Winter 2026 - South Florida Report

On Sunday afternoon December 21, 2025, the Sephardi Federation of Palm Beach County (FL) celebrated the final two days of Hanukkah, and the installation of a new slate of board of directors, at our annual Hanukkah luncheon, at a local Greek restaurant. Rose Papo Allen, President of the SFPBC, served as the master of ceremonies at the event, which was attended by more than 40 members and guests. 

Large candles were placed on an impressive brass Hanukkiah, for all in the room to see. The prayers led by Rabbi Nissim Elnecavé of Temple Moses in Miami Beach, were recited in unison, with a Ladino translation by Yehuda Hatzvi, z"l', read by Jake Kohenak. Outgoing board member Marvin Pilo, Esq. (son of one the Brotherhood's founders, Marius Pilo, z"l), administered the oath of office to returning and newly selected board members.

A humorous Hanukkah Djoha story in Ladino (with English translations), written expressly for the occasion by SFPBC vice president Bob Altabet, was read by a group of Ladino speakers for the guests’ enjoyment. Joining the assemblage was Prof. Aviad Moreno from Ben Gurion University in Tel Aviv, who is presently on sabbatical at The University of Florida – Gainesville. He is conducting research for a chapter in an upcoming book on Sephardim in South Florida and will be interviewing some of our members in the coming weeks.

Entertainment was provided by French-born international singer Thierry Khalfa, of Moroccan heritage, who delighted the multi-lingual crowd with traditional Hanukkah songs, and other selections in Hebrew, French and English. The delicious lunch, served "family style", included appetizers of hummus, taramosalata, tzatziki, yaprakes, and spanakopita.  The main course featured Greek chicken and grilled salmon, along with classic Greek-style string beans and lemon potatoes.  Baklava was served for dessert, bringing the festive afternoon to a sweet close. 

To learn more about our upcoming activities in the new year, please visit our website:

sephardifederationpbc.org