Many in attendance at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland women’s philanthropy’s annual Women’s Spring Luncheon May 18 were misty-eyed as they watched a tribute video in honor of Mary Ellen Saltzman.

An afternoon of inspiration at our Women's Spring Luncheon! Over 700 community members joined together for one of our most popular events of the year!

For more than 35 years, the Jewish Federation of Cleveland’s Irene Zehman Award has recognized women who demonstrate the highest ideals and practices of volunteer service. This year, the award goes to Mary Ellen Saltzman of Beachwood, founder of Treasures Gift Shop at the Mandel Jewish Community Center (JCC) and Siegal College. Mary Ellen will be honored at the Federation Women’s Spring Luncheon on May 18 at Landerhaven (6111 Landerhaven Drive, Mayfield Heights).

Celebrate Israel's 68th Independence Day on May 12 with Rita in concert!

What’s the secret to being happy? It could be baking.

Beachwood resident Mary Ellen Saltzman will be recognized for her work at the Treasures Gift Shop at the Mandel Jewish Community Center and Siegal College during the Jewish Federation of Cleveland women’s philanthropy’s annual Women’s Spring Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. May 18.

I had the pleasure of spending my junior year of college at Hebrew University in Jerusalem. One of the perks of that year was meeting and growing close with my cousin Ziva, who happened to work at Hadassah Hospital across the street from my dorm. We spent a lot of time together and she invited me to spend many Shabbatot and holidays with her family. In addition to being hilariously funny, warm and nurturing, Ziva had another talent, as well: She was, and remains, an amazing cook. I am excited to share one of her recipes with you below, which I hope will make your preparations for Passover a bit easier.

This past week I had the honor of traveling with 70 members of The Jewish Federations of North America's (JFNA) National Young Leadership Cabinet on a mission to Berlin and Israel. Together we learned about the past, present and plans for the future of their local Jewish communities and also saw first-hand where our Federation dollars go.href="http://www.jewishcleveland.org/news/blog/inspiring_stories_kick_off_JFNA_GA/">General Assembly.

The Hidden Gems photography exhibit celebrates our 20-year partnership with Beit Shean and Valley of Springs, Cleveland's sister city in Israel,. View the photos captured by our community's established, emerging, and amateur photographers.