“The title of my book, ‘From Miniskirt to Hijab’ encapsulates a profound personal and cultural transformation that I experienced firsthand. When brainstorming for a title, I wanted something to convey the dramatic shift in societal norms and personal identity during the Iranian Revolution. The term ‘Miniskirt’ represents the era of relative freedom and modernity that existed before the revolution, a time when Western influences and more liberal cultural practices were prevalent. It symbolizes a period when personal expression and style were more open and less restricted. In stark contrast, ‘Hijab’ represents the fundamentalist shift that followed the revolution. It signifies a period marked by strict dress codes and a dramatic overhaul of personal freedoms and societal norms under the new Islamic theocracy. This transition illustrates the profound changes in both daily life and individual identity that I and many others had to navigate. The title juxtaposes these two elements to highlight the stark contrast between the pre-revolutionary era and the post-revolutionary reality.”

Saper shared what she plans to speak about during the Retreat.

”I plan to address several crucial themes that draw from both my personal experiences and broader historical context which I explore in my book. These topics are particularly relevant given current global events and ongoing discussions. First and foremost, I will discuss the theme of immigration which is especially pertinent in the 2024 presidential campaign. I will share insights from my own experiences as an immigrant, highlighting the challenges and opportunities of leaving one’s homeland in search of safety and a better life. Another key aspect of my presentation will be fundamentalism. I will recount my firsthand experiences of witnessing the transformation of Iran from a secular monarchy to a fundamentalist Islamic theocracy. I will also cover the profound impact of the Iran-Iraq War, an eight-year conflict that resulted in the loss of hundreds of thousands of lives and left a lasting scar on the region. The repercussions of the Iranian Revolution on the Jewish diaspora, particularly the ancient Persian Jewish community will be another focal point.”

”In addition, I will delve into the transformation of US-Iran and Israel-Iran relations from allies to adversaries,” Saper continued. ”This shift has had significant implications for international diplomacy and regional security, and understanding this evolution is crucial for navigating current geopolitical landscapes. Lastly, I will address two critical issues: antisemitism and women’s rights. Antisemitism continues to be a pervasive and dangerous force globally, and discussing it is essential for raising awareness and promoting solidarity. Equally important is the discussion of women’s rights, particularly in contexts
where fundamentalists and ideologies can severely restrict women’s freedoms and opportunities.”

Saper shared details of her life prior to the revolution.

”My family lived in the upscale northern Tehran neighborhood of Yousef Abad. My father taught metallurgy (a branch of science that studies the nature of metallic elements) at the Elm-o-San University (Iran University of Science and Technology) and at Tehran Polytechnic, the first established technical university in Iran. People in the Persian culture held individuals with advanced degrees in high regard, so my father, who had two advanced degrees in chemical engineering and meteorology was respected wherever we went. Strangers would lower their heads and call him ‘Ostad’ (Professor). My mother worked at the airport as part of the ground crew. She got all the perks that flight attendants had. One of them was discounted tickets. So, we traveled a lot. The country’s cosmopolitan nature was also evident in its fashion and lifestyle. As a young girl living in Tehran in the 1960s and 70s, the most modern of Iranian cities, I wore miniskirts and the latest fashions, attended a Jewish day school, and had many friends of different faiths and nationalities. I watched American movies, listened to the syndicated radio music program Casey’s Top 40 and had a crush on Elvis Presley. There were many Americans, Europeans and Israelis who worked and lived in Iran. Life in pre-revolutionary Iran offered a sense of freedom, opportunity and cultural richness that defined my formative years.”

In contrast, Saper recalled the ”Worst of Times.”

”The ‘Worst of Times’ for my family and me during the Iranian Revolution was marked by a series of profound and harrowing challenges. One of the darkest moments occurred when the new regime in 1979 executed Habib Elghanian, a prominent Jewish businessman and community leader. His death was a chilling reminder of the regime’s brutality and the precariousness of our safety. My experience in Iran, where espousing Zionism could have led to arrest or even death, profoundly deepened my connection with Israel once I left. This stark denial of Zionism and the oppressive environment faced by tens of thousands of Jews who remained in Iran underscored the value and significance of the Jewish homeland for me. Before the revolution, I had visited Israel several times and had personal connections through Israeli friends and their children. This early exposure only strengthened my bond with the land. The eight-year Iran-Iraq War, which began in 1980, further compounded our hardships. We faced daily uncertainty and fear as the conflict claimed the lives of many and brought economic and social turmoil. The American hostage crisis, which began in November 1979 when Iranian students seized the U.S. Embassy in Tehran and held 52 American diplomats and citizens hostage for 444 days further isolated us. The crisis strained international relations and fueled anti-American sentiment, exacerbating the climate of hostility and making it even more difficult for us to find safety or support. The revolution, the war and the ongoing hostility against Zionism altered our reality, leaving an indelible mark on our lives and shaping our perspectives in profound ways.”

”The Iranian government implemented restrictions,” Saper recalled. ”During the civil unrest, the authorities established martial law and imposed a curfew that prevented us from leaving our homes between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. The country was at a standstill, as almost every establishment, including companies, businesses and universities was on strike. All schools were closed. Gasoline was scarce, power and water shortages were rampant, leading to chaos on the streets. During that time, people lived in profound uncertainty and fear with disrupted everyday rhythms of life and a precarious future. As an American citizen, I now live in a democracy where I can exercise my voice. Whenever I stand in line to vote, I remember standing in line in Tehran to express my opinion on whether my country would become the Islamic Republic. Back then, I had to cast my ‘Yes’ ballot under the watchful gaze of armed guards, where anyone in the room could see how each person voted. The flag received a new emblem and they revised the constitution. This convergence led to the implementation of discriminatory laws against religious minorities, LGBT citizens and women, to name a few. The morality police enforce strict dress codes and behavior. Today, the ‘Woman, Life, Freedom’ movement, sparked by the tragic murder of Mahsa Amini, has galvanized many women and girls in Iran to dissent en masse against the mandatory hijab. Iran’s population has more than doubled since the revolution. Most Iranians today do not recall Imperial Iran, the revolution, or the early years of the Islamic Republic. They were either not born yet or were children at the time. Therefore, I belong to an exclusive generation that fully experienced Iran in its three eras: the monarchy, the revolution and the Islamic Republic. My memories are a bridge to a past that many in my homeland only
know through stories and history books.”

Saper expressed the similarities between the Iranian Revolution to what is happening now in Israel.

”When reflecting on the events in Iran during my youth and comparing them to the current situation in Israel, several key parallels and distinctions emerge.
During the Iranian Revolution, many people, including young activists, chanted slogans like ‘Independence, Freedom and the Islamic Republic’ driven by a desire for change and dissatisfaction with the existing monarchy. However, they needed a more comprehensive understanding of what the Islamic Republic would mean in practice. This lack of clarity about the future governance and the complexities involved in transitioning from a monarchy led to unforeseen consequences and a repressive regime. Fast-forward to today, we see a similar pattern in the pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel protests that have emerged on US college campuses since October 7th. Many protest participants are motivated by a genuine desire for justice and peace. Yet, they may need to fully grasp the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict or the broader implications of their actions. This lack of comprehensive understanding is reminiscent of the situation in Iran decades ago. During his recent visit to Israel, actor Michael Douglas spoke about the wave of pro-Palestinian, anti-Israel protests that have swept US college campuses since October 7th. He suggested the students involved underwent ‘brainwashing… because when you try to talk to many of them, there is no education, there’s no knowledge.’  Also, during his speech to the joint meeting of Congress on July 24, 2024, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin
Netanyahu said, ‘I have a message for these protestors, when the tyrants of Tehran who hang gays from cranes and murder women for not covering their hair are praising, promoting and funding you, you have officially become Iran’s useful idiots.'”

Saper shared her experience of coming to the US after fleeing Iran.

”When I arrived in the United States, I was a young mother of two with a high school degree and a new immigrant. I did not allow the hurdles of life to pull me down. We left all our property and belongings behind in Iran and had to start from zero. At times, I worked three jobs simultaneously and studied at night. I did everything I could. My husband had to study and pass many exams to regain his position as a physician in the United States. I was grateful for the many opportunities that I could pursue. I studied accounting and practiced as a CPA. Today, my daughter is a lawyer and my son is a doctor. What they have accomplished here, they could not have accomplished in Iran.”

For more information regarding the National Jewish Retreat, visit jretreat.com or call 1-877-573-8732.

The National Jewish Retreat is scheduled for August 14–18 and will offer a unique opportunity to engage with some of the Jewish world’s top thinkers. They will help process the aftermath of October 7th, look ahead to the future and reconnect with our heritage. Held over five days in Miami’s National Doral Hotel, the retreat will unite 50 presenters, including survivors of October 7th, hostage families, leading Jewish artists and many renowned scholars for 150 talks, workshops and interactive sessions.

The retreat will feature leading thinkers and leaders like Rabbi Manis Friedman, known as YouTube’s most popular rabbi, Lenny Roth, a member of AIPAC’s new leadership network, Dr. Edith Shiro, a clinical psychologist and member of the World Happiness Foundation; Dr. Raheli Baratz-Rix from the World Zionist Organization’s Combating Antisemitism and Resilience Department; and Jacqueline Saper, an award-winning author and expert on Iranian affairs. Participants will also hear from Natalie Sanandaji, a survivor of the Nova Music Festival.

In all, over 50 presenters will tackle a host of issues from medical ethics to Jewish law, aspects of hostage negotiation, personal struggle and the road ahead for American Jewry.

Alongside the learning, there’s a live cooking show, Jewish films, art workshops, live music with Alex Clare, photography and live comedy.

Produced by the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute, the National Jewish Retreat also features a special multimedia seminar on the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s approach to security in the Holy Land, as well as deep dives into Jewish spirituality, resilience and philanthropy, alongside rapid-fire question-answer sessions with top thought leaders, and hands-on workshops.

“It’s an immersive program that’s sure to educate, refresh and inspire,” says Rabbi Hesh Epstein, the retreat’s chairman. “If you’re looking to find solid ground in these uncertain times, this is a great chance to reconnect, join with other Jews and rediscover the joy of being Jewish.”

To register for this inspiring weekend or for more information, visit jretreat.com or call 1-877-573-8732.

The winners received their awards on June 3, 2024 during the Holocaust Survivor Day Luncheon, hosted by the Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach, at the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens, where they were celebrated for their outstanding contributions. The event concluded with Beach High senior Stella McLaney winning first place, being awarded $2,500, and reading her winning essay, which received a standing ovation from attendees. McLaney, who responded to the contest prompt: “What can today’s high school students do to reduce antisemitism and all forms of prejudice in our society?”  She emphasized the dangers of misinformation, how courageous conversations in high school are an important way to confront ignorance, and how she has chosen to channel her emotions into initiatives that can be a force for positive change.

Axel Paulhiac and Natanya Rogoff were the 2nd and 3rd place winners who focused on education, self-reflection, dialog and building alliances in order to create positive change.

Stephanie Rosen, Co-Founder of 3GMiami, highlighted the organization’s mission and the importance of the contest during the award ceremony, sharing that, “3GMiami helps students apply the lessons of the Holocaust to their lives today and be upstanders in the face of hatred, bigotry and antisemitism,” and that the “essay contest challenged students to address what today’s students can do to help eliminate hatred and create a better society.” She further expressed that “the submissions we received were incredible, providing hope during these challenging times.”

Rosen thanked all of the participants and congratulated the winners. “During this time of rising hate and antisemitism, these student essays provide light. On behalf of 3GMiami and the Holocaust Memorial Miami Beach, we thank you for your inspiring words and commitment to creating a more inclusive world.”

For more information about 3GMiami and future events, visit www.3gmiami.org or contact Stephanie Rosen at rosenstep@gmail.com.

This year’s event was even larger than last year, attracting nearly 100 community members who came together to celebrate Jewish literature and culture. In attendance were several notable figures from the local community, including Commissioner and Liaison to the Education Committee, Phyllis Smith; Mayor of North Miami Beach and President of the NMB Chamber of Commerce, Evan Piper; Vice President of the NMB Chamber of Commerce, Silvia Vanni; Director and Founder of Chesed South Florida, Yona Lunger; Miami Director of the American Jewish Committee, Dana Kamilar; Former Commissioner Barbara Kramer; and Univision TV and Radio Host, Alberto Sardinas with his family. The event featured readings from a diverse group of storytellers. AJC Board members Lyon Roth and Laurie Wynn captivated the audience with their engaging readings. Local authors Debbie Reed Fischer, Jonathan Rosen and Stacie Ramey also shared their works, bringing unique and heartfelt stories to life. This year’s event was generously sponsored by local author, Cuban-Jewish community member, Russel Lazega, known for his acclaimed book, Managing Bubbie.

“The growth and success of this year’s Jewish Storytime reflect the strength and vibrancy of our community,” said new Miami Director for AJC, Dana Kamilar. “It’s inspiring to see so many people come together to celebrate our shared heritage and love for storytelling. Events like these are crucial for fostering a sense of community and continuity. It’s wonderful to see such a strong turnout and such enthusiastic participation from both our elected officials and community members.”

For future Jewish advocacy events, visit www.ajc.org/miamibroward

During a ceremony, complete with a fire rescue salute of the inbound plane named after the northern district city of Nof Hagalil, Israel’s consul general from Miami, airline executives and county officials gathered to mark the moment. A full flight of an estimated 240 passengers were aboard the wide-bodied jetliner, which docked at 4:29 p.m. at the airport’s Terminal 4, a conduit for most international flights which El Al has been using since last fall to operate seasonal trips to Tel Aviv pegged to the high Jewish holidays.

The plane was scheduled to make its eastbound run back to Israel a short time later at 6:30 p.m.

Late last week, El Al’s launch of regular twice-a week service appeared in doubt as Iran’s government engaged in sabre rattling about retaliating against Israel for its missile strike on the Iranian embassy in Syria that killed three high-ranking Iranian military officials. The threats became a reality on Saturday as more than 300 missiles and drones from Iran roared toward Israel, though most of them were intercepted by air defenses.

By early Sunday, Israel had reopened its airspace and the national airport authority resumed operations at Ben Gurion International Airport, the end point for most flights arriving from overseas.

Israel-bound travelers have been long aware that their destination is at the center of a geo-political hot zone made dangerous by military operations, terrorism and civil unrest, according to American diplomatic authorities.

Last week, the U.S. State Department updated its travel advisories for the region, urging people to “Reconsider Travel” to Israel and to the West Bank due to “terrorism and civil unrest.” The department also maintained its “Do Not Travel” advisory for Gaza, citing “terrorism and armed conflict.”

Unity, determination amid somber feelings

But at the ceremony, the officials and Jewish religious leaders collectively hailed the airline as a unifying factor for a country and people in need. Top El Al officials said the new Fort Lauderdale service was never in doubt.

Simon Newton-Smith, senior vice president-The Americas, told reporters that both the Fort Lauderdale flight and all other outbound El Al flights made it out of Israel over the weekend as planned despite the aerial attacks.

“This as on track even as late as this weekend,” Newton-Smith told reporters. “We had people say, ‘Is this really going to happen because of what happened in Israel on Saturday evening?’ This is a reflection of the Israeli determination. This was the plan, this was the date that was set, and the team was committed to delivering the flight on the 15th of April.”

“Effectively, El Al has become a lifeline, not just (an) airline,” he said. “It’s huge. The Jewish community in South Florida is 230,000 strong. It’s the fourth largest Jewish community outside Israel. The simple fact is that you know anything happening in Israel is impacting a huge portion of the community here in South Florida and vice versa. An airline is about connecting people.”

Newton-Smith acknowledged that the mood among those traveling to and from Israel, as well as among those in the travel community, is “somber.”

“I think the mood is driven by that connection between the communities here,” he said. “Obviously there is a lot of concern. The community based here has got family and friends in Israel everybody is concerned about and vice versa.”

“It’s clearly a difficult time for everybody,” Newton-Smith added. “There is nobody that is not impacted by this in some shape or form. But again, in terms of air service, sometimes during this uncertainty it is important to have people and families connect. That’s why we do what we do.”

At the same time, Maor Elbaz-Starinski, the consul general of Israel based in Miami, warned of difficult times ahead with Iran.

“Somebody asked me if they were just trying to save face,” he told reporters. “Don’t be fooled. We know the nature of the Iranian regime. What happened is what we have warned for decades. Iranians are developing ballistic missiles. Iranians are exporting terrorism. And Iranians are developing nuclear weapons.”

All will someday be used against Israel and nations elsewhere, he warned.

Whatever lies ahead, Broward officials —vranging from Mark Gale, the airport president and CEO, County Administrator Monica Cepero, to Commissioner Mark Bogen, who said he has been an El Al customer since 2019, to Stacy Ritter, president and CEO of Visit Lauderdale —  all vowed to support the airline and its newly inaugurated service.

Tel Aviv Pride, a weeklong series of events which occurs in early June as part of the international observance of Gay Pride Month, will be receiving support from Visit Lauderdale, which is sponsoring the event, the first time her tourism promotion agency is going to Israel “to sponsor any event at all,” Ritter said.

“We are doing it because of your flight,” she said. “We recognize that with nonstop service to Tel Aviv from FLL, we have an entire new region that opens up to us with tourism and we cannot wait — we cannot wait to welcome the people from Israel to our destination.”

Suddenly, the carrier had become the main source of air transportation to and from the country as other international airlines, including U.S.-based American, Delta and United, suspended service in the face of an all-out war.

Inaugural El Al flight arrives at Fort Lauderdale in wake of failed Iranian attack on Israel

Now, operations have “stabilized,” officials say, as new passenger traffic patterns have been identified and management has adjusted the airline’s route system. Among other things, El Al has dropped lightly traveled routes and buttressed its schedules with more flights to bigger cities and population centers, particularly in the United States.

Even with heightened concern after a thwarted Iranian missile attack on Israel over the weekend, El Al is scheduled to kick off year-round regularly scheduled service on Monday with twice-weekly flights between Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International Airport, with the airline’s Boeing 787s departing the Broward County airport on Mondays and Saturdays.

The move by El Al, which operated seasonal service between Fort Lauderdale and Tel Aviv last September and October during the Jewish High Holidays, means the carrier is following through on a previously announced commitment made before Oct. 7, 2023, to operate regularly scheduled flights in Broward and serve Florida travelers who live farther to the north.

“We’re no longer in emergency mode,” Simon Newton-Smith, senior vice president, The Americas, told the South Florida Sun Sentinel in an interview late last week. “When Oct. 7 unfolded we had a lot of people booked to travel who didn’t want to travel, and people who wanted to travel who were not booked. There were a lot of pressures on the business. It was an all-hands-on-deck exercise to help our customers as we moved through the last quarter of 2023.

“We’ve got a better view of who needs what, where, when and how,” he added. “We are operating a bigger flying program and it’s more of a business-as-usual environment.”

Besides adding flights to South Florida, where the carrier also serves Miami International Airport, the airline is operating up to six flights daily at New York’s JFK International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey. Additional frequencies are also being added in Boston and Los Angeles.

“We’ve reworked the network to bring more aircraft flying into the U.S., so we can operate more flights,” Newton-Smith said.

Significant demand

In the first quarter of this year, El Al operated 31% more flights than it did in the same period of 2023, increasing its seating capacity by 50%.

“There is a huge business (travel) demand,” Newton-Smith said. “The U.S. continues to invest in Israel and Israel continues to invest in the U.S.”

“Load factors since Oct. 7 are in the very high 90s, which many would think counterintuitive,” he said. “We have strong demand from visiting friends and relatives. The people we haven’t seen are those traditional tourists to Israel. Understandably, they would want to see some stability over a long period of time.”

Along that vein, tour operators “have told us that 2024 is not the right time for them,” and the same message has been received from cruise line operators.

But families and other supporters of Israel such as volunteers continue to travel there.

Newton-Smith declined to go into detail about security procedures and protections for passengers.

“El Al security is pretty unique,” he said. “It is famous for having a level of security that is way above the typical security requirements of other airlines,” he said. “Have we done anything differently? I wouldn’t feel comfortable commenting on that.”

In an updated travel advisory issued Thursday, the U.S. State Department reiterated its months-old advice against traveling to Gaza, scene of major military operations by the Israeli defense Force against Hamas. It is also advising would-be visitors to “reconsider travel” to Israel and the West Bank.

“The security situation remains unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire, often take place without warning,” the department said in its comments on Israel and the West Bank.

This past week, Israel was bracing for the possibility of a retaliatory move from Iran over Israel’s recent attack that killed an Iranian general in Syria.

Delta Airlines is scheduled to resume its own flights to Israel on June 7. United resumed service in early March after conducting what management called “a detailed safety analysis in making this decision, including close work with security experts and government officials in the United States and Israel.”  American is reportedly pointing to a late October resumption after setting earlier dates this year, according to the travel website simpleflying.com.

European airlines including Lufthansa, Ryanair and Air France resumed operations earlier this year.

El Al maintains code-sharing arrangements with Delta and JetBlue Airways, which means travelers can board a U.S. domestic flight on one of those airlines that will allow them to catch an El Al flight from one of its international departure points.

El Al and Florida

Two years ago, El Al moved its U.S. headquarters from Manhattan to Margate. At the time, local elected and economic development officials said the carrier made the decision to move after vetting the area for schools, religious facilities and the availability of local aviation industry talent.

“El Al has a special place for a lot of people in South Florida,” said Broward Commissioner Michael Udine, who was also serving as county mayor. “There is a vibrant Jewish community from Miami Beach up to Boca Raton and all of Broward County.”

The headquarters’ operational departments include all of the carrier’s U.S. financial, administrative and marketing functions.

Up until now, most of El  Al’s direct service to Tel Aviv from South Florida has emanated from Miami International Airport, and that service will continue.

El Al currently operates five flights weekly from Miami. “El Al Airlines remains the sole carrier offering a non-stop flight to Israel from MIA, with daily flight operations reaffirming our commitment to connecting Miami-Dade directly to this vital global destination,” Ralph Cutie, the aviation director, said in an emailed statement.

Looking forward, Newton-Smith said he sees a significant amount of Florida traffic flowing through Broward because many travelers from Palm Beach County and points north and west disliked the prospect of having to drive to Miami to catch their flights.

“We found a lot of our customers from West Palm Beach would take a connecting flight rather than do the drive down to Miami,” he said.

We’ve been to 31 ‘death camps’ and have advocated that the Jewish community take back those camps as our holy ground and not leave it in the hands of the Vatican and those who would put up crosses, discotheques, or amusement parks.  If we leave it in the hands of those who participated in the Holocaust to interpret, revise and commercialize what happened, we dishonor those who perished and risk allowing it to be repeated.  We held events at 13 of those death camps, with government and survivor support.

We organized in 1992, a “Remember the Holocaust” event at Dachau Death Camp, near Munich when the G-7 Summit of world leaders were meeting in Germany for the first time. We preceded this memorial event with 500 people marching 17 miles from the Olympic site in Munich to remember the Israeli athletes massacred there in 1972.

We organized the biggest anti-Nazi demonstration at the Holocaust Memorial on Miami Beach in 1993 with 5,000 people showing to support the cause.  We also made sure Cuban politicians wouldn’t use the word “holocaust” to describe their experience with Fidel Castro.

We protested at the Holocaust Memorial in D.C. when the director was allowing Poland to put up crosses, disco etc. at Auschwitz, which was not his right and set a disastrous precedent. He would be fired as a result.

In 1994 we kicked off our Boycott Germany for Crimes Against Humanity then and now, exposing and opposing several thousands new Nazi attacks since the reunification in 1990.

We took this to the U.N. Human Rights Conference in Vienna, Austria with 10,000 in attendance. As usual, most Jewish groups didn’t want to discuss the new Nazis let alone old Nazis.

We also took our campaign to the 50th Anniversary of D-Day in Normandy, France, to the German Embassy in Paris, and the G-7 Summit in Naples, Italy.

In 1995, we went to the 50th Anniversary of the liberation of the death camps with our 20 ft. banner that read: “Purge, Extradite and Prosecute All Nazi Murderers” and with Government permission from Germany, Poland and Austria and Holocaust Survivor organizations, who took this banner to Auschwitz/Birkenau, Bergen-Belsen, Neuengamme, Dachau, Buchenwald, Mauthausen and a number of other death camps.  We know that Auschwitz was ran by 4,000 operators of the killing machine, but only 50 were ever put on trial and we wanted to know why the murderers were still loose.  We were the ONLY Jewish group to go to all these camps and with this message.  We also had permission to be at the Bundestag in Bonn, and at the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin for the official end of WWII with the key four nations represented.

We also put out thousands of bumper stickers to boycott McDonald’s for opening an operation near Dachau and protested them at the G-8 Summits in Denver, Co. and Birmingham, England. Also in NYC, London, Chicago, Miami, Atlanta Olympics and a dozen other cities.  We also protested at the Polish Embassies in London and Wash., D.C. and Polish Consulates in Chicago and NYC for putting up discos, crosses thus desecrating Auschwitz.

We led 1,500 to protest in front of the White House in 1999, when the Nazis wanted to march there and because we showed en masse and peacefully, the Nazis chose not to show up.

We’ve protested at the Saudi Arabian embassy in D.C., as well as at the Iranian one.

In 2000, we organized a protest at Yad Vashem in Jerusalem when Pope John Paul II was visiting.  We wouldn’t let the Vatican revise that Pope Pius XII wasn’t Hitler’s Pope.  We also wouldn’t let the world forget that the Vatican is in possession of a fortune in Jewish artifacts stolen during the Holocaust, stored in its vaults, yet to be returned to the Jewish community.  We also kept alive the memory of the Vatican ‘ratline’, which allowed the Nazi murderers to escape while the survivors of slave labor and the death camps remained ignored.  This particular protest got the attention of 80 international media outlets.  We were the ONLY Jewish group to confront all 3 Popes who went to Israel about these same issues. We also protested Obama’s policies when he visited the Holy Land.

We never gave up on these issues and because of it, we learned not only that our morality on these matters was acutely credible, but that those who were guilty backed off and were on the defense.  Unfortunately, as the Holocaust is being forgotten, it has become Israel vs. the Palestinians, with Israel on the defense, giving up land for some phony ‘peace’ that will never occur.

We also believe Israel’s negligence in telling its own story, which is 5,000 years old, not just since 1948, is part of the reason the country struggles so hard with the country’s image on the international stage.

We’ve twice protested at the Israeli Consulate in Miami, that Jerusalem isn’t for sale and that it belongs to every Jew ever murdered for being a Jew.  We believe Jerusalem belongs to every Jew in the world and Israel alone should be the caretaker of this holy city because it is our Covenant with

G-d, and no one can give it away or divide it.

This is a brief background of our visibility and activism and while other organizations walked away from it all, we were always there to defend the truth.

We also made up thousands of bumper stickers: “Remember 9/11, Boycott Arab Oil” in 2001. We have been the conscience of the community and blessed with this ability to tell our story and demand justice.

In today’s conflict and war with Hamas, we have been in 30 counter protests in South Florida.  We protested Qatar at Miami International Airport 7 times, knowing Qatar is supporting and funding Hamas and the global terrorism and antisemitism.

We are the ONLY group challenging the Islamic Nazi Jihadist narrative, that Oct. 7, 2023 was justified, because Jews stole Arab land. This is the land G-d gave us and we’ve “Occupied” for 5,000 years.

No Arab or Muslim country will take in one ‘Palestinian’. None of the Arab nations want anything to do with them other than “Kill Jews”.  Just like when the Palestinians were aligned with Hitler to “Kill All Jews”,  along with Christians, Buddhists and other ethnic groups not aligned with the radical agenda.

There are three major conventions we plan to be at this summer: The Libertarian in D.C. for RFK, Jr at the end of May, and the GOP Convention in July in Milwaukee  with 10,000 media outlets covering it, plus thousands of ‘pro-Hamas’ demonstrators. In August, it is the Dem. Convention in Chicago.  WE JEWS WILL BE AT THESE EVENTS WITH PRO-ISRAEL NON-JEWS, TO PRESENT THE TRUTH, FINALLY TELLING OUR STORY.

Needless to say, driving and gas, tolls, food, motels, printing etc. is going to run $5000+

You can help, by getting our tee-shirt, hat and sticker that says: “Protect and Defend” with both American and Israeli flags on them. Be visible. Show your love for G-d, Torah, America and Israel. They make great gifts and show support. $36 for all three, plus $10 for postage and handling.

Donations to: “Defend Jerusalem”, P. O. Box 402263, Miami Beach, Fla. 33140.

Hamas influence is in the White House, State Department, Justice Department, Congress, Academia and the campuses and media.  Their visibility and lack of Jewish visibility has increased their support by 10% to 28% of America.

This is dangerous and shows weakness in this propaganda war, while the IDF is finishing off Hamas, which the world wants to save, as before. Please, no more excuses. From Hitler to Hamas/Iran/Qatar, the Holocaust continues.

“NEVER AGAIN, IS NOW”. SILENCE EQUALS DEATH AND IS THE WRONG POLITICAL STATEMENT TO BE MAKING.

SHALOM INTERNATIONAL WILL NEVER SURRENDER TO THIS BETRAYAL. Please join us and help us to help G-d, America, Israel and YOU.

We will protest Qatar at Miami International Airport, April 14 and 28th, 2024, Concourse E, by the Flags 3-5 p.m.

We will be on Lincoln Road and Euclid on Miami Beach, 4-7 p.m. on April 9 and April 21, 2024.

We’ve had tremendous success and support at both venues. Join us and see for yourself.

Bob Kunst is the President of Shalom International.

Together, with 500 students from around the world and community members, they attended StandWithUs’ annual International Conference: “Israel in Focus” in Los Angeles, February 29th through March 3rd, 2024. The student leaders are members of StandWithUs’ Emerson Fellowship for college students and the Kenneth Leventhal High School Internship. Attendees heard from celebrities, renowned world speakers and participated in breakout sessions where they exchanged best practices.  By sharing their experiences throughout the weekend, attendees were better able to relate to the October 7th attacks through the eyes of these brave Israelis who lived through it.

After the conference, Shye Klein, Neta Fanta, and Neta Zeevi traveled to the southeast to continue sharing their stories. StandWithUs Senior Campus Regional Manager Jess Green organized for Shye, Neta and Neta to speak at the University of South Florida in Tampa before traveling to the east coast of Florida to speak at Temple Beth Kodesh in Boynton Beach and Temple Beth Emet in Cooper City.

Shye, a Canadian-born survivor of the Nova festival, then traveled to Canada. Neta and Neta were joined by Danielle Pinto, StandWithUs High School Regional Manager, who organized presentations at Sha’arei Bina Torah Academy for Girls in Hollywood, Temple Shaarei Shalom in Boynton Beach, David Posnack Jewish Day School in Davie and the Scheck Hillel Jewish Day School in North Miami Beach. They also spoke at Nova Southeastern University. The trouble began at Florida International University (FIU), where Neta and Neta were invited by Students Supporting Israel (SSI) at FIU and FIU Hillel to its Shabbat dinner on March 8th.

Thursday night, prior to the dinner, the speakers were notified about a post by the Students for Justice in Palestine club at FIU. They posted on their Instagram page “Israel Occupation Force (IOF) Soldiers off our campus now. Genocidal criminals are not welcomed.” Authorities were alerted immediately. FIU Police and the Department of Homeland Security attended the event.

Melanie W., the student president of FIU Hillel, noticed that SJP was planning to table the same day. She took a few of her peers to try to discourage the protestors. She told the members of SJP that this was a religious event and there were going to be families with children present. The SJP members expressed no remorse and stated, “we are going to show up anyway.”

Over fifty students and community members gathered for dinner on Friday night. They were met by an equal number of protestors surrounding the room on both entrances. Every person who tried to enter the room was met with a statement such as “oh look, another genocide supporter” or “IOF supporters off our campus now.”

FIU Police escorted the speakers through the back entrance where they were met with a cold welcome from members of SJP, the Young Democratic Socialists of America and external group “Jews for Ceasefire”. Their banners read “IOF War Criminals Off Our Campus” among other harmful statements.

When the event began, the group stood outside the room reading names into a microphone which could not be heard inside the room. Neta Zeevi began sharing his October 7th story of survival and the atmosphere shifted. The moment Neta started recounting stories about those who were murdered on October 7th, the crowd outside the room erupted. They began chanting “Israel, Israel, you can’t hide, you’re committing genocide” among other already familiar chants. The group attempted to barricade us in the room by blocking both entrances.

The police escorted them off the premises quickly. Yet, many protesters stuck around outside the building until the event concluded.  Their goal was to harass the speakers, however, the Chief of FIU PD escorted them to the car. Thankfully, neither Neta, Neta nor I had any contact with any of the protesters.

Following the event, Neta Zeevi stated, “I was disappointed when they decided to disrupt my presentation during a solemn moment where I shared the story of my best friend’s grandmother who was murdered. I’m not asking them to listen to our story but at the very least show respect for those that we lost.”

“I lost one of my best friends and all I want to do is honor her memory,” Neta Fanta stated.

John Warech, President of FIU Hillel told the student paper, “We put together the Shabbat program once a month at FIU and each time is a different theme. It is unfortunate that we cannot celebrate our program without them bothering Jewish students just because they don’t like the topic. That does not mean that they can harass our students.”

Unfortunately, the protestors who waited outside confronted the Jewish students as they were exiting the building. Melanie W. shared that they were followed to their cars by members of SJP and YDSA.

“I feel unsafe on campus,” Melanie says, “and now I’m hesitant to go to class. The members of these clubs know who I am and I worry that I will encounter them again.”

Neta, Neta and Shye shared their recollections of October 7th

Neta

On October 7th, Neta Zeevi’s Moshav (agricultural community), Sde Nitzan, was nearly infiltrated by Hamas terrorists – but their invasion was pushed back and stopped right outside of the entrance to his community. On that day, Neta lost many dear to his heart, including friends from the community and former teachers. Despite the devastating situation, Neta’s commitment to Israel remained unwavering. He enlisted in the reserves and had just completed serving in Gaza for 86 days in a unit responsible for evacuating wounded soldiers, providing logistic support and mobilizing forces. Neta exemplifies resilience and dedication in both his academic pursuits and service to his country.

Neta is a third-year student studying business management and entrepreneurship at Ben-Gurion University (BGU). He was born and raised in Moshav Sde Nitzan, one of the closest communities to the Gaza border. He served in the IDF as a combat soldier in the intelligence special forces. Post-military service, Neta worked as a sports counselor in Baltimore, Maryland. As a student, he was deeply involved on campus co-founding and managing “Game Changers,” the BGU Sports and Sports-Tech community.

Netta shared his experience serving in Gaza

“Serving in Gaza meant a lot to me because I was directly defending the home that I grew up in. Gaza is a dangerous place and you need to stay alert at all times – no exceptions. The hardest thing is when you experience a loss of someone you know personally but you still need to remain alert. Serving in Gaza was a challenge, but I was protecting my home”.

Neta

On October 7th, Neta Fanta, 27, was alerted about the war by her family and received panicked phone calls from her friends group trying to track down friends who were declared missing. Unfortunately, Neta lost Niv, her best friend and other dear friends from Kibbutz Kfar Aza which was infiltrated by Hamas terrorists who proceeded to massacre the residents. She was drafted into the IDF as a reserve officer overseeing all Special Operations from the IDF headquarters throughout the war. She is proud to share her first-hand account of serving her country during the war and to ensure Niv’s story lives on.

Neta is majoring in government, diplomacy and strategy at Reichman University. She is also serving as the Israeli Fellowship Coordinator for StandWithUs Israel. Neta is the youngest child among her four siblings. Her parents made aliyah from Ethiopia in the 1980s to fulfill their Zionist dream. Throughout her childhood, she was involved in Zionist youth movements and volunteering. In the army, she served as a training officer in the Battalion Commander Course concluding her military career as a captain in the IDF overseeing her brigade’s international operations.

Neta expressed why serving as an Israeli Fellowship Coordinator for StandWithUs Israel is important to her

“I have always been a Zionist and I love to talk about the importance of Judaism and Israel. After participating in the StandWithUs Fellowship, I gained a lot of knowledge about the conflict in Israel as well as personal skills to tell my own story. The fellowship left such an impact on me that I am now a fellowship coordinator. October 7th took me off guard like most Israelis and it’s not a cliché that everyone knows someone who was either killed or kidnapped. I always knew the importance of my job, but now more than ever I feel the sense of responsibility for the work that I’m doing”.

Shye

On October 7th, Shye Klein, a 26-year-old Israeli-Canadian photographer went from capturing photos of joy to witnessing chaos at the Nova Music Festival attacked by Hamas. Shye’s viral footage helped identify survivors and victims. He is working on a project interviewing and recapturing photos of individuals he photographed moments before the tragedy. He remains committed to telling these stories and contributing to the healing process. Shye’s mission is to illuminate the stories around the world of those he connected with who were shocked by the October 7th massacre.

Shye recalled surviving the Nova Music Festival

“I’m glad that I went to the Nova Music Festival with my cousin Mordechai and his friends. It was one of the most fun experiences that I had ever had since arriving in Israel. It’s very possible that if I was not there my cousins and friends would not be around”.

The evening I stopped in for dinner the weather was perfect and I chose to dine on the large outdoor porch that overlooks the docked yachts and Intracoastal. The seating area is covered so you can enjoy the view rain or shine. Indoors there’s plenty of space as well with a private room for special occasions and two large sectioned off areas including one that features family style Hibachi. The restaurant can accommodate up to 350 guests.

Delicious food, good service and the attentiveness of Jason (the manager) and his personable wait staff made my experience memorable.

“Street Hibachi features an extensive menu that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia. We offer culinary creations from a variety of cultures including Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Indian and Korean. A little bit of everything to please all tastes,” Jason said.

“To ensure an authentic dining experience, we source our kosher ingredients directly from the Far East. Our head chef is from Israel.”

Jason suggested an enticing sampling of the chef’s freshly made signature dishes for my guest and I to try.

Our sumptuous meal consisted of several selections from different ethnic cuisines: Vegetable Tempura (Sweet Potato, Baby Carrots, Portobello Mushrooms and Shishito Peppers), Chicken Gyoza (Dumplings filled with Chicken, Corn Chipotle, Lime Curry Coconut Cream and Thai Basil), Beef Buns (Steamed Buns, Slow Cooked Beef, Zasai Aioli and Korean Kimchi), Salmon CrunchyRoll (Fresh Salmon, Avocado and Masago), Sizzling Siam Half Chicken (Served on a Sizzling Rock with Ginger Sweet Potato Puree and Sake Broth), Ramen Noodle Soup with Veal (Umami Broth, Bok Choy, Corn, Soft Boiled Egg, Noodles, Nori and Shitake Mushroom) and Bibimbap – Korean Style (Served in a Hot Bowl with Jasmine Rice, Carrot, Spinach, Bean Sprouts, Mushrooms and Gojejang with a choice of either Beef, Short Ribs or Chicken).

For dessert, I tried the non-dairy cheesecake and my guest enjoyed the Chocolate Ferrero Rocher Mousse.

There are always two mashgiach on the premises.

Menu

TAPAS

• Salmon Crispy Taco (Raw Salmon, Guacamole and Chipotle Aioli) $21

• Spicy Mandarin Hamachi (Raw Yellowtail, Mandarin Ponzu Sauce, Serrano Pepper and Crispy Garlic) $24

• Tuna Tataki (Bluefin Tuna Belly, Sweet Onion Soy Sauce, Myoga and Daikon Radish) $24

• Salmon Jalepeño Sashimi (Fresh King Salmon, Avocado, Jalepeño in a Passion Fruit Ponzu Sauce) $21

• Chirashi Donburi (Salmon, Tuna, Hamachi, Asparagus, Avocado, Mango, Fresh Wasabi, Sesame Seed, Kizami Nori and Scallion) $24

• Street Dry Aged Otoro (Dry Aged Bluefin Tuna Belly, Crispy Bun, Pickled Daikon Radish and Wasabi Mayo) $38

VEGGIES

• Blistered Shishito Pepper (Lemongrass Salt, Togarashi Aioli and Corn Pops) $17

• Spicy Edamame (Soy Sauce, Chili, Lemon Grass Salt and Walnuts) $15

• Tandoori Cauliflower (Cauliflower with Indian Spices, Masala Sauce, Fresh Herbs, Chili, Arugula and Roti) $24

• Miso Glazed Japanese Eggplant (Charcoal Grilled in Street Miso Glaze) $23

CHICKEN

• Crispy Chicken Katsu (Chicken Bites served with Sweet Chili Sauce and Teriyaki Sauce) $22

• Chicken Gyoza (Dumplings Filled with Chicken, Corn Chipotle, Lime Curry Coconut Cream and Thai Basil) $24

• Korean Fried Chicken Wings (Prepared in a Sticky Gochujang Sauce) $24

MEAT

• Beef Buns (Two Steamed Buns, Slow Cooked Beef, Zasai Aioli and Korean Kimchi) $26

• Thai Beef Lettuce Wraps (Served with Asian Greens, Pickled Cucumber, in a Ginger Soy and Peanut Sauce) $22

• Korean Short Ribs (Short Ribs Charcoal Grilled prepared in a Kalbi Glaze with Asian Pickled Vegetables) $36

OMAKASE

• 14 Dish Course Omakase (Chef Selection of Fresh Grade A Fish) $145

SUSHI

• Salmon Avocado Roll (Salmon, Avocado, Gari Ginger, Wasabi) $18

• Spicy Tuna Roll (Fresh Bluefin Tuna, Scallion, Cucumber, Spicy Momiji) $19

• Salmon “Cream Cheese” Avocado Roll (Salmon, Cucumber, Avocado, “Cream Cheese”, Sweet Potato Chips and Teriyaki Sauce) $21

• Salmon CrunchyRoll (Fresh Salmon, Avocado and Masago) $19

• Flame Salmon Belly Maki (Salmon belly Wrapped Spicy Mayo, Kanikama, Avocado, Jalapeno, Scallion, Ume Sauce and Tempura Flakes) $24

• California Roll (Kanikama, Avocado, Cucumber, Spicy Mayo and Orange Tobiko) $18

• Flame Toro Caviar Maki (Toro Wrapped with Caviar, Scallion, Cucumber and Fresh Wasabi) $36

• Green Maki (Avocado, Cucumber, Tempura Asparagus, Crispy Yuzu Kosho and Ume Dressing) $19

• Spicy Yellowtail Maki (Fresh Hamachi, Shiso Leaves, Cucumber, Avocado, Spicy Mango Salsa and Serrano Pepper) $19

• Cooked Salmon Futomaki (Slow Poached Salmon, Scallions and Pickled Daikon Radish Wrapped in Soy Paper) $21

• Vegetable Tempura Futomaki (Sweet Potato, Baby Carrots, Avocado Wrapped in Soy Paper) $19

• Spicy Tuna Rice Cake (Chopped Tuna, Fried Rice, Avocado and Spicy Mayo) $24

NIGIRI & SASHIMI

• Sake (King Salmon) $14

• Hamachi (Yellow Tail) $14

• Akame (Bluefin Tuna) $14

• Aburi Salmon Nigiri (Torched Salmon Belly) $18

• Chutoro (Bluefin Tuna Middle Belly) $16

• Otoro (Bluefin Tuna Belly) $18

• Madai (Sea Bream) $16

• Aburi Chutoro Nigiri (Torched Fatty Tuna) $19

• 10 Piece Sashimi Platter (Chef’s Selection of Daily Fresh Fish) $62

TEMPURA

• Vegetable Tempura (Sweet Potato, Baby Carrots, Portobello Mushrooms and Shishito Peppers) $18

• Whole Red Snapper Tempura (Whole Red Snapper (1 Kilogram; 2.2 Pounds) in a Sweet and Spicy Lemon Sauce) $70

• Yellowtail Tempura (Whole Yellowtail (.5 Kilograms, 1.1 Pounds) in a Zesty Lime Sauce) $35

HIBACHI

(All Hibachi Meals are Served with Miso Soup, House Salad, Fresh Vegetables and Steamed Rice)

• Chicken Dark Meat $44

• Chicken Breast $44

• Sliced Flat Iron Beef Sukiyaki $56

• Dual Fillet $60

• Ribeye Steak $69

• Veal Chop $74

• Lamb Chop $78

• Tofu $34

Fried Rice: Add $7

Yakisoba Noodles: Add $5

JAPANESE JOSPER CHARCOAL GRILL

(All Grill Items are Served with Truffle Demi Glace, Asian Chimichurri Sauce, Wasabi Mashed Potatoes and Sautéed Baby Vegetables)

• Veal Chop $74

• Lamb Chops $78

• Boneless Ribeye Steak $70

• Beef Fillet $69

• Surprise Steak $69

• Flat Iron Steak $56

• Sizzling Gai Yang Half Chicken (Served on a Sizzling Rock with Ginger Sweet Potato Puree and Sake Broth) $42

SOUPS & SALADS

• Ramen Noodle Soup (Umami Broth, Bok Choy, Corn, Soft Boiled Egg, Noodles, Nori and  Shitake Mushroom) with Chicken $27 / Veal $29

• Traditional Miso Soup (Tofu & Scallions) $12

• Thai Crispy Chicken Salad (Cucumber, Carrot, Red Cabbage, Bean Sprouts, Peanuts, Crispy Noodles in Sweet Thai Dressing) $22

• Asian Grilled Caesar Salad $18 (Chicken: Add $10 / Salmon: Add $16)

• Mixed Vegetable Salad $18 (Chicken: Add $10 / Salmon: Add $16)

STREET WOK

• Chicken Tikka Masala (Tandoori Chicken Thigh, Naan, Pickled Onion, Mint Chutney, Chili & Indian Spice Mix) $32

• Crispy General Tso with Beef $32 or Chicken $28 (Red Pepper, Green Pepper, Broccoli & Jasmine Rice)

• Pad Thai with Beef $32 / Chicken $28 / Tofu $26 (Carrots, Sprouts, Spring Onions, Egg, Peanuts, Cilantro, Sweet Thai Sauce & Rice Noodles)

• Papa Noodles with Beef $32 / Chicken $28 / Tofu $26 (Egg Noodles, Portobello Mushroom, Champignon, Shitake, Green Onion, Broccoli, Cheza Sauce & Truffle Paste)

• Pad Krapow (Chopped Beef, Garlic, Ginger, Herbs, Soy Sauce, Jasmine Rice & Sunny Side-Up Egg) $30

• Red Thai Curry with Beef $32 / Chicken $28 / Tofu $26 (Bok Choy, Cherry Tomatoes, Zucchini, Lemongrass, Fresh Herbs, Coconut Milk & Jasmine Rice)

• Bibimbap – Korean Style with Beef $34 / Short Ribs $36 / Chicken $30 (Served in Hot Bowl with Jasmine Rice, Carrot, Spinach, Bean Sprouts, Mushrooms & Gojejang)

• Khao Soi Chicken Curry (Northern Thailand Yellow Curry Dark Chicken Served with Egg Noodles, Soft Egg, Pickled Bok Choy, Shallot & Fresh Lime) $28

• Teriyaki Glazed Crispy Salmon (Sesame, Wilted Spinach & Ginger Sweet Potato Puree) $39

• Miso Glazed Chilean Sea Bass (Roasted Marinated Sea Bass, Corn Cream, Apple & Mango Salsa) $58

DESSERT

• Banana Roti (Thai Dough Filled with Caramelized Banana & Toffee Sauce) $18

• Apple Cobbler (Served with Vanilla “Ice Cream”) $18

• Strawberry Parfait $18

• “Cheesecake” $18

• Chocolate Ferrero Rocher Mousse (Served with Vanilla “Ice Cream”) $18

• Birthday Platter $45

(Children’s menu also available)

There’s a wide selection of fine wines, spirits, crafted cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages available.

Street Hibachi is located at 3599 NE 207th St. in Aventura. Hours are Sunday-Thursday 5 p.m. to midnight, Saturday 7:30 p.m.-midnight.

For more information, call (305) 974-5056 or visit streethibachi.com

After relocating to Miami with her family during the 1940s, Posever, a seasoned art therapy instructor, promptly volunteered with the American Red Cross to instruct wounded soldiers recuperating in local hotels. She established a ceramics studio to showcase their creations, which later found a permanent home at what would later become Mt. Sinai Hospital on Alton Road. Zena sketched scenes of strollers along the bustling Soldiers Pier, a precursor to today’s boardwalk, supplementing her income before assuming the role of art director at the early Jewish Community Center on West Avenue in Miami Beach. Posever also maintained significant involvement in the arts and activism within the local community and globally.

During the 1960s, she used her art to promote civil rights and peace activism, presenting Eleanor Roosevelt with a sculpture titled Texan American, which portrayed a Black man in whose face and head she saw a blend of four different races: Caucasian, African, Asian, and indigenous American. In 1966, Posever traveled cross-country to fashion a life portrait of Linus Pauling, the world’s only 2-time individual Nobel Prize winner, whom she admired for his advocacy resulting in the Peace Prize in 1962.

Posever’s distinctive contributions to South Florida life from 1944 to 2000 warrant a significant place in its history. Her artworks grace the collections of esteemed institutions such as The National Portrait Gallery and the Pennsylvania Academy of Arts, among others.

Zena Posever: Peering into a Pioneer’s Studio is on view through March 10, 2024. For information on JMOF-FIU, its current and past exhibitions, and its history, visit www.jmof.fiu.edu

JMOF-FIU is located at 301 Washington Avenue in Miami Beach. Call 305-672-5044 for more information.