Jewish groups gearing up for RNC

A number of national Jewish organizations including the American Jewish Committee and AIPAC, the pro-Israel lobby, are planning seminars and receptions during the upcoming Republican National Convention in Tampa. Even the local federations are getting into the act.

Gary Gould, Regional CEO of the Tampa Orlando-Pinellas Jewish Federation Alliance, said the organization will be partnering with AJC on one, perhaps two events.

However, Gould emphasized the Federation Alliance’s involvement is strictly “nonpartisan.” He noted that the Charlotte, NC, Federation is assisting in similar events for the Democratic National Convention.

While a local representative of AIPAC – the American Israel Public Affairs Committee — would not discuss any of its plans, AJC officials said that organization will take over the Mindy Solomon Gallery in downtown St. Petersburg plus rent a room at the nearby Museum of Fine Arts for “roundtable discussions” and other get togethers.

Theorganization,whosemission is to safeguard and strengthen Jewish life worldwide by promoting democratic and pluralistic societies, will host a diplomatic reception for ambassadors and foreign dignitaries who will be here for the convention.

The TOP Federation Alliance is helping with one of the AJC seminars entitled: “Faith at the Forefront: Eyes on Mormon-Jewish Relations.” As of press time, the program had not been finalized.

Other tentative discussions include addressing the “growing Latino Jewish coalition” and Indian Jewish relations, along with energy security and the Middle East.

Brian Lipton, Florida West Coast regional director for AJC, said most of the events will be open to the public. Anyone interested in more information, should contact AJC at Sarasota@ajc.org or (941) 365-4955.

Other groups announcing plans for public events include Shalom International, for instance. The group has announced plans for a “Rally for America and Israel” on the eve of the RNC on Sunday, Aug. 26 at 2 p.m. in Tampa. The Miami-based organization whose stated purpose is to draw attention to President Obama’s “sellout politics toward Israel,” said in a press release that the rally will include 1,000 shofar blowers.