FRESH SALMON . BABY BACK RIBS , PAC Open 7 Days Lunch & Dinner Sun-Thu liam-lipm Fri R. Sat liana-12mid. STEAKS• CHICKEN .SEAFOOD.SAIAOS PASTAS.BURGERS •SANDINICHES WRAPS- MUSSELS•SOUPS.AND MORE!! rjsgrille.corn DINNER SPECIAL Repeat by Popular Requests FRESH SALMON Akiva teacher Kathy Sklar, liana Goldmeier, 17, Akiva; Michelle Shumunov, 17, FJA; Allie Lichterman, 17, FJA; Noga Barpal, 17, FJA; Natalie Bloom, 16, FJA; DINNER INCLUDES Soup or Salad, Wild Rice & Veggie Molly Williams, 16, FJA; Linda Baruch, FJA teacher; Stephanie Curhan, 16, FJA; Elizabeth Kirshner, 17, Akiva; and Shiri Wrotslaysky, 17, Akiva Supporting Israel Local students learn advocacy skills. Elizabeth Kirshner Teen2Teen Staff Writer w e sing "Hatikvah" at school assemblies, follow overseas news channels and wear blue and white on Yom HaAtzmaut. Many of us have even visited Israel or plan to study there after high school. As passionate supporters of Israel, this fervor is naturally ingrained, but what about when this pride is questioned by outsiders? By participating in the pro-Israel advocacy group AIPAC's Schusterman Advocacy Institute High School Summit in Washington, D.C., earlier this month, Jewish teens from across the country gained insight and skills necessary to channel their love for Israel into political action. The energy radiating throughout the conference was apparent, as the sessions buzzed with questions and discussions from inquisitive and driven students. Shiri Wrotslaysky, a senior at Akiva Hebrew Day School in Southfield, was particularly impressed by the diversity of the participants. "Seeing other Jewish students from all walks of life coming together for the cause reminded me of what makes Israel so special," she said. Additionally, participants had the privilege of hearing AIPAC Campus Activists Bakari Sellers, Krista Allen, Hamza Khan and Andrea Valenzuela, non-Jewish students who took initia- tives to advocate for Israel on college campuses. Their spirit infused the high school students with further excitement for advocacy. Much of the seminar was devoted to presenting a clearer view of Israel's cir- cumstances in the global scheme, giv- ing participants an accurate depiction of the often-misconstrued country. Natalie Bloom, a junior at Frankel Jewish Academy (FJA) in West Bloomfield, said she felt "grateful" for this opportunity to "fully understand and grasp the issues Israel is facing." The program also incorporated renowned speakers, such as Jonathan Kessler, AIPAC leadership development director, and other AIPAC organiz- ers, leading sessions stressing Israel's vital contributions to America and the global community. By emphasizing Israel's strengths, the students' enthu- siasm for Israel was reaffirmed, adding to their dedication. FJA junior Molly Williams felt the conference enhanced her sense of identity. "I grew as an American-Jew and learned so much about my own role in this important relationship:' said Williams, who called the experi- ence "moving. Moreover, the AIPAC seminar pro- moted channeling pro-Israel dedica- tion into action, specifically in the form of lobbying on Capitol Hill. While the prospect of approaching political leaders to express a concern can seem daunting to a high school student, AIPAC teaches that "if you want to make a difference and advocate for Israel, age doesn't matter," said Allie Lichterman, an FJA senior. Highlighting the importance of taking a stand, AIPAC left students with the message of true advocacy, underscored by the lobbying appoint- ments with Congressional leaders. Participants acquired the tools to build relationships with powerful officials in an effort to make significant change. Beyond pride, AIPAC promotes action. As Michelle Shumunov, an FJA senior, said, "I discovered that I could have my voice heard." Empowered, Shumunov echoes the sentiment felt throughout the program, an experi- ence that she says helped her "grow as a Zionist, as an American and as a leader." II IN SIRLOIN STEAK 410- 1.95 OFF EXPIRES 1218111 Reserve Your Home or Office HOLIDAY PARTY! 32769 Northwestern Hwy. [S.0'14 Mile ROI CELEBRATING 20 YEARS IN 248-737-9600 BUSINESS " Elizabeth Kirshner, 17, Is a senior at Akiva Hebrew Day School in Southfield. e dream makers. We are Aussies who customize every aspect of your adventure in the glorious South Pacific. are determined to exceed your every expectation. Call us today. P: 248-647-4530 • 139 WEST MAPLE RD BIRMINGHAM, MI 480 Call 248-283-0835 33401 Woodward Ave., Birmingham November 24 • 2011 47