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January 8, 2003


ANOTHER TERRORIST ATTACK IN TEL AVIV
Sadly, on Sunday, Jan. 5, another deadly and tragic terrorist attack shook Israel and our community. One of the first questions we get at the Jewish Federation is what are we doing to help the victims of terrorism? Our Community Campaign has built into it funds which support a number of organizations and agencies that help victims of terror, their families and neighbors. Among our key beneficiary agencies is The Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI). Please click here to read a letter from the Director General of JAFI. Remember when you make your donation to our annual campaign a portion of every dollar goes to help the victims of terror in Israel.
 
LOCAL NEEDS SOAR TO NEW HEIGHTS - MORE CUTS ON THE WAY
Over the last three years, we have witnessed a slow rise in statistics which measure human need and personal suffering. The decline of key sectors like aerospace and high tech have given our state the nation's second highest unemployment level (6.7%).  Unemployment benefits for many people are simply not enough.  Today, we see longer lines at food banks around the central Puget Sound. In September 2002, the Jewish Family Service's food bank had the highest use in its history. The months that followed were not much better.  Add to this sad set of data is the fact that at the next session of the State Legislature, starting in just a week, will result in more cuts to social service programs. Too often, shortages of money and food lead to other stresses which require professional help. Yes, these are not normal times in Washington State or in Israel. Our Community Campaign supports the work of those agencies which deal with families in need here in Seattle and around the world. Your gift to our community campaign does make a difference. Please click here now to make your pledge. Join our efforts to advocate in Olympia sign-up for our Government Affairs Action Alerts.
 
SEATTLE SOLIDARITY MISSION RETURNS
FROM ISRAEL

FULL STORY
Written by Betsy Schneier

 


Despite security and economic difficulties in 2002
35,000 NEW IMMIGRANTS ARRIVED IN ISRAELTHIS YEAR; "TREMENDOUS ACHIEVEMENT FOR JEWISH PEOPLE"
READ MORE

Connections 2003
This year, the Women's Division of the Jewish Federation announced exciting new plans for Connections 2003, the largest annual gathering of Jewish women in the Greater Seattle area. In keeping with the tradition of inviting premier speakers, this year's keynote Gloria Steinem, is no different and will be a major draw for attendees. READ MORE

 

Yom Limmud
Save the date for Yom Limmud! A Day of Learning for the entire Jewish Community will be held Sunday January 26, from 9am - 1pm at Herzl-Ner-Tamid Conservative Congregation.

Two world-renowned scholars will be featured: Dr. Isaiah Gafni from Israel and Rabbi Bradley Artson from California. Study sessions in the morning will be followed by a Lunch 'n' Learn featuring short "Taste of Limmud" teachings. The event is being co-sponsored by Limmud NW and Herzl-Ner-Tamid, and will provide an opportunity for Seattle's Jews to study together.

Learn First, Then Sing! For those of you planning to attend the Debbie Friedman concert the afternoon of January 26th, we will be offering discount tickets so you can come to Yom Limmud in the morning and THEN head off to the concert! Click here for more information about Yom Limmud, Registration & Schedule details, and discounted concert tickets.   

For more information about other Jewish community events, please check out our Community Calendar!

 


ITS HOT - BUT IT NEEDS TO GET HOTTER
2003 Unrestricted Community Campaign totals to goal.

YLD Main Event 2003, "Wash Ashore" Spinning out of control on January 25th, 2003 and we would love to see you there! YLD is throwing the gala of the year, with an improved formula. This sudsy event (minus the foam and suds), which honors donors of $365 and more, boasts fine dining, hosted wine and beer and an evening loaded with dancing to the sounds of GruvBox. Bubbling with excitement? To register now, Click Here.  You can also send an e-mail to yld@jewishinseattle.org or call Alex at 206.774.2257.

As a part of Israel Education Month, the Community High School of Jewish Studies is offering an Israel Programs Event on Wednesday, January 29th, from 7:50-8:10 p.m. at the Stroum JCC on Mercer Island. The image of Israel in the media, and the growing number of people who refrain from visiting Israel, has created a dangerous threat to the relationship between North American Jews and Israel. Let's show our solidarity. Come find out about the possibilities that await you for meaningful travel and study in Israel.
For more info contact: dorothyg@jewishinseattle.org

Adult March of the Living: A trip to Poland & Israel for the Seattle Jewish Adult community with scholar Rivy Poupko Kletenik
Join us for an Informational Evening:
Hear from Rivy & past participants who have experienced this life-changing journey. Thursday, January 30, 2003, 7:30 p.m.
READ MORE
Please RSVP to 206.774.2224 or email kayr@jewishinseattle.org
 
New Year's Resolution Idea:  Improve the life of a child in just one hour a week!
Study Buddy volunteer tutors are needed to work one-on-one for an hour a week with children in grades K-8 in Northgate, Wallingford, Capitol Hill, Madrona, Central District, Beacon Hill, West Seattle and Bellevue.  Daytime and evening hours available.  Help at-risk kids with their schoolwork.  All school subjects.  Requires patience, humor, love of learning, and reliability.  Make a real difference in 2003.  Call Jennifer Mendelson 206-774-2276 or jenniferm@jewishinseattle.org for details.
 
Young Leadership Western Regional Conference in San Francisco
March 7-9, 2003
The Westin St. Francis
"If You Will It, It Is No Dream", Theodore Herzl
READ MORE

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The Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle
2031 Third Avenue
Seattle, WA 98121

Tel: (206) 443-5400
Fax: (206) 443-0303
http://www.jewishinseattle.org