Chai Life Spring 2013 (PDF Document) - Jewish Federation of South ...

Amid Israeli flags and falafel, nearly 3,000 people of all ages filled Mizner Park
Amphitheater on Sunday May 19, 2013. With ruach emanating throughout
the community, they stood together in unmistakable commitment to
celebrate the 65th anniversary - and the miracles - of the modern State of Israel.
South Palm Beach County’s vibrant Jewish diversity was on full display at the area’s
largest annual Jewish community event, presented by the Jewish Federation of
South Palm Beach County and its Jewish Community Relations Council. Synagogues,
schools, agencies, organizations and Judaica artists gave the day a festival
atmosphere, colorfully displaying their work at 35 tents around the amphitheater.
Children’s activities welcomed families, who stayed
throughout the festivities. The crowd moved to and
was moved by the upbeat internationally renowned
a capella group, The Maccabeats, and a beautiful
performance by the Boca Raton Symphonia.
The next generation’s bond with Israel was
manifest, as students from Donna Klein Jewish
Academy and Weinbaum Yeshiva High School
provided dance and music, and Hillel Day
School presented a traditional daglanut Israeli
flag routine. A combined children’s choir from
B’nai Torah Congregation, Congregation B’nai
Israel, Congregation Shaarei Kodesh and Temple
Beth El also spread across the stage.
Former Palm Beach County Commissioner Burt Aaronson, a longtime supporter of
the annual community-wide Israel celebration, greeted the audience. The crowd was
also stirred by Chaim Shacham, Consul General of Israel to Florida & Puerto Rico,
Congressman Ted Deutch, and Pastor Tye Riter of Calvary West Boca as well as
Federation CEO Matt Levin and Campaign Chair Betty Kane.
Many thanks to Israel Fest 65’s generous sponsors: Bronze -TD Bank,
Land Design South, Sunstates Security, and Direct Nursing Care Services;
Gold - Boca Raton Observer, Exclusive Magazine Sponsor.
Photo Credit: Tom Tracy
CHAILIFE 34