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INSIDE
8 — page brating e l e c s t f even o n, and s o e i i t r i e d a r t As lture, ds! u a c o , R s t r n a o Israeli Hampt n i e r e ht h food rig
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Film Festival Finale
10 Date with the State 2014
12 Super Sunday 2014
Inside:
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upfront
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Community Relations Council reacts to Virginia Beach Public Schools by Megan Zuckerman, chair, Community Relations Council
W
ith regard to the decision of the Virginia Beach Public Schools to hold Saturday make-up classes, the Community Relations Council, on behalf of United Jewish Federation of Tidewater leaders, has sent a letter to the
Superintendent of Virginia Beach Public Schools and the Virginia Beach School Board. The letter indicates that the decision to hold classes on a day of religious importance to Jews is problematic. The letter does not make a formal demand for rescission of the decision, since students will be excused for unavoidable absences and religious holidays, according to Virginia Beach policy. Nevertheless, it is still a disappointing and disrespectful solution since it is clear that when the School Board and Superintendent chose the Saturday option, they were not sensitive to Jews and other religions that treat Saturdays as their holy day. The CRC plans to take this opportunity to meet with and educate the Superintendent and School Board to reinforce concerns with the make-up policy standards. While it is known that Saturday was a last option, it is clear that Sunday was not on the table. This religious indifference is not acceptable and the CRC wants to ensure future sensitivity. The CRC’s goal is to educate school officials as to why Saturday is an important day to Jews. Such a step may help push leaders to revamp the make-up day policy or institute a different solution in the future. In closing, the public outcry over this controversial decision, as well as criticism by The Virginian-Pilot, underscore that this poor choice has been felt community-wide and not only by the Jewish people. It has been heartening to see the outpouring of concern for religious freedom.
contents Up Front . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Briefs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Op-Ed: Outreach to interfaith families. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Tidewater Mission to Israel . . . . . . . . . 6 of Jewish Film concludes. . . . . . . . . . . 7 Celebrate Israel!. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Orchestra of Exiles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Virginia Festival Date with the State 2014. . . . . . . . . 10 Super Sunday 2014. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
About the cover: Celebrate Israel Images from Israel Fest 2013, Orchestra of Exiles, Israel Philharmonic Orchestra and Robert Satloff.
It’s a Wrap. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Community weekend. . . . . . . . . . . . . Birthright expands eligibility. . . . . . . New Temple Israel members . . . . . . . What’s Happening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mazel Tov. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Who Knew?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Meet the President: Linda Fox-Jarvis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
14 18 19 19 20 22 23 23 24 26
Obama on Foxman: ‘Abe is irreplaceable’ (JTA)—President Obama praised Abraham Foxman as “irreplaceable” after the Anti-Defamation League announced the planned retirement of its longtime leader. “For decades, Abe Foxman has been a tireless voice against anti-Semitism and prejudice in all of its forms, always calling us to reject hatred and embrace our common humanity,” Obama said in a statement released by the White House on Tuesday, Feb. 11. The ADL announced Monday, Feb. 10 that Foxman would retire as its national director in July 2015. Foxman has led the ADL for 27 years. “Michelle and I wish him well as he prepares to leave the leadership of the Anti-Defamation League—an organization that he built, and led with such passion and persistence,” Obama said in his statement. “Abe is irreplaceable, but the causes that he has dedicated his life to will continue to inspire people in the United States, Israel, and around the world.” After he steps down, Foxman will serve as a part-time consultant to ADL and sit on the organization’s national commission and national executive committee, the organization said. Founded in 1913, the ADL fights against anti-Semitism and other forms of bigotry and on behalf of civil rights.
quotable
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briefs Pittsburgh Jewish day school employee, sister found shot at home An employee of a Jewish day school in the Pittsburgh area and her sister apparently were shot inside their home. The bodies of Susan Wolfe and her sister Sarah were found in the basement of their two-story home in East Liberty, Pa. Police went to the Wolfes’ home after a co-worker of Susan Wolfe, 44, asked them to check when she did not show up for work as a teacher’s aide at the Hillel Academy in Squirrel Hill, according to the Pittsburgh Post Gazette. “This is a very active investigation with numerous investigative details to be conducted,” Pittsburgh Police Major Crimes Lt. Daniel Herrmann told the newspaper. Dr. Sarah Wolfe, 38, worked as a pediatrician and psychiatrist at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Her car was found about a mile from the home. The women have six other siblings, including an Iowa state lawmaker, Mary Wolfe. (JTA) Woody Allen, Dylan Farrow exchange public barbs over sexual assault accusations Woody Allen and his estranged adopted daughter Dylan Farrow sparred anew in the media over claims that Allen sexually assaulted her when she was seven. Allen wrote an Op-Ed that appeared in the online and print editions of The New York Times. Dylan Farrow responded in a statement to The Hollywood Reporter. In his Op-Ed, Allen wrote, “Twenty-one years ago, when I first heard Mia Farrow had accused me of child molestation, I found the idea so ludicrous I didn’t give it a second thought.” The director-actor was responding to a letter written by Dylan Farrow and published in the Times on Feb. 1 in which she reasserted her accusations against Allen. Allen said Dylan Farrow had been coached by her mother, actress Mia Farrow, and reiterated that experts from the Child Sexual Abuse Clinic of the Yale-New Haven Hospital found that no sexual abuse had taken place. He was not prosecuted for sexually molesting his adopted daughter and was
later able to adopt two children of his own with his wife, Soon-Yi Previn, an adopted daughter of Mia Farrow. Allen said he will not address the accusations again. “This piece will be my final word on this entire matter,” he wrote, “and no one will be responding on my behalf to any further comments on it by any party.” In the Hollywood Reporter, Dylan Farrow said, “His op-ed is the latest rehash of the same legalese, distortions, and outright lies he has leveled at me for the past 20 years.” Dylan Farrow cited findings of a decision by the New York Supreme Court in 1992 that denied Allen access to her, citing the sexual abuse allegations. “Woody Allen has an arsenal of lawyers and publicists but the one thing he does not have on his side is the truth,” she said. “I hope this is the end of his vicious attacks and of the media campaign by his lawyers and publicists, as he’s promised. I won’t let the truth be buried and I won’t be silenced.” (JTA)
Hungary’s main Jewish umbrella votes to boycott state Holocaust commemorations The main Jewish umbrella group in Hungary voted to boycott the state-sponsored Holocaust memorial program unless the government makes changes to redress distortions of history. Representatives of Mazsihisz, the Association of Hungarian Jewish Communities, at a special assembly on Sunday, Feb. 9, voted 76-2 to “distance” the organization from the government’s program marking the 70th anniversary of the mass deportation of Hungarian Jews to Auschwitz “under the present circumstances.” Its resolution said the government plans “do not take into consideration the sensitiveness of those who went though the horror of the Holocaust.” Mazsihisz, the resolution said, can take part in the Holocaust 2014 program and will use the grants it received from the government’s Civil Fund for memorial events “only if the Hungarian Government changes its attitude toward the memory and research of the Holocaust.” Prime Minister Viktor Orban must take action on three specific issues, the resolu-
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tion said: halt the erection of a memorial in downtown Budapest to the German occupation of Hungary; dismiss Sandor Szakaly as the director of a new government historical institute; and suspend the creation of a Holocaust memorial museum in a former Budapest train station. The resolution said the monument’s “symbolic message promotes the shifting away of national responsibility” in the Holocaust. It also noted that Szakaly recently characterized as “a police action against aliens” the 1941 roundup and deportation of about 18,000 foreign-born Jews to Kamenets-Podolsk, Ukraine, where they were massacred. As to the museum, Mazsihisz experts still do not know what the museum’s “take on history” will be, the resolution said, and the head of the museum project, Maria Schmidt, “does not cooperate with Mazsihisz.” Representatives of Jewish organizations raised their concerns at a meeting with Orban’s chief of staff, Janos Lazar, who heads the state’s Holocaust memorial year program. Lazar said Orban would address the concerns. Orban already wrote to Jewish leaders last month defending the German occupation monument, saying it would commemorate all Nazi victims. Meanwhile, several synagogues and other Jewish institutions have unilaterally announced that they will decline funding from the Holocaust memorial year Civil Fund. “We are sad to have witnessed how in recent weeks the remembrance initiatives have become unworthy pawns in governmental political games as Hungary approaches its parliamentary elections,” a statement from the Bet Orim Reform congregation said announcing that it would not accept the Civil Fund grant. “Bet Orim does not wish to be part of this kind of political strategy.” (JTA)
ADL honors George W. Bush The Anti-Defamation League awarded its highest honor to former President George W. Bush. The ADL presented its America’s Democratic Legacy Award to Bush during a Feb. 6 gala that opened its national executive committee meeting in Palm Beach, Fla. “We will never forget, Mr. President,
how the vision you laid out of ‘two states, living side by side, in peace and security’ still informs our consciousness and our parlance today,” said the ADL’s national director, Abraham Foxman. “You solidified an unbreakable affinity between two democracies challenged by extremists and terrorists—and an ironclad shared understanding—that security is one of the most important foundations for peace.” Foxman also hailed Bush’s support for immigration reform and his leadership after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. “When you were called on to respond to unspeakable terror, hate and violence, you refused to let America give into stereotypes,” Foxman said. “You answered calls for anti-Muslim revenge with calls for respect and understanding.” Bush spoke at the dinner, which was held at The Breakers resort and was reportedly closed to the media. Previous recipients of the award, which the ADL has given out for more than half a century, have included American presidents as well as other government, business, literary and religious figures. (JTA)
Sochi Jews, Israeli athletes remember Munich 11 Members of the Jewish community of Sochi and Israeli delegates to the Olympics held a memorial for the 11 Israelis killed by terrorists in Munich at the Summer Games in 1972. About 200 people took part in the memorial on Sunday, Feb. 9, at a hotel near the Games’ venue in Russia, Reuters reported. A Sochi youth group sang Hava Nagila and tenor Telman Guzhevsky performed the Israeli song Jerusalem of Gold and O Sole Mio. “I am honored and grateful to be greeted like this and to be part of this community,” said Israeli pairs skater Andrea Davidovich, a Vermont native who trains in New Jersey, according to Reuters. The families of the slain athletes and coaches failed in their bid for a minute of silence during the opening ceremonies at the 2012 London Olympics to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the terror attack. (JTA)
op-ed
Outreach to interfaith families strengthens the Jewish future by Rick Jacobs
NEW YORK (JTA)—All in favor of a strong Jewish future say “aye.” On that core question, there is resounding unanimity, but there have been some unnecessarily polarizing articles in the Jewish press suggesting that we have to select either endogamy or outreach. Nonsense! Such binary thinking reduces a multi-dimensional and complex reality to a false choice. At the Union for Reform Judaism Biennial in San Diego in December, I challenged Jewish leaders to stop speaking “about intermarriage as if it were a disease. It is not.” I do not know how any serious observer of American Jewish life can believe that in the aftermath of the Pew Research Center’s study of Jewish Americans and other surveys, intermarriage is anything but a reality of Jewish life. Many characterize intermarriage as the result of assimilation. There is truth in this view, but I believe that higher intermarriage rates are the result of the open society in which we are privileged to live. The sociology is clear enough. AntiSemitism is down. Jews feel welcome. We mix easily with others. So, of course, there are high intermarriage rates. The pressing question is, how do we respond? High intermarriage rates require a thoughtful response. Delivering endless sermons about the importance of endogamy—or making apocalyptic arguments—is not going to dissuade young people from falling in love with someone who is not Jewish. If that were the case, we would not be where we are today. Intensifying and deepening Jewish engagement for the next generation is an essential undertaking that forms the cornerstone of “Inspired Engagement,” our large-scale, new URJ response. Our new youth engagement strategies reflect our broadly inclusive definition of Jewish community that seeks to include, educate and embrace, among others, children of interfaith families. Many in the “endogamy camp” argue that outreach to interfaith families is not an
effective communal investment. At the heart of this debate is the allocation of communal resources. But the impact of outreach to interfaith families matters. Consider Boston, where Barry Shrage, president of the Combined Jewish Philanthropies, has made outreach to interfaith families a communal norm across all Jewish institutions, including synagogues. The number of interfaith families raising Jewish children has doubled. Jews marrying Jews is a blessing; the long-term demographic projections are clearly more encouraging when Jews marry other Jews. Creating pathways for Jews and non-Jewish partners to create active Jewish homes also is a blessing, the sacred challenge of our time. However, talk of endogamy will not change outcomes. Only our actions can create change. Going forward, the Reform movement’s singular focus is to make sure that a widening, not shrinking, circle of young people in our community experiences a Judaism that is deep, compelling and inclusive. Simultaneously, they must hear from their Jewish leaders that interfaith couples can be and are supported in their effort to raise deeply committed Jewish families, especially when they do so in an inclusive Jewish community that is offered uniquely by the Reform movement. While other voices will surely proclaim that endogamy is the only way to have a committed Jewish family, the Reform movement has something altogether different to say: Jewish commitment can be established in a variety of settings, especially with support and increased opportunity for learning and engaging. Falling in love with someone who is not Jewish is not a failure of Jewish commitment when young adult lives are just beginning. How congregations and rabbis do this holy work varies, but today it is an axiom of Reform Judaism that we take on the work of inclusion every day. Some rabbis officiate at interfaith weddings; others do not. But either way, thoughtful, content-rich outreach must become the gold standard of our Jewish communities. I hope that all of our federations, inspired by Boston’s
strategic shift decades ago, will soon come to that same conclusion. Little is gained by circling the wagons only around those who are involved intensely in Jewish life and writing off the others as a bad investment. What a difference inclusion of interfaith families has made, bringing the creativity, leadership and service of hundreds of thousands to enrich our congregational lives, while countless thousands of children are being raised with meaningful Jewish experiences and commitments. Let’s be clear: Those of us who champion outreach know, of course, that creating
opportunities for young Jews to meet and form close bonds with other Jews while living Jewishly makes perfect sense. But such obvious strategies must only be one part of our ongoing work. The goal, one we all share even if we disagree on tactics, is to secure a robust Jewish future. Day schools, Jewish camps, intensive adult learning opportunities, soulful spiritual practice, acts of social justice and yes, inclusion of interfaith families in all of the above, are the most effective ways for us to strengthen the Jewish future. All opposed? —Rabbi Rick Jacobs is the president of the Union for Reform Judaism.
jewishnewsva.org | February 17, 2014 | Jewish News | 5
Tidewater is going to Israel this summer.… Want to come? Tel Aviv will introduce the group to the The group will greet Shabbat at the to “see it all,” while those returning to Israel have opportunities to experience brand Kotel then welcome Tidewater students history of modern Israel through a series aybe you’ve never been.… Maybe new things (as if they, too, were once again as well as JAFI Lone Soldiers to a festive of speakers and four individual tracks, Shabbat dinner. They’ll separate Shabbat including: Gourmet Tel Aviv, Art Tel Aviv, you’ve been a dozen or more first-timers!). Architecture Tel Aviv, and rest of the week “We’re going to see and hear veryWant new from times.… The question is: Is this To the Come? Depart Norfolk: Wednesday, June 18 Arrive in Israel: Thursday, June 19 Join about very old places,” “…the one that I am realwith a beautiful Havdalah things says co-chair your summer to visit Israel? Return to Norfolk: Saturday, June 28 mission chairs Klebanoff and ly excited about,” says David Brand. “Think you know Tsfat? Been service overlooking the The United Jewish Federation of Jodi Bonnie & David Brand, • Enjoy aNope. festive and meaningful in Jerusalem • Tour theCity. mystical city of Safed co-chair Bonnie Brand…” Participants will Done that? It’s a Shabbat whole new Old Tidewater will bring a mission to Israel asthere? well as dozens of • Study with world-renown scholars • Enjoy special wine and chocolate workshops in the Golan fellow Tidewater the Innovation/Start-Up experience a very speway members of seeing things…not only is Tsfat the this coming June. Led by co-chairs Jodi community • Climb Masada • Relive history through sound and lights at Beit Shaen for • Explore the Old City of Jerusalem above ground and • Meet some of Israel‘s newest Olim at a JAFI unforgettable, Nation Israel track, “which cial tour of Yad VaShem, mystical city and birthplace of Kabala, but Klebanoff, Bonnie and David Brand, the a unique, below absorption center multisensory • Dig at an archeological site visit to the • Marvel at ORT ‘ s new Science Center in Kiryat Yam will be run in conjunction Israel’s Holocaust Memorial mission will depart Norfolk on June 18 and today experienceit’s this an incubator for high-tech mediCity of David • Check in on friends at the Neve Michael summer! with Tel Aviv University,” Museum, after meeting and a center for medical services for return on June 28. The itinerary will bring cine • High-level briefings with government officials and IDF Youth Village .....and more! But space is representatives Brand explains. “Not only with renowned educator entire Northern region of the country. the group from Jerusalem to the north of thelimited! • Visit Tidewater-funded projects will we learn how Israel Dr. Rachel Korazim. They’ll Israel then to the coast and Tel Aviv. All of It’s very exciting stuff!” per person (based on coach class seating and double hotel occupancy) trip is filling fast. is uniquely positioned to walk the The ancient cobbled The mission will(where arrive in provide Israelownon the sites, speakers, and interactive experi-$5,500* Land only options are available participants air travel). Many first-timers are choosing Flight and room upgrades, as well as extensions available. Priced based on requests. excel in the areas of hi-tech City and ences have been selected with the goal of Thursday afternoon; spend Shabbat in streets of the to makeOld this summer their summer to nights at the Waldorf Astoria in options Jerusalem to and innovation in industry, visit the high-tech camJerusalem Three (with various Shabbat touching every one of the senses. visit Israel! Three nights at the Ramot Resort in the Galilee nights at Carlton hotel in Tel Aviv move social media, and mediera room where Jerusalem oftheobservance); then “I’m particularly excited about our meet differentTwolevels Mission price also includes tour buses, admissions, guides, most meals, bottled water, and and Upper andtips.Golan police watch the city, day and night. Some cine…we’ll have the opportunity to meet chefs’ culinary tour of the Machane Yehuda to the Lower hostess services at hotels.Galilee Does not include Interested? Want to learn more? Applications and deposits now being accepted. or emailwill Amy Zelenka, UJFTrenew Missions Director some of the students taking hi-tech courses the Call group opt to theirat 965-6139 vows or azelenka@ujft.org. group movesgift ofto$1,200 theper personinto the market in Jerusalem,” says co-chair Jodi Heights mid-week. *In additionThe to the mission fee, a minimum 2015 Annual Campaign of the UJFT is requested from participants. Klebanoff. “I’ve been to Israel many times, coast and Tel Aviv to wind down. All along or celebrate adult Bar/Bat Mitzvahs atop at the university.” As the trip comes to a close, the group the way they’ll meet with some of Israel’s most Masada. Others may choose a walking but this is something I’ve never done.” The itinerary features various tracks for interesting and brilliant “up-and-comers,” as tour of the German Colony and Rehavia will meet Dahlia Rabin-Pelossof, daughter neighborhoods of Jerusalem. All will enjoy of the late-Yitzhak Rabin at the Yitzhak participants to ensure that first-timers get well as a few “tried and true greats!” staying at the brand new Waldorf Astoria Rabin Center—a truly unique experience. They will finish the trip at Independence hotel in Jerusalem. In the North, the group will stay in Hall, with the inspiring words of David the romantic guest cottages of the Ramot Ben-Gurion echoing in their ears (even resort. While there, they’ll meet with IDF over the sound of the plane’s engines) as representatives to get a clearer understand- he declares the establishment of a Jewish ing of the ongoing and emergent threats State in Eretz Israel, to be known as the facing Israel at its vulnerable borders. State of Israel. Cost of the mission is $5,500 per perThey’ll also have several chances to take in the natural beauty that hallmarks the son (from Norfolk). This is based on coach Galilee region of Israel – hiking and canoe- class seating and double occupancy in the ing through layers and layers of history hotels. Flight and hotel upgrades, as well as —stopping along the way for occasional single supplements, are available for additastings of regional chocolate and wine. tional fees. A “land-only” option is available Norfolk businessman Bill Goldback While in the North, the group will also see at $3,700 per person, for those wishing to valued good health and good music. Tidewater’s Federation campaign dollars at make their own flight arrangements. The Before he died in 2007, Bill arranged for a work, assisting elderly citizens at a JDC- mission fee covers all transportation and bequest to the Hampton Roads Community Foundation to provide grants for arts and medicine in Hampton Roads. run Senior Center; and welcoming Israel’s hotel accommodations, most meals, guides Goldback grants have helped expand Eastern Virginia Medical newest citizens at a JAFI absorption center. and admissions. Participants will be asked School and support 33 area music and arts As the group heads west toward the to make a minimum contribution of $1,200 groups. Thanks to Bill’s generosity he will forever Mediterranean Sea, they’ll see even more to the 2015 campaign of the UJFT. bring music and health to his home region. Applications and deposits now being of Tidewater’s campaign funds at work – Connect your passions to the future by assisting students at the magnificent ORT accepted. Space is limited to 40 spots. Deadline ordering a free bequest guide. Learn how easy campus in the coastal city of Kiryat Yam; for deposits is Monday, March 3, 2014. Are it is to leave a gift for charity. Call 757-622-7951 helping to bridge the gap for young IDF sol- you interested in participating? Do you know or visit leaveabequest.org. diers who’ve benefitted from the ATIDIM someone who might be? Is this YOUR summer program; and visiting with children and to go to Israel? Contact Missions Director Amy teens at the Neve Michael Youth Village. Zelenka at 965‑6139 or email azelenka@ujft. The group will explore the ancient ruins of org for more information or to save your spot Caesarea before heading on to Tel Aviv— on the tour bus. www.leaveabequest.org. (757) 622-7951 Israel’s “city that never sleeps!” by Amy Zelenka, UJFT missions director
M
WE’RE GOING TO ISRAEL THIS SUMMER!
Bill’s will said a lot about him. What does your will say about you?
•
6 | Jewish News | February 17, 2014 | jewishnewsva.org
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jewishnewsva.org | February 17, 2014 | Jewish News | 7
Simon Family JCC presents a series of Israel-oriented programs by Leslie Shroyer
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“Can you imagine a Jewish and Israeli food festival right here in Tidewater?” says Terri Sarfan, president of the Simon Family JCC. “It started with a vision for a bigger and improved Israel Fest, and it’s morphed into a series of fabulous programs involving the temples, sister agencies, and the Virginia Arts Festival!” The JCC is bringing several programs together in what has grown into the Celebrate Israel series. “The Tidewater Jewish community has a history of supporting and celebrating Israel year-round, but we are really looking to engage a greater and more diverse audience by packaging this together as a series and incorporating ethnic food into our Israel Fest program,” says Scott Katz, JCC Center director. Beginning with the Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s screening of Orchestra of Exiles on Tuesday, Feb. 25 —with the Holocaust Commission of the UJFT and the Simon Family JCC as partners—and continuing through Israel Fest, community members —from the youngest to the oldest, Jewish and non-Jewish, all will be enriched by Israeli arts, traditions and food. Orchestra of Exiles will show at the Sandler Family Campus. This fascinating documentary is about the origins of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, which was founded in 1936, at a time when many Jewish musicians were being fired from European orchestras. (see page 9) Orchestra of Exiles is a perfect precursor to a highly anticipated concert on Wednesday, April 2, when the acclaimed Israel Philharmonic Orchestra performs live at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts. This presentation in partnership with the Virginia Arts Festival is sure to be an unforgettable performance. Visit www.vafest.org for tickets. Thursday, May 1 marks the third Celebrate Israel event when Robert Satloff, executive director of The Washington Institute, speaks about Geopolitics as part of the Community Relations Council’s Israel Today series. Satloff is an expert on the Israeli-Palestinian peace process,
Celebrate Israel Orchestra of Exiles Tuesday, Feb. 25 Israel Philharmonic Wednesday, April 2 Israel Today Thursday, May 1 Israel Fest Sunday, May 18 SimonFamilyJcc.org/celebrateisrael
political Islam, and U.S. diplomacy in the Middle East. This event will be held at 7 pm at the Sandler Family Campus. On Sunday, May 18, the grand finale—the biggest Israel Fest yet at the JCC takes place. A broad range of dishes will be available at the festival for both immediate consumption and to take home from the many food kiosks. Area temples will have an opportunity to fundraise by preparing and serving authentic Israeli and Jewish dishes. The largest community party of the year at the JCC also brings Israeli arts, culture, crafts, rides and games for families and community members of all ages. “Join us in celebrating Israel with the JCC over the next few months; it’s going to be a wonderful lineup,” says Sarfan. Charles Barker Automotive is the lead sponsor of the Celebrate Israel series. Other sponsors to date include: Platinum sponsors CBN, ECPI University, LoanCare, and L.M. Sandler & Sons, Inc., and Gold sponsors Ann and Bobby Copeland and the Leon Families. A tremendous undertaking for the Simon Family JCC, there are opportunities to support Celebrate Israel as a donor or sponsor. For information, contact Evan Levitt, JCC development director at 321‑2337 or elevitt@simonfamilyjcc.org. Simon Family JCC is a constituent agency of United Jewish Federation of Tidewater.
Director to discuss film about Israel Philharmonic’s fascinating beginning: Orchestra of Exiles
Director Josh Aronson instructs Henk Reinicke as little Broni Huberman in Orchestra of Exiles, a film by Josh Aronson. A first Run Features release. Photo by Irina Trübbecke. by Laine Mednick Rutherford
I
n anticipation of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra’s performance at the Virginia Arts Festival on April 2, the Community Relations Council and the Holocaust Commission of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, with the Simon Family JCC, present the documentary Orchestra of Exiles next week.
Orchestra of Exiles documentary Tuesday, Feb. 25, 7 p.m. Discussion with director Josh Aronson follows screening Sandler Family Campus, Free and open to the community
The film reveals the integral role that Polish violinist Bronislaw Huberman played in saving the lives of some of Europe’s premiere Jewish musicians from death by the Nazis during World War II. Courageously, and with great risk, Huberman moved these musicians to Palestine and formed the symphony which today is known as one of the best in the world—the Israel Philharmonic. Orchestra of Exiles’ Academy Award nominated director, Josh Aronson, will attend the documentary’s screening. Following the movie, Aronson will answer audience questions, and discuss Huberman’s impact on the world. “We’ll share an hour of questions and answers on a wide range of subjects. This film really provokes a lot of interesting talk, and there are a lot of things in the film that people have never heard of,” says Aronson. “For those planning to see the symphony perform live, I think they’ll come to it with a warm feeling about what this orchestra is and where it came from—what its DNA was. I think seeing this film will definitely enhance their experience.” Aronson found out about the former child prodigy, whom he calls a hero, through a casual conversation. “A friend of mine—fellow pianist, Dorit
Straus--told me the story of Huberman from the perspective of her father, who is one of the characters in this film and was one of Huberman’s students. Not right away, but eventually, I checked the story out on the internet. It was extraordinary, and I found it unbelievable that no one had ever written a book about Huberman or the founding of the symphony—which is such a great story.” Aronson spent about three years researching, interviewing, traveling, filming and putting the pieces in place for this compelling documentary. He discovered that Huberman—a celebrity who freely traveled throughout Europe—gave up his craft for two years, at the height of his career, in order to study sociology. This education, Aronson says, enabled Huberman to assess correctly the political situation in Europe in the 1930s. The violinist convinced musicians who had been fired from their orchestras under an SS edict that the national socialists had dire intentions for the Jews. Huberman’s celebrity, Aronson says, plus the force of his will, convinced these stellar Jewish musicians to move to Palestine, their families in tow. “Here’s a man who not only brought the culture of central Europe to Palestine, but people are acknowledging that this orchestra was the seed of the culture that grew to what we have in Israel today.” Fascinating to Aronson, were the images and archival footage of the cultured Europeans, in their dark suits and hats, walking through the hot, desert landscape that was Tel Aviv in the 1930s, sharing the streets with camels. “To see Israel in those days, and to see what Palestine looked like, it was astonishing. I think it gives a real sense of what Zionism was about, the passion for it and the way that people felt in those days of Israel (or the future Israel), that they went there and formed this incredible orchestra. I think it’s a dose of what the dream was.” Huberman’s place in Holocaust education, in cultural history, and in Israel’s growth as a flourishing, artistic country
and Jewish homeland, should be remembered and celebrated, Aronson believes. “Huberman was a man who was almost completely unknown. Only musicians had heard of him, and Jewish scholars had heard of him, but in the general zeitgeist, he was an unknown person,” says Aronson. “It must be remembered that Huberman also saved 1,000 Jews. Schindler saved 1,000 Jews. I mean how could we have forgotten a man who saved 1,000 Jews? And, it was a Jew saving Jews. A very special breed. “He publicly spoke out about the Nazi’s bias and anti-Semitism. I think he’s a message for the next generation—a very good example for standing up against intolerance and having the courage to be vocal.” In addition to rarely seen archival footage, original recordings, and reenactments, the film includes interviews with Itzhak Perlman, Zubin Mehta, Pinchas Zukerman, Joshua Bell and others. Violinist Bell is linked to Huberman in several unexpected ways, and to this film screening as well. Bell, too, performs in the 2014 Virginia Arts Festival, May 2–4.
Bronislaw Huberman, as in Orchestra of Exiles, a Josh Aronson film. A first Run Features release. Photo courtesy of the Felicja Blumental Music Center Library/ Huberman Archive.
RSVP requested for Orchestra of Exiles: email lhenderson@ujft.org, or call 757‑965‑6107. For more information about this event, visit JewishVa.org/CRC. For more information about the Virginia Arts Festival, visit www.vafest.org. The Israel Philharmonic Orchestra is a co-presentation of the Arts Festival and the Simon Family JCC; find out more and purchase tickets for the April 2 performance at www.simonfamilyjcc.org.
jewishnewsva.org | February 17, 2014 | Jewish News | 9
First Person
Date With the State 2014 from the Sandler Family Campus and made our way to the House of Delegates ewish Family Service funding. Medicaid in Richmond. Along the way, we particiexpansion. Israeli business opportuni- pated in briefings from state officials and ties. Prayer in schools. These are just local subject matter experts. We divided some of the issues that the Virginia into small groups and engaged in lively State legislature is examining during its discussions with various Hampton Roads’ current session, many of which are near and representatives in the House of Delegates dear to the Jewish people of Tidewater. As and Senate. The hottest issue we discussed was such, I was grateful and excited on Feb. 5 to be part of Tidewater’s annual Community Medicaid expansion. Both Republican and Relations Council delegation to the state- Democratic representatives made their cases as to why Virginia should embrace or wide Jewish Advocacy Day in Richmond. With a newly elected Governor kicking deny the program. The candor and passion off his agenda, this year’s visit with local of many Delegates and Senators about this Senators and Delegates was particularly issue was palpable. It struck me that no charged. We left bright and early via bus matter where you fall politically, it was great to see first-hand Virginians’ commitment to democracy and debate. Another issue we addressed involved funding for our local Jewish Family Service Personal Affairs Management Program, which provides guardianship, con ser vatorship and other services Rabbi Sender Haber, Rabbi Jeffrey Arnowitz, Rabbi Roz Mandelberg, to incapacitated
adults. Local JFS experts spoke with our representatives to secure their commitment to reinstate funding for this important program. It was comforting to hear directly that many of the Delegates and Senators pledged their support to vote in favor of the increased funding measure. The issue of prayer in school is always a hot-button topic. Notably, our delegation had four local rabbis this year. It was particularly moving to see our spiritual leaders not only “talk the talk” but literally “walk the walk” with us and help to educate state representatives on issues of importance to our Jewish community. Our rabbis spoke eloquently about how they are persons of faith, but at the same time recognize the constitutional right to have our public schools free from unnecessary laws that blur the separation of church and state. We also discussed the need for increased funding for the Virginia Israel Advisory Board, which was well-received by many Delegates and Senators. What did I take away from this whirlwind day of policy talk? I felt instantly close with my fellow
lobbying team as we worked together to figure out how to best communicate our messages. Even though we were together just one day, it is always an honor to meet new people who are committed to improving the lives of others. I also loved learning about the process of how bills become law in the Commonwealth. I got to hear a bit of a committee hearing where testimony was given regarding some controversial bills. It was the live civics lesson that I never appreciated in High School! I also felt pride in being Jewish, as 180 persons from across Virginia took the day off of work to unite to speak their minds about making Virginia a more tolerant, healthy and prosperous place—not just for Jews but for everyone. I am already looking forward to next year. Robin Mancoll, Community Relations Council director, Megan Zuckerman, CRC chair, and Jeff Brooke and Jeff Cooper, CRC’s Legislative Action co-chairs, made the trip seamless, fun and informative. To learn more about the Community Relations Council and their initiatives, visit www.JewishVA.org/CRC.
Lawrence Steingold, Robin Mancoll, Senator Louise Lucas, Rabbi Roz Mandelberg and Dorothy Salomonsky.
Bill Nusbaum and Lt. Governor Ralph Northam.
Susan Clark, legislative assistant for Del Chris Jones and Andie Eichelbaum.
by Brad Lerner
J
and Rabbi Israel Zoberman.
10 | Jewish News | February 17, 2014 | jewishnewsva.org
I felt instantly close with my fellow lobbying team as we worked together to figure out how to best communicate our messages.
Lawrence Steingold and Diane Caronne.
Governor Terry McAuliffe energetically addresses the crowd.
Almost 40 Tidewater Citizen Lobbyists.
WE’RE GOING TO ISRAEL THIS SUMMER! Join mission chairs Jodi Klebanoff and Bonnie & David Brand, as well as dozens of fellow Tidewater community members for a unique, unforgettable, multisensory experience this summer! But space is limited!
Want To Come?
Depart Norfolk: Wednesday, June 18 Arrive in Israel: Thursday, June 19 Return to Norfolk: Saturday, June 28 • Enjoy
a festive and meaningful Shabbat in Jerusalem • Study with world-renown scholars • Climb Masada • Explore the Old City of Jerusalem above ground and below • Dig at an archeological site visit to the City of David • High-level briefings with government officials and IDF representatives • Visit Tidewater-funded projects
Tour the mystical city of Safed • Enjoy special wine and chocolate workshops in the Golan • Walk through history at the ruins in Caesarea • Meet some of Israel‘s newest Olim at a JAFI absorption center • Marvel at ORT‘s new Science Center in Kiryat Yam • Check in on friends at the Neve Michael Youth Village .....and more! •
$5,500* per person (based on coach class seating and double hotel occupancy) Land only options are available (where participants provide own air travel). Flight and room upgrades, as well as extensions available. Priced based on requests. Three nights at the Waldorf Astoria in Jerusalem Three nights at the Ramot Resort in the Galilee Two nights at the Carlton hotel in Tel Aviv Mission price also includes tour buses, admissions, guides, most meals, bottled water, and hostess services at hotels. Does not include tips. *In addition to the mission fee, a minimum gift of $1,200 per person to the 2015 Annual Campaign of the UJFT is requested from participants.
The trip is filling fast. Many first-timers are choosing to make this summer their summer to visit Israel!
Interested? Want to learn more? Applications and deposits now being accepted. Call or email Amy Zelenka, UJFT Missions Director at 965-6139 or azelenka@ujft.org.
jewishnewsva.org | February 17, 2014 | Jewish News | 11
Super Sunday 2014
Volunteers and donors make Super Sunday super successful
A
n outpouring of community support made the 2014 Super Sunday phone-a-thon one of the most successful in recent years. The annual event, held at the Sandler Family Campus on Sunday, Jan. 26, raised more than $100,000 from more than 320 donors, many of whom were making gifts to the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater for the first time. Amy Weinstein, director of the Young Adult Division of the UJFT, says the nine young adult leaders who comprised this year’s Super Sunday Steering Committee deserve credit for coming up with a creative theme, “From Baby to Bubbe, Our Community is Extraordinary,” that resonated with the community, and for ensuring the phone-a-thon ran smoothly. Additionally, Super Sunday 2014 marketing efforts included a very successful social media campaign that featured photos of Tidewater community members in a traveling photo frame. The Super Sunday Steering Committee wanted to show the world what “Community” really looks like; the campaign touched more than 15,000 unique Facebook users. Weinstein also emphasizes the important role played by the 95 community volunteers who made phone calls or otherwise helped. In this still lackluster economy, Weinstein says, it is notable that so many gave their time to reach out to their fellow Jewish community members, and that the community—in turn—opened their hearts and made gifts to the UJFT’s Annual Campaign. The success of Super Sunday is much more than just the dollars raised for the Annual Campaign. Super Sunday touched more than 400 people this year—volunteers and donors. The outpouring of support, from donors and volunteers, perfectly illustrates the Super Sunday theme: Our Community is Extraordinary. “I think a big thank you is in order to all of the volunteers—and the donors. Super Sunday wouldn’t have been so successful without each of them,” Weinstein adds.
Part of the Super Sunday Steering Committee—Jason Lurie, Guy Berkowitz, Jacob Mart, Amy Weinstein (YAD director), Jennifer Groves, and Shikma Rubin.
Jason Lurie and Ross Kantor.
During the event, volunteers were fortified by the responses they were getting on the phone, as well as through the delivery of kosher pizzas, generously donated by Pepe’s N.Y. Pizzeria, located in Norfolk’s Ghent neighborhood. You can still make a gift to Super Sunday; email your pledge to pmalone@ujft.org, visit www.jewishva.org/supersunday and make your gift online, or mail a donation to UJFT, 5000 Corporate Woods Dr., Suite 200, Virginia Beach, VA 23462. You can find the UJFT “This is What Community Looks Like” photos when you Like the UJFT on Facebook. Lynn Sher Cohen and Hugh Cohen.
Burle Stromberg, Deb Segaloff and Rabbi Mordechai Wecker.
12 | Jewish News | February 17, 2014 | jewishnewsva.org
Naftali Schwartz.
Jennifer Groves, Super Sunday chair.
Super Sunday 2014
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jewishnewsva.org | February 17, 2014 | Jewish News | 13
it’s a wrap First person
Grandparents and special friends capture hearts at HAT and the Strelitz preschool by Megan Zuckerman, HAT parent
Remember the excitement of spending special time with grandparents? I still remember the excitement I felt as a very little girl spending the night at my grandparents’ condo at the beach or flying to Buffalo to visit my mom’s parents. And I have to say that today—as a mother all these years later—there may be nothing sweeter than watching the Jonah Zuckerman with his Nana and Pop-Pop, Leslie and Larry interactions between a grandparent Siegel, and Zohar Ben Moshe, HAT Judaic studies teacher. and grandchild. This feeling of love for family is what makes Grandparents memory making. Students enjoy showing off their projand Special Friends Day so memorable at Hebrew Academy and the Strelitz pre- ects and artwork created in anticipation of the big day and, as one would expect, the school. Every year, grandparents and special grandparents’ reactions are always overfamily friends are invited to school the whelming. No doubt, Picasso has nothing day before winter break to spend time on each grandchild’s masterpiece! The love in the classroom with their grandchil- they show is truly palpable and I certainly dren. Students perform songs for their can’t do justice describing it here. I am grateful my children got to share loved ones in the multipurpose room and then head to their classrooms for more this special day with both sets of their fun. Together they engage in entertaining grandparents for their continuous support activities, quality time and some serious of our beloved school.
Congregation Beth El women cook up good times by Ashley Zittrain
Twenty congregation Beth El women got together to share an evening of fun while cooking up some fresh and kosher dairy meals on Jan. 16. The second Let’s Dish event at Beth El started off with the ladies preparing a roasted summer squash lasagna, from the Joy of Kosher, by Jamie Geller, with their own twists on the recipe. After Leah Flax, Elyse Cardon, Megan Zuckerman, layering on the laughter and lasagna and Lauren Barkan. noodles, they moved on to preparing a while others sautéed onions, garlic, and spinach, leek and mushroom quiche with carrots for the butternut squash soup. Once the socializing set in, the women sundried tomatoes. Kristy Foleck says she and Adam had decided that the ingredients and recipe for the quiche on a snowed-in day and “it was the chunky vegetarian chili would be taken home to prepare. delicious.” Everyone enjoyed the evening and had While enjoying some wine and a little something to nosh on, some of the ladies the opportunity to laugh and bond, all scooped out roasted butternut squash, while cooking up some great kosher meals.
14 | Jewish News | February 17, 2014 | jewishnewsva.org
READY TO DE-WINTERIZE?
it’s a wrap Congregation Beth El celebrates Youth Shabbat! Beth El kids were ‘front and center’ for parshat Yitro on Saturday, Jan. 18. They noted the mid-point of the school year with active, eager, and well-rehearsed participation in the Main Sanctuary service for Shabbat morning. From the start of services at 9:30 am, fourth-grader Jonah Abrams led the congregation in birchot ha-shachar. Elijah Arnowitz, assisted by his younger brother Gabriel, led the kahal in the Sh’ma. Maiya Foleck took charge of the Torah service, Hannah Yarow read an aliyah and fifth-grade Yael Schranz chanted the maftir. A number of post-B’nai Mitzvah students were given aliyot and sixth grader Rachael Stromberg led the Ashrei. BERS music teacher Ilene Putterman directed the kindergarten through seventh grade in a musical program and the sixth grade class put on a Sedra Scenes skit for parshat Yitro. The students also led a rousing new melody for Ein Keiloheinu, which had the congregation clapping along. The seventh graders finished the service by leading Adon Olam. Kiddush lunch followed the service and featured kid-friendly favorites including Temple Tuna, PB&J, cookies and ice cream.
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HAT kindergarteners celebrate becoming readers by Carin Simon, admissions director
L
ast month, Hebrew Academy of Tidewater’s kindergarten classes held a ceremony to recognize students for becoming official readers. During the celebration, which took place on Thursday, Jan. 9, each child was called to the stage and presented with a book of Hebrew letters and a certificate honoring his or her hard work and achievement. Family and friends joined in the excitement with booming applause and then met their young scholars at a reception following the event. From the start of the academic year, HAT kindergarten teacher Katie Horvath worked with students on their reading skills, reinforcing what they had already learned in the Strelitz preschool. “The first part of the kindergarten curriculum involves perfecting reading skills with letter/sound recognition and comprehension,” says Horvath. “As sounds are mastered, students begin reading books. During class lessons, once a student is
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able to read the first two pages in his or her book, I announce to the entire class that “(THIS S TU D E N T ) is a reader! As Kindergartener Ava Leibovici expected, the chooses a book to donate to CHKD. significant milestone is met with moon-sized smiles and cheers from everyone when they hear those all important words.” Prior to January’s celebration, students discussed the purposes of reading and how it can help them do gemilut chasadim (acts of kindness). To reinforce that idea during the ceremony, each child brought a book from home to donate to a children’s charity. “One of their classmates has been under treatment at Children’s Hospital,” says Horvath, “so students decided to donate all the books to CHKD in the child’s honor—a meaningful and relevant choice for them. I am so proud of their educational achievements as well as their spiritual growth.”
Hebrew Academy welcomes author David M. Schwartz by Lorna Legum, HAT librarian and media specialist
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ebrew Academy students were recently treated to a mind blowing experience from David M. Schwartz, author of How Much is a Million, and 50 other children’s books. Schwartz’s exceptional spiritedness taught students to visualize numbers in extraordinary ways, such as these nuggets of information: it takes 23 days to count to 1,000,000; counting to one billion would take 95 years, and counting to one trillion would take almost 200,000 years. Through visuals and role-play, Schwartz’s antics made numbers and animals come alive, leaving everyone laughing, clapping and reeling with a new understanding of the world.
David Schwartz, author of How Much is a Million, uses silly antics to teach HAT students about numbers in a very high spirited way.
Libbie and Albert Kaplan established a memorial fund in honor of their daughter, Janis Lynn Kaplan, which allows Hebrew Academy of Tidewater to provide dynamic learning opportunities through visiting authors every year.
Hebrew Academy of Tidewater is a constituent agency of United Jewish Federation of Tidewater.
16 | Jewish News | February 17, 2014 | jewishnewsva.org
it’s a wrap Neither ice nor snow could stop Gil Troy from speaking about Zionism
Professor Gil Troy by Laine Mednick Rutherford
V
irginia Beach was the fourth stop on Gil Troy’s six city speaking tour. The McGill University History professor, prolific author and Zionist activist arrived Tuesday morning, January 28, preparing for an appearance the next evening in the Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Israel Today Forum. “On this tour, I’m visiting cities like Montreal, Boston, New York,” Troy said. “I thought I might get some ‘weather’ there, as we call it, but I didn’t expect it to happen right here in Virginia Beach!” The Israel Today Forum, scheduled to take place at the Sandler Family Campus, was cancelled due to a snowstorm that dumped about 10 inches of snow in some area neighborhoods on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning. Also cancelled were Troy’s visits to area high schools, universities, television stations and community meetings, where Israel was to be the topic of discussion. Quick thinking on the part of Robin Mancoll, CRC director, led to a hastily organized telephone call-in session with Troy on Wednesday night, at the same the time he would have appeared in the Forum. A video version of Troy delivering his presentation was also created, and can be viewed by going to <http://www.JewishVa.
org/CRC, or arranged by emailing lhenderson@ujft.org. “We were very concerned for the safety and well-being of all of the people who told us they were planning to attend, and we knew it was unsafe to drive,” says Mancoll. “But Gil was in town and we knew people were still interested in hearing him speak, even if they couldn’t see him in person. So we got the word out as best we could and had a nice size crowd of community members join us for the hour-long phone conversation, and we taped him so that people could learn, and enjoy, and share, his great—and motivating—presentation.” During the call-in, Troy gave an abbreviated version of the longer discussion he had planned, which left time for questions and answers from the “audience.” Troy talked about the challenges pro-Israeli Americans face, and proposed ways of moving forward; to not feeling so overwhelmed when the word Zionism shows up on televisions, phones, and computer screens. “We look at Israel through a distorted prism,” Troy says. “We see the bad news rather than the good news. We see Israel as a potential headache for the Jewish people.” Troy says that often, Americans talk about Israel as a troubled democracy. Yes, he says, Israel has a problem of immigrants trying to get in from Africa. Israel has a problem of democratic gridlock and a dysfunctional government. “But don’t we have these problems in America, too?” Troy asks. “Isn’t the United States struggling with illegal immigrants in Arizona and New Mexico…Isn’t the United States struggling with how to make democracy functional? Didn’t the United States government shut down recently?”
Yet no one, Troy says, suggests that the United States shouldn’t exist, or that it is racist, as has been the claim against Israel for decades. Israel isn’t perfect, and that should be honestly noted, but it should also be noted that other democracies have their problems as well. Strengthening perceptions and support for Israel can come from a redefining and reframing of Zionism, according to Troy. Zionism began as a movement to form a Jewish homeland. That has been accomplished, and now, he suggests, Zionism should be a movement to perfect Israel. To learn more about the CRC, its initiatives, and upcoming Israel Today programs, visit JewishVa.org/IsraelToday. The link to the Gil Troy, Zionism in Israel Today video can also be found on that site. For additional assistance, email lhenderson@ujft.org, or call 965-6107.
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jewishnewsva.org | February 17, 2014 | Jewish News | 17
Community weekend promises Inspiration through collaboration March 20–23
by Laine Mednick Rutherford
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four-day event scheduled for March 20–23 is already inspiring people “through community collaboration,” part of the weekend’s descriptive title. Tidewater Together is a cooperative gathering, planned and organized by dozens of diverse, and very excited representatives from all Jewish practices, affiliations, and areas of Hampton Roads. The United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, the Synagogue-Federation Partnership of the Tidewater Jewish Community, and the Milton “Mickey” Kramer Scholar-in-Residence Fund have worked for months to plan this special occasion that encompasses a variety of topics at six different locations. The program is designed to appeal to all members of the Jewish community regardless of age, gender or degree of observance.
Their planning has gone well, particularly with the selection—approved by all—of the weekend’s scholar-in-residence, Rabbi Bradley Shavit Artson. Artson holds the Abner and Roslyn Goldstine Dean’s Chair of the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies and is vice president of American Jewish University in Los Angeles. A regular columnist for The Huffington Post and The Times of Israel, he is the author of more than 250 articles and 10 books, most recently God of Becoming & Relationship: The Dynamic Nature of Process Theology. Some area educators and synagogue leaders have worked with Artson before, or frequently use his books as resources for teaching. They say they genuinely like him, and admire his teaching methods. “I met Rabbi Artson at a conference about 18 years ago, where I was incredibly impressed with his presentations—both
Marriage Ending?
his delivery and the information contained within,” says Alene Kaufman, Strelitz Early Childhood director. “Since then, sometimes I feel like a groupie! I own at least four of his books, including his “Torah” books (The Bedside Torah and The Everyday Torah), which are beautifully written, easy to read, meaningful and inspirational publications. “There is a human and caring side to everything he does,” says Kaufman. “It’s about Judaism and people. We will learn and we will feel. We will be invigorated and reJEWvenated. We will be engaged with our community.” Miriam Brunn Ruberg, Simon Family JCC Jewish Life and Learning director, also is eagerly awaiting the opportunity to learn with Artson again. “He was one of the presenters at a conference I went to years ago. I did not yet know him, but I thought I’d give him a try. They did not give him a big enough room, and there were people “hanging” outside— spilling out of the room, just to hear him. And he was fabulous. Captivating, with a great sense of humor. “He deals with subjects that are not always easy to talk about—God, theology—but he’s someone you hang on every word. You don’t want to miss what he has
to say,” says Ruberg. “I’m thrilled that he’s coming. I’m going to try to go to as many of his sessions as I can,” she adds.” I recommend people try to attend at least one. I think it’s definitely something you want to experience.” Tidewater Together begins on Thursday, March 20 at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception and discussion at the Sandler Family Campus. Rabbi Artson will speak that night on: “Sailing up the Nile to Learn Life’s Lessons.” The weekend’s other venues include Beth Sholom Village, Ohef Sholom Temple, Congregation Beth El (with Temple Emanuel), Congregation Beth Chaverim and concludes on Sunday at Temple Israel (with Kempsville Conservative Synagogue). All events are free and open to the community, with the exception of Friday night dinner before the discussion—at Ohef Sholom. The cost for 12 years and older is $10, or $14 for a Kosher dinner— upon request; under 12 diners are free. RSVP is required. For more information, to get a full and detailed list of the events, and to RSVP and pay for dinner, visit TidewaterTogether.org, call 965-6136, or email apomerantz@ujft.org.
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www.covacollaborativepractice.com 18 | Jewish News | February 17, 2014 | jewishnewsva.org
A little snow in Ghent, eight inches to be exact, did not stop the students at Yeshivas Aish Kodesh from attending school on Wednesday, Jan 29. These boys were probably the only students in the entire South Hampton Roads area who went to school during the Aron Korobkin, Nechenya Fischer and Shmuel Schwartz, 10th grade students at massive snowstorm. Yeshivas Aish Kodesh, walking home after a full day of learning. Bill Tiernan/The Virginian-Pilot. After school, the boys proceeded to the football field for a friendly game of tackle football in the snow.
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Taglit-Birthright Israel expands eligibility for its 10-day program
aglit-Birthright Israel is expanding its program eligibility to include those young adults who had previously visited Israel as part of a peer trip when they were younger. The organization says the reason for the change in policy was based on an educational assessment that those who may have visited as a teenager would gain a significantly greater understanding and attachment to Israel through the Taglit-Birthright experience as a young adult. Beginning with the Summer 2014 registration that opens on Feb. 19, applicants between the ages of 18 and 26 who had made a prior visit to Israel on an organized peer trip before they reached the age of 18 years old may now apply. The organization estimates that the expansion will allow thousands more to benefit from the TaglitBirthright Israel’s program. “I am delighted that the Taglit-Birthright Israel steering committee supports the decision that every young Jew is entitled to an educational tour of Israel,” says TaglitBirthright Israel CEO Gidi Mark. “I believe that the decision will strengthen the ties between Israel and the Diaspora and will provide tens of thousands of young Jews the knowledge needed in their efforts to present a positive image of Israel to the world.” Taglit-Birthright Israel offers the gift of a free, 10-day trip to Israel for Jewish adults
between the ages of 18 to 26. The trip aims to strengthen each participant’s identity as a Jew; to build an understanding, friendship and lasting bond with the land and people of Israel; and to reinforce the solidarity of the Jewish people worldwide. Taglit-Birthright Israel has sent more than 350,000 young Jewish adults to Israel from more than 64 countries and from all 50 U.S. states, including students from nearly 1,000 North American college campuses. Attendees are immersed in an active educational experience that includes visits to Jewish historical sites, history museums, Holocaust remembrance sites, the Western Wall, arts and culture programs, as well as touring, hiking, discussions, social events, camel and jeep rides in the desert, and more. The trip focuses on three main areas: the narratives of the Jewish people, contemporary Israel, and the formative values of Judaism. Taglit-Birthright Israel has a unique, historical and innovative partnership with the government of Israel, thousands of individual donors and private philanthropists, and Jewish communities around the world through Jewish Federations of North America, Keren Hayesod and the Jewish Agency of Israel. To register, visit www.BirthrightIsrael.com. Taglit-Birthright Israel is supported by United Jewish Federation of Tidewater.
New members add to Temple Israel’s exciting diversity Temple Israel is growing. At a recent New Member Shabbat, Temple Israel welcomed several new faces. The synagogue has added 24 family units, approximately 50 people since High Holidays 2012, and many attended the Shabbat service. Organized by Pearl Taylor, it included a deluxe Kiddush luncheon prepared by Ruth Ann Moscovitz and synagogue staff, as well as carnations for the new Temple Israelites. Among these new members are Beth and Nathan Brauner and their two children, Jacob, 9, and Carly, 6. The Brauners live in Yorktown and Nathan is stationed at Langley Air Force Base. “Temple Israel’s warm and inviting atmosphere, along with the dynamic membership and Rabbi
Panitz, were deciding factors for us to cross the water,” Beth says. “We have thoroughly enjoyed meeting so many wonderful people and taking part in a variety of functions. My father, Joel Novak, grew up in Norfolk, so that adds to the feeling that we have found a wonderful synagogue home here.” “Our surge in new members would not have happened without the hard work and dedication of our membership chairwoman, Marilyn Suskind-Pearline, and the membership committee,” says Phil Walzer, Temple Israel president. “Our new members further increase the diversity and strength of Temple Israel, and I welcome their participation and involvement.”
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For membership information, call Gail at 757-461-1150 or Brith.Sholom1@gmail.com jewishnewsva.org | February 17, 2014 | Jewish News | 19
What’s Happening Israeli Soldiers’ Stories tour to visit Tidewater for teens
Maimonides Society social features the sounds of Pavel Ilyashov
Thursday, Feb. 20, 6:30 pm Bite Restaurant, 440 Monticello Ave., Norfolk by Elli Friedman, Stand With Us Fellow
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hile most 18-year-old Americans excitedly plan to experience four years of college, Israeli teens don’t have that option. Instead of going straight to college after high school, Israelis go into the army. Being in the army at such a young age brings serious responsibilities and various opportunities. Not surprisingly, these soldiers are remarkable people with amazing stories. Two Israeli soldiers, Shay and Hen, will speak in Tidewater as part of the StandWithUs Israeli Soldiers’ Stories tour. These two young soldiers have very different and engaging stories. Born in Haifa, Shay is the younger of two sons. He excelled in school and was chosen by the Israeli Ministry of Education as one of the top 50 students in Israel. As a teenager, he played basketball for the Hapoel Haifa Team. In 2003, he entered the IDF and served in the Artillery Corps, first as an enlisted combat soldier, and was later selected for the Officers Training Course. Shay served as a Platoon Commander and as Deputy Commander of Battery. After four years, he was released from duty, and began his service as a Battery Commander with the rank of Captain. After the army, Shay completed his degrees in Industrial Engineering and Economics at the Technion, and participated in the most recent year of the StandWithUs Israel Fellowship. Now, he is a product manger and systems engineer for Elbit Systems, working all over the world. Hen is an Israeli of Tunisian and Iraqi descent. He served as a soldier in the IDF
for almost five years. As a lieutenant in a unit called COGAT (Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories), he worked as an intermediary between the Israeli Defense Forces (the Shay. IDF) and the Palestinian Authority (the PA), the UN, and the many non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that work in the West Bank. Besides being able to talk about growing up Hen. in Israel and about its culture, Hen has an excellent first-hand understanding of the nuances of the IsraeliPalestinian conflict and the peace process. The Israeli Soldiers’ Stories Tour features a diverse group of reserve duty Israeli college students. Their mission is to educate, inform, and delve into conversation about the Israeli-Arab conflict by putting a human face to the IDF uniform. Specifically for teens, this event takes place at Bite Restaurant. A dinner of kosher pizza and more is planned. This program is presented by StandWithUs, the Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, BBYO, Jewish Teen Leadership of the Simon Family JCC, NFTY, and USY. For more information and to RSVP to this free and open to the teen community event, visit www.JewishVa.org/SoldiersStories or email LHenderson@ujft.org.
Gala Matinee Art Auction at KBH Sunday, March 9, 2 pm (preview) 3 pm (auction) The Kempsville Conservative Synagogue will host its 14th Gala Matinee Art Auction Fundraiser with Rick Brandwein returning as ‘auctioneer extraordinaire,’ bringing his vast knowledge of the artworks and his entertaining wit to make the event a fun time. A Silent Auction filled with some interesting and exiting items is also planned. As always, complimentary wine and refresh-
ments will be offered, as well as babysitting for families who bring their children. Door prizes and a raffle of artwork donated by Marlinart will add to the excitement. To place a personal or business ad in the art journal, contact KBH at 757-287-3887. The temple is located at 952 Indian Lakes Blvd. in Virginia Beach.
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Tuesday, Feb. 25, 5:30 pm
he Maimonides Society of United Jewish Federation of Tidewater hosts an evening of music by Pavel Ilyashov, a Virginia Symphony violinist. Ilyashov will play pieces written by Bronislaw Huberman, the celebrated Polish violinist who rescued some of the world’s greatest musicians from Nazi Germany and then created one of the world’s greatest orchestras, the Palestine Symphony Orchestra, which is today known as the Israeli Philharmonic. Ilyashov has been applauded by audiences throughout Europe, Asia, and the Americas for his performances as a soloist and a chamber musician. A graduate of Philadelphia’s renowned Curtis Institute of Music, he has performed chamber music with Yo Yo Ma, Jaime Laredo, Paquito
D’Rivera, and members of the Guarneri, Orion and Pavel Ilyashov Emerson String Quartets. A full time member of the Virginia Symphony, Ilyashov is a substitute violinist with the Philadelphia and Chicago Symphony Orchestras. The Maimonides Society is comprised of Jewish healthcare professionals dedicated to educational, social, and philanthropic activities that focus on the betterment of Jews in need locally in Tidewater, in Israel and around the world. The event for Tidewater’s healthcare community, includes Hor d’oeuvres and drinks and takes place at the Sandler Family Campus. Contact Risa Levitt for additional details or to RSVP by Feb. 21: rlevitt@ujft. org or 757965-6124.
Is this your mother’s Mah Jongg?
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Monday, August 18
he answer is probably “Yes.” The game, as played by American Jewish women, has changed very little in more than 50 years. It was all the rage in the roaring 20s, but its popularity waned by the 30s. In 1937, thinking that this was at least partially due to widely varying and terribly complex table rules, four lovers of the game placed an add in the New York Times inviting Mah Jongg enthusiasts to a meeting at The Essex House in New York City. Two hundred women attended. It is interesting to note that they were all Jewish. The National Mah Jongg League was established to standardize rules and to publish a list of hands on a card that would change from year to year. All who play,
know it as “the Card.” This year, the Annual Janet Gordon Mah Jongg Tournament at Beth Sholom Village will have a new look, which will actually be the old look. Chairwomen Charlene Cohen and Ellen Mesh are asking for pictures of “you or your mother’s, or your mother’s mothers’” Mah Jongg groups playing; vintage Mah Jongg cards or sets to help take the trip back in time. Contact Mesh at 757-490-1289; Cohen at 757-676-6902 or Claire Roth at 757‑961‑3024 at the Village to loan any Mah Jongg memorabilia. The women promise to take good care of these treasured possessions and if possible, make copies and immediately return the originals.
Find treasures at Ohef Sholom’s Rummage Sale Sunday, March 9, 8:30 am–2 pm Furniture, toys, household items, books, CDs, DVDs, jewelry, children’s clothing, and more will be available at Ohef Sholom Temple Sisterhood’s Rummage Sale. Make sure to stop by to rummage through all the great items and find some treasures at bargain prices. Donations for the Rummage Sale are
also welcome and appreciated. Donations must be in good, clean condition; adult clothing, hats, and shoes will not be accepted. Bring donations to Ohef Sholom Temple starting Feb. 23. For more information, contact Sheryl Makela at sherylmakela@ yahoo.com or 471-1838 or Marsha Moody at vamoody1@verizon.net or 495-6573.
what’s happening
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CRC holds Israel poster contest
Business and Legal Society hosts a two-part lunch series on National Security
Deadline for submission: Friday, Feb. 28
Part 1, “Zion’s Dilemmas: How Israel Makes National Security Policy” Chuck Freilich, former Israeli Deputy National Security Adviser Thursday, Feb. 25, 12 pm, Law Offices of Vandeventer Black Llp
he second annual Israel Poster Contest for first through 12th graders is now accepting entrees. The Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater sponsors the contest. Students and teachers can find a list of cool facts about Israel at www.jewishva.org/ IsraelPosterContest. Each student should choose one fact from the list to serve as the poster’s theme. Posters are to be submitted on an 8.5 by 11 inch sheet of paper and be hand drawn (not computer generated) using only pencil, crayon, marker or—new this year—2-D collage. Names should not be visible on the front of the poster, but must be included along with age, grade, school, email address and phone number. All posters will be displayed in the Simon Family JCC Cardo March 18 through April 1. The community will be asked to vote in person for their favorite. Finalists will then be posted online and the community will be asked to vote electronically during April for their favorite. During viewing and voting, the artists’ names will be hidden. The winning poster will be announced on Yom Ha’Atzmaut, May 6 and will be professionally framed and hang permanently at the Sandler Family Campus. Attendees of the community Israel Festival on Sunday, May 18 will receive a copy of the winning poster. Submissions must be received by 4:30 pm on Friday, Feb. 28 and may be delivered to the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater 5000 Corporate Woods Drive in Virginia Beach. For more information, visit www. Jewishva.org/IsraelPosterContest or contact rmancoll@ujft.org.
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Senior Fellow at the Belfer Center at Harvard’s Kennedy School, Chuck Freilich’s primary areas of expertise are the Middle East, Chuck Freilich U.S.-Middle East policy and Israeli national security policy. He is author of Zion’s Dilemmas: How Israel Makes National Security Policy, a powerful new book that explores Israel’s national security decision making processes. Freilich has appeared as a commentator for ABC, CNN, NPR, El Jezira and various
U.S. and Israeli radio and TV stations. He has been quoted in the New York Times and published numerous articles and op-eds. Freilich has served as a senior analyst at the Israel Ministry of Defense, as a policy adviser to a cabinet minister, as a delegate at the Israeli Mission to the U.N. and as the executive director of two non-profits. He served in the Israel Defense Forces for five years and is a reserve major. Feilich currently teaches political science at Harvard, NYU, Columbia and Tel Aviv Universities. Presented in partnership with the Tidewater Jewish Foundation.
Part 2, “U.S. National Security: Issues, Concerns & Current Events” Steven L. Pomerantz, director for Counter Terrorism Programs Monday, March 10, 6 pm, Sandler Family Campus
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criminal justice information. In January of teven Pomerantz 2005 he joined JINSA as director of Counter retired from the FBI Terrorism Programs. in June 1995 after a Pomerantz is the architect of the JINSA career spanning 27 years. Law Enforcement Exchange Program (LEEP) At the FBI, he rose from a which brings high ranking American Law field investigative Special Steven Pomerantz Enforcement Executives to Israel to study Agent to the rank of assistant director, the third highest position best practice counter terrorism methodin the FBI. Pomerantz has represented the ology. LEEP also sponsors conferences in FBI and the law enforcement community on the United States featuring Israeli security numerous occasions in a variety of settings experts. He served three separate tours both domestically and internationally. He is of duty at FBI Headquarters, including as an expert in the area of terrorism as well as chief, Counter-Terrorism Section. These events are designed for members of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Business and Legal Society. Contact Risa Levitt for additional details or to RSVP: rlevitt@ujft. org or 757-965-6124.
Rabbi Wecker’s parsha class Friday, Feb. 21, 8:30–9 am On the third Friday of every month, Rabbi Mordechai Wecker, head of school at the Hebrew Academy of Tidewater, leads a parsha class in the school’s upstairs library. A bagel and lox breakfast is served. The entire community is invited free of charge. Attend to gain nourishment both spiritually and physically. Call 757-424-4327 for more information.
jewishnewsva.org | February 17, 2014 | Jewish News | 21
calendar
what’s happening Michael Glasser to be recipient of Humanitarian Award Thursday, March 27, 6:30 pm
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he Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities will present the 50th Annual Humanitarian Awards at the Norfolk Waterside Michael Glasser Marriott. Jerry Kantor is the event’s chair and Michael Glasser is one of the award recipients. A lifelong member of the Tidewater Jewish community, Glasser has spent a great deal of his life performing the mitzvot of Tzedakkah and Tikkun Olum, following in the philanthropic footsteps of his parents Bernard (of blessed memory) and Rose Frances Glasser. Glasser has served on the board of directors and executive committee of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, on the board of directors of Temple Israel and Beth Sholom Village, and has been active in Israel Bonds. He and his wife, Lori, and
their three sons, Bern, Ross and Jake, are true representatives of L’Dor V’Dor, “from generation to generation.” The honor is bestowed upon those “individuals and organizations that have demonstrated a commitment to the promotion of respect and understanding among people of diverse racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds.” The UJFT will be hosting one, if not more, tables at this event. To sit under the UJFT banner representing the Jewish community, purchase tickets through Cynthia Wildes at 965-6131 or Cwildes@UJFT. org. Make checks payable to VCIC. If tickets are purchased through the VCIC, but you want to sit at a UJFT sponsored table, inform Qasarah Spencer at 804-515-7950 or qspencer@inclusiveva.org. To register on-line, visit their website www.inclusiveva.org/tidewaterawards.php and indicate UJFT beside your name.
Tallwood High School students to present their Israel experience Thursday, March 6, 7 pm, Sandler Family Campus
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oin the students from Tallwood High School’s Global Studies and World Languages Academy as they share details of their experience in the American Israel
Friendship League Exchange Program this past November. For more details or to RSVP contact LHenderson@ujft.org or 965-6107.
Men’s Club Shabbat at OST explores art confiscated by the Nazis
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Friday, February 21, 7:30 pm
hef Sholom Temple will celebrate its annual Men’s Club Shabbat with members of the Men’s Club leading the service. Jefferson C. Harrison, chief curator of the Chrysler Museum of Art, whose topic is “Nazi-Era Provenance Research and the Chrysler Collection,” is the featured speaker. Locating works of art confiscated by the Nazis between 1933 and 1945 and
restoring them to their rightful heirs has for decades been a central commitment of international arts and legal organizations. Preceding the service at 6:30 pm, a dinner prepared and served by Ohef Sholom’s Sisterhood will take place. Dinner is $10 per adult and child over 12; children under12 are free. The community is invited to the dinner and service. RSVP to reservations@ohefsholom.org.
Vendors wanted for Israel Fest at the Simon Family JCC Sunday, May 18, 11am–5pm More than 1,000 people usually attend the Festival filled with Israeli arts, music, culture, crafts, rides, games and food all ages.
Contact Michele Goldberg, director of Cultural Arts, at mgoldberg@simonfamilyjcc.org or 757-321-2341.
22 | Jewish News | February 17, 2014 | jewishnewsva.org
February 19, Wednesday The JCC Senior’s Club at the Simon Family JCC. Guest speaker is Master Police Officer Dolly Deans who will discuss Senior Safety and recent scams and frauds. Board meeting begins at 10:30 am, lunch is at 12 noon, followed by the general meeting. For information, call 338-2676. February 20, Thursday Israeli Soldiers’ Stories at Bite Restaurant in Norfolk (kosher pizza and more). The Stand With Us Israeli Soldiers’ Stories features reserve duty Israeli college students who talk about the Israeli-Arab conflict, giving a human face to the IDF uniform. Free and open to all teens. 6:30 pm. RSVP by Feb. 17 to LHenderson@ujft.org or 965-6107. See page 20. February 25, Tuesday Orchestra of Exiles. Join Josh Aronson, film director, for a screening and discussion of this great film featuring Itzhak Perlman, Zubin Mehta, Pinchas Zukerman, Joshua Bell and others. Orchestra of Exiles is the suspenseful chronicle of how one man helped save Europe’s premiere Jewish musicians from obliteration by the Nazis during WWII and formed a symphony that would become the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra. Visit www.firstrunfeatures.com/orchestraofexiles/ for more information. Free and open to the community. At the Simon Family JCC; 7 pm. RSVP by Feb. 22 to LHenderson@ujft.org or 965-6107. See page 9. February 28, Friday Commodore Levy Chapel welcomes the “Friday Night Minyan” of Temple Israel for a joint worship service. 7 pm. March 2, Sunday Operation Hamentashen. Bake cookies and treat local and regional troops to a little bit of Purim away from home at the annual baking fest at the Sandler Family Campus. 12-3 pm. Call Amy Weinstein at 965-6127 for more information. Brith Sholom meeting will be held at the Beth Sholom Home. Board meeting 10 am; general meeting 11 am; followed by brunch served at 12 noon. March 7, Friday Shabbat Across America/Canada 2014. Join the congregation of the Levy Chapel for its Annual Shabbat Across America Pot Luck Dinner- Worship Service. Every year the Commodore Levy Chapel joins with the National Jewish Outreach Program to host a “teaching Sabbath.” All Jewish personnel on Active Duty, from all branches of the military are invited to join for a traditional Sabbath meal and worship service. Reserve Status, retired, dependants welcome. Participants asked to contribute a kosher side dish (PAREVE). Base Access required to attend all events. 6:30 pm. March 12, Wednesday 10-session class at Simon JCC taught by Rabbi Arthur Ruberg. Provides opportunity to consider the challenges of Jewish acculturation to American life, and the sacrifices, as well as the contributions that have been made over the past 200 years. Topics will cover education, the Three Generation Hypothesis, anti-Semitism, the changing place of Zionism and the State of Israel, the Civil Rights Movement and other issues that address American and Jewish culture and identity. Open to Melton and non-Melton graduates. 7-8:30 pm. Register online at SimonFamilyJCC.org on call 321-2338. MARCH 16, SUNDAY Brith Sholom will hold a Pre Spring Super Salad Bar luncheon at Beth Sholom Home at 12 noon. Entertainment provided by the “Fond Memories Singers.” $7.50 members/$15 guest. RSVP by March 11 to Gail at 461-1150. March 23, Sunday Come and learn more about the fun times to be had this summer at Camp JCC. Meet some counselors, create crafts and have a ton of fun. 1-3 pm. 321-2342 for more information. Send submissions for calendar to news@ujft.org. Be sure to note “calendar” in the subject. Include date, event name, sponsor, address, time, cost and phone.
Mazel Tov to Achievement J. Jerry Kantor for being named chair of the 2014 Humanitarian Awards Dinner by the Tidewater Chapter of the Virginia Center J. Jerry Kantor for Inclusive Communities. The awards celebration honors individuals and organizations that have made significant humanitarian contributions to the South Hampton Roads
community. This 50th presentation of the awards will be held on Thursday, March 27 at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott. A past recipient of the Humanitarian Award, Kantor is former chairman of the board of Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters and vice president of Congregation Beth El. He has also served as president of Beth Sholom Village, chairman of the Azalea Festival, and in leadership positions for Eastern Virginia Medical School, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, the United Way, and Jewish Community Center of Tidewater.
Mazel Tov submissions should be emailed to news@ujft.org with Mazel Tov in the subject line. Achievements, B’nai Mitzvot, births, engagements and weddings are appropriate simchas to announce. Photos must be at least 300k. Include a daytime phone for questions. There is no fee.
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who knew? Portman helping Syrians
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e didn’t think it was possible, but Natalie Portman has gone and inspired us yet again. This time, The Times of Israel reports the actress, director and adorable mom has donated money and clothing to Syrian refugees via Operation Human Warmth. The initiative is the result of several Israeli organizations—the youth group Hanoar Haoved Vehalomed, the social and education organization Dror-Israel, and Israeli Flying Aid, a global humanitarian organization—coming together to collect winter supplies for those displaced by the civil war in Syria. Portman, who is in Israel working on her directorial debut, an adaptation of Amos Oz’s novel A Tale of Love and Darkness, learned of the project through Israeli friends. “When I heard about Operation Human Warmth I felt deeply moved and compelled to get involved,” she said in a statement. “In the middle of a brutal winter, these children have no shelter and their lives are in serious jeopardy from the cold. I am proud to take part in an operation where Israeli youth of all backgrounds are taking action to help out those whom need it most.” Portman is no stranger to the mitzvah
thing. The Israeli-born do-gooder has served as an ambassador for the microfinance organization Finca, supported environmental causes, and encouraged teenage girls to pursue careers in science. (JTA)
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Save the Date!
Shalom Auslander: Philip Seymour Hoffman “had the biggest, brokenest heart”
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any who have worked with, or even just admired, the incredible talent that was Philip Seymour Hoffman have shared their memories of the actor, who died on Sunday, Feb. 2 of an apparent drug overdose at 46. Among them is Shalom Auslander, author and creator of the Showtime series Happyish in which Hoffman had a lead role. “This planet is no damned place to have a heart, and Phil had the biggest, brokenest heart of anyone I have ever met,” Auslander said. In Happyish, Hoffman played Thom Payne, described by Showtime President David Nevins as “a successful but self-loathing creative director at a New York ad agency.” The series co-stars Kathryn Hahn and Rhys Ifans. Only the pilot has been shot, and Hoffman’s death has left the future of the project unknown. (JTA)
Jewish Family Service of Tidewater’s
10th Annual Run, Roll or Stroll: Sunday, May 4th 8K Run, 5K Run/Walk or 1 Mile Run/Walk New location this year! 24th Street Park, Virginia Beach Additional Week W of Healthyy Living v programs to be announced soon!
Find more info or register at
jfsrunrollorstroll.org
Sponsorship opportunities available! Call 321-2222 for information.
jewishnewsva.org | February 17, 2014 | Jewish News | 23
obituaries Eddie Ausch Virginia Beach—Eddie Ausch, 82, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on January 26, 2014. Eddie was a native of Vienna, Austria, and was the son of the late Robert and Hilda Ausch. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, and served during the Korean War. In 1954, he met the love of his life, Erica Reisner, and joined the family business Reisner’s Delicatessen. Eddie continued to carry on the family tradition and later built one of the finest wine retail shops in the state of Virginia. He retired in 1996 and enjoyed traveling with his wife and spending time on the beach with his family. He was a member of Ohef Sholom Temple. Eddie was a devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather who will be deeply missed. Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Erica Reisner Ausch, his three daughters, Jodie Woodward, Linda Ausch, and Bonnie Laibstain and her husband Jeff all of Virginia Beach, and four grandchildren,
Liza and Leo Woodward, and Blake and Raven Laibstain. A funeral service was held in H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts by Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg and Cantor Wally SchachetBriskin. Burial followed in Forest Lawn Cemetery. Memorial donations to Ohef Sholom Temple or Virginia Beach Rescue Squad. Online condolences to the family at hdoliver.com. Harvey Brady Portsmouth—Harvey Brady, 70, died January 4, 2012. A native of Portsmouth, he was a supervisor with TransMontagne in Chesapeake. Harvey was a member of Gomley Chesed Synagogue and an avid fisherman. Survivors include his wife, Cookie Brady; two daughters, Robin Goble and husband Brian, and Amy B. Brown and husband Todd; sister, Phyllis B. Smithson; granddaughter, Madeline Brown; and his buddy, Jake. A graveside service was held in
Gomley Chesed Cemetery by Rabbi David Goldstein. Contributions to the Gomley Chesed Cemetery Fund. Thomas Brill Norfolk—Thomas Brill, 69, passed away January 26, 2014 in a local hospital. A native of Norfolk, he was the son of the late Percy and Bernice Brill. He was predeceased by his sister Linda Brill Barnes. Mr. Brill was a graduate of the University of Virginia and is survived by his longtime companion Cheryl Edwards and numerous cousins. The family would also like to acknowledge the support and friendship of Robert L. Nusbaum. Funeral services were held at H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. with Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg officiating. Burial followed at Forest Lawn Cemetery. Andrew Allan Lask Portsmouth—Andrew Allan Lask passed away on February 5, 2014, at Portsmouth Naval Hospital.
Andrew was born on Oct. 3, 1952 in New York. He joined the United States Navy at the age of 18. He served for 24 years, and retired as a Master At Arms Senior Chief (ESWS). He married Rochelle Elkin on June 16, 1974. They were blessed with two children, Robert Bryan (March 19, 1976), and Stephanie Diane (October 1, 1982). He enjoyed wood working, family outings, Chinese food, and home improvement. He worked very hard to provide for his family, and made sure they were taken care of. He is survived by Rochelle Lask (wife), Robert Lask (son), Stephanie Lask (daughter), Scott Lask (brother), Evelyn Tompkins (mother), two nephews, and one niece. He was preceded in death by his father, Ralph Lask. A funeral service was held in the Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home with Rabbi Michael Panitz and Cantor Aaron Sachnoff officiating. Condolences may be offered at www.hollomon-brown.com. Contributions to Relay for Life, the American Cancer Society, and the Wounded Warrior Project.
Tour to Israel
with Beth Sholom Village and Jacky Sivak, licensed tour guide specializing in Senior Trips to Israel
This Year in Jerusalem! Highlights include: • Shehechianu overlooking Jerusalem • Visit sites that feature in Biblical texts • Ceremony at the Western Wall • Meeting with local seniors • Tour the Golan • Wine Tasting • Masada & the Dead Sea • Bird watching in Upper Galilee • Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial • Knesset • Israel Museum • Shabbat meals …and so much more!
24 | Jewish News | February 17, 2014 | jewishnewsva.org
Informational seminar with Jacky Sivak, Israel Tour guide Beth Sholom Village Thursday, Feb. 27, 6 pm Appetizers, wine, questions & answers.
DATE AND COST TO BE DISCUSSED Call Marcia Brodie to register 757-420-2512 mbrodie@bethsholomvillage.com About JACKY SIVAK Jacky was born and raised in England and immigrated to Israel in 1975. After completing her studies at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem, she spent a year traveling in the USA, then returned to Israel and went on to train as a professional tour guide, qualifying in 1984.
obituaries Betty Siegel Norfolk—Mrs. Martin Siegel, 97, wife of Dr. Martin T. Siegel, of blessed memory, and a resident of Norfolk since 1995, passed away peacefully at home on February 5, 2014. Born Betty Uretsky in Columbus, Ohio, Betty was an Ohio State University graduate, who later moved to The Big Apple in the 1930s to pursue a career as an independent businesswoman. She married the love of her life, Martin, after her younger brother Kenny fixed her up at the Sagamore Hotel on Lake George. Martin was a violinist and tenor and dentist so quite the catch. They married in 1954 and spent many years together until his passing in 1992 and lived in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. Their only son Jack, and the twinkle in Betty’s baby blues, is an orthopedic surgeon in the area. Betty is survived by her loving matchmaking brother, Kenny Uretsky, her son, Jack, his wife, Lisa and her two granddaughters, Zoe and Lucy. In addition, she is survived by two nieces, Jane Whitmore of Pittsburgh and Andrea Feinberg of Millneck, N.Y. Lil Bet, as she was called by the girls, will be terribly missed. She had a lively and bold and mischievous spirit and didn’t suffer fools. Betty cared deeply about her temple, Ohef Sholom and the Holocaust Commission of Tidewater. She was active until her passing in Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America. She was a concert pianist and classical guitarist and loved to sing and listen to music. The memorial was celebrated privately and the family appreciates the love and memories shared.
Richard I. Skolnick Virginia Beach—Richard “Dick” Skolnick, 76, of Virginia Beach passed away peacefully on January 22, 2014 after a courageous battle with a long illness. Dick was born in Minneapolis, Minn. to the late Florence and David Skolnick. He was a graduate of the University of Minnesota, and retired after a long career with OshKosh B’Gosh. He was the ultimate salesman and never met a stranger. He was married for 56 years to the love of his life, Phyllis Skolnick. He is also survived by his daughter, Donna Semonich (Joe), and sons Allen (Debbi), Jeffrey (Beth), and Curtis (Marie). He is also survived by his grandchildren, Ryan, Kellye (fiancée Steve), Amy, Jake, Hunter, Taylor, Jason, and Sara. The funeral was held at H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. by Rabbi Marc Kraus. Burial followed in Forest Lawn Cemetery. Contributions to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Online condolences may be shared at www.hdoliver.com. Dwight Swain, Sr. Norfolk—Dwight Swain, Sr., 68, died Sunday, January 26, 2014. He was a native and lifelong resident of Norfolk, Va. He was the son of Julian and Marguerite Doss Swain and married for 34 years to his loving wife Joyce. He was a self-employed contractor, and a member of B’Nai Israel Congregation. Graveside funeral services took place in B’Nai Israel Cemetery with Rabbi Alexander Haiber officiating. H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts.
Evelyn Wagner Virginia Beach—Evelyn Wagner, 86, died Saturday, February 1, 2014. Mrs. Wagner was born in Philadelphia, Pa. to the late Morris and Bertha Winitsky Fisher. She was very family-oriented and dedicated her life to her children and grandchildren. Mrs. Wagner was predeceased by her husband, David S. Wagner. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Ruth Wexler and her husband Harry of Virginia Beach, Deborah Rashkin her husband Daryl of Port St. Lucie, Fla., and Rachel Wagner of Virginia Beach; grandchildren, Nomi, David, Amy, Sarah, and David; and nine great grandchildren. The family celebrated Mrs. Wagner’s life at Altmeyer Funeral Home. Memorial donations may be made to: Jewish Family Service of Tidewater, 260 Grayson Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23462. Condolences may be expressed at www.altmeyer.com.
• Family owned and operated since 1917 • Professional, experienced, caring staff
James E. Altmeyer, Sr., Owner James E. Altmeyer, Jr., President
• Affordable services to fit any budget • Flexible burial options • Advance funeral planning • Flexible payment options
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APPROVED BY LOC AL CHEVRA KADISHA
Chris Sisler, Vice President Member of Ohef Sholom Temple Board member of the Berger-Goldrich Home at Beth Sholom Village
Southside Chapel • 5792 Greenwich Rd • Virginia Beach • 757 422-4000 Maestas Chapel • 1801 Baltic Ave • Virginia Beach • 757 428-1112 Denbigh Chapel • 12893 Jefferson Ave • Newport News • 757 874-4200 Riverside Chapel • 7415 River Rd • Newport News • 757 245-1525 Chesapeake Chapel • 929 S Battlefield Blvd • Chesapeake • 757 482-3311 www.altmeyer.com
Approved by all area Rabbis and Chevra Kadisha jewishnewsva.org | February 17, 2014 | Jewish News | 25
Rach 2
February 21-23 GO TO Hear:
Croatian pianist Martina Filjak performing Rachmaninoff’s beloved Piano Concerto No. 2, described by JoAnn Falletta as “one of the most beautiful concertos ever written,” and full of “luxury, opulence, romance and dark beauty.” Hear WHeN yOu GO: The talented musicians of the Virginia Symphony on full display in Berlioz’ flashy Roman Carnival and in Nielsen’s powerful and affirming Fourth Symphony – known as “The Inextinguishable” for its sense of determination, happiness, and fulfillment.
Tickets start at only $22! VirginiaSymphony.org
757.892.6366 Ticketmaster.com | Fergusoncenter.org
Meet the Presidents Linda Anne Fox-Jarvis President of Ohef Sholom Temple
Profession Realtor, Broker Associate, RE/MAX Ambassadors Education Bachelor of Science, Hood College
Family Husband—David Jarvis Son—Brian Jarvis, 29 and his wife Amanda Daughter—Stephanie Caskill, 27 and her husband Tyler Dogs— Wiley the Westie and Izzy the Bichon Mix (rescue dog) Organizations Linda Anne Fox-Jarvis President, Ohef Sholom Temple Other community organizations: Crystal Ball For A Cure for MD and ALS, Virginia Chorale, Cerebral Palsey of Virginia Favorite Jewish holiday Passover—I just love the traditions and the whole family getting together. I love the reading of the story of Exodus at the table and everyone participating. And love my crazy family (with terrible voices) singing Dayeinu. Most memorable personal Jewish milestone My children’s life cycle events at Ohef Sholom Temple—Brian’s Bar Mitzvah, Stephanie’s Bat Mitzvah, and my daughter’s marriage in the sanctuary with Rabbi Roz officiating. Ties to the Tidewater Jewish community I moved here in 1976 after college and have been here since (except for two years in France when my husband was stationed at the French War College). I became a member of Ohef Sholom Temple when my children were born, so we have been members for more than 27 years. My parents now live here, along with my two brothers, their wives and children. Most admired Jewish leader Golda Meir—Israel’s first and the world’s third woman to hold such an office, she was described as the “Iron Lady” of Israel years before the epithet became associated with British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. What a role model for me and women throughout the world!
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26 | Jewish News | February 17, 2014 | jewishnewsva.org
What other positions have you held with Ohef Sholom? First vice president, second vice president Chair of: Fundraiser committee, directory committee, Sisterhood Shabbaton Committee member—Membership, Budget, Interfaith, Military Outreach, Special Needs, House, and Personnel. Recipient of the Kurt Rosenbach award and the Henry B. Kaufman award Why have you chosen to devote so much time to Ohef Sholom? When I was asked to serve as president, I spent about two weeks thinking about it. I knew it was a big job, a very time-consuming job and a big commitment. Having a fulltime job as a realtor, and also serving as president of The Crystal Ball, I wanted to be sure I could devote the time necessary to serve as an effective president. All of a sudden it came to me, and I knew I had to serve. I felt I had to give back and to serve God. My son has Muscular Dystrophy and for years I prayed he would find a partner and soul mate who would see past his disability and he did. Now it was my chance to give back in gratitude. What would you like people to know about Ohef Sholom? Hmmm, where to start? Well, first let me say that I am obviously very biased, but I feel that Ohef Sholom is truly like a family. There is a warmth, openness and inclusivity that I think pervades everything we do: services, programs, activities, committee work, board meetings, our wonderful Religious School and of course it comes from our wonderful clergy whom we are so blessed to have—Rabbi Roz, Cantor Wally, Rabbi Steinberg and Rabbi Forman.
CALLING ALL HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS!
Announcing the 22014 Stein Family College Scholarship The application is now available online at: www.jewishva.org/tjf-stein Applications deadline is April 1, 2014 Questions? Contact Shelby Tudor at: 757.965.6105 or studor@ujft.org ujft.org
jewishnewsva.org | February 17, 2014 | Jewish News | 27
February 7 at 9 a.m. and February 20 at 7 p.m. OPEN Preschool: K – 5: Call to schedule a private tour. HOUSES
Jewish Day School Education yields lifelong benefits both tangible and intangible: • A strong Jewish identity, a love of Judaism, and a commitment to Jewish life
• Unwavering dedication to the Jewish people and the State of Israel
• Academic excellence • Critical and independent thinking
• A lifelong love of learning • Confidence and preparedness as they continue their education
• Moral education and character development • Values, integrity and leadership
Call today to schedule a tour at
757-424-4327
5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 | www.hebrewacademy.net The Strelitz Early Childhood Center is an educational partnership of Hebrew Academy of Tidewater and the Simon Family Jewish Community Center. The preschool is open to students of all faiths.
28 | Jewish News | February 17, 2014 | jewishnewsva.org