ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla., October 14, 2024 — The St. Johns County Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller’s office, in partnership with the St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners, will join members of the Jewish community to observe the fourth annual St. Johns County – Israel Friendship Day on Oct. 15 at 8 AM. The event will be at the St. Johns County Administration Building, located at 500 San Sebastian View, St. Augustine, Florida.

“Clerk Patty led the revision to the County’s investment policy to ensure we don’t support companies that adopt policies counter to our values,” said John Rundgren, Clerk Designee. “In light of the recent events, we stand united with our Jewish friends and remain committed to fighting antisemitism.”

As County Comptroller, Clerk Patty worked with PFM Financial Advisors to propose an investment policy change. The revised investment policy prohibits the Comptroller from investing in companies on Florida’s List of Scrutinized Companies that Boycott Israel and mandates an annual review of prohibited investments. St. Johns County was the first local government in Florida to address discriminatory “Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions” practices against Israel by this policy update.

“St. Johns County – Israel Friendship Day is a celebration of our vibrant Jewish community and the enduring bonds we share with Israel,” said Commissioner Sarah Arnold, Chair of the Board of County Commissioners. “This annual event not only honors our Jewish heritage, but also reinforces our commitment to inclusivity, understanding, and friendship. Together, we celebrate the values that unite us and look forward to building a future rooted in collaboration and respect.”

St. Johns County’s Jewish community has a rich history, dating back to the 16th century when the first Jewish settlers arrived. The founding of the first synagogue in 1898 marked a significant milestone, showcasing the community’s strong roots and its lasting contribution to the County’s cultural diversity. Today, Jewish congregations continue to enrich the local cultural landscape of St. Johns County.

“Jewish values are American values, and our shared values drive this partnership,” said Miriam Shpeen Feist, CEO of the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida. “St. Johns County policies directly impact the Jewish community, our partner agencies, and the tens of thousands of people we serve. This is why we advocate for policy solutions that strengthen Jewish peoplehood and our connection to Israel, our ancestral homeland. The energy and force we have received from elected officials and administrators in St. Johns County is heartfelt and deeply appreciated by your Jewish brothers and sisters in Florida and Israel. Let this proclamation and commemoration be a reminder of the power of the collective.”

Participating in the program will be Rabbi Mendel Sharfstein, Chabad of St. Johns County; Rabbi Benjamin Dyme, Beth El – The Beaches Synagogue; Rabbi Nochum Kurinsky, Chabad at the Beaches; Mariam Shpeen Feist of the Jewish Federation and Foundation of Northeast Florida; and St. Johns County Sheriff Robert A. Hardwick.