FROM THE PUBLISHER
Dear Readers,
When my family moved to Orlando in 1987 from East Brunswick, New Jersey, the very first stop my parents made was the JCC in Maitland. It was there they found a Realtor to help us buy a home, enrolled my brother in preschool, and signed me up for after-school tennis lessons. The JCC felt like home from the very beginning. My parents made friends, and before long, so did my brother and I. That was our entry point into the Orlando Jewish community. Nearly 40 years later, so much has changed. Synagogues have come and gone, a new JCC was built on the south side of town, and our Jewish agencies have grown and evolved. Our community has celebrated great joys and weathered challenges – but through it all, one thing has never changed: the indomitable spirit of the people, whether they be longtime residents or newcomers to our area. And that’s exactly what J Life magazine is all about.
In this issue, I’m excited to introduce three new leaders who bring fresh energy and vision to Orlando. Dr. Brocha Baum-Margolese joins Gotlib Jewish Academy as head of school, guiding our youngest learners. Rabbi Jordan Gerson steps in as CEO of Central Florida Hillel, inspiring
and supporting our college students. And Wayne Green launches the S’firot Foundation, ensuring our community’s seniors receive the programming, care, and respect they deserve. Together, they represent three pivotal stages of Jewish life – and each brings an inspiring story of why Orlando was the right place for them. Beyond these stories, you’ll also find big updates from the Rosen JCC, news from Shalom Orlando and Jewish Pavilion Senior Services, Israel coverage from JNF-USA, and so much more.
Our Jewish community may not look the same as it did when my family moved here four decades ago, and it will no doubt evolve again over the next 40 years. What will always remain is the responsibility we share to sustain it – for ourselves, for our children, and for the generations to come. As we enter the High Holiday season, I wish you and your loved ones a year filled with good health, joy, and meaningful connections. Shanah Tovah!
If you have information you’d like to share with J Life, please call 407-324-2644, or email Samantha@Jlifeorlando.com.
If you enjoy reading J Life magazine, we humbly ask you to consider supporting us. Visit JLifeOrlando.com/support to make a commitment of $ 18 (or any amount you wish).
5 FALL 2025 | J LIFE
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