|
 It
was a new project of the JDC Russian Department aimed at the unification of
the community and the revival of the Jewish cultural heritage. The Community
Festival of the Jewish Book was first held in September 1997. That year 31 cities
of the FSU took part in it.
The festival was so successful, that it was decided to present it
every year. 49 communities participated in the next OFEK. In 1998, it was presented
in Almaty for the first time. This year the festival will take place in the
season most beautifully suited for meditation - autumn. It will be held
during the first ten days of September.
 While
designing the OFEK-2003 program, we realized that there were many
difficult and unsettled questions. It is the sixth festival in Almaty, and we
need to think of something new and interesting. And we are looking around for
ideas.
 Several
programs are now in preparation, but it is still a secret. However, we can say
that the Festival on Wheels will continue. This project began a year ago and
it allows us to conduct OFEK in the communities that do not have their own resources.
The Festival on Wheels includes the presentation of new books, musical performances,
and applied art exhibitions.
Like a prayer that becomes stronger if said together, OFEK
unites Kazakhstani communities and connects them to Jewish culture. OFEK is
knowledge of Judaism, literature, history, and tradition, and an opportunity
for self-identification. OFEK is one of the best ways to disseminate
Jewish culture. OFEK-2003 is already in our hearts and minds.
Eugenie Karyakina
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