TWO EVENINGS WITH NAOMI ACKERMAN, DRAMA SPECIALIST

Naomi Ackerman is an experienced actress whose credits include theater, musicals, films, television and extensive work in multi-ethnic cultural productions with Arab and Jewish actors. Naomi has performed her acclaimed one-woman show dealing with the issue of domestic violence, Flowers Aren't Enough, around the world and throughout Israel over 900 times. Naomi is a social activist, mediator and conflict resolution specialist.  She works as a freelance consultant to various organizations, adapting and creating drama techniques to deal with social, gender and educational issues, as well as exploring Jewish identity and Jewish themes.

Film presentation of “The Last Enemy” with Naomi Ackerman
Wednesday, November 28, 2007 7:45 PM

“The Last Enemy” is a unique documentary film that tells the story of an extraordinary Arab Jewish theater group trying to find the path to understanding and dialogue. This 50 minute film follows the making of The Last Enemy, a play that brings together a group of players from either side of the Israeli and Palestinian conflict.  In this film the process of creating a play becomes a metaphor for the peace process itself, where identity issues and individuals' haunted histories influence attempts to find a true peace.“The Last Enemy” has been featured in over thirty film festivals and has won many awards.  Naomi Ackerman is one of the lead actors in this film and will lead a Question and Answer discussion following the screening of the film.

Dramatic presentation of
“Sisters: Enemies”
Tuesday, February 26, 20087:45 PM

“Sisters: Enemies” is a 30 minute play that tells the unique story of an extraordinary friendship in the midst of crisis. In 2005, the Peres Center for Peace in Tel Aviv created an exciting play for the Holon “Woman” Festival, an annual event in Israel that celebrates the lives and accomplishments of women.  The play, entitled "Sisters: Enemies," tells the story of the acquaintance process and growing friendship between two actresses, one Israeli and one Palestinian. The play touches upon various experiences shared by the women, including their participation as the “Team of Peace” in the 2000 "Trophee Aicha Des Gazelles Rally Race,” a 4X4 Jeep race in the Sahara desert.

The play encompasses elements of drama and comedy, detailing the tensions, struggles, and ultimately, accomplishments of the Palestinian-Israeli partnership. The 30 minute play will be followed by a discussion with the two actresses.

Join us for MOSHAV- the international sensation! Moshav is composed of five brothers who grew up in the hills between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv.  Their music is rich with fiery rock, folk and reggae songs, all spiced with the flavors of the Middle East. Imagine the jamming of Phish, mixed with the vocal strength of Pearl Jam and the spiritual lyrics of U2 with a splash of Reggae.  You do not want to miss this special event!

ISRAELI WINE TASTING EVENT
(SPONSORED BY STS MEN'S CLUB)
Wednesday, March 12, 20088:00 PM

Raise your glass to toast the Land of Milk & Honey and good taste at the Men's Club Israeli Wine Tasting & Seminar.  L'Chayim!

SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE
Weekend with Ian Stern
Friday – Sunday, March 28-30, 2008

Ian Stern is the Director of Archaeological Seminars in Jerusalem. Since 1998, he has been the archaeologist in charge of excavations at Maresha. He has spent the past twenty years of his life passionately guiding, teaching, lecturing and designing pro-grams connected to Israel, Jewish History, Archaeology and Jewish Identity.  A charismatic and dynamic individual, Mr. Stern has been wowing audiences of all ages for many years. An American born, Ian and his wife Heidi made aliyah in 1978 and have three children.

We are proud to present the return of the very popular series written and directed by the talented Maria Czech, and performed by members of the STS congregation. As always, a Majestic Caterers Shabbat dinner will be offered prior to the performances.  (Pre-paid dinner reservations are needed.)

Friday, November 9
Women Who Brought the People to Israel…
Oprah Winfrey comes back to interview some lesser-known women who were instrumental in establishing and preserving the Jewish presence in the state of Israel.

Friday, February 8
Dinner Theater…
Political heroes of present day Israel visit STS members during Shabbat evening dinner and interact with them.

Friday, April 11
The spiritual founders of modern Israel visit STS in a format TBA.

YOM HAZIKARON:
ISRAELI MEMORIAL DAY
Wednesday, May 7, 2008 evening

May 7, 2008 marks Yom HaZikaron, a difficult and emotional day for all Israelis. For such a small country which fights for its existence on a daily basis and has lost many soldiers, it is a day of reflection and mourning which touches every citizen.  Shomrei Torah Synagogue, in collaboration with the Israeli Consulate in Los Angeles, will host a special Yom HaZikaron Ceremony. This event will be open to the entire community and will enable us all to show our support for the fallen Israeli soldiers.

YOM HAATZMAUT:
ISRAELI INDEPENDENCE DAY
Israel Turns 60!
Thursday, May 8, 2008 evening

As Israel marks 60 years of independence, STS will host a wonderful celebration for our entire community featuring the children of our preschool and Religious School performing songs and dances.