Lawrence residents in Kyoto, Japan

Malky and Jay Spector, of Lawrence, read an edition of the Nassau Herald while riding in a rickshaw in Kyoto, Japan. The Spectors are well known Five Towns philanthropists, who were honored earlier this year for their volunteer efforts and financial support of the Friends of Israel Defense Forces. Malky’s parents — Judith and Zoltan Lefkovits — both Holocaust survivors were recognized at the same FIDF event.

Established in 1981, the Friends of the Israel Defense Forces has more than 150,000 supporters and 23 chapters across the U.S. and Panama. It offers “lone soldiers” cultural, educational, recreational and social programs, and an array of services. Lone soldiers are IDF military personnel who do not have immediate family in Israel.