Join the Jewish Federation of Dutchess County and Jewish Family Services for our Annual Holiday Party, featuring a special author presentation in collaboration with the Jewish Book Council!

Wednesday, December 9, 2026
11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
Temple Beth-El, Social Hall
118 S. Grand Avenue, Poughkeepsie

Special Guest: Local Author Ruth Zelig

Join us as Ruth Zelig shares the story behind her book, Letters from Brazil: Reflections on Migration and Friendship—An Epistolary Memoir.

When Ruth's family left Brazil for North America in 1964, she and her childhood friend Elana were separated by thousands of miles. Through a remarkable twenty-year exchange of letters, their friendship endured across countries, cultures, and the challenges of growing up. Discover how those letters, preserved for decades, became a memoir exploring immigration, identity, belonging, and lifelong friendship.

And that's not all—we're celebrating Chanukah!

Enjoy our annual holiday party, complete with a Chanukah latkes luncheon, Ugly Holiday Sweater Contest, and prizes! Wear your most outrageous holiday sweater and join the fun!

Books will be available for purchase at the event.

EVERYONE WELCOME!

Registration is required. A suggested donation of $8 per person, per gathering helps cover the cost of lunch. Register for one or both December dates!

For questions or assistance registering, call 845-471-9811 or email [email protected].