A Rebirth of Purity and Light: Mikvah Bashka Dedicated in Southwest Florida

by Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz

On Sunday, November 9, 2025, the Southwest Florida Jewish community gathered in joy and celebration for the long-awaited dedication of Mikvah Bashka, a magnificent new mikvah at Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida, under the leadership of Rabbi Yitzchok and Shani Minkowicz.

The evening shimmered with warmth and gratitude a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and unity. Elegant sushi boat. miniature gourmet desserts, and sparkling drinks graced the tables, beautifully sponsored by Taryn Sasser and Amy Fox. The two dedicated the evening’s refreshments in deeply personal ways: Taryn in memory of her beloved mother, Shaina bas Shmuel, whose yahrzeit was that day, and Amy in honor of her daughter’s birthday.

From Devastation to Renewal

The original mikvah was tragically destroyed during Hurricane Ian, leaving a void in the community’s spiritual life. Today, that void has been transformed into something extraordinary a breathtaking, state-of-the-art mikvah that radiates serenity and holiness.

The new Mikvah Bashka features custom marble sinks, imported high-end tile, stunning glass shower doors, and a sophisticated filtration system from Israel paired with an advanced heating system from New York. Every detail reflects devotion, craftsmanship, and a profound commitment to purity and beauty.

A Tribute of Love

The mikvah was lovingly dedicated by Arlene Silver in memory of her dear mother, Bernice Orkin Kaye, whose Hebrew name, Bashka, now graces the building. During the moving ribbon-cutting ceremony, Arlene stood side by side with Shani Minkowicz, marking a moment of deep emotion and triumph — the renewal of a sacred space born from both loss and love.

Inspiring Words and United Hearts

The dedication ceremony featured heartfelt remarks from community leaders and special guests.

• Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz spoke on the profound significance of the mikvah in Jewish life — a symbol of renewal and purity — while expressing deep gratitude to the many donors, supporters, and friends who made this dream possible.

• Arlene Silver shared touching reflections about her mother and her hope that Mikvah Bashka would continue to inspire Jewish women for generations.

• Barry Finver, the mikvah’s designer, spoke about the intricate halachic and architectural challenges of building a kosher mikvah.

Mikvah USA – Partners in Purity

A special and heartfelt acknowledgment was given to Mikvah USA, whose partnership, expertise, and unwavering support made the rebuilding of Mikvah Bashka possible.

From the earliest stages of planning through the final stages of completion, Mikvah USA stood by Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida, providing critical guidance, funding, and technical knowledge to ensure that every halachic and practical detail met the highest standards of beauty and holiness.

Rabbi Hershy Indig of Mikvah USA, along with his colleagues Rabbi Rosenberg — who personally spearheaded the fundraising campaign for this specific mikvah — and Rabbi Berger, traveled from New York to celebrate this joyous milestone.

In his remarks, Rabbi Indig shared a message that deeply resonated with everyone present:

“When Jews from all over the world unite to bring purity to one corner of the earth, we are truly purifying the entire world and preparing it for Moshiach.”

Their presence and their tireless work exemplify the mission of Mikvah USA — to make the spiritual and physical beauty of the mikvah accessible to every Jewish community, large and small. The Southwest Florida community expressed profound gratitude for this organization’s leadership, generosity, and partnership in transforming a dream into a radiant reality.

National Recognition and Blessings from Washington

In a touching display of support, U.S. Senator Rick Scott sent heartfelt greetings from Washington, D.C., congratulating the Southwest Florida Jewish community on the dedication of the restored Mikvah Bashka.

Senator Scott commended the community’s perseverance and unity in rebuilding after the devastation of Hurricane Ian, noting that “the rebirth of Mikvah Bashka stands as a shining example of faith overcoming adversity, and of Florida’s strength to rebuild not only our homes, but our hearts.”

His message of encouragement and recognition added a deeply meaningful note to the evening, affirming that the light and renewal symbolized by the mikvah resonate far beyond Fort Myers — reaching the very heart of the nation’s capital.

A Celebration of Community

Guests were given a tour of the mikvah by Rabbi Yitzchok and Shani Minkowicz, and many were visibly moved by its beauty and tranquility. Among the many in attendance were community pillars Betty Rubenstein, Dr. Jonathan Daitch, Steve Levine, Oren Barsheshet, and David Bergner, all of whom played vital roles in the rebuilding efforts.

Also present was the Minkowiczs’ son, Rabbi Peretz Meir Simcha Minkowicz, and his wife, Sheina, who assist in countless community projects with dedication and joy.

Local Shluchim Join in Celebration

Adding to the sense of unity and shared mission, local Chabad Shluchim from across Southwest Florida joined in the celebration of Mikvah Bashka’s dedication.

Among those present were:

• Rabbi Shalom & Devory Katz, Chabad Israeli Center of Fort Myers

• Rabbi Mendy & Luba Greenberg, Chabad of Bonita Springs

• Rabbi Yossi Labkowski, Chabad of Cape Coral

Their presence underscored the close bond and mutual support that connect Chabad centers throughout the region — a reflection of the Rebbe’s vision that every Jewish community, large or small, is part of one united family bringing light and holiness to the world.

Honoring the Legacy

Inside the mikvah, beautiful plaques now adorn the walls, honoring the generous donors and supporters who brought this vision to life. A portrait of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, the guiding light behind the global Chabad movement, graces the entrance — a reminder of his call to bring holiness and Jewish life to every corner of the world. Nearby hangs a stunning photograph of Bernice Orkin Kaye, lovingly commemorating the woman whose name — and spirit — lives on in Mikvah Bashka.

A Spiritual Conclusion

As the sun dipped below the Florida horizon, the event concluded with a heartfelt Minchaservice held outside the new mikvah. The prayers of gratitude and joy filled the air, echoing the community’s shared sense of accomplishment and divine blessing.

Mikvah Bashka now stands as more than just a building — it is a beacon of faith, unity, and renewal for the Jewish community of Southwest Florida, a shining reminder that from every storm, new light can emerge.