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Yes, back with more:

• Earlier this week we learned that the brilliant dynamic founder of JACPAC, Linda Sher, has died at 74 from the ravages of ovarian cancer. Anyone who knew Linda (as I came to know her through my common service with her late husband, David, on the UJA Young Leadership Cabinet), knew her for her love of the Jewish People, her self-effacing promotion of the work of Jewish women in support of candidates across the political spectrum both within JACPAC, her creation as the first national Jewish Women's PAC, and without. Linda was constantly in motion, described by those who knew her best and loved her the most as combining  incredible "...enthusiasm with tornado-like energy." Linda's legacy is found in her beautiful family and in the  1000s of Jewish women engaged in politics at her urging and with her constant support. She will be so missed. May her memory be for a blessing.

• The success of the GA, at least as measured by participation, remains front of mind for JFNA CEO Eric Fingerhut. He noted for the 2nd time since the GA ended the incredible participation of "10,000 people." "10,000" has become the new "3,000" of yesteryear -- a dramatic number to be sure. Yet, the Opening Plenary counted 2,800 participants -- isn't 2,800 good enough? Just asking for a friend.

• The JFNA Board Chair and CEO wrote the Board announcing in the most fulsome way that after 7 years Mark Gurvis has decided to leave his role as Executive Vice-President at year-end, continuing as a "Senior Consultant" for a year. Mark recently stated that he came to the role of EVP out of a planning process -- the emet was that JFNA lay leadership had quickly determined after Jerry Silverman's engagement as CEO that Jerry needed to be best supported by a professional who could take on the management responsibilities and who had federation experience. Certainly, Mark took on these difficult roles with professionalism. It appeared from the Chair/CEO letter that there is no current intent to hire a successor. This probably means that Eric, who has succeeded to the role of FRD Director as well, will now operate without an EVP!!

• Kal ha'kavod and mazel tov to Kathy Manning on her election as the Democratic Congressperson from North Carolina's 6th Congressional District. As she has in all things, Kathy will be a great political leader inspired by he family and her multiple Jewish leadership roles.

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