A Message from Shelley Hubal, Federation Director

From the Desk of the Federation Executive Director: With Gratitude 12/29/23

By Shelley Hubal

I recently read a short article by Jacklin Kwan on the web magazine Live Science. The article details the findings of researchers studying the sprouts that Redwood trees grew after a devastating 2020 fire swept through the Big Basin Redwood State Park in California.

The t…

From the Desk of the Federation Executive Director: With Gratitude 12/1/23

By Shelley Hubal

“From a place of deep pain we hold strong for you, Omer. We speak in your name tirelessly, we hope and we pray and we act, and I want to believe that our prayers and actions have power. “ – Orna Neutra, mother of Omer Neutra, one of the 240 hostages held by Hamas.
“…

From the Desk of the Federation Executive Director: With Gratitude 10/18/23

By Shelley Hubal

The Jewish Federation of Greater Binghamton held a Vigil for Israel last week. It was touching to see the community leaders come together with short notice and create a meaningful and healing gathering. Even more touching was the large turnout and show of support for Israel…

From the Desk of the Federation Executive Director: With Gratitude 8/22/23

By Shelley Hubal

My father’s favorite blue and gray flannel shirt hangs on a hook in my closet. I wear it around the house on cold days, but try not to soil it because I can’t bring myself to put it in the wash. Last night I dreamt that the shirt was ruined beyond repair. I awoke with …

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…