Malcolm Hoenlein, executive vice president of the New York-based Conference of Presidents of Major Jewish Organizations, will inaugurate a two-part "Options" program for the Women's Division of the United Jewish Federation of San Diego County.

He will speak at a 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. dinner program Wednesday, Feb. 23, and at a 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. luncheon, Thursday, Feb. 24, at the Manchester Hyatt Hotel on San Diego's waterfront in order to accommodate the large number of women expected at the major fundraising event.  Women who attend the $45-per-person dinner or luncheon are expected to pledge a minimum $180 for UJF's 2005 campaign.

Hoenlein will talk on the topic, "A World Without Arafat: Is Peace Possible in the Middle East."

With preparations for two events underway, responsibilities are divided among co-chairs for the the first-ever evening event, Drs. Dalya Rubanenko, DC. and Shulamit Ritblatt, Ph.D, and those of the 13th annual luncheon program, Ariela Berkstein and Bambi Step.

"The annual UJF Options event has always proven to be an inspiring and empowering experience for the women who attend.  This year's inclusion of Malcolm Hoenlein, as the keynote speaker, will no doubt add enlightenment to the range of emotions that are part of the energy of the program," Step said.

"Options is a very powerful event because it brings together Jewish women from all walks of life in a single room for a session of learning, bonding and to create a strong sense of unity and community," Berkstein said.

Added Rubanenski: "It will be exciting to see all of the new faces, and of course I always look forward to catching up with the women who attned every year."

Ticket information and reservations may be obtained from Judy Price at the Federation offices, (858) 571-3444, or by emailing her at jprice@ujfsd.org.                  —Donald H. Harrison