Jewish community celebrated a day like no other

On May 6, the Roth Jewish Community Center of Greater Orlando hosted Israel Independence Day Festival 66. Unlike in past years, this year's event was held in the JCC's backyard on the actual date of the holiday, bringing the community together "at home" for a special celebration. Also unlike in past years, all children's activities, games, and inflatables were provided at no-cost to the community.

The JCC event celebrating Israel’s 66th anniversary of independence, included performances by the Roth JCC’s Richard S. Early Childhood Learning Center, Temple Israel, Congregation Ohev Shalom, Congregation Beth Am, the Jewish Academy of Orlando, and featured Israeli pop singer Shany Zamir.

Guests enjoyed Israeli dancing with Debbie Meitin, Judaica shopping, kosher food by Brown’s New York Deli (Maitland), Jerusalem Kosher Restaurant (Ormond Beach), and Simka’s Sweets (Clermont), as well as the DJ entertainment of Junction 88 Productions’ Joel Farb.

To get involved with next year’s Israel Independence Day celebration or become a sponsor, contact Robby Etzkin, JCC assistant executive director, at 407-621-4031 or RobbyE@orlandojcc.org.