JFOC Jewish Journal - June 2024

Yisrael Chai - The Nation of Israel LIVES

Yom Yerushalayim / Jerusalem Day - 28 Iyar this year on Tuesday night-Wednesday, June 4-5

Local News – Pages 6-7, 9 and 15 Jewish Federation Film Festival - Pages 16-17

Shavuot begins on 6 Sivan this year on Tuesday night, June 11

Word Substitution

By Keith Krivitzky, Managing Director

Jewish Federation of Ocean County keith@ocjf.org

www.jewishoceancounty.org www.jewishoceancounty.org/donate 732.363.0530

Ikeep my eyes open for opportunities to devote this column to important issues and wisdom – especially if I can find someone else to frame the content for me.

I was very taken by David Brooks’ column in The New York Times, “The Great Struggle for Liberalism” from March 28, 2024. He offers a perspective on Fareed Zakaria’s new book, “Age of Revolutions: Progress and Backlash from 1600 to the Present.”

Here is an extended excerpt from the second half of his column:

I’m one of those people who subscribes to the Austrian psychiatrist Viktor Frankl’s doctrine: “Man’s search for meaning is the primary motivation in his life.” To feel at home in the world, people need to see themselves serving some good – doing important work, loving others well, living within coherent moral communities, striving on behalf of some set of ideals.

The great liberal societies that Zakaria describes expanded and celebrated individual choice and individual freedom. But when liberalism thrived, that personal freedom lay upon a foundation of

Being part of a community framework … not only provides roots and a foundation for support and strength … but also provides both a canvas where individual impact can resonate more soundly and a framework for leveraging that impact on an even broader scale.

commitments and moral obligations that precede choice: our obligations to our families, to our communities and nations, to our ancestors and descendants, to God or some set of transcendent truths.

Over the past few generations, the celebration of individual freedom has overspilled its banks and begun to erode the underlying set of civic obligations. Especially after World War II and then into the 1960s, we saw the privatization of morality – the rise of what came to be known as the ethos of moral freedom. Americans were less likely to assume that people learn values by living in coherent moral communities. They were more likely to adopt the belief that each person has to come up with his or her own personal sense of right and wrong. As far back as 1955, the columnist Walter Lippmann saw that this was going to lead to trouble: “If what is good, what is right, what is true, is only what the individual ‘chooses’ to ‘invent,’ then we are outside the traditions of civility,” he wrote.

Trust is the faith that other people will do what they ought to do. When there are no shared moral values and norms, then social trust plummets. People feel alienated and under siege, and, as Hannah

Arendt observed, lonely societies turn to authoritarianism. People eagerly follow the great leader and protector, the one who will lead the us/them struggle that seems to give life meaning.

During our current moment of global populism, the liberal tradition is under threat. Many people have gone economically nationalist and culturally traditionalist. Around the world, authoritarian moralists promise to restore the old ways, the old religion, national greatness.

“There are certain things which are more important than ‘me,’ than my ego – family, nation, God,” Viktor Orban declared. Such men promise to restore the anchors of cultural, moral and civic stability, but they use brutal and bigoted strongman methods to get there.

President Biden tried to win over the disaffected by showering them with jobs and economic benefits. It doesn’t seem to have worked politically because the real absence people are feeling is an absence of meaning, belonging and recognition.

This election year, in the United States and around the globe, will be about whether liberalism can thrive again. Zakaria’s book will help readers feel honored and grateful that we get to be part of this glorious and ongoing liberal journey. He understands that we liberals can’t just offer economic benefits; we also have to make the spiritual and civic case for our way of life. He writes: “The greatest challenge remains to infuse that journey with moral meaning, to imbue it with the sense of pride and purpose that religion once did – to fill that hole in the heart.”

There’s glory in striving to add another chapter to the great liberal story – building a society that is technologically innovative, commercially daring, with expanding opportunities for all; building a

society in which culture is celebrated, families thrive, a society in which the great diversity of individuals can experience a sense of common purpose and have the space and energy to pursue their own adventures in living.

I like how Brooks frames liberalism beyond a right/left dichotomy – and I think that the points made on their own would make this excerpt worthwhile to include in this column. However, what made this even more interesting was a thought experiment I did, substituting the word “Jewishness” for “liberalism.” The reframed message provides just as compelling a case for why Jewish connections and identity can add value to peoples’ lives – and how this is just as much at risk today.

On a personal level, I became involved in Jewish life as an extension of a desire to, and a practical path for making a difference in the broader world. When one operates solely as an individual or on an individual level, it is more difficult to influence or impact the whole wide world. Being part of a community framework, such as a family or a people, not only provides roots and a foundation for support and strength, which I believe is necessary for affecting change – but also provides both a canvas where individual impact can resonate more soundly and a framework for leveraging that impact on an even broader scale.

It is not a coincidence that many of the most profound and influential liberal thinkers have been Jews. And the path to a brighter future for Jews means reclaiming this understanding of liberalism and a renewed embrace of our particular heritage and segment of the larger whole.

Arguments for the Sake of Heaven: Debating Israel and Gaza

By Rabbi Stephen D. Gold Beth Am Shalom, Lakewood www.bethamshalom.org

Commenting on Parashat Bo, Rabbi Reuven Greenvald teaches us the importance of asking questions: “The raising of critical questions about the Torah here is not an attempt to whitewash our sacred texts. Rather, raising questions is what Jewish tradition has always done to reapply its core values of justice and mercy to the complicated struggles in each generation.”

We should raise critical questions also whenever we discuss Torah, history or contemporary and controversial issues. More than an academic exercise, it is an attempt to grapple with the tough questions, remain true to our fundamental values and teach them honestly with application to this extremely complicated and troubled world.

Seven months into Israel’s war against Hamas, we should be asking some tough and painful questions. Asking them, however, invites some to question one’s Zionist credentials. With the spread of campus protests, that statement is even more true now, because as the protests have spread, so too have antisemitism, support for the Palestinian cause, and misinformation about Israel and its history.

Both sides have hardened their positions, and there is no room for even a little doubt or a slightly nuanced position. But I refuse to allow complicated and tragic events to shake my fundamental values, even as those events inspire questions and rethinking of my views.

For example, commenting on the campus protests, Rabbi Moffic (of Makom Solel Lakeside Congregation in Highland Park, Illinois) states: “While one can suggest Israel's response has been flawed, ignoring the origins of this conflict and the hostages held by Hamas suggests a disregard for Jewish lives. That's antisemitism.”

I agree. Therefore, I will not proclaim the sacredness of Jewish lives while denying the sacredness of others’ lives. And we

should condemn the campus protesters and others for doing just that. Nonetheless, Rabbi Moffic’s comment about Israel’s response is an anathema to those who are absolutist and will not even consider that Israel can err. But for me, as the war has evolved, so has my thinking. I now question Israel’s war strategy in light of other options that could free the hostages, end the killing of civilians and neuter Hamas. (See Thomas L. Friedman in The New York Times, 12/22/23, Richard Haass in The Wall Street Journal 3/16/24 and Nicholas Kristof in The New York Times 4/21/24).

May this war teach these two peoples that the only path to peace is acknowledging the humanity and rights of the other to live in a secure, sovereign state of its own.

But whether or not the options those gentlemen suggest are better than Israel’s current strategy is beside the point – the point being, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has gone on far too long and is far too complicated to have one who is completely virtuous and the other, evil. The fact that I support Israel and believe it has usually acted more ethically is also irrelevant. We should be able to discuss and debate with respect, without rancor or labeling one another.

We should feel comfortable asking painful questions. Asking them does not make us anti-Israel, any more than someone questioning and even criticizing the current U.S. administration is anti-American. I can love and support Israel while criticizing its present government. Advocating that governments act more justly makes us good citizens and supporters. Insisting that our leaders enact policies in accordance with our own values – even when it is inconvenient – and judge ourselves by the standards we judge others by, means we care deeply about those values and the people and nations we love.

So here are a few of my questions:

• Is the return of the hostages a top priority, or is Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government merely paying lip service to this objective?

• Is Hamas’ complete destruction even possible? (Some say “no,” while others suggest it will survive, just with a new name and the same goal.)

• If Israel does manage to kill every last Hamas fighter and fully destroy the

terror group’s infrastructure, at what cost in human life? How many more civilians will die from the fighting, starvation and disease? Can anyone reasonably expect Hamas to return our hostages – alive? How many more Israeli soldiers will be killed in combat or suffer life altering injuries to body and spirit?

• What is the government’s plan once the fighting ends? Did it ever even have one?

• What will Israel’s international standing in the world be when this is over? Even if the following figures are exaggerated and no independent confirmation exists, I think we acknowledge that thousands of people – mostly civilians – have been killed.

--Palestinians killed (as of May 7): 34,735, which includes the following:

--Hamas terrorists killed (as of April 5): 13,000

--Hamas leaders (as of April 5): 113 Also:

--Aid workers killed (as of late April): 200

--Journalists (as of late April): almost 100

Without doubt, the world scrutinizes Israel more closely than other nations. We can assume that the “peace-loving” campus demonstrators who cry “from the river to the sea” have no qualms about destroying Israel and no complaints about Ukraine or Sudan or gun violence or… But I will ask one more question:

• If any other nation were inflicting this amount of bloodshed and destruction on a civilian population, what opinions would we hold? We complain (rightly) about the international community’s double standard for Israel. Are we not also guilty of a double standard if we try to justify Israel’s government’s war strategies when we would condemn them when employed by any other entity?

Those questions notwithstanding, I know and speak about the following:

• 10-7 marks the worst single day massacre against Jews since the Holocaust.

• Terrorists murdered 1,163 Israelis who were engaged in peaceful pursuits, most of whom were “peaceniks.” Some drove Gaza residents to Israeli hospitals for medical care.0

• Hamas terrorists committed rape against some before killing them.

• Approximately 240 Israelis were kidnapped by Hamas terrorists and around 131 still remain half a year later, some of whom are victims of sexual violence.

• Over 600 Israeli soldiers have been ki-

lled defending Israel.

• 10-7 is emblematic of Hamas's depravity and goal of destroying Israel and proof of the existential threat it poses to Israel. It has promised to repeat 10-7.

• Hamas demonstrates its utter disregard for human life also by its cynical strategy of embedding its military infrastructure deeply into centers of Palestinian civilian life.

• Israel’s government has the same obligation that all governments owe to its citizens: to protect. Therefore, 10-7 obligated Israel to launch its offensive.

• Israel is not a colonial power inhabiting another people’s land. Jews are indigenous to the land and the oldest surviving people to have lived upon it. Yes, others have lived and do live there; ergo the problem. But even when we were not the majority, we had a presence in the land of Israel.

I know my words will trouble many and anger all on both sides who hold extremist positions. I don’t mind when people disagree with my views. My goal is to inspire people to think and question, because we Jews have a long history of disagreeing agreeably (albeit with some shouting). In fact, the Rabbis viewed a machloket (argument) as something good but only if the machloket was “l’sheim shamayim” (“for the sake of heaven”). Arguments which are for the sake of heaven, they taught, will prove fruitful; those not for the sake of heaven will prove fruitless (Pirkei Avot 5:20).

We are experiencing (at a distance) a turning point in the State of Israel’s history. Never before have we witnessed the Jewish State engaged in this type of war. Thus, arguments amongst us about Israel are critical – they are very much “for the sake of heaven.”

May the hostages come home “yesterday,” may Israel and its allies find a way to end this war and may this war teach these two peoples that the only path to peace is acknowledging the humanity and rights of the other to live in a secure, sovereign state of its own.

The Jewish Journal is pleased to host a monthly Rabbi Column, rotating among our community’s pulpit rabbis. The views and opinions expressed are those of the writer, and do not necessarily reflect those of The Jewish Journal, the Jewish Federation of Ocean County or the author’s Congregation.

Annabel and Manny Lindenbaum Honored by Chhange

The Jewish Community of Ocean County has much to be proud of, in terms of Jewish life, resources, impact on Israel, and key figures in Jewish education, values, and pride. Two of these reasons are Annabel and Manfred (Manny) Lindenbaum.

They were honored by Chhange (the Center for Holocaust, Human Rights & Genocide Education) with their Distinguished Service Award at the organization’s Spring Testimonial Dinner on April 16.

Manny is a child Holocaust Survivor. At six, he and his nine-year-old brother escaped on a Kindertransport to England. He served on the Labor Zionist Alliance and continues to support HIAS, the organization that made sure his family had food when they were in Poland in 1946 and helped them get to the United States. Manny also advocates for refugee children – because he says, he was one. Today, Manny is a favorite speaker at area schools, sharing his experiences while imparting the message that each of us is responsible for making the world better by speaking out against hate and bigotry.

Annabel is an educator and served as a teacher in Ocean County schools for many years. Annabel has chaired and is a current Board member of New Hope Community. New Hope Community is a premier residential facility for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities in the Catskills.

Both Manny and Annabel were founding members of the Federation. Manny started the Jewish Family & Children's Service and the Ocean County Jewish Federation's Community Relations Committee. Annabel is a former and the current Chair of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County as well as a former Jewish Federations of North America board member.

Dedicated to repairing the world (tikkun olam), both are activists who are passionate about educating students about the importance of standing up for others and environmental activists involved in a host of organizations including the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater.

Annabel and Manny are both key supporters of Chhange and this award was very

Temple Beth Or

well-deserved indeed. JFOC is proud to continue our partnership with Chhange sponsoring Ocean County students attending Chhange's May Colloquium.

180,000+

NEW GOAL $200,000 Israel Emergency Campaign (including a matching amount of $50,000 from the Jewish Federation of Ocean County)

YOU are invited to attend the Ocean County Office of Senior Services Public Hearing on the Needs of Older Adults!

When: May 23, 2024

Where: RWJ Barnabas Behavioral Health Center

1691 Rt. 9, Toms River, New Jersey 08754

Time: 10:00AM-12:00PM

We want to hear from older adults, caregivers, senior advocacy groups, service providers, and the general public!

Verbal testimony is accepted and is limited to 5 minutes. You may also submit written testimony, please call 732-929-2091 or email crosetto@co.ocean.nj.us.

Local News

Miriam’s Seder Held at Beth Am Shalom, Lakewood

On April 18, The Women of BAS held their annual Miriam’s Seder. Using a Haggadah specifically created for women and the issues facing them in modern times, the room was filled by close to sixty women who read responsively. Cindy Gold led the singing of Miriam’s Song and Dayenu. The delicious food was supplied by Circa in Lakewood.

Second Night Pesach Seder held at Beth Am Shalom, Lakewood

Beth Am Shalom hosted a Second Night Seder with approximately 85 people in attendance. Rabbi Steven Gold and Cantor Jon Saouma led the service in spirit and song – Rabbi Gold with never ending insightful leadership and Cantor Saouma setting our traditional songs to many new tunes that contributed to a joyous evening

for everyone. The Pickled Herring provided a superb traditional kosher-style dinner. The congregation was thrilled to host many families and individuals who found a table to share their Second Night Seder with. For information about future events, call the BAS Office at 732-3632800.

PJ Library Photos with Children

Do you have a photo of your child reading or holding a PJ Library book? We would like to publish some of them. We omit the names of children. The names of any adults in the photos could be included or omitted based on the guidance of the adult submitting the photo(s). Email them to JFOCeditor@ocjf.org

Pesach

Seder Table at home of Estera and Brad Singer

Sisterhood Shabbat

Held at

Temple Beth Or, Brick

Sisterhood Shabbat with a dinner and Friday night Shabbat service was held on May 10 in the gym at St. Thomas Lutheran Church in Brick. The Shabbat service was led by Sisterhood members followed by a special Oneg Shabbat receptiopn. Marlene Vogel is Sisterhood President. For information about future events, call the TBO Office at 732458-4700 or email templebethorbrick@gmail.com.

Many congregations are conducting prayer services and classes online which may be accessible from a computer or a telephone. Contact each congregation for further information to access these events. See page 29 for contact information.

Local News

Cantor Daniel Green of Congregation B’nai Israel

Honored for 50 Years of

By Mary Ann Wallis

Photos courtesy of Michael Janusz and Jorge Rod

The social hall was packed, a long serving table was heaped with sweets, and every table was decorated with pots of yellow tulips and candies. But all attention was on the dais, as Congregation B'nai Israel paid tribute to one of its most beloved clergy leaders, the retired Cantor Daniel Green, in honor of his 50 years of service to the Toms River synagogue.

More than 180 people – friends, relatives, congregants and honored guests – turned out for the event on Sunday, April 7. Cantor Green, who was hired by CBI in 1973 and retired in 2008, has remained active in both the community and in the shul, filling in to serve as guest hazzan, read from Torah, help with events and projects and generally make himself available for any needs of the congregation.

In honor of his service, there were speeches from Rabbi William Gershon, Rabbi Emeritus Richard Hammerman, Cantors Mark Biddelman and Jacob Greenberg, CBI President Glenn Jacobs, congregant Nancy Schechter, his former student Joel Cohen, and his son Avi Green and daughter Rebecca Green. A letter from Israel from his son, Meir, was read. And there were video tributes from past congregants and students and a slideshow of photos of Cantor Green through the decades.

A proclamation from Toms River Mayor Daniel T. Rodrick and the entire Toms River Council was presented by Council members Craig Coleman and James Quinlisk.

And of course there were numerous musical performances, including by Avi and Rebecca Green; Cantor Green's sisters

Service

Joyce Levine and Phyllis Sternlicht; Cantors Biddelman and Greenberg; and Cantor Green and his wife, Cantor Ruth Katz Green. There were many recollections of the “quiet good deeds that Dan has done for members of this shul” and those who are no longer members, as Rabbi Gershon put it.

In a video from Florida, past CBI president Zev Rosen and his wife, Fran, recalled how Cantor Green had been hired by the board in 1973. They described Cantor Green as patient, caring, empathetic, but noted he also has a silly side and an adventuresome side. Above all, they said, he was “a wonderful example of how we could each embrace Judaism.”

Schechter, who was master of ceremonies, said she worked closely with Cantor Green while working in the religious school office. She said the Cantor was one of those “who lead by example.”

CBI President Jacobs said Cantor Green was “devoted to religion and this congregation.” In return, he said, “The congregation truly loves and respects you.”

Rabbi Gershon said it has been a blessing to have a spiritual leader, “our hazzan,” remain in the community. His former student, Joel Cohen, described the Cantor as “quite simply the kindest person I’ve ever met. Cantor Green was always there. And he is still here,” Cohen said.

Cantor Greenberg, who recently left CBI to become the hazzan of Congregation B'nai Israel of Scotch Plains, summed it up when he said: “Thank you for being both my teacher and my friend.” He added: “I look forward to singing with Cantor Green for many more years to come.”

The event was organized by a committee headed by Penny Leifer.

YOU Made an Impact through the Jewish Federation of Ocean County – Jewish Relief Network Ukraine

Twice each year JFOC provides grants to our partners working to alleviate food insecurity. Local partners supported prior to Passover included: The Joel E. Perlmutter Memorial Food Pantry, Fulfill, and Kosher Meals on Wheels. We also sent grants to Leket Israel's National Food Bank, Joint Distribution Committee, and Jewish Relief Network Ukraine.

Here is a letter of thanks from the Jewish Relief Network Ukraine.

Dear President of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County,

Thank you for your recent donation to Jewish Relief Network Ukraine. There has never been a more important time or a greater need amongst the 50,000 Jews who count on us for their survival. For more than two years we have been supporting tens of thousands of people who have no one to turn to and nowhere to go – many lost their jobs and fled their homes with little more than the clothes on their back. Through regular distributions of food, medicine, household items, and much more, we have helped countless families and communities endure the past two years. Our work is made possible by generous donors like you.

Jewish Relief Network Ukraine is the largest boots-on-the-ground Jewish humanitarian aid organization in Ukraine. Immediately after the Russian invasion, many different groups came to Ukraine to provide support; the majority have since moved on to help people suffering in other parts of the world. Our leaders, staff and volunteers were working in the Ukrainian Jewish communities long before the war began, and we will be there long after it ends.

Our commitment extends beyond crisis response – we are invested in the longterm physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being of Jews throughout Ukraine. In addition to providing for daily needs, we run schools and provide tutoring for children, we host summer camps, we coordinate medical care and social services of all kinds, and we operate community centers, orphanages, and facilities for the elderly.

Our work is carried out by community leaders, staff and volunteers across the country who have long-term relationships with our constituents and a thorough understanding of their needs. We have a vast network of providers for goods and services of all types, inside Ukraine and

around the world, providing efficiencies and economies of scale. Accordingly, our administrative costs are extremely low, ensuring that donations reach those in need.

We encourage you to follow our work by visiting our website at www.jrnu.org. Additionally, we would be pleased to provide additional information or answer any questions you may have about our organization.

Thank you for your generosity and compassion.

Judi Garrett Chief Operating Officer

"For the Lord thy God is bringing you into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and depths that spring out of valleys and hills; a land of wheat and barley, and grapevines, figs and pomegranates; a land of oil olives and date honey."

Deuteronomy/Devarim 8:7-8

The Jewish Federation helped to build Israel. Today, we help keep it strong.

Recent Activities of the Jewish War Veterans

by

National Quartermaster Al Adler of the JWV Department

of New Jersey

On April 5, 2024, Jewish War Veterans Ladies Auxiliary National President Shirley Zak began a three day visit with the Department of New Jersey. On Friday night we took National President Zak to Beth Am Shalom in Lakewood where she was the guest speaker at Shabbat Services.

On Saturday April 6, National President Zak was given a special tour of the Chapel of the Air in Lakehurst and the site of the Hindenburg crash. National President Zak was then treated to a tour of the Vietnam Veterans Museum and Memorial in Holmdel.

On Sunday April 7, National President Zak attended the JWV Legislative Breakfast at the Clarion Hotel in Toms River. Later she attended a Grant A Wish at the Menlo Park Veterans Home sponsored by the Department of New Jersey Ladies Auxiliary where a terminally ill or very sick Veteran is granted their special request. Finally, Ms. Zak was treated

to a sumptuous dinner at Harold’s New York deli in Edison.

On April 7, the Jewish War Veterans and the JWV Ladies Auxiliary had their 42nd annual Legislative Breakfast at the Clarion Hotel and Convention Center in Toms River. This year the Legislative Breakfast honored Assemblyman Wayne P. DeAngelo of the 14th Legislative District as Legislator of the Year and the Honor Flight of Southern Jersey as the organization of the Year. The Legislative Breakfast was a success with nearly 100 guests in attendance.

On Sunday, April 14, JWV Post 178 held its Post Meeting with guest speakers Michael L Callwell and Tom Scalzullo from the Ocean County Prosecutor’s office. They spoke about bias and antisemitism in Ocean County and answered many questions from the audience.

On Wednesday, April 17, JWV National Quartermaster Al Adler and JWVA Department of New Jersey Ladies Auxiliary President and current National Ladies Auxiliary Junior Vice President Carol

Adler attended a volunteer appreciation luncheon at the Pines Manor in Edison. We enjoyed the companionship of the Veteran Service Officers and Volunteers in attendance.

As you can see by the above, the Post and Auxiliary 178 and the Department of New Jersey are very active and continues to serve our Community and the Veterans of our State.

At the Chapel of the Air in Lakehurst New Jersey: (l-r) National Ladies Auxiliary President Shirley Zak, Department of New Jersey Ladies Auxiliary President and National Ladies Auxiliary Junior Vice President Carol Adler and Department of New Jersey Senior Vice Commander Selina Kanowitz

(l-r) Major General Lisa Hou, Department of New Jersey Ladies Auxiliary President and National Ladies Auxiliary Senior Vice President Carol Adler and Deputy Commissioner of Veterans

At the Hindenburg Crash site: (l-r) National Ladies Auxiliary President Shirley Zak and Department of New Jersey Senior Vice Commander Selina Kanowitz

Jewish Federation of Ocean County – Israel Grants Update

With your support and financial donations, JFOC has been able to approve a third round of emergency funding since the beginning of the war on October 7. This includes:

• The Women’s Identification Unit of the IDF – a previous grantee that has been providing additional therapy for those women called up to serve and process those killed according to Jewish law

• GNT (Ganat) – an additional grant to our previous grantee doing holistic therapy for evacuees (primarily women)

• HaOgen – a new grant for an organization that supports the families of those who have been drafted (primarily women)

• The Counseling Center for Women – a new grant for the work which has stepped up their programs in response to October 7. The Counseling Center for Women is offering private and group psychotherapy for women during and after the war. The war conditions present a two-fold challenge for CCW. They provide subsidized psychotherapy for women, especially coming from low socio-economic

backgrounds. In today’s reality, many women cannot even pay subsidized fees for various reasons; family members are on reserve duty, many workplaces are either closed or working very few hours and many children are home needing care. They are in need of resources to allow for deeper subsidies for their clients. Additionally, they would like to reach more women who need their help and provide emergency psychotherapy as well as long- term assistance for coping with post-war trauma taking into consideration the unique psychology of women.

• Leket – additional funding to help meet increased food insecurity and other needs in Israel post October 7

• Kibbutz Nurim – to assist in their recovery as it is located near the Gaza border

• Shutaf – a renewal grant to assist with activities and camp this summer

• Crossroads – a renewal grant

• Bring Hersh Home – an additional grant to assist with their efforts to raise awareness and bring all the hostages home with these additional funds

They Came to America to Teach Teens about Israel. Then War in Gaza Changed the Curriculum.

By Eliana Rosen April 24, 2024 jta.org

This article was produced as part of JTA’s Teen Journalism Fellowship, a program that works with Jewish teens around the world to report on issues that affect their lives.

(JTA) – Naama Hertz signed up to come to America to teach diaspora Jews about life in Israel. Assigned to St. Louis, the Israeli teen couldn’t wait to talk to students about the food, music, dance and culture of the country she loves so much.

She never imagined that only months into her year-long IDF deferment she would be speaking to non-Jewish women and girls at the National Charity League about the Israel-Hamas war or representing her country amidst record-high levels of antisemitism.

Hertz is one of 150 Israeli 18-year-olds who delayed their army service to spend a year outside of Israel as emissaries beginning in September 2023. The program, run by the Jewish Agency for Israel, places the teens in synagogues, schools, JCCs, Jewish federations and other institutions in the United States, Canada, Europe and other countries. Emissaries, hosted by Jewish families, learn about Jewish life in the diaspora while teaching the communities about Israel. The teens are called ShinShinim, from the Hebrew word for shnat sherut, meaning “year of service.”

When the Israel-Hamas war began on Oct. 7, their placement became much more complicated. They had to grapple with the responsibility of representing a country at war, a country often vilified and defamed. Their Israel lessons suddenly had a lot more weight, inextricably linked to the current conflict. Meanwhile, thousands of miles away, their country was under attack and many of their friends and family were fighting on the front lines.

“The first few days were very difficult, we had to try to convince some of them to get out of bed,” said Tamar Reshef, the ShinShinim organizer for the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest New Jersey. “It was very hard. And the news just kept coming.”

“I felt guilty that I live here, that I’m here and not in Israel,” said Yadren Korazim, a ShinShin in Chicago. “It was very hard for me to just stay here and not help.” Korazim watched as her friends and family signed up to volunteer, pack food for soldiers, and help Israel in any way they could. She felt helpless and her first instinct was to return to Israel immediately. But soon, as she led Israel activities with American students, writing letters to soldiers and educating the Americans about the conflict, it became easier, and she settled into her place within the war effort.

While some of the ShinShinim contemplated returning home, whether to visit family or enlist immediately in the Israel Defense Forces, ultimately the Jewish Agency convinced them that they would be able to make even more of an impact staying in America.

Before the war, the ShinShinim’s responsibility was to create an understanding of Israeli culture and everyday life. Now, the stakes are higher. While they still aim to teach about the everyday aspects of the country, their lessons have a new undertone. They feel that it is impossible to teach about Israel right now without it being about the war.

“Even talking about the Israel National Trail or the Dead Sea right now, the thing that’s important right now is to keep Israel in mind,” said Rotem Reshef, an Israeli emissary in Greater MetroWest, which includes the suburbs west of Newark, New Jersey. “Even if it’s not talking exactly about [the war], it’s leaving an impact on the kids.”

They work with mostly Jewish groups, where evidence of positive aspects of life in Israel is a useful reminder for teens who are faced with anti-Israel sentiment on a regular basis in school and on social media. The ShinShinim see themselves as teachers and social ambassadors to Israel for non-Israeli Jews.

Yarden Korazim works at the Israel Education Center at a Chicago suburb public school helping in the Hebrew language

class. She changed her lesson plans after October 7. “After everything happened, we thought that it was very important to pause and to stop the fun activities and to talk a little bit about what’s going on,” she said.

She showed the class photos of her father, who is currently serving in the IDF. Other Chicago ShinShinim shared stories of their friends, many of whom are similar ages to the students. She said this made the war personal, giving the students a connection and faces to place in the news they have been hearing. “When you have a person that represents something, it’s much easier to look at it than seeing it on social media or on the internet or from far away,” said Reshef.

This was always the mission of the ShinShinim, to be a familiar Israeli teen face for teenage Jews living outside of Israel. But now, at a time when tensions surrounding Israel are so high, it is that much more important for Jews to have personal connections to Israel.

Reshef hopes the students remember her rather than any specific activity she led or lesson she taught, even if it is off-hand as being able to go to their friends and say, “Oh yeah, this girl from Israel came to speak with us.” A casual, positive experience with an Israeli, she said, will make the teenagers less likely to fall into propaganda traps that villainize or spread false information about Israel that has spread since the war’s outbreak. “I feel that every conversation that they have with the Shinshin will just change their mind,” agreed Yarden Korazim. “They

really feel that Israel is a thing and not just a name of something they learned.”

Living outside of Israel, the Israeli teens have begun to understand and experience a level of antisemitism that they don’t face back home. Naama Herz works at a St. Louis Hebrew school as a part of her gap year, and one week it was closed due to a bomb threat. She said this was the first time she really felt the weight of antisemitism personally. “It just breaks your heart,” Herz said. “Why can you ruin a person’s life because of hate?”

Other ShinShinim said they felt scared to outwardly express their Judaism or Israeli identity. “It’s this feeling that I can’t really speak Hebrew in public places,” said Chicago-based Korazim. “I’ve never felt that way [before]. It’s made me realize how Israel is a country that has to exist.”

The program, especially during such a difficult and highly charged year, also provides teens with tangible skills for when they return to Israel. It has shaped the kind of person they are going to be when they do join the IDF after their deferment. “I learned how to be far from home and still make myself feel like home here,” Reshef said. “I learned how to solve conflicts and not panic through every little thing. I think all of these things will be very helpful when I’ll be in the army and need to cope with some difficult situations.”

“But I think more than anything else, after October 7 I feel super motivated to come back home and serve my country. And I can say it’s not only me who feels that way. Every person my age who is about to serve in the army next year just can’t wait to give their part to the system.”

Working away from their home has not been easy. It is difficult to get the events in Israel out of their minds. “If there are sirens going on right now in Israel, you can’t get it out of your head,” said Itai Nussbaum, a ShinShin in Detroit. “You keep thinking of it while you’re doing something else.”

Current ShinShinim outside of Golda Och Academy in West Orange, New Jersey, one of the Jewish day schools where they work during their gap year (Daniel Seri)

Rotem Reshef (second from left) with the other ShinShinim of the Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest New Jersey (Daniel Seri)

Hope is the Thing with Feathers

Emily Dickinson

Hope is the thing with feathers

That perches in the soul, And sings the tune without the words, And never stops at all,

And sweetest in the gale is heard; And sore must be the storm

That could abash the little bird

That kept so many warm.

I've heard it in the chillest land, And on the strangest sea; Yet, never, in extremity, It asked a crumb of me.

Jewish Federation of Ocean County, a non-profit corporation, publishes The Jewish Journal 12 times a year. Views expressed by columnists, in readers’ letters and in reprinted opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Jewish Journal, the Jewish Federation of Ocean County or any agency of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County. Submissions of copy and .jpeg photos may be sent to Editor (jfoceditor@ocjf.org) or mailed to the known office of publication. All copy or photos submitted to The Jewish Journal shall become the property of The Jewish Journal and the Jewish Federation of Ocean County. All submissions of text or photography may be changed and printed at the discretion of the editor without notice to the submitter. The Jewish Journal reserves full discretion to decide what will be published. No material will be accepted which is considered against the best interest of the Jewish community. Acceptance of advertising neither endorses advertisers nor guarantees kashrut.

Jewish Holiday Family Photos

We invite our community members to submit a few photographs of their family’s recent holiday celebrations. Include a one-line caption describing the activity in the photo. You may include everyone’s name or just your family’s name or without any names at all. All submissions are subject to our editorial review, and we do not promise that all submitted photos will be published.

Email your submission to jfoceditor@ocjf.org.

We invite our community members to submit original poetry or short essays (500 words or less) to the Jewish Journal. All submissions are subject to our editorial review, and we do not promise that all will be published.

Email your submission to jfoceditor@ocjf.org.

Community Yom Hashoah Holocaust Remembrance Event Held

(photo credits: Teri Abramson, Avi Kotler and Jorge Rod)

About 200 people, including local officials, came together on Sunday, May 5 for the Community Yom HaShoah Service of Remembrance.

The memorial event was held at Congregation B’nai Israel (Toms River) and was co-sponsored by Beth Am Shalom (Lakewood), Congregation Ahavat Olam (Howell), Temple Beth Or (Brick) and the Jewish Federation of Ocean County.

The community event featured a probing interview of Holocaust survivors Gela Buchbinder and Arthur Spielman conducted by journalist Mary Ann Giordano, who edited for The New York Times and other New York-based publications and taught journalism at Columbia University.

Names of some Holocaust victims were read by two students, and survivors and their families had the opportunity to light candles in memory of those who perished.

Participating clergy included Rabbi David Amar (CAO), Rabbi William Gershon (CBI), Rabbi Stephen Gold (BAS), Cantors Daniel and Ruth Katz Green (CBI), Pastor Sue Jones (Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Toms River, and Chair of the Interfaith Clergy Association of Toms River) and Rabbi Robert Rubin (TBO). CBI Past-President Philip Brilliant, Jewish War Veterans Post #178 Commander Dave Kessler and Holocaust Survivor Henry Shery also participated. Three students handed out yellow roses to those who lit the special Memorial Candles. A series of panels from the Simon Wiesenthal Center giving an overview of the history of the Holocaust was on display. Stamp Out Hate pins and special Holocaust Remembrance candles were made available to the attendees. The Planning Committee was chaired by Mike Falk of CBI.

2024 Sponsorship Opportunities & Benefits

Gold Sponsor: $5,000 – Includes tickets for events and a full page ad in Ocean JPages

Silver Sponsor: $2,750 – Includes tickets for events and a half page ad in Ocean JPages

Bronze Sponsor: $1,500 – Includes tickets for events and a quarter page ad in Ocean JPages

Patron Sponsor: $1,000 – Includes tickets for events and name listing in Ocean JPages All sponsorship levels are listed in multiple issues of Jewish Journal and featured on our website, in community emails and social media

Sponsor Level:    Gold@$1800   Silver@$1000   Bronze@$540   Patron@$360 (Gold, Silver and Bronze Sponsors, please email camera-ready logo to sharron@ocjf.org)

Secure Community Network Monthly Report – April

By Michael G. Masters National Director & CEO

As we conclude the holiday of Passover, we are reminded of the challenges that faced our ancestors and their quest for freedom and liberation. It is a story that rings true for us today.

As the war between the State of Israel and Hamas enters its sixth month, initiated by Hamas’s brutal terror attack on Israeli civilians on 07 October, we remain in a state of heightened alert. This past month saw strikes against Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) forces in Syria and an unprecedented direct Iranian attack on Israel while, domestically, we have continued to see increased threats, harassment, and assaults directed against members of the Jewish community.

In the past several weeks, we have witnessed pro-Hamas and anti-Israel protests and encampments taking hold on over thirty campuses. Our Jewish students are facing increasingly aggressive, unwelcoming, and even violent environments on their campuses, made more so by the ineffective, insufficient, or nonexistent efforts to address these conditions by administrators on many campuses. Institutions that are meant to welcome the free exchange of ideas and positions are frequently intolerant not only to pro-Israel positions but to any expression of being Jewish.

These events, while deeply troubling, have not, however, weakened us – they have instead strengthened our resolve to ensure that our Jewish community can not merely exist, but thrive.

The network of security professionals working around the country on behalf of SCN, Federations, and national partners has been focused on protecting our community, in partnership and with adjacent organizations that are concerned about the rise in antisemitism in addition to the safety and security concerns that are the focus of SCN’s efforts. This work has included a collaborative statement on Congress's initial reduction in Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) funding, extensive work to educate lawmakers about the need for increased funding, and our work on campuses and the launch of a first-of-its-kind national camp security initiative. (Editor’s Note: See the article on this page for an update reflecting the

approval of an increase in government funding for the NSGP instead of the initially proposed decrease.)

As I noted in a recent op-ed in The Wall Street Journal, Passover is the story of exodus, and that is our history – whether it’s from ancient Egypt, medieval Spain, or the Russian Empire – but it does not need to be – nor will it be – the story of our future. There will be no exodus from the American experiment. We are working, together, to make it safe to live proud and public Jewish lives.

We will continue to do so.

Stay safe,

Holocaust Survivors

Secure

Community Network (SCN) Applauds Congressional Approval of Additional NSGP Funding Amidst Rising Threats Against Jewish Community

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, the Senate passed the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act with bipartisan support just days after the House passed the bill. The legislation includes a crucial provision allocating an additional $390 million for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), with $160 million made available for the fiscal year 2024 and the remaining funds set aside for 2025. This supplemental funding brings the total NSGP appropriations for the current year to an unprecedented $434.5 million, representing a more than 40% increase compared to the previous year's funding level of $305 million. Michael Masters, National Director & CEO of the Secure Community Network (SCN) – the official safety and security organization of the Jewish community in North America – issued the following statement in reaction to the supplemental NSGP funding:

"This additional funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program comes at a critical time, amidst an alarming rise in threats facing the Jewish community against the backdrop of October 7 and an escalation in Iranian hostilities. The NSGP has proven to be a vital resource

for helping to protect faith-based and nonprofit organizations at risk of terrorist attack. From locks on doors to ballistic glass, the funds provided through this program have been used to increase the security of the Jewish community – directly saving lives and preventing tragedies. We are deeply grateful for the bipartisan support for this funding package and Congress’ recognition of the urgent need to protect the Jewish community and all faith-based communities from those who wish to carry out acts of hate and violence."

SCN has played a pivotal role in supporting Jewish organizations across the United States in securing critical funding through the federal Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP). NSGP grants have enabled synagogues, community centers, schools, and other Jewish facilities to enhance their security measures, including the installation of equipment such as cameras, locks, and alarm systems, as well as training for staff and community members. SCN's efforts have resulted in a significant increase in NSGP funds awarded to organizations they assist, with the total amount growing to $27.4 million in 2023.

Hours: 9am - 8:00pm Sunday 10am - 6pm

University to Launch Institute to Address Antisemitism

Effort will bring multidisciplinary University of Michigan research and scholarship together.

By Adam Fisher Office of the Vice President for Communications

University of Michigan December 7, 2023 record.umich.edu

The University of Michigan will launch new initiatives as part of a university-wide effort to combat antisemitism and support religious diversity and inclusion on campus.

As an initial step, the university is establishing the Raoul Wallenberg Institute on the Ann Arbor campus to leverage U-M research and scholarship around global antisemitism and divisiveness. “Through these efforts, we are bringing together leading U-M expertise and diverse perspectives toward a safer and more inclusive world, and even more, a brighter world of peace,” President Santa J. Ono said in announcing the efforts during the December 7 meeting of the Board of Regents.

“At the University of Michigan, we aspire to lift the distinct, ineffable potential of each individual, no matter their background or belief,” said Laurie McCauley, provost and executive vice president for academic affairs. “Antisemitism is antithetical to everything we stand for as a campus and community, and we are committed to ensuring that we are a place where all students can live in peace and safety, and where they can learn and grow and thrive.”

The institute will be housed within the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts, with collaborations throughout the university community. U-M will share programming, priorities and structures as the institute takes shape, the provost said.

The Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion expects to announce complementary efforts related to enhancing religious inclusion and interfaith engagement in the coming weeks. The recently released DEI 2.0 strategic plan includes a campuswide action item focused on advancing religious, spiritual and interfaith diversity across schools, colleges, units, offices, programs and community spaces.

History and current events

The institute’s launch comes in the aftermath of the October 7 attack on Israeli citizens by Hamas, and amid the ongoing military conflict in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank – developments that have reverberated around the world and on American college campuses. In 2022, the Anti-Defamation League’s Center on Extremism reported the highest rate of recorded antisemitic incidents in the United States, prompting the White House to release its U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism in June.

U-M has long served as a hub for the Jewish-American university experience. In the early 20th century, elite northeastern institutions often imposed quotas on Jewish admissions, prompting many to apply to U-M and other prominent public universities. Today, the university is home to 6,500 Jewish students, extensive academic expertise on Judaic studies and antisemitism and an array of vibrant organizations that serve the campus Jewish community.

Raoul Wallenberg, the institute’s namesake, was a Swedish humanitarian, diplomat, businessman and architect. While serving as Sweden’s special envoy in German-occupied Budapest for six months in 1944, he saved thousands of Jewish lives during the Holocaust by issuing protective passports and sheltering Jews in buildings that he marked as Swedish territory.

Wallenberg graduated from U-M with a degree in architecture in 1935. He was posthumously recognized as one of the Righteous Among the Nations by the Israeli Holocaust memorial organization Yad Vashem.

The Wallenberg Medal at U-M is awarded annually to outstanding humanitarians who emulate Wallenberg’s courage, vision and leadership – values that will be core to the new institute’s work. Notable past recipients include Elie Wiesel, John Lewis and Desmond Tutu.

Columbia University 1968 and 2024: Protests Are Different

By Richard Hammerman, B.S., Columbia University 1968

Rabbi Emeritus, Congregation B'nai Israel, Toms River

April 25, 2024

It is with a heavy heart that I acknowledge that the takeover of the bucolic lawns of the Columbia University Campus to protest suffering in Gaza has its origins in the anti-Vietnam Columbia protests of 1968.

As a Columbia University 1968 graduate who joined the majority of our class in walking out on the formal graduation ceremonies taking place in front of Butler Library to participate in our own graduation ceremonies at the nearby Cathedral of St. John the Divine, I know what legitimate protest means. The Anti-Vietnam War, along with a proposed Columbia gymnasium on the Morningside Heights Park, with a segregated, lower level entrance for limited use by “the community,” were our major concerns.

Our protests were based on the University’s refusal to acknowledge the injustice of America’s involvement in the killing of Vietnamese and other Asian civilians, as well as American service personnel, in an unjust war. The University’s complicity in that war, by its acceptance of US Defense related work, added to our outrage. History has proven the justice of our cause.

It is inconceivable to me that the same will be said about the actions on the Columbia University campus, and campuses across the USA today. Where are the voices against Gazan terrorism? Where are the student voices against Hamas’ avowed purpose to destroy Israel and eventually Western nations? Who among the protestors are questioning why Hamas has refused to offer safety to Gazan civilians in the very tunnels which they have dug to hide their weapons and provide safety for their terrorist leaders? Who is objecting to Hamas placing missiles and armed units in schools, mosques, UN facilities and hospitals? Where is the outrage at Hamas’ murder of innocent civilians in Israel on October 7, 2023, and the acknowledgement that, since Israel evacuated Gaza in 2005, Hamas has used the territory as a terrorist base and diverting foreign aid from civilian to terrorist use? Where are the students’ voices calling for the release of innocent hostages?

2024 might have its origin in the anti-Vietnam War Columbia protests of 1968 but the protests today are vapid. They deny political, military, historical reality and honest humanitarian concern.

G

E

Support all the eff orts of Jewish Federation of Ocean County and Jewish Family and Children’s Service:

 Combatting Hate

 Serving our Holocaust Survivors

 Connecting our Community with N ews and Programs

 Helping Jews in Need Locally & Globally

Alan Baum

Mark Hauerstock

Mary Jassie

Steven Katz

Keith Krivitzky

Ronen & Janett Rotem

Harriet Selinger

Judith Shalitt

Your Name Here

Arrange automatic payments on your credit card or send in a monthly check

Contact JFOC office by calling 732-363-0530 sending your pledge to: 1235A Route 70, Lakewood, NJ 08701 or https://jewishoceancounty.org/gem

Why Choose Me?

Mobile Convenience: I travel to your location, whether it’s your home, office, hospital, or any other preferred meeting place. No need to worry about commuting; I’ll be there, saving you time and effort.

Trustworthy and Certified: Rest assured, I am a certified notary with a spotless record. Your sensitive documents will be handled with the utmost care, confidentiality, and security.

Flexible Hours: Life doesn’t adhere to a 9-to-5 schedule, and neither do I. I offer flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate your needs. Your convenience is my priority.

Wide Range of Services: From real estate documents and loan signings to legal forms and affidavits, I am proficient in handling various types of notarizations. No document is too complex for my expertise.

Business and Individual Clients: Whether you’re a business owner needing regular notary services or an individual with a one-time need, I am here to assist you. Reliable service tailored to your specific requirements.

TRIBUTE DONATIONS

FULFILL THE MITZVAH OF TZEDAKAH WITH AN INDIVIDUAL TRIBUTE CARD FOR $18 EACH.

Jewish Federation of Ocean County accepts a minimum donation of $18 and sends a Tribute card as well as lists your tribute in the Jewish Journal to anyone you may want to acknowledge; a simcha, graduation, an award, new grandchild, starting a new adventure, get well, loss of a loved one, or any other life-altering event. Call the Jewish Federation of Ocean County at 732-363-0530, email sharron@ocjf.org or visit our website www.jewishoceancounty.org/tribute.

A Tribute Card Pack

You can purchase a dozen blank assorted tribute cards to send on your own for a $36 contribution to the Jewish Federation.

Contact Sharron at the Jewish Federation of Ocean County at 732-363- 0530.

JFOC Tributes

April 9 – May 6

In Honor of

Addy, Brooke, Owen & Ethan by Marvin & Sherry Levy

Walter Berg’s special birthday by Rochelle Rosenberg

Connie Kaye’s 90th birthday by Arlene Grasso

Manny Lindenbaum by the Jewish American Club at Four Seasons Community Association

Shelly Newman & Fran Gimple by Lynn Kaban

In Memory of

The 6 million by Henry Shery

October 7th by Cynthia J. Freedman

Samuel and Elsa Abrahamovic by Stella Constandaki

Zelda Geller by Rosa Geller

Marvin S. Glasman by Arlene Glasman

Ben & Frieda Gross by Sahra Hup

Monroe Kurtz by Josephine Kurtz

Morton Lawrence by Judy Leibowitz

Karen Liss by Arnold Liss

Maurice Livingstone by Pauline Gallin

Leslie Meyerberg by Herbert & Louise Wechter

Joel Perlmutter by Lynn Perlmutter

Lea Pilecki by Bella Baldo

Here is How You Can Support Our Holocaust Survivors and Seniors Please contribute to:

• Friends of JFCS

• The Holocaust Survivors’ Special Fund

• The Seniors Lunch Program Special Fund

It is easy to donate a little each month, to make a big impact!

• Go online to www. jewishoceancounty.org

• Send a check, use your credit card, transfer stock.

• Call the office and talk with our staff.

• Bring in your Tzedakah box. We will count it for you.

PJ Library Photos with Children

Do you have a photo of your child reading or holding a PJ Library book? We would like to publish some of them. We omit the names of children. The names of any adults in the photos could be included or omitted based on the guidance of the adult submitting the photo(s). Email them to JFOCeditor@ocjf.org

• Consider making a monthly gift to support your community.

Jewish Federation of Ocean County 1235A Route 70, Lakewood, NJ 08701 732-363-0530

FedBeat from JFNA – Jewish Federations of North America jewishfederations.org

Federations: Anti-Israel and Antisemitic Protests

Violate Civil Rights

From JFNA

April 25, 2024 jewishfederations.org

Anti-Israel and antisemitic protests on too many college campuses have included threats and harassment of Jewish students and faculty. This behavior is a clear violation of their civil rights and must stop immediately. The Jewish Federations of North America encourage anyone who thinks they’re a victim of such behavior to report it to both school officials and law enforcement.

Jewish Federations also call on every college and university to: (1) ensure their policies clearly prohibit such behavior, and if not, immediately add appropriate amendments to their code of conduct; (2) adopt a zero tolerance policy with appropriate punishment for violators, including expulsion and referrals to law enforcement; (3) ensure that non-campus actors are excluded from all campus protest activity; and (4) prevent protests from targeting known Jewish locations, student groups, and individuals, including Jewish facilities such as Hillel and

Chabad centers, Jewish Greek life buildings, and other locations where Jews congregate together as a community.

In addition, the Jewish Federations of North America call on the United States Department of Education to immediately accelerate the review and decision on complaints related to antisemitism received by the Office of Civil Rights, and request that President Biden assist in directing all needed resources to the department to accomplish this goal.

Finally, the Jewish Federations of North America urge the United States Congress to quickly consider and adopt the Antisemitism Awareness Act, bipartisan legislation introduced in each house, that will make clear to all educational institutions what actions are antisemitic and therefore prohibited. There can be no equivocation on these points. As the school year draws to a close, and commencement activities begin, our campuses must be safe and welcoming for all students. Those who seek to disrupt and intimidate must be dealt with swiftly and decisively.

Federations Survey: Just 28% of Americans Support Unconditional Ceasefire

From JFNA April 18, 2024 jewishfederations.org

Five months after Hamas’s brutal, horrific, and unprovoked attacks against Israel on October 7, Americans’ support for Israel’s efforts to destroy Hamas remain steadfast, according to a Jewish Federations of North America survey.

Just 28% of Americans support an unconditional ceasefire that would leave Hamas in power and the hostages in their hands. That figure is only slightly up from the 20% who said the same in the first weeks of the war. Among American Jews, the figure stands at only 11%.

“Despite the length of the war, and unrelenting biased media coverage, Americans understand that Israel’s fight against terrorism is also our fight. They know that a ceasefire without the return of the hostages and the eventual defeat of Ha-

Federations Surpass $800 Million Mark for Israel Relief

From JFNA April 12, 2024 jewishfederations.org

Jewish Federations of North America drive to provide emergency relief to Israel following Hamas's brutal October 7th attacks have surpassed the $800 million mark. Out of $806 million raised by Jewish Federations, $410 million has been allocated to the most pressing needs on the ground through nearly 300 partner organizations and NGOs.

Organizations that have received funding include core partners, the Jewish Agency for Israel, Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), and World ORT, as well as many other partner organizations, including ReGrow, Project Horizon, Magen David Adom, Israel Trauma Coalition, and Brothers and Sisters for Israel.

Additionally, the Jewish Federations Israel Emergency Loan Fund is providing a lifeline to businesses across Israel severely impacted by the war and without access to traditional banking credit. Through its Investment Committee, the Loan Fund allocates funds to fully vetted loan platforms who each provide loans to small businesses in a particular set of markets and sectors, including agriculture.

to urgently replace equipment destroyed and looted by Hamas terrorists, allowing them to resume farming in time for the spring planting season.

The allocations enable the loan platforms to provide lower interest loans and to cover default risks in order to leverage larger scale loans from banks. Through these loans, Jewish Federations are supporting the Israeli economy at a time of unprecedented need and sustaining businesses that employ tens of thousands of people.

Federations have also taken special care to fund populations who have particular or specialized needs during this emergency, including at-risk youth, the LGBQT+ Community, Young Children, Women, Bedouin Communities, and People with Disabilities.

mas is wrong for Israel, wrong for Americans and wrong for the free world,” said Jewish Federations President and CEO Eric Fingerhut. “The deep bond between the American and Israeli people remains as strong as ever despite the difficult political challenges of the past six months.”

The survey was conducted by text message between February 23 and March 11, 2024, had a sample size of 1,901 American Jews and 4,143 American non-Jews, and was weighted to reflect the general population. Overall margin of error is ± 1.26% for the general US population and ± 2.25% for Jewish Adults.

The survey’s release comes on the heels of an Iranian attack on Israel. Nearly all of the drones and missiles launched by Iran were intercepted by Israel, with help from the United States, Great Britain, and Jordan. The same day, Hamas rejected Israel’s latest ceasefire proposal.

The top priorities for Americans in a cea-

Through the ReGrow program, Jewish Federations have pledged to support the farming communities of Western Negev through grants up to $12.5 million

sefire deal are the release of Israeli hostages (51%), removal of Hamas from government (44%), and disarmament of the group (43%). American Jews chose the same priorities, but in far greater numbers (80%, 73%, and 67%, respectively).

Ten times as many Americans support Israel over Hamas, even though Americans, including Jewish Americans, also showed that they have a great deal of empathy for the plight of Palestinians caught in this terrible situation, with similar amounts saying they empathize with Israelis and Palestinians.

Despite the ongoing support for Israel, news of the war has taken a deep, emotional toll on the American Jewish community, among whom 92% said the war was

Further, many Federations have partnerships with sister cities or regions in Israel. These partnerships encourage people-to-people connections and shared endeavors that have resulted in deep relationships, particularly post-10/7. Jewish Federations draw on the local expertise of the Israel-based Federation representatives and Jewish Agency Partnership staff to address the most pressing needs of the residents in affected regions through existing relationships with key NGO partners and local government decision makers.

emotionally affecting them somewhat or greatly. That figure is up 5 points from October, likely driven by the rise in antisemitism in the US. Among the general public, the figure fell 11 points to 48%.

The increased emotional toll is likely linked to the rapid rise in antisemitism, which has had implications for many Jews’ sense of security. American Jews are nearly twice as likely to say they felt at least somewhat concerned for their personal safety (58%) as the general population (32%). Among those feeling very concerned or concerned all the time, the rate is nearly triple (31% of Jews and 13% of the general population).

Continued on page 30

YOU Made an Impact through the Jewish Federation of Ocean County – Shutaf Inclusion Programs for Children, Teens and Young Adults with Disabilities in Israel

Here is an update from Shutaf.

We are very grateful to the Jewish Federation of Ocean County for your Shutaf support via the Israel Emergency Grants. The Shutaf staff spent many hours making contact and doing follow up with hotel staff, volunteer social workers and city officials in order to understand what are the needs of families with teens and young adults who have been displaced from their homes in the south and north, and living in hotels in Jerusalem.

There has been a great deal of confusion and disorganization in the field which hampered our ability to reach the right people, until we finally learned that those with family members with disabilities from many different towns and settlements were all placed together in one hotel in Jerusalem as well as a hotel near the Kinneret. While this may have made it easier to provide services for them, it

separated them from their communities and also meant that families were less interested in taking their children out of the hotel to an outside service provider.

For our young adult 21+ groups, we changed our approach to activities responding to their need to get out-andabout, albeit safely in Jerusalem. Together with the participants, we planned and enjoyed evenings out as a group, with activities in more secure locations with safe rooms, including a chocolate workshop, bowling, a fabulous and fun Purim party, and decorating ceramics. We will continue to focus on group activities, refraining from outdoor venues until the Ramadan holiday is over. We’ve subsidized these outings for the participants as they are significantly more expensive than the small-group outings that the participants plan and mostly pay for with their own funds.

A continued wartime challenge has been staff instability. We’ve had program staff who were called up and served for months. Some who’ve recently been released have returned to Shutaf but with a future call-up date in hand. Others came and

left the program once the academic year began late, in early January. Staff were hired, later choosing to leave for personal reasons due to the general instability

Continued on page 25

Shutaf

Continued from page 24

of this period including reasons such as having a family member or partner fighting, etc. We’re also facing commitment issues – those hired often struggle to come to work, often canceling at the last minute. People’s resilience is stretched.

Recruiting new participants proved impossible during this period. Without regular counselors, activities as a bigger

group make more sense, even though our participants enjoy outings as a smaller group. We simply lack the workforce to make all of the usual modifications for smaller groups although we remain committed to serving our individual participant needs to the best of our ability. Our program director has been present at every gathering, supporting the coordinator and pinch hitting as a staffer when needed.

Shutaf Story

One Shutaf staffer who’s worked yearround at Shutaf since the summer of 2022 has struggled since her return from her army service. During the year, she coordinates the 21+ group activities, handles training for our camp vocational Junior counselor program, and works on planning and more for summer camp. Soon after October 7, she was called up, serving in Gaza and the surrounding area until late January. She has had difficulty coming back to her regular work life, and functioning as she did before at Shutaf, given her traumatizing war experiences. We have been supporting her, allowing her the time she needs, appreciating that she is working through a great deal. In the meantime, while she is unable to return to her leadership role in the program, she’s doing her best to help out with logistics, and showing up to work

as with the participants at teen and young adult programs.

What’s Needed Now

One of our biggest challenges as we move forward towards Camp Shutaf in August will be staffing. Given the shifts and changes of the past year, committing to working at camp will be challenging. Our counselor staff is generally made up of post army and national service young people, ages 21 and up. We hire a more mature staffer than the average day camp who uses high school students, given the complex needs of Shutaf campers.

The war pushed off the academic year by three months so if potential staffers are studying they may still have classes or exams in August. The Israeli exam period is a long one with opportunities to retake exams as needed based on grades as well as work and army commitments. If they’re not in school, they may have taken temporary work as they wait for another call up to the army over the spring and summer months.

Outreach for staff has already started as we’ve begun to investigate pre-army programs in order to find a small group of younger staffers who can commit even as they can’t be the bulk of our counselor staff.

Each summer, we’ve also raised our base wage so that young people see the work as decently paid compared to other shortterm summer jobs. We also offer signing bonuses and bring-a-friend bonuses in order to encourage sharing Shutaf with friends and beyond. Since COVID, hiring staff has become quite complicated, let alone hours of work marketing, reviewing CV’s, interviewing, and training before camp begins, all separate from supporting staff and keeping them focused during the 3-week program.

This year, we need to make work at camp even more appealing as well as financially worthwhile, together with sharing how we will support staff coping with the challenges that this past year has entailed.

Shutaf invests heavily in the careful choosing, intense training and ongoing mentorship of our counselor staff since this is key to reaching every participant effectively and making sure their experience is positive. We request the federation’s assistance of $5,000 for the added costs for counselor staff at Shutaf’s Inclusive Summer Camp this August.

changing lives... JEWISH FAMILY AND

The Importance of Friendships

By Rita Sason, LCSW, Director Jewish Family & Children’s Service

Friendships have a major impact on health and well-being. The importance of friendships is the number one predictor of successful aging. It is of greater importance than diet and exercise, with the added bonus that friendships are not costly.

Friendships are helpful in good times and bad. They reduce isolation, loneliness and depression. But they do more. It turns out that healthy relationships actually contribute to good physical health. Having a close circle of friends can decrease your risk of health problems like diabetes, heart attack, and stroke.

As we age it can become difficult to maintain friendships. Changing interests, moving and changing lifestyles all impact friendships. Also, as we age, the opportunities to develop new friendships become more limited. We are not naturally meeting new people through work, school or children.

One overlooked type of friendship is the casual acquaintance. The stranger you speak to at the supermarket, the staff at the pet store, the individual on the plane you ask about the book they are reading. Psychologist Nicholas Epley, PhD, of the University of Chicago, and his colleagues have found that conversations with strangers tend to be less awkward, more enjoyable, and more connecting than people expect. To their own surprise, people also tend to prefer having deep conversations with strangers over shallow ones (Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, Vol. 122, No. 3, 2022).

The following are 6 methods of developing new friendships. Remember persistence is necessary. Take the initiative rather than waiting for invitations to come your way and keep trying. You may need

to suggest plans a few times before you can tell if your interest in a new friend is mutual.

• Attend community events Look for groups or clubs that gather around an interest or hobby you share. You may find these groups online, or they may be listed in the newspaper or on community bulletin boards. There are also many websites that help you connect with new friends. Check out Ocean County College, Ocean County Library, Jewish Journal and/or meetup.com.

• Volunteer Offer your time or talents at a hospital, place of worship, museum, community center, charitable group or other organization. You can form strong connections when you work with people who have mutual interests.

• Extend and accept invitations. Invite a friend to join you for coffee or lunch. When you're invited to a social gathering, say yes. Contact someone who recently invited you to an activity and return the favor.

• Take up a new interest Take a college or community education course to meet people who have similar interests. Join a class at a local gym, senior center or community fitness facility.

• Join a faith community. Take advantage of special activities and get-toknow-you events or new members.

• Take a walk Grab your kids or pet and head outside. Chat with neighbors who are also out and about or head to a popular park and strike up conversations there.

Above all, stay positive. You may not become friends with everyone you meet but maintaining a friendly attitude and demeanor can help you improve the relationships in your life. It may also sow the seeds of friendship with new acquaintances increasing both the mental and physical health of your life.

Together with the Conference on Jewish Material Claims Against Germany (Claims Conference) and a grant from the State of New Jersey, the Jewish Family and Children’s Service of the Jewish Federation of Ocean County has been providing the sacred obligation of pikuach nefesh (saving a life in jeopardy) to Holocaust Survivors for many years. We realize that unless you are impacted directly, you may not fully appreciate how important this work is. Every dollar you contribute will be matched 25 times!

CHILDREN'S SERVICE

...making a difference

How to Talk to Kids About the Israel-Hamas War

PJ Library and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation have a deep, unshakable connection to the State of Israel. We are proud to share stories with families around the globe that celebrate Israel and promote a sense of responsibility to the country and its people. And we are proud to reach hundreds of thousands of Israeli children and their families each month through PJ Library’s Hebrew-language counterpart, Sifriyat Pijama, and Arabic-language companion program, Maktabat al-Fanoos.

If you are struggling, as many of us are, to navigate conversations about events in Israel with your children or grandchildren, we’ve compiled a shortlist of resources below.

Processing the horrific attack on Israel is difficult. Explaining it to a child can feel

borderline impossible. It’s helpful to:

1. Take the cues from your child.

2. Model calm.

3. Be reassuring.

4. Help children express their feelings.

5. Be developmentally appropriate.

Also, the Jewish Federation of Ocean County has two webinars on the PJ Library page (www.jewishoceancounty. org/pj-library): “How to Talk to Children About Israel Today” and “Jewish Grandparenting in Times of Crisis.”

It's important to remember that we can hold both the pain of this moment as well as everyday moments of Jewish joy and pride. Enjoy some Israel books.

In Our Name: A Message from Jewish Students at Columbia University

To the Columbia Community:

Over the past six months, many have spoken in our name. Some are well-meaning alumni or non-affiliates who show up to wave the Israeli flag outside Columbia’s gates. Some are politicians looking to use our experiences to foment America’s culture war. Most notably, some are our Jewish peers who tokenize themselves by claiming to represent “real Jewish values,” and attempt to delegitimize our lived experiences of antisemitism. We are here, writing to you as Jewish students at Columbia University, who are connected to our community and deeply engaged with our culture and history. We would like to speak in our name.

Many of us sit next to you in class. We are your lab partners, your study buddies, your peers, and your friends. We partake in the same student government, clubs, Greek life, volunteer organizations, and sports teams as you.

Most of us did not choose to be political activists. We do not bang on drums and chant catchy slogans. We are average students, just trying to make it through finals much like the rest of you. Those who demonize us under the cloak of anti-Zionism forced us into our activism and forced us to publicly defend our Jewish identities.

We proudly believe in the Jewish People’s right to self-determination in our historic homeland as a fundamental tenet of our Jewish identity. Contrary to what many have tried to sell you – no, Judaism cannot be separated from Israel. Zionism is, simply put, the manifestation of that belief.

Our religious texts are replete with references to Israel, Zion, and Jerusalem. The land of Israel is filled with archaeological remnants of a Jewish presence spanning centuries. Yet, despite generations of living in exile and diaspora across the globe, the Jewish People never ceased dreaming of returning to our homeland — Judea, the very place from which we derive our name, “Jews.” Indeed, just a couple of days ago, we all closed our Passover seders with the proclamation, “Next Year in Jerusalem!”

Many of us are not religiously observant, yet Zionism remains a pillar of our Jewish identities. We have been kicked out of Russia, Libya, Ethiopia, Yemen, Afghanistan, Poland, Egypt, Algeria, Germany, Iran, and the list goes on. We connect to Israel not only as our ancestral homeland

but as the only place in the modern world where Jews can safely take ownership of their own destiny. Our experiences at Columbia in the last six months are a poignant reminder of just that.

We were raised on stories from our grandparents of concentration camps, gas chambers, and ethnic cleansing. The essence of Hitler’s antisemitism was the very fact that we were “not European” enough, that as Jews we were threats to the “superior” Aryan race. This ideology ultimately left six million of our own in ashes.

The evil irony of today’s antisemitism is a twisted reversal of our Holocaust legacy; protestors on campus have dehumanized us, imposing upon us the characterization of the “white colonizer.” We have been told that we are “the oppressors of all brown people” and that “the Holocaust wasn’t special.” Students at Columbia have chanted “we don’t want no Zionists here,” alongside “death to the Zionist State” and to “go back to Poland,” where our relatives lie in mass graves.

This sick distortion illuminates the nature of antisemitism: In every generation, the Jewish People are blamed and scapegoated as responsible for the societal evil of the time. In Iran and in the Arab world, we were ethnically cleansed for our presumed ties to the “Zionist entity.” In Russia, we endured state-sponsored violence and were ultimately massacred for being capitalists. In Europe, we were the victims of genocide because we were communists and not European enough. And today, we face the accusation of being too European, painted as society’s worst evils – colonizers and oppressors. We are targeted for our belief that Israel, our ancestral and religious homeland, has a right to exist. We are targeted by those who misuse the word Zionist as a sanitized slur for Jew, synonymous with racist, oppressive, or genocidal. We know all too well that antisemitism is shapeshifting.

We are proud of Israel. The only democracy in the Middle East, Israel is home to millions of Mizrachi Jews (Jews of Middle Eastern descent), Ashkenazi Jews (Jews of Central and Eastern European descent), and Ethiopian Jews, as well as millions of Arab Israelis, over one million Muslims, and hundreds of thousands of Christians and Druze. Israel is nothing short of a miracle for the Jewish People and for the Middle East more broadly.

Our love for Israel does not necessitate blind political conformity. It’s quite the opposite. For many of us, it is our deep love for and commitment to Israel that pushes us to object when its government acts in ways we find problematic. Israeli political disagreement is an inherently Zionist activity; look no further than the protests against Netanyahu’s judicial reforms – from New York to Tel Aviv – to understand what it means to fight for the Israel we imagine. All it takes are a couple of coffee chats with us to realize that our visions for Israel differ dramatically from one another. Yet we all come from a place of love and an aspiration for a better future for Israelis and Palestinians alike.

If the last six months on campus have taught us anything, it is that a large and vocal population of the Columbia community does not understand the meaning of Zionism, and subsequently does not understand the essence of the Jewish People. Yet despite the fact that we have been calling out the antisemitism we’ve been experiencing for months, our concerns have been brushed off and invalidated. So here we are to remind you:

We sounded the alarm on October 12 when many protested against Israel while our friends’ and families’ dead bodies were still warm.

We recoiled when people screamed “resist by any means necessary,” telling us we are “all inbred” and that we “have no culture.”

We shuddered when an “activist” held

up a sign telling Jewish students they were Hamas’s next targets, and we shook our heads in disbelief when Sidechat users told us we were lying.

We ultimately were not surprised when a leader of the CUAD encampment said publicly and proudly that “Zionists don’t deserve to live” and that we’re lucky they are “not just going out and murdering Zionists.”

We felt helpless when we watched students and faculty physically block Jewish students from entering parts of the campus we share, or even when they turned their faces away in silence. This silence is familiar. We will never forget.

One thing is for sure. We will not stop standing up for ourselves. We are proud to be Jews, and we are proud to be Zionists.

We came to Columbia because we wanted to expand our minds and engage in complex conversations. While campus may be riddled with hateful rhetoric and simplistic binaries now, it is never too late to start repairing the fractures and begin developing meaningful relationships across political and religious divides. Our tradition tells us, “Love peace and pursue peace.” We hope you will join us in earnestly pursuing peace, truth, and empathy. Together we can repair our campus.

Signed by over 500 Columbia Jewish students

SYNAGOGUES

CHABAD

CHABAD JEWISH CENTER

OF JACKSON

645 Cross Street

Lakewood, NJ 08701

Rabbi Shmuel Naparstek 732-523-5112

Email: info@chabadofjackson.com www.ChabadofJackson.com

CHABAD JEWISH CENTER OF TOMS RIVER 2001 Church Road Toms River, NJ 08753

Rabbi Moshe Gourarie

732-349-4199

Email: rabbi@chabadtomsriver.com www.chabadtomsriver.com

CONSERVATIVE

CONGREGATION AHAVAT OLAM 106 Windeler Road Howell, NJ 07731

Rabbi Cantor David Amar

Rabbi Emeritus Michael Klein

732-719-3500

email: CAOReceptionist@cao-nj.org www.cao-nj.org

CONGREGATION B'NAI ISRAEL 1488 Old Freehold Road Toms River, NJ 08753

Rabbi William Gershon

Rabbi Emeritus Richard Hammerman

Cantor Emeritus Daniel Green 732-349-1244

Email: info@cbitr.org www.cbitr.org

TEMPLE BETH OR P.O. Box 789 Brick, NJ 08723

Rabbi Robert B. Rubin

Rabbi Emeritus Dr. Robert E. Fierstien 732-458-4700

Email: templebethorbrick@gmail.com www.templebethorbrick.org

ORTHODOX

CONGREGATION SONS OF ISRAEL

590 Madison Avenue Lakewood, NJ 08701

Rabbi Shmuel Tendler

732-364-2230

Chazan Zelig Freilich

CONGREGATION SONS OF ISRAEL 401 Park Ave. Lakewood, NJ 08701

Rabbi Baruch Ber Yoffe 732-367-3116

SHABBAT & SHAVUOT CANDLE LIGHTING IN LAKEWOOD

May 17 7:48 PM May 24 7:54 PM May 31 8:00 PM

June 7 8:05 PM

June 11 8:07 PM

June 12 9:07 PM

June 14 8:08 PM

June 21 8:10 PM

June 28 8:11 PM

REFORM

BETH AM SHALOM 1235 State Highway 70 Lakewood, NJ 08701

Rabbi Stephen D. Gold Cantor Jon Saouma

732-363-2800

Email: office@bethamshalom.org www.bethamshalom.org

For Shabbat:

Blessed are You, Ad-nai our G-d, Sovereign of the universe, who hallows us with mitzvot, commanding us to kindle the light of Shabbat.

UNAFFILIATED

JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF LBI 2411 Long Beach Blvd. Spray Beach, NJ 08008

Rabbi Michael Jay 609-492-4090

Email: jccoflbi@gmail.com www.jccoflbi.org

For Shavuot Nights - 1 and 2

Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Sovereign of the universe, who hallows us with mitzvot, commanding us to kindle the light of Holiday.

For Shavuot Nights - 1 and 2

Blessed are You, Adonai our God, Sovereign of the universe, who has kept us alive and sustained us and enabled us to reach this moment in time.

Here is How You Can Support Our Holocaust Survivors and Seniors

Please contribute to:

• Friends of JFCS

• The Holocaust Survivors’ Special Fund

• The Seniors Lunch Program Special Fund

It is easy to donate a little each month, to make a big impact!

• Go online to www. jewishoceancounty.org.

• Send a check, use your credit card, transfer stock.

• Call the office and talk with our staff.

• Bring in your Tzedakah box. We will count it for you.

• Consider making a monthly gift to support your community.

Jewish Federation of Ocean County 1235A Route 70, Lakewood, NJ 08701 732-363-0530

Nesanel “Nate”

Behold the Gaurdian of Israel will neither slumber nor sleep (Tehillim 121)

Federations Survey

Continued from page 23

Those figures have eased slightly since October, when Jews said they were 71% likely to feel at least somewhat concerned and 42% very concerned and concerned all the time.

But Jews who wore “distinctively Jewish” items were nearly 3 times as likely to report being concerned for their safety “all the time” as Jews who did not.

In October, these fears likely fueled a trend of 25% of Jews hiding distinctively Jewish items such as yarmulkes and Jewish stars. In the months that have passed, a significant majority of those who previously reported hiding these items (66%) have decided to return to wearing these items. That leaves roughly 8% who continue to feel uncomfortable displaying these Jewish articles.

“The significant investments we have made to secure our communities through our LiveSecure initiative are making a difference,” said Fingerhut. “Despite the horrific spike in antisemitism, the security infrastructure we have built has helped reassure people that they can keep living their Jewish communal lives.”

Large majorities of American Jews said they continue to feel strong emotional bonds to Israel (79%) and that it makes them proud to be Jewish (72%). Among

the 29% of American Jews who didn’t feel comfortable supporting Israel in public, over two-thirds (68%) said it was because they were concerned about being the target of antisemitism.

Interestingly, the few explicit Hamas supporters were the most comfortable being vocal about their positions, with 83% saying they were very or somewhat comfortable expressing their views publicly. That figure is 14 points higher than those who identified as supporting Israel, and 20 points higher than those who said they support Palestine.

“It is so important for us to understand the real needs and sentiments of the public around Israel and the war so that we can respond appropriately based on facts and data,” said Jewish Federations of North America Chief Impact and Growth Officer Mimi Kravetz. “We look forward to bringing this data to Federations and partners so that they can further mobilize local resources to provide education, security, and advocacy tools for our communities in the wake of the events of October 7th.”

The SMS text-based survey was fielded by Benenson Strategy Group and funded by and developed in partnership with The Diane and Guilford Glazer Foundation.

Jewish Federation of Ocean County is now on Facebook

Like us at: www.facebook.com/jewishocean

We continue our prayers for the situation in Israel:

May those who are still captive as hostages be released soon and safely.

May those who are wounded have a complete recovery.

May the memories of those who died be forever a blessing.

May all have peace.