It was the event of all events, the celebration of all celebrations, when the Hillel PTA hosted an Israeli-themed end of year brunch. After all the success and excitement throughout the year, we decided to give back to the many volunteers who helped make it truly unforgettable!
The brunch was based around Israel’s 60th anniversary. It featured falafel, wraps, Israeli salad, Borekas, humus and more. The room, with the help of our beloved Sherut Leumi participants, was decorated with blue and white streamers throughout. The musical background added spirit and happiness to the morning.
The historical event began in our traditional Hillel Yeshiva way. Rabbi Saul Kassin began with a D’veri Torah. He expressed the importance of Rosh Hodesh Siron which made the day even more special. He then went on to describe the PTA as “the glue that keeps all our parents, children and teachers unified.” Dr. Ruth Katz, our dynamic Head of School, ELC—8th grade, then discussed the significance of the “story of 60” and expressed gratitude towards our Sherut Leumi participants. She described the PTA as being “the jelly between the bread.” Again, a sign of unity! Dr. Katz, Rabbi Kassin and Ruchie Czermak, were then honored for the guidance and support that they gave to the PTA all year long.
Violet Galapo, co-president of the PTA, honored Adi and Mor, our Sherut Leumi participants. The 8th grade girls attended the celebration to express their love and appreciation towards them. We thank Adi and Mor for showing us the true spirit of Israel. We will miss them.
The room turned magical as we danced in circles to commemorate this exciting moment. The energy was felt throughout each and every one of us.
It was now time for the PTA award ceremony. There were so many people we wanted to honor that it took Violet and me, not hours, but days to narrow it down. The fact is, every member of our PTA deserved to be recognized. We are fortunate enough to be in a generation of ladies where everyone wanted to help out. Each time a PTA volunteer gave of her time by either attending a meeting, helping out at a Book Fair or making a phone call, they played a major role in strengthening the PTA. If not for everyone’s participation, ideas and creativity, none of the PTA programs would have become a reality. They have all gone above and beyond for the sake of our children, our teachers and our Hillel Yeshiva.
I’d like to say thank you to my unbelievable team this year: Violet Galapo, my Co-President, Vice Presidents Michelle Zekaria and Sarah Chrem, Secretary Terri Cohen and, of course, our valuable Treasurer Bobbi Krady. You are all so amazing and I personally enjoyed every second of this past year. I wish next year’s team—Presidents Michelle Zekaria and Sarah Chrem, Vice Presidents Loren Hakim and Vicky Gindi and Secretary Iris Massry—lots of good luck and much success!
Congratulations to you all; you did a super job! Let’s keep the trend going with all your spirit and determination, and together we will grow and continue to be a source of pride to all our friends and family for many years to come.
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Ellen Sutton is president of the PTA.
