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Celebrate Lag BaOmer with Lubavitch of Wisconsin. Learn about Lag BaOmer and celebrate with us at our annual Lag BaOmer picnic and carnival! Lag BaOmer In Wisconsin with Chabad Lubavitch May 16, 2025 Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai, who lived in the second century of the Common Era, was the first to publicly teach the mystical dimension of the Torah known as the Kabbalah, and is the author of the classic text of Kabbalah, the Zohar. On the day of his passing, Rabbi Shimon instructed his disciples to mark the date as “the day of my joy.” The chassidic masters explain that the final day of a righteous person’s earthly life marks the point at which all their deeds, teachings and work achieve their culminating perfection and the zenith of their impact upon our lives. So each Lag BaOmer, we celebrate Rabbi Shimon’s life and the revelation of the esoteric soul of Torah. Lag BaOmer also commemorates another joyous event. The Talmud relates that in the weeks between the Jewish holidays of Passover and Shavuot, a plague raged among the disciples of the great sage Rabbi Akiva (teacher of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai), “because they did not act respectfully towards each other.” These weeks are therefore observed as a period of mourning, with various joyous activities proscribed by law and custom. On Lag BaOmer the deaths ceased. Thus, Lag BaOmer also carries the theme of loving and respecting one’s fellow (ahavat Yisrael). Join Us for a Lag BaOmer Carnival & Picnic FREE entry! Rain or shine! Friday, May 16th 2:30-3:30PM for schools 3:30-4:30PM for community 6401 N. Santa Monica Blvd. Behind the JB, BHA & MJDS Campuses Inflatables | Entertainment | Games | Carnival Snacks ...And More! RSVP NOW Find a Lag BaOmer event at your local Chabad Cedarburg Jewish Discovery Center Chabad of the Bay Area Chabad of Bayside / The Shul Chabad of the East Side / The Shul East Chabad of Glendale & River Hills Chabad of Kenosha Chabad of Madison Chabad of Mequon Chabad of Waukesha & Brookfield Chabad of Wauwatosa Lag BaOmer Resources Lag BaOmer History What is Lag BaOmer Lag BaOmer Insights Lag BaOmer Stories Engage your kids in the holiday. Join Our Lag BaOmer Celebration

Discover Lubavitch of Wisconsin, connecting Jews across the state through education, community programs, and meaningful Jewish experiences for all ages. Our mission To serve every Jew in Wisconsin with Ahavat Yisrael – love and concern – meeting each one exactly where they're at. The Lubavitcher Rebbe & Our Mission The Lubavitcher Rebbe revitalized post-holocaust Jewry. His profound vision of reaching out to every Jew in every corner of the world with love and concern became the foundation for the mission of Lubavitch of Wisconsin. The Rebbe's teachings ignite awareness of the hidden wealth inside every individual – regardless of how they or others feel about them/selves – and motivate the desire to fulfill one's full potential. Accessibility We provide programs and institutions dedicated to serving the diverse needs of every Jew throughout the state – from infants, teens, and college students to families and senior citizens. Openness We aren't here to judge. We aren't concerned with your affiliation, denomination, when you've last been to services, or what you ate for lunch. We care about you . Authenticity We immovably represent Judaism and Torah – even as our methodology evolves to remain on the cutting edge. In our rapidly changing world, the commitment to authentic, timeless values is what sets us apart. Agility We will not sit by when there are Jews in need. We are not beholden to unnecessary bureaucracies, rather we're guided by the needs of our fellow Jews and the means we have to assist them. Our Operating Philosophy Lubavitch of Wisconsin Staff Rabbi Yisroel Shmotkin Founder & President ris@chabadwi.org Rabbi Mendel Shmotkin CEO & Executive VP rms@chabadwi.org Devorah Shmotkin Director of Education bds@chabadwi.org Tracey Landowski Bookkeeper tracey@chabadwi.org Becky Rivett Executive Assistant becky@chabadwi.org Shea Shmotkin Community Outreach shea@chabadwi.org Janine Bridgeford Operations Manager janine@chabadwi.org Lindsay Goldner Director of Marketing lindsay@chabadwi.org Bill Hanson Controller bill@chabadwi.org May Xiong Archive/Office Assistant may@chabadwi.org

Kick off your Chanukah with an inspiring show of Jewish pride at our annual Grand Car Menorah Parade! Start at Chabad of Mequon, parade through the suburbs of Milwaukee, and end at Bayshore for the grand Chanukah Festival & Gelt Drop. Limited number of menorahs available. Reserve yours today! Join the Parade of Lights! Kick off your Chanukah with an inspiring show of Jewish pride at our annual Grand Car Menorah Parade! Start at Chabad of Mequon, parade through the suburbs of Milwaukee, and end at Bayshore for the grand Chanukah Festival & Gelt Drop! Reserve Your Menorah Limited number of menorahs available. Reserve yours today! Chanukah Resources Menorah Lighting What is Chanukah Chanukah Insights The Story of Chanukah Chanukah Recipes

Celebrate Passover (Pesach) with Lubavitch of Wisconsin. Find Passover programs, and resources to experience the joy of the festival including ordering shmurah matzah and finding a Seder near you. Pesach In Wisconsin with Chabad Lubavitch April 12-20, 2025 Order Shmurah Matzah Now Sell Your Chametz The eight-day Jewish holiday of Passover is celebrated in the early spring, from the 15th through the 22nd of the Hebrew month of Nissan, April 12 - 20, 2025. Passover (Pesach) celebrates the deliverance of the Jewish people from slavery in ancient Egypt, when we became a nation. Pesach is observed by avoiding leaven (chametz), and highlighted by the "Seders" on the first two nights. They include four cups of wine, eating matzah and bitter herbs, and retelling the story of the Exodus. In Hebrew it is known as Pesach (which means “to pass over”), because G‑d passed over the Jewish homes when punishing the Egyptian's firstborn on the very first Passover eve, forcing them to let the Jewish people go free. For access to a seder and a full list of holiday programs, contact your local Chabad! Cedarburg Jewish Discovery Center Chabad of the Bay Area Chabad of Bayside / The Shul Chabad of the East Side / The Shul East Chabad of Glendale & River Hills Chabad of Kenosha Chabad of Madison Chabad of Mequon Chabad of Waukesha & Brookfield Chabad of Wauwatosa Pesach Resources Candle Lighting Times What is Pesach Pesach Study The Haggadah Pesach Recipes Engage your kids in the holiday. Learn More

The Mega Challah Bake is presented by Jewish Women’s Circle. It's an annual opportunity for women of all ages and backgrounds to learn about and participate in the meaningful mitzvah of challah. RSVP for the 2024 Mega Challah Bake in Milwaukee on November 19th at 6:30 PM. Pre-Registration Closes Sunday at Midnight! Celebrate the power of women, tradition, and community. Fresh Twist. Same Inspiration. Usually, we roll up our sleeves and mix the dough from scratch. But this year, the dough will be ready for you. That means more time to get creative: try out show-stopping braids, explore sweet and savory flavors, and make each challah truly your own. And as always, we’ll be uplifted and inspired together. Our keynote speaker, Moran Stella Yanai — a former Israeli hostage — will share a powerful story of courage and resilience that will stay with you long after the night is over. Get Your Tickets Now Introducing Our Keynote: Moran Stella Yanai Moran Stella Yanai went to the Nova festival on October 7, 2023, to sell her handmade jewelry, a venue she hoped would boost her career. Instead, s he was taken hostage by Hamas terrorists and released in November 2023 after seven weeks. As a hostage, Moran was forced to deal with unimaginable violence and face seemingly impossible challenges. After returning from captivity, Moran decided to share her story with the world. Not only to heal, but to inspire other women to speak out against violence, to speak the truth about what happened, and to keep the remaining hostages top of mind. Get Your Tickets Now Moran Stella Yanai Former Hostage Want to be a table sponsor? Your sponsorship not only supports this powerful evening of inspiration and unity, but also gives you the opportunity to host your own table of women. As a Table Sponsor, you’ll receive: 10 reserved tickets with prime seating for you and your guests Recognition at your table as a sponsor Name/logo displayed on event signage and our website A small gift of appreciation The joy of knowing your sponsorship helps make this event possible for hundreds of women I Want To Sponsor The Mitzvah of Challah Learn More Challah Stories & Essays Learn More Challah Recipes Learn More Mega Challah Bake Memories Subscribe to the Jewish Women's Circle newsletter • Don’t miss out! First name Last name Email Join Thanks for subscribing!

Join the Jewish Women’s Circle for inspiring events, meaningful learning, and connection with women across Wisconsin in a warm, welcoming environment. For the contemporary Jewish woman A program where women from all walks of life kick back, relax, rejuvenate, and explore an array of thought provoking topics. Join Us at an Upcoming Event Thanks For Coming! Thanks for coming! Coming Soon! Coming Soon! Subscribe to the Jewish Women's Circle newsletter • Don’t miss out! First name Last name Email Join Thanks for subscribing! A Bit About Us As women, we face an incessantly demanding world: family, work, friends, and community all compete for our time and energy. We long for a respite that will rejuvenate both body and soul. Our goal is to provide a monthly experience that appeals to women of all ages and backgrounds, and enables them to explore their Jewish spirituality while bringing warmth and inspiration to their daily lives. Join us in building lasting friendships, participating in intellectually meaningful discussions, and schmoozing together. Each event is complimented by an enjoyable activity, and, of course, heartwarming camaraderie. We hope you will join us at the monthly events, or better yet, become a member of this wonderful circle. Want more? The Jewish Woman site is dedicated to providing Jewish women of all backgrounds with intellectually challenging, emotionally uplifting, and inspirational stimulating articles. The Jewish Woman

Senior Connections offers meaningful programs, social opportunities, and support for Jewish seniors across Wisconsin, fostering connection and community. Senior Connections Senior Connections is an inter-generational program that promotes sharing stories, Jewish experiences, and knowledge among the generations. We arrange social events, educational programs, and holiday celebrations. Senior Connections also works with nursing homes, retirement communities, and individuals to help with specific needs, home visits, and more. Senior Connections is here to provide you and your loved ones with a sense of happiness, comfort, purpose, and a quality of life. If you're interested in making a connection for a senior you know, or would like to volunteer your time, please email program director Chedva Federman. Contact Us For more senior resources, visit this comprehensive guide to Jewish Senior Living Communities from Caring.com. Seniors have vast knowledge and experiences to offer. They are the pillars of our society upon whom our generation stands. It is my hope that our children will appreciate and respect those who planted for our future. Chedva Federman, Director

Explore Jewish schools across Wisconsin, including preschool, elementary, and high school options focused on strong Torah values, dual curriculum academics, and community. Schools Our preschools , elementary school and high school offer children the opportunity to embark on a journey of discovery, developing a passion for learning and a positive identity rooted proudly in their Judaism. Each curriculum focuses on providing a high-quality Jewish and general education that embodies Jewish morals, elicits self-confidence, and upholds the high academic expectation. There's a place for every Jewish child. Find the fit that's right for you and your family. Preschools Preschools Jewish Beginnings Preschool Jewish Beginnings Preschool 6401 N Santa Monica Blvd., Milwaukee Acclaimed for its warm environment that nurtures each child’s unique gifts, Jewish Beginnings serves a c ross-section of the Milwaukee Jewish community. The school holds accreditation from the prestigious National Association for the Education of the Young Child. Jewish Beginnings provides youngsters with the development of character, love of learning, and the foundation for thoughtful, moral decision-making. Learn More Mequon Jewish Preschool Mequon Jewish Preschool 2233 N. Mequon Road, Mequon MJP creates a rich and challenging educational landscape that fosters expression and invites children to absorb and discover the world. Our curriculum brings Judaism to life through Torah traditions, mitzvot, and connection to Israel. Inspired by the Reggio Emilia educational approach, MJP uses research-based thematic learning that supports academic skills, construction of knowledge, and divergent thinking. Learn More Chai Tots Preschool - Madison Chai Tots Preschool - Madison 1722 Regent Street, Madison Chai Tots Preschool is a creative, Reggio-inspired Jewish environment where children receive a warm, happy and enriching educational experience. Each child’s individual style of learning is valued and supported. Our purpose is to provide the highest quality education in a secure, and stimulating atmosphere that nurtures positive self-esteem and helps build the foundation for successful development and growth. Learn More Brookfield Torah Tots Preschool Brookfield Torah Tots Preschool 1275 N. Barker Road, Brookfield By providing a loving environment, we aim to empower our children to use their unique capabilities to impact their surroundings. We nurture and educate by blending Judaic and secular themes into a program that is rich, fulfilling, and stimulating. We are dedicated to meeting each child’s physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and spiritual needs to create a foundation for confident and caring adults. Learn More Bader Hillel Academy Elementary School Elementary Bader Hillel Academy 6401 N Santa Monica Blvd., Fox Point Combining science, math, and literacy with the underpinnings of Torah, K5-8th grade students build a strong Jewish identity, connection to their heritage, and love for Israel. Children from diverse backgrounds form lasting friendships in a warm, welcoming environment. The school’s competitive curriculum positions students for leadership in high schools, yeshivas, colleges, and 21st-century life. Learn More Bader Hillel High School High School Bader Hillel High 6789 N Green Bay Avenue, Glendale Bader Hillel High is a dual-curriculum, college-prep Jewish high school with a full general and Judaic studies curriculum. Utilizing an innovative project-based learning curriculum, students develop the cognitive skills and knowledge to succeed in college, career, and life. Our goal isn’t just to create book-smart graduates; we want our students to develop as ethical people who put their beliefs into practice. Learn More Hillel High | Boys Hillel High | Girls

Meet the Shluchim & Shluchos of Lubavitch of Wisconsin: the dedicated rabbis and rebbetzins serving Jewish communities statewide with care, connection, and meaningful experiences. Meet The Shluchim & Shluchos Frequently Asked Questions Yisroel Shmotkin Lubavitch of Wisconsin Devorah Shmotkin Director of Education Yosef Bassman Bader Hillel High School Ilana Bassman Bader Hillel High School Levi Brook Chabad of Waukesha-Brookfield Comfort House - Rogers Memorial Fraidy Brook Chabad of Waukesha-Brookfield Torah Tots Preschool Camp Gan Israel Waukesha Menachem Deren Chabad of Glendale & River Hills Mussie Deren Chabad of Glendale & River Hills Chabad Hebrew School Jewish Women's Circle Yecheskel Edelman The Shul Center - Bayside Chava Edelman The Shul Center - Bayside Milwaukee Community Hebrew School Jewish Women's Circle Yaakov Elman Jewish REACH Chedva Federman Senior Connection Levi Emmer Chaplaincy - Ovation / VA Leah Emmer Bader Hillel Academy Michoel Feinstein Chabad of the Bay Area Esty Feinstein Chabad of the Bay Area Zalmy Frankel Bader Hillel Academy Mashie Frankel Bader Hillel Academy Chayim Friedman Bader Hillel High School Chana Friedman Bader Hillel High School Yossi Hecht Bader Hillel Academy Yehudis Hecht Jewish Beginnings Yisroel Lein Chabad of the East Side YJP Milwaukee Mushka Lein Chabad of the East Side YJP Milwaukee Jewish Women's Circle Dov Yehuda Lisker The Peltz Center for Jewish Life JMequon Mushka Lisker The Peltz Center for Jewish Life Moshe Luchins The Peltz Center for Jewish Life Cedarburg Jewish Discovery Center Sheina Luchins The Peltz Center for Jewish Life Cedarburg Jewish Discovery Center Menachem Mann Judaism@Home Chaya Mann Bader Hillel Academy Avrohom Matusof Chabad of Madison YJP Madison Chaya Matusof YJP Madison Chabad Hebrew School Madison Mendel Matusof Chabad at UW Madison Henya Matusof Chabad at UW Madison Yona Matusof Chabad of Madison Faygie Matusof Chabad of Madison Jewish Women's Circle Madison Sholom Ber Munitz Bader Hillel Academy Leah Munitz Mequon Jewish Preschool Dovid Rapoport The Peltz Center for Jewish Life Agudus Achim Chabad Faige Rapoport The Peltz Center for Jewish Life Mikvah Mei Menachem Menachem Rapoport The Peltz Center for Jewish Life Hudi Rapoport The Peltz Center for Jewish Life Crown Judaica Moshe Rapoport The Peltz Center for Jewish Life CTeen Mequon Dinie Rapoport The Peltz Center for Jewish Life Peltz Hebrew School Jewish Women's Circle Dovid Rechavel Bader Hillel High Dina Rechavel Bader Hillel High Yoseph Samuels Chabad of Downtown Chashie Samuels Chabad of Downtown Avrohom Schapiro Jewish Youth Foundation CKids Gan Israel CTeen / CTeen House Shaindy Schapiro CKids Gan Israel CTeen / CTeen House Levi Shmotkin Chabad of Wauwatosa Bader Hillel Academy Chani Shmotkin Chabad of Wauwatosa Jewish Beginnings Mendel Shmotkin Lubavitch of Wisconsin Devorkie Shmotkin Jewish Beginnings Mordechai Spalter The Peltz Center for Jewish Life Agudus Achim Cemetery Rivkie Spalter Mequon Jewish Preschool Levi Stein Friendship Circle of Wisconsin Leah Stein Friendship Circle of Wisconsin Yosef Stevenson Chabad at UW Madison Basya Stevenson Chabad at UW Madison Tzvi Tornek Bader Hillel Academy The Shul Center - Bayside Tova Tornek Bader Hillel Academy The Shul Center - Bayside Lev Voskoboynik Chabad on Campus - Milwaukee Talia Voskoboynik Chabad on Campus - Milwaukee Betzalel Wilschanski Chabad of Kenosha Rivkie Wilschanski Chabad of Kenosha Chabad Hebrew School Jewish Women's Circle Kenosha Levi Wise Bader Hillel High Chana Wise Bader Hillel High Shlomo Wolvovsky Bader Hillel Academy Camp Gan Israel Rochel Wolvovsky Bader Hillel Academy Camp Gan Israel Frequently Asked Questions What are Shluchim and/or Shluchos? Shluchim (male) and Shluchos (female) are the plural form of Shliach or Shlucha, which means "emissary" or "messenger" in Hebrew. They refer to the men and women who have been appointed as emissaries of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Shneerson, of blessed memory. It was the Rebbe who initiated the Chabad-Lubavitch global mission to reach out to every Jew and Jewess to share their rightful heritage with them. It was the Rebbe’s practice to appoint a Shliach to represent the movement and serve as the Rebbe’s representative in a particular region. Perhaps a paradigm would be the establishment of an embassy, with the Shliach serving as the Rebbe’s ambassador to reach every Jew in his region. The regional Shliach in turn, is empowered to appoint other Shluchim to assist in the mission, each with their own areas of responsibility. Shluchim and Shluchos are Chassidim, or students, of the Rebbe, who have dedicated their life’s mission to assisting Jews wherever needed, in their material, physical, and spiritual needs, thereby actualizing the vision and mandate of spreading Yiddishkeit to all. A signature of the Shluchim’s work is the unconditional commitment to every Jew – embodying the Rebbe’s teachings of embracing every individual with kindness, openness and respect. How do Shluchim and/or Shluchos stay motivated? The mission of Lubavitch of Wisconsin is deeply rooted in the teachings and directives of the Lubavitcher Rebbe. This mission—to spread Jewish learning, spirituality, and practice to every corner of the globe—demands dedication, passion, and continuous growth from each Shliach. The nature of this sacred work, while profoundly rewarding, is also inherently challenging, requiring constant spiritual, emotional, and intellectual revitalization. Regular gatherings of the Shluchim serve as a pivotal mechanism for revitalizing commitment to our shared mission. In the presence of peers and mentors, Shluchim can reconnect with the core values and visions that animate their work. These gatherings offer a unique space for reflection on the Rebbe's teachings, allowing each Shaliach to re-energize their spiritual batteries and gain new insights into their work. The communal aspect of these gatherings also cannot be overstated. Shluchim spend much of their time serving others and may feel isolated in their locales. Coming together provides not only a sense of belonging but also a platform for exchanging ideas, strategies, and experiences. Each gathering culminates in a renewed sense of purpose and recommitment to the mission. Through workshops, lectures, and shared prayer and study, Shluchim are reminded of the vast impact of their work and the difference they make in the lives of individuals and communities. FAQ

We can generate change in ourselves and in our community with the simple act of consistent giving. ARK charity boxes give every person the opportunity to make the world a better place through Acts of Random Kindness. We believe acts of random kindness can become acts of routine kindness – so we bought a billboard to spread the word. The ARK Giving Project in Wisconsin is inspired by and a result of the Lubavitcher Rebbe's call to inspire humanity to greater moral and ethical heights through positive and consistent action. Request An ARK Get an ARK charity box. Fill it up. Share the contents with a charity or someone in need. Develop a habit of giving. Why it Works People are more influenced by the things they do than by the knowledge they are taught. Compassion and kindness are strengthened by consistency. Giving small amounts of charity every day causes one to become a giver. Childhood is the prime time to cultivate compassion and kindness. Children also influence adults to do the same. This creates a stronger culture of giving in society. ARK charity boxes give every person the opportunity to make the world a better place through Acts of Random Kindness. We can generate change in ourselves and in our community with the simple act of consistent giving. Keep it handy, use it daily, and together we'll achieve Acts of Routine Kindness. Request An ARK

Read the latest news and stories from Lubavitch of Wisconsin, highlighting community impact, events, and Jewish life across the state. In the News The latest coverage on all things Lubavitch of Wisconsin – including the incredible programming our shluchim and shluchos are spearheading across the state. US Jewish groups urge heightened security at public events after Hanukkah attack in Australia NBC 26 Holocaust violins featured in Hanukkah performance at Chabad Madison WMTV 15 Local Wisconsin rabbi reacts to Australia shooting Spectrum News Madison Jewish community reacts to shooting during Hanukkah celebration in Australia 27 News Chabad of Madison celebrates Hanukkah at Hilldale WMTV15 Annual Chanukah Festival & Gelt Drop Fox6 Local Jewish community leaders respond to deadly mass shooting in Australia cbs58 News Milwaukee Milwaukee Jewish community to honor those killed in Australia terror attack at Hanukkah event TMJ4 Chanukah celebrations continue with message of unity Fox6 The Jewish Discovery Center to relocate within Cedarburg Ozaukee County News Graphic Chabad of Madison Unveils New Center Amid Jewish Growth Lubavitch.com KOSHER Deli in MILL-E-WAH-QUE Tripping Kosher YouTube From Tragedy to Triumph, This Ride Inspires Hope Across Wisconsin tmj4.com Mental health campaign to offer suicide prevention workshops across Milwaukee cbs58.com Finding Faith in Football Country During Historic Green Bay Draft chabad.org Chabad at the Draft: Kosher, Shabbat and Tefillin in Green Bay Lubavitch.com Friendship Cafe and Bakery prepping meals, cookies to be served at NFL Draft cbs58 Chabad of Madison opens new center for growing Jewish community The Cap Times Milwaukee high schoolers host podcast for teens to open up conversation about mental health TMJ4 Grand Opening for Chabad of Madison Channel 3000 Local groups hope for lasting peace after Israel and Hamas agree to ceasefire deal CBS 58 Friendship Circle's 'One Thing I Wish You Knew' event ABC WISN 12 At Milwaukee Friendship Circle, Teens Are Breaking the Silence on Mental Health Chabad.org The event, hosted by The Friendship Circle of Wisconsin and REDgen, was called “One Thing I Wish You Knew.” TMJ 4 A Southeastern Wisconsin Hanukkah celebration returns to Bayshore. ABC WISN 12

Join us as we light up Milwaukee with our annual Chanukah Festival & Gelt Drop: a celebration of light, joy, and community for all ages! Sunday, December 14, 2025 at 4:00 PM at The Yard at Bayshore. Let's Be the Light, Milwaukee! We’re moving the party indoors to keep everyone cozy and comfortable. We can’t wait to celebrate with you — warm hearts, warm space, same incredible Chanukah energy! 🎤 Live concert with Eli Marcus 🎤 ✨ Giant Menorah Lighting and Epic Gelt Drop ✨ 🤖 LED robot dancers & interactive light experience 🤖 🎨 Kids crafts, giveaways, and choo choo train rides 🎨 📸 Instagram-worthy photo booth 📸 🥪 Delicious hot food from Deli on Crown 🥪 🍩 Warm drinks & donuts 🍩 AND MORE! To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key. Menu Menorah Lighting What is Chanukah Chanukah Insights The Story of Chanukah Chanukah Recipes Chanukah Festival & Gelt Drop Memories