Ebulletin for February 12, 2016:
Shalom ZOA Members, Friends and Supporters of Israel,
Help Philadelphia ZOA Inspire a New Generation of Zionist Activists!
Philadelphia ZOA is embarking on a first-of-its-kind project for us:
We want to make a documentary film called “Past & Present” and we need your help to make it possible.
We want to achieve two goals with this film:
To inspire young Zionists to engage in pro-Israel advocacy and activism, and
To document the commitment, passion, leadership, sacrifice and activities of some of the leading veteran Zionists in our region.
The project was launched recently on the fundraising Web site Kickstarter. Here is the link: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1982401440/past-and-present-a-zionism-legacy-project
Please visit the site, check out the preview video and the description for what we plan to do, and make a donation.
To put it simply, if we do not raise the funds for this project, there will be no film.
The film will feature interviews with those who made a difference as well as interaction between these heroes.
The Zionist movement is strong and thriving in America today largely through the efforts of previous generations who remember a time before Israel was re-established or who were told about that era by their parents. They understand what a difference Israel makes to Klal Yisrael. They also understand that it takes constant and great work in order to encourage the people of America and elsewhere to continue their overwhelming support for Israel.
The accomplishments and the work of these veteran Zionists has largely gone unsung and unknown, and far too many have passed away before having had an opportunity to record their experiences and the times they lived in, for posterity.
We want to make sure that now, as best we can, we capture the memories, experiences and wisdom from about a half-dozen veteran Zionist activists who have an important message for the next generation. This will be a professionally done film.
We want to screen the completed film particularly to students and young professionals whom we believe will want to emulate these men and women after they hear their stories, to perpetuate, strengthen and grow the Zionist movement in America.
As you are keenly aware, Israel is facing some of the greatest challenges in its history today and it will take intelligent and dedicated Diaspora Jewish advocates and activists to help Israelis overcome the BDS movement, hostility from European and North American governments and the United Nations, antagonistic and misleading media and an economically strong and nuclear-weapons-ambitious Iran.
But we can only make this film if we get the funds to do so.
We will need money to professionally film the veteran Zionists, to package the finished film and to promote it and distribute it. This project is separate and apart from Philadelphia ZOA’s regular budget.
Please visit our Kickstarter page, make a donation (there are great “rewards” for large donations) and let all of your friends, colleagues, and email and social media contacts know about this project.
If you would like more information or have any questions, please call our office at: 610-660-9466.
Fundraising deadline is March 13!
Donate today for this worthy ZOA project!
ACTION ALERT:
Ask your senators to co-sponsor S. 2474: Fair Treatment of Israel in Product Labeling Act of 2016
The bill was introduced last week by Sen. Tom Cotton of Arkansas. The bill already has six co-sponsors – including Sen. Toomey of Pennsylvania. Call both of your senators. If you live in Pennsylvania, call Sen. Toomey to thank him. See the attached contact list.
Read about the bill at: https://www.congress.gov/bill/114th-congress/senate-bill/2474?q={%22search%22%3A[%22\%22s2474\%22%22]}&resultIndex=1
A Great Project for Families, Schools: Thank an IDF Soldier!
The Zionist Organization of America’s annual Purim Shalach Manot Mission is coming up. Participants will visit multiple IDF bases and distribute thousands of shalach manot bags filled with necessities and goodies. They will also distribute “thank you” notes, cards and drawings from Jewish kids throughout America.
You can be a part of this wonderful gesture of appreciation!
We are told that the soldiers especially appreciate “thank you” cards and letters made by American Jewish students, which ZOA Mission participants will gladly deliver to the IDF bases.
If you are a parent, teacher or school official, please consider having your kids and their friends, or your students write letters or make and sign cards or drawings.
There is a limited time to get these cards and letters to ZOA mission participants so that we can deliver them to the soldiers.
For all details, please contact Howard Katzoff at the National ZOA Office: 212-481-1500 or Steve Feldman at the Philadelphia ZOA Office: 610-660-9466.
How Do We Counter BDS and Anti-Israel Media Bias?
How Do We Promote Jewish Rights to Our Land?
Bring ZOA’s Message and Knowledge To Your Friends and Neighbors
If you are like most people, you have friends, neighbors and even relatives who do not quite understand what is taking place in one of the most pivotal regions in the world.
The Middle East is home to key U.S. allies and enemies; it is the focal point of much of the media; it is the source of most of the terrorism that plagues the world; it is where a large amount of American foreign aid is targeted and the source of much of the world’s oil. It is where our beloved Israel is trying to exist and thrive.
But the Middle East has become a muddled area to most Americans because of incomplete or biased coverage, plus a campaign of mis-education in schools and universities.
One of ZOA’s missions is to clarify the issues and to help Americans understand what is taking place in the Middle East and how it impacts them.
Help us fulfill this vital mission by hosting a parlor meeting in your home. A small gathering can make a huge difference.
Join Philadelphia ZOA!
Philadelphia ZOA is having a Winter Membership Drive
Be a part of our region’s leading pro-Israel education, advocacy and outreach organization and help make us even stronger.
If you are already a member, please make sure your annual dues are up-to-date. If you are not sure, contact us and we will check and let you know. It may be time to renew your membership.
You can also invite your friends or relatives to join Philadelphia ZOA, and additionally, you can purchase a gift membership for a loved one.
See the “Join and Donate” tab.
You can also join or renew online by clicking the graphic below.
We value each and every member!