructive support during a difficult transitional period.

No Vendors Please

April 30 Broward County Florida Lag B’Omer Campfire, Weenie Roast, & Creative Shabat

2010-04-12T20:02:00.001-04:00

Jewish event Broward County in Miami area

Lag B'Omer Campfire, Weenie Roast, & Creative Shabbat

Start Time: Friday, April 30 at 6:30pm
End Time: Friday, April 30 at 7:30pm
Where: T.Y. Park (Topekeegee Yugnee Park)

When: Arrive between 6:30 and 7:30 pm on Friday, April 30.

What: Lag B'Omer is a holiday which falls on the 33 day of the omer, and which is traditionally celebrated by the lighting of bonfires. It is a time of dancing and singing, picnics and outings. We will begin our celebration with a creative Shabbat service, including Kiddush and Motzie, then a weenie roast at a huge bonfire. This will be followed by an exciting evening of festivities around the fire, including singing, drumming, meditations, and, of course, s'mores! We are partnering with several other Jewish groups, and inviting the entire South Florida Jewish community.

Where: T.Y. Park (Topekeegee Yugnee Park), 3300 N. Park Road, Hollywood, 954-357-8811

Directions: I-95 to Sheridan Street in Hollywood. Exit Sheridan, go west to the second traffic light (N. Park Rd.), and turn right (north) to the park entrance. Turn right at the guard house and go all the way to the end of the road (near Sheridan St), and park. You will then walk off towards the left (east), following the path by the fence along Sheridan St, and you will find the campfire area.

Bring: Flashlight, water bottle and appropriate clothes. You may also want to bring song books, drums, and a camp chair if you have one.

Cost: $10 for Mosaic members and non-members. Cost includes park entrance & campsite fees, kosher hot dogs, s'mores, and Kiddush. We'll have water available for everyone as well. If you object to handling money on Shabbat, please call Rick in advance to make arrangements to mail your payment.

Contact: No RSVP is necessary. For more information, call Rick at 954-435-3388 or email him at vp@southfloridamosaic.org

Pet care and sitting service Coral Springs, North Broward, Coconut Creek, Margate, Parkland, dogs, cats, birds, other

Classical vinyl records music recordings for sale

United States Car Rentals

May New York 92Y Jewish Events

2010-04-12T14:21:00.000-04:00

May New York 92Y Jewish Events

92Y May JEWISH Highlights:

--May 2 - The 7th Annual Sheba Film Festival kicks off at the 92nd Street Y with a screening of the documentary Children of the Bible.

--May 20 - Jonathan Tisch discusses active citizenship, the subject of his forthcoming book Citizen You.

Don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or need additional information. We welcome your feedback.

TICKETS/INFO | www.92Y.org | 1395 Lexington Ave. | 212.415.5500

PRESS CONTACT: Meryl Wheeler | mwheeler@92Y.org | 212.413.8841

JEWISH LIFE & CULTURE at the 92ND STREET Y
Lectures & Panels - Workshops - Performances - Films - Family Programs
May 2010

====================================================================================
New York

92Y Shababa Community
Jewish Family Experiences with Karina

Every Friday, 9:30-10:15 am OR 10:45- 11:30 am, $10 adults
Shababa at 92Y | 92Y SHABABA FRIDAYS WITH KARINA AND COCO
Join this celebration for families with small children every Friday morning. Cantorial soloist and educator Karina Zilberman and her cat puppet pal Coco welcome Shabbat in a playful, interactive and dynamic experience for all ages. Enjoy a friendly, welcoming atmosphere and bond with your toddler and the Shababa community in embracing the festive feeling of Shabbat.

Every Saturday, 10:30 am-12:30 pm, ***FREE***
Shababa at 92Y | 92Y SHABABA SATURDAYS WITH KARINA AND COCO
Newborns to 5 yrs
92Y offers a free Shabbat celebratory experience for the whole family every Saturday, with instruments, arts and crafts, puppets and movement. Join Karina Zilberman and her puppet pal Coco for a multigenerational, interactive and dynamic Shabbat experience. Bring your family to meet ours!

Every Saturday, 11 am-noon, ***FREE***
Shababa at 92Y | SHABABA SATURDAY CLUB
Ages 5-8 yrs
92Y offers a free celebratory Shabbat designed to expand and deepen your child's Jewish experience. This special hour devoted to five- to eight-year-olds engages these older children through creative and traditional approaches. Their younger siblings are welcome at 10:30 am for the Shabbat morning program.

Fri, May 7, 10:15-11, $10 child / adults free
Shababa at 92Y | SHABABA BAKERY
Squish, roll and braid your very own challah and take it home to bake. While preparing the dough, sing with Karina Zilberman and feel the Shabbat spirit. See Shababa Bakery video here

Sun, May 2, 4-6 pm, $30 per family with one child / $40 per family with two or more children
ISRAELINESST: ISRAELI FAMILY PROGRAMS
For Newborn to pre-K
IsraelinessT Family Programs is an Israeli-style, bi-weekly experience for families with young children, focusing on Israeli culture and conducted entirely in Hebrew. Moms, dads and kids up to pre-K are fully immersed in Hebrew language and contemporary Israeli culture while enjoying a range of activities, including music, storytelling, arts and crafts, Jewish and Israeli holiday celebrations, special events, 92Y's GymMaze and more!

Sun, May 2, 4-6 pm, $15 per child
ISRAELINESST: DROP-OFF PROGRAMS
For Kindergarten, First and Second Grade
IsraelinessT Drop-Off Programs is an Israeli-style, bi-weekly experience for older children, focusing on Israeli culture and conducted entirely in Hebrew. At the "drop-off" program, children will enjoy activities including cooking using one of 92Y's kitchens, arts and crafts, and special activities, all in Hebrew.

Fri, May 21, 10:15-11 am, $10 child / adults free
Shababa at 92Y | SHABABA BAKERY
All ages
Squish, roll and braid your very own challah and take it home to bake. While preparing the dough, sing with Karina Zilberman and feel the Shabbat spirit. See Shababa Bakery video here.

======================================================================================

LECTURES, WORKSHOPS, WALKING TOURS, FILMS AT 92Y

Sun, May 2, 12:15-2:30 pm, $25
Walking Tour | BEAUTIFULLY RESTORED SITES OF THE LOWER EAST SIDE
Visit the marvelously restored Bialystoker synagogue and the Eldridge Street Synagogue, two of the most prominent sacret sites during the peak of Jewish immigration to the Lower East Side. The Bialystoker Synagogue features a richly painted ceiling and hand-painted murals on the walls, while the Eldridge Street Synagogue boasts richly-hued stained-glass windows and a majestic carved walnut ark.

SCREENING + DISCUSSION - BINA Cultural Foundation 7th Annual Sheba Film Festival
Sun, May 2, 7 pm, $24
CHILDREN OF THE BIBLE
Director: Nitza Gonen. Israel 2009, 53 mins. Hebrew and Amharic with English subtitles. This documentary film features Israeli rapper and informal educator Jeremy "Cool" Abash as he exposes the complex situations facing Ethiopian-Israeli youth. Abash works towards changing the humiliated and depressed image of the Ethiopian community in Israel, both in its own eyes and in the eyes of Israeli society, by bringing members of the Ethiopian community closer to their tradition-the songs, the meaning of Ethiopian names, stories about the lives of the Ethiopian community and the journey that has taken on mythical proportions. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion; participants TBA.

Tue, May 4, 8:15 pm, $27
BERNARD LEWIS AND BRET STEPHENS IN CONVERSATION: RELIGION, POLITICS & JUSTICE IN THE MODERN MIDDLE EAST
Influential and bestselling author Bernard Lewis joins Wall Street Journal editorial page editor Bret Stephens for an unflinching assessment of the state of the Middle East at this pivotal point in time--the beginning of the decade and still in the first years of the Obama Administration. Delve into the Middle East's most urgent issues, from peace and freedom to democracy and religion, from gender issues to the clash of civilizations. Lewis' books include The Crisis of Islam: Holy War and Unholy Terror, and What Went Wrong?: The Clash Between Islam and Modernity in the Middle East, and the upcoming Faith and Power: Religion and Politics in the Middle East (Oxford University Press, USA, May 5, 2010). Stephens writes "Global View," the Wall Street Journal's weekly foreign-affairs column and was previously editor-in-chief of the Jerusalem Post.

Tue, May 11, 8:15 pm, $27
THE HIDDEN JEWS OF PERSIA
Learn about the unique and inspiring history of the small Jewish community of Mashad, Persia. After a pogrom in the 1800s, the community avoided persecution by officially converting to Islam, yet practiced Judaism in secrecy for 84 years, finally emerging with its Jewish identity and traditions intact. The program is followed by Q&A with members of the thriving Mashadi community in New York.

Sun, May 16, 11 am-1 pm, $25
Walking Tour | THE JEWISH COMMUNITY OF REVOLUTIONARY-AND-COLONIAL-ERA NEW AMSTERDAM
Trace the early history of Jewish colonial New York. Visit important Jewish sites and learn about their historical significance, including the early Spanish and Portuguese rented synagogue and the Mill Street Synagogue, the first built in North America. Also visit Congregation Shearith Israel's cemetery at Chatham Square (now Chinatown).

Thu, May 20, 8 pm, $27
JONATHAN TISCH IN CONVERSATION: ACTIVE CITIZENSHIP
Jonathan Tisch joins a guest (TBA) in a conversation focusing on how individuals make a difference in America and the world through active citizenship, and are now more effective than ever. In his new book, Citizen You (Crown, May 4, 2010), Tisch tells the story of the transformation of volunteerism to involvement, charity to social entrepreneurship, paternalism to community-based action and targeted philanthropy to systemic change.

ABOUT THE 92ND STREET Y
Generously endowed by the Samuel Bronfman Foundation, the 92nd Street Y Bronfman Center for Jewish Life is the spiritual center of the Y, welcoming everyone seeking a better understanding of Jewish culture. The Center presents New York City's premier Jewish lecture series, which features renowned thinkers, authors and public figures like Elie Wiesel - now in his fifth decade at the Y - Susannah Heschel, Alan Dershowitz and Anne Roiphe. Classes, workshops and holiday celebrations introduce adults and children to the values and rituals of Jewish life. The breadth of the Bronfman Center's offerings and its egalitarian, nondenominational nature make the 92nd Street Y New York's premier address for Jewish learning. For more information, please visit www.92Y.org/jewish.

Founded in 1874 by a group of visionary Jewish leaders, the 92nd Street Y has grown into a wide-ranging cultural, educational and community center serving people of all ages, races, faiths and backgrounds. The 92nd Street Y's mission is to enrich the lives of the over 300,000 people who visit in person each year as well as those who visit virtually, through the Y's satellite, television, radio and Internet broadcasts. The organization offers comprehensive performing arts, film and spoken word events; courses in the humanities, the arts, personal development and Jewish culture; activities and workshops for children, teenagers and parents; and health and fitness programs for people of every age. Committed to making its programs available to everyone, the 92nd Street Y awards nearly $1 million in scholarships annually and reaches out to more than 6,000 public school children through subsidized arts and science education programs. For more information, please visit www.92Y.org.
# # #

Meryl Wheeler, Publicist
92nd Street Y
1395 Lexington Ave.
New York, NY 10128
212.413.8841 | mwheeler@92Y.org

Visit our website at www.92Y.org

Snorkeling in Key Largo with the Jewish Adventure Club of South Florida

2010-04-12T11:44:00.001-04:00

Snorkeling in Key Largo with the Jewish Adventure Club of South Florida

June 27, 11:15 a.m. Sunday Keys Diver Snorkel Tours, or 9:15 a.m. at our carpool site in Hollywood.

Snorkeling in the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary on the coral reefs of John Pennekamp. These waters are the home of some of the most beautiful diving in the United States, home of America's first undersea Park and only living coral reef. The shallow water reefs of Pennekamp State Park and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary have been protected for over 40 years making it an ideal destination for viewing Tropical reef fish close up in their own environment. This is like swimming in an aquarium. Snorkeling gear will be provided if you don't have your own gear. Basic instruction and fish identification lectures will be provided by the vendor. Expect maximum depths on the reefs of 10' to 20', and the tops of the coral heads will likely extend out of the water on low tide. You should anticipate awesome visibility this time of year, and the seas should be calm. We expect to do at least one snorkeling charter every year, and expect this trip to be full! After the dive, please join the Jewish Adventure Club for dinner at a nearby restaurant! If you don't stay for dinner, be sure to discuss this with your fellow car poolers. The Boat will depart at exactly 12:15 p.m. and we can expect to return at around 5:00 p.m. Please make sure to be on time so this way we can get all the signing in out of the way and be ready to get on-board by noon.

Keys Divers Snorkel Tours, 99696 Overseas Highway, 305-451-1177

Carpooling: We'll meet at the Holiday Inn in Hollywood. I-95 to Sheridan St Exit #24. West on Sheridan to the first light (29th Ave); Make a right turn on 29th (North) and then make the first left into the Holiday Inn. We'll meet in the parking lot on the LEFT side of the Holiday Inn as you're facing the hotel. Please meet us at 9:15 a.m. as we will be departing at 9:30 a.m. sharp

Directions: Take I-95(S) to 836 West (exit #6) to the Florida Turnpike. Continue south to the end at Florida City OR take the Florida Turnpike as far South as it will go, and merge to US 1 in Florida City. Follow US 1 South and watch for mile marker signs (on the sides of the Road). Continue to MM 100 (next to Wendy's) on the right (bay side).

Things you should bring are: Bathing suit, sunscreen, snacks, lunch for dockside picnic before we leave, waterproof camera, water and water bottle, a change of clothes; snorkeling gear is included, but you may wish to bring your own, and bring money for dinner after the dive.

Cost: $36. Prices include gear (mask, fins, snorkel and safety vest) and instruction. Must RSVP and be paid for by June 12th to hold your spot on the boat

For more information please contact Jimmy 954-695-1026

April - Oct Austin Texas Jewish Business Network Meetings

2010-04-09T12:30:00.000-04:00

April - Oct Austin Texas Jewish Business Network Meetings

From: JodyL

1. JBN will now offer FREE meetings for ALL.

2. REVISED, MORE CONCISE AGENDA:
6:15-6:30 Arrival/Individual Networking (Later start time to help w/ traffic delays, plus shortened networking time frame so dinner is earlier)
6:30-6:45 or 7:00 Self-Introductions (Very beneficial to know who offers what you may need)
6:45-7:30 or 7-7:45 Speaker (Any over-time additional questions can be emailed to the speaker or asked at dinner)
7:30 or 7:45-7:50 Announcements and Clean Up (Public announcements about any Jewish community events for all to know about)
8-8:15 Optional Dinner at Dave and Buster's (Where much of the productive, fun networking actually takes place)

3. Networking Info.: Be aware that networking isn't just attending one meeting. It takes repeat participation to get results, whether you need business, employees, or a job, people must see you multiple times to feel comfortable exchanging referrals.

4. Participants are discouraged from soliciting others they don't know for referrals, business, testimonials, etc. If you want these things from our participants, you must attend the meetings and actually get to know people before requesting such favors.

5. Upcoming Presentations:

April 20, Andy Lobsenz, Anco Auto Specialties, "Strategies for Purchasing Your Next Vehicle"

May 11 (Rather than May 18 due to JCAA conflict) Nancy Wolf, Board of Directors President, The Odyssey School, "Learning Differences and Disorders

June, July, Aug. Off for Summer

Sept. 21, Eric Pomerantz, Vice-President, RiverStone Wealth Management, Topic TBA

Oct. 19, Peter Lubell, COO, Austin Toros Basketball Team, "Jumping Through Hoops for the Austin Community-How the Austin Toros Are Building A Brand Through Community Engagement"

Nov. 16, Judith Sokolow, LMSW, Senior Programs Coordinator, Jewish Family Service, "Resolving Conflict"

6. People who have offered to speak and their topics:

Personality Testing (Marina Braverman)

Writing Content: Differences Between Websites, Marketing Documents, Books, Newsletters, Etc. (David Fried)

How to Save Money on Energy Bills (Hal Bogatz)

Jewish Funeral Customs and Planning (Mitzi Chafez)

Stress Management (Rich Goldstein)

Financial Planning (Shelli Miller)

7. ANYONE with expertise in these things, PLEASE contact me to speak:

Stress Relief and its Relation to Business Success (someone offered to speak on this, but didn't give me their name or contact info.)
Business Plans

Software
Benefits of a Positive Attitude in Networking Situations
Marketing Ideas via Internet, Social Media, Blogging, Etc.
Organization of Home and/or Office for Optimal Performance
How to Effectively Network

Content Management System DotNetNuke
Interesting Austin Industry and Real Estate News
Domain names

Search Engine Optimization
Great Business Success Stories (perhaps a panel discussion)
Local Real Estate Market
Austin Jewish Community in Comparison to Other Cities

7. Door Prizes: We have a few offers, but need more. If you have a product or service to donate, let me know. Gain exposure for your generous donation in print, web and at the meetings.

8. Those looking for jobs are encouraged to attend the Connect Forward weekly meetings hosted by Suzy Drapkin, Licensed Career Counselor, sdrapkin@careerachievers.com, www.careerachievers.com. This group is more tailored to job search techniques, reentering the job market, resume writing, job leads, interview techniques, etc. than JBN.

9. Look at all that JBN offers! Take advantage now:

Now FREE participation
Viable networking opportunities among Jews, Jewish Singles, those partnered with Jews and/or members of the JCAA
Many attendees have obtained jobs, business or employees from the contacts made
Timely, interesting speakers, refreshments, door prizes
Promotion of other Jewish activities and volunteer opportunities in the community
Website www.austinjbn.org
LinkedIn group (http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=92799&trk=myg_ugrp_ovr)
Yahoo Group (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/JewishBusinessNetwork/)
Free on-line business database, job bank and resume postings. Need a service? Offering a service? Need a job? Have a job opening? http://www.austinjbn.org/businessdb.shtml
Monthly meetings w/ the exception of Dec., June, July and Aug.
We sponsor the Connect Forward Job Club, with a certified career counselor (www.careerachievers. com)

10. We need someone to host our site. Joe Gandall, who has graciously done it free for the last many years, is ready to hand over the job. Who can help us?

THANKS TO ALL OF YOU!
CONTACT ME WITH ANY QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS. JODY@AUSTINJBN.ORG

May3 Washington, DC Program on American Jewish Soldiers in WWII at Library of Congress

2010-04-09T12:03:00.000-04:00

OURS TO FIGHT FOR: AMERICAN JEWISH SOLDIERS IN WWII
Lecture and audio-visual presentation by Jason Steinhauer

WHEN: MONDAY MAY 3, 2010 AT 12 NOON

WHERE: LIBRARY OF CONGRESS, DINING ROOM A-6TH FLOOR

American Jewish soldiers participated greatly in the American war
effort and their military service impacted an entire generation of
American Jewry. Drawing on his work on the award-winning "Ours to Fight
For" exhibition at the Museum of Jewish Heritage, and collections from
the
Veterans History Project, Jason Steinhauer*s presentation will
feature excerpts of documentary films, oral history testimony, and
slides. (more details below).

FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT-Gail Shirazi gshi@loc.gov, 202-707-9897

Veterans History Project and Hebrew Language Table Explore American
Jewish Service in World War II

More than 550,000 American Jewish soldiers served in World War II. They
received 52,000 decorations for gallantry. Their contribution to Allied
victory was enormous; their military service transformative for an
entire generation.

Jason Steinhauer, Liaison Specialist at the Library of Congress
Veterans History Project, will discuss the contributions, impact and
legacy of American Jewish service in World War II on May 3, 2010, at
12:00 p.m. in Dining Room A of the Library*s James Madison Building.
Co-sponsored by the Library*s Hebrew Language Table, the presentation
kicks off the Library*s Jewish American Heritage Month celebration.

The lecture and discussion will draw on collections from the Veterans
History Project and Steinhauer*s work as Assistant Curator on the
award-wining exhibition Ours to Fight For: American Jews in the Second
World War at the Museum of Jewish Heritage - A Living Memorial to the
Holocaust. The exhibition received the American Association of
Museum*s Grand Prize for Excellence in Exhibitions for 2003.
Steinhauer joined the Veterans History Project staff in December 2009.

The Veterans History Project of the American Folklife Center houses the
remarkable stories of hundreds of American Jewish war veterans.
First-person accounts of veterans of the Second World War are
spotlighted in one of the Project*s Experiencing War web features,
titled *Jewish Veterans of World War II.* These one-of-a-kind
stories may be found at www.loc.gov/vets.

Congress created The Veterans History Project in 2000 as a national
documentation program of the American Folklife Center
(www.loc.gov/folklife/) to record, preserve and make accessible the
first-hand remembrances of American wartime veterans from World War I
through the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, so that future
generations may hear directly from veterans and better understand the
realities of war. Over 68,000 individual stories comprise the collection
to date. The project relies on volunteers to record veterans*
remembrances using guidelines accessible at www.loc.gov/vets. Volunteer
interviewers may request information at vohp@loc.gov or the toll-free
message line at (888) 371-5848. Subscribe to the VHP RSS to receive
periodic updates of VHP news.
Gail Shirazi (202) 707-9897

Aprli 25 New York American Jews Respond to Administration's Scapegoating of Israel

2010-04-08T12:55:00.000-04:00

From: US 4Israel

IT IS TIME TO MAKE OUR VOICES HEARD.

STAND IN SOLIDARITY WITH ISRAEL'S RIGHT
TO BUILD AND LIVE IN ITS OWN COUNTRY.
PROTEST THE ADMINISTRATION'S SCAPEGOATING OF ISRAEL.

DATE: Sunday, April 25, 2010 -- 1 PM

LOCATION: Israel Consulate, 2nd Ave between 42nd and 43rd St, NYC

To confirm your participation, endorse, or otherwise help with this event: (212) 726-1124 or actionalliance1@yahoo.com
"Humanity sympathizes with a strenuous aspiration. It can't have respect for people who lack self respect." Pierre Van Paassen - "The Forgotten Ally"

By Beth Gilinsky and Rabbi Aryeh Spero

We have been receiving numerous communications from the People of Israel expressing how demoralized and abandoned the Jewish People in Israel feel by the lack of any strong and meaningful statement and vigorous, public demonstrations sponsored by any of the major and established Jewish organizations in support of Israel's position regarding Jerusalem.

They feel that the treatment of Israel during the last three weeks by President Obama, Hillary Clinton, and spokesmen for the Administration has been an unprecedented humiliation of the Jewish State and a willful isolation of it among the community of nations.

In addition, they are alarmed at the silence of the Jewish community in light of how the Obama Administration has been making statements and taking measures that everyone knows give license for the Arab population within Israel and on its borders to renew intifada and rioting that will severely harm the individual Israeli, as is already being done.

Furthermore, the brazen and humiliating way in which the Prime Minister of Israel, the de facto representative of the entire Jewish People, was treated by the entire staff of the White House in front of all the eyes of the world should not be tolerated. It is encouraging other Western countries, as well as Arab countries, to treat Israel as a diplomatic pariah and even question Israel's legitimacy as a state itself.

The Israeli People are not looking for yet another statement from the establishment Jewish community as to how we are in favor of a peace process, a "two-state solution", or that the last three weeks of humiliation "disrupts" further peace negotiations. What they are looking for, and what the establishment Jewish organizations should do, is to express their outrage at the mistreatment and humiliation of the Jewish State and attempts to portray the Jewish State as being the sole entity blocking a successful War on Terror. This is reminiscent of previous blood libels throughout history, where the Jewish People have been accused that their existence, rituals, or means of survival has been the cause for the loss of Muslim or Christian life.

The Jewish world is awaiting your affirmation that the entire city of Jerusalem must continue to be under Jewish sovereignty and is Israel's eternal, united capital, and that Jews not be specifically outlawed from building and living in all of its neighborhoods.

Furthermore, it is apparent that the Obama Administration, from the President to Mrs. Clinton, to David Axelrod, and the President's spokesmen are engaging in an attempt to overturn the will of the Israeli People who voted for the current Prime Minister and his coalition partners. They view it -- and rightly so -- as a belittlement not only to their sovereignty, but also to their right to determine who their leaders should be.

On so many fronts, the past three weeks have been an absolute and unwarranted, yet purposeful, humiliation of the Jewish People and the State of Israel. We would expect that the establishment Jewish organizations and leaders would have the courage to stand up, with pride, for the Jewish People and its state. Instead, we are witnessing a silence that conveys the message that the leadership of the Jewish community is more interested in being friends with the Administration than doing its duty by announcing to the world that this cannot be tolerated. We look for the Jewish organizations and its leaders to speak Truth to Power.

The silence of the established Jewish organizations on this matter, in contrast to the outspokenness from J Street, has elevated and allowed J Street to become the most visible and prominent organization speaking out about these issues within the Jewish community. No doubt, many of our leaders are working behind the scenes to repair the rupture of the last three weeks. In this case, however, that is simply not enough and evades the real issue. The world at large has seen a public humiliation and rebuke of the State of Israel go unanswered. Unless it sees a profoundly public rebuke of such treatment, it will assume that such humiliating treatment of Jews and the Jewish State are now acceptable and de rigueur.

The World must hear. The World must see. It takes little courage to meet with other leaders behind closed doors. The courage that is needed now is one where the world sees that Israel, its representatives and the Jewish People cannot tolerate that which no other nation or community would tolerate. Failure to do so openly and in public will guarantee that this will happen again, even if this particular crisis is "smoothed out."

Leaders are not simply men and women who work behind the scenes. Leaders of a community are those who have enough conviction and pride in the profile of their community that they boldly, with enthusiasm, defend their People when unjustly humiliated. Doing so stops the slide of demoralization in its people and restores their confidence in themselves as a People, a people with a legitimate destiny. The American Jewish Community expects that type of leadership from those who claim to be its leaders.

PLEASE PASS THIS EMAIL ON TO ALL FRIENDS OF ISRAEL IN THE UNITED STATES. THANK YOU VERY MUCH. If you wish, cc us at: us4israel@gmail.com.

Thanks for helping Israel.
US4Israel

April Manchester England Sherman Jewish Lectures

2010-04-01T20:36:00.000-04:00

Links added. Great Jewish educational events in Manchester, England

From: Penelope Junkermann

2010 Sherman Lectures

The Sherman Lectures 2010 will be delivered by Prof. Bernard Jackson, Professor Emeritus of University of Manchester and Professor of Law and Jewish Studies at Liverpool Hope University, on 'Halakhah, Inheritance and "the Heritage of Israel"', April 19-22 2010 in the Arts Lecture Theatre of the Samuel Alexander Building (building 67 on the campus map). The first lecture, on April 19th will be followed by a Kosher reception. For more details see http://www.mucjs.org/sherman10.htm.

Everyone is welcome but, if possible, please reply to this email to let us know if you intend to come.

I have provided the lecture titles and the abstracts provided by Prof. Jackson below:

1. Monday 19th April 2010: ''Heritage and Inheritance in the Hebrew Bible'

I commence by introducing the conceptual and terminological issues involved in the relationship between Heritage and Inheritance, and proceed to discuss these issues in the context of succession to the covenant from Abraham to Moses, including the distinction between bekhorah and berakhah in the two narratives regarding Jacob's succession to Isaac. I then consider two issues that go beyond the basics of inheritance and which raise also the question of the nature of the "rules" at this stage of the tradition: first, the position of women, then various forms of disinheritance not only from property but also from forms of authority.

2. Tuesday 20th April 2010: 'Between the Hebrew Bible and the Rabbis'

Luke's parable of the prodigal son combines, at its different levels, issues of inheritance (to the estate of the father) and heritage (succession to the covenant, at the parable's referential level). At both, we find "unresolved problems", indicating a still less-than-complete level of institutionalisation. Jewish texts also provide a parabolic form of discussion of succession to an aspect of the covenant, the land, in the form of a (mythical) trial before Alexander the Great, where the issue is debated (as in Luke, but here with biblical proof texts) in terms of the halakhah of inheritance applicable to individuals. The New Testament, of course, also provides accounts of a trial concerned fundamentally with the nature and destination of the Jewish heritage: the trial of Jesus. I argue that this is couched primarily in terms of succession to the authority of the "prophet like Moses", which is manifest also in the narratives of Jesus' life as well as his death.

3. Wednesday 21st April 2010: 'The Rabbinic Inheritance'

By a somewhat ironic accident (or is it?), the Christian scriptures came to be known as the new "Testament". The descent of (primarily rabbinic) authority in Judaism also assumed a juridical form: the "chain of tradition" is expressed in terms of a form of qinyan of property, notwithstanding the "spiritual" transmission implied by the original form of semikhah, and even the rabbinic office was claimed to descend by way of inheritance. The distinction between semikhah and qinyan may also reflect a development of the understanding of the role of human beings within the overall system of divine justice, from a "monistic" (directly inspired) model to a "dualistic" model (based on delegated authority). Though the latter ultimately prevailed, traces of the former still survive. Aspects of this tension may be seen in the ongoing debates about the problem of the agunah. Yet despite the self-imposed limits on rabbinic authority which have developed within the model of delegated authority, a wider form of authority is now increasingly claimed by the (haredi) rabbinate, under the banner of Da'as torah, a concept which seeks not only a reversion to a unified conception of authority (despite the three ketarim), but also clearly extends the normativity of rabbinic authority from inheritance (halakhah) to heritage.

4. Thursday 22nd April 2010: 'Halakhah and the "Heritage of Israel" in the State of Israel'

In modern times, the Jewish heritage also includes a "damnosa hereditas", the legacy of the sho'ah; I note one particular (quasi-juridical) view of its effect on the covenant, that of Irving Greenberg. Political emancipation in modern times has posed the issue of Jewish heritage in a form which requires taking account of values advanced from outside the religious tradition (even if coinciding with torah values). In the State of Israel, the kulturkampf over the place of halakhah in the State reflects this: on the one hand, the reference to moreshet yisra'el in the Foundations of Law Act 1980; on the other, the statement in the Declaration of Independence that the State "will be based on freedom, justice and peace as envisaged by the prophets of Israel". I discuss, in this context, the "Brother Daniel" case, which (while rejecting a halakhic definition based on inheritance) juxtaposes two forms of identity based on heritage, one (influenced by the Holocaust) dominated by a sense of the history of Jewish-Christian relations, the other arguing for the application of prophetic values. I also argue that the problem posed by the recent JFS case (on the admission criteria of an Orthodox school), which opposes a halakhic conception of Jewish identity based on inheritance with a secular conception of "ethnic origin" based on heritage, may also profit from the arguments in the Brother Daniel case. A conclusion to the series summarises the arguments and counsels against too strict a positivist distinction between inheritance and heritage in the context of the halakhah.

There will also be a Feedback seminar on Thursday 22 April, 2.00 p.m. in A116 of the Samuel Alexander Building.

If you have any questions, please just get in touch.

Kind regards,

Penelope Junkermann

Co-ordinator

Centre for Jewish Studies

University of Manchester

Oxford Road

Manchester

M13 9PL

Phone: 0161 275 3614

Fax: 0161 275 3613

--- The Centre for Jewish Studies and the Bill Williams Jewish Studies Library are open on Thursdays, 9.30-12.30 and 2.00-4.30. For more information see http://www.mucjs.org

Apr The Middle East Band to open for Pavement

2010-03-28T13:06:00.000-04:00

It is the week after SXSW and we are happy to announce that The Middle East will be opening for Pavement on April 15th in Panoma, California at the Fox Theater. Tickets go on sale tomorrow morning.

The Middle East Tour Dates:
Apr 9--Larimer Lounge--Denver, Colorado
Apr 13--Cellar Door--Visalia, California
Apr 15--The Fox Theater--Ponoma, California
Apr 16--Soho Restaurant and Music Club--Santa Barbara, California
Apr 18--Coachella--Indio, California
May 13--Cabaret du Musee Juste Pour Rire--Montreal, Quebec*
May 15--Middle East--Cambridge, Massachusetts*
May 16--Theatre of the Living Arts--Philadelphia, Pennsylvania*
May 17--Music Hall of Williamsburg--::SOLD OUT::--Brooklyn, New York*
May 18--Webster Hall--::SOLD OUT:--New York, New York*
May 20--9:30 Club--Washington DC, Washington DC*
May 21--Beachland Ballroom--Cleveland, Ohio*
May 22--Wexner Center--Columbus, Ohio*
May 24--Lincoln Hall--Chicago, Illinois*
May 25--Varsity Theater--Minneapolis, Minnesota*
May 29--Sasquatch Music Festival--George, Washington*
May 30--560 Club--Vancouver, British Columbia*
May 31--Aladdin Theater--Portland, Oregon*
Jun 2--Slim's--San Francisco, California*
Jun 7--Rhythm Room--Phoenix, Arizona*
Jun 9--Antone's--Austin, Texas*
Jun 10--House of Blues Cambridge Room--Dallas, Texas *
Jul 10--T in the Park--Balado, Scotland
Jul 11--Punchestown Racecourse--Naas, Northern Ireland
Jul 15--Slottsfjell Festival--Tonsberg
* Tour Dates with Mumford and Sons

In case you were not able to make it out to the festivities in Austin we would love to share with you some of the highlights.

The Middle East kicked off the festival at Club de Ville as part of BrooklynVegan's showcase. Check out the photos here and MORE photos and video here.

Nialler9 checked out the band during their PASTE Magazine showcase at The Galaxy Room and shot two videos of the band.

"Sometimes….very rarely.. but sometimes, a band surpasses your already high expectations. The Middle East gave me shivers and left me teary eyed just watching them at the Paste Magazine party on Thursday."
-Nialler9

"I quickly split after her set to catch the tail end of The Middle East, where they managed to pulverize their final song ("Blood") in an epic Arcade Fire-style."
-Fudge.org

"The Darkest Side' is a lilting lullaby from many-membered aussies @TheMiddleEast, who are not easy to google."
-Esquire Twitter

A MASSIVELY WARM "thank you" to everyone who came to check out the band. Your support did not go unnoticed!

Sign Petition to Stand with Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu

2010-03-28T12:49:00.000-04:00

Please click to sign the Petition to Stand with Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu

March 28 South Florida Electric Bike Riding With Mosaic

2010-03-24T12:33:00.000-04:00

Good event for Jewish Singles, couples and families

From: Mosaic Outdoor Club of South Florida

This Weekend With Mosaic... Electric Bicycles??? Yes, electric bicycles!! Come find out what its all about and enjoy a seaside ride!!

Electric Bike Rental Tour of Seaside Ft. Lauderdale

When: Sunday, March 28, by 12:00 noon if you're renting a bike. If you will be bringing your own bike, please be there and ready to ride by 12:15 p.m. We will depart at 12:30 p.m. We will return the bikes no later than 7:00 p.m, depending on the stops we make and how we are feeling.

What: Space is limited to rent electric bikes for this one-of-a-kind bike ride. The first 16 people to RSVP will get to rent an electric bike, which can be ridden as a regular bike, pedal assist, or full throttle. Others can bring their own bikes, or rent regular bikes as well. The ride will be a very casual, 17-mile ride, with lots of stops at interesting places. We will meet at the bike rental shop and ride a scenic route through Bayview Drive Park, past waterfront homes, through the quaint village of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, down Galt Ocean Mile, past the home of Ken Fisher (with a possible stop there for a cold drink), continuing south on the Ft. Lauderdale Strip, across Las Olas, up the Intracoastal Waterway and its many waterfront mansions, then back up to the bike shop on Federal Highway.

Where: Meet at the Electric Bicycle Store, 2599 N Federal Hwy, Ft. Lauderdale, 954-565-0562. Please park in the GFS Supermarket parking lot, at 2535 N. Federal Highway, just to the south of the bike store if you will not be renting a bike.

Directions: Take I-95 to Oakland Park Blvd, exit and head east about 3 miles to US 1 (Federal Highway), and turn right. The bike store is on 26 St. on the right, and the GFS is the very next parking lot, just past the bike store, on the same side of Federal Highway.

Bring: Sunscreen, water bottle, snacks, etc. Bring a helmet if you will be bringing your own bike.

Cost: Mosaic members will pay $37 if you will be renting an electric bike, or $5 if you have your own bike. Non-members add $5. Cost of rental includes helmet, light, and bike lock. Children under 16 will not be permitted to ride the electric bikes.

Contact: To reserve, call or email Rick Dronsky at 954-435-3388 or vp@southfloridamosaic.org For more information, contact Rick Dronsky at 954-435-3388 or vp@southfloridamosaic.org or Ken Fisher at Ken@MonopolyHoldings.com

Come celebrate the outdoors with your Mosaic Outdoor Club of South Florida!!

Plan ahead!!

Coming up with Mosaic:

4/2 - 4/4
Tampa Animal & Art Adventure Weekend
Led by Abbe Gleicher

4/11
Beach Day & Holocaust Remembrance
Led by Rick Dronsky & Mimi Alonso

4/18 Family Day at Tradewinds Park
Led by Beth Herzbrun

May 30 Fort Lauderdale, Florida 14th ANNUAL ISRAELI DANCE FESTIVAL YACHAD

2010-03-22T19:24:00.000-04:00

www.JewishNetwork.com

From: COPAVISION

SUBJECT: 14th ANNUAL ISRAELI DANCE FESTIVAL "YACHAD" (Fort Lauderdale, Florida)
FROM: Roger Weiger, Festival Director

Following last year's success, Festival Yachad will feature more than 500 dancers on stage from our own community and invited groups from Mexico, Brazil, Venezuela, Panama and Israel performing to Israeli folkdance music, with colorful costumes, amazing scenery and special lighting effects.

"This year our Festival Yachad reaches 14 years and we will be celebrating Jewish Women, therefore the gala's theme is "Nashim", which in Hebrew means "Women". Each choreography will portray a Jewish tradition that women do, like the Mikveh, Chalah making, Henna, etc. Biblical Women such as Miriam, Rachel, Dvorah and Esther will also be portrayed as well as modern women such as Chana Szenes, Ofra Haza, Naomi Shemer and Sarit Haddad will be honored. "It is a wonderful way to educate our children about their Heritage, while they perform our Jewish Traditions", explains, Nicole Papu, Festival Yachad Co-Chair.

"Festival Yachad" is sponsored by Safra National Bank of New York and it is a pleasure for us to be associated with such a strong financial institution, who provides us with the support we need to bring this event to audiences in both Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach County says Esther Fuhrman, Festival Yachad Co-Chair.

Festival Yachad's Gala Performance will take place on Sunday, May 30th 2010, at 7pm at the world renowned Au-Rene Theatre at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are priced at $20 and $25 and are available for purchase through COPAVision Entertainment. Contact Ira Weisburd at copavision@comcast.net or by calling: (561) 901-1200. See our Flyer above. Please watch a promo clip for this year Festival Yachad: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_ajdLwm4VA

We hope to see you there!

March Jewish Museum in Prague

2010-03-22T13:06:00.000-04:00

The Jewish Museum in Prague is pleased to remind you of a Wednesday's press conference for the opening of a new exhibition

“And you shall tell your son…”
Haggadot in the collections of the Jewish Museum in Prague

The holiday of Pesah begins on 30 March this year on the Jewish calendar. To mark this occasion, the Jewish Museum in Prague has prepared an exhibition that features a selection of the oldest and most interesting Haggadot (the plural of Haggadah) – liturgical texts used during the Seder celebration of the Jewish holiday of Pesach (Passover). As part of the Pesach festivities at home, the biblical story of the Exodus of the Jews from Egyptian slavery, which is related in the Haggadah, is commemorated along with other stories relating to the celebrations. This exhibition will show how the Haggadah has changed visually from the earliest printed copies to present-day editions from the Czech Republic, Israel and other regions of the world, which are represented in the collections of the Jewish Museum in Prague. The show is unique not only because it focuses on a single genre of religious literature but also because it is the first of its kind to familiarize viewers in the Czech Republic with Pesach Haggadot as they have been produced through the centuries.

The exhibition is curated by Michal Bušek and Ondřej Čihák.

The press conference with the tour of the exhibition will take place on Wednesday, 24 March 2010 at 11 a. m. at the Robert Guttmann Gallery (U Staré školy 3, Prague 1 /rear wing of the Spanish Synagogue/)

From 25 March until 27 June 2010
The exhibition is open every day except for Saturdays aand Jewish holidays
from 25 until 26 March 9 a.m. – 4.30 p.m., from 28 March until 27 June 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

We look forward to your coming.
With kind regards,

--  Noemi Holekova Head of PR and Development  ZIDOVSKE MUZEUM V PRAZE JEWISH MUSEUM IN PRAGUE U Stare skoly 1,3, 110 00 Praha 1 Tel.: +420 221 711 581 Fax: +420 222 749 300 GSM: +420 603 867 285 www.jewishmuseum.cz

September Montreal Mosaic International Event 2010

2010-03-19T11:34:00.000-04:00

Great event for Jewish outdoor enthusiasts.

SAVE THE DATE FOR
MOSAIC JEWISH OUTDOOR CLUBS OF AMERICA
2010 INTERNATIONAL EVENT IN QUEBEC CANADA!!

Thursday, September 2nd, through Monday, September 6th, 2010

Please join us at the Harry Bronfman Y Country Camp set in the Mt. Tremblant resort area, located in the striking Laurentian Mountains, just 2 hours North of Montreal. This magnificent site is situated on 650 acres of beautiful rolling countryside, surrounded by two mountains and three pollution-free lakes. You will have gorgeous views and hiking at hand without ever having to leave Camp!

So come to Quebec for a long weekend of making new friends, reconnecting with others, hiking, climbing, biking, kayaking, canoeing, and just relaxing. You can look forward to enjoying unique attractions of the area including; Via Ferrata Du Diable, Acrobranche Tremblant and Rafting the Rouge River which is rated one of the top ten rivers in North America for rafting.

The international reputation of Mont Tremblant has not diminished since its grand opening in 1939, owing to its natural, pristine snow and exceptional trail quality. Today Tremblant and its surroundings have become one of the most frequented four season's resorts in North America for the quality of its infrastructures, the diversity of tourism, and the international prestige of sporting and cultural events happening there.

We will be flying into Montreal (YUL) and might have a pre-trip to explore this amazing diverse city.

Watch our website for updates and registration which will go live around late May/ Early June. www.mosaicoutdoor.org

Interested in helping in the planning and running of this event? Please contact us at event@mosaicoutdoor.org .

For info about the camp go to http://www.ycountrycamp.com/

For More Info about the area go http://www.tremblantactivities.com/en/individuals/index.asp# or
http://www.tourismemonttremblant.com/en/

For a map of the area:
http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=109336681255752972772.00047ce5aff1051426e3f&ll=46.217852,-74.709778&spn=1.411984,2.463684&z=9&iwloc=00047ce6900c0da5c9f28

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Jewish Museum in Prague Pesach Haggadot

2010-03-15T12:11:00.001-04:00

www.JewishNetwork.com - Jewish events for singles, couples, families, communities

From: Communication [mailto:communication@jewishmuseum.cz]

The Jewish Museum in Prague is pleased to invite you to a press conference for the opening of a new exhibition

“And you shall tell your son…”
Haggadot in the collections of the Jewish Museum in Prague

The exhibition is curated by Michal Bušek and Ondřej Čihák.

We look forward to your coming.
With kind regards,

--  Noemi Holekova Head of PR and Development  ZIDOVSKE MUZEUM V PRAZE JEWISH MUSEUM IN PRAGUE U Stare skoly 1,3, 110 00 Praha 1 Tel.: +420 221 711 581 Fax: +420 222 749 300 GSM: +420 603 867 285 www.jewishmuseum.cz

Israel Magen David Adom Group Visits

2010-03-15T12:02:00.001-04:00

Are you looking for something new and meaningful to do in Israel with your family this Passover? this summer? in general?

The American Friends of Magen David Adom is making appointments for group visits to the Magen David Adom EMS Station and dispatch center in Jerusalem during your Pesach holiday in Israel. These visits are suitable for families with children in first grade and up.

Visitors will see MDA's unique, state of the art dispatch center and technology that navigates the ambulances in the event of an emergency, the Jerusalem branch of the MDA National Blood Services Center, explore the fleet of MDA ambulances, many donated by people and organizations in your own community, and meet and interact with MDA's staff and volunteers for a first hand perspective on the challenges of saving lives in Israel. Presently undergoing major renovation and construction, visiting the Bloomberg MDA Jerusalem station will be especially meaningful for New Yorkers as the lead gift in this construction project was made by Mayor Michael Bloomberg in memory of his father.

Participation is by advance reservation only, on a first come, first served basis. Tours are being scheduled for Wednesday, March 31 and Friday April 2 (in the morning). Please feel free to pass this along to those who will be in Israel and possibly find this of interest.

Please e-mail IsraelOffice@afmda.org for further details.

Jonathan Feldstein
AFMDA Israel Representative