I travel to Israel this weekend for a series of programs next week. As many of you know, I will be lighting a torch as the representative of Diaspora Jewry at the official Yom Haatzmaut (Israel Independence Day Celebration) on Wednesday night in Jerusalem. In addition, I will be speaking to the Jewish Agency for Israel’s staff on Yom Hazikaron (Israel’s Memorial Day) and to participants on MASA programs. MASA programs are Israel programs for college aged young people for five to 12 months in Israel. Through the money our Federation provides to the Jewish Agency, we help these young people from all over the world to have an intense relationship with the people and the land of Israel.

I mention the above to make sure you realize and understand that my presence in Israel is ONLY to represent you. It is Pittsburgh’s Jewish community that is being recognized for both our tragic losses and our incredible resilience. So please know that if you read a news article about me, it is really about you. You are the “secret sauce” that makes Pittsburgh so unbelievably special and unique.

Wishing you a Shabbat Shalom, a somber Yom Hazikaron and a celebratory Yom Haatzmaut next week.

P.S. Please join our Pittsburgh Jewish community to commemorate Yom Hazikaron on Tuesday night. Learn more and register to attend.