The counting of the Omer marks the 49-day period between Passover and Shavuot—a symbolic journey from the Israelites’ liberation from Egypt to the receiving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Each day is observed with a blessing and the formal counting of the day.

This year, PAS will enrich this tradition by celebrating the lives and contributions of 49 notable Israelis — half in April and half in May. We invite you to join each day we count the Omer and highlight a new figure whose work continues to inspire and uplift.

Gift in Memory of Dorothy Tapper Goldman, 2024 Omer Counter

This interactive, sculptural counter enables the community to take part in the counting throughout the seven weeks. This counter was gifted to Park Avenue Synagogue and is now available to see at our 87th Street Lobby. 

Israeli Spotlight

15th of Nisan, 5785 Shikma Schwarzmann-Bressler (שקמה ברסלר)

Shikma Schwarzmann-Bressler (שקמה ברסלר) is an Israeli physicist. She is also a social activist and founder of the Black Flag Protests against Benjamin Netanyahu in 2020, turning her into a leading voice protecting democracy in Israel. She was also a leader of the protests against the judicial overhaul and orchestrated the main marches. 

16th of Nisan, 5785 Jonathan Shamriz (יונתן שימריז)

Jonathan Shamriz (יונתן שימריז) is the older brother of Alon Shamriz, who was taken hostage by Hamas on Oct. 7 and accidentally killed by IDF troops on Dec. 15 with Yotam Haim and Samar Tlalka when trying to escape captivity. As part of his mourning and loss, he founded, along with fellow Gaza  residents Kumu, a national movement calling for the rebuilding and healing of Israeli society. He was one of the organizers of the alternative family memorial ceremony for the one-year anniversary of October 7,, and his speech during the ceremony created strong waves in Israeli society. 

17th of Nisan, 5785 Adi Altschuler (עדי אלטשולר)

Adi Altschuler (עדי אלטשולר) is an Israeli educator and social entrepreneur. At 16, she founded Krembo Wings (כנפיים של קרמבו), the first Israeli youth movement for those with and without special needs. She also founded Memories@Home (זיכרון בסלון), an alternative gathering for Yom Hashoa, creating a more intimate, meaningful, and accessible way to keep the memory of the Holocaust alive. 

18th of Nisan, 5785 Ofek Rishon (אופק ראשון)

Ofek Rishon (אופק ראשון) made a video when she was 13 in which she spoke out about being a victim of bullying. The 2019 video went viral, and because of it, she was able to create the Bully Patrol, an organization dedicated to supporting children suffering from bullying.And to raising public awareness about the issue. 

19th of Nisan, 5785 Alon-Lee Green (אלון-לי גרין)

Alon-Lee Green (אלון-לי גרין) is a social activist and co-director and a founder of the Standing Together movement. He initiated the establishment of the first workers' committee in the restaurant industry in Israel and was involved in the establishment of the workers' committee of the parliamentary advisers in the Knesset. 

20th of Nisan, 5785 Uriel Yekutiel (אוריאל יקותיאל)

Uriel Yekutiel (אוריאל יקותיאל) is an Israeli dancer, actor, and performer. He is the first Israeli drag artist whose persona incorporates male and female attributes. He is also a leading voice and organizer in the Sephardic/Mizrachi LGBTQ community, starting the Mizrachi gay party line Arisa. 

21st of Nisan, 5785 Shahar Cohen (שחר כהן)

Shahar Cohen (שחר כהן), an Israel comedian and content creator, went viral a few years ago with his characteristic portrayal of Israelis. Today, his content focuses on the differences between Israeli Jewry and American Jewry, introducing Israelis to American Jewry and helping build a stronger bond through comedy. 

22nd of Nisan, 5785 Lea Yanai (לאה ינאי)

Lea Yanai (לאה ינאי), an Israeli dancer, is a graduate of the Bat-Dor  company and was a soloist in the Israel Ballet. On Oct. 7, her sister Moran Stela Yanai was kidnapped and was released in the November 2023 deal. Since then, she  has been using her platform as a judge on the Israeli version of  “Dancing with the Stars” to raise awareness and fight for the release of the hostages. 

23rd of Nisan, 5785 Yuval Raphael (יובל רפאל)

Yuval Raphael (יובל רפאל) is an Israeli singer. On Oct. 7,h she was wounded at the Nova musical festival, hiding for eight hours before being rescued. As part of her healing, she pursued  her music career and in 2024 won “Israel Next Star,” making her the Israeli representative in the Eurovision Song Contest 2025. 

24th of Nisan, 5785 Inbal Rabin-Lieberman (ענבל ליברמן)

Inbal Rabin-Lieberman (ענבל ליברמן)  was the security coordinator of kibbutz Nir Am. Because of her actions, Nir Am was one of only two communities invaded by Hamas on Oct. 7 that did not suffer Israeli casualties. 

25th of Nisan, 5785 Assaf Rappaport (אסף רפפורט)

Assaf Rappaport (אסף רפפורט) is the co-founder and chief executive officer of the cloud security company Wiz, which he sold for approximately US$32 billion, making this acquisition the largest of an Israeli tech company to date. 

26th of Nisan, 5785 Shani Sharvit Shukrun (שני שרביט שוקרון)

Shani Sharvit Shukrun (שני שרביט שוקרון) is a social entrepreneur. In 2019, after receiving a phone call from a woman who told her of  another woman whose children had nothing to eat, she built the nonprofit Making Hungry Children Happy, which feeds  those in need. In her “free supermarket,” families shop  without paying. Today, the group feeds over 2,000 families a week. 

27th of Nisan, 2025 Adam Berdichevsky (אדם ברדיצ'בסקי)

Adam Berdichevsky (אדם ברדיצ'בסקי) is an Israeli mechanical engineer and competitive wheelchair tennis player. He represented Israel at the 2016 Rio Paralympics and the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics. After he and his family, residents of Kibbutz Nir Yitzchak, survived the Oct. 7 attack, he represented Israel in singles and doubles at the 2024 Paris Paralympics  and was the flag bearer for the Israeli team.  

28th of Nisan, 5785 Ami Omer Dadaon (עמי עומר דדאון)

Ami Omer Dadaon (עמי עומר דדאון) is an Israeli Paralympic champion, a world champion swimmer, and a world record holder. He has won four gold medals at the Paralympics, seven gold medals at the World Championships, and nine gold medals at the European Championships. He represented Israel at the 2020 and 2024 Summer Paralympics. After winning a gold medal in Paris, he became emotional during the playing of Hatikvah at the awardsceremony, and his singing of it went viral.  

29th of Nisan, 5785 Malka Puterkovsky (מלכה פיוטרקובסקי)

Malka Puterkovsky (מלכה פיוטרקובסקי), a religious Orthodox public figure and educator, is a leading activist for women's rights, specifically the rights of women to study Torah. She addresses the issues of sexual violence in and out of the Orthodox community and is a leading voice in bridging the gap between Orthodox Judaism and liberal values. 

30th of Nisan, 5785 Israel Almasi (ישראל אלמסי)

Israel Almasi (ישראל אלמסי) is the president and CEO of Yedidim, an Israeli nonprofit that gives free roadside assistance. When he took over the organization, which started as a small local program in the Ultra-Orthodox community of Modi’in Ilit, he nationalized it. Today, it has over 65,000 volunteers across the nation. The group also helps bridge the cultural rift in Israeli society between the Ultra-Orthodox and the broader Jewish population. 

1st of Iyyar, 5785 Liron Lavi Turkenich (לירון לביא טורקניץ׳)

Liron Lavi Turkenich (לירון לביא טורקניץ׳), a graphic designer and entrepreneur, created Aravrit, a type font  that combines Hebrew and Arabic, creating a writing system that joins letters, ideas, and hearts. It communicates one message, in a variety of ways, symbolizing the connection between both cultures. 

2nd of Iyyar, 5785 Julia Zaher (ג’וליה זהר)

Julia Zaher (ג’וליה זהר), an Israeli-Arab businesswoman, philanthropist, and former schoolteacher, is the owner and CEO of Al Arz Tahini, a leading tahini company. She is known for her philanthropic work, focusing on women’s rights, supporting people with disabilities, and advancing LGBT health. She advocates for equality and inclusion, particularly in education and health care, and is a proponent of women’s empowerment in business. Her efforts have made her a prominent figure in promoting change within Israeli society. 

3rd of Iyyar, 5785 Tami Gutlib (תמי גוטליב)

Tami Gutlib (תמי גוטליב), the CEO of the Israeli political nonprofit Signing Anew, began her involvement with Women of the Wall in 2010. She regularly leads Rosh Chodesh prayers, and a few years ago, was elected vice chair of the organization. Gutlib was Born in Rehovot, she was raised in a traditional-conservative family and was a member of Noam, the Israeli conservative youth movement. She served in the IDF as a combat soldier in the Caracal Battalion. After her discharge, she held various leadership and management positions in Noam and the Conservative movement. She served 17 years in the Conservative Movement, most recently as vice president of communications and initiatives. 

4th of Iyyar, 5785 Etgar Keret( אתגר קרת)

Etgar Keret( אתגר קרת) is an Israeli author, short-story writer, and filmmaker known for his surreal, darkly humorous works. His works, including “The Bus Driver Who Wanted To Be God” and “Suddenly, a Knock on the Door,” explore everyday life with absurd twists. His stories have been translated into many languages. His writing often reflects his experiences and the complexities of Israeli society, politics, and identity. He is a prominent voice in Israeli cultural discourse, making him one of the country’s most influential contemporary writers. 

5th of Iyyar, 5785 Natalie Marcus (נטלי מרכוס)

Natalie Marcus (נטלי מרכוס) is an Israeli screenwriter and creator, best known for writing the popular Israeli TV series “HaYehudim Baim” (“The Jews Are Coming”). The show is a satirical comedy that explores Jewish history and culture. Through her work, she has become a prominent voice in Israeli television, contributing to a diverse and often bold representation of Israeli society. 

6th of Iyyar, 5785 Yossi Vasa (יוסי ואסה)

Yossi Vasa (יוסי ואסה) is an Israeli actor, comedian, and writer of Ethiopian descent. Born in Ethiopia, he made Aliyah at age 10 during Operation Moses. He uses humor to address identity, racism, and the Ethiopian-Israeli experience. Known for his show “It Sounds Better in Amharic” and the Emmy-winning series “Nevsu,” he is a leading voice for diversity in Israeli entertainment. 

7th of Iyyar, 5785 Dr. Amir Khnifess  (סרן במיל' ד"ר אמיר ח'ניפס )

Capt. (Res.) Dr. Amir Khnifess  (סרן במיל' ד"ר אמיר ח'ניפס ) 
is a Druze-Israeli legal scholar, lecturer, and public figure. He served as an officer in the IDF and is involved in social and public affairs, with a focus on integrating the Druze community within Israeli society. He specializes in issues of minority rights, civic identity, and socio-legal challenges in Israel. He frequently lectures and publishes on these topics and participates in public committees and organizations that promote equality and intercommunal understanding. His work bridges military experience, academic expertise, and civic engagement.

8th of Iyyar, 5785 Ester Rada (אסתר רדא)

Ester Rada (אסתר רדא) is an Israeli singer and actress known for blending soul, jazz, R&B, and Ethiopian music. Born to Ethiopian-Jewish parents, her unique sound reflects her diverse heritage. She gained international acclaim with her 2014 debut album and has since performed worldwide, becoming a symbol of cultural fusion in Israeli music.       Beyond her music, she is celebrated for representing multiculturalism and breaking barriers in the Israeli music scene, proudly embracing her Ethiopian heritage while pushing creative boundaries. 

9th of Iyyar, 5785 Rachel Edri (רחל אדרי)

Rachel Edri (רחל אדרי)  is an Israeli woman from the town of Ofakim who became widely known after a remarkable incident during the Hamas attacks on Israel on Oct.  7. When armed terrorists entered her home, she and her husband were taken hostage. Despite the danger, she remained calm and  engaged the attackers in conversation, while she spoke with the security forces, including her son. Her story became a symbol of resilience and bravery, earning her admiration  around the world. 

10th of Iyyar, 5785 Jimbo J (Omer Havron) עומר הברון) ג’ימבו ג’יי)

Jimbo J is an Israeli rapper, singer, songwriter, and performer whose music is shaped by his life in the Gaza envelope. His songs often capture the tension, resilience, and absurdity of everyday life in this area, blending sharp lyricism with wit and emotional depth. Rising to fame first as part of the hip-hop trio Victor Jackson, he later launched a successful solo career. His albums, especially What Rappers Want and Port Workers, received widespread praise, and his singles like “Stalbet in the Kibbutz,” “Asiti,” and “Matkotissio,” became radio hits across Israel. His ability to turn personal and regional struggles into compelling, relatable music has made him a powerful voice in Israeli culture. 

11th of Iyyar, 5785 Shai Tsabari שי צברי

Shai Tsabari שי צברי  is a prominent Israeli singer and composer known for his distinctive fusion of Mizrahi, rock, klezmer, and Yemenite musical traditions. He gained widespread recognition with his debut album Shacharit in 2015, which blends ancient Jewish liturgical melodies with contemporary sounds. His music often draws from his Yemenite heritage, incorporating elements of traditional prayers and melodies into modern arrangements. His energetic live performances, such as the 10th-anniversary concert of Shacharit in Tel Aviv, showcase his dynamic stage presence and vocal prowess. Collaborating with notable artists like Berry Sakharof, he continues to be a significant figure in the Israeli music scene, celebrated for his innovative approach to blending cultural influences. 

12th of Iyyar, 5785 Yonina Eldar יונינה אלדר

Yonina Eldar יונינה אלדר is a renowned Israeli electrical engineer and professor at the Weizmann Institute of Science. Known for her pioneering work in signal processing and medical imaging, she has made significant contributions to compressed sensing and sub-Nyquist sampling techniques. She has published over 300 journal articles and holds more than 20 patents. She has received numerous awards, including the IEEE Technical Achievement Award and the Israel Prize for Engineering and Technology in 2025. She is also recognized for her efforts to promote diversity in STEM.

13th of Iyyar, 5785 Yaron Tsur ירון צור

Yaron Tsur ירון צור  is a prominent Israeli historian and professor at Tel Aviv University, known for his research on Jews in Muslim countries, especially North Africa. A pioneer in Digital Humanities, he co-founded the Historical Jewish Press project and was awarded the Israel Prize in 2025 for his contributions to Jewish history. 

14th of Iyyar, 5785 Oren Smadja אורן סמדג’ה

Oren Smadja אורן סמדג’ה is a former Israeli judoka and Olympic bronze medalist, who made history in 1992 as the first Israeli man to win an Olympic medal. After retiring, he became a  coach, leading Israel’s men’s judo team and guiding athletes like Sagi Muki and Ori Sasson to international victories. In 2024, he was awarded the Israel Prize for his contributions to sport. That same year, his son Omer, a soldier, was killed in the Gaza conflict—his memory honored by the judo community. 

15th of Iyyar, 5785 Eliav Batito אליאב בטיטו

Eliav Batito אליאב בטיטו is an Israeli entrepreneur and social activist known for founding ISRAELI SPIRIT, a civic advocacy organization, and CIRCLE GROUP ISRAEL. He was a health and education reporter at Maariv and a transportation and communications reporter at Galei Tzahal. He also  founded DUDA BASHUK, a business specializing in selling crème brûlée. He also was a reporter and editor of the digital section at Frogi. 

16th of Iyyar, 5785 Mika and Uri Banki מיקה ואורי בנקי

Mika and Uri Banki מיקה ואורי בנקי  are Israeli lawyers and social activists who founded the nonprofit  Shira Banki’s Way in 2016 after the murder of their daughter, Shira Banki, at the Jerusalem Pride Parade in 2015. The organization promotes tolerance and dialogue in Israeli society, aiming to bridge divides and foster understanding among diverse communities. In 2022, the Bankis were honored with the lighting of a torch at Israel’s Independence Day ceremony for their efforts in advancing these values. 

17th of Iyyar, 5785 Kalman Samuels קלמן סמואלס

Kalman Samuels קלמן סמואלס is the founder of Shalva, the Israel Association for the Care and Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities. Inspired by his son's journey with disability, he established one of Israel’s leading organizations providing transformative services, advocacy, and support for individuals with disabilities and their families. Under his leadership, Shalva has become a beacon of hope and inclusion, offering a range of programs that cater to the diverse needs of its community. 

18th of Iyyar, 5785 Rabbi Inbar Bluzer Shalem הרבה ענבל בלוזר שלם

Rabbi Inbar Bluzer Shalem הרבה ענבל בלוזר שלם is a pioneering pluralistic rabbi and the CEO of Rashut Ha’Rabim, a network promoting Jewish renewal and diversity in Jerusalem. With a background in economics and humanitarian affairs, she has led initiatives that bridge religious and cultural divides and empower inclusive Jewish expression in Israeli public life. Shee has also held leadership roles at Haifa Hillel and University of Massachusetts Hillel, advocating for tolerance and pluralism in Jewish communities.  

19th of Iyyar, 5785 Daphni Leef דפני ליף

Daphni Leef דפני ליף is an Israeli social activist best known for initiating the 2011 social justice protests in Israel. It all began when she pitched a tent on Rothschild Boulevard in Tel Aviv to protest the soaring cost of housing. That act quickly grew into a nationwide movement, drawing hundreds of thousands of people demanding economic and social reforms. She became a prominent voice for young Israelis who are frustrated with inequality, and she continues to advocate for social change through activism and documentary filmmaking. 

20th of Iyyar, 5785 Lili Ben Ami לילי בן עמי

Lili Ben Ami לילי בן עמי is the founder of the Michal Sela Forum, established in memory of her sister, who was murdered by her partner. The foundation combats domestic violence through innovative tech-based solutions, education, and national advocacy, transforming tragedy into a force for social change. Her leadership has been instrumental in raising awareness and providing resources to support victims of domestic violence with the aim of creating a safer society for all. 

21st of Iyyar, 5785 Muhammad Al-Nabari מחמוד אלנבארי

Muhammad Al-Nabari מחמוד אלנבארי is the CEO of Desert Stars, which empowers Bedouin youth in Israel through education, leadership development, and community-building. A visionary leader, he fosters a new generation of changemakers striving for equity and integration within Israeli society. His work focuses on providing opportunities for Bedouin youth to succeed academically and professionally, bridging gaps between communities and promoting social cohesion. 

22nd of Iyyar, 5785 Dr. Hasan Agabria דר. חסן אגבאריה

 Dr. Hasan Agabria דר. חסן אגבאריה  is the principal of the Hand in Hand (Yad B’Yad) bilingual school in Jerusalem, where Jewish and Arab students learn in a shared environment. His leadership promotes coexistence, mutual respect, and peacebuilding through education. His efforts are central to fostering understanding and collaboration among different communities, preparing students to be active and empathetic citizens in a diverse society. 

23rd of Iyyar, 5785 Michael Zapesotskiמיכאל זפסוצקי

Michael Zapesotskiמיכאל זפסוצקי is an Israeli actor recognized for his role as an autistic child in the acclaimed TV series Yellow Peppers. His powerful performance brought attention to neurodiversity and deepened public awareness and empathy around autism in Israeli society. His portrayal has been praised for its authenticity and sensitivity, contributing to important conversations about inclusion and representation in media. 

24th of Iyyar, 5785 Pnina Tamano-Shata פנינה תמנו-שטה

Pnina Tamano-Shata פנינה תמנו-שטה  is an Ethiopian-born Israeli politician who made history as the first Ethiopian-Israeli woman to serve as a government minister. Born in a refugee camp in Sudan during Operation Moses, she immigrated to Israel at a young age. A passionate advocate for the Ethiopian-Israeli community, she became the minister of aliyah and integration, focusing on improving the integration of new immigrants, fighting discrimination, and advocating for equal rights. Her work aims to elevate the voices of marginalized communities and ensure their representation in Israeli society. 

24th of Iyyar, 5785 Dr. Amal Elsana Alh'jooj דר. אמל אלסאנע אלחג’וג’

Dr. Amal Elsana Alh'jooj דר. אמל אלסאנע אלחג’וג’ is a leading Bedouin feminist, peace activist, and social entrepreneur. She has worked to advance women’s rights, education, and civic equality in Bedouin and Arab communities within Israel and on the international stage. Her advocacy focuses on empowering women and marginalized groups, promoting social justice, and fostering dialogue between communities to achieve lasting peace. 

25th of Iyyar, 5785 Linoy Ashram לינוי אשרם

Linoy Ashram לינוי אשרם is an Olympic gold medalist in rhythmic gymnastics and a trailblazer in Israeli sports history. Her victory at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics made her the first Israeli woman to win gold in the sport, inspiring a new generation of athletes across the country. Her dedication and achievements have elevated the profile of rhythmic gymnastics in Israel and showcased the country's talent on the world stage. 

26th of Iyyar, 5785 Adi Ashkenazi עדי אשכנזי

Adi Ashkenazi עדי אשכנזי is an Israeli stand-up comedian and actress known for her sharp wit and relatable, self-deprecating humor. Drawing from her personal experiences, she often explores themes like relationships, family dynamics, and the struggles of everyday life in Israel. Her comedy is characterized by an honest, no-holds-barred approach, making her performances entertaining and highly relatable to audiences. She has earned recognition for her ability to blend humor with insightful commentary on the challenges women face in contemporary society, all while keeping her delivery lighthearted and approachable.

27th of Iyyar, 5785 Chani Nachmias חני נחמיאס

Chani Nachmias חני נחמיאס is an Israeli actress beloved for her work in children’s television and theater. A cultural icon for generations, she’ has been bringing joy, music, and memorable characters to Israeli kids since the 1980s. Her contributions have left a lasting impact on Israeli children's programming, endearing her to audiences young and old. 

28th of Iyyar, 5785 Anshel Friedman אנשל פרידמן

Anshel Friedman אנשל פרידמן is a Haredi police officer and volunteer with ZAKA, Israel’s emergency response and recovery organization. Bridging religious communities and state institutions, he represents a unique and vital voice of compassion and service during times of crisis. His work exemplifies the integration of faith and public service, demonstrating that religious values can coexist with civic responsibility. 

29th of Iyyar, 5785 Nir Hacohen ניר הכהן

Nir Hacohen ניר הכהן is the CEO of Etgarim, which is dedicated to empowering people with disabilities through outdoor sports and adventure. Under his leadership, Etgarim challenges stereotypes and fosters resilience, inclusion, and confidence for thousands of Israelis. His vision has expanded the organization's reach, providing transformative experiences that promote equality and social integration. 

1st of Sivan, 5785 Tali Ehrenthal טלי אהרנטל

Tali Ehrenthal  טלי אהרנטל is a social worker and the CEO of ASSAF – Aid Organization for Refugees and Asylum Seekers in Israel. She advocates for the rights and dignity of refugees, providing critical support and working toward just and humane policies in Israel. Her leadership has been instrumental in raising awareness and mobilizing resources to assist refugees and asylum seekers with the goal of creating a a more inclusive society. 

2nd of Sivan, 5785 Nissimmi Naim Naor ניסימי נעים נאור

Nissimmi Naim Naor ניסימי נעים נאור is a chef who weaves together memory, tradition, and identity through food. Known for his warm, carb-filled workshops, he uses culinary arts to teach Jewish heritage, build community, and create nourishing, shared cultural experiences. He has degrees in philosophy, economics, political science, and law. He received his rabbinical ordination from the Shalom Hartman Institute and serves as a casualties notification officer in the IDF reserves, having dedicated over 200 days to this role since October 7.

3rd of Sivan, 5785 Tal Hochman טל הוכמן

Tal Hochman טל הוכמן is the CEO of the Israel Women's Network, one of the country's leading organizations for advancing gender equality. She advocates for women’s rights in law, politics, and the workplace, leading campaigns to close gender gaps and promote equity across Israeli society.