Bridges between people are built on many levels. I chose the arts to embrace cultural diversity. and free expression. I am from a Catholic family of many generations. Around the middle nineties, i befriended Ido Aharoni, Consul for Communications and Public Affairs for the Consulate General of Israel in Los Angeles. I was already a friend of John Rauch, President, Center for Jewish Culture and Creativity. During those years, Ido often invited me to special events.
As President of Long Beach Central Area Association, I partnered with photojournalist Irene Fertrick for book signing & photo exhibit titled “BETA ISRAEL-House of Israel (capturing the hardships and kinships of Ethiopian Jews living in Israel) followed by reception led by Rabbi-Cantor. The venue was Long Beach Borders Books and Music, June 7, 1998. The event was endorsed by Israeli Consulate in honor of the 50th anniversary of Israel’s statehood.
