JFS Empowers Next Generation to Stand Up Against Hate
Ferd & Gladys Alpert Jewish Family Service has announced an expansion of its acclaimed Relationships & Decisions teen education program, thanks to a $20,000 grant from the Palm Beach County Center to Combat Antisemitism & Hatred at the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County. The funding will enable Alpert JFS to deepen its investment in Jewish teens across Palm Beach County — empowering them with the tools, confidence, and empathy to confront antisemitism, bias, and hate while fostering resilience and leadership rooted in Jewish values.
The new curriculum will help teens recognize, understand, and
8 Days, 8 Ways of Giving Kicks Off with Inspiring Community Generosity
Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County and its Kohl Jewish Volunteer Center launched the holiday season with an inspiring display of generosity during their annual 8 Days, 8 Ways of Giving initiative. This year’s Thanksgiving food drive showcased the strength of our community coming together to support families in need.
The effort featured two collection sites at both Mandel JCC locations, Palm Beach Gardens and Boynton Beach, where community members donated nearly 100 turkeys and hundreds of pounds of non-perishable food items. For the first time, Kohl JVC introduced a matching challenge: For every frozen turkey donated, they added one more, doubling the total to 200 turkeys. Thanks to this overwhelming response, hundreds of local families enjoyed a warm, festive Thanksgiving meal.
Miles of Smiles Offers Fun, Inclusive Engagement
Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens recently launched Miles of Smiles, a collaboration between the Mishpacha Program — a volunteer-powered support network dedicated to providing emotional, spiritual, and practical care for Jewish individuals of all ages — and Chabad Hebrew School. The initiative was spearheaded by Ariana Zachary, a certified K–12 special educator with over a decade of experience in educational leadership and specialized instruction for children with disabilities. Her vision helped create a warm, inclusive space where every child — and every family — could shine.
A dozen children and young adults with special needs, together with their families, joined Hebrew school students ages 7–15 for an uplifting morning focused on Ahavat Yisroel, loving our fellow as ourselves. Families enjoyed brunch before coming together for hands-on crafts, heart-shaped cookie decorating, and meaningful learning about inclusion.
Miles of Smiles on
JFS Empowers Next Generation on page 2
All donations were distributed through trusted local partners The Soup Kitchen of Boynton Beach and Place of Hope, organizations that provide essential support to families facing hardship.
Building on this momentum, Federation staff demonstrated their spirit of giving through their first-ever internal food drive, collecting over 1,000 non-perishable items. Combined with the turkey donations, these efforts will provide holiday meals for a total of 300 families across Palm Beach County.
The Thanksgiving food drive marked the start of 8 Days, 8 Ways of Giving, a season-long program offering meaningful volunteer opportunities for people of all ages, both in person and at home. From packing holiday meals to assembling care packages, there are countless ways to make a difference.
For the full schedule of volunteer opportunities, visit jewishpb.org/8days, email volunteer@jewishpalmbeach. org, or call 561.242.6680.
Reflecting on the program, Ariana shared, “I am extremely proud of the volunteers and children who helped make our first program a success. My goal was to foster friendship and engagement among children with special needs and their neurotypical peers. It was beautiful to watch the children learn to accept others and develop a sense of community in a safe, nurturing environment. I can’t wait to see the program grow and continue to reach more families.”
The day ended with lively dancing — children, parents, volunteers, and staff joining in a circle of music, movement, and smiles. The atmosphere was filled with connection, warmth, and genuine friendship.
JFS Empowers Next Generation from page 1 respond to antisemitism and hate, building on the program’s existing focus on healthy relationships, empathy, and bullying prevention. Participants will take part in a specialized education and training process to develop new, relevant lessons addressing bias and discrimination.
As part of this initiative:
Miles of Smiles is open to all Jewish children and young adults with special needs in Palm Beach Gardens. Families and volunteers are encouraged to sign up at jewishgardens.com/smiles or by calling 561.624.2223. Contact Mishpacha director Chaya M. Shemtov at mishpacha@jewishgardens.com.
Stand With Us, an international, nonpartisan Israel education organization, provided participating teens with a virtual training focused on ten ways to fight antisemitism.
Last month, the Mobile Museum of Tolerance offered an immersive learning experience titled Ordinary People focused on ordinary people doing extraordinary things, how to address upstanders and bystanders, and more.
“Our young people are the moral compass of our
community,” said Dr. Iris Kiner, licensed psychologist and director of Jewish Community Connections and Clinical Student Training at Alpert JFS. “Through this expansion, we are helping teens not only recognize and respond to hate, but also lead with courage, compassion, and a sense of responsibility for others.”
“These programs have changed how I see myself and my role in my community,” said Deanna Schwarzberg, an eleventh-grade student at Oxbridge Academy in West Palm Beach. “I feel safer, more confident, and better prepared to speak out.”
The program is run by trained therapists alongside dedicated Hebrew School staff, and adult
8 Days, 8 Ways from page 1
How to Heal a Traumatized Nation
By Rabbi Dovid Vigler
Just weeks ago, we finally exhaled. The war that felt endless, the nightmare that haunted our days and nights, has quieted — for now. The living hostages are home. The tears of a nation still flow, but now they mingle with tears of gratitude. Yet beneath the joy, there is something raw, something restless. The war may be over, but for many the flood still rages inside.
That’s the story of Noach. The Torah calls him the only tzadik, the only righteous man, in the entire generation. He was good when the world went bad. He obeyed when everyone else mocked. He built an ark, saved his family, and restarted civilization. If Hollywood had written it, the final scene would show Noach walking into a sunset, hand in hand with his family, a rainbow blazing across the sky. Instead, the Torah ends with Noach drunk and exposed in his tent. The righteous man who saved the world can’t even save himself.
Why would the Torah finish the story like that? Why not let us leave on a high note? Because the Torah is not a fairytale — it’s a mirror. It shows us not just the glory of faith, but also the fragile aftermath of pain. Noach survived the flood, but the flood didn’t leave him. The waters subsided outside, but they still roared within. He planted a vineyard, maybe just trying to find peace, but peace never came. So he turned to the bottle — not because he was weak, but because he was wounded.
Today, modern psychologists are beginning to understand this phenomenon. You can’t go through trauma — war, loss, rockets, fear, captivity — and come out the same. For some of us, the sound of a motorcycle revving brings us back to sirens. For others, the sight of a certain uniform, a certain smell, or even a certain song can send the body into panic
From the rabbi
mode. That’s not drama, that’s biology. Our souls store memories our minds can’t handle.
In the book What Happened to You, Dr. Bruce Perry tells of a boy who was abused by his father. When he later met a new teacher who wore the same cologne as his father, he lost control — screaming, running, breaking things. The school thought he was just a “bad kid.” But his body was only trying to protect him. He wasn’t misbehaving, he was remembering.
Maybe that’s why the Torah ends Noach’s story the way it does. It’s not a failure; it’s a message. To tell us that even the holiest, most saintly person can break. That brokenness doesn’t make you bad — it makes you human. Noach’s drunkenness is not shameful; it’s sacred. It opens the conversation we’ve all been too afraid to have: that trauma changes people, and healing begins not with judgment but with gentleness.
When Noach lay there uncovered, his son Cham mocked him. His other two sons, Shem and Yefes, walked backward, covering him with a blanket without looking. That’s the Torah’s model for empathy. Don’t shame. Don’t stare. Just cover, comfort, and care. That’s how healing happens — not by asking “What’s wrong with you?” but by whispering “What happened to you?”
The Rebbe once taught that the flood waters of Noach were not only destructive — they were also purifying. “Just as a mikvah (ritual bath) purifies a person,” the Rebbe explained, “so too the waters of the flood purified the world.” The same water that drowned yesterday’s world can wash away its pain, if only we let it. But the key is what we do after the flood. Do we drown in the memories, or do we allow those memories to cleanse and connect us? Will the experiences of these past two years pull us into despair or will they lift us higher, inspire us to love more deeply, to hold tighter to our values, our faith, and to one another?
Jews around the world today are full of Noachs. Soldiers home from the front lines who can’t sleep through the night. Mothers whose children are safe, but their hearts still race at the sound of a news alert. Children worried about snippets they eavesdrop from their parents’ whispers. Extended families of hostages who are grateful beyond words — and yet haunted by what their loved ones saw. You can’t tell them “It’s over.” You can only tell them, “We’re with you.”
And that’s the call of this moment — to walk backward with a blanket. To stop judging people’s odd reactions, their outbursts, their distance, their silence. Maybe that neighbor who snapped at you in shul is carrying a private flood. Maybe that friend who seems detached is just trying to breathe. Instead of blaming, we can bless. Instead of criticizing, we can cover — with patience, presence, and prayer.
Because unity doesn’t come from sameness, it comes from sensitivity. It’s not about standing shoulder to shoulder — it’s about holding heart to heart. When we stop asking “Why can’t you get over it?” and start asking “How can I help you through it?” we turn pain into purpose. And that’s when blessings begin to flow.
The Talmud teaches that the Temple was destroyed because of sinas chinam — baseless hatred. But the Rebbe turned that phrase on its head, creatively choosing to emphasize the positive instead of the negative: If hatred without cause can destroy the world, imagine what ahavat chinam — love without cause — can rebuild. The unity that Moshiach requires isn’t political or perfect. It’s personal. It’s the quiet kindness of Shem and Yefes, the holy art of walking backward and covering another’s pain. It’s empathy that flows from heart to heart — man to man.
We all have our floods. But the Torah’s promise still stands: “The waters will never again destroy the earth.” Because now we know what they’re for — to wash us clean, not to wash us away.
Rabbi Dovid Vigler is the spiritual leader at Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens, with over 85,000 subscribers to his YouTube channel, youtube.com/jewishgardens. Email him at rabbi@jewishgardens.com.
LocaL happenings
“Not a Dry Eye Among Us”: Temple Judea’s Journey to Israel
By Rabbi Yaron Kapitulnik
All 25 of us are together in Jerusalem, celebrating Shabbat after the most incredible, life-changing week of touring Israel. Our hearts are so full we can barely contain it.
We started in Tel Aviv — from the Peace and Innovation Center to a vibrant tasting tour at the Carmel Market, from standing in the somber, sacred space of Hostage Square to being profoundly moved at the ANU Museum of the Jewish People, every single day overflowed with learning, connection, and waves of emotion we’ll carry with us forever.
From Tel Aviv we journeyed north to witness firsthand the devastating impact of the war on the northern communities. Yet even amid the heartbreak, we were embraced by the breathtaking scenery and unbreakable spirit of the people who refuse to abandon their homes, their land, their hope.
Next we arrived in Jerusalem, our eternal capital. After a deeply moving welcome ceremony, there wasn’t a dry eye among us. The tears flowed freely as our souls connected to this ancient, holy city in ways words cannot capture. We have five more precious days ahead. We can’t wait to share everything we’re experiencing, feeling, and learning when we return home.
Is your reward worth the risk?
Burns Wealth Management Group
Yaron Kapitulnik is rabbi at Temple Judea in Palm Beach Gardens.
Latkefest to Be Held at Beit HaYam
Temple Beit HaYam in Stuart will host Latkefest, a family-friendly event on December 14 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees can sample latkes from up to 15 teams and cast a vote for the winner of this year’s Golden Dreidel trophy for the best original latke. The event will feature games, balloon twisting, face painting, concessions, shopping — and a chance to dunk the rabbi in a dunk tank! Entry is $15 for Temple Beit HaYam members, $20 for non-members, 12 and under are free. For tickets, contact the temple office at 772.286.1531.
Day of Service
Opportunities to Honor Dr. King’s Legacy
On Monday, January 19, 2026, community members of all faiths, backgrounds, and ages are invited to make a difference during the 10th Annual MLK Day of Service, a day dedicated to honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy through action. With more than 18 volunteer opportunities across the Palm Beaches, this large-scale initiative unites our community while making a lasting impact.
This meaningful day of action is powered by Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County’s Kohl Jewish Volunteer Center and Palm Beach Atlantic University. New this year, the event is in partnership with GL Homes, a first-of-its kind corporate sponsorship for this annual event.
“GL Homes is proud to stand beside the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County and its partners for the MLK Day of Service. Together, we’re here to serve with impact, authenticity, and compassion,” shared Sarah Alsofrom, GL Homes VP of community relations.
This milestone 10th anniversary marks a decade of bringing Palm Beach County together to honor Dr. King’s legacy through service, compassion, and community. Volunteers will take part in projects that fight hunger, care for animals, support seniors, beautify neighborhoods, and protect the environment.
Examples of volunteer opportunities for the 2026 MLK Day of Service include: Environmental & Outdoor Projects: Beach cleanups, pollinator garden planting, and produce gleaning.
Fighting Hunger: Sorting and packing food with Meals of Hope and Palm Beach County Food Bank, plus preparing meals at local kitchens.
Community Support: Painting homes, visiting senior centers, refreshing community gardens, and assisting families at Quantum House.
Animal Care: Helping at Big Dog Ranch Rescue, Peggy Adams Animal Rescue League, and more.
“Year after year, this day of service fills us with hope,” said Amy Gordon, director of Federation’s Kohl JVC. “MLK Day of Service reminds us that building a stronger, more compassionate community is something we do together. Every act of service creates a ripple of hope for a more unified tomorrow.”
Nearly 1,000 volunteers participated last year, giving back at more than 15 locations. Since its start, Kohl JVC projects have impacted nearly 120,000 local residents, supported by over 5,000 volunteers annually who distribute meals, promote literacy, and provide vital resources to those in need.
Nathan Chau, director of the Workship program at Palm Beach Atlantic University, added: “The annual MLK Day of Service partnership between PBA and Federation is so special. It perfectly embodies what Dr. King stood for – looking beyond our differences and uniting to serve others.”
Students in PBA’s Workship program have been serving the community since 1968, contributing more than 4.1 million hours of service and demonstrating the university’s deep commitment to compassion and civic responsibility.
Registration is now open at jewishpb.org/mlk26. Space is limited for many projects, sign up early!
In addition to a generous partnership with GL Homes, 2026 MLK Day of Service is presented with support from Federation’s Palm Beach Center to Combat Antisemitism & Hatred as well as OneWorld: Davis Family Tolerance Project.
During the Festival of Lights, you continue to spread light throughout the Palm Beaches and across the world.
The glow of Hanukkah candles brings light to our lives, just as our community brings light to those in need here at home, in Israel and in 70 countries around the world.
Thank you for your generosity at Hanukkah and year-round.
From the Borscht Belt to Palm Beach Gardens: Kerry Lutz, America’s Top Recovering Attorney, Finds Humor in HOA Life
Palm Beach Gardens author and podcaster Kerry Lutz grew up on a steady diet of Jewish humor — the Catskills cadence, the rhythm of Rodney, Henny, and Joan — and now channels those sweet memories into his new satire HOA Emperor: The Mob Was Tough — But the Board was Murder, a laugh-out-loud look at Florida’s gated-community life. In this conversation, Kerry traces the lineage of his comedy from the Borscht Belt to Boca, with a detour through one very memorable visit with Rodney Dangerfield.
• Q: Your humor feels rooted in the great Jewish comedic tradition. Who inspired you?
A: I was raised on the legends — Henny Youngman, Mel Brooks, Joan Rivers, Rodney Dangerfield. I even met Rodney once at his apartment; he answered the door in a silk robe and slippers, exactly as advertised — gracious, funny, perfectly self-deprecating. And then there were the philosophers: George Carlin, our token goy and arguably the best of all time, and Lenny Bruce, who proved truth and rebellion could be comedy’s twin engines. They taught me that laughter is honesty in better lighting and before the wine runs out.
• Q: How did that influence become HOA Emperor?
A: Florida is the new Catskills. The stages are smaller — clubhouses instead of showrooms — but the characters are larger than life. When retirees debate holiday lighting, flood mitigation, and palm-tree trimming like they’re drafting the Geneva Convention, you either run or you write. I wrote. HOA Emperor was born from those meetings where everyone insists they’re right about the mailbox color.
• Q: Did being an attorney shape how you see that world?
A: Completely. Lawyers spend years watching people weaponize logic. In HOA life, the bylaws are the new Torah — everyone’s quoting them, nobody’s following them. After thirty-five years I call myself America’s Top Recovering Attorney Writing humor came naturally and was cheaper than therapy.
• Q: What makes Florida such fertile ground for comedy?
A: Because it’s paradise with paperwork and assessments. We have perfect weather and somehow still manage to argue about hedge height. Every HOA meeting could be an episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm. If you can’t laugh at your HOA, you’re taking paradise way too seriously.
• Q: There’s a generational bridge in your work — Catskills rhythm meets modern Florida reality.
A: The great comedians were truth-tellers in disguise. Whether it was Lenny taking on censorship or Carlin breaking down language, they pushed boundaries so the rest of us could laugh without guilt. Florida gave me a fresh stage. Same mission: Find the absurdity, tell the truth, make it funny.
• Q: Where can we find the book?
A: All my books are on Amazon, of course — and wherever fine books used to be sold.
• Q: What do you want readers to take away from HOA Emperor?
A: That humor is the best form of community service. Life in a gated paradise can drive you crazy if you let it. Shared laughter turns neighbors into allies. That’s the Borscht Belt secret: Laughter heals the tribe — mine just happens to live behind guard gates, golf carts, and stray gators.
• Q: What’s next?
A: Taking the show on the road. I’m lining up country clubs and community events across Florida to help people laugh their way through the violation notices. My dream is to make HOA meetings fun again — or at least survivable, but that’s probably too ambitious.
“Florida is paradise with paperwork and funeral preparations. Every HOA meeting could be an episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm.”
About the Author: Kerry Lutz is a Palm Beach Gardens resident, author of HOA Emperor , and host of the Financial Survival Network. Known nationwide as America’s Top Recovering Attorney, he blends humor and insight to help Floridians find the endless comedy in community life.
JFS to Expand Critical Services to
Seniors
Ferd & Gladys Alpert Jewish Family Service has announced a major expansion of services designed to meet the rapidly growing needs of Palm Beach County’s aging population. The initiative, supported by philanthropic partners and a strengthened collaboration with the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County, will ensure more older adults can live safely, independently, and with dignity.
For more than 51 years, Alpert JFS has been the county’s trusted, life-saving safety net, delivering compassionate, high-quality care rooted in Jewish values and open to all. This latest expansion extends that legacy by increasing access to home care, care management, and chore assistance through the agency’s professional in-home care partner, JFS ComforCare.
“Community members should feel reassured that support for seniors will only grow stronger,” said Marc Hopin, chief executive officer of Alpert JFS. “Our partnership with the Jewish Federation allows us to offer essential services grounded in stability, transparency, and trust.”
Alpert JFS is a trusted provider of compassionate, high-quality care, ensuring that seniors age with dignity, independence, and connection. Building on this foundation, Alpert JFS, together with JFS ComforCare, will expand its reach to deliver home care, chore assistance, and care management services to older adults in need throughout Palm Beach County.
Meeting a Critical Community Need
Palm Beach County is one of the fastest-aging regions in the country, with nearly half of Jewish adults age 65 or older and one in three Jewish households managing chronic illness or disability. Many are living longer than their savings allow, and the need for coordinated, affordable care has never been greater.
To meet this challenge, Alpert JFS launched the Fund for Senior Services, modeled after the agency’s nationally recognized Holocaust Survivor Assistance Program, which delivers more than $10 million annually in care, transportation, and financial support to local survivors. The new fund extends this proven, person-centered model to Jewish seniors who are not Holocaust survivors but face similar vulnerabilities — those outliving their savings or managing complex medical and social needs.
The new fund will replicate this proven model of care management, in-home assistance, transportation, financial support, and health-related services for Jewish seniors who are not Holocaust survivors but face similar financial and physical challenges. It will support an estimated 150-200 additional Jewish seniors each year.
“Alpert JFS exemplifies the caliber of leadership and compassion we seek in our community partners,” said Melissa Arden, chief planning officer, Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County. “Their unwavering commitment to Holocaust survivors and vulnerable seniors reflects the highest standards of care and professionalism.”
Transforming Lives Through Compassion and Action
“This initiative represents what makes Alpert JFS unique,” said Jennifer Lesser, president and board chair. “We fill gaps no one else can — combining professional expertise, Jewish values, and a personal commitment to ensure every senior in our community is seen, supported, and safe.”
Unlike for-profit providers, Alpert JFS reinvests every dollar raised into expanding services and strengthening the community safety net. Through JFS ComforCare, the agency’s dedicated caregivers and care managers are on the front lines, helping clients like Ruth, an 82-year-old widow who regained her independence and confidence after months of isolation.
“The caregiver from JFS ComforCare didn’t just help me around the house,” Ruth shared. “She helped me find joy again.”
How to Access Care
Seniors and caregivers seeking assistance can call 561.684.1991 to learn more about available services, schedule a consultation, or connect with a care professional. Information is also available at www.AlpertJFS.org.
Join the Effort
Alpert JFS invites community members to support the Fund for Senior Services, ensuring that vulnerable seniors across Palm Beach County receive the care, dignity, and connection they deserve. To learn more, visit www. alpertjfs.org or call 561 684 1991 to speak with a member of the development team.
Photos courtesy of Alpert JFS
Temple Judea’s Israeli Guide Dog Is Ready for Service
In response to the tragic events of October 7, 2023, Temple Judea chose to sponsor TJ, a guide dog puppy being trained at the Israel Guide Dog Center, as a meaningful way to support healing and recovery in Israel.
TJ has now completed more than a year with his puppy raisers and returned to the Israel Guide Dog Center to begin the next phase of his training. During his time with puppy raisers, TJ has grown into a mature and confident dog, ready to fulfill his life’s purpose of service to others.
TJ will undergo comprehensive assessment and testing at the Center to determine which specialized role he is best suited for. Based on the evaluation results, TJ may be trained as a Guide Dog for individuals who are blind or visually impaired, a PTSD Dog supporting those living with post-traumatic stress, an Emotional Support Dog providing comfort to those in need, or an Ambassador Dog educating the community about service animals.
The Israel Guide Dog Center trains service dogs at no cost to recipients, relying on the generosity of sponsors like Temple Judea to fund the breeding, raising, and training of these life-changing animals.
Local Happenings on page 9
Alpert JFS President and Board Chair Jennifer Lesser with Larisa Sirota
Holocaust survivors attend a High Holy Day meal.
Cindy Schlossberg, Marc Hopin, Emily Grabelsky, Alyson Lev, Dr. Elaine Rotenberg
JCC Welcomes Acclaimed Author and Rabbi for Celebrating Sisterhood Event
The Mandel JCC of the Palm Beaches recently welcomed Rabbi Angela Buchdahl as the featured guest for the season kickoff of its Celebrating Sisterhood series. The sold-out event brought together more than 300 community members from across the Palm Beaches for a morning celebration of connection and Jewish learning.
and discovery as she forged her path into Jewish leadership. Her book traces her experiences from childhood to Yale University and through her rabbinical and cantorial training, culminating in her role as the senior rabbi of one of the largest congregations in the world. Heart of a Stranger blend’s personal narrative with spiritual guidance and offers a message of faith and responsibility to one another.
The morning reflected the heart of the Celebrating Sisterhood series, which is designed to unite women through meaningful experiences that uplift, inspire, and strengthen community bonds. Attendees shared in thoughtful dialogue and connected over Rabbi Buchdahl’s powerful story and the universal themes that it illuminates.
Rabbi Buchdahl presented her newly released memoir, Heart of a Stranger , during an engaging conversation with community leader Susan Shulman Pertnoy. The discussion highlighted themes of identity, belonging, and spiritual purpose while inviting attendees to reflect on their own journeys within Jewish life.
Rabbi Buchdahl is the first Asian American to be ordained as both a rabbi and a cantor. Born in Korea to a Korean Buddhist mother and a Jewish American father, she shares in her memoir the story of navigating doubt
Michael Hoffman, Vivian Lemelman, Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, Nancy Sims, Samantha Klein
Susan Shulman Pertnoy and Michael Hoffman
Photo credit: Coastal Click Photography
Barry and Marjorie Berg
Brian Lemelman, Vivian Lemelman, Alex Rosenthal
Sheri Levine, Mark Cohen, Jeanie Cohen
Vicki Wildstein and Eva Schlanger
Joanne Baseman and Dawn Mcmullin
Vivian Lieberman and Hope Silverman
Linda Solomon and Carolyn Yasuna
Neil Exter and Rabbi Angela Buchdahl
Marilyn and Richard Comiter
Zelda Mason and Samantha Klein
Teens Learn Krav Maga
CTeen Sundays began with an empowering Krav Maga self-defense session led by IDF veteran Captain Even Esh. More than just fitness, the teens learned practical skills rooted in Israel’s spirit of courage and self-protection. The group continued with the college-accredited CTeenU course Israel and Me, where the teens explored Torah sources on G-d’s promise of the Land of Israel.
Mishpacha Orientation Provides Powerful Insight for Volunteers
Mishpacha of Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens recently hosted a volunteer orientation and evening of inspiration that brought together community members eager to learn, connect, and make a difference. The program offers a volunteer-powered support network that provides emotional, spiritual, and practical care for Jewish individuals of all ages. Attendees were welcomed with refreshments and the chance to mingle and connect with fellow volunteers, creating a warm and uplifting atmosphere from the start. Each participant received a Mishpacha volunteer bag filled with branded items and a handbook to support them in their service.
The program opened with Ellen Shmueli, who shared practical, confidence-building tips on how to effectively show up during a medical emergency. She also led live demonstrations on how to save an adult or baby who is choking, giving volunteers hands-on, applicable skills that could one day save a life. Her guidance empowered attendees with the knowledge and clarity needed to bring calm, care, and presence in moments of crisis.
Next, Jessica Harrison spoke about compassionate ways to support vulnerable individuals. She offered thoughtful insight into what to say, what not to say, and how to be genuinely present for someone facing difficulty. Her talk reminded volunteers that small choices in language and tone can have a profound impact.
The most moving part of the evening was the emotional testimony of Einav Danino, who shared her personal journey of faith, resilience, and love following the loss of her son, Ori Danino, of blessed memory. Einav described Ori’s extraordinary life purpose — his constant drive to help others, to show up with kindness, and to care for people wholeheartedly. She explained that this same spirit compelled him to drive to the Nova Festival on October 7, 2023, to rescue friends, even though he had no need to be there. He saved lives until he was ultimately kidnapped and later killed in Gaza.
Einav encouraged the audience to carry forward Ori’s legacy by looking for simple, everyday ways to help others. Sometimes, she reminded the room, a smile or a sincere “How are you?” can change a person’s day — or even their life. “You never know what someone is going through,” she said, urging everyone to approach others with compassion and openness.
The evening concluded with Mishpacha director Chaya M. Shemtov highlighting the many meaningful volunteer opportunities available in Palm Beach Gardens. Volunteers left feeling uplifted, informed, and deeply motivated to continue showing up for others with empathy, kindness, and purpose.
It was truly an inspiring night — one that strengthened the community and reminded everyone of the power each person holds to positively impact another’s life.
Local Happenings on page 11
The Pet Cottage Post
By Wendy Derhak, Founder/Executive Director
Home for the Holidays: Our Circle of Protection
Remember the heartbreak you felt when you lost a pet?
The house got so quiet — and the quiet was so loud.
No paws on the floor. No wagging tail waiting by the door.
No heartbeat following you from room to room.
Now imagine if your pet lost you.
No one to scratch their belly.
No one to throw the ball.
No one to snuggle in bed with.
That’s what we see every day at The Pet Cottage — pets who’ve lost their humans to death, disability, or deployment. Here, love doesn’t end when life changes.
We make a Forever Promise to every pet that comes through our doors: that they will always be loved, always be safe, and always have a Forever Home.
As we prepare to move to a new sanctuary home, we know The Pet Cottage has never been about a building. It’s about belonging.
Belonging that looks like this — a win-win-win for one very special girl.
Win 1: A family finding peace.
When Lola Grace’s person passed away, her elderly mother suddenly faced two losses: her daughter, and the little dog that was her last connection to her. Though it broke her heart, she knew she couldn’t give Lola Grace the care she needed. So she reached out to The Pet Cottage for help, trusting us to carry that love forward.
Win 2: A pet finding safety.
Lola Grace, an 11-year-old Schnauzer mix, arrived confused and grieving. Shortly after being at the sanctuary, we saw her lovely spirit emerge. She quickly became
part of the pack, enjoying attention and sharing her wiggle butt and radiant smile.
Win 3: A new family finding purpose.
When Forever Guardians Ronnie and Lisa met Lola Grace, it was love at first sight. They’d always adored Schnauzers but worried about the cost of senior care on a fixed income. Thanks to The Pet Cottage’s Forever Promise, all of Lola’s medical and preventative care is covered for life.
Not long after settling in, Lola Grace developed diabetes. As fate would have it, Ronnie lives with diabetes too. Now the two of them share morning walks, medication routines, and an unmistakable bond that proves love really does find its match.
This season, that love feels especially bright. Around the sanctuary, tails wag and hearts mend. You might find Mister curled up in his yard, content and cared for. Umberto, Lucy, and Sugar share Anne, our program director’s lap, as she works at her desk, and Dottie chases tennis balls with a volunteer while BJ investigates the big dog park.
Each once knew loss. Each now knows safety, companionship, and joy because someone like you made sure of it.
When you give to The Pet Cottage, you strengthen this Circle of Protection, one pet, one promise, one act of love at a time.
You might think: I can’t do enough.
But here’s the truth: you can do something.
• $18 helps senior pets like Lola Grace get their daily meds with a little treat and a lot of love.
• $50 gives comfort to new arrivals adjusting to sanctuary life.
• $100 keeps meals in bowls and tails wagging for two full weeks.
• $250 ensures every resident sees the vet when needed — no waiting, no worry.
• $500 moves us closer to the new forever home your heart is helping build.
As we close this year and step into the next, our hearts are full of gratitude, of hope, and of the deep knowing that love always finds its way home.
Thank you for being part of that journey — our forever family, our circle of protection, our home for the holidays.
Happy holidays from The Pet Cottage.
To learn more, share a lead, or make a gift toward the Sanctuary Home Fund and the ongoing care of the pets we serve, visit ThePetCottage.org; make a check out to The Pet Cottage and mail it to 17049 Thunder Road, Jupiter, FL 33478; or call 561-818-5025.
Mister enjoying his life. Photo by Sandra Effertz Dottie playing fetch. Photo by Sandra Effertz
Forever Guardians Lisa and Ronnie with Lola Grace
Forever Guardian Lisa with Lola Grace
Anne, Sugar Baby, Lucy, and Umberto working hard
Forever Guardian Ronnie Shopping with Lola Grace
from page 11
The 36th Annual Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival – Hosted by the Mandel JCC of the Palm Beaches
challenges are moments to move through, not the end of the road. It is part of who we are as a people and has carried us through many uncertain times.
Hanukkah offers a vivid lens for gevurah. Beyond military victory or miraculous light, it celebrates the Jewish capacity to persevere, to hold fast to who we are, and to rekindle light when it feels most fragile. Hanukkah is not only about what happened. It is about who we choose to be now.
Patterns of struggle and renewal run throughout Jewish life. In Genesis and Exodus and again in Judges we encounter a familiar rhythm: hardship rises, our limits become clear, insight emerges, and redemption follows. The cycle repeats across Jewish history and within our own lives. We often claim our successes yet feel powerless when difficulty returns.
Even Moses voices this tension. When conditions in Egypt worsen, he asks God, “Why have You brought harm upon this people? Why did You send me?” Though he knows the divine plan, he still feels lost. His honesty reminds us that even great leaders face doubt and fear.
Judaism does not ask us to ignore those feelings. It asks us to discern what we can control and to meet challenge with clarity and resilience. That is the essence of our upcoming JValues theme: Gevurah, pronounced g voo RAH, meaning inner strength and moral courage.
Gevurah is not loud or forceful. It is the gentle steadiness that helps us pause, stay centered, and remember that Local
This year’s Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival brings that same spirit to the screen with a warm and inviting focus on family, one of the most enduring sources of strength and hope in Jewish life. These stories explore families that lift each other up, families that argue and reconcile, families that search for meaning together, and families that discover resilience they never knew they had.
You can feel this in Once Upon My Mother, where a determined mom fights for her child’s future with unshakable love. You feel it again in The Ring, a moving journey between a father and daughter who hope to heal old wounds as they search for a piece of family history that shaped generations.
In Forever One and Sky Raiders, families and chosen families navigate big feelings, new beginnings, and the beautiful chaos that comes with growing up and growing together. And in films like Fantasy Life, Baseball Mensch – The Marty Lurie Story, The Floaters, and The Property, we meet families by blood and by choice whose humor, tenderness, and imperfections feel wonderfully familiar. Across dramas, comedies, romances, and documentaries, these films offer gentle reminders that family in all its forms is often where gevurah begins. It is where we learn to listen, to lean on others, and to rediscover our strength when the world feels uncertain.
As we enter this season of light, reflection, and community, may these stories brighten our understanding of gevurah. May we find the courage to take the next step when the path is unclear, embrace what we can shape, and discover steadiness in what we cannot.
Join the Mandel JCC of the Palm Beaches in celebrating the 36th annual Palm Beach Jewish Film Festival, January 24 through February 12, 2026. For more information, please visit PBJFF.org.
• Drop off lithium batteries and products containing them.
• Bring up to six boxes of documents to be shredded onsite.
community caLendar
Chabad of Singer Island, Juno Beach & The Beaches
1201 S. Harbor Drive, Singer Island
(347) 276-6985, www.jewishsingerisland.com
Friday Night Services
Welcome to our uplifting and interactive Friday Night Services.
5:45 p.m.
Shabbos Services
Uplifting and interactive Shabbat morning service followed by Kiddush Luncheon.
10 a.m., Shabbat Morning Services
10:30 a.m., Torah Reading & Sermon
12 p.m., Kiddush Luncheon
January 8
Mentch Club Social & Farbrengen
Steak, Bourbon & Cigars
7 p.m.
January 13
Jewish Women’s Circle – What’s Your Season? Color Palettes
6:30 p.m.
January 16
Friday Night LIVE! Wine Tasting – Shabbat in France
Enjoy our fun and delicious Shabbat Dinner Experiences.
5:45 p.m.
January 28
JLI Course: Captivating Cases in Rabbinic Responsa
6:30 p.m.
Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens
6100 PGA Blvd., Palm Beach Gardens
624-2223, www.jewishgardens.com
Morning Services
Sundays, 9 a.m.
Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m.
Evening Services & Jewish Life 101
Monday to Thursday, 5 p.m.
Sundays
10 a.m., Hebrew School
Mondays
8:30 a.m., Worldwide Wisdom
Tuesdays
8:30 a.m., Worldwide Wisdom
11 a.m., Hebrew Literature
1 p.m., Ladies’ Mahjongg and Cards
6 p.m., CTeen
Wednesdays
8:30 a.m., Worldwide Wisdom
12:30 p.m., Yiddish Club
1:45 p.m., Torah Studies
5:30 p.m., JewQ
Thursdays
8:30 a.m., Worldwide Wisdom
4 p.m., Parsha Study
Fridays
8:30 a.m., Jewish Values Video
5:15 p.m., Friday Night Services w. Beer & Biltong (5:30 p.m., starting January 2)
Shabbos
9:30 a.m., Shabbos Service
11:15 a.m., Children’s Program
11:30 a.m., Rabbi Vigler’s Weekly Sermon
12:15 p.m., Community Kiddush Luncheon
December
Miles of Smiles—Children of Special Needs
Sunday, December 21
Special Hearts Kids’ Club
Join our Mishpacha & Hebrew School collaboration
where Hebrew School students and children with special needs come together for inclusive meaningful connection, fun, and learning through shared activities. Meanwhile, parents enjoy time to relax, connect, and support one another.
Women’s Circle Farbrengen
Monday, December 22 at 7:30 p.m.
Monthly Birthday Celebration
Gather with the LiLi ladies in this monthly social as we celebrate the birthdays of the month! At Chabad we are a family who is there for each other through life’s ups and downs. Birthdays are deeply significant—the day G-d decided the world needed you. Grab a seat, enjoy cake and L’chaim as we honor our women!
Men’s Club Farbrengen
Tuesday, December 23 at 7:30 p.m.
Celebrating Our Members’ Birthdays
Join us for our monthly Men’s Club Farbrengen as we come together in brotherhood to celebrate this month’s birthday honorees! Share in warm camaraderie, inspiring stories, and joyful toasts as we mark another year of life’s blessings. A meaningful evening of connection and celebration awaits!
Matt & Yael Trusch
Shabbos, December 26 and 27
Friday Night LIVE Shabbaton
Matt & Yael Trusch’s love story spans continents and cultures. Matt, a Chinese TV star from Houston, discovered his Jewish roots through a chance encounter with a Chabad rabbi in Shanghai. Yael, a Wall Street analyst from Puerto Rico, left finance to embrace Torah and Shabbat. Together, they inspire Jews everywhere through their journey of identity, purpose, and faith.
January Rivka Ravitz
Monday, January 5 at 7 p.m.
ChangeMakers
Rivka Ravitz, a trailblazing Haredi mother of 12, has been a powerhouse in Israeli politics since 1999, serving as chief of staff to President Reuven Rivlin. In 2024,
she took on a new challenge as Chief of Staff to Beit Shemesh’s mayor, Shmuel Greenberg — balancing faith, family, and leadership with grace.
Ladies’ Lunch & Learn
Thursday, January 8 at 12 p.m.
Food & Faith
We often eat to soothe anxiety, not just hunger— making healthy habits hard to keep. Is there a deeper solution? This lesson explores the spiritual meaning of food, reframing eating as a mindful act that nourishes both body and soul, helping us find balance, purpose, and a more meaningful relationship with food.
Shul Orientation Seminar
4 Thursdays at 11 a.m., Starting January 8
SOS
This seminar is designed to make you feel comfortable in the Shul environment, teaching you everything you need to know about the Shul customs, rituals and prayers. This seminar will also include orientation in the most important and popular parts of the Shabbos morning
service, allowing you to become fluent without even learning Hebrew!
Young Families First Fridays
Friday, January 9
Monthly Young Families Shabbos Social
Be a part of our growing community of young Jewish families with traditional songs, great food, interactive services and exciting Shabbos games engaging for everyone.
Ladies’ Champagne Brunch Fashion Show
Sunday, January 11 at 1 p.m.
A Celebration of Jewish Women in Style
Join us for an exclusive women-only afternoon where fashion meets fine dining—with a Jewish Soul. Sip champagne, savor gourmet cuisine, and enjoy a runway of top designer looks, all in a warm, sophisticated setting that celebrates Jewish femininity, style, and connection.
Mishpacha’s L’Chaim Happy Hour
Tuesday, January 13 at 5 p.m.
Celebrating Life, Love & Laughter in Good Company
Looking to connect with new friends or perhaps meet your Bashert? Join us for an exclusive happy hour event
NO ONE SAVES MORE LIVES IN ISRAEL IN TIMES OF CRISIS.
There are many ways to support Israel and its people, but this Chanukah, no gift is more transformative than one to Magen David Adom, Israel’s emergency services system. Your support of MDA isn’t just changing lives — it’s literally saving them — providing critical care and hospital transport for everyone from victims of heart attacks to rocket attacks, and every emergency in between. Donate today at MagenDavidAdom.org or call 866.632.2763.
for single seniors 65+— enjoy l’chaims, hors d’oeuvres, and great company!
Bereavement Group
Wednesday, January 14 and 28 at 3:15 p.m.
Ensuring that no one grieves alone
Sadly, death is a part of life that we cannot ignore. As a community, we are grateful to have each other for support during difficult times.
Bas Mitzvah Club
Thursday, January 15
A joyful space where tween girls connect, laugh, and grow together. Through fun activities and meaningful conversations, they build pride in being a Jewish woman—learning, creating, and bonding in a way that’s warm, real, and unforgettable.
Men’s Club Farbrengen
Wednesday, January 14 at 7:30 p.m.
Celebrating Our Members’ Birthdays
Join us for our monthly Men’s Club Farbrengen as we come together in brotherhood to celebrate this month’s birthday honorees! Share in warm camaraderie, inspiring stories, and joyful toasts as we mark another year of life’s blessings. A meaningful evening of connection and celebration awaits!
Laibl Wolfe
Shabbos, January 16 to 17
Friday Night LIVE Shabbaton
Dr. Laibl Wolf blends ancient Kabbalistic wisdom with modern psychology. A bestselling author and pioneering teacher of spiritual mindfulness, he’s an internationally acclaimed speaker and founder of Spirit grow, Australia’s innovative Jewish wellness center.
Women’s Tehillim Group
Shabbos, January 17 after Kiddush Luncheon
The power of women’s prayer is legendary in our tradition, particularly when they recite the Psalms of King David on the last Shabbos of the Jewish Month.
Captivating Cases in Rabbinic Responsa
Tuesday, January 27 at 3:30 p.m.
What Jews Asked, How Rabbis Answered, and the Stories Their Letters Tell
Listen to questions your ancestors asked across history as they paid taxes, married, fled war, and celebrated Pesach in secret. What do their questions reveal about how they lived? Join this six-session course exploring rabbinic responsa and discover tools for living timeless values today. CLE Accredited
Temple Beth David
4657 Hood Road, Palm Beach Gardens 694-2350, www.templebethdavidfl.org
Daily Minyan Services, Monday to Thursday at 6:30 p.m. and Sunday at 9 a.m. via Zoom.
Shabbat Services are offered in-person and virtually. Please visit our website for more information.
Canasta, Tuesdays at 1 p.m.; all levels welcome. RSVP required; $5 per person.
Mahjongg, Wednesdays at 2 p.m.; all levels welcome. RSVP required; $5 per person.
Monday, December 15, 7 p.m., Men’s Club Latkes & Libations; registration required
Thursday, December 18, 10 a.m., Sisterhood Book Club
Friday, December 19, 5:45 p.m., Hanukkah Dinner; registration is required
6:30 p.m., Shabbat Services
Saturday, December 20, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services
Sunday, December 21, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Bikkur Cholim Workshop; registration is requested
Wednesday, December 24, 5:30 p.m., Chinese Dinner & Movie; registration required
Friday, December 26, 6:30 p.m., Shabbat Services
Saturday, December 27, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services
Friday, January 2, 6:30 p.m., Shabbat Services
Saturday, January 3, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services
Wednesday, January 7, 2:30 p.m., Caregiver Café; Zoom support group for those caring for their loved ones. Please contact the temple office for the zoom link.
Friday, January 9, 6:30 p.m., Shabbat Services
Saturday, January 10, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services
Tuesday, January 13, 7 p.m., Yiddish Film Festival Night; RSVP requested
Friday, January 16, 6 p.m., Happy Hour (Adults Only) 6 to 7:30 p.m., Shabbat Kids Club
6:30 p.m., Shabbat Services
Saturday, January 17, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services
Thursday, January 22, 7 p.m., Adult Ed Series; 1 of 4 Before There Was Israel: Other Promised Jewish Homelands
Friday, January 23, 5:45 p.m., Congregational Dinner; RSVP required
Community Calendar on page 16
Community Calendar from page 15
6:30 p.m., Shabbat Services
Saturday, January 24, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services
Monday, January 26, 10 a.m., Melton Adult Education; registration required
Thursday, January 29, 7 p.m., Adult Ed Series; 2 of 4 Before There Was Israel: Other Promised Jewish Homelands
Friday, January 30, 6:30 p.m., Shabbat Services; Pink Shabbat; all are encouraged to wear Pink Saturday, January 31, 9:15 a.m., Shabbat Services 7 p.m., 50th Anniversary Celebration Party; RSVP required; please contact the temple office for more information.
Temple Beth El
2815 N. Flagler Dr., West Palm Beach 833-0339, office@bethelwpb.com
Temple Beth El Women’s League Challah, Pickles … and More!
Tuesday, December 16
4 to 6 p.m.
Registration Link: www.bethelwpb.com/form/challah
Class with Rabbi Alan Bell: The Jewish Experience in America
Wednesday, December 17
10 to 11 a.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/form/learning
Temple Beth El Centennial Celebration Kick-Off featuring Matisyahu
Thursday, December 18
6 to 9 p.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/100/matisyahu Friday Night Happenings
Friday, December 19
5:15 to 8:30 p.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/fridaynight
Temple Beth El Centennial Celebration Community Concert featuring The Maccabeats
Thursday, December 25
4 to 8 p.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/100/ maccabeats
Friday Night Happenings
Friday, January 2
5:15 to 8:30 p.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/fridaynight
Class with Rabbi Alan Bell: The Jewish Experience in America
Wednesday, January 7
10 to 11 a.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/form/ learning
Temple Beth El Women’s League Book Club
Wednesday, January 7
2 to 4 p.m.
Contact: sisterhood@bethelwpb.com
Temple Beth El YjPN Game Night
Thursday, January 8
7 to 9 p.m.
Contact: yjpn@bethelwpb.com
Friday Night Happenings
Friday, January 9
5:15 to 8:30 p.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/fridaynight
Temple Beth El Sisterhood Shabbat
Saturday, January 10
9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Contact: sisterhood@bethelwpb.com
Temple Beth El Casino Night
Saturday, January 10
5:30 to 10 p.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/casinonight
Temple Beth El Women’s League Torah Fund Luncheon
Sunday, January 11
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Contact: sisterhood@bethelwpb.com
Class with Rabbi Alan Bell: The Jewish Experience in America
Wednesday, January 14
10 to 11 a.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/form/ learning
Friday Night Happenings: Dr. Stephen Berk
Friday, January 16
5:15 to 8:30 p.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/fridaynight
Temple Beth El Centennial Celebration Brunch
honoring Past Presidents
Sunday, January 18
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/100
Lunch and Learn with Ariane Csonka-Comstock
Tuesday, January 20
12 to 2 p.m.
Contact: office@bethelwpb.com
Class with Rabbi Alan Bell: The Meaning in the Midrash Wednesday, January 21 10 to 11 a.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/form/learning
Temple Beth El Women’s League Challah, Pickles … and More!
Thursday, January 22
4 to 6 p.m.
Registration Link: www.bethelwpb.com/form/challah Temple Beth El YjPN Happy Hour
Thursday, January 22 7 to 9 p.m.
Contact: yjpn@bethelwpb.com
Friday Night Happenings: Rabbi-Cantor Sam Cohen
Friday, January 23
5:15 to 8:30 p.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/fridaynight Class with Rabbi Alan Bell: The Meaning in the Midrash Wednesday, January 28 10 to 11 a.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/form/learning Friday Night Happenings
Friday, January 30
5:15 to 8:30 p.m.
For more information: www.bethelwpb.com/fridaynight
Temple Emanu-El of Palm Beach
190 North County Road, Palm Beach 832-0804, officesec@tepb.org
Celebrate Shabbat at Temple Emanu-El of Palm Beach Friday Night Services at 6:30 p.m., followed by a Shabbat Oneg, Shabbat Bar or Shabbat Dinner.
Saturday Morning services at 9:30 a.m., followed by a Kiddush Luncheon.
Services are led by Rabbi Michael Resnick and Cantor Meir Finkelstein, accompanied by Claudio Waisgluss.
Community Calendar on page 17
Community Calendar from page 16
Minyan
Mondays and Thursdays at 9:15 a.m., followed by a Complimentary Breakfast. All are welcome.
Rabbi’s Round Table
Monday mornings at 11 a.m., via Zoom. Join the rabbi for a spirited and informational class about the teachings of the Torah.
Support Groups
For more information, please call the Temple Office at 561.832.0804
Caregivers Support Group via Zoom 10 a.m. on 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month Bereavement Support Group via Zoom 1 p.m., on 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month Wednesday, December 17
Adult Education
Our adult education series continues with Esther Zaretsky presenting at 10 a.m., the “Courtroom Trials in Jewish History.” This will be followed by a light snack and then Rabbi Joel Levinson presenting at 11:30 a.m. Rabbi Levinson’s topic this week will be: The laws of kashrut are enumerated in our Torah, yet they hardly scratch the surface of how kashrut is observed. Take a closer look at this complicated set of rules.
Thursday, December 18
Women’s League Book Club
Join our Women’s League to discuss the book Bessie: A Novel by Linda Kass. This is the fictional story of Bess Meyerson who rose up from her early life in the Bronx during the 1940s to become the first Jewish Miss America. All are welcome to attend.
Saturday, December 20
Hanukkah Karaoke and Dinner
Come out and sing the night away! Beginning at 6 p.m., this year’s Hanukkah party will include festive karaoke, an adult mixology class, kids’ korner, Hanukkah lighting and a complimentary dinner. This event is open to all ages in our community. Please contact the temple office for menu or to RSVP.
Wednesday, December 24
Dinner and Movie
Join us for our annual tradition of dinner and a movie at 6 p.m., on Christmas Eve. This year we will be showing two movies: “L.A. Confidential” for the adults and “Flow,” for
the kids. Cost to be determined. Please call the temple office for more information or to RSVP.
Sunday, January 4
Movie Screening – Centered: Joe Lieberman
An inspiring documentary that chronicles the life of one of America’s most courageous and consequential political leaders. From his groundbreaking role as the first Jewish candidate on a major party’s presidential ticket to his fearless stands on issues that often defied party lines, “Centered” tells a story of conviction, resilience, and unwavering principle. This will be a free screening, and a light snack will be included. Please contact the temple office if you would like to attend.
Wednesday, January 7, 14 and 21
Adult Education
Our adult education series continues this month beginning at 10 a.m. and goes until 11 a.m. The first session is followed by a light snack and then a second session starts at 11:30 a.m. and goes until 12:30 p.m. Please call the temple office for information about who will be presenting this month, their topic, and to RSVP.
Thursday, January 8
Men’s Club
Our monthly Men’s Club meeting will be held at 10 a.m. All are welcome to attend this free meeting.
Saturday, January 10
FYI Family Shabbat Service
Come and join other young families for this kid-friendly shabbat morning service. We are partnering with the Cox Science Center who will be bringing the “night dome” to exhibit the constellations and the service will be followed by a snack. Please RSVP to the temple office.
Thursday, January 15
WL Games and Lunch
Our women’s league will be offering a pop-up game day featuring an author discussion of Mah jongg at Mara’s by Debra Green followed by brunch games: Mah Jongg, Canasta, Scrabble, and Rummikub. All are welcome, please contact the temple office for more information.
Friday, January 23
Shabbat Dinner: Italian
Join us for our monthly Shabbat Dinner. This month we are featuring an Italian menu following our regular Friday night Shabbat service. Open to both members and non-members. For pricing, menu, and to RSVP please contact the temple office.
Friday and Saturday, January 23 and 24
Guest Speaker Rabbi Matt Berkowitz
Rabbi Berkowitz is the Director of Israel Programs for The Jewish Theological Seminary of America and cofounder of Kol Ha-Ot, a Jerusalem-based venture devoted to exploring the arts and Jewish learning. For ten years (1999-2009), Matt served as the JTS Senior Rabbinic Fellow, organizing substantive adult learning throughout Florida and beyond. We welcome him as our Scholar in Residence for this weekend. Please contact the temple office if you would like to attend Shabbat Services when he will be speaking.
Tuesday, January 27
Women’s League Program
Join us at 1 p.m. as our Women’s League presents: Pathways to Judaism. This will be a panel discussion from three of our women’s league members who will share their deeply personal journeys to convert to Judaism. What motivated each our panelists to align with the Jewish people? What challenges have they encountered along the way? Given the rise of antisemitism, do they have any regrets? Our speakers have compelling stories to share. This is a free event open to the community.
Friday and Saturday, January 30 and 31
Guest Speaker Rabbi Paul Plotkin
Rabbi Paul Plotkin was born and raised in Toronto, Canada and has lived in South Florida for over 40 years. He served as a pulpit Rabbi for forty years and is the author of The Lord Is My Shepherd why Do I Still want? a book about healing after suffering personal loss. He has published articles in national magazines, hosted a cable TV show that appeared in ninety markets, and currently writes a blog. We welcome him to come and speak during our regular Shabbat Services. Please call the temple office to RSVP if you would like to attend.
Temple Judea
4311 Hood Road, Palm Beach Gardens
624-4633, www.gotj.org
Kindly contact the temple for a listing of worship, study, and social events.
education
What’s the Purpose of Shabbat?
By Andy Greenberg
For those of us who went to Hebrew school, I’m going to make a bold assumption that we know how to celebrate Shabbat — lighting the candles, kiddush, a great meal, some studying, services, a nap, an opportunity to earn double mitzvah points (married couples only), and of course no work.
Yet our educational process has failed explain its purpose in this modern-day world. Of course, we all recognize that, since it took God only six days to make our planet and all that is needed for human life and he rested on the seventh day, the discussion should end there. But it doesn’t.
The real purpose of Shabbat should have been summarized in our Hebrew schools in one simple word: connect.
We connect with our spirituality, family, friends, good food, inner selves, life lessons, emotional and physical pleasures, history, education, heritage, tradition, God, hope —every seven days.
We also disconnect from all the stress, pressure, lunacy, enemies, competitors, and troubles that populate nearly every moment of the week.
Of course the celebration of Shabbat conjures up some deep questions as to why we do this every seven days. The answer is quite simple, as we learn it took God six days to make the heavens and the earth and on the seventh day he rested — therefore, we do the same.
The kiddush itself allows us to connect with this magnificent accomplishment. But let’s just assume for a moment that all this is not true, which would mean every human being would be working seven days a week. History connects us with this fact and reveals that, only after the Jewish people were told to take one day off a week, workers and the rest of the world went to their powers that be and said if it’s good for the Jews we want it too. Did they teach that to you in Hebrew school?
Data also reveals that those who attend a spiritual service of any type at least once a week could potentially add seven years to their life expectancy.
One might say: I have dinner with my family every night, so what’s so special about Shabbat dinner? That is true. But are you really connecting, or are you looking at your cellphone, knowing there are other household responsibilities that everybody has after dinner? Are you shoveling down leftovers or something made in a hurry? At a Shabbat meal everyone connects over song and conversation, sharing the joy in celebrating Shabbat. Columbia University studies indicate that, when families have such a meal, the children tend to grow up to be more responsible and more successful than those who don’t.
But fear not: An education through the weekly Torah parsha, which is interpreted by a rabbi on Shabbat, connects us all to insights and how to live a more fulfilling, peaceful life. The rabbi uses real-time examples experienced by our historical role models in our texts and all the analysis and interpretation that followed their adventures.
We have all heard of music therapy, a treatment that is becoming more common and that results in a more positive outlook on life. Every Shabbat we connect with the wonderful opportunity to be part of a singing concert when the cantor leads us and everyone joins in with uplifting passion.
aLL about Kids
Young Families Celebrate with Dinner and Dancing
The young families JKidz contingent at Chabad of Palm Beach Gardens recently celebrated a Shemini Atzeres dinner and dance party. Shemini Atzeres and Simchas Torah celebrate the Jewish holiday of finishing the annual cycle of reading the Torah.
At a craft table, the kids decorated and designed their own Torah dancing flags and posters. They also stuffed their own Torahs and enjoyed time on a bounce house before candle lighting and a Torah
dance celebration. The highlight was when the Torahs were taken outside into the shul parking lot for the final dance. After the dancing, the young families enjoyed a community dinner in the shul sukkah.
When services are completed and spouses display public affection through kissing even without instructions from the clergy, all join together for a marvelous kiddish. They socially connect with others who share the same interest and background and schmooze for an hour or more without having to prepare or pay for a meal or refill of coffee! Studies reveal that, the more one socializes with a close group of friends, the healthier lifestyle they have and the more they increase their life expectancy.
It’s a shame that our educational process does not cover this and strictly focuses on what to do. It is my fervent hope that we now understand and connect with the purpose of Shabbat!
Andy Greenberg is a 25-year Conservative Jewish educator of grades 3-12 and a lecturer for adults of all ages.
Financial Focus
Smart Financial Moves to Make Before Year-End
By Sally Sima Stahl
As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time to make some smart moves before the calendar flips to 2026. Think of it as a financial tune-up that could help with saving money and setting you up for success in the months ahead. Here are some things to consider.
• Don’t forget about required withdrawals. If you’re 73 or older, you’ll need to take your required minimum distribution from traditional retirement accounts to avoid a 25 percent penalty on any amount you should have withdrawn but didn’t. This rule also applies to some people who inherited retirement accounts, including certain Roth accounts.
• Use your flexible spending money. Got money sitting in a flexible spending account at work? Remember, these accounts follow a use-it-or-lose-it rule. Check with your HR department about your plan’s specific deadlines for spending the money and submitting receipts. Whether it’s that dental
ATTENTION
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work you’ve been putting off or new prescription glasses you need, now’s the time to use those funds before they disappear.
• Boost your retirement savings. Consider ramping up your pretax retirement contributions before year-end. Not only will this help your future self, but it might also reduce your current tax bill. If your workplace plan allows it, you can even set up automatic increases for next year so you won’t have to remember to do it later.
• Share the wealth through gifting. In 2025, the current tax rules let you give family or friends up to $19,000 per person without affecting your lifetime gift tax exemption. Married couples can combine their allowances to give up to $38,000 per person. Plus, you can pay someone’s tuition or medical bills directly without these payments counting against your gift limits at all.
• Navigate new tax changes. The recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act has made several tax provisions permanent, including lower individual tax rates and higher standard deductions. However, it also introduces changes that might affect your situation. It’s worth sitting down with a financial advisor or tax professional to understand how these updates impact your specific circumstances.
• Examine your investments. Take some time to review your investment portfolio. Ask yourself: Did your investments perform as expected this year? Do they still match your goals and comfort level with risk? You might need to rebalance things to get back on track.
expenses in an easily accessible account. This safety net can prevent you from having to raid your retirement savings when unexpected expenses pop up.
• Review your estate planning documents. This is especially important if you’ve had major life changes like marriage, divorce, or a new baby. Don’t forget to check the beneficiary designations on all your bank and brokerage accounts as well as life insurance policies – these often override what’s written in your will.
Taking care of these financial housekeeping tasks now can help you start the new year on solid ground. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor, Edward Jones, Member SIPC.
Edward Jones is a licensed insurance producer in all states and Washington, D.C., through Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P., and in California, New Mexico and Massachusetts through Edward Jones Insurance Agency of California, L.L.C.; Edward Jones Insurance Agency of New Mexico, L.L.C.; and Edward Jones Insurance Agency of Massachusetts, L.L.C.
Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax advice. You should consult your qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.
Contact us at (561) 748-7600, Sally Stahl, CFP, ChFC, AAMS 1851 W. Indiantown Road, Ste. 106, Jupiter, FL 33458.
• Build up your emergency fund. It’s ideal to have enough cash saved to cover three to six months of living Lifestyles on page 21
THERE’S A NEW DERMATOLOGIST IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD.
Samantha Fisher, M.D., F.A.A.D., sees patients of all ages at the Dermatology Associates in the Palm Beach Gardens office after more than 13 years of experience practicing medical, cosmetic dermatology and Mohs surgery for skin cancer treatment.
Dr. Fisher received her Medical and Bachelor of Science degrees with honors from the University of Florida, where she completed her postgraduate training, including serving as Chief Resident in Dermatology.
Her past professional experience includes providing Dermatology services to patients in Stuart , FL from 2013-2024, Naples, FL from 2012-2013, and as Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Florida Department of Dermatology in Gainesville, FL from 2011-2012.
Dr. Fisher looks forward to providing you with excellent dermatology care.
Dermatology Associates of the Palm Beaches is a group practice of board-certified dermatologists and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeons providing general dermatology, surgical dermatology, and cosmetic dermatology services. These physicians trained at some of America’s great medical institutions and conduct research into the most advanced treatments. Our physicians are also recognized leaders in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer.
Make an appointment to see Dr. Fisher in Palm Beach Gardens at 10355 N. Military Trail, Suite A, by calling (561) 622-6976. www.greatderms.com
When Unequal Shares May Be the Fair Choice
By Anné DesormierCartwright, JD, Esq.
There are many real-life situations where dividing your estate equally among your children may not reflect what is truly fair. A good estate plan allows room for flexibility based on each child’s circumstances, contributions, and future needs.
For example, not all children have the same financial stability. One child may have a high-paying career and strong financial habits, while another may be living paycheck to paycheck or struggling with job loss or medical expenses. In that situation, leaving a larger share to the child who needs more support can be a compassionate and practical choice.
Another common scenario involves caregiving. If one child has devoted significant time, effort, and personal sacrifice to care for you, it may be reasonable to acknowledge that role through a greater share or a specific gift. Caregiving often impacts a person’s ability to earn income, and compensation through inheritance can help restore that lost opportunity.
Estate planning should also take into account the emotional reality of family dynamics. Simply dividing your estate equally without recognizing major differences in contribution, effort, or need may unintentionally create resentment among your children after you are gone.
Choosing to leave different amounts to different children is not about favoritism — it is about being thoughtful and intentional. Fair planning looks at the whole picture, not just an even split.
Next month, we will continue exploring this topic by looking at planning for children with different life needs, including young children, children with special needs, or children involved in the family business.
Questions about your estate plan? Call our office at 561.694.7827 and schedule a consultation. Elder & Estate
Planning Attorneys PA, 480 Maplewood Drive, Suite 3, Jupiter, FL.
The content of this article is general and should not be relied upon without reviewing your specific circumstances by competent legal counsel. Reliance on the information herein is at your own risk, as it expresses no opinion by the firm on your legal needs. An attorney–client relationship is not created through the information provided.
The Singles Scene Column©
2025 Lessons in Love
Special Holiday Edition: By
Kelly Leary, M.S. & Miranda Capparelli
“I see trees of green Red roses too I see them bloom For me and you And I think to myself What a wonderful world” – Louis Armstrong
Happy December to all of our loyal friends, clients, and couples. As the holiday glow takes over many of us, we may find ourselves reflecting on what the year has meant to our hearts: the good, the challenging, and the unforgettable. At Revolution Dating , we’ve enjoyed watching our clients evolve from SINGLE to TAKEN all year long, and we’ve learned a lot about what people truly want (and need) when it comes to courtship and romance. Once again, thank you for joining us as we celebrate the season with you, and do share this column with your single friends and family as always. We appreciate each and every one of you!
2025 has been a transformational year for relationships. Coming out of years of social uncertainty, emotional resets, and digital fatigue, upscale singles showed they are ready for something real. Humans are craving genuine connection and meaningful conversation, the kind that can’t be found in a swipe or a DM. Let’s look back at the biggest and best lessons of the year and how you can use them to make sure you guard against those pesky “holiday blues.”
DON’T MISS YOUR MOMENT TO CALL THE WATERFORD HOME.
Lesson One: Love Requires Courage
This year reminded us that love still favors the brave. It’s not easy to put yourself out there again, especially after heartbreak, divorce, loss, or dating exhaustion. But those who took the leap this year discovered that courage pays off. We know this because we are celebrating a brand-new Revolution Dating engagement this weekend! The gentleman proposing had tried every online dating site as well as two other matchmakers before joining our award-winning club. Imagine if he had given up before he called us? Some of our most epic 2025 stories came from people who almost didn’t reach out to us or were unbelievably pessimistic about the current dating scene. They thought: Maybe it’s too late? or Maybe there is no one out there for me? Now, those same people are traveling with their new partners, spending their first holidays together, or slipping a shiny rock onto their finger.
The lesson? Courage is the secret ingredient to connection. Love rewards action, not hesitation.
Lesson Two: Quality Over Quantity
Online dating promised endless options, but it mainly delivered endless frustration. Ghosting, fake profiles, and superficial matches have left many singles disillusioned. That is why in 2025, more people than ever said goodbye to the apps and hello to real matchmaking. At Revolution Dating, we’ve seen a surge in successful pairings because our clients understand one thing: it’s not about having hundreds of matches, it’s about meeting the right one (at the right time) who has the same emotional readiness. Last year, on Christmas Day, one of our new grooms proposed to his beautiful bride after dating for only seven months. They were each other’s first and last date, handpicked by us. The groom almost didn’t join. Imagine if he didn’t consummate his merger with Revolution Dating?
The lesson? Love is not a numbers game. Quality connection beats quantity every single time.
Lesson Three: Florida Is The Love Capital
Thousands of singles have moved here from across the country, bringing with them fresh energy, success, and an openness to new adventure. We’ve seen an incredible mix of professionals, entrepreneurs, and retirees all coming into our brick-and-mortar corporate headquarters ready to make real
Lifestyles on page 22
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Lifestyles from page 21
connections. The Sunshine State isn’t just a place to live; it’s become a place to love. Consider us the new love hub with branches up and down the coast and far west. Our popularity is growing and people are hearing about our good deeds and work nationwide ... thanks to all of you.
The Lesson? This one is obvious. You are lucky to live and love in this ever-growing state.
Lesson Four: Embrace The Change
As the calendar flips, one thing becomes clear: Love favors those who heed the call to action. Individuals who actually find love are the ones who say: I am ready for love (again), and it starts today. The perfect time is the moment you decide to make a change. The couples who will ring in 2026 together are the ones who stayed on course and did not wait another week or another day. He who hesitates is lost.
The new year is a blank page—and it’s waiting for your new love story. If 2025 was about learning, growth, and rediscovering what you want, then 2026 will be about receiving it. We expect next year to be the most romantic year yet, with more engagements, more success stories, and more real relationships coming from our office. The energy is shifting, and if you’re ready to be part of it, there’s no better time than now. Don’t let another year slip away wondering what if. You have learned the lessons, so now is the time to apply them. If you find yourself struggling, ask for some coaching or a morale booster. We could all use the encouragement. Just never quit on love--no matter what has gotten in your way. Your next love is out there and waiting to meet you too. Look how hard you have worked and know that you will never be as young and attractive as you are today.
Join Revolution Dating this December, and step into 2026 with confidence, hope, and statistics on your side. We have the perfect gift waiting for you, and it is destined to last a lifetime. Allow us to help you meet the right person and create your next great chapter before the new year begins. Let the ball drop with your secret in your pocket--US.
Happy Holidays From Your Favorite Matchmakers! XOXO, Kelly & Miranda
#TheGiftOfLove #MatchmakingRoyalty #LeaveYourComfortZone #TellYourFriends #HolidayLove
’Tis
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Now is the time to celebrate and reflect on the many love stories created by Revolution Dating. It’s Plus-One Party season too, so do tell your friends and family who are still single--there is HOPE in the wild world of too much tech. Revolution Dating specializes in bringing back traditional dating and chivalry by screening and representing like-minded clients. Our love connections yield happiness from the Northeast to Palm Beach for decades and is now picking up even more traction in mountain country and the Midwest. Lucky for all of you, our corporate office is here in Florida which has become the epicenter of new starts and budding new romance. Take a look at the good energy overflowing
Kelly Leary, M.S.© is CEO and Founder of Revolution Dating which she launched in 2014. Kelly has 34 years in the dating industry and a master’s degree in clinical psychology. She has been written about in Modern Luxury Magazine Palm Beach and Modern Luxury Manhattan, The Palm Beach Post, The Shiny Sheet, Stuart News, The Coastal Pearl, Jupiter Magazine, and many more. Revolution Dating clients are pre-screened in person, including background checks and ID verification. Professional photos are taken by the staff. Revolution Dating is NOT online dating or blind dating. In addition to providing matchmaking services that make singles “UN-single” through their exclusive club memberships, Kelly and Miranda also provide feedback from dates when appropriate. Mock Dates are available by request. Single Coaching Sessions and Evaluations are also available by request for non-members or as an add-on to some memberships. *All inquiries are confidential *Specializing in representing jet-setting clients with a second home in the Northeast Area or Mountain Country. Do call the central hotline at 561-630-9696 (XOXO) to hold your place in the club. Why wait? Just date!
Answer for Crossword Puzzle
CEO John and Dr. Christine With Their Two Beautiful Blessings! #RevolutionBabies
Kelly and Miranda Won Numerous Awards in 2025! #MatchmakingRoyalty A Very Special Engagement of Our Own! #SheSaidYes
Bruce and Brenda Always Steal Our Hearts! #RevolutionCouple
Young Professionals Find Love Here! #RepresentingAllAges
“US Special Agent” Event With a Favorite Senior Success Story! #AmericanHero Gail and Alan Got Married This Year! #GoldenMarriage
