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Embracing Renewal and Strengthening Our Bonds : A High Holy Days Message
David Palkovitz, President Columbia Jewish Federation
As we approach the High Holy Days, I am filled with a profound sense of optimism and excitement for what lies ahead for our Columbia Jewish community. These sacred days of reflection and renewal remind us that each year presents new opportunities to strengthen our bonds, reinvigorate our commitment to Jewish life, and expand the ways in which we support one another.
This past year has been a time of growth and resilience. The Columbia Jewish Federation remains dedicated to its mission: to protect, educate, support, and enrich Jewish life here in Columbia, in Israel, and around the world. As a community, we have faced challenges, but what continues to inspire me is how we have come together—stronger, more united, and more engaged than ever before. Our programs and services are thriving, thanks to your support and participation, and we are seeing firsthand the powerful impact of our collective efforts.
One of the most remarkable aspects of our Federation is how we touch every part of Jewish life in Columbia. Through our Jewish Family Service (JFS), we continue to offer essential support to individuals and families. Under the leadership of Jennifer Dearing, JFS has been swift in its response to community needs. JFS is also working to scale its operations to ensure there is
capacity for future requests for assistance. I’ve had the unique perspective in my dual roles as President and Interim Executive Director to witness the transformative work that Jennifer and her team of volunteers have had on the lives of those JFS serves.
Our Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) has also been working tirelessly to address the rise of antisemitism, both locally and across the country. Our JCRC Director, Josh Edwards, has built meaningful partnerships with other faith communities. His work in this arena has led to successful efforts to bring Jewish interests to the forefront of policy conversations at the university, local, and state levels. JCRC is ensuring that we are not only defending our rights but also fostering greater understanding and collaboration across communities.
NextGen and PJ Library are inspiring our younger members, ensuring the next generation of Jews feels deeply connected to their heritage. I am particularly proud of our work with Hillel at the University of South Carolina, where we are engaging Jewish students and helping them build meaningful Jewish experiences on campus. These efforts are critical to ensuring that Jewish life in Columbia thrives for decades to come.
And who could forget the power of our communal events? From Rendezvous Lounge to our community-wide celebrations, these gatherings have given us space to connect, share traditions, and proudly celebrate our Jewish identity. These are not just social events; they are an opportunity to deepen our
connections to each other and to our shared values.
Of course, none of this work would be possible without you—our dedicated donors and volunteers. This year, your generosity helped us raise significant funds for our Annual Campaign and for the Israel Terror Relief Fund, demonstrating the unwavering commitment of Columbia’s Jewish community to those in need, both here and in Israel. I am constantly in awe of your willingness to step up and support our mission, especially during times of crisis. It’s because of you that we are able to offer scholarships, fund vital security measures through our partnership with the Secure Community Network, and support dozens of other crucial initiatives.
As we prepare to enter 5785, I invite you to take a moment during these High Holy Days to reflect on the incredible strength and potential of our community. Together, we have built something truly special—a Federation that doesn’t just react to challenges but proactively builds a stronger, more vibrant future for all Jews in Columbia. This year, let’s continue to grow. Let’s reach out to those who may feel disconnected, deepen our engagement with Jewish life, and expand the ways we can support and uplift one another.
May these days of introspection bring each of us clarity and inspiration, and may the year ahead be one of health, happiness, and meaningful action.
L’Shanah Tovah U’Metukah— Wishing you a sweet and fulfilling new year.
Patty Tucker Honored with DSA Award: A Lifelong Dedication to Columbia’s Jewish Community and Legacy of L’dor V’dor
Columbia Jewish Federation is proud to announce Patty Tucker as the recipient of this year’s Distinguished Service Award (DSA).
Patty grew up in a large military family that relocated frequently due to her father’s Air Force career. Family vacations often coincided with moves to new duty stations. After her father retired, he opened the first Chick-fil-A in Columbia. Patty took advantage of the low in-state tuition by attending the University of South Carolina—a decision her father believed was one of her best, as it was there that she met Michael during her first week of college. They were married at Beth Shalom Synagogue, and soon after, they welcomed three sons into their family. Today, that family has expanded to include three wonderful daughtersin-law and five grandchildren, with Patty finally gaining the granddaughters she had hoped for. Her hobbies include
gardening, reading, playing mahjong, going to movies, and spending time with family.
As a stay-at-home mom, Patty found time to become deeply involved in Columbia’s Jewish community. She co-presided over B’nai B’rith Women with Ellen Seidenberg, chaired the Beth Shalom Religious School Education Committee, and codirected the JCC Preschool with Minda Miller for a year.
When her children entered high school, Patty decided to pursue a master’s degree in library and information science at USC.
Upon graduation, she embarked on a career as a school librarian and later as a technology trainer for teachers. She also served as an adjunct professor for the College of Charleston, teaching graduate-level courses for teachers.
After two decades with Lexington School District One, Patty retired, planning to relax, play mahjong, and enjoy some leisure time.
However, new opportunities quickly altered those plans. She served several years on the JCC Board and Executive Committee. She and Ruth Rast co-chaired the JCC Columbia Jewish Film Festival, which kept her busy with screening films and organizing programs each year. Later, Patty was asked to co-chair the Columbia Holocaust Education Commission alongside Esther Greenberg. She recently completed her first year of a two-year term as president of Tree of Life Congregation.
When asked why she devotes so much time to meetings, boards, and volunteer work, Patty’s response is simple: “I believe it’s crucial to maintain a vibrant and enduring Jewish community in Columbia for future generations. I believe in L’dor V’dor – the passing on of tradition from generation to generation.”
Patty Tucker, a dedicated leader in our community, embodies the spirit of service and commitment. With a rich history of involvement in the Columbia Jewish community, she has made significant contributions through her leadership roles and advocacy. Patty’s passion for nurturing the next generation and promoting Jewish values shines brightly in all she does. Her journey is a testament to the power of community and the importance of passing on traditions. We are proud to honor her with this year’s Distinguished Service Award!
Young Adult Division rebrands to NextGen Cola: Building future leaders
Josh Edwards, JCRC Director Columbia Jewish Federation
Columbia Jewish Federation is excited to announce the rebranding of its Young Adult Division (YAD) to NextGen Cola. This fresh identity marks a renewed focus on engaging and empowering young professionals in their 20s to 40s, fostering the growth of future leaders within our community.
NextGen Cola will emphasize creating dynamic and meaningful events designed to bring together young adults from diverse backgrounds. These events aim to provide opportunities for personal and professional development, networking, and community building. By participating in NextGen Cola, members will have the chance to connect, learn, and grow, all while contributing to the vibrant future of Columbia Jewish community.
The transition from YAD to NextGen Cola signifies more than just a name change: it
represents a commitment to innovation and inclusivity. As we evolve to meet the needs and aspirations of our members, NextGen Cola will serve as a platform for fostering leadership, inspiring action, and building lasting relationships.
Columbia Jewish Federation invites all YADies to become Nexties and join us in this exciting new chapter. Together, we will continue to strengthen our community and pave the way for a bright and promising future.
Nexties attended a summer kickoff event to disucss how to stay safe on social media.
Columbia’s Murals Shine in Tel Aviv, Celebrating Jewish Unity
Beth Shalom and the Columbia Jewish Community came together to create stunning murals, proudly displayed in Tel Aviv. These vibrant artworks captured the spirit of Jewish unity and mutual responsibility, reflecting the timeless principle “Kol Yisrael Arevim Zeh LeZeh”—all of Israel is responsible for one another. Showcasing local talent and collaboration, the murals served as a powerful reminder of our shared heritage and commitment to supporting one another across the globe.
Standing Together: Columbia Jewish Federation Welcomes Josh Levs for OneYear
Commemoration of October 7 Attacks
This October 7 marks one year since the devastating attacks on Israel that shook the global Jewish community to its core. As we reflect on the tragic events of that day and honor the memory of the lives lost, Columbia Jewish Federation invites you to a powerful evening of unity, resilience, and learning with renowned journalist and broadcaster Josh Levs. The event will take place on the anniversary of these horrific attacks, providing an opportunity for our community to come together for strength, solidarity, and renewed resolve.
Josh Levs, a longtime journalist, broadcaster, and media expert, will share his unique insights into the current landscape of media bias, misinformation, and its impact on the Jewish people and Israel. His visit is especially poignant as we mark the one-year anniversary of the October 7 attacks. For many, this gathering will be a chance to grieve, reflect, and find strength in one another during a time that continues to be emotionally and politically challenging.
Levs has a distinguished career, having spent 20 years at NPR and CNN as a lead fact-checker and investigative journalist. His efforts have earned him the highest accolades in the industry, including Peabody Awards and Edward R. Murrow Awards. This October, he brings his wealth of experience and
knowledge to Columbia for an engaging discussion that will focus on the institutionalized media bias against Israel and how it contributes to growing antisemitism worldwide.
This gathering serves as a call to action for our community. It is more important than ever that we come together, not just to honor the past, but to educate ourselves and strengthen our collective voice in defense of truth and justice for Israel. As Levs’ work demonstrates, misinformation about Israel continues to pose a significant challenge, particularly when media outlets spread narratives that harm the Jewish state. In his latest project, They Stand Corrected, a podcast and newsletter launched earlier this year, Levs confronts this very issue head-on, debunking myths and exposing systemic biases against Israel in mainstream news outlets.
The podcast has received overwhelming praise from listeners for cutting through misinformation and providing clear, fact-based reporting. One listener shared, “Never before has a podcast like this been so necessary,” while another wrote, “You have made me a much more educated consumer of news.”
Levs will delve into the troubling trends of bias and bigotry within media institutions,
offering his expertise on how our community can better recognize and challenge these biases. He will also explore the intersection of these issues with the rise of antisemitism and how we can protect the integrity of news surrounding Israel. As the chairman of the Elie Wiesel Foundation remarked, They Stand Corrected is “an important contribution to understanding how media bias has turned too many otherwise thoughtful and informed individuals against the Jewish people.”
In addition to addressing media bias, Levs will provide insights into broader social issues he’s tackled over his career, including his advocacy for gender equality, as seen in his acclaimed book AllIn: BendingtheMythsofModern FathersandFamilies. His work has earned him speaking engagements at institutions like the United Nations, Congress, Google, and universities worldwide.
This gathering will not only mark a solemn moment of remembrance but will also serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of community. As the chairman of Columbia Jewish Federation noted, “On this anniversary of the October 7 attacks, we must come together, not only to mourn, but to strengthen our bonds and ensure that our voices are heard.”
South Carolina Legislature Passes law Defining anti-Semitism
Surrounded by leaders of South Carolina’s Jewish community and members of the General Assembly, on May 28, Governor Henry McMaster signed into law H. 4042, Defining Antisemitism.
The bill defines antisemitism as a certain perception of Jews, which may be expressed as hatred toward Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifestations of antisemitism are directed toward Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or their property, toward Jewish community institutions and religious facilities.
At the signing, the governor spoke against the October 7 attack on Israel and stated that “South Carolina has long stood with Israel and with our Jewish community, which has a long proud history in our state. This bill
signing sends a clear and unified message that South Carolina will continue to stand firm against antisemitism.”
The bill adds the International Holocaust Remembrance definition to state law to be considered when deciding whether there has been a violation of discrimination policy, law, or regulation. The Holocaust Remembrance Alliance adopted this definition on May 26, 2016. Since then, it has been adopted by more than 1,200 entities worldwide, including 35 U.S. states, 91 U.S. cities and municipalities, and the U.S. State Department.
“To even begin to solve the problem of antisemitism, there must be clarity about what it is and what it is not. That is why in
2016, the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance built international consensus around a non-legally binding definition that offers clear guidelines and guardrails,” said S.C. State Representative Beth Bernstein, who introduced the bill and was one of 18 representatives who co-sponsored this legislation. “South Carolina needs this working definition of antisemitism, and I am delighted that we will now be one of those states.”
Since January 2024, there have been 50 reported incidents of antisemitism in South Carolina, which have included distribution of antisemitic pamphlets; email, telephone, and bomb threats; as well as intimidation of individuals. Watch a video of the bill signing ceremony here
Governor Henry McMaster (seated) signs H 4042 into law, defining antisemitism in South Carolina. Observing is S.C. State Representative Beth Bernstein (at left), who introduced this legislation.
Stephen Savitz Honored with South Carolina Order of the Palmetto
Linda Orgain, Communications Committee Chair Columbia Jewish Federation
Stephen T. Savitz has been awarded South Carolina’s highest civilian honor, the Order of the Palmetto. Governor Henry D. McMaster presented Savitz with the award on May 13.
The Order of the Palmetto is awarded in recognition of a lifetime of extraordinary achievement, service, and state or national contributions. It recognizes those individuals who have selflessly given of their time, resources, and goodwill through a variety of different causes and pursuits to the benefit of their neighbors, fellow citizens, and the fabric and prosperity of South Carolina. Past Jewish recipients have included Sen. Isadore Lourie (obm), Solomon Breibart (obm), Charleston
teacher and historian, and Max Heller (obm), a former mayor of Greenville, and his wife, Trude Heller (obm), a Holocaust educator.
Savitz, a former president of the Columbia Jewish Federation, was especially recognized for his long-time service to Palmetto Boys State. His involvement with that organization spanned 60 years, including serving as its director for 8 years. Sponsored by the American Legion, Palmetto Boys State is a week-long program that allows young men to understand the American system of government through participation in a simulated government system. Open to rising high school seniors, about one thousand students participate each year.
Stephen Savitz (center) with his wife, Jennifer (in photo at right of Steven), and extended family who celebrate his being awarded the South Carolina Order of the Palmetto, the state’s highest civilian honor.
Stephen Savitz honored with SC Order of the Palmetto
Continued from p. 14
In addition to his service for Boys State, Savitz served as the president of the Columbia Jewish Federation from 2017 to 2018 and has been president of the Tree of Life Congregation. He currently serves on the board of the Kahn Jewish Community Center and the South Carolina Philharmonic. He is the current president of the Jewish Historical Society of South Carolina and the Columbia Hebrew Benevolent Society. A certified specialist in labor
and employment law who received his J.D. from the USC School of Law, he recently retired after 50 years of practice, 47 years with the law firm Gignilliat, Savitz & Bettis, LLP. Among his retirement plans are learning the piano and improving his golf game, along with enjoying time with his wife, Jennifer, their two daughters Heather Savitz Weiss and Jenny Savitz Smith, and their four grandchildren.
Photos above: Governor Henry McMaster presents the Order of the Palmetto to Stephen Savitz.
Rachel Barnett and Lyssa Kligman Awarded Order of the Jewish Palmetto
Linda Orgain, Communications Committee Chair Columbia Jewish News
L’dor V’dor. Passing down our traditions and culture from generation to generation is among the most important duties we are asked to do as Jews. An interest in exploring and documenting how our Southern and Jewish traditions merge around food and sharing them with the community led Rachel Gordin Barnett and Lyssa Kligman Harvey to first launch a blog, “Kugels & Collards,” in 2017. This led to development of a tangible record of our South Carolina Jewish foodways in a book, Kugels & Collards: Stories of Food, Family, and Tradition in Jewish South Carolina.
The effort that went into compiling this invaluable resource for Southern cooks, as well as several other activities they have engaged in to preserve our Jewish history and culture in South Carolina, has merited these two women the prestigious “Order of the Jewish Palmetto” award.
Presented at the Spring Conference of the Jewish Historical Society of South Carolina (JHSSC), this is only the ninth time this award has been given (they are
the 10th and 11th recipients). It was inaugurated in 2002 by the JHSSC to recognize the achievements of individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the Society. Founded in 1994, JHSSC encourages the collection, study, and interpretation of South Carolina Jewish history and increasing the awareness of that heritage among both Jews and non-Jews.
Kugels and Collards: The Book
The book, Kugels & Collards, was published last August 2023 by the University of South Carolina Press to local and national acclaim. Rachel and Lyssa spent four years interviewing Jewish families about their food and holiday traditions. The book tells the story of these families and how different cultures in this state—especially the African American women who worked as cooks and housekeepers in Jewish homes—shaped the evolution of Jewish food in the state.
The book includes many traditional recipes, including brisket, challah, and several kugels. It also includes recipes
with other influences, such as grits and lox casserole. Sixty South Carolina families contributed 80 of their family recipes to the book, which also includes many photos and their personal stories. The recipes in the book reflect both Sephardic and Ashkenazi traditions, handed down from the first Jewish settlers in Charleston through those of Columbia and the broader state.
Although Rachel, who hails from Summerton, is currently serving as the JHSSC’s executive director, she was surprised to receive the award. “The board managed to keep the award a secret prior to our Spring meeting,” she said, adding that she was very honored to be selected for the award along with Lyssa.
Lifetime Columbia resident Lyssa, referring to both her and Rachel’s immigrant grandparents, reminds us to “savor our family stories. Ask your parents and grandparents about their recipes and food culture and get them to write down their treasured family recipes.”
Since the book’s publication, the women have been much in demand throughout the south for book signings, and have been interviewed on media as far away as California. The two women are now working on a book that will focus on what they term “Southern simchas”
and have been traveling throughout the South exploring a wide range of Jewish experience in the region.
The two also continue to host the Kugels & Collards blog, which you can visit at kugelsandcollards.org/blog.
Proceeds from the sale of the book benefit the Historic Columbia of South Carolina and the Jewish Historical Society of South Carolina. You can order Kugels & Collards from the University of South Carolina press as well as online booksellers.
The JHSSC bestowed on Rachel Gordin Barnett (l) and Lyssa Kligman Harvey (r) the Order of the Jewish Palmetto in recognition of their work on behalf of the Society. Past-JHSSC president Jeffrey Rosenblum presented the award at the JHSSC reception on Saturday, May 18, during the Society’s Spring weekend.
Recipe excerpted from Kugels & Collards: Stories of Food, Family, and Tradition in Jewish South Carolina by Rachel Gordin Barnett and Lyssa Kligman Harvey. Copyright 2023 by Rachel Gordin Barnett and Lyssa Kligman Harvey. Used by permission of the University of South Carolina Press.
Photo: Courtesy of University of South Carolina Press/Forrest Clonts.
