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Southeastern Virginia | Vol. 60 No. 9 | 13 Adar 5782 | February 14, 2022

The Four Corners of the World with Roie Galitz A celebration of World Wildlife Day Tuesday, March 1, 7:30 pm

15 B’Tayavon Local chefs share recipes

11th Annual Israel Today —page 8

27 Israel Club at the Simon Family JCC

29 Yael Perlov on Ben-Gurion Epilogue Sunday, February 27

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EDITORIAL

JEWISH NEWS jewishnewsva.org

Be informed.

Published 20 times a year by United Jewish Federation of Tidewater.

QR code generated on http://qrcode.littleidiot.be

A

friend recently said, “you do a great job of showing all sides

with confidence and without apology.

of an issue in the paper.” Naturally, I appreciated his unso-

If, however, we are not informed and prepared, we risk what

licited comment, as balance and nuance are extremely important,

took place in Tennessee, Texas, and Florida being more possible

especially with a readership with diverse opinions on seemingly

to occur in Virginia.

every issue.

Last month, Governor Glenn Youngkin signed an Executive

Sometimes, however, balance is not what’s called for.

Order establishing a Commission to Combat Antisemitism. At

Sometimes, there just aren’t, as my mom used to say, “three sides

this writing, applications are being accepted for individuals to

to every story.” And, the only two sides should be labeled, ‘right’

participate.

or ‘wrong.’ Some issues should garner the exact same reaction

“Every Virginian deserves the protection of the law, and this

from a person who generally votes blue as from someone who

commission will chart a course for our Commonwealth that

votes red.

leaves antisemitism in the past,” said Youngkin in a release. “Our

What I’m referring to are the antisemetic acts that have made national, as well as international headlines in recent months.

Consider the Tennessee school board that banned the Pultizer prize-winning Maus, a graphic novel about the Holocaust.

Consider the meaning behind Whoopi Goldberg’s words and then the reaction that followed.

Jewish friends and neighbors must know that we stand with them against the tide of hate and discrimination.” For more information, go to www.commonwealth.virginia.gov/va-government/ boards-and-commissions/combat-antisemitism/.

Whether you attend a program offered by United Jewish

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 Laura G. Gross, President Alvin Wall, Treasurer Mona Flax, Secretary Betty Ann Levin, Executive Vice-President 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. ©2022 Jewish News. All rights reserved.

Federation of Tidewater’s Jewish Community Relations Council

Consider the small congregation in Texas that was held hostage by a man seeking freedom for a terrorist.

or an ADL webinar on fighting hate (one is scheduled for

Subscription: $18 per year

Thursday, Feb. 17), or you choose to gain your information by

Consider the delay in confirming Deborah Lipstadt as U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism.

Consider the Nazi demonstrators in Florida.

JewishNewsVA

reading, please be informed.

For subscription or change of address, call 757-965-6128 or email mcerase@ujft.org.

If we do not learn from history (even if that history is last Upcoming Deadlines for Editorial and Advertising

week), we are doomed to repeat it.

To be informed, to possess the understanding of what Maus

Feb. 28 March 14 March 28 April 11 April 25 May 23

represents, why Goldberg’s words set off a firestorm, why it matters that the gunman in Texas chose a synagogue and not a church or a café or a yoga studio, and why it’s important that lead-

Terri Denison

ers denounce Nazi demonstrators, is to have the power to respond

Editor

JCC Maccabi Games in San Diego July 31–August 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Special Section: Investing and Retiring . . . 17 Swordfish Winter Swim team breaks records and wins races. . . . . . . . 25 Career Day at Toras Chaim. . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 PJ Library celebrates Tu B’Shevat at Norfolk Botanical Garden. . . . . . . . . . 26 Israel Club begins at Simon Family JCC . . 27 BBYO keeps busy during winter months. . 27 What’s Happening. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Mazel Tov Feb. 11 Camp Feb. 25 Passover March 11 Passover March 25 Mom/Women/Camp April 8 Anniversary Issue May 13

CANDLE LIGHTING

QUOTABLE

CONTENTS Editorial. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Briefs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Whoopi Goldberg’s charged discourse. . . . . 6 Israel Today hosts Roie Galitz, wildlife photographer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Chava Harpaz, recipient of Simon Family Passport to Israel. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 JFit adds pilates chair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Hunter Thomas: new director of UJFT’s Arts & Ideas. . . . 13 B’Tayavon, new recipe column for Jewish News. . . . . 15

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

“Race” is notoriously difficult to define. Is it a group of people with shared physical characteristics?

Can other social, economic, and anthropological classifications factor in?

—page 6

Friday, Feb. 18/17 Adar I Light candles at 5:30 pm Friday, Feb. 25/24 Adar I Light candles at 5:37 pm Friday, March 4/1 Adar II Light candles at 5:44 pm Friday, March 11/8 Adar II Light candles at 5:51 pm Friday, March 18/15 Adar II Light candles at 6:57 pm Friday, March 25/22 Adar II Light candles at 7:03 pm

jewishnewsva.org | February 14, 2022 | JEWISH NEWS | 3

BRIEFS 96 JEWISH FEDERATIONS AND JCRCS URGE SENATE CONFIRMATION OF DEBORAH LIPSTADT AS ANTISEMITISM MONITOR Close to 100 local Jewish federations and Jewish Community Relations Councils are urging the Senate to confirm Deborah Lipstadt as antisemitism monitor, citing the attack on a Colleyville, Texas synagogue last month.

“This latest, horrific attack makes clear that the Senate must expeditiously confirm this position so that America’s diplomatic corps has an able leader to combat the global threat of antisemitism,” the organizations said in a letter sent Monday, Jan. 31 that was initiated by the Jewish Federations of North America.

The letter was addressed to Sen. Robert Menendez, D-N.J., chairman of the Foreign Relations Committee, and Sen. James Risch, R-Idaho, its senior Republican. But the real target was Risch, who has been holding up Lipstadt’s confirmation because of her past sharp criticisms of Republicans. Jewish groups have multiple times called on the Senate to press forward with Lipstadt’s confirmation hearings.

The position of antisemitism monitor tracks antisemitism overseas and consults with governments about how to stem it. The man who held a rabbi and three congregants hostage on Jan. 15 for 15 hours was a British Muslim who appeared to buy into antisemitic tropes about Jewish control.

“We may not know everything that led to this attack, but the congregants held hostage that day report a series of antisemitic tropes from the gunman,” the letter said. “It is undeniable that a rising tide of antisemitic speech and physical attacks have targeted the Jewish community across the world, creating the dangerous preconditions to attacks on Jewish individuals and institutions abroad and at home.” (JTA) AARON MOSTOFSKY, PELT-WEARING SON OF A JEWISH JUDGE, PLEADS GUILTY TO JAN. 6 CHARGES Aaron Mostofsky, the Jewish judge’s son who wore fur pelts and a bulletproof

vest when he entered the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, pleaded guilty in a federal court Wednesday, Feb. 2 to civil disorder, theft of government property and entering and remaining in a restricted building.

Prosecutors dropped the most serious charge of interfering in an official proceeding. The civil disorder charge is a felony and has a maximum sentence of five years, although many of the 200 or so people convicted so far in the Jan. 6 insurrection have received minimal sentences. Mostofsky will be sentenced in May. Mostofsky is the son of Steven (Shlomo) Mostofsky, a Kings County (Brooklyn) Supreme Court Judge and former president of the National Council of Young Israel, an Orthodox synagogue association. NCYI has been outspokenly pro-Trump in the past.

Mostofsky’s brother, Nachman, who serves as executive director of Chovevei Zion, a politically conservative Orthodox Jewish advocacy organization, also attended the protests but he has said he left before the mob entered the Capitol.

The Jan. 6 rioters, heeding former President Trump’s false claims that he won the election, sought to keep Congress from certifying Joe Biden’s win. ( JTA)

WORLD OF WORDLE INSPIRES A NEW GAME: JEWDLE In yet another addition to the world of Wordle offshoots, an Australia-based Jewish community organization has created Jewdle—a distinctly Jewish version of the wildly popular online word game.

While versions of Wordle exist in other languages, including Hebrew and Yiddish, Jewdle offers words from English, Yiddish, Hebrew, and Aramaic and is different in a few key ways.

Unlike Wordle, which asks players to guess a five-letter word using codebreaker’s logic, Jewdle players have to guess six-letter Jewish words, increasing the game’s difficulty.

Jewdle also throws in a Jewish educational component, adding explanations and context once a player gets a word right.

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“This seemed like a really perfect way to create Jewish relevance within a very popular, secular context that so many people around the world are accessing right now,” Alon Meltzer, director of programs at the organization Shalom and the game’s creator, told J-Wire.

After joining the more than 2 million people who have started playing Wordle, Meltzer decided to make a Jewish-themed version, which came with a set of unique challenges.

“We decided to do six letters instead of five because of the phonetic differences in writing out many Hebrew and Yiddish words,” Meltzer explained. “You often need to use a ‘ch’ or ‘sch’ combination or an ‘ah’ suffix. Five letters was a bit too limiting.”

Jewdle can be played at https://www. jewdle.app. (JTA)

In their statement to JTA, a representative for Barnes & Noble wrote that the bookseller draws on industry databases and does the “utmost to diligently monitor such submissions for violations of our content policy.” According to the statement, the book was never stocked in their bookstores.

“We regret that it was listed inadvertently. As soon as we are made aware of any such offending titles, we take prompt action to remove the offending titles in accordance with our policy, as we did with this title,” said the representative.

While Barnes & Noble was the main focus of social media users’ outrage, other top online booksellers such as Walmart, Book Depository, Thrift Books, and Hudson Books were selling dozens of versions, the Jerusalem Post reported. ( JTA)

B & N REMOVES THE PROTOCOLS OF THE ELDERS OF ZION FROM ITS SITE Following a social media outcry, Barnes & Noble removed The Protocols of the Elders of Zion from its website.

Twitter users began tweeting Jan. 25 about an online listing on the booksellers’ site, which was offering the famously fabricated antisemitic text for $24.95.

The retailer said in a statement to JTA that the book was fed automatically to the website from “standard industry databases” and that the company took “prompt action to remove” the title.

Twitter users also objected to the description of the book, which summarized at length the book’s fictional description of a Jewish plan for global domination and suggested that its authenticity is still an open question.

The description justified its sale as “an interesting book which deserves to be studied in the same way the War of the Worlds radio broadcast duped many thousands…. We neither support nor deny its message, we simply make it available for those who wish a copy.”

“Nothing like watching major corporations distributing long discredited antisemitic forgeries for profit,” tweeted Jeremy Burton, executive director of the Boston Jewish Community Relations Council.

THREE ARRESTED IN ORLANDO AFTER JEWISH MAN ASSAULTED AT NEO-NAZI RALLY Police in Orange County, Florida, arrested three men accused of violence and theft during a neo-Nazi rally in Orlando that made national headlines.

Local media identified the men as Joshua Terrell, 46; Jason Brown, 47; and Burt Colucci, 45. Terrell and Colucci are charged with battery, but officials said that charge could later be elevated to a hate crime. Brown is charged with theft.

The rally on Jan. 29 at an overpass drew about 20 people identifying with the neo-Nazis, who shouted slurs at passersby. The arrests appear to be related to a pepper-spray attack on a Jewish man who approached the neo-Nazis after one spat into the sunroof of his car.

The man got out of his car and identified himself as Jewish, the reports said, and assailants pepper-sprayed and punched him and knocked the phone out of his hand. He got back into his car and a man continued to spit at him.

The alleged attack came during a weekend of antisemitic incidents in Washington, D.C., in Canada, and in Chicago, and just weeks after an antisemitic assailant held a rabbi and three congregants hostage in a Texas synagogue. (JTA)

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JewishVA.org/FilmFestival David Ben-Gurion on a balcony overlooking the Zin valley, Sde Boker, October 1968. (Photo by Fritz Cohen, National Photo Collection, Israel.)14, 2022 | JEWISH NEWS | 5 jewishnewsva.org | February

ANTISEMITISM

Are Jews white? Is Whoopi Goldberg Jewish?

The View Holocaust controversy, explained Gabe Friedman

(JTA)—She may not have meant to, but Whoopi Goldberg waded into a charged discourse that has polarized the Jewish community—and those who seek to discriminate against them—for centuries.

The controversy began brewing on The View, the daytime talk show she co-hosts, during a discussion Monday, Jan. 31 over the recent controversy over a Tennessee school board’s decision to ban Maus, the iconic graphic memoir about the Holocaust. The genocide was “not about race,” she said, it was instead about “man’s inhumanity to man.” And it involved “two white groups of people.”

The comments immediately went viral and struck a nerve, leading to what Goldberg described as a deluge of accusations of antisemitism and Holocaust denial, and criticism from groups like the Anti-Defamation League.

Despite multiple apologies, the storm reached a climax on Tuesday, Feb. 1 when ABC decided to suspend Goldberg from The View for two weeks “to take time to reflect and learn about the impact of her comments,” in the words of ABC News President Kim Godwin. Jews across the political spectrum, including many who objected to her original remarks, criticized the decision to suspend her.

Why did the comments create such a firestorm? The answer extends well beyond the Holocaust.

Was the Holocaust ‘about race’?

After her initial comments circulated, Goldberg went on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and attempted to clarify the situation. In doing so, she dug deeper into the race issue.

In her experience as a Black person, she said, race is something “I can see.”

“If the [Ku Klux] Klan is coming down the street with a Jewish friend…I’m gonna run. But if my friend decides not to run, they’ll get passed by most times, because you can’t tell who’s Jewish,” she said. “It’s not something that people say, ‘Oh, that

person is Jewish.’”

“Race” is notoriously difficult to define.

Is it, like Goldberg claimed, a group of people with shared physical characteristics? Can other social, economic and anthropological classifications factor in?

Jews have long debated whether they are a “race” or something else. Judaism is a religion, practiced by people of all varieties and races across the globe. But Jews do not have to be practitioners to regard themselves or be accepted by other Jews as Jews. The Jewish tradition of “matrilineality”—defining as Jewish a child born of a Jewish mother—points to a biological definition of Jewish identity. But Judaism also accepts converts.

Taken all together, these various understandings have led Jews to regard themselves (and others to regard Jews) variously as a people, a nation, a tribe, a family, and a faith—sometimes in various combinations, sometimes all at the same time.

But Hitler, like many antisemites before him, specifically—and repeatedly, in writings and laws and speeches— labeled Jews as a physically impure Slavic-descended race, in contrast to what he termed the blonde, blue-eyed genetically pure German Aryan race. Nazi propaganda promoted pseudoscientific ways to supposedly identify Jews—by the size of their nose and lips, or the shape of their heads, among other things.

Hitler was obsessed by what he considered the biological fact of Jewish identity, and wrote that the “Final Solution” was inspired in part by his drive to create a more “pure” and singular human race, rid of “Jewish” and other impurities.

The Nazis drew on a tradition of “racially” stereotyping Jews that scholars have traced at least to 1000 CE. The long, hooked nosed trope, for example, appeared in everything from medieval paintings to fictional characters, like the villain Shylock from Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice. So the Jews were persecuted as a “race” by their neighbors in Europe and elsewhere for centuries before

6 | JEWISH NEWS | February 14, 2022 | jewishnewsva.org

Hitler outlined many of his ideas in Mein Kampf in a jail cell in 1925.

In her next-day apology on The View on Tuesday, February 1, Goldberg said the Holocaust “is indeed about race because Hitler and the Nazis considered Jews to be an inferior race.”

Are Jews white?

Goldberg also stumbled into an ongoing debate within and beyond the Jewish community: Are Jews “white people”?

Behind the question is another stereotype—that a Jew is a person with white skin, descended from European ancestors.

In other words, an average Ashkenazi Jew. In reality, the Jewish community is considerably more diverse than that. The majority of Jews in North America may be Ashkenazi Jews with roots in Eastern Europe, but Jews also descend from ancient communities in Ethiopia, India, China, and beyond. Sephardic Jews come from communities in Northern Africa and what is now Spain and Portugal, while Mizrahi Jews come from the Middle East, including once vital communities in Iraq, Iran, Yemen, Syria, and other countries.

Consciousness of that diversity has grown in part thanks to the advocacy of Jews of color in this country and Sephardic and Mizrahi Jews in Israel.

Thousands of Jews come from mixedrace and interfaith backgrounds, so even many Jews with Ashkenazi roots are not white. Estimates of the proportion of U.S. Jews who are Jews of color range from 6% to 15% depending on the study and definition, and the Jews of Color Initiative argued in 2019 that the community has been chronically undercounted because of poor study designs.

(Last year’s Pew Research Center report about U.S. Jews concluded that 92% of Jews identify as white.)

Add on people from all types of racial and ethnic backgrounds who convert to Judaism, those who practice Jewish traditions without having undergone formal conversions and people around the world who strongly identify with some aspects of

David Shankbone

Whoopi Goldberg, New York City, November 13, 2008.

Jewish culture, and “Jew” quickly becomes an extremely hard-to-define term.

The Atlantic’s Yair Rosenberg argues that “family” is a more accurate way than “race” to encapsulate the community.

In my experience, mistakes like [Goldberg’s] often happen because well-meaning people have trouble fitting Jews into their usual boxes. They don’t know how to define Jews, and so they resort to their own frames of reference, like “race” or “religion,” and project them onto the Jewish experience. But Jewish identity doesn’t conform to Western categories, despite centuries of attempts by society to shoehorn it in. This makes sense, because Judaism predates Western categories. It’s not quite a religion, because one can be Jewish regardless of observance or specific belief. (Einstein, for example, was proudly Jewish, but not religiously observant.) But it’s also not quite a race, because people can convert in. It’s not merely a culture or an ethnicity, because that leaves out all the religious components.

Still, even as more recognize Jewish diversity, stereotypes persist. White supremacist, hypernationalist and other far right streams, stemming from the post-2016 rise of the “alt-right,” see Jews as toxic “others,” regardless of what they believe or practice. And on the other end of the political spectrum, some left-wing progressives lump all Jews in with a largely white oppressor class.

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ANTISEMITISM With that last name, is Whoopi Jewish?

The extra thick layer of irony underlining this controversy is that it involves a celebrity who was not born Jewish, but who adopted a Jewish stage name because of what she has described as her positive feelings toward Jews and Jewish culture, not for religious reasons.

The EGOT winner—one of very few performers to have won an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony—was born Caryn Elaine Johnson in New York City to a Baptist clergyman father and a nurse mother. In 1994, her publicist told the Orlando Sentinel that her stage name Goldberg came from her mother’s side of the family (her first name is a nod to the whoopee cushion). But DNA tests and family trees constructed by the likes of Henry Louis Gates, Jr. trace her lineage back to non-Jewish roots in West Africa.

Nevertheless, in her words, she “feels” Jewish. She told the London Jewish Chronicle in 2016 that she “remembers” Jewish holidays, even if she is not regularly observant in any way. When people would ask if she were Jewish, Goldberg said she had a standard reply: “I always say ‘Would you ask me that if I was white? I bet not,’” Goldberg told the Chronicle. “The name is wonderful for starting conversations.”

Mission accomplished.

Why does any of this matter?

The Holocaust has stamped its legacy on nearly every Jew who has lived and been born in the 77 years since the liberation of

Auschwitz. Because so many antisemites and European ultra-nationalists are intent on denying that the genocide happened, or insist that it has been exaggerated, Jewish groups are adamant that the facts of history not be distorted, intentionally or not. Such “accidental” distortion, many argue, can be antisemitic in effect, even if not in intent.

Others suggest that Goldberg’s comments reflect an emerging ideology that is trying to downplay the historic persecution of the Jews. As Daniella Greenbaum, a former producer at The View, wrote in The Washington Post on Wednesday, Feb. 2,“It’s an ideology that tries to turn Jews into White people, that tries to erase Jewish vulnerability and oppression, to squeeze Jews who have light skin into modern American categories of race and ethnicity, and which also myopically categorizes the hatred against them into American considerations of what racism looks like.”

And yet many prominent Jews were willing to give Goldberg, if not a pass, then a second or third chance, especially in the name of using the controversy as a teachable moment.

As Rabbi Sharon Brous of the Ikar community in Los Angeles tweeted, “If what you want is to change someone’s mind, I have to think education is more effective than public shaming and punishment. Particularly when that person shows a sincere willingness to learn and apologize.”

‘Absurd’: US officials decry Amnesty International’s use of ‘apartheid’ to describe Israel WASHINGTON ( JTA)—As Amnesty International became the third major human rights group to categorize Israel’s treatment of Palestinians as “apartheid,” the U.S. Ambassador to Israel said that the label was “absurd.”

“Come on, this is absurd,” Thomas Nides said on Twitter, commenting on an AP story about the new Amnesty International language. “That is not language that we have used and will not use.”

Separately, Ned Price, the State Department spokesman, said the Biden administration rejected the term.

“We reject the view that Israel’s actions constitute apartheid,” Price said.

Price said U.S. officials had discussed the matter with their Israeli counterparts, who have deemed Amnesty International’s report released Tuesday as “antisemitic.”

“We have had an opportunity to speak about this with our Israeli counterparts —they have conveyed their objections to the report,” Price said. “We don’t offer our own comprehensive public evaluations of reports, but we certainly reject the label that has been attached to this.”

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Forever Helping Others

Architect Bernard Spigel died in 1968, leaving a legacy of homes, schools, and other buildings he designed.

Today, Spigel Scholars are designing buildings of their own.

A scholarship that Bernard’s daughter, Lucy Spigel Herman, created at the community foundation to honor him helps future architects pay for their education.

Find out how you can leave your mark.

Visit LeaveABequest.org

8 | JEWISH NEWS | February 14, 2022 | jewishnewsva.org

ISRAEL TODAY The Four Corners of the World: Israel Today offers a celebration of World Wildlife Day Tuesday, March 1, 7:30 pm Reba and Sam Sandler Family Campus Free, registration required: JewishVA.org/IsraelToday Elka Mednick

A

dmired for his engaging and boundary-pushing photography, Roie Galitz is equal parts passion and commitment in his pursuit to get the best shots of animals in their natural habitats. His innovative work has been featured in National Geographic, the Smithsonian Magazine and other publications that have garnered Galitz international awards and acclaim.

He earned the prestigious Picture of the Year award for reportage of Science and Natural History in 2019.

Galitz will be in Tidewater to speak about his adventures as a photographer and environmental entrepreneur. His visit is part of the 11th Annual Israel Today Series, presented by United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Jewish Community Relations Council, Simon Family JCC, Embassy of Israel & Community Partners.

Galitz has traveled to every corner of the world and witnessed the impact of climate change. Galitz actively shares his passion for photography, adventure, and protecting the natural world. He is an Explorer member of the Explorers Club and a board member of the Israeli Nature and Heritage Foundation.

This quick interview provides some insight into Roie Galitz’s passion. It has been edited for clarity and length.

Elka Mednick: How did you decide to make photography your career?

Roie Galitz: I was a commercial photographer when I started, and did not enjoy it, so I quit photography and began working in finance. Finance wasn’t for me, so I slowly began teaching photography on the side, and found that engaging. In 2007, while I was still working in finance I opened a photography school. Once the

school was stable, I quit my finance job and started a photo travel company. Then, I was able to take the time to photograph what I wanted, and start enjoying photography again. It was quite exciting to be able to pursue my passion professionally.

EM: Where have you traveled that was the most surprising?

RG: The answer for that has to be Svalbard, because I knew what to expect in Africa. However, the first time I traveled to Svalbard, which was 10 years ago, it was completely an amazing surprise! Seeing Polar Bears for the first time really changed me in a way that I became so passionate about Polar Bears, and about photography, wildlife photography, mostly about the environment. That actually got me into being an activist, and being an environmental diplomat because at that point I saw the Arctic melting so fast in front of my very eyes. Basically that’s why I joined Green Peace and became way more active in the diplomatic environmental way.

EM: Do you have a favorite place to visit? Do you have a favorite animal to photograph?

RG: Everywhere is special, and there are lots of favorites, but I’d have to say Svalbard is the most unique and it’s the least documented. There are not many photographers who have the unique access I have to Polar Bears. I’d say that this is my

Roie Galitz Wildlife Photographer

A Polar Bear lounges in Svalbard.

Roie Galitz Wildlife Photographer

New Year Discover New Options

A Polar Bear examines Roie’s Galitz’s equipment.

life’s project, so this is why I go over and over, and why the Polar Bears are my favorite animal to photograph. They’re really smart, really cute, really endangered, and I feel like it’s my mission to help save them.

EM: How do you use your corporate partners to further your goals as an environmentalist?

RG: I consult companies, and I’m really active in the diplomatic arena. I gave a talk at the United Nations, and also at the NY climate week, and I’m a board member for the Israeli National Heritage Foundation of America, so we are raising money to support the environment, because it’s all about money at the end of the day.

Additionally, I am a member of the Israeli National Heritage Foundation. We are raising money to create a sea turtle hospital as well as rehabilitating the population of Oryx, Fellow Deer, native orchards, and many other animals in Israel.

EM: You’ve been to the most extreme conditions on the planet and witnessed the changes that have occurred in those places, and the threat to life in small and large ways. What can you share about the impact the change in climate has had on the natural world, and do you have any advice on what individuals can do to minimize their impact?

RG: I think that first of all the main thing we can do is reduce our environmental footprint and reduce our carbon footprint.

That means consuming less energy, minimizing the use of internal combustion engines, using less electricity, renewable

sources, and eating less meat. We can also lessen our use of water, electricity, and heating to help protect the environment.

On the community level, there is a lot we can do. That means recycling more, and better than recycling is reusing, as recycle has its own huge environmental impact, so reusing is way way way better than recycling. Creating urban gardens, and good education for future generations, and help influence others on the community level.

And of course, on the national level we have to incentivize green energies, and stop subsidizing polluting industries.

Think about it, it’s so unbelievable that we’re actually giving tax dollars to subsidize the very same industries that are destroying our planet. A fraction of what we’re investing in fossil fuels goes into research of clean energy. So the planet is investing over $400 billion in fossil fuel subsidizes, and about $5 billion goes into researching renewable energies, and subsidizing renewable energies. We need to stop searching for oil and gas and we have to stop fracking, and we have to stop the development of the northern silver, which is the high arctic shipping lane that is supposed to transport oil, crude oil from all over the world in the high arctic. Just imagine what would happen if we have an oil spill over there. We have to start investing in the future and not in burning our candle at both ends, literally speaking.

RSVP (required) at JewishVA.org/IsraelToday or contact Elka Mednick, assistant director, Jewish Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, at emednick@ujft.org or 757-965-6112.

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jewishnewsva.org | February 14, 2022 | JEWISH NEWS | 9

ANTISEMITISM

The great Maus giveaway is on as bookstores, professors, and churches counter Tennessee school board’s ban Andrew Lapin

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(JTA)—A rural Tennessee school board’s decision last month to remove Maus, the celebrated graphic novel about the Holocaust, from its curriculum has attracted fierce backlash from other pockets of the state and beyond.

A nearby comic-book store is pledging to give away the book for free to every student in the county, an area church plans to hold a discussion on its themes, and a college professor intends to offer free classes on the book to students in the county.

Nirvana Comics, a comic-book store in Knoxville, announced on social media that it would be giving away copies of Art Spiegelman’s Pulitzer Prize-winning book to any interested students, saying, “it is a must-read for everyone.”

“Maus was a book that opened my eyes and changed my worldview, because I grew up on a small town in Tennessee where I honestly don’t know if to this day there is a single Jewish person,” Nirvana Comics store owner Rich Davis told the JTA. Davis, who is not Jewish, said he had become “immediately angry” when he’d heard that the school board of nearby McMinn County had voted 10–0 on Jan. 10 to remove the book from its middle-school classes, citing its use of profanity, nudity, and depictions of “killing kids” as reasons for its inappropriateness.

“But then I realized you don’t fight anger with anger, hate with hate,” Davis said. “I just felt like I needed to do something.”

The resulting Nirvana Comics initiative, “Project Maus,” was at first only supposed to loan copies of the book to students “like a library,” he said. But as word of the store’s intent spread through social media and supporters rushed in to help, those plans expanded. A GoFundMe that Davis set up to support giveaways of the book has raised more than $6,000 to date, and the book’s publishers at Penguin Random House negotiated a deal to sell 500 additional copies of Maus to Nirvana

at a reduced price with the intent to give them away to students.

In addition, Davis said, he was in talks with a group of “Jewish attorneys and businessmen” whom he declined to name, but who he said were interested in purchasing an additional 1,000 copies of the book for free giveaways to McMinn County students. As the county itself only numbers around 50,000 people total, Davis said it could prove possible “to donate a copy of Maus to every kid in McMinn County.”

In the county itself, a local Episcopal church in Athens announced it would conduct a discussion of the book Feb. 3.

The event’s discussion included the complicity of many churches in the systematic murder of Jews during the Holocaust, as well as modern-day antisemitism.

Scott Denham, a Holocaust and German Studies professor at Davidson College in North Carolina, launched an online course about the book specifically intended for 8th grade and high school students. On the course’s website, Denham said the lessons would not be public and would only be offered to students in McMinn County.

As of Friday, Jan. 28, Maus—originally published in two volumes in the late 1980s and early ’90s—sat at #23 on Amazon’s bestseller list. The county school board’s rejection of the book generated international news coverage, with prominent authors including Neil Gaiman harshly criticizing the board’s decision. Organizations like the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum emphasized the book’s frequent use as a Holocaust education tool for middle and high school-aged readers.

“I’m sure they thought they were protecting their children.” Davis said about the McMinn County parents and school board members. But, he added, he believed “they’re actually harming their children.… If Maus offends you, then you certainly don’t know very much about the Holocaust.”

Local Relationships Matter

SIMON FAMILY JCC

Pilates Chair at JFit aids in recovery, overall strength, and flexibility Brian Berusch

T

he JFit training circuit at the Simon Family JCC has a new addition. It’s simply referred to as “The Chair” for those who speak “Pilates talk.” While many may have seen or be familiar with The Reformer—another, larger device used in Pilates training—the new Split Pedal MVe® Chair is more diverse in range of exercises that can be done with it. In basic terms, to those not already doing Pilates training—the Chair is a great way to kick off a Pilates training regimen—especially for those who may have been too intimidated to try before.

JFit’s dedicated Pilates trainer, Sonja Anderson-Struzzo, says people shouldn’t be afraid to try a few Pilates exercises, test the waters, and learn more about how beneficial it is—including seniors coming off of surgeries or ailments. In fact, one member, Joan Benas, credits her husband’s speedy recovery from hip surgery to his Pilates work with Anderson-Struzzo.

Jewish News: Why should people NOT be intimidated to come in and try a Pilates session? How easy is it to begin?

Sonja Anderson-Struzzo: Pilates is considered mind-body work so the student is taught to be internally aware of the nuances of each movement. The instructor

is with them each moment to help them feel safe and comfortable while challenging to move and stretch in new ways. The body thinks of this as playtime as the student learns to Sonja Andersonrelax and stretch in Struzzo new ways. For new students, it only seems intimidating at first because everything is new and unfamiliar, but soon, the workouts become super fun and rewarding! There is truly nothing else like it to enhance movement and the corresponding quality of life.

JN: For people who have yet to take the plunge into Pilates, can you say why it’s such a great and all-encompassing workout?

SAS: Pilates was created to encourage the entire body to work. Originally, The Method, as it came to be known, was done on the floor and was very challenging due to the pull of gravity. Equipment, such as the Reformer and the Chair were invented using springs as resistance, so muscles could be supported as they train. It allows you to feel every muscle work to perform the exercises and limits strain on the back and neck. All of the abdominal muscles are also recruited when practicing with the Pilates principles of centering, breathing, precision, flowing movement, and concentration, resulting in a total body workout that is both challenging and tran sfor mational.

People love how it improves their appearance through better posture,

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balance, flexibility, and muscle tone.

Pilates makes you look better, feel better, and move better with enhanced power and grace. It also helps people prevent and heal and bounce back more easily from injury and surgery.

JN: What about the range of exercises that can be achieved with the new Chair?

SAS: Pilates Chairs take the Reformer to an upright position allowing many more challenges to the body. You sit and stand with spring resistance either assisting your movement or increasing the

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difficulty as you learn to navigate gravity with increasing proficiency. JCC’s new Chair is a top-of-the-line, contemporary design. It has split pedals to train left and right sides equally and adjustable handles that assist beginners and advanced exercisers alike to perform increasingly difficult movements safely.

To meet Sonja Anderson-Struzzo, or set up an initial chat about how to start using The Chair and Pilates, contact Tom Purcell at TPurcell@ UJFT.org or 321-2310.

jewishnewsva.org | February 14, 2022 | JEWISH NEWS | 11

Israel today Jewish Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, Simon Family JCC, & Community Partners

THE FOUR CORNERS

OF THE WORLD A CELEBRATION OF WORLD WILDLIFE DAY

Roie Galitz WORLD-RENOWNED WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHER.

ENVIRONMENTAL DIPLOMAT. ENTREPRENEUR. EXPLORER.

TUESDAY 7:30 MARCH 1 P M Reba and Sam Sandler Family Campus

5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Virginia Beach Travel with Roie Galitz to his favorite edges of the planet as he captures photographs of endangered animals in their natural habitats and raising awareness of the threats they encounter today. Inspiring and practical for nature lovers, adventurers, and dreamers of all ages, don't miss this journey to the extreme four corners of the world.

This FREE and open to the community program offers both inperson and online ticket options. Pre-registration required.

12 | JEWISH NEWS | February 14, 2022 | jewishnewsva.org

JewishVA.org/IsraelToday

UNITED JEWISH FEDERATION OF TIDEWATER

New director for UJFT’s Arts & Ideas

H

unter Thomas joined United Jewish Federation of Tidewater as the new director of Arts & Ideas on Tuesday, Feb. 1.

Thomas’ career began at Youngstown’s Jewish Community Center as a junior camp counselor. He later worked in various departments before most recently serving as director of Early Childhood & Youth, overseeing operations of the JCC’s early learning center, summer day camps, and all youth, family, and teen programming for Jewish and non-Jewish youth and families.

An involved lay-leader at Congregation Ohev Beth Sholom in Youngstown, Thomas taught religious school, led services, and was a member of the ritual and clergy search committees. He also served on the final board of trustees for Congregation Rodef Sholom before its merger with Ohev Tzedek-Shaarei Torah.

Thomas received an undergraduate degree in Early Childhood Education from Youngstown State University in 2019.

While much of Hunter Thomas.

Thomas’ professional career focused on education, he is no stranger to the arts. In his previous role, Thomas integrated the JCC’s arts programs into the youth programs he oversaw through partnerships with the arts and culture staff. These program partnerships included a PJ Library “sip and plant” for Tu Bishvat, an art gallery exhibit featuring artwork from preschool-aged students, and summer camp theatrical productions.

Thomas comes from a family of artists

and musicians (his mother teaches art classes at the JCC of Youngstown) and he was active in Youngstown’s theater community, performing in an outdoor production of Shakespeare’s All’s Well That Ends Well in summer 2021. Thomas also worked with Lights On Community Theatre Task Force, a group that provides education and support to victims of sexual violence in Youngstown’s theater community.

“Jews throughout history from the U.S., Israel, and beyond have contributed so much to music, art, film, theatre, and more,” Thomas says, “and I am thrilled to be able to support artists in telling Jewish stories through these mediums.”

To contact Hunter Thomas about Arts & Ideas, email him at hthomas@ujft.org.

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jewishnewsva.org | February 14, 2022 | JEWISH NEWS | 13

DON’T MISS THIS

STEIN FAMILY COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY

Need money for college? The Stein Family College Scholarship is now offering up to $20,000 a year for four years! The largest scholarship in Jewish Tidewater, this annual college scholarship is awarded to Hampton Roads Jewish students entering college. Applicants are evaluated on financial need, Jewish/community engagement, and academic potential. Scholarship applicants must: • Identify as Jewish • Maintain residency in the Tidewater region • Demonstrate academic ability • Demonstrate a history of service and engagement in their academic, Jewish, and broader communities through extracurricular and volunteer activities

The Stein Family College Scholarship is dedicated in loving memory of Arlene Shea Stein who was unable to finish college due to financial hardship.

Application is open until March 1, 2022. To apply or for more information, visit:

5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Suite 200, Virginia Beach, VA, 23462 | tjfinfo@ujft.org | 757-965-6111

14 | JEWISH NEWS | February 14, 2022 | jewishnewsva.org

B’TAYAVON

In Hebrew, B’Tayavon! is the equivalent to French’s Bon Appetit!

A new column for Jewish News, B’Tayavon will feature a recipe from a local chef in each issue.

The first is from Philip Sifen who shares his recipe for Shakshuka. Enjoy!

Shakshuka Philip Sifen

meals, and romantic dates. The best parts about Shakshuka are that it’s a one pot, comfort food, that is easy to make, easy to clean up, easy to share, and of course, extremely delicious. Shakshuka is generally eaten in a manner familiar to Indian cuisine; meaning, the stew is placed in the middle of everyone, and utensils are sparsely used. Bread is used mainly to eat the dish.

To increase number of servings, add more eggs (1–2 per person).

Servings: 2 Allergens: Wheat and Eggs

S

hakshuka is basically peasant food, but that doesn’t mean it tastes bad. It just means that it is simple and cheap. Simple food is often the best tasting food because of the way our palettes work and communicate with our brains.

Shakshuka is extremely popular in Israel. You can find it at nearly every café; and today, it is making its way across many restaurants—even in high-end establishments.

Basically a one size fits all meal, it’s the perfect meal for small gatherings, family

Philip Sifen caters events for the Simon Family Jewish Community Center and for small gatherings as a personal chef. He may be reached at PhilipSifen@hotmail.com.

INGREDIENTS 1 Tbsp

METHOD • I n a large cast iron or sauté pan, heat olive oil on low-medium heat.

Olive oil

2 cups White onion, chopped or diced

•A dd onion, red bell pepper, garlic, and fresh chili (or substitute crushed red pepper) to pan.

1 cup Red bell pepper, chopped or diced 5 cloves

• S lowly cook, while occasionally stirring, until onions become translucent (Roughly 8-10 minutes).

Garlic, whole

1 Fresh red chile, sliced (sub: 1 /4 tsp crushed red pepper)

•A dd all spices (paprika, turmeric, and cumin). Stir to combine, and continue to cook for 1–2 minutes.

1 tsp Paprika, ground (hot, smoked, or regular) ½ tsp

Cumin, ground

1 tsp

Turmeric, ground

2 cups

Fresh tomatoes

2 Tbsp

Tomato paste

•A dd tomatoes, stir, and continue to cook on low-medium heat for 4–5 minutes until tomatoes soften (Stir as needed to prevent onion from burning).

•A dd tomato paste, stir to combine, and reduce heat to low. The stew should be extremely thick at this point

Shakshuka. Philip Sifen.

Salt ¼ cup

Kalamata olives pitted

1 Tbsp

Sesame seeds

1 Tbsp

Fresh parsley and/or cilantro chopped

4

Eggs

¼ cup

Tahini (Sesame Paste)

Bread (naan, pita, or challah), as needed

• Carefully taste with a spoon; and add salt as needed.

• Crack eggs and place each on top of the stew. Sprinkle each egg with a pinch of salt.

• Cover pan with pot lid or flat baking sheet.

• Cook for 4–5 minutes on low heat (Until egg whites are fully cooked).

• Garnish with tahini, olives, parsley/cilantro, and sesame seeds.

• S erve the dish in the pan it was cooked in with a wooden spoon and bread (pita, challah, or naan bread)

jewishnewsva.org | February 14, 2022 | JEWISH NEWS | 15

TIDEWATER JEWISH FOUNDATION FIRST PERSON

Simon Family Passport to Israel: Chava Harpaz attends seminary in Israel Chava Harpaz

B

eing in Israel for my year abroad was such an amazing opportunity.

Attending a year in seminary gave me

the chance to form long-lasting friendships with girls from all over the world, including Mexico, Panama, London, and Switzerland. I was able to broaden my understanding of Judaism through the

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JewishVA.org/JAE 16 | JEWISH NEWS | February 14, 2022 | jewishnewsva.org

many stimulating classes and programs so connected and so close, that coming that were organized. home was hard. But, I was able to take I will forever cherish the special some of that feeling with me back to opportunities to experience the land America. Just walking the streets of the of Israel. From our trip to the Golan Holy Land was something I don’t take in the north to Eilat down south, and for granted and spending Shabbos in everywhere in between, I was constantly Jerusalem is unparalleled. astounded by the breathtaking beauty. I All the people I met and learned so also gained so much from the holy sites much from have had a profound impact I visited. The rich history of our people on me and my future goals. I have a new came alive as I spent time in places such and deeper appreciation for Israel now as Kever Rochel and Tzfat. that I was privileged to spend a year One of the highthere. My dream is lights of my year to be able to live was the opporin Israel at some tunity to build a point in my future. relationship with I am so grateful to my 97-year-old those who provided great-grandmother. this grant which Previously, I had enabled me to have rarely seen her this incredible because she lives experience. in Israel. During Chava Harpaz my year in Israel, traveled to Israel however, I spent much time sitting and with funding from Tidewater Jewish talking with her and learning about Foundation’s Simon Family Passport to her incredible history and connection to Israel Program. The current round of Eretz Yisroel. I was fortunate that she lives applications is open until March 15, in Jerusalem where my seminary was and 2022.

I had easy access to visit whenever I felt like it. I also feel very fortunate to have For more information, visit bit.ly/tjf-passmany family friends and relatives there, port, contact Ann Swindell, TJF donor some of whom I had never met. My year relations and grant manager, at aswindell@ in Israel provided me with the opportuujft.org or 757-965-6106. nity to get to know all of them.

Hav ing the Wester n Wall within walking distance of my seminary gave me the opportunity to go and pray there whenever I felt like it. Knowing that G-d was extra close to me the whole year gave me a feeling of security that I cannot feel Chava Harpaz’s seminary was within walking distance of the Western Wall, in America. I felt which enabled her to pray there whenever she wanted.

I have a new and deeper appreciation for Israel.

g n i t s e v n I g n i r i t e R d n a

Supplement to Jewish News February 14, 2022 jewishnewsva.org | February 14, 2022 | Investing and Retiring | JEWISH NEWS | 17

Investing and Retiring

Five tips to thwart fraudsters and protect older adults (StatePoint)—Unfortunately, many of the most effective scams are those which target older adults, according to experts.

“All too often, we hear of elder financial abuse cases where bad actors manipulate unsuspecting older adults out of their savings and possessions,” says Lauree Peterson-Sakai, strategy leader for Wells Fargo Aging Client Services.

Imposter scams use a variety of tricks to gain a person’s trust and steal their sensitive information, but they often start with a simple call, email, or message impersonating a person or company they know to trick them into giving away their money. To thwart fraudsters, consider these five tips.

1. Beware of callers. Don’t pick up calls from unknown numbers. The IRS and other government or financial institutions rarely make outbound calls and never ask you to provide personal information.

2. Don’t be ghosted by a money mule scam. Avoid helping strangers with cashing checks, delivering packages, or receiving goods.

3. Beware of calls from anyone claiming to be your grandchild in urgent need of money. Hang up immediately to avoid falling for this common trick.

4. Speak to another family member or trusted person in your life before lending large sums of money to family members or new acquaintances.

5. Bad actors are everywhere today, including in internet searches, emails, and texts. Don’t be tempted to click on something that could hurt you or expose your personal information and log-in credentials.

“The best things you can do for yourself are know how to recognize potential scams and keep an open dialogue with your family and loved ones. Encourage

© AndreyPopov / iStock via Getty Images Plus

each other to share if something sounds suspect,” says Peterson-Sakai. “What we’ve found to be really protective against scams is running a situation by someone you trust before making a decision that could impact you financially.”

For a guide to identifying and preventing elder abuse, visit wellsfargoadvisors.com.

To protect yourself and those you love, learn the most common tricks and scams, and when contacted by someone you don’t know, always proceed with caution.

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18 | JEWISH NEWS | Investing and Retiring | February 14, 2022 | jewishnewsva.org

Investing and Retiring

Jewish Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer is retiring Ron Kampeas

WASHINGTON (JTA)—Stephen Breyer, the oldest justice on the Supreme Court and one of its minority of three liberal justices, is set to retire.

The move would leave Elena Kagan as the only Jewish justice left on the court.

Breyer, 83, has come under pressure to retire ever since President Joe Biden assumed office a year ago. Liberals and Democrats do not want to deny Biden the chance to replace a liberal justice with another liberal.

Sen. Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., then the majority leader, in 2016 established a new precedent of not allowing a president to elevate a justice in an election year when Antonin Scalia died and then-President Barack Obama nominated Merrick Garland, a Jewish liberal who is now attorney general. McConnell blocked the nomination.

Last year, McConnell scrapped his own precedent when he rushed through then-President Donald Trump’s nomination of Amy Coney Barrett, a conservative, to replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a Jewish liberal who died just weeks before the presidential election.

Democrats, who control the Senate by a thin majority and fear losing it in November midterm elections, do not trust McConnell or Republicans to observe any kind of protocol, believing they will likely deny Biden the nomination of a Supreme Court justice for the remainder of his term.

The trio of Breyer, Kagan, and Ginsburg, in place since 2010 when Kagan was

confirmed, was the largest ever Jewish representation on the court. All three were in the liberal minority.

Garland, had he been conStephen Breyer, circa 2006. firmed, would have brought the Jewish representation to four.

In a talk several months ago with the Board of Rabbis of New York, Breyer recalled getting a phone call telling him that Ginsburg had died, just as he was participating in Rosh Hashanah services over Zoom.

“The service, they were at the Kaddish, right there,” he said referring to the mourning prayer. “And the person on the end of the phone said, do you have anything [to say], and I said, she had been quite sick and it wasn’t unexpected, still I was moved and I said, ‘A woman of valor, a great judge and a good friend.’” “A Woman of Valor,” or “Eshet Chayil” is a popular Shabbat song.

Biden has said he is set to name a Black woman to the court, diminishing the likelihood of one Jewish justice replacing another.

The likeliest candidate is believed to be Ketanji Brown Jackson, a judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals, D.C. Circuit. Another name cropping up is Leondra Kruger, an associate justice on the California Supreme Court whose father was Jewish and whose mother is Jamaican.

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Investing and Retiring

Sheryl Sandberg leans into United Hatzalah, donates $5 million to honor her parents is a proud supporter of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater and its affiliates

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Ron Kampeas

(JTA)—Sheryl Sandberg, the chief operating officer of Meta, Facebook’s parent company, wants more women to lean into saving lives.

Sandberg gave United Hatzalah, the Jerusalem-based volunteer first responder organization, $5 million in honor of her parents at a Miami fundraiser.

The money will go toward United Hatzalah’s women’s unit in Israel, which will now be named the Adele and Dr. Joel Sandberg Women’s Unit. A spokesman for the organization said Sandberg and her parents were impressed with the unit when they visited Israel two years ago. Her parents are major donors to the group.

The gala, where Adele and Joel

Sandberg were honored and Sheryl Sandberg delivered the keynote speech, brought in a total of $18 million.

As Facebook’s COO, Sandberg rose to prominence in 2013 with a tract on feminism and capitalism, Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead.

The social media executive has become more involved in Jewish causes in recent years and donated $2.5 million to the Anti-Defamation League to support anti-hate programs in the United States and Europe in 2019. That donation was also made in her parents’ name.

More recently, Meta has come under fire from the ADL and others for looking the other way as extremists used Facebook to broadcast false information and incitement.

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2022

Year of the Tiger

Investing and Retiring

Tidewater Jewish community invests in its future through young leadership programs Matthew Kramer-Morning

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ADIV, established in 2016, is United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Young Adult Division’s Men’s Giving Circle. While NADIV is rooted in networking opportunities (which still holds true today) it has evolved to a giving circle that is connecting its participants in deep and meaningful ways to community philanthropy. Members not only personally donate to NADIV, but learn about the needs of the community and collectively donate the money raised by NADIV to Jewish causes in Tidewater.

Members also work throughout the year to raise additional money from the community to grow the impact of the program’s dollars. Most notably, the March Madness Bracket Challenge, which in 2021 raised $6,000 for Special Needs programming in Tidewater, is run entirely by the men of NADIV. It is in its fourth year as this March’s tournament nears.

That giving circle has grown to more than 35 young men, and the group is on track to raise more than $7,000 this year for community education programs—a giving priority that rose to the top of the group through discussions and activities.

Through the fall of 2021, UJFT’s YAD hosted 15 aspiring young leaders through a program called Rishon. Rishon served as an overview of the Federation’s work and its community partners, as well as an incubator for YAD’s cabinet members and the members of Rishon to think about how YAD can continue to grow and engage the community’s young adults in Jewish Peoplehood and Philanthropy.

With the success of NADIV, members of YAD’s Cabinet and of Rishon are starting the process to form a Women’s Giving Circle/Giving back circle. Although postponed with the rise of Omicron, the group’s first meeting and program is planned to take place at Farmhouse Brewing on Monday, March 7 at 6:30 pm. Attendees to the first meeting will

have a chance to socialize and network in an outdoor heated setting, and they’ll begin a broader discussion led by YAD and Rishon leaders of what this new philanthropic opportunity will look like as it takes shape and grows its impact in the community. That evening will also highlight the work of Jewish Family Service, with attendees encouraged to bring dry goods with them to be donated to JFS’s Food Pantry.

With the success of NADIV, members of YAD’s Cabinet and of Rishon are starting the process to form a Women’s Giving Circle/ Giving back circle.

To attend the women’s event on March 7, or for more information about YAD or NADIV, contact Matthew KramerMorning, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Young Leadership Campaign/ Young Adult Division director at mkmorning@ujft.org.

NADIV, Rishon, and the new YAD Women’s Giving Circle are all funded by the UJFT through dollars raised throughout the Federation’s annual Community Campaign.

Individually and collectively, these groups are learning about the importance of community involvement, community giving, and ultimately, community leadership. These groups, as well as others within YAD are great examples of how a Jewish community “invests” in its future.

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jewishnewsva.org | February 14, 2022 | Investing and Retiring | JEWISH NEWS | 21

Planning for Your Future

How much does senior living cost and how do people pay for it?

You’re the kind of person who plans ahead. You chose a home that fit your budget and helped the kids pay for college. Now is the time to start preparing for your future by choosing a senior living community. But how much will it cost?

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Many families sell the home and use part of the sale to pay

This benefit combined with social security payments and savings often covers the cost of senior living.

Ultimately, the formula of how senior living is paid works out to be different for every family. But just like any decision you make for the future, it is worth the time to plan ahead, and choose the community that makes sense for you.

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22 | JEWISH NEWS | Investing and Retiring | February 14, 2022 | jewishnewsva.org

Investing and Retiring Illinois’ state pension board will divest from Unilever over Ben and Jerry’s decision to stop selling ice cream in West Bank Shira Hanau

(JTA)—Illinois’ state pension will divest from Unilever, the parent company of Ben and Jerry’s, over the ice cream company’s decision last summer to stop selling ice cream in the West Bank as a protest of Israel’s occupation of the area.

The Illinois Investment Policy Board voted 7-0 to add Uniliver to its “prohibited entity list.” It was not yet clear when state agencies would have to divest.

Illinois becomes at least the fifth state to divest from Unilever, although the dictates vary; some states require no further investment but allow existing investments to remain in place.

The other states divesting from Uniliver because of Ben & Jerry’s decision are New York, New Jersey, Arizona and Illinois. At

least three other states among the 34 states that penalize Israel boycotts have launched reviews that could lead to divestment.

The ice cream company announced in July, 2021 that it would stop selling ice cream in the West Bank, breaking a twomonth silence on social media that began with the violent conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza in May. “We believe it is inconsistent with our values for Ben & Jerry’s ice cream to be sold in the Occupied Palestinian Territory,” the company said at the time. “We also hear and recognize the concerns shared with us by our fans and trusted partners.”

In 2015, Illinois became the first state to pass a law barring the state pension fund from investing in companies that participate in the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions campaign against Israel.

Investing and Retiring

Tax season 2022: How to reduce taxes and help future generations in Tidewater Thomas Mills

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hile collecting 2021 income tax information to prepare to file a return, it is important to know about the latest laws. This might also be a perfect time to learn about how to support the community in a tax-wise manner.

Tax law changes could impact strategies when filing taxes. The SECURE Act, passed in January 2020, increased the beginning age for Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and other qualified retirement plans from 70 ½ to 72 for individuals that had not reached age 70 ½ by December 31, 2019. Those who reached 70 ½ years of age by December 31, 2019, must withdraw a portion of their IRA each year based upon age. The CARES Act waived RMDs for 2020, but that suspension no longer applies. RMDs are now mandated and income tax must be paid on the withdrawn portion. Failure to withdraw the RMD will result in stiff penalties.

New for 2022 are updated IRS life expectancy tables – used to determine RMDs. The first change in the tables since 2002, this update should result in a slight reduction in RMDs, meaning less money

that is required to withdraw, subject to income taxes, from retirement accounts.

The SECURE Act also established new rules for IRA beneficiaries. Known as the ‘10-year-rule,’ most beneficiaries of an IRA must have their inherited account distributed by December 31 of the 10-year anniversary of the original owner’s death.

Beneficiaries of IRAs before January 1, 2020, are grandfathered into the old rules.

Often subject to high estate and income taxes, an IRA left to heirs may result in fewer dollars for them. The more saved on tax bills, the more that heirs will inherit.

Additionally, consider naming Tidewater Jewish Foundation as the beneficiary of an IRA plan. Use this asset to endow a gift and leave other assets subject to lower taxes to heirs. At the same time, future Jewish generations in Tidewater will enjoy the benefits of this generosity.

For more information, contact Naomi Limor Sedek, Tidewater Jewish Foundation president and CEO, at 757-965-6109 or nsedek@ ujft.org.

This information is not intended as tax, legal, or financial advice. Gift results may vary. Consult a personal financial advisor for information specific to individual situations.

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jewishnewsva.org | February 14, 2022 | Investing and Retiring | JEWISH NEWS | 23

T R US T E D

Memory Care

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Thank you for the loving care you give on a daily basis... you always put your residents first.”

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Investing and Retiring

Future philanthropists at work at Strelitz International Academy Andie Eichelbaum

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zedakah is more than a financial transaction. Giving builds trusting relationships and includes contributions of time, effort, and insight. Tzedakah— philanthropy and charity—as well as Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) are concepts and values that are carried throughout one’s entire life. It is a form of social justice in which donors benefit from giving as much or more than the recipients. When it comes to the next generation, where does the conversation begin?

The fourth and fifth grade students at Strelitz International Academy recently discussed these important topics with Naomi Limor Sedek, president and CEO of Tidewater Jewish Foundation.

Sedek began the lesson by introducing the Rambam’s ladder of tzedakah, which provides a guide to the significance of a charitable gift. The further one goes up the ladder, the more virtuous and meaningful the gift. She then followed up with what Jewish values teach about philanthropy such as how much, where, and why tzedakah should be given. This

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24 | JEWISH NEWS | Investing and Retiring | February 14, 2022 | jewishnewsva.org

Shanny Zach and David Ohana.

sparked a wonderful conversation with the students who were excited to share the causes that matter to them most, as well as how many people donate to the different causes they care about.

After the conversation with Sedek, students participated in a project where they learned about dividing money for saving, spending, and giving. The program concluded as the students created their own three-part Tzedakah box to put the lessons they learned into action. It was a hit.

Students at SIA begin learning about the importance of tzedakah in the Early Years program, collecting money as a class every Shabbat and learning about the various causes where they choose to donate their money. In this recent lesson with Tidewater Jewish Foundation, the students realized their responsibility and power as individual donors. SIA hopes the program inspires and guides many meaningful conversations and acts of tzedakah throughout the students’ lives.

To make a contribution to Strelitz International Academy, contact Andie Eichelbaum, SIA director of development, at aeichelbaum@strelitzacademy.org or call 757-424-4327 ext. 4188.

IT’S A WRAP

Swordfish Winter Swim team lapping up wins and broken records

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he Simon Family JCC Swordfish Winter Swim team is undefeated through its first four swim meets.

Jacob Gynan, head coach and Waverly Howard, assistant coach, have lead the Swordfish to virtual swim meet victories over JCCs from Mid-Westchester, N.Y., Milwaukee, Wisc., Indianapolis, Ind., and Savannah, Ga. Even though only one third of the Swordfish team members are veteran competitive swimmers, they have broken 10 individual time records, including new records by Quinn Margulies, Sawyer White, David Louie, and Karis Niesen.

The Summer Swordfish Swim Team will start practice on May 31.

Quinn Margulies.

TEAM SYNOPSIS FOR WINTER SWIM 2021–2022 Teams Raced Mid-Westchester, N.Y. Milwaukee, Wisc.

Indianapolis, Ind. Savannah, Ga. Harrisburg, Pa.

Andie Pollock

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Tom Edwards

• • • • •

Career Day at Toras Chaim

December 1, 2021 December 15, 2021 December 27, 2021 January 12, 2022 February 2, 2022

Won Won Won Won Won

Records Broken 14 records broken (Some records broken by the same person multiple times) Quinn Margulies (7) 25m Freestyle, 25m Backstroke (1st time swimming competitively) Sawyer White (8) 25m Freestyle (1st time swimming competitively). 25m Butterfly David Louie (10 when the season started, 11 now) 50m Freestyle (1st time swimming competitively) Karis Niesen (9) 50m Butterfly, 50m Breaststroke, 50m Freestyle

n Tuesday, Jan. 25, Toras Chaim converted its auditorium into a job fair for the school’s Career Day. Several stations were set up with local business people and professionals volunteering to share the highlights of their professions and the importance of getting an education to make those careers happen.

The presenters represented an array of career paths.

Students had the opportunity to learn about Homeland Security, for example, from Michael Arsenault who works for Michael Arsenault talks about security.

TSA at the airport, and the anatomy of eyes from Dr. Earl Pollock, an area optometrist for more than 40 years. While learning as well as a telegram that was delivered to how to make sushi from Rabbi Sholom the shul.

Markman (Sushi on a Roll), the children It was hard to tell who enjoyed the understood that measurement becomes an afternoon more—the students or the preimportant skill in the food industry. senters. Clearly, everyone left the afternoon Kevin Lefcoe had the students’ attenlearning something new. tion while he talked about a career in real estate development and the importance of higher-level math.

Dr. Stephen Konikoff of Konikoff Family Dentistry had Michelle Jarrett gift the children with a bag of fun activities to teach about proper dental hygiene.

Rabbi Sender Haber Middle school girls with protective glasses. of B’nai Israel, enthralled the students as he discussed the historic and contemporary roles of a rabbi. He showed them some of the books that reflect rabbinic scholarship in Norfolk, kosher and non-kosher Mezuzahs, an embosser for official documents, a report card from a young man that Rabbi Borensteion sent to Students look through dental packets. yeshiva many years ago, jewishnewsva.org | February 14, 2022 | JEWISH NEWS | 25

IT’S A WRAP

PJ Library at Norfolk Botanical Garden: A Tu B’Shevat celebration Nofar Trem

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n celebration of trees, PJ Library in Tidewater visited Norfolk Botanical Garden for a guided tour on January 9.

Families learned about the trees, plants, and flowers that are native to Tidewater and enjoyed a read-aloud of the book,

The Kipling family learns about the life of a tree by looking at the inner rings.

Trees Make Perfect Pets by Paul Czajak.

The children created a Tu B’Shevat craft, inspired by the wonderful fruits that grow on trees, and potted their own little plant to take home.

It was a wonderful experience celebrating Tu B’Shevat in nature.

To learn more about PJ Library in Tidewater and to register for upcoming events, visit JewishVA.org/PJLibrary or contact Nofar

The Nicholson family creates their Tu B’Shevat craft.

Children from PJ Library in Tidewater wish everyone a very happy Tu B’Shevat!

Trem, PJ Library Program coordinator, at ntrem@ujft.org.

VIRGINIA FESTIVALOF JEWISH FILM

HESTER TREET Presented by Alma & Howard Laderberg

S

A sparkling new 4K restoration in honor of the film’s 40th anniversary

AN EVENING DEDICATED TO LONGTIME FRIEND OF THE FESTIVAL MAL VINCENT Includes a conversation with Rabbi Michael Panitz

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 7:00 PM NARO EXPANDED CINEMA -ORWATCH ONLINE

Carol Kane is extraordinary... A Triumphant Bonfire.

-The New York Times

Tickets: $12 per person Watch Online: $12 per household

JewishVA.org/FilmFestival

26 | JEWISH NEWS | February 14, 2022 | jewishnewsva.org

IT’S A WRAP

Israel Club kicks off at the Simon Family JCC Nofar Trem

C

Hadley Kaprielian puts the finishing touches on her white dove with an olive branch (the symbol for peace in Israel).

hildren from kindergarten through second grade participated in the Israel Club, a new after school class at the Simon Family JCC on Monday, January 31.

The idea of creating an Israel Club stemmed from the desire to build connections between the next generation and Israel. Through art, games, videos, and more, Israel Club aims to instill in participants a love for Israel—a country which holds so much beauty, innovation, and history.

During the first class, the children played a Kahoot! Trivia game and then did a walking tour to learn some fun facts about Israel. Finally, the participants made and painted a clay sculpture of what first comes to mind when they hear the word,

BBYO remains busy through the winter Dave Flagler

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BYO has maintained an active presence for its members, overcoming many obstacles this winter. The cold, the snow, and the impacts of the Omicron COVID-19 variant were among the challenges the teens faced. The Winter Regional Convention in Durham was cancelled (hopefully to be rescheduled) and in-person programming was put on a temporary hold. Still, the teens managed with smaller group programs while supporting each other through these challenges.

In January, both BBG and AZA brainstormed and planned programs and contingency plans for much of the spring.

Both BBG and AZA directed their focus into connecting with teens not yet heavily involved and also strengthening relationships with newer and veteran BBYO teens.

This month, BBG is focusing on creating meaningful connections with two “Big Little” programs that include a big reveal.

AZA came together to play paintball.

At the time of this writing, BBYO International Convention is scheduled to take place in Baltimore, Maryland with updated safety protocols.

BBYO plans to remain busy, looking forward to more events through the winter and spring while the teens’ leadership skills and social connections continue to grow.

To learn more about BBYO or other ways that teens can get involved in the Tidewater Jewish community, contact Dave Flagler, director of Camp and Teen Engagement at the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, at DFlagler@ UJFT.org or 757-452-3182.

Israel. From Israeli flags and the Star of David to olive branches and a white dove, the children brought their thoughtful creativity into the the project.

“It’s important for the kids in our community to have a place to learn Club attendees play an interactive game of Kahoot! and connect to Israel in a fun setting,” says Shikma Rubin, whose six-year-old son To learn more about Israel Club and other attends Israel Club. “I love that my son is children’s classes offered at the Simon Family excited to go and comes home sharing all JCC, visit simonfamilyjcc.org/childrens-classes of the new things he learned.” or contact Sarah Cooper at scooper@ujft.org The Simon Family JCC will offer Israel or 757-321-2306.

Club for children in third through fifth Nofar Trem is the Children and Family grades beginning in March.

Program coordinator at the Simon Family JCC and United Jewish Federation of Tidewater.

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BENEFITS OF YOGA MAY INCLUDE Pain Management Manage Stress Lower Blood Pressure Better Balance Improved Posture & Gait Better Sleep Improved Flexibility Peace of Mind Ease Inflammation Reduce Spasticity

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Reach out today: 757-295-8476 | Rachel@myyogawill.com For more information or to book online, www.myyogawill.com

Instructor, Rachel Jarmusz, is a 12 year stroke survivor, owner of My YogaWill, and certified yoga instructor.

During class you will be guided through a series of breath-based movements, all of which can be done in a chair.

jewishnewsva.org | February 14, 2022 | JEWISH NEWS | 27

WHAT’S HAPPENING LEON FAMILY GALLERY AT THE SANDLER FAMILY CAMPUS

Hanging installation of works on paper enhanced by light Brian Berusch

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ive large handmade paper works by artist Rae Stern currently hang from the Sandler Family Campus’ Cardo ceiling. These unusual pieces are immediately visible upon entry of the building and are illuminated from behind with both natural and artificial light to enhance the layered images.

Stern’s work focuses on the elusive and ephemeral nature of memory as both a personal and universal phenomenon.

The photographs that inspired these paper pieces were chosen by Stern out of the images she collected for her immersive installation Outside Time —which is on view at the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (Virginia MOCA) through March 6 — as part of the exhibition Shaping Memories: Expression in Clay.

The illuminated youthful gazes of five young women are contrasted by the tragic events that unfolded in their lives before or after the photographs were taken. Stern wonders which medium is the most suitable for these fleeting memories. While juxtaposing the paper with works in porcelain, she asks, “If each material has its own set of vulnerabilities, which will outlast the other? How dependent is our collective memory on our choice of medium?

Visitors to the Sandler Family Campus may learn more about the exhibit by scanning a QR code in the gallery space.

Rae Stern employs digital tools in the manipulation of multiple media including ceramics, photography, paper, and textiles.

After working for a decade in the high-tech industry, her work is concerned with the social and cultural effects of technology.

VIRGINIA FESTIVAL

JEWISH FILM

OF

Presented by Alma & Howard Laderberg

A STARRY SKY ABOVE THE ROMAN GHETTO

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 7:30 PM CINEMA CAFÉ KEMPS RIVER -ORWATCH ONLINE Tickets: $12 per person Watch Online: $12 per household

JewishVA.org/FilmFestival

28 | JEWISH NEWS | February 14, 2022 | jewishnewsva.org

Stern has received grants from Asylum Arts, the Schusterman Foundation, and Belger Arts.

Stern’s work has been exhibited internationally at the Eretz Israel Museum, (Tel Aviv, Israel), Belger Arts, (Kansas City, Mo.), Harvard University, (Cambridge, Mass.), and Medalta Museum, (Alberta, Canada). Her work is included in the collections of the Racine Art Museum (Racine, Wisc.) and The International Museum of Dinnerware Design (Ann Arbor, Mich.), as well as numerous private collections in Israel and the USA. Stern completed her undergraduate degree in psychology and communications at Tel Aviv University followed by a master’s degree in design from the Bezalel Academy of Art and Design.

Learn more about Stern’s works at: raesternstudio.com.

58th Annual VCIC Tidewater Humanitarian Awards Dinner to honor Charlie Nusbaum Thursday, March 24, 6 pm

Westin Virginia Beach Town Center

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his year’s VCIC Tidewater Humanitarian Awards Dinner will include an in-person reception and watch party with limited attendance, as well as a virtual presentation option.

Charlie Nusbaum is one of this year’s honorees for the prestigious Humanitarian Award. Nusbaum is a past president of Ohef Sholom Temple and chair-elect of the Tidewater Jewish Foundation, in addition to his many other contributions in the Tidewater Jewish community and broader community.

United Jewish Federation of Tidewater is gathering reservations of those who would like to purchase a ticket for $175 sto represent UJFT & TJF. To participate, contact Bobbie Wilcox at bwilcox@ujft.org.

Part detective story, part high school drama, part interfaith love story, and part plea for religious tolerance, "Starry Sky" is a film for all ages.

-Atlanta Jewish Times

WHAT’S HAPPENING AUTO ACCIDENTS | SERIOUS INJURY | WRONGFUL DEATH

It runs in the family—Yael Perlov Ben-Gurion Epilogue Screening and discussion Sunday, February 27, 2:30 pm Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center at Virginia Wesleyan University Elka Mednick

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andis, Coppola, Reitman, and Reiner.

What do all of these names have in common? Fans of movies or TV probably know. They’re all names of parents and children who famously work in the entertainment industry. Whether the creative business is in the blood, or it’s something else, the next Israel Today speaker shares that family connection.

Yael Perlov is an acclaimed film editor and producer from Tel Aviv, and the daughter of the renowned Israeli filmmaker David Perlov. Think Sophie and Francis Ford Coppola—both daughters were raised by prolific filmmakers and eventually took on the creative mantle for themselves. Over the course of her decades long career, Perlov has continued to elevate the family name in documentary and feature film formats, and has amassed international recognition, as well as many awards, including at 2001 Israeli Academy Award for best editing. When not working on films, Perlov is active in the academic realm as a faculty member at Tel Aviv University, and currently serves as a visiting scholar at Duke University.

Following the death of her father, Perlov set out with writer-director Yariv Mozer to reconstruct David Perlov’s 1970 feature film 42:6 about David Ben-Gurion.

The two filmmakers stumbled upon an unknown six-hour interview with BenGurion, which had been part of the preproduction process. This unique interview film (with no sound) set the pair off on a chase to find accompanying audiotape, which led them to “acclaimed British sound recordist, Malcolm Stewart, who had kept the original sound reels safe until eventually donating them,” according to

Yael Perlov.

Mozer. With the matched audio and visual reels located, Perlov used her prowess as an editor to put the puzzle back together, and continue the family tradition of a project centered around Ben-Gurion.

That puzzle eventually became the Ben-Gurion Epilogue. Yael Perlov will discuss the documentary as part of the Israel Today speaker series and the 29th Annual Alma & Howard Laderberg Virginia Festival of Jewish Film. Those interested in viewing the screening and discussion can do so in-person or live virtually. In-person seating is limited, so pre-purchase of tickets is strongly recommended.

To purchase tickets or learn more about the 29th annual Virginia Festival of Jewish Film, or for the full lineup of films, visit JewishVA.org/FilmFestival or contact Hunter Thomas, director of Arts + Ideas at HThomas@UJFT.org.

To learn more about the Israel Today speaker series, visit JewishVA.org/ IsraelToday or contact Elka Mednick, Jewish Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater assistant director, at EMednick@ujft.org.

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jewishnewsva.org | February 14, 2022 | JEWISH NEWS | 29

WHAT’S HAPPENING A night with Joshua Jay: A rare glimpse into a truly secret world Thursday, March 3, Simon Family JCC Sierra Lautman

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oshua Jay, bestselling author of Magic and other books, has performed on stages in more than 100 countries. Next month, he’ll perform in Tidewater as a part of the Lee and Bernard Jaffe Family’s Jewish Book Festival.

Magicians are experts at creating a sense of wonder and making audiences believe the impossible is possible, never revealing their secrets. In his new book, How Magicians Think: Misdirection, Deception, and Why Magic Matters, Jay describes the making of illusions, the psychology behind them, and the characters who create them. During his Tidewater show, Jay will provide a rare glimpse into a truly secret world, without ruining the thrill and excitement of a great magic show.

Jay has worked with, and learned from, some of the greats from David Copperfield to David Blaine and Teller, all of whom have allowed him behind the scenes to observe their highly confidential creative process.

JFS continues its focus on mental health Becoming Stress Resistant: Recognizing Burnout and Tips to Reduce its Effects Monday, February 21, 10 am–12 pm Simon Family JCC or via Zoom Tryl Hodges

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Joshua Jay.

This compelling and thoughtful exploration of the world of magic isn’t to be missed.

For more information or to register, visit JewishVA.org/BookFest or contact Hunter Thomas, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Arts & Ideas director, at HThomas@UJFT.org or 757-965-6137.

hroughout the second half of 2021 and into 2022, Jewish Family Service of Tidewater, in partnership with United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, has focused on changing the narrative from ‘mental illness’ to ‘mental wellness’ through a series of workshops and conversations. Joining in the efforts were area synagogues and other Jewish-serving systems. The purpose has been to raise awareness of issues related to mental health and addiction, and to eradicate the shame and stigma that often keeps people from seeking help or treatment.

“When we are talking about issues of mental health and wellness, it is easy to look past our own struggles, especially as we try to help others. What happens, though, is that this stress leaves us depleted and depressed, which is exhausting,” says Kelly Burroughs, JFS’ CEO. “Stress will always be a part of our lives,

but the ways in which it affects us can vary greatly depending on our own awareness and self-care,” says Burroughs. “We often refer to this as burnout, but what we really need to understand is that sometimes these reactions can be secondary trauma responses and mirror the same symptoms as those diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, especially for those in caregiving roles. Combine this with the stress and exhaustion of a global pandemic, and we see increased rates of depression and anxiety.”

JFS will host the workshop to explore symptoms of burnout and stress, as well as help participants learn strategies to become more ‘stress resistant.’

Kelly Burroughs, CEO of Jewish Family Service of Tidewater, is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.

Register by February 16. For more information, or to RSVP, visit www. jfshamptonroads.org or call 757-321-2285.

A new kind of Mah Jongg fundraiser Janet Gordon Annual Mah Jongg Day of play and Luncheon, Sunday, April 3 Marcia Futterman Brodie

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eth Sholom Village plans to bring back the Janet Gordon Annual Mah Jongg event in April, with 100% of its proceeds directly benefiting BSV’s residents. As so many things have changed in the last two years, so must the way Mah Jongg is played and funds for BSV are raised.

The Janet Gordon Annual Mah Jongg event will be held at the Hyatt Place Virginia Beach Town Center, and all attendees at the event must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Additionally, this year’s event will only feature a Day of Play and Luncheon, rather than the traditional Mah Jongg Tournament. A Mah Jongg tournament requires players to move from table to table, increasing the number of people touching the same tiles and increasing the

number of contacts; instead, Mah Jongg group cohorts will be maintined, playing for fun and celebrating being together again. Rest assured—special prizes will be awarded throughout the event, and the famous raffles will take place.

Rachel Abraham, event co-chair, says, “I can’t wait to be back in-person for our annual Mah Jongg fundraiser, and even though it won’t be held at Beth Sholom Village, the residents who benefit from this event are in our thoughts and hearts now more than ever before. I feel lucky that we can still enjoy this event and give back to those BSV residents and caregivers who have felt the daily burden of COVID19 over the last two years.”

Visit www.bethsholomvillage.com/donate to register or become a sponsor.

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Camp JCC: Strong early bird registration Dave Flagler

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egistration for Camp JCC summer 2022 is off to a robust start. Enrollment is significantly higher compared to this point last year, with many of the families who have registered new to camp. With early excitement brewing in the community, Camp JCC anticipates being completely full with waiting lists for summer 2022.

Camp JCC serves campers entering Pre-K (four-year-old classroom) through teens. Camp sessions are weekly and families can choose any single week, any combination of weeks that fit their schedules, or all eight weeks of Camp JCC. The early bird special permits campers who register for five or more weeks of

Camp JCC to be eligible for a $20 discount per week for enrollment requests submitted between now and March 31. (Last Blast weeks are not eligible for early bird pricing).

The application for financial assistance for Camp JCC is due April 15.

Register for Camp JCC today to be sure not to miss out on special pricing, available spaces, and a fun-filled summer.

To learn more about Camp JCC, visit www. campjcc.org.

To hear about year-round opportunities for teens in the community, as well as Camp JCC, contact Dave Flagler, director of Camp and Teen Engagement, at DFlagler@UJFT.org or 757-452-3182.

VIRGINIA FESTIVAL

JEWISH FILM

OF

Presented by Alma & Howard Laderberg

tango shalom Big Saturday Night Celebration includes a conversation with Judi Beecher, Executive Producer and star of Tango Shalom

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 7:30 PM SUSAN S. GOODE FINE AND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

VIRGINIA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY -ORWATCH ONLINE

"Tango Shalom is an amusing film full of good natured laughs and a charm that you don’t find in a lot of films these days."

- In The Seats “In a time of extreme polarization, the message of peace and tolerance is just what we need these days. Indeed, this film is the first joint collaboration with The Vatican, a Hasidic Synagogue, a Sikh Temple, and a Mosque.”

- Universal Cinema Magazine " The film has burst onto the scene to gladden our hearts and lift everyone’s spirits. ...with a concluding message of universal harmony, peace, pluralism, love and tolerance, it is perfect family viewing.”

- Dina Gold, Moment Magazine

In-person ticket: $25 per person includes champagne & dessert reception to go Watch online: $12 per household

JewishVA.org/FilmFestival

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WHAT’S HAPPENING 29th Annual Virginia Festival of Jewish Film adds live at-home streaming option in addition to in-person theater screenings

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our fascinating films with topics as diverse as a Hasidic rabbi in a dance competition, Christian and Jewish students traversing the city of Rome in search of the truth, a revisiting of a conversation with Israel’s founding father, and a newly restored classic film that breathes new life into its tale of immigration, comprise this year’s United Jewish Federation of Tidewater and Simon Family JCC’s 29th Annual Virginia Festival of Jewish Film, presented by Alma & Howard Laderberg.

While festival organizers are committed to maintaining a safe and engaging in-person moviegoing experience, an option to stream the films for those who feel safer at home is available. The various discussions with filmmakers, actors, and others, will be able to be viewed at home through a dedicated live stream link. The schedule is:

Temple Israel presents the Maccabeats Sunday, March 13, 7:30 pm, streaming on screens, $36

Ben Gurion, Epilogue Sunday, February 27 Conversation with producer Yael Perlov Virginia Wesleyan University’s Susan Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center

Hester Street Monday, Feb. 28 Conversation with Rabbi Michael Panitz Naro Expanded Cinema

The Maccabeats.

Joel Rubin

A Starry Sky Above the Roman Ghetto

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Thursday, Feb. 24 Cinema Café Kemps River

Tango Shalom Saturday, Feb. 26 Conversation with film star and producer Judi Beecher Virginia Wesleyan University’s Susan Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center

Those who opt for the virtual option (which is hosted through the platform Eventive) will receive a link to watch the films in realtime. These links will also provide viewers with the opportunity to watch and listen to the live conversations.

As one of the longest-running Jewish film festivals in the nation, the mission of the Virginia Festival of Jewish Film, presented by Alma & Howard Laderberg, is to educate and engage diverse Tidewater communities, Jewish and non-Jewish alike, by presenting world-class film premieres, repertory cinema, and associated programs that are inspired by Jewish or Israeli history, heritage, and values.

Tickets are limited. To purchase and view the lineup, visit www.JewishVA.org/ FilmFestival.

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ew acts speak to Jewish audiences more than the Maccabeats, and on Sunday, March 13, Temple Israel will present this amazing a capella group. The performance will be available to view from the comfort and safety of home.

The 14-member all male ensemble that came together at Yeshiva University in 2007, will treat the audience to a concert of their clever covers and parodies of contemporary hits using Jewish-themed lyrics. Whether the inspiration is a Jewish holiday (like the brilliant Hanukah-themed The Latke Recipe, All About that Neis or Candlelight) or Jewish takeoffs on songs

by Ed Sheeran, Pink, Meghan Trainor, and others, the Maccabeats have become a sensation, both in-person and on the internet.

The Maccabeats have performed twice at the White House (2011 and 2015), at the Knesset, as well as in China, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Mexico, Chile, South Africa, London, Italy…and in Virginia Beach at the Sandler Family Campus. They have a “clean-cut” look, performing in white dress shirts, skinny black ties, dress slacks, and knit yarmulkes. The group

sees its mission as a fulfillment of Torah Umadda (Torah and secular knowledge).

In the words of member Ari Lewis, the Maccabeats embrace the ideal of “living a life of Torah and Judaism, and simultaneously a successful secular life.”

In addition to seeing and hearing the Maccabeats sing and stream on personal computers or TVs in a concert curated just for Temple Israel, the group will answer questions live about their history, their style, their mission, their relationships, and their future posed by former synagogue president and local TV talk show host, Joel Rubin.

To secure the link, purchase a reasonably priced ticket, just $36 per person (be a sport and buy one for each viewer in your household because it supports a local Jewish institution). There are sponsorships too, all Hebrew labeled: Chag (Holiday) for $250; Tehani (Have Fun) for $500; Shana Tova (Happy New Year) for $1,000; Chofesh (Freedom) for $2,500; and Simcha (Gladness) for $5,000.

Go to Temple Israel’s website at templeisraelva.org or call the office at 489-4550 to reserve a “seat” for the Maccabeats.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Society of Professionals plans series of events Ronnie Jacobs Cohen

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power line-up of events is planned for United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Society of Professionals’ (SOP) 2022 Spring season.

Speakers will share best practices for promoting businesses, as well as insider information on the most up-to-the-minute business developments in Tidewater. Upcoming SOP opportunities for Jewish medical, business, and legal professionals to build relationships, share values, and support the community, include:

ROIE GALITZ Tuesday, March 1, 6:00 pm Roie Galitz will speak exclusively with SOP members, on “Achieving the Unachievable; The Power of Networking.” A world-renowned, wild-life photographer and popular, motivational speaker, with a passion for taking the best photos of animals in their natural habitats, Galitz inspires listeners to push their own limits. Speaking from personal experience, he encourages business leaders to set impossible goals and then reach them through networking and self-empowerment, and even dealing with failures along the way.

UNORTHODOX Monday, March 28, 6:00 pm Tablet magazine’s leading international flagship podcast, Unorthodox’s irreverent discussions on Jewish culture, politics, news, and much more, have earned hosts Mark Oppenheimer, Stephanie Butnick, and Liel Leibovitz almost 2 million downloads in more than 11 countries. Creator, producer, and one of the podcast’s hosts Josh Kross will zoom with SOP members, explaining Unorthodox’s origin and how they cultivated and reach such a huge audience of followers through the power of the podcast.

HARNESSING THE POWER OF THE WIND: OFFSHORE WIND FARMS Tuesday, May 3, Sandler Family Campus, 6:00–7:15 pm The season will end on a high-note and a high place, far above Virginia Beach’s ocean floor.

A panel of experts will educate SOP on the offshore wind farm project, which will be the largest of its kind in the United States when completed in 2026. Joel Rubin, director of WINDSdays Campaign, will moderate the conversation with George Hagerman, senior project scientist at Old Dominion University’s Center for Coastal Physical Oceanography; Fred Pasquine, president, Fairlead Integrated; and Ray White, business development coordinator, Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development.

SOP offers innovative, creative programming to support Jewish professionals and ensure their businesses have access to the latest community developments. There is no charge to attend these events and there will be no solicitation.

At this time, all events are being planned as in-person events, with all participants fully vaccinated and masked. For more information or to RSVP, contact Ronnie Jacobs Cohen at rcohen@ujft.org or 757-321-2341.

CALENDAR FEBRUARY 15, TUESDAY

Your Story Well Told with Corey Rosen. Actor, visual effects producer, author, and host of The Moth, Corey Rosen comes to the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA). His new book, Your Story, Well Told: Creative Strategies to Develop and Perform Stories that Wow an Audience, teaches how to get past telling “the same” stories and find stories worth telling from our own lives. 7:30 pm.

Presented by the Konikoff Center for Learning at the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, this event is free and open to the community with pre-registration required. For more information or to register, contact Sierra Lautman at SLautman@Ujft.org or 757-965-6107.

FEBRUARY 21, MONDAY

Art through the Prism of a Culture. The Konikoff Center for Learning, in partnership with Jewish Art Education presents this overview of artworks from the oldest known object to contemporary objects from all over the world. This program tells the story of the unique and special culture through art from may places and across many centuries. FREE and includes lunch. 12:00 pm.

Offered both online and in-person at the Simon Family JCC, pre-registration required. For more information or to register, contact Sierra Lautman at SLautman@Ujft.org or 757-965-6107.

Becoming Stress Resistant: Recognizing Burnout and Tips to Reduce its Effects.

Jewish Family Service of Tidewater will host this workshop, in partnership with the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, to explore symptoms of burnout and stress. 10 am–2 pm.

Register by February 16. For more information or to RSVP, visit www.jfshamptonroads.org or call 757-321-2285.

FEBRUARY 24, THURSDAY

Past and present meet upon the discovery of an old, mysterious photograph that will end up tying together Christian and Jewish students in search of the truth. A Starry Sky Above the Roman Ghetto kicks off the 29th season of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater and Simon Family JCC’s Virginia Festival of Jewish Film presented by Alma and Howard Laderberg. At Cinema Café Kemps River. 7:30 pm. Tickets $12, limited seating, pre-purchase strongly suggested. Visit JewishVA.org/filmfestival for more information or to purchase tickets.

FEBRUARY 26, SATURDAY

THE BIG SATURDAY NIGHT CELEBRATION OF JEWISH FILM AND CHAMPAGNE RECEPTION featuring the heart pumping and heartwarming film Tango Shalom, a story that tests the bonds of family and community, and the bounds of tolerance and faith, one dazzling dance step at a time.

Includes a conversation with the film’s stars followed by a champagne and dessert reception. A 29th annual Virginia Festival of Jewish Film event at the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center, Virginia Wesleyan University. 7:30 pm. Tickets $25, limited seating, pre-purchase strongly suggested. Visit JewishVA.org/filmfestival for more information or to purchase tickets.

FEBRUARY 27, SUNDAY

Offering hindsight on the Zionist enterprise, Ben Gurion Epilogue presents a rare and fortuitous piece of cinematic archeology with footage compiled from six hours of conversations with Israel’s founding father. Film followed by a conversation with two-time winner of the Israeli Academy of Prize for film, producer and editor, Yael Perlov. A 29th annual Virginia Festival of Jewish Film event at the Susan S. Goode Fine and Performing Arts Center, Virginia Wesleyan University.

In partnership with the Jewish Community Relations Council, Simon Family JCC and community partners’ 11th annual Israel Today series. 2:30 pm. Tickets $12, limited seating, pre-purchase strongly suggested. Visit JewishVA.org/filmfestival for more information or to purchase tickets.

FEBRUARY 28, MONDAY

An immigrant couple from Russia grapples with assimilation in turn-of-the-century New York in Hester Street, the 1975 classic that helped launch the modern era of American independent cinema. 29th annual Virginia Festival of Jewish Film presents an evening dedicated to longtime friend of the Festival, Mal Vincent, with this screening of the film newly restored in 4k, and a conversation with Rabbi Michael Panitz. At Naro Expanded Cinema. 7:00 pm. Tickets $12, limited seating, pre-purchase strongly suggested. Visit JewishVA.org/filmfestival for more information or to purchase tickets.

MARCH 1, TUESDAY

The Jewish Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, Simon Family JCC, & Community Partners’ 11th Annual Israel Today series presents: The Four Corners of the World: A Celebration of World Wildlife Day with Roie Galitz. Take a (virtual) trip around the globe with world renowned wildlife photographer, environmental diplomat, entrepreneur, and explorer, Roie Galitz without ever leaving Tidewater. 7:30 pm. Free with pre-registration required. For more information, or to register, visit JewishVa.org/israeltoday or contact Elka Mednick at emednick@ujft.org or 757-965-6112.

MARCH 3, THURSDAY

How Magicians Think. There’s a saying: the door to magic is closed, but it’s not locked.

Professional magician and bestselling author How Magicians Think, Joshua Jay, will be at the Simon Family JCC to open the door, revealing the artistry, history, and fascinating traditions of a subject long shrouded in mystery. 7:30 pm. Free. Presented by the Lee and Bernard Jaffe Family Jewish Book Festival. For more information or to register, visit JewishVA.org/BookFest or contact Hunter Thomas at HThomas@UJFT.org.

jewishnewsva.org | February 14, 2022 | JEWISH NEWS | 33

OBITUARIES SGT. GERALD COHEN USMC VIRGINIA BEACH—Sgt Gerald Cohen USMC (Ret), also known as Jerry, Dad, or Papa to those that knew and loved him, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2022 at the age of 87 with his family by his side.

With a tough, stubborn exterior, Jerry was a family man at heart. He cared deeply for his wife, his daughters, his grandchildren, and his great grandchildren, making it a priority to celebrate life’s big moments with them as the patriarch of the Cohen family.

He is preceded in death by parents Abraham and Celia Cohen, his first wife, Rosemarie A Cohen, and step-daughter Deborah Rorer.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Marjorie Cohen, daughter Sharon Wheeler and son-in-law Rick, daughter Michele Prewitt and son-in-law Tom, and stepsons David Cundiff and Billy Cundiff and step-daughter-in-law

Janine. He is also survived by his siblings Irving Camiel, Claire Bentley and Myrna Welkovich.

He was extraordinarily proud of his grandchildren, Christopher Prewitt, Jessica Prewitt, Jeff Wheeler, and Kevin Wheeler, as well as his step-grandchildren Buddy Simpson, Shana Leeson, Megan Cundiff, and Dylan Cundiff.

In recent years, his greatest joy was the love and care he had for his great-grandchildren: Piper, Wren, Peyton, Collins and Brooks.

Having served in the Marines from 1952–1972, he retired as a Master Sergeant with a Silver Star, a Presidential Unit Citation for his service in Vietnam, a Meritorious Unit Commendation for his service from 1965–1970, a National Defense Service Medal, a Vietnam Service Medal, a United Nations Service Medal, a Good Conduct Medal, and a Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with five bronze stars. He continued to love and

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34 | JEWISH NEWS | February 14, 2022 | jewishnewsva.org

serve his community through teaching at the Virginia Beach Tech Center in his retirement. He traveled the world with both Rosemarie and Margie, and loved the Washington Redskins and Boston Red Sox—so much that some would say you saw him at his most impassioned during a game.

The quintessential stoic retired Marine, Jerry softened whenever he talked of his family, of growing up, and of his career both in and out of the Marines. Never too proud to give a great dad joke, a bite of sarcasm, and to ask about what something had to do with the cost of tea in China, he let his guard down in the best way for his family. A former photographer, a former teacher, a Marine—in the end, what mattered most was his family. The titles of “Husband,” “Dad,” and “Papa” were the most important to him.

His graveside service was held at Princess Anne Memorial Park in Virginia Beach. The family requests donations to be made in his name to Wounded Warrior Project.

“BILL” DAVID FORMAN NORFOLK—With hearts broken we announce the passing of William “Bill” David Forman.

He was born February 17, 1945, in Seattle, Washington, and passed away with his wife and kids by his side on January 21, 2022, from COVID-related pneumonia.

Bill was born to Abe and Annis Forman and grew up in Seattle, Washington. He was a loving husband, father, brother, papa, and great-papa.

Throughout his varied careers and spanning nearly six decades, he served as a Drill Sergeant in the United States Army and earned an honorable discharge during the Vietnam conflict; he spent many years as a dedicated police officer with the Seal Beach Police Department; he was the head of security for Toyota Motor Corporation-North America; and after nearly 29 years of dedicated service with the Hall/Mile One Automotive Group, he was planning his retirement for this year.

Bill stood out in both, his personal

and professional life with notable and successful accomplishments and careers.

He naturally followed his father’s example with Abe’s work ethic, values, and traits; he was dedicated, charming, charismatic, kind, happy, humorous, and intelligent. These traits made him stand out amongst his family, friends, and peers and have fostered many to be touched by his passing.

He is survived by his wife Teresa Forman, his children and their spouses Frank and Arin, Robert “Bobby,” David “DJ” and Kim, Amy and Scot Hecht, and Jeremy McCabe. He has left behind three siblings and spouses Rabbi Lawrence and Laura, Nathan “Bud” and Jean, and his sister Barbara and Frannie. He was blessed with 10 grandchildren and one great-grandson, along with many nieces and nephews.

Services were held in Southern California and broadcast on Zoom.

Condolences may be offered at www. vacremationsociety.com.

ZACHARY KANTOR VIRGINIA BEACH—Zach Kantor passed, unexpectedly, on January 20 at the age of 30.

Born in Norfolk, to parents Sherry and David, he graduated from First Colonial High School and attended Tidewater Community College. Zach was a graduate of and performed at Funny Bone Comedy School. He will be remembered for his fun-loving and charismatic personality by all that knew and loved him.

Zach is survived by his mother and stepfather, Sherry and Tim Davis; father, David Kantor; brothers, Alec and Jake Kantor; grandparents, Betty Welch, Reatha and Barry Kantor; aunts and uncle, Sandy Levine, Sue Sheldrake, Karen and Bill Welch; numerous extended family and friends.

A visitation was held at Altmeyer Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life service took place at the funeral home with interment at Princess Anne Memorial Park immediately following.

Memorial donations may be made to Comedy Gives Back at https://givebutter. com/Zachary.

OBITUARIES IRWIN MICHAEL KROSKIN VIRGINIA BEACH—Irwin Michael Kroskin, 84, passed away January 23, 2022 after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Born and raised in Norfolk, he was the son of the late Philip and Miriam Finestone Kroskin. He was preceded in death by his wife Ruthi Sherman Kroskin in 2012.

Irwin was a graduate of Maury High School and the University of Virginia.

Irwin was an architect and principal of the Kroskin Design Group until his retirement. He was a life long member and past president of Congregation Beth El in Norfolk. He enjoyed boating and fishing on the Chesapeake, loved snow skiing and spending time with his children and grandchildren.

Irwin, known as EI to his family and friends, is survived by his daughters Suzanne Kroskin Mazer and husband Stephen of Annapolis, Md., Stephanie

Kroskin Block and husband Gary of Annapolis, Md.; son Philip Kroskin and wife Julie of Bethesda, Md.; grandchildren Kayla and Abigail Mazer, Zachary Block and wife Nikki, Hannah and Joseph Block, and Matthew and Eli Kroskin; and companion and special friend, Nancy Kanter.

Graveside services were held at B’nai Israel Congregation’s cemetery in Oxon Hill, Maryland. A memorial celebration will be held at Congregation Beth El in Norfolk, Virginia at a later date.

Online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com. Services were live streamed at facebook.com/ hdoliverfuneralapts.

Memorial donations may be made to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research at www.michaeljfox.org.

Virginia to Maurice Cogen and Sarah Silverman Cogen. She died January 22, 2022 in the Memory Support Unit of Harbor’s Edge, Norfolk, where she had been a resident for five years.

She is survived by her husband of 70 years Sheldon Joseph Leavitt, sons Charles Hecht-Leavitt (Leslie) of Norfolk; Jonathan Leavitt (Maryjane) of Brookline,

Mass.; and daughter Shirra Ann Leavitt of Santa Monica, Calif. Her son, David Ari Leavitt, died in 1979. She will be missed by her grandchildren Lily Anne Hecht-Leavitt (Anthony) of Norfolk; Zachary Singer-Leavitt ( Julie) of East Greenwich, Rhode Islarnd, Anna KhanLeavitt (Andy) of London, England, and continued on page 36

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MARIAN COGEN LEAVITT NORFOLK—Marian Cogen Leavitt was born November 24, 1927 in Portsmouth,

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OBITUARIES continued from page 35

Nate Leavitt of Chicago. She felt lucky to celebrate the births of her great-grandchildren Ari, Sam, Josie, and Talia. Her sister Harriet Bregman and brother Erwin Cogen died before her.

Her mother, Sarah Silverman, was one of nine siblings, and Marian grew up with dozens of first cousins in Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia.

The Silverman clan was a bustling Depression-Era extended family, and Marian maintained close relationships with them.

Marian was unusual in her time and place for graduating from college (BA journalism Ohio State) and completing graduate school in social work (MSW begun at the University of Chicago and completed at Virginia Commonwealth University). Her life was not easy. She experienced the murder of her father, the early death of a son, three cancer diagnoses, the death of her younger brother, bouts of depression, and mild traumatic brain injury. Yet she maintained a positive outlook on life. Her many friends appreciated her honesty and openness.

Many looked to her as their mentor.

She was a surrogate mother to several, including Marc Rabinowitz and Bonnie Gordon-Rabinowitz.

Marian, with her friend Joan Hecht, was an early advocate of mindfulness meditation. She supported early childhood education, family life education in public schools, and voting rights. She was a regular swimmer until TBI made that too difficult. Marian was an accomplished worker in clay and shared a studio in Norfolk’s d’Art Center. After cancer surgery restricted that activity, she took up beading and made beautiful necklaces for her fortunate family and friends. She memorialized David Leavitt in the collection of her poetry Mourning Sickness.

In her 60s she attended Clown School with a girlfriend. Zach, Lily, and Charles marched and clowned with her in the annual Doo-Dah Parade in downtown Norfolk, finishing with a late lunch at the Harbor Club in full clown regalia. She went on African safari with a girlfriend.

For many years, during two weeks each summer, she sailed with her husband and

their dear friends Ronnie and Marcus Friedman on the Chesapeake Bay, and later in the Caribbean and Aegean seas.

Into her 70’s, the dance floor at The Harbor Club would clear when Marian and Sheldon stepped out to dance their double-time jitterbug.

A family graveside service took place at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Norfolk.

COVID concerns precluded a wider public event. Please write or record a favorite memory of Marian, and post it on the H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. website (hdoliver.com) to share with her family and friends. Contributions can be made to Jewish Family Service, Virginia League for Planned Parenthood, or the League of Women Voters of South Hampton Roads.

MIRIAM “MIMI” LONGMAN LIVINGSTON, N.J.—Miriam (Mimi) Longman, age 100, passed away at home in Livingston, N.J. January 8, 2022.

Miriam, born in Baltimore in 1921, graduated from the University of Maryland in 1943, then worked as a social worker.

She was predeceased in 2017 by her husband, David whom she married in 1945. Mimi and David settled in Norfolk in the late 1940s, residing there for over 50 years. They were long-time members of Temple Israel in Norfolk where Mimi was active in the Temple Israel Sisterhood holding many officer positions. In later years she volunteered her services in the resettlement of Russian Jews. After David retired, they divided their time between Florida and New Jersey. Mimi enjoyed her wide circle of friends and her greatest joy was in being with her family.

She is survived by her children, Howard (Ellen) Longman and Susan (Marshall) Saunders of Livingston, N.J. and Thomas (Mona) Longman of White Plains, N.Y. She was the beloved grandmother of Haley (Seth) Guttenplan, Ariel (Gary) Goldstein, Max and Eli Longman, Michael Saunders, Adam, Emily, and Benjamin Longman and great grandmother of Jesse Guttenplan and Emerson Goldstein.

A graveside funeral was held at Cedar Park-Beth El Cemetery in Paramus, N.J. Rabbi Zalman Grossbaum officiated.

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Donations may be made to Temple Israel, 7255 Granby St, Norfolk, VA 23505, or to a charity of choice.

ESTELLA MILLER VIRGINIA BEACH—The world lost a little kindness when Estella Miller passed away at the age of 94 after a long and courageous battle with Alzheimers and Parkinsons Diseases.

Family was everything to her and she lived her life unselfishly committed with uncompromising dedication to her family. Estella was preceded in death by her loving husband, Junius Miller.

Working side by side and overcoming tremendous challenges, they built a successful business together. They lived a terrific and humble life together and as long as they had each other they never wanted for anything. She was tremendously creative and resourceful. On her own she studied passive solar concepts and Frank Lloyd Wright architecture and with only a high school education was able to design and personally oversee the construction of a unique personal residence. She was a genuine good person, never spoke badly about anyone and made everyone she came in contact with feel special.

She is survived by her two sons, Baron and Jerry (Missy); granddaughters Jenny Sanford (Stephen), Jackie Willcox, Dana Amurial (Guy) and grandchildren Riley, Ragen, Blake, Logan, Kaitlin (Logan), Eli & Aliyah and great grandchild Finn.

The family would like to thank those special staff members at Beth Sholom Village who treated Mom with such care and dignity. She was fondly referred to as “Goodie, Goodie” around the Beth Sholom complex. The family asks that memorial donations be made to a charity of your own choice.

A graveside service took place at Princess Anne Memorial Park in Va. Beach. Online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com. A memorial celebration will be held at a later date.

HELENE SEARS MITCHELL PORTSMOUTH—Helene Sears Mitchell, 102, of Crawford Parkway, passed away

Sunday, January 30, 2022.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband Hal Mitchell, and her late mother and father, Sarah and Hyman Sears.

A native and lifetime resident of Portsmouth, she graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School and attended Columbia University. Helene and Hal loved running the store, Sears, Betty & Bob, that was started by her mother Sarah Sears, and was a fixture in Downtown Portsmouth for over 50 years.

She enjoyed dancing and never stopped tapping her toes to music.

She was a member of Congregation Beth El, Beasley Senior Center, Portsmouth Museum, Beth Sholom Home Auxiliary, and a former volunteer with Portsmouth Naval and Portsmouth General Hospital.

Mrs. Mitchell was an amazing and strong woman with a very special love for her family. She was known for generous spirit, kind heart and smile that could light the world.

She is survived by her son, Dudley Mitchell of Portsmouth; daughter, Carol Mitchell Roth of Woodstock, Ga.; granddaughter, Jodi Barton and husband Craig of Woodstock, Ga.; along with many beloved cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A graveside service was held at Gomley Chesed Cemetery in Portsmouth

by Rabbi Ron Koas. Memorial donations may be made to Children’s Hospital of The Kings Daughters, 601 Children’s Lane, Norfolk, VA 23507.

HENRY M. SCHWAN NORFOLK—Prominent Virginia attorney Henry M. Schwan, who practiced law in downtown Norfolk for 65 years, and whose family roots extend in Hampton Roads for generations, died February 2, 2022, at the age of 92.

Over the course of his career, Henry earned a reputation as one of the top domestic relations attorneys in Virginia, but it was his love for his wife, Marcia, and their four children that served as the driving force in his life.

Henry and Marcia marked their 66th wedding anniversary in September 2021, and their union was one of mutual

OBITUARIES respect and utmost devotion to their children.

Henry leaves behind Marcia and their children Elisabeth of Philadelphia; Andrea of New York City; Henry, Jr. of Framingham, Mass. (wife Nancy and daughter Martine); and Lucille Schwan Joergens of New York City (husband Thomas and children Jacob, Benjamin and Olivia).

Born August 31, 1929 to Harry Lipman Schwan and Lucille Hofheimer Schwan, Henry Maxwell Schwan was younger brother to Evelyn, two years his elder. Growing up on Colonial Avenue in Ghent and at Ocean View, he became an Eagle Scout, attended Blair Middle School and graduated from Maury High School, going on to the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Virginia School of Law. Upon graduating law school in 1953, Henry worked in the Norfolk firm of Hofheimer Nusbaum. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served two years in Maryland, where he also began his romance with Marcia Solomon of Baltimore, whom he married in 1955 after his two-year military hitch.

The couple settled in Norfolk, where Henry practiced law for a decade at the firm of Fine, Fine, Legum and Fine. He subsequently launched his own independent law practice and managed the firm successfully for more than 50 years.

Henry attained the highest “A” professional legal rating by Martindale-Hubbell, a designation he held for decades. He lectured statewide on domestic relations law for the Virginia State Bar as part of its continuing legal education requirement for attorneys, and the acumen of his practice was eventually celebrated in a Virginian-Pilot feature article.

But Henry’s legal legacy may best be defined by his precedent-setting cases that contributed centrally to the establishment of Virginia laws ensuring equitable distribution of marital assets for women in divorce proceedings.

Beyond his family and career, Henry’s life was connected to Ohef Sholom Temple, where his great grandfather, Bernhard Eberson, had served as rabbi and where he himself served as president,

FREE

Training Opportunity a position he had aspired to as a boy growing up in the congregation.

Extremely proud of his family’s Norfolk heritage and a gifted, witty raconteur, Henry frequently shared stories of relatives, friends, and events that shaped his life in Tidewater. In retirement, he and Marcia resided in their Riverpoint home, which was designed

by Henry in collaboration with the late architect Frederick Herman. Surrounded by towering Georgia pines, the house served as their sanctuary for 56 years.

Henry never fully abandoned the law, even after officially closing his practice in late 2019 at the age of 90. From his home office, affectionately known by some as the “He Shed”, he oversaw the conclusion of several cases and tended to family business.

Henry was predeceased by his sister Evelyn Schwan Hecht in 1997. In addition to his immediate family, he is survived by his brother-in-law Joseph Hecht (children Mark Hecht and Linda Hecht Schwartz); four beloved grandchildren (Jacob, Benjamin and Olivia Joergens, and Martine Schwan); and a wide network of friends, colleagues, and relatives about whom he cared deeply and by whom he was equally cherished.

A man who loved his family, community, and profession, Henry will be very deeply missed. He was an original.

Funeral services were private. The family wishes to thank the staff at Beth Sholom Village and Suncrest Hospice for providing Henry excellent care in his final weeks. H. D. Oliver Funeral Apts.

Online condolences may be sent to the family through www.hdoliver.com.

Becoming Stress Resistant:

Recognizing Burnout and Tips to Reduce its Effects

Monday February 21st

10:00am-Noon @JccFlederAuditorium

Becoming Stress Resistant: Recognizing Burnout and Tips to Reduce its Affects For those caring for others, the stress can be overwhelming, even traumatizing. Learn tips for how to become more stressresistant and build awareness for signs of burnout and secondary trauma.

ONLINE REGISTRATION https://www.eventbrite. com/e/258111788307

Phone: 757-321-2285

The training is facilitated by JFS Chief Executive Officer, Kelly Burroughs, MA, CCTP. Ms. Burroughs has more than 25 years of experience in publicly funded behavioral health and social services for children and families, and is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.

jewishnewsva.org | February 14, 2022 | JEWISH NEWS | 37

Healthcare Teams Optima Health wants to thank the incredible healthcare teams at all of the health systems within our network: • Appalachian Regional Healthcare

• Chesapeake Regional Healthcare

• Augusta Health

• Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters

• Ballad Health

• Bath Community Hospital • Children’s National Hospital • Buchanan General Hospital • Bon Secours Mercy Health • Carilion Clinic • Centra Health

• Community Health Systems • Duke Health

• HCA Healthcare

• Inova Health System

• Sentara Healthcare

• LifeBrite Community Hospital of Stokes

• TidalHealth Peninsula Regional

• LifePoint Health

• UVA Health System

• Mary Washington Healthcare

• Valley Health

• Novant Health

• Virginia Hospital Center

• Princeton Community Hospital

• VCU Health

• Riverside Health System

For every early morning, and every late night, we want to thank you. For the care you give and the love you share. You are there for our communities and each other when we need it most.

OptimaHealth.com 38 | JEWISH NEWS | February 14, 2022 | jewishnewsva.org

DRIVEN TO

help others thrive and succeed.

Deeply rooted in the Hampton Roads community for 58 years, Checkered Flag is devoted to giving back to the thousands of loyal customers in our community. To that end, we partner with over 65 local educators, charities and community services to create economic opportunity, improve public health, education, and perhaps most importantly of all, inspire civic engagement and service.

We’d like to help everyone in our community live their best life.

CheckeredFlag.com

jewishnewsva.org | February 14, 2022 | JEWISH NEWS | 39

40 | JEWISH NEWS | February 14, 2022 | jewishnewsva.org