Approximately 300 community members attended a spectacular evening filled with laughter, entertainment, tears and a return to hope at the Grand Response held at the Altria Theater in downtown Richmond.
The Federation event on Nov. 6 featured a special musical performance by Neshama Carlebach where many gathered to dance thru the aisles, encouraged by the performer.
The Grand Event Chairs were Susan and Ronnie Adolf and Dr. Amos and Yuliya Habib. (See picture below)
In welcoming attendees, Susan Adolf said, “It’s so good to be together. Yet as we gather tonight we also continue to mourn the over 1,200 men, women and children who were brutally murdered and pray for the safe return of 101 held hostage.”
Dr. Amos Habib said, “Tonight, we bookmark the page of history and begin to move forward. To celebrate, because over the last year we have seen how important community is, how powerful we are together and we know that by being together, unified and strong, we will overcome any challenge.”
Yuliya Habib added, “This evening is more than just an event for us – it’s a heartfelt tribute to the resilience, generosity, and enduring support of the Jewish community.”
Ronnie Adolf shared, “During these most difficult moments, you learn who your friends are, and having allies is critical. We are blessed to have longstanding and steadfast bipartisan support throughout our federal, state and local offices. We express our deepest gratitude to those elected officials who are with us.”
The evening also featured remarks from JCFR President Josh Goldberg, FRD Chair Brian Greene, Nannette Shor, Chair, Israel Emergency Campaign, and JCFR CEO Daniel Staffenberg.
All photos by Adrienne Winkelmann Epstein.
