Fun Workshops Fill Jewish Deaf Congress Conference Schedule
“Oy! Treasures of Judaism Oy!,” the 2005 Jewish Deaf Congress conference July 3-10 in Tampa Bay, Fla., is offering a unique conference schedule that includes wine-tasting, learning the Hebrew alphabet, and even an “Extreme Makeover” presentation.
Tampa Bay, FL (PRWEB) March 19, 2005
“Oy! Treasures of Judaism Oy!,” the 2005 Jewish Deaf Congress conference July 3-10 in Tampa Bay, Fla., is offering a unique conference schedule that includes wine-tasting, learning the Hebrew alphabet, and even an “Extreme Makeover” presentation. “We decided that having a really diverse list of workshops would be beneficial to attendees,” said Debi Meranski, conference co-chair.
“We also want to include workshops that always prove to be valuable, such as youth maintaining their Jewish identities, Judaism education by parents, and other Jewish-oriented workshops,” she added. “These workshops are equally beneficial, but it’s good to have some fun involved, too.”
This year’s workshop presenters were invited to present, rather than submitting proposals to present at the conference. “This is the first time that the Jewish Deaf Congress has used this format for presentations, and it’s proving quite successful,” said Meranski. “With this approach, we are able to offer a wide gamut of workshops, many being offered for the very first time. People are already intrigued about how we can offer such classes in a large setting, yet maintain a sense of togetherness. And this will be accomplished without a doubt.”
One of the many presenters will be a representative from Abarbanel, a prominent Jewish kosher wine company in New York. Abarbanel has donated wines for the second time to the conference and the representative will conduct a wine-tasting class. Other presenters include Sarina Roffe, a professional genealogist and a mother of a deaf son who will teach the participants how to trace their family roots; Dr. Simon Carmel, a renowned award-winning deaf magician who will teach grandparents and friends Jewish magic tricks to show their children and grandchildren; and Charisse Heine, who will offer a unique class in alternative kosher cooking.
“We will also hold Orthodox and Reform/Conservative services on Saturday morning, and have a Sabbath luncheon after that,” said Jon Ziev, conference co-chair. “Saturday night, we’re very excited about Deaf magicians Steven Longacre and Greg Koppel doing their Deafinitely Magic! show. We know children and adults alike will be thrilled by the magic they see on stage. The magicians often throw in humor which never fails to bring a laugh or two, so it’ll be a great and fun experience for all involved.”
Updated and further information on conference activities are posted on the website at www. jdc2005.com. Registration may also be completed online.
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