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GLOBAL
Writer of sitcom that aired instead of Eurovision in Ireland calls broadcaster’s boycott over Israel ‘disgraceful antisemitism’
Grace Gilson
(JTA) — Irish comedy writer Graham Linehan accused Ireland’s public broadcaster of “disgraceful antisemitism” over its decision not to air this year’s Eurovision Song Contest because of Israel’s participation — even as his work will get prime airtime as a result.
Instead of airing the annual international song contest’s finale Saturday, May 16, which Ireland and four other nations have boycotted this year over Israel’s participation, the country’s public broadcaster, RTÉ, scheduled an episode of Father Ted, a beloved Irish sitcom that Linehan co-created.
“I am disgusted that Father Ted is being used as a fig leaf to cover RTE’s disgraceful antisemitism” Linehan wrote in a post on X. He later added that the broadcaster was turning Father Ted into an antisemitic dogwhistle.”
Linehan, who has become a prominent antitransgender activist in recent years, also posted an online petition calling for the resignation of RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst over the broadcaster’s decision not to air the Eurovision finale because of Israel’s participation.
“I did not give my permission for Father Ted to be used as a prop in an antisemitic political gesture. I object to it in the strongest possible terms,” Linehan wrote. “This is not the Ireland I know. This is not the Ireland that gave Father Ted to the world. RTÉ’s institutional antisemitism is poisoning Irish public life, normalising Jew-hatred under the guise of solidarity, and it must be confronted.”
They’re losing the opportunity to be in this amazing experience. So I am full of hope that next year they can sing and spread their light.
Linehan’s petition, which had garnered over 4,000 signatures in just two days, came months after RTÉ announced plans to boycott the competition in December, writing in a statement at the time that its participation “remains unconscionable given the appalling loss of lives in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis there.”
On Tuesday, May 12, Israel’s Eurovision contestant Noam Bettan was met by chants of “stop the genocide” as he performed his song Michelle in Vienna. Bettan’s semifinal qualified him to perform in Saturday’s finale.
Bettan told the BBC that he was shocked by the protests, and hoped that the public broadcasters of Iceland, Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Slovenia would return for next year’s competition.
“It’s bad for them,” Bettan said. “They’re losing the opportunity to be in this amazing experience. So I am full of hope that next year they can sing and spread their light.”
ADL says antisemitic incidents dropped by a third in 2025, but assaults reached record levels
Grace Gilson
(JTA) — Antisemitic incidents in the United States fell sharply in 2025 from record highs in the previous two years, but physical assaults, including deadly attacks, continued to rise, according to the Anti-Defamation League’s annual audit.
In 2025, the ADL recorded 6,274 antisemitic incidents across the country, marking a 33% decrease compared to 2024, when it recorded 9,354 incidents. (Antisemitic incidents increased by 5% from 2023 to 2024.)
Still, 2025 marked the third-highest year for antisemitic incidents since the ADL began tracking them in 1979 — after 2023 and 2024.
And incidents of assault involving a deadly weapon, which included the firebombing of Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro’s residence, increased by 39%, from 23 in 2024 to 32 last year.
“Our 2025 Audit, which shows it was one of the most violent years for American Jews on record, is a reminder of how dramatically the threat landscape has shifted. Numbers that would have shocked us five years ago are now our floor,” Jonathan Greenblatt, the ADL’s CEO and national director, said in a statement. “People are being murdered because of antisemitism on American soil, and thousands more are threatened.”
While antisemitic harassment and vandalism both declined from 2024 levels, from 6,552 to 4,003 incidents of harassment and 2,606 to 2,068 cases of vandalism, the ADL’s report found that incidents of assault rose from 196 to 203, a 4% increase from 2024 to 2025. At least 300 victims were targeted by incidents of assault, according to the report.
Last year also saw the fi rst time since 2019 that murders
were recorded in antisemitic attacks, including two Israeli embassy staffers shot to death outside the Capital Jewish Museum last May and another victim who died of injuries sustained during the June firebombing attack at a Boulder, Colorado, demonstration for Israeli hostages.
The ADL’s annual antisemitism audit, which has widely been viewed as an authoritative survey of antisemitism in the country, also found a significant drop in antisemitic incidents reported on college campuses, with incidents dropping by 66% from 1,694 in 2024 to 583 in 2025.
Antisemitic incidents related to anti-Israel protests, including encampments, also decreased by 83% on college campuses in 2025 compared to 2024, according to the survey.
That decline dovetailed with a number of universities across the country that, following the wave of pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses in 2024, moved to restrict or dismantle encampments and adopt stricter policies governing demonstrations.
The audit also reported a nearly 50% drop in the distribution of white supremacist propaganda.
The ADL has long drawn criticism from pro-Palestinian voices for tallying incidents of anti-Israel sentiments as antisemitic. This year, the group reported that 45% of all incidents it tracked were related to Israel or Zionism, down from 58% in 2024.
The ADL said its counts “do not include legitimate political protest of Israeli policies or general pro-Palestinian activism,” and cited examples of antisemitic protest including celebrations of violence against Jews and glorification for terror groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.
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BRIEFS
Sandberg endows scholarship at Camp Ramah in California in honor of late husband
Sheryl Sandberg, the former Meta COO, announced that she is endowing a new scholarship fund at Camp Ramah in California in honor of her late husband, Dave Goldberg.
“Camp Ramah is where Dave built friendships that lasted decades. It’s where he developed a sense of independence that shaped the rest of his life. It’s where his Jewish identity took root and grew into something he held onto always,” wrote Sandberg in a post on Facebook. “And all of this was made possible by the scholarship he received each year from his synagogue that allowed him to attend.”
Goldberg, who was the CEO of Survey Monkey, died in 2015 after experiencing a cardiac arrhythmia while vacationing with his family in Mexico.
Goldberg’s brother, Rob, announced the scholarship fund alongside Sandberg and her current husband, Tom Bernthal.
Reflecting on her late husband’s experience at Ramah, the Conservative movement’s Jewish summer camp network, Sandberg said that he had developed an understanding of “Jewish Theology” there and had “passed that spirit of positive questioning on to our children when they were young.”
“More children deserve a summer like that. A place that makes them more themselves and stays with them long after they leave,” Sandberg wrote. “The scholarship will make it possible for 30 children with the greatest financial need to experience Camp Ramah in California each summer for many decades to come.”
Camp is considered one of the more successful levers in solidifying Jewish identity, but it comes at a cost: Each four-week session at Ramah in California costs $6,730.
Sandberg, the author of Lean In, the bestselling book about women’s equity in the workforce, has long been a prominent donor to Jewish and Israeli causes.
In 2019, Sandberg donated $2.5 million to the Anti-Defamation League, and in 2021, she gave United Hatzalah, the Jerusalem-based volunteer first responder organization, $5 million in honor of her parents.
“Dave, we miss you every single day,” Sandberg wrote. “This scholarship is for the piece of your heart that you always left at camp.” (JTA)
Attack on Jewish man outside L. A. synagogue investigated as hate crime
AJewish man was assaulted last month behind a Los Angeles synagogue in what police say is being investigated as a hate crime.
The assault, which took place behind Adas Torah, an Orthodox synagogue, in the heavily Jewish neighborhood of Pico-Robertson, occurred after the victim says he was followed for a short distance by a man in a car.
“All of a sudden, he just opens the door,” the victim,
a 32-year-old Judaic studies teacher, told JNS. “I don’t know what he was saying. He pounced me, immediately put his hands over my neck, shaking me back and forth, trying to choke me.”
During the assault, the victim said that the man used a “window breaker” as a weapon while he was choked. As the assailant left, the victim claimed he said, “free Palestine.”
The attack was not the first to hit the Pico-Robertson neighborhood in recent years. In 2023, a man shot two Jewish men outside their synagogues on consecutive days. The assailant, Jaime Tran, 30, who had a history of making violent antisemitic remarks, was sentenced to 35 years in prison in 2024.
“We are outraged by the violent assault at Adas Torah synagogue last night,” David Englin, the senior regional director of the Anti-Defamation League of Los Angeles, wrote in a post on X. “Jewish Angelenos should not have to think twice about walking home from synagogue.”
Israel Bachar, the Israeli consul general to the Pacific Southwest, decried the attack in a post on X, writing that it was the same synagogue that came “under attack” by pro-Palestinian protesters during a June 2024 protest.
The demonstration, which erupted into violent clashes between pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel protesters at the time, has since been cited by proponents of a new bill introduced in California that would create a buffer zone around houses of worship. (JTA)
Commission: Police denied Jewish community’s request for more security before Sydney massacre
Days before a massacre on a Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach, Sydney, the region’s Jewish security organization asked the police to send officers to Hanukkah events in the city.
The organization, the Community Security Group, had already worked with Chabad of Bondi to create a security plan for the event that included fencing off an area that normally had no barriers.
Now, in the message to police, the group emphasized that Jews in Sydney were facing unusual danger. The threat level, it wrote, was “HIGH. A terrorist attack against the NSW Jewish Community is likely and there is a high level of antisemitic vilification.”
The police responded by saying that they could not devote additional officers to the events but would send patrols by. Three days later, 15 people, including rabbis and a child, were killed when two men opened fire on the event, known as Chanukah by the Sea.
The sequence of events appears in the first report issued by Australia’s Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion, formed in the wake of the massacre amid pressure on the government to do more to keep Australian Jews safe.
The report contains 14 recommendations, some of which were obscured from public view for security reasons. They include elevating and strengthening
counter-terrorism policing and improving policing of Jewish events.
The top recommendation: “The procedures adopted by NSW Police in respect of Operation Jewish High Holy Days should apply to other high risk Jewish festivals and events, particularly those that have a public facing element.”
The Australian Jewish Association welcomed the report’s release but said it was marred by failing to address the form of antisemitic extremism said to have motivated the Bondi Beach shooters.
“The report’s credibility is undermined by its failure to address the issue of radical Islamist extremism. No serious analysis of the lead-up to the Bondi massacre can ignore this,” it said. “It’s concerning that the report identifies no urgent legislative changes required. There were serious failings by multiple agencies. If the legislation is adequate, then these failings are inexplicable.” (JTA)
Keir Starmer: ‘If you stand alongside people who say Globalize the Intifada, you are calling for terrorism against Jews’
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said people who use the phrase “globalize the intifada” should be prosecuted, describing the popular pro-Palestinian chant as a call for “terrorism against Jews” in the wake of a terror attack in a heavily Orthodox neighborhood of London.
“Of course, we protect freedom of speech and peaceful protest in this country,” Starmer said during an address last month. “But if you are marching with people wearing pictures of paragliders without calling it out, you are venerating the murder of Jews. If you stand alongside people who say globalize the Intifada, you are calling for terrorism against Jews and people who use that phrase should be prosecuted.”
Starmer’s remarks, which came one day after two Jewish men were stabbed in London’s heavily Jewish Golders Green neighborhood, marked a notable denunciation of pro-Palestinian slogans by the British leader, who has faced scrutiny for his response to rising antisemitism in the country.
“It is racism, extreme racism, and it has left a minority community in this country scared, intimidating, wondering if they belong. So, I say again, this government will do everything in our power to stamp this hatred out. We will strengthen our security and protect our Jewish community,” Starmer continued. “But I also call on everyone decent in this country to open their eyes to Jewish pain, Jewish suffering, and Jewish fear.”
In the wake of the deadly antisemitic terror attack on a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney, police in London announced that they would begin arresting proPalestinian protesters who invoked the phrase, “globalize the intifada.” Police in Manchester, England, where a man attacked a synagogue on Yom Kippur, also made the policy change. (JTA)
ANTISEMITISM
Rand Paul’s son apologizes after reportedly making antisemitic attack on Rep. Mike Lawler
Jackie Hajdenberg (JTA) — After an altercation Tuesday, May 12 with a congressman during which he made repeated antisemitic comments, Sen. Rand Paul’s son William apologized and said the next day he is “seeking help” for his drinking problem.
“Last night, I had too much to drink and said some things that don’t represent who I really am,” William Paul tweeted on Wednesday, May 13. “I’m sorry and today I am seeking help for my drinking problem.”
The incident between Paul and Rep. Mike Lawler, a New York Republican, occurred at the Tune Inn bar and restaurant in Washington, D.C. in front of NOTUS reporter Reese Gorman, who reported first-hand about the incident.
Paul approached Lawler and that said if Kentucky incumbent Rep. Thomas Massie loses his primary on May 19, it will be because of “your people,” NOTUS reported.
Lawler, who is not Jewish, clarified that he is Irish, Italian, and Catholic.
“And he goes, ‘Oh! Oh, I’m sorry to accuse you of that,’” Lawler recalled during a press availability tweeted by a reporter from Courthouse News. “Which is just a remarkable statement in and of itself. But he then went on a roughly 10-minute diatribe about Israel, about Jews, about Paul Singer, and accusing Jews of being responsible for so many things, playing right into the typical antisemitic tropes that so many people rely on.”
A new TV spot for Massie targeted hedge fund billionaire Paul Singer with a Pride flag-patterned Star of David placed next to Singer’s head. The ad called Singer a “major pro-gay, pro-trans activist who works with far-left, hardcore Democrats.”
Singer, who is Jewish, is a Republican and a major donor to Republican candidates. His son is gay and he is a longtime supporter of gay rights.
William Paul’s father Rand is Kentucky’s junior senator. A Republican who has run for president, Rand Paul announced his endorsement of Massie in October.
“At one point, he said that he hates Jews and hates gays and doesn’t care if they die,” Lawler recalled about his encounter with William Paul in the interview. “And I think that’s f—ing disgusting. So, you know, the conversation shortly thereafter ended, he gave me the middle finger and then tripped on his way out the door.”
Lawler is the representative for New York’s 17th district, a swing district that includes a significant Orthodox Jewish population in Rockland County.
The Kentucky Jewish Council, which advocates against antisemitism in the state, issued a statement denouncing the incident.
“We are deeply disturbed both by the antisemitic conspiracy theories posited by Mr. Paul and with his comfort in harassing someone he thought was Jewish in a public place,” the group said. “We regret that Congressman Lawler had to experience the kind of abuse far too many American Jews suffer on a regular basis.”
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At Jewish Democratic event, Jacob Frey says anti-Zionism can blur into antisemitism
Joseph Strauss
(JTA) Jacob Frey, the Jewish mayor of Minneapolis, decried some criticism of Israel during a Jewish Democratic event on Wednesday, May 13.
Speaking at the national conference of the Jewish Democratic Council of America in Washington, D.C., Frey recounted visiting a local grocery store shortly after Hamas’ attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.
“The tiny little Jewish section, which had hummus and maybe one other product, was tagged with, ‘Why do you support genocide?’” he said. “And this was just the Jewish section – it wasn’t even the Israeli section.”
Frey continued, “So as much as
people say, and have often said, ‘No we’re talking about Zionists, not Jews’ — well many of those same people are tying Zionism to Judaism. You can’t have it both ways at the same time.”
He concluded that “you can both believe in a State of Israel and support it and simultaneously be opposed to some of the horrific acts that (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu has conducted.”
Frey’s comments, which came in response to a question from the audience, were some of his most extensive on Israel and his first on the topic since he took the national spotlight earlier this year for his defiant stance against the Trump
administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement in his city.
The fact that Frey, 44, decided to appear at JDCA’s national leadership summit itself was notable because he is a relatively young rising star in a Democratic Party where the ascendant sentiments, especially among the progressive wing and among younger voters, are critical of Israel. The JDCA promotes a strong U.S.-Israel relationship and a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Responding to a question about anti-Israel sentiment in his party, Frey said he thought Democrats should do more to constrain fringe sentiments within the party.
“It’s easy for me, and it’s very easy for Democrats, to critique the right,” he said. “I’ve got a whole team supporting me when I said get the F out of Minneapolis. That was not a hard thing to do, that’s just what I felt. What’s harder to do is to tell your own side, sometimes your own friends that, you know what, you’ve gone too far.”
He added, “My deep concern right now is that people don’t have the guts to tell their own side what they don’t want to hear.”
Asked in an interview following the session about whether Democrats should be campaigning alongside figures like the progressive streamer Hasan Piker, who is a staunch Israel critic and has drawn accusations of antisemitism, Frey told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency that he was not familiar with the debate around Piker nor his positions.
But Frey said he takes issue with litmus tests and opposes the villainization that comes from people on both ends of the political spectrum.
“I am uncomfortable with, ‘Get on board, say the word, say the phrase or we’re going to tar and feather you — put out this post or say on the stage this exact term, or else we’re going to consider you
to be a villain,’” he said.
While Frey has drawn support from progressives over his showdown with ICE, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency that staged weeks of raids in Minneapolis earlier this year, he has clashed with that wing before on Israel. In 2024, Frey blocked his city council’s resolution calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, calling it “one-sided resolution that adds more division to an already fraught situation.”
At the May 13 event, the primary discussion between Frey and JDCA’s treasurer Beth Kieffer Leonard, focused on the ICE presence in Minneapolis and Frey’s response.
He also offered a Jewish reason for his determination to stop ICE “dead in their tracks” so that other cities aren’t similarly targeted, citing the value of repairing the world.
“As Jews, we have an obligation through tikkun olam to stand up for it, to make the world a better place, to heal people and to recognize that when they come for one of us, that they come for all of us,” he said.
When asked about Israel and antiZionism during the Q&A session, Frey expanded on his belief in the State of Israel as well as his criticisms of its government.
“You can recognize the importance of a place for peace and refuge, a place where refugees by the hundreds of thousands and millions have immigrated to Israel — from both Ashkenazi countries and also Iraq, Iran, and Yemen — a very mixed ethnically and culturally place,” Frey said. “You can recognize that the history is complex. That there are areas where we collectively as Jews can improve. Where policies can be improved.”
Frey continued that he is an adamant opponent of Trump but believes in America and said the same should be possible with Netanyahu and Israel.
NATION
DOGE’s cuts to Jewish humanities grants were unconstitutional, judge rules
Andrew Lapin (JTA) — The Department of Government Efficiency’s cancellation last year of the majority of federal humanities grants, including to several Jewish projects, was unlawful and unconstitutional, a federal judge ruled Thursday, May 7.
In her 143-page ruling, U.S. District Judge Colleen McMahon called out the agency created by President Donald Trump specifically for its targeting of Jewish projects, including Holocaust research.
“At a time when the specter of antisemitism has reemerged from the shadows, for our Government to deem a project about Jewish women disfavored because it centered on ‘Jewish cultures’ and ‘female’ voices is deeply troubling,” wrote McMahon, who was appointed by President Bill Clinton in 1998. She was referring specifically to a canceled “project on Jewish women subjected to slave labor during the Holocaust.”
Appointees to DOGE, originally overseen by Elon Musk, swiftly overhauled multiple federal agencies in early 2025. That included the National Endowment for the Humanities, where DOGE personnel canceled a wide swath of grants by using the artificial-intelligence software ChatGPT to identify projects they deemed “DEI” — shorthand for diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Jewish grants were classified as “DEI” under DOGE’s rubric. At the same time, the NEH followed up its widespread grant cancellation by awarding its largest grant ever, $10.4 million, to the Tikvah Fund, a politically conservative Jewish group.
McMahon ruled that DOGE engaged in illegal “viewpoint discrimination.”
“Put simply, the Government terminated the grant because the grant sought to empower and amplify the voices of Jewish women who were victims of Nazi persecution,” she wrote. “The Government may have its reasons for disfavoring that perspective, but the First Amendment does not permit it to divest someone of a government benefit.”
A grant funding the study of the experience of Jewish women during the Holocaust is not wasteful because it concerns Jewish women.
Several other terminated Jewish grants were mentioned in the judge’s ruling, including projects to “recover and analyze ancient writings attributed to Moses but excluded from the canonical Hebrew Bible”; a short-fiction anthology by Jewish writers from the former Soviet Union; and multiple projects about Jewish women during the Holocaust.
The ruling cited them alongside other can celled grants focusing on Black Americans, Native Americans and Asian Americans.
Indigenous people.”
At the same time, she noted that other grants for Jewish projects were not canceled, including one “proposing to study ‘Council of Jewish Federation records dating 1916 to 1999.’”
The ruling orders the NEH to reinstate the terminated grants.
The NEH did not immediately respond to a request for comment. In a statement to the Washington Post on Friday, May 8, the White House signaled that it planned to fight McMahon’s ruling.
“The district court’s ruling is egregiously wrong,” White House
spokesperson Davis Ingle said in the statement. “It conflicts with clear Supreme Court precedent and provides yet another example of liberal judges trying to reinstate wasteful federal spending at the expense of the American taxpayer. The Trump Administration expects to [be] vindicated as this litigation proceeds.”
The Authors Guild celebrated the ruling.
“We are gratified that justice was done,” Mary Rasenberger, Authors Guild president, said in a statement, “and we will be watching closely to make sure every one of these grants is restored.”
A lawsuit brought by the Authors Guild and a consortium of scholarly groups found during court proceedings that many
“A grant funding the study of the experience of Jewish women during the Holocaust is not wasteful because it concerns Jewish women,” McMahon wrote at one point. “Yet that is precisely how DOGE treated them – deeming grants wasteful because they related to Blacks, women, Jews, Asian Americans, and
The new face of Holocaust denial is harder to spot — and more dangerous
Menachem Z. Rosensaft
(JTA) — When I learned that Holocaust deniers had infiltrated a New Hampshire legislative meeting and tried to insert their view into the state’s Holocaust education efforts, I was personally outraged.
My grandparents, my mother’s first husband and their 5-and-½-year-old son were murdered by Zyklon-B gas in a Birkenau gas chamber in August 1943 — dying cruelly in exactly the way that Germar Rudolf, who was invited by a state lawmaker to testify before a legislative committee, says no Jews were killed.
Rudolf is a prominent figure among Holocaust deniers. For more than 39 years, his “Committee for Open Debate on the Holocaust” has sought to delegitimize and undermine the historical record of the mass murder of 6 million European Jews during World War II by promoting antisemitic conspiracy theories and characterizing the Holocaust as a myth.
Historian Deborah Lipstadt describes Rudolf as “a hardcore denialist. He says no gas chambers, no plan to kill the Jews. It’s all a myth.” During a 2007 trial in Germany, in which he was convicted of inciting racial hatred, he dismissed the Holocaust as “a gigantic fraud.”
Holocaust denial is not merely the manifestation of an insidious and dangerous antisemitic conspiracy theory. It constitutes a moral clear and present danger motivated by a perverse determination to radically downplay if not expunge altogether the annihilation of 6 million Jews during World War II from the historical narrative.
The alarming reality, however, is that because Holocaust denial is generally considered to be less harmful than other variants of antisemitism, it is far too often allowed to fester and foment under a spurious guise of freedom of speech.
come to resemble the classic Whac-a-Mole arcade game except that unlike trying to hit inoffensive plastic facsimiles of burrowing mammals with a mallet, exposing, ostracizing, and utterly discrediting Holocaust deniers is both urgent and deadly serious.
Professional charlatans such as Rudolf, David Irving, Frank Leuchter, and Ernst Zündel have made Holocaust denial a career and can be dismissed as such. But I am increasingly unnerved by mainstream or quasimainstream figures who spout or otherwise provide a veneer of credibility to Holocaust denial claptrap.
This isn’t new. Patrick Buchanan, the Nixon and Reagan White House official and reactionary populist candidate for the Republican presidential nomination, wrote in a March 1990 syndicated column that it would have been impossible for Jews to perish in the gas chambers of the Treblinka death camp. Until I outed him and it in a 2009 New York Daily News op-ed, his official website, Buchanan.org, featured a Holocaust denial forum that included such comments as “there simply were not gas chambers or mass crematoriums at any of the German internment camps” and “We have known for some time that the Auschwitz myth is of an exclusively Jewish origin.”
we cannot afford to ignore them in an illusory hope that they will somehow slither back into the ideological swamp from whence they came.
Also in 2009, Bishop Richard Williamson, the excommunicated member of an ultra-right-wing splinter group of the Roman Catholic Church whom Pope Benedict XVI briefly brought back into the fold, declared on Swedish television in 2009 that “I believe there were no gas chambers” and that no more than 200,000 or 300,000 Jews perished in Nazi concentration camps, “but none of them by gas chambers.”
the white supremacist Nick Fuentes who had previously brayed that “I don’t believe there were gas chambers. I don’t believe it was 6 million. I also don’t believe that there was ever an order given out that said, OK, you know, we’re gonna kill ’em all.”
Others peddle similar Holocaust-rooted conspiracy theories to millions on social media, which is what makes debunking them especially urgent in this time of surging antisemitism. Podcaster Candace Owens, for example, has dismissed the lethal medical experiments performed by the notorious SS doctor Josef Mengele at Auschwitz as “bizarre propaganda.”
New Hampshire Rep. Matt Sabourin dit Choinière, who invited Rudolf and his acolytes to the legislative meeting, fits right in with this unsavory lot.
We now know that not only is he a Holocaust denier but that he is also in bed with likeminded groups and individuals whose goal is to sleaze their lies and conspiracy theories into the political, educational and social mainstream. By exposing him to scrutiny and notoriety, NPR and the Jewish Telegraphic Agency have performed an important public service.
The New Hampshire case required investigative reporting in part because Sabourin dit Choinière and Rudolf offered a twist on the old formula at the hearing by cloaking their denial in palatable language. They spoke about a quest for truth and, in the case of the lawmaker, averred that he believed that terrible atrocities had been visited upon Jews during the Holocaust, but that there were nevertheless mitigating facts that had to be told. That left one of his colleagues so confused, JTA has reported, that she seemed to indicate agreement with their testimony. In fact, she did not understand that what she was hearing constituted Holocaust denial.
By failing to prevent Rudolf from testifying and not striking his testimony from the official record when he questioned whether and how my grandparents and my brother were murdered, the chairperson of this New Hampshire state House committee lent credence to Rudolf’s nefarious agenda. Sadly, this is anything but an isolated incident.
Confronting and refuting Holocaust deniers has
And more recently, Tucker Carlson has given Holocaust deniers a platform on his shows. First, in 2024, it was the Nazi apologist Daryl Cooper who propounded the conspiracy theory that the Third Reich never intentionally annihilated 6 million Jews, insisting instead that as the German army swept through Eastern Europe, “they went in with no plan for that and they just threw these people into camps. And millions of people ended up dead there.” Then, this past October, Carlson’s guest was
The two questions we must ask ourselves are (a) how many others like Sabourin dit Choinière are there around the country, and (b) how do we unmask and defang them? The one thing we know for certain is that we cannot afford to ignore them in an illusory hope that they will somehow slither back into the ideological swamp from whence they came. To this extent, the New Hampshire House committee meeting fiasco may have been a much-needed wakeup call as well as a teachable moment.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces Media or of United Jewish Federation of Tidewater or Jewish News.
Courtney Krutoy
Twenty Tidewater BBYO teens (11 AZA and nine BBG), along with City Director Courtney Krutoy and Simcha BBG Advisor Anya Dippold, attended Eastern Region’s Spring Cultural Convention, April 17-19 in Charlotte, North Carolina. More than 200 teens attended the convention from across the four states of Eastern Region (North Carolina Council, Southeast Council, and Virginia Council).
Tidewater BBYO makes its mark at Eastern Regional Spring Cultural Convention “ “
With help from staff, teens plan and lead convention logistics, programs, and activities. Simcha BBG’s Hattie Friedman was on the underclassmen track steering committee, planning fun activities for newer members at times when tracks were divided. Simcha BBG’s Amelia Portnoy was on the Judaic Team, planning a “Club Israel” Saturday morning service (there was also a Wholesome Shabbat and a Shaloha Shabbat option).
programming, chofesh (free time), and some amazing speakers. This year’s speakers were Ksenia Prints, social media chef of Mediterranean cuisine, Elana Horowitz, a cheerleader for the Eagles with a background in Israeli dance, and Jared Firestone, American Israeli skeleton racer
who represented Israel’s national bobsleigh team in Milan.
MEET: Paul R. Hernandez
Teens also enjoyed sisterhood/
brotherhood activities, limmud (learning/art/culture/etc.), Havdalah, a wild west themed dance party, special senior
SCC is also a time to handle Eastern Region BBYO business. The six elected regional presidents (one BBG and one AZA from each council) give a state of the region (“States”) where they review the successes and challenges of the past year. The new regional board is also elected.
Simcha BBG’s Skylar Caplan was elected as the fourth regional mazkirah (secretary) of Eastern Region. Mazkirah is responsible for managing Instagram posts, social media storytelling, designing flyers, and creating digital materials, as well as taking meeting notes, tracking member information, and
“This area is our home and we are committed to supporting it. Our lawyers are actively involved by donating their time to programs that help the community, especially in the schools with young drivers. I am very involved with End Distracted Driving, spending 20 days a year in the schools educating students about the dangers of using a cell phone while driving. The other major program we work on is Every 15 Minutes which highlights how every
“Payday is very forward thinking and is always up on potential changes. We have also been impressed by Payday’s contingency planning. Whenever there is a potential natural disaster in our region, such as a large storm, Payday is proactive and works with our staff to make sure that everyone will be paid without interruption.”
Our client relationships are anything but transactional. We are long-term
and most importantly, their people.
keeping records of gatherings. Skylar will do this and more while leading and supporting her chapter counterparts in the region (all the mazkirahs in each BBG/BBYO chapter).
Conventions bring members together for a fun and meaningful weekend of programming, activities, Shabbat moments, and hanging out with friends. More than a few tears were shed upon departure.
Members are already looking forward to L’dor V’dor Convention (LVC) taking place November 13-15 outside Charlotte, North Carolina.
Top row: Hazel Ashe, Amelia Portnoy, Leah Steerman, Yael Haas, Alexa Steerman, and Shai Zittrain. Bottom row: Hattie Friedman, Skylar Caplan, and Kenna Werby.
Hayden Caplan, Adam Noonan-Sloan, Jonah Kass, Henry Ashe, Logan Hoffman, Sam Levin, Ari Simon, Spencer Barkan, Avi Zittrain, Henry Krupnick, and Abe Flax.
Yael Haas and Henry Krupnick make their own essential oil scents in the Zen Room during chofesh.
SIA creates new initiatives to support their military families
Carin Simon
Strelitz International Academy supports a large population of military families, including those serving in the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, NATO, the IDF, as well as other branches. Understanding the unique challenges military children face including frequent relocations, new environments, and extended parental deployments, the school has made it a priority to ensure every child feels supported, connected, and valued.
In response to ongoing global conflicts, extended deployments, and the increasing demands on military families, Strelitz has expanded its efforts to provide meaningful, proactive support. Through thoughtful programming and a strong sense of community, the school is creating an environment where military children can thrive both emotionally and academically.
On Wednesday, April 15, Strelitz recognized Military Child Day with a purple t-shirt school-wide show of support. The following Friday, students and faculty wore red in honor of “Remember Everyone Deployed” (RED Day), demonstrating unity and appreciation for those serving. The celebration included a special Shabbat dedicated to recognizing military children.
Strelitz also created spaces for connection among both students and parents. A New Parent Coffee welcomed military families, where they could build relationships and share experiences. Plus, a special lunch for military students provided a safe, welcoming space to connect with peers and engage in conversations with school counselor Michelle Fenley.
These initiatives were supported by dedicated parents such as Leigh Casson, who played a key role in helping bring these programs to life.
“By fostering a strong and welcoming military community, SIA gives my boys a place where they feel understood on multiple levels: their faith, their service, and the unique challenges and strengths that come with both,” says Casson. “That sense of connection and belonging is something we don’t take for granted— it’s shaping not just their education, but their character and we are so incredibly grateful for that.”
Strelitz International Academy continues to set a standard for how schools can support and uplift military families, ensuring every child feels at home, no matter where their journey begins.
Special lunch for Military kids.
Nurse Ellie and her daughters Avery and Maura Goldstein are a proud SIA military family
Maryland school district urged to adopt ‘zero-tolerance policy’ on antisemitism amid wave of incidents
Grace Gilson (JTA) — The Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Washington is calling on a local school district in Maryland to adopt a “zero tolerance policy” toward antisemitism following what it described as a recent wave of anti-Jewish incidents across its schools.
Antisemitic and anti-Israel graffiti found at Greenwood Elementary School earlier this month was only the latest entry in a “deeply troubling pattern of antisemitic and/or anti-Zionist incidents” within Montgomery County Public Schools, Guila Franklin Siegel, the JCRC’s chief operating officer, said in a statement on Tuesday, May 5.
Among the incidents cited by Franklin Siegel were “anti-Israel messaging” at a culture night at Olney Elementary School in March, “physical threats and harassment directed toward Jewish students at multiple schools” and “Heil Hitler” gestures and speech at middle school events.
“While the details vary, these incidents reveal a harsh truth: too many Jewish students and educators at too many MCPS schools continue to face too many threats,” Franklin Siegel said, adding that the number of reports were “significantly higher than other school districts across our region.”
Montgomery County Public Schools did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The district is Maryland’s
Such hate has no place in our schools or our state, especially as we begin Jewish American Heritage Month.
largest and encompasses many prominent Washington suburbs, including Bethesda and Rockville.
The Greenwood Elementary School graffiti, which included a drawing of the Star of David, drew condemnation from Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, who wrote in a post on Facebook that “such hate has no place in our schools or our state, especially as we begin Jewish American Heritage Month.”
The Montgomery County district, which has a diverse population including many Jewish students and teachers, faced criticism over its handling of antisemitism even before the war in Gaza but has faced an explosion of antisemitic incidents since Oct. 7.
In December 2023, four educators in the district were placed on administrative leave for allegedly sharing
antisemitic images and messages on social media, and the following year, the federal Department of Education opened a Title VI investigation into the district over allegations of antisemitism.
In the statement, Franklin Siegel said she had met with Superintendent Thomas Taylor, who said the district would begin complying with “recently adopted state law requiring anti-bias training for school educators and staff” in August.
“Our messages were simple: MCPS must establish a zero-tolerance policy on antisemitism and other forms of hatred and bias; train and empower administrators and teachers to correctly identify and respond to antisemitism; and rigorously enforce disciplinary codes, making it clear that anyone who engages in antisemitic or other hateful behavior will face meaningful
consequences,” Franklin Siegel wrote.
While she said the JCRC welcomed the district’s other commitments to improve school participation in its Holocaust and antisemitism education initiatives and “drafting specific guidelines for culture and international nights,” Franklin Siegel encouraged the school district to “not stop there.” She said she wanted to see more instruction about Jewish history and more discipline against online bullying.
“Given that bias incidents are so often connected to the proliferation of hate speech online, MCPS also needs to discipline students who harass and bully Jewish students on social media accounts, even when those accounts are not formally affiliated with schools,” she said. “The district has that authority, and principals must enforce it.”
"Recently
I am very pleased with their services."
Samantha Vinokor-Meinrath (JTA) —My inbox recently broadcast a remarkable juxtaposition: “Jewish American Heritage Month is coming!” some messages told me. Others focused on something else: “And the New York Mets aren’t having Jewish Heritage Night this year.”
With those two headlines came the commentaries that inevitably unfold: questions, accusations, assumptions about the decisions being made. And calls to action, declarations of intent, and thoughts about the role of affinity celebrations in the American cultural zeitgeist.
I have no insider knowledge of the intentions behind the lack of Jewish Heritage Night at Citi Field. And I have no desire to catastrophize in a time that
definitely doesn’t need any more crisis. But as a lifelong Jewish educator, I instead want to take the opportunity to pose the question: What role should designated heritage days/months play when it comes to Jewish identity and pride?
Jewish American Heritage Month was first designated in 2006, but it has grown in attention and intensity in recent years. Just late last month, Noa Tishby was successful in lobbying Los Angeles’ public schools to honor the month. This ascendance reflects the dual missions that have marked the American Jewish story: acceptance and exceptionalism.
Acceptance is the first, most baseline desire for any minority population seeking the safety of a new world, as was
the motivation of generations of Jewish immigrants to the United States over time. The proverbial goldene medina promised a new beginning, free from the structural and legal manifestations of antisemitism that existed in Europe and the Middle East. The United States, as it did for so many minority immigrant groups, seemed designed to accept the tired, the poor, the huddled masses yearning to breathe free.
And in so many ways, the dreams have been fulfilled. The story of the American Jewish community has been one of acceptance and exceptionalism. Acceptance has seen achieved when we look at the heights that Jews have been integrated into society. From the days of “No Jews allowed” signs and country club and university quotas, we have experienced Jews in the heights of government, business, and countless other industries. Jewish culture is seen as American culture, with comedy, food, and vernacular moving from the niche of our small slice of the population into the nomenclature of broader society.
Of course, it must be acknowledged that we are living in a time of rising antisemitism, where the history referenced above feels to many like a blip in the past, and not our current lived experience. Real questions exist about the place of Jews in numerous areas and institutions in American society — questions that must be faced head on, particularly in the work of Jewish education, as we strive to imbue learners with Jewish pride and confidence in a moment when Jewish vulnerability is sadly the order of the day. Jewish resilience is a muscle being flexed by individuals and the collective, and as part of that, we seek moments of Jewish joy.
Jewish affinity celebrations are meant to be conduits to Jewish joy and Jewish pride. It is understood that seeing oneself reflected in the larger culture that one exists within is vital for validating identity, fostering a sense of belonging, and boosting self-esteem, particularly for marginalized
groups. It combats feelings of isolation and internalized stereotypes. And in this time of vulnerability, anything that allows for a celebration of Jewish identity is a welcome boost to our collective confidence within society. So perhaps this is why the absence of an anticipated heritage moment feels not only disappointing, but sinister. When Jewish identity becomes something to defend, everything feels heightened. More than ever, we need moments of Jewish celebration, for children and learners of all ages to see their identities reflected in an inclusive and positive way.
Heritage days, and even months, are of course not enough. By designating a specific night Jewish heritage night, we lose sight of the imperative to show up Jewishly every night. Jews should not only be highlighted in the classroom during the month of May, and Jewish joy can and should be accessible in a baseball stadium any time Jews show up. In the work of Jewish pride education, two of the core building blocks put forward are that Jewish learners will recognize how Jewish identity shapes engagement with the broader world and will express Jewish identity across all contexts and relationships.
Allowing “Jewish time” to be delineated out from “real life” has contributed to a bifurcation of identities, wherein showing up Jewishly is designated for certain moments and spaces for many. Comprehensive Jewish pride education flips that paradigm, creating core, confident identities that are not confined to any one moment or environment.
Jewish educators, and learners, deserve moments of celebration. But we are not defi ned by them. Confident Jewish identity is unlimited, and accessible wherever Jews are present.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of JTA or its parent company, 70 Faces Media or of United Jewish Federation of Tidewater and Jewish News.
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Dear Readers,
Pools are about to open and summer declared “in session” over Memorial Day weekend, even though the season doesn’t officially begin until June 21, on the astronomical summer solstice, the longest day of the year. Never mind the calendar details. School’s almost out, beaches are already filled with sunbathers, kids (or rather, their parents) are preparing for camp, and restaurants’ outdoor seating areas are at a premium. Sounds like summer to me!
A recent conversation with a friend who was showing her sister and brother-in-law around town reminded me how fortunate all of us are in Tidewater. As seen through the eyes of visitors, we have plenty of wonderful and beautiful resources to occupy us throughout the year, but especially during the summer months.
Even with all our area has to offer, summer remains a favorite time to travel – especially for those with families. An article on page 16 suggests some travel mistakes to avoid, providing the best chance of having a great trip experience. Afterall, why go to the expense of a vacation and have an easy-to-miss oversight mess it up?
How to prepare children for new environments – especially those that are not as structured as they are accustomed to in school – is an important read on page 15 as well as the piece on how summer camp can positively impact a child on page 19.
However you intend to spend the summer, now is the time to make and solidify those plans before camps, flights, and tours are completely booked. And, if that happens, remember how lucky we are in Tidewater – we’re where others want to visit!
Thanks for reading,
Terri Denison Editor
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Toras Chaim brings internationally acclaimed child safety program to students, staff, and families
Rabbi Aryeh Kravetz
As summer approaches and children prepare for camps, day trips, and new environments, Toras Chaim Day School is making sure its students head into the season with something more than sunscreen and a packed lunch.
This spring, the school brought in Debbie Fox and the Magen Yeladim International Safety Kid Program to equip students, parents, and staff with the knowledge and language children need to stay safe.
The transition from the structured school year to the relative freedom of summer is one of the most vulnerable periods for children. New settings, unfamiliar adults, and less-supervised hours can create situations where children are unsure of how to respond or who to turn to. The Safety Kid program addresses that gap head-on by giving children a clear, memorable framework and the confidence to use it.
Fox, who consults and speaks internationally on the topic of child abuse prevention, led a comprehensive series of trainings that touched every level of the Toras Chaim community. Teachers participated in professional development sessions designed to help them recognize warning signs and reinforce safety concepts throughout the school year. Parents were also trained, giving families the vocabulary and conversation starters to continue these discussions at home, with a key element focusing on how to create a home environment where children feel safe and comfortable sharing about their day and raising any struggles they may have come across. Finally, a cohort of staff members participated in a “train the trainer” program, training in the Safety Kid approach to ensure the program can be sustained and delivered to students from year to year.
At the heart of the program are the ABCs of Safety: Ask for help, Bring a friend, Check first, and Do Tell. These four principles were taught directly to students in ageappropriate classroom sessions and are designed to be immediately actionable. Rather than relying on abstract warnings, the ABCs give children concrete steps they can
take in real situations.
Students learned practical emergency skills: how to call 911, how to speak clearly to safety personnel, and, critically, how to stay on the line until help arrives. They were taught what to do if they become separated from their group or get lost in a public place, and how to communicate changes of plans to a parent or trusted adult. Scenarios included a child at a summer camp, on a family outing, or in any new setting a child might genuinely encounter.
Perhaps one of the most lasting lessons involved identifying a trusted adult. Students were taught how to recognize which adults in their lives they can turn to when something feels wrong or makes them uncomfortable, and that speaking up is not only permitted but expected. This message is especially vital for children navigating new social environments during
the summer months, where the trusted figures of the school year may not be present.
The Magen Yeladim International Safety Kid Program has earned wide recognition from law enforcement officers, mental health professionals, and school administrators for the way it delivers critical safety information in ways that are dignified, age-appropriate, and culturally sensitive. It has been equally praised by parents and children themselves; a reflection of how carefully the program is designed to empower rather than frighten.
For Toras Chaim, bringing the Safety Kid program to the entire school community reflects a commitment to the whole child, not just academic excellence. As families finalize summer plans, the school encourages all parents to help their children know what to do and who to talk to when a situation feels uncomfortable, making sure their children know who the child’s trusted adults are at camp or in new settings. But perhaps the most important thing for parents is to be present and create a happy and comfortable home environment where the parent-child relationship is a healthy and supportive one.
Rabbi Aryeh Kravetz is Head of School at Toras Chaim.
Debbie Fox teaches the Safety Kid Program at Toras Chaim.
Students learn the ABCs of safety.
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HERE ARE SOME NEW TRAVEL MISTAKES –AND HOW TO AVOID THEM
Christopher Elliott
One of the newest mistakes travelers make is also one of the oldest: forgetting their paperwork.
It happened to Katharine Nohr when she tried to fly to New Zealand. Nohr, an attorney from Honolulu, was so used to traveling to Europe that she assumed she didn't need a visa to enter New Zealand.
But she did.
“I couldn’t check in for my flight,” she remembers. “The agent waved me away rudely and said I had to get a visa online.”
Travelers are making all kinds of new mistakes. These include failing to do research or worse, outsourcing it to an AI, and not giving themselves enough time to make a fl ight connection. But one mistake towers above all of them –and I’ll tell you about it in a moment.
WHY VISAS ARE AN OLD PROBLEM – AND A NEW PROBLEM
Visas are a constant problem because the requirements keep changing.
I remember booking a flight to Australia a few years ago when the country didn't have a visa requirement. But before I left, the requirement changed, and when I arrived at the airport, my airline wouldn’t let me check in. Fortunately, there’s an Australian ETA smartphone app that lets you apply for the necessary permission online, and you can get your approval within minutes.
Nohr wasn’t so lucky. She tried to secure a visa but couldn’t get it in time. Her flight left without her – an expensive lesson.
“Now I always check for visa requirements online,” she says.
That’s good, because this year, even the EU will require a little paperwork for visitors. After repeated delays,
the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) authorization will go into effect at the end of 2026. It’s a pre-entry requirement that will involve an online application, a fee, and screening to enhance border security for short-term stays (up to 90 days).
OTHER NEW MISTAKES TRAVELERS WILL MAKE IN 2026
Here’s a short list of the errors travelers will be making this year, and how to avoid them.
FAILING TO RESEARCH YOUR DESTINATION
It’s an easier mistake to make than you might think. Say
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you’re traveling to a place in Canada or Mexico that you’ve been to many times. It would be easy to say, “I know this place, no need to do any research.” But times change, and especially in 2026, you can’t make any assumptions. “Always research the destination thoroughly, including local customs, laws, and cultural norms,” advises Frank Harrison, regional security director for the Americas at World Travel Protection.
LETTING AN AI PLAN YOUR TRIP
This is a growing problem, according to Joe Cronin, CEO of International Citizens Insurance. He says travelers are using ChatGPT or Gemini to generate itineraries that turn out to be riddled with hallucinations and errors. “These tools don’t always know if a local spot is closed,” he says. “We’ll get calls from people who missed a connection because it wasn’t physically possible to pull it off in time.” The fi x? If you use an AI, make sure you verify the details. Otherwise, you might miss an attraction or a flight connection.
NOT GIVING YOURSELF ENOUGH TIME
As travelers try to cram more activities into less time, their schedules can become too ambitious which can potentially waste time and money. “For example, flying on the same day of the cruise can result in missing the port departure,” says Elad Schaffer, CEO of Faye Travel Insurance. Rather than waiting until the last minute to book activities, such as dinner reservations or spa appointments, his advice is to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time, especially if you’re taking a cruise.
PACKING YOUR SENSE OF SKEPTICISM
A lot of travelers are stumbling into their next destination, oblivious to what awaits them, experts say. And the problem is getting worse. Susan Sherren, founder of luxury travel agency Couture
Trips, says it’s more important than ever to bring critical thinking skills to your next trip. “For example, airlines are using algorithms and AI to pair connecting flights,” she says. “Don't always accept the suggested pairing without leaving at least two hours for some connecting flights, especially if you are connecting to an international flight.” She says these flights usually board at least an hour before departure. The same thing extends to anything people will tell you when you’re on vacation. Just because you see a five-star rating on a hotel doesn’t mean it’s great. Verify everything.
WAITING TOO LONG TO BOOK YOUR TRIP
One of the worst new mistakes that travelers make is waiting too long to book their vacation. After the pandemic, there were plenty of last-minute deals available. But those days are over, some experts say. Consider your average ski vacation. “People wait until the ski season gets going to plan their trip and buy their lift tickets at the window on the day they want to ski,” says Sarah Beatty, a spokeswoman for Colorado Ski Country USA, a trade group that represents the Colorado ski industry. “The ski industry is just like any other travel industry: the more you plan ahead, the more flexibility you have to find a better deal on lift tickets, lodging, and lessons.”
So, if you're reading this now and you still want to go skiing, you’ll find the best deals in Argentina and Chile in July during the Southern Hemisphere winter. Or, start looking now for options in 2027.
THE BIGGEST MISTAKE: NOT TRAVELING AT ALL
The experts are right, but there’s one more mistake –and it may be the biggest mistake of all. It’s letting all the travel worries keep you home. Truth is, you can skip the research, wait until the last minute to plan your trip, hire Mr. ChatGPT as your travel agent, and accept everything at face value – but
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taking the trip is still better than not taking it.
I know because I’ve been to some places that I didn’t care for. I wasn’t a fan of chaotic Bangkok, and there were parts of Australia’s Red Center that missed the mark. Also, I don’t like Tokyo’s always-crowded subways. But I wouldn’t give up any of those experiences.
All the chaos and uncertainty of this year might leave you tempted to avoid any travel. Don't give in to it. After
all, a misadventure is still an adventure.
Christopher Elliott is an author, consumer advocate, and journalist. He founded Elliott Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that helps solve consumer problems. He publishes Elliott Confidential, a travel newsletter, and the Elliott Report, a news site about customer service. He can be reached at chris@elliott.org.
Chris Sisler, Vice President, Member of Ohef Sholom Temple, Board member of the Berger-Goldrich Home at Beth Sholom Village, James E. Altmeyer, Jr., President, James E. Altmeyer, Sr., Owner Chesapeake
camp & SUMMER
6 tips from docs to keep kids safe at summer camp
(StatePoint) When getting ready to send kids to summer camp, the American Medical Association (AMA) is encouraging parents to follow these tips to make sure children are prepared for a safe and healthy experience:
Be sun aware: Kids will spend a good portion of their day outside. Protect children from damaging UV rays by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF 30 before camp each day. Send a bottle with them so they can reapply every 2-3 hours. Also consider UV protective clothes and hats.
Avoid bug bites: The summer months bring out the bugs, and kids will likely encounter them at summer camp. To keep kids safe from insect bites and insect-borne diseases, have them wear loose-fitting, lightweight long sleeves and pants when possible and avoid clothes with bright colors and floral prints, which often attract bugs.
Using an EPA-registered insect repellent is an effective way to protect from mosquito and tick bites, particularly in the early morning and at dusk. Avoid choosing products that combine bug spray and sunscreen, because they are most effective when applied separately. Always check a child’s skin for ticks after being outdoors as insect repellent doesn’t kill ticks, and they can remain on clothes and skin long after the camp day is done. Ticks are most likely to attach to areas where clothing is tight to the skin, like the waistband of pants, as well as the hairline and behind the ears.
More information about bug safety from JAMA Pediatrics can be found at https:// jamanetwork.com.
Prepare for allergies: Seasonal and food-related allergies can spoil a child’s fun. Be sure to pack a child’s EpiPen or other allergy medication. If a child comes in contact with a food or environmental allergen that has been known to cause an allergic reaction, ensure they and camp supervisors know to act quickly.
Pack healthy lunches and snacks: When packing lunch and snacks, include fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Try to pack at least two-thirds of the meal with plant-based foods. Strive to include lean protein or plant-based protein and avoid processed meats and sugar-sweetened drinks such as soda and juice. Hydration is also important in the summer sun since kids, especially when physically active, are at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses. Make sure they have plenty of water in reusable containers.
Get up to date on MMR vaccination: The United States is seeing the highest number of measles cases in more than 30 years, and measles spreads very easily, often before realizing someone is sick. Measles is more than a rash. It is an extremely contagious, airborne virus that can cause severe health complications, particularly for babies and young children— including pneumonia, brain swelling, blindness, and even death. The MMR vaccine is the best way to avoid spreading measles, mumps, and rubella and prevent children from getting sick. There is no treatment for these infections, so vaccination is the best defense. Nearly everyone who doesn’t get the MMR vaccine will get sick if exposed to measles, mumps, or rubella. Be sure to get children vaccinated to protect against severe complications. Doing so will help keep them from missing out on summer camp and help parents and families from missing work to care for a sick child.
Arrange medications in advance: If a child needs to take a prescription medication while at camp, talk with camp organizers and counselors before camp begins to make sure there’s a plan in place for safely storing and administering the medication.
For more health tips and resources visit ama-assn.org.
Dr. Gary MossDr. Greg PendellDr. Craig Koenig Lisa Deafenbaugh PA-C
Dr. Marguerite Lengkeek
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TJF staff
What if there were a place where Jewish children could safely explore and express their heritage? A place where the values and traditions learned at home are not only reinforced but shared and lived among peers. A place where identity is not questioned but cultivated. Where friendships take root, and over time, grow into something lasting.
For the Hoffman family, that place was Jewish camp.
When Summer Hoffman attended BBYO International Kallah through a One Happy Camper grant, the experience became far more than a summer away. It became a turning point. As her father, Jason Hoffman, says, “BBYO Kallah gave Summer the space to explore what being Jewish means to her… it helped her connect with our community and ultimately led to her decision to embrace her Jewish heritage.”
That transformation is the very reason Jewish camp remains one of the most powerful investments a community can make in its future. At a stage in life when young people are still forming their sense of self, they are also the most open to influence. Jewish camp meets them in that moment. It surrounds them with shared language, ritual, and belonging, creating an environment where identity is not taught in theory, but experienced in real time.
Those early experiences, says Jay Kossman, a Tidewater Jewish Foundation board member, are “where identity starts to take hold… those experiences stay with people, and they shape how connected they feel later in life.”
Through the One Happy Camper program, TJF provides one-time, up to $1,000 scholarships to children who do not attend Jewish day school, ensuring more families can access this formative experience. It is not simply a grant, it is an intentional step along what TJF calls “The Journey,” a lifelong path of connection, leadership, and giving.
Now, TJF is looking ahead. With the goal of creating an endowed fund to support 20 campers annually, the Foundation is inviting the community to think beyond a single summer and toward a sustained investment in Jewish continuity.
That camp experience can become part of a donor’s legacy, extending forward so that the next generation has the same opportunity to discover, connect, and belong. Afterall, the question is not just where children spend their summers. It is who they become because of them.
To learn more about supporting One Happy Camper or to begin a conversation about establishing a lasting legacy through this initiative, contact Naomi Limor Sedek at Tidewater Jewish Foundation, nsedek@tjfva.org or 757-965-6109.
Archer Harrell and Elon Richmon at Camp Airy.
SUMMER AT THE ACADEMY FEATURES WIDE RANGE OF CAMP OPTIONS
Mike Connors
Norfolk Academy’s Summer at the Academy camps offer six weeks of excitement for students of all ages.
Starting this year on June 22 and running through the end of July, summer camps offer a perfect mix of adventure, learning, and lasting memories.
From exciting outdoor activities and creative arts to team-building games and hands-on learning, programs are designed to keep kids engaged, active, and growing.
With experienced staff, including many Norfolk Academy teachers and coaches, as well as former campers who return to lend a hand, camps create a safe and welcoming environment. The camps focus on building confidence,
friendships, and independence, and leave students wanting to come back year after year.
Athletics offerings include the ever-popular bike camp, as well as baseball, flag football, girls
The call to do good. The commitment to one another. The values that define who we are.
This Shavuot, we honor what we ’ ve received, and the legacy we continue to build together.
If you ’ re thinking about how to pass your values down, we ’ re here to help.
with sticks, and new this year, Zumba. If the fine arts are more the camper’s speed, offerings range from poetry, yoga, and theater to broadcasting, comic book creation, and of course, Slime Time.
Camps are available for students entering kindergarten through 10th grade and are not limited to Norfolk Academy families. Children throughout Hampton Roads may attend and busing is available.
For more information, including the full list of 2026 offerings, and to register, visit Norfolk Academy’s website: https://www. norfolkacademy.org/summer.
Mike Connors is the digital and social media specialist at Norfolk Academy.
New manager for Camp JCC
Kate-Lynn Cipolla
Christine Carnahan, Camp JCC’s new manager, will oversee daily camp operations as well as support campers and staff. She will also provide year-round support for the Simon Family JCC and related programs.
A Virginia Beach native, Carnahan’s background is in retail management. She most recently managed Book Exchange Red Mill. During her time there she engaged in community outreach and reading programs with local schools.
Carnahan says she is “looking forward to engaging with and building connections with families and campers.”
Start the conversation. Build your legacy. foundation@tjfva.org | 757-965-6111 | foundation.jewishva.org
uild ation.j . ewishva.org
To learn more about Camp JCC, Kids Night Out, School Days Out, children’s classes, and more, contact Christine Carnahan, Camp JCC manager, at ccarnahan@ujft.org or 757-452-3182.
IT’S A WRAP
BeAR Literacy Project celebrates a year of growth and heart
Robin Ford
The BeAR Literacy Project concluded another meaningful school year with its annual End-of-the-Year Mentor Luncheon, a celebration of the extraordinary volunteers whose time, patience, and compassion continue to change children’s lives.
Approximately 140 students participated in BeAR during this school year. Some of the students proudly reached their reading goals and “graduated,” while others continued progressing steadily week by week. New students also joined the BeAR family, each paired with a caring mentor who offered encouragement, consistency, and confidence along the way.
For 26 years, under the leadership of Gail Flax, BeAR has connected dedicated adult mentors with local Title I elementary school students. The success of the program is rooted in the commitment of these volunteers who faithfully give their time every week, building relationships that often become just as important as the reading lessons themselves.
One especially moving moment at the luncheon came from a 90-year-old mentor who shared that older adults
are no longer truly heard. BeAR reminds both children and adults how important it is to listen with care. When mentors take time to listen, students feel seen, valued, and important. In addition, the students learn to offer that same respect to others.
This year also marked meaningful milestones. BeAR welcomed its first deaf mentor, whose student not only improved his reading skills but also learned some sign language skills and the importance of respectful communication. The luncheon also recognized volunteers and school partners who continued mentoring through personal hardships and even government shutdowns.
BeAR is about far more than reading levels. It is about trust, kindness, confidence, and connection. Most importantly, it is a reminder that every mentor matters, and every hour they give leaves a lasting impact on a child’s life.
Those who would like to join BeAR in the upcoming 2026/27 school year should contact Robin Ford at 757-321-2304 or rford@ujft.org.
Tell Jewish Tidewater about your simchas and have a photo published in Jewish News to remember for years to come. Up to 100 words and photo at no charge. Send your listing and photo to speck@ujft.org with Mazel Tov in the subject line. If you do not get a response or have a question, call 757-965-6100.
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BeAR mentors gathered for the annual end-of-year luncheon, celebrating 26 years of helping children discover the joy of reading, building meaningful mentoring relationships, and contributing to something truly wonderful in Norfolk and Virginia Beach communities.
Israeli Chef’s Table Experience brings community, culture, and cuisine together for Israel Fest
Nofar Trem
As part of this year’s Israel @ 78 celebration, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater hosted its signature Israeli Chef’s Table Experience, an evening that blended vibrant flavors, storytelling, and a deep sense of community connection.
Held at the Sandler Family Campus, the event featured celebrated chefs Ben and Zikki Siman-Tov, the rising culinary stars behind New York City’s Buba Bureka and authors of the acclaimed cookbook eat small plates, whose modern, shareable approach to Israeli cuisine reflects both tradition and innovation. Guests were treated to a thoughtfully curated kosher three-course meal inspired by authentic Israeli flavors, while the chefs shared personal stories highlighting the powerful ties
between food, heritage, and identity.
More than just a meal, the evening emphasized the Israeli tradition of gathering around the table. The Siman-Tovs’ philosophy of “small plates” encourages diners to share, taste, and build connections, transforming food into a communal experience. That spirit was felt throughout the evening, as attendees lingered over each course, savoring both the dishes and the company.
“What a wonderful evening! If I could put the basil dip in a bucket and eat it with a spoon, I would—it was unbelievably good. Even more special was the chance to come together as a community and share time with one another; how fitting that we do it over a meal,” says Jason Hoffman.
“This was my first time attending the Israeli Chef's Table Experience. The Federation put on a great event and the food was excellent,” says Jake Glasser. “I will definitely be attending next year.”
The Israeli Chef’s Table Experience continues to be a highlight of Tidewater’s Yom Ha’Atzmaut programming, offering not only a taste of Israel’s diverse culinary landscape but also an opportunity to strengthen community bonds. In a time when connection feels more important than ever, the evening served as a reminder that sometimes the most powerful way to come together is simply to sit, share, and enjoy a meal.
For more information on upcoming Israel-related programs, visit JewishVA.org or contact Nofar Trem at NTrem@UJFT.org.
Altmeyer Funeral Home table attendees. Regent University table attendees. Megan Zuckerman, L.T. and Stacie Caplan, and Steve Zuckerman.
Annie and Art Sandler.
Fred Gross and Andrew Cohen.
Avidan Itzhak, Danny Rubin, and Aviv Faraj. Karen and Avraham Ashkenazi, Chef Ben Simantov, and Robert Lehman.
Chef’s Ben and Zikki Simantov.
Rachelle Karp, Mona Flax, and Laura Gross. Renee Strelitz, Shelly Simon, and Shari Friedman. Rabbi Gershon Litt, Janet Meyers, and Jim Guggenheim. Leah and Jonathan Glaser.
IT’S A WRAP
Yom Ha’Atzmaut brings community together for Israel @78
Nofar Trem
Jewish Tidewater gathered in full force for a Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebration on Sunday, April 26 that was hosted by United Jewish Federation of Tidewater and presented by Avraham and Karen Ashkenazi. The event took place on the Sandler Family Campus.
Marking Israel’s 78th Independence Day, the afternoon brought together families and friends of all ages for an experience centered on gathering and connection.
Even with rainy weather throughout the day, the spirit of the community never wavered. The rain did not stop attendees from showing up in large numbers, embracing the opportunity to be together and celebrate their shared connection to Israel.
Children moved between Israel-themed activity stations while families enjoyed Israeli food and music. Community partners created hands-on experiences that brought Israel’s culture, history, and values to life. A highlight of the day was the ESEK Shuk, where Israeli small businesses showcased handcrafted goods and art, offering attendees a way to support Israeli entrepreneurs and connect to their stories.
Megan Zuckerman, UJFT’s Jewish Community Relations Council’s Israel chair, says about the impact of the marketplace,
“My daughter, Chloe, and I loved every minute spent with Ofek and learning how he created ESEK to help as many artists, Nova festival survivors, and IDF reservists as possible, who were understandably struggling after the horror they experienced on October 7th and its aftermath. Out of great
tragedy, Ofek and ESEK have given light, hope, and beauty not only to the artisans but also to us, the customers, and the greater community who got to view, purchase, and now own a piece of these Israelis’ stories and resulting artistry.”
Held just after Yom HaZikaron, the gathering reflected the traditional transition from remembrance to joy that defines Yom Ha’Atzmaut, bringing the community together in resilience and pride.
“My family had such an incredible time at Israel Fest!” says Leigh Casson. “There was something meaningful and fun for every age. Seeing my boys so engaged and excited was really special. My kids loved all of the activities, and I enjoyed exploring the Israeli small businesses—there was so much creativity and heart in everything they offered. More than anything, seeing our community show up with such strong, visible support for Israel was incredible. Can’t wait for next year!”
As the day ended, a lasting impression was left of what it means to show up for one another—with pride, purpose, and heart. Through shared experiences, connections, and unwavering support for Israel, the community was reminded that even in challenging times, coming together remains a powerful source of strength and hope.
For more information on upcoming Israel-related programs, visit JewishVA.org or contact Nofar Trem at NTrem@UJFT.org. Save the date for next year’s Yom Ha’Atzmaut gathering on Sunday, May 16, 2027.
Courtney Krutoy, Hatti Friedman, and Anya Farkas family.
Marcy Mostofsky, Ilana Peck Leibler, and Michael Mostofsky.
Mark Solberg and Rabbi Michael Panitz. Monica Gerand volunteering with ESEK. Nechama and Noam Haas.
Alex and Alexandra Kosatykh. Amy Brooke, Anna and Chana Horowitz, and Jeff Brooke. Bellamy and Cora Baldwin, and Bayla Shames.
Ofir family. Persaud family. Zibby Robertson.
Leah and Rabbi Ari Oliszewski. Rabbi Levy Brashevitzky and Sammy Alofer. Yaala Nimrod.
IT’S A WRAP
JFS’S 22ND ANNUAL RUN, ROLL, STROLL: RACES FOR FUN AND FUNDS
Julie Kievit
Jewish Family Service of Tidewater raised vital funds for community services during its 22nd Annual Run, Roll, Stroll on Sunday, May 3, attracting nearly 300 participants to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront for a 5K and community walk.
Hundreds of community members, families, volunteers, and supporters arrived for a morning filled with fun, fellowship, and philanthropy. The event serves as JFS’s largest fundraiser of the year, helping ensure the agency can continue meeting the growing needs of the Hampton Roads community.
Run, Roll, Stroll offered something for everyone, from the 5K race to the 1-Mile Fun Run and community stroll. Participants also enjoyed a variety of family-friendly activities including fairy hair, bubbles, glitter tattoos, and
a balloon twister, creating an energetic atmosphere along the oceanfront.
The event highlighted the strength and spirit of the community, with teams representing local organizations and congregations coming out in support of JFS. Strelitz International Academy won the trophy for the largest team with Team Tiger, while Ohef Sholom Temple had the second-largest team. Participation in the race continues to grow each year.
The money raised through race registration and sponsors is used to support JFS programs. JFS emphasizes that donations remain essential in sustaining the agency’s mission and services throughout the year.
“Run, Roll, Stroll would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors and community partners. The generous support we receive all goes
back into the community — 86 cents of every dollar directly helps someone in need,” says Kelly Burroughs, CEO of JFS. “We use events like Run, Roll, Stroll to bring the community together for fun and fellowship, but also importantly to thank the hundreds of people in the community that make it possible.”
“The board members and volunteers play an integral part every year in making Run, Roll, Stroll a success and we are so thankful to have a board that is excited to come out and show their support,” says Brooke Rush, JFS director of development.
For more information about Jewish Family Service of Tidewater or to support its mission, visit JFSHamptonroads.org. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact Julie Kievit, Jewish Community Relations manager, at jkievit@jfshamptonroads.org.
Maya Ball.
JFS at the Oceanfront.
Persaud family.
Naomi Sedek, Helen Sissel, Charlotte Zito, Ari Zito, and Lawrence Steingold. Noah and Molly Weiner.
Theo Trem and Ruby Kievit. The race is on!
Adam Leiderman and Ina Leiderman. Eliot and Dani Weinstein.
Jamie Baker, Amy Weinstein, Adam Leiderman, Heather Moore, and Carin Simon.
Benjamin Tabakin, Leo Baker, Zachary Kingsland, and Shai Rubin.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
JCC hosts National Senior Health & Fitness Day
Wednesday, May 27, 9 am – 12 pm
Sandler Family Campus
The Simon Family JCC invites seniors to celebrate National Senior Health & Fitness Day – a free event that promotes “Stay Active at Any Age!” with fun activities for health and community connection.
Participants can enjoy mini health fairs, exercise demonstrations, informative health presentations, free screenings, and fitness classes tailored to all ability levels. Door prizes, tasty treats, and social opportunities add to the excitement.
Staying active enhances strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being, supporting independence in older adults. Discover resources designed for healthy aging.
Join fellow community members for an uplifting morning of movement and wellness. No registration required. Open to JCC members and guests.
For additional information, contact Nicole Slade, JCC member service manager, at NSlade@UJFT.org or 757-321-2338.
JFS plans 67th Biennial Meeting
Monday, June 22, 12 pm Fred Huette Garden 1000 Botetourt Gardens, Norfolk
Julie Kievit
Jewish Family Service of Tidewater will hold its 67th Biennial Meeting at a luncheon that will welcome new board members, install Steve Brown as incoming board president, and recognize Stephanie Peck for her dedicated service as outgoing president. The program will also honor individuals whose contributions have strengthened JFS and the broader community, celebrating the organization’s continued growth and impact.
Over the past year, JFS has continued its core mission of serving the community through vital programs and services. In 2025 alone, JFS provided 362 medical transports for seniors, delivered 7,458 meals to homebound individuals, and assisted 346 Jewish individuals with food and fi nancial
support. In addition, 984 holiday gifts were delivered to seniors, and 1,333 adults received court-appointed guardianship services.
These numbers represent more than statistics—they reflect thousands of lives touched. From countless counseling hours to hundreds of neighbors leaving the food pantry with their arms full, to Jewish children receiving Hanukkah gifts, JFS remains deeply committed to meeting the needs of the community with compassion and care.
The Biennial Meeting offers an opportunity to reflect on this impact, celebrate those who make the work possible, and look ahead to the future.
To RSVP, contact Julie Kievit, Jewish community relations manager, at jkievit@ jfshamptonroads.org or 757-321-2318.
Memorial Day Commemoration
Thursday, May 21, 8:30
am Jewish War Veterans Memorial Sandler Family Campus
VADM Herm Shelanski, USN (ret.)
Memorial Day began in the wake of the Civil War when a grieving nation came together to honor the fallen. What started as springtime tributes at newly established national cemeteries has grown into a solemn national observance recognizing all American service members who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Jewish Americans have been part of that story since the nation’s earliest days. This year, as America marks its 250th anniversary — a milestone to be celebrated on July 4, 2026 — it is a fitting moment to reflect on Jewish contributions to that very founding. At the time of the American Revolution, a small Jewish population—numbering only in the thousands— nonetheless showed deep patriotism, with many serving in the fight for independence. George Washington himself directly commanded 40 Jewish soldiers, and in Charleston, South Carolina, entire groups of Jewish men enlisted together in support of the cause.
According to the Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America, Jewish service members have consistently served in numbers far exceeding their proportion of the population—earning more than 52,000 military awards, including the Congressional Medal of Honor. From the Revolutionary War through the Civil War, where Jewish Americans fought on both sides, to modern conflicts, that commitment has remained unwavering.
Many of these stories—both well-known and largely unsung—are thoughtfully compiled in an article by Aish.com (We Jews: Memorial Day Edition) highlighting Jewish military service across American history. Readers are encouraged to explore it to gain a deeper appreciation for the breadth of contribution, sacrifice, and patriotism that continues to shape the community.
Behind these numbers are deeply personal stories of courage and sacrifice—young men and women who carried not only a sense of duty, but a profound awareness of what their service meant for those they loved and those they stood beside.
Their legacy demands more than remembrance. It asks Jewish Americans to live with intention, to safeguard the freedoms they defended, and to stand firmly against hatred, antisemitism, and injustice. Because of them, Jewish Americans can live openly and proudly—as Jews and as Americans. Honoring their memory means carrying that responsibility forward, not just on Memorial Day, but every day.
The Memorial Day commemoration at the Sandler Family Campus is presented by United Jewish Federation of Tidewater. For more information and to RSVP (required), visit JewishVA.org/memorialday26.
VADM Herm Shelanski, USN (ret.) at Memorial Day commemoration, 2022.
CALENDAR
MAY 18, MONDAY
Book Club. The book of the month is Wreck by Catherine Newman. The group meets every third Monday of the month at 1:30 pm. Sandler Family Campus. Information: Jewishva.org/ Adults or Sarah Cooper at SCooper@ujft.org.
MAY 20, WEDNESDAY
Senior Club. Join active seniors to learn what is happening in the community. This meeting will include playing Bingo with the Tidewater Shinshin. Meets every third Wednesday of the month.12 pm. Sandler Family Campus. Information: www.jewishva.org/Adults or Sarah Cooper at SCooper@ujft.org
Virginia Is for Mothers: A Beyond the Blues Experience. Join Postpartum Support Virginia (PSVa) and the 757 Chapter of Chamber of Mothers, in partnership with United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s PJ Library, for a screening of the documentary, More Than Blue. Simon Family JCC. 7:30 – 9 pm. Information: BSisler@ujft.org or jewishva.org/morethanblue.
MAY 21 AND JUNE 4, THURSDAYS
Roundtable Conversation. Join community members of all ages for conversations involving current events, politics, and more. Meets every first and third Thursday of the month. 1 pm. Sandler Family Campus. Information: www.jewishva.org/Adults or Sarah Cooper at SCooper@ujft.org.
MAY 21, 28, THURSDAYS
Baby & Me. A relaxed hour of coffee, treats, and playful activities for babies up to 24 months and their caregivers. Connect with other caregivers while little ones explore and play with friends. Free, no membership required. 9 –10 am. Simon Family JCC. Registration required: JewishVA.org/BAM or Blake Sisler at BSisler@ujft.org..
MAY 28, THURSDAY
Celebration of Lifelong Learning. Celebrate the joy of Jewish lifelong learning with an uplifting evening bringing together learners of all ages, from preschoolers to nonagenarians. The program includes a festive reception followed by remarks, songs, and presentations highlighting learning across the lifespan. It concludes with a community concert featuring musical artist Jason Schachter McKinney. 6 – 8 pm. Jewish Museum and Cultural Center. Limited transportation from Simon Family Jewish Community Center is available upon request. Information: JewishVA.org/JAHM or Sierra Lautman at SLautman@UJFT.org.
MAY 29, JUNE 5, FRIDAYS
JNextGen Pop-Up Shabbat. Join Shabbat gatherings hosted in homes across the community for young adults and their families. Designed for those roughly ages 22–45(ish). Enjoy an evening of Shabbat traditions, meaningful conversation, and a shared meal in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Host information: JewishVA.org/PopUpShabbat.
MAY 29, FRIDAY
Family Storytime. Celebrate Jewish American Heritage Month at the Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library with a Family Storytime featuring Jason Belongs, led by author and musician Jason Schachter McKinney. Jason has a big voice. He sings everywhere—until a whisper runs through his Jewish school: Jason is Black. Is he really Jewish? “Can I be both Black and Jewish?” wonders Jason. The story offers young readers a powerful message: all communities are diverse, and everyone belongs. Perfect for families with children in kindergarten through third grade. Free. 10:30 am. Registration required: JewishVA.org/JasonBelongs
MAY 31, SUNDAY
JAHM Interfaith Programming. Sacred Soundscapes. Through a partnership with UJFT and in celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month, author and cantorial soloist Jason Schachter McKinney, and Bob Shoup, Second Presbyterian Church’s director of music, will reflect on how they see music in worship, how it structures the service, supports prayer, and shapes emotional and spiritual experience. Second Presbyterian Church, Norfolk, 10 am. Participants are invited to stay for an interfaith service at 11 am. All are welcome, RSVP required: JewishVA.org/SecondPres.
JAHM Interfaith Programming. Join Pastor Craig Wansink and the congregation of Second Presbyterian Church as they welcome Rabbi Michael Panitz of Temple Israel to learn why the commandment “remember the Sabbath” may be the commandment needed most. Second Presbyterian Church, Norfolk 11 am. RSVP required: JewishVA.org/SecondPres.
The Myers House Tour. As the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence approaches, explore the complexity of Jewish and American identity through the story of Norfolk’s first permanent Jewish residents. Rabbi Michael Panitz will lead a deep dive into the life of Moses Myers, examining his role in the American Revolution, his understanding of citizenship, and whether he should be seen as an exemplar or an outlier in early American Jewish history. The Myers House. 1 pm. Free for Chrysler Museum of Art members, $10 for non-members. Registration required: JewishVA.org/JAHM.
JUNE 2, TUESDAY
Yiddish Club. Embrace Yiddish culture, language, and history through music, film, poetry, and literature. Usually meets on the first Tuesday of each month. 1 pm. Sandler Family Campus. Information: www.jewishva.org/Adults or Sarah Cooper at SCooper@ujft.org.
JUNE 5, FRIDAY
PJ Library in the Neighborhood. Enjoy a pre-Shabbat afternoon at Woodstock Park. Swing by after school for some outdoor play, connect with other families, and kick off the weekend together. 4 – 6 pm. Information: bsisler@ujft.org or jewishva.org/Neighborhood.
JUNE 10, WEDNESDAY
Ancestral Allyship. In recognition of LGBTQ+ Pride Month, Mike Moskowitz, Orthodox rabbi and Scholar-in-Residence at the world’s largest LGBTQ+ Jewish congregation, will delve into Torah with a fresh twist: Exploring allyship. Rabbi Moskowitz will illuminate how to stand up, support others, and make a difference. This is a new way to see timeless texts through the lens of belonging, empathy, and connection. Sandler Family Campus. 7 pm. Presented by Arts + Ideas at the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater in partnership with UJFT’s Konikoff Center for Learning. Registration required: JewishVA.org/Pride.
JUNE 15, MONDAY
Camp JCC opens its doors for the first day of summer camp. Campers will dive into a full day of classic camp fun, including sports, swimming, arts, outdoor adventure, and community building with friends old and new. Sandler Family Campus. Registration and information: CampJCC. org or Kate-Lynn Cipolla, Camp JCC director, at KLCipolla@UJFT.org.
Erica Unger
VIRGINIA BEACH – We are deeply saddened to share that Erica Unger passed away on April 11, 2026, just three days before her 95th birthday.
Born in Vienna, she was a Holocaust survivor who went on to live a rich and vibrant life marked by travel, meaningful relationships, and a deep joy in sharing her experiences with family and friends.
Erica found happiness in life’s simple pleasures—rooting for her beloved Brooklyn Dodgers (before their move to Los Angeles), playing Mahjong and bridge, swimming, and singing along to Broadway tunes, opera, and classic oldies. Fluent in German, Spanish, and English, she truly embodied gemütlichkeit—a
spirit of warmth, friendliness, and good cheer. Her humor, kindness, and generous heart left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.
She was deeply devoted to her family and community and took great pride in earning her Associate of Arts degree later in life, as well as in her career as a women’s clothing buyer at Sears, Roebuck and Co. Erica also believed strongly in charitable giving and instilled in her children the importance of helping those in need and remaining actively involved in their communities. She was a lifetime member of Hadassah, played a pivotal role in the creation of Congregation Beth Tefillah, and helped guide charitable contributions through the Unger Family Foundation.
Erica is survived by her sons, Jeffrey (Jeanine) and David; her grandchildren, Jack and Michael; and extended family across the United States, France, and Israel. She was preceded in death by her husband, Harold Unger; her parents; her sister and closest friend, Greta Burg; her brother-inlaw, Fred Burg; and her daughter-in-law, Rebecca Unger.
In honor of Erica’s lifelong commitment to helping others, donations may be made to Beth Sholom Village, Meals on Wheels of Chesapeake, or a charity of the donor’s choice.
Lawrence Kirstein
NORFOLK – Lawrence Harold “Larry” Kirstein, 76, of Norfolk, Virginia, died Jan. 15, 2026.
Mr. Kirstein is survived by his sisters and brother-in-law, Robert Grosinger, Rita and Dr. Pedro Paragas, and Ina Kirstein; nephews and nieces, Eric and Amy Grosinger, Jason and Jennifer Paragas, Kari and Eddie Alterman, and Neal and Alexa Paragas; great-nephews and great-nieces, Ryan and Lexi, Samantha, Bennett, Noa, Adina, Pedro, Ava, Paloma and Lewis.
He was the beloved son of the late Joseph “George” Kirstein and the late Sylvia Goldberg Kirstein; the dear brother-in-law of the late Emery Grosinger.
Interment was at Clover Hill Park Cemetery. Contributions may be made to Gesher Human Services, to Yad Ezra, or to a charity of one’s choice.
Arrangements by Ira Kaufman Chapel.
May the Source of Peace send peace to all who mourn, and comfort to all who are bereaved.
Abraham Foxman, transformative longtime director of the Anti-Defamation League
Ron Kampeas (JTA) — Abraham Foxman, the longtime leader of the Anti-Defamation League who for decades was the last word in postHolocaust Jewish fury and forgiveness, died at 86 on Sunday, May 10.
Foxman, a child survivor of the Holocaust, could be scathing and trenchant when he identified antisemitism infiltrating the public arena. But he was also an address for public figures who sought to divest themselves of a reputation of hostility toward Jews. And he did not spare himself, regretting crusades on behalf of Israel and Jewish communities he eventually admitted were wrongheaded.
“If you don’t believe you can change people’s hearts and minds, why bother?” he told The New York Times in 2020, when a columnist sought insights from what she called the “pardoner of sins” about the entrenchment of an unforgiving cancel
culture. “If you are not going to try and change hearts and minds, why are you in this business at all?”
Under Foxman’s leadership, the ADL transformed from a division of the Jewish organization B’nai Brith into a muscular juggernaut running antibias educational and training programs, monitoring antisemitism in the United States and around the world, and advocating for anti-discrimination legislation out of an array of regional offices. Foxman himself became a chief arbiter of what qualified as antisemitism — and the granter of absolution when he felt it was warranted.
Some jokingly called him “the Jewish pope.”
He joined the ADL as an assistant director of legal affairs in 1965 and rose through a series of positions, including head of Middle Eastern affairs and head of international affairs, before becoming national director in 1987.
IN MEMORIAM
“We don’t have a slow season in our business,” he told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency at the time. “What we deal with is words. We’ve learned that words have the power to kill, that words unchallenged, left in silence, words of bigotry, are part of our tradition.”
Foxman thrived for decades in a political culture where the establishment still mattered, and extremism was not considered a virtue. He granted absolution to figures as diverse as former President Jimmy Carter and right-wing broadcaster Glenn Beck and as surprising as the fashion designer John Galliano.
Foxman also knew when to despair of reforming repeat offenders.
“When you say Mr. X engaged in antisemitism, the first time that they do it you can say it’s ignorance, it’s insensitivity,” he told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency in 2007, asked about his refusal to exonerate Hollywood star and director Mel Gibson. “But when you say to them that they are engaging in antisemitism when they say the Jews control the media and the Jews control universities, and when they repeat it the second time, the third time, and the fourth time, are you or are you not an antisemite?”
Foxman’s successor, ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt, lamented in a statement the passing of an “iconic Jewish leader.”
“America and the Jewish people have lost a moral voice, a passionate advocate for the Jewish people and the state of Israel, and a remarkable leader,” Greenblatt said.
Greenblatt’s announcement was followed by an outpouring of memories and tributes from leaders throughout the Jewish world and in Israel. “Abe Foxman was a mentor, a guide, and a towering presence in Jewish communal life. He showed a generation of leaders that fighting antisemitism demands clarity, courage, and the willingness to stand firm under pressure,” said William Daroff, CEO of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, in one such statement.
Amid starkly growing polarization in the United States, Foxman was known for his willingness to call balls and strikes on all sides of the aisle, as well as hug across the chasm.
The complexity of individuals –the truth that heroes could commit bad
acts and that villains could at times be redeemed – was seared into Foxman from childhood.
Foxman was born in Poland in 1940 and at 2 years old was left in the care of his Roman Catholic nanny in Vilnius, Lithuania, as his parents sought to escape the Germans. His nanny was his fierce protector and insulated him from the depredations of Nazis and their enablers, baptizing him and teaching him to handily hurl anti-Jewish epithets to fit in.
When his parents returned after the war, she would not give him up: It took bitter encounters in courtrooms to restore him to his family, and to the Jewish people.
Yet he could never hate her, he would often say later in life. “She risked her life,” he told the New York Times in 1991. “She saved my life.”
In 1950, four years after besting his nanny in the courts, Foxman’s parents took him with them to New York. There he attended the Yeshiva of Flatbush followed by the City College of New York and New York University Law School.
Foxman applied his exacting standards to himself, telling JTA in the same 2007 interview that he was haunted by the mistakes he had made, in one case lacerating a 60 Minutes segment on Jerusalem only to find out the report’s criticism of the Israeli police’s use of excessive force in confronting rioters in 1990 on the Temple Mount Israel was correct. (He apologized to producer Don Hewitt and reporter Mike Wallace, and Hewitt replied, “Are you for real?”)
He also told JTA in the same interview that he anguished over one of his most controversial decisions — his refusal to describe the Ottoman massacre of Armenians in 1915 as a “genocide” — especially given the backlash his stance earned him from Jewish allies of the Armenian community.
Foxman’s reflex had been typical: defer to the Jewish community most vulnerable in a controversy, in this case the Turkish Jewish community, which feared retaliation. It was a decision that he also took at a time Turkey was one of Israel’s closest regional allies and heavily pressured Israel to oppose any U.S. efforts to recognize the killings as genocide. But
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Foxman acknowledged in retrospect that he had caused others pain.
“To me it was very clear, there are moral imperatives here — the moral imperative to feel somebody else’s pain, to recognize their anguish, and the moral imperative which is the safety and the security of the Jewish community,” he said.
Once Foxman had enough of someone, he truly had enough — and his sharp wit would emerge.
“My answer would be ‘Thanks but no thanks,”’ Foxman told Reuters in 2004 when Gibson said he was contemplating
a film about the Maccabees, the Jewish warrior class whose stunning victory over Greek colonists is the basis of the Hanukkah holiday. “The last thing we need in Jewish history is to convert our history into a Western. In his hands we may wind up losing.”
He came across at times as a curmudgeon. Viral Hate: Containing Its Spread on the Internet, a book he coauthored in 2013, tanked, and he told a JTA reporter he was not surprised: He was lambasting the social media machine that was shaping America, tilting at
Chris Sisler, Vice President, Member of Ohef Sholom Temple, Board member of the Berger-Goldrich Home at Beth Sholom Village, James E. Altmeyer, Jr., President, James E. Altmeyer, Sr., Owner
IN MEMORIAM
virtual windmills.
“The paradigms are changing,” he said multiple times in an interview about the book.
Thirteen years later, his distaste for the selfassuredness of tech leaders who reassured him all would be good seems prescient.
“We have been talking to the geniuses at Palo Alto,” Foxman said in the interview. “We have said to them, ‘thanks but no thanks. You developed a technology that has some wonderful things but also has unintended consequences.’ ”
When Foxman retired in 2015, antisemitism appeared by many measures to be at an all-time low in the United States. Foxman hesitated to take credit for any gains but said he had appreciated the chance to build a world animated by values very different from those that reigned during his childhood in Eastern Europe.
“I don’t take credit for it, but I’m part of the effort — not only of the American Jewish community, but of decent people in this country, to fight it,” Foxman told JTA at the time.
“To what extent did my experiences in the Shoah, the D.P. camps, my Catholicism have to do with that, I don’t know,” Foxman added. “I have been very lucky. To get up every morning and to have an opportunity to try to make a difference in both fighting hate and building love — wow. I
have been very privileged.”
At a retirement party at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in Manhattan in 2015, Foxman received accolades from Obama administration officials as well as from Tom Friedman, The New York Times columnist with whom he had repeatedly clashed on Israel policy. (Friedman revealed that Foxman had been his counselor at Herzl Camp in Wisconsin, where a highlight each year was reenacting the Dreyfus Affair.)
The party also drew an appearance by Roger Ailes, the Fox News Channel chief who had faced Foxman’s wrath over the conspiracy musings of one-time Fox personality Beck. (Years later, Foxman would defend having awarded an honor to Fox’s owner, Rupert Murdoch, even after Greenblatt said Murdoch was stoking hate with the network.)
Foxman was gregarious, surprising interlocutors by ending official meetings with a hug, and referring to Jewish media reporters as “tattele,” Yiddish for “good boy.”
“Within minutes of our first phone call I felt like family,” United Nations envoy Samantha Power said at the Waldorf-Astoria sendoff, describing their first interaction in Obama’s first term, when she was on the National Security Council. “We were yelling, interrupting one another and swearing. I think I almost ended this first phone call saying, ‘Love you.’”
Nicole Mutchnik, chair of the ADL’s board, referred to Foxman’s famous warmth in a statement mourning his death.
“Abe Foxman helped build the modern liberal era of America. He was recognized across the globe as a great leader and passionate advocate for tolerance, a voice of the generation rebuilding in the shadow of the Shoah, and longtime advisor to American presidents and world leaders,” she said. “To those of us who knew him, Abe was a warm friend, advisor, spirited antagonist and hugger – all over lunch.”
In 2020, five years after retiring from the ADL, Foxman did what once was unthinkable to him. He endorsed a presidential candidate, Joe Biden. He was appalled by what he saw as President Donald Trump’s flirtations with bigotry and broadsides against democracy, the system that kept the United States from living the nightmare his parents had endured.
He also did what he had for a lifetime been reluctant to do: invoke the Nazi era as a warning signal.
“Germany did have institutions and they did have democracy and it did fall apart so, yeah, it’s not Germany, and it’s not Nazism, but our antennas are quivering,” Foxman told JTA weeks before the election.
Foxman is survived by his wife Golda; his daughter Michelle and his son Ariel; and four grandchildren.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
CONGREGATION
FRIDAY, MAY 29 –
SUNDAY, MAY 31
A dynamic and thought-provoking Visiting Scholar weekend planned and presented by Congregation Beth El, will feature Rabbi Jeffrey Salkin, one of the most widely read and influential voices in contemporary Jewish life.
An award-winning author of 12 books, Rabbi Salkin is best known for his nationally recognized column Martini Judaism, published by the Religion News Service, which has earned multiple “Best Religion Column of the Year” honors and inspired an award-winning podcast. A sought-after speaker and media commentator, he has appeared on CNN and the BBC, with essays featured in The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, Tablet, and Forward.
Over the course of the weekend, Rabbi Salkin will lead a series of lectures exploring the future of American Judaism, the meaning of Jewish prayer, and the hidden Jewish wisdom in contemporary culture.
The weekend begins on Friday, May 29, at 6:30 pm with a Shabbat evening service, followed by dinner and Rabbi Salkin’s presentation, “How Do We Reboot American Judaism?” In the wake of October 7 and its aftermath, he will explore how American Judaism is evolving and what its future might look like. Dinner costs $18 for adults, $8 for children ages 6–13, and $45 per family, with advance RSVP required.
At Shabbat morning services on Saturday, May 30, at 9:30 am, Rabbi Salkin will deliver the sermon. The service will be followed by a complimentary Kiddush lunch and his presentation, “Why Are We Reading This?” In this session, he will address the challenges many modern Jews face with prayer, unpacking some of the most complex and controversial passages in the liturgy and revealing their deeper meanings in ways that are both accessible and inspiring.
The weekend concludes on Sunday, May 31, at 10:30 am with a brunch and Rabbi Salkin’s presentation, “Fixing the Broken Hallelujah.” This talk explores the life and legacy of the late singer songwriter Leonard Cohen, highlighting the profound Jewish themes and spiritual insights embedded in his work. Brunch costs $18 for adults, $8 for children ages 6–13, and $45 per family, with advance RSVP required.
This special Visiting Scholar weekend offers a unique opportunity to engage with one of today’s most compelling Jewish thinkers in an intimate and welcoming community setting.
All events will take place at Congregation Beth El in Norfolk.
For more information and to RSVP, visit: www.bethelnorfolk.com or contact the Beth El office at Ada@bethelnorfolk.com or 757-625-7821.
Pre-Shavuot Neighborhood Hop
Sunday, May 17, 4 – 7 pm TIDE by B’nai Israel
Step out of the sanctuary and onto the porch. Join NextGen 757 for a high-energy journey through Ghent to prep for Shavuot.
NextGen 757 joins TIDE by B’nai Israel to bring bite-sized learning, sweet treats, and great company. Free to attend and open to the Tidewater Jewish community, ages 22-45ish.
RSVP required at JewishVA.org/Hop
Post-Shavuot Seudah Shlishit & Havdallah experience
Saturday, May 30, 7 pm
Temple Israel
Don’t miss this intentional gathering hosted by United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s NextGen757 in partnership with Temple Israel. Capture the “lingering magic” of Shavuot with a light dinner, guided discussions on modern belonging, and a communal Havdallah.
This event is perfect for those looking to deepen their connection to the community and explore Jewish identity and what “chosen family” looks like today.
Open to the Jewish community ages 22-45ish.
RSVP required at JewishVA.org/ThirdHour.
The Feldman Family Medical and Health Professions Student Scholarship
Up to $10,000 AWARDED TO 2 STUDENTS EACH YEAR!
Established in honor of Dr Feldman’s enduring legacy of compassion, excellence, and service in the medical field, the Feldman Family Medical and Health Professions Student Scholarship supports the next generation of healthcare leaders committed to making a meaningful difference.
This scholarship is awarded to Jewish students, or those who identify as Jewish, who are entering a qualifying healthcare degree program, including medicine, nursing, public health, and related professions. Applicants must currently reside in the Southeastern United States, with preference given to students from the Hampton Roads region.
Through this investment, the Feldman family and the Tidewater Jewish Foundation aim to empower students who demonstrate both academic promise and a deep commitment to caring for others, helping to strengthen the future of healthcare and the communities these students will one day serve.