The Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley has announced the winners of its 2024-25 annual awards.
The three honorees will receive their awards at the Federation’s Community Celebration and Annual Meeting on Thursday, June 12. This end-of-year event to celebrate all the community’s leaders and volunteers begins at 6 p.m. A dinner buffet with Israeli-style food will kick off the festivities. All are invited to attend, and admission is free. Registration is required at jewishlehighvalley.regfox. com/2025-annual-meeting.
The Mark L. Goldstein Outstanding Jewish Communal Professional Award will be presented to Carol Wilson. The George Feldman Achievement
Award for Young Leadership is going to Gia Jones, and Bill Bergstein is being honored with the Mortimer S. Schiff Award for Prejudice Reduc tion.
Like Mark Goldstein z”l himself, former executive director of the Jewish Federa tion, Carol Wilson has made a strong impact on the Lehigh Valley Jewish community. She’s a Jewish Federation Women’s Philanthropy Lion of Judah, an active member of Temple Beth El, a facilitator for the Muhlenberg College Institute for Religious and Cultural Understanding, and a fixture at community events. At Jewish Family Service, she has been the older adult social worker, helping those who are navigating the complex stages of aging. There she started the Schmooze and Schmear meetup for retired
men and advocated for the Mazel Meals program delivering kosher food to older adults on Shabbat and major Jewish Holidays.
Gia Jones is receiving the George Feldman award as a young role model who brings new members into our Jewish community, understands the important role of the Federation in keeping it relevant and thriving, and volunteers in various places and capacities.
have been Women’s Philanthropy board member, cochair of its mitzvah projects and Dollar-a-Day spring event, JCC board member, Stage Makers stage crew, Jewish Family Service Community Food Pantry, JFS Coats and Cocoa drive chair, and Congregation Keneseth Israel Religious School committee member. She was a JFS Cheers for Volunteers honoree in
2024, and this coming year, she’ll be a cochair of the Federation’s NextGen.
Bill Bergstein was chosen for the Schiff award for his commitment to educating the greater Lehigh Valley community about the dangers of prejudice and to working face to face to improve understanding among those of different faiths. A son, grandson,
Laurie Wax sees bright future for Women’s Philanthropy
By Carl Zebrowski Editor
A solid foundation and strong support help in any leadership position. “The Women’s Philanthropy president probably has the easiest job,” says Laurie Wax, whose tenure as head of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley division is ending soon.
“You’re more overseeing and delegating.”
She adds that her work was made even easier by simply following the example of her predecessors, most recently Beth Kushnick and Carol Bub Fromer.
“I think every president comes into the job attempting to keep what was in place before her,” she says. “At the same time, she tries to take a new direction in programming in hopes of engaging members and reinforcing the importance of Federation and its positive role in financially supporting our local organizations, like the Jewish Day School and Jewish Family Service, as well as our synagogues.”
Long before Laurie took over as Women’s Philanthropy president in 2023, she’d been volunteering in various capacities in the Jewish community.
“I’ve been involved since moving back to Allentown in 2002 along with my husband, Robby, and our 2-year-old son, Benjamin,” she says. “We welcomed our son Danny in 2004.”
Laurie and Robby enrolled Ben in the JCC’s early childhood education, and Laurie joined the ECE committee. She continued to volunteer in the community after that, inspired by her in-laws, Stan z”l and Vicki Wax. She filled numerous roles, including board member of Women’s Philanthropy, chair of the division’s Lion of Judah and Pomegranates, board member of Temple Beth El, and president of TBE Sisterhood.
A few months after she took over as Women’s Philanthropy president, Hamas attacked Israel, bringing a new urgency and intensity to the work of fundraising for the greater Jewish community. While the usual local needs remained in place, Israel and Israelis suddenly needed extra help. Meanwhile the subsequent rise in antisemitism prompted additional efforts to increase security, raise awareness, and educate.
Laurie came up with the idea
to make bracelets displaying support for Israel through that difficult time. Proceeds from bracelet sales went to the Jewish Federation’s Israel Emergency Campaign to fund humanitarian efforts in Israel.
“I felt that everybody wanted to do something to help during this most difficult time,” she says. “This was the perfect opportunity for the women of our community to come together to give back.”
The program was far more successful than she could have imagined. “The outpouring of support for this fundraiser far surpassed my expectations,” she says. The fundraiser raised $75,000. One hundred percent of the proceeds went to the emergency campaign.
The bracelets were hardly the only success during that time. “The Federation did an amazing job fundraising for the emergency campaign, and this was just one of them,” she says. As president of Women’s Philanthropy, which raises a substantial portion of the Federation’s Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs yearly tally, she was involved in
many of those successes. There were special fundraisers, events, meetups to support Israel and the hostages, and presentations to raise awareness of the rise in antisemitism.
Despite the refocusing forced by the war in Israel, Laurie did manage to meet the goals she brought to the job: emphasizing the need to get more community members involved in Women’s Philanthropy and promoting additional engagement among current members. She also pressed to clarify the role of the Federa-
Laurie Wax continues on page 6 Award winners continues on page 2
Carol Wilson
What’s the story behind your annual campaign gift?
By Aaron Gorodzinsky Director of Development
We’re about a month away from closing our 2024-25 campaign, and I wanted to take a moment to share some of the successes and challenges we’ve experienced together as a community. I hope this will make you feel proud of your giving and inspired to continue supporting our Federation and Jewish community.
Sustaining the pillars of our community
Your generous support has enabled us to ensure that the three core pillars of our Jewish community—our Jewish Day School, Jewish Community Center, and Jewish Family Service—continue to operate at a high level. This year, the Federation allocated over $750,000 to these institutions, making all of us their largest supporters.
In addition to our core allocations, we’ve directed over $300,000 in Educational Tax Improvement Credit (EITC) funding this year to support scholarships for Jewish education at the Jewish Day School and early childhood education at the JCC. While
both schools benefit from these funds, it is the Federation that applies for, manages, and distributes these dollars year after year.
This year, thanks to an increase/additional EITC grant, we were able to fund security guards at both the JCC and the Jewish Day School, providing critical protection for our most vulnerable community members: our children. This is in addition to our core security funding, which supports our regional security advisor in partnership with the Secure Community Network. Through this partnership, we’ve significantly expanded our security efforts, including:
• Security training for the entire community
• Comprehensive security assessments for all our facilities, including synagogues and agencies
• Coordination with law enforcement
Advocating for our community at the state and national levels
This year, we dedicated significant time and energy to building relationships with our elected officials, ensuring that our community’s voice is
heard and that key legislation advances our priorities. Our advocacy focused on three critical areas:
• Combating antisemitism. We championed the adoption of a clear definition of antisemitism—specifically the internationally recognized International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition—to help schools, law enforcement, and institutions identify and respond effectively to antisemitic acts.
• Doubling security funding. With our advocacy we doubled the state security grant funds from $5 million to $10 million.
• Supporting Israel and advocating for hostages. As Israel continues its fight against Hamas in Gaza, we’ve been actively advocating for the release of all hostages and working to ensure that support for Israel remains bipartisan, even as that becomes increasingly complex.
This year, we met with all our federal elected officials; participated in a community advocacy day in Washington, D.C.; met with the governor; and engaged with state and city representatives to ensure that they understand the challenges our community
faces and continue to stand with us.
Global support
Your support has also allowed us to continue helping the most vulnerable Jews around the world and sustaining critical programs in Israel. Whenever there is a need—whether in the former Soviet Union, Israel, or anywhere else in the Jewish world—your campaign gift has enabled our community to respond with compassion and speed.
There’s still time to make a difference
As we approach the end of our campaign on June 30, there’s still time to join us if you haven’t yet made your gift. Every dollar makes a difference. Each one strengthens our community, supports vital services, and ensures a strong Jewish future locally, nationally, and globally.
You can make your donation today by calling 610-8215500.
Thank you for your generosity and for being part of something truly meaningful. Together, we are Here for Good!
Award winners
Continued from page 1
nephew, and cousin of Jews who lived under Nazi rule in Vienna, he became involved in the Muhlenberg College Institute for Jewish-Christian Understanding’s Youth and Prejudice initiative. As part of the initiative during its nearly 20-year existence and aggregate audience of some 20,000 local students, he made the rounds to speak about the dangers of prejudice to hundreds of middle schoolers and high schoolers. He’s currently a member of the Federation’s Community Relations Council and is active in the Lehigh Conference of Churches Interfaith Action Committee.
Once the award portion of the night gives way to the annual meeting portion, current Federation board members will vote on nominees for the open positions. Federation Past President Gary Fromer, known for his speedy application of Robert’s Rules of Order, will no doubt make the election process painless, as he always does. See page 4 for the list.
Here for Good—and for each other
As we approach the close of the 2025 Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs on June 30, I find myself filled with gratitude and awe for what we accomplish—together. This year has tested us in ways we couldn’t have predicted. But thanks to your generosity, your compassion, and your unwavering commitment, our campaign was not only successful—it was a lifeline.
Our theme, Here for Good, is more than a message—it has been our mantra. It reminds us that even in a world of uncertainty, we can find strength in community. That together, we can respond to urgent needs—whether here in the Lehigh Valley, in Israel, or around the world.
This year, we did more than raise funds. Through your support, we sustained
the heartbeat of our community: our local agencies, the Jewish Day School, Jewish Family Service, the Jewish Community Center, our synagogues, and Hillels. But we also did something more—we took a stand. In the face of rising antisemitism, we educated, advocated, and united. Here for Good came to mean being present, being vocal, and being courageous.
Your strong support and your belief in our mission kept us steady. It is because of you that we were able to:
• Expand food pantry and senior services through Jewish Family Service
• Ensure successful early childhood education, safe summer camps, and vital programming at the Jewish Community Center
• Help the Jewish Day School
deliver a robust and safe academic year
• Support Israel while advocating the release of every hostage
• Provide humanitarian aid, rescue efforts, and other critical responses to global crises
Through our Community Relations Council, we stepped up, advancing critical advocacy, education, and security efforts. We were ready because the infrastructure was already in place—built and sustained by your generosity.
This is the power of our annual campaign. It is what enables the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley to respond swiftly in moments of crisis and steadily in times of growth. It is how we ensure that Jewish life here and abroad continues to thrive.
Our achievements this
Couples
$54 Families (3+ people)
RSVP by scanning the QR code or by visiting the link below.
We gratefully acknowledge those individuals who have offered expressions
IN HONOR
JOAN
In
Marilyn
KAREN
In
Marilyn
ALICE
In
Eileen
Roberto Fischmann
LAURIE AND ROBBY WAX
In celebration of your son Ben graduating from law school
Eileen and Roberto Fischmann IN MEMORY
JESSICA WOLFF
(Mother of Joanna Powers)
Eileen and Roberto Fischmann
year are thanks to the remarkable leadership of President Robby Wax, campaign cochairs Billy Markson and Israel and Valeska Zighelboim, Women’s Philanthropy President Laurie Wax, and allocations chair Iris Epstein. Their vision, together with our agency partners and professional staff, helped us navigate every challenge with purpose and resolve.
To our volunteers, donors, lay leaders, and every individual who played a role in this journey—thank you. You exemplify the best of who we are.
As the 2025 campaign
draws to a close, I am proud of what we do and hopeful for what’s ahead. Your support makes a profound difference. You ensure that our community is not only here, but Here for Good.
Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful, joyful summer. I look forward to your participation in the fall as we prepare for a purposeful and inspiring 2025–26 program year.
HAKOL STAFF
CARL ZEBROWSKI Editor
CHARLENE RIEGGER Director of Marketing
HAKOL is published 11 times per year for the Jewish communities of Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton and vicinity by the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley. COMMUNITY SUBMISSIONS
Submissions to HAKOL must be of interest to the entire Jewish community. HAKOL reserves all editorial rights including, but not limited to, the decision to print any submitted materials, the editing of submissions to conform to style and length requirements, and the placement of any printed material. Quotes may be edited for grammar and clarity. Articles should be submitted by e-mail or presented as typed copy; “Community Calendar” listings must be submitted by e-mail to hakol@jflv.org or online at www.jewishlehighvalley.org. Please include your name and a daytime telephone number where you can be contacted in the event questions arise. We cannot guarantee publication or placement of submissions.
MAIL, FAX, OR E-MAIL TO: JFLV ATTN: HAKOL 702 N. 22nd St. Allentown, PA 18104
Phone: (610) 821-5500
Fax: (610) 821-8946
E-mail: hakol@jflv.org
BILLY THOMPSON Digital Marketing and Graphic Design Associate
LEE KESTECHER SOLOMON Director of Community Engagement
ROBBY WAX JFLV President
WENDY EDWARDS Office Manager
GINGER HORSFORD Donor Services Associate
All advertising is subject to review and approval by The Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley (JFLV). JFLV reserves the right to decline, withdraw and/or edit any ad. The appearance of any advertising in HAKOL does not represent an endorsement or kashrut certification. Paid political advertisements that appear in HAKOL do not represent an endorsement of any candidate by the JFLV.
JEWISH FEDERATION OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY
STATEMENT
MISSION
In order to unite, sustain, and enhance the Lehigh Valley Jewish community, and support Jewish communities in Israel and around the world, the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley is dedicated to the following core values:
• Supporting Jews in need wherever they may be.
Supporting Israel as a Jewish homeland.
• Supporting and encouraging Jewish education in the Lehigh Valley as a means of strengthening Jewish life for individuals and families.
• Supporting programs and services of organizations whose values and mission meet local Jewish needs.
To accomplish this mission the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley is committed to the following operating guidelines:
• Raising and distributing funds to support the core values.
• Developing Jewish leaders. Building endowments to support implementation of core values.
• Committing to ongoing Jewish community strategic planning. Fostering cooperation among organizations and community building.
• Evaluating all decisions with respect to fiscal responsibility.
• Identifying unmet needs and investing in community initiatives to help get them started.
• Coordinating and convening a community response as an issue or need arises.
• Setting priorities for allocation and distribution of funds.
Approved by the JFLV Board of Directors on November 15, 2000 Member American Jewish Press Association
Acting as a central address for communication about events, programs and services of the Jewish community as a whole.
Maimonides doc offers clarity on vaccines
By Carl Zebrowski Editor
Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley ANNUAL MEETING
Thursday, June 12, 2025, 6:00 p.m. at the JCC
The Board Nominating Committee recommendations are: (as of May 14, 2025)
DIRECTORS WHOSE TERM EXPIRES 2027
Marty Katz
DIRECTORS WHOSE TERM EXPIRES 2028
Dr. Carol Bub Fromer
Lewis Gaines
Rachel Levin
Robert J. Grey
Rita Scheller
Eileen Ufberg
Vicki Wax
Dr. Robert (Bob) Wilson
HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS
Nati Lerner, Mayor of Yoav
The Officers Nominating Committee recommendations are:
President
Dr. William (Billy)
Markson
Vice Presidents
Iris Epstein
Beth Kozinn
Lauren Rabin
Bruce Reich
Dr. Israel Zighelboim
Secretary Aliette Abo
Treasurer Richard Bub
Past Presidents
Gary Fromer
Robert Wax
HONORARY
President
Ross Born
HONORARY
Treasurer Roberto Fischmann
HONORARY
Vice Presidents
Leonard Abrams
Wendy Born
Daniel E. Cohen
Barnet Fraenkel
Trustee
Vera Schiff
Pursuant to the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley by-laws, “any twenty (20) members of the Federation may, by petition, present to the Secretary the name of any one qualified member for nomination. No member may sign more than one such petition. No person shall be eligible for election as a member of the Board of Directors unless his or her name shall thus have been submitted to the Secretary or nominated by said Nominating Committee.”
MAIMONIDES
Happy Hour
“This is a very timely topic, obviously,” Dr. Michael Greenberg told the Maimonides Society audience assembled in the JCC on May 4 for his presentation “A Conversation on Vaccines.” Consider that the anti-vaccine movement has been growing in recent years, and getting more boisterous, especially with the resistance to Covid vaccinations.
A public airing of the facts, the history, the evidence accumulated from studies, and the unsettled debates by an expert was very much due for the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley’s society of healthcare professionals. Greenberg, a pediatrician with long experience working in the vaccine field, currently for the French pharmaceutical company Sanofi, did his part at the well-attended Brunch and Learn event.
“Vaccine hesitancy is not new,” Greenberg said. “This has roots in history.” When the first vaccine, against smallpox, was grown in cows in 1796, many feared it could turn them into herds of mooing and cud-chewing beasts.
This story that does not include human-cows had a good ending. “In the 1980s,” Greenberg said, “smallpox was declared eradicated. It’s the only human disease that has ever been eradicated, and it was through vaccination.”
Greenberg walked his listeners briskly along the timeline of vaccine history, pointing out some highlights. Tuning into his audience, he offered a roster of Jewish “vaccine stars” from Pennsylvania.
There’s Jonas Salk, developer of the first polio vaccine and a giant in the field. Then there’s Stanley Plotkin, who developed the first rubella (aka German measles) vaccine in the sixties, saw the disease declared eliminated in the Americas in 2015, and still sometimes weighs in on vaccine-related discussions.
“He turns 93 in June,” Greenberg said, “and he’s sharp as a tack.”
Greenberg described the six types of vaccines given to trigger an immune response in the recipient: inactivated— a dead virus; live-attenuated—a weakened virus; recombinant and related— part of a virus; toxoid—an inactivated toxin made by the germ that causes the disease; mRNA—messenger RNA telling cells to produce a harmless piece of a virus; and viral vector—putting material from the virus that causes the disease in a different virus, modified to be harmless.
Since a person’s resistance to viruses weakens with age while “comorbidities” (existing medical conditions such
as high blood pressure and diabetes) become increasingly likely and can make viruses more deadly in older people, adult vaccination is important. It’s also important in protecting vulnerable groups, such as infants and people with serious illnesses, with whom an adult may spend time. Some vaccinations that older adults should consider are for flu, shingles, pneumococcal pneumonia, Covid, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and MMR (measles, mumps, rubella).
One of the obstacles to vaccine programs is the antivax trend, which was already heating up before the Covid pandemic added fuel to the fire. Two of the three Covid vaccines available in the United States were mRNA. Greenberg emphasized that the skeptical reaction to mRNA was due more to its newness and therefore lack of long-term studies than to any evidence of harm. The risks, such as myocarditis (an inflammatory condition affecting the heart), are rare— and are more severe among the unvaccinated.
Greenberg advised that healthcare professionals treat skeptics with empathy and present them with treatment suggestions based on evidence. Strong, confident recommendations, he said, will often persuade a hesitant patient.
With mRNA and other ground-breaking vaccine possibilities in the works, we head into the future. There are always plenty of vaccines in development, Greenberg said. The process is slow, typically lasting 10-15 years, with an enormous amount of money required for research and testing and navigating a course filled with regulatory hurdles. But there currently is much hope for vaccinations against HIV, Lyme disease, cancer, opioid abuse, and Alzheimer’s disease.
As for the Maimonides Society future, summer break has arrived. Except for the very popular annual break from the summer break known as the Maimonides Happy Hour, 5:30-7 p.m. on Thursday, July 17, at the West End Taproom in Allentown.
If you’re a healthcare professional and would like to consider joining the Maimonides Society, contact Aaron Gorodzinsky at aaron@ jflv.org or 610-821-5500.
WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY OF THE JEWISH FEDERATION OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY
Women’s Philanthropy spices it up with Israeli chef
By Charlene Riegger Director of Marketing
Women’s Philanthropy gathered for their annual Dollara-Day event with Yaniv Cohen, the self-described “Spice Detective,” on May 15.
Cohen owns Jaffa, an Israeli restaurant in Miami, and wrote the book “My Spiced Kitchen,” which was made available to those in attendance. The event was open to women who pledge $365 or more to the Jewish Federation’s 2025 Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs.
Chaired by Marilyn Claire, Gia Jones, Amy Sams, and Ellen Sosis, the event began with the wafting aromas of the various spices laid out at the main table. Women were encouraged to visit Cohen there as he suggested different spices to put on the popcorn on offer. Tantalizing desserts were also available so the women could enjoy sweet and savory together.
During his presentation to the whole group, Cohen remarked that Israeli cuisine dates back to the Tanach from the laws of kashrut to the lentil stew that Jacob made for Esau and more. Then, after 2,000 years of Diaspora, many other flavors from around the world have been added to make it even more amazing.
Cohen talked about the two biggest influences on his love of spices. He is the oldest of five boys from parents who made aliyah from Iraq and Tunisia. When they came to Israel, they brought only spices, herbs, and their joy of life. He grew up with Jews from around the world,
which helped him appreciate other foods from placed like Hungary, Ethiopia, Russia, and Morocco. He helped his mother shop for spices at the market and helped her cook delicious Shabbat dinners.
The second influence came one day when he was a child. He was playing with other kids in the courtyard while the mothers hung their wash on the clotheslines. Cohen was running and fell with his arms outstretched onto a piece of glass. He was bleeding and scared. One of the moms rushed over and rubbed turmeric on his wound to stop the bleeding and told him it had antibacterial properties. His cut healed nicely and from then on he was mesmerized by the power of spices.
After Cohen’s presentation, the women measured out the spices on the table to make their own shawarma spice mix in glass jars. Cohen told the ladies to store spices and herbs they use frequently in the refrigerator and the others in the freezer. Spices kept in drawers or cabinets lose their aroma and flavor quickly.
The event ended with Cohen signing his book for participants. You can learn more about Cohen and his spice recipes on YouTube at youtube.com/@thespicedetective446.
For more information about Women’s Philanthropy and its events, contact Lee Kestecher Solomon at 610-821-5500 or email lee@jflv.org.
Hakol’s recipe writer puts spice cookbook to the test
192 pages.
By Sandi Teplitz Special to Hakol
This is the time of year when cooks long for renewal. We survived Passover and Shavuot and are still itching to make our mark in the culinary world, even if it’s just in our own kitchen. Spice Detective Yaniv Cohen is the person we’re searching for. You have to love a chef who introduces his cookbook as “a love letter
to the women in my family,” crediting his mother, grandmothers, and aunts for their influence in making him what he is—and hoping his daughter will carry on the legacy. Cohen was born in Israel, where he developed a passion for food, its many flavors and particularly its medicinal properties. His cookbook focuses on the flavors of the herbs and spices, some of which are unfamiliar to Americans. Each of the 15 spices he introduces is highlighted in a unique recipe and is prefaced with a mini story, making us feel more comfortable, confident, and inspired. He offers advice about where to purchase the spices and explains their many uses.
Basmati rice is very popular in India and Nepal. Cohen makes it a standout dish with the addition of Middle Eastern spices. One taste will make you want to try his other magnificent recipes. A glance at the beautiful photos will seal the deal.
Turmeric Basmati Rice with Red Lentil Kitchri
1/2 cup canola oil
1 onion, diced
8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
2 cups basmati rice, rinsed and drained
2 cups orange lentils, rinsed and drained
4 cups water
2 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon turmeric
2 teaspoons ground coriander
salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon cumin seeds or caraway seeds to garnish
Sauté the onion in hot oil for 6-8 minutes. Add the garlic for 1 minute, watching to prevent burning. Add the rice and lentils and sauté for 8 minutes. Add the water, cumin, turmeric, coriander, and salt and pepper. Stir and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and place a lid on tightly. Cook for 20 minutes. Turn off the heat and keep the lid on for 15 minutes (don’t peek!). Transfer the rice to a serving dish and top with seeds.
What’s behind our endowment agenda?
By Mike Miller Lehigh Valley Jewish Foundation Chair and Aaron Gorodzinsky Director of Development
We would like to invite you to take a peek at what happens at one of our quarterly Lehigh Valley Jewish Foundation (LVJF) meetings. Here are some highlights of our last meeting, April 30, and how they impact our Jewish community, not only in the Lehigh Valley but also beyond.
1. The meeting opened with an interpretation of a d’var Torah by Mike that was literally a joke. Question: Who was the best businesswoman in the Torah? Answer: The Pharaoh’s daughter, because she pulled a profit out of water.
2. After some Jewish content, the chair of our investment committee, Lew Gaines, gave another good news report illustrating that our Committee Endowment Fund has outperformed our benchmarks and peers with a resounding 7.98% and 13.21% return over our last 10 and five years respectively. He also pointed out that in the last five years, our endowment fund has increased from $23.7 million to $52.8 million and our investment in Israel Bonds has increased to about 10% of our portfolio. We currently hold approximately $5.2 million in Israel Bonds
on behalf of our entire Jewish community.
3. Each year, LVJF distributes a portion of our earnings to the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley to supplement its annual campaign, benefit Jewish Family Service, the Jewish Day School, the Jewish Community Center, our synagogues, Israel, and organizations around the world that serve vulnerable Jewish populations. This year we distributed $825,000, which was an increase of $51,000 over the previous year.
4. Mike then reported on the principal contributions and distributions over the last quarter. The agencies, organizations, and synagogues (AOS) contributed $1.2 million to their endowment funds coinvested with LVJF, including $1 million from two synagogue cemetery funds. The many Federation donor funds contributed $500,000, including a donor advised fund for $45,000, three new Maimonides Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment members for $66,000, and two new legacy philanthropic funds for $381,000.
5. LVJF contributed a match of $100,000 to help JFLV exceed its goal of $1 million for the Israel Emergency Fund. That money has been distributed in its entirety to our partners in Israel.
6. Life and Legacy report: Lynne Shampain gave an
updated report on stewardship activities and provided several ideas that the committee has worked on to help our community organizations build their own endowment funds.
7. PA EITC/SPE update: Aaron gave us an update on how this Pennsylvania tax credit program can continue to raise significant scholarship funds for the JDS and JCC. He emphasized how businesses and individuals could get back 90-95% of their scholarship donations as credits on their Pennsylvania income tax returns. Each year, we distribute over $350,000 of EITC funds to the JDS and the JCC, to help fund vibrant Jewish education in the Lehigh Valley.
We wanted to provide you with this quick overview of a normal meeting, because each new endowment fund that is established in our community today ensures that we can continue supporting our Lehigh Valley Jewish community in the future.
If you would like to learn about the many ways to open a fund and help us ensure many Jewish futures, talk to us. We’ll be thrilled to find the right fit to ensure that your investment today pays for many generations to come. Reach out to Aaron at aaron@ jflv.org or 610-821-5500.
Laurie Wax
Continued from page 1
tion in the community.
“One of my main goals, and a very important one, was to explain exactly what the Federation does,” she says. “People don’t realize the Federation gives money every year directly to our local Jewish institutions here in the Lehigh Vally as well as to Israel.”
Laurie’s husband, Robby Wax, is officially ending his tenure as Federation president at the same time Laurie’s tenure ends. The people filling those two positions have to do a lot of work hand in hand.
“Laurie’s involvement certainly made my job easier,” Robby told Hakol for an article that appeared in the May issue. “Women’s Philanthropy drives the success of Federation, and she’s been
an exceptional president and built a talented team around her.”
That team will keep things going after Laurie moves on (not that she has plans for her community leadership and volunteering to end anytime soon). And one of those team members is taking over as president.
“Women’s Philanthropy couldn’t be in better hands than Lauren Rabin,” Laurie says. “I couldn’t feel more comfortable and proud that she’s taking on the presidency. Lauren is passionate about Federation and the work it does. Every president has their own vision of what the next two years will be like, and there’s no doubt in my mind that she will be a success.”
Save taxes with your IRA
By Mike Miller Lehigh Valley Jewish Foundation Chair
Leaving a charitable bequest, for example to the Lehigh Valley Jewish Foundation (LVJF), through an Individual Retirement Account offers several unique advantages, particularly in terms of tax efficiency and estate planning.
When considering ways to leave a lasting impact through charitable giving, an IRA stands out as a particularly advantageous tool. Beyond the inherent goodwill of supporting meaningful causes, funding a charitable bequest through an IRA offers unique financial and tax benefits that amplify its value for you, your family, and LVJF beneficiary organizations.
One of the most compelling benefits is the potential for significant tax savings. Traditional IRAs are funded with pretax dollars, meaning that distributions during your lifetime are taxed as ordinary income. However, when an IRA is bequeathed to LVJF, the funds pass to LVJF taxfree. This avoids the income tax that would typically apply if the funds were inherited by an individual. From
a financial planning perspective, this allows you to direct your most tax-burdened assets to LVJF, preserving other less-taxed assets for your loved ones.
Another benefit lies in the flexibility and simplicity of the process. Designating LVJF as a beneficiary on an IRA requires minimal paperwork and can usually be updated at any time, ensuring that you retain control over your plans. This method often incurs little to no administrative cost, making it an accessible option for you.
In sum, choosing an IRA to fund a charitable bequest is a thoughtful, efficient, and impactful way to give. It not only reflects your generosity but also optimizes the financial and tax benefits available, ensuring that your contribution achieves the greatest good. This strategy allows you to weave philanthropy into your legacy seamlessly and meaningfully.
For further information, contact Aaron Gorodzinsky, director of development for the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley, at 610-8215500 or aaron@jflv.org, or go to the LVJF website at lvjfgiving.org.
Top Phils prospect impresses on Jewish Heritage Night
By Carl Zebrowski Editor
May 8 may have seen the biggest turnout yet for the annual Jewish Heritage Night at the Lehigh Valley IronPigs. Despite threatening weather forecasts and skies that remained ominously gray around CocaCola Park, the crowd stayed and the rain held up until late in the ballgame.
Before the minor league contest between the IronPigs and the Worcester Red Sox began, a bunch of Jewish community members joined the group of assorted fans walking to the pitcher’s mound for the ceremonial “first pitch.” There were adults and kids. Some made impressive tosses. Others not quite.
Rabbi Adrienne Rubin of Congregation Bnai Shalom was among the pitchers. This was her first IronPigs night, having been installed as rabbi here just last November. While waiting for her turn to throw, she removed her official Jewish Heritage Night baseball cap to show off a colorful kippah underneath.
As the game started, a rush of community members came through the main gates and headed right to the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley’s table to pick up their heritage night caps. As a bonus, Jewish Federation Champion Sponsor Firstrust Bank was handing out sunglasses and piggy banks to all passersby who wanted them. A lot did.
One fan came over to the table, knowing that his gen eral ticket didn’t entitle him to one of the caps, just to
sign. They were white with a dark blue bill with a silver Star of David emblazoned on the front and Hebrew letters representing IronPigs.
Rabbi Jonathan Powers and his catering associates (and son Yitzi) set up their equipment and served a kosher meal to all who had purchased the meal voucher with their ticket. Fans had the option of kosher hot dog or knish along with a bag of potato chips and beverage.
As for the game itself, community members tuned into the IronPigs’ major league parent club, the Philadelphia Phillies, appreciated the lucky opportunity to watch Andrew Painter, one of Major League Baseball’s top pitching prospects, in his first outing since injuring his throwing arm last year. The night went well for Painter: three innings pitched, no runs given up. By the time rain came down and the game was called, enough innings had been played to log an official decision: a 3-1 IronPigs victory.
If all goes well, Painter will be pitching in Philadelphia next year, but Jewish Heritage Night will return again in the Valley. Get your tickets as soon as they’re available in the
BE AWARE TRAINING
How to recognize suspicious or potentially dangerous behavior and threats, and what to do. Designed for every member of the community, no background in security is required. The course will cover the basics of situational awareness.
Training Dates (choose one):
Monday, June 16, 2025, at 7:00 PM Monday, Nov. 17, 2025, at 2:00 PM
COUNTERING ACTIVE THREAT TRAINING
A comprehensive training program to counter an active threat event developed for faithbased institutions and houses of worship.
Training Dates (choose one):
Monday, July 21, 2025, at 2:00 PM Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, at 7:00 PM
STOP THE BLEED TRAINING
This training provides community members with the skills to save lives by applying emergency first aid to control bleeding.
Training Date:
Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE JFS CHEERS FOR VOLUNTEERS HONOREES
Aliette and Marc Abo
CHARLIE EPSTEIN
In celebration of your participation in the 2025 USA Gymnastics Development Program and this Summer’s Maccabi Games
Carol and Barry Halper
HAROLD GOLDFARB
In celebration of your Special
Roberta and Jeff Epstein
CAROLE AND MICHAEL LANGSAM
In celebration of your grandson Max’s graduation from
Marlene and Arnan Finkelstein
ARLENE AND IRA LEVINE
In celebration of your grandson Ari’s Bar Mitzvah
Evelyn and Jay Lipschutz
PAULINE AND BILL TRACHTENBERG
In celebration of your grandson’s Bar Mitzvah
Sylvia and Sam Bub
BARBARA YUDIS AND TERRY SCHETTINI
In celebration of your son Noah’s marriage
Marlene and Arnan Finkelstein
IN MEMORY
ALLEN COHEN
(Brother of Robert Cohen)
Aaron Gorodzinsky and Jennie Schechner
SUSIE EISEMAN
(Cousin of Ellen Blumberg and Laura and Bob Black)
Stephanie and Stephen Szilagyi
DEANNE (DEE) KAPLAN (Wife of Arny Kaplan)
Roberta and Jeff Epstein
Beth and Wes Kozinn
DORIS (DOE) LEVAN
(Mother of Noel, Barry and Jay Levan)
Eileen Ufberg
ALFRED (FRED) SUSSMAN
(Husband of Barbara Sussman)
Sybil and Barry Baiman
Susan Flemming
Marlene and Arnan
Finkelstein
Judy and Marty Krasnov
Penny and Adam Roth
Deena and Mark Scoblionko
Vicki Wax
WILLIAM (BILL) TUFFIASH (Father of Marissa, Michael and Scott Tuffiash)
Aliette and Marc Abo
JESSICA WOLFF
(Mother of Joanna Powers)
Aliette and Marc Abo
Aaron Gorodzinsky and Jennie Schechner
Lee and Ariel Solomon
GUARDIAN TRAINING
GUARDIAN TRAINING
Eileen Ufberg
Vicki Wax
Guardians take responsibility for the safety and security of themselves, families, and community. Learn skillsets that help you identify, protect, and respond to all hazards, enabling you to become an Active Bystander in your community.
Guardians take responsibility for the safety and security of themselves, families, and community. Learn skillsets that help you identify, protect, and respond to all hazards, enabling you to become an Active Bystander in your community.
We gratefully acknowledge those individuals who have offered expressions of friendship through recent gifts to the Lehigh Valley Jewish Foundation. The minimum contribution for an Endowment Card is $10. Call 610-821-5500 or visit jewishlehighvalley.org to place your card requests.
Thank you for your support.
Training Date:
Training Date:
Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, at 9:00 AM
Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, at 9:00 AM
DE-ESCALATION TRAINING
DE-ESCALATION TRAINING
De-escalation Training equips people with the knowledge, skills, and techniques to defuse or reduce tension, hostility, or conflict in a situation.
De-escalation Training equips people with the knowledge, skills, and techniques to defuse or reduce tension, hostility, or conflict in a situation.
Training Date:
Training Date:
Monday, Oct. 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM
Monday, Oct. 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM
All training sessions are located at the Jewish Community Center. Registration is required. To register, scan the QR code or visit jewishlehighvalley.org/security-training-schedule or call 610.821.5500. of the Lehigh Valley
All training sessions are located at the Jewish Community Center. Registration is required. To register, scan the QR code or visit jewishlehighvalley.org/security-training-schedule or call 610.821.5500. of the Lehigh Valley of
A community Lag B’omer with
By Carl Zebrowski Editor
If you didn’t come to the Lehigh Valley Zoo for Lag B’omer because of the threat of rain, you missed a fun and relaxing—and 100% dry and exceptionally comfortable— evening with the animals, who were active and apparently enjoying the company of the Jewish community adults and kids wandering around during this special Temple Beth El event.
“Only humans care about getting wet from the rain,” our official recipe writer Sandi Teplitz said the day before, confident that if the
event wasn’t cancelled on account of weather, the animals would not disappoint. She was right.
The occasion of Lag B’omer is a happy one, a break for celebration amid the 49-day Counting of the Omer between the holidays of Passover and Shavuot. It’s the one day during this period of semi-mourning that allows for weddings and other merrymaking.
Inside the zoo’s main gates, the first-time visitor discovers that the animal habitats are situated on a loop. You can walk right or left upon entering and you’ll end up back at the same spot
at the end of your jaunt.
Highlights among the zoo’s animal residents included gently dueling goats, playful and energetic lemurs and red pandas, a sleepy bobcat, a wide-awake but hardly energetic tortoise, and a couple of loudly talkative (but perfectly G-rated and polite) cockatoos. Giraffes too. And if you, like some of the rest of us, haven’t seen one up close since you were a kid, you might have been surprised to experience first-hand just how tall they are.
Helping out with the event was PJ Library, a Jewish Federation program that ships free children’s books
CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES!
with Jewish content to Jewish homes monthly throughout the year. PJ had a table set up near the petting zoo, where Katey Landry-Johnston, a representative of the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania, got a (blowup) campfire “going” while families colored pages with wildlife scenes on them. They listened to Landry-Johnston talk about animals and the Girl Scouts—and, of course, read a PJ Library story.
The evening closed with Rabbi Moshe Re’em leading services as Shabbat candlelighting time approached. He had his guitar in hand and rich voice to pair with it for
some songs. As visitors left the zoo, Temple Beth El capped off the evening of celebration with an unexpected treat courtesy of the Weiss family: a shiny silver gift bag with a bottle of kosher grape juice and loaf of challah inside.
To sign up for PJ Library so you and your kids from newborn to age 12 can receive free books each month and participate in year-round fun and educational events along with other families in the community, visit pjlibrary. org/enroll-in-a-community.
on select models
ENGINEERED TO MASTER THE ROAD LESS
Outfitted with cutting-edge technology and connectivity, the innovative X3 continues to drive adventure to the next level. With its sharpened design and spacious interior, you’ll always lead the pack in style. Unlock the extraordinary potential of each day with the versatile BMW X3.
This is the Ultimate Driving Machine. ® HURRY IN FOR
Welcome Jen Moyer, Early Childhood Education Assistant Director
Mini & Jr. Maccabi Games Bring Spirit, Sportsmanship, and Star Wars to Cherry Hill
By Lisa Yoskowitz ECE Director
By Jodi Lovenwirth Aquatics Director
On Sunday, May 4, the campus of the Katz JCC in Cherry Hill, New Jersey became a hub of high energy, youthful enthusiasm, and cosmic flair as it hosted the 2025 Mini and Jr. Maccabi Games. With a nod to Star Wars and the date itself, the day’s theme—“May the 4th Be With You”—offered a playful backdrop to an inspiring day of Jewish youth sports. Over 750 athletes from 17 JCC delegations stretching from Washington, D.C. to New York, including Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, gathered to compete in a full lineup of athletic events. The games were supported by 125 coaches and an “endless force” of volunteers who kept the day running smoothly. Representing
the Jewish Community Center of the Lehigh Valley, Team Allentown once again proved itself to be more than just a competitor—it was a force of spirit and sportsmanship. During the Opening Ceremonies, Allentown had the honor of leading the procession, entering to the fitting song of Billy Joel’s “Allentown”, a symbolic anthem for a team known for bringing the Ruach (spirit) year after year.
From the youngest athletes participating in their first Maccabi experience to returning veterans ready to compete at the next level, Allentown showed up in full force—and left with stories to tell and medals to wear.
Pickleball, which featured a round-robin format in the morning and tournament play in the afternoon, was
February 1, 2025. And with that,
offering a curriculum designed to engage children through play, creativity, and hands-on experiences. We are excited about all of these positive additions and changes for our ECE program!
If one sport stood out in Allentown’s performance, it was swimming. The pool was buzzing with excitement as six talented athletes—Emma S., Riley S., Atacia H., Lily S., Josie Z., and Penny L.—delivered an unforgettable performance. In a field packed with talent, Allentown swimmers swam their hearts out, bringing home a remarkable 3 gold medals, 7 silver, and 1 bronze. Even more impressive, most swimmers broke their personal records, showing the results of months of hard work, focused coaching, and team support. Their success wasn’t just measured in medals—it was seen in the smiles at the end of each race, the cheers from teammates, and of course Allentown Ruach!
designed to maximize fun and sportsmanship. This format not only highlighted exciting play, but also fostered friendships from across all delegations. Allentown’s pickleball squad— Saige R., Sam B., Max L., and Rory L.—showed great enthusiasm, focus, and kindness on the court. While we were just short of bringing home medals, the laughter, teamwork, and new bonds that were formed made the day a meaningful success.
All eyes were on the courts as Dylan O. made a strong return to tennis this year. With poise and persistence, Dylan competed in a tough bracket and represented Allentown with maturity and determination. His return to the sport reminded everyone how valuable these games are for athlete development.
We are already looking ahead to next year’s games. The 2026 Mini and Jr. Maccabi Games are set to take place in Philadelphia. Planning is already underway, and Team Allentown is expected to return in full strength, fueled by this year’s successes and the bonds built through the Maccabi experience. More than just a day of competition, the Mini and Jr. Maccabi Games are about sportsmanship, connection, and Jewish pride. From the Star Wars lightsabers to the roars of encouragement from the stands, May 4 was a day the Allentown delegation—and all those in attendance—won’t soon forget.
As one coach remarked, “We come to compete, but we leave inspired. These athletes are the future of our community, and days like this are what it’s all about”.
May the Ruach be with you. Always.
Jen Moyer, ECE Assistant Director
Participants pose for JCC of the Lehigh Valley team photo during Maccabi Opening Ceremonies in Cherry Hill, NJ
Camp JCC Welcomes Maya and Moran, Israeli Emissaries
Reflections on Retirement: A Farewell from JCC Early Childhood Education Director
By Heather Lavin Program Director
By Lisa Yoskowitz Early Childhood Education Director
We are thrilled to announce that this summer, Camp JCC will have two Israeli shlichot this summer. We welcome back Maya Katzab and introduce a new member from Israel, Moran Pikris. Continuing our tradition of cultural exchange, they arrive with enthusiasm and a wealth of Israeli music, dance, and stories to share.
As I prepare to retire from my role as Director of Early Childhood Education, I find myself filled with both deep gratitude and quiet excitement—for the memories made, the milestones achieved, and the bright path ahead for early childhood education in our JCC community.
Welcoming Back Maya Katzab
Over the past six years, I have had the privilege of leading a passionate, creative, and deeply committed team of educators. Together, we’ve shaped the earliest learning experiences for countless children, laying the foundation for lifelong curiosity, resilience, and joy.
We are delighted to welcome back Maya Katzab from Yoav, Israel as the Israeli Adventure Specialist. Maya previously spent a summer with us, sharing her vibrant Israeli culture through music, dance, and storytelling. Her infectious
Some of my favorite milestones include:
Surviving and triumphing over the pandemic: Eight months into my new position, I was thrown a curve that could never have been anticipated. COVID-19 changed everything. There were many
By Alaina Schaeffer Youth & Camp Director
As summer approaches, Camp JCC is buzzing with excitement and fresh energy! I am thrilled to introduce some of the amazing staff who will be leading the way in making this summer extraordinary for our campers.
Please join me in welcoming Jen Appell, our new Youth & Camp Assistant Director. With her experience, enthusiasm, and dedication, Jen is ready to bring new ideas and help elevate the camp experience for everyone. I am delighted to have Donna Seibert (Miss Donna) and Darlin Santana serving as Head Counselors, whose leadership and compassion promise to make every camper feel seen, supported, and celebrated. Also joining the camp team again is Karli Miller, our Camp Office Administrator, who will be the friendly face behind the scenes,
enthusiasm and genuine love for her heritage made her a favorite among our campers. We are thrilled to have her back, as she continues to foster cultural exchange and lasting bonds within our community and through her Isreali Adventure camp programming.
sleepless nights while working from home for three months - so many fears and so many unknowns. Partnering with all of my colleagues via zoom helped us see the “light at the end of the COVID tunnel” and reopening in June of 2020 was a proud moment.
Meet Moran Pikris
Upgrading each classroom:
The ability to improve the aesthetics in each classroom transformed the visual and sensory qualities of all seven. These changes helped to create a calming, inviting and motivating environment for our teachers, empowering them to
Moran is a 20-year-old from Rishon Leziyyon, Israel and will be Camp JCC’s Music Specialist. She is an experienced song leader who can play guitar and loves to rock climb. Moran volunteered as a scout leader for two years and also at “Tzaad Kadima” for adults with special needs. She has been playing electric and acoustic guitar for 7 years and studied music at a conservatory.
evolve alongside the needs of our classrooms.
A Summer of Cultural Exchange
Enrollment of 100 children:
This sense of accomplishment is indeed more than a number. It is the knowledge that we are making a difference in the quality of early childhood education and this difference is one of the multitude of reasons our program has the “problem” of having waitlists for our classrooms!
At Camp JCC, we prioritize fun for our campers and staff while embracing the responsibility of educating our community about Israel. Moran and Maya are excited to engage in this cultural exchange, teaching campers about Israeli holidays, food, and daily life, fostering bonds that will last for years to come. Their interactions will enrich our campers’ understanding of a
As I step into retirement, I do so with immense pride and hope. The future of early childhood education here is in wonderful hands. I am thrilled
to welcome the new Director, Jen Moyer, whose vision, energy, and compassion will no doubt carry our mission even further. I have every confidence that the journey ahead will be one of continued innovation, equity, and love for learning.
“Who is wise? He who learns from every person.” To all the educators, parents, partners, and little learners I’ve had the honor to know—thank you. You’ve given me more than I could ever return.
different culture and strengthen their roles as young ambassadors representing Israel. By summer’s end, Moran and Maya will have left lasting memories and a legacy of cultural appreciation that will resonate beyond camp, embodying the hope and joy that cultural sharing brings. Please join us in welcoming these two remarkable young women to the Lehigh Valley this year. Summer is just around the corner, and we can’t wait to see them!
Here’s to the next chapter, and to all the stories yet to be told in our joyful, bustling classrooms.
Camp JCC Welcomes New and Familiar Faces For Summer 2025
keeping everything running smoothly.
I am especially happy to welcome our Shlichim, visiting us all the way from Israel! Welcome back to Maya Katzab for her second summer and greetings to Moran Pikris. Their presence adds a rich, cultural layer to our camp community, helping our campers build deeper connections to Israel through fun and engaging activities.
This summer, we’ll be offering all the classic favorites that our families know and love: sports, art, STEM, music, Israeli adventure, daily swim, gaga, Shabbat parties, field trips, special events, late nights, and so much more! But we’re not stopping there. We’re excited to introduce exciting enhancements and additions, including a Builder’s Room for our budding engineers, upgrades to our Games Room, new songs to sing and dance
to, and a new camp-wide, summer-long scavenger hunt that promises to keep the fun going all season long. Plus, our incredible counselors are coming fully stocked with countless new games and activities to make every day feel special.
What truly sets our camp apart is not just the fun—it’s our commitment to each child’s growth and happiness. We strive to ensure that every camper is learning, having fun, and making meaningful connections with fellow campers and counselors alike. A key way we support this is through our Value Tags. This summer, our camp values are: Camp Spirit, Courage, Friendship, Integrity, and Peace. Throughout the week, campers who embody these values will have the chance to be recognized with a special value tag—a fun and heartfelt way to celebrate who they are
and what they contribute to our community.
With so many choices for summer programming, we are honored that families continue to choose our camp. We can’t wait to share another season of joy, connection, and Jewish community with your children.
With Day Camp Spirit, Alaina Schaeffer Youth & Camp Director
Jen Appell, Youth & Camp Assistant Director
Jen Moyer, New ECE Director
Lisa Yoskowitz, Former ECE Director, leading Shabbat celebration
Maya Katzab, Israeli Adventure Specialist Moran Pikris, Music Specialist
we’d be here only a few weeks at most. As the pandemic continued, we made decision after decision to establish roots and build a life here in Pennsylvania.
demic as built-in playmates
By Joanna Powers Head of School
As we end the school term along with schools across the country, you’ll hear a lot of “the year flew by” and “I can’t believe it’s June already!” Here at the JDS it might seem that way to some, but I like to reflect on the 2024-25 school year as a wondrous stretch of growth, progress, and beautiful moments and memories.
There was no urgent rush from the high holidays in the fall to Thanksgiving celebrations and from Chanukah traditions to the first flowers of spring. Every step was steeped in integrated learning, which included Judaics, Hebrew, core general studies following Pennsylvania state standards, and specialty subjects. Not only do we discuss the sweet significance of dipping an apple in honey on Rosh Hasha-
Why JDS?
By Megan Hyman
When it came time for Joseph, our now five-year-old son, to get back into an early childhood education program, the welcoming, intimate, and warm environment at JDS was an obvious place for us to turn. The administration and staff worked tirelessly to adhere to everchanging guidelines from the CDC and still make the magic of school very real for its students. Joseph FLOURISHED in this environment, and now that he’s in his third year as a student (kindergarten!) he loves the dynamic and joyful learning experience he’s had there. I’ll never forget when he came home to recite the full Pledge of Allegiance and knew all the words to the Hatikvah at three years old!
Reaching the finish line and heading straight to the starting line
The JDS has enabled that strengthen – they check on the playground and other in the hallways. older children care for Evelyn is always so proud the “big kids” helps her pack at the end of the talks about his “reading stantly!
nah, but also we learn about bees and honey production, the lifespan of an apple tree, how to translate the idea into tapuach u’dvash, the history of these traditions, and how to write an instructive paragraph about celebrating the holiday. Rosh Hashanah songs, art projects, library books, and even holiday-related games that develop gross motor skills filled the students’ days. The Jewish New Year was only the start of our immersive approach through the school year journey. The end of the school year is packed with events and excitement, but still at a peaceful pace. The “Yoms” were honored with beautiful programming led by Moreh Ariel and carried out by our amazing staff. Along with the Jewish Federation’s
of Lehigh Valley was the easiest “yes!” we’ve ever said. We arrived in Allentown in late March 2020 with a 2-year-old son, Joseph and 4-month-old daughter, Evelyn. Having flown in from Dallas, Texas to be closer to family (Adam’s parents, Dr. David and Mrs. Susan Hyman who have lived in Allentown for nearly 50 years), we assumed
This year, his sister Evelyn was able to join the three-year-old program with the same teachers and several younger siblings of her brother’s class. She was very shy at first, but quickly overcame that and truly gets ready for school with enthusiasm. The school has supported her love of art, singing, and she’s made the sweetest friends. We LOVE getting updates and photos on the Class Dojo app throughout the day.
Our kids became extremely close during the quarantine stage of the pan-
One of the major tenets a devotion to the development confident students who to meet the world. This representative of our experience. Sadly, our chapter in ing to a close. For professional are moving back to Texas sion of the school year. community that Amy and volunteers have created us forever. The friendships a family through the school and we know these memories will bring us joy for years
For any parent grappling sion of where to send your in the Lehigh Valley, an extremely supportive from the uncertainties our daily lives, and the ment to instill a love of ish values.
incredible events, the community, the students, and their families had the opportunity to experience meaningful and moving programming for Yom HaShoah and Yom Hazikaron and rousing celebrations for Yom Ha’Atzmaut.
grader. The last day of teaching the fourth-grade class. A bittersweet milestone for so many of our students and teachers, and for our devoted staff. And me. These are children I am watching grow and mature while I still see many of them as the littles they started JDS as. These are teachers with whom I have been working to support their craft and their hearts. Parents are watching their babies become middle schoolers or kindergarteners. Volunteers, board members, donors, and community members—they are all essential parts of our team.
Who is the refugee? It’s me.
Editor’s note: On Saturday, February 4, JDS parent Anastasiia Zavodnyk, was invited to be a guest speaker at Refugee Shabbat at Temple Beth El. Here are her remarks.
So, who is the refugee? It’s me. I can’t speak for everyone, only for myself and my family. But let my story be something that can show the general picture.
Prek Plus held its annual Mother’s Day tea to the delight of the moms and grandmas who attended. The kids sang songs of appreciation for the ladies in their lives, watched a slideshow, and hosted a sophisticated tea at beautifully set tables complete with projects and gifts for mom, including a fancy
The beginning of 2022 It was a happy time for me.
I had a beautiful house near Kyiv, capital of Ukraine. I had a garden full of fruit trees and berry bushes. I had great plans – I was opening my own cafe and bakery store, I was setting up a big greenhouse to plant many vegetables there. My children went to great preschool and afterschool smart classes. My daughter started to go to ballroom classes at the best dance school in the area. My husband had a very important role with great career opportunities in the biggest energy company in Ukraine. We used to invite our friends to our little parties at home, used to see our parents when we wanted to. It was really a very great period of life; I was truly happy.
ring! The festivities continued with a first grade play and siddur presentation, a chumash celebration, a (postponed due to weather) Lag B’omer Field Day, and our crown jewel of the spring, Special Friends Day, on June 5 at 9:30 a.m. There is nothing like seeing family, friends, and community members come together to bask in the talents and achievements of our children and understand why the JDS is such a special place. Songs, dances, skits, presentations, moving speeches, honored grandmothers, a middle school showcase, classroom activities, and a picnic lunch make for an unforgettable morning. Our team and students are unstoppable. And that brings us to the last day of JDS. The last day of being a second
That’s where the starting line comes in. As soon as the last student goes off to plunge into summer, our plans for the 2025-26 school year are in full swing. These next few months give our team generous amounts of time to strategize, fine-tune, and customize this coming year’s experience for everyone involved. We take a breath and cannot wait to open those doors again in just a few weeks. Whether the next year flies by or cruises leisurely, we will travel together and soak in the journey.
guage that my kids have – only because very important because we have the ability with their roots, which I hadn’t in my help and support made us confident here, in the US!
So, what is the difference between and other people who came here as sons why we came. I love Ukraine, it’s of my children and many past generations my husband’s family. We miss our home fore February 2022 we never thought ing abroad, we simply didn’t want to, satisfied with our lives and happy in Ukraine. the US because it was the best option the most difficult. It was hard, and it because of usual immigrant’s difficulties ent language, different culture, finding local documents, impossible life without impossible life without a credit score, ficulty is not being allowed to go out for people, who decide to come here, big goal, who choose to live here and thing to make this “American dream” it is very hard for us, refugees, forced heart is still at our home with our friends, parents, houses and gardens. And only our life here more like at home (through versations, care and support). Because day most important things are not material will never ever fill your heart and soul So, I want to say a big, huge thank you to all of you! I am grateful for the ability day, in a safe, beautiful and ambitious grateful to all of you, for listening to porting my family and Ukraine. I believe end soon, that I can finally see my home friends and neighbors. But I, as all Ukrainians, in that fatal February, in pre-war days, our land, in our home; happy, confident days, full of ambitious plans. *I
JDS is a beneficiary agency of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley
Intern Kelly Brightbill: Building the Social Work Experience at JFS
Jewish Family Service has partnered with Cedar Crest College’s School of Social work for eight years to provide supportive educational experiences to students. Over the past eight months, Kelly Brightbill fulfilled her practicum hours by interning at JFS. As we celebrate Kelly’s graduation, she shares her thoughts about the time she’s spent at JFS.
Working closely with the Accessibility and Inclusion department was a true highlight of my experience. In preparation for an advocacy day at the
state capitol, I worked one-on-one with young adults with disabilities to empower them to advocate for their rights to self-determination. I had the opportunity to be a part of the programming process for the Parents Support Group of adult children with disabilities and the Empowerment Group for adults with disabilities. Participation in developing and co-leading these two support groups has provided a strong foundation to draw from as I prepare for my master’s degree at Columbia University.
My work with the older adult population opened my eyes to how impactful and important programming and case management services are to healthy aging. I’ve seen firsthand what a positive impact Let’s Play and Creative Connections has on participants of these programs. The staff at Jewish Family Service recognized my affinity for working with older adults and hired me as a part-time case manager.
Interning at Jewish Family Service has been an amazing experience and has allowed me to
more fully step into my role as a social worker.
I am looking forward to continuing my social work education with the hope of one day working in the Lehigh Valley.
Congratulations to JFS Scholarship Winners
University, College of Engineering.
thank
Pam
BETH AND WES
will be attending the University of Massachusetts Amherst and majoring in business.
I am grateful for all the staff and clients of JFS for helping me grow and for providing even more motivation to be in the field of social work.
and majoring in international relations.
Plant a Row for JFS this Summer
Plant an additional row in your garden or pick up a little extra produce at the store to donate to our Community Food Pantry.
Donations can be brought to JFS, Monday-Thursday 9a.m.-3p.m., Friday 9a.m.-1p.m. Learn more at www.jfslv.org/produce.
and Stephen Volk
JEANETTE GOODMAN (Mother of Bryan and Miles Goodman) Bette Friedenheim
HONOR
CHEERS HONOREES
Byala
Arlene and Richard Stein
JANIE COHEN (Cheers honoree)
Edward Kamens
Sue and Kenneth Kirshner
KOZINN (Anniversary)
Pam Byala
Nancy and Mike Koch
Kelly Brightbill
Martin Philip Memorial Scholarship awarded to Gabriel Morse who
Gaines Family Foundation Prize in Engineering awarded to Max Bub, who will be attending Schreyer Honors College at The Pennsylvania State
Martin Philip Memorial Scholarship awarded to Mikaela Garber, who will be attending Binghamton University.
Martin Philip Memorial Scholarship awarded to Eric Zager who will be attending The Pennsylvania State University
BOBBY HAMMEL Beverly and Stephen Volk
PHYLLIS RINGEL
JFS honors volunteers at annual gala
Jewish Family Service’s annual Cheers for Volunteers brought over 200 people from across the Lehigh Valley to Temple Beth El on April 27.
This year’s honorees included Clara Bergstein, Larry Center, Jane Cohen, Sandi Fine, Beth Kozinn,
Roberta Kritzer, Larry Levitt, Howard Nathanson, Phyllis Perkin, Marsha Timmerman, and Crissy Toff. Each of these volunteers represented a Jewish organization in our community.
As a video featuring all the honorees highlighted their
accomplishments and their reasons for volunteering, sounds of laughter and cheers from the many community members, family, friends, and sponsors filled the room. All the volunteers expressed surprise at being honored.
Also at the event, JFS un-
veiled a new annual corporate sponsorship program as well as premiered a 30-second commercial for it produced by ASR Media.
JFS volunteers expand the reach of the agency throughout the Lehigh Valley, and they frequently say how their experience provides more satisfaction for themselves than the people they’re helping.
All photos courtesy of Donna Fisher Photography.
Providing toiletries for Jewish Family Service clients
Hannah Berger will be called to the Torah as a bat mitzvah on October 18 at Congregation Keneseth Israel.
The Springhouse Middle
School seventh-grade student loves reading and parkour as well as swimming on the JCC swim team and playing the saxophone.
When planning her mitzvah project, Hannah’s mom, Nissa Gossom, suggested that Hannah contact Jewish Family Service to see what kind of help they could use. Hannah met with the volunteer coordinator, Jen Oxfeld, to begin planning.
JFS is guided by Jewish values and helps individuals and families live healthier, more stable lives by providing social services, professional counseling, education, and community programs. Its Community Food Pantry serves Jewish clients across the Lehigh Valley and pro-
vides food and essential items to individuals and families, regardless of religion, living in the 18104 zip code.
“I want to help people and give them something they don’t have,” Hannah said. “I couldn’t live without my toiletries like shampoo and conditioner and other basic household items, so I wanted to make sure JFS clients have those things too.”
Hannah met with Oxfeld and they decided she would collect bar soap and deodorant. She made flyers that she up and emailed friends and family to promote her effort. She’s also asking the community to pitch in by donating these products. She’ll have collection boxes at the JCC and at Congregation Kenes-
eth Israel through June 30. She will also pick up boxes at your home; email her at hannahmitzvahproject@gmail.com to arrange a pickup.
Hannah’s parents, Aaron Berger and Nissa Gossom, are very proud of Hannah. “We are so proud that Hannah has chosen this mitzvah project to help people in our community get the personal care items they need,” they said. “Watching Hannah grow into a caring and thoughtful young woman during this bat mitzvah journey has been such a joy.”
project, Hannah has made her first adult gift of tzedakah to the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs.
For help developing a mitzvah project, contact Abby Trachtman, project coordinator, at abbyt@jflv.org or call her at the Federation office at 610-821-5500.
In addition to the mitzvah
, M D
Daniel Ross, M.D.
Irena Cherfas, M.D.
Mark Krakauer, M.D., M.Phil
Kelsey Paciotti, O D
Magi Labib, O.D.
Amanda Hadeed, O.D.
Passover and the Yoms in the country of Jews
By Cantor Ellen Sussman Temple Shirat Shalom
This was a difficult year for our family. Because of the war in Israel, we were unable to visit our son, daughter-inlaw, and three grandchildren in Haifa. However, at long last we traveled to Israel five days before Passover, in the last two seats on an El Al flight. There was one drawback: my husband, David, and I were not sitting together. Then a cute teenage girl next to him switched seats with me after maneuvering three other people to switch their seats so she could still be next to her boyfriend. It was all very charming.
The flight and drive to Haifa from the airport went smoothly. We went immediately to see the family. The children—a granddaughter and two identical twin boys—
were a little reticent at first but warmed up quickly. Our son gave us our marching orders and list for the next day. We were to go shopping for Passover.
When we headed out to shop, I was a little concerned, as I don’t know the name for brisket in Hebrew, even though I could point to the part of the cow where the meat comes from. To my surprise, the meat section had a package of meat with the designation “brisket.” Apparently the Hebrew name for brisket is brisket.
I carried chili sauce in my suitcase, one of the ingredients for my brisket that I could never find in Israel. After we dropped off the meat at my son’s apartment, we went for a late morning cappuccino at Aroma, our favorite coffee shop. We love their coffee and the date
pastry. Aroma is a famous chain in Israel, and the local branch near our apartment is a hangout for everyone—soldiers, retirees, and ladies who lunch.
We were hosting 25 people for seder, I cooked and helped set up. Luckily in Israel one can find prepared kosher for Passover foods everywhere and we easily catered much of the meal. It’s also interesting that only in Israel can you find Passover ritual objects at the Dollar Store.
All the children have a school vacation during Passover, and there’s a plethora of activities for the little ones. We went to a street fair geared to families, a circusinspired event at the zoo, and plays. I took my granddaughter to a musical based on the Passover story that had a raucous number with sing-
ing and dancing depicting the plagues. Sol, my granddaughter, sang to a modern composition listing the 10 plagues as if it was a nursery rhyme.
We stayed in Israel through Yom Hazikaron and Yom Ha’Atzmaut. This year was different from the past. Yom Hazikaron, Israel’s Memorial Day, was particularly poignant because of the ongoing war in Gaza. Right across from our apartment were the fairgrounds for the city of Haifa. From our window, we saw hundreds of people dressed in blue and white walk to the ceremony in complete silence. At 11 a.m. we could hear over the loudspeaker the reading of the names of all the soldiers who have died in defense of the State of Israel. Before the reading of the names, a siren blasts for one minute. At that
moment, everyone stops and people get out of their cars and stand by the side of the road with their heads bowed in silence. This points out to me the shared purpose of the Israeli people.
Yom Ha’Atzmaut, which is usually a very joyful time, was quite muted because of the uncontrolled fires in Jerusalem. Also, most people couldn’t really celebrate with hostages still languishing in Gaza.
It was wonderful to see my family, and there is nothing like celebrating the holidays in Israel, because everyone is celebrating with you. Everyone says Chag Sameach, the country shuts down for the seder, and there is a closeness with your neighbors because it is a country of Jews.
Season of Tot Shabbats ends—more to come!
By Billy Thompson Digital Marketing Associate
With a series of regular Tot Shabbat programs, Abby Trachtman, PJ Library project coordinator for the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley, seeded the Federation’s 2024-25 campaign year with engaging programming reminiscent of
the pre-pandemic years. The series of Tot Shabbats, where kids visit a Lehigh Valley synagogue to celebrate Shabbat, has now ended (though there’s more to come!). The Jewish Federation is thankful for all who made the gatherings possible. Rabbi Michael Singer of Congregation Brith Sholom and Rabbi Adri-
enne Rubin of Congregation Bnai Shalom were excellent hosts, highlighting the joy in Shabbat traditions for the youngest members of our community.
If you didn’t make it to the Tot Shabbat programs, plan to join in the fall. Bring your little ones with you to experience singing, playing, and a delicious Shabbat
dinner. Keep an eye on your Federation events emails for details.
Don’t fret If you did not make it to this season’s Tot Shabbat programming. There are more Tot Shabbats to come! Bring your little ones to experience singing, playing, and delicious shabbat dinner. More details to come.
MAZAL TOV BARRACK CLASS OF 2025!
Marymount Manhattan College massachusetts Institute of Technology
Michigan State University
muhlenberg College
New Jersey Institute of Technology Northeastern University Pace University
penn state UniversityUniversity park
Purdue University
reichman University (IDC Herzliya)
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
rochester Institute of Technology
Rutgers University-Newark
Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Stevens Institute of Technology
Stony Brook University
SUNY University at Buffalo
syracuse University
Technion-Israel Institute of Technology
Tel Aviv University
Temple University
of
The University of Alabama
The University of Tampa
The University of TennesseeKnoxville
Thomas Jefferson University
Tufts University
Tulane University
University of Arizona
University of Colorado-Boulder
University of Delaware
University of Florida
University of Illinois-Chicago
University of Kansas
University of marylandCollege park
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
University of miami
University of michigan
University of Missouri-Columbia
University of pennsylvania
University of pittsburgh
University of South Carolina
University of Vermont
University of Virginia
University of Wisconsin-madison
Vassar College
Washington University in st Louis West Chester University Yeshiva University
orayta
Asher David Decherney
Margot Patia Englander
Michal Dylan Groen
Samson Dylan Grossman
Eve Helena Kobell
Hunter Shay Kramer
PBS39 parent honors Ilene Wood with Good Neighbor Award
Lehigh Valley Public Media, which includes PBS39, honored longtime Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley board member Ilene Hochberg Wood and four others with its annual Good Neighbor Awards for 2025 on May 21 on the SteelStacks campus in Bethlehem.
Jeri Zimmerman, executive director of the Jewish Federation, presented the award to Wood, a designer and author being recognized for her work to make Lehigh Valley a destination and a thriving environment for the arts. She has served on numer-
ous charitable boards and committees and is probably known best to the Lehigh Valley general public for her fabulous collection of designer handbags.
“Through her work with the Jewish Federation and many other institutions,” said Zimmerman, “Ilene brings more than just resources. She brings energy, advocacy, and a profound dedication to uplifting those most in need, both locally and around the world.
“But what stands out most is her belief in people. Ilene empowers others, from
young artists to emerging leaders, always looking to elevate voices and create opportunity. She invests in the future of our community by believing in its potential.”
For decades, Wood has supported the arts (Allentown Art Museum, Civic Theatre of Allentown, and others), education (Northampton Community College), culture (Historic Bethlehem Museums and Sites, Jewish Community Center), human services (Second Harvest, Good Shepherd Rehabilitation Hospital, and others), and more among others. She supports the community through her own philanthropy and also via her extensive social network.
Wood has shown a particular interest in helping young artists early in the careers, and her own art collection has a strong representation of new and local artists. She’s given hearty support to the El Sistema Lehigh Valley daily music education program operating at three Allentown public schools.
After arriving in the Lehigh Valley, Wood married Bob Wood, who died in 2011. He was known for his generosity throughout the Lehigh Valley. Among his substantial philanthropic work was serving as campaign chair for the United Way of the Lehigh
Valley in 1999. Like many people, Ilene was inspired by his commitment to philanthropy. “It was more than just writing a check to help others,” he’d told her. “You should actually roll up your sleeves and dig in.”
She also drew on Jewish teachings and tradition. “One of the aspects of being a good neighbor, to me, is one of the major tenets of Judaism, a term called tikkun olam, which means repairing the world,” she said in a prerecorded video shown at the event. “I always feel that if I can do something to help
to improve a situation—both on levels large and small, individuals, organizations— where I can lend a hand or provide my help, that’s something that’s very important to me.”
The Good Neighbor Awards were established in 2016 in the spirit of Fred Rogers, host of PBS’s iconic “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” to recognize neighbors who make significant contributions to improve life in the Lehigh Valley. The annual awards have been given to individuals, nonprofits, and corporations.
CONGRATULATIONS GRADUATES!
Marsha Adler Gordon, D.D.S. Wanda J. Janik, D.M.D. Farah Ali, D.D.S. 1525 Hausman Road Allentown, PA 18104 610.433.5111
CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2025
tain and president, school news website content editor and sports editor, Medill Cherub, National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, National Math Honor Society, BBYO third vice president, Susan Wild Fellowship, St. Luke’s Hospital volunteer.
Max plans to attend Northwestern University.
ZOE AVERBACH
Daughter of Nicole Smith and Marcus Averbach
PARKLAND HIGH SCHOOL
National English Honor Society president, National Honor Society, National Math Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, Global Health Leaders Conference at Johns
Real volunteer, St. Luke’s Hospital volunteer, Susan Wild Fellowship, Country Meadows art instructor, girls varsity tennis team, art club.
Zoe plans to attend North western University.
MAX BUB*
Sara-Jane and David Bub
JACK M. BARRACK
HEBREW ACADEMY
Class president, varsity tennis cocaptain, varsity soccer, Blue Mountain ski instructor, STEAM Institute, math tutor, Jewish Day School community volunteer, Pinemere Camp counselor and lifeguard.
Max will attend the Pennsylvania State University, Schreyer Honors College, College of Engineering.
ETHAN CAINE
Son of David and Sarah Caine
Rodale Aquatic Center and KBGH Swim Club lifeguard and swim coach. Caitlin will attend the University of Pittsburgh to major in biology.
HARRY EPSTEIN
Son of Iris and Jonathan Epstein PARKLAND HIGH SCHOOL
Swim and dive team (three-time district qualifier and one-time state alternate), Visual Arts
Outstanding Achievement Award, school events volunteer, Temple Beth El
Greenberg
MORAVIAN ACADEMY
Lehigh University High School Scholars Program, Cum Laude Society, President’s Award for Educational Excellence, AP Scholar with Honor Award, High Honor Roll, Congressional Art Competition, Jo-Patricia Stiles Carlock ’20—Digital Photography Award, National Art Honors Society president, pottery throwing instructor, Jewish heritage club president, FIRST robotics team captain, varsity tennis.
Players of the Stage youth theater actress and summer camp counselor. Libi will attend Eastern University on a fine and performing arts scholarship to study theater and communication studies.
GABE MORSE
Son of Sarah and Tom Morse PARKLAND HIGH SCHOOL
Varsity tennis, National Honor Society, Jewish culture club, Jewish Family Service volunteer, Animal Food Bank of the Lehigh Valley volunteer.
Max Averbach Zoe Averbach Max Bub
Ethan Caine Caitlin Cohen
Harry Epstein Danielle Gordon Ben Greenberg Ian Hazan Libi Martinez
CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2025
creator, student govern ment vice president, Jew ish Leadership Initiative fellow, Israel club vice president of special programming, Moot Beit Din (mock trial, Jewish Court), math tutor, English tutor.
Chloe’s plans include Midreshet HaRova in Jerusalem and enrolling at Washington University in St. Louis.
HEALLEY SALTZ*
Daughter of Keren and Mattie Joy Saltz
PARKLAND HIGH SCHOOL
Debate captain, mock trial captain, law club vice president, theater department house manager, Parkland Community Library board student representative, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society junior leadership committee and student
dom employee. Healley is transferring to West Chester University to complete a degree in psychology. She plans to continue her education in law school and become a civil rights attorney.
JACOB SCHORR
Son of Rabbi Rebecca Einstein Schorr and Warren Schorr
EMMAUS HIGH SCHOOL
National Honor Society, Jasper Initiative, Teen Israel Organizing Immersive Fellowship, L’taken Social Justice Seminar, NFTY Religion and Culture regional vice president, Administrative Student Council, Teen Mental Health First Aid certification, ski and ride club, karate, URJ Camp Harlam counselor.
guide, swim instructor, St. Luke’s Hospital volunteer, Manasquan Beach life-
Cece will attend Northwestern University to continue her athletic and academic career. She will major in health science with the intention of going
captain, varsity soccer cap tain, club basketball, guitar club founder, Pinemere Camp counselor.
Zach will attend the Pennsylvania State University.
GREGORY TENZER*
Son of Carah and Ryan Tenzer
SALISBURY HIGH SCHOOL
Cross-country, track and field, swim team, Scholastic Scrimmage, ski club, National Honor Society, Red Cross volunteer, Pinemere Camp counselor.
Greg plans to study chemistry at the University of Pittsburgh.
CECE TRAUB
Daughter of Stefanie and Darren Traub
ELI ULMAN
Son of Janet and Michael Ulman
BRANDYWINE HEIGHTS
AREA HIGH SCHOOL
Eagle Scout Award with Four Palms, National Honor Society vice president, Tri-M Music Honor Society secretary, Key Club president, student government class officer, prom committee cochair, concert band (oboe), marching band high woodwind section leader, BH Clothing
Circle treasurer and digital manager, Phocus Club.
Eli plans to attend the George Washington University, University Honors Program, to study computer science.
ERIC ZAGER*
Son of Miriam and Michael Zager PARKLAND HIGH SCHOOL
National Honor Society officer, Jewish culture club copresident, Leo club, homecoming court, varsity ice hockey captain and three-time league all-star, varsity lacrosse, varsity tennis captain, Student2Student, BBYO.
Eric will attend the Pennsylvania State University to study international relations.
*ATTENDED JEWISH DAY SCHOOL
Gabriel Morse Chloe Rosenthal Healley Saltz
Jacob Schorr
Zach Tamarkin
Gregory Tenzer
Cece Traub Eli Ulman
Eric Zager
Who wins? The girlfriend, the ex, or the plotting mom?
“Bagels and Salsa,” by Lara Reznick, Enchanted Indie Press, 2018, 326 pages.
By Sandi Teplitz Special to Hakol
An unfortunate accident sidelining sociologist Laila Levin during a speaking engagement led to the serendipitous meeting with the physician who treated her. His charming manner and good looks and her intelligence and backstory create the basis for an attraction leading to an unlikely romantic relationship between the couple, who have less in common than their families would like. This provides the primary plot for a story of clashing cultures and upbringing that has the author weaving family dynamics into each twist.
How important to one’s future is what has happened in the past, primarily if any parental involvement oozes condescension and is replete with pettifoggery? Turns out, a lot. Dr. Eduardo Quintana, a Hispanic physician with a marplot mother finds himself torn between devotion to her and to Levin, who puts up with the constant pressure but has a harder time when an ex-girlfriend enters the picture.
Author Lara Reznick’s life somewhat mirrors the ups and downs that form the heart of this book, woven together with a couple of subplots that enhance the reading experience by allowing the reader to feel a part of both characters’ clashes and commonality. The book is both a prequel and sequel to Reznick’s other novel, “The Girl from Long Guyland.”
Will this unique union ultimately survive the pitfalls and glory of the past and lead to a lasting and successful future? Or will the cultural differences take a toll and lead to a breakup? Ms. Reznick’s skilled writing and deft character analysis make it a worthwhile read to find out.
Explore new ground with St. Luke’s Orthopedic Care.
Trust St. Luke’s Orthopedic Care to help you embark on new adventures with confidence and without pain. Our innovative team of joint specialists offers non-operative treatments, robotic-assisted technology, tissue-sparing techniques, and same-day surgery for hips and knees.
For Direct Access to St. Luke’s Orthopedic Care, call 484-526-1735.
St. Luke’s Orthopedic Care. Start here. Go farther. 1-866-STLUKES • www.sluhn.org
With convenient locations throughout the region, including St. Luke’s Orthopedic Hospital – West End Campus, the best place for orthopedic care is always close to home.
The milestone: spiritual marker and moment of eternity
By Rabbi Yaacov Halperin Chabad of the Lehigh Valley
A graduation is more than a ceremony. It’s a moment thick with emotion, a swirl of pride, relief, uncertainty, and hope. Whether the milestone is a high school diploma, a career change, a wedding, or the quiet shift that happens when a parent realizes their child has grown, these moments hold power. They are pauses in time that invite us to ask not just, “What’s next?” but also, “Who am I now?”
In Jewish tradition, milestones are never just personal. They are spiritual markers, opportunities to elevate the ordinary passage of time into something eternal. In Chassidic thought, especially as taught by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, a milestone is not merely a celebration of what we’ve achieved, but a platform for
deeper growth. The question is not, “What have you done?” but, “What will you build next?” Graduation is not an endpoint—it’s a launching pad.
This month, the Jewish calendar presents us with a milestone of its own: the holiday of Shavuot, commemorating the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. After 49 days of inner work and spiritual preparation, the Jewish people stood united and received a mission that would define us for all time. In a way, Shavuot is the world’s most enduring graduation ceremony—not the conclusion of a journey, but the sacred beginning of a life of purpose.
Each of us is here for a purpose, and life is a constant unfolding of that mission. Some stages of life may feel more external, like finishing school or moving into a new job. Others are more internal: learning how to speak more kindly, deciding to reconnect with community, or rediscovering the sacred in daily life. In Jewish thought, all of these are part of the spiritual journey. There is no such thing as a small step when a step is taken with awareness.
In a world that often moves too fast, where achievements are celebrated and then forgotten just as quickly, Judaism urges us to pause and give weight to time. A graduation is
not only a marker of success—it’s a sacred pause, a chance to reflect, and a call to purpose.
That’s part of why Jewish life is so full of rituals and reminders: blessings over food, candles lit before Shabbat, even the act of prayer itself. Each moment becomes an opportunity to bring holiness into time, to transform a fleeting milestone into a moment of connection with something deeper.
There is also comfort in this way of thinking. It reminds us that the transitions in our lives, no matter how challenging or uncertain, are not disruptions. They are invitations. They are the soul’s way of asking us to listen more closely, to dig deeper, and to find meaning in the movement.
And as we mark our personal milestones, we cannot help but carry others in our hearts, especially our brothers and sisters in Israel, those serving in the Israel Defense Forces, and the hostages who remain in captivity. Their lives, their milestones, their safety matter to us deeply. Our prayers and our commitments go with them. The joy we feel at home does not erase the pain we feel for our people—it strengthens our resolve to bring more light, more good, and more unity into the world.
To every graduate, and to every person stepping into
a new chapter, I offer this blessing: May you recognize the Divine spark in every moment. May you carry your past with gratitude and your future with courage. And may you come to know that your journey matters, not just for what you accomplish, but for how you
grow, give, and uplift those around you.
Mazel tov to all those celebrating milestones this season. May you be blessed to turn your moments into meaning and your meaning into a legacy that lasts.
‘Groundhog Day’ for two bar mitzvah boys
“Finn and Ezra’s Bar Mitzvah Time Loop,” by Joshua S. Levy, Quill Tree Books, 2024, 256 pages.
By Sean Boyle Jewish
Day
School of the Lehigh Valley
Joshua Levy’s award-winning middle-grade novel “Finn and Ezra’s Bar Mitzvah Time Loop” is set in a New Jersey hotel where Finn and Ezra, previously unknown to each other, are trapped in a time loop repeating their bar mitzvah weekends.
At 1:36 p.m. on Sunday, Finn and Ezra are instantly transported back to waking up Friday morning, beginning their bar mitzvah weekend all over again. Ezra, resigned to his fate, believes he’s alone in reliving a terrible weekend experience only
to be shocked when a strange boy opens the door to his reception hall right before the clock turns 1:36 and holds up a sign: “I know your secret. Meet me yesterday.”
Finn, who’s been experimenting in time loop cycles, explains to Ezra that they’re able to make changes in their loops and that he thinks that’s how they break free. Finn believes that he’s already mastered his loop and that if he helps Ezra create a perfect loop, they both can escape.
Along the way, Finn and Ezra experience and learn about each other’s Jewish communities while also discovering more about themselves. But as endless loops continue, they both get more and more desperate to break the cycle, committing crimes and embarrassing
their family and friends. They also develop guilt for what they’re putting their families through, even though they realize that their family and friends don’t remember anything of the loop experiences.
The two eventually begin to understand that their families and friendships are not what they’d always assumed they were. They wonder whether it might be better to stay in the loop, with its predictable conditions, rather than having to face the reality of what happens starting Monday morning. Eventually they create a more meaningful experience in their loop and learn the true value of the Jewish ceremony marking the day they’re expected to become responsible and active members of their communities.
This is Levy’s second title
to be named an Association of Jewish Libraries
Sydney Taylor Book Award Honor winner. The first, “The Jake Show,” published in 2023, also features two different varieties of Judaism practice, with one character more religious than the other. Levy writes with authority from both perspectives, having grown up in a divorced family with one side very religious and the other not. His presentation respects both aspects of the Jewish experience in the hope that anyone reading his books will recognize some of the portrayals and learn from the others.
Highly recommended for ages 9-120. Especially for anyone who loves time loop stories.
Israel and president of the Association of Jewish Libraries.
During May, you can help our Community Food Pantry families by donating deodorant. It can be dropped off at JFS during business hours, in the bins at the JCC and Temple Beth El, or ordered through the JFS Amazon Wish List
Thank you so much for the support you provide our food pantry families!
Sean Boyle is the librarian of the Jewish Day School and of Congregation Keneseth
Community Calendar
To list an event in the Community Calendar, submit your information on our website, www.jewishlehighvalley.org, under the “Upcoming Events” menu. All events listed in the Community Calendar are open to the public and free of charge, unless otherwise noted. Programs listed in HAKOL are provided as a service to the community. They do not necessarily reflect the endorsement of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley. The JFLV reserves the right to accept, reject or modify listings.
THURSDAY, JUNE 5
Special Friends Day at JDS
9:30 a.m., Jewish Day School
For information or to register, contact Beth Kushnick at 610-437-0721 or bkushnick@jdslv.org.
FRIDAY, JUNE 6
NextGen Family Shabbat Dinner
5:45 p.m., Muhlenberg College Hillel
Join NextGen (ages 30-45) for a family meal and family-friendly games to wrap up its second year. A gift to the Jewish Federation’s 2025 Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs is required to attend. Cover charge is $18 for individuals, $36 for couples, and $54 for families of three or more. Dietary laws will be observed. Registration required at jewishlehighvalley.regfox.com/nextgenshabbat-dinner.
SUNDAY, JUNE 8
Jews and the Lehigh Valley Textile Industry
10 a.m.-noon, Congregation Keneseth Israel
Be part of the KI lifelong learning program for spring 2025 and learn about the Jewish involvement in the mid-20thcentury Lehigh Valley’s thriving textile industry. Muhlenberg College professors Gail Eisenberg and Susan Clemens interviewed 40 people over seven years to be able to tell this story through the eyes of the business owners and family members who lived it. Register by June 5 at kilv.org/event/jews-and-the-lehighvalley-textile-industry.html.
FRIDAY, JUNE 13
Bnai Shalom Pride Shabbat
7:30 p.m., Congregation Bnai Shalom
All are invited to celebrate the diverse community. RSVP at my.linkpod.site/ pride-shabbat-bnai-shalom or by calling 610-258-5343. Or stream at the synagogue YouTube page at youtube.com/@ bnaishalomeastonpa9114/streams.
MONDAY, JUNE 16
Honoring Rabbi Ira Budow
5:30-7:30 p.m., Bucks County
The Greater Philadelphia Israel Bonds and Bucks County Council are hosting a reception to honor Rabbi Ira Budow, headmaster of Abrams Hebrew Academy in Yardley. Shabbos Kestenbaum, lead plaintiff against Harvard University, and Yechiel Leiter, Israeli Ambassador to the United States, will speak. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Attendance is free. Registration required. Exact location will be provided before the event.
SATURDAY, JUNE 28
KI Annual Gala
5:30-10 p.m., Congregation Keneseth Israel
Further information on this year’s gala to come at kilv.org/event/2025-annualgala.html.
THURSDAY, JULY 17
Maimonides Happy Hour
5:30-7:30 p.m., West End Taproom, Allentown
Join your fellow Maimonides Society healthcare professionals for delicious cocktails, brews, and appetizers (dietary laws observed). Registration required at jewishlehighvalley.regfox. com/maimonides-happy-hour-2025.
ONGOING EVENTS
FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH
Bnai Shalom Cash Bingo
1 p.m., Congregation Bnai Shalom
Join Bnai Shalom for its monthly bingo game fundraiser, the first Sunday of every month (except October, when there’s no game). For more information call 610-258-5343.
MONDAYS
Yiddish Club
2-3:30 p.m., JCC of the Lehigh Valley via Zoom
Experience the joys of Yiddish via Zoom as part of Adults at the J. The group meets weekly to discuss topics like cooking, humor, music and all kinds of entertainment in the Yiddish language. All are welcome to join this lively, weekly discussion. There is something for everyone no matter if you know a few words or are a fluent speaker. Enjoy fun, fellowship, stories and more. Participants Zoom in from 5 states. No cost. Call 610-435-3571, ext. 501.
MONDAYS
The Importance of Tefilah/Prayer
8 p.m., Congregation Sons of Israel via Zoom
Join Rabbi Michael Belgrade of Congregation Sons of Israel for an online class about the importance of tefilah/prayer. The class draws from all Jewish sources: Tanach (Bible), Talmud (Gemara), law (halacha), hashgafa (philosophy), ethics (pirkei avot), and introspection (mussar). This class is free and open to the entire community. For Zoom information, email office@sonsofisrael.net or call 610-433-6089.
WEDNESDAYS
Yoga with Miriam Sandler: Chair-Supported Yoga
1-2 p.m., Congregation Brith Sholom in person and via Zoom
Be seated in a comfortable chair, preferably armless (folding works well). Some standing poses holding onto the chair are offered, though students may choose to remain seated. Modifications are given. Open to the public in person and live stream available to all via Zoom. *$10 drop-in fee payable to Congregation Brith Sholom. For more information email mbserow@gmail.com.
WEDNESDAYS
Torah Studies: A Weekly Journey into the Soul of Torah
7 p.m., Chabad of the Lehigh Valley
and via Zoom
Torah Studies by the Jewish Learning Institute presents Season Three 5785, a 12-part series offered in person and via Zoom. Cost is $54 for the course, including textbook. For more information, call 610-351-6511 or email rabbi@ chabadlehighvalley.com.
WEDNESDAYS, DEC 4, JAN 8, FEB 12, MAR 12, APR 9, MAY 7
JDS Little Learners Class
9:30 a.m., Jewish Day School
Jewish Day School is offering a free Little Learners class for caregivers with children ages 3 and under. Storytime, movement, and music with a Jewish twist. Register at jdslv.org/little-learners.
THIRD WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH
Coffee and Conversation with Rabbi Rubin
3-4:30 p.m., Congregation Bnai Shalom
Talk with Rabbi Adrienne Rubin over a cup of coffee. If you’re interested in attending, contact the synagogue office at 610-258-5343.
THURSDAYS
Basic Yiddish Class
4-5:30 p.m., JCC via Zoom
Learn to read, write, speak and comprehend Yiddish. Textbooks from Yiddish Book Center available for purchase. Contact 610-435-3571, ext. 501.
FRIDAYS
Kol HaEmek
9-10 a.m., WMUH 91.7
“The Voice of the Valley” radio show. For information go to muhlenberg.edu/ wmuh.
SECOND FRIDAY OF THE MONTH
KI Shabbat Friends
5 or 5:30 p.m., Congregation Keneseth Israel
If you attend Shabbat services alone and feel awkward, you can join this enthusiastic group for pre-Shabbat dinner and conversation. Bring your own food, drink, and topics for discussion. Call 610-435-9074 for more information or to register. Shabbat Friends will not gather in October.
SATURDAYS
KI Torah Study
9:30-11 a.m., Congregation Keneseth Israel
Join Rabbi Shoshanah Tornberg for a study session making sense of the week’s Torah portion. Enter the building through the 23rd Street door. For more information, contact Rabbi Tornberg using the form at kilv.org/form/contactrabbicall.
SATURDAYS
Wisdom of the Talmud Class
After Shabbat Lunch and Schmooze, Congregation Brith Sholom
Join Rabbi Michael Singer in a discus-
SUNDAY, JUNE 1 8:09 PM
MONDAY, JUNE 2 9:17 PM FRIDAY, JUNE 6 8:12 PM FRIDAY, JUNE 13 8:16 PM FRIDAY, JUNE 20 8:18 PM
sion about Jewish law, ethics, customs and history as found in the pages of the Talmud. Any necessary books are available in the synagogue office. No previous Talmud study required. For information email tammy@brithsholom. net or call 610-866-8009.
SECOND SATURDAY OF THE MONTH Shabbat Out of the Box
10 a.m., Keneseth Israel
Celebrating the sixth year of creative and interesting activities to inspire your Shabbat experience. Monthly programs and locations vary. Outdoor activities are weather permitting. Everyone is welcome so feel free to bring friends and family. All events are free. Registration is required at kilv.org/shabbat-outof-the-box.html. Click on the particular date to register.
LAST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH Shabbat Yoga
10:30-11:30 a.m., Congregation Keneseth Israel
Jett Ulaner Saracheck and Ann Friedenheim lead this experience of Shabbat through movement. Bring a mat, blocks, or anything else that will bring you comfort in the practice. All are welcome. For questions, call Ann at 610-462-2549 or Jett at 610-762-1450. Register at kilv. org/event/shabbat-yoga1.html.
DAILY
Jewish Broadcasting Service
JBS is a Jewish television channel featuring daily news from Israel; leading Jewish figures, issues and events of Jewish importance; call-in programs; Jewish studies; 92nd Street Y; live Friday and holiday services for those at home; children’s programs; films; music; books; and entertainment. jbstv. org.
DAILY
Congregation Sons of Israel Minyanim Shacharit on Mondays and Thursdays 6:30 a.m.; Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays 6:45 a.m.; Sundays 8:30 a.m. Congregation Sons of Israel welcomes all to the daily Shacharis and Mincha/ Maariv services, which are conducted in the main sanctuary of the synagogue. Please check the synagogue at sonsofisrael.net for the weekly listing of the starting time for Mincha/Maariv. If you have any questions, call the synagogue office at 610-433-6089.
MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY
Daily Online Meditation 12:30 p.m., Institute for Jewish Spirituality
One of their master teachers will lead a live daily guided meditation. Join with people from around the world to share 30 minutes of Jewish mindfulness. Open to all, no experience needed. Sign up at jewishspirituality.org/get-started.
