Senior Living (July 2025)

jewishnewsva.org | JULY 14, 2025 | JEWISH NEWS | 15

Senior Living

Dear Readers,

2025 marks milestones for two programs that transformed aging in America: Medicare is 60 years old, and Social Security is 90. Happy anniversary to them!

These cherished American programs aren’t alone in crossing milestones. The very active seniors featured in this section have reached many of their own milestones and continue looking to their next. While these members of Jewish Tidewater are formed by their myriad life experiences, their focuses tend to be on what’s ahead. . . what new project to conquer, what new group to facilitate, how to spend time with their families, what new trip to take. Inspirations all. Their stories begin on the next page.

Caring for area seniors has long been a central component of Jewish Tidewater’s mission. The article on page 21 about Beth Sholom Village’s move to the Sandler Family Campus highlight’s the agency’s evolution. On page 25, another piece showcases many of the programs offered by the Simon Family JCC and United Jewish Federation of Tidewater for area seniors. The programs and events range from debates to games to field trips to nearly everything in between.

The ability to take advantage of these programs and live the full lives of those profiled in this section most often depends on good health. An article on page 20 explains the difference between having a positive health span and just a long lifespan. The tips on achieving a positive health span are worth considering for everyone – no matter one’s current age.

Mark Twain said, “Age is an issue of mind over matter. If you don’t mind, it doesn’t matter.” Is “age just a number” for you?

Thanks for reading,

Terri Denison Editor

THE VALUE OF FAMILY. With major federal estate tax exemptions set to sunset in 2026, now is the time to take control of your legacy. With the largest team in the state, our experienced Estate, Trust and Wealth Transfer group helps individuals and families develop comprehensive strategies that go beyond the basics — integrating tax planning, wealth preservation, and senior living decisions into one clear, confident plan. Whether you’re navigating complex family dynamics, planning for long-term care, or securing your assets for future generations, we take a whole-life approach to ensure peace of mind for you and your loved ones. We can. And we will.®

16 | JEWISH NEWS | JULY 14, 2025 | jewishnewsva.org

Senior Living

Celebrating every moment and every year Stephanie Peck What do Barry Manilow, Barbra Streisand, Mel Brooks, Charlie Firestone, Susan and Jim Eilberg, and Alice and David Titus have in common? Aside from the first three not living in Tidewater, all are Jewish, more than 80 years old, active in a variety of pursuits, and serve as inspirations to legions of followers. While the first three may have more global audiences than the Tidewater group, they are all celebrities to their fans of friends, colleagues, and loved ones.

Jewish News spoke with the locals about why they chose Tidewater as their home and their long lists of activities and accomplishments.

Charlie Firestone

Charlie Firestone still says, “She (Arlene, his wife) is the best thing that ever happened to me.” Their marriage of 66 years has produced four children, nine grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren (with another on the way).

The Firestones were one of the seven founding families of Kehillat Bet Hamidrash Synagogue (KBH) in Virginia Beach. Currently serving his second term as facilities chair of the building, Firestone has held positions as board member and board president. “I’ve done it all,” he laughs.

This fall, KBH moves its home to the Sandler Family Campus, celebrating its first official Shabbat on campus on Saturday, Sept. 6.

Originally from Atlanta, the young family moved to Virginia Beach in 1971 when Firestone took a sales position with Zep Manufacturing Company, specializing in industrial chemicals. He retired in 2011, after being with the company for 40 years. The couple sold their home in Oceana two years ago to move into an independent living setting.

In recognition of his KBH volunteerism, Firestone was a recipient of the Joseph H. Strelitz Community Service Award at the 2025 United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s

Biennial meeting. Beyond KBH, Firestone’s volunteer activities have included serving as a member of the Rotary Club of Hampton Roads for 38 years; being involved with Destination Imagination, a nonprofit that aims to “inspire young people to imagine and innovate today so they become the creative and collaborative leaders of tomorrow;” and also serving as a commissioner on the Virginia Commission for National Community Service under Governors Tim Kaine and Mark Warner. Firestone has also judged for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and DECA competitions during his involvement with the Virginia Beach school system. DECA

prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.

At home, Firestone enjoys reading and doing crossword puzzles, and “being a nuisance to my wife,” he muses. Firestone says he is grateful for his family and adds that daughter and son-in-law Mindy and Jim Harvel have helped the couple complete two moves.

Firestone recounts a conversation with Mindy, when she said, “You took care of us when we were little and now it’s our turn to take care of you.” At 89 years old, he has earned it.

The Firestone family at the wedding of their grandson, Zach, in Georgia in 2022.

jewishnewsva.org | JULY 14, 2025 | JEWISH NEWS | 17

Senior Living

Susan and Jim Eilberg

EVERY TURN TELLS A STORY

Is Senior Living Worth the Gamble?

When families consider senior living, one question often comes to mind: Will my money last? When it comes to balancing quality care with your preferences, do you hold your cards or take the chance?

The cost of senior living can vary depending on factors like the level of support you need and the size suite you select, while other aspects, like peace of mind, are hard to put a price tag on.

Staying at home may seem like the safer bet, but is it worth the gamble?

Commonwealth Senior Living has been helping families navigate this journey for over 20 years. We’ll work with you to explore all your financial options including savings, Long-Term Care Insurance, home equity, Social Security, and, for veterans, Aid & Attendance benefits.

Don’t leave your peace of mind to chance.

Contact us to schedule a complimentary financial assessment with our experts.

757-347-1732

Commonwealth SENIOR LIVING at THE BALLENTINE

Welcome Home 7211 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA 23505 Assisted Living & Memory Care

www.CommonwealthSL.com 18 | JEWISH NEWS | JULY 14, 2025 | jewishnewsva.org

Now 90 years old, Jim Eilberg has officially retired from years of professional life and volunteer activities. That doesn’t mean, though, that he and his wife, Susan, have retired from life. . . they continue to attend Old Dominion University basketball games and Virginia Symphony concerts as season ticket holders. “Susan is far more active.” he says.

Originally from Brookline, Mass., Jim served 31 years in the Navy, both in active duty and the reserves, moving from line officer to supply officer. For him, “logistics was more engaging than driving destroyers,” he says. For 24 years, he owned a scrap metal business which he had purchased from his first wife’s father.

After retirement, Jim volunteered at Jewish Family Service for 20 years, delivering Meals on Wheels, and at B’nai Brith, he served as financial secretary for more than 20 years.

Susan hails from Manhattan, attending Goucher College and William & Mary before receiving her PhD from Old Dominion University. Working in education for 40 years, Susan was a French teacher in the Norfolk public schools and a guidance officer at Norview High School. She also held the position of assistant director at Governor’s School for the Arts and now serves on its board. She says they both enjoy attending many of the Governor’s School’s offerings.

In her spare time, Susan keeps busy as a docent at Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and as a Sentara volunteer, where she chats with patients, explains their rights, listens to their grievances, and reports back to her supervisor.

“My wife is terrific. Our marriage is solid. We’re grateful just to be here, enjoying one another,” Jim says.

Married since 1973, the Eilbergs have two sons and six grandchildren. While the Eilbergs raised their family in Norfolk, they now live at The Oceans in Virginia Beach. Since their sons and their families live out of town, the Eilbergs travel often to visit them.

Jim says that he and Susan are lucky. “Our kids have been successful, their marriages are intact, and we have beautiful grandchildren.”

Susan and Jim Eilberg surrounded by grandchildren.

Senior Living

Alice and David Titus “I was a substitute blind date,” says Alice Titus when sharing how she and David met.

“Roommate number 1 arranged it (the blind date) for herself and roommate number 2, but roommate number 2 got sick. C’est la vie! We celebrated the 60th anniversary of that serendipitous meeting this past February.”

Before moving to Tidewater, Alice and David lived in Indiana, Rhode Island, and then in the Albany, New York area for 40 years. The couple decided that retirement called for a change of climate. Looking to escape the long, cold winters and having vacationed in Virginia Beach for many years, this area offered both an appealing climate and (as David is retired from the Naval Reserve) many military retiree benefits.

Not knowing anyone when they first moved here, the Tituses joined Ohef Sholom Temple where they feel they have been nurtured both spiritually and intellectually.

“We attend services every week, I sing in the wonderful OST choir, and we both taught in the Religious School. We both serve on the Archives and Library SubCommittee and Adult Education Sub-Committee, Alice is a member of OST’s Sisterhood, and I am a member of Men’s Club,” says David. “In 2020, I converted to Judaism,” he continues.

Tidewater has been their home for the last 10 years, where they have enjoyed boating, swimming, the rich cultural life, the warm welcoming community, and the friendships developed through the synagogue, as well as through their condominium association.

Born and raised in New York City, Alice graduated from the State University of New York at Albany and earned a bachelor’s degree in English and two master’s degrees – one in public history and the other in public affairs and policy with an emphasis in science policy.

She spent most of her professional career as a teacher, teaching English for 20 years in middle school, high school, and college, as well as social studies to middle school students.

Working for the archives of the State University, she processed the papers of a scientist involved in the World War II nuclear weapons program known as the Manhattan Project and later served as an analyst for insurance legislation as part of the central staff of the New York State Assembly.

David was raised in a suburb of Albany and also graduated from the State University of New York at Albany with a bachelor’s degree in English. He earned a master’s degree in English from the State University and a Master

of Library Science degree from the University of Rhode Island.

As a college instructor and librarian, David taught English at the University of Rhode Island and was a librarian at The Albany Academy in Albany. Also in Albany, he administered library and media programs at the Capital Region Board of Cooperative Educational Services and was an instructor and librarian for Bryant & Stratton College, both in person and online.

After active duty in the United States Navy and nearly 30 Alice and David Titus. years in the Naval Reserve, David retired as a Chief Petty Officer in 1991.

In retirement, David is extremely busy as a volunteer.

At Ohef Sholom, he spends time in the Ohef Sholom Temple Library and the Ohef Sholom Religious School Library. He is particularly focused on developing the Bonk-Rivin Holocaust Collection, which holds one of the largest collections in the world of Holocaust-related graphic novels and comic books.

Alice previously served as a part-time OST archivist, and she now volunteers there and in the archives of the MacArthur Memorial Museum. She helps in the OST soup kitchen and at WHRO Voice, where she reads the newspaper over the radio for those who are blind or visually impaired. In addition to volunteering in the OST library, David volunteers in the library of the Hampton Roads Naval Museum and sings with the Symphonicity Chorus in Virginia Beach. They both volunteer in their condominium’s garden.

“I can spend hours playing the piano,” Alice says.

A recent OST bat mitzvah, Alice celebrated the simcha along with 22 other adults of various ages, genders, and backgrounds. Alice explains that, while she was raised Jewish and married by a rabbi (“He was the only rabbi in New York City who would officiate at a wedding of a Jew and non-Jew at the time,” she says), she grew up as a “cultural” Jew, identifying as Jewish but not knowing much about the religion. “Although we raised our children in a Jewish home and belonged to synagogues where we

lived before, it wasn’t until we came here and became members of Ohef Sholom Temple, that I felt comfortable in the religion into which I had been born,” Alice says. At OST, she has studied Hebrew and the history and ethics of Judaism. “It has been a joy in the good times, a comfort in the hard times, and a beautiful journey,” she says.

“Becoming a bat mitzvah was my opportunity to publicly declare my commitment to and love for the values and spirituality of Judaism.”

With a son and daughter-in-law in Japan, the Tituses have toured the Asian country six times.

They spend as much time as they can visiting their daughter, son-in-law, and grandson in Pennsylvania, and a granddaughter in northern Virginia. With cousins in North and South Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, and California, and nieces and nephews not too far from Tidewater, Alice and David are often on the road. Most summers include travel to Upstate New York, visiting with old friends and enjoying the concerts and theater both there and in neighboring western Massachusetts.

For fun, they love visiting museums and the Norfolk Botanical Garden, attending concerts and theater, and spending time with friends. The Tituses belong to several book clubs and are members of the Norfolk Historical Society.

Married for 58 years, that chance blind date in 1965 turned out to be much more than just a happy accident. jewishnewsva.org | JULY 14, 2025 | JEWISH NEWS | 19

Senior Living

Striving for ‘healthy longevity’ Stephanie Peck Balance and moderation in eating increases the chances of living a longer and vital life.

“A lifetime of making healthier food choices and maintaining an active lifestyle contributes to a positive health span, not just a long lifespan,” says Judy Mitnick, Registered Dietitian/Certified Diabetes Care and education specialist, at Jim White Fitness and Nutrition Studios.

Mitnick refers to this concept as ‘healthy longevity,’ where nutrition plays a role but is not the only factor.

Limiting excessive fried foods, high sodium, and processed foods, as well as excessive caffeine and alcohol intake, all contribute to dietary benefits. “I always tell my clients to look at their overall intake and habits instead

of strictly eliminating everything they may enjoy in an attempt to age healthfully,” Mitnick says.

As people age, fewer calories are required, primarily due to decreased activity and lower lean muscle mass.

Mitnick advises focusing on the nutrient density of foods consumed.

“With lower calorie needs, older people need to ‘make most calories count’ and there is less wiggle room for extras.”

Lean protein sources, healthy fats such as olive oil, fruits and vegetables, low-fat dairy or dairy alternatives, and moderate whole grains provide the necessary protein, vitamins, and minerals without the excess calories.

To significantly decrease sugar intake, Mitnick suggests making simple substitutions, such as flavored seltzers and fruit juice seltzers instead of soda, and whole grain cereal.

“Especially as we get older, we don’t have a surplus of extra calories to play with,” Mitnick says.

It is natural to lose some muscle mass as one gets older, so maintaining lean muscle is key to healthy aging.

Mitnick recommends

Longevity isn’t about checking every box. It’s about living in a way that brings vitality, joy, and meaning.

incorporating strength training into workout routines, such as simple exercises using resistance bands, light weights, or even wearing a weighted vest on walks.

Quality of life is also important at this stage of life, which means that including an occasional treat, in moderation, can be part of this healthy lifestyle.

In his article, What an Octogenarian Aging Expert Does Daily to Stay Healthy, Dr. Richard Besdine shares one piece of advice: Do what feels good mentally and physically. An 81-year-old, renowned geriatrician and professor at Brown University, he says, “Longevity isn’t about checking every box. It’s about living in a way that brings vitality, joy, and meaning.”

Besdine goes beyond diet and exercise when discussing his recipe for healthy longevity. Reducing stress and nurturing relationships play a role, too.

“Social bonds are not just emotionally fulfilling, they are biologically protective, boosting immunity and reducing inflammation.” Regarding stress, he adds that “techniques like mindfulness, journaling, therapy, or gentle movement can all help reduce cortisol levels and protect long-term health.”

The article concludes that, while these “specific habits might not fit everyone, they offer a refreshing lens through which to view longevity.”

Judy Mitnick

20 | JEWISH NEWS | JULY 14, 2025 | jewishnewsva.org

Senior Living

Beth Sholom Village charts bold future with new home and renewed mission

Welcome Seniors!

from your friends at MHC and Greentree Healthcare!

We pride ourselves with the same high standard of exceptional care you have come to expect.

Please come by for a tour…we’d love to show you around!

Lauren Krajesky, LNHA, CDP Taking another step forward, Beth Sholom Village is relocating its offices to space within Jewish Family Service at the Sandler Family Campus. This move represents more than a change of address; it reflects a deepened commitment to area seniors and a renewed vision for the future.

“We are thrilled to be making this strategic move,” says Fay Silverman, chair of BSV’s board of directors. “It better aligns Beth Sholom Village with our community and positions us to continue supporting Jewish seniors in impactful and innovative ways.”

Beth Sholom’s board’s new direction, guided by the infamous “2.0 Committee,” aims to transform the organization into a funding and grant foundation, serving the needs primarily, but not exclusively, of Jewish seniors through outreach and strategic initiatives. This relocation is the first step in a broader plan to expand impact, deepen partnerships, and deliver more care to more seniors over more years.

That mission is already alive and well at Aviva Pembroke, Beth Sholom Village’s new senior living community.

Residents Steven and Nancy Rosenberg say they found more than just a new place to live – they found a place where

they feel truly at home.

“I knew it was time to make a change,” Steve Rosenberg says. “I was looking for community and social opportunities—places to connect, engage, and enjoy this next chapter of life. I’ve found all of that and more here at Aviva.”

For Nancy Rosenberg, the decision was deeply personal. “I was drawn to Aviva because of its strong foundation in Jewish values,” she says. “You can feel those values in the way the community operates, and it gives me a sense of comfort and belonging.”

Now settled in, the Rosenbergs say it’s the people who make Aviva Pembroke so special. “The people who live here are the heart of this community,” says Nancy Rosenbrerg.

With the move to Jewish Family Service and the continued growth of Aviva Pembroke, Beth Sholom Village is building a future where seniors are not just cared for—they’re celebrated.

“This is only the beginning,” says Silverman. “We are grateful to care for our seniors and grow a community that is safe, rooted in our values, and reflective of our mission.”

HEALTH CENTER 6401 Auburn Drive Virginia Beach, VA 23464 Mhcofvb.com

THE VILLAGE

1049 College Park Blvd Virginia Beach, VA 23464 Villageatmhc.com

757.420.2512 • 757.282.2384

Lauren Krajesky, LNHA, CDP is vice president of administration at Beth Sholom Village. jewishnewsva.org | JULY 14, 2025 | JEWISH NEWS | 21

A BISSEL OF YIDDISH

When you need us

We’ll be there

A first Bissel of Yiddish

When life’s events require extra care, Changing Tides can help you or your loved one safely remain happy and at home.

“Recently my mother required 12 hour per day personal care assistance. On short notice, Changing Tides Home Care provided the necessary assistance. They have been responsive to my mother’s needs and have kept the family informed by telephone, text and portal. I am very pleased with their services.”

—Andrew H. Hook President of Hook Law Center

Call Today for a Free Consultation

(757) 963-0028

www.changingtides.com

In-Home Care You Can Trust.

• Bathing, Dressing & Personal Care • Meal Preparation • Shopping • Errands • Companionship • Light Housekeeping • Mobility Assistance • Transportation

• Medication Reminders • Transitional Care - Hospice - Hospital - Rehab • Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care Specialists

Award-Winning Senior Care for the Hampton Roads Community PROVIDING: Bathing & Dressing Assistance • Assistance with Walking • Medication Reminders • Errands & Shopping • Light Housekeeping • Meal Preparation • Companion Care • Flexible Hourly Care • End-of-Life Care • Chronic Disease Care • Alzheimer's Care • Dementia Care

Virginia Beach

757.216.1934

Yiddish word Princess Anne

757.970.3111 Norfolk

757.525.2525 Newport News

757.599.4145 Each Visiting Angels agency is independently owned and operated. ®2024 Visiting Angels is a registered trademark of Living Assistance Services, Inc.

22 | JEWISH NEWS | JULY 14, 2025 | jewishnewsva.org

A bit of Yiddish has managed to slip into everyday language. It’s not uncommon to hear people of all backgrounds talk about shlepping and shmoozing. And most who fling words such as glitz and shtick, have no idea they’re speaking Yiddish, a language historically spoken by Ashkenazi Jews.

A combination of High German and Hebrew, efforts are underway to keep the language alive through clubs, Youtube videos, classes, books, and performances.

Even in Tidewater, the Yiddish Club is making a comeback. Attendees at the monthly meetings are embracing Yiddish culture, language, and history with music, film, poetry, and literature. The next meeting will take place on Tuesday, August 5 at 1 pm at the Sandler Family Campus. For more information, go to www.Jewishva.org/YiddishClub.

In this spirit, Jewish News is embarking on a new feature, A Bissel of Yiddish to introduce and remind readers of a few Yiddish words and phrases. Bissel is Yiddish for ‘little,’ by the way. We hope the section brings smiles and memories to those who recall grandparents speaking the language, as well as intrigue to those interested in learning a few words.

Mensch Based on the German word for person, in Yiddish, a mensch is used to describe someone with highly regarded qualities such as honor, integrity, and kindness.

A mensch doesn’t hesitate to perform mitzvot. Being called a mensch is considered an extreme compliment.

Yiddish phrase

Mir geben en mir veisen shtark koved far unzer tyerer en baleibt elter menschen fun undzer klal We give and we show strong respect for our valuable and dear older people of our community.

Senior Living

Marc Pollack: Immersed in Jewish community Sam Nossen Originally from Manhattan, Marc Pollack moved to Norfolk, Virginia in 1952 with his mom and dad. He was four years old at the time. Pollack quickly ingratiated himself with the Tidewater JCC family. “I’ve been a part of the community for 73 years. I went to summer camp at the JCC when it was still in Norfolk,” he says.

After earning his degree, Pollack began working for the City of Norfolk as a Deputy High Constable. Throughout his 27-year-career working for the city, Pollack also worked as an HR eligibility specialist, helping families and those in need get food stamps and social security.

Throughout this time, he also served with the Army Reserve National Guard.

Although he retired in 2008 from his job with the city, he has continued to

work as an umpire for softball games at all levels. Pollack says, “Many people stop being active after retiring and can become sedentary. My goal has always been to stay active and enjoy life.”

Since retiring, Pollack has been heavily involved with the Simon Family JCC’s Senior Club and works out daily, alternating between attending aquatic classes and working out in the gym.

As the treasurer for the Senior Club, Pollack and the club’s executive board “try to encourage seniors in the club to stay involved and help the board make decisions regarding events and how money is used.” As part of his duties as treasurer, Pollack has trees planted in Israel for community members who have passed away. “Helping others be fulfilled makes me happy, and I try to do so in every way possible.”

Everyday adventures

Fun.Elevated.

Everyday happiness. Newfound hobbies. True Lifecare® security.

Harbor’s Edge: a retirement lifestyle that simply towers above the rest.

With five restaurants and cafes, two movie theaters, fitness center, pool and more, including True LifeCare® —complete health care security—it’s easy to join in the fun at Harbor’s Edge.

Daily events & celebrations

Scan this code or visit HarborsEdgeNorfolk.com to learn more, or call 1-757-517-8992 to schedule a tour.

Life. Elevated.

801 Southampton Avenue Norfolk, VA 23510

jewishnewsva.org | JULY 14, 2025 | JEWISH NEWS | 23

Senior Living

BOB LOW’S COMMITMENT TO COMMUNICATION SPANS COMMUNITIES Sam Nossen Not your average 88-year-old, Bob Low plays poker multiple times a week and volunteers in the local Jewish community – activities he attributes to helping him stay mentally and physically spry.

Moving to Norfolk with his wife, Honey, in 1960, Low served in the Navy for three years before leaving and becoming a CPA. At 65, Bob retired from Goodman and Company, a CPA firm he helped build, and began his life as a retiree.

Low did not grow up very religious, saying, “My mom and aunt went to temple for 30 minutes every year.”

His involvement and love for the Jewish community can be traced back to his wife, Honey, who passed away two years ago. In fact, Low credits Honey for his involvement in the Jewish community. Honey volunteered with Jewish Family Service and Toras Chaim school throughout her life. Low says her love for the community “rubbed off” on him.

In recent years, Low has started two round table groups that discuss myriad Jewish-centered and current events-centered topics. One of these groups meets twice a month on Thursday at the Simon Family JCC, and the other meets weekly at Atlantic Shores, where Low now lives. “My role as moderator is to make sure nothing gets too political, to keep order.”

A gracious contributor to Tidewater Jewish Foundation, the Low family’s donations helped fund the Low Family Playground in 2023. The playground, located on the grounds of B’nai Israel in Norfolk, serves as a place where the next generation can form bonds and play.

Low’s generosity, however, is not limited to Tidewater.

Founding the Honey Foundation, Low aims to “empower the spiritual leaders Israelis need now for the benefit of Jews everywhere.”

“Though I may not be the most religious of Jews,” Low says, “I’m committed to helping non-Jews see the Jewish sides of different topics.”

Bob Low.

Expert Physicians.

Exceptional Cancer Care.

At Virginia Oncology Associates, we recognize all of our patients as individuals with a need for caring, personalized treatment. We are dedicated to finding new and better ways to treat cancer through ongoing research and clinical trials. Our team of specialized physicians and staff work together and collaborate to create a plan that will help navigate each person’s journey.

PENINSULA | (757) 873-9400 HAMPTON • NEWPORT NEWS • WILLIAMSBURG SOUTHSIDE | (757) 466-8683 CHESAPEAKE • NORFOLK SUFFOLK • VIRGINIA BEACH

VirginiaCancer.com Virginia Oncology Associates is part of The US Oncology Network and is supported by McKesson Specialty Health. ©2025 McKesson Specialty Health. All rights reserved.

24 | JEWISH NEWS | JULY 14, 2025 | jewishnewsva.org

Senior Living 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 Inside the Jewish Museum and Cultural Center: Marc Pollock, Philip Liebman, Harold Smith, David Cauldwell, Harriet Seibert, Galina Lifshitz, Harriet Meier, Adrienne Royes, Sherry Lieberman, Evalyn Horowitz, Audre Poretsky, and Mia Klein.

Programming for seniors abound at the Simon Family JCC Mia Klein Trips, Yiddish, debates, games, and so much more are available for seniors to explore at the Sandler Family Campus. Seniors are generally considered to be anyone 55 years old and above.

For specific days and times and to learn more, go to jcc.jewishva.org or call 757-321-2338.

Yiddish Club for everyone The Yiddish Club meets on the first Tuesday of each month to discuss Yiddish music, culture, and classic literature.

Members share insights, stories, and songs – celebrating a vibrant cultural heritage.

Open to all, the club welcomes anyone interested in exploring the richness of the Yiddish tradition.

Seniors Club takes first trip of the year The Seniors Club recently took a bus trip to the Portsmouth Jewish Museum

and Cultural Center. The group had a smooth ride and was greeted by museum staff upon arrival for an informative tour. Housed in a former synagogue, the museum offered an interesting look at Jewish life and history in Portsmouth.

Members viewed exhibits about local Jewish traditions, community life, and the building’s architecture, including its stained-glass windows.

Roundtable Conversations A collaborative discussion group where all participants contribute equally, Roundtable Conversation is guided by facilitator Bob Low. Members share ideas, ask questions, and

• Affordable services to fit any budget

Chesapeake Chapel • 929 S. Battlefield Blvd.

Chesapeake • 757 482-3311

• Advance funeral planning • Professional, experienced, caring staff Denbigh Chapel • 12893 Jefferson Ave. Newport News • 757 874-4200

• Flexible burial options • Flexible payment options Approved by all area Rabbis and Chevrah Kadisha

Celebrating life’s treasured memories.

Riverside Chapel • 7415 River Road Newport News • 757 245-1525

www.altmeyerfuneralandcremation.com actively listen. This format encourages respectful dialogue, diverse perspectives, and deeper understanding, making it ideal for exploring complex topics in educational, professional, or community settings.

JCC Book Club Sherry Lieberman, Evalyn Horowitz, and Adrienne Royes.

To celebrate Pride Month, the JCC Book Club selected

Kissing Girls on Shabbat as its June book.

The discussion was engaging and heartfelt, sparking meaningful conversations among participants.

Mah Jongg Mondays Mah Jongg Mondays launched last month at the Simon Family JCC. Held on the second, third, fourth, and occasional fifth Mondays each month, games begin at 1 pm in the Fleischmann Lounge on the Sandler Family Campus.

Used complete sets are gratefully accepted as donations.

jewishnewsva.org | JULY 14, 2025 | JEWISH NEWS | 25

INTEGRATED SOLUTIONS. LIFELONG RELATIONSHIPS. ONE TRUSTED PARTNER.

Legal • Tax • Wealth • Elder Care Guil Ware left a legacy through a gift in his will to the Hampton Roads Community Foundation.

Support causes you love, now and forever.

Learn more at LeaveABequest.org.

We are pleased to announce that

At Alperin Law & Wealth, we believe in relationships —not transactions.

As your life evolves, so do your needs. Whether you're transitioning a business, protecting your family, planning your estate, navigating tax complexities, or facing the challenges of aging, we’re here—for life’s entire journey.

Our integrated team of attorneys, financial advisors, tax professionals and care coordinators offers a full suite of services tailored to support you and your loved ones through every stage of life. From building wealth to preserving it, from strategic planning to elder care coordination, we serve as your single source of trusted advice and compassionate guidance.

We’re more than your legal or financial team. We’re your lifelong trusted advisors—always looking out for you.

BECAUSE THE BEST PLANS ARE MADE WITH PEOPLE WHO KNOW YOUR STORY.

has joined our Virginia Beach office Scott Alperin, Principal Attorney

W. TODD WEST

JASON HOFFMAN

Managing Director

Senior Vice President, Investments

todd.west@raymondjames.com

jason.hoffman@raymondjames.com

757.417.1730

757.417.1731

300 32nd Street, Suite 520 Virginia Beach, VA 23451 757.417.1730 Raymond James & Associates, Inc., member New York Stock Exchange/SIPC. 25-BR3BL-0102 TA 5/25

26 | JEWISH NEWS | JULY 14, 2025 | jewishnewsva.org

With over 30 years of experience advising individuals, families, and businesses, Scott Alperin is a highly respected leader in the field of estate planning and elder law. As an Accredited Estate Planner® and an Estate Planning Law Specialist, Scott has earned the only American Bar Association-recognized board certification for practitioners with advanced skill, knowledge, professional reputation and character in the area of estate planning.

Scott is also rated AV Preeminent by Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting the highest level of ethics and professional excellence as determined by his peers.

Laura Gadsby, Director of Care Coordination Alperin Law & Wealth is excited to welcome Laura Gadsby as our Director of Care Coordination. With nearly 30 years of experience, including her work at Beth Sholom Village and on Virginia’s first PACE™ program, Laura now serves as our in-house Senior Care Coordinator. She supports families by: Explaining care options and assisting with Long-Term Care decisions Coordinating in-home, facility, and transitional care Guiding families through dementia Aligning care plans with legal and financial goals

ALPERIN LAW & WEALTH

Trusted Advisors For Your Life & Legacy

�� Offices throughout Hampton Roads| �� www.alperinlaw.com | �� (757) 490-3500

*LEGAL SERVICES PROVIDED BY ALPERIN LAW PLLC. FINANCIAL SERVICES PROVIDED BY ALPERIN FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS, LLC, A REGISTERED INVESTMENT ADVISOR.

NOT FDIC INSURED • NOT BANK | GUARANTEED • MAY LOSE VALUE