It is with great pleasure that we announce that J., the Jewish News Weekly of Northern California, has just been recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.

While we have always been a nonprofit, this means that our readers and supporters can now deduct the value of their contributions to J. from their taxes. But it means much more for the future of our entire community.

The first issue of Emanu-El appeared in November 1895 (top); the Jewish Bulletin goes online in 1995(right).

J. has been a part of Bay Area Jewish life for almost 120 years, working to connect, enlighten and strengthen our multi-faceted Jewish community, as our mission statement declares. This June, our writers, editors and graphic designers won six national awards for their work.

Industry pressures have affected J. in recent years, and we have been forced to constrain our efforts, even as our community continues to flourish. The ability to take in tax-deductible contributions will allow us to serve you better by investing more in reporting, distribution and new media. Our readers will be able to enjoy increased coverage of the intellectual, cultural and religious events and ideas that make Jewish life here in the Bay Area so vital, and broadening our print and online reach will inform and interconnect Bay Area Jews as never before.

You’ll be hearing more in the coming months about how you can join those who are already helping J. expand our presence and enrich our contribution to building a strong and vibrant Bay Area Jewish community.

— J. Board of Directors