Bobby Goldberg looked out at the crowd – 400-plus, many streaming out of the Mandel Jewish Community Center’s Stonehill Auditorium, some still dancing to lively Israeli music – as the Jewish Federation of Cleveland celebrated 20 years of friendship and partnership with Beit Shean.

Jim Hartnett, director of community-wide security for the Jewish Federation of Cleveland, said attending the first Secure Community Network Mission to Israel was a valuable experience for him.

In 1995, a small group of people associated with the Jewish Federation of Cleveland went on a scouting mission to Israel. That weeklong trip turned into a 20-year partnership with Beit Shean and Valley of Springs, resulting in numerous new programs and initiatives and impacting thousands of people.

Life in Israel is more than what you read in the news. This time of year, Jews all over Israel are getting ready to celebrate Purim! Bags of pre-packaged mishloach manot filled with oznei Haman (hamentashen), candy, games, drinks, masks and more have been on sale in the supermarkets for weeks. Costumes of all sizes and funny hats are sold in small stores on almost every block. Children, teens and even adults appear on the streets in costumes, hats or bits of make-up. Jerusalem billboards announce a myriad of upcoming parties all over the city. Even during the Jerusalem Marathon this past Friday, there was a festive atmosphere as the city’s residents came out en masse to cheer 25,000 friends and relatives.

A true performer, Rita is by far the most celebrated and successful singer in Israel. Watch her perform LIVE in Cleveland at this year's Yom Ha'atzmaut celebration on May 12!

CLEVELAND – The Jewish Federation of Cleveland is proud to announce a historic celebration marking a 20-year partnership with its sister city of Beit Shean and Valley of Springs, Israel. The event, Celebrate our Partnership, will explore the incredible impact Cleveland has had on its sister city and how residents from both communities have created personal, powerful bonds. All are invited to attend and experience the connection through live music by HaZamir: The International Jewish High School Choir, a theater performance by Playmakers Youth Theatre, stunning images from local photographers, plus speeches by public officials, honoring of past chairs, and more. The event takes place on March 30 at 7 p.m. at the Mandel Jewish Community Center (26001 S. Woodland Road, Beachwood).

Through long times and across long distances, Joshua Davidson and Rebecca Richman's love flourished.

CLEVELAND – Do you know a Jewish Clevelander, ages 22 to 26, who is ready for a travel experience unlike any other? If so, they might be eligible for Birthright Israel, a free 10-day trip to Israel for Cleveland residents from June 20 – June 30, 2016. Complete the Interest Form now.

Become a Masa Israel Teaching Fellow (MITF)! Teach English to students in Israel and spend one year immersed in an authentic, small Israeli city.

Fifteen Jewish Clevelanders are beginning an unforgettable two-week volunteer experience in Cleveland’s sister city, Beit Shean.