CAMPAIGN CHAIR OVERVIEW P 2

SUMMER CAMP BUILDS JEWISH IDENTITY P 4

UPCOMING EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES P 10

w i n t e r 2 0 1 1 / c h o r e f 5 7 7 1Connections

Counselors Adam Olstein, Sonia Robiner and

camper Zach Sain enjoy a paddle at Camp Butwin

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Dear Friends,

Recently, a friend sent me a fascinating article on the science of giving. It discussed a study that shows our bodies release endorphins – chemicals that produce a sense of well-being – when volunteering. Another study looked at brain activity of subjects who were given the choice to donate or receive money. It showed that brain activity involved in personal satisfaction was present whether subjects chose to donate or receive, providing evidence that there is an anatomical basis for the joy of giving.

This got me thinking about what I receive when I give to the Jewish community. It’s always given me a sense of well-being because I know I’m part of a community that I can count on. Just as we have done for over 75 years, we come together to care for each other, sustain our traditions and rally in a crisis.

Our 2011 Campaign is well underway and already more than 1,000 members of our community have pledged $1.4 million to ensure the St. Paul Jewish community remains strong and vibrant while caring for Jews in 70 other countries. Thank you to Phil Goldman, Men’s Campaign Chair and Marsha Schoenkin, Women’s Philanthropy Chair, and a dedicated team of 150 volunteer solicitors for your tireless efforts.  

If you made your pledge, thank you! If you have not, please join your friends and neighbors who are generously supporting the work of the UJFC. To make a pledge or to find out how your support makes a difference, go to www.jewishstpaul.org or call Ted Flaum, campaign director at 651-695-3185.

Getting involved, donating and volunteering – it is a great feeling – it really is what being Jewish feels like.

Thank you for your continued support,

Polly Saxon2011 Campaign Chair

Polly Saxon, General campaign chair

Get involved.

Donate. Volunteer.

It’s what being

Jewish feels like.

A Message from the General Campaign Chair

UJFC BENEFICIARY AGENCIESLocal AgenciesHillel at the University of MinnesotaJewish Community Center of the Greater St. Paul AreaJewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the DakotasJewish Family Service of St. PaulJewish Historical Society of the Upper MidwestLubavitch Cheder Day SchoolMinnesota Jewish Theatre CompanyNechama Jewish Response to DisasterRochester ChaplaincySholom Community AllianceTalmud Torah of St. Paul

Overseas AgenciesAmerican Jewish Joint Distribution CommitteeJewish Agency for IsraelWorld ORT

THANK YOU FOR GIVING TO THE MAXOn Nov. 16, Give to the Max Day 2010, generous

friends donated $25,786 to UJFC. Thank you for joining in the “great Minnesota give together” and supporting the UJFC.

ConnectionsConnections is a publication of the United Jewish Fund and Council790 Cleveland Ave., SouthSuite 227St. Paul MN 55116651-690-1707www.JewishStPaul.org

Julie Swiler, editor651-695-3109jswiler@ujfc.org Contributors: Ted Flaum, Sharyn Effress Pesses, Dan Mogelson, Alisa Warshavsky

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haiti – one year later

One year after the devastating earthquake in Haiti, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), a beneficiary agency of the United Jewish Fund and Council, has helped 240,000 Haitians and is paving a path toward better lives for the disabled and children. Through $7.7 million dollars in donations from the Jewish Federations of North America and tens of thousands of individual donors, JDC’s collaboration with Haitian, Israeli, and other NGOs has fed, clothed, provided state-of-the-art medical treatment, job training, and education for the country’s recovering population.

“Within days of the earthquake the global Jewish community generously responded to this disaster. One year later, we have helped improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of Haitian earthquake survivors. Whether we’re getting people walking again at our rehab clinic and prosthetic lab or ensuring educational outlets for Haitian children, we do so inspired by tikkun olam and our unwavering commitment to the potential of every human life,” said JDC CEO Steven Schwager.

JDC and its partners have delivered medical services to more than 53,000 Haitians and additionally aided more than 800 people and fitted more than 70 prosthetics. JDC also ran 10 schools in tent camps in Port Au Prince and ensured that 150,000 displaced Haitians had access to 80 emergency water tanks.

In 2011, JDC will focus on physical and psychological rehabilita-tion for the disabled and schooling for Haitian children. JDC’s ongoing services for Haitian amputees will include professional training for local medical and paramedical staff and treatment by a team of Haitian/American/Israeli doctors, physiotherapists and occupational therapists.

Within days of the earthquake the global Jewish community generously responded to this disaster. One year later, we have helped improve the lives of hundreds of thousands of Haitian earthquake survivors.

your support makes a differencE

$18 A food package to an individual in need in the former Soviet Union

$36

Four Kosher Meals on Wheels

$50

Emergency medications

$180One week of childcare financial

assistance

$300 Four days of emergency

food and shelter

$1,000

One month of adult day care

$5,000A year’s rent and expenses for a new Ethiopian immigrant family

to Israel

World ORT, an overseas partner of the United Jewish Fund and Council, and the Israeli town of Kiryat Yam recently launched an $18 million science city project, with support from Jewish Federa-tions. The high-tech education and sports campus boasts resources like a science center, library, performing arts auditorium and planetarium, open to residents of the coastal city.

Kiryat Yam Mayor Shmuel Sisso told a dedication ceremony at the high school, “This campus integrates values, culture, science and knowledge in a unique way and also combines and showcases the character of its initiators.”

The campus will reinvigorate the largely blue-collar community of 45,000 — comprised of many Russian and Ethiopian immigrants — where the average income is about 25 percent lower than the national average.

WORLD ORT AND KIRYAT YAM LAUNCH $18M SCIENCE CITY PROJECT

Students study electronics at new education center

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SUMMER CAMP MIXES JEWISH VALUES WITH LOTS OF FUN

Mari Prauer remembers her first summer at Herzl Camp in Webster, Wis. She was a scared nine-year-old who wasn’t sure she wanted to stay when her parents dropped her off. But when they picked her up on the last day she exclaimed, “It’s my favorite place ever – I’m going back until I’m the director!”Now 19 and a student at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Fla., Mari still goes back to Herzl each summer – as a counselor. She credits her experience to the camp’s hamish atmosphere and wants to help new campers have the same experience. She also says Herzl Camp helped develop her identity as a Jew. “I’m much more involved in the Jewish community than I would have been,” said Prauer, who is president of the Hillel at her school. “I would not have gone to Israel or been involved in Hillel, and I wouldn’t have made so many wonderful life-long friends.”

Mari’s experience is echoed at camps all over the country. As the Jewish community wrestles with the question of how to instill Jewish values and love of Jewish life in children, summer camp is one of the answers. “Most of us don’t live in Jewish neighborhoods anymore, we’re spread out,” said Anne Hope, Herzl Camp director. “Our campers have the experience that in past generations, Jewish children found just around the corner.”

According to research compiled by the Foundation for Jewish Camp, studies bear out that Jewish adults who attended summer camp are more likely to have a sense of Jewish identity and be involved in the Jewish community.

They are: • 30 percent more likely to donate to a Jewish charity • 37 percent more likely to light Shabbat candles • 45 percent more likely to attend synagogue monthly or more • 55 percent more likely to be very emotionally attached to Israel

“At Camp Butwin, kids are part of a Jewish community and they take that home with them,” said Alyssa Golob, director at Camp Butwin, the St. Paul JCC summer camp. “These children are the next synagogue board members, donors and institutional leaders.”

Shawn Bulgatz remembers Camp Butwin as a place where, as a young Jew, he felt he belonged. That is one of the reasons he now sends his own children there. “It was a place where I felt I could be who I was and feel supported and valued,” said Bulgatz.

He also sees camp as an important means to instill Jewish identity. “My kids don’t have a lot of Jewish friends. The more they are around other Jews the better it is for maintaining their Jewish identity. The great thing about Jewish life at camp is that it’s experiential and fun. They live Jewish values while they spend the entire day outside swimming, canoeing, riding horses and exploring nature.”

Living Judaism while having fun and bonding with others is essential to the Jewish camp experience. At Camp Butwin, fun activities are also moments to instill Jewish values. Riding horses is also about learning to take care

Mari Prauer (center) with friends Molly Korman (L) and Arnina Blumenreich (r)

Studies bear out that Jewish adults who attended summer camp are more likely to have a sense of Jewish identity and be involved in the Jewish community.

israeli Scouts concert at camp Butwin

5

of animals; a trivia game teaches about Israel; tidying up the campsite on Friday is an opportunity to inspire the joy of Shabbat.

Said Alyssa Golob, “At camp, children develop self-confidence and esteem as they learn new skills and master old ones in a setting that is friendly and fun. This goes hand-in-hand with building a strong sense of Jewish identity. It’s a combination that builds a sense of self that lasts a lifetime.” Your support of UJFC benefits St. Paul-area campers. Camp Butwin is a beneficiary agency of the UJFC through support of the St. Paul JCC. UJFC also offers camp scholarships for Jewish overnight camp. In 2010, UJFC provided 70 scholar-ships to Jewish children and young adults living in St. Paul.

There are many overnight and day camp options to choose from including:

Camp Ramah in Oconomowoc, Wis., a coed, residential, overnight summer camp affiliated with the Conservative Movement and National Ramah Commission operating under the educational auspices of The Jewish Theological Seminary. www.ramahwisconsin.com.

OSRUI in Oconomowoc, Wis., a coed, residential, overnight summer camp affiliated with the Reform Movement and the Union for Reform Judaism. www.osrui.urjcamps.org.

Herzl Camp in Webster Wis., a non-denominational, coed, residential, overnight summer camp. www.herzlcamp.org.

Camp Butwin in Eagan, the non-denominational, coed, day camp of the Jewish Community Center of the Greater St. Paul Area. www.campbutwin.org.

For a complete list of Jewish summer camp options, check online at www.onehappycamper.org.

INTERESTED IN JEWISH

SUMMER CAMP?Apply for a Jewish Overnight Camp Scholarship – deadline is April 1, 2011The United Jewish Fund and Council of St. Paul offers scholarships for Jewish overnight camp to Jewish children and young adults living in St. Paul.

AwardsFunding is limited, and amounts are subject to change. Scholarship awards are based on family need.

UJFC Participation • At least one adult family member must make a pledge to the current year’s Annual Campaign. • Families with past-due pledges to the United Jewish Fund and Council of St. Paul Annual Campaign are not eligible for scholarships until the past-due balance is paid in full, or arrangements are made with the Financial Resource Director.

PaymentThe UJFC makes scholarship awards directly to the camp.

Apply by April 1, 2011

Camp ScholarshipsUnited Jewish Fund and Council790 S. Cleveland Ave., Suite 227St. Paul, MN 55116Phone: (651) 690-1707Fax: (651) 690-0228

For more information, contact Sharyn Effress Pesses at (651) 695-3186 or email spesses@ujfc.org.

The great thing about Jewish life at camp is that it’s experiential and fun. They live Jewish values while they spend the entire day outside swimming, canoeing, riding horses and exploring nature.

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Seen around St. Paul

Jon Parritz, UJFC president, welcomed more than 300 people to the 2011 UJFC Campaign Gala at Temple of Aaron on Oct. 17.

Guests at the UJFC Gala enjoyed dinner and a performance by the Grammy award-winning Klezmatics. Bottom row (L-R): Steve Shaller, Steve Baldinger, Wendy Baldinger, Jon Garon, and Rabbi Alan Shavit-Lonstein. Top row (L-R): Michelle Shaller, Lisa Bernick and Alan Bernick.

Young Leadership Black & White Hanukkah Party—Over 80 people attended the UJFC Young Leadership Black & White Hanukkah Party on Dec. 4 at the Talmud Torah of St. Paul. Pictured are (L-R): Danielle Livon-Bemel, Young Leadership committee members Sarah Kaye and Masha Kushnir, and Andrea Buzzell.

Adam Fink and Galina Guterman at the Black & White Hanukkah Party.

In November, UJFC hosted a delegation from St. Paul’s Partnership 2000 region in Israel, the Sovev Kinneret. They met with synagogue and agency leadership to discuss ideas for new Partnership 2000 programs. Pictured are: Bottom row (L-R) Doron Lev, P2K; Gary Portnoy, Temple of Aaron; Top row (L-R) Alisa Warshavsky, St. Paul Shlicha; Malka Yanai, P2K; Rabbi Adam Stock Spilker, Mount Zion; Shay Shoshany, P2K; Riva Nolley, Talmud Torah; Sara Lynn Newberger, Talmud Torah; Rabbi Lynn Liberman, Beth Jacob; Barbie Levine, St. Paul JCC; Joshua Fineblum, Temple of Aaron; Levana Caro, P2K; Barry Glaser, Talmud Torah.

7

Michael Waldman joined the St. Paul JCC as executive director effective December 6, 2010. Waldman succeeds Dori Denelle who served in this position since 2002. A St. Paul native, Waldman brings 15 years of JCC experience to his new position, most recently as vice president and chief operating officer at the Jewish Community Center of San Antonio, Texas.

“Coming back to the St. Paul JCC is a sort of homecoming, both personally and professionally. I am looking forward to renewing old relationships and building new relationships in the community,” said Waldman.

Waldman started his JCC career as a member of the St. Paul JCC’s Youth department in 1995. He then worked his way from being the St. Paul JCC’s teen director to Camp Butwin director and finally, Youth Services director. The St. Paul JCC community and its staff welcome Waldman’s return home to St. Paul.

UJFC Women’s Philanthropy hosted “Pomegranates in the City,” January 18 at Mendoberri’s in Mendota Heights. The evening featured a talk by Israeli Lior Zyser about women in the IDF, olive oil tasting and presentations on organic food and natural beauty products. Pomegranate Society women give an annual gift of $1,800 or more to the annual campaign. For more information, contact Sharyn Effress Pesses at 651-695-3186 or spesses@ujfc.org. Pictured are: (L-R) Jodi Saltzman and Lisa Bernick, Pomegranate event co-chairs; Polly Saxon; Marsha Schoenkin, Lion of Judah; and Phyllis Karasov.

More than 500 local legal professionals and law students attended the Twin Cities Cardozo Society Annual Dinner in October. Pictured are honorees Jennifer Benowitz and Ron Zamansky. Benowitz received the Arthur T. Pfefer Memorial Award and Zamansky received the Sidney Barrows Lifetime Commitment Award.

michael waldman is new st. paul jcc executive director

In January, UJFC hosted Dr. Jonathan Fine, Israeli author and expert on arms control, conflict resolution and counter terrorism. Dr. Fine spoke about trends and changes in the Middle East at several venues. Pictured are: (L-R): Jon Parritz, UJFC president; Holly Brod Farber; Dr. Jonathan Fine; Stephanie Brod Levine and Jacob Millner, JCRC.

Charlie Nauen, Cardozo Society Annual Dinner co-chair addresses the audience.

CAmp SChOlArShip FundJoy Lieberman *Howard Gelb, In honor of his 92nd birthday

GenerAl CAmpAiGnCarol & Gordon Altshuler *Deborah Doy, In memory of your husbandJeri Glick Anderson *Debbie Goldenberg, In memory of your mother, Sybil *Bill Lipschultz, In memory of your wife, SybilJeri Glick Anderson & Family *Don & Rhoda Mains, In memory of your sister, Mickey *James Smith, In memory of your mother, MickeyMaxine & Stuart Applebaum *Ron Zamansky, In your honorIvan, Diane, Michael, Gregory & Haley Arenson *The Goldish Family, Our condolences on the loss of your mother & grandmotherSherm & Lois Devitt *Harold Smith & Family, In memory of MickeyLouis Newman & Rabbi Amy Eilberg *Don & Rhoda Mains, In memory of your sister, MickeyDeborah Evans *Steve Kafitz, With thanks for your hard work *Julie Swiler, With thanks for your hard workFrank & Cookie Gordon *Fred Gordon, In honor of your retirementSteve & Rita Levin *Gary Steinman, In memory of your wife, JaneJoyce & Len Levitan *Leon Katz, In honor of your 80th birthdayDon & Rhoda Mains *Gerry & Inge Hirschhorn, In honor of your 55th anniversaryRuth Olkon *Natalie Zelkind, In honor of your retirementAron & Ellen Rolnitzky *Muriel Lachter & family, In memory of your brother, Bernard

Polly & Mike Saxon *James Smith, In memory of your mother, MickeyRonna & Tom Sherman *Diane & Rick Smookler, Happy AnniversaryHoward & Janet Tarkow *Jon & Robin Parritz, In honor of Ari & Rachel’s engagementKay Weber *Becky & Peter Chadzynski, My sincerest sympathy for both of you on your great lossTalmud Torah Students *Ariel Lerner, In honor of your bar mitzvah

WOmen’S endOWment FundIn memory of Sharyn Effress Pesses’ Brother, Harlan *Sharon Benmaman & John, Daniel & Michael Allen *Jeri Glick Anderson & family *Naomi & Neil Arnold *Wendy & Steve Baldinger *Rena & Barry Glaser *Frank & Cookie Gordon *Karen & Fred Gordon *Nancy Greenstein *Sally Lorberbaum *Toby Marcus *Susan Minsberg *Polly & Mike Saxon *Stuart Bear & Marsha Schoenkin *Michelle Shaller *David & DeDe Smith *Diane & Rick SmooklerNaomi & Neil Arnold *Arnie Pesses, In honor of your 80th birthdayDavid & Jane Broude *Arnie Pesses, In honor of your 80th birthdayCindy Gordon & Stan Davis *Arnie Pesses, In honor of your 80th birthday *Gary & Susan Bloom, In memory of your motherHolly & Jon Brod Farber *Bill Lipschultz, In memory of your wife, Sybil

Anita Geller *Arnie Pesses, In honor of your 80th birthday *Sue & Harvey Kaplan, In honor of Michael & Heidi’s marriage *Sue & Harvey Kaplan, In honor of David & Kaley’s marriage *Barry Gersick, In honor of your special birthday *Diane Smookler, In honor of your special birthday *Stacy Birnberg & Family, My condolences on your loss *Ronna & Thomas Sherman, Best wishes on your new granddaughter *Ronna & Thomas Sherman, Congratulations on the bar mitzvahs of Adian & Issac *Diane Smookler, Congratulations on your Lion of Judah awardBetty Sue & David Lipschultz *Diane & Rick Smookler, On the occasion of your 45th anniversary and mazel tov to Diane for her Lion of Judah awardSandy Loewenstein *Diane Smookler, In honor of your 65th birthdaySharyn Effress Pesses *Diane Smookler, In honor of your 65th birthday *Debbie Goldenberg, In memory of your mother, SybilSharyn & Arnie Pesses *Rena Locke, In honor of your son Alex’s forthcoming commitment ceremony *Earl Bailey, In memory of your mother & father *Orrin & Janie Kirschbum, In memory of your dear mother, Bess *Marietta Pitzele, In memory of your loving mother, Louella *Diane & Rick Smookler, Happy anniversary *Fred Gordon, Congratulations on your retirement *Cantor Mitchell Kowitz, In memory of your father *Rick Smookler, In honor of your 70th birthdayJudy Weinstine *Diane Smookler, In honor of your 65th birthday

You can make a tribute gift in honor of a friend or family member’s simcha or in memory of a loved one. Consider making your gift to the Annual Campaign, the Women’s Fund or one of the special funds below.

To send a contribution in honor or commemoration of someone, call 651-690-1707 or visit www.jewishstpaul.org, click on “Donate Now” and select “Tribute/Memorial gift” on the secure online donation form.

Did you know?

8

• WalkforIsraelinHighlandPark• OutdoorcelebrationatTalmudTorah• IsraelimusicfromPartnership2000region• Israelifood• Funandgamesforall

WATCHFORDETAILS

Celebrate Israel with

the St. Paul Jewish

Community!

Co-sponsors: United Jewish Fund and Council, St. Paul JCC, Adath Israel, American Russian Jewish Project, Beth Jacob, Chabad-Lubavitch, Hillel at the University of Minnesota, Jewish Community Relations Council, Mount Zion, Sholom Community Alliance, Talmud Torah of St. Paul and Temple of Aaron.

Rain or ShineContact: Alisa Warshavsky, Israeli Emissary: (651) 353-2670 or alisa.warshavsky@gmail.com

Save the date:

Yom Ha’atzmaut

Celebration

May 15/11 Iyar

11:00 a.m.

Joe*, in his early 70s and retired, recently lost his wife of more than 40 years. Suddenly, he found himself alone in the home where they had raised their children. Feeling depressed and overwhelmed, Joe withdrew from family and friends. Yet he knew he did not want to remain isolated. Joe saw a notice for “Call Marjorie,” a call line for older adults and caregivers dealing with stress, change and loss in their lives sponsored by Jewish Family Service of St. Paul (JFS) and made the call.

That single contact helped Joe through one of the most difficult periods of his life. The “Call Marjorie” counselor recognized that what Joe needed most was the opportunity to talk about his life and find strength and comfort in meaningful memories. After just a few sessions, Joe re-engaged in life.

“Call Marjorie” (651-690-8907) is a one-stop resource for seniors and their caregivers. It was launched by Marjorie Sigel, LICSW, a clinical social worker at JFS, who wanted to provide an easy way for seniors and their families to find help. “Depression in elderly people often goes untreated because many people think that it is a normal part of aging, or people don’t ask for help because they are embarrassed,” said Ms. Sigel. “We looked at how we could meet the needs of seniors by focusing on the best way to address the questions and challenges people face as they grow older.”

The “Call Marjorie” helpline is confidential and available to anyone 55 or older. Callers receive help from a seasoned mental health profes-sional with whom they can discuss personal aging issues or concerns about an aging family member or neighbor. Marjorie can assist callers in finding the resources that are needed to resolve a situation. Since launching in June 2010, “Call Marjorie” has received calls relating to grief about the death of a spouse, social isola-tion, conflicts with adult children, challenges around care-giving and loneliness. In addition to phone consultation and referral, mental health home visits can also be arranged.

“Call Marjorie” is a NORC (Naturally Occurring Retirement Community) initiative. NORC offers a holistic approach to helping older adults live and thrive in their neighborhood or building of choice by coordinating community social service programs. For more information about NORC go to: www.norcstpaul.com.

If you or someone you know could benefit from the services offered by “Call Marjorie”, call 651-690-8907.

JFS is just one of a family of beneficiary agencies which rely on funding from the UJFC to provide vital services to Jews in St. Paul, in Israel and in 70 other countries.

*Joe is a pseudonym

“Call marjorie”

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Help for Older Adults is a Phone Call Away

Natalie Zelkind retires from jewish family serviceNatalie Zelkind remembers the

day she and her family arrived in St.

Paul 30 years ago to begin their new life in

America. Jewish Family Service (JFS) staff greeted them at the airport with stuffed animals for her three children. Then they drove her family to their new apartment on Cleveland Avenue. It had two bedrooms – more space than they were accustomed to – and was completely furnished. “We were surprised because we had no idea strangers would do this for us,” recalls Natalie. “We left everything in Russia and didn’t know what to expect. It was unbelievable.”

Jewish Vocational Service helped Natalie find her first job and when it ended, she had the opportunity to work at JFS helping other immigrant families get settled. In December, after 21 years of service, Natalie Zelkind retired from JFS.

“Natalie has an enormous heart and a talent for helping people feel supported,” said Ruth Olkon, JFS assistant director. “Her own experi-ence fuels her desire to make sure people feel welcome.”

Throughout her career, Natalie helped hundreds of people resettle here. She drove people to sign up for school and see the doctor. She helped recent arrivals get information and referrals for jobs and provided bilingual

support, translating papers for health insurance, scholarships and other documents.

Retirement will enable Natalie to spend more time with her children and 11 grandchildren. She and Eduard are tournament chess players and have played all over the world. This year they will participate in the World Senior Champion-ships in Croatia. And, she works from time to time at JFS as a contractor. Said Natalie, “I’m not going to be a stranger. I will help them whenever they need help.”

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MARCH 5 – MARCH 27Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company presents “Goats”By Alan Berks@ Hillcrest Center Theater, 1978 Ford Parkway, St. Paul

In this nearly unbelievable yet true story, a 20-something guy from Chicago takes a job tending to 160 goats for a farmer in a secluded area outside of Jerusalem. Each day he treks into the mountains where he must wrangle with the goats, and each night he struggles to understand the language of a cheesemaker who barely speaks.

To order tickets call 651-647-4315.

THURSDAY, MARCH 10Israeli Rock Legends: Shalom Hanoch and Moshe Levi7:30 p.m. @ The Cedar Cultural Center, 416 Cedar Ave., S. Minneapolis.Tickets: $16 in advance, $21 at the door.

Shalom Hanoch, considered the father of Israeli rock, teams up with Moshe Levi, one of Israel’s major music composers. Presented by the Israel Program Center of the Minneapolis Jewish Federation and co-sponsored by UJFC, the St. Paul JCC and the Consulate General of Israel to the Midwest.

For more information, contact Alisa Warshavsky at (651) 353-2670 or alisa@stpauljcc.org.

SUNDAY, MARCH 13Israeli intelligence: Reflections of an IDF officer1:00 p.m. @ St. Paul JCC. 1375 St. Paul AvenueFree and open to the community.

A presentation by Guy Shahar. Guy served five years in a top unit of the intelligence branch of the IDF and discharged as a lieutenant.

For more information, contact Alisa Warshavsky at (651) 353-2670 or alisa@stpauljcc.org.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23JCC Symphony Orchestra Winter Concert 7 p.m. @ St. Paul JCC, 1375 St. Paul Avenue, St. Paul

Free and open to the community.

For more information, contact Jeffrey Richman, Jewish Cultural Arts Director, at 651-255-4752 or jrichman@stpauljcc.org.

MONDAY, APRIL 4Twin Cities Adult Education Committees Consortium Pre-Passover Workshop 7:00 p.m. @ Bnai Emet Synagogue, 3115 Ottawa Ave., S., St. Louis Park

The Adult Education Committees Consortium of the Twin Cities Synagogues will be holding a Pre-Passover workshop at Bnai Emet Synagogue.  A wide variety of classes will be offered.  Participating synagogues are Adath Jeshurun, Beth El, Beth Jacob, Bnai Emet, and Temple of Aaron. 

For more information call 952-927-7309 or email info@bnaiemet.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 8Jewish Family Service 100th Anniversary6:30 p.m. @ James J. Hill House, 240 Summit Ave., St. Paul

An evening of food, St. Paul memories, entertainment and fun celebrating 100 years of JFS service to the community.

For details, contact: Debbie Vertelney, 651-698-0767 or info@jfssp.org.

Greater St. Paul Community Calendar Log on to www.jewishminnesota.org/calendar for details on the events below and many more.

ENROLL IN TALMUD TORAH FOR NExT YEAR NOW

Enrollment for Talmud Torah of St. Paul’s Preschool, K-5 Jewish Day School and Afternoon Hebrew School/Midrasha programs for the 2011-2012 school year is in progress. For more information, contact Sara Lynn Newberger, Head of School at 651-698-8807 or sara.lynn@ttsp.org for more information.

www.facebook.com/jewishstpaul www.twitter.com/jewishstpaul www.youtube.com/jewishstpaul1

stay connected

11

scholarship, travel and Volunteer Opportunities

Upcoming UJFC Eventscall 651-690-1707 or log on to www.jewishstpaul.org for details on any of the events below.

JOIN YOUNG JEWS AT TRIBEFEST IN LAS VEGAS Over 1,800 young Jews will come together in Las Vegas March 6-8 to explore why it matters to be Jewish and how they connect to their Judaism and the larger community. TribeFest will offer inspiring programming, music, food, arts and entertainment. Plus, there will be opportunities for networking and mingling, as well as hands-on community service. Contact Dan Mogelson for subsidy informa-tion at dmogelson@ujfc.org or 651-695-3189. For complete details about Tribefest go to www.tribefest.org.

WE’LL HELP YOU SAVE FOR YOUR CHILD’S TRIP TO ISRAEL Passport to Israel is a St. Paul Jewish community program that helps families save money to send their teens on educational trips to Israel. It is a partnership between families, participating synagogues and the United Jewish Fund and Council. UJFC matching funds are available to families who make a gift to the

UJFC Annual Campaign. Enroll through your synagogue and each spring they will notify you when it is time to make your deposit in your child’s Passport account. The synagogue will send your deposit and the synagogue’s match to the UJFC where the community match will be added. Each year your child will have an additional $350 added into their account (plus interest if any). For complete details, check out Passport to Israel at www.JewishStPaul.org or contact Sharyn Effress Pesses at 651-695-3186 or SPesses@ujfc.org.

UJFC HIGHER EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIPUJFC offers scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students seeking two-year, four-year, graduate and professional degrees.

Minnesota residents are eligible, with preference given to St. Paul residents. Students attending Minnesota schools are also given preference. Scholarship awards are based on financial need, scholastic performance, Jewish community involve-

ment and funds available. Scholarships are awarded each spring and completed applica-tions, with all required attachments, are due at the UJFC office by April 15. For complete information on the scholarships and how to apply, contact Sharyn Effress Pesses at 651-695-3186 or SPesses@ujfc.org.

GESHER L’KESHER (BRIDGE TO CONNECTION) FOR YOUNG PHILANTHROPISTSNow there is a way for young people to create their own tzedakah fund – a fund they can use to make gifts to non-profit organizations they select every year. The Gesher l’Kesher fund works by making a deposit at the UJFC with a minimum of $360. Your Bar or Bat Mitzvah fund is a perfect time to get started. UJFC invests the fund for you and you can add to it anytime you like. Every year you choose which organizations you would like to donate to from your fund. For complete information, contact Sharyn Effress Pesses at 651-695-3186 or SPesses@ujfc.org.

FRIDAY, MARCH 11Guy Shahar: Leading soldiers in war7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.

Guy Shahar served five years in a top intelligence unit in the IDF. During his service, he was a key participant in a flagship project that was awarded the Israel Defense Prize in 2007. Guy was born in Ra’anana where he spent most of his life. Currently, he is the young community shaliach for the Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis.

@ UJFC, 790 S. Cleveland Ave., #227, St. Paul.No charge. Complimentary breakfast sponsored by JASCO Properties.

Limited seating, RSVP today to nancy@ujfc.org or 651-690-1707.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 23An outsider looking in... a personal story11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Rachel Cohen was born to a Jewish father and Presbyterian mother, herself a daughter of a minister. Rachel grew up singing in her church choir. She went on a Birthright trip in the program’s first year — because it was a free trip abroad. Once in Israel, she lit Shabbat candles, saw Hebrew, and stood at the Kotel for the first time. The experience led to Rachel’s lasting connection to her Jewish heritage.

@ UJFC, 790 S. Cleveland Ave., #227, St. Paul.$8 includes lunch.

Limited seating, RSVP today to dales@ujfc.org or 651-690-1707.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 13Natasha Mozgovaya, chief US correspondent for Ha’aretz to speak on current events

Natasha Mozgovaya, chief US correspondent for Ha’aretz, was born in the Soviet Union and made aliyah in 1990. In 2000, Mozgovaya became a correspondent for Yediot Ahronoth newspaper, covering a broad spectrum of issues in Israel and all over the world, including immigration and human trafficking; disengagement from Gaza and the Second Lebanese War; and hostage crises in the former Soviet Union and North Caucasus conflicts. In 2008, she became the Washington Bureau Chief for Ha’aretz and is located in Washington, D.C.

Opportunities to hear Natasha Mozgovaya: 7:30 – 9:00 a.m.@ UJFC, 790 S. Cleveland Ave., #227, St. Paul.No charge. Light refreshments will be served.Limited seating, RSVP today to nancy@ujfc.org or 651-690-1707.

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.@ UJFC, 790 S. Cleveland Ave., #227, St. Paul.$8 includes lunch.Limited seating, RSVP today to dales@ujfc.org or 651-690-1707.

7:00 p.m.@ St. Paul JCC, 1375 St. Paul Avenue, St. PaulFree and open to the public. Co-sponsored by the St. Paul JCC and UJFC. Contact Alisa Warshavsky at 651-353-2670 or alisa@stpauljcc.org for more information.

NONPROFITORGANIZATION

U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT NO. 2064

ST. PAUL, MN

790 Cleveland Ave South Suite #227 St. Paul MN 55116

UJFC Missionto unite, sustain and enhance the St. Paul area Jewish community and strengthen bonds with Jewish communities in israel and around the world.

we fulfill this mission through financial resource development and planning, and by working in partnership with social service agencies, educational institutions and synagogues.

www.jewishstpaul.org

651-690-1707

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To Get Involved, Volnteer or Donate

Please contact Ted Flaum, Campaign Director at

651-695-3185 or tflaum@ujfc.org.

Get involved. Donate. Volunteer.

It’s what being Jewish feels like.

Thank you to the more than 1,000 members of our community who have generously pledged a gift to the 2011 Annual Campaign. If you have not pledged yet, it’s not too late! Please make a pledge today and be part of a grassroots effort dedicated to strengthening and supporting our Jewish community. Every gift makes a difference. It feeds thousands of elderly Jews in the former Soviet Union. It provides job counseling and emergency aid to those affected by the economic crisis here at home. And, it supports programming that inspires a young family’s love of Jewish life and culture.

Every gift makes a difference