From the Federation Executive Director

From the Desk of the Federation Executive Director: With Gratitude 7/28/23

By Shelley Hubal

There is a narrow bend on the Lilly Lake Trail at Chenango Valley State Park where the Pine trees stand like giants, their fallen needles soften the path below. In the summer, the lilies crowd the lake and, on a sunny day, there are lazy turtles sunning themselves on a log…

From the Desk of the Federation Executive Director: With Gratitude 5/30/23

By Shelley Hubal

One of the challenges of living in a small Jewish community is having adequate resources. Our few “big donors” are called on frequently to support a plethora of institutions and initiatives. 
However, small-town living has many advantages. There is comfort in knowing y…

From the Desk of the Federation Executive Director: With Gratitude 5/19/23

By Shelley Hubal

On a Sunday afternoon several weeks ago, approximately 20 members of our Jewish community gathered in the Temple Israel social hall for a training. Our panel of three trainers, all women, came from New Jersey, Colorado and Massachusetts. The Chevra Kadisha, which literally…

From the Desk of the Federation Executive Director: With Gratitude 4/21/23

By Shelley Hubal

What brings people together? Here is a short list: food, laughter, prayer, music, beauty and love for children.

Next week marks Israel’s 75th birthday and, like many Jewish communities, we are planning a celebration here in Broome County. I must admit that I have a degr…

From the Desk of the Federation Executive Director: With Gratitude 3/24/23

By Shelley Hubal

It’s called “My Unsung Hero.” NPR describes these mini-podcasts as “Stories of people whose kindness left a lasting impression.” I like to listen to one or two episodes in the morning while I exercise. Each story is a reminder that every individual and every act …