Machers Share Their Resolutions for 2022

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Jewish Philadelphians: If you have sinned since Yom Kippur, this is your second, secular chance to reset for a new calendar year.

It’s time to make New Year’s resolutions for 2022. Jewish Philadelphia-area machers, or people who get things done, were kind enough to share their promises to themselves for the upcoming year.

Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia President and CEO Michael Balaban (Courtesy of Michael Balaban)

Michael Balaban, president and CEO, Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia


“An old Jewish story: Mendel meets David. He says, ‘I haven’t got much time today, my friend, so tell me, in one word, how is life?’ “David says, ‘In one word? Good.’ “Mendel says, ‘Give me a bit more detail. In two words, how is life?’ “David replies, ‘In two words? Not good.’

“When asked for my New Year’s resolution this year, I am reminded of this story. Our world today seems to be swimming in turmoil. Many respond by bemoaning and turning inward. My resolution is to lean outward more — into things far greater than myself — my family, friends, community and prayer.”

Rabbi Eliott N. Perlstein, Ohev Shalom of Bucks County

“I intend to venture farther and more frequently out of my comfort zone.”

Rabbi Binyomin Davis, Aish Chaim

“I resolve to be kinder and more considerate of those I don’t see eye to eye with.”

Sophie Don, senior manager of programs, Philadelphia Holocaust Remembrance Foundation

“I’m motivated to keep telling the stories of Jewish and non-Jewish victims of Nazi persecution and current victims of bigotry and antisemitism.

“Personally, I’m hopeful for a healthy and safe 2022! I’d like to spend time with my family and friends, and I’m hoping it will feel safe to travel again.”

Allan Domb, Philadelphia City Councilmember At-Large

“We must remain committed to solving the violence epidemic — there’s nothing more important than reducing and preventing gun violence across our city.

“We need to think differently than we have before and use every tool available to us. This includes utilizing our academic experts to help us evaluate our efforts, deploying tech surveillance and being smarter than those causing issues, and examining innovative DNA analyses to help solve crimes and assist prosecutors.”

Alan Scher, CEO, Kaiserman JCC

“At the JCC, we are beginning a strategic plan in 2022 with a series of conversations dreaming about our future.

“I will, as a result, put on the listening ears I remind preschoolers to place on their heads when I read the stories and look to be as present as possible with my mind, body and spirit to all the new connections, ideas and wisdom available to us across the Philadelphia Jewish community.”

Ben Waxman, Center City resident and Democratic Primary candidate for the 182nd House District seat in Pennsylvania’s House of Representatives

“My resolution is that we must commit in 2022 to taking care of each other, even people we don’t know.

“We are at a scary moment with positive COVID cases rising dramatically. The only way through this latest phase of the virus is for the world to make a resolution to come together, trust science and take the steps necessary to contain and end the pandemic.”

Gabby Kaplan-Mayer, chief program officer, Jewish Learning Venture

“My intention for 2022 is to continue to innovate with all of our Jewish Learning Venture programming to find ways to make the Jewish community even more inclusive and supportive for all families raising Jewish kids, especially those who have felt marginalized in any way.

“I hope to also find new ways to support the amazing colleagues whom I work with. Personally, I am excited for a new year full of spiritual growth, discovery, fun and creativity.”

Daniel Israel, owner of Deluxe Catering

“Personally, they say never trust a skinny chef, but my goal is to eat healthier, climb 100 flights of steps on the StairMaster four times a week and lose 60 pounds.

“For my business and the Jewish community, my resolutions are to not just grow the catering and event planning businesses, but to grow to the point that we can be philanthropic for the following year.

“My other resolution is to use only compostable products for the business, as well as change all my vendors to be as local as possible to support other local businesses.”

Pennsylvania attorney general and Democratic gubernatorial candidate Josh Shapiro (Courtesy of Josh Shapiro)

Josh Shapiro, attorney general of Pennsylvania and Democratic gubernatorial candidate

“In 2022, my resolution is to spend as much time with my family as I can while continuing to do everything in my power to make Pennsylvanians’ lives better.”

Polly Edelstein, program manager, Tribe 12

“Continue to build and deepen meaningful connections with our constituents, past, present and future, as Tribe 12 looks toward 2022 with optimism and hope.

“My personal one is to have more dinner parties (safely).”

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