Hakol - June 2026

The Voice of the Lehigh Valley Jewish Community

www.jewishlehighvalley.org

| Issue No. 498 | June 2026 | Sivan/Tammuz 5786 AWARD-WINNING PUBLICATION EST. 1977

Maimonides Society celebrates 40 years with dinner party and BenGurion dean offering a glimpse of medicine’s future. p6-7

2026

Congratulations, grads! Find out whose kids and grandkids are getting their high school diplomas and what their plans are. p18-19

FROM THE DESK OF JERI ZIMMERMAN p3 LVJF TRIBUTES p10 JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER p12-13 JEWISH DAY SCHOOL p14 JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE p15 COMMUNITY CALENDAR p27

Federation names award winners as annual gala nears

Lenny Abrams

By Carl Zebrowski Editor The Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley has announced the winners of its annual awards for volunteers, leaders, and others who made extraordinary contributions to the Jewish community in 2025-26.

The five winners will be honored at the Federation’s

Lee Kestecher Solomon

Jill Kuebler

Emmaus High School

Emily Fulton

Community Celebration and Annual Meeting in the JCC’s Kline Auditorium on Wednesday, June 10. The awards will be presented, board officers and members will be elected to new terms, and an Israelistyle buffet dinner will be served starting at 6 p.m.

The Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley President’s Award is going to Lenny Abrams. The President’s

Award is not presented every year, but only when the president of the board decides to bring special recognition to a community member.

Abrams involved himself gradually in the Federation after moving to the Lehigh Valley from Brooklyn, taking a few years to get settled and comfortable. He served on the Federation board, then as chair of the Annual Cam-

paign for Jewish Needs, and eventually as president. He also sat on the JCC board and is currently an honorary vice president of the Federation.

Always having grasped the importance of funding the Jewish community and its institutions into the future, Abrams founded the Lehigh Valley Jewish Foundation Heritage Society to recognize members who pledged

$100,000 or more to the Federation.

“Everybody loves Lenny,” community leader Vicki Wax once told Hakol. “There is not a person that doesn’t love Lenny.”

Lee Kestecher Solomon, the Federation’s director of community engagement, will receive the Mark L. Goldstein

Spotlight on the Lehigh Valley

Award winners continues on page 2

Broadway night abuzz and uplifting with songs, stories, smiles, and solidarity

By Carl Zebrowski Editor From the buzzing lobby of the Paul C. Empie Theatre at Muhlenberg College before the “Unity in the Community 2.0: Broadway Celebrates the Lehigh Valley” show began, to the packed seats and dynamic performances inside, to the stars posing afterward for pictures with the guests, the Jewish community of the Lehigh Valley enjoyed a festive, uplifting, and empowering handful of hours on Thursday

night, May 28.

Once the audience members filtered through the theater doors and took their ticketed seats, Dr. Marc Abo, co-chair of the event along with his wife, Aliette, welcomed the audience under the multicolored lights of the stage. “It’s so great to be called Dr. Abo,” he said, “because so often in this part of town, I’m called Mr. Aliette or Aliette’s husband.

“For Aliette this was a labor of love and a commitment to the community. Her tireless

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efforts have bought this night to fruition with great attention to detail.” Aliette herself would point out, and the event playbill documented, that a long list of volunteers, sponsors, ticketholders, and others collectively made the night happen.

With that, Emmy Awardwinning comedian Judy Gold took the stage. She told the audience she’s been to Israel six times. She went to see her son play basketball in the Maccabi Games, “the Jewish Olympics,” she said, making special note that athletics wasn’t exactly what the Jewish people are known for.

“They just added an accounting competition,” she said. “This guy did three tax

returns in 11 minutes.”

Her most recent trip to Israel was bad timing. It was June 2025, when Iran started firing missiles. Sirens went off and she ran for cover. “We spent most of the visit in bomb shelters,” she said. “I learned a lot about myself. When an alarm goes off, I actually can get out of bed!”

Gold soon returned home to New York City, only to be reminded of the antisemitism

so often found there these days. She remembered how her dad hardly ever mentioned antisemitism. But then there was her mom. “My mother constantly talked about antisemitism,” she said.

“We made so much fun of her.

But she was right.”

“Everyone hates us,” Gold continued. “Because we’re

Broadway continues on page 5

Award winners Continued from page 1

Outstanding Jewish Communal Professional Award.

Named for longtime Federation executive director Mark L. Goldstein z”l, the award is given to a professional employed by one of the Lehigh Valley’s Jewish institutions.

Born in Israel to an Israeli father and American mother, Solomon is a veteran of the Israel Defense Forces and a former shlicha (Israeli emissary) at the Tanenbaum Community Hebrew Academy in Toronto. Solomon moved from Toronto to the Lehigh Valley to join the Federation staff as director of community engagement in 2022. Since her arrival, she’s taken on key responsibilities and excelled,

including overseeing the Federation affinity groups Women’s Philanthropy and NextGen (ages 30-45) and the Lehigh Valley’s Partnership2Gether program with Yoav, Israel.

“From day one, her Jewish joy, positive can-do attitude, has been obvious to everyone,” said one of the community members who nominated her for the award. “She’s a non-stop, energetic, inclusive leader.”

Mortimer S. Schiff Award for Prejudice Reduction is being presented to two recipients: Emmaus High School and Jill Kuebler, a teacher and theater director at the school.

The award goes to a person

By Aaron Gorodzinsky Director of Development

security and accountability.

• It would reauthorize and expand the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, increasing funding to $1 billion annually and eliminating the 50% personnel cap, allowing organizations to use funds more flexibly for security staffing based on risk assessments.

• It would strengthen coordination between the Department of Justice and state and local law enforcement to improve security for at-risk houses of worship. The measure would also require annual joint threat assessments, with reports submitted to relevant congressional committees and declassified versions released publicly to promote transparency.

• It would require online platforms to issue twiceyearly transparency reports

or a group that has worked to promote tolerance and understanding among people of different faiths, bringing together Jews and non-Jews.

For three nights in November 2025, the seats in the Emmaus High School auditorium were filled as a 13-person cast brought the play “The Diary of Anne Frank” to life.

Kuebler, a teacher and theater director at the school, directed the production. Rabbi Rebecca Einstein Schorr served as the show’s dramaturg and Jewish cultural consultant, working closely with the production team to ensure authenticity.

In presenting Anne Frank’s poignant Holocaust story in an especially accessible way to high school students, parents, and the wider Lehigh Valley community, Kuebler and Emmaus High School helped challenge prejudice

and build bridges of understanding to prevent antisemitism, racism, and bigotry.

The first-ever winner of the Vicki Wax Jewish Student Campus Leadership Award is Emily Fulton, a sophomore studying political science at Muhlenberg College. The Wax Award, officially announced and unveiled at last year’s annual meeting, will be given each year to an outstanding Jewish college student who has demonstrated exemplary leadership in the Jewish community through service on their campus.

Fulton has spent the past two years deeply engaged with her Hillel community.

Her first leadership role on campus was as an Israel chair, creating opportunities for students to explore their relationships with the Land of Israel.

Now she serves the Hillel’s

student president, interacting with students, coordinating the student executive board, and collaborating with staff to create an inclusive Jewish space on campus. She also is incoming vice president of the Cardinal Key National Honor Society and tutors students in writing and statistics.

You can see the presentation of the awards and hear more about the winners’ stories by attending the annual meeting on the 10th. Dinner starts at 6 p.m. and ceremony at 7.

Come out and schmooze with community members over an Israeli-style meal and celebrate our Lehigh Valley community and its hardworking volunteers and leaders. Registration is required at jewishlehighvalley.regfox. com/2026-annual-meeting to attend.

detailing their content moderation practices and enforcement against antisemitic content, including removals, algorithmic amplification, and account suspensions.

• It would require recipients of federal funding to strengthen Title VI civil rights compliance by desig-

nating and training a Title VI coordinator to oversee nondiscrimination obligations.

I’m proud to share that Senator John Fetterman is among the original co-sponsors of the Senate version of the bill. We continue to work with Senator Dave McCormick and Representative

Ryan Mackenzie to encourage their support for the legislation.

We are confident that with their support, we will be able to pass the bicameral legislation and have it on the president’s desk for his signature in the next few months.

fund in your name that would allow you to make the gift of the securities this year and enable you and your loved ones to recommend grants, when you want, to your favorite qualifying charities this year and in future years. The minimum contribution is $10,000. The securities will be sold upon receipt, with the proceeds invested in the LVJF Endowment Fund.

Your fund will share in the interest, dividends, and capital gains of the endowment fund on a tax-free basis.

LVJF will take care of all the details and provide you with reports on a quarterly basis.

Other opportunities include contributing to a LVJF Legacy Philanthropic Fund, in your name with a minimum of $2,500. The fund

will make recommended annual distributions, currently at 4.6% of the fund value, to your favorite charities.

If you have been a lifelong supporter of Federation’s Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs, you have the opportunity to create a permanent endowment fund that will continue your annual gift forever. It’s known as a Perpetual Annual Campaign Endowment (PACE) fund.

After you’re gone, it will make an annual distribution, currently at 4.6% of the fund value, to the Federation campaign in your name or the name of a loved one. The amount needed to create a PACE fund can be calculated by multiplying your current annual campaign gift by 22, with a minimum contribution of $10,000.

So, in the Torah, holiness is not primarily individualism or separation from others. It is created through covenantal living: justice, responsibility, compassion, and sacred action within community.

We welcome the opportunity to speak with you confidentially. Please contact Aaron Gorodzinsky, Jewish Federation director of development, at 610-821-5500 or aaron@jflv.org.

Federation mission lobbies for security bill in DC Last week, I joined a delegation in Washington, D.C., organized by the Jewish Federations of North America to meet with elected officials, advocate for stronger protections for Jewish communities, and urge support for the newly introduced Jewish American Security Act. The legislation is a sweeping federal initiative aimed at strengthening the safety of Jewish Americans and Jewish institutions nationwide.

Developed in response to deadly antisemitic attacks and the persistent security threats facing the Jewish community, it proposes a coordinated national strategy to address these dangers.

The delegation brought together Jewish Federation professionals and lay leaders with a shared message: enough is enough, and more must be done to protect Jewish communities. The bill includes four key provisions designed to strengthen

Donate stocks and funds to the community, save on taxes

By Mike Miller Lehigh Valley Jewish Foundation Chair

With the stock market reaching record highs, the Lehigh Valley Jewish Foundation (LVJF) has a wonderful opportunity for you to get an early start on your year-end tax planning and, at the same time, provide you with a wonderful opportunity to follow the teachings of the Torah in caring for your community.

By donating your marketable appreciated securities (stocks, mutual funds, and exchange-traded funds) held for more than one year, you may be able to deduct their full fair market value and avoid paying capital gains tax on the appreciation. One of the reasons for starting

your year-end tax planning now is to project your 2026 taxable income to see whether you would be itemizing your deductions and getting the full benefit of a charitable contribution.

LVJF has a variety of opportunities to help you achieve your philanthropic goals in caring for your community. Women can perpetuate their Lion of Judah annual gift to the annual campaign by establishing a Lion of Judah Endowment Fund with a minimum contribution of $100,000, or their Pomegranate-level annual gift to the annual campaign by establishing a Pomegranate Endowment Fund with a minimum contribution of $36,000.

You could also establish or add to a donor-advised

2 JUNE 2026 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

This article is providing educational information and not tax or legal advice. Prospective donors should discuss their situation with their own tax and legal advisors.

Here for Good As we conclude the 2026 Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs, I am grateful for the generosity, commitment, and vision of our community.

This year, our campaign theme, Here for Good, served as both a promise and a reminder. It reflects our longterm commitment to care for those in need, strengthen Jewish life, support Israel, and ensure that future generations will have a vibrant, secure, and connected Jewish community. Thanks to our donors, volunteers, community leaders, and partners, that promise was fulfilled every day throughout the year.

The impact of your support can be seen across every aspect of Federation’s work.

Through our beneficiary agencies, the Jewish Day School, Jewish Community Center, and Jewish Family Service, and our synagogues, Federation programs, and community partnerships, individuals, and families throughout the Lehigh Valley received critical support, meaningful Jewish experiences, and opportunities to connect with one another.

At our JCC, children, adults, and seniors gathered for educational, cultural, recreational, and wellness programs that strengthen community every day. The Jewish Day School continued its mission of providing an outstanding Jewish and secular education while nurturing the next generation of engaged Jewish leaders. Jewish Family Service provided essential counseling, food assistance, senior support services, and emergency aid to vulnerable individuals and families, ensuring that help was available whenever and wherever it was needed.

From early childhood through older adulthood, Federation investments created meaningful Jewish experiences that connected people

to our heritage, traditions, and values. Programs such as PJ Library, Shalom Baby, Jewish Heritage Night with the IronPigs, holiday celebrations, educational programs, and community-wide events cultivated a strong sense of belonging throughout the Lehigh Valley. This year also marked the establishment of the Eva and Larry Levitt Jewish Learning and Cultural Center, in collaboration with our Holocaust Resource Center, creating a vibrant new hub for Jewish learning, engagement, and community connection for generations to come.

Our community stood firmly with Israel and Jewish communities around the world. Through emergency assistance, advocacy efforts, educational programming, and our Partnership2Gether relationship with the Yoav region of Israel, we strengthened personal connections and demonstrated that the bonds connecting Jews across the globe remain strong and unwavering. Whether through solidarity gatherings, educational forums, or ongoing support for communities affected by conflict, our community responded when it mattered most.

In a time of rising antisemitism, Federation continued investing in security, preparedness, education, and advocacy. Through partnerships with security professionals, community-wide trainings, and the work of our Community Relations Council, we helped ensure that Jewish institutions remain safe, informed, and resilient. We also continued to educate, advocate, and build relationships while promoting constructive dialogue and understanding throughout the broader community.

The strength of our Federation is also reflected in the

many opportunities for leadership, philanthropy, learning, and engagement that bring people together and inspire participation. A highlight of the year was the Maimonides Society’s 40th Anniversary Celebration, marking four decades of leadership, service, and philanthropy among healthcare professionals while honoring the society’s lasting impact on our community. Women’s Philanthropy brought together dedicated leaders through educational programs, celebrations, and philanthropic initiatives, including a special major gifts and Lion of Judah/Pomegranate event featuring noted educator and advocate Shai Davidai, a Dollar-a-Day event featuring Noa Cochva, Miss Israel 2021 and IDF veteran, and a women’s empowerment event with Shai Albrecht.

NextGen continued to engage young adults and young families through social gatherings, educational opportunities, the NextGen Book Club, and family Shabbat experiences. The Lehigh Valley Jewish Clergy Group fostered collaboration and dialogue among religious leaders across the community, strengthening relationships and addressing issues of shared concern. The Selichot program, “Strings of Hope,” featuring Israeli musician Udi Bar-David, provided a meaningful and uplifting spiritual experience through music, reflection, and resilience.

Partnership2Gether, the Community Relations Council, and numerous volunteer committees provided meaningful opportunities to build relationships, strengthen Jewish identity, and help shape our community’s future.

In another major highlight, the “Unity in the Community 2.0” concert brought together individuals from across the Lehigh Valley in a powerful celebration of shared values

NextGen Presents

BOOK CLUB Sunday, June 7, 2026 Please use the link or QR code below to register for the third book club gathering.

Please register to receive a Zoom link.

Registration is required.

This NextGen event is for adults ages 30-45 jewishlehighvalley.regfox.com/nextgen-book-club-3

and community spirit. Programs, including a military analyst briefing and other timely forums, helped community members better understand the challenges facing Israel and the Jewish people. The moving “Humans of October 7th” exhibit offered personal and powerful perspectives on the impact of the attacks in Israel. For Yom HaShoah, the Memorial Scrolls Trust initiative connected our community to Jewish history and remembrance. Our Yom HaZikaron commemoration with Project Heroes and Gilad Segev and then our Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebration, reminded us of our close tie to the State of Israel. All of these Jewish Federation experiences strengthened the bonds that unite our

community and reinforced our commitment to being Here for Good.

As we close this campaign year, we celebrate not only what was accomplished, but also what was made possible through collective action.

Every gift, every volunteer hour, every act of leadership, and every partnership strengthened our community and expanded our capacity to serve.

On behalf of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley, thank you for believing in our mission and investing in our future. Because of YOU, we are truly Here for Good.

May we continue to grow, serve, and build together in the year ahead.

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.

BILLY THOMPSON Digital Marketing and Graphic Design Associate

COMMUNITY SUBMISSIONS

GENE TSEYTLIN Account Representative gene@jflv.org

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

JFLV EXECUTIVE STAFF JERI ZIMMERMAN Executive Director AARON GORODZINSKY Director of Development DENISE AHNER Director of Finance & Administration LEE KESTECHER SOLOMON Director of Community Engagement DR. WILLIAM MARKSON JFLV President

WENDY EDWARDS Office Manager GINGER HORSFORD Donor Services Associate

Phone: (610) 821-5500 Fax: (610) 821-8946 E-mail: hakol@jflv.org Member American Jewish Press Association 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 MISSION STATEMENT

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.

• Acting as a central address for communication about events, programs and services of the Jewish community as a whole.

Approved by the JFLV Board of Directors on November 15, 2000

HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | JUNE 2026 3

of the Lehigh Valley

to all of our sponsors who made

possible!

UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY 2.0

PRESENTING SPONSORS

BROADWAY BENEFACTORS

Lisa Scheller

Aliette and Marc Abo

COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS

HARMONY PARTNERS

Anonymous Julius Cohen Memorial Endowment Karen and Peter Cooper Wayne J. Gmitter and James Barnish Jr.

Leonard Abrams and Family Wendy and Ross Born Mara Cohen Robert Cohen Jim Fernberger Eileen and Roberto Fischmann Carol and Gary Fromer

Sandra and Harold Goldfarb Bonnie Hammel Ellen and Phil Hof and Family Beth Kozinn Lynda and Stuart Krawitz Vicki Wax

FRIENDS OF UNITY Robert and Laura Black Charitable Fund Marisue Cummins Beth and Scott Delin Barnet and Lisa Fraenkel Julie and Aron Hochhauser Val and Nelson Kopyt Carol and Barry Halper Ricky and Les Hochhauser

4 JUNE 2026 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

Suzanne Lapiduss Pat and Vito Loguidice Joy and Tod Mammuth Jane and Billy Markson Roberta and Alan Penn Karen and Arthur Popkave Vickie Semmel Audrey and Art Sosis

Ellen Sosis and Scott Anderson Susan Sosnow Melissa and Ron Stein Eileen Ufberg Abby and Alan Weiner Marie Ann and David Wendells Cheryl and Marty Zawarski

Broadway Continued from page 1

superior!”

Gold ended by thanking Wayne Gmitter, the talent agent who came up with the idea for this Broadway night.

Gmitter is a non-Jew who had grown increasingly distraught by the attacks on Israel and Jewish people in recent years.

He called Gold, whom he represents, to talk about it. This night was the eventual result.

“Get your DNA tested,” Gold later told him, “because there’s a Jew in there.” He did exactly that. The result? “Ten percent Ashkenazi!”

Gold handed over the mic to John Lloyd Young, star of the Tony Award-winning musical “The Jersey Boys” that opened on Broadway in 2005.

Young played the young Franki Valli in that documentary-

style production about Franki Valli and the Four Seasons.

In a falsetto with power that rivaled Valli’s own, he worked a few of the bestknown Four Seasons tunes into his song list. Among them were “December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)” and “My Eyes Adored You.” The crowd clapped along, as it often did during his time on stage, and sang choruses when he cued them.

One of the moving memories Young related from his showbiz career was working with a certain older actor on a dramatic adaptation of Chaim Potok’s novel “The Chosen.”

He and the actor, who had grown up in Nazi Europe, became friends. “He watched Hitler march down the street,”

Young remembered.

It struck him that people aren’t naturally antisemitic.

“You’ve got to be taught to be afraid,” he said, “taught to be bigoted, prejudiced, taught who to hate.”

Young ended his segment of the night with a powerful version of the Israeli national anthem, “Hatikvah.” He put on sunglasses—probably in anticipation of getting as watery-eyed as the audience did. “It’s always touched me, the project and promise of Israel,” he said before the music began. “And that will never change.”

The final performer of the night, Andrea McArdle, stepped into the lights with her famous long red hair, wearing a bright red evening gown. “I’m also an ally of all of you,” the Bucks County native who played the original Annie on Broadway told the audience. “And that will never

change.”

In her iconic voice, she sang “New York, New York,” the tune Frank Sinatra made famous, about her second home, and Billy Joel’s “Your My Home,” about the home that’s anywhere you are with the people who mean the most to you.

She brought up an incident that occurred during a touring variety show a few years after she’d played Annie on Broadway. The legendary actress and singer Carol Channing was also on the tour and overheard McArdle saying she was tired of having to do “Tomorrow” at every performance.

“That’s your signature song,” she told McArdle, adding that not every singer is so lucky to have one. “It was that day that I made peace with the song,” McArdle said.

The time had come. “With what’s going on in the world of all of you, all of us,” McAr-

dle told the Lehigh Valley audience, “it’s nice to have a handy little song that can maybe lift your spirits a little bit.”

McArdle launched into “Tomorrow,” surprising the audience by bringing out the kids of the JCC Stagemakers Youth Theater group to join her for the final choruses. The audience rose to their feet as the night concluded with a standing ovation.

Inspired audience members took their time leaving their seats and climbing the stairs to exit. In the lobby, the three stars came out to chat and pose for photos.

Soon the lobby cleared and workers wrapped up. It was a wonderful evening for everyone from performer to patron—an energizing and inspiring, long, emotional evening.

HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | JUNE 2026 5

A toast to 40 years. What’s next?

Ben-Gurion dean, ex-WHO leader talks future of medicine at Maimonides celebration

By Carl Zebrowski Editor “Forty years ago a group of community leaders made a choice,” Dr. Zach Goldsmith, outgoing president of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley’s Maimonides Society told the crowd gathered at Temple Beth El on May 7 to celebrate the society’s 40th anniversary.

“They made a choice to start the very first Maimonides Society in America,” he said. He paused to ask the founders of the healthcare professionals organization to stand. “Thank you all for what you have built.”

A membership roster that started out with a few dozen names has changed quite a bit over the decades. “Today,” Goldsmith said, “the group has grown to more than 120 members.” Meanwhile, dozens of Jewish Federations across North America have been inspired to start Maimonides Societies of their own.

Dr. Bill Markson, president of the Federation, took the microphone to introduce the evening’s guest speaker.

“As we reflect on the past 40 years,” he said, “it’s only

fitting that we also turn our attention to the future.” He offered a brief background of Dr. Dorit Nitzan and said she’d speak on the topic “Building Health and Medicine Forward: Out- and Inthe-Box Ideas.”

Nitzan immediately warmed up to the crowd.

“I’m planning to call my home and say I found a new family and a new home,” she said, providing the audience with evidence that the advance word about her affability was on point. “If you want to sleep, try not to snore. I know you ate well.”

The healthcare professionals and other community members who came out to celebrate certainly did eat well. Much high praise for the food—laid out across tables categorized as Asian, Israeli, roast beef, turkey, etc.—was overheard as attendees returned to the stations for seconds.

Nitzan, director of the School of Public Health and head of the Master’s Program in Emergency Medicine at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and former regional emergency director of the World Health Organization European Region (including

Israel), gave some details of her background in healthcare at the regional, national, and global level. She told of how she left WHO to return to Israel after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks. “All the experience I had with emergencies in other parts of the world suddenly became concentrated for Israel,” she said.

Doctors from all over the world called to offer their help handling the emergency situation. “More than 700 doctors volunteered,” Nitzan said, “and 350 came and served for a few weeks. Each of the doctors got a shadow Israeli to help with the language, the computers, and everything. This is the Jewish solidarity that we pull out of the mud every time.”

Nitzan explained that in normal times, Israel’s healthcare system is very effective.

“1994 was a remarkable year,” she said. That’s when the universal healthcare law was passed. “We care for each other,” she said, “all for all and always. All of us are insured, and those of us that work, we contribute more.

No one has access more than the other.”

Statistics support her opti-

mistic view. Life expectancy is 83.8 years in Israel, for example, 2.7 more than the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development global average.

Still, innovation is needed.

“We’re looking out of the box but also to stay in the box,” Nitzan said. Special attention must be paid to Israel’s underserved rural areas.

Ben-Gurion University partners with the Soroka Medical Center to serve Israel’s south, the Negev.

One key focus there is what Nitzan called “homepital.”

Experience has shown the efficiency and effectiveness of providing care for people at home. “This we started in Syria when I was there,” she said.

Treating patients in their homes “keeps them from having to go to Soroka, which is fully occupied at all times,” she said. Medical planners are also working to increase the number of mobile primary care units that travel out and about.

Technology is the most obvious area of continuous improvement. Among the many areas Nitzan detailed was the need for blood.

“Whole blood is a life

saver,” she explained. “In order to save lives of wounded soldiers, we need to give whole blood, but blood is a very expensive commodity that we learned to appreciate when we have trauma.”

She suspected that AI will play a role in this. “The AI is running ahead of us, and we need to harness it to work with us,” she said. With AI’s help, artificial blood could be around the corner, more cost effective and more plentiful, and saving more lives.

Nitzan ended the evening by applauding the role of the Maimonides Society at this important milestone and thanking the members for all the good they have done over the decades for the Lehigh Valley community, for Jewish communities elsewhere in the world, and for Israel. And, by extension, all the good that has been done in the Maimonides Society name at other Jewish Federations that followed the Lehigh Valley’s lead.

“I wanted to give you a taste of hope for what you’re doing for us,” Nitzan continued. “I ask you not to lose hope. We are all together and we will build together.”

2026

Community Celebration and Annual Meeting

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10, 2026 | 6:00 P.M. | JCC Join the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley for an end-of-year Israeli-style dinner* to celebrate our 2025-26 award winners, leaders & volunteers!

Award Recipients

Lenny Abrams President's Award

Lee Kestecher Solomon

Mark L. Goldstein Outstanding Jewish Communal Professional Award

Jill Kuebler

Schiff Award for Prejudice Reduction

Register by scanning the QR code, or by visiting the link below. *Dietary laws observed

Emmaus High School Schiff Award for Prejudice Reduction

jewishlehighvalley.regfox.com/2026-annual-meeting 6 JUNE 2026 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

Registration is Required.

Emily Fulton

The Vicki Wax Jewish Student Campus Leadership Award

Scenes from the Maimonides celebration

Inscribe Your Story in the Book of Life The Book of Life is an online collection honoring those who have included the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley and partner agencies in their legacy plans. It celebrates the values and commitments that sustain Jewish life today and for future generations.

To learn more or submit your story, contact Aaron Gorodzinsky, Director of Development, at (610) 821-5500 or aaron@jflv.org.

Those who establish a future gift or endowment to a Jewish agency, synagogue, or the Federation are invited to participate and share their story.

HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | JUNE 2026 7

River of Israel blue runs through stands at IronPigs game

By Carl Zebrowski Editor The leftfield stands were blue for Israel at Coca-Cola Park in Allentown Tuesday night, June 2. The eye-catching color was the baseball caps covering the heads of fans who came out on this beautiful night, complete with refreshing breeze, for the annual

Jewish Heritage Night at the IronPigs.

Inside the front gates, each fan from the Jewish community stopped by the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley table to chat and pick up their souvenir cap made especially for this night. The insignia on the front was a Star of David and the Hebrew letters for LV representing

8 JUNE 2026 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

Lehigh Valley.

Before the game, a handful of Jewish community members joined a fan contingent on the field to throw the ceremonial first pitch(es). Their caps stood out at the front of the line. The announcer called out their names and “from the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley” before each tossed their ball toward the

catcher at home plate.

Of course, there’s no baseball game without food and snacks. As soon as Rabbi Jonathan Powers of the Lehigh Valley Kashrut Commission opened his stand, community members started filing over to pick up their kosher hot dog or potato knish along with a bag of potato chips and soft drink.

Most community members were too busy enjoying being out with their friends and family, schmoozing and basking in the incomparable ballpark atmosphere and comfortable temp, to pay much attention to the game. But for the record, the IronPigs lost 8-7 in an exciting extrainnings matchup against the Rochester Red Wings.

Cybercrime expert gives audience security must-dos

By Carl Zebrowski Editor Rivka Tadjer got to the point fast in opening her Cybercrime Boot Camp at the JCC on May 14. She held her cell phone up in the air: “We’re going to teach you how to carry around this loaded weapon and not become a victim of crime.”

To be clear, this loaded weapon, like the real thing, can injure its owner.

The co-founder and CEO of ZeroHack, a company that specializes in cybercrime prevention and security, spoke along with her husband and co-founder Roberto Gottardello to a mostly older audience at this Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley presentation. They provided details on how criminals can access your personal devices and information and what you can do to stop them. A key part of their message was that even though your connection to the digital world automatically makes you vulnerable, you can take some simple steps beginning today that will make you and your money exponentially more secure.

It’s true that older people and Jews are attractive targets but, contrary to conventional wisdom, it’s not because they haven’t assimilated to the digital world or that they’re mentally sluggish. It’s a matter of financial demographics. Crimi-

nals play the odds, and odds are good, for example, that older Jews have more money saved up to be stolen than the average American does. Of course antisemitism and antiZionism can be involved too, now more than ever.

Finding targets can be almost as simple as having databases searched all day for Jewish surnames of people over 60. All information gathered by search engines, websites, apps, and other digital services is available somewhere out there to anyone who pays for it.

Tadjer continued that older people are actually better equipped than younger ones to protect what they have. For one thing, a big thing, they understand just how vulnerable they are and that there are criminals out there who spend most of their waking hours focused on stealing other people’s money and valuable information. And those criminals can hit targets on the other side of the world just as easily as one down the street.

Russia is a common base.

Fortunately, there are things you can do to make their job much more difficult.

And none of the actions Tadjer detailed is too deeply involved. Some of them you can even do right now.

“Ninety percent of attacks happen via email,” she said.

“You can’t have a free email as

your address on record with your bank.” The bank may tell you their connection is secure.

That’s true—for them. “That portal protects them from you,” she explained. Criminals can still gain access to transmissions between the bank and you.

The fix is pretty simple: Get yourself a secure email address and use that address for all your bank and brokerage accounts. Cancel any email address you currently use for those accounts and preserve the new secure address for them exclusively.

Tadjer recommended Proton and Nord as her services of choice for this. You can pay $50 a year and not worry about your email again. She added that both of those companies also offer a VPN (virtual private network) service as a package with the secure email address, for an additional cost.

This is another essential protection, she said: “It’s Harry Potter’s invisibility cloak.”

Without it, criminals can home in on your devices and attack them.

When it comes to devices, for the one you have with you all the time and use the most often, iPhone is more secure than Android. And when you’re out and about, make sure you turn off Bluetooth and location services. And if you have an iPhone, turn off Air Drop too. Otherwise

criminals sitting right there at the coffee shop can access your phone through these.

Here are a few other interesting comments and useful tips Tadjer offered: “Your personal information is as valuable as money, sometimes more,” don’t use LifeLock and similar protection services that require you to provide your secure information to them right up front(!), and change the pin code that comes with your cell phone SIM card.

The access code for a new

SIM card is the same for every phone manufactured by a specific cell phone company, meaning that a criminal can find your iPhone and quickly use that generic code to access what’s on the card. Make sure you look into this process and find guidance for making the change before you try; too many failed attempts can lock you out of your phone.

For more bits of advice and to find out more information about all this, visit ZeroHack’s website at 0secure.com.

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ALLOCATES funds to support our local agencies, Hillels, synagogues, camps, and to support Israel and overseas communities ARRANGES programming to meet the needs of our community ASSURES the continuation of our Jewish community

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HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | JUNE 2026 9

GIVE A MITZVAH, DO A MITZVAH

Sassy Massey Toy Drive Avery Kim will be called to the Torah as a bat mitzvah on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at Temple Beth El in Allentown.

Avery is a seventh-grade student at Southern Lehigh Middle School. She’s a passionate lacrosse player.

Playing lacrosse is one of her favorite things.

In 2016 the Kim family had a neighbor, Jillian Massey, who was about a year older than Avery. She was diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain and spine cancer.

Four-year-old Jillian had no idea she was sick. She loved Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, where she stayed for more than six months, often referring to it as Hotel CHOP due to all the fun, toys, playroom resources and people that brought joy at such a scary time. She helped to start the Sassy Massey Toy Drive in October 2016 with the idea that her friends at CHOP would have toys for the holidays.

When Jillian died in 2017, the news spread far and wide. Over 24,000 toys flooded into the warehouse in honor of her. It was clear

to her parents that her wish would need to be carried on, and that led to the creation of the Sassy Massey Smiles Foundation.

Each year, DeSales University holds the Sassy Massey Winter Wonderland event to support the foundation, asking attendees to bring a new, unwrapped non-plush toy as the price of admission. Avery volunteered at the event to support the cause. Since Jillian was a member of her community, it was important for her to get involved.

Avery’s parents, Lauren and Jeffery Kim, are so proud of her work ethic, success in school, Hebrew education, and the kindness and respect she shows others.

“We are truly blessed to have Avery,” they said. “She is gem of a person.”

In addition to her mitzvah project, Avery has made her

IN HONOR ALIETTE AND MARC ABO In honor of bringing Broadway to the Lehigh Valley for Unity in the Community 2 Carl Chaikin David Sander Jami Taff Jessica and Herman Ytkin LENNY ABRAMS In honor of receiving the President’s Award Carol and Gary Fromer Vicki Wax NANCY AMOLS Best wishes for a speedy recovery Carole and Michael Langsam SYLVIA AND SAM BUB In celebration of your granddaughter Jenna receiving her PhD from MIT Roberta Kritzer 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.

JEANETTE AND EDUARDO EICHENWALD In celebration of your granddaughter Lyla’s Bat Mitzvah Roberta Kritzer CAROL AND STUART FURMANSKY In celebration of grandson Asher’s Bar Mitzvah Pam and Greg Silverberg AMY GOLDING In celebration of your daughter Lyla’s Bat Mitzvah Roberta Kritzer

Qualified Charitable Distribution Turn your IRA rollover required minimum distribution into annual income

Reduce or Eliminate Income Taxes on Your Required Minimum Distribution

You pay no income tax on the distribution

Paying taxes on your IRA distribution is now a little less required. When you choose to make a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) rather than take your RMD, you will not pay income tax on it.

Replace Your IRA’s RMD with a QCD Just as you would take a QCD to offset your IRA RMD, you can apply some or all your QCD to a charitable gift annuity (CGA). The CGA gives you fixed payments for life at favorable rates.

With a QCD, you distribute money from your IRA, but rather than take the funds yourself, you distribute them to a beloved organization, like ours. When you do, you receive benefits for your charitable decision.

The QCD applies only to IRAs. However, it is possible to transfer funds from other accounts to your IRA to take advantage of this option. Call us for details.

While the rules regarding the QCD and the QCD to CGA are relatively simple, you must follow them exactly. Contact us to learn the details. We can also tell you the maximum amounts you can use as well as your charitable gift annuity payment rate.

Scan the QR code to learn more, or contact Aaron at the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley at (610) 821.5500 or aaron@jflv.org or visit lvjfgiving.org

You don’t have to apply all of your RMD to your QCD

If your spouse has an IRA, he or she can make a QCD as well

While it is a good idea to avoid paying taxes on an RMD, what if you could do even better? What if you could change your RMD (or what would be your RMD) into payments for life?

While the IRS likes acronyms (IRA, RMD, QCD), let us give you one of ours you will love. It is the CGA. It stands for charitable gift annuity, and it gives you something even better than the QCD.

The QCD Gives You a Choice ●

You pay no income tax on the distribution. We also pay no tax.

●

You don’t have to apply all your RMD to your QCD. You can distribute some to our organization and some to yourself, paying income tax on that amount.

BETH KOZINN In honor of your election to the National Women’s Philanthropy Board Marilyn Claire HAROLD KREITHEN Best wishes for a speedy recovery Carole and Michael Langsam EVELYN AND JAY LIPSCHUTZ In celebration of your granddaughter Gabriella Seltzer’s Bat Mitzvah Susan and Marc Vengrove JEANNIE MILLER Best wishes for a speedy recovery Carole and Michael Langsam ELAINE AND LEON PAPIR In celebration of grandson Nolan Papir’s Bar Mitzvah Marge and Doug Blake

Other Things to Keep in Mind ●

The maximum amount you can use changes each year.

Contact us for this year’s limit.

●

The distribution must be made to the nonprofit. You need to make sure the organization is a qualified 501(c)(3) charity, like ours.

●

Because you never paid income tax on the QCD, you will not receive an income tax deduction.

The names and images shown here are representative of typical donors and may or may not be actual donors to the organization. Under federal rules your benefits may be different from this example. Please contact us for your specific benefits.

Copyright © 2026 Crescendo Interactive, Inc. Used by permission.

This information is not intended as tax, legal or financial advice. Gift results may vary. Consult your personal financial advisor for information specific to your situation.

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10 JUNE 2026 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

MAXINE KLEIN Best wishes for a speedy recovery Carole and Michael Langsam

ELAINE AND LEON PAPIR In celebration of grandson Bryce Papir’s college graduation Marge and Doug Blake ELAINE AND LEON PAPIR In celebration of grandson Sam Papir’s confirmation Marge and Doug Blake LEE KESTECHER SOLOMON In honor of receiving the Mark L. Goldman Outstanding Jewish Communal Professional Award Carol and Gary Fromer Vicki Wax LAURIE AND ROBBY WAX In celebration of your son Ben’s engagement to Jillian Krim Roberta Kritzer VICKI WAX In celebration of your grandson Alex’s engagement to Nikki Idelson Roberta Kritzer VICKI WAX In celebration of your grandson Ben’s engagement to Jillian Krim Roberta Kritzer IN MEMORY JEFFREY GLAZIER (Husband of Carrie Glazier, son of Lenny Glazier Aaron Gorodzinsky and Jennie Schechner IRIS KLEIN (Partner of Joan Epstein) Roberta Kritzer Susan Shareff Levine JONI MOSELY (Daughter-in-law of Kathi and Seth Katzman) Elaine and Leon Papir SELMA ROTH (Mother of Judd Roth and Adam Roth) Elaine and Leon Papir Vicki Wax JACK SCHONBERGER (Father of Michael Schonberger) Laurie and Robby Wax MARTIN ZALES (Brother of Jerry Zales) Paige Bluth and Henry Lehrich HELEN AND SOL KRAWITZ HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL FUND IN MEMORY MARTIN ZALES (Father of Susan Zales and Saul Zales) Susan Engelson Friefeld

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!

Women’s Philanthropy cleans up historic cemetery

By Billy Thompson Digital Marketing Associate

Volunteers gathered at the historic Mount Sinai Cemetery in Allentown on May 20 to help preserve an important piece of Lehigh Valley Jewish history. They cleared overgrowth and uncovered gravestones, helping to restore dignity to one of the region’s oldest Jewish burial grounds.

Established in 1875 by some of Allentown’s earliest Jewish residents, Mount Sinai predates every existing Jewish congregation in the Lehigh Valley. Over time, as new congregational cemeteries were established, Mount Sinai saw fewer burials and eventually became what Miriam Zager, co-chair of this Women’s Philanthropy cleanup project, described as an “orphan

cemetery,” a place no longer actively maintained by a congregation. “The graves here have not been desecrated by vandalism,” she said, “but by something quieter: neglect.”

Zager reminded attendees, “This is not just another cemetery.” It is, she emphasized, “the first formal Jewish institution in the city.”

With their clearing and cleaning effort, volunteers

restored visibility to graves that tell the story of generations past. In Jewish tradition, caring for a cemetery is considered a chesed shel emet, a true act of kindness performed for those who cannot repay it.

“Every stone you uncover, every path you clear, is a statement,” Zager said.

“These people mattered, and they are not forgotten.”

Working with Zager to organize this Women’s Philanthropy mitzvah project were co-chair Fay Kun and Lee Kestecher Solomon, the Jewish Federation’s director of community engagement.

They thanked everyone who contributed their time and energy to this meaningful effort.

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Excellence isn’t claimed. It’s earned.

St. Luke’s, leading the way.

HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | JUNE 2026 11

Welcome Moyer, Early Childhood Education Director The FinalJen Countdown: Camp JCC Gets ReadyAssistant for Summer fresh perspective to our team.

She holds a degree in English experiences including sports, Language Literature swimming,and STEM, music, and art, The phrase, “It takes a village” is currently working towards adventure, special events, could not be truer than when afield Masters Early Childhood trips, in and water fun—all applied to the field of Early Education (with a focus in and while building friendships Childhood Education. During administration, management confidence that last far beyond my 5.5 years here at the JCC, and leadership).

Jen has worked the summer months.

I have worked alongside in various childhood A part ofearly Camp JCC’s many in my community to settings, demonstrating philosophy is one simple idea: create and continue to build a acamp deepshould commitment to grow alongside successful program. So, I am creating nurturing, inclusive the child. Each year brings new excited to introduce Jen Moyer, environments supportand both opportunities, that challenges, By Alaina Schaeffer our new Assistant Director in children anddesigned educators.

As experiences to help Youth Childhood and Camp Director Early Education.

Assistant Director, Jen will work campers develop independence, With a passion for fostering closely withand staff and families leadership, connection.

This As summer quickly young minds and a approaches, wealth of to ensureolder the continued success summer, campers will Camp leadership is childhood putting the experience in early and of our programs, to havegrowth even more opportunities finishing touches together for shape their own experience development, Jen brings a with a focus on enhancing by a season built on connection, choosing some of their activities, growth, tradition, and joy. From allowing them to explore exciting program updates to personal interests and build continued investment in staff greater ownership over their training and camper experience, camp day. this summer reflects our ongoing Camp JCC’s commitment commitment to being more than to excellence is reflected in just a place children spend their its accreditation through the days—it is a community where American Camp Association campers, families, and staff feel (ACA), making it the only day they belong. camp in the Greater Lehigh Located in the heart of Valley to hold this distinction.

Allentown, Camp JCC brings ACA accreditation holds camps together children from all to the highest standards in backgrounds to explore, learn, the industry, particularly in and thrive in an environment areas such as staff training, rooted in Jewish values. emergency management, facility Campers spend their summers maintenance, and program immersed in meaningful

By Lisa Yoskowitz ECE Director

curriculum, professional development, family quality. Camp and leadership engagement.

We look forward recently attended the ACA Trito the positive impact she will State Camp Conference, the make our community! largestincamp conference in the ECE registration for the 2025world, to continue learning and 2026 school year will bringing best practicesopen backon to February 1, 2025.

And with that, the community. weThat are excited to announce dedication begins the opening of a new preschool long before campers arrive. classroom upcoming Camp staffthis complete morefall!

As with all our classrooms, than 30 hours of pre-summer this classroom will training focused on provide first aid aand nurturing and enriching safety procedures, child environment young development,where supervision, learners caninclusion, grow, explore, leadership, and and develop essential skills. of creating intentional moments Our goal is with to foster a loveLast for connection campers. year, Camp JCC completely learning from an early age, redesigned the staff orientation process, resulting in noticeable improvements in counselor confidence and preparedness.

This summer, we will continue to emphasize both comprehensive orientation and ongoing training throughout the season.

The strength of the camp community is reflected in its staff retention. More than 70% of Camp JCC staff are returning this summer, meaning campers will once again be greeted by many of the counselors and specialists they know and love.

While people often apply to

offering a curriculum designed to engage children through work at camp because it sounds play, creativity, hands-on fun, many returnand year after year experiences.

We are excited they because of the relationships about all of these positive and build—with both campers additions changes for our fellow staffand members.

ECE program!

As Camp JCC continues to grow, family feedback remains an essential part of shaping our future. Over the past year, the camp team carefully reviewed feedback from campers, parents, and staff to identify opportunities for improvement.

In response, families can expect clearer communication about activities, more detailed weekly wrap-up emails, and additional efforts to capture and share Jen Moyer, ECE Assistant Director special camp moments through photos and updates.

At its core, Camp JCC remains focused on what matters most: creating a safe, engaging, and welcoming environment where children can grow into confident, compassionate individuals surrounded by caring role models and lifelong friends.

Because at Camp JCC, summer is about more than activities or schedules—it is about community, connection, and the people who make camp feel like home.

Healthy Classrooms, Happy Families

By Jen Moyer Early Childhood Education Director As an Early Childhood Director, one of the things that I hear the most from parents as they tour is a lament about all the illnesses that their children may be exposed to in group care. This is a very valid concern that parents have. And no matter how much the center cleans, germs spread.

At the JCC of the Lehigh Valley, we prioritize the health and safety of our students and teachers. For this reason, we applied for and were approved for the installation of eight new air purifiers, one for each of our classrooms!

Funded through the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), the JCC will receive air purifiers that provide the CDC’s recommended five air

exchanges per hour in occupied rooms. These units can clean rooms up to 2,975 square feet in just 30 minutes. The HEPA H13 filter material has been tested to remove 99.97% of airborne particles from the air.

The Medify filters that we are receiving use a three-layer filter system to catch and remove allergens, pet dander, and more.

We are confident that having these filters will reduce the

amount of indoor air pollution in our school and make our school safer, cleaner, and healthier.

The JCC of the Lehigh Valley has limited spots available in some of its classrooms for the 2026-2027 school year, with other classrooms running waitlists.

Don’t wait if you are thinking about enrolling for the Fall.

Spots are filling quickly. For more information, please visit lehighvalleypreschool.org.

JCC OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY - HAMMEL CAMPUS | 702 N. 22ND STREET ALLENTOWN, PA 18104 | 610-435-3571 | LVJCC.ORG 12 JUNE 2026 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

Camp JCC Welcomes Maya Moran, Emissaries SpringLehigh Brings Nature-Focused toGames ECE Team Valley Takes onand theHands-on Mini & Israeli Jr.Learning Maccabi

By Jen Heather Lavin By Moyer Program Director Early Childhood Education Director We are thrilled to announce that sun this is summer, Camp JCCout The beginning to stay will have Israeli are shlichot longer andtwo thoughts turning this summer.

We welcome back toward outdoor activities that Maya Katzab introduce challenge and and delight our a new member from Israel, Moran children. At the JCC, outdoor Pikris.

Continuingan ourintegral tradition play is considered By Heather Lavin of cultural they arrive part of our exchange, educational day.

Program Director and a wealth of with enthusiasm We encourage our teachers to Israeli music, dance, and stories extend learning of the The JCCtheir of the Lehighout Valley to share. classroom and into the outdoor proudly sent a delegation of 16 area. athletes and performers young Welcoming Katzab SomethingBack that Maya we love to

enthusiasm and genuine do at the start ofannual springMidislove take to this spring’s for her heritage made her a Atlantic Minion &aJunior Maccabi the children guided nature favorite campers.

We Games inamong Philadelphia. walk around ourour outdoor area. are thrilled to have her back, as Representing the Lehigh Valley We start this activity in the she continues to foster cultural with pride,by teamwork, andchild classroom giving each exchange and lasting bonds sportsmanship, the delegation their own recyclable egg carton. within our community and included nine basketball players, The children are encouraged through her Isreali Adventure three swimmers, two pickleball to paint each opening with a camp programming. players, one tennis player, and different color. oneOnce dancer. the egg carton is dry, the The Mini &Pikris Junior Meet Moran class goes outside andMaccabi each child Games broughttotogether Jewish is encouraged find nature youth from across the region Moran a 20-year-old from items thatismatch the colors in for a weekend of athletic Rishon Leziyyon, Israel and their egg cartons. We remind competition, community willchildren be Camp JCC’s Music the not to pluck any building, and Jewish pride.

Specialist.

She is an experienced leaves or flowers from any living song leader who can play guitar and loves to rock climb. Moran volunteered as a scout leader for two years and also at “Tzaad young performers demonstrated Kadima” for adults with special impressive and stage needs. She versatility has been playing presence.

Numbers from favorites electric and acoustic guitar for such as High School Musical, Thea 7 years and studied music at Little Mermaid, Legally Blonde, conservatory. and Fiddler on the Roof kept the audience engaged from start to finish.

What made the production especially memorable was the enthusiasm and confidence of the cast. The performers embraced every moment on stage, supporting one another while their individual at the showcasing JCC, helping to spark talents. vocals, lively interestStrong and enthusiasm for a choreography, and genuine sport that was new to many at joy throughout the radiated time. What began asthe a small performance, creating an energy initiative, fueled by her atmosphere that was both grown and dedication, has since entertaining and uplifting. into a vibrant and well-loved staple program that continues to bring people together week after week. There was no better way to celebrate her legacy than

A Summer of Cultural different culture and strengthen plants, but to instead look for Participants competed against stage, Lehigh Valley’s delegation Exchange their roles as young ambassadors peers throughout Mid- showcased hard work, items from that have alreadythe fallen representing Israel.

By summer’s determination, and enthusiasm Atlantic lasting from thewhile plants.forming This teaches At Camp JCC, we prioritize fun end, Moran and Maya will have friendships celebrating them about and being a good friend throughout the weekend. forthe ourEarth. campers while leftThe lasting a of the values at the and heartstaff of the JCC memories was proudand of all to embracing the responsibility of legacy of cultural appreciation Maccabi movement. the athletes for representing The Early Childhood educating our community about that will resonate camp, the Lehigh Valley beyond community For many at of the the JCC athletes, Department is the Israel. Moran and Maya are embodying hope and joy that Games were about more than energy,the positivity, and currently enrolling for the 2026- with excited to engage in this cultural cultural sharing brings. competition.

They sportsmanship. We look forward 27 school year.

We provided currently an to Please welcoming our opportunity to build confidence, exchange, teaching campers join us in athletes welcoming have openings in our Pre-K, represent their community, and during next school year to about Israeli holidays, food, and these two remarkable young Young Preschool, and Young experience thebut spirit of being in our JSeals swimthis daily life,ages, fostering bonds women to the Lehigh Valley Toddler spots arethat filling participate teams and JHoops basketball part of something larger than will last For for years come. year. Summer is just around the quickly! more to information themselves.

From the basketball teams.

Their interactions will enrich corner, and we can’t wait to see about our curriculum or to court to the pool, pickleball our campers’ understanding schedule a tour, please visit of a them! courts, tennis courts, and dance lehighvalleypreschool.org.

Stagemakers Raised Their Voices!

We are delighted to welcome back Maya Katzab from Yoav, Israel as the Israeli Adventure By HeatherMaya Lavinpreviously Specialist.

Program Director with us, spent a summer sharing her vibrant Israeli Stagemakers Youth Theater culture through music, dance, brought energy, heart, and plenty and storytelling.

Her infectious Maya Katzab, Israeli Adventure Specialist Moran Pikris, Music Specialist of Broadway magic to the stage with its spring production of MTI’s Broadway Junior Revue: Raise Your Voice. Performed at the JCC’s Kline Auditorium, the production celebrated the power The production team also teamwork, and youth expression. of music and storytelling through Stagemakers Youth Theater deserves recognition for creating a fast-paced collection of songs once again demonstrated its a polished and well-paced show from beloved Broadway Junior commitment to providing that highlighted the strengths of productions. the performers.

Theshe performers meaningful theatricalto experiences

By Danielle Brown the sport accessible everyone, through the game loved so Rather following a performers in the were costumed for every number for Sports andthan Fitness Director andyoung this clinic reflected that deeply. traditional storyline, the revue Lehigh Valley.

The result was transporting the audience from spirit perfectly. Following the The day began with a allowed the cast to shine scene to scene. an evening filled with talent, On Sunday, April 12, wethrough clinic, a friendly open play beginner’s clinic designed for agathered variety oftomusical styles and the unmistakable More than a musical honor the lateand Eve session brought players of those new to just pickleball, offering confidence, emotions.

From upbeat ensemble joy of live theater. revue, Raise Your Voice served Peterson, a beloved member all skill levels together on the a welcoming and supportive numbers to heartfeltwhose solos, the as a celebrationfor of participants creativity, of our community courts, creating a lively and environment passion for pickleball left a inclusive atmosphere filled with to learn the basics, build lasting impact on all who knew laughter, encouragement, and confidence, and experience the her. Eve played a key role in joy of the game for the first time. camaraderie. introducing pickleball here Eve always believed in making

By Tracy Sussman now the introduction of leagues, Mah Jongg League play, but also Mah Jongg leagues, offering build friendships and confidence players a chance to participate in Mah Jongg has become one of the Membership and Marketing around the table. Many firstregular weekly games, sharpen fastest-growing social programs Director a full list of donors, pleasetheir visit skills, lvjcc.org/OurDonors time playersFor who were initially and enjoy consistent at the JCC—proving that this intimidated by the tiles and fastsocial engagement. Leagues classic game continues to connect Mah Jongg continues to grow in Chai Society Keystone Society through learning, paced play now gather weekly to will provide structured play for generations popularity at the Lehigh Valley Donors as who have pledged at least Donors who have pledged at least laughter, and$750 community. Contact practice and$1,800 improve together. varying experience levels and Jewish Community Center for The excitement continued continue theFamily vibrant Leonardexpanding and Enid Abrams Foundationme at tsussman@lvjcc.org Sara and Marcos Martinez more community members Amyhas Katz Abeloff Foundation Air Products Foundation Kristine Schultz andon Aaron Mendelson more information our growing Mah Jongg community at the JCC. discover the excitement, strategy, to grow through special events Lynn Wilson and Michael Alterman Michael Miller KlineMadness, Foundation JoAnne Kushnerthe Abrams For those looking for more Mah Jongg Canasta offerings. like Mah Jongg the Anonymous Rill and Ann and Steve Miller and social connection game Chelsea and Elliot Busch Shannon Smigen and Alex Mishkin personalized instruction, private JCC’s popular tournament-style provides.

What and began asBorn a Kobrovsky Family Fund Wendy Ross Nancy and Michael Busch Marc Nissenbaum gathering that brings players Mah JonggMichelle lessons also handful introductory “Learn andare Robert Cohen Barbara and Marty Port Lynda and Stuart Krawitz Sam of and Ann Born Foundation RKL, LLP the JCC. Private together for a morning of friendly available throughCuroAI to Play” classes has quickly Ophira Silbert and Jeffrey Fleischaker Shellie and Rashid Santiago Margofood, and Eric Lightman Kathy Zimmerman and Peter prizes, and lessons are ideal developed into a thriving MahFisher competition, Emilyfor and beginners Brian Ford Loren Ellis and Marvin Sasson Carol Bub Fromer and Gary Fromer Lillian Schwab Memorial Fund community spirit.

Events like who want to learn at their own Jongg community welcoming Luther Rhodes Lisa and Barnet Fraenkel Sandra and Harold Goldfarb David Shaffer of eight or Halper more players of all ages and skill levels. these have created a strong sense pace, groupsCarol and Barry Jenny Hayden and Nathan Siegfried Perkin Fund Susan Engelson Friefeld Muhaddasa Aejaaz Issa Stephanie and Adam Smartschan of camaraderie while giving friends interested inand starting a The JCC’s beginner classes Fred J. Jaindl Family Foundation Abby and Mark Trachtman Stabler Fund Bonnie Hammel newer players an opportunity to game together, experienced have introduced dozens of Giaor and Matt Jones Melissa and Matt Unger Nancyto and Andrew Kahn Beverly and Ronald Wasserman experience organized play in a players hoping strengthen newHSA players to the game in a Mary Beth and David Weinstein Mechanical Services, LLC Susanne and Marty Katz Martin Westman welcoming atmosphere. strategy and confidence. fun, supportive environment.

KRE Security LLC Working Dog Press Valeska and Israel Zighelboim Jeff Hunter Charitable Trust Laurie and Buddy Lesavoy Jeri and Len Zimmerman Building on this momentum, With classes, private Participants not only learn the Amber and Drew Lopez Jessica and Scott Zolotsky Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley instruction, special events, and the JCC is excited to introduce rules and strategies of National Jane and Bill Markson

JCC Honors Eve Peterson’s Legacy with Second Annual Pickleball Event

Shuffling Tiles and Building Community: Mah Jongg Sweeps the JCC Thank our Chai Society and Keystone Society Donors

HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | JUNE 2026 13

‘There Is No Ending that Is Not a Beginning’—Henrietta Szold

By Joanna Powers Head of School

This year, we have just about two whole weeks of classes at the JDS in June, as opposed to some years when we only have a smattering of days. While this might not be exciting news for our students, it gives us all the more opportunity to celebrate the end of the school year and the transition from one

chapter to the next.

June at the JDS is packed with high spirits and anticipation.

Projects and assessments are completed, class parties are thrown, and outdoor time is jubilantly extended. In the last few weeks of May, surrounding our mini vacation of Shavuot and Memorial Day that bookended one weekend, we’ve already held an amazing Lag B’Omer Field Day, the second-grade Chumash ceremony, the first-grade Play and Siddur presentation, and the Blue Zones accreditation event and Sensory Garden ribbon cutting, all while

14 JUNE 2026 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

continuing our top-notch Judaics, Hebrew, and general studies instruction.

The beginning of June boasts our crown jewel of the spring, Special Friends Day, held this year on June 4. There is nothing like seeing family, friends, and community members come together to bask in the talents and achievements of our children and to understand why the

JDS is such a special place. Classroom activities, songs, dances, skits, presentations, moving speeches, honoring community members, and a pizza lunch make for an unforgettable morning.

That brings us to the last day of the JDS school year. This can mean the last day of being a kindergartener, or the last day of teaching this year’s second-grade class.

It is a bittersweet milestone for so many of our students, teachers, and devoted staff. And me. These are children I am watching grow and mature, while I still see many of them as the littles they were when they started JDS. These are teachers with whom I have been working to support their craft and their hearts.

It leaves me breathless.

Every one of our students is filled with excitement about the school-free summer while still being a little emotional about leaving their home away from home, even for a few months. Yearbooks are signed, desks are cleaned out, and before we all know it, the school is quiet and the rooms are empty.

That’s when a different kind of work begins. As soon as the last student goes off to plunge into summer, our plans for the next school year are in full swing. The next few months give our team ample time to strategize, fine-tune, and customize this year’s experience for everyone involved. There

are summer days that are more full than a school day. We stay busy and focused all year round. We take a breath and cannot wait to open those doors again in just a few weeks.

While the administration, faculty, and staff see to every detail in preparation for the 2026-27 year, we could not do any of it without the generosity and support of our community. We are endlessly fortunate to have the Jewish Federation, JCC, Jewish Family Service, local synagogues, law enforcement departments, volunteers, the PTO, alumni, current and former parents, lay leaders, clergy, generous donors, grant providers, and devoted neighbors and friends, near and far, who help and guide us every step of the way.

When the JDS doors open to students again at the end of August, we will be ready, eager, and waiting. Everything we do is for them and because of you. Thank you, and have a wonderful summer!

Jewish Family Service OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY

610.821.8722 | www.jfslv.org

A New Board President - From Strength to Strength

By Audrey Alexander Nolte The Ethics of Our Fathers states, “Those who associate with wise, become wise.” While wisdom is often fleeting, my experience as Board President of Jewish Family Service of the Lehigh Valley has fueled my lifelong goal of wisdom, tikkun olam, and living a meaningful life.

During my tenure, our board navigated the transition of executive directors and focused on additional staff and board professional development through the Merit Nonprofit Professional Development platform, along with renewed memberships in the Network of Jewish Human Service Agencies (NJHSA) and the Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations (PANO). Our commitment to professional development is evident in program growth and shared goals. The strategic plan

continues to guide us, and the partnership between staff and the board continues to thrive.

My original inspiration to serve was to honor my parents of blessed memory. However, the gifts I have received have been plentiful and significant.

Working with Debbie Zoller and Chelsea Karp, whose compassion and respect continually put the agency first, has allowed us to support our staff, clients, donors, and board members. Without the additional support of my husband, family, friends, staff, and past JFS presidents, the past two years would not have been possible.

As I pass the baton of leadership to incoming President Emily Ford, I know JFS will continue to grow from strength to strength.

Her dedication, leadership, and values are gifts our community will cherish.

JFS Receives Grant for “Diapers & Wipers” Program For a family living on the edge, the cost of basic hygiene can be a breaking point. Since 2022, JFS has made it a priority to provide a full sleeve of diapers and a package of wipes to every family with small children during their monthly Community Food Pantry appointments.

For over four years, JFS sustained this initiative through the Emergency Food and Shelter Program (EFSP). However, recent federal budget cuts have resulted in the need to identify new funding sources.

JFS is proud to announce a $2,000 Community Service Grant

By Emily A. Ford It has been my pleasure to serve on the JFS Board of Directors for the past seven years, and I am thrilled to take on the role of President this July. I am honored to receive the JFS gavel from Audrey Nolte, an impactful leader who has built a foundation of trust and transparency for both the board and staff of JFS. My Summer 2018 Momentum/ Jewish Federation trip to Israel prompted me to think more deeply about how I could contribute to the lives of those in need within my community, guided by Jewish values. At the time, my husband, Brian, was a member of the JFS board, and he spoke so highly of the organization’s mission and the work it does. As I learned more about JFS, I quickly recognized the deep alignment between the agency’s vision and my own core

values, and could not pass up the opportunity to join the board.

I am enthusiastic to follow in Audrey’s footsteps and partner with Chelsea Karp and her team to strengthen programming, community outreach, and communication among staff, volunteers, and the board.

If you are interested in volunteering or have any questions about JFS, please do not hesitate to reach out; we would love for you to be a part of the JFS story. info@jfslv.org

Audrey Nolte and Emily Ford

2026 Scholarship Winners

from the Allentown Rotary Club and Foundation. This award will directly support the newly named Diapers & Wipers program, ensuring JFS can continue to provide diapers and wipes to food pantry clients.

This grant isn't just about supplies, it's about dignity and health for the youngest members of our community. Thank you to the Allentown Rotary Club and Foundation for your commitment to supporting families served by the JFS Community Food Pantry.

Michaela Bub, from Jack M. Barrack High School, was awarded a Martin Philip Scholarship. She will be attending The Ohio State University.

Joseph Block, from Parkland High School, was awarded a Martin Philip Scholarship. He will be attending Pennsylvania State University.

We thank those individuals who have graciously supported Jewish Family Service with these tributes: IN HONOR

JEAN FOREMAN (Happy 100th birthday) The Larry Center Family CASEY GOLDBLAT AND IRVING KAPLAN (Happy birthday) Stanley and Lora Geftic CASEY GOLDBLAT (Happy 80th birthday) Mary Ann Heck

IRVING KAPLAN (Happy 80th birthday) Mary Ann Heck TERRY NOEL (Happy birthday) Peggy and Bill Berger CARAH TENZER (Happy birthday) The Shimon Family Ofer Shimoni

BARBARA WEISMAN (Happy 100th birthday) Evelyn and Jay Lipschutz DEBBIE ZOLLER (Congratulations) Gia Jones

IN MEMORY

LAURENCE LOEB (Husband of Salty; Father of Alison, Diana, Jennifer) Florence Hausman

SUSAN KIRSHNER (Wife of Kenneth Kirshner; Mother of Allison and Keith) Peggy and Bill Berger Jane and Robert Cohen Linda and James Wimmer IRIS KLEIN (Partner of Joan Epstein; Mother of Jason Klein and Ali Weitzman) Peggy and Bill Berger Ruth Sheftel

NORMAN SARACHEK (Husband of Jett Sarachek; Father of Elizabeth, Becky, and Serena) Tikvah House

A wonderful way to share your thoughtfulness with family and friends, the minimum contribution for a JFS Tribute Card is $18.

Visit www.jfslv.org/give to place tribute card orders. Questions? 610.821.8722. Thank you for your continued support.

HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | JUNE 2026 15

As rich as cheesecake

Lehigh Valley and Yoav partners mingle in cyber kitchen for Shavuot baking class

By Scott Anderson Special to Hakol On May 17, I led a virtual Shavuot cooking class through the Jewish Federation’s Partnership2Gether program between the Lehigh Valley and Yoav, Israel. Two dozen people participated, including about 10 from Yoav.

The class centered around a signature vanilla cheesecake wrapped in ladyfingers and finished with white chocolate ganache and fresh raspberries. What began as a cooking demonstration quickly turned into something far more interactive and meaningful. Throughout the event, participants asked questions, shared stories, and compared ingredients, baking traditions, and food culture in the United States and Israel.

One interesting conversation focused on ladyfingers.

That’s how we commonly refer to them in the United States. Several participants from Israel described them as closer to biscotti, which led to a fun discussion about how similar ingredients and desserts can evolve differently across cultures. We talked about cream cheese and sour cream, and how dairy products in Israel differ

from what many of us are used to in the United States.

It was fascinating to see how quickly food became a gateway to larger conversations about tradition, family, and culture.

The event was highly interactive from start to finish. Participants asked thoughtprovoking questions throughout, including whether dark chocolate could be substituted for white chocolate in the ganache. The answer, of course, was absolutely. Dark chocolate and raspberries are an iconic and classic combination and would work beautifully in the recipe. I explained that I chose white chocolate because it was more fitting for the holiday.

We also spent time discussing baking techniques, including how to prevent cheesecakes from cracking, why internal temperature can sometimes be more reliable than the traditional “jiggle test,” and how small adjustments in ingredients or methods can completely change the final result. It was

rewarding to watch the event evolve from simply following a recipe into a genuine exchange of ideas and experiences.

There were plenty of laughs throughout the event.

At one point, attendees from Yoav taught me how to say “cheers” in Hebrew. Everyone had a good laugh at my attempts to pronounce it correctly, but it became one of my favorite moments from the class. It reminded me how easily food can bring people together, even from thousands of miles away.

As promised beforehand, I had my bourbon during the class. In fact, the group from Israel became very interested in the cocktail I was drinking—an Italian old-fashioned

Here for good.

Positively Different.

made with Buffalo Trace bourbon, Amaretto, and chocolate bitters. That conversation may have unintentionally created the theme for a future event, because I now feel obligated to come up with an Israeli-inspired cocktail for the group.

One of the most meaningful parts of the event for me was getting back to teaching.

Before this class, I spent years mentoring high school culinary students and working with at-risk youth and young adults to help teach cooking skills and kitchen confidence.

During the event, I realized how much I missed that connection and the energy that comes from teaching others.

The event also became a true family production at home. My wife, Ellen Sosis, served as the unofficial camerawoman for the class,

making sure every shot and angle looked as delicious as possible for the audience watching on Zoom. Even my mother-in-law, Audrey Sosis, was pulled into action, during the final assembly, to help place raspberries on top of the cheesecake before the white chocolate ganache set too quickly.

In total, we had eight people gathered at our house helping with the cooking, setup, cameras, and production side of the event. By the end, it no longer felt like a Zoom class. It felt more like a group of friends gathered together through food, conversation, and shared experiences across two countries.

I’m already looking forward to the next class—and, hopefully, to improving my Hebrew pronunciation before then.

Every journey has a beginning.

Sometimes it’s a conversation around a kitchen table.

Sometimes it’s a dream sketched on a napkin.

Sometimes it’s a business ready for its next chapter.

What turns those beginnings into something real? Support.

For 25 years, Embassy Bank has been that support in the Lehigh Valley, helping neighbors buy homes, grow businesses, send kids to college, and invest in our community’s future.

Our commitment has always had purpose, and now it has a name: Here for good.

Here for good means: • Here for your family, at every stage of life.

• Here for local businesses, from first ideas to major milestones.

• Here for our community, investing time, resources, and heart.

In the weeks ahead, you’ll hear from Embassy Bank customers whose lives and businesses have been strengthened by our support, and by the positive impact it brings to them and to the Lehigh Valley. We’re honored to be part of their stories and grateful for the trust you place in us with your own.

Because of you, we’re Here for good.

Thank you, Lehigh Valley.

Sincerely,

Local. Committed.

Here for good.

16 JUNE 2026 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

Dave Lobach, Chairman, President and CEO

Embassy Bank For the Lehigh Valley

Rabbi makes careful case to Jews unsure about Israel

The following correspondence from Rabbi Michael S. Friedman of Temple Israel in Westport, Connecticut, was recently circulated among board members of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley. It addresses the complicated conversation within the Jewish community in the wake of October 7, 2023, and the ongoing war in Israel.

Rabbi Friedman thoughtfully engages Jews who may feel conflicted about Israel and Zionism, offering a perspective that encourages continued connection, engagement, and dialogue rather than disengagement. Given the range of views within our own Lehigh Valley community, Rabbi Friedman’s words, reprinted here with permission, may be helpful as we approach conversations with nuance and clarity.

Dear Friends, One of the most difficult conversations in my rabbinate took place a few months after Oct 7. I was sitting with interfaith leaders trying to rebuild relationships that had been severely damaged. I thought we were making progress as a person I was sitting next to went on and on about how much he loved and respected Jews. He then concluded his comment with, “…but Zionism is evil.”

I was so shocked that I did not know how to respond in the moment. I later had the opportunity to tell him that not only were Israel and Zionism a source of pride and strength for me, but that the very idea that Judaism and Zionism could be separated within me was a gross misunderstanding of who I am as a Jew. Now, a couple of years later, I understand that while there are many Jews for whom Zionism and Israel are a source of great pride and strength, there is also a growing segment of the Jewish community for whom Israel and Zionism are a source of deep moral concern—so much so that they are considering abandoning Israel and Zionism.

Therefore I offer the following letter.

ing Abandoning Israel, DON’T. Many would tell you you’re wrong—that you have the wrong facts, that you’re exposed to the wrong media, that you’re brainwashed by the wrong political or philosophical leaders. I will not say that. I know you are well-educated engaged Jews, and that you care a great deal about being Jewish and about the Jewish people. I understand that you are not anti-Zionist.

Anti-Zionists delegitimize the State of Israel and claim that the world would be a better place if the State of Israel did not exist. You in no way fit that description. I understand that you desperately want to love Israel and that you feel a connection with fellow Jews who live there.

I understand that Jewish principles of pursuing peace, caring for the stranger, and loving one’s neighbor are among your highest values.

And I understand that at the core of your frustration with Israel are the many ways you see the Jewish state as falling short of embodying the values of the Jewish people.

I also understand that influential sources, such as The New York Times, seem to be on a mission to de-couple Zionism from Judaism, to reassure its readers you can be Jewish without being Zionist.

I could not disagree more.

I want to make a case—a

very strong case—for NOT abandoning Israel.

First, I urge you not to abandon half our family. There are about 15 million Jews on earth, and about 14 million of us live either in the US or Israel. So if you turn back on Israel you’re turning your back on roughly half the Jews in the world. Moreover, as imperfect as any nation may be, Israel is the great Jewish project of our time. It’s a project of rebirth after the Holocaust, testing whether a people nearly annihilated can live again. It’s a project of creativity, where we get to see what a mass of brilliant, committed, fearless Jews concentrated in one place can create together. It’s a project of power, where we Jews—who have been history’s most oppressed and powerless people—can take our destiny into our own hands and attempt to use power responsibly among the nations of the earth.

Second, abandoning Israel will do absolutely nothing to keep you safe. I know you are concerned that Israel’s actions cause Jews to be attacked around the world.

Please note, however, that the antisemitic attackers do not pause for one moment to ask what the Jews they are targeting think about Israel, or what the Jewish institution they are targeting teaches about Israel.

All Jews are bound together with one fate.

Third, I urge you not to abandon Zionism because of some sense of injustice.

Some see injustice present in the foundation of the state or in the form of the current government. To you, I would ask, what nation’s founding is free from injustice? Injustice is present in the foundation of the United States and Canada.

But that does not and should not prompt us to abandon any of these nations. The impulse to abandon Israel or Zionism seems to me to be a symptom of the larger disease of our larger society—when

we encounter something that we dislike or find uncomfortable, our reaction is to distance ourselves from it. We cancel people. We don’t talk to relatives and friends who have differing political opinions from ours. The Jewish response is not to distance but rather to discuss, to argue, to clarify, to engage.

Fourth, I urge you not to abandon Israel and Zionism because I guarantee that if you do you will cede the field to those who you most dislike. You’ll abandon it to politicians like Ben-Gvir and Smotrich, to the hoodlums practicing vigilante violence in the West Bank, and to the ultra-orthodox intent on defining a state religion that you and I would barely recognize as Judaism. And here in America if you abandon Zionism the term will be claimed by the illiberal progressive far left for whom Zionism is shorthand for the great evils of colonialism and white supremacy, and by the far right

which is rife with antisemitism and who see the entire world as a Zionist plot. I will not allow Zionism and Israel to be defined by those people.

If you, like me, have a vision for what an independent Jewish nation can be, that it should not only be the State of the Jewish people but also a nation that operates on Jewish principles, the only way to get there is to remain in the conversation and to make sure your voice is heard.

Scholar and teacher Yehuda Kurtzer said, “We hold ourselves accountable to be a people of greatness.” So let us all fully participate in that vision. Let us help Zionism and Israel achieve the greatest ideals of our people. Let us engage rather than disengage.

Let us talk rather than remain silent. And most importantly, let us do all of this together.

Sincerely, Rabbi Michael S. Friedman Temple Israel Westport

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Dear Jews Who Are ConsiderHAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | JUNE 2026 17

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2026 Shira Bach

Joseph Block

Shelly Bove

Michaela Bub

MAZAL TOV! Asa Hochhauser

SHIRA BACH* Daughter of David and Carmit Bach KOHELET YESHIVA HIGH SCHOOL Debate team captain, newspaper editor in chief, Model UN team, literary arts magazine editor, Reading Olympics team captain, writing center tutor, Chidon HaTanach team captain, Lehigh University International Relations Department research assistant, American Jewish Committee intern, StandWithUs intern, classical piano teacher.

Shira will study at Migdal Oz in Israel for a year and then attend Princeton University.

JOSEPH BLOCK Son of Andrew and Christine Block PARKLAND HIGH SCHOOL

Emily Kushnick

Festival of the Arts Club president, Jewish Culture Club vice president, marching band vice president, concert band vice president, jazz band vice president, orchestra trumpet section leader, National English Honor Society, National Math Honor Society, math tutor, National Honor Society, National Social Studies Honor Society, National Science Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Tri-M Music Honor Society, Allentown Family Foot Care medical/administrative assistant, Temple Beth El Religious School administration aide and teacher’s aide, Pediatric Cancer Foundation of the Lehigh Valley Teen Board, BBYO president.

Joseph will attend the Pennsylvania State University-University Park for premedicine.

SHELLY BOVE Daughter of Ravit and Glenn Bove EASTON AREA HIGH SCHOOL

Ella Magida

tive Education Clubs of America, Camp JCC worker, Barcelona kindergarten class volunteer, Pinemere Camp counselor.

National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society, HOBY ambassador, Art Club vice president, Chabad Friendship Circle volunteer, CTeen leader.

Michaela will attend the Ohio State University to study nursing.

Shelly will attend Lafayette College.

JACK M. BARRACK HEBREW ACADEMY

MICHAELA BUB* Daughter of Kira and Richard Bub

Varsity cross country, Math Club, math tutoring center co-president, Clash of Clans Club founder, Kahn Academy SAT English prep volunteer tutor, Summer Camp Opportunities Promote Education 5k, Camp Ramah Poconos counselor-in-training and counselor.

JACK M. BARRACK HEBREW ACADEMY Varsity cheer captain, varsity lacrosse, Widener Memorial Club vice president, Glamour Gals Club secretary, Accent School of Dance, dance teacher, Cedarbrook Nursing Home volunteer, BBYO, Distribu-

ASA HOCHHAUSER* Son of Julie and Aron Hochhauser

Asa will attend the College of Charleston to study economics, geoscience, and political science.

EMILY KUSHNICK* Daughter of Beth and Howard Kushnick

Comprehensive Pediatric Care since 1959 Oscar A. Morffi, M.D., F.A.A.P Richard J. Morse, M.D., F.A.A.P Raj S. Totlani, M.D., F.A.A.P

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JACK M. BARRACK HEBREW ACADEMY Drama crew and stage manager, Animation Club president, Music Club, Varsity Cross County Coaches Award, Hebrew Award, Spanish

2 Award, USY, Chabad Cteen board, Gratz College Art Award.

Emily will attend Lafayette College with a double major in fine arts and languages.

ELLA MAGIDA Daughter of Bruce and Carina Magida WYOMING SEMINARY Mock Trial president, Sem Dance Marathon president, tennis, high honors, Dude Be Nice executive.

Ella will attend the University of Miami to major in political science and economics and pursue a law degree.

AVIVA MARKOWITZ* Daughter of Lisa and Moshe Markowitz JACK M. BARRACK HEBREW ACADEMY Moot Beit Din president, Cougar Chronicle editor, Gateway literary magazine editor, Camp JCC counselor, Jewish Day School volunteer, Congregation Sons of Israel youth group volunteer, Jewish Family Service Community Food Pantry volunteer.

Aviva will spend a gap year in Israel at Midreshet Lindenbaum and then attend Bing-

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2026 Aviva Markowitz

Jace Pooley

Aron Rabin

Cyan Smoyer

2026 Alexis Teichman

hamton University to major in English.

JACE POOLEY Son of Karen and Jeff Pooley LIBERTY HIGH SCHOOL Jace will attend Northampton Community College.

ARON RABIN Son of Lauren and Doron Rabin PARKLAND HIGH SCHOOL National Honor Society officer, student senator, FIRST Robotics Lehigh Valley captain, BBYO, Jewish Culture Club president, math and science tutor, Club Med, Ski Club, tennis team, Hanover Township Volunteer Fire Company EMT. Aron will attend Johns Hopkins University to study neuroscience and biophysics on a premed track.

CYAN SMOYER Daughter of Ali Brown and Pete Smoyer PARKLAND HIGH SCHOOL Advanced Honors Orchestra, marching band, Tri M Honor Society, concert band, musicals

Charlotte Traub

pit orchestra, Festive Strolling Strings, Pennsylvania Music Educators Association festivals, Latin Club, Latin Honor Society, Jewish Club, Psychology Club.

Cyan will attend Syracuse University to study chemistry, physics, and neuroscience.

ALEXIS TEICHMAN Daughter of Elysse and Adam Teichman

Noah Zighelboim

CHARLOTTE TRAUB Daughter of Stefanie and Darren Traub ST. ANDREW’S SCHOOL, DELAWARE Student Tour Guide Association head ambassador, Jewish Affinity Group leader, Book Club head, admissions intern, sophomore girl’s dorm senior leader, cross country, senior center volunteer, Surfside Fro-

zen Custard scooper.

Charlotte will attend the University of Pennsylvania to study economics.

NOAH ZIGHELBOIM* Son of Valeska and Israel Zighelboim JACK M. BARRACK HEBREW ACADEMY Varsity soccer captain, Latino Heritage Club co-founder and president, DECA Business

Competition state qualifier, Pinemere Camp, St. Luke’s University Health Network junior volunteer.

Noah will attend college to major in economics, finance, and/or applied mathematics. * ATTENDED JEWISH DAY SCHOOL

EMMAUS HIGH SCHOOL Varsity golf, Eastern Pennsylvania Conference Scholar Athlete, EPC MVP and All-Area First Team, EPC champion, District 11 champion, National Honor Society treasurer, Gratitude Club vice president, Bake Club treasurer, Interact Club, Hornet Ambassador, Pickleball Club, debate team volunteer, lifeguard, Lehigh Valley Children’s Hospital volunteer, gymnastics coach, elementary school volunteer, bake sale volunteer.

Alexis will attend Gettysburg College to major in health sciences on a pre-dental track. She will play on the women’s golf team.

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HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | JUNE 2026 19

MAZAL TOV CLASS OF 2026!

Sheyenne Leigh Abraham Danielle Leah Aharon Joel Evan Bass Maayan Itzak Ben-Abou Eva Belle Benisti Evan Michael Berman Alexis Brady Reese Paige Brodie Michaela Shell Bub Ariella Musher Eisenstadt Ilana Rachel Fink Benjamin Baruch Friedman Yael Batsheva Friedman Alexis Sofia Tamarind Gibney-Krashen Abigail Elizabeth Gober Daniel Benjamin Goldstein Aleeza Avigail Greenhouse Belle Ester Harris Sian Yael Heilveil

Asa Jan Hochhauser Mae Shoshana Isaacs Lucy Rubin Isle Ari Morgan Jaffe Tal Or Z Kahn Adi Lyla Keinan Odelia Sarah Krasner Friedman Emily Isabelle Kushnick Aria E. Levy Shira Elle Lowenberg Noam Malka Mirel Isadora Margolin Aviva Rachel Markowitz Sadie Lilah Menkowitz Samuel Benjamin Mildenberg Celeste Rose Miller Samantha Neff Jonah William Pappas

Yael Shayna Peltz Isaiah Enoch Purnell Anna Ella Salpeter Ori Sarfaty Liora Chana Scheinmann Emerson Rose Schwartz Ori Shaham Drew Vivienne Shechtman Tahel Shoham Jillian Basia Shweky Noa Singer Daniel Adam Somerman Mikayla Reese Trajtenberg Alana Eve Ufberg Celeste Vahey Stella Madeline Wolson Maya Groen Yagur Amit Zakin Noah Zighelboim

Members of the class of 2026 have received offers of admission from the following 109 colleges and universities. Bold college names indicate 1 or more students have enrolled.

American University Arizona State University Arizona State University - Tempe Auburn University Bard College Binghamton University Boston University Brandeis University Cedar Crest College Clemson University Coastal Carolina University Colgate University College of Charleston Colorado State University - Fort Collins Columbia University Columbia University/ Tel Aviv University Cornell University Dickinson College Drexel University Duke University Elon University Emory University Florida Atlantic University Florida Institute of Technology Franklin & Marshall College Hamilton College Harvard University Indiana University Bloomington James Madison University Kent State University

La Salle University Lafayette College Lehigh University Louisiana State University Loyola Marymount University Loyola University Chicago Michigan State University Monmouth University Muhlenberg College Northeastern University Occidental College Pace University Penn State University - Abington Penn State University - Behrend Penn State University University Park Princeton University Reichman University - IDC Herzliya Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rochester Institute of Technology Rowan University Rutgers University - Camden Rutgers University - New Brunswick Saint Joseph's University San Diego State University Sarah Lawrence College Skidmore College Southern Methodist University St. John's College - Annapolis Stevens Institute of Technology Stockton University

20 JUNE 2026 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

Stony Brook University Syracuse University Temple University Texas A&M University The College of New Jersey The George Washington University The New School The Ohio State University The University of Alabama The University of Tampa The University of Tennessee - Knoxville The University of Texas at San Antonio Thomas Jefferson University Towson University Tufts University Tulane University University of Arizona University of California - Davis University of California - Los Angeles University of Central Florida University of Colorado Boulder University of Delaware University of Florida University of Georgia University of Hartford University of Hawaii at Manoa University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign University of Maryland - College Park University of Miami University of Michigan University of New Hampshire

University of North Carolina Wilmington University of Oklahoma University of Oregon University of Pennsylvania University of Pittsburgh University of Rhode Island University of Richmond University of Rochester University of South Carolina

University of South Florida University of Vermont University of Virginia University of Wisconsin - Madison Ursinus College Vassar College Virginia Polytechnic Institute Washington University in St. Louis West Chester University Yale University

GAP YEAR PROGRAMS Aardvark Gap Year Hevruta Gap Year Israel XP at Bar Ilan University Mechinat Aderet/IDF

Midreshet HaRova Midreshet Lindenbaum Young Judaea Year Course

Rejoice every day, but at graduation time, a bit louder

By Rabbi Steve Nathan Lehigh University Endowed Director of Jewish Student Life and Associate Chaplain It is written in Psalm 118:24, “This is the day that the

Eternal has made, let us rejoice and celebrate in it.” The day you graduate, whether from kindergarten, elementary school, high school, or college, is indeed a day we want to celebrate all of you who have completed your academic work and all of your accomplishments.

Whether for one, eight, 12, 16, or more years, you have each spent a good portion of your time not only studying and researching, but also making friends and finding community.

You have faced challenges, and as you transition to the next phase of your lives, you are receiving the

acknowledgement you so richly deserve. But each transition brings some questions and concerns with it as well. Depending on what graduation this is for you, your focus may be anything from “What homeroom will I be in this fall?” and “What major should I choose, and what classes should I pick?” to “Well, here we go into the job market.”

Wherever you are, make sure you celebrate the day, and parents and other family members, you should celebrate and be proud as well. It’s true that every day we can say, “This is the day that the Eternal has made, let

us all celebrate and rejoice,” but this is a time when you can say it a little bit louder, with a little more gratitude, and a little more pride. And wherever you—or your children—are on this journey, may you continue to build and live your dreams or help others to live theirs.

In these days when we spend so much time thinking about the difficulties of being Jewish right now, let’s focus instead on those dreams. May they be filled with joy, love, laughter, compassion, harmony, and peace.

May each of you and all your loved ones continue

to grow from strength to strength, from challenge to challenge, and from joy to joy. As we say when we recite the Shehechiyanu, let us thank God for keeping us alive and sustaining us, and bringing us to this special time. Let us also thank God for giving us the strength to learn, to love, and to be compassionate, and for enabling us to have the courage to make a difference in the world each day.

Mazel Tov to our graduates of all ages and to their families.

YOAV CALLING!

IDF reservists relax and renew at P2G retreat in Yoav

By Dr. Libat Kaminsky Yoav-Lehigh Valley Partnership2Gether Director

The Lehigh Valley’s Partnership2Gether community of Yoav, Israel, recently hosted a retreat for Israel Defense Forces reservists. It was a special day of pause, renewal, and reconnection for people who dedicate themselves throughout the year to service and meaningful action.

Participants set aside the pressures of daily life, worries, and even their phones, allowing themselves to simply be, reconnecting, relaxing, and recharging through water

therapy, sound healing, and a calm supportive atmosphere.

Workshops and treatments aimed to strengthen personal and community resilience.

Participants experienced a meaningful process of trust, listening, and working together, alongside moments that allowed them to pause, breathe, and reconnect with themselves and others. This special day was made possible by the Yoav-Lehigh Valley partnership and the Yoav Regional Council, which came together to create a space of healing, support, and appreciation for the reservists.

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

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Monday, July 6, 2026 | 6:30 PM | JCC Registration is required.

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HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | JUNE 2026 21

JFS visits capital to meet PA officials, voice concerns

By Allen Abbott Jewish Family Service

On a lovely May 4 day, I joined a delegation from Jewish Family Service to walk the halls of the state capitol and meet with several of our state government officials. Rebecca Axelrod Cooper, Chelsea Karp, Audrey Nolte, Carah Tenzer, Doug Trachtman, and I told our agency’s story, with a big assist from Aaron Gorodzinsky of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley and Hank Butler of the Pennsylvania Jewish Coalition, who arranged our meetings, guided us through the legislative halls, and provided excellent counsel regarding how to best advocate for the issues affecting JFS clients.

On one of the busiest days of the year in Harrisburg, our group met with Senator Nick Miller and Representatives Mike Schlossberg, Ann Flood,

and Gary Day, as well as representatives of the State Agriculture Department, who are critical to our efforts to form a closer connection between local farmers and food pantries.

Karp kicked off our meetings with a summary of the four core services that JFS provides, and then introduced Trachtman and Tenzer, who got into the nitty gritty of our food pantry and older adult services programs.

Trachtman shared how cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) have presented challenges to families and individuals served in our food pantry and the alarming increase in the number of emergency food requests received this year. He also spoke passionately about the need to replace the Local Food Purchase Assistance program, the federal program that paid farmers directly to

provide fresh fruits and vegetables to local food pantries and schools that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) eliminated last year.

Tenzer was eloquent in discussing the many challenges that older adults face as affordable housing becomes more difficult to find and rising costs for rent, food, and gas are forcing these individuals living on fixed incomes to make impossible choices. Cooper chimed in with some specific examples of clients facing these hard choices.

In between our meetings, Gorodzinsky and Butler showed us some of the beautiful features of the capitol and got us onto the floor of the state senate.

Throughout her career, she followed a variety of leadership paths, as a teacher, a chaplain and hospice founder, a writer, a spiritual director, and an activist for social justice.

She is currently co-chair of the Racial Justice Subcommittee of the Conservative Movement’s Social Justice Commission. In that role, she has worked closely with

Rabbi Michael Singer of Brith Sholom, who chaired the commission and built it into a major center of activity for the movement.

Two of her presentations over the weekend covered teaching Mussar, a classical Jewish system of spiritual development rooted in Biblical, Talmudic, medieval, and modern texts focused on how we should behave as Jews. At the Kabbalat Shabbat service, she highlighted its lessons for self-care, titling her talk “Mussar for Trying Times.” She taught that Mussar tradition emphasizes middot (personal qualities or virtues). For self-care in times of challenge, the key middot are gratitude, lovingkindness, and equanimity (in Hebrew, menuchat hanefesh, or “rest for the soul”). The Jewish emphasis on the centrality of gratitude is epitomized in the prayer recited upon waking: Modeh Ani, in which we express thankfulness for the daily restoration of our souls.

On Shabbat morning, Rabbi Eilberg spoke about the Jewish imperative to fight for democracy. She focused on sources that guide us to embrace three middot in particular—responsibility, courage/ strength, and compassion/ love. As an example of Mus-

Most importantly, the day provided our state officials with an opportunity to learn about the work we do and the challenges our clients face. As Cooper shared with us the next

day, “To meet face-to-face and share about the work at JFS is what democracy is all about.”

Visiting scholar talks virtue, debate at Brith Sholom

By Judith Lasker Congregation Brith Sholom

Congregation Brith Sholom spent the weekend of May 15-17 learning from and being inspired by a remarkable visiting scholar, Rabbi Amy Eilberg.

Rabbi Eilberg is best known as a pioneer, the first woman to be ordained by the Jewish Theological Seminary.

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sar’s approach to compassion/love, she quoted from Rav Kook’s Middot Harayah: “It is proper to hate a corrupt person only for their defects, but insofar as they are endowed with a divine image, it is appropriate to love them.”

During the time of our weekly Shabbat Talmud class, Rabbi Eilberg taught about the foundations of machloket min haShamayim (respectful and holy disagreement), such as the debates between the great sages Hillel and Shammai. These illustrate how we can have difficult conversations with those with whom we disagree. The Mishna teaches us the “49/49 principle,” that the Law should be studied with 49 reasons to rule a matter impure and with 49 reasons to rule it pure. While the decision should be made by majority rule, we learn the value of understanding and honoring opposing views. She and Rabbi Singer then modeled such a disagreement relating to how we should/should not engage with Jews who are anti-Zionist.

In a final session of open questions and answers Sunday morning, an attendee asked what inspired her to pursue an uncharted path.

Rabbi Eilberg shared that

her experience as a teenager on the USY on Wheels bus trip around the United States was the spark that led her to embark on serious study and practice of Judaism. She particularly wanted to study Talmud, and she pursued that interest as an undergraduate at Brandeis University and then as a graduate student at the Jewish Theological Seminary. At the seminary, she took almost all the courses required for rabbinical ordination, but, as a woman, she could not be ordained at the time. When this policy changed in 1984, she needed only one more year of coursework before being ordained as a rabbi in 1985.

Rabbi Eilberg’s teachings beautifully modeled the ways in which she has merged deep learning in classical texts with a focus on individual spiritual growth and collective action for improving the world we share—a remarkable integration of the best of Jewish tradition and practice.

Rabbi Eilberg’s visit was made possible by the Brith Sholom Visiting Scholar Endowment Dedications from the Shaffer, Bratspies, and Haltzman families and from Dr. Gordon z”l and Rose Lee Goldberg.

A leader in student well-being

JDS named Lehigh Valley’s first Blue Zones Project-approved school

By Crissy Toff Jewish Day School

The Jewish Day School of the Lehigh Valley recently partnered with the Blue Zones Project Lehigh Valley* for a hands-on volunteer build day that transformed a corner of the campus into a vibrant new sensory garden.

JDS and Blue Zones Project cut the ribbon to officially open the garden on May 27.

Earlier in the year, JDS became the first Blue Zonesapproved school in the Lehigh Valley, a milestone that reflects a growing commitment to student well-being and whole-child education.

The new sensory garden brings that commitment to life daily in a real and tangible way.

Volunteers of all ages came together to design and construct the outdoor space centered on movement, exploration, and connection.

The garden features natural play elements, interactive sensory stations, and winding pathways that invite students to engage their bodies and minds in new ways.

More than just a physical addition to the campus, the project reflects the power of community collaboration.

The build day itself became a meaningful experience, bringing together families, supporters, and neighbors to create something lasting for JDS students.

The sensory garden will serve as a daily resource for learning, play, and reflection, supporting the JDS’s ongoing efforts to nurture the whole child. It also stands as a visible example of what’s possible when schools and community partners work together to prioritize health, belonging, and connection.

The JDS looks forward to welcoming students, and the

broader community, into the space in the months ahead. *A Blue Zones Project (a public/private partnership) is a community-wide well-being initiative that transforms environments to make healthy choices easier and more natural for residents

Jay’s Local first Valley eatery to earn Blue Zones nod

By Lyell Scherline Jay’s Local Owner

Jay’s Local in Allentown was recently named the first Blue Zones Project-approved restaurant in the Lehigh Valley.

What exactly does that mean to us and the community? I put together the following Q&A to help answer that.

What inspired the restaurant to join the Blue Zones Project?

We support anything we can do to build a better Lehigh Valley. When we learned about the Blue Zones initiative to help people become healthier and happier, we knew it aligned perfectly with our concept.

What does being an “approved” Blue Zones restaurant mean?

Jay’s Local being Blue Zones approved is hopefully our way of spearheading a great community-centered goal of making the Lehigh Valley food scene even greater than it already is. If other restaurateurs see what we’re doing with the help of Blue Zones, perhaps they’ll follow suit and allow their customers the opportunity to make better choices as well.

How does the restaurant’s mission align with the goals of the Blue Zones Project?

Jay’s Local was created in honor and memory of my dad, Jay Scherline, a great innovator. He always found ways to improve things for others. Our mission—to continue in his footsteps by

finding ways to improve the Lehigh Valley through our health-conscious menu, community connection, and a sense of purpose for our team and customers—aligns perfectly with the goals of Blue Zones.

How have customers responded to the Blue Zones menu items?

Our customers are very excited. They love the thought put into each creation and are always curious about what we’ll introduce next. Giving our customers a say is always a top priority, so we constantly ask them what flavors they’re interested in to ensure that our future Blue Zones items are exactly what they want.

How does the restaurant contribute to a healthier Lehigh Valley?

A restaurant doesn’t just have to be a place to eat; it can be a place to gather and connect, a place to feel welcome and at home away from home. In addition to serving a health-conscious menu, we host children’s programs, cooking classes, small business pop-up shops, and guest chef collaborations to build a strong sense of community and belonging.

Why is it important for local businesses to support community well-being initiatives?

Supporting community causes shows that a business

cares about more than just profits. When we support each other, especially in times of challenge, we’re better positioned to recover more quickly.

What long-term impact can this program have on the Lehigh Valley?

Not just longer lives for our residents, but better lives. A hope that our community becomes stronger, that we form closer bonds with our neighbors, that health concerns are reduced, and that the culture prioritizes well-being as a shared responsibility.

Is it important for Jewish businesses and organizations to get involved with Blue Zones?

I think there’s a lot of value in Jewish businesses and organizations getting involved with Blue Zones in the Lehigh Valley because many of the core ideas already overlap, including community, connection, purpose, and belonging. It’s a great way to build relationships across the region while helping create a healthier, more connected environment for everyone.

I’m beyond thrilled that the Jewish Day School and JCC are becoming Blue Zones approved organizations. I have no doubt that will open even more doors for them, and hopefully other Jewish businesses and organizations will see the value and follow suit.

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TBE teens visit Weitzman Jewish history museum in Philly Students from Temple Beth El’s Midrasha program traveled to the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic district on Sunday, April 26.

The students and parent chaperones explored Jewish narratives woven into the American story between 1654 and 1945. They learned of colonial immigrants and settlers across American cities from New York to Charleston, South Carolina, to Hunstville, Alabama, including wellknown lineages in Philadelphia such as the Gratz family.

Students also got to imagine what it was like attending a 19th-century Purim ball, traveling out West for the Gold Rush, and living in tenements on New York’s Lower East Side.

Following the museum tour, students had time to visit the Liberty Bell before

returning home.

Midrasha is a weekly program during the school year for seventh, eighth, and ninth graders. The students have dinner together, followed by lessons and group discussions on a range of topics relevant

to American Jewish teens. If you’re interested in learning more, contact Beth Daskin at 610-435-3521 or beth@ bethelallentown.org, or visit bethelallentown.org/midrasha1.html.

MAZEL TOV, GRADUATES!

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A trio of temptations from South America

By Sandi Teplitz Special to Hakol

One of the best parts about traveling is trying out new and interesting

cuisines, some of which are not readily available in the Lehigh Valley. As I visit places that my students have come

from, I like to explore restaurants that cater to Jewish patrons and then attempt to duplicate the recipes. After several

somewhat challenging attempts to convert some recipes from metric to standard measurements, I settled on three differ-

ent types of dishes from my recent trip to South America that I feel sure you’ll enjoy preparing and eating.

Thinly sliced beef, grilled Slices of avocado Slices of ripe tomato Mayonnaise Pareve roll, halved and toasted Slice of nondairy cheese such as Chao

Pile high all the ingredients on the bottom of a roll with the cheese on top, then place in a 400-degree oven for one minute, until the cheese melts.

3 pounds grated white cabbage 4 peeled carrots, grated on the long end 3 peppers, yellow, green, and red, cut into matchsticks 1 cup mayonnaise 3 tablespoons sugar Juice of 3 lemons Salt and pepper to taste Grilled slices of medium-rare roast beef

Toss together all ingredients except the beef and chill for at least 2 hours. Top with the warm beef.

2 large carrots, peeled 3 large eggs 13 ounces powdered sugar 1 1/3 cups corn oil 10 ounces all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/8 teaspoon salt 1 can sweetened condensed milk 3 1/2 ounces of 70% cacao dark chocolate, broken up 1 1/4 cup heavy cream

oil, flour, baking powder, and salt, and pulse several times until well mixed. Pour into a greased and floured 9-inch springform pan and bake at 350 degrees for 45 minutes, or until it tests done with a toothpick. Let cool and remove from the pan.

For the frosting, combine the sweetened condensed milk with the chocolate in a saucepan. Melt together over very low heat. Remove from the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring well. Cool for about 15 minutes, chill in the refrigerator for another 15 minutes, then pour over the cake. Chill the whole thing in the refrigerator for at least an hour. Serve with a mug of hot coffee.

Cover with the top roll and dig in. Delicious when paired with a dry red Chilean wine.

For the cake, pulse the carrots in a food processor until grated. Add the eggs, powdered sugar, corn

Serve with a frosty glass of American-style lager (like Argentina’s Quilmes).

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BOOK REVIEWS

First-ever Korean American rabbi tells her story “Heart of a Stranger: An Unlikely Rabbi’s Story of Faith, Identity, and Belonging,” by Angela Buchdahl, Pamela Dorman Books, 2025, 352 pages.

By Sean Boyle Jewish Day School Librarian

“Heart of a Stranger,” the autobiography of internationally recognized Rabbi Angela Buchdahl, is a combination of memoir and short sermons.

Each chapter includes a section titled with a Hebrew word that serves as a sermon theme.

Buchdahl is the first female senior rabbi of Central Synagogue in New York City.

She is also the first Korean American to be ordained a cantor, the first Korean American to be ordained a rabbi, and the first woman to be ordained both.

In 1972, Buchdahl was born in Seoul, South Korea, to a Korean Buddhist mother and an American Ashkenazi Reform Jew. When she was 5, the family, including her younger sister, moved to her father’s hometown, Tacoma, Washington. They initially lived across the street from the city’s sole synagogue, where her family has been members for generations.

Although her mother never converts to Judaism, she does incorporate many Jewish traditions into their daily lives, to ensure that both girls are raised Jewish. But often there’s a Korean twist, such as kimchi as the maror (bitter herb) on their seder plate.

Buchdahl’s family raised her with a strong foundation in her Korean heritage, with special attention paid to the legend that they’re descended from Korean

royalty. Her Jewish heritage includes growing up where numerous generations of her father’s family lived as part of a Jewish community that long respected them and their many contributions. Buchdahl discovered a passion for leading songs at the synagogue and at camp as a young teenager, and she developed an inner strength in her faith and heritage that prepared her for the different forms of discrimination she would eventually face when she left her small Washington Reform community.

As a member of the Bronfman Fellowship in high school, she met Jews of different denominations and experienced discrimination for the first time from fellow Jews.

Her sister faced similar discrimination a few years later in another Bronfman cohort and is no longer a practicing

Jew. On the positive side, Buchdahl got the opportunity to learn from an inspirational Orthodox rabbi, which led her to become a rabbi.

Buchdahl covers her doubts and struggles alongside many inspirational moments as she details the path she took from high school student in the small Jewish community of Tacoma to senior rabbi at Central Synagogue.

She originally wanted to write a book filled with little sermons but was told there was no mainstream market for that and was advised by her agent to write a memoir instead and slip in her sermons.

The book is recommended for ages 12-120, especially anyone who has ever felt like a stranger.

“Dobre Dobre: Baking from Poland and Beyond,” by Laurel Kratochvila, Chronicle Books, 2025, 360 pages.

variants? Laurel Kratochvila instead takes Eastern European cooking and baking to a whole new level, adding a dimension of depth and flavor to this cuisine of my heritage.

Her introduction is both humorous and informative, allowing us to view her own unique perspective of what Polish baking should be. She’s a pro-

fessional baker, trained in Paris, and focused on heritage Jewish baking.

Photos in this book enhance the authenticity of the pastries—kudos to her professional photographer, Malgosia Minta, whose pictures bring the recipes to life.

I chose to include here the recipe for a cookie I grew up with

Sean Boyle is librarian of the Jewish Day School and Congregation Keneseth Israel, and president of the Association of Jewish Libraries.

Paris-trained baker puts her twist on Polish baking

By Sandi Teplitz Special to Hakol

Each time a new cookbook emerges with a focus on Poland, I’m intrigued. Will this be one more professional chef focusing on the pierogi and its many

that is hard to find locally.

Now you can make these cookies for yourself. Some folks call them bow ties; I refer to them as eier kichel.

Eier Kichel

3 eggs 7 yolks 6 1/2 tablespoons sunflower oil 1/4 cup sugar 1 tablespoon schnapps 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 teaspoon Diamond kosher salt 2 3/4 cups flour 2 cups sugar for rolling

In a mixing bowl, whisk all ingredients except the flour until mixed evenly. Add flour, then mix with a dough hook until soft and satiny, about 15 minutes. Using oiled hands, form the mixture into a ball and place it in an oiled bowl, covered, for 45 minutes.

Set oven to 350 degrees. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. Cover work surface with sugar, then turn out dough onto it. Cover with another thick layer of sugar and roll out until its 1/4-inch thick. Use a pizza cutter to cut into 2-by-3-inch rectangles. You should have about 60. Divide them between the two prepared sheets. Twist each one in the middle to create a bow tie shape. Allow to rest for 5 minutes.

Bake for 10 minutes until golden and puffed.

Cool. Store in a cookie tin for up to a week.

26 JUNE 2026 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY

Community Calendar SUNDAY, JUNE 7 L’Dor V’dor: A Celebration of Generations at KI 4-7 p.m., Congregation Keneseth Israel The celebration will feature an Israeli BBQ, silent and live auctions, and activities for all ages. Dress is casual.

Tickets are $54 per person over 18; children under 18 are free. Register at kilv.org/event/gala1.html.

sponsorship information.

SUNDAY, JUNE 7 NextGen Book Club 7 p.m., via Zoom Join NextGen for its bimonthly book club meeting. The group will discuss “How to Share an Egg: A True Story of Hunger, Love, and Plenty” by Bonny Reichert. Register at jewishlehighvalley.regfox.com/nextgen-book-club-3.

ONGOING EVENTS

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10 Sons of Israel Civics & Schmear Noon, Congregation Sons of Israel Join Congregation Sons of Israel for a Lunch and Learn conversation with Allentown Mayor Matt Tuerk. Light lunch will be provided free of charge.

Registration required in advance at forms.gle/rosqmEDfCpG6m2kg8.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10 2026 Community Celebration and Annual Meeting 6 p.m., JCC Join the Jewish Federation for an end-of-year gathering and dinner (dietary laws observed) to celebrate our award winners, leaders, and volunteers. Register at jewishlehighvalley.regfox.com/2026annual-meeting. If you’re not a JCC member, bring a valid ID to enter.

FRIDAY, JUNE 12 Bnai Shalom Pride Shabbat 2026 7:30 p.m., Congregation Bnai Shalom, Easton, and online Join Congregation Bnai Shalom to celebrate all the members of our community. All are invited. All are welcome. Registration is required to attend in person. Register at my.linkpod.site/Pride-Shabbat-BnaiShalom or by calling the synagogue office at 610-258-5343. Or you can livestream the event at the synagogue’s YouTube channel.

SUNDAY, JUNE 14 97 Wild TBE Years Evening, Temple Beth El Saddle up and ride over to TBE to celebrate its 97th anniversary and honor president Jay Needle at a dinner and night with the Nefesh Mountain bluegrass band. Call the synagogue at 610-435-3521 with any questions. Visit bethelallentown. org/form/tbe-97th-anniversarycelebration-2026.html for ticket and

MONDAY, JULY 6 Security Training 6:30 p.m., JCC Our regional security advisor, Tim Brooks, will lead Countering Active Threat Training, a comprehensive program developed for faith-based institutions and houses of worship.

Registration required.

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 610-4353571, ext. 501.

MONDAYS Unpacking the Igros 10:30 a.m., Congregation Sons of Israel May a couple opt for artificial insemination? Can I use a timer to cook on Shabbos? Is veal kosher? How does Judaism approach abortion? Study responses of the leading rabbi of the 20th century, HaGaon HaRav Moshe Feinstein zt”l, and find out the answers to these questions and much more. Contact rabbi@sonsofisrael. net with questions or to register.

WEDNESDAYS Sons of Israel “Mysteries of the Midrash” Noon, Congregation Sons of Israel Rabbi Moshe Kurtz will teach this weekly class. Light lunch will be served. All are welcome.

WEDNESDAYS Yoga with Miriam Sandler: ChairSupported 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 dropin 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 Torah Studies by the Jewish Learning Institute presents Season Three, 5786, a 12-part series. Cost is $54 for the course, including textbook.

For more information, call 610-3516511 or email rabbi@chabadlehighvalley.com.

THURSDAYS Lishma: Learn, Listen, Listen Learn 10:30 a.m.-noon, Congregation Keneseth Israel Explore of variety of topics through a Jewish lens. Students drive the thematic focus as the group dives deep into traditional sources and queries contemporary challenges. The coffee is hot, and snacks are encouraged.

The group does not meet Nov 27, Dec 25, Jan 1. Register at kilv.org/ event/learn-listen-listen-learn.html.

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.

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/contact-rabbicall.

SATURDAYS Wisdom of the Talmud Class After Shabbat Lunch and Schmooze, Congregation Brith Sholom Join Rabbi Michael Singer in a discussion 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 610866-8009.

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 610762-1450. Register at kilv.org/event/ shabbat-yoga1.html.

DAILY Jewish Broadcasting Service JBS is a Jewish television channel available 24/7 at no extra cost as part of your Lehigh Valley cable package—on RCN, it’s channel 334, Service Electric 127, and Fios 798.

Programming features 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; and films, music, books, and entertainment.

Visit the JBS website at jbstv.org for information or to view programming online.

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.

FRIDAY, JUNE 5

8:11 PM

FRIDAY, JULY 10

8:16 PM

FRIDAY, JUNE 12

8:15 PM

FRIDAY, JULY 17

8:12 PM

FRIDAY, JUNE 19

8:18 PM

FRIDAY, JULY 24

8:07 PM

FRIDAY, JUNE 26

8:19 PM

FRIDAY, JULY 31

8:00 PM

FRIDAY, JULY 3

8:18 PM

FRIDAY, AUGUST 7

7:52 PM

HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY | JUNE 2026 27

PGA TOUR CHAMPIONS

THE SEASON OF LEGENDS LEADS HERE Lehigh Country Club Sept. 28–Oct. 4, 2026 In 2026, the legends of the game converge in the Lehigh Valley. The Jefferson Lehigh Valley Classic presented by Sodexo brings world-class competition and unmatched access — from Pro-Ams and private cabanas to elevated hospitality experiences.

Opportunities are limited — and going fast.

Secure your place at an event built for those who expect more from the game.

Pro-Ams • Cabanas • Premium Hospitality

RESERVE NOW JeffersonClassic.com

Players subject to appear.

28 JUNE 2026 | HAKOL LEHIGH VALLEY