33026Da281146
INSIDE
www.jewishnewsva.org
Southeastern Virginia | Vol. 57 No. 16 | 6 Iyar 5779 | May 6, 2019
Israel Fest 2019 Sunday May 19
5 Training to prevent shootings like at Poway Chabad
—page 11
12 Stein Family College Scholarship winner: Faith Rose White
15 New director for JCamp: Eliana Rohrig
Getting ready for
5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Suite 200 Virginia Beach, Virginia 23462-4370 Address Service Requested
Non-Profit Org. US POSTAGE Paid Suburban MD Permit 6543
Summer Supplement to Jewish News May 6, 2019 jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Summer | Jewish News | 13
25 JFS: Spring into Healthy Living Organ donation Thursday, May 16
20 BIENNIAL 19 MEETING
The Community is Invited to Attend the
of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater Thursday, June 13, 2019
Reception 6 PM | Program 6:45 PM Sandler Family Campus 5000 Corporate Woods Drive Virginia Beach
Nomination & Election of New UJFT President Amy Moss Levy
Presentation of Special Community Awards • Leonard R. Strelitz Young Leadership Award
Recognition of Outgoing President • Joseph H. Strelitz Memorial Award John Strelitz for Distinguished Community Service • Harry Graber Award for Acknowledgment of New & Outstanding Achievement Retiring Leadership in Jewish Communal Service
Kosher Hors d’Oeuvres—Cocktail Reception RSVP Required, Tammy Mujica at tmujica@ujft.org or 757-965-6124 2 | Jewish News | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
Jewish news
Upfront
jewishnewsva.org
Published 21 times a year by United Jewish Federation of Tidewater.
New York Times says its controversial cartoon shows ‘numbness’ to anti-Semitism
T
he New York Times editorial board said in an editorial published Tuesday, April 30, that the newspaper’s publishing of “an appalling political cartoon” is “evidence of a profound danger—not only of anti-Semitism but of numbness to its creep.” The newspaper also acknowledged its own historical contributions to the rise of anti-Semitism. “In the 1930s and the 1940s, the Times was largely silent as anti-Semitism rose up and bathed the world in blood,” it wrote. “That failure still haunts this newspaper.” The editorial said that “anti-Semitic imagery is particularly dangerous now,” citing the attack on the Poway of Chabad synagogue and the release of the AntiDefamation League’s annual audit of anti-Semitic incidents, which shows that the number of assaults against American Jews more than doubled from 2017 to 2018. “Jews face even greater hostility and danger in Europe, where the cartoon was created,” the editorial also said. The editorial also acknowledged that
:criticism of Israel can be couched in anti-Semitic terms. “This is also a period of rising criticism of Israel, much of it directed at the rightward drift of its own government and some of it even questioning Israel’s very foundation as a Jewish state. We have been and remain stalwart supporters of Israel, and believe that good-faith criticism should work to strengthen it over the long term by helping it stay true to its democratic values. But anti-Zionism can clearly serve as a cover for anti-Semitism—and some criticism of Israel, as the cartoon demonstrated, is couched openly in anti-Semitic terms,” the editorial said. It also accused President Donald Trump of doing “too little to rouse the national conscience” against anti-Semitism. “Though he condemned the cartoon in the Times, he has failed to speak out against anti-Semitic groups like the white nationalists who marched in Charlottesville, Va., in 2017, chanting, ‘Jews will not replace us,’” the paper wrote. The cartoon, which appeared in the opinion section of the newspaper’s
QR code generated on http://qrcode.littleidiot.be
international print edition, depicted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a dachshund-breed guide dog wearing a Star of David collar and leading a yarmulke-clad President Donald Trump. The newspaper in a first statement acknowledged that the image was “offensive” and “included anti-Semitic tropes.” A second statement said the newspaper was “deeply sorry” and that the decision to publish the image was the product of “a faulty process” resulting in “a single editor working without adequate oversight.” The Portuguese cartoonist Antonio Moreira Antunes told the Jerusalem Post in an emailed response to questions from the newspaper that he did not mean for his work to be viewed as anti-Semitic. “To illustrate this situation, an analogy occurred to me with a blind man (Trump) led by a guide dog (Netanyahu) and, to help identify him, little known in Portugal, I added the Star of David, symbol of the State of Israel and central element of its flag,” he said. Antunes did not explain why he drew a kippah on Trump’s head. (JTA)
OOPS! In the article, “Five generations of philanthropy” in the April 28, 2019 issue of Jewish News, Megan Hearst should have been included as a member of The Helen G. Gifford Foundation board.
Contents
About the cover: Camel rides at Israel Fest.
Up Front. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Special Section: Summer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Briefs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Hey Ladies!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Jewish organizations train to prevent shootings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Tidewater gets lucky. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Ambassador Ido Aharoni speaks. . . . . . . . . 7 ADL reports anti-Semitic acts on rise. . . . . 8 Anti-Semitic acts increase in Canada. . . . . 9 Locals attend National Young Leadership mission in Russia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Israel Fest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Stein Family College Scholarship awarded. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
What’s Happening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Who knew?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 2019 Jewish Tony nominees. . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Seniors celebrate Passover. . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Reba and Sam Sandler Family Campus of the Tidewater Jewish Community 5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Suite 200 Virginia Beach, Virginia 23462-4370 voice 757-965-6100 • fax 757-965-6102 email news@ujft.org Terri Denison, Editor Germaine Clair, Art Director Sandy Goldberg, Account Executive Ronnie Jacobs Cohen, Account Executive Marilyn Cerase, Subscription Manager Reba Karp, Editor Emeritus United Jewish Federation of Tidewater John Strelitz, President Alvin Wall, Treasurer Stephanie Calliott, Secretary Betty Ann Levin, Executive Vice-President www.jewishVA.org The appearance of advertising in the Jewish News does not constitute a kashrut, political, product or service endorsement. The articles and letters appearing herein are not necessarily the opinion of this newspaper. © 2019 Jewish News. All rights reserved. Subscription: $18 per year
JewishNewsVA
For subscription or change of address, call 757-965-6128 or email mcerase@ujft.org.
Upcoming Deadlines for Editorial and Advertising May 27 June 10 June 24 July 15 Aug. 12 Sept. 2 Sept. 16
Health Care Father’s Day Seniors Legal Guide to Jewish Living Home Rosh Hashanah
May 10 May 24 June 7 June 28 July 26 Aug. 16 Aug. 30
Candle Lighting
Quotable
Friday, May 10/5 Iyar Light candles at 7:44 pm
“The FBI is clear: Be prepared, always be aware, and don’t hesitate to contact them if a concern arises.” —page 5
Friday, May 17/12 Iyar Light candles at 7:49 pm Friday, May 24/19 Iyar Light candles at 7:55 pm Friday, May 31/26 Iyar Light candles at 8:00 pm Friday, June 7/4 Sivan Light candles at 8:04 pm Friday, June 14/11 Sivan Light candles at 8:07 pm
jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Jewish News | 3
BRIEFS Measles outbreak tops 700 The U.S. measles outbreak, especially prevalent among haredi Orthodox Jews, has topped 700 cases—the most in one year since the Center for Disease Control declared the disease eliminated in the United States in 2000. The record outbreak of 704 cases reported by the CDC includes 400 cases in New York and its suburbs, where it has mainly affected the haredim, topping the 667 cases in 2014. Before the disease was declared eradicated, the previous high was 963 cases in 1994. The CDC pinned the resurgence on the unvaccinated and those who brought back measles from other countries. The outbreaks in Orthodox Jewish communities were associated with travelers who carried the disease back from Israel and Ukraine, according to the CDC. Despite institutional pressure, a strain of opposition to vaccines has persisted in haredi communities based on false claims that vaccines are ineffective at best and harmful at worst. Large families, closeknit communities and the complexity of timing immunizations for a family’s many young children also have contributed to the outbreak. The majority of Orthodox Jewish children are vaccinated, according to statistics issued by the New York state and New York City health departments. There is no religious reason not to be vaccinated. Prominent rabbis in New York have called on their followers to vaccinate their children. (JTA) Vegan Knesset member asks for non-leather chair in assembly hall A new Knesset member who is vegan has asked that her seat in the Knesset chamber be switched from leather to a man-made material. Miki Haimovich of the Blue and White Party also suggested that all of the seats in the Knesset plenum be changed. Haimovich said in a letter to Knesset Speaker Yuli Edelstein that she would be willing to pay to switch her chair, which she thought should look like the other surrounding chairs. She asked that the switch take place by the end of the Knesset’s summer recess in October. 4 | Jewish News | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
In the past, two other Knesset members have asked that their chairs be changed but were rejected, the Jerusalem Post reported. At least one other current Knesset member, Meretz Party head Tamar Zandberg, is a vegan. New Knesset members on Monday, April 29 attended an orientation program at the parliament building in Jerusalem. This year there are 49 first-time members of the 120-member body. The head of the new Blue and White party, Benny Gantz, did not attend the orientation, The 21st Knesset was sworn in on Tuesday, April 30 and was followed by the first regular plenary session. The new Knesset session will begin officially after Israel’s Independence Day on May 9, according to the Jerusalem Post. (JTA)
Israel’s attorney general says he won’t delay a pre-indictment hearing for Netanyahu Israel’s attorney general has rebuffed a request from lawyers for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to postpone the next stage in the corruption investigation targeting him. Avichai Mandelblit told the Netanyahu legal team that a pre-indictment hearing cannot be delayed and must take place before July 10. In February, Mandelblit announced his intention to indict Netanyahu on charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust for allegedly trading lucrative official favors for gifts worth hundreds of thousands of dollars—the first time a sitting prime minister would face criminal charges. Normally the prosecution would have turned over the evidence to defense lawyers soon after the announcement, but at Netanyahu’s request, the material was not handed over before the April 9 election out of fears that it would leak and have an effect on the balloting. Netanyahu’s attorneys said they have not picked up the material since because they have not yet been paid, and will need additional time, which the attorney general has said he will not grant, Haaretz reported. Mandelblit said he will make a decision based on the evidence at hand if the hearing is not scheduled. Netanyahu has denied all the charges
and called the investigations a “witch hunt” by the political left and the media. There are rumors that with Netanyahu’s victory in the election, members of his new government coalition would advance legislation that would grant him and all lawmakers immunity from prosecution while they are in office. (JTA)
Watching Spider-Man movies can decrease spider phobia It sounds like a teenager’s dream: Could watching superhero movies have actual health benefits? Two Israeli researchers think so. They found that exposing people to short clips of Spider-Man and Ant-Man films reduced their phobias of spiders and ants. Menachem Ben-Ezra from the School of Social Work at Ariel University and Yaakov Hoffman of the Interdisciplinary Department of Social Sciences at Bar-Ilan University published their findings in the Frontiers of Psychiatry journal. Study participants who were shown just seven seconds of a scene from a recent Spider-Man movie lowered their arachnophobia score—taken before and after the viewing—by 20 percent. They achieved a similar result by showing participants with ant phobia a seven-second clip from AntMan (which stars Jewish actor Paul Rudd). The phobia scores did not decrease when participants were shown a scene from a general Marvel movie without insects, leading the researchers to conclude that the exposure to the specific insect-themed heroes onscreen did the trick. A news release notes that Ben-Ezra and Hoffman are both avid Marvel movie fans. “Such movies not only help people feel better about themselves, they provide a contra to hectic and stressful lives by showing us the true underlying spirit of one confronting his/her fears,” the release says. (JTA) One of Manhattan’s three remaining Judaica stores is closing Locals and visitors looking for a Judaica store in New York City will soon only have two options. J. Levine Books and Judaica, a longtime seller of Jewish books, gifts and
ritual objects, will close at the end of May, owner Daniel Levine told the New York Jewish Week. Levine, the Midtown Manhattan shop’s fourth-generation owner, said his business was hurt by the rising popularity of online shopping. “The next generation doesn’t shop in stores,” he told the Jewish Week. “That’s the nature of the world.” Levine said he would continue to operate an online store, but it would be smaller than it is now. A city that once was home to dozens of Jewish bookstores will now have only two independent ones in Manhattan— West Side Judaica on the Upper West Side and Judaica Classics on the Upper East Side. In 2017, the former announced it would be closing. But following the news, customers flocked there, allowing West Side Judaica to stay afloat, according to the Jewish Week. In addition, several boutique Judaica stores remain in Manhattan, mostly connected to museums or synagogues. The shrinking number of Jewish bookstores shouldn’t be seen as a decrease in interest in Judaism, historian Jonathan Sarna told the Jewish Week. Instead it is “a message to others who are thinking of opening Jewish bookstores,” said Sarna, a professor of American Jewish history at Brandeis University. “It’s cheaper and easier to shop at Amazon.” (JTA)
Moroccan Jewish community to hold first democratic elections in half a century Moroccan Jews will hold internal elections for the first time in 50 years to determine their communal representatives. King Mohammed VI instructed the Interior Ministry to facilitate the elections, the le360 news website reported. Internal communal elections were last held in 1969 amid an increase in hostility toward Jews in Morocco following Israel’s victory in the Six-Day War in 1967. That hostility led to the emigration of the last great wave of Jews from Morocco, which once was home to 270,000 Jews, but now has about 3,000. Also last month, the royal house of Morocco announced a plan to construct a Jewish museum in the city of Fez. (JTA)
nation
How Jewish organizations train people to prevent shootings like the one in Poway Josefin Dolsten and Jewish News staff
(JTA)—Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein said his Chabad of Poway could not afford to hire an armed guard. Had it been able, or if the government had helped the synagogue bring in one, he believes the deadly attack there Saturday, April 27 could have been averted. “If I had the funding, we may have been spared. How many more dead bodies will we have to see before we act?” he told the New York Times. But hiring a security guard should not be the only priority in terms of security, says Jason Friedman, the executive director of the Community Security Service, an organization that has trained more than 4,000 Jewish volunteers across the country in how to keep their synagogues safe. Hiring a guard can be “a great first step,” Friedman says, but “if your congregation is not engaged in the security process, you’re not getting the full extent of what you’re paying for,” Friedman says. The shooting at the Poway synagogue, in which a 60-year-old woman was killed and three others, including the rabbi, were injured, is the latest chapter in an ongoing American discussion about security in the age of mass shootings. Like the massacre six months ago at a Pittsburgh synagogue, the shooting in suburban San Diego is being mined for lessons in safety by a Jewish community deeply shaken by a rise in anti-Semitism. In Tidewater, the FBI is clear: Be prepared, always be aware, and don’t hesitate to contact them if a concern arises. The Community Security Service, or CSS, anticipates attacks on synagogues like Poway. It focuses on preventive “boots-on-the-ground” measures by training community members to spot suspicious behavior and thus avert attacks. Synagogues are encouraged to post trained volunteers at their entrances to watch for potential attackers and make their members aware of their surroundings. “What we’re trying to show is that there are a lot of ways they can make themselves safer, it just takes time and
commitment,” Friedman says. CSS had not worked with the Chabad synagogue in Poway, Friedman says. Neither had the Secure Community Network, a security group that also works with synagogues and Jewish groups. In the fall, the Chabad did convene an event about synagogue security following the Pittsburgh shooting on what to do in the case of a future attack.
“We have seen an increase in targeting of houses of worship generally, and we have seen an increase in targeting of Jewish houses of worship specifically.”
Poway Mayor Steve Vaus, who attended the meeting with representatives of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, says law enforcement shared tips, including “if you can run away, run away; if you can hide, hide; if you can’t hide, challenge the shooter.’” During the shooting in Poway, “all of that happened,” the mayor says, “and I have no doubt that that meeting contributed to saving lives.” Two people intervened with the shooter. One was a community member, Oscar Stewart, who ran toward the shooter and chased him out of the building, according to the county Sheriff’s Department. An off-duty Border Patrol agent, Jonathan Morales, shot at the attacker, hitting his car. continued on page 6
Move into your new home
Fixed Rates as low as
3.50% 3.66APY
*
Apply Today! langleyFCU.org 757-827-5328
*APR=Annual Percentage Rate. 10-Year Fixed 3.50% (3.66% APR) - up to 95% LTV. The interest rate is current as of March 25, 2019. Offer applies to borrowers with a credit score of 710 or better depending on credit qualifications. Subject to credit approval. The payment on a $200,000, 10-year Fixed-Rate Loan at 3.50% (3.66% APR) is $1977.72. Property insurance and, if applicable, flood insurance is required. Payment does not include taxes and insurance premiums. The actual payment amount will be greater. Some restrictions may apply. This rate is applicable for owner-occupied purchase or refinance (no cash out) of a single family dwelling. Langley Federal Credit Union. Insured by NCUA.
jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Jewish News | 5
nation continued from page 5
“Mr. Stewart risked his life to stop the shooter and saved lives in the process,” the Sheriff’s Department said in a statement. Friedman says exclusively focusing on arming congregants can distract from other safety measures synagogues can take. “Weapons certainly have their place in security, but one has to be careful not to substitute the presence of a weapon for tried-and-true security theories and training,” Friedman says. Post-Pittsburgh, he says, the number of synagogues seeking training from CSS “dramatically increased.” In fact, the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, for example, is actively engaged in efforts to contact the Jewish community to offer their expertise in establishing security protocols, procedures, and training. They may be reached at 1-800-CALL FBI or https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/ field-offices/norfolk. Still, there’s a long way to go.
“I don’t think that there are many synagogues across the country that are really prepared [for an attack],” Friedman says. The Poway attack came as no surprise to Michael Masters, who heads the Secure Community Network. SCN coordinates security for Jewish organizations across the country and is affiliated with the Jewish Federations of North America and the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. “We have seen an increase in targeting of houses of worship generally, and we have seen an increase in targeting of Jewish houses of worship specifically,” Masters says. “That coincides with an increase in anti-Semitic incidents around the United States and around the world, as well as an increase in hate crimes against our community and an increase in threats.” SCN has worked with 147 federations across the country, as well as more than 50 partner organizations and 300-plus
Local and Experienced…a winning combination!
NANCY EVANS Associate Broker (757) 287-5765 NancyEvans@HowardHanna.com
6 | Jewish News | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
HEATHER EVANS Property Manager (757) 287-5762 HeatherEvans@HowardHanna.com
Jewish communities communities, like the to provide security Squirrel Hill neighassessments. After borhood in Pittsburgh conducting an assessor Poway, 20 miles ment, it recommends north of San Diego, security strategies are more vulnerable. tailored to the needs “Ten years ago, and circumstances t hey probably Included in federal of the particular wouldn’t be identified government’s spending bill organization. as targets of this kind to fund the Nonprofit Friedman says the of attack,” Friedman Security Grant Program threat picture itself says. “Now due to has also changed in these homegrown viorecent years. lent extremists, they’re When CSS was able to attack more founded in 2007, the locally with a focus on primary threats came their own locale.” from international terrorist groups such as Since the terrorist attacks of 9/11, the Hamas, Hezbollah, and al-Qaeda, as well federal government has made more money as large white supremacist organizations. available to houses of worship, especially Now they often come from individusynagogues and mosques, and other vulals who aren’t necessarily affiliated with nerable institutions. This year’s spending a group. That means the targets have bill included $60 million for fiscal year changed too. As a result, less prominent 2019 to fund the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which helps synagogues and other houses of worship, religious day schools and a variety of nonprofits improve the security of their buildings. The Department of Homeland Security, which administers the program, With a combined 40 awards grants of as much as $150,000 to eligible nonprofits at risk of terrorist years of experience, attacks. The nonprofits use the funding to acquire and install items ranging from whether you’re fences, lighting, and video surveillance to buying, selling or metal detectors and blast-resistant doors, locks, and windows. investing, The Poway suspect, a 19-year-old nursing student, is believed to have posted an we can assist you online manifesto on a forum popular with the “alt-right” that said he was inspired with all of your real by the Tree of Life synagogue gunman in Pittsburgh and the shooter who killed 50 at estate needs. two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. The suspect also called President Donald Trump “Zionist, Jew-loving, anti-white.” Masters says that following Pittsburgh and Poway, the conversation surrounding future attacks has changed. “We used to say it’s a question of ‘not if but when,’” he says. “Now we say ‘not when, but when again?’”
$60 million
HowardHanna.com
Gabrielle Birkner contributed to this report from Poway.
israel today
A conversation with Ambassador Ido Aharoni
A
mbassador Ido Aharoni, Israel’s longest serving consul-general in New York, overseeing the operations of the Jewish State’s largest diplomatic mission around the globe, will be in Tidewater as part of Israel Today, as well as to speak to teens and their families as part of Cause An Effect.
EMBRACE YOUR SUMMER LOOK
Israel Today: Wednesday, May 8, 7:30 pm, Ohef Sholom Temple Jewish News: What inspired you to dedicate your life and career to the people and state of Israel—the place where you grew up? Ido Aharoni: My decision to join the Ambassador Ido Aharoni. civil service, first working for state-run television and then for the foreign service, was more a reflection of the spirit of that time in Israel’s history rather than a conscious decision. Most of the people around me did the same, certainly my family. Also, in Israel, where military service is mandatory, people largely have a favorable view of the “system,” whether it’s the military or the diplomatic service. JN: As a member of Israel’s Foreign Service for 25 years, working alongside many prominent Israeli politicians, was there a specific moment/person/experience that shaped or defined your view of Israel and its position in the global community? IA: My epiphany occurred half-way into my career. It was when we completed a set of studies in the USA looking at how people feel about Israel, rather than examining what they think about Israel’s actions. What we discovered, which is now commonplace, is that humans can live perfectly fine with a disconnect between the rational and the emotional. They can agree with your policies, but dislike you. They can disagree with you, and yet be very attracted to you. Israel never considered this human complexity and nor did most Jewish advocacy groups. It means that diplomacy is not a zerosum game and that one cannot “win” in a relationship. The purpose of relationships cannot be winning. It is something that
you build and nurture. That’s what we discovered about Israel back in 2003: we were better known than liked. The task of making Israel more likable and attractive, became my life-mission. JN: How have you found that other countries look at Israel? IA: I am often invited by cities and governments to provide advice precisely because Israel is being viewed as a success story. Obviously the dramatic change that occurred in the perception of Israel is a result of many factors, among them the long-term impact of 9/11 and the rise of Jihadism, the rise of the internet, connectivity, the information revolution and participatory culture, Israel’s own performance—most notably the decision to actively support the hi-tech eco-system, which was made over four decades ago—a variety of Israel-centered experiential programs, such as Birthright, and last, but not least, the strength of Israel’s creative spirit which impacts Hollywood, the culinary world, and so much more. As early as late 2002, while serving in New York, I began urging colleagues in the organized Jewish world and in the Israeli government to switch our marketing strategy and adopt a new approach; broadening the conversation so that it reflects Israel’s relative advantages rather than its deficiencies. Today, you see more and more evidence that Israel is being branded daily as a hub of creativity and a source of inspiration by its own people, through social media and other individualized channels. JN: What can people do to support Israel and promote a positive international opinion? IA: The most important thing is to engage in a long-term celebration of Israel’s assets
The Palace Shops I 306 W. 21st St., Norfolk, VA 23517 I 757.627.6073 Hilltop East I 1544 Laskin Rd., Suite 216, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 I 757. 428.8615
and qualities. No place in the world wants to be known for its problems, and Israel is no exception. In practical terms, it means to experience Israel, to share Israel with local and national influencers, to engage in Israel-related activities that promote trade, commerce, culture, tourism, and exchange programs. The goal is to create a positive emotional tie with Israel and the beauty is that technology allows people to experience Israel even if they cannot afford to travel. JN: You served as an Infantry Company Commander during the first Lebanon War,
in which 657 Israeli soldiers lost their lives and nearly 4,000 Israeli soldiers were wounded. How can you explain the stark transition from Yom Hazikaron, a day of mourning, to Yom Haatzmaut, a day of celebrations? IA: The drastic shift from grief to jubilation is meant to remind us of the tremendous price that we pay for our independence. I think that is a critically important decision that shapes the memory of a nation. Sometimes we need symbolism in our lives and this is a powerful reminder that freedom came to our people at an unbearable cost.
jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Jewish News | 7
VIRGINIA
ARTSFESTIVAL
anti-semitism
SHAKESPEARE’S
There were 1,879 anti-Semitic incidents in 2018, ADL finds percent.
ANTONY AND CLEOPATRA Virginia Symphony Orchestra JoAnn Falletta, conductor Bill Barclay, director As originally produced by Shakespeare’s Globe
L
ast year saw the third-highest number of anti-Semitic incidents since 1979, despite a decrease from the previous year, according to a new report by the AntiDefamation League. Though the 1,879 incidents in 2018 dropped from the 1,986 incidents in 2017, according to the ADL’s annual survey of incidents released Tuesday, April 30, the number of anti-Semitic assaults more than doubled, to 39 from 17. The report counts cases of assault, harassment and vandalism. The vast majority of the incidents last year were harassment or vandalism—1,066 and 774, respectively. According to the report, the last three months of 2018 were “unusually active” in terms of incidents. The shooting at Pittsburgh’s Tree of Life synagogue at the end of October “likely drew more
MAY 17, 8 PM
FERGUSON CENTER FOR THE ARTS, NEWPORT NEWS
MAY 18, 8 PM
CHRYSLER HALL, NORFOLK
Co-presented with
This production made possible through a generous gift from the Susan Goode Performance Fund
MICHAEL FEINSTEIN SUNDAY, MAY 19, 4 PM SANDLER CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, VIRGINIA BEACH
Laura E. Adkins
Part of the Co-presented with The Helen G. Gifford Foundation Media Sponsor: WHRO Public Media
VOCAL SERIES
TICKETS: VAFEST.ORG OR CALL 757-282-2822 FESTIVAL BOX OFFICE: 440 BANK STREET, NORFOLK GROUPS SAVE! CALL 757-282-2819 FOR DETAILS.
8 | Jewish News | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
attention to anti-Semitic activities,” the ADL said. The highest number of anti-Semitic incidents occurred in 1994 and the second highest in 2017. Last year’s number matches the total for 1991, the third most recorded in one year. The organization has been measuring anti-Semitic crimes annually since 1979. The report referenced the shooting at a Chabad synagogue in Poway, California, on Saturday, April 27, in which an assailant killed one and wounded three. “We’ve worked hard to push back against anti-Semitism, and succeeded in improving hate crime laws, and yet we continue to experience an alarmingly high number of anti-Semitic acts,” ADL’s national director, Jonathan Greenblatt, said in a statement. “We unfortunately saw this trend continue into 2019 with the tragic shooting at the Chabad synagogue in Poway.”
ADL finds right-wing individuals responsible for 44 percent of anti-Semitic and extremist incidents in 2018
GREAT AMERICAN SONGBOOK
This program is funded in part by the citizens of Virginia Beach through a grant from the Virginia Beach Arts and Humanities Commission.
Josefin Dolsten
NEW YORK (JTA)—The Anti-Defamation League found that 1,879 anti-Semitic acts and 3,044 total extremist incidents were committed in the United States in 2018. Right-wing individuals were responsible for 1,328 of those incidents—nearly 44 percent. Left-wing individuals were responsible for none of 2018’s attacks, and Islamist individuals were responsible for four, according to the organization’s data. “Neither side of the political spectrum is exempt from intolerance. The idea that this is a problem with only one side is wrong,” ADL CEO Jonathan Greenblatt says. However, he added that “white supremacy is a global terror threat.” Examining the ADL’s data going back to 2002, JTA found that 2,633
—approximately 34 percent—of the 7,686 reported anti-Semitic and extremist incidents have been attributed to perpetrators with right-wing ideology, compared to 137 attributed to Islamists or those with a left-wing ideology. As for the remainder, Oren Segal, director of the ADL Center on Extremism, says that “most anti-Semitic incidents are carried out by average Joes and average Janes,” not by those affiliated with extremist groups. However, Greenblatt notes that many of the incidents the ADL reports come in from regional ADL offices, so researchers aren’t always certain of what other affiliations perpetrators might have. “We don’t know if there might be more [extremist perpetrators] out there,” he says.
anti-semitism Anti-Semitic incidents in Canada rise to record number for third straight year David Lazarus
MONTREAL (JTA)—Anti-Semitic incidents in Canada rose to a record high for the third consecutive year, according to an annual audit by B’nai Brith Canada. The audit showed 2,041 anti-Semitic incidents recorded last year in Canada —16.5 percent more than the 1,752 incidents in 2017. “To put that in stark perspective, this represents the third straight record-breaking year for anti-Semitism in Canada, reflecting a ‘new normal’ regarding the landscape of anti-Semitism here,” says Ran Ukashi, director of B’nai Brith Canada’s League for Human Rights. The group says the surge was fueled by social media and was a worldwide trend. According to the audit, despite the
troubling increase in incidents, they remain a “marginal phenomenon” in Canada. Nearly 90 percent of the incidents took the form of “harassment,” and 80 percent came from online platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Specific incidents included lit fireworks being thrown at Hasidic Jews in Quebec and two students in Saskatchewan province being harassed and beaten. B’nai Brith Canada President Michael Mostyn says equally worrying is that anti-Jewish hatred is “surfacing in areas typically less prone to such prejudices.” Most incidents were recorded in Ontario and Quebec, but there was a marked increase elsewhere, apparently due to the online rise.
LOCAL RELATIONSHIPS MATTER MEET:
Stephen Merritt, CPA & Barbara Merritt, CPA
“We are passionate about small businesses in our area and want to see them succeed. To that end we strive to be very good at what we do so our services help them succeed. We are very passionate about using local businesses. In fact we use our clients as vendors whenever possible. Developing relationships locally is very important and it helps the local economy grow. We also believe that local businesses provide better service because they care.”
“We used two national providers before them and there is no comparison. Our experience with Payday has been far more positive. A live person answers the phone....no prompts. You talk to a human! They are always helpful, helpful, helpful, with prompt responses to information requests. The customer service is always easily accessible and responsive. We know we can call them on behalf of our clients and get the information we need quickly, a big time saver for us. In fact, we strongly recommend Payday to our clients for their payroll needs.”
Start a relationship that matters today, call 757-523-0605.
Comprehensive payroll solutions
HR support center
Time & attendance
ACA compliance & reporting
Labor law poster compliance
Employee/applicant background checks
Accounting software interface
PD-adC-3 eighths V-Jewish News-Stephen Merritt CPA-111617.indd 1
y Happr ’s Fathey Da
Finfit employee loans Pay-as-you-go workers comp Payroll debit cards
11/16/17 3:42 PM
Reserve Now! Father’s Day June 10 issue To advertise, call 757.965.6100 or email news@ujft.org
jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Jewish News | 9
ALL ABOUT THE BASE SAVE $500 ON SIGNATURE BASE AND LEGCOMFORT ™ RECLINERS. April 12 - May 29.
THE INNOVATORS OF COMFORT™
world
Locals travel to Russia on National Young Leadership mission Thomas Mills
A
OR, TAKE HOME A FREE ACCESSORY.* Save $500 on a Signature base recliner and ottoman or LegComfort™ recliners. Our Signature base, with our BalanceAdapt™-system, adds a soft, gentle rocking motion and a feeling of weightlessness. Our LegComfort™-system is an elegantly integrated footrest that elevates and conceals itself with the light press of a button. Or add a FREE Accessory with qualifying purchase to elevate your comfort experience. * See store for details.
Coming Soon!
Legal Matters Legal Matters in the Jewish community
10 | Jewish News | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
July 15 issue
To advertise, call 757.965.6100 or email news@ujft.org
ndrew Nusbaum and Eric Miller departed Norfolk on March 31 to attend their first study mission with the National Young Leadership Cabinet in Russia. The National Young Leadership Cabinet, an elite leadership-training program of the Jewish Federations of North America, educates and connects the next generation of global Jewish leaders and philanthropists, ages 30–45. Cabinet members participate in study missions to experience Jewish life abroad, as well as to interact with people who have been impacted by Federation. “The purpose of this trip was to connect with other like-minded Jewish Andrew Nusbaum and Eric Miller at the World ORT de Gunberg leaders from around North Secondary School in St. Petersburg. America and travel together Miller and Nusbaum also traveled to to see the impact of the Federation dollars Georgia, where they saw how Federation we raise in Russia and Georgia,” says helps vulnerable populations. Nusbaum. “While in Tbilisi, Georgia, we visited While in Russia, Miller and Nusbaum homes of people who, through the JDC, explored the Jewish community in St. are provided food, medical assistance, Petersburg, visiting the ORT de Gunzberg home repairs, and other necessities, as Secondary School—known for its lanwell as the opportunity to participate in guage’s curriculum (English and Hebrew), Jewish life through activities at their dayJewish education, STEM, and IT procare center,” says Miller. grams. They also visited the YESOD “One of the women we had the privJewish Community Center, the first ilege of meeting was 63 and had been major Jewish construction project in St. living in her one-bedroom unit for several Petersburg in nearly 100 years. decades,” says Nusbaum. “She would not “YESOD, Hebrew for foundation, have enough income to live off of if not for serves as the hub of Jewish communal support the Federation provides.” life,” says Miller. “Thousands of Russian “Mission trips like this are truly amazJews are touched by the services and ing,” says Miller. “Not only are you able to programs offered through the YESOD, see the positive impacts you are helping to such as Hebrew classes, drama clubs, and make on those in need, you are able to interhelp for high school students to attend the act with those people and hear their stories.” International BBYO Conference.”
Israel Fest
Top five reasons to visit Israel Fest 2019 Sunday, May 19, 11 am–4 pm
Reba and Sam Sandler Family Campus Callah Terkeltaub
S
pring is officially here and that means every weekend is filled with local festivals and outdoor activities. Still, Israel Fest is the one outdoor festival not to miss! Here are five reasons why Israel Fest is the place to be on Sunday, May 19.
1. The Food There’s a reason why middle eastern and Mediterranean food is so popular—it’s delicious. Israel Fest will feature local food vendors, authentic Israeli eats, a food truck, Israeli wine and beer, and plenty of Kosher options. 2. The Activities Children can ride a camel, visit a petting zoo, dig for artifacts, take a (virtual) walk through Israel, test their skills on a children’s sized version of an IDF obstacle course, or bring out their inner Judah Maccabee in a jousting challenge. Real little ones will have a chance at a Diaper
Derby through Israel and Israeli arts and crafts. Plus, the trainer of Israel’s Biggest Loser television show, Nadav Meirson, will hold fitness classes throughout the day for children and adults alike, including kick boxing and krav maga.
3. The Shuk Shop at local and Israeli vendors including art, jewelry, and more. 4. The Education Learn all about Israel and its culture through Israeli cinema, educational activities, and fun interactive challenges. 5. The Art and Community Engage with the Tidewater community through a community mural project hosted by international artist group, Artists 4
Israel, an artists’ rights organization that educates and advocates worldwide for Israel and its freedoms. Group founder Craig Dershowitz and his colleagues will lead the creation of a mural at Israel Fest. People of all ages will be invited to participate in spray-painting part of the mural. For more information on Israel Fest or to sign up and volunteer at the festival, visit JewishVA.org/IsraelFest or contact Callah Terkeltaub at CTerkeltaub@ujft.org.
jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Jewish News | 11
Tidewater Faith White awarded Stein Family College Scholarship from Tidewater Jewish Foundation Kaitlyn Oelsner
T
he annual Stein Family College Scholarship of the Tidewater Jewish Foundation was awarded to Faith Rose White, a soon-to-be graduate of Norfolk’s
Maury High School. White is the 11th recipient of the fouryear scholarship of up to $10,000 per year that is provided to a Jewish student in Tidewater. She plans to attend Kent State University to study Fashion Design.
Sweet & generous,
just like Mom. Mother’s Day is May 12th.
Pick up and Save $XXedible.com on your purchase of $XX+* code: XXXX0000 | expires: XX/XX/XX
Virginia Beach
10
000-000-0000 2 | City, ST 00000 Anything
Lynnhaven | 2728 North Mall Drive, Suite 106 Address Line 1 |Certified) Address Line 757-463-3050 (Kosher
$
Haygood | 1115 Independence Blvd., Suite 117 757-226-0099
Chesapeake
over $29
code: JWSH0379 expires: 05/30/2019
*Cannot be combined with any other offer. Restrictions may apply. See store for details. Edible®, Edible Arrangements®, and the Fruit Basket Logo are registered Trademarks of Edible IP, LLC. © 2019 Edible IP, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Sam’s Circle | 1437 Sam’s Drive. Suite 30 757-410-8795
Great Bridge | 237 Battlefield Blvd. South, Suite 21 757-410-5969
For pickup only. Not valid for delivery order. Valid for pick up at listed locations only. Must bring entire AD to redeem in store or use coupon code JWSH0379 online or by calling listed stores. Coupon and code expire May 30, 2019. Cannot be combined with any other offer or discount. One coupon per customer per day.
*Edible®, Edible Arrangements®, and the Fruit Basket Logo are registered Trademarks of Edible IP, LLC. © 2019 Edible IP, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
12 | Jewish News | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
“I’m incredibly honored to be chosen as this year’s recipient of the Stein Family Scholarship,” says White. “I know Arlene Stein wanted to make the world a better place and I’m so appreciative of the opportunity to carry on that legacy. This is a huge weight off my shoulders. I’m relieved and deeply grateful to all those that helped me along this journey.” Top row: Hannah Yarrow (step-sister), Rick Yarow (step-father), After attending a career Debi Yarow (mother), and Ben Yarow (step-brother). Bottom fair in the eighth grade, row: Gracie White (sister), Faith White (recipient of the Stein Family Scholarship), White knew she wanted to and Jake (good dog). study fashion merchandisgoals and thoughtful perspective on the ing. She quickly learned that the schools fashion industry. She intends to focus on offering those programs were highly comsustainable fashion and ethical marketing petitive with strict admissions criteria. with the hope that she can change the way Undeterred, White spent the next several young people view clothing. years building an impressive academic “The industry leaves an unacceptably record, earning numerous accolades, and large carbon footprint, produces 1 million taking additional fashion design courses tons of waste per year in the United States at Norfolk Technical Center (NTC). alone, and is rife with worker and human She credits the fashion design courses rights abuses,” she says. “If we could all at NTC as having the greatest impact on have fewer, but more meaningful and her academic achievement. There, she ethically produced pieces in our closets, honed the skills to succeed in the fashwe would combat those abuses, use fewer ion industry, learning to sew, sketch, of the earth’s resources, and dump less design, market, and merchandise clothes. waste into landfills.” The courses also connected her with the The Stein Family College Scholarship Family Career and Community Leaders of was established in 2009 in memory of America. She served as the organization’s Arlene Stein who did not complete colpresident and won first place in their lege because of financial hardship. Arlene statewide design competition with her passed away in 2007 and Jerry Stein, her fashion lines for two consecutive years. beloved husband, in 2014. TJF works White, much like the late and beloved closely with the Stein family in adminisArlene Stein, is committed to bettering the tering this scholarship. world. Members of Congregation Beth El, Prior recipients of the scholarWhite and her family work to support their ship include Morgan Conley (Brandeis congregation’s week of hosting Norfolk University ’13), Eric Smith (University Emergency Shelter Team, which houses of Virginia ’14), Marissa Arager (George and feeds the homeless in the winter. In Mason University ’15), Avi Malkin addition, she volunteers for other organiza(College of William and Mary ’16), Dinar tions including Blankets for the Homeless Yusufov ( James Madison University ’17), through the Jewish Women Renaissance Amanda Gladstone (Virginia Tech Project, and for Friends of the Israeli ’18), Dana Cohen (Virginia Tech ’19), Defense Forces. Her sister, Hannah, serves Brett Pomerantz (Virginia Tech ’20), in the IDF and White says she is proud to Sydney Levine (University of Virginia support her and all IDF soldiers. ’21), and Lucie Waldman (Franklin and White’s commitment to Jewish values is Marshall, ’22). further demonstrated by her professional
Getting ready for
Summer Supplement to Jewish News May 6, 2019 jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Summer | Jewish News | 13
Adventure awaits at
Summer Dear Readers, J
Simon Family JCC Summer JCAMP
June 17 – August 9 Post camp: August 12 – 23
Full day | Half day | Before & After Care | Post Camp
ust as watermelon and humid nights are perfect pairings, so too, are summer days and campers. But, while summer shows up each year, ready or not, attending camp takes some planning—which explains why this section is called, Getting Ready for Summer. Each year, I marvel at the vast options available for area families when it comes to choosing a day camp. Whether a child gravitates toward art or sports, toward super heroes or acting, toward cooking or hiking, there’s a camp in Tidewater that will certainly check the box. For families on the hunt for a place for their child, or perhaps for a place for their teen to work as a counselor or counselor-in-training, I hope you find some ideas within these pages. Whether camp is part of your summer or not, when the days are done and it’s time to fire up the grill, consider the recipe on page 20 for a different take on eggplants, sometimes referred to as the “Jewish apple.” This dish makes a great side to grilled meats, fish, and other vegetables. In the meantime, I hope you enjoy these glorious days of spring!
Register online at campjcc.org or call 757.321.2342 for more information.
Let’s Safari • Island Hopping America the Beautiful • Time Travel through the Decades Space Travel • Around the World Maccabi Color War Games • Destination Israel
•• •• •
Daily Boker tov welcome Visiting Israeli counselors Performances + events for families Overnights + “late-stays” Field trips
Terri Denison Editor
SUMMER CAMP AT FRIENDS Experience an unforgettable summer camp at Virginia Beach Friends School!
Camps for children aged 3 to 14 are held this June and July!
CAMP OPTIONS INCLUDE: •Super Heroes •Art •Wellness •Sports Our 11-acre facility provides space for specialized programs to meet all of your child’s interests.
For more information, please visit vbfschool.org or email our Director of Athletics and Special Programming at summer@vbfschool.org. 1537 Laskin Road • Virginia Beach, VA 23451 • 757-428-7534
SIMON FAMILY JCC
5000 Corporate Woods Dr. | Virginia Beach 757-321-2342| campjcc.org
14 | Jewish News | Summer | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
Summer
New director for JCamp at the Simon Family JCC their best selves. Camp is a place where it is safe to take risks. Part of the reason this is the true is because parents trust camp counselors to nurture and guide their children, which is both empowering for the counselors and exciting for the campers to have great role models.
Eliana Rohrig
J
Camp’s new director, Eliana Rohrig, has spent a lot of time at camp—as a camper, counselor, and division head—primarily at Camp Ramah in Nyack, N.Y. She spent a semester studying at Hebrew University in Jerusalem, served on Chabad’s General Board in Binghamton, N.Y. and volunteered with Hillel, also in Binghamton. Rohrig teaches at Park Avenue Synagogue in New York City and is an interviewer for Birthright—Israel Free Spirit. She joins JCamp at the Simon Family JCC later this month. “We are so excited that Eliana will lead JCamp.” says Betty Ann Levin, UJFT executive vice president. “Her energy and ideas are just terrific. We can’t wait for her to arrive.” Jewish News: What attracts you to camp? Eliana Rohrig: What attracts me to camp is the intentional community that is created to keep a kid’s mind, body, and soul engaged during the summer time. Summer is an amazing opportunity to express parts of our identities that do not always have the space to fully ‘breathe’ during the year. Whether it’s dance, sports, singing during lunch, or getting over the fear of the deep end of the swimming pool, camp is a place where children grow and are encouraged to be
JN: What attracts you to Jewish camp, in particular? ER: I find that Jewish camp is a powerful educational tool to show how joyful it is to live an active Jewish life! My experiences growing up at Jewish summer camp gave me fantastic Jewish friends, Jewish role models, and an uplifting Jewish community.
ER: I would love for them to know how excited I am to meet different community members and how much I appreciate how welcoming everyone has been so far. That is exactly what is so wonderful about
Simon Family JCC Day Camp Employment Looking for an amazingly fun summer job that makes a difference? Do you remember how great it was to be at Summer Camp? At Simon Family JCC J Camp, energetic and passionate staff provide a safe and positive learning environment for campers. Previous summer day camp work experience and/or experience working with children helpful. Staff members are hired for their ability to facilitate memorable experiences for our campers. Complete background check is required and Counselors must participate in an orientation program.
Now Hiring… for the following positions:
JN: What do you hope to bring to JCamp? ER: I hope to bring energy and enthusiasm to JCamp. I love summer, I love camp, and I love being Jewish. Nothing makes me happier than seeing tired smiling faces at the end of a jam-packed camp day and I can’t wait to be part of the JCamp story for Kayitz 2019.
Counselors (High School Graduates; minimum requirement) Junior Counselors (HS rising Junior; minimum requirement) Specialist (Activities: Sports, Music, Arts, etc.) Special Needs Shadow Counselors
Camp Counselor positions STILL AVAILABLE… APPLY NO LATER THAN May 15!
JN: Do you have a favorite day camp memory? ER: I think my favorite day camp memory was my first summer as a camp counselor on Trip Day taking my bunk of girls down water slides and watching their confidence levels soar as they experienced that exhilarating adventure together. JN: Other than your time in Israel, you’ve spent the majority of your life in New York. So, how do you feel about spending the summer in Virginia? ER: Yes, I am a true New Yorker and have never lived outside of a city! Driving to work every day will be a new experience for me, since I take the subway every day. I am truly so excited to be near the beach, have opportunities to hike on the weekends, and get to know the personality of Norfolk and Virginia Beach. JN: Is there anything you’d like the Jewish community to know about you?
being Jewish, no matter where you go in the world, you have people excited to meet you and learn from you. I am beyond grateful for that and know I have so much to learn from all of you.
Applications available at the Simon Family JCC 5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 or www.simonfamilyjcc.org
EOE
Camp Sessions: June 17 -August 9; Post Camp: August 12 -23
BUILD CHARACTER at THEATRE CAMP! JAZZ
Ag
es
5+
No experience needed!
HIP HOP
MUSICAL THEATRE
TAP ACTING and much more!
Weekdays 9am - 3:30pm
Spring Break Camp: April 15-19 Summer Camps: choose a session
Session 1: July 8-19 Session 2: July 22 - August 2 Session 3: August 5 - 16
wwww.hurrahplayers.com jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Summer | Jewish News | 15
Summer
Your favorite cooking shows are finding young chefs at Jewish summer camps Ben Sales
(JTA)—Zach Atlas has been going to camp about as long as he’s been baking. During the summer, Atlas, 14, is at Ramah in the Berkshires, a Conservative Jewish camp in Wingdale, New York, with swimming, sports, and Hebrew programs. During the year, he’s often at his oven, making pumpkin muffins or chocolate and peanut butter cake. As a noted camper and foodie, how does he feel about his camp food? “It’s awful,” he says. “It’s so bad. Except for some days. They have cinnamon rolls and coffee cakes on Saturday. Otherwise it’s always so bad, and they always have this survey, and I don’t see the point of it because it never gets better.” Camp wouldn’t be camp if kids didn’t complain about the food. So how is it
that Jewish camps have managed to produce campers, current and former, who have competed on top television cooking shows? Atlas was on the Kids Baking Championship last year on the Food Network. Tal Schulmiller appeared on Fox’s MasterChef Junior this year. And Sara Bradley was the runner-up on Bravo’s Top Chef this year. And even though they acknowledge that their camp food wasn’t exactly haute cuisine, they say camp has played a role in shaping their cooking. “Most of the Camp Ben Frankel food was bad,” Bradley, 37, says of the Jewish camp she attended in southern Illinois as a kid. But memories of baking challah there have stuck with her. “It was so amazing to take this bread, fold it up and braid bread together,” she
says. “As a little girl, you learn to braid hair, but you never knew you could do that with bread.” Bradley reached the final episode of Season 16 on Top Chef, which aired in March, thanks in part to the matzah ball soup she made with her mother while filming in Macau. The chicken thighs with matzah balls in savory mushroom consomme wowed the judges, and Bradley’s mother taught her that club soda can make matzah balls lighter. “It was far from the soup you get in your mother’s home, but it was really delicious,” she says. Bradley also brings traditional Jewish foods into freight house, her restaurant in Paducah, Kentucky, where she grew up. When she puts traditional Jewish foods on the menu, she’ll often make them with a local twist, or give them names that are
more understandable to her customers in Appalachia. So, she has served matzah balls, for example, as “bread dumplings.” And latkes with apple butter, a local spread, or pulled pork mixed in. “We’ve had kugel, but people know it as a baked egg noodle casserole,” she says. “We use a lot of Israeli spices like zaatar, but people don’t always know that.”
Some Jewish camps have taken note of the culinary craze and launched cooking programs and specialty camps geared to the kitchen.
Some Jewish camps have taken note of the culinary craze and launched cooking programs and specialty camps geared to the kitchen. New Jersey Y Camp’s two facilities for Orthodox kids, Camp Nesher and Camp Shoshanim, have offered a kosher culinary arts camp with the noted cookbook author Susie Fishbein as the instructor. The Louisville, Kentuckybased Camp J offers a range of cooking specialty camps, including a week of cupcake baking. Camp Zeke in Lakewood, Pennsylvania, puts “culinary arts” right into its logo, and has a dedicated teaching
16 | Jewish News | Summer | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
CWW-JN Ad2.375x5.375_1-19.indd 1
1/24/19 11:05 PM
Summer
kitchen where resident chefs train campers in cooking techniques and culinary theory. Atlas, who lives on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, hopes to work professionally
as a baker when he’s older, though he thinks running his own bakery may be too stressful. He started baking thanks to his mom, who would bake zucchini and pumpkin muffins, as well as a delicious
blueberry pie. Now his favorite thing to do is bake cake. “They’re a really great blank canvas to try something new on and decorate,” he says. Atlas was eliminated from the Kids Baking Championship in the first episode last summer, in which contestants had to make eclairs. But he’s still baking, posting a blue “winter wonderland cake” to Instagram last month. Schulmiller, 14, from suburban Long Island, became interested in cooking via matzah ball soup from his grandmother. On MasterChef Junior, whose seventh season began in March, he made his signature dish, a kombu-cured salmon with a miso buerre-blanc and yuzu kosho, a Japanese chili paste. He’s also a foodie in his spare time in New York, rarely visiting the same restaurant twice, so he can sample the city’s culinary landscape. But though Schulmiller feasted on lobster cappuccino at Le Bernadin, the
famed New York seafood restaurant, for his birthday, he also enjoys traditional Jewish holiday cooking. He contributed to cooking for Passover, and loved making Thanksgiving dinner this year. “For Thanksgiving I made half of the dishes,” he says. “I love cooking for a crowd. I like having a lot of people over so I can cook for them.” Oh, and another thing: Schulmiller didn’t think the food at his summer camp, Camp Havaya in Pennsylvania, was all that bad. He attended for two full summers. “I liked it at the time,” he says. “If I were to go back, it would probably stand up. We were lucky to have a good team in the back.” This article was made possible with funding by the Foundation for Jewish Camp. The story was produced independently and at the sole discretion of JTA’s editorial team.
Jump Start Summer Camp Hilltop East Shopping Center, 1556 Laskin Road Virginia Beach, VA 23451 757-962-6618 jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Summer | Jewish News | 17
Summer
What it’s like to be a non-Jewish counselor at a Jewish summer camp
Our 92nd Season
Josefin Dolsten
May 24 June 16
(JTA)—A few years ago, Joe Gurski had never met a Jewish person and knew little about Judaism apart from things he had seen on television. Today the 24-yearold, who lives in Manchester, England, has many Jewish friends and can recite Shabbat prayers in Hebrew. Gurski, who grew up Catholic, but now identifies as agnostic, learned all this while working as a counselor at Camp Wise, a Jewish summer camp in Chardon, Ohio. “I was able to recite the prayers really well, and I was probably saying them louder than the kids were,” he recalls of his first summer as a counselor in 2015. Gurski is among a number of non-Jewish counselors—many of them international—who learn about Judaism through working at Jewish camps in the United States. Jodi Sperling, a senior consultant on overnight camping at the JCC Association of North America—it runs a network of 120-day camps and 24 overnight camps, including Camp Wise—estimates that 5–8 percent of staff at its overnight camps are not Jewish. Some of the international counselors, such as Gurski, learn about the camps through organizations that match young people with camps looking to hire staff, such as Camp America. Sperling says that having international non-Jewish staff provides a learning experience both for campers, who are exposed to new cultures, and the counselors. “[A]n outcome of having non-Jewish staff working at our camps is that our camps then become educators of people who are going out into their communities and becoming advocates of Jews and of Israel,” she says. Alejandro Padron, a 21-year-old from Venezuela, is an example of such an advocate. The university student, who is Catholic, had some familiarity with Judaism prior to working at his first Jewish summer camp in 2016.
18 | Jewish News | Summer | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
He had learned about the Holocaust and even gave a speech at his school in a ceremony for International Holocaust Remembrance Day. But working at two Jewish camps—Camp Inc Business Academy in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and Camp Mountain Chai in Angelus Oaks, California—made him want to get even more involved. Since working at the camps, Padron has started volunteering at the Anne Frank Space, a Caracas-based organization, where he teaches about the Holocaust and tolerance. He said he was motivated by meeting people at camp who were descended from Holocaust survivors. “To me it’s very natural and a very organic thing to do because I know people [whose relatives] have been through that,” he says. Prior to working at camp, Padron had only met one Jewish person, so being immersed in the culture was a bit of a culture shock. He remembers arriving for his first summer at Camp Inc and being confused by Jewish rituals. “We arrived on Shabbat,” he recalls, “so we have the Shabbat dinner and all these celebrations we do at camp. I remember sitting there reading the prayers and being so scared because ‘[What] am I getting into?’” Now Padron knows the grace after meals, blessings for food and prayers from the siddur—all in Hebrew. “I really see myself [being] into this ritual and this content and promoting that with the kids,” he says. “It’s so enriching.” Gurski, who worked at Camp Wise for five years—first as a video specialist, then as a counselor and finally as a supervisor— says celebrating Shabbat was the highlight of his weeks at camp. “We get to reflect on the week and appreciate what we have and the fact that we’re at camp,” he says. “Friday night services is the time I felt most spiritual.” Katie Plowright, from Oakland, California, also connected with Shabbat. The 24-year-old, who grew up with Catholic and Buddhist traditions, got to
experience Shabbat while working at Camp Tawonga in Groveland, California. She had attended a Jewish day camp as a child, but since it was not a sleepaway camp she did not get to experience Shabbat. Unfamiliar with many of the Hebrew prayers, Plowright found new unique ways of connecting at Camp Tawonga. “When people were singing these different prayers,” she says, “I would often take time to take the idea of Shabbat, which is a time for reflection, and I would instead say the prayers I would think about my past week and reflect and look forward towards the next week.” Jenni Zeftel, director of Jewish day camp and strategic programs at the Foundation for Jewish Camp, says that while some families seek all-Jewish camps, others may look for an environment that reflects the diverse communities they live in. “For camps that are looking to serve that kind of Jewish family or that part of the Jewish population, I think it’s really important that their staffing reflect that approach as well by including counselors and other staff members who don’t identify Jewishly,” she says. Plowright says her presence at the camp also helped campers—Jewish and not— who were less familiar with Jewish rituals. “[T]here are kids who go to Tawonga who aren’t Jewish, so I think for them it’s nice to have a face of somebody who was also not Jewish,” she says. “Or there are also kids who also don’t know all the prayers or songs.” Padron’s experience was a bit different. In fact, many of the kids were surprised when they learned about his background. “Sometimes they said they don’t believe me that I’m not Jewish,” he says. “But I was like, ‘Hey, I’m serious, I’m not Jewish. I really love doing these things, but I’m not Jewish, and that’s OK.’” This article was made possible with funding by the Foundation for Jewish Camp. The story was produced independently and at the sole discretion of JTA’s editorial team.
Summer
J Camp to welcome two Shlichim for the summer T
hrough The Jewish Agency for Israel’s Shlichim (emissaries) program, two Israelis are spending the summer at the Simon Family JCC’s JCamp. Always a special aspect of camp, each year, Shlichim learn about life in Tidewater, as well as about other parts of the U.S. While here, they teach about Israel and serve as living examples of Israelis for the campers, as well as the parents who interact with them. This year’s Shlichim are Ofek Razon and Ofir Tabahnik, who recently wrote to introduce themselves.
To host one of the Shlichim for a week or two this summer, contact Jasmine Amitay at 757-965-6138 or jamitay@ujft.org.
Ofek Razon
Ofir Tabachnik
I
I
’m 22 years old and live in Hod Hasharon city—it’s like 20-minutes from Tel Aviv. I really love to work out and try to go to the gym at least four times a week. I will love to share Israeli culture/foods and a little bit of Hebrew words with the campers. The JAFI Shlichim program is a great platform that allows me to donate to the Jewish commuOfek Razon nity around the world. I’m really look forward to meeting all the community members and to see your lifestyle as a Jewish community in the U.S.
’m 21 years old from Moshav Shilat. It’s 30 minutes from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. My favorite sport activity is swimming. I participated in an event at the Sea of Galilee, where you swim from shore to shore. Besides that, I like hiking and trips. I am interested to share with you my experience and knowledge about Israeli culture. I chose to be on the Shlichim program so Ofir Tabachnik I would be able to do something meaningful, to contribute, and to meet the Jewish community abroad. I look forward to meeting the community and to taking part in the camp this summer!
Fun Summer CampS
• Ages 3 -11 • Small Camp Sizes • Art • Music• Science • Adventure • Imagination
ONLINE REGISTRATION: ChildrensMuseumVirginia.com/camps/ Registration deadline is 2 weeks prior to start date. Campers must meet age requirement by start date.
C H I L D R E N’ S MUSEUM OF VIRGINIA P ORTSMO UTH
757.393.5258
jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Summer | Jewish News | 19
Summer Summer is the BEST time to join the Simon Family JCC Two Membership Options: Month-to-Month or Annual Both start at $39 monthly*
With your membership, enjoy • Outdoor waterpark • Free drop-in childcare while you workout • Fully-equipped playgrounds • Discounts to JCAMP and other programs • Special needs programming 4 days • State-of-the art fitness and cardio equipment • Free classes: more than 65 per week, including Zumba® BODYPUMP®, Yoga, Pilates, Dance, Spinning, and more • 2 Free Be Well orientations with fitness staff • Athletic fields: baseball, softball, football, and soccer • 3 indoor pools • Locker rooms with steam room and sauna • Indoor and outdoor basketball courts
Grilled Eggplant with Chermoula Recipe … ≥ just in time for summer Ali Alt
The Nosher via JTA—From bulbous and egg-shaped to small and thin, the eggplant (or if you’re British like me, the aubergine) is a staple fruit within Sephardic Jewish cooking. Originating in India or perhaps even China, eggplant seeds are thought to have traveled along the Silk Road into the hands of Jews and Arabs as early as the 18th century. From there, eggplant has been used so often in Jewish cooking that some refer to it as the “Jewish apple.” Eggplant is now enjoying a wonderful resurgence, particularly in Israel, where it is enjoyed in countless salads or served whole and roasted topped with meat, tabbouleh and often gobs of nutty tahini. No meal in Israel seems complete without a portion of smoky, roasted eggplant. It’s so incredibly versatile: Eggplant can be stewed, stuffed, pickled, roasted or grilled. Historically known for its bitterness, modern varieties don’t necessarily require salting, although I always do just in case any bitterness remains, Ingredients For the eggplant 3 medium eggplants 2 tablespoons fine sea salt, plus more for sprinkling ¼ cup olive oil For the chermoula 1 cup packed coriander leaves ½ cup packed parsley leaves ½ cup mint leaves
and especially when grilling, as this will reduce the amount of oil that is soaked up. In this recipe I serve eggplant with a North African spice paste called chermoula, which is herby, rich, and pungent. This fantastic sauce is begging to be made when the weather is warm and the plates move outside. Chermoula—a marvelous mixture of coriander, parsley, chili, paprika, garlic, cumin and olive oil—is a Moroccan, Tunisian, and Algerian mainstay. While it is traditionally served with fish, I love it with grilled meats, fish, veggies or even couscous. Ali Alt is a food writer, blogger and partner to her husband, Jonathan, the founder of the Farmer J restaurants in London. Follow her blog at www.Baliboosta.com and on instragram, @baliboosta. The Nosher food blog offers a dazzling array of new and classic Jewish recipes and food news, from Europe to Yemen, from challah to shakshuka and beyond. Check it out at www.TheNosher.com. 3 garlic cloves, peeled and roughly chopped ¼ cup preserved lemon juice or ¹/3 cup of regular lemon juice 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons ground coriander 1 teaspoon sweet paprika 2 teaspoons harissa paste ½ teaspoon cayenne ½ cup olive oil Sea salt, to taste Good pinch of crushed saffron strands
• Convenient towel service
Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 200° F.
*Go to simonfamilyjcc.org for full offer details
2. Next, cut the eggplant lengthways into ½ inch thick slices. Cover with salt, layer in a strainer and leave to drain for 40 minutes.
BECOME A MEMBER TODAY! SIMON FAMILY JCC
5000 Corporate Woods Dr. | Virginia Beach 757-321-2300 | simonfamilyjcc.org
20 | Jewish News | Summer | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
3. While the eggplant is draining, make the chermoula. Put all the ingredients with only 4 tablespoons of the olive oil into a food processor with a good pinch of salt. Blend to a thick paste and stir in enough of the remaining oil to make a sauce. 4. Pat the eggplants dry and in batches, brush with oil and in a griddle pan, grill over a medium heat for 5–6 minutes each side, until golden. Keep warm in the oven while you cook the remaining slices. 5. When all slices have been grilled, lay on a platter and dollop with chermoula, a sprinkling of coriander and pinch of sea salt. Serves 8–10.
it’s a Wrap No fooling for Hey Ladies!
Tidewater’s Lucky Break Callah Terkeltaub
J Laura Gross, Rachel Gross, Elka Mednik, and Sara Kruger.
Carly Glikman
W
hile April 1, 2019 wasn’t your typical April Fool’s Day filled with children’s pranks, laughter abounded at a merged UJFT Women’s Cabinet and Women’s Young Adult Division event, hosted by Monique Werby, Janet Mercadante, Leora Drory. and Naty Horev. For the first time, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Women’s Cabinet and the ladies from YAD who give $118 or greater, got together to mingle, schmooze, and discover they all have a lot in common. Caroline Moss and Michelle Markowitz, Jewish Book Council authors, traveled from New York City to read excerpts and share stories from their hilarious book, Hey Ladies! Moss and Markowitz’s book is written in epistolary form and follows a group of friends over the course of a year from romances, to wedding planning, to bachelorette parties—which are relatable on all accounts. After the reading, women from both divisions asked questions and shared stories of their own of a time they, too, were on an email chain that started with the phrase ‘Hey Ladies’ and in the end, got everything accomplished. Women’s division’s Janet Mercadante, Mona Flax, and Barbara Dudley joined forces with YAD Ladies Night chairs Jillian Reynolds Sachs and Jaime Hutnick to plan the event. Women’s Cabinet and YAD members say they look forward to more collaborations to assure a strong female Tidewater community for the future.
anice Kaplan spoke about her latest book, How Luck Happens: Using the Science of Luck to Transform Work, Love, and Life at the Sandler Family Campus on Wednesday, April 10. The event, which was sponsored by Old Point National Bank in partnership with Jewish Family Service of Tidewater, served as an early kick-off for JFS’ Spring into Healthy Living. Kaplan discussed how everyone can create luck in their own lives. Turns out, creating luck happens when working hard, saying “yes” to opportunities that arise, and learning to reframe situations with a positive spin. Kaplan visited Tidewater as a part of the Simon Family JCC’s Lee and Bernard Jaffe Family Jewish
Book Festival, during her Jewish Book Council Tour. For more information on the Lee and Bernard Jaffe Family Jewish Book Festival, and upcoming or past events, visit JewishVA.org/BookFestival or contact Callah Terkeltaub at CTerkeltaub@ujft.org.
Save
OY’NK 2019
theDate! The Janet Gordon Annual
Mah Jongg Day & Bruncheon Play in Tournament or Play for Fun!
Sunday November 3, 2019 at Beth Sholom Village
Call Claire Roth for details at 757.961.3024 | croth@bethsholomvillage.com
jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Jewish News | 21
sunday may 19 11-4
what’s happening Leon Family Gallery, Reba and Sam Sandler Family Campus
Artists 4 Israel May 2019 Callah Terkeltaub
A PRESENTED BY Charles Barker Automotive
LEAVE YOUR MARK WITH
ARTISTs 4 ISRAEL
rtists 4 Israel, managed by Craig Dershowitz, executive director, is a group of artists from across the world. Working with avant-garde artists in underrepresented art forms such as graffiti, street art, tattooing, streetwear, and toy design, Artists 4 Israel creates social change through real quality of life advancements, with the hopes of healing communities and people affected by conflict. Photographs of various murals by Artists 4 Israel are on display. Read the amazing stories and preview the impactful art before engaging with Artists 4 Israel in a community art project at Israel Fest on May 19 at the Simon Family JCC. For more information on this exhibit and
On a wall separating Israel from Lebanon, Zabou of London painted this site specific piece on behalf of Artists 4 Israel. She found the perfect bit of tree peeking over the top of the wall and painted an Israeli girl planting and watering this symbol of peace from within Israel. The saddest and most ironic thing is that weeks later, Israel discovered terror tunnels dug right under this mural.
the Leon Family Gallery, visit JewishVA. org/leon-family-gallery or contact Callah Terkeltaub, Arts + Ideas manager, at CTerkeltaub@ujft.og.
Michael Feinstein:
Songs that are love and the stories behind them
Sunday, May 19, 4 pm Sandler Center for Performing Arts, Virginia Beach
B
JOIN US FOR a community graffiti project at the simon family jcc
For a list of the day’s free activities, visit
22 | Jewish News | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
ehind the beguiling ways of famed cabaret singer and pianist Michael Feinstein is an encyclopedic knowledge of the canon of popular music known as the Great American Songbook—the music of such iconic American composers and lyricists as George and Ira Gershwin, Irving Berlin, Jerome Kern, and so many more. Fans of the genre and of this extraordinary artist—dubbed the Ambassador of the Great American Songbook—can hear him perform at Virginia Beach’s Sandler Center. Born and raised in Columbus, Ohio, Feinstein started playing piano by ear as a five-year-old. He moved to Los Angeles when he was 20, where through the widow of the legendary concert pianist and actor Oscar Levant, he met Ira Gershwin. Feinstein became Gershwin’s assistant for six years, gaining access to a treasure trove of unpublished Gershwin songs, many of which he has since performed and recorded.
G er shw in’s influence provided the inspiration and foundation for Feinstein evolving into a captivating performer, composer and arranger of his own original music, as well as an unparalleled interpreter of American music legends. For his scholarship, Feinstein has received three honorary doctorates; for his irresistible performances in venues including Carnegie Hall and the Hollywood Bowl as well as the White House and Buckingham Palace, he has won legions of fans, a stack of Grammy Award nominations, an Emmy nomination and more. This program is co-presented with The Helen G. Gifford Foundation. For tickets and information, visit vafest.org.
what’s happening Train like Israel’s Biggest Loser with Nadav Meirson Wednesday, May 15, 8:30 am, Sandler Family Campus
Tidewater Chavurah’s Second Friday Shabbat Service Friday, May 10, 7 pm Home of Hal and Elaine in Virginia Beach’s Great Neck Meadows area
Rachel Gross
“A
diet is not a thing with a start and an end, it’s a way of life,” says Nadav Meirson, an Israeli celebrity, personal trainer, and life coach. Meirson is known for his leading role as the fitness trainer on Israel’s version of the Biggest Loser. His friends and clients know him for his humor, engaging personality, and dedication to helping others. Having inspired millions in Israel, he is ready to visit Tidewater to inspire. Together with JFit, Meirson will lead an event where participants may train like Israel’s Biggest Loser! Following his high-intensity workout, Meirson will lead a discussion, Breaking the Myths—a lecture that everyone should hear—and a gateway to healthy living that will offer the tools for getting and staying fit.
Nadav Meirson
To register (required), go to JewishVA.org/IsraelToday. For more opportunities to get fit with Meirson, attend Israel Fest on Sunday, May 19 as he leads fitness activities. Simon Family JCC, UJFT’s CRC, and community partners’ Israel Today series are co-presenters of Nadav Meirson in Tidewater. For more information about Nadav Meirson in Tidewater, contact Tom Purcell at 757-321-2310 or TPurcell@ simonfamilyjcc.org.
R
abbi Ellen Jaffe-Gill will lead the monthly Shabbat service with prayers and joyful songs. An Oneg follows.
For event information and location address, email carita@verizon.net or dlqt@cox.net or call 499-3660 or 468-2675. Check out www.tidewaterchavurah.org or Tidewater Chavurah Facebook page.
Lag B’omer, Thursday, May 23
C
elebrate LAG B’OMER and join The Simon Family JCC, YAD, and Chabad for a delicious family cookout, beer, rockin’ music, and a bonfire. Open to the community. For more information and tickets, contact Jasmine Amitay at JAmitay@ujft.org.
W E C O R D I A L LY I N V I T E Y O U T O J O I N O U R
M O N D AY, J U N E 3 , 2 0 1 9 • 6 : 3 0 P. M . R I C H E L S H A L L AT B N A I I S R A E L 4 2 0 S P OT S W O O D AV E N U E • N O R F O L K , V I R G I N I A
honoring 3110 S T ERLING P OINT DRI V E P OR T SMOU TH , VA 2 3703 P : 757.686. 24 80
For Dinner and Ad Reservations visit our website: toraschaim.net
MICHELE ARONOFF
KEVIN & A MY LEFCOE G E S H E R AWA R D
for their commitment to building bridges in community and education
& RUTH COHEN AVO DA S H A KO D E S H AWA R D
for their years of tireless devotion to Toras Chaim
jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Jewish News | 23
sunday may 19 11-4
what’s happening JCC Seniors Club and Simon Family JCC
Lunch and Move with Nadav Meirson Wednesday, May 15, 11:30 am, Sandler Family Campus Rachel Gross
S
PRESENTED BY Charles Barker Automotive
GET fit WITH NADAV MERISON at the simon family jcc
eniors who seek a new way to enhance their daily routine or who want to learn more about leading a healthy lifestyle, both physically and mentally, Nadav Meirson. will have an opportunity to do so with Israeli lifestyle coach, trainer, and healthy living consultant, Nadav Meirson. Meirson will lead the group in a 30-minute fitness class, emphasizing safe and effective exercises for older adults. In addition to being a great way to get out and move, the class will also provide participants with the tools that they need to
continue working out on their own. A lunch and discussion with Meirson will follow the group fitness class. Meirson will use his many years of experience as a personal trainer and life coach to lead an engaging and informative lecture on the gateway to healthy living. Register by Friday, May 10. To register (required) stop by the JCC front desk, call 321-2338, or visit JewishVA.org/seniors. Want more opportunities to get fit with Nadav Meirson? Join him Sunday, May 19 as he leads fitness activities at Israel Fest. Meirson is in Tidewater as part of the Simon Family JCC, UJFT’s CRC, and community partners’ Israel Today series. For more information about Nadav Meirson in Tidewater, contact Tom Purcell at 757-321-2310 or TPurcell@simonfamilyjcc.org.
Hebrew School of the Arts to move to the JCC
I
Krav maga sensei, lifestyle coach, and trainer from Israel’s “Biggest Loser”
For a list of the day’s free activities, visit
n a partnership with United Jewish Federation of Tidewater and Chabad of Tidewater, Hebrew School of the Arts is moving to the Simon Family JCC for the 2019–20 school year. Now entering its second year, Hebrew School for the Arts is an after-school program that places an emphasis on living Judaism joyfully. Bracha Margolin, who serves as director of the school, brings more than a decade of experience as a trendsetter in creative Jewish education. Under her leadership, the Hebrew School is designed to make Jewish families of all backgrounds feel comfortable and welcome. “Imagine your child leaving Hebrew school each week,” Margolin says, “with
a smile on his or her face, and humming a Jewish tune. Imagine a child who feels the warmth and spirit of Judaism…it’s the ultimate nachas!” Lundi Frank, whose twin daughters are in this year’s founding class, says, “It’s like no other Hebrew School I’ve ever seen. My daughters can’t wait to go each week.” The Hebrew School requires no Synagogue membership or affiliation, and is available for children grades K–6. Starting after the High Holidays, classes will take place on Wednesdays, 4:30–6 pm at the Simon Family JCC. Kosher dinner is included. For more information, visit www.hsota.org. or call 718-207-7185
Virginia Holocaust Museum tour with JCC Seniors Club Wednesday, June 19
T
he entire senior community is invited to join the JCC Seniors Club for a day trip to the Virginia Holocaust Museum in Richmond. The $30 registration fee includes transportation, lunch, and a docent tour. Registration is required by June 12. To register, visit the Simon Family JCC Front Desk, call 321-2338 or go to JEWISHVA.org/SENIORS.
24 | Jewish News | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
Bob & Augusta Live Forever
what’s happening
As philanthropists and volunteers, this Virginia Beach couple supported important causes in Hampton Roads.
Jewish Family Service
Organ Donation, a program that could save lives Thursday, May 16, 7 pm Zeiders American Dream Theater, 4509 Commerce Street, Virginia Beach Amy Cobb
F
or the past 15 years during Spring Into Healthy Living, Jewish Family Service has presented free programming on a variety of topics, including breast cancer, heart disease, cancer immunotherapy, brain health, and improving sleep. The 2018 program, “Music. Medicine. Hope.” featured Charity “Sunshine” Tilleman-Dick,* a world-renowned opera singer who had undergone two separate double lung transplants in 2009 and 2012. She was joined by her physician, Dr. Marie Budev of The Cleveland Clinic, who had suffered a stroke while caring for Tilleman-Dick. Together they shared their story of how their lives intersected and the bond they formed as doctor and patient, as well as friends. It was their touching and inspiring stories about the life-changing impact of organ transplants that led JFS to develop this year’s important program on Organ Donation: The Gift of Life. Janet S. Wright, MD FACC, director of Science and Policy from the Office of the Surgeon General, is the evening’s keynote speaker. A panel of experts including Dr. David Baran, a transplant specialist with Sentara Heart Hospital; Rabbi Jeffrey Arnowitz from Congregation Beth El in Norfolk; Wallace Green, a transplant recipient; and Al Diaz and Thom Hutchins, family members of organ donation recipients, will join Wright on the program. Kathryn Barrett, former medical editor with WVEC-TV, will moderate the panel discussion. According to Donate Life America, over 114,000 people are waiting for a life-saving transplant, and every 10 minutes, 10 people are added to the waiting list. One organ, eye, and tissue donor, the organizations says, can save and heal more than 75 lives.
Organ Donation: A Panel Discussion Dr. Janet Wright advocates for the need for organ, tissue, and cornea donations and the importance of people to register as organ donors. She also works to dispel some of the myths about organ donation. Wright joined the Surgeon General’s team in March 2019. Previously, Wright served as executive director of Million Hearts® and was senior vice president for science and quality control at the American College of Cardiology. “We are so fortunate to have Dr. Wright join us for this event. After speaking to her about our goals for the evening, she wholeheartedly agreed to participate. She said she is a huge advocate on this topic, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have her as our keynote speaker!” says Kelly Burroughs, JFS chief executive officer. Rabbi Jeffrey Arnowitz will address the ethical issues surrounding organ donation. “I think this program is timely for the community, and particularly the Jewish community, as there is often a knee-jerk reaction to the topic of organ donation,” says Rabbi Arnowitz. After he moved to this area in 2011, Arnowitz became active
with LifeNet as an advocate for organ donation and has witnessed how sensitively and ethically the organization works with families of organ donors. But when his cousin died last fall after waiting for a liver trans- Janet S. Wright plant, the subject became not just one of ethics—it became very personal. “It’s a mitzvah today to be an organ donor…it’s the gift of life,” says Arnowitz, who will share more about this story at the program. Dr. David Baran will share his perspective as a physician who daily witnesses the agony of patients waiting for transplants. According to donatelife.net, 22 people die every day because the organ they need is not donated in time. Baran joined Sentara in 2017 as the system director for Heart Failure, Transplantation and Mechanical Circulatory Support. His goal is to build the program at the Heart Hospital into a nationwide leader in Advanced Heart Failure and Cardiac Transplantation. Baran is on the editorial board of the Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation. His research focuses on immunosuppression, heart transplant donor selection, and mechanical circulatory support. He is a professor of medicine at Eastern Virginia Medical School. Prior to joining Sentara, Baran served as director of Heart Failure and Transplant Research at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center where his team routinely performed more than 50 transplants per year and participated in many device, heart failure, and transplant research trials. Wallace Green will share his inspiring story as a two-time kidney recipient and how his life was positively impacted through the gift of life. The Virginia Beach resident volunteers and serves as an ambassador with LifeNet, Donate Life Virginia, and other organizations. Rounding out the panel are Al Diaz and Thom Hutchins. Diaz’ wife and daughter were both tissue donors. Hutchins’ son Kyle passed away at the age of 22 in April 2017 and was an organ donor. His gifts provided life to four different people. They will share their heart-wrenching and touching stories of seeing their loved ones live on through others. JFS presents this program in partnership with LifeNet Health, the Brock Institute of Eastern Virginia Medical School, and WHRO. TowneBank is the presenting sponsor of JFS’ 15th Annual Spring Into Healthy Living.
Although Bob Goodman passed away in 2006 and Augusta Goodman in 2017, they help others today because of the charitable bequest they entrusted to the Hampton Roads Community Foundation. Today, their four children carry on Bob and Augusta’s legacy through donor-advised funds that let them recommend grants to help nonprofits do their best work. Thanks to their generosity, Bob and Augusta will forever make life better in their home region. Learn how easy it is to leave your mark on the future by ordering a free bequest guide. Adding Charity to Your W or IRA ill
A quick
guide to the ple of charitab asure and prom ise le bequest s
Inspiring Philanthro py. Chan ging Lives .
The program is free and open to the community with RSVP. Register at ww.jfshamptonroads.org/healthyliving or call 757-321-2233. *It is with great sadness that JFS announces that Charity “Sunshine” Tilleman-Dick passed away on April 25, 2019.
www.leaveabequest.org (757) 622-7951
jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Jewish News | 25
Employment Oppor tunity
Executive Administrative Assistant The United Jewish Federation of Tidewater/Simon Family JCC seeks an Executive Administrative Assistant who is a master multi-tasker with excellent communication skills (both verbal and written) to support the Executive Vice President (EVP) in the execution of the organization’s development and operational goals. This Full-Time position requires an upbeat attitude, and the ideal candidate should be resourceful and organized. The position supports the EVP’s work with the Senior Management Team, the UJFT Board of Directors and committees. An important responsibility is to ensure that operational information is communicated in a timely, accurate and appropriate manner. The qualified candidate must have two or more years of related office experience and proven proficiency using Windows and MS Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint).
Calendar MAY 8, WEDNESDAY From Remembrance to Independence. Israel Today’s Israeli Ambassador Ido Aharoni at Ohef Sholom Temple. 7:30 pm. Free and open to community with RSVP required at www. JewishVA.org/IsraelToday. See page 7. MAY 15, Wednesday Workout Class with Nadav Meirson, trainer on Israel’s Biggest Loser. 8:30 am. Sandler Family Campus For more information, contact TPurcell@simonfamilyjcc.org. See page 23. May 16, Thursday Spring Into Healthy Living: Organ Donation, a program that can save lives. Presented by Jewish Family Service, Janet S. Wright, MD, FACC, director of Science and Policy from the Office of the Surgeon General, is the evening’s keynote speaker. 7 pm. Zeiders American Dream Theater. Free. Register at www.jfshamptonroads.org/healthyliving or call 757-321-2233. See page 25. MAY 17, FRIDAY Cause an Effect. Artists 4 Israel will lead hands-on graffiti project expressing Israel’s right to peace and security. 4–6 pm. Sandler Family Campus. www.JewishVA.org/CauseAnEffect.
Complete job description at federation.jewishva.org/job-opportunities Submit cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to: resumes@ujft.org Review of applications will begin immediately, and continue until the position filled. EOE
Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, Simon Family JCC, OSTY, & BBYO present
A series for teens & parents offering resources & tools to strategically respond to antiSemitism & anti-Israel rhetoric on campus.
MAY 19, SUNDAY Israel Fest. Celebrate Yom HaAtzmaut, Israel’s 71st anniversary. 11 am–4 pm. Sandler Family Campus. Free and open to the community. Experience Israel through food, art, music, and activities for all ages. For more information, visit www.JewishVA.org/Israel-Fest or contact Callah Terkeltaub at CTerkeltaub@ujft.org. See page 11. May 22, Wednesday YAD MomMEtime. Join the moms of UJFT’s Young Adult Division for breakfast sushi making at the Sandler Family Campus. MomMEtime is all about taking personal time as a mom to gain new experiences and socialize with other Jewish moms, completely kid free. Sushi making begins at 8:30 am; babysitting provided by the Simon Family JCC. For more information, contact CGlikman@ujft.org. May 23, Thursday Celebrate LAG B’OMER and join The Simon Family JCC, YAD, and Chabad for a delicious family cookout, beer, rockin’ music, and a bonfire. Open to the community. For more information and tickets, contact Jasmine Amitay at JAmitay@ujft.org. Send submissions for calendar to news@ujft.org. Be sure to note “calendar” in the subject. Include date, event name, sponsor, address, time, cost and phone.
A rt i s t s 4 Isr ael’s e xe cu t ive d ire c to r , C rai g De rsh owi tz and f e l l ow v isit ing ar tist s fr o m ar ou nd th e wo rl d m a k e t he co n ne ct i o n fr o m art to ad vo c ac y , sh owi n g t ha t the r e a re m an y w ays t o te ll I sr ael ’s st o ry an d th at e v e ryo ne c a n ha v e a r o l e i n ch an gin g th e c o nve rsat ion ab out I sr ae l. A ha nds o n gr aff iti p roje ct wi ll br i ng t og e ther th e tal ent ed a rt is t s an d h i gh s cho o l st u den ts to e ng ag e i n a c ol l a bo r at i v e p ro j e ct expr es sin g Is rae l’s r i gh t to e xi st i n p e ac e an d s e cu r i t y.
Events are FREE & open to community teens & parents & take place at the Reba & Sam Sandler Family Campus. Dinner included, RSVP required.
26 | Jewish News | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
May is Jewish American Heritage Month Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) is a national commemoration of the contributions that American Jews have made to the fabric of the nation’s history, culture, and society. Established by presidential proclamation in 2006 and renewed every year since, JAHM encourages people of all backgrounds to learn about and draw inspiration from the more than 360-year history of Jewish life in this country.
WHo Knew? Harvey Fierstein to play Jewish feminist icon Bella Abzug Off Broadway Curt Schleier
H
arvey Fierstein will portray the take-no-prisoners Jewish politician and feminist icon Bella Abzug in an Off Broadway play this fall. Bella Bella will open in October as part of the Manhattan Theater Club’s 2019-20 season. Dressing in women’s clothing is nothing new for Fierstein. In addition to writing and starring as a drag queen in his breakthrough production Torch Song Trilogy, he won a Tony Award in 2003 for playing Edna Turnblad in the musical Hairspray. Bella Bella is set on primary election night in 1976, when Abzug lost her bid for a New York Senate seat to a more moderate Democrat, Daniel Patrick Moynihan. She is, according to the advance press material, “squirreled away” in a hotel bathroom “while a coterie of family and celebs await her entrance” once results come in. Abzug, who served a few terms as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives before losing the Senate bid, described herself “as a tough and noisy woman, a
prizefighter, a man hater, you name it. They call me battling Bella.” In addition to being a pioneer in the battle for women’s rights, she fought against the war in Vietnam, and was an avid Zionist. The three-term congresswoman studied at the Jewish Theological Seminary while attending Hunter College. She also was well known for her colorful selection of hats, which one hopes Fierstein won’t eschew, even if he is locked in a bathroom. (JTA)
Martin Short wants you to RSVP for the Genesis Prize ceremony honoring Robert Kraft Gabe Friedman
C
omedian Martin Short, who will emcee the June event awarding Robert Kraft the Genesis Prize, recorded a video urging invitees to RSVP for the ceremony. The brief promotional video reminds recipients that registration for the June 20 ceremony closes on May 15. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cUX1vmjz4YI. “I’ve never been to Israel, I’m not Jewish, and I’m not a New England Patriots fan. So, who better to have as your MC on the night when you honor Robert Kraft?”
says Short, who co-starred in Three Amigos and was a cast member on Saturday Night Live. Kraft, the 77-year-old Patriots owner and Jewish philanthropist, was charged with soliciting prostitution in February during a sting operation at a spa in Jupiter, Florida, not long after it was announced that he had been awarded the Genesis Prize, which goes to individuals for their “accomplishments and commitment to Jewish values.” The foundation that awards the prize called the charges against Kraft “unfortunate,” but said he remained a “highly deserving” laureate for his Jewish philanthropy. The $1 million monetary award that comes with the prize will go to initiatives combating anti-Semitism and other forms of prejudice as well as attempts to delegitimize the State of Israel, the foundation said. Kraft pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor solicitation of prostitution, but issued an apology saying he had disappointed his family, friends, co-workers, and Patriots fans. Last year’s winner of the Genesis Prize, Natalie Portman, also caused controversy by refusing to attend the prize ceremony in Jerusalem in protest against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who awards the prize. (JTA)
LAGTHuRSdAy, B’OMER BASH MAy 23, 5 7 Simon Family JCC, UJFT’s Young Adult Division, and Chabad of Tidewater present
TO pM
Reba & Sam Sandler Family Campus | 5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Virginia Beach, VA
Hilby the Skinny German Juggling Boy Cookout Beer Kids Activities Kona Ice S’Mores Bar ●
●
™ ●
Tickets: Before 10 am, May 20 – $ 7 person & $ 35 family | After 10 am, May 20 – $ 10 person & $ 50 family | Children 2 and under FREE. To purchase tickets, visit www.SimonFamilyJCC.org/lagbomer or call 757-321-2338. jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Jewish News | 27
Obituaries Dr. Bernard Alper West Bloomfield, MICH.—Dr. Bernard Alper, 76, of West Bloomfield, Michigan, died on April 12, 2019. Beloved husband of 50 years of Candace Alper. Cherished father of Jason Alper (Jennifer Rush) and Aaron Alper (Candice Lazar). Loving grandfather of Noah and Adam Alper. Dear brother of Paula Katz, Barbara Alper and the late Kenneth David Alper. Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and friends. He had a family medical practice in downtown Detroit for 47 years and will be missed by many. Services took place at Adat Shalom Synagogue with interment at Adat Shalom Memorial Park Cemetery. Arrangements by The Ira Kaufman Chapel. www. irakaufman.com. Gary Lee Haskell Virginia Beach—Gary Lee Haskell, a long time native of Virginia Beach, passed away on April 23, 2019. At his bedside during his final days were his beloved wife of 58 years, Diane Gladstone Haskell, his daughter, Monica Haskell and his sons, Louis and Evan Haskell. He was born July 17, 1937 in Norfolk to Alfred Haskell and Sylvia Liebman Haskell and was a graduate of Maury High School ‘55. He studied at the University of Virginia and the Norfolk Extension of the College of William and Mary. He was a long-time member of Temple Emmanuel in Virginia Beach, having served as president of its Men’s Club. A prolific businessman and entrepreneur, he owned and managed several restaurants
in Norfolk and Virginia Beach, including Garry’s Inn, The Coach House, The Judges Chamber, The Green Wheel Inn, Maxie’s, and Wide Open. He was secretary of the Virginia Restaurant Association. He owned and managed a chain of laundromats and several other businesses including Time Off Amusement Center and the Cotton Gin, and various properties in the area, as well. Although he worked hard all his life, he played even harder, having traveled to more than 50 countries on six continents with his beloved wife. He has lived in Sunny Isles Florida for 20 years, fully enjoying the beach and restaurant scene with his myriad friends (while still managing his Virginia real estate) right up until his final hospitalization and week before passing. Known more for his gregarious personality, remarkable sense of humor and welcoming personality, Gary is survived by a myriad of friends not only in Florida, but also in Virginia where he has maintained many close friendships not withstanding that he has not lived in the Commonwealth for 13 years and began living mostly in Florida. Having married his beloved wife in 1960 when they were both very young, joining the army, starting a family a year later, and opening his first business a short time after that, Gary has been a devoted husband, loving father, and responsible businessman his entire adult life. While Gary has especially enjoyed his time with his beloved wife, who he died loving more than the day they married almost 59 years earlier, he was also a proud father and grandfather having successfully raised
“A Sensitive Alternative®”
100% Service Appreciation, Commitment Guarantee Courtesy After Hours Drop Off Room and Private Pet Viewing Available Specialty Urns Available to Preserve Your Pet’s Memory Equine and Large Pet Services Now offering gentle and environmentally friendly Alkaline Hydrolysis! “Water-based Cremation”
Owner, A. Neal Kellum
Pet Cremation Services of Tidewater
757-340-0016
105 Happy St. | Virginia Beach, VA 23452 | Corner of Bonney Rd. & Happy St. Read our customer testimonials at www.petcremation.com
28 | Jewish News | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
three children to adulthood, all with college degrees and successful careers. He is also proud of his daughter-in-law, Sasikarn Haskell, and his two grandchildren, Alan and Isabella Haskell, who he also watched grow into adulthood and are now attending college. Gary was predeceased by his beloved brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Robert E. Brown and Roslyn Gladstone Brown of Norfolk. He is survived by his wife, Diane, daughter, Monica, sons, Louis and Evan, grandchildren, Alan and Isabella, daughter-in-law Sasikarn and brother and sister-in-law, Joseph and Vicky Haskell of Norfolk. A graveside service was held at Forest Lawn Cemetery with Rabbi Israel Zoberman officiating. H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. Online Condolences may be sent to the family at hdoliver.com. Judith B. Kaufman Delray Beach, Fla.—Judith Berlin Kaufman, 81, passed away on Wednesday, April 17, 2019 in Delray Beach, Fla. Judith was born in Norfolk to the late Leon and Florence Berlin. She is predeceased by her husband Murray M. Kaufman and sister Barbara Patish. Survivors include her daughters, Lori Kaufman and Mindy Stergas (David), and a granddaughter, Sarah Michelle Kaufman. A graveside service was held at Forest Lawn Cemetery with Cantor David Proser officiating. Online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com. Michael Edward Terkeltaub Virginia Beach—Mike passed peacefully on April 25, 2019 at Beth Sholom Village. Mike was born in Norfolk, and considered Phoenix, Norfolk, and New York as home. He spent many years working with children and families in all three cities. Mike contributed to many changes in the way services were and are provided to children and families. Mike worked up until the last couple of months of his life helping others. Mike wants to thank all the folks at Child and Family Support Services (CFSS), Community
Solutions, and Hampton Department of Social Service all of whom supported him over the years as well as his colleagues at the many agencies he was part of in his 40-year career. Mike’s brother, Paul and his extended family have been amazingly supportive with his journey to fight cancer over the past seven years. The folks at CFSS whom he has worked with many years, have been by his side every step of the way during his health related complications. Mike also was honored to have his cousin Marcia Terkeltaub at his side during his final months once he returned to Norfolk. Mike would like to thank Antoine Jenkins for his unconditional support throughout his illness and for being the light of his life. Latoya Colbourne has been an important part of his life for 30 years. Memorial contributions in Michael’s memory may be made to Blocker Norfolk Family YMCA, 312 W. Bute Street, Norfolk, Virginia 23510, YMCA.org or Beth Sholom, Village, 6401 Auburn Drive, Virginia Beach, Va. Virginia 23464, bethsholomvillage.com Per Mike’s request there was no formal service.
Lori Gilbert-Kaye, 60, killed in Poway attack, said to have shielded rabbi from bullets Gabrielle Birkner, Marcy Oster
POWAY, California (JTA)—Lori GilbertKaye, who was killed in the attack at a Chabad synagogue near San Diego, is credited with jumping in front of the synagogue’s rabbi to shield him from the gunman’s bullets. Gilbert-Kaye, 60, of San Diego, is survived by her husband and 22-year-old daughter. “Lori you were a jewel of our community a true Eshet Chayil, a Woman of Valor,” her friend Audrey Jacobs, a community activist, wrote in a post on Facebook. “You were always running to do a mitzvah (good deed) and gave tzedaka (charity) to everyone. Your final good deed was taking the bullets for Rabbi (Yisroel) Goldstein to save his life.” That account, describing Gilbert-Kaye shielding the rabbi, was also reflected in reporting by the San Diego Union-Tribune, which quoted witnesses. However, the
Obituaries Chabad news site said Kaye was not in the sanctuary, but in the lobby, “to check on the children’s group in the playground when the attacker burst into the building and shot her. Kaye, a woman remembered for her kindness, sensitivity, enthusiasm and generosity, spent her last minutes on earth in the lobby of the synagogue and community center she had done so much to see into reality.” No one was quite so thoughtful as Gilbert-Kaye, says Lisa Busalacchi, her friend since second grade. “It’s not like she gave a million dollars for a building, but if someone was sick or someone died, she was the first one there with food or asking what she could do,” Busalacchi says. Busalacchi says that Kaye was deeply committed to the congregation, and had recently traveled to New York to attend the wedding of Rabbi Goldstein’s daughter. “It made sense that she was [at Chabad]; it was her whole life,” she said. The rabbi also serves as a Jewish chaplain at the San Diego Police Department. “Anti-Semitism is real and is deadly,” Jacobs also wrote. “Hate crimes are real and are deadly. Lori would have wanted all of us to stand up to hate. She was a warrior of love and she will be missed. May Lori’s memory be a blessing.” Gilbert-Kaye was in synagogue on Saturday morning, April 27, the last day of Passover, to remember her late mother during Yizkor, a memorial service held on major Jewish festivals, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported. Her husband, a physician, was in synagogue with her. When he started to perform CPR on a victim and realized it was his wife, he fainted, according to the report. “God picked her to die to send a message because she’s such an incredible person,” her friend, Dr. Roneet Lev, told the newspaper. “He took her for a higher purpose to send this message to fight anti-Semitism.” The rabbi told Lev that Gilbert-Kaye saved his life, according to the report. Apropos of nothing, Gilbert-Kaye would drop off gifts at her friends’ homes, Busalacchi says. And she didn’t send one card for a birthday or anniversary, she sent three or four. “Literally it was no less than three cards for every occasion,”
Busalacchi says. Rare was the Friday night that the Kayes did not have Shabbat guests— often there were 10 or more people at the table. She would invite friends to the family’s sukkah on Sukkot, and host a break the fast after Yom Kippur. She made her own challah, and recently forwarded a Passover carrot kugel recipe to Busalacchi. Gilbert-Kaye loved to garden—“we’re talking eight different kinds of lettuce and five different kinds of tomatoes”—and to talk politics, her friend recalled. “She was a devout Trump supporter,” Busalacchi said. “When he was running for office, she would toast” the president, “and after he won she would toast to that.” “We mourn the loss of AIPAC member Lori Gilbert-Kaye, and pray for the recovery of Rabbi Yisroel Goldstein, 8-year-old Noya Dahan and her uncle, Almog Peretz,” the American Israel Public Affairs Committee said on Twitter. Hadassah and Chabad also mourned Gilbert-Kaye.
Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, said GilbertKaye was a member of its Bat Harim group in the San Diego area. “Learning that the woman who died in the horrendous shooting in San Diego was a Hadassah member doesn’t make this despicable act worse, but it does bring it closer to home,” the organization said. Chabad on its news website called her
“a pillar of the Chabad of Poway community, which she joined in the early 1990s.” Gilbert-Kaye’s Facebook page is filled with posts raising funds for groups and individuals in need. Dozens of people, mostly strangers, left messages of condolence on her latest post raising funds for the Jewish charity Chai Lifeline, where her sister works as West Coast director. (JTA)
Southside Chapel • 5033 Rouse Drive Virginia Beach • 757 422-4000
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
Maestas Chapel • 1801 Baltic Ave. Virginia Beach • 757 428-1112
• Family owned and operated since 1917 • Affordable services to fit any budget
Chesapeake Chapel • 929 S. Battlefield Blvd. Chesapeake • 757 482-3311
• Advance funeral planning • Professional, experienced, caring staff • Flexible burial options • Flexible payment options
Denbigh Chapel • 12893 Jefferson Ave. Newport News • 757 874-4200
WWW.ALTMEYER.COM Approved by all area Rabbis and Chevrah Kadisha
Riverside Chapel • 7415 River Road Newport News •757 245-1525
jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Jewish News | 29
M E ET TH E S C H R A N Z FA M I LY
arts & culture
All the 2019 Jewish Tony nominees Emily Burack
Craig, a Navy veteran, and his wife Joanna are strong believers in tzedekah and volunteerism. They support many organizations including several synagogues, Jewish War Veterans, and the Food Bank. For them, it’s important to share these philanthropic experiences with their three children and pass on these cherished values. Together with the Tidewater Jewish Foundation (TJF), a team they know and trust, Craig and Joanna established a Donor Advised Fund (DAF), ensuring that their tradition of tzedakah lives on for generations.
LE AR N WH Y A D O N O R ADVI S E D F U N D I S R I G HT FO R YO U R FAM I LY.
YOU CAN CHANGE THE WORLD. LET TJF SHOW YOU HOW. For more information, contact Scott Kaplan, President & CEO skaplan@ujft.com | 757-965-6111 foundation.jewishva.org
Let us help you get started by adding $2,500 in matching funds, when you open a DAF with $7,500 - giving you more money to support the causes you care about most.
30 | Jewish News | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org
NEW YORK (JTA)—The Tony Award nominations announced last month were dominated by Hadestown, a musical about the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice that garnered 14. One among the Hadestown nods was for best director for Rachel Chavkin, who is Jewish. She also had been nominated in 2017 for directing Natasha, Pierre & the Great Comet of 1812. Sam Mendes is also nominated for best direction of a play for his work on The Ferryman. He’s known for his work on the James Bond films Skyfall and Spectre, and won an Academy Award for directing American Beauty. David Yazbek, whose show, The Band’s Visit swept the Tonys last year, was tapped again in the best original score category for Tootsie, an adaptation of the 1982 film starring Dustin Hoffman. Also nominated in that category is Adam Guettel, the grandson of famed American Jewish composer Richard Rodgers. Guettel is up for his score for Aaron Sorkin’s To Kill a Mockingbird adaptation. (Fun fact: Guettel told the New York Times in 2003 that his last name rhymes with “shtetl.”) Sorkin, also Jewish, who adapted the famed Harper Lee novel for Broadway and directed the show, was snubbed. Actress and comedy legend Elaine May received her first Tony nomination— for best leading actress in a play. She stars in Jewish playwright Kenneth Lonergan’s The Waverly Gallery, his semi-autobiographical play about a family dealing with the declining health of its matriarch. May launched her career performing with her father in a Yiddish theater company, and has gone on to a storied career as a
comedian, director and screenwriter— notably forming a famous comedy duo with the late Mike Nichols. Lila Neugebauer, who directed The Waverly Gallery, was snubbed in the directing category. On why she was drawn to the play, she told The Interval, “I am a Jewish Upper West Sider and a child of a psychotherapist. The people in The Waverly Gallery are a bunch of Jews who live on the Upper West Side or Greenwich Village, and the two parent figures are both psychiatrists.” Actor Brandon Uranowitz garnered his third Tony nomination for best featured actor for his role in the play Burn This. (The other two were for roles in musicals: An American in Paris and Falsettos.) Actor Gideon Glick is nominated in the same category for his work in To Kill a Mockingbird. Glick got his start on Broadway as a senior in high school when he starred in Spring Awakening. “This was probably the most research I’ve ever done because it’s circumstances I’m not accustomed to,” Glick told Backstage magazine about his role. “I’m a gay Jew from the East Coast, and all of a sudden I’m playing this Southern dandy from Bayou Blue, Louisiana.” David Korins, the set designer for Beetlejuice, received his third Tony nomination. His first? For his work on a little show called Hamilton. Sound designer Nevin Steinberg, who worked with Korins on Hamilton, received a nomination with Jessica Paz for their sound design of Hadestown. Jules Fisher has been nominated more than 20 times for his work as a lighting designer, and 2019 brings yet another nomination: for his work in Gary: A Sequel to Titus Andronicus, with co-designer Peggy Eisenhauer.
it’s a Wrap Seniors celebrate Passover at Simon Family JCC
Rabbi Zoberman and Chloe Zuckerman.
S
eventy-five seniors, community volunteers, and staff gathered at the Simon Family JCC for a lunchtime Seder on Thursday, April 18. Rabbi Israel Zoberman conducted a vibrant 30-minute service with anecdotes, audience participation, and singing, including a beautiful rendition of The Four Questions by Chloe Zuckerman. Michal Newman, songstress and Hebrew Academy of Tidewater music teacher, led a singalong during dessert. Shelia Swartwood and her staff in the Cardo Café catered a full four-course meal—from matzah ball soup to macaroons.
HEALTH & FITNESS DAY Wednesday, May 29, 10 am–2 pm Simon Family JCC 5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Virginia Beach
Schedule of Events 10:00
Taste of Fitness: Life fit
11:00
Aquatics Class Demo: Water fitness
12:00
Warm Water Flex: Stretching, movement, and flexibility seminar with instructor Ray
12:30
Chair Yoga
Free Services Provided Hearing Screenings • Blood Pressure Checks Vision Screenings • Healthy Snack Samplings • Giveaways In addition, there will be representatives from: Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia • AARP Connect Hearing • United Health • Humana • JFS Virginia Department of Aging Services (DARS) Aetna-Better Health of Virginia Always Best Care Senior Services • Bath Fitter • JFIT Volunteers Jody Laibstain, Jonah and Chloe Zuckerman.
This event is free & open to the community. For more information, please call 757-321-2338. jewishnewsva.org | May 6, 2019 | Jewish News | 31
CONFIDENCE DOESN'T TAKE DETOURS. THE ALL-NEW BMW X5.
Learn more about the all-new BMW X5 and enjoy special lease and finance offers available through BMW Financial Services at Checkered Flag BMW.
Checkered Flag BMW 5225 Virginia Beach Blvd. Virginia Beach, VA 23462 757-648-1057 bmw.checkeredflag.com
32 | Jewish News | May 6, 2019 | jewishnewsva.org