08/19/2026
What an unforgettable evening!
150 people gathered at the Crowne Plaza to celebrate 10 years of the Chabad Jewish Center in Springfield!
The evening began with an enjoyable cocktail hour, followed by a beautiful sit-down dinner, kosher catered from Chicago.
A special highlight of the evening was honoring two remarkable couples.
Rabbi Rob and Lauren Thomas received the Chesed Award, recognizing the tremendous kindness they bring to others and the many ways they give to our community. They were presented with a beautiful silver menorah, symbolizing the light they spread through their acts of chesed. Rabbi Rob shared meaningful words about the importance of continuing to perform acts of kindness.
Barry and Barbara Seidman received the Dor L’Dor Award, honoring their many years as proud and dedicated members of Springfield’s Jewish community and the beautiful Jewish legacy they have passed on to their three children. In a surprise video, their children spoke movingly about the Jewish pride and values their parents instilled in them. It was an emotional moment that touched the entire room. Barry and Barbara were presented with a Tree of Life artwork, representing the continuation of Jewish life from generation to generation.
Our wonderful Master of Ceremonies, Amy McDaniels, guided us through the evening. Rabbi Eli Turen of Chicago and Rabbi Pesach Scheiner of Boulder opened the program with prayer, followed by a video of the Rebbe encouraging each of us to never be satisfied with yesterday’s accomplishments, but always to strive to add more goodness to the world.
Rabbi Gershon Avtzon of Cincinnati, a dear friend and mentor to the Turen family, shared inspiring words about the importance and impact of Chabad’s work in Springfield. Sara Turen then spoke about the evening’s 10 Pillars, with each pillar representing one of Chabad’s ten years in Springfield and those who helped make that year possible.
Following the main course, musician Shalom Lebowitz, who traveled from Florida, uplifted the room with his guitar, singing, and incredible energy.
Guests were also treated to a special short documentary created for the gala about the history of Springfield’s Jewish community, connecting the evening’s celebration of the past with a vision for the future.
The evening concluded with an address from Rabbi Mendy Turen, who spoke about our honorees, the extraordinary people gathered in the room, the journey of the past ten years, and the bright future still ahead.
Ten years is an incredible milestone, but it is only the beginning.
Thank you to everyone who celebrated with us, supported us, believed in us, and helped build Jewish life in Springfield over these past ten years. Here’s to the next chapter and to an even brighter Jewish future!
