An evening of music, meaning, and community filled the sanctuary at Temple Beth Torah as congregants and guests gathered for the Cantors Concert: Love Is All You Need. The special event showcased not only remarkable musical talent but also the deep sense of connection that defines the congregation.

Cantor Rachel Harris and her newlywed husband, Cantor Jake Harris, led an accomplished ensemble that delivered a dynamic and heartfelt performance. The band featured Jay Singer on piano, James McCoy on electric bass, drummer Brooke Geissler, and saxophonist Ross Mazer. The Temple Beth Torah Choir joined the ensemble for one of the evening’s selections, adding depth and richness to the program.

The concert opened with a lively set of Beatles favorites, setting an upbeat and familiar tone. From there, the evening unfolded in thoughtfully curated segments, including sacred selections, a theatrical set, and a collection of songs celebrating the journey of growing love. Original compositions by Jay Singer and Cantor Jake Harris were woven throughout the program, offering personal and moving expressions of love in its many forms.

Rachel and Jake Harris brought both artistry and authenticity to the stage, their chemistry and joy evident as they led the band through each piece. The performance resonated deeply with the audience, filling the room with warmth and inspiration.

Beyond the music, the evening also served as the congregation’s annual fundraiser. Sponsor participation was strong, reflecting the community’s commitment to supporting the temple’s programs and mission. A festive dessert reception followed the concert, where attendees mingled, congratulated the performers, and continued the celebration.

The Cantors Concert proved to be more than a performance—it was a shared experience of joy, faith, and togetherness. With such gifted musicians within its congregation, Temple Beth Torah once again demonstrated the power of music to uplift and unite a community.

BOCA RATON, FL, (February 13, 2026) –-The Junior League of Boca Raton is inviting women in the community to attend one of the upcoming “Orange You Glad You Joined Us” prospective member open houses.

The events will be held on February 24, April 9 and May 14 at the Vegso Community Resource Center, 261 NW 13^th Street, Boca Raton from 6-8 p.m.

Attendees will meet inspiring women, learn about the Junior League of Boca Raton’s impact in the community and discover how to make a difference while building lifelong friendships.

“As a provisional member of the Junior League, I’ve learned so much about the community during this training year, while making some amazing friends,” said Karly Parsons.

To RSVP or for any questions, please email newmember@jlbr.org or 561-620-2553.

“The Junior League is more than service—it’s about sisterhood, leadership, and creating lasting change,” said Victoria Matthews, President of the Junior League of Boca Raton. “We welcome anyone interested in volunteering in our community to attend one of the open houses to learn more about our organization.”

Boca Raton, Fla. (February 9, 2026) — The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County welcomed nearly 500 women to its Lion of Judah Luncheon on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, for an inspiring afternoon of conversation, connection, and collective purpose. The sold-out event, themed “Strength in Sisterhood: The Timeless Power of Women’s Leadership,” celebrated the extraordinary impact women have in shaping the Jewish future locally, in Israel, and around the world.

The luncheon featured a powerful lineup of thought leaders, including Dr. Mijal Bitton, spiritual leader, community builder, and sociologist; Alana Newhouse, Editor-in-Chief of Tablet Magazine; and special guest Julie Platt, immediate past Chair of the Board of the Jewish Federations of North America. The discussion was moderated by Michelle Rojas-Tal, Director of Strategy at Sixpoint Media, and explored the enduring influence of women’s leadership, the responsibility of philanthropy, and the role of Jewish women in shaping the next generation.

“This year’s Lion of Judah Luncheon was a testament to what is possible when women come together with shared purpose and conviction,” said Shelly Snyder, Chair of Women’s Philanthropy. “Seeing almost 500 women in one room, our largest gathering ever, was both humbling and energizing. The strength of this community is extraordinary.”

The event was co-chaired by Kathy Green and Alison Simon, with Amy Dweck serving as Vice Chair, Campaign, Women’s Philanthropy. Together, they helped lead a luncheon that not only inspired but also reinforced the critical importance of women’s philanthropy in sustaining and strengthening the Jewish community.

“Lion of Judah women are leaders, changemakers, and visionaries,” said Kathy Green. “This luncheon reflected the power of women standing together, supporting one another, and investing in the future of Jewish life.”

“From the speakers to the energy in the room, this was a truly unforgettable afternoon,” added Alison Simon. “It reminded us that our collective impact is far greater than anything we can achieve alone.”

Attendance at the Lion of Judah Luncheon requires a minimum individual woman’s gift of $5,000 to the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County’s 2026 Annual Campaign, underscoring the extraordinary philanthropic commitment of the women in the room.

We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors for making the Lion of Judah Luncheon possible: GL Homes, sponsor of our guest speakers, whose commitment to this community goes far beyond building houses and helps create a true sense of belonging; our division sponsors, Boca Raton Regional Hospital Foundation and Baer’s Furniture; our event sponsors, The Koolik Group and McDermott Will & Schulte; our in-kind sponsors, Ivan & Co. Jewelers, Atlas Party Rental, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, and Go2Events; and our exclusive magazine sponsor, The Boca Raton Observer.

For more information about Women’s Philanthropy or the Lion of Judah program, please contact Kathleen Ben-Shoaff at 561.852.5031 or Kathleenb@jewishboca.org.

Children’s Harbor has been named as a nominee for the Innovation Award at the 15th Annual Community Care Plan Non-Profit Awards, hosted by 211 Broward and presented by Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

The awards luncheon will take place on Friday, March 6, at 11 a.m. at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. This year’s event is especially meaningful as 211 Broward celebrates 30 years of service, making three decades of impact, innovation, and dedication to the Broward County community. 

Children’s Harbor’s nomination recognizes the organization’s commitment to forward-thinking solutions through its learning center and expanded mental health initiatives for teens in foster care. Over the past several years, Children’s Harbor has made intentional investments in reimagining how services are delivered to teens and young adults in its care by meeting them where they are academically and emotionally, while building programs designed to create meaningful and measurable outcomes.

“I sincerely thank 211 Broward for recognizing Children’s Harbor as a nominee for the Innovation Award,” said Tiffani Dhooge, President & CEO of Children’s Harbor. “It’s an honor to be acknowledged alongside so many dedicated organizations and community leaders committed to strengthening our community. We are incredibly proud of our team for their unwavering dedication to the teens and young adults that we serve. This nomination truly reflects our continued commitment to developing innovative solutions that provide stability, healing, and opportunity for young people navigating the foster care system and transitioning into independence.” 

The learning center at Children’s Harbor was developed to provide tailored academic support and life skills development in a structured environment where teens can thrive. In addition to this effort, Children’s Harbor expanded its mental health services to address the growing and complex emotional needs of the youth in its care while ensuring access to counseling, therapeutic resources, and reliable support systems.

Children’s Harbor credits its dedicated team, community partners, and Board of Directors for continually championing innovative ideas. The 15th Annual Community Care Plan Non-Profit Awards will bring together nonprofit leaders, community stakeholders, and supporters to celebrate excellence and impact across Broward County. 

For more information about Children’s Harbor, visit www.childrensharbor.org. To learn more about 211 Broward and to purchase tickets for the awards ceremony, visit www.211-broward.org/non-profit-awards.

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About Children’s Harbor

Established in 1996, Children’s Harbor is a nationally accredited child welfare organization with a mission to help strengthen families who are struggling in our community, while providing safe shelter and support to teens in foster care so that they may grow into healthy, educated, and productive adults.

With the belief that children should feel safe, that family is worth fighting for, and that cycles can be broken, Children’s Harbor provides a harbor of hope and healing for children who have been impacted by the trauma of child abuse.  The main campus in Pembroke Pines provides a supportive family environment for teenagers in foster care and their younger siblings. The family support services program prevents kids from coming into foster care by providing free in-home counseling and support to families who are struggling in the community. Additionally, Brown’s Harbor is a supportive housing community dedicated to serving young adults, aged 18-23, who have aged out of the foster care system.  These young adults are provided with affordable housing and the wrap-around support and independent living programs necessary to help them overcome their trauma and navigate through the early stages of adulthood.

To learn more about Children’s Harbor and the difference we are making in the lives of children affected by trauma and abuse, please visit childrensharbor.org.