Music & Communications Director
The month of June is here and that means it is almost time for our Jewish Cultural Festival. For nearly the last decade, I have had the honor and privilege of managing this event and the amazing volunteers that make it happen. Together, we have watched it grow in size, influence, and appeal, becoming one of the signature events of our Jewish community. It brings me so much joy to have been a part of that growth, creating a safe and fun space for the Dayton community to explore our Jewish history, customs, and faith. As I hope you all know, this will be my last time leading the Jewish Cultural Festival, but the congregation is in good hands with Jodi Phares, our new Marketing & Communications Manager. Jodi and I have had time over the last month to work together to ensure an easy transition, and to allow her to see how we prepare for this event.
For a little bit of fun, I have compiled the Top 5 Things to Do at the Jewish Cultural Festival:
1. Indulge in the delicious food offerings. With new and returning food vendors, plus over 6,000 baked goods to sample and take home, no one will go hungry at this event. Brock Masterson’s Catering serves up a delicious smoked brisket, El Meson delights with arepas and empanadas, and My Favorite Muffin supplies some of the best bagels and schmear. And don’t forget to visit Graeter’s for the creamiest ice cream!
2. Expand your thoughts on diversity in Jewish life. Inside the sanctuary, local and regional experts will touch on topics that explore what it means to be a Jew. Did you know there are Jewish farmer’s groups? What about the different practices of Sephardic and Ashkenazi Jews? We’ll also offer tours of our building throughout the afternoon.
3. Delight in the sights and sounds of our performers. The outdoor stage will be filled with music and dance from some of our favorite entertainers, spanning genres from klezmer to folk tunes, to show tunes, and more. The Miami Valley Symphony Orchestra closes the festival at 5:00PM with a wonderfully curated set of movie music from John Williams and orchestral settings of Jewish classics.
4. Take a chance to win big in the raffle. Merchants, businesses, restaurants, and other local companies have generously contributed to our raffle so that you have the opportunity to win one of five prize packages worth a total of over $3,000. Tickets will be on sale at the front gate.
5. Take a piece of the Festival home. Even though the event only lasts a day, remember your experience for years to come. Over 20 vendors will be on-site selling a variety of items from jewelry to Judaica to wood carvings to games. Support these small businesses and have fun shopping.
Whatever you choose to do, we hope you will come and enjoy the day with your friends, family, and your congregation. Also, please be sure to give Jodi a warm welcome to the Temple Israel family.
Thank you again for the opportunity to serve. You have provided an immeasurable amount of knowledge and support over the last ten years, and for that, I am forever grateful. I look forward to forging this new path ahead in interior design and home organizing, but also delight in knowing that I will still be leading you in song from the bimah.