Jewbalations

We are a fine art gallery nestled in the beautiful and historic Linden Hills area of southwest Minneapolis at 4304 Upton Avenue South.We feature Jimmy Wilson limited edition prints and various other guest artists.Jimmy Wilson is also an award winning filmmaker and writer. His work includes films on Polar bears, Lions, Wolves, and Moose. He writes a monthly piece for ‘Internationally Known: Lifestyle and Fashion’ magazine.Gallery hours: Wednesday-Sunday 12PM-5PM Or by appointment.jimmy@jimmypicture.com 612-201-0701

Bad Rabbi: And Other Strange But True Stories from the Yiddish PressBook by Eddy PortnoyStories abound of immigrant Jews on the outside looking in, clambering up the ladder of social mobility, successfully assimilating and integrating into their new worlds. But this book is not about the success stories. It's a paean to the bunglers, the blockheads, and the just plain weird—Jews who were flung from small, impoverished eastern European towns into the urban shtetls of New York and Warsaw, where, as they say in Yiddish, their bread landed butter side down in the dirt. These marginal Jews may have found their way into the history books far less frequently than their more socially upstanding neighbors, but there's one place you can find them in force: in the Yiddish newspapers that had their heyday from the 1880s to the 1930s. Disaster, misery, and misfortune: you will find no better chronicle of the daily ignominies of urban Jewish life than in the pages of the Yiddish press.An underground history of downwardly mobile Jews, Bad Rabbi exposes the seamy underbelly of pre-WWII New York and Warsaw, the two major centers of Yiddish culture in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. With true stories plucked from the pages of the Yiddish papers, Eddy Portnoy introduces us to the drunks, thieves, murderers, wrestlers, poets, and beauty queens whose misadventures were immortalized in print. There's the Polish rabbi blackmailed by an American widow, mass brawls at weddings and funerals, a psychic who specialized in locating missing husbands, and violent gangs of Jewish mothers on the prowl—in short, not quite the Jews you'd expect. One part Isaac Bashevis Singer, one part Jerry Springer, this irreverent, unvarnished, and frequently hilarious compendium of stories provides a window into an unknown Yiddish world that was.https://www.amazon.com/Bad-Rabbi-Strange-Stories-Stanford/dp/150360411X

World-renowned author, counselor, lecturer and philosopher, Rabbi Manis Friedman uses ancient wisdom and modern wit as he captivates audiences around the country and around the world. He hosts his own critically acclaimed cable television series, Torah Forum with Manis Friedman, syndicated throughout North America. Over 150,000 copies of his provocative yet entertaining tapes, both audio and video have been sold.Rabbi Friedman’s first book, DOESN'T ANYONE BLUSH ANYMORE?, published by Harper San Francisco in 1990, was widely praised by the media. Following the publication of the book, he was featured internationally in over 200 print articles, and interviewed on more than 50 television and radio talk shows. He has appeared on CNN, A&E Reviews, PBS, and BBC Worldwide, and has been the subject of articles in the New York Times, Rolling Stone, Seventeen, Guideposts, Insight, Publisher’s Weekly and others. Note: Blush is currently in its fourth printing distributed exclusively through The Bookmen, Inc.Rabbi Friedman is a noted Biblical scholar, recognized for his sagacious grasp of Jewish mysticism. In 1971, he founded Bais Chana Institute of Jewish Studies in Minnesota, the world's first yeshiva exclusively for women, where he continues to serve as dean. From 1984-1990 he served as simultaneous translator for the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s televised talks.Rabbi Friedman is a professionally ranked member of the National Speakers Association. His speaking tours take him to every part of this country as well as Israel, England, The Netherlands, South Africa, Australia, Brazil, Venezuela, Peru, Canada, and Hong Kong.Rabbi Friedman was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia in 1946 and immigrated with his family to the United States in 1950. He received his rabbinic ordination from the Rabbinical College of Canada in 1969.Rabbi Manis Friedman enthuses each of his listeners and readers with a sense of purpose and definite direction. · “[Friedman's] Television show, “Torah Forum” promotes ethical thinking in cable markets across the U.S." -- Rolling Stone· "Anyone who is either married or thinking of getting married would do well to read [Friedman's] book." — Bob Dylan· "The message in Friedman's folksy and fascinating book is simple: It's good to be good." — Seventeen Magazine· "With wit and originality, Manis Friedman makes us take a fresh look at our own morality." — Guideposts· "A most unusual man who is saying what needs to be said… provocative and inspiring." — Bob Grant· "I recommend that every person in America go out and buy [Friedman's] book." --Paul Harvey· "…Gentle, sensitive, wise, and sometimes crack-up funny." — Lifestyles In Recovery· "A rising superstar… eloquent and witty." — New York Times Magazine

The world's first international female sports star was a Jewish mother from Boston? Well yes, Annie Londonderry!!Annie Cohen Kopchovsky (1870–1947), known as Annie Londonderry, was a Latvian immigrant to the United States who in 1894–95 became the first woman to bicycle around the world. She was a free-thinking woman, who reinvented herself under her pseudonym as an entrepreneur, athlete, and globetrotter.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W42sY3Pakjc

Rabbi Simon Jacobson is the author of Toward a Meaningful Life (William Morrow, 2002), founder of The Meaningful Life Center (meaningfullife.com) and publisher of the leading Jewish newspaper The Algemeiner (algemeiner.com). For over fourteen years, from 1979 till 1992, Rabbi Jacobson served as the documenter and publisher of the seventh Lubavitcher Rebbe’s public talks, memorizing thousands of hours of these discourses and then committing them to paper. He also headed the editorial team of Sefer HaLikkutim — a 26-volume encyclopedia on Chassidic thought (published 1977-1982). As one of most pioneering and sought after writers and speakers in the Jewish world today, Rabbi Jacobson has deeply impacted diverse audiences in all continents with his keen insights into the human condition, applying Torah thought to contemporary life, in a cutting edge voice that is rooted in the timeless teachings of Judaism, while being profoundly timely and relevant.

#amberalert, #brooklyn, #dragqueen, #jewbalations, #mysonwearsheelsJulie Tarney is an author, speaker, and advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning (LGBTQ+) youth.Her memoir, MY SON WEARS HEELS (University of Wisconsin Press, 2016) shared what she learned about gender identity, gender expression, and self-acceptance from her only child, Harry, and what her parenting journey with Harry, from toddler to adulthood, taught her about herself. Sharing that experience in public appearances, Julie has touched the lives of so many in diverse settings. She is devoting her life to reaching as many people as possible, with an emphasis on gender identity related topics. Her mission is to make the world safer and the future more inclusive for LGBTQ+ youth.Julie Tarney serves on the board of the It Gets Better Project, guest writes for HuffPost, and is a contributing advice columnist for My Kid Is Gay. She volunteers regularly as a speaker for PFLAG NYC‘s Safe Schools Program and is also a member of the National Center for Transgender Equality’s Families for Trans Equality network. Julie was named a “Favorite Queer Hero of 2016” by HuffPost and one of BlogHer’s “Voices of the Year” in 2015.“There are thousands of people who are just beginning this journey right now,” Tarney said. “They include parents, extended family, neighbors, educators, and co-workers. Almost all are either learning about or trying to get comfortable with issues related to gender identity. They have questions about how those issues effect the people they care about, work with, or interact with in their lives and communities. I want those people to know they’re not alone. And I’ve seen how my story can help them.”Julie has spoken to a variety of audiences in academic, workplace and other settings. She has also been a guest at LGBTQ Pride events to share her experience and expertise.A longtime resident of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Julie now lives in Brooklyn, New York. She can often be found cheering in the audience at her creative director and sometimes-drag-artist son Harry’s performances.

Julie Tarney is an author, speaker, and advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning (LGBTQ+) youth.Her memoir, MY SON WEARS HEELS (University of Wisconsin Press, 2016) shared what she learned about gender identity, gender expression, and self-acceptance from her only child, Harry, and what her parenting journey with Harry, from toddler to adulthood, taught her about herself. Sharing that experience in public appearances, Julie has touched the lives of so many in diverse settings. She is devoting her life to reaching as many people as possible, with an emphasis on gender identity related topics. Her mission is to make the world safer and the future more inclusive for LGBTQ+ youth.Julie Tarney serves on the board of the It Gets Better Project, guest writes for HuffPost, and is a contributing advice columnist for My Kid Is Gay. She volunteers regularly as a speaker for PFLAG NYC‘s Safe Schools Program and is also a member of the National Center for Transgender Equality’s Families for Trans Equality network. Julie was named a “Favorite Queer Hero of 2016” by HuffPost and one of BlogHer’s “Voices of the Year” in 2015.“There are thousands of people who are just beginning this journey right now,” Tarney said. “They include parents, extended family, neighbors, educators, and co-workers. Almost all are either learning about or trying to get comfortable with issues related to gender identity. They have questions about how those issues effect the people they care about, work with, or interact with in their lives and communities. I want those people to know they’re not alone. And I’ve seen how my story can help them.”Julie has spoken to a variety of audiences in academic, workplace and other settings. She has also been a guest at LGBTQ Pride events to share her experience and expertise.A longtime resident of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Julie now lives in Brooklyn, New York. She can often be found cheering in the audience at her creative director and sometimes-drag-artist son Harry’s performances.

#backroomstewdios, #jbrick, #jewbalations, #jewish, #jewishbrickJbrick is run by a husband and wife team. Yitzy, with a background in fine wood working and engineering and currently professionally employed as an Expert LEGO® Builder, designs the custom LEGO® sets. His wife Channie, who has a degree in finance, is the business manager.Yitzy has always dreamed of creating Jewish custom LEGO® sets. After our first product, a 3-in-1 Menorah set, sold out in just one week after launch, we were inundated with requests for more. With nothing else like it on the market, we realized that the demand for high quality Jewish toys is huge! Because we are committed to designing the highest quality sets, we only use genuine LEGO® parts. Our goal is to bring children and adults closer to their Jewish heritage through our fun products. As a father of three and a martial arts instructor, Yitzy understands the importance of connecting with learners using visually stimulating, exciting, and hands-on techniques. Jbrick uses genuine LEGO® elements for all our builds, and it is exciting for children to open a new toy knowing it's a quality, brand name product. With Jbrick custom LEGO® sets, children will receive detailed color instructions that will teach them advanced LEGO® building techniques. Be it a 3-in-1 Menorah for Chanukah or a 2-in-1 Seder Plate for Passover, our kits will occupy the recipient for hours while they build and rebuild each of the models. What's more, once built, the completed model will be a piece of art that can be displayed proudly year round. At Jbrick, our vision goes beyond creating Jewish Custom LEGO® sets. We want to use Yitzy's building skills to create large scale Jewish Custom LEGO models, such as a replica of the Beit Hamikdash (Holy Temple) to LEGO® minifig size, about 1/35 scale, a replica of the kotel, or Noah's Ark. The more this business grows, the more we will be able to create new fun and exciting custom Jewish custom LEGO® sets and models that will not only enhance Jewish learning, but will make it really fun too! Please feel free to let us know what YOU would like to see jbrick create. We love feedback!

Kabbalah & Comedy of Marriage & Intimacy LectureThursday May 10th, 8PMGet your tickets today:https://chabadminneapoliscom.clhosting.org/templates/articlecco_cdo/aid/3996109

Ariella Forstein is a World Music Songstress who has performed on over 400 stages.She is also a Vocal Empowerment Coach recognized internationally for her unique work that liberates people from self-judgment and brings them to self-love, so they can freely and joyfully express their most authentic selves on stage, in business, and in relating with those around them.One of Ariella's favorite spots to be – “home” – is on stage.It’s that uncanny energy exchanged between her and the audience when singing from the soul, that energizes her being in a very healing way… and simultaneously, connecting with clients, friends, and family on deep levels.She wants to know, 'What is your heart's yearning? What do you ache for?' And she wants to support you lovingly so that you may experience those things in your lifetime.When not working, Ariella loves being in nature, laughing with friends, and hand blending teas.

Rabbi Manis Friedman rabbi, author, social philosopher and public speaker. Rabbi Friedman is the co-founder and Dean of the Bais Chana Institute of Jewish Studies. Friedman is the author of Doesn't Anyone Blush Anymore?, which was published in 1990 and is currently in its fourth printing. He is featured in the documentary films: The Lost Key (2014) and The Jewish Journey: America (2015)

Miriam Monasch joins Bex in stewdio, to have a little conversation, about her directing skills in MJTC's upcoming production of, "Natasha and The Coat".

Shosha Pearl’s stories of love, sex, romance and yearning, all of which have Jewish themes and deal with ideas and plots that are – technically, at least – permissible by Jewish law.Most, but not all, of the stories are focused on intimate moments in the lives of religiously observant Jewish women and men. They are fictional reflections of the erotic beauty and desire that can exist even in the most Orthodox home.Take a look around the site and feel free to come back to me, Shosha, with comments. And please enjoy the stories, because while your rabbi may not encourage you to read them (I hope he will!) you won’t have to worry about stumbling across ideas or plot developments that conflict with (mainstream) halacha.Happy reading!

Rabbi Locketz is the Senior Rabbi Bet Shalom Congregation. He came to Bet Shalom after rabbinic ordination from the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in Cincinnati, Ohio in 2004. Rabbi Locketz began as Assistant Rabbi and continued in that role until 2006 when he became Associate Rabbi. He was installed as Bet Shalom's Senior Rabbi in January of 2016Having grown up in the Minneapolis Area, Rabbi Locketz completed his undergraduate degree in Hebrew and Semitic Studies at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. Before entering Rabbinical School, Rabbi Locketz worked for three years as the Assistant Camp Director for our Union of Reform Judaism Camp, Olin-Sang-Ruby Union Institute (OSRUI), while also working as the North American Federation of Temple Youth (NFTY) Advisor to the Northern and Chicago Regions. His rabbinic thesis is entitled, “Rabbi Joseph Rauch: A Biographical Study.” Since returning to Minnesota as a Rabbi, Rabbi Locketz has been active in several organizations in addition to his work at Bet Shalom. He served on the board of the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) and is a graduate of the Synagogue Transformation and Renewal (STAR) Program. Rabbi Locketz is a past president of the Minnesota Rabbinical Association (MRA) and currently sits on the board of the Jewish Family and Children’s Service (JFCS) and the OSRUI Rabbis, Educators, and Cantors Committee (RECC). He is a Co-Chair of YACHAD: A Collaborative Initiative in Jewish Education. Since receiving certification from the Minnesota Emergency Service Chaplain Association (MESCA), Rabbi Locketz has served as a Police Chaplain for the Minnetonka Police Department. He is also a founding board member of the Non-profit Drops Fill Buckets Minneapolis Chapter. Rabbi Locketz is a member of the Central Conference of American Rabbis (CCAR). A true Minnesotan, Rabbi Locketz enjoys most things having to do with a lake – fishing, boating and waterskiing. He takes great interest in history, genealogy, and music.

Collected Storiesby Donald MarguliesTwo women take the stage for this dramatic play about a teacher and her student protégé, kicking off Women's History Month this March. Jennie Ward will make her MJTC directorial debut.Ruth Steiner is a respected author in the autumn of her career when she hires Lisa, a graduate student, to be her assistant. Under Ruth's mentorship, Lisa's talent is unleashed, but when Lisa writes a novel based upon her teacher's past, their friendship explodes with questions about intellectual property and the ownership of experiences. This gem of a play, by one of today's most admired playwrights, displays "tangled connections between creativity and ideology...thick with ideas like a stockpot of good stew." (Village Voice)February 24 - March 18, 2018Wednesdays at 7:30 p. m. - $23Thursdays at 7:30 p. m. - $25Saturdays at 8:00 p. m. - $38Sundays at 1:00 p. m. - $30Sunday, February 25th at 7:00 p. m. - $2520’s-30’s Thursdays Rate – For anyone 20 - 39; use the promotional code 2030 when ordering.Student Rush Rate – $12 tickets for students at the door; must show a valid student ID.Special Group Rate – For groups of 10 and over. Contact the box office for more details.Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company | PO Box 16155 | St. Paul, MN 55116651.647.4315 | info@mnjewishtheatre.org

Darrin Levine is your guy, build a stronger more visible business, bring ASDAL into your world!Amazon Full Scale ManagementIncrease Traffic. Increase Sales. Relax | Repeat.Without the time, expertise, technology, and effective game plan to optimize their Marketplace performance, most Amazon sellers become discouraged and impotent. Having been a seller ourselves, we understand how stressful, time consuming and tedious the process can be. Our Full Scale Management Program has three Phases 1. Forecast & Research | 2. Build & Guide | 3. Improve & EngagementWe simply save you time and money all while you relax and enjoy the more pressing issues such as family and other business matters.https://www.asdalamz.com

An accomplished musician, inhibiting your inner soul with his sounds.eddiestrin.com

Bioquark Inc. is a life sciences company, developing proprietary combinatorial biologics for the regeneration and repair of human organs and tissues.

957 GRAND AVE, ST PAUL, MN 55105EST. 1991 Over 20 years ago Marina and Liliya moved to the United States from Kiev, Ukraine. Growing up with a love of clothes and watching their mom as a talented seamstress, Marina became skilled in tailoring and making clothes. Two short years after moving to St Paul, they opened "Perfect Fit by Marina," a small but now well-known alterations and dressmaking shop.As that business grew, so did their love of style. Marina and Liliya, dreamt of expanding the business to create a fashion destination for women became a reality in 2012, when opening ATELIER957 in a victorian home on Grand Avenue. The clothing and accessories they carry are mainly from small designers in Europe and locally in the U.S. who handsew or create each piece. Marina and Liliya's collections are meticulously chosen so women of all ages, shapes, sizes, and personalities can feel comfortable and confident.https://atelier957.comhttp://www.perfectfit-bymarina.com

Jewish Historical Society of the Upper MidwestMembership News Collections Events Exhibits Donate Volunteer Contact WelcomeSharejhsum.org where generations connect to get the whole storyThe archives of the Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest are now located at the University of Minnesota within the Andersen Library at the Nathan and Theresa Berman Upper Midwest Jewish Archives. The archives consist of synagogue and Jewish institutional records, as well as historical materials from rural Midwest communities, family and personal histories, oral histories, photographic and film collections, and genealogy materials. The collection is particularly strong in the areas of Jewish homesteading in the Dakotas, Northern Minnesota Iron Range Jewish communities, Minneapolis and St. Paul synagogue records, Jewish women’s organization records, and materials reflecting life on Minneapolis’s North Side Jewish community.To search the collection or set up a research appointment: please visit the Upper Midwest Jewish Archives website at http://lib.umn.edu/umja. The collection is available and open to the public on the University of Minnesota campus, but an appointment is strongly suggested. Contact Archivist Kate Dietrick at diet0134@umn.edu or 612-625-0192.

Becki’s family of auctioneers taught her well. They were master persuaders who were serious about sales as a noble endeavor. They understood the importance of arousing curiosity in their customers.What she learned in the greasy warehouses of her youth, she confirmed in the dusty halls of academia. Trained in behavioral science/applied psychology at Washington University in St. Louis, as a graduate student Becki conducted award-winning research using a mathematical model of behavior prediction. She went on to a career as a fashion buyer, and then spent 20-years as a top real estate broker. All the while she continued to study curiosity and the role it plays in sales and influence, innovation & creative problem solving, decision making, and lifestyle design.To understand the role of curiosity in the lives of remarkable people, Becki spent two decades studying and collaborating with behavioral scientists, embedding herself into a variety of industries and cultures, and conducting interviews around the world. These findings and adventures provided the ingredients for Applied-Curiosity training frameworks and the Living Curiously Method–a 5-step method for using curiosity to be remarkable and do good stuff.Becki is the author of Living Curiously: How to Use Curiosity to Be Remarkable and Do Good Stuff, and Arousing the Buy Curious: Real Estate Pillow Talk for Patrons and Professionals. Her blog, Living Curiously, is an exercise apparatus for flexing curiosity muscles (so they don’t atrophy).Becki is a trainer in Applied Curiosity. She speaks and writes about curiosity as a tool for business insights and advantages, and as a lens for adventure.Becki loves great travel adventures, speaking to inspired audiences, dancing on crowded dance floors, and sipping brown drinks.Follow your curiosity. Join me on the socials…tweeting provocatively on Twitter, revealing curiosities on Facebook, and sharing adventures on Instagram. And, if you’re curious, join our growing tribe of adventurous unconventional thinkers as a member of the Tribe of the Curious.https://beckisaltzman.com

Church & State By Jason Odell WilliamsOctober 21 - November 12 2017Good-natured and popular Republican Senator Charlie Whitmore is up for re-election in North Carolina. Just three days before voting, he lets slip to a blogger his new and not-so-popular thoughts on God and the second amendment. As his bible-thumping wife, Sara, works to retain religion in their marriage, Alex, his New York Jewish liberal staffer, fights to keep the campaign from spinning out of control. Hailed as "A powerful... highly contemporary piece" (Huffington Post), this new comedy looks at America's political system today. Directed by Michael Kissin. "The topics of this play - religion, guns and politics - seem heavy. But a heavy drama about heavy topics doesn’t interest me. What interests me is a play that gets to the heart of the people around these issues. And when you write about people, you can’t help but let them be funny and sad and honest, heartbreaking and uplifting all at the same time. Because isn’t that what being human is? I hope this play raises questions, sparks debate, makes people laugh and cry, and laugh while crying. And of course I hope it moves people in some way. Perhaps enough to take action with their voice and vote and bump the needle ever so slightly in the conversation about gun violence. But most of all, I hope this play speaks to your heart. Because, for me, that’s the only reason to write anything: to speak to each other’s hearts."-Jason Odell Williams, Playwrighthttp://mnjewishtheatre.orghttps://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=73179

Darrin hit the minors running and has continued hitting homers with his business. This young entrepreneur is making it happen, with new ideas around ever corner. You won't want to take your eyes off this one, cause he's a winner!

For Jewish and non-Jewish customers alike, the Lincoln Del was a Minneapolis version of Cheers—at the Del everybody knew your name. Folks hardly minded waiting in line for the fresh caraway rye, the cabbage borscht, the corned beef sandwiches, or the towering strawberry shortcake because every visit was like a family reunion, complete with warm embraces, recounted stories, boisterous jokes, and—of course—plenty of amazing food.From modest beginnings as a bakery in 1930s north Minneapolis to a local chain of three bustling restaurants in St. Louis Park and Bloomington, the Lincoln Del was a neighborhood institution for decades. These popular spots drew visitors from all over the metro and across the state, and even years later patrons nostalgically recall the tasty baked goods, the generously portioned sandwiches, and the sense of belonging that beckoned everyone who walked through the door.The Lincoln Del Cookbook gathers not only coveted recipes—for blintzes and challah, coleslaw and chicken matzo ball soup—but also family lore and patrons' memories, with photographs, menus, and memorabilia that will bring you right back to the Lincoln Del—or make you wish you'd been around to experience its delights in person.https://www.amazon.com/Lincoln-Cookbook-Wendi-Zelkin-Rosenstein/dp/1681340615

Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Minneapolis provides essential services to people of all ages and backgrounds to sustain healthy relationships, ease suffering and offer support in times of need.We are proud to say that for more than a century, JFCS has provided programs, services, and support for thousands in the Jewish and broader communities. We provide help in areas including aging services, career services, children and family services, community engagement, and counseling and mental health support. Our staff is highly trained and professional, providing culturally sensitive and confidential care that incorporates best practices. Repairing the world one person at a time, a central value of Judaism, informs our work and mission. Above all, our caregivers are compassionate and experienced. We are here for you when you need us, for many years to come.http://www.jfcsmpls.orgJewish Family and Children’s Service of Minneapolis13100 Wayzata Blvd, Suite 400 | Minnetonka, MN 55305952-546-0616

HELEN RUBENSTEIN, DEPUTY DIRECTORGlobal Rights for Women envisions a world where women’s human rights to equality and freedom from violence are fully realized.Global Rights for Women collaborates with partners around the world to promote women’s human rights to equality and freedom from violence through legal reform and systems change.

Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company (MJTC) was born in July 1994, shortly after Founder and Producing Artistic Director Barbara Brooks gave birth to her son. Through his infancy, she thought about her identity and how she could continue her Jewish heritage into the next generation. Beyond that, she wondered how her son and his future friends — Jew and non-Jew alike — would learn to share and find richness in each other’s diversity.A native New Yorker, Barbara came to Minnesota to pursue a graduate degree in music therapy at the University of Minnesota after receiving a B.A. in Music from Vassar College. Schooling was followed by appearances in musicals and plays in the east and Midwest, and teaching in the St. Paul Public Schools. As she got to know the Twin Cities, she sensed that there were fewer opportunities here for people of every heritage to learn about each others' culture than there were in New York, and that many Jewish people felt as disengaged from their roots as she did. Barbara decided that if other major cities had theaters devoted to Jewish culture, Minnesota should have one, too. She gathered together a diverse group of like-minded community leaders and formed the non-profit, professional MJTC.Since 1995, MJTC has produced over 70 plays and musicals. These have included 3 commissions and 6 world premieres. Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company work has garnered 5 IVEY Awards, and MJTC is the recipient of the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council Arts Achievement Award (2010).Audiences have grown steadily through the years, regularly coming from the Twin Cities, surrounding suburbs, all areas of Minnesota, throughout Wisconsin, and other states from coast to coast. The Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company audience is as diverse as our world today. MJTC’s theater home is the 143-seat Highland Park Community Center Theater where the intimate space enables a special connection between the audience and artist, and our consistently acclaimed work mesmerizes the youngest child through the oldest adult.Financial support has come from hundreds of individuals and prestigious institutional sources. Groups have attended from community organizations, public and private schools, and synagogues and churches. Recognition on both a local and national level continues to grow.Propel us into the future.Minnesota Jewish Theatre Company | GiveMN

(audio issues in the first 4 minutes, but very good information)Frederick Hertz is an attorney and mediator with offices in Oakland and San Francisco. He previously handled litigation involving the dissolution of real property co-tenancies, including tenants-in-common, family co-ownerships, and domestic partnership dissolutions, and the related aspects of property and financial disputes between unmarried couples, both same-sex and opposite-sex, as well as purchase & sale and ownership of real property matters. Mr. Hertz’ legal practice is now limited to drafting real property co-ownership agreements, cohabitation agreements, and premarital agreements for couples, both gay and straight.Mr. Hertz also works as a mediator and arbitrator, with a special emphasis on the mediation of co-ownership and other disputes between married and unmarried couples, business partners, tenants-in-common, co-owners, family members, and domestic partners. He also mediates all varieties of real estate disputes.A native of St. Paul, Minnesota, Frederick Hertz graduated from Boalt Hall (University of California, Berkeley School of Law, 1981), clerked with the Minnesota Supreme Court (1981-1982), and subsequently received a Master's Degree in Urban Geography from the University of California, Berkeley (1991). He has previously taught Real Property Law in the Paralegal/Legal Studies Program of St. Mary's University, and Small Firm and Solo Practice Management at Golden Gate Law School in San Francisco.Mr. Hertz writes and speaks nationally on property issues facing unmarried partners. He is the author of Legal Affairs: Essential Advice for Same- Sex Couples (Henry Holt & Co./Owl Books, 1998) and co-author of two Nolo Press books, Legal Guide for Lesbian and Gay Couples and Living Together : A Guide for Unmarried Couples. He has been quoted in The New York Times, the Advocate, American Demographics, Hero Magazine, Kiplingers Magazine, and the New York Observer, and has appeared on NPR's All Things Considered, Sound Money, and on the Oprah Winfrey Show and the Today Show.http://frederickhertz.com

The Body Snatcher's Wife, Barbra has survived life on a Hellride with the Devil himself and has appeared on several shows because of it. Oprah, Who the Bleep Did I Marry, The Devil You Know, Nancy Grace, Tabloid, My Life is a Lifetime Movie. But her outrageous raw account has never been laid bare. Riveting. Soulful. Inspiring. Barbra's story is one of a woman holding onto herself for dear life. For her children. Her dream life gone. A warrior still. Facing devastation, desperation and destitution at his hands, with more faith and fortitude than she ever thought possible. Through all his darkness until the end. Keeping the Light. Forever more.

Jan Ringers aunt Gitta Shadur, sent her and her mother, Sonja away on KRISTALLNACHT, November 9-10, 1938, hoping later to be reunited with them in Antwerp, Belgium. She tells the story of her horror and fear as the SS were everywhere!

Hans Johnson, a Pancreatic Cancer survivor, has a saying "Im not in re-mission, I'm on a mission!" Hans mission is to build awareness for the Pancreatic Cancer.Hans is one of the celebrities for the "Dancing with Twin Cities Celebrities" Arthur Murray Charity Ball-Saturday June 3, 2017.Please help Hans Wage Hope for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network by donating today.http://www.amcharityfund.org

Artistic Director, Theatre Archivist, Writer, Costume Designer, Producer, Event Producer, ActivistSteven has done it all and still keeps going, just like the energizer bunny!! Enjoy listening to his wealth of information.

Julie Tarney is a writer, speaker, and advocate for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer/questioning (LGBTQ) youth.She wrote the memoir My Son Wears Heels (University of Wisconsin Press, Sept. 2016) to share what she learned about gender identity, gender expression, and self-acceptance from her only child, Harry, and what her parenting journey with Harry taught her about herself.“I know there are thousands of parents out there who are just beginning this journey right now,” Tarney said. “They’re learning about and struggling with their child’s gender identity. I want them to know they’re not alone. I think my story can help them.”Julie was named a “Favorite Queer Hero of 2016” by the Huffington Post. She serves on the board of the It Gets Better Project, blogs for Huffington Post’s “Queer Voices” and “Parents” pages, and is a contributing writer for My Kids Is Gay and the True Colors Fund’s Give a Damn Campaign. She is also an active member of PFLAG NYC, volunteering regularly as a speaker for its Safe Schools Program.A longtime resident of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Julie now lives in Brooklyn, New York. She can often be found cheering in the audience at her creative director/photographer and sometimes-drag-artist son Harry’s performances.

Chief Todd Axtell served as St. Paul's assistant chief of operations, he is a 27-year veteran for the St. Paul Police Department. The 48-year-old has served at every rank in the department, rising to become the city's 41st police chief.Axtell spent his formative years in Northfield, graduated from Brainerd High School and now lives in the Highland Park neighborhood. He enjoys spending time with his two children and four grandchildren.

Sarah is a Certified Laughter Yoga Leader and Teacher trained by The Dr. Kataria School of Laughter Yoga and has been engaging others in laughter since 2008.​Sarah has a BA in English, a BFA in Photography and a Master’s in Adult Education. After teaching high school English and Drama for 10 years, and running 2 non-profits for 18 years, Sarah is now a Leadership Instructor and a Wellness Advocate at the University of Minnesota. She has trained in Reiki and Reflexology and cares deeply about health and wellness. As a certified Laughter Yoga Leader and Teacher she has presented countless Laughter Yoga sessions for corporations such as Cigna Health Care, SUPERVALU and BWI Worldwide, laughed with seniors, college students, families with young children, and Holocaust Survivors. Sarah has been featured at Health Conferences and Trainings, Women’s Retreats, Fund Raising Events and Humor Festivals.Sarah inspires others to lead happier, healthier, more meaningful lives through laughter, which ultimately helps them to unlock their full potential. She has shared laughter with thousands of people all over the world and can’t wait to give you the giggles!Sarah also utilizes her expertise in STRENGTHSFinder 2.0 with individuals and teams to generate more focus, more productivity and ultimately, more satisfaction, both at work and in their personal lives. Integrating Laughter and Leadership is just one way that Sarah’s approach is unique.

Bruce is a passionate Writer, Producer, Director he leaped into the world he always wanted and created Under The Stairs Productions!https://www.facebook.com/UnderTheStairsProd/

David Unowsky, one of the Twin Cities' most experienced booksellers.The Hungry Mind Bookstore opened its doors in 1970 in St. Paul by Unowsky.By the 1980's Hungry Mind had become well known in the region, and was becoming a hub for literary activity. Unowsky helped start a regional booksellers' association. In 1986 he launched the Hungry Mind Review as a critical literary journal, with founding editor Bart Schneider. In 2000, the Hungry Mind sold its name to Hungry Minds, Inc. publisher of the For Dummies books. After soliciting ideas from its patrons, it became Ruminator Books, Review, and Press!By 2004, Ruminator had its run, the computer world was dominating, and it closed its doors for the last time.Now, over a dozen years later, books are making there come back-so buy books and help keep bookstores alive!!

Dr. Bernard Kabakow is a retired Oncologist Specialist/Hematologist who had a private practice in New York, NY. Bernie was the founder and director of Beth Israel Medical Center's Oncology Unit, and clinical professor of medicine at Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Amongst his many accomplishments, he is a grandfather to 30+ grandchildren, and 10+ great grandchildren, he is a lover of tennis, Yiddish, Irish music, and football.Please read a great article by Bernard Kabakow, M.D.http://jewishcurrents.org/on-ambulances-checkpoints-health-care-and-peaceful-solutions/

When families and individuals in St. Paul want to make a change in their lives, Neighborhood House is here to help. We are a multi-service agency, providing wrap-around services for people when they need it most. Neighborhood House helps people with basic needs, education, multiple youth programs, and health and well-being. All of our programs are offered for free to participants.Helping families and individuals thrive since 1897.To help people gain the skills, knowledge and confidence to thrive in diverse communities.http://neighb.org

Jill is a Certified Legal Interpreter and sat on the Minnesota Supreme Court Interpreter Advisory Committee, she is at the top of her game in her field.

Jodi’s next book, The Happy Medium: Speaking the Language of Intuition was released in December, 2016!Designed for people who want to more fully understand the language of their own intuition, this little book is packed with vibrant, entertaining, intuition-boosting practices that can be applied in a parking lot, a mall, or a boardroom and will help you live big!It shows you how to use every bit of your natural intuition to successfully flow through life and live in a place of abundance, acceptance, and soul.You’ll be delighted with how quickly and fluently you will speak the language of intuition and with the amount of joy that accompanies this skill.http://theintuitivecoach.com

Michelle HorovitzCo-Founder & Executive Director of Appetite For Change.Michelle is an experienced cook with over 15 years under her belt in the kitchen at home, professionally and teaching cooking classes to youth and adults. She received her B.A. in Biothics from the University of Pennsylvania and a J.D. from the University of Minnesota Law School. After practicing law as a Public Defender for 4 years in Miami-Dade County, Michelle went to work for James Beard Award winning Chef Michelle Bernstein, as a line and prep cook and assistant pastry chef. In 2010 she and her family moved back to her home-town of Minneapolis. Michelle’s father’s family is from the Northside and she has a passion for building racial and social equity in this community.Appetite For Change uses food as a tool building health, wealth, and social change in North Minneapolis. AFC is a community-led organization that strengthens families, creates economic prosperity, and encourages healthy living.http://appetiteforchangemn.org