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23 August 2024
Thanks to Federation’s new Vice President of Financial Resource Development, Jill Granader, for filling in for me last week with her thoughtful message. If you missed it, read it here. Jill’s commitment to our community and the Jewish people is unparalleled, and I look forward to continuing to learn from and work with her.
Earlier this week, the bodies of six hostages were recovered from Gaza. Our hearts and prayers are with the family and friends of Yagev Buchshtab, Alexander Dancyg, Avraham Munder, Yoram Metzger, Chaim Peri and British-Israeli Nadav Popplewell. May their memories be a blessing, and may their loved ones find comfort and solace.
Read on for updates on upcoming security trainings amid rising antisemitism in our community, welcoming our new senior shlicha (Israeli emissary), and my upcoming conversation with Dr. Tal Becker of the Shalom Hartman Institute and Legal Adviser of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Shabbat Shalom,
Gil
Upcoming Security Trainings. As antisemitism and anti-Israel behaviors increase in Greater Washington, JShield (Federation’s security division) is holding critically important, one-hour training sessions to ensure our community is prepared for the busy High Holiday season and beyond. Learn more and register for one of four in-person and online sessions here.
Eye on Israel.
- Your Support. Last week, Federation’s Board of Directors met to approve nearly $900k in grants to address the escalating needs in the north of Israel. Sadly, the possibility of a full-scale war with Hezbollah and Iran continues and preparedness for such a possibility is a priority. The approved grants provide critical support for Israelis and Israeli institutions in the north.
- Welcoming Our New Senior Shlicha, Tali. Federation recently welcomed Tali Arnolf Wohlgemuth as our new senior shlicha. Coming to us from Moshav Haniel in central Israel, Tali brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role. She will be leading our team of shlichim (emissaries), who serve in our congregations and schools, offering enriching programs that deepen Jewish awareness, foster connections with Israel, and promote understanding across our diverse community. We are thrilled to have her on board and look forward to the positive impact she will make.
A Critical Conversation. I am looking forward to speaking with Dr. Tal Becker, Vice President and Senior Faculty at the Shalom Hartman Institute and legal adviser of the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, about Israel’s changing place in the world and its relation to North American Jewry. Register here to join our virtual conversation on September 3rd.
Marking October 7th. Following Hamas’ attack on October 7th, Jewish Greater Washington’s ability to come together was a powerful reminder of our strength as a community. I look forward to coming together again to share an evening of remembrance, resilience, and hope for a brighter future a year later, on October 7, 2024, at The Anthem in Washington, DC. Register here.