Congregation Ohav Shalom held its annual Winter Reunion in Florida recently, welcoming old and new friends to the Ohav Shalom community. Co-chairs
Judy Phillips, Marcia Gingold and Carolann Margolis coordinated the program. Ohav Shalom Rabbi Rena Kieval traveled to Boca Raton and Venice to spend time with
synagogue members and friends on February 3 and 4, respectively. This year’s events attracted over 60 attendees. A little Superbowl fun was had as well — with both pre-and post-game
Jewish Superbowl-themed programming.
“These events are a great way to keep our congregational members connected, even when they’re far away,” says Rabbi Kieval. “Spending time with friends, both old and new, is a
rejuvenating experience for all of us. Rabbi Ornstein and I look forward to this event each year.” Members from Ohav Shalom as well as “snowbird friends” from the Albany Jewish community
gathered at a brunch at Boca Raton’s Temple Beth Shalom. Several longtime Albany families shared memories from earlier generations, harkening back to Ohav’s earliest days.
In Venice, a lunchtime event also welcomed three former Ohav staff members, including Lita Katzer, former head of the Religious School and longtime special education consultant; Liz
Gellis, former executive director; and Molly Getnick, former business manager and longtime congregant. Rod Margolis, former director of the Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York,
attended the gathering as well.