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  • Mitzvos for Israel

    Nov 3, 2023

    Throughout history, whenever the Jewish people faced danger, in addition to protecting themselves physically, they turned their eyes to their father in heaven and prayed for salvation. Nate’s Shul and Chabad of North Orlando has gotten together to help assist those who take upon themselves Mitzvos for the merit of victory and peace in the Holy Land. TEFILLIN: Jewish men or boys over Bar Mitzvah who commit to putting on Tefillin every weekday will be given their own pair of Tefilin if they don’t already have their own. MEZUZAH: Any Jewish hou...

  • Are you ready to speak up for Israel?

    Nov 3, 2023

    “Why I Love Israel” is a new course for teens and it includes a cash reward for attending. “Did Israel steal its land? Why does it seem that Israel has so many enemies? How important is Israel to me, anyway?” These are some of the questions that will be discussed in “Why I Love Israel” a six-lesson course from JLI Teens. The students will take a journey where they will virtually travel through the Holy Land, learn of the history, meaning and holiness of this ancient country. They will see how this faraway place is their home, and how their Jewi...

  • The world of Kabbalah

    Nov 3, 2023

    Chabad of South Orlando is offering a course on Kabbalah which began Oct. 31 and continues for six Tuesdays. The instructor is Rabbi Yosef Konikov and is from 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. Course Overview Join the new course from the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute for a comprehensive overview of the core mystical and spiritual teachings of kabbalah. Plus, see how these teachings offer powerful insights into everyday life, self-understanding, and personal growth. Gain literacy in Judaism’s mystical tradition. Get to know Kabbalah’s core ideas and termi...

  • A GoFundMe request from Neal and Genie Blaher

    Nov 3, 2023

    Local residents, Neal and Genie Blaher’s son, Noah, is in northern Israel in a combat support position. The following is a request concerning needed equipment in Israel. Greetings friends, Noah has been called up to the reserves in the IDF, specifically on the Northern front facing Lebanon and Hezbollah. He remains in a combat support position. This means that although he will not be engaged directly in combat, he will be providing “support.” This can include approaching the front lines to replenish artillery and other needs of his fellow soldi...

  • Chabad of Altamonte Springs supports Israel

    Oct 27, 2023

    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...

  • Dvorchik moves on to new ventures

    Oct 27, 2023

    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...

  • Seniors celebrate Sukkot

    Oct 27, 2023

    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...

  • Chabad unites for Israel

    Oct 27, 2023

    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....

  • Jewish community joins together at 'Stand With Israel' rally

    Oct 20, 2023

    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...

  • Dvorchik no longer at Shalom Orlando

    Christine DeSouza|Oct 20, 2023

    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 Rosen JCC offers options to support Israel

    Oct 20, 2023

    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...

  • Commemorate Kristallnacht Nov. 8

    Oct 20, 2023

    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...

  • Celebrate Harvest and Post-Sukkot Joy at the Jewish Pavilion Networking Festival

    Oct 13, 2023

    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...

  • Shayna's Village is expanding

    Oct 13, 2023

    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...

  • Family first at the Rosen JCC

    Oct 13, 2023

    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....

  • A memorable Sukkot Wine and Whiskey Party fosters community spirit

    Oct 13, 2023

    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...

  • Jewish Pavilion online auction

    Oct 6, 2023

    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...

  • Let's play Bingo at the Rosen JCC

    Oct 6, 2023

    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....

  • JAO and JNF-USA honor local servicemen in memory of 9/11

    Sep 29, 2023

    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...

  • SOJC Stands Up to Jewish Hate

    Sophie Katz|Sep 29, 2023

    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...

  • CPR training at the Rosen JCC

    Sep 29, 2023

    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....

  • Boone High School and UCF welcome new StandWithUs interns

    Sep 22, 2023

    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...

  • Double your impact, double the hope

    Sep 22, 2023

    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...

  • A memorable morning with Jewish Pavilion sponsors

    Sep 22, 2023

    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...

  • Hatred is still in our backyard

    Complied by Christine DeSouza|Sep 15, 2023

    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....

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