In honor of Yom Ha’atzmaut (aka Israel Independence Day), the Jewish community hosts a few special local happenings.
First, the Bay area commemorates its newest overseas relationship at the Tampa-Ashdod Sister City Partnership Celebration, which features a buffet of Israeli and Mediterranean food in addition to a live song and dance performance by the Shalom Israel Asdod Troupe (6:15 p.m., Thurs., May 5, Tampa Theatre, 711 Franklin St., Tampa). This event is not free ($18 adults/$10 children), but it corresponds with an event that is – Solidarity 57, a festival observing the 57th anniversary of Israel’s rebirth.
The fest occurs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sun., May 8, on the campus of the Tampa Jewish Community Center (13009 Community Campus Drive, Tampa). Highlights include a Marketplace with imported goods from Israel; live music by Bay area synagogue groups and the Mike Eisenstadt Band; an array of children’s activities and diversions; a carnival with games and rides; and, perhaps most intriguing, a photography exhibit of images by Israeli photographer, Michael Lidski.
Net proceeds from food, some merchandise sales and the carnival benefit the UJC/Jewish Agency’s Victims of Terror Fund. For more information, call 813-264-9000.
-Leilani Polk
This article appears in May 4-10, 2005.
