Hakol - November 2024 by Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley

JEWISH

Hundreds gather for mutual support on 10/7 anniversary

By Carl Zebrowski Editor

“We remember where we were, what we were doing, and a searing sense of loss,” Jeri Zimmerman, executive director of the Jewish Federation, told the hundreds of people gathered in the JCC to commemorate the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on the night of their first anniversary.

U.S. Representative Susan Wild of Pennsylvania’s 7th District said she was encouraged to see the already-large audience continue to grow before the event started. Community members needed the mutual support. “It’s a sad, sad day that all of us have been dreading in a way,” she said. “It’s just hard to believe that we are still waiting for hostages and that they are still there.”

Miriam Zager, one of the three event cochairs, said that coming together on a day like this was essential. “It would be impossible to go through it on our own,” she said. “We really need the whole community to be here, to cry together, pray together, and memorialize all these amazing people that we lost in this horrible war.” Her fellow cochair Naomi Schachter said, “Without this community, we would have faced this horrible situation in isolation.”

Among the many prayers said during the night was one led by Rabbi Michael Singer of Congregation Brith Sholom. The gathering prayed along with him “for the parents killed hiding their children beneath their bodies” when terrorists invaded their home, “for the innocents dancing their final dance” at the Nova Music Festival

when terrorists began their killing spree, and the other victims of the attacks and the aftermath. Singer was among the clergy members of eight Lehigh Valley synagogues that helped organize and participated in the vigil: Chabad of the Lehigh Valley, Congregation Am Haskalah, Congregation Bnai Shalom, Congregation Brith Sholom, Congregation Keneseth Israel, Congregation Sons of Israel, Temple Beth El, and Temple Shirat Shalom.

Survival was a common theme through the night. “They are waiting to sacrifice you on the altar,” said Rabbi Moshe Re’em of Temple Beth El. “Do not raise your hand.”

Rabbi Allen Juda, retired from Congregation Brith Sholom, reminded the audience about both the threat against the Jews and their resilience against it. “In every genera-

tion, they try to destroy us,” he said. “But the people of Israel live.”

A video created for the commemoration by Sally Mitlas, producer and director for Mitlas Productions in Jenkintown, told the audience, “Israel must survive.” To do so, Israel must adjust its value of tikkun olam, or repairing the world, to make it “tikkun Israel”—for now. “How can we heal anyone if

By Carl Zebrowski Editor

How many synagogues are there in the Lehigh Valley?

That was one of the trivia questions asked aboard the bus to Philadelphia on October 22 for the Women’s Philanthropy Lion of Judah and Pomegranate visit to the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History. Twenty-five women boarded the bus for the annual Lion Pom Fall Event.

During the ride, they enjoyed wine and snacks. They also played the trivia game, on their phones, answering questions about the Jewish Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy, the Lehigh Valley and its Jewish community (the answer to the question above, by the way, is 10), and more. The trip was organized and run by event cochairs Carol Bub Fromer, Lauren Rabin, Beth Kushnick, Crissy Toff, Tama Tamarkin, Naomi Schachter, and Laurie Wax, president of Women’s Philanthropy and Lee Kestecher Solomon, Federation director of community engagement.

At the museum, the group was split into three for hourand-15-minute private tours that took the women back to the 1600s, when the first permanent Jewish settlers landed in the New World from Brazil. From there, the displays moved forward in time, highlighting the expectations and experiences of the Jews of diverse backgrounds who landed on American shores

from elsewhere and their generations that followed. The exhibits presented the choices they had to make, the challenges they faced, how they shaped their new land, and how it shaped them.

The Lehigh Valley women also saw “The Future Will Follow the Past: An Exhibition by Jonathan Horowitz.” Known for his critical engagement with politics and culture, Horowitz organized this collection of works by artists of various backgrounds and ages to explore changes

the United States has experienced since 2020 in antisemitism, racism, women’s rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and more.

After the tour ended, the women boarded the bus for the ride home and enjoyed a delicious meal of falafel and salad from Goldie, a Philadelphia restaurant from Michael Solomonov, whose Zahav won the 2019 James Beard Award for Outstanding Restaurant.

Event cochairs Miriam Zager, Tama Tamarkin, and Naomi Schachter.

Giving thanks during difficult times

As Thanksgiving approaches and we near the end of the year, I find myself reflecting on the importance of cultivating an appreciative mindset. This past year has been marked by significant challenges, particularly since October 7, with the harrowing plight of our 101 hostages and a troubling rise in antisemitism in our community. Yet, amidst these trials, we are reminded to recognize and cherish both the major and the subtle joys in our lives.

Whether we express our thanks through prayer or take a moment for quiet reflection, gratitude is a powerful act of acknowledging the blessings that surround us. It allows us

to pause, recharge, and prioritize our well-being, helping to reduce stress and cultivate positivity.

This year has undoubtedly brought its share of trials, making Thanksgiving a poignant time to focus on our blessings while navigating our challenges. We are faced with a unique juxtaposition: the darkest chapter in modern Jewish history alongside the festive celebration of Thanksgiving. The former invites us to grieve, while the latter inspires us to express gratitude. This duality encourages us to consider how we can carry the spirit of thankfulness into our daily lives. Gratitude has the power to transform

ordinary days into celebrations, mundane tasks into joyful pursuits, and everyday opportunities into blessings.

Research consistently shows that practicing gratitude leads to a multitude of positive outcomes: improved health, reduced negative emotions, better sleep, enhanced self-esteem, stronger relationships, and greater resilience.

I am especially grateful for the family and friends who uplift and support me through both joyous and challenging times, as well as for the many simple pleasures that fill my everyday life. I appreciate our compassionate community, which fosters a welcoming environment for

Expert unwraps Middle East war at exclusive NextGen event

By Carl Zebrowski Editor

“To understand Israel, you have to understand the Middle East,” Eric Lightman, executive director of the JCC, told the gathering in the JCC Kline Auditorium on October 30. The audience of mostly young adults from the community had come to hear Middle East expert Avi Melamed’s presentation “What No One Tells You about Israel and the Middle East,” sponsored by the JCC and the Jewish Federation.

Melamed, a former Israeli intelligence officer, book author on Middle East geopolitical strategy, and Fellow of Intelligence and Middle East Affairs for the Eisenhower Institute, boiled the history of the Middle East most relevant to the post-10/7 world down to an engaging and informative hour. He covered the history of Israel and Palestine in a brief timeline and then moved on to the four decades leading up to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks, October 7 itself, what has happened since, and what could happen next.

“Especially now, with Israel at war and antisemitism on the rise,” said Lee Solomon, the Federation’s director of community engagement, “it was important for us to host an evening for our NextGen cohort (ages 30-45) to provide them with facts and other information they didn’t necessarily learn growing up. They had the opportunity to learn more about Israel and the Middle East and leave with a better understanding of the situation there.”

Melamed opened his talk by explaining how the militarist proxies of Iran, including Hamas and Hezbollah

Eric Lightman, executive director of the JCC; Lee Solomon, director of community engagement for the Federation; Avi Melamed; Jeri Zimmerman, executive director of the Federation; and Connor Hayes, director of community programming for the Federation.

(the former Sunni Muslim, believing in government leadership based on merit, and the latter Shiite Muslim, believing in leadership that’s essentially inherited), have been agitating and fighting Israel for four decades with the stated goal of “liberating Palestine”—and read that as “eliminate the State of Israel.”

The underlying plan against Israel, known as Ring of Fire, was for all that aggression and violence eventually to erupt into an all-out war.

Then came October 7, Melamed said, and “Hamas is launching the attack under the impression that the time to eliminate Israel has arrived.” For security purposes, Hamas kept its attack plans secret even from its allies, and soon after its allies realized what was happening, it became clear that they were not fully joining in the fight.

In the aftermath of the attacks, Melamed said, Hezbollah, operating in Lebanon, started merely “poking” Israel. The intended chain reaction didn’t progress very far. “All you did,” he said, rhetorically addressing Hamas, “was cause damage and destruction to your brothers in the Gaza Strip.”

all. Thank you for your time, talents, and financial contributions that enrich our community. Our Jewish Community Center, Jewish Day School, Jewish Family Service, synagogues, and other organizations enhance Jewish life in the valley. The Jewish Federation, Jewish Foundation, and affinity groups provide opportunities for us to create a positive impact together. I feel fortunate to be surrounded by inspiring individuals as we engage in meaningful work each day.

In this edition of Hakol, we honor the generous support of our sponsors and advertisers who sustain our mission

and community efforts. I encourage you to show your appreciation by supporting their businesses. Together, we are here for good, and their generosity is invaluable.

I pray for tranquility in our community, for peace throughout Israel, and for those seeking comfort. I also pray for the safe return of the 101 hostages to their loved ones.

Wishing you and your families a Thanksgiving filled with gratitude and hope.

HAKOL STAFF

CARL ZEBROWSKI Editor

CHARLENE RIEGGER Director of Marketing

HAKOL is published 11 times per year for the Jewish communities of Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton and vicinity by the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley. COMMUNITY SUBMISSIONS

Submissions to HAKOL must be of interest to the entire Jewish community. HAKOL reserves all editorial rights including, but not limited to, the decision to print any submitted materials, the editing of submissions to conform to style and length requirements, and the placement of any printed material. Quotes may be edited for grammar and clarity. Articles should be submitted by e-mail or presented as typed copy; “Community Calendar” listings must be submitted by e-mail to hakol@jflv.org or online at www.jewishlehighvalley.org. Please include your name and a daytime telephone number where you can be contacted in the event questions arise. We cannot guarantee publication or placement of submissions.

More recently, the conflict began to spread and escalate toward a regional war, with Hezbollah targeting Israel more forcefully in the north while other proxies of Iran raised some havoc too. Then Iran itself fired missiles into Israel. “It was not the first time Iran attacked Israel,” Melamed said, alluding to attacks by proxies over the years. “It was the first time Iran attacked Israel from Iranian soil.”

Israel, long accustomed to responding to proxy attacks with restrained counterattacks limited to just the proxies, replied to Iran’s missiles by attacking Iran directly on October 26. “This time the attack is not symbolic,” Melamed said.

NextGen Middle East Continues on page 16

MAIL, FAX, OR E-MAIL TO: JFLV ATTN: HAKOL 702 N. 22nd St. Allentown, PA 18104

Phone: (610) 821-5500

Fax: (610) 821-8946

E-mail: hakol@jflv.org

Member American Jewish Press Association

WILLIAM THOMPSON Digital Marketing and Graphic Design Associate

DIANE McKEE Account Representative hakolads@jflv.org

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

CONNOR HAYES Director of Community Programming

ROBBY WAX JFLV President

WENDY EDWARDS Office Manager

GINGER HORSFORD Donor Services Associate

All advertising is subject to review and approval by The Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley (JFLV). JFLV reserves the right to decline, withdraw and/or edit any ad. The appearance of any advertising in HAKOL does not represent an endorsement or kashrut certification. Paid political advertisements that appear in HAKOL do not represent an endorsement of any candidate by the JFLV.

LEHIGH VALLEY

JEWISH FEDERATION OF THE

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

October 7 commemoration

Continued from page 1 we ourselves are broken?” the narrative continued. Mitlas also sang. One of the songs was written by Naomi Shemer (1930-2004), an Israeli musician and songwriter who wrote “Al Kol Eleh” (“For All These Things”), which became a symbol for the opposition to Israel’s withdrawing from Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula in 1979-1982. “‘Al Kol Eleh’ could apply to what we’re going through now,” Mitlas said, referring to the song’s take-the-good-with-the-bad

the honey / Needs a sting to be complete.”

Tama Tamarkin, the event’s other cochair, talked to the crowd about the post10/7 situation that the Jewish community continues to face.

“We all tried to make sense of the unimaginable,” she said. “It has become our new normal, yet we are charged with the task of moving forward. Hope is mandatory.”

Jeri Zimmerman said, “There will be a time for healing and rebuilding, hopefully speedily.”

ADVOCATES for security and combats antisemitism

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

AMPLIFIES your voices and values to the wider community

APPRECIATES your generosity to make sure GOOD continues to grow throughout our community

Lions and Poms museum trip

HAKOL

FBI, police meet with community reps to talk security

By Aaron Gorodzinsky Director of Development

Every few months, representatives from each of our community’s agencies and synagogue security committees, as well as our private security contractors, gather to meet and share best practices and address concerns. Tim Brooks, our Secure Community Network regional security advisor, also attended

these meetings, chaired by Rance Block, Barry Halper, and Bruce Reich. The meetings have resulted in improved communication and closer collaboration with our private security contractors, facilitating conversations about best practices within the group, including applying for security grants and identifying the best providers to meet grant compliance require-

ments.

At our most recent meeting, held in preparation for the High Holidays, the security committee met with representatives from all local police departments and the FBI to ensure they were informed about the challenges facing our Jewish community and were prepared to provide adequate coverage during the High Holidays and the Octo-

ber 7 commemoration at our synagogues.

Our community takes great pride in the strong relationships we have built with our local police departments. Their attendance at the meeting led to visits to our facilities before the holidays and increased patrols at our JCC during the October 7 commemoration.

We are deeply grateful to have such responsive partners who

are committed to the safety of our Jewish community. We will continue holding these meetings every few months, along with various security training sessions and exercises, to ensure that we are fully prepared to respond to emergencies. For us, having a thriving Jewish community means working every day to ensure that our institutions and people are safe.

A beautiful evening inside and outside the JDS sukkah

By Joanna Powers Jewish Day School Head of School

This year’s Community Sukkot Dinner was the perfect chance for the Lehigh Valley Jewish community to gather during a holiday of celebration, thanksgiving, and lots of lulav (palm frond) waving. Held at the Jewish Day School on October 21, the dinner

brought together nearly 200 community members.

The Sunshine Cafe offered a delicious Middle Eastern feast that included falafel (you can’t say no to warm pita bread and fresh falafel balls), Israeli salad, roasted chicken, schnitzel, and specialties featuring stuffed grape leaves, Israeli pickles, and spiced tomatoes

and peppers. Whether the dinner was eaten in the sukkah or under the stars, everyone was happily full!

The crowd was also treated to a balloon artist and a close-up magician who both amazed kids and adults with their talents. Tables were set for community organizations to chat with attendees about

everything the Lehigh Valley has to offer. Children played on the playground with new friends and old friends. A special stone-decorating station encouraged kids to use Israeli imagery to make beautiful landscape additions. Jewish music played through the evening to really set the tone of joy and togetherness. The ab-

solutely perfect weather made this an evening to remember. A big thank you goes out to everyone involved in making this event magical, including the JDS staff, event coordinators, teachers, directors, chefs, parents, volunteers, students, clergy and lay leaders, and every participant. We could not have done this without you!

From Chag to Chag: A spiritual exploration of the Valley

By Connor Hayes Director of Community Programming

The late great Chief Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks once said, “Whoever we are, whatever we do…, the single most important fact about our life, on which all else depends, is how we spend our time.” With that in mind, I decided to spend as much time as I could with the entirety of the Lehigh Valley Jewish community for as many of the holidays as possible in October. A seemingly tall task, to be sure. As a newer resident to the area, I had my work cut out for me, but I quickly learned that no matter which shul I davened at, spiritual life in the Valley revolves around three key tenets: community, authenticity, and conviviality.

I began this journey on a gorgeous Thursday morning for shacharit (the morning prayer), on the first day of Rosh Hashanah, spending it with Congregation Keneseth Israel. Rabbi Shoshanah Tornberg led a highly spirited service, which, of course, included the clarion call of the shofar. The KI choir provided incredible accompaniment, leading to an air of peaceful reflection within the congregation. The duality of balancing the events of the past year with the hope for the new year to come became a prevalent, and necessary, theme through almost all the services I attended.

Later that afternoon, I visited with Congregation Am Haskalah at the Rose Garden Pavilion in Allentown for their tashlich (ceremonial casting away of sins into water).

Led by visiting Rabbi Armin Langer (a former Jewish

studies professor of mine at the University of Florida), the vibrant community of young and old positioned themselves on the small bridge overlooking the waters of the garden and cast not the traditional bread but fallen leaves.

After a brief illness that kept me from attending Kol Nidre, and a meaningful fast for Yom Kippur, it was time for Sukkot. I spent Erev Sukkot at Chabad of the Lehigh Valley, and after a Maariv (evening prayer) service led by the energetic Rabbi Yaacov Halperin, we gathered in the sukkah. The temperature had dropped, but as they say, it’s the windchill that gets you.

A good thing, then, that this particular sukkah was insulated with not only heavy nylon walls, but also the ruach (spirit) of the wonderful folks within. After a speech by Rabbi Halperin that gave us the quandary of how to fulfill the mitzvah (commandment) to be joyous on Sukkot after a year that has brought so much grief and pain, we reflected deeply and dined and sang well into the night.

The next morning came early, and with it, a trip out to Bethlehem, to Congregation Brith Sholom. Ironically, the building resembles a sukkah itself, equal parts open air and subdued natural accents.

Rabbi Michael Singer’s service was highlighted by both an invigorating hakafah (procession), made all the more bright by the light that shone through the large windows that frame the sanctuary, and a message of outreach to the broader community not to remain insular during Sukkot.

For dinner on the second day, I was in the company of Congregation Sons of Israel for an intimate Thanksgivingstyle dinner and spent much of the evening hearing about the Jewish heritage of Allentown, as well as talking Yiddish history and studies with Janice Mikofsky. Though the night was cold, the spread was delicious and spirits were jovial.

Shabbat Chol HaMoed was observed in Easton, with Congregation Bnai Shalom. Another newcomer to the community, Rabbi Adrienne

Rubin, led a lively service with the help of the talented Cantor Dr. Robert Weiner. Rabbi Rubin’s style of combining practices from both Conservative and Reform traditions reflects the unique character of the community, which came about after the merger of two congregations a few years ago. As part of this, we participated in a mid-service, interactive Torah study that drew participation from all the congregants.

Finally, as an October full of holidays came to a close, I spent Shemini Atzeret with Temple Beth El. Under the

stained-glass canopy of the main sanctuary, Rabbi Moshe Re’em led a serene service, while the beautiful pitch of Cantor Shari Spark emanated throughout. In the spirit of duality, with the anniversary of the traumatic Simchat Torah of last year on the horizon, part of the service was reserved to remember those who were slain, along with a recitation of El Maleh Rachamim, and this same theme was followed later that evening for the hakafot (processionals) of Simchat Torah held at Chabad. In a celebration marked equally by memories of sorrow and hopes

Thanks to Lewis and Roberta Gaines, a discount tuition incentive program is available for New Families enrolling their children in Kindergarten and First grade for the 2025/2026 and 2026/2027 school years. There are also additional opportunities to receive needs-based scholarships as well.

There is a large amount of mis/dis/mal information that we view daily. Please take the time to check the validity of any item you want to share, whether it be online or in person. Sharing information that isn’t true may perpetuate anxiety or stress in the recipients, or simply add to the overall negative feelings people may be experiencing. The North American Jewish community’s Secure Community Network launched a new website that is easier to navigate to find daily and monthly newsletters that may counter the mis/ dis/mal information out there. I encourage everyone to visit securecommunitynetwork.org to read factual information regarding incidents that impact the Jewish community.

Tim Brooks, SCN Regional Security Advisor tbrooks@securecommunitynetwork.org. | 872-400-0239

• Celebrate the richness of Judaism’s language, culture, and history

• Develop strong connections to Israel

• Student to faculty ratio of 4:1

• Focus on the development of each child

• 100% of students go on to high school and college

for a joyous future, the hakafot circled the bimah (podium) after Rabbi Halperin highlighted the efforts of all the Israel Defense Forces veterans who call the Lehigh Valley home, making them the guests of honor.

Having answered Rabbi Sacks’s imperative to be intentional with how our time is spent, I have found that we are blessed in the Lehigh Valley to have a veritable consortium of driven, energetic, and peoplecentered shuls that provide a holistic Jewish experience for all those who live here.

Congregation Am Haskalah tashlich at the Allentown Rose Garden.

NextGen wanders to Easton for primer on Federation

By Charlene Riegger Director of Marketing

Did you ever wonder how you can get more involved with Federation and where you belong? On October 13, NextGen, the group for 30-45 year-olds, held their opening event, chaired by Chelsea Busch, Aviva Marlin and Lyell Scherline, to hear about the answer to that question. The event was held in Easton

at Wanderlust, a kitschy outdoor oasis that is one-part backyard barbeque, one-part Coney Island, and one-part bar with live music.

Chelsea Busch gave an overview of NextGen, the next generation of leaders and philanthropists looking to give back as they build community. She also gave an overview of the Maimonides Society of Healthcare Professionals open to anyone in the

healthcare field. Gia Jones spoke about PJ Library, a program from the Harold Grinspoon foundation and funded locally, that provides free Jewish books to children from newborns to age eight. Shalom Baby, sponsored by Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy, welcomes new babies to the community with a home visit and swag.

Jeri Zimmerman, executive director of Federation,

then spoke about Federation and how donations are raised to allocate funds to our local agencies and Israel. Volunteering, and spending time with our Jewish community is also important to keep the Lehigh Valley area a vibrant and active place for everyone.

After the information session, the adults schmoozed while the kids made sukkahs out of clay and paper. Families also ventured out of the

THE REGION’S FIRST & ONLY MEDICAL SCHOOL

reserved area to discover the many delights of the venue including food trucks, craft beers, play areas and more.

If you would like to be involved with the NextGen group, contact Lee Kestecher Solomon, Federation director of community engagement at lee@jflv.org or call 610.821.5500.

Pennridge High School | The Pennsylvania State University

After working in the healthcare and research field for two years at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Temple/St. Luke’s student Eryn Fitch gravitated toward becoming a physician “because of diverse patient populations and the challenges of each day, so I can never stop learning.” Now, she has realized that Family Medicine would be the perfect fit for her future. “I’ve had great primary care mentors in Doctoring who helped me to thrive in third-year rotations,” says Fitch. “Family Medicine gives me the opportunity to provide continuity of care to all ages and excellent outpatient care, and will help me to have the most variety in my future career.”

sluhn.org/SOM Eryn Fitch – Class of 2025 | Perkasie, PA

IN MEMORY

SIDNEY BRATT

(Father of Evelyn Lipschutz)

Lynne and Mark Shampain

The Lehigh Valley-Yoav Partnership Park in Blessed Memory of Mark L. Goldstein

We gratefully acknowledge those individuals who have offered expressions of friendship by requesting that trees be planted in the Mark L. Goldstein Friendship Park, a Yoav-Lehigh Valley Partnership Forest.

IN HONOR

STEPH DAVIS AND DAVID SALSBERG

In celebration of the birth of your daughter, Evie Salsberg

Aaron Gorodzinsky and Jennie Schechner

SHARI SPARK

In celebration of the birth of your granddaughter, Myla Piasecki

Aaron Gorodzinsky and Jennie Schechner

Vicki Wax

IN MEMORY ISAAC DRUKER

(Husband of Marjorie Pollack Druker)

Arlene and Richard Stein

LOIS LIPSON

(Wife of Don Lipson) Jill and Jeff Blinder

TO ORDER TREES, call the JFLV at 610-821-5500 or visit jewishlehighvalley.org.

IN HONOR

LORI AND HOUMAN AHDIEH

In celebration of your daughter

Sydney’s marriage to Matt

Aaron Gorodzinsky and Jennie

Schechner

Vicki Wax

PETER COOPER

In honor of a speedy recovery

Aaron Gorodzinsky and Jennie

Schechner

Vicki Wax

JAY FISHER

In celebration of your daughter passing the Bar

Aliette and Marc Abo

CAROL BUB FROMER

In honor of receiving the KipnisWilson/Friedland Award

Lauren, Doron, Aron and Golda

Rabin

CAROL BUB FROMER AND GARY

FROMER

In celebration of your daughter

Jenna’s engagement

Aliette and Marc Abo

Lauren, Doron, Aron and Golda

Rabin

Laurie, Robby, Ben and Danny

Wax

Vicki Wax

SUPARNA DAMANY AND BRUCE

SHEFTEL

In celebration of Akshay’s engagement to Lauren

Vicki Wax

KAREN KUHN

In celebration of Reid’s Bar

Mitzvah

Nancy and Mike Koch

SHARI SPARK

In celebration of the birth of your granddaughter, Myla Aliette and Marc Abo

STEFFIE AND STEVE SZILAGYI

In celebration of your daughter

Jillian’s marriage to Rory

Roberta and Robert Kritzer

Elaine and Leon Papir

IN MEMORY

SIDNEY BRATT

(Father of Evelyn Lipschutz)

Jeanette and Eduardo

Eichenwald

MARILYN DACEY

(Mother of Patrick Dacey) Jeanette and Eduardo

Eichenwald

IRWIN FEINGERTZ

(Father of Ellen Gordon) Laurie and Robby Wax

JACK GROSS

(Husband of Pearl Gross)

Jeanette and Eduardo

Eichenwald

Randi and Donald Senderowitz

LOIS LIPSON

(Wife of Don Lipson, mother of Scott Lipson)

Aliette and Marc Abo

Sheila Berg

Roberta and Jeff Epstein

Aaron Gorodzinsky and Jennie Schechner

Roberta and Robert Kritzer

Randi and Donald Senderowitz

MARILYN LOUICK

(Wife of David Louick)

Stephanie and Bob Kricun

HAROLD LUNICK

(Father of Marcy Lunick)

Suzanne Lapiduss & Family

Randi and Donald Senderowitz

STEVEN SCHIFF

(Son of Vera Schiff, brother of Richard Schiff)

Randi and Donald Senderowitz

DENA ZAHN

(Mother of Bruce Zahn)

Vicki Wax

We gratefully acknowledge those individuals who have offered expressions of friendship through recent gifts to the Lehigh Valley Jewish Foundation. The minimum contribution for an Endowment Card is $10. Call 610-821-5500 or visit jewishlehighvalley.org to place your card requests. Thank you for your support.

WONDERING ABOUT YOUR PLACE?

The Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley offers many affinity groups.

ECE Celebrates Rosh Hashanah With Some Sweet Guests

JCC Executive Director Visits Israel for Solidarity Mission

Jason Alter Sylvia & Sam Bub+

Julianne & Samuel Heiney+

Amy & Douglas Jaffe+

Ellen Osher & Robert Pritchard+

JDS is a beneficiary agency of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley

we’d be here only a few weeks at most. As the pandemic continued, we made decision after decision to establish roots and

JDS is a beneficiary agency of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley

Why JDS?

By Joanna Powers Head of School

It seems as though October flew by like a whirlwind of holidays and events that left little time to be still. At the JDS we packed in Rosh Hashanah seders, Yom Kippur studies, and the building, decorating, and eating in our own sukkah, complete with a lulav and etrog to shake. Our Community Sukkot Dinner was a fabulous culmination of the season, boasting nearly 200 people, great food, Jewish music, a balloon artist, a close-up magician, and tables for community organizations. Not to mention perfect weather! Thank you to all who participated.

By Megan Hyman

TheWhy JDS?

Now that we can have a full school week we are diving into November with gratitude and excitement. Election Day and Veterans’ Day will be two significant events that will fill our students’ days with knowledge of both current events and historical events that almost always intersect.

G-d willing, we will have a true Thanksgiving this year in the hopes that peace will blanket Israel and freedom will be granted to the hostages. But even if our nation continues to struggle, there is always something for which to be thankful.

decision parents make about where to send their children for school is often one of the most stressful and difficult. Will the school strike the right balance between quality of educa tion and overall child development? How will our child fit in? Luckily for our fam ily, in a period of great uncertainty, the decision to choose the Jewish Day School of Lehigh Valley was the easiest “yes!” we’ve ever said.

We arrived in Allentown in late March 2020 with a 2-year-old son, Joseph and 4-month-old daughter, Evelyn. Having flown in from Dallas, Texas to be closer to family (Adam’s parents, Dr. David and Mrs. Susan Hyman who have lived in Al lentown for nearly 50 years), we assumed

an early childhood education program, the welcoming, intimate, and warm environment at JDS was an obvious place

Why JDS?

When it came time for Joseph, our now five-year-old son, to get back into an early childhood education program, the welcoming, intimate, and warm environment at JDS was an obvious place for us to turn. The administration and staff worked tirelessly to adhere to ever-

demic as built-in playmates and friends. The JDS has enabled that relationship to strengthen – they check in on each other on the playground and love to see each other in the hallways. It’s a joy to see the older children care for the younger ones. Evelyn is always so proud when one of the “big kids” helps her with her backpack at the end of the day, and Joseph -

demic as built-in playmates

Celebrating the Joy of Learning and Growing Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow

we’d be here only the pandemic sion after decision build a life here

The JDS has enabled strengthen – they check on the playground and other in the hallways. older children care for Evelyn is always so proud the “big kids” helps pack at the end of the talks about his “reading stantly!

One of the major tenets of the JDS is a devotion to the development of bright, confident students who are well prepared to meet the world. This couldn’t be more

ing to a close. For professional reasons, we

When it came now five-year-old an early childhood the welcoming, vironment at for us to turn. staff worked tirelessly changing guidelines still make the for its students. in this environment, his third year as he loves the dynamic ing experience forget when he full Pledge of Allegiance words to the Hatikvah

sion of the school year. Our love for the community that Amy Golding, her staff, and volunteers have created will stay with us forever. The friendships we’ve made as a family through the school will remain and we know these memories made here

One of the major tenets a devotion to the development confident students who to meet the world. This representative of our Sadly, our chapter in ing to a close. For professional are moving back to Texas sion of the school year. community that Amy and volunteers have created us forever. The friendships a family through the and we know these memories will bring us joy for years

sion of where to send your child to school in the Lehigh Valley, we found the JDS an extremely supportive place, a refuge from the uncertainties that we all face in

Editor’s note: On Saturday, February 4, JDS parent Anastasiia Zavodnyk, was invited to be a guest speaker at Refugee Shabbat at Temple Beth El. Here are her remarks.

So, who is the refugee? It’s me. I can’t speak for everyone, only for myself and my family. But let my story be something that can show the general picture.

Editor’s note: On Saturday, February 4, JDS par ent Anastasiia Zavodnyk, was invited to be a guest speaker at Refugee Shabbat at Temple Beth El. Here are her remarks.

Who is the refugee? It’s me.

This was all tempered by the October 7 commemorations at our school and at the incredibly moving and meaningful Jewish Federation event held at the JCC. At the JDS, students joined the united initiative Yad B'Yad as they drew hands and wrote a message to uplift other Jewish communities, the people of Israel, Israel Defense Forces soldiers and their families, and the hostages and their families. We partnered with the World Zionist Organization and explored heroic stories of Israelis who even when facing a time of danger found the strength to help others. The students then crafted projects on the individual heroes they chose.

This leads straight to our fast-approaching centerpiece of the JDS year: our 71st Annual Gala, to be held at Temple Beth El on December 7 at 7:30 p.m. We are filled with honor and gratitude to have the opportunity to celebrate Brian Goldman, our beloved newly retired English language arts teacher. He is known for his passion, warmth, and unwavering dedication to his students. We cannot wait to celebrate his 12-year career at the Jewish Day School, where he meant so much to so many and changed our students’ lives.

The beginning of 2022 It was a happy time for me. I had a beautiful house near Kyiv, capital of Ukraine. I had a garden full of fruit trees and berry bushes. I had great plans – I was opening my own cafe and bakery store, I was setting up a big greenhouse to plant many vegetables there. My children went to great preschool and afterschool smart classes. My daughter started to go to ballroom classes at the best dance school in the area. My husband had a very important role with great career opportunities in the biggest energy company in Ukraine. We used to invite our friends to our little parties at home, used to see our parents when we wanted to. It was really a very great period of life; I was truly happy.

So, who is the refugee? It’s me. I can’t speak for every one, only for myself and my family. But let my story be something that can show the general picture.

This year’s gala focuses on the illustrious JDS chapters of the past and the exhilarating JDS chapters of the future. This will be an evening not to be missed. Please visit jdslv. org/gala for all the details and how to become a part of our story. While you’re there, take a tour of our new, beautiful website!

We are also rolling out an incredible silent auction to accompany our gala. You will not believe the services, trips, experiences, and

And then, on 24th of February, all was ruined. The

For any parent grappling sion of where to send in the Lehigh Valley, an extremely supportive from the uncertainties our daily lives, and the ment to instill a love of ish values.

This year, his to join the three-year-old the same teachers siblings of her very shy at first, that and truly enthusiasm. her love of art, the sweetest friends. updates and photos app throughout

Our kids became ing the quarantine

Who is the refugee? It’s me.

guage that my kids have – only because very important because we have the with their roots, which I hadn’t in my help and support made us confident

Who is the refugee?

guage that my kids have – only because of you. It is very important because we have the ability to reconnect with their roots, which I hadn’t in my childhood. Your help and support made us confident in our presence

events that are up for bid. They include vacations in the Dominican Republic and Disneyworld, Med Spa packages, sporting event tickets, sports memorabilia, concert tickets, jewelry, and museum memberships, to name only a few. Please go to givebutter. com/c/jds-gala/auction to get started. Place a bid or buy now! The auction is officially

open virtually and will close online on Friday, December 6, at 3 p.m. Bidding will continue in person during the gala on Saturday, December 7. Good luck!

And then, on 24th of February, all was ruined. The war started. And what did we know about war? Only history WW2 from books and movies…and some horrible stories from our grandparents. We decided to stay, because it was our home. We thought that our village was now a target for the enemy and even if they would come. We heard stories from our grandparents who remembered a time when their homes were under occupation during WW2 so we kind of could guess how it could be in our case. But we were wrong, very very wrong. Because in village aren’t many people – it’s difficult to feel panic. We heard sounds of missile strikes, evening we needed to shut all lights, because our territorial defense was looking for hiding russian soldiers. I realized that I couldn’t stand any more. I couldn’t pretend as nothing serious was happening and it was safe enough for kids. The worse for me was to let then feel fear, to feel war. It’s not what children should feel, not until they are enough old to understand everything and not be hurt by it. I want my children to be happy, to be confident and have strong and healthy mental health. So, I asked my husband to leave our home.

All of these exciting events help us raise crucial funds for our school. The most important characters in our story are our students, families, teachers, supporters, and

And then, on 24th of February, all was ruined. The

you. Let’s keep our book open and add to the content every day. There are volumes to fill but we need the resources to make sure they will be tales for the ages of the past, present, and future. Thank you!

So, what is the difference between me as a refugeesons why we came. I love Ukraine, it’s my home, home of my children and many past generations of my and my husband’s family. We miss our home a lot. And before February 2022 we never thought about emigrating abroad, we simply didn’t want to, because we were satisfied with our lives and happy in Ukraine. We chose the US because it was the best option of all, but also the most difficult. It was hard, and it is hard. Not only because of usual immigrant’s difficulties such as different language, different culture, finding job, getting all local documents, impossible life without a car, almost impossible life without a credit score, but the real difficulty is not being allowed to go out of the US. Maybe for people, who decide to come here, who has it like big goal, who choose to live here and can stand everything to make this “American dream” came true, but it is very hard for us, refugees, forced migrants, who’s heart is still at our home with our friends, neighbors, parents, houses and gardens. And only your help madeversations, care and support). Because at the end of the day most important things are not material things, they -

So, what is the difference between and other people who came here as sons why we came. I love Ukraine, it’s of my children and many past generations my husband’s family. We miss our home fore February 2022 we never thought ing abroad, we simply didn’t want to, satisfied with our lives and happy in the US because it was the best option the most difficult. It was hard, and because of usual immigrant’s difficulties ent language, different culture, finding local documents, impossible life without impossible life without a credit score, ficulty is not being allowed to go out for people, who decide to come here, big goal, who choose to live here and thing to make this “American dream” it is very hard for us, refugees, forced heart is still at our home with our parents, houses and gardens. And only our life here more like at home (through versations, care and support). Because day most important things are not material will never ever fill your heart and soul ness and happiness.

So, I want to say a big, huge thank to all of you! I am grateful for the ability day, in a safe, beautiful and ambitious grateful to all of you, for listening to porting my family and Ukraine. I believe end soon, that I can finally see my home friends and neighbors. But I, as all Ukrainians, in that fatal February, in pre-war days, our land, in our home; happy, confident days, full of ambitious plans.

So, I want to say a big, huge thank you one more timeday, in a safe, beautiful and ambitious place, the US. I’mporting my family and Ukraine. I believe that war will end soon, that I can finally see my home and hug all my friends and neighbors. But I, as all Ukrainians, still stay in that fatal February, in pre-war days, when we were on our land, in our home; happy, confident in the coming

like this before. Next weeks were very scary for me. The enemy soldiers were closer and closer to our village. At

evening we needed to shut all lights, because ritorial defense was looking for hiding russian realized that I couldn’t stand any more. I couldn’t tend as nothing serious was happening and enough for kids. The worse for me was to fear, to feel war. It’s not what children should until they are enough old to understand everything not be hurt by it. I want my children to be confident and have strong and healthy mental So, I asked my husband to leave our home. We left on 7th of March and on 8th of sians* came to our house. They occupied killed men, raped women, stole a lot of things, houses… it lasted 4 weeks. So, it was nothing pation during WW2… it was worse, much

*I use little letter instead of capital on purpose. this people anymore and it’s even hard for because what they have done and are still they are humans at all to me. And because it highlight it as my relation to them.

*I use little letter instead of capital on purpose. I don’t respect this people anymore and it’s even hard for me to call them people, because what they have done and are still doing doesn’t look like they are humans at all to me. And because it is my story, I want to highlight it as my relation to them.

Now we are here. And we are very lucky, met people with very big open hearts full kindness, people who helped us with so many People from Jewish Day School, Jewish Community Lehigh Valley, Jewish Community Center. words to describe how grateful we are for great opportunity to know Jewish traditions

like this before. Next weeks were very scary for me. The enemy soldiers were closer and closer to our village. At

words to describe how grateful we

Staff Update

Jewish Family Service is proud to introduce Tavia Minnich as the new Manager of Marketing and Donor Development. The decision to hire Tavia in July of 2024 was based on the philosophy that marketing and donor development are not just about transactions; they are about building lasting connections.

Tavia grew up in the Lehigh Valley and holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and a Master of Arts in Arts Administration from Kutztown University, along with an Associate of Arts in Liberal Arts from Lehigh Carbon Community College. With a background in nonprofit administration,

Tavia has led marketing, development, and operations teams at a variety of organizations including Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites, PBS39, and the Museum of Indian Culture.

Tavia is passionate about Judaism and Jewish values and has accomplished her goal to work for an organization where she can truly feel a sense of belonging while helping the Jewish community and community-at-large.

“The decision to hire Tavia was an easy one,” says Debbie Zoller, the executive director of JFS. “I want to bring more awareness to what JFS does for the community. Tavia’s background and

professional experience align with my goal of shining a light on the accomplishments and initiatives of the agency for the community and our generous supporters.”

As Tavia establishes herself in her new role, she is gaining mastery in managing the JFS website. She oversees the creation of the agency’s Hakol page, programs and event promotion, and donor development through annual appeals and the annual fundraiser. Social media and weekly e-blasts highlight the dedicated JFS volunteers, donation requests, and the agency’s focus on supporting mental health for counseling clients.

Volunteer Spotlight: Irving Kaplan and Casey Goldblat

From teens to retirees, JFS has volunteers from all across the Lehigh Valley. And in some cases, they even come in pairs. Volunteers Irving Kaplan and Casey Goldblat are one of these special couples. Members of Brith Sholom in Bethlehem, they met when Irving was active in the synagogue’s leadership. Later, the couple started as friends with similar interests, including being widows. Their friendship grew into a courtship followed by marriage soon after.

Irving began volunteering in 2010 when he was recruited by Rabbi Allen Juda to be a driver for people in the Bethlehem area. Irving enjoyed

IN HONOR

JUANA DEL SOLAR

Linda and Harold Kreithen

RHODA AND LOUIS FRYMAN

Lynn and Michael Rothman

providing this service knowing it would allow residents to continue to live independently for as long as possible. Currently he picks up bread donations from Wegmans and delivers them to the Community Food Pantry several times a month.

A few years after they married, Casey decided to become a volunteer by assisting clients in the Community Food Pantry. After the pandemic restrictions were lifted, she was one of the first volunteers eager to return to her weekly volunteer commitment. At times, she keeps Irving company on his trips to Wegmans and helps unload the donations at JFS. In order to be more

effective as a volunteer, she is participating in JFS’s conversational Spanish classes.

Casey and Irving both feel that JFS goes above and beyond in the gratitude they show for their volunteers and staff. They wholeheartedly encourage others to become volunteers so JFS can better serve the Jewish community and community-at-large.

When asked about the most surprising part of her job, Tavia says, “I never realized all that JFS did! My office shares a wall with the Community Food Pantry. Volunteers are very intentional in providing a dignified experience for clients, and I often hear clients saying they don’t want to take too much of a product if someone else could use it more. It’s pretty incredible.”

What’s next? Tavia looks forward to expanding the Life & Legacy program, an important philanthropic initiative which has the potential to ensure that JFS is here for generations to come. A natural bridgebuilder, she is cultivating partnerships with Jewish

JFS staff members Chelsea Karp and Jennifer Oxford both agree that Irving and Casey are the definition of a dynamic duo. Collectively, they have volunteered over 150 hours in the past year alone.

These two exceptional people have dedicated their time and energy to serving as true ambassadors of the agency.

To find out more about volunteering, contact Jennifer Oxfeld at volunteer@jfslv.org.

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

RABBI ALLEN AND TOBY JUDA

(Bat Mitzvah of granddaughter, Kayla Juda)

Bill Bergstein

Linda and James Wimmer

SAM LEISAWITZ

(In honor of bar mitzvah)

Audrey Ettinger-Finley and Michael Finley

IN LOVING MEMORY

SONDRA JACOBS

(Mother of Marc Jacobs, Rita Wong, Chris Baer, and Karen Baer)

Lota and Robert Post

Marjorie Weiss

HOWARD KAPLUS

(In memory of father)

Laura and David Kaplus

HARRIET MANTELL

(Wife of Gerald Mantell)

Marjorie Weiss

Federation, LV Chamber, and other entities in order to develop collaborative opportunities and better support each other. Tavia says, “It is my belief that we are stronger together as a community.”

JFS Gives Back: A Day on the Farm

JFS staff visited our partners at Monocacy Farm Project to say thank you for supplying fresh produce to the JFS Community Food Pantry. While there, they helped harvest crops and learned more about this growing farm.

MANYA SUCHARCZUK

(In memory of niece)

Ann Goldberg and Herbert Gilles

Tavia Minnich

Left to right: Amanda Thomas, Jennifer Oxfeld, Laura Garber, Farmer Eli Stogsdill. Also present: Doug Trachtman, Ann Biernat-Rucker, Tavia Minnich, and Farmer Anton Shannon.

Irving Kaplan and Casey Goldblat

Photo: Birds of a Feather

Donate today to the Operation Swords of Iron Israel Emergency Campaign and have it matched dollar for dollar by the strong support of the Lehigh Valley Jewish Foundation.

Learn how to give at jewishlehighvalley.org/swords-of-iron

The deadline to make a gift and have it doubled is Our community is close to our goal of $1 Million raised for Israel!

DECEMBER 31, 2024

Meet these teens signed up to teach peers about Jews, Judaism

Eric Zager

I’m a senior at Parkland High School,

dangerous misinformation.

The following students have risen to the task of classroom and campus outreach by being part of a new initiative called Student to Student. Started by the nonprofit Be the Narrative, Student to Student features high school juniors and seniors traveling to local middle and high schools to make presentations on topics like Jewish life cycle, holidays, and practices. In recognition of their efforts, we would like to celebrate some of the students who have stepped up to take part in the inaugural year’s cohort. Here they are, in their own words:

Joseph Block

I’m a junior at Parkland High School. One of my favorite hobbies is playing my trumpet in marching band, jazz band, concert band, and orchestra. I joined Student to Student to help spread what being Jewish means to me and to demonstrate what being Jewish is like, while also stopping people from believing in common misconceptions about Jewish people and Judaism.

Zach Tamarkin

I’m a senior at Jack Barrack Hebrew Academy. I’m captain of the varsity soccer and tennis teams at school and a member of the Holocaust Education and Remembrance Club, as well as founder of the Guitar Club. I’m also part of the selective Jewish Learning Initiative that plans school-wide events and programs around Shabbat and the Jewish holidays. In my spare time, I can be found playing electric guitar, hanging with friends playing video games, or hitting tennis balls. I spend summers at my favorite place, Pinemere Camp, where I’m looking

Joseph Block

Zach Tamarkin

Aviva Markowitz

Eric Zager

NextGen Middle East

Continued from page 3

For years before this, Hezbollah was positioning itself as a regional power, Melamed said, and “to a large extent it is.” He was hoping that phrasing is now changing to past tense, helped along by Israel’s strong military responses to both the proxy and the nation that pulls its strings and pays its bills. “The Lebanese have known for a long time that their state has been kidnapped,” he said. The hope is that they say, “We are now starting a new phase.”

Melamed saw a legitimate opportunity for Hezbollah to be forced out of control of Lebanon. “Hezbollah is not going to disappear,” he explained. “Hamas is not going to disappear.” But they’ve been weakened, maybe enough that they and Iran and the other proxies lose their ability to dictate policy and action, and a more positive situation than the one of the last four decades would get time to develop.

There’s potential now, Melamed believed, for finding partners in the Middle East who do not subscribe to the imperative to eliminate the State of Israel. Egypt could be one. For 50 years, Israel and Egypt have kept peace. Melamed hoped that Egypt realized that “regardless of the Palestinian cause,”

its own best interest was to continue the peace. “And it doesn’t necessarily mean throwing the Palestinians under the bus,” he said.

When asked by an audience member about the chances that dissenters in Iran could overthrow the regime, Melamed responded that it’s not impossible. He offered the possibility that substantial numbers of Iranians oppose the regime, pointing to the large numbers of youths in the Arab Spring uprisings more than a decade ago.

“Thousands of them were arrested,” he said, “but most of them were very quickly released.” The reason may have had something to do with their having “connections”—namely to Iran’s military leadership. Those youths are now grown up and many could themselves be in positions of some power.

Over the next year, Melamed and his wife, Maia, will remain in the United States, traveling around the country to speak to groups at JCCs and Hillels about the continually developing situation in the Middle East. Lee Solomon said, “We had the honor and pleasure of hosting Avi and Maia in our community, and we hope to have them again in the spring for a community-wide event.”

FREE Checking for Life

GIVING FOR THE FUTURE

THE GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

account is then invested to grow over time, permitting you to recommend annual gifts to your favorite charities.

How would you like to make a gift today that would enable you and your loved ones to continue to make charitable gifts in the future? When you make a gift to our organization of cash or other assets, we take your tax deductible contribution and establish a special account in your name. Your account is then invested to grow over time, permitting you to recommend

gifts to your favorite charities.

A Donor Advised Fund (DAF) is like having your own foundation. The fund is invested for growth, which permits you to make annual gifts of income and principal while you are alive. When you pass away, your children may make recommendations for distributions from the fund for a number of years. If you establish a Donor Advised Fund with us, at the end of the term, the remaining fund balance will become an asset of our organization, helping us further our good work.

A FLEXIBLE, LOW COST ALTERNATIVE TO A PRIVATE FOUNDATION

A DAF offers you a flexible and easy-to-establish vehicle for charitable giving. Unlike private foundation gifts, DAF gifts generally qualify for a full fair market value charitable deduction and have lower startup costs. A DAF also permits you to make grants to charity without the unfavorable private foundation restrictions and excise taxes.

RECOMMENDING YOUR GIFTS TO OUR ORGANIZATION

A FLEXIBLE, LOW COST ALTERNATIVE TO A PRIVATE FOUNDATION

Once your account is open, you are ready to begin giving. Simply contact us in writing with your annual recommendations of how your DAF funds should be distributed. While we may not be legally obligated to distribute your funds as you desire, we seek to honor your wishes to help further the organizations and causes you love.

IT'S EASY TO GET STARTED

RECOMMENDING YOUR GIFTS TO OUR ORGANIZATION

Opening a DAF account is easy. Simply contact us for an application form, and complete and sign the fund agreement. You may fund your account with a gift of cash, securities, real estate or other assets. Check with us if you have unique or special assets that may be donated in a tax efficient way.

IT'S EASY TO GET STARTED

Harrison Goldfarb, 18 and already a book author, and more

By Sandi Teplitz Special to Hakol

At 18 years of age, Harrison Goldfarb already has a lot of accomplishments under his belt. One of them is collecting 7 million views for his military history videos on YouTube featuring Lego people, ships, planes, and more. He’s an expert stop-motion photographer, moving each piece a bit at a time to create the illusion of real-time movement. Assembled Lego pieces, music, backgrounds, story, and editing all come together in a professional manner. He has 16,000 fol-

lowers on his YouTube channel, called Tree Bark Productions. And now this nephew of Lehigh Valley community member Harold Goldfarb is a published author too.

In September 2024, Harrison, who lives in New York, released a book called “Patton: The Legend.” Inside, he shares that he began the book as a fifth-grade student, asked to complete a nonfiction writing assignment. After meeting the requirement, he continued adding to the text until he was satisfied with the results. By then, he was finishing his junior in high

school.

The book is a tribute to a man with a colorful legacy, frequently admonished for his brutality yet admired by many for his unwavering commitment to the American way. Goldfarb gives his readers a glimpse into Patton’s upbringing, early childhood interest in the military, and marriage. His life was dedicated to the military, no matter the cost to friends and family.

Throughout the book, Goldfarb interjects comments that display his wry sense of humor, sometimes at the expense of his subject. They have the effect of lightening the reader’s mood amid the heavy subject matter. The pictures in the book provide context for Patton and his life, and they’re well placed.

Goldfarb is not afraid of stirring up controversy with character exposé, and he’s currently working on another book about a controversial figure—a biography of the German WWII field marshal Irwin Rommel. “Patton” is an impressive beginning to Goldfarb’s writing career.

David Lindsey

Selina Fillinger

“Patton” is available on Amazon. Sandi Teplitz provides a recipe for each issue of Hakol and regularly writes book reviews.

Directed by P. David Hughes

Directed by Darah Donaher Lad Theatre Lipkin Theatre

Screenshot

photography video

Fast fashion is cheap; exploited workers pay the

Lenore Donohue, daughter of Pam Abrams and Michael Donohue, was called to the Torah as a bat mitzvah at Temple Beth El on September 14, 2024.

Lenore and her mom had begun talking about a mitzvah project at least nine months earlier. “I was shopping online and clothes were so cheap,” Lenore said, “and I thought it was easier to buy clothes that way, but I learned the clothes were so cheap because of child labor. When I learned that, I couldn’t buy them.”

Pam said, “We had a long conversation that turned into many long conversations about the mitzvah project and child labor. I thought it needed to be more concrete, but I liked the idea.”

“My parsha (Torah portion) was about slave labor,” Lenore said, “so talking about slave labor and child labor and fast fashion seemed to go together.”

Lenore decided to raise awareness about fast fashion—the rapid production of inexpensive, lowquality clothing that often mimics popular styles of fashion labels, big-name brands, and independent designers. By endlessly offering new trends at cheap prices, fast fashion brands such as Shein, Zara, and H&M encourage consumers to continually buy more clothing. Consequently, previous purchases, perhaps worn only a handful of times, are soon discarded. The rise of the fast fashion industry in the late 20th and early 21st centuries has had enor-

mous consequences, from environmental impacts to exploitation of garment workers.

“Child labor occurs daily, around the world, with estimated numbers of 250 million children between the ages of 5 and 14,” Lenore wrote in an essay on the subject. “It occurs in many industries and countries, both developing and industrialized. I learned more about this when I started reading about why some companies can sell clothing so cheaply. At first I was excited when I thought I could get cute clothes for low prices, but then I learned how companies are able to make money doing this—they aren’t paying enough to workers.”

As a part of her project, Lenore will be visiting re-

ligious school classes at Temple Beth El and students at the Jewish Day School to talk about what she has learned. In addition, she has made her first adult gift of tzedakah (charitable contribution) 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 610-821-5500.

YOAV CALLING!

Give thanks? Sure, and keep looking for a silver lining

By Nurit Galon Partnership2Gether

My brother-in-law was a proud former American GI, and American traditions were very important to him. As an officer in the U.S. Army education department, he had the duty of preparing religious ceremonies for soldiers of various religions. He took this responsibility very seriously, holding seminars, lectures, and prayers for GIs in the various branches of the military.

Of all American holidays, he believed that Thanksgiving was most important. It belonged to every American, regardless of origin or religious belief. It also seemed to him that there was no shame in saying thank you, even if it was not always clear to whom. I don’t remember a “Thanksgiving” from when I lived in England, although there were many harvest and agricultural festivals that included prayers of thanks.

Here in Israel we are go-

ing through one of the most traumatic times I can remember. Nothing is clear. Nothing is sure. Hundreds of our soldiers, including women, have been slaughtered and killed. We are at war with many countries and peoples, many of whom I’m not sure really understand the situation except that, yet again, it’s all the fault of Israel and the Jews.

We have a government that at least half the country can’t stand, and there’s no obvious replacement. We still have over 100 hostages held by Hamas. There are demonstrations all over the country demanding that our government arrange for their release, but they remain.

On the bright side, our soldiers are amazing in their determination to stand firm and guard Israel. In spite of the daily, hourly, bombardment from Iran and our neighbors, and of the problems of traveling outside the country because the only functioning airline is El Al and its subsid-

iaries, Israelis are nonetheless traveling, feeling the need to take a breather. During Sukkot, the markets were full. Fruits and vegetables were everywhere. Bombs falling in Tel Aviv? There was still time for breakfast in Dizengoff and a quick dip in the sea!

So, do we have a reason for Thanksgiving here in Israel? We usually say, “Well, it could be worse.” And of course it could. But how nice if we could believe that it will be better!

To all our very dear friends in the Lehigh Val-

ley, Happy Thanksgiving. And we wish you a better and happier and healthier year. Keep smiling, be well, and let’s keep looking for the silver lining!

Psalms of praise also a celebration of thanksgiving

By Rabbi Steve Nathan Lehigh University Endowed Director of Jewish Student Life and Associate Chaplain

Thanksgiving is at the end of the month. However, there is another reason why this month’s Hakol theme is appropriate.

Just after Yom Kippur we continued the fall holiday season with Sukkot. This is a festival of thanks, but there is also a tone of uncertainty. It’s the

ultimate festival of Thanksgiving, but we’re also reminded that what we have right now may indeed be fleeting and temporary, as is the sukkah. Therefore we must celebrate as much as possible.

One of my favorite parts of Sukkot services is the chanting of Hallel, the psalms of praise, while holding the lulav and etrog (palm frond and citrus fruit). There is nothing quite like it, as strange as it might seem to some. But the chanting of Hallel is also a celebration of thanksgiving. The Hallel consists of Psalms 113 through 118, but there are two verses in particular that are especially meaningful for me. The first is, “This is the day that God has made, let us rejoice and celebrate in it” (118:24). This reminds us that we must celebrate each day

and each moment, because they are gifts from the Divine. The other verse precedes it, “Open the gates of justice, that I may enter them and give thanks to God” (118:19). To me, this verse says that it’s justice that will allow us to truly live our lives and be thankful.

These two verses remind us that it is through gratitude and joy, even in our darkest moments, that we can enter those gates and praise God. And every day is precious gift and an opportunity to celebrate.

Many years before I decided to become a rabbi, I heard these psalms referred to in an unusual place. The year was 1985 and I was in a Chicago suburb listening to Lawrence Jenko, a Roman Catholic priest who had been held hostage in Lebanon by Islamic Jihad for 564 days.

His story was both harrowing and inspiring. In spite of what happened to him, he believed that he would be rescued and he maintained his faith. When asked what enabled him to maintain such a positive attitude, he mentioned the constant recitation of Psalms 113-118. I didn’t realize at the time that these were the familiar psalms of Hallel.

was also able to pray for the opening of the gates of righteousness so that he, and all those in captivity, could pass through and give thanks.

By reciting these psalms of joy and thanks, he was truly living the verses above. It was as if he were saying each day, “This is the day that God has made, so let us be glad and rejoice in it,” while he truly maintained an attitude of gladness and joy. And he

As we go through difficult days in our lives, let us do our best to follow in his footsteps and maintain the attitude of joy and gratitude, even as we might still feel some fear or sadness. If he could do that in his situation, I’m sure that we can do it as well, one day, or perhaps just one moment, at a time. May we all celebrate a meaningful and joyous time of thanks with our families and friends.

By Sandi Teplitz Special to Hakol

Though turkey is traditional, we all know that sides are the main attraction on Thanksgiving. Recipes that have been picked up from friends and relatives are likely to be the treats guests most look forward to. Here are three wonderful additions to your holiday repertoire. Each will please the carnivore, omnivore or herbivore guest.

Roberta Kritzer’s

Applesauce with a Twist Beloved by family members, this fruity mix is also easy to prepare.

In a large glass serving bowl, place two large jars of smooth applesauce, two cans

of whole-berry cranberry sauce, broken up, and two cans each of drained crushed pineapple and mandarin oranges. Mix gently with gloved hands. Cover and refrigerate. Serve directly from the refrigerator.

Jeanette Eichenwald’s

Excellent Sweet Potatoes

In TikTok talk, we call this carb “snap.” It’s become an annual treat in my house, replacing the former traditional marshmallow prep. Try it and see why.

In a large skillet, place two tablespoons of plant butter, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/4 cup of orange juice, and 1 teaspoon of orange rind. Heat uncovered until the sugar dissolves. Add four large,

boiled sweet potatoes or yams, sliced. Simmer uncovered for 1/2 hour, stirring regularly.

My Sister’s Brussels Sprouts Though she didn’t want credit for this recipe, thinking that everyone makes this, hers is special. If you follow the recipe exactly, you’ll see why.

Grease a large sheet pan with your favorite plant butter. Take two packages of shaved brussels sprouts (this is important—the shavings give the finished product a lacy look and crunchy texture!) and spread across. Top with a good sprinkling of extra virgin olive oil, then shake Lawry’s garlic salt and pepper over it and put it in a 400-degree oven. Roast until lightly browned and crunchy,

How Jewish is Thanksgiving?

Jewish Telegraphic Agency

Did you know that Thanksgiving is really a Jewish holiday? Although Thanksgiving is not on the Jewish calendar, historians believe that Sukkot may have inspired America’s favorite farewell to fall, often nicknamed Turkey Day.

“The pilgrims based their customs on the Bible,” says Gloria Kaufer Greene, author of the “New Jewish Holiday Cookbook” (Times Books, 1999). “They knew that Sukkot was an autumn harvest festival, and there is evidence that they fashioned the first Thanksgiving after the Jewish custom of celebrating the success of the year’s crops.”

Linda Burghardt, author of “Jewish Holiday Traditions” (Citadel Press, 2001), said, “Sukkot is considered a model for Thanksgiving. Both holidays revolve around showing gratitude for a bountiful harvest.”

Today Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, but President Franklin Roosevelt didn’t propose this timing until 1939. It was Abraham Lincoln who made Thanksgiving a national holiday. Roosevelt actually changed Lincoln’s decree that Thanksgiving be observed on the last Thursday in November, which may fall on the fifth Thursday of the month. The pilgrims’ invited local Indians to the first Thanksgiving during the fall of 1621. Historians speculate that this cel-

ebration occurred somewhere between September 21 and November 9, but most likely in early October, around the time of Sukkot.

“Originally, Sukkot entailed a pilgrimage to Jerusalem,” says Greene, who believes the two holidays share much in common. The Puritan Christians who landed on American shores seeking religious freedom were called pilgrims, in deference to their journey from England. Their dream of finding a place where they’d be free to worship as they pleased is a recurrent theme in Jewish history. After their pilgrimage to Jerusalem, the ancient Israelites lived for a week in temporary huts while giving thanks for a plentiful harvest. Likewise, during their first winter in Massachusetts, the pilgrims dwelled in makeshift huts, wigwams that the Indians helped them build. While Sukkot remains a seven-day observance, the first Thanksgiving celebration continued for three days, a time frame more similar to the Jewish harvest festival than today’s Thanksgiving dinner, which often begins in late afternoon and ends several hours later.

With its pumpkin pies and cranberry garlands, Thanksgiving mirrors many of Sukkot’s customs and culinary themes. Burghardt says she is amazed at how many of the same foods are connected to both holidays. Piping hot casseroles brimming with

vegetables and fruit grace the American and Jewish harvest tables, as do pastries that are filled with apples, nuts, pumpkins and squash. Stuffing one food inside another as a metaphor for abundance is the hallmark of Sukkot cuisine. Yet there’s nothing more opulent than the elaborate bread stuffings found inside Thanksgiving turkeys.

Burghardt’s favorite dishes at both holidays are hearty and basic. When entertaining, she starts with her harvest vegetable soup, which sets a homey tone. “Sometimes we roast sweet potatoes outside on the grill just because it’s past the season and therefore fun,” she says. “I make my applesauce from scratch.”

Greene enjoys transforming traditional Thanksgiving recipes into kosher cuisine. “I like mixing new and old world themes,” she says. One of her favorite recipes is glazed turkey with fruit-nut stuffing. Bursting with so much produce, it’s a onedish harvest festival. Because the pilgrims and Indians shared roasted corn during the first Thanksgiving, Greene’s double-corn bread is a fitting choice. It is soft and moist, almost like a kugel. Harvest-time cranberry relish is always a big hit at Greene’s house.

“Several years ago, I invited a family of RussianJewish immigrants to celebrate their first Thanksgiving. While they adored traditional American foods, they were

especially fascinated with the taste and bright color of cranberries.” But since the two holidays are so close in time, is there any reason for American Jews who celebrate Sukkot to pay homage to a second harvest festival six weeks later? “Participating in Thanksgiving is how we feel American,” says Greene, a former food columnist for the Baltimore Jewish Times, who used to submit a Thanksgiving story every year. She agrees with Burghardt that Thanksgiving is a lovely experience. It’s an easy holiday to include friends and neighbors of other faiths. “While Thanksgiving is not technically a Jewish holiday, it’s not a Christian one either,” says Burghardt. “It’s a great equalizer with a multicultural theme.”

Although Burghardt believes that Thanksgiving with its chocolate turkeys and pilgrims lacks Sukkot’s depth, Greene feels there’s something spiritual about the whole country partaking in a communal meal, even though menus and customs vary from home to home. At her table, she asks guest to share one thing for which they’re grateful. “Like Sukkot, at Thanksgiving you’re supposed to invite people to share abundance with your family,” says Burghardt. “You can’t serve too much food. Could there be anything more Jewish than that?”

CHANUKAH

Attitude of Gratitude

To focus the celebration on the holiday’s true meaning—with a Jewish flare—create a pre-turkey gratitude conversation by hiding a question under each dinner plate to be answered before the main course.

Here are a few under-plate questions to get you started and inspire you to add your own:

• What are three things you are grateful for at work, school or in your volunteer job?

• What are three specific things you are grateful for about your family?

• What foods are you most grateful for?

• What are you thankful for as an American (if you are an American)?

• What are you most grateful for in your Jewish life?

• What is something that once caused you pain, but that you are now grateful for?

PARTY Shine Your Light

30 days to world’s end, yet somehow a silver lining BOOK REVIEWS

“The Last of the Light,” by Alexander Shalom Joseph, Orison Books, 2024, 128 pages.

By Sean Boyle Jewish Day School Librarian

Alexander Shalom Joseph’s novella “The Last of the Light” is written as journal entries by an unnamed 20-something-year-old man documenting his life during the final month of the world. It starts on the last day, and the reader goes with the young man as he lives out that day and reflects on what has happened since the world’s governments sent out the mass text message stating that the world would end in 30 days.

Instead of the typical apocalyptic story with emphasis on what is causing the end of the world and exploring the attempts to reverse the catastrophic event, Joseph takes us on a reflective journey on the meaning of family, Jewish faith, and living a worthy

life while facing impending death.

The young man moves back into his parents’ home, and we learn more about his professor mother, his prepper blue-collar father, and his suffering-from-dementia Yiddish-speaking zayde (grandfather). As the man contemplates the life he will never get to live, he also reflects on the lives his parents and zayde were able to live.

The young man’s mother, a creative writing and Jewish studies professor, used to tell him and his sister stories each night before they went to bed as children. She taught them about the Tzadikim Nistrarim, the 36 Jews who are the righteous ones of each generation, who justify the existence of humanity to God. Not knowing whether or not he is one of the humble righteous ones, he decides to write his journal exploring the possibility that he is one of them and that maybe he can help prevent the end of the

world by living virtuously. As the family comes to accept their fate, they set up routines and opportunities to express their appreciation and gratefulness for the lives they lived and the relationships they’ve formed. They share moments one-on-one and as a complete family, and reminisce about cherished memories. The situation is unique in that instead of there being a group of caregivers helping a loved one with end-of-life preparations, each family member is caregiver and patient at the same time, helping one another and needing help themselves as they each explore and are grateful for the life they lived, without anger for the future life being denied.

Chapters are titled either 1 for the last day or otherwise numbered in line with the countdown to the final day. The past journal entries are all written in the first person, and the 1 chapters are written in the third-person, with reflection on the past writings. So this is not a story with flashbacks, but rather a story with reflections on past writings. There is some repetition as he reflects on what he experienced during the month.

The book is highly recommended for ages 16-120, especially for anyone desiring to live a virtuous life and being grateful for their experiences.

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

Noahide Jobs

Across

1. “Woe!”

5. Jewish 1953 AL MVP

10. AL players

14. Big Batman foe

15. Big, medically

16. A special glow

17. Rotenberg of music

18. Celebrity elite

19. River through Russia and Kazakhstan

20. Job for Noah

22. Brothers Ben, Henry, and Jonah

23. Portfolio holding, briefly 24. Kosher sign

25. Big mammals

26. Job for Noah

30. Faulty

32. He’s such a deer?

33. Melville Captain or

Biblical King

37. The majority of 38. “Blue Ribbon” beer

40. Tihs clue has one

41. “Angry Birds” birds, essentially 42. Haifa to Tsfat direction

43. They can be high or low

44. Job for Noah

47. Susie of “Curb Your Enthusiasm”

51. “Fire away”

52. Cruiser alert, for short

55. Three time

MVP Nikola

56. Job for Noah

59. He’s such a tree?

60. Pie chart lines, essentially

61. Musical with the song “Another Pyramid”

62. Musical with the song “Memory”

63. Express, as a point of view

64. It croaks in a creek

65. Long, hard journey

66. Barbecue utensils

67. “One night ___!”

Down

1. Old counting devices

2. Toil away

3. Orwellian philosophy for Noah?

4. Appear to be

5. Band hand

6. Like a circle stretched in one direction

7. Esau’s land

8. In ___ (existence)

9. Org. alternative

10. Abdul of pop

11. Away from the urban sprawl

12. Give a lecture, say 13. Bath and kosher

21. Wastes, in mob slang

22. Prof.’s degree

25. Bench order

27. Words of comparison

28. Native of a -stan bordered by five other -stans

29. Colorado NHL team, to fans

30. Simon and Garfunkel song “I ___ Rock”

31. Naamah, to Shem

33. What some games end in

34. It wasn’t a concern

for Noah on the ark?

35. Monkey, for one

36. NYY rival

38. Common laborer

39. “I’ll take that as ___”

43. Hwy. of a sort

44. Efron of “The Greatest Showman”

45. Forming spikes, as corn

46. Catches sight of

47. Removal button

48. “Green” energy

49. Rollerblade, e.g.

50. Belarus city

53. Gas, brake or clutch, e.g.

54. Bunch from TV

56. Guitar accessory

57. Certain game point, in tennis

58. Defense alliance since 1949, for short

60. Deteriorate

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8

JFS Healing Service

11 a.m., Jewish Family Service

Join JFS for a restorative communal experience. More details and registration page to come.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9

Shabbat Out of the Box

10 a.m., Congregation Keneseth Israel

Celebrating the sixth year of creative and interesting activities to inspire your Shabbat experience. Registration is required (click on the event to register). Locations vary. Outdoor activities are weather permitting. Everyone is welcome so please feel free to bring your friends and family. All events are free. Registration is required at kilv.org/ shabbat-out-of-the-box.html.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10

Stand Together—An Event of Unity, Strength, and Resilience in Washington, D.C. 6:30 p.m., Nationals Park

This inaugural event in the Washington Nationals ballpark will bring together thousands from the Jewish community across the continent to

Community Calendar

of the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley. The JFLV reserves the right to accept, reject or modify listings.

celebrate shared values and aspirations for a safe and secure future. The gathering is the opening program of the November 10-12 Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly 2024. It is open to everyone, not just general assembly attendees. Find more information and register at generalassembly. org/evening-of-unity.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18

The Fundamentals of Israel Activism with Charlotte Korchak, StandWithUs educator 11 a.m., Congregation Keneseth Israel

Join us at Keneseth Israel as Charlotte Korchak, International Senior Educator at StandWithUs, covers all the core information one needs to have a productive conversation about Israel with peers. Learn how to tell Israel’s story, how to identify anti-Zionism, and how to combat its core claims, and about the way in which antisemitism manifests today. This event is free and open to all. Registration is required at jewishlehighvalley.regfox.com/ the-fundamentals-of-israelactivism.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24

The JDS Holiday Market 11 a.m., Jewish Day School JDS is holding a holiday market. Admission is free. Vendor tables are $18; call 610-4370721 to reserve a table.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

Pickleball Tournament

10 a.m.-2 p.m., JCC Pickleball players of all levels are invited to compete in the inaugural Eve Peterson Memorial Pickleball Tournament. Named in memory of a dedicated supporter of both the game and the JCC, the tournament will include a beginner division and an open division accepting those of all skill levels. Competition will be round-robin style. There will be prizes and awards. Cost is $60 per two-player team, which includes event T-shirts for those registered by November 1. For tournament questions, email dbrown@lvjcc.org. To be an event sponsor, email mschutzler@lvjcc.org. Register by November 17.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

Jazz Cabaret 6:30 p.m., Congregation Keneseth Israel

Dr. Gregory Edwards and Friends will perform live at KI in a program sponsored by KI Lifelong Learning. Edwards plays clarinet, sax, and flute and has performed with Ray Charles, Phil Woods, and others. A portion of Ken Burns’s PBS documentary “Jazz” will be shown. Dessert will be served beginning at 6:30, and music will start at 7. BYOB. The suggested donation for admission is $10 online or at the door. Register to attend at kilv.org/event/jazz-cabaret---live-music-featuring-dr.gregory-edwards--friends-.html by December 6; seating is limited.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 9

Shuk to the Core

3-8 p.m., Temple Beth El Temple Beth El will be transformed into an Israeli shuk (market) featuring more than 30 vendors from Israel on a national tour of the United States. Wares include stones and jewelry, art, crafts, books, Judaica, and clothes and accessories. The event is presented in partnership with the Jewish Federation. Admission is $5 per person, free for children 12 and under. Registra-

We are very thankful for local businesses who continue to support our mission with advertising and sponsorships. They are the people, companies and organizations that enrich us, feed us, keep us healthy, provide services for everyone, and invite us to shop big and small with them. THANK OUR ADVERTISERS AND SUPPORT THEIR BUSINESS AND ORGANIZATIONS OFTEN!

ENRICHING US

Allentown Art Museum

ArtsQuest

Baum School Of Art

Berman Center For Jewish Studies

Goldenslipper Camp

Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy

Muhlenberg College Dept Of Theatre & Dance

Northampton County College Theatre

Pinemere Camp

State Theatre

SERVING OLDER US

Access Ability

Country Meadows Retirement Communities

HEALTHY US

Children’s Healthcare

Damany Center

Gordon Pediatric Dental

Green Hills Family & Cosmetic Dentistry

Hakim Health Partners

Lehigh Valley Center For Sight

Lehigh Valley Health Network

Lehigh Valley Pediatric Assoc

Mark Notis DDS

St. Luke’s University Health Network

FEEDING US

Giant Food Stores

Mizu Sushi and Hibachi Steak House

Weis Markets

SHOP US LOCAL

Art Gallery & Frame Shop

BOUTIQUETOGO

Jane Roncoroni Fine Clothing

Phoebe Floral Shop & Home Gallery

SERVING ALL OF US

Bachman, Kulik & Reinsmith

Funeral Home

Cold Nose Lodge

Creative Closets, Ltd.

Daniels BMW

Development Corp For Israel Bonds

Embassy Bank For The Lehigh Valley

Firstrust Bank*

The Frederick Group, Brian Segel

Hof & Reid, Personal Injury Law

Indian Creek Storage

Micro-Innovation, LLC

Miracle Auto Group

People’s First Federal Credit Union

Provident Bank

Regency Real Estate, Larry Ginsburg

Scherline Injury Law

Style with Care

*2024 Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs sponsor

tion required at kilv.org/event/ jcc-shuk-to-the-core.html.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15

TBE Chanucan Party

11 a.m.-noon, Temple Beth El Celebrate this year’s Chanucan drive to collect nonperishables and raise funds for those in need in the Lehigh Valley. For more information, visit bethelallentown.org.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17

Women’s Philanthropy Chanukah Party

7:30 p.m., Jay’s Local

The event will feature speakers from FamilyMatters, sufganiyot and desserts— dietary laws observed, “Minute to Win It” Jewish trivia game, and gifts for FamilyMatters children. A pledge to the 2025 Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs is required to attend. Registration required at jewishlehighvalley.regfox. com/wp-chanukah-party-2024.

SUNDAY-TUESDAY, JANUARY 12-14, 2025

2025 International Lion of Judah Conference Marriott Marquis, Atlanta, Georgia

The Jewish Federation of North America’s Lion of Judah will gather for its annual conference in January. Carol Bub Fromer will receive the Kipnis-Wilson Friedland Award for philanthropy and volunteerism at the event. Current Lions, as well as future Lions (i.e., daughters, granddaughters, and friends of Lions), are invited to attend. The women philanthropists will learn about and discuss the most pressing issues facing local, national, and global Jewish communities and envision together how to initiate change heading into the future. Find more information and register at lionconference.org. If you have questions, contact Lee Kestecher Solomon at lee@jflv.org.

ONGOING EVENTS

FIRST OR SECOND SUNDAY OF THE MONTH

Bnai Shalom Cash Bingo 1 p.m., Congregation Bnai Shalom

Join Bnai Shalom for its monthly bingo games on the

Community Calendar

first Sunday of most months but on the second Sunday of September and December. There’s no game in October. For more information call 610258-5343.

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.

WEDNESDAYS, NOV 13, DEC 4

JDS Little Learners Class

9:30 a.m., Jewish Day School

Jewish Day School is offering a free Little Learners class for caregivers with children ages 3 and under. Storytime, movement, and music with a Jewish twist. Register at jdslv. org/little-learners.

WEDNESDAYS

Yoga with Miriam Sandler: Chair-Supported Yoga 1-2 p.m., Congregation Brith Sholom in person and via Zoom

Be seated in a comfortable chair, preferably armless (folding works well). Some standing poses holding onto the chair are offered, though students may choose to remain seated. Modifications are given. Open to the public in person and live stream available to all via Zoom. *$10 drop-in fee payable to Congregation Brith Sholom. For more information email mbserow@gmail.com.

WEDNESDAYS

Torah Studies: A Weekly Journey into the Soul of Torah 7 p.m., Chabad of the Lehigh Valley and via Zoom Torah Studies by the Jewish Learning Institute presents Season One 5785, a 12-part series offered in person and via Zoom. Cost is $54 for the course, including textbook. For

more information, call 610351-6511 or email rabbi@ chabadlehighvalley.com.

EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAY

Hadassah Study Group 12:30 p.m., via Zoom

The group discusses short stories from an anthology. Always welcoming new participants. Contact mjclaire@gmail.com or 610-972-7054 to sign up.

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

Radio show with Cantor Kevin Wartell. For information go to muhlenberg.edu/wmuh.

SECOND FRIDAY OF THE MONTH

KI Shabbat Friends

5 or 5:30 p.m., Congregation

Keneseth Israel

If you attend Shabbat services alone and feel awkward, you can join this enthusiastic group for pre-Shabbat dinner and conversation. Bring your own food, drink, and topics for discussion. Call 610-435-9074 for more information or to register. Shabbat Friends will not gather in October.

SATURDAYS

KI Torah Study

9:30-11 a.m., Congregation

Keneseth Israel

Join Rabbi Shoshanah Tornberg for a study session making sense of the week’s Torah portion. Enter the building through the 23rd Street door. For more information, contact Rabbi Tornberg using the form at kilv.org/form/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 of-

fice. No previous Talmud study required. For information email tammy@brithsholom.net or call 610-866-8009.

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 610462-2549 or Jett at 610-7621450. Register at kilv.org/ event/shabbat-yoga1.html.

DAILY

Jewish Broadcasting Service

JBS is a Jewish television channel featuring daily news from Israel; leading Jewish figures, issues and events of Jewish importance; callin programs; Jewish studies; 92nd Street Y; live Friday and holiday services for those at home; children’s programs; films; music; books; and entertainment. jbstv.org.

DAILY

Congregation Sons of Israel Minyanim Shacharit on Mondays and Thursdays 6:30 a.m.; Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 6:45 a.m.; Sundays 8:30 a.m.

Congregation Sons of Israel welcomes all to the daily Shacharis and Mincha/Maariv services, which are conducted in the main sanctuary of the synagogue. Please check the synagogue at sonsofisrael. net for the weekly listing of the starting time for Mincha/ Maariv. If you have any questions, call the synagogue office at 610-433-6089.

MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY Daily Online Meditation 12:30 p.m., Institute for Jewish Spirituality

One of their master teachers will lead a live daily guided meditation. Join with people from around the world to share 30 minutes of Jewish mindfulness. Open to all, no experience needed. Sign up at jewishspirituality.org/getstarted.

Shabbat & Yom Tov Candlelighting Times

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1 5:40 PM

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8 4:32 PM

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 4:26 PM

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22 4:21 PM

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29 4:18 PM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6 4:17 PM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13 4:18 PM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20 4:20 PM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 27 4:24 PM

FRIDAY, JANUARY 3 4:30 PM

Best care in state, from complex to routine.

When it comes to your heart and vascular care, nothing but the best will do.

At Lehigh Valley Heart and Vascular Institute, you get the best in state, from complex to routine. That’s the best heart attack care, the best technology and less invasive procedures for everything from irregular heartbeats to breakthrough limb-saving procedures. Here, you get the best. LVHN.org/heartandvascular