Senate Resolution No. 995

BY: Senator MARTINS

HONORING Bayla Lovens upon the occasion of her
designation for special recognition by the Port
Jewish Center on June 14, 2025

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend individuals of exceptional character and commitment whose
purposeful endeavors serve to enhance the quality of life in their
communities and across the great State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Bayla Lovens upon the occasion of her designation for special
recognition by the Port Jewish Center at its Annual Gala, "Fueling Our
Future," on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at Harbor Links in Port Washington,
New York; and

WHEREAS, The Port Jewish Center is recognizing the dedicated leaders
of its committees whose tireless efforts ensure the Center's spiritual,
financial, and physical vitality; through their work, these committed
congregants uphold the core tenets of Reform Judaism-pursuing justice,
fostering community, caring for others, and repairing the world-thus
safeguarding the Center's mission and lasting presence for generations
to come; and

WHEREAS, Bayla Lovens has been an integral member of the Port Jewish
Center for over 37 years, and during that time, she has taken on a wide
range of leadership roles, embodying the spirit of service and
commitment to the community; and

WHEREAS, Over the years, Bayla Lovens has served as Past President,
Trustee, and lay leader of numerous Shabbat services, and now, as
co-chair of the Religious School Committee and chair of the newly
(re-)formed Worship Committee, she continues to make invaluable
contributions to the Port Jewish Center; when the Center asks for help,
Bayla responds without hesitation, offering her time, expertise, and
passion to support the congregation's mission; and

WHEREAS, As co-chair of the Religious School Committee, Bayla Lovens
coordinates communication and collaboration between the rabbi, the
religious school director, and parents, ensuring that the needs of
religious school families are heard and met, while also strengthening
the connection between these families and the senior members of the
congregation, fostering unity across generations; and

WHEREAS, Furthermore, as chair of the Worship Committee, Bayla
Lovens convenes a group of congregants to work closely with the rabbi to
provide feedback on the congregation's religious observances and holiday
celebrations, while also generating ideas to engage a broader segment of
the community in these practices; her leadership promotes a continuous
improvement of religious programming, ensuring that it remains vibrant
and meaningful to the entire congregation; and

WHEREAS, Bayla Lovens' leadership, dedication, and passion for Port
Jewish Center's mission have played a pivotal role in shaping the
Center's religious programming and overall community engagement; through
her tireless efforts, she ensures that the values of the Port Jewish
Center are passed on to future generations; and

WHEREAS, Rare indeed is the occurrence of such a dedicated,
compassionate, and visionary individual, whose remarkable contributions
over nearly four decades have left an indelible mark on the Port Jewish
Center and its members; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Bayla Lovens upon the occasion of her designation for special
recognition by the Port Jewish Center, and to extend its sincere
appreciation for her exceptional service and enduring contributions; and
be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Bayla Lovens.