(photo courtesy of Andrew Friedman)

Congregation Bais Naftoli in Hancock Park will hold its 24th annual breakfast on Sunday, May 29 at 9:30 a.m. Dignitaries and elected officials have been invited to attend. Honorees include former Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca (second from right), whose 49 years of service will be acknowledged. Bais Naftoli will also honor CPA Lavie Klein (left), who represents a new generation of Jewish leadership. Pictured with the honorees are Rabbi Yoel Gold, Dr. Arnold Ross, and synagogue president and breakfast organizer Andrew Friedman. Bais Naftoli has a diverse congregation. Originally founded by Holocaust survivors, Bais Naftoli grew and expanded over the years, and now includes young families as well. “[Holocaust survivors] groomed my generation, second generation Holocaust survivors, to become leaders,” Friedman said. “Now it’s time to honor the third generation – individuals who have given of themselves and have shown that they are capable of assuming the mantle and lead the Orthodox Jewish community in the decades ahead.” Gold originally joined the congregation to connect with the Holocaust survivors. A year later, after the previous rabbi retired, Gold was hired as the temple’s rabbi. It’s been a tremendous experience,” he said. “I learned more from my congregants than I can ever teach them.” Ross, a podiatrist and temple member, will serve as master of ceremonies at the breakfast. Congregation Bais Naftoli is located at 221 S. La Brea Ave. For information, call (323)931-2476.