Zoey Shiraz Lader will become a bat mitzvah on Shabbat, Feb. 28, as she reads from Parashat Tetzaveh (Ex. 27:20–30:10). Zoey is a sixth grader at Hillel Academy. She enjoys creative writing and spending time with friends, and she especially loves Shabbat—unplugging from the week, lighting candles, and sharing family meals. In preparation, Zoey is studying with Rebbetzin Devorah Leah Mangel of Chabad, describing their learning as “wonderful, inspiring, and meaningful.” She is the daughter of Dr. Miri and Josh Lader, and the big sister of Eliana and Avi.

University of Cincinnati Associate Prof. and Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati Chair in Judaic Studies Jennifer Caplan is one of three editors of Wit Happens: Global Jewish Humor, along with Jarrod Tanny and Avinoam Patt. Published by Wayne State University Press, the book investigates Jewish humor in television, film, comedy performance, and literature in Canada, the United States, Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Jennifer also contributed to the book. Publisher’s Weekly interviewed the three editors of Wit Happens in January. Its release date is Feb. 17.

Familyvacationsus.com named All The Best Delicatessen Best Deli in Ohio in its guide The Best Deli in Every State That Locals Defend Fiercely. The guide describes All The Best as a culinary gem. “Our team works every day to deliver authentic deli favorites made from scratch, and to build a place where locals and visitors alike feel at home,” All The Best owner Lee Schear said. “This recognition validates the passion we pour into every sandwich, pickle, and smile that we serve.”

This year, Hadassah Dayton will celebrate its centennial with a series of festive events, culminating with The Grand Event, scheduled for Oct. 11.

Send your Mazel Tov announcements to mweiss@jfgd.net.

To read the complete February 2026 Dayton Jewish Observer, click here.