A traveling Chanukah celebration for Rabbi Adler

Ten friends of Ohev Shalom's Rabbi Emeritus Rudolph Adler made the trip down to Dr. Phillips on Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2014 for a Chanukah luncheon with the rabbi at the Sutton Home facility where he is in residence.

TooJay's in Ocoee donated the delicious just-cooked latkes along with gefilte fish. Jewish Pavilion Program Director Gloria Green arranged the event with the able help of Ohev Shalom congregation member Shirley Michael. The synagogue friends of the rabbi presented him with a lap blanket with a Jewish star; and a stuffed Chanukah bear was presented from the Jewish Pavilion.

Following lunch, the party moved into the living room. Rabbi Adler had specifically asked for children to be present at his party, so volunteer Kimberly Newton brought her children Caleb, Lillie and Zachariah to sing while Gloria played Chanukah songs on the piano. Everyone clapped and sang along with the rabbi, and even danced with him as he remained seated. Rabbi Adler even enjoyed playing a game of dreidel with Zachariah.  

Also important to the success of the event was the help of Jewish Pavilion volunteer and UCF senior Jackie Benfeld and management support from Sutton Homes.

The Jewish Pavilion gave Chanukah parties, open to all faiths, at over 50 senior facilities this Chanukah season. To become a volunteer or contribute to The Jewish Pavilion call 407-678-9363 or see www.jewishpavilion.org.