The St. Johns County Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller is set to mark the fifth annual St. Johns County – Israel Friendship Day on November 4, in conjunction with local Jewish leaders and the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners. The event is slated for the early hours of 8:00 AM at the St. Johns County Administration Building in St. Augustine.
In a gesture of solidarity and shared values, Clerk Brandon J. Patty underscored the importance of this year's gathering, expressing a collective sigh of relief for the recent release of hostages, and the potential for peace. "For the first time in years, the St. Johns County–Israel friendship day will be celebrated knowing the hostages have been released and peace, though fragile, is possible," Patty said, according to a release from St. Johns County Clerk's Office. The day is also a stand against antisemitism and for freedom, and security.
Reflecting on the strong stance the County has taken in support of Israel, St. Johns was the first in Florida to amend its investment policy, which now bars investments in entities boycotting Israel. This policy is subject to an annual review to ensure continued adherence. These measures reinforce the County's commitment to fight against discriminatory practices targeting Israel.
"Israel Friendship Day is more than a ceremony—it’s a testament to our shared values of respect, unity, and cultural pride," Commissioner Krista Joseph, Chair of the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners, told the St. Johns County Clerk's Office. The recognition celebrates not only the present partnership but also casts a light on the historical ties, with the Jewish community's presence in the county tracing back to the 16th century. The inauguration of the first synagogue in 1898 stands as a testament to these deep-rooted connections.
Mariam Shpeen Feist, CEO of the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida, highlighted the multifaceted nature of the bond between St. Johns County and Israel, which encompasses democratic values, strategic interests, and historical and cultural ties. According to Feist, this partnership is one of Northeast Florida's most important, as she articulated in the announcement from the St. Johns County Clerk's Office.
Among the participants of the upcoming program are key figures from the local Jewish community, including Rabbi Mendel Sharfstein of Chabad of St. Johns County; Rabbi Benjamin Dyme of Beth El – The Beaches Synagogue; Rabbi Levi Vogel of Chabad of St. Augustine; and Nelson France from the Jewish Federation and Foundation of Northeast Florida. St. Johns County Sheriff Robert A. Hardwick will also be in attendance, contributing to a day that not only celebrates a longstanding friendship but also an enduring legacy of cooperation and mutual respect.
