Central Florida's Independent Jewish Voice
Central Florida's Independent Jewish Voice
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Chabad of Altamonte Springs continues to actively stand in solidarity with Israel, reinforcing its commitment to the Israeli people through a remarkable series of initiatives that engage the local community. This coordinated effort is a testament to the power of unity, compassion, and shared values that Chabad of Altamonte Springs, like the rest of the Chabad centers in Orlando, embody. On Oct. 9, Chabad of Altamonte Springs hosted an “Evening of Prayer and Solidarity” that brought together the...
Heritage received word from Keith Dvorchik as to his “next steps” moving on from being CEO of Shalom Orlando. “After seven incredible years at The Roth Family JCC, The Jewish Federation of Greater Orlando, and Shalom Orlando ... ” he wrote, he accepted a position as a partner with New York-based Amplify Partners, a company that offers consulting services in the area of Development, Organizational Development, and Family Philanthropy. “I have the opportunity to work with friends and colleague...
Jewish residents all around Central Florida had the opportunity to participate in the celebration of Sukkot. Jewish Pavilion program directors took lulavs and etrogs into the communities so the residents would have an opportunity to say the blessing and give it a shake. While not every Jewish person grew up having this in their home each year, the joy and familiarity it brings to the faces of our eldest population is pure magic. — Lauren Sharfstein, program director...
In addition to the community event at Lake Eola, which several Chabads hosted, Chabad of Altamonte Springs held a Challah bake, Torah study, fund raising and letter writing to show support for Israel....
There was singing and dancing, Israeli and American flags flying and messages from the rabbis of four Chabad Centers at the Walt Disney amphitheater at Lake Eola on Sunday, Oct. 15, as hundreds of people from the Jewish and non-Jewish communities gathered in unity to show their love and support for Israel. Rabbi Sholom Dubov of the Chabad of Greater Orlando encouraged the Jewish community to stay strong during an emotionally taxing time. "There's a fundamental core [at] the very heart of what...
The Shalom Orlando Board stated that Keith Dvorchik is “no longer with the organization,” effective immediately. Craig Polejes, Shalom Orlando Board of Director’s chairman, did not give any information as to the reason for this action. “We are deeply committed to the Central Florida Jewish community and its mission to serve our community,” said Polejes. “This change in leadership is an opportunity to embrace new possibilities and fresh perspectives while upholding the traditions and values that...
The tragic events unfolding in Israel are leaving not just Jewish people but many people in our community wondering how they can help. The Rosen JCC in Orlando, Florida has compiled a list of organizations that are working to help those impacted. Rosen JCC CEO, Ofira Bondorowsky, says “On Saturday, Oct. 7, 2023, a surprise terrorist attack on Israeli civilians and soldiers resulted in over 1,000 dead and thousands more injured. As the war progresses, many more men, women, and children will likely be killed or injured. Like us, you may be w...
The Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center will host the Kristallnacht Commemorative Program on Wednesday, Nov. 8, at the Holocaust Center, 6:30 p.m. Kristallnacht was a turning point in history marked by violence against Jews. It is also known as the “November Pogrom.” Kristallnacht owes its name to the shards of shattered glass from the windows of synagogues, homes, and Jewish-owned businesses that lined German streets. Keynote speaker Dr. Susan Benesch will shed light on “Da...
Join the Jewish Pavilion for an evening of community, connection, and celebration. The Jewish Pavilion Harvest and Post-Sukkot Networking Festival is set to take place on Thursday, Nov. 9, from 5-7 p.m. at the Watercrest Winter Park senior community. This event promises an evening filled with appetizers, desserts, drinks, and lively music, all for a couvert of $25 per person. No celebration is complete without music, and the Jewish Pavilion Networking Festival will feature a live band to set...
A major expansion of Shayna’s Village programming is underway and will use the JCC’s former “youth wing,” renamed Heller Family Grove, thanks to the generosity of the Heller Family. Karen Duncan will continue to lead Shayna’s Village programming, along with two new additions to the team: Karen Spector, senior director of Education and Engagement for Shayna’s Village; and Stefani Rabideaux, Shayna’s Village social media and Art director. Shayna’s Village will continue to offer parenting classes and programs, and with the expansion, the new Shayn...
The Rosen JCC knows how busy parents are with their children and are always looking for ways to help parents with their childcare needs. When Orange County Public Schools close, it can be difficult for families who still need childcare. The JCC offers School Out Days. Kids can be dropped off at 9 a.m. and picked up at 4 p.m. (extended hours are available). Kids get a day of games and fun activities. This month OCPS will be closed on Monday, Oct. 16 and Friday, Oct. 27. To learn more and register for School Out Days visit www.rosenjcc.org/sod....
On Sunday, Oct. 1, a Sukkot Wine and Whiskey Party brought together a blend of guests at Oakmonte Village, creating a harmonious blend of culture, music, and camaraderie. With music by accomplished violinist, Adam Mendelsohn, this festive gathering proved to be a delightful celebration of Sukkot. The event, organized by the Jewish Pavilion, was attended by 50 senior residents of Oakmonte Village and 20 board members from both the Jewish Pavilion and the Legacy Committee. The gathering was a...
This year’s Jewish Pavilion online auction will feature luxury hotel stays, fitness packages, sports memorabilia, wine baskets and wine tastings, event tickets for unforgettable experiences, restaurant gift cards and homemade meals. The Jewish Pavilion’s 4th Annual Online Charity Auction, set to run from Oct. 22 to Oct. 27. It’s not just an auction; it’s a chance to make a difference while treating yourself to some of life’s finest offerings. Registering for this extraordinary event is a breeze — no credit card required. Just share your name a...
The Rosen JCC will host Community Bingo on Thursday, Oct. 19. The event will be held monthly at the Rosen Event Center, with dates to be announced. The doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the games start at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $20 to play and for a chance to win cash prizes. There are refreshments available for an additional fee. This is a night of fun and games. It’s the perfect opportunity for friends and family to get together. Or come alone and meet new friends....
In recognition of the 22nd anniversary of 9/11, Jewish National Fund-USA partnered with the Jewish Academy of Orlando to honor first responders and security personnel who keep the communities safe. In a moving ceremony, the school community gathered to honor Chief Security Officer Jake Silverman and Mr. Mike, school security. Head of School Chana Ben- Abraham said "For those of you that were in this room, you know there aren't words to describe the feeling surging through the seats as we paid...
Southwest Orlando Jewish Congregation is taking a stand on protecting the Jewish community from rising antisemitism. While this commitment to our community and to Jews around the world is not new, members of the congregation and its board were recently inspired by the "Stand Up to Jewish Hate" campaign, launched by the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism. "I first saw commercials for Stand up to Jewish Hate on television," said Jeff Fischer, a founding member of SOJC. "I was amazed at the...
The Rosen JCC is offering the opportunity to get certified in First Aid and CPR. Classes will be offered Oct. 19 and 24 at the Rosen JCC from 6 p.m. — 8 p.m. The training includes adult and child CPR. It includes First Aid and AED Training. For personalized training the classes are limited to 20 people. The cost is $50 per person. Register at www.rosenjcc.org/cpr....
StandWithUs, a 22-year-old international non-partisan education organization that supports Israel and fights antisemitism is pleased to announce that Mikayla Rosenwasser of Boone High School and Allie Bielski of UCF are participating in the 2023-24 Kenneth Leventhal High School Internship and the Emerson Fellowship. Mikayla Rosenwasser of Boone High School is the StandWithUs High School Kenneth Leventhal High School Intern. Recognizing that education needs to begin before students enter...
JFS Orlando’s annual Hope Challenge is underway. Running Sept. 12 through Oct. 15, every dollar donated to Jewish Family Services of Greater Orlando will be generously matched by Lauren and Scott Zimmerman and the Zimmerman Foundation, with a total match of up to $25,000. With your help, JFS Orlando’s FAMILY of services can continue to bring hope to those in need during the High Holidays and beyond. For the cost of just eight cups of coffee, you feed a family for a week through their Pearlman Food Pantry; two theme park passes you support a f...
On Wednesday, Sept. 6, 40 Jewish Pavilion sponsors attended a special breakfast at Allegro Winter Park hosted by the Jewish Pavilion. Courtesy of Allegro's catering team, the breakfast included raisin challah, apples and honey, lox, fresh fruits, eggs with a medley of vegetables, and an assortment of desserts, including black and white cookies. One of the highlights of the morning was the opportunity for sponsors to introduce themselves and share their personal connections to the Jewish...
Two Neo-Nazi groups marched in Altamonte Springs and outside the entrance to Disney Springs shopping center on Saturday, Sept. 2. Dressed in red shirts, black pants and black masks, 51 members of the Goyim Defense League and the Blood Tribe, who called the antisemitic demonstration "March of the Redshirts," walked from Sanlando Park to Cranes Roost Park, about a mile and a half away chanting "White power," "Jews will not replace us," and "We are everywhere." Blood Tribe, founded by former U.S....
Led by Rabbi Joshua Neely for 13 years, Temple Israel's growing congregation looks forward to the High Holiday season with guest cantor Teron Cohen. Cantor Cohen has worked in Switzerland, Canada, Germany, Israel, and the U.S. High Holiday tickets for live stream or in-person services are a $180 donation and free with reservations for those under 18, students, armed services personnel, and members in good standing of other synagogues. If you are under 35 and interested in becoming a member,...
In a welcoming atmosphere, parents and educators gathered on Wednesday evening, Sept. 6, at Jewish Beginnings Preschool, a vibrant institution operated by Chabad of Altamonte Springs. The occasion was an insightful Parent Open House, where attendees delved into the school's unique educational philosophy, which is now in its third year and has seen exponential growth since its inception. At the heart of the discussion was the idea that learning is a dynamic, creative process. Jewish Beginnings...
On Wednesday, Sept. 6, the Jewish Chamber of Commerce hosted a Rosh Hashanah-themed breakfast at Toojays, which brought together members of the community for a morning of camaraderie and goodwill. From 8 to 10 a.m., attendees indulged in a breakfast spread while also contributing to a noble cause. Participants brought diapers and canned goods to support the Jewish Family Services. The event featured a presentation by Aaron Bernstein, the Development director at Jewish Family Services, who...
The Orlando Chapter of Hadassah announces its Meet the Author Luncheon, featuring Kristin Harmel, local acclaimed author of “The Forest of Vanishing Stars,” “The Book of Lost Names,” and her latest bestseller, “The Paris Daughter.” This event, which includes a catered luncheon, a discussion, and Q&A with the author, will be held on Oct. 3, 11:30 a.m., Congregation Ohev Shalom, Maitland. Attendees will have an opportunity to gain insight into Harmel’s creative process and learn more about her inspiration for her new book. General Admission: Br...
