“Kesher: The Connection,” a multi-generational program of study and celebration sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Florida’s Gulf Coast, will present its third program on Sunday, April 26 at Congregation B’nai Israel in St. Petersburg.
The theme of this program will be “Celebrate Israel!” about the celebration of Israeli Independence Day. It will take place the weekend before Yom Ha’atzmaut.
“The first session of ‘Kesher’ focused on health and wellness, and the second examined communication and ways words matter. This time around, we want everyone to take a step back, enjoy themselves, and have a great time learning and connecting with Israel,” said Rabbi Danielle Upbin, community educator at the Federation and associate rabbi at Congregation Beth Shalom.
The morning of break-out sessions will feature Israel education and practices. Participants can expect to see exciting instructive and informative experiences for all ages.
PJ Library will host a lively birthday party for Israel, geared toward young families, featuring story time, craft and fun activities to celebrate Israel’s Independence Day. Elementary students from participating religious schools will come together for hands-on, creative exploration of Israel’s geography, land and people.
Middle school and high school students will explore the nuances of Israel advocacy with local Israel experts in a session that asks the question, “’What’s Israel got to do with me? And why should I care?”
“During this session, middle and high school teens will explore their understanding of and relationship with Israel through interactive activities and conversations,” said Eric Hruby, Executive Director of Jewish Teen Education & Engagement Network (JTEEN).
Adult-focused education opportunities will be available as well, including Israeli film screening and discussion, Israeli dance instruction and a presentation on current geo-political events in the region.
The morning will culminate with a community concert featuring Rick Recht, an acclaimed Jewish musical artist. All students at ‘Kesher’ will have an opportunity to work with Recht.
“In addition to the education portion of the event, we are so excited that Rick Recht, one of the top touring musicians in Jewish music and the national celebrity spokesman for PJ Library, will be performing at our event,” Upbin said. “This should be a great experience and opportunity for the young people in our community.”
Following the community concert, a kosher lunch will be catered by Jo-El’s Kosher Deli.
Doors will open for registration at 9:30 a.m., and the program will begin at 10 a.m. The address of the event is 300 58th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33710.
Admission is free for children, and tickets cost $5 for adults. They are on sale now and can be purchased online at www.jewishgulfcoast.org/kesher. Registration for both kids and adults is required.
For more information, contact Rabbi Danielle Upbin at rabbidani@jewishgulfcoast.org.
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The Jewish Federation of Florida’s Gulf Coast is a mission-driven non-profit organization that strives to ensure the continuity of Jewish life and culture locally, in Israel and around the world. Located in Largo, Florida, the Federation builds and strengthens the Jewish community in Pinellas, Pasco and Hernando counties. We raise more than $1.5 million in donations from individuals, families, corporations and grant makers in order to fund an expanding array of services and programs as well increasing support for programs serving those most in need. The Federation is part of the larger Jewish Federations of North America network and is formerly known as the Jewish Federation of Pinellas & Pasco Counties (2019). For more information about the Federation, call 727-530-3223 or visit www.jewishgulfcoast.org.