Submitted by Northern Hills Synagogue
Northern Hills Synagogue’s upcoming Ahavat Israel (Love of Israel) benefit to raise funds for the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati’s Israel Emergency Fund will take place on Sunday, March 10 at 3:00 pm. “We developed this event as a way for people to come together, celebrate all that is great about Israel and to raise more funds for the emergency campaign,” stated Event Chair Matt Lee, Northern Hills Vice-President.
“One of the ways we can show support is by promoting and purchasing Israeli products,” Matt explained. “For that reason, the event will kick off with an Israeli wine tasting and discussion led by local wine expert Rabbi Andrew Kaplan. He will spotlight the five different wine regions of Israel. Afterwards, we’ll auction fine wines from small Israeli wineries. All proceeds from the auction will then be forwarded to the Israel Emergency campaign.” Non-alcoholic beverages will also be available.
At 4:30 pm a special concert will feature “Stars of the Future” from the University of Cincinnati’s College-Conservatory of Music. Eliza Levy, Jeff Blackorby, and Nick Pattarini, senior Music Theater majors, will present songs of hope and love. The trio recently performed at Carnegie Hall for the Stephen Flaherty tribute, and will be accompanied by pianist Casey Reed. Matt Snow, the “Cincinnati Sinatra,” will serve as guest emcee, and offer some favorite Sinatra tunes. “Although not Jewish, Matt volunteered to do his part because of his special concern about Israel,” explained committee member Jeff Bassin.
Dietary laws will be observed. There is a cost to attend, and all attendees and supporters who cannot attend, are encouraged to make a separate donation to support Israel. “We have made special arrangements with the Jewish Federation to recognize these individual contributions,” stated NHS president, Connie Hinitz. “And even though I have already made a significant contribution to the Israel emergency campaign, this upcoming event has propelled me to make a plus giving gift. I hope others will do the same.”
Ahavat Israel will take place at Northern Hills Synagogue, located at 5714 Fields Ertel Road, Cincinnati, Oh 45249. Reservations and donations will be accepted through March 5 on the Northern Hills website. For more information, please check the website or call the synagogue.
