Heritage Florida Jewish News - Central Florida's Independent Jewish Voice

Oy Vay...

(There's no other way to put it.)

According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, there has been a "spike in hate crimes."

And according to the World Jewish Congress, "rising levels of physical violence, harassment and intimidation against Jews, including the desecration of our synagogues, schools, monuments and cemeteries.

There are attacks against our history, culture, and sacred rituals, including laws seeking to ban Kosher slaughter and male circumcision.

There is biased, one-sided anti-Israel activity at United Nations agencies, where the Jewish state (the only Democracy in the Middle East) continues to be singled out and targeted.

The alarming rise of nationalism, neo-Nazism, and far-right political parties that have benefitted from disturbing levels of xenophobia, anti-Semitism, and hate, bringing Europe to the breaking point.

One cannot pretend we don't see the danger. One cannot believe this is not happening.

One cannot wish these threats away. We cannot merely express disgust and alarm and think we've done enough. We must face these challenges head on and take action to demand better for the Jewish people everywhere!"

Chanukah approaches...

On Sunday, Dec. 9th beginning at 4:30 p.m. in Winter Park's Central Park, the event "Chanukah On The Park" will take place.

This is always a fun celebration with entertainment this year by Shlock Rock who will perform a live music concert, and, of course, the highlight of the event, which includes Chassidic dancers, strolling magic, kids crafts, clown and face painting and terrific snacks, will be the Grand Menorah Lighting at 6 p.m.!

(This is a truly memorable event not to be missed!)

All are welcome...

Congregation Sinai helps our community celebrate all Jewish holidays with special events, educational programs and services. Congregation Sinai has been serving the Jewish Community of Central Florida since 2003. Numerous services and annual events will be open and free to the entire community. All of the Congregation Sinai classes are open to the general public.

Celebrate Holidays & Learn About Jewish Traditions! For more information about educational programs, holiday services, membership, Friday night Shabbat services and special events; contact: Congregation Sinai at: 1200 West Broad Street, Groveland, FL 34736 at the edge of Clermont. Phone 352-243-5353. Email info@congregation-sinai.org and visit their website at: www.congregation-sinai.org. Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/2022346804470513. Affordable annual memberships are available.

We have a winner!

Special congratulations to LARRY OSKIN of Art Beautique for receiving first place in the Fine Art Photography category at the 12th annual Downtown Clermont Art Festival held in Downtown Clermont. Larry is a contributing writer and photographer for the South Lake Tablet. He is a member of Congregation Sinai in Clermont and the owner of Marketing Solutions/Art Beautique, offering creative marketing, media relations and professional fine art photography services.

A very special event...

On Sunday, Dec. 9th at 2:30 p.m., the 2018 Greater Orlando FIDF Solidarity Event will take place at Congregation Ohev Shalom, celebrating 70 years of Heroes and Hope and featuring the IDF Musical Ensemble.

Co-chairing the event will be BURT and BARBARA CHASNOV.

For tickets and other information, phone 305-354-8233 or go online to http://www.fidf.org/events

All the proceeds from this event will help fund low income, young combat Israeli soldiers, attend 4 years of college upon their discharge.

Photo ID is required.

Shout Out...

I went to TooJay's in Altamonte Springs the other day to get my matzo ball soup! The waitress, PAULA SARVER (also known as P.J.) was fabulous! She was kind, caring... and didn't refer to me and my friend as "ladies," rather "girls," which made me feel much younger. And the best part... NO CALORIES! Paula took all the calories out of our food! Paula, you are the GREATEST!!!!

One for the road...

A rabbi said to a precocious six-year-old boy, "So, you tell me that your mother says your prayers for you each night. That's very commendable. What does she actually say?" 

The little boy replied, "Thank God he's in bed!"

(Been there, done that!)