HAKOL - February 2025 by Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley

Even

WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY p2

FROM THE DESK OF JERI ZIMMERMAN p3

LVJF TRIBUTES p8

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER p10-11

JEWISH DAY SCHOOL p12

JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE p13

COMMUNITY CALENDAR p26-27

Maimonides kicks off Super Sunday with focus on men’s health

By Carl Zebrowski Editor

It was a serious subject that Dr. Frank Tamarkin addressed with a touch of humor in the Super Sunday edition of the Maimonides Society Brunch and Learn on January 26: “Men’s Health.”

For the first Brunch and Learn presentation of 2025, Tamarkin, chief of urology for St. Luke’s University Health Network, recruited three panelists who work in medical specialties closely linked to men’s health: urology and cardiology. They were Dr. William Markson of St. Luke’s Cardiology Associates, Dr. Jeffrey Gevirtz of St. Luke’s Center for Urology, and Dr. Zach Goldsmith of St. Luke’s Center for Urology and St. Luke’s Specialty Pavilion. Goldsmith is the current president of the Mai-

A

monides Society, and Tamarkin, Markson, and Gevirtz are past presidents. Tamarkin opened his talk to the audience of more

Jewish Odyssey

than 50 with the overriding question of the session: “How do we live a longer, happier life?” The answer is not entirely within the medical

realm. Two key contributors are social connections and curiosity. “These are worth fostering with your patients,” he told his listeners, most of them healthcare professionals.

More obviously relating to the practice of medicine, Markson talked about the problem of plaque building up in the blood vessels, which can become a problem as men get older. Diet, exercise, and genetics are all involved. Family history can alert a provider to a patient’s potential vulnerability to certain conditions. “Mostly you can’t get away from who your parents are,” he said. He emphasized the importance of medical providers giving proper medical examinations to find potential problems. Check the pulse in the feet, groin, and neck. Also, do the time-honored

standard abdomen exam.

“You have to get up on your toes and press in a little bit,” he said. “There’s still a role for this in the world.”

Food intake also figures into the prevention of agerelated health problems. With a knock on the overcomplicated nature of so many trendy diets, Markson quoted the key dictum of Michael Pollan’s book “Food Rules”: “Eat Food. Not too much. Mostly plants.”

He recommended a plaque test that has become widely available only recently: the CT Coronary Calcium Score. The low-radiation imaging procedure measures the amount of calcium in the coronary arteries. The score represents the calcified plaque found—lowest is 0, while over 300 means significant

Maimonides continues on page 6

Lehigh Valley and Yoav delegates to explore Sephardic Greece together

By Connor Hayes Director of Community Programming

In late March, the Lehigh Valley’s Partnership2Gether Committee will be embarking on a journey to Greece—only this odyssey won’t take 10 years, as the original did.

Over the course of a week, the committee, along with delegates from Yoav, Israel, will visit classic Greek sites like the Acropolis and the Agora, while also exploring

an often unsung element of Greece’s history: its Jewish story. Arriving in antiquity, the first Greek Jews, or Romaniotes, gave rise to one of the oldest communities in Europe. With the Alhambra Decree and the Spanish expulsion, Jewish life in Greece was infused with the Sephardic diaspora, who made their new home in the northern Greek city of Salonika (now called Thessaloniki). For nearly 500 years, Jewish life in

Salonika flourished, leading the city to become known as the Jerusalem of the Balkans. At its height, it was home to dozens of synagogues and one of the most powerful textiles trades in the Mediterranean, largely due to Sephardic trading dynasties. The Partnership2Gether travelers will get the chance to explore this legacy, visiting some of the last historic synagogues as well as the Jewish Museum of Thessaloniki.

Delegates from the Lehigh Valley and Yoav will also meet with their Greek counterparts in Athens, a community that is still rebuilding from the Holocaust and from the financial crises that have affected their country in recent years.

Through this trip, the delegations hope to build new bonds with another part of the Diaspora, while also refining and developing new programming for their home communities.

Maimonides Society president Dr. Zach Goldsmith and Dr. Frank Tamarkin.

Monastir Synagogue, Thessaloniki, Greece.

Veria Synagogue, Veria, Greece.

Pride of 1,700 Lions 5 LV women join peers to envision Jewish future

Five women philanthropists from the Lehigh Valley joined 1,700 from across the globe at the International Lion of Judah Conference in Atlanta to show Jewish pride, celebrate rich traditions, empower the next generation of leaders, and pave the way to a brighter future for Jewish communities.

The sisterhood of Jewish philanthropists and advocates of all ages came together as part of their vital global role in creating social justice, aiding the vulnerable, preserving human dignity, and building Jewish identity. Caring deeply about the Jewish future, they meet annually to build and strengthen bonds, learn about the issues facing communities, and come up with ideas and plans for making the world a better place.

The half dozen attending the conference from the Lehigh Valley were Lions Aliette Abo, Sylvia Bub, Carol Bub Fromer, and Jewish Federation Executive Director Jeri Zimmerman, along with Lee Solomon, the Federation’s director of community engagement.

Fromer was among about 60 women from 60 Federation communities at the conference who received the annual Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award, recognizing women leaders who embody the spirit and vision of Lion of Judah through a commitment to tzedakah (charity), tikkun olam (repairing the world), and community service. The conference celebrated this

impressive group of women making a difference in Jewish life in their local communities, in Israel, and overseas.

The conference’s programs and sessions reflected a postOctober 7 world, with the hostage situation front and center in everyone’s mind. Attendees heard from hostage families, including Jon and Rachel Goldberg Polin, parents of Hersch GoldbergPolin; Sigal Manzuri, who lost two daughters at the Nova Music Festival; Aviva Segal, whose husband, Keith, is still being held by Hamas; Yarden Gonen, whose sister Romi is also still being held; and Maya Roman, a relative of two women who were taken hostage, and a media strategist and activist on behalf of the hostage families. Despite the tragedy at the core of their talks and the message that their families are getting by day to day, they reminded the audience that hope is mandatory, that we all need to hold onto it as we care for one another and Israel in these challenging times.

The Lions heard other inspirational messages from Michal Bitton, a scholar and spiritual leader whose mission is to reconnect Jews with our shared heritage and with one another. Author and activist Samantha Ettus helped present the first Ruth Bader Ginsburg award to Israel’s first lady Michal Herzog. Rabbi Emily Hyatt from Temple Emanuel in Denver spoke. Cochav Elkayam Levi, founder and chair of

the Civil Commission on October 7 Crimes by Hamas against Women and Children, delivered an update on the work she is doing. Conference attendees also heard from national Women’s Philanthropy lay leaders and Israel and overseas representatives.

Following a bit of fanfare in the grand ballroom, the Lions of Judah and others present learned that there are 20,000 Lions of Judah raising $250 million. As a result of the conference alone, $35 million was raised.

Those funds are more essential than ever at this time. Two major areas being addressed by Jewish Federations globally are combatting antisemitism through activism, education, and awareness, and of course security. Wherever Jewish life is happening, Federations and Jewish agencies are providing security services, at great cost.

Finally, the group listened to singer-songwriter Gilad Segev and his special project “Heroes.” He delivered a powerful multi-media presentation sharing personal stories from October 7 through music. It was a special program, and the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley hopes to be able to bring him to our community.

Bonding in our shared love for Israel

By Lee Kestecher Solomon Director of Community Engagement

It was an honor to accompany our Lion of Judah women to the International Lion of Judah Conference. We experienced inspiring full-group gatherings, forums with educational impact, and significant opportunities to connect with one another and strengthen our shared commitment to the Jewish future and our shared love for Israel.

The conference theme was “Proud to Be,” and there is no doubt that our Lehigh Valley Lions have a lot to be proud of. Our women show strength and care not only about our community but also for Israel and all Jews around the world.

We, along with all the other Lions present, experienced an exciting moment when Carol Bub Fromer received the Kipnis-Wilson/

Friedland Award. Carol is an example of the values that lead our community, from philanthropy to volunteering to caring for the community and its future.

We heard meaningful words from many event speakers. In particular, we got a chance to hear from the hostages’ families and pray with them for the release of their beloved family members who have become a part of all our lives. May all the remaining hostages be returned safely home as soon as possible.

These were memorable moments that bonded our Lions together. Please reach out to me at lee@jflv.org about how to join our pride for the next Lion of Judah International Conference. All Lions of Judah contribute at least $5,000 to the Federation’s Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs.

It’s almost that time of year

Although summer is still months away, I cannot help but think about the warmer days ahead. It’s never too early to begin thinking about Jewish summer camp.

Jewish summer camps blend the activities, friendships, and communal life of traditional camps with Jewish values, role models, and culture. This uniquely immersive experience provides a confidence-building opportunity for campers to experience joy and discovery in a communal Jewish setting. According to reformjudaism.org there are a number of reasons to send your children (grandchildren) to Jewish summer camp.

Jewish summer camp is a transformative experience that helps individuals grow as a person, a friend, a Jew, and a human being. The impact lasts long after the summer into the rest of the year and for decades to follow.

Camp helps form lifelong friendships, creates a sense of community and belonging, and aids in forging a sense of self and Jewish identity. Every summer, it forms a joyous and supportive community where youth can grow and mature in a safe environment at an intersection of interests (sports, environment, etc.).

Camp friendships endure. The intensity of the communal living and shared experience of camp advances and deepens relationships.

Camp is one easy entry point into a lifelong Jewish community. As kids grow, opportunities arise to increase their connections with Jewish peers through congregational and national youth groups, Israel travel, social justice programs, and much more. Many alumni of Jewish camp have found that the friends they make during the summer stay with them through college, young adulthood, and beyond.

Kids are empowered to contribute to and lead their Jewish community at camp. From services, to music, to hands-on learning, the developmental and socialemotional needs of campers come first, and opportunities exist for campers to take the lead in these. This is a uniquely powerful experience they won’t necessarily find anywhere else.

Moreover, camp integrates Judaism into intentional yet spontaneous experiences, helping to foster a love for and deep connection to Jewish life. Campers live in ‘Jewish time’; they are exposed to

adult Jewish role models, Jewish peers, and Jewish friends from different places, as well as to the rhythm of Jewish rituals. These Jewish connections are extremely powerful. Campers experience joy in a Jewish community, develop confidence in their Jewish identity, and forge long-lasting connections.

Children who attend Jewish summer camp are more likely to identify as Jewish adults and actively engage with their communities. The experience of living in an immersive Jewish community has a deep and profound impact, which lasts into adulthood.

Children learn confidence, skill-building, and socialization by living in a community. They learn how to operate in a diverse group of peers, face new situations, and overcome challenges on a daily basis. Adult role models and mentors at camp create safe spaces for campers to grapple with complex ideas based in Jewish values, texts, and traditions— topics that secular schools and camps might not be able to address. Camp is able to provide balance by creating space for spiritual, emotional, and physical growth for campers.

IN HONOR

LORI AND HOUMAN AHDIEH

In celebration of your daughter

Sydney’s marriage to Matt

Alicia and Bruce Zahn

ALICE AND MARK NOTIS

In celebration of the birth of your newest grandson, Lior Cooky Notis

Jewish camp season is about to begin. We know it works. Research shows camp attendance makes adults 37% more likely to light Shabbat candles, 45% more likely to attend synagogue monthly or more, 30% more likely to donate to a Jewish charity, and 55% more likely to be emotionally attached to Israel.

That is why one of Federation’s priorities is to help families send their children to Jewish overnight camps, in addition to providing support for our local JCC’s day camp.

Federation will continue to invest in programs, organizations, and initiatives that strengthen Jewish identity and the ties to one another

all year long. Jewish summer camp is one of those critical opportunities that are more important now than ever so that every youth and teen feels strongly connected to their Judaism, the Jewish people, and their community. Camp is all about fun and real-world learning. The gift of summer camp lasts a lifetime.

For information about need-based camp scholarships, please visit our website at jewishlehighvalley.org/ scholarships.

HAKOL STAFF

CARL ZEBROWSKI Editor

CHARLENE RIEGGER Director of Marketing

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

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

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

Phone: (610) 821-5500

Fax: (610) 821-8946

E-mail: hakol@jflv.org

IN MEMORY

MILDRED ERNEST

(Mother of Linda Kreithen)

Lisa and Barnet Fraenkel

Arlene and Richard Stein

SUSAN LEHRICH

(Wife of Henry Lehrich)

Arlene and Richard Stein

ANITA ZAVACK

(Wife of Raymond Zavack) Steve Shedroff

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.

JEWISH FEDERATION OF THE LEHIGH VALLEY MISSION STATEMENT

In order to unite, sustain, and enhance the Lehigh Valley Jewish community, and support Jewish communities in Israel and around the world, the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley is dedicated to the following core values:

• Supporting Jews in need wherever they may be. Supporting Israel as a Jewish homeland.

• Supporting and encouraging Jewish education in the Lehigh Valley as a means of strengthening Jewish life for individuals and families.

• Supporting programs and services of organizations whose values and mission meet local Jewish needs.

To accomplish this mission the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley is committed to the following operating guidelines:

• Raising and distributing funds to support the core values.

• Developing Jewish leaders. Building endowments to support implementation of core values.

• Committing to ongoing Jewish community strategic planning. Fostering cooperation among organizations and community building.

• Evaluating all decisions with respect to fiscal responsibility.

• Identifying unmet needs and investing in community initiatives to help get them started.

• Coordinating and convening a community response as an issue or need arises.

• Setting priorities for allocation and distribution of funds.

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

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

A super Super Sunday

JCC abuzz with community members and volunteers

By Carl Zebrowski Editor

Super Sunday 2025 was appropriately super. The JCC started bustling around 9 a.m., with community members showing up for this full day of philanthropy, fun, and learning, to make fundraising phone calls and to attend the Maimonides Society of healthcare professionals morning presentation on “Men’s Health.”

The fundraising effort for the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley’s day of events wrapped up with 150 volunteer callers having closed more than 70 gifts to the Federation’s 2025 Campaign for Jewish Needs for a final tally of over $40,000. Volunteers also made 400plus calls thanking donors for previous gifts.

After the Maimonides presentation (full story on page 1), elected representatives began arriving. U.S. Representative Ryan McKenzie, State Senator Nick Miller, and State Representative Mike Schlossberg talked

with community members about concerns they had related to government. McKenzie worked the phones and reported closing a gift. “As somebody that grew up in Parkland and had a lot of Jewish friends, I’ve actually been coming here (to the JCC) my entire life,” he said. “I’m always happy to come out and make phone calls to help raise money for the Jewish community locally and across the country.”

Members of Women’s Philanthropy and other volunteers soon filled the Kline Auditorium for a Women’s Philanthropy Dignity Grows mitzvah project filling 155 tote bags with essential items such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and women’s hygiene products. Participants in this charitable event cochaired by Miriam Zager, Fay Kun, Ilene Ringold, Gia Jones, and Rachel Levin also wrote kind notes to the anonymous recipients of the totes and made bracelets for themselves as reminders of some of the Jewish values

that guided the event. The filled totes were given to Jewish Family Service for distribution to local women in need.

About a dozen students and Hillel staff from Muhlenberg College, including director Ira Blum, were among those packing the tote bags and also were generally mingling with community members. “I think our community is only as strong as the ways that we show up for one another and how we take care of one another,” he said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to strengthen our community and broaden it and to do so with the next generation of Jewish student leadership.”

After a lunch of falafel, hummus, eggplant salad, and other Israeli-style favorites prepared by Around the Table catering, representatives of the local Jewish agencies and synagogues moved into the JCC boardroom for a security training session led by the Federation’s community security advisor, Tim Brooks. The

United for Impact

group learned how to be proactive with synagogue and school safety, and how to recognize suspicious behavior and threats.

In mid-afternoon, PJ Library and Jewish Family Service hosted the Sights for Hope organization for a presentation to kids and their parents about what it’s like to live with vision impairment. Sights for Hope client activities manager Rita Lang, who herself has vision impairment, talked to the group about tools she uses to help her through daily life situations that most people don’t usually have to think about.

One app on her phone, for example, will quickly scan a photo she has taken and tell her what’s in it. To demonstrate, she photographed the group, and the phone immediately told her out loud about “the little boy sitting on something red on the floor” and the rest of the scene with remarkable accuracy.

Super Sunday ended with the unveiling of the new

Wings of Hope mural in the JCC lobby. Volunteers and Muhlenberg Hillel students had assembled multicolored plastic, wooden, and metal toys donated by community members to create two large wings on the rear wall.

Connor Hayes, the Federation’s director of community programming, and Simon Katz, JCC membership and program associate, had lead roles in making the project happen and spoke at the unveiling. Hayes told the crowd, “This project has required a lot of hands in its making.” Katz added, “It’s really touching that this is part of all the people who helped.”

The mural, versions of which appear in locations all over the globe, is a memorial to the Kutz family of Kibbutz Kfar Aza, who were murdered in their home by Hamas attackers on October 7, 2023. The wings and the brilliant, uplifting colors are reminders to keep hope heading into the future.

Maimonides

Continued from page 1

buildup—and corresponds to the risk of heart attack and stroke. The number can guide a provider in coming up with a treatment plan.

The focus of the presentation moved from heart to prostate. One in eight men are diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. But it’s a cancer that tends to move slowly, and early detection has a good chance of leading to positive outcomes.

Screening should begin at age 55, earlier if family medi tion—the prostate normally days, a cancer considered low

Foundation grants increase over 2024

By Mike Miller Lehigh Valley Jewish Foundation Chair and Aaron Gorodzinsky Jewish Federation Director of Development

The mission of the Lehigh Valley Jewish Foundation Endowment Fund (LVFJ) is to support the Jewish Federation in honoring the values of tzedakah and tikkun olam by providing a permanent

Funds: A 4.6% distribution was also approved, ensuring that donor-designated funds were allocated according to their intended purposes. This included contributions to the Jewish Federation’s Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs, helping us reach our fundraising goals. The total distribution of $281,000 represented a $23,000 increase over the previous year.

Unrestricted Funds: A 5.25% distribution was ap

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

Dr. Zach Goldsmith, Dr. William Markson, and Dr. Jeffrey Gevirtz.

BE AWARE

TRAINING

How to recognize suspicious or potentially dangerous behavior and threats, and what to do. Designed for every member of the community, no background in security is required. The course will cover the basics of situational awareness.

Training Dates (choose one):

Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025, at 1:00 PM

Monday, June 16, 2025, at 7:00 PM

Monday, Nov. 17, 2025, at 2:00 PM

COUNTERING ACTIVE THREAT TRAINING

A comprehensive training program to counter an active threat event developed for faithbased institutions and houses of worship.

Training Dates (choose one):

Monday, Feb. 17, 2025, at 7:00 PM

Monday, July 21, 2025, at 2:00 PM Monday, Dec. 22, 2025, at 7:00 PM

STOP THE BLEED TRAINING

This training provides community members with the skills to save lives by applying emergency first aid to control bleeding.

Training Dates (choose one):

Monday, March 17, 2025, at 2:00 PM Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM

Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM

RITA BLOOM

In honor of a speedy recovery

Hank Narrow and Sheryl

SYLVIA AND SAM BUB

In celebration of your granddaughter Jenna’s engagement

Roberta and Robert Kritzer

CAROL BUB FROMER

In honor of receiving the KipnisWilson/Friedland Award

Sara and Karl Glassman

Eileen Ufberg

Vicki Wax

CAROL BUB FROMER AND GARY

In celebration of your daughter Jenna’s engagement

Marlene and Arnan Finkelstein

Sara and Karl Glassman

JANE COHEN

In honor of being recognized by Jewish Family Service for your Outstanding Volunteerism

Hank Narrow and Sheryl

DEVORAH AND YAACOV HALPERIN

In celebration of your daughter Chanale’s engagement to Sadya

Laurie and Robby Wax

ALI AND JOSH KRAWITZ

In celebration of the birth of your daughter, Celia Helen Krawitz

Penny and Adam Roth

Julia and Alex Roth

Nikki and AJ Silverberg and LYNDA AND STUART KRAWITZ

In celebration of the birth of your granddaughter, Celia Helen

Penny and Adam Roth

Julia and Alex Roth

Nikki and AJ Silverberg and

MILDRED ERNEST

(Mother of Linda Kreithen)

SUSAN (SUE) LEHRICH

(Wife of Henry Lehrich)

Pam Byala

Marilyn Claire and Family

Helene and Leno Scarcia

Eileen Ufberg

Vicki Wax

LOIS LIPSON

(Wife of Don Lipson)

Roberta and Robert Kritzer

ELI PAPIR

(Husband of Joanne Papir, brother of Leon Papir)

Rita and Mike Bloom

Phyllis Ford

Roberta and Robert Kritzer

DEMI NISSENBAUM

(Son of Marc Nissenbaum)

Sandi and Nick Teplitz

JAY WARSHAWSKY

(Father of Robin Warshawsky and Debbie Kestenbaum)

Marlene and Arnan Finkelstein

JEAN WEINER

(Mother of Nancy Meyer-Lustman and Laurie Yarock, step-mother of Valerie Salembier)

Dee and Arny Kaplan

HELEN AND SOL KRAWITZ

HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL FUND

IN HONOR

THE ROTH FAMILY

In celebration of the birth of your son and grandson, Micah

Ali, Josh and Celia Krawitz

Lynda and Stuart Krawitz

IN MEMORY

MURRAY GOODMAN

(Husband of Joanie Goodman)

Susan Engelson Friefeld

SUSAN (SUE) LEHRICH

(Wife of Henry Lehrich)

Susan Engelson Friefeld and Rabbi Seth Philips

Lynda and Richard Somach

DAVID ZALES

(Son of Martin Zales, brother of Susan Zales)

GUARDIAN TRAINING

Pam Byala

Sylvia Kreithen

Susan Engelson Friefeld

Guardians take responsibility for the safety and security of themselves, families, and community. Learn skillsets that help you identify, protect, and respond to all hazards, enabling you to become an Active Bystander in your community.

Training Dates (choose one):

Monday, April 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM Monday, Sept. 22, 2025, at 9:00 AM

DE-ESCALATION TRAINING

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.

De-escalation Training equips people with the knowledge, skills, and techniques to defuse or reduce tension, hostility, or conflict in a situation.

SECURITY SQUARE WITH TIM BROOKS

Training Dates (choose one):

Monday, May 19, 2025, at 2:00 PM Monday, Oct. 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM

All training sessions are located at the Jewish Community Center. Registration is required.

To register, scan the QR code or visit jewishlehighvalley.org/security-training-schedule or call 610.821.5500. of the Lehigh Valley

All training sessions are located at the Jewish Community Center. Registration is required. To register, scan the QR code or visit jewishlehighvalley.org/security-training-schedule or call 610.821.5500. of the Lehigh Valley of the Lehigh Valley of the Lehigh Valley

I want to train your organization! I can provide several types of training from the Secure Community Network. De-escalation—Equips people with the knowledge, skills, and techniques to defuse or reduce tension, hostility, or conflict in a situation. Guardian—Guardians take personal responsibility for the safety and security of themselves, their families, and the community.

BeAware—An introduction to situational awareness. Countering Active Threat Training—A comprehensive training program to counter an active-threat event developed for faith-based institutions and houses of worship. Stop the Bleed—Learn how to save lives by applying emergency first aid to control bleeding. Please contact me at 872-400-0239 or tbrooks@securecommunitynetwork.org.

New burial fund to ensure Jewish end-of-life rituals

Every Jew deserves a proper Jewish burial. With that, Hesed Shel Emet, the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley Indigent Burial Society, is being established to provide end-of-life rituals with utmost respect for the human dignity of deceased Jewish individuals regardless of financial means or specific religious affiliation.

Set up by the Jewish Federation and facilitated by the Lehigh Valley Clergy Group and Jewish Family Service, the program will ensure that chevra kadisha services, burial, gravesite upkeep, and counseling for the dying and their families are provided. These will be informed by tradition and adapted for realities and needs of modern life.

This provision of important ritual services needed to be addressed as our community members age, specifically in cases where funeral arrangements are not accounted for financially. A Hesed Shel Emet fund will enable our caring community to provide the necessary end-of-life rituals for generations to come.

A fund will be established with an initial dona-

tion or donations of $2,000. Going forward, the Federation, together with the Lehigh Valley synagogues, will administer an annual campaign mailing to request gifts to that fund with the goal of being able to cover costs of potentially two indigent burials per year and headstones, along with workshops to educate community members on important topics of dignity for the deceased and the role of a caring community. Burial plots would be donated by the synagogues involved.

The Federation will make distributions from the fund for the end-of-life services and educational programs in consultation with the synagogues and Jewish Family Service as needed.

The goal is eventually to accumulate $200,000 so that a 5% annual return rate on the investment will cover the estimated $10,000 need for two indigent burials. Budgeted spending not used in a given year will be rolled over in the fund.

Spring Clean Your FINANCES

GET A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

Now is the perfect time to give yourself a gift. When most people think about spring cleaning, their thoughts immediately turn to donating things they have accumulated for years. While that may be a good idea, cleaning up is more about the beneﬁts you receive, rather than what you give away.

Begin with your accounts that may be overdue for a review. Each of the following tend to gather dust in the corners, but each can be an excellent source for you to make signiﬁcant improvements.

IRA — Like most investors you have probably trained yourself to “set and forget” your IRA. You have contributed money to it and speciﬁed smart investment choices. However, there have been changes to IRA laws in recent years, and you may not be using those to your full advantage.

Savings and Checking Accounts — You might think these accounts are for paying bills and saving for rainy days. However, there is a lot of hidden muscle in these accounts. Learn what you can do with them beyond just deposits and withdrawals.

CDs — If you have rolled over your CD, you might be ready for a new idea. A CD is not your only option, especially if you are looking for regular, reliable payments.

Life Insurance — Few people like to talk about life insurance, but even fewer realize they may have insurance policies they no longer need. If yours has been collecting dust, it is time to give new life to an old policy.

We can help you get a breath of fresh air as you review and revitalize ﬁnancial assets by turning them into something fresh. There is never an obligation, and we always encourage you to work with your professional advisor before taking any action.

In health care, there are specific honors – based on objective measures of quality, safety and overall performance – that matter.

St. Luke’s is the ONLY health system in the United States to be recognized for excellence for ALL OF THEM: Leapfrog Safety Grade – Straight A’s at all St. Luke’s acute care hospitals! Medicare & Medicaid Star Ratings – Five stars for quality! Fortune / PINCAI 100 Top Hospitals – 10 years in a row! 50 Top Cardiovascular Hospital – Eight times!

Congratulations to St. Luke’s and the Network’s 20,000+ doctors, nurses and all employees who have made St. Luke’s #1 in the nation. There can only be one #1.

Billy and Jane Markson made a commitment to Endowment. Find out how to make yours below!

Welcome Jen Moyer, Early Childhood Education Assistant Director

By Lisa Yoskowitz ECE Director

The phrase, “It takes a village” could not be truer than when applied to the field of Early Childhood Education. During my 5.5 years here at the JCC, I have worked alongside many in my community to create and continue to build a successful program. So, I am excited to introduce Jen Moyer, our new Assistant Director in Early Childhood Education. With a passion for fostering young minds and a wealth of experience in early childhood development, Jen brings a

fresh perspective to our team. She holds a degree in English Language and Literature and is currently working towards a Masters in Early Childhood Education (with a focus in administration, management and leadership). Jen has worked in various early childhood settings, demonstrating a deep commitment to creating nurturing, inclusive environments that support both children and educators. As Assistant Director, Jen will work closely with staff and families to ensure the continued success and growth of our programs, with a focus on enhancing

curriculum, professional development, and family engagement. We look forward to the positive impact she will make in our community!

ECE registration for the 20252026 school year will open on February 1, 2025. And with that, we are excited to announce the opening of a new preschool classroom this upcoming fall!

As with all our classrooms, this classroom will provide a nurturing and enriching environment where young learners can grow, explore, and develop essential skills. Our goal is to foster a love for learning from an early age,

ECE registration for the 20252026 school year will open on February 1, 2025. And with that, we are excited to announce the opening of a new preschool classroom this upcoming fall! As with all our classrooms, this classroom will provide a nurturing and enriching environment where young learners can grow, explore, and develop essential skills. Our goal is to foster a love for learning from an early age,

offering a curriculum designed to engage children through play, creativity, and hands-on experiences. We are excited about all of these positive additions and changes for our ECE program!

Jen Moyer, ECE Assistant Director

interactive experience with props, beekeeping supplies, a honeybee song, and a waggle dance! The students enjoyed pretending to be bees and buzzing around the gym.

The JCC would like to thank all of our donors who participated in

JoAnne Abrams

Lenny Abrams

Lynn Wilson and Michael Alterman

Wendy and Ross Born

Chelsea and Elliot Busch

Robyn and Brad Finberg

Kathy Zimmerman and Peter Fisher

Ophira Silbert & Jeffrey Fleischaker

Emily and Brian Ford

Lisa and Barnet Fraenkel

Susan Engelson Friefeld

Carol and Gary Fromer

The students learned that honeybees get all their food from flowers and the food consists of nectar and pollen. Afterwards, the students had the opportunity to look at a container of nectar and a container of pollen. The students now know that nectar is a liquid and pollen looks like dust.

Sandra and Harold Goldfarb

Ina Goldstein

Lori and Houman Ahdieh

Air Products Foundation

Marsha Baar

Aileen Love and Stephen Bacchi

Patricia Beldon

Nissa Gossom and Aaron Berger

Laura and Robert Black

Christy and Andrew Block

Sheryl and Rance Block

Amy Born

Sylvia and Sam Bub

Marilyn Claire

Dean Clark

Michelle and Robert Cohen

Pamela and Mike Coviello

Michaela and Christine Criswell

Jill Crosson

Beth and Scott Delin

Nancy and James Devers

Jennifer and Gregg Dietz

Stephen Drabick

Audrey and Lucio Drozdowski

Louise and Emery Dudra

Jan and Glenn Ehrich

Lisa and Andy Ellis

Richard Fairley

Patricia Feast

Lynn and Samuel Feldman

Sandi and Harris Fine

Phyllis Ford

Monica and Henry Friess

GC Electric

Blair Couch and Warren Gericke

Amira Littman and Jeffrey Gevirtz

Andrea and Zach Goldsmith

Ellen and Lance Gordon

Elizabeth and Jeff Greenberg

Sandra Greenfield

Arlene and Dwight Griffin

Ben Grossman

Pamela and Vernon Guischard

Carol and Barry Halper

Alissa Romano and David Hammerman

Richard Hausman

Herbein + Co.

Beth and Cory Hiken

Bradford Hillegass

Donna and Michael Iorio

Susan Jarrett

harvest the honey by collecting the honeycomb frames and scraping off the wax cap that seals the honey. The frames are then placed in an extractor to spin honey out of the comb. After the honey is extracted, it is strained to remove any remaining wax or other particles. After straining the honey, it is time to bottle, label, and bring it to you! How does honey connect to the High Holidays? Because eating apples and honey is a tradition on Rosh Hashanah, of course! We

Keystone Society

the annual Friends of the J Campaign

Donors who have pledged at least $750 toward the Friends of the JCC campaign

Bonnie Hammel

HSA Mechanical Services

Fred J. Jaindl Family Foundation

Gia and Matt Jones

Nancy and Andrew Kahn

Amy Katz

Susanne and Marty Katz

Kobrovsky Family Fund

Lynda and Stuart Krawitz

Margo and Eric Lightman

Jane and Bill Markson

Sara and Marcos Martinez

Kristine Schultz and Aaron Mendelson

Michael Miller

Marc Nissenbaum

Lauren and Kevin Reuther

Pat Rhodes

RKL, LLP

Loren Ellis and Marvin Sasson

Jennifer Hayden and Nate Siegfried

Stephanie and Adam Smartschan

Eileen Ufberg

Melissa and Matt Unger

Sara Whildin

wish all of you a happy and healthy new year. If you’re looking for a sweet way to celebrate, local honey is available all year round at the Game Preserve Apiary, which is located at 4542 Game Preserve

Working Dog Press

Road, Schnecksville, PA 18078. Contact Dr. Robbie Roeshman and Adrienne London at 610-360-4191 or 13beekeeper@gmail.com for more information.

Valeska and Israel Zighelboim

Jeri and Len Zimmerman

Jessica and Scott Zolotsky

Additional Friends of the JCC Donors

JSeals Is Back, Making a Splash This November

Joan Jerant

Rachel Jantzi and Gary Jermansky

Audrey and Steven Kanoff

Jan and Bob Kaplan

Lillian and Peter Karch

Alexander Kita

Rosie Knafo

Beth and Wesley Kozinn

Judy and Martin Krasnov

Teri and Josh Krassen

Stephanie and Robert Kricun

Fay and Michael Kun

Elizabeth Lamb

Suzanne Lapiduss

Heather and David Lavin

Martha Lebovitz

Joan Lesavoy

By Jodi Lovenwirth Aquatics Director

Jodi Eichler-Levine and Maccabee Levine

Robin and David Lightman

The Loomis Company

David Louick

Jodi and Sam Lovenwirth

Rebecca Lovingood

Karla Lyle

Francine and David Maiatico

Jeanne Narkiewicz and Constantine Marcopul

Ann Marie and Steven Markowitz

Sally and Charles Metroke

Harry & Ethel Miller Memorial Fund

Jeannie and Holmes Miller

Rill and Steve Miller

Shannon Smigen and Alex Mishkin

Lisa Yanolko-Moatz

Steve Nathan

Edward Nissenbaum

Amy and Martin Oselkin

Ellen Osher

Jen and Gary Oxfeld

Elaine and Leon Papir

Joan and Alan Parker

Marianne and Stephen Phillips

Barbara and Martin Port

Adina and Aron Preis

Sandra Preis

Lori and Michael Pulver

Dale Rex

Carol and Ronald Rieder

Charlene Riegger

Robert Rockmaker

Louis Rodriquez

Robin and Alex Rosenau

Amy and Jesse Saborsky

Mary and Alan Salinger

Shellie and Rashid Santiago

Philip Scharl

Aaron Gorodzinsky & Jennie Schechner

Barbara Yudis and Terry Schettini

Lorraine and Richard Schoedler

Lanethea and Jonathan Schultz

Magdalena and Annie Schutzler

Eugene Search

Sajjad Shah

Linda and Clayton Shankweiler

Annette and Robert Shaw

Rachel and Andrew Shurman

Pam Smith

Sallie Smith

Sara Ritter and Michael Smith

Michael Sollott

Clifford Stackonis

instructed by qualified coaches. Our participants will also get to compete against other JCC swim teams in the Mid-Atlantic region, including Baltimore, Harrisburg, Cherry Hill, and Delaware. These exciting competitions consist of home and away meets, leading up to the championship meet in Delaware, where the swimmers get to show off their swimming abilities and hard work.

Kaitlyn Stefanowicz

Jill and Mark Stutz

Tracy and Matt Sussman

Tama and Frank Tamarkin

Pam Lott and Ron Ticho

Abby and Mark Trachtman

Ellen Sussman and David Vaida

Susan and Marc Vengrove

Ramamirtham Venkataraman

Ali Raza Visram

Peggy and James Waite

Kristina and Alexander Ward

Beverly and Ronald Wasserman

Linda Watkins

Robert Watkins

Every year during late fall, the aquatics center at the JCC comes alive with smiling faces, cheering children, and blooming friendships. It’s swim season, featuring the JSeals Swim Team! This year is going to be packed with team building parties, swim meets, and lots of ruach (spirit). For anyone who doesn’t know what the JSeals is about, we are more than just a swim team, we are a family. This is a place for swimmers to build their skills while they grow their friendships. This close-knit group of friends all share their love of swimming while cheering on their teammates and watching them progress throughout the season.

The 2023-2024 JSeals season begins on November 27.

Robert and Laurie Wax

Wegmans Food Markets

Sandra Weida

Deborah and Harold Whittaker

Each member has the opportunity to practice up to three times a week to build their swimming skills. Practices will consist of clear, concise, proven workouts,

Carol and Bob Wilson

Janet and Frank Yandrisevits

Linda and Samuel Zeiser

Cherie and Richard Zettlemoyer

Susan and Jeffrey Zimskind

Carol Zirkel

To have some fun throughout the season, we will have various parties including a holiday party, pizza party, and the coveted DipN-Disco, which is scheduled for January 13, 2024. Mark your calendars, you won’t want to miss it! One of my proudest moments as Aquatics Director is not only watching the swimmers earn their trophies and medals, but watching these children become a family Registration is now open for the JSeals 2023-2024 season. For more information, call the JCC at 610435-3571 or visit lvjcc.org/JSeals.

Debbie and Leon Zoller

List as of 1/22/25

Fruitful February!

Why JDS?

By Joanna Powers Head of School

In the middle of every winter, when we are far from fall or spring, spirits begin to droop a bit. February might be the shortest month on paper,

By Megan Hyman

but it often feels longer as the chill and dreariness linger. Luckily, the Jewish calendar has a cure for that. Tu Bishevat has many translations and a variety of significances, but it all comes down to the chance to celebrate and chase away those winter blues.

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?

Tu Bishevat is predominantly known as the Jewish Arbor Day, and this year it will fall on February 13. In the JDS classrooms, you’ll hear references to the Birthday of the Trees and the New Year of the

The 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 education and overall child development? How will our child fit in? Luckily for our family, 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.

Trees. The literal name of the holiday is more direct: Tu Bishevat simply means the 15th day of the Jewish month of Shevat (just like American Independence Day is called the Fourth of July), which is considered the time when most of the rain has fallen in Israel and trees begin their new fruit-bearing cycle. What a wonderful image to enjoy while our local trees are bare.

By Megan Hyman

an early childhood education program, the welcoming, intimate, and warm environment at JDS was an obvious place for us to turn. The administration and staff worked tirelessly to adhere to everchanging guidelines from the CDC and still make the magic of school very real for its students. Joseph FLOURISHED in this environment, and now that he’s in his third year as a student (kindergarten!) he loves the dynamic and joyful learning experience he’s had there. I’ll never forget when he came home to recite the full Pledge of Allegiance and knew all the words to the Hatikvah at three years old!

Why JDS?

At the JDS we will be honoring the multitude of contributions trees and

We arrived in Allentown in late March 2020 with a 2-year-old son, Joseph and

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 talks about his “reading buddy” constantly!

plants offer to the world. Oxygen, shade, food, paper, wood, and homes for birds and animals are just a few reasons why we and the environment rely on trees. The upper elementary and middle school students who are a part of the Better Together program will be creating grass-head dolls and sending them to their senior pen pals to spruce up their environment.

By Megan Hyman

TheWhen it came time for Joseph, our now five-year-old son, to get back into an early childhood education program, the welcoming, intimate, and warm environment at JDS was an obvious place for us to turn. The administration and staff worked tirelessly to adhere to everchanging guidelines from the CDC and still make the magic of school very real for its students. Joseph FLOURISHED in this environment, and now that he’s in his third year as a student (kindergarten!) he loves the dynamic and joyful learning experience he’s had there. I’ll never forget when he came home to recite the full Pledge of Allegiance and knew all the words to the Hatikvah at three years old!

This year, his sister Evelyn was able to join the three-year-old program with the same teachers and several younger siblings of her brother’s class. She was very shy at first, but quickly overcame that and truly gets ready for school with enthusiasm. The school has supported her love of art, singing, and she’s made

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

We will be partnering with IsraelLINK and the Jewish National Fund to

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

demic as built-in playmates

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 representative of our experience.

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 education and overall child development? How will our child fit in? Luckily for our family, 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.

discuss the importance of trees and nature in Jewish texts and resources. The students will delve into the story of Honi the Circle Maker, the great sage who once ended a severe drought by drawing a circle in the earth and telling G-d that he would not leave the circle until it rained. Projects, stories, and songs will fill the hallways with spring-like cheer!

Sadly, our chapter in Allentown is coming to a close. For professional reasons, we are moving back to Texas at the conclusion 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 will bring us joy for years to come.

Our kids became extremely close during the quarantine stage of the pan-

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

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

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

For any parent grappling with the decision 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 our daily lives, and the perfect environment to instill a love of learning and Jewish values.

Who is the refugee? It’s me.

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

As February continues, we will hold a professional development day for the teachers while the students observe Presidents’ Day. This is an excellent time to collaborate as an educational team, review protocol, and explore the most recent advancements in best practices and the science of learning. Our goal is to customize instruction to each student and ensure a strong, impactful second half of the school year.

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 here, in the US!

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

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

area. My husband had a very important role with great

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

Another chance to shake off the February doldrums is to join us at our annual Spaghetti Dinner and Bingo Night on Sunday, February 23, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Enjoy a delicious meal, exciting games, raffles, and prizes while supporting the JDS and coming together as a warm community regardless of the weather. Please visit jdslv.org/bingo to register.

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.

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, the house was shaking every time, but personally I really felt it on the second week, end of February. I needed to take my youngest daughter to doctor. So, we were going by car there. It wasn’t far but we needed to go through a checkpoint which was created as a part of country protection actions. There I saw real soldiers, guns, bullets laying on the ground, tanks for the first time in my life. And it wasn’t museum exhibition, it was real life situation. But worst was that something just fly above my head and then I heard and felt shot near me. It was enemy drone. It scared me to death, I never ever felt like this before. Next weeks were very scary for me. The enemy soldiers were closer and closer to our village. At

We left on 7th of March and on 8th of March russians* came to our house. They occupied all village, killed men, raped women, stole a lot of things, ruin our houses… it lasted 4 weeks. So, it was nothing like occupation during WW2… it was worse, much worse. And

Now we are here. And we are very lucky, because we met people with very big open hearts full of love and kindness, people who helped us with so many things. People from Jewish Day School, Jewish Community of Lehigh Valley, Jewish Community Center. Not enough words to describe how grateful we are for it. And this great opportunity to know Jewish traditions and lan-

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.

At the very end of what is now looking like an action-packed month, we are launching our new Mental Health Matters program. You are invited to join this monthly speaker series concerning issues that include mindfulness, digital wellness, and parenting support. On Thursday, February 27, at 8:30 am. we will host “From Stress to Success” with Alicen Arnold. To register, and for upcoming dates, please go to jdslv.org/mhm.

So, what is the difference between me as a refugee and other people who came here as immigrants? Reasons 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 made our life here more like at home (through relations, conversations, care and support). Because at the end of the day most important things are not material things, they will never ever fill your heart and soul with love, kindness 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.

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 it is still.

*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.

Rain or shine, snow or ice, the JDS is a comfortably climate-controlled home away from home for our students. We are the place to go for a warm smile and the chance to grow tall and strong, just like a majestic tree. Come see for yourself. We love visitors to our special world!

So, I want to say a big, huge thank you one more time to all of you! I am grateful for the ability to be here today, in a safe, beautiful and ambitious place, the US. I’m grateful to all of you, for listening to my story, for supporting 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 days, full of ambitious plans.

*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

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

The beginning of 2022 It was a happy time for me.

Embracing Inclusion in our Community

The topic of accessibility and inclusion can be overwhelming as there are many different approaches and meanings. Our goal at JFS is to include and celebrate all abilities in our community. We hope to bring awareness, encouragement, and advocacy for all individuals, regardless of ability.

Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance & Inclusion Month (JDAIM) is traditionally recognized worldwide in February and serves as a reminder to actively support and empower those with disabilities, fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society.

We recognize that one month is not enough. The other eleven months of the year are just as important

for fostering inclusion. JFS is consistently looking for new ways to connect and provide support on how to navigate the disability world.

JDAIM Programs: This year for JDAIM, Jewish Family Service of the Lehigh Valley led two local events.

Jewish Family Service partnered with Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley, PJ Library, and Sights for Hope to teach preschoolers about vision impairments and braille. Sights for Hope, a local non-profit agency, provided free vision screenings and activities for preschoolers. This was a great opportunity to celebrate differences and promote inclusion!

Additionally, JFS will

hold a Tu Bishvat Seder at Tikvah House to celebrate the new year for trees through a guided sensory and interactive experience. The program includes reading the blessings, engaging in a group discussion, tasting Seder plate items, and listening to music.

Support Groups:

JFS is excited to share that a Parent Support Group for parents of adults with disabilities will begin soon! This is an opportunity to share and interact with others who have a similar life journey while focusing on building connections in a safe, confidential, and supportive environment.

This group kicks off in person at the JFS office on Wednesday, February 26th at 4pm, and takes place every Wednesday

for 8 weeks. The topics will range from taking care of yourself to long term planning for your child. The support group will be facilitated by Accessibility and Inclusion Coordinator Amanda Thomas, PhD and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Laura Garber, MSS.

JFS will host an Empowerment Group during the summer. This support group empowers young adults with disabilities to socialize, share experiences, and learn about resources to increase their independence. Facilitated by Amanda Thomas, PhD and Laura Garber, MSW, LCSW, the group will run for 6 weeks.

A previous Empowerment Group participant shared, “Everyone made it safe,

Accessibility and Inclusion Coordinator

Amanda Thomas, PhD

warm and welcoming. I liked to learn how to advocate for myself. It was nice having things in common with others in the group.”

If you are interested in the Parent Support Group, Empowerment Group, or for other information, contact Amanda Thomas, PhD at 610.821.8722 or email accessibilty@jfslv. org.

Volunteer Spotlight: Cedar Crest College, Lutz Center

The Jewish Family Service Community Food Pantry offers opportunities for groups to partner and share an experience. For example, an amazing group of Cedar Crest undergraduates and Occupational Therapy Doctoral (OTD) students under the direction of Takyra Batz at the college’s Lutz Center initially reached out about opportunities for hunger awareness month. The

Center helps students pursue volunteerism in the community and even provides off-site transportation

On select Tuesday mornings, the students unloaded the Second Harvest Delivery truck and stocked the pantry shelves. The OTD students enjoyed the experience so much that they continued to volunteer after their service hours were completed!

IN HONOR

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They even assisted in decorating signage for the holidays to create a warm, welcoming environment for the pantry clients.

Executive Director Debbie Zoller reflected, “It’s great that groups can volunteer together whether short or long term. The experience of volunteering with your peers provides an opportunity to work as a team.”

2025 Honorees

Clara Bergstein

Larry Center

Jane Cohen

Sandi Fine

Beth Kozinn

Roberta Kritzer

Larry Levitt

JFS thanks the following Cedar Crest OTD students: Amanda Rice, Samantha Mosey, Kiyannah McGee, and Moorea Morrello. The undergrads include Stella Oen and Savannah Aguilera. Special gratitude goes to Cedar Crest Lutz Center!

If you or your group would like to volunteer, contact Jennifer Oxfeld at volunteer@jfslv.org.

Howard Nathanson

Phyllis Perkin

Marsha Timmerman

Crissy Toff

Sunday, April 27, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Temple Beth El

Sponsorships opportunities & tickets are available, and all proceeds will support the programs that our volunteers serve. Visit www.jfslv.org/cheers for details.

Scan QR code to purchase online.

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

ALLEN AND ROBIN ABBOT

Bonnie and Jim Kelly

JUANA DEL SOLAR

Linda and Harold Kreithen

CHELSEA KARP AND TIKVAH

HOUSE

The Waldoks Blum Fund

IN LOVING MEMORY

RHODA FUTTERWEIT

(Mother of Wendy Ashby and Melanie Kenney, sister of Priscilla Radick)

Gladys Greenfield

Annette Radick

Marianne Tulman

Roberta Samuels

LILLIAN KOBROVSKY

(Mother of Carol Kobrovsky

Derucki and Larry Kobrovsky)

Edith Miller

Barbara and Fred Sussman

SUSAN LEHRICH

(Wife of Henry Lehrich, mother of Deborah, Thomas, and Darren Lehrich)

wonderful way to share your thoughtfulness with

Visit www.jfslv.org/give to place card orders. Questions?

Rabbi Allen and Toby Juda

Alice and Mark Notis

Barbara and Fred Sussman

Carol and Perry Zirkel

RUTH SACHS MEISLIN

(Mother of John Meislin and Ann Rosen)

Ina Goldstein

SUE SUSSMAN

(Yahrzeit, mother of Fred Sussman

Barbara and Fred Sussman

DAVID ZALES

(Son of Martin Zales, Brother of Susan and Saul Zales)

Barbara and Fred Sussman

Cedar Crest College Volunteers

Havdalalala, kids, dragons, and trees

By Charlene Riegger Director of Marketing

On January 25, PJ Library celebrated Havdalah with a pajama sing-along at Temple Beth El.

Rabbi Re’em lead the Havdalah ceremony, involving the kids to answer questions about the senses. The children had evening sky coloring sheets and star stickers where they could place the stars on the sheets and better understand when it’s time for Havdalah.

After the blessings, Rabbi Re’em sang “Puff the and Magic Dragon,” inviting the group to sing along. He chose to read “The Giving Tree” by Shel Silverstein to explain Tu B’Shevat, the New Year of the Trees. The pajama-clad group had a great time singing, snacking, schmoozing, and chasing after energetic toddlers.

Jewish music taps into our core feelings and shared history

By Cantor Ellen Sussman Temple Shirat Shalom

I went to hear the New York Philharmonic in its newly renovated space, Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center in New York City. The hall had been an acoustical nightmare for almost 50 years, and no one seemed able to figure out how to fix it. Well, they finally did it, and created a beautiful space where the sound is rich and sonorous. The sound comes from all four corners of the room and envelops you. All the instruments of the orchestra are heard clearly. It is, in a word, a marvel.

The program we attended included one of my favorite pieces, “Les Nuit D’ete” by Hector Berlioz, a sensual and moving song cycle for mezzo-soprano and orchestra. The songs are lush and

immediately grab the listener. I sang these pieces, so I know them very well. Naturally I was thrilled to hear them performed by the New York Philharmonic and a first- rate operatic mezzo-soprano, Isabel Leonard. It was an extraordinary musical experience.

But it was not like hearing cantorial music. I went to a very prominent laryngologist at Massachusetts General Hospital last year. She has treated many opera singers, pop singers, and cantors. She said that when a singer cannot perform, the audience is disappointed, but when a cantor cannot sing, it is a tragedy. She went on to say that especially during the High Holy Days, the congregation wants to hear their cantor.

I was moved by what she said, but it also made me think, why is that so? There is something spiritual about hearing the music of our people. It brings us back to our childhood, to our parents and grandparents, to our ancestors going back centuries. We have a shared aural history. The melodies associated with chanting our sacred books go back over 2,000 years. Those melodies, or our trope system, are the founda-

tion for all of Jewish music. Therefore, when we hear Jewish music, we are tapping into our shared history.

On the High Holy Days we sing “Avinu Malkenu” (“Our Father, Our King”). We also sing “Sh’ma Koleinu” (“Hear Our Voice”). We want God to hear us and we want God to be as a parent caring for us. These are powerful emotions and when we hear that music, it taps into our most basic feelings: to be loved, cared for, and heard. For all these reasons, Jewish music is more visceral to the Jew than any other kind of music. It is music that we yearn for and love on a level different from any other kind of music.

The 20th-century composer and conductor Leonard Bernstein wrote to Solomon Braslavsky, the music director of Congregation Mishkan Tefila in Massachusetts, “I never forget the tremendous influence you and your music made on me when I was younger.” The next time we go to synagogue and together sing the music of our people, let us remember that this music is the music of an ancient people and a modern people and that we are fortunate to be able to appreciate the strains of Judaism together.

We’ll learn about Shabbat and celebrate with songs and PJ Library stories. Light dinner provided. Participants will receive everything they need to celebrate Shabbat at home. Register for one date or all! Registration required.

March 7, 2025

4:00-5:30 p.m.

April 4, 2025

4:00-5:30 p.m.

May 9, 2025 4:00-5:30 p.m.

You can support our Community Food Pantry families during the month of February by helping us stock up on toothpaste. Donations can be dropped off at JFS during business hours, in the bins at the JCC and Temple Beth El, or ordered through the JFS Amazon Wish List

Thank you for your participation!

Save the Date

Brith Sholom welcomes its first-ever executive director

Spring Event

Thursday, May 15, 2025

Congregation Brith Sholom has appointed Shira Siegel as its first-ever executive director. The move is aimed at enhancing the experience of congregation members and supporting the effective management of resources and programs.

“We are excited to bring Shira on board to lead our congregation into the next chapter of growth and development,” said Jennifer Lader, president of Brith Sholom. “This change will help strengthen operations and ensure that our religious and lay leaders can focus on what they do best—fostering a vibrant and welcoming community.”

Siegel brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the Jewish community. With an extensive background in corporate consulting and project management, she spent nearly a decade running her own business-strategy coaching firm in Israel before relocating to Allentown in 2023. On her arrival, she returned to consulting, working for the Rabbinical Assembly and the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. In this role, she successfully managed a nationwide project aimed at building relationships between synagogue congregations and rabbis, further honing her skills in operational and administrative leadership. Her master’s degree in urban planning and MBA have both equipped her with the analytical and strategic abilities to make a lasting

impact on the synagogue’s operations.

Beyond the new job, Siegel has a personal connection to Brith Sholom. She grew up at the synagogue, becoming a bat mitzvah there, and is the daughter of longtime member Judy Lasker and of Barry Siegel z”l.

“I am deeply honored to accept this position, which is not only a meaningful professional opportunity, but also a chance to reconnect with the community that shaped my Jewish upbringing,” said Siegel. “I look forward to working with our members and leadership to ensure that Congregation Brith Sholom continues to be a vibrant, inclusive, and supportive place for all.”

Siegel will be reaching out to members of the Lehigh Valley Jewish community in the coming weeks and months to introduce herself and learn more about how she can best support the congregation’s needs and partnerships with other organizations.

For more information about Congregation Brith Sholom or to get in touch with Siegel, call 610-866-8009.

More mosquitoes, less malaria? How could that be? GOOD NEWS FROM ISRAEL

Israel21c

We all hate mosquitoes. They buzz, they bite and as we all know, they suck. They’re seemingly everywhere, managing to turn a perfectly nice nighttime conversation on the back porch into a hurried, slap-filled chat.

What’s worse is that they carry diseases. Mosquitoborne diseases—such as malaria—represent a global health crisis of staggering proportions, infecting 700 million people annually and claiming 1 million lives.

According to UNICEF, as of 2020 about 76 percent of those 1 million lives lost to malaria per year belong to children; in fact, a child dies from malaria every 60 seconds.

Traditional methods for eliminating mosquitoes are not working at a rate that can keep up with the increase in mosquito habitats due to climate change and urbanization. Mosquitoes are gradually developing resistance to chemical pesticides, whose use is already a health concern.

“If you want to get rid of mosquitoes in your bedroom, use a shoe, or spray or nets; but when you’re talking about killing the whole population of mosquitoes and doing so without killing ourselves and the environment and biodiversity in the process, there’s no easy thing to do,” says Navonel Glick, CEO of the Israeli biotech startup Diptera.ai.

Diptera’s technology can cut mosquito populations in targeted areas tenfold – believe it or not, by breeding and releasing more mosquitoes. Founded in 2020 in Jerusalem, Diptera.ai is reinventing the process of sorting mosquitoes, which is a key factor in several proven methods of mosquito control.

The most prominent of these methods is the sterile insect technique (SIT), an eco friendly method that has long been theoretically promising but practically challenging.

Basically, SIT involves releasing swarms of sterile male mosquitoes (which don’t bite; only the females do that), which then mate with local females, preventing reproduction. By flooding the ecosystem with blankshooting males, the likelihood of mosquito eggs getting fertilized is severely diluted, making each generation less capable of producing as many baby biters as the last. As Glick puts it, “We are getting rid of mosquito populations, but we do so using the mosquitoes themselves.”

SIT has been used for the

past 60 years for a variety of pesky bugs like fruit flies, screwworms and yes, mosquitoes too. But it’s difficult to scale up a process that involves mass-sorting and sterilization of creatures that are renowned for their ability to zip away as soon as you notice them.

“Before Diptera, you would have to raise your larvae for a number of days, feeding them and keeping them in the right climate conditions until they become pupae. After they become pupae, then they become adults. When they’re adults, then you need to put them in cages. Now you have these fragile, flying, adult mosquitoes that you need to then sort between the males and the females, because you only want the males. That’s extremely tedious and mostly done manually at this point,” Glick explains. Instead, Diptera.ai uses advanced biology, computer vision and robotics tech that enables cost-effective mosquito sorting at the larval stage. According to the company, this unique method cuts production expenses by up to 95% compared to previous standards based on WHO and IAEA statistics.

Diptera sterilizes the sorted males with radiation and releases them into the given ecosystem on a weekly basis. As mosquito populations begin to drop over time, the number of sterile males needed drops significantly too—by 50% within three years.

Although SIT is the technique that the company is primarily promoting, Glick points out that the technol

for other solutions, such as genetically modifying mosquitoes, meaning that we are making any of these solutions affordable and scalable for the first time.”

It sounds a little madcap, but the results so far are significant: In a recent pilot project in Kibbutz Tzora outside Jerusalem, Diptera. ai managed to reduce the local mosquito population by 94%. That’s 94% less itchy red bumps on the back of your knees, and 94% fewer instances of “don’t move, I’m about to slap your eyebrow,” and most importantly, 94% fewer carriers of deadly diseases in locales where a mosquito bite can cause a death in the family.

Diptera recently partnered with the Gates Foundation to combat malaria, and is raising funds to bring its solution to sub-Saharan Africa with the hope of saving the lives of millions of children. The planned pilot project will involve working with local municipalities and internationally recognized research

institutes to establish a facility to produce a couple hundred thousand sterile male mosquitoes every week.

“Often when there are problems in the world, the market will kind of naturally pivot to where there’s money. And where there’s money there are wealthy people, obviously,” says Glick.

“Therefore, the poor and vulnerable that are already disproportionately affected by many of these issues end up being the ones that are left behind. This is definitely true with malaria.”

He explains that, beyond the obvious ethical benefit to aiding communities that need help, reducing the overall amount of disease being transmitted globally is in everyone’s interest. In that vein, the nine-person Diptera team is trying to make sure that the solution is cheap enough to implement in places that need it the most and can afford it the least.

“We’re trying to keep the price low by understanding what we can source locally as

much as possible — both as a matter of principle and as a matter of reducing costs,” Glick explains.

“If we can keep this cheap, then we’ll be able to reach everyone who needs it. It’s as simple as that.”

This goal is directly in line with Glick’s career trajectory. His previous experience in the Israeli international humanitarian-aid industry includes three-and-a-half years at Tevel b’Tzedek and nine years at IsraAID, which Glick helped expand into one of the leading organizations in its field. Eventually he left the nonprofit world, frustrated by the struggle of trying to deliver aid without always having the funds necessary to do so. When Glick was approached to helm Diptera. ai—he became CEO last July—the move made perfect sense to him.

“This gives me the drive that I’m looking for in things to make a difference,” he says. “It gives me purpose again.”

Navonel Glick, now Diptera.ai’s CEO, distributing mosquito nets in Kenya, circa 2011, for IsraAID. (Photo by Mickey Noam-Alon/IsraAID)

Yoav women connect with other leaders at conference

By Hanna Bachar Partnership2Gether Committee Chair

A remarkable gathering took place in Israel from January 7 to 9 under the auspices of the Momentum Israel Community Leadership Conference, dedicated to connecting with Jewish values, strengthening bonds with Israel, promoting social action, and fostering unity among the Jewish people.

Eight women leaders from the Yoav Regional Council attended the conference, joining with others to learn, connect, and develop as a community with a shared vision. In addition to me, from Kibbutz Beit Guvrin, were Sigal Sharoni from Kibbutz Beit Nir, Alice Stern and Sima Katzowitz from Moshav Kfar Harif, Noa Oren from Moshav Segula, Oshrit Lenomark from Kibbutz Sde Yoav, and Liat Vilan and Irit Koskas from Kibbutz Negba.

The conference provided participants with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the power of a strong community as a central element in social change. Each participant discovered her personal strengths and realized the importance of developing

female leadership within local communities.

The event featured fascinating discussions on Jewish identity and community leadership, as well as dialogues on vision, goals, and missions for the various groups. The speakers made a significant impact on the participants, presenting new ideas about Jewish solidarity and the importance of connecting with diverse communities across Israel.

Beyond the educational rewards, participants enjoyed an empowering experience of fellowship with 100 other active and involved women, all contributing to social and community action across Israeli society. They had an opportunity to connect, create new relationships, and experience the

strength of a united and powerful community.

During the conference, we named our Yoav group Boei, a Hebrew word that means “come” and that calls to women to join. The word also contains the Hebrew letters of the name of our regional council, Yoav, symbolically linking our personal and community goals with the region in which we operate. We wrote out our group’s vision, which embodies the aspiration to create a home for women’s leadership within our community—a fertile ground for inspiration and personal and public growth where initiatives and partnerships will work together to promote the values of unity and cooperation.

With that shared vision in mind, we Yoav participants plan to continue meeting as a group and develop an action plan in the coming months to bring our goals to fruition. We intend to focus on activities that will expand our community impact and build a solid foundation for developing female and engaged leadership in the kibbutzim and moshavim of

the Yoav region. We left the conference empowered, with the realization that when a strong and responsible community works together with a desire for cooperation and growth, dreams and initiatives can become reality.

FRIDAY, MARCH 14, 2025 | 3:30-4:30 PM

CONGREGATION BNAI SHALOM

WEAR YOUR COSTUME FOR SOME PURIM AND PI DAY FUN!

WE’LL LIGHT THE SHABBAT CANDLES, AND OF COURSE, HEAR A PJ LIBRARY STORY.

Registration required.Please scan the QR code or visit jewishlehigh valley.org/pj or call 610.821.5500.

Kinsler first Jew to get Baseball Hall of Fame votes since 2013

Jewish Telegraphic Agency

The Baseball Hall of Fame announced the results of its 2025 ballot on Tuesday, and former star player Ian Kinsler received 10 votes, becoming the first Jewish player to earn HOF votes since Shawn Green in 2013. He was the first Jewish player to make it onto the ballot since his fellow Team Israel coach Kevin Youkilis in 2019, who did not receive votes.

Jewish history aside, Kinsler’s 10 votes amounted to only 2.5% of all voters, below the 5% percent threshold

required to remain on the ballot in future years. With 394 total voters this year, Kinsler would have needed to receive 20 votes to remain on the ballot, and 296 for induction. Ichiro Suzuki became the first Japanese player ever elected to the Hall of Fame, falling one vote shy of unanimity, and will be joined in this year’s class by pitchers CC Sabathia and Billy Wagner. While Kinsler will fall off the ballot after only one year, his career remains worthy of celebration. In 14 MLB seasons, he won two Gold Glove awards for his defense

at second base, while earning four All-Star selections and winning the 2018 World Series with the Boston Red Sox. Kinsler’s 54.1 career wins above replacement puts him at 20th all-time among second basemen, ahead of multiple hall of famers, including Bobby Doerr and Nellie Fox. Next year, retired Milwaukee Brewers star Ryan Braun will have his chance at Cooperstown. Braun, who sometimes went by the moniker “Hebrew Hammer” during his playing career, won the 2007 NL Rookie of the Year and the 2011 NL MVP

awards. He also received six All-Star selections and five Silver Slugger awards, but his legacy was tarnished when he tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs and served a 65-game suspension in 2013. Braun’s 352 home runs are the most all-time among Jewish players. Players known to have used steroids have thus far

been shut out of the hall. (Two-time All-Star second baseman Jason Kipnis also joins the ballot in 2026. Kipnis grew up Jewish but is now a practicing Roman Catholic — though he once celebrated a home run with a “Hava Nagila” dugout dance.)

Ian Kinsler played for Team Israel at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo after 14 MLB seasons. (Courtesy of JNF-USA)

KIDS at camp AND BEYOND

5 nearby Jewish sleepaway camps to consider

Camp Galil

Ottsville

Camp Galil is a progressive Zionist, rustic overnight Jewish summer camp for campers in 2nd-11th grade with a strong focus on social justice and youth leadership. Located in Bucks County, the camp focuses on cooperative living and welcoming families from all streams of Jewish life to create a diverse and inclusive community. Campers and staff come together to create a joyful and energetic community built on Jewish values, a connection to Israel, and social justice for a summer of amazing fun and to build a better world together.

Information: campgalil.org

Camp Ramah Lakewood

Camp Ramah in the Poconos has been a hub for Jewish youth since 1950. Known for its commitment to fostering Jewish identity, it offers a blend of religious, educational, and recreational activities designed to build lifelong skills and friendships. Campers ages 7-16 engage in a wide range of programs, from sports and arts to Hebrew language and Jewish learning, all in a supportive and nurturing environment. The mission is to create a community where Jewish values and traditions are lived and celebrated daily. The staff, many of them former campers, provide mentorship and guidance, ensuring a safe

and enriching experience.

A cornerstone of the camp’s philosophy is inclusivity, highlighted by the Tikvah Program, providing specialized support for children with special needs, ensuring they too can fully participate in the camp experience. Information: ramahpoconos. org

Golden Slipper

Stroudsburg

Golden Slipper is an overnight camp rooted in Jewish values for children ages 7-15 on 600 acres in the Pocono Mountains. Campers and the professionally trained and caring staff make the camp a unique place that is welcoming and exciting for all and fosters personal growth. The camp offers a large

variety of sports, plus arts and crafts; science, technology, engineering, and math; music; and more. There are affordable packages for all and scholarships based on financial capability determined through a respectful and confidential process. Information: goldenslippercamp.org

Pinemere Camp

Stroudsburg

Pinemere Camp is a dynamic community made up of campers, families, staff, and alumni from around the world. Each summer, Pinemere creates a safe space for children where they can leave behind the hectic pace, pressure, and technology of the outside world and just be kids. Many people say Pinemere feels like a family. This is probably why 90 percent of its campers return each summer to its home in the beautiful Pocono Mountains. Pinemere sets itself apart with its intimate camp size, rustic setting, innovative programs, inclusive Jewish programming, and fun and welcoming environment. It aims to hire and develop the best staff in camping. Pinemere’s goal is to assist campers in building friendships, fostering their Jewish identity, acquiring new skills, and having the best summer every summer.

Information: pinemere.com

URJ Camp Harlam Kunkletown

The mission of Camp Harlam is to create a vibrant, fun, and caring camp community that enriches and strengthens Reform Jewish identity and values while cultivating lifelong connections. Established in 1958 in the foothills of the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania, the camp has developed a strong tradition of success and excellence based on a highly skilled staff dedicated to the spiritual, physical, social, and emotional wellbeing of each child and the building of lifelong relationships. Each session has 400-450 campers and a staff of over 225. The camp prides itself on strong supervision and programmatic excellence, offering a balance of group and individual activities with a focus on developing skills and having fun. These include arts, athletics, swimming, outdoor adventure, Jewish learning, and many more.

Information: campharlam. org

Yael Marlin, Camp

Transformative Kids learn new skills and make lifelong friends and memories at Camp JCC

By Tracy Sussman JCC Membership and Marketing Director

Camp JCC offers a dynamic and enriching summer experience fostering personal growth, social development, and exploration. More than just a place for fun, the camp is a community where children create lifelong memories while learning new skills that benefit them for years. It strikes a perfect balance of adventure, education, and recreation, creating an environment where children thrive and develop into confident, well-rounded individuals.

American Camp Association accreditation

Camp JCC proudly holds the American Camp Association’s accredited camp status, giving it the distinction as the only camp in the Lehigh Valley with this certification. Earning the accreditation means the camp has undergone a thorough review of up to 266 operational standards—ranging from staff qualifications and training to emergency management—and has met the highest industry standards. This accreditation assures parents that their children are in a safe, well-managed environment with quality programming and staff.

Lifelong friendships

At Camp JCC, children interact with peers from diverse backgrounds and build meaningful friendships that last a lifetime. Through shared activities and challenges, campers develop important social skills such as teamwork, empathy, and cooperation—values that serve them well in all areas of life. The camp’s inclusive, supportive environment makes it easy for children to bond, create memories, and form lasting connections.

Physical activity and connection with nature

In today’s digital age, children often spend much of their leisure time indoors.

Camp JCC provides a refreshing break from screens, encouraging outdoor exploration and physical activity. With activities such as swimming, archery and other sports, and other traditional camp favorites, kids stay active and healthy while fostering a love for nature and adventure. These outdoor experiences leave them with a greater appreciation for the natural world.

Exploring interests and unleashing creativity

At Camp JCC, children explore a wide range of activities—from arts and drama to science, sports, and more. The variety of pro-

gramming allows campers to discover new passions and deepen their existing interests. Whether it’s learning to paint, experimenting with science projects, or participating in a theater production, the camp provides a platform for creativity and self-expression. This summer, highlights of specialty camps include the Stagemakers Theater Camp “Defying Gravity—A Wicked Camp,” woodworking, and JChefs “Cupcake Battle” and “TikTok Food Trends.” By the end of the season, children leave camp with a renewed sense of enthusiasm, skill, and self-expression.

International flavor and cultural exchange

One of the unique aspects of Camp JCC is its emphasis on cultural exchange. Again this summer, the camp will host an Israeli shaliach (emissary), who will introduce campers to Israeli culture through adventure activities, music, dance, and language. This initiative broadens campers’ global perspectives, fostering an appreciation for diversity and encouraging them to embrace new experiences. The opportunity for cultural exchange enriches the camp’s environment and deepens children’s understanding of the world around them.

Registration is open now

Camp JCC is more than just a summer camp; it’s a transformative experience that blends fun, learning, personal growth, and community. With a focus on adventure, creativity, physical activity, and cultural exchange, Camp JCC offers children the chance to challenge themselves, discover

new interests, and build lasting friendships. It’s a place where children not only have fun but also leave with confidence, new skills, and cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Scholarships will be awarded to individuals for Jewish teen education experiences that will enrich the recipients, enhance the community, and increase the likelihood of future engagement with Jewish life.

Scholarships are provided by the Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley's annual campaign, on a non-needs basis.

Teens may request scholarships for: Conventions Jewish youth group summer programs Jewish summer camps Certain trips to Israel Leadership development programs

LIMITED FUNDS ARE AVAILABLE.

Scholarship forms are available at www.jewishlehighvalley.org/scholarships

DEADLINE: MARCH 24, 2023

BOOK REVIEWS

Troublemaker gets shipped off to camp (with imaginary friend)

“Chunky Goes to Camp,” written and illustrated by Yehudi Mercado, Katherine Tegen Books, 2022, 208 pages.

By Sean Boyle

Jewish

Day

School of the Lehigh Valley

Yehudi Mercado’s semi-autobiographical graphic novel

“Chunky Goes to Camp” follows Hudi and his imaginary friend Chunky as they are sent to Jewish sleepaway summer camp after he gets in trouble at school for his class clown antics.

After Hudi’s love of art and comedy landed him in detention one too many times and earned him the labels “bad kid” and “troublemaker,” his parents have decided to send him away to sleepaway camp for the sum-

mer. Given a choice between soccer camp or the Jewish camp where his cousins go, Hudi selects the Jewish Camp Green in the Texas desert. On the first day of camp, he meets fellow comedian Pepe, who is also able to see Chunky. Hudi, along with his cabin full of misfit friends, feels he’s finally found a place where he truly belongs.

Pepe and Hudi at first enjoy being the camp clowns, but then they get into a prank war with the four spoiled rich kids—all named Josh. As their pranks escalate, Hudi discovers that Pepe is not who he says he is and realizes that he’s at risk of getting into even more trouble than he did at school. But Pepe has one last prank to end the prank war and desperately needs Hudi’s help.

Camp events and locations have Hebrew names. Shabbat celebrations and Jewish singalongs are described, and Mercado even includes gaga ball as one of the Maccabiah Games.

Mercado provides a note at the end of the book explaining where facts of his life are blended with fiction, and a note from Pepe Guzman supplies additional background information. Mercado also includes photos of him and Pepe when they were both at camp.

Mercado is “a proud Mexican-Jew from Mexico City, raised in Texas, with a passion for storytelling.” He is a screenwriter, cartoonist, and animation director who has directed cinema 4D attractions for Universal Studios Japan. “Chunky Goes

Because kids love cookies!

thing

Know

By Sandi Teplitz Special to Hakol

Zoë François, a well-known cookbook author who gave the world novel ideas about how to bake cakes and bread, has now published her latest, focused on cookies. And, seriously, what kid doesn’t like cookies? And what adult, for that matter?!

She credits her love of these delights to her childhood involvement with her bubbe and two great aunts, Sylvia and Rose Berkowitz, in Brooklyn during the seventies. She bought cookies at a tiny Jewish bakery there.

Her book’s introduction is eight pages long and a fun read. She carefully explains what ingredients to use and where to purchase them. She gives equipment suggestions, including dos and don’ts. For the reader’s ease, she divides the book into categories, and each recipe has an accompanying story.

With Tu B’Shvat coming this month, I chose the following recipe that checks all the boxes for this special holiday celebrating trees and our connection to the environment as well as to the land of Israel. These cookies are irresistible!

to Camp” is the sequel to his first graphic memoir, “Chunky.” He has written and illustrated over a dozen graphic novels and many more comics. Highly recommended for ages 8-120, especially anyone who has gone to a Jewish summer camp or been labeled a troublemaker.

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

2 cups rolled oats

1/2 cup whole wheat flour

1/3 cup unsweetened coconut

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Pinch of Diamond kosher salt

1/2 cup mini carob chips

1/4 cup pepitas, toasted lightly

1/4 cup raisins or Craisins

2 tablespoons currants

3/4 cup ripe mashed bananas

2 teaspoons vanilla

1/3 cup honey

2/3 cup coconut oil, melted

Set the oven to 375 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Mix all the ingredients together by hand until well blended. Wait 15 minutes until the mixture settles, then divide the dough in half. Make 7 similarsize cookies from each half and spread the cookies apart on the prepared pans. Flatten slightly. Bake one sheet at a time on the middle rack for 12-14 minutes, until the bottoms are golden brown. Cool on baking sheets for a few minutes, then carefully remove to a cooling rack.

These are delicious for a pre-sport energy boost or a quick breakfast with a glass of dairy, almond, or oat milk. The yield is 14 cookies.

“Zoë Bakes Cookies: Every-

You Need to

to Make Your Favorite Cookies and Bars,” by Zoë François, Ten Speed Press, 2024, 256 pages.

Tofu Coconut Crisp Latkes

By Sandi Teplitz Special to Hakol

1 14-ounce package firm tofu, cut into 2-inch pieces

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup of water

2 tablespoons honey

Dash of black pepper

1/4 teaspoon plus 1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 cup flour

2 eggs

1 bag sweetened coconut flakes

Mix together the soy sauce, water, honey, pepper, and the 1/4 teaspoon each of garlic powder and ground ginger. Place tofu in the mixture and mari nate for an hour. Remove tofu, strain, and reserve the leftover marinade.

Jewish Federation of the Lehigh Valley & Jewish Community Center

Jewish Film Series Discussion

The Red Sea Diving Resort

9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Sunday, February 23, 2025 JCC Kline Auditorium

LOOKING FOR SOMETHING DIFFERENT FOR YOUR CHILD?

Mix the flour with 1 teaspoon each of the garlic and onion powders. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs. Spread the bag of coconut flakes on a plate. Dip the marinated tofu in the flour mixture, then the eggs, and finally the coconut flakes. Fry in corn oil over medium heat until lightly browned, stirring well. Drain on paper towels. Serve immediately along with the marinade for dipping.

CORRECTION

In the kosher dog biscuits recipe on page 24 of the January issue, the correct amount of cinnamon and turmeric is 1/4 teaspoon each.

BOUTIQUE B-MITZVAH

AT CONGREGATION BNAI SHALOM IN EASTON

Designed to meet the needs of today’s families: Flexible, Weekly, One-on-One Instruction Monthly Cohort Meetings with the Rabbi Meaningful, engaging and fun!

Questions? Contact Rabbi Adrienne Rubin rabbi@bnaishalomeaston.org 610-258-5343

Make, Bake & Take Hamantaschen

SUNDAY MARCH 2, 2025 | 3:30-5:00 PM CONGREGATION SONS OF ISRAEL COST: $5 PER CHILD

Registration is required by February 26. Scan the QR code or visit jewishlehighvalley.org/pj or call 610.821.5500.

Sponsored by the Julius Cohen Memorial Fund

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1

Women of KI Bingo Night

5:30-8 p.m., Congregation Keneseth Israel

A 10-games packet (card dabber included) is $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Admission is $10 for children, and there will be kidfriendly activities. Family-friendly food and refreshments will be available for purchase. Find more information and register at kilv. org/event/bingo.html.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21

JDS Little Learners On-the-Road 10-11:30 a.m., Jay’s Local in Allentown

Jewish Day School’s Little Learners goes on the road with PJ Library to Jay’s Local. Caregivers with children age 3 and under are invited for storytime, movement, and music with a Jewish twist. Caregivers must stay. The event is free to attend, and kosher snacks will be served. Registration appreciated at jewishlehighvalley.org/pj

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22

TBE Casino Night

7 p.m., Temple Beth El Doors open at 7 and games begin at 7:30. There will be food, drinks, and prizes. $36 per person. Register at bethelallentown.org.

Community Calendar

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23

Jewish Film Series Discussion: “The Red Sea Diving Resort” 9:30-11 a.m., JCC Kline Auditorium

Hear the story of Farede Aklum, an Ethiopian Jewish activist portrayed in the hit movie “The Red Sea Diving Resort.” Aklum’s son Benny Aklum will join in via Zoom from Israel to talk about his father’s involvement in ferrying hundreds of Ethiopian Jews from Sudan to Israel. Q&A will follow. This program is presented by the Jewish Federation’s Partnership2Gether and the JCC’s Jewish Film Series. A light bagel breakfast will be served. Registration required at jewishlehighvalley.org.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 23

Brith Shalom Brunch and Learn: The Oracle of Spring Garden Road

10 a.m., Congregation Brith Sholom

Professor Norrin Ripsman, Monroe J. Rathbone Distinguished Professor of International Relations at Lehigh University, will speak. Brunch begins at 10 and talk at 11. All are invited to attend. RSVP to Tammy at 610-8668009.

THURSDAYS, FEB 27, MAY 15, MONDAYS, MAR 24, APR 28

JDS Mental Health Matters

8:30 a.m., Jewish Day School

Join JDS for this series of intimate monthly talks on mental health topics such as mindfulness, digital wellness, and parenting support. Free and open to the entire community. Registration required at jdslv.org/mhm.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28

Bnai Shalom Scout Shabbat 7:30-9:30 p.m., Congregation Bnai Shalom

Join Bnai Shalom to honor local Scouts. Registration is required to attend in person by calling the office at 610-258-5343 or visiting my.linkpod.site/Scout-ShabbatBnai-Shalom.

SUNDAY, MARCH 2

PJ Library Make, Bake, and Take Hamantaschen

3:30 p.m., Congregation Sons of Israel

Join PJ Library and Sons of Israel for a little Purim fun and crafts, Hamantaschen making and, of course, a PJ Library story. The cost is $5 per child. Registration required by February 26 at jewishlehighvalley.org/pj.

TUESDAYS, MAR 4-APR 8

KI Introduction to Judaism 7-9 p.m., Congregation Keneseth Israel

Are you curious about all things Jewish? This six-session class will give you a deeper understanding of Judaism, through a Reform lens. Taught by a variety of Jewish educators, the class is open to everyone of all faiths and those with no religious upbringing. Total cost for the six classes is $15 for KI members and $30 for nonmembers. Registration is required at kilv.org/event/intro-to-judaism2. html#registration.

FRIDAYS, MAR 7, APR 4, MAY 9

PJ Library Monthly Tot Shabbat 4-5:30 p.m., Congregation Brith Sholom

Kids and their families will learn about Shabbat and celebrate with songs and PJ Library stories. A light dinner will be provided. Participants will receive everything they need to celebrate Shabbat at home. Registration required at jewishlehighvalley.org/pj. Register for one date or all.

SATURDAY, MARCH 8

NextGen Purim Fest 7:30 p.m., B Social at Saucon Valley Square

Dress up in a Purim costume and join NextGen for an adult’s night out celebrating the holiday with ax throwing, bowling, and more. “Hearty appetizers” will be served; dietary laws observed. A gift to the Jewish Federation’s 2025 Annual Campaign for Jewish Needs is required to attend. Couvert is $36. Registration required.

SUNDAY, MARCH 9

Community Purim Carnival

11 a.m.-12:30p.m., JCC

Celebrate the holiday with games, activities, snacks, prizes, crafts, and a costume parade. Games and activities are from 11 to noon; parade begins at noon. Kosher snacks will be available for purchase. Contact Simon Katz with any questions at skatz@lvjcc. org. All are invited and admission is free; adults who are not JCC members must bring a photo ID to enter. The event is sponsored by the JCC, Jewish Federation, and Jewish Day School.

FRIDAY, MARCH 14

PJ Library Tot Shabbat Purim and Pi

3:30 p.m., Congregation Bnai Shalom

Join PJ Library and Congregation Bnai Shalom for a Purim Tot Shabbat on Pi Day. Wear your costume for some Purim and Pi Day fun. We’ll light the Shabbat candles and, of course, there will be a PJ Library story. Registration required at jewishlehighvalley. org/pj..

ONGOING EVENTS

FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH

Bnai Shalom Cash Bingo

1 p.m., Congregation Bnai Shalom

Join Bnai Shalom for its monthly bingo game fundraiser, the first Sunday of every month. For more information call 610-258-5343.

MONDAYS

Yiddish Club

2-3:30 p.m., JCC of the Lehigh Valley via Zoom

Experience the joys of Yiddish via Zoom as part of Adults at the J. The group meets weekly to discuss topics like cooking, humor, music and all kinds of entertain-

Community Calendar

ment in t he Yiddish language. All are welcome to join this lively, weekly discussion. There is something for everyone no matter if you know a few words or are a fluent speaker. Enjoy fun, fellowship, stories and more. Participants Zoom in from 5 states. No cost. Call 610-435-3571, ext. 501.

MONDAYS

The Importance of Tefilah/ Prayer

8 p.m., Congregation Sons of Israel via Zoom

Join Rabbi Michael Belgrade of Congregation Sons of Israel for an online class about the importance of tefilah/prayer. The class draws from all Jewish sources: Tanach (Bible), Talmud (Gemara), law (halacha), hashgafa (philosophy), ethics (pirkei avot), and introspection (mussar). This class is free and open to the entire community. For Zoom information, email office@sonsofisrael.net or call 610-433-6089.

WEDNESDAYS

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

Be seated in a comfortable chair, preferably armless (folding works well). Some standing poses holding onto the chair are offered, though students may choose to remain seated. Modifications are given. Open to the public in person and live stream available to all via Zoom. *$10 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 Two 5785, a 12-part series offered in person and via Zoom. Cost is $54 for the course, including textbook. For more information, call 610-351-6511 or email rabbi@chabadlehighvalley.com.

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

Celebrate the beauty of Shabbat

We discuss short stories from an anthology. Always welcoming new participants! Contact mjclaire@ gmail.com or 610-972-7054 to sign up.

WEDNESDAYS, DEC 4, JAN 8, FEB 12, MAR 12, APR 9, MAY 7

JDS Little Learners Class 9:30 a.m., Jewish Day School Jewish Day School is offering a free Little Learners class for caregivers with children ages 3 and under. Storytime, movement, and music with a Jewish twist. Register at jdslv.org/ little-learners.

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 610435-3571, 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 kilv.org/form/contactrabbicall.

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. For information email tammy@brithsholom.net or call 610-866-8009.

SECOND SATURDAY OF THE MONTH

Shabbat Out of the Box

10 a.m., Keneseth Israel

Monthly programs and locations vary. Outdoor activities are weather permitting. All events are free. Registration is required at kilv.org.

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. All are welcome. For questions, call Ann at 610-462-2549 or Jett at 610-762-1450. Register at kilv. org/event/shabbat-yoga1.html.

DAILY

Jewish Broadcasting Service JBS is a Jewish television channel. Learn more at 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. 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. Sign up at jewishspirituality. org/get-started.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7 5:10 PM FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 14 5:18 PM FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 21 5:26 PM FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28 5:35 PM FRIDAY, MARCH 7 5:42 PM FRIDAY, MARCH 14 6:50 PM FRIDAY, MARCH 21 6:57 PM FRIDAY, MARCH 28 7:04 PM FRIDAY, APRIL 4 7:12 PM FRIDAY, APRIL 11 7:19 PM

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