The Jewish Federation begins celebrating Israel’s 70th birthday with two participatory activities open to the entire community. Designed by Chen Dahan, the shlicha (cultural emissary) to the Jewish Federation, these activities are designed to promote an understanding of Israel and its unique cultural heritage as part of Israel’s 70th birthday. The establishment of Israel as an independent, democratic, sovereign state was in 1948, the day after the British Mandate over Palestine was officially terminated, in accordance with UN Resolution 181.
The first activity, Re-create One of Israel’s Defining Moments, is a visual arts competition. There is no cost to participate. Individuals or groups can go to www.jewishchattanooga.com/Israelat70 to sign up. Each registrant is asked to view, then pick an historical photograph from those provided. After selecting the photograph, the registrant will re-create the photo using a two or three dimensional format in any media. The recreation must be submitted for exhibition by March 12. Beginning March 24, all entries will be displayed in the gallery at the Jewish Cultural Center, 5461 North Terrace. Visitors to the gallery through April 20 will vote on the best re-creation. On April 22, the winner will be announced. The winner will receive a special gift from Israel and get the opportunity to give a gift to Israel.
The second activity, Rising Star Chattanooga, takes place on March 11 at 3 p.m., at the Jewish Cultural Center. Contestants sing or play Hebrew, Israeli or Jewish affiliated songs. People of all ages are invited to compete. There is no cost to participate. The judges for the competition are Jonathan Susman, local music producer, and Bob Bernhardt, emeritus musical director of the Chattanooga Symphony and Opera. The winner of Rising Star will perform on April 22 at the community event to mark Israel’s 70th birthday. To sign up to compete in Rising Star Chattanooga, visit www.jewishchattanooga.com.
Both activities conclude on Sunday, April 22, with a birthday party celebration featuring social service organizations in Israel at the Jewish Cultural Center. For more information, contact the Jewish Federation of Greater Chattanooga 423-493-0270.