February 13, 2025

Shalom Chaverim (Dear Friends),

This week has been filled with ups, downs, and nonstop headlines, beginning with Sunday night’s Super Bowl and now shifting to the fragile state of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. As Shabbat approaches, we are collectively watching, waiting, and continuing to pray for the safe return of all the hostages.

Just weeks into 2025, many of us find ourselves incredibly busy, both personally and professionally. At the Adolph & Rose Levis Jewish Community Center, we too are in the midst of an exciting season! Our Nina & Martin Rosenzweig West Boca Theatre Company’s production of My Name is Asher Lev has been receiving wonderful reviews. It is a deeply moving production, and if you haven’t had the chance to see it yet, I encourage you attend before it closes on February 19th.

Meanwhile, our Judy Levis Krug Boca Raton Jewish Film Festival officially opened on Saturday evening, with a full house for the wonderful film Bliss. This phenomenal Festival is in full swing, presenting dozens of premier films over the next two weeks. You can view trailers and purchase passes online here. With such a variety of films, there truly is something for everyone and I hope to see you at the movies!

This week’s Torah portion is Yitro in the book of Exodus, the second in the Five Books of Moses. In it, Moses’ father-in-law, Jethro, advises Moses to appoint a hierarchy of magistrates and judges to assist him in the task of governing and administering justice to the people. This makes me reflect on the importance of leadership and the way it can affect organizations. It is my great privilege to be at the helm of the Levis JCC, and I so appreciate the team of dedicated leaders – both professional and volunteer – all working together to create a Levis JCC that continues to meet the needs of our growing community.

Light candles Friday night at 5:55 pm
Shabbat ends on Saturday night at 6:48 pm

Shabbat Shalom
Am Yisrael Chai!

If you would like to support the Levis JCC and its programs and services, click below.

Marty