Jewish News - 9.27.21

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Southeastern Virginia | Vol. 60 No. 2 | 21 Tishrei 5782 | September 27, 2021

Community explores mental health with Stephen Fried

6 Super Sunday builds community

23 Bob Josephberg Golf Classic: SIA’s largest fundraiser

—page 24 25 Israel Today: Noa Tishby Wednesday, October 13

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Supplement to Jewish News September 27, 2021 jewishnewsva.org | September 27, 2021 | Legal | Jewish News | 11

Unpacking antisemitism with Dara Horn Sunday, October 17

ISRAEL How Israel is leading the world in reviving bee colonies—in the middle of the desert

T

he Arava Desert in Israel’s south is “abuzz” with activity and it is all thanks to one important six-legged critter: the humble honeybee.

In a world where scientists acknowledge the important role bees play in the ecosystem yet worry about their dwindling numbers, farmers in Israel’s Arava Desert are working to grow bee colonies—and they are already achieving some very “sweet” results.

While one would not expect to find a bee colony in the middle of a desert, the bees at Porat Farm in Ein Yahav, an area supported by Jewish National Fund-USA (JNF-USA), are not only surviving, they’re thriving.

Despite its arid moonscape-like environment, the Arava region in Israel’s Negev Desert provides the ideal conditions for growing bee colonies. With limited pollution, the air remains pure, which in turn helps prevent many of the diseases that are decimating bee colonies around the world.

And the conditions that help bees thrive in the arid environment are benefiting local farmers, as well.

In addition to the variety of delicious honeys that comes from bees, local farmers in the Arava and JNF-USA supported agricultural scientists rely on bees to pollinate their crops. In fact, farmers will rent beehives from beekeepers like Porat and place them in their fields, resulting in more profit for their businesses and better quality fruits and vegetables for Israelis and consumers around the world.

According to Noa Zer, JNF-USA Liaison in the Arava and owner of a twoacre pepper farm, “Without the bees we wouldn’t be able to grow what we grow.

There would be no source of income. The bees are the best helpers.”

There are two types of bees that are being used to help boost local agriculture: the honeybee and the bumblebee. As Dr. Oded Kanan from JNF-USA’s R&D center in the Arava explain, honeybees are more commonly used in open greenhouses, whereas the bumblebee is used in closed greenhouses. While the bumblebee does 2 | JEWISH NEWS | September 27, 2021 | jewishnewsva.org

not produce honey, they are still essential for pollination. Bumblebees move their wings hundreds of times per second, and the vibrations from it allows them to pollinate a flower before they move along to the next plant. This process is called “buzz pollination.”

This new approach is a major upgrade from previous pollination techniques in the region, when farmers would have to go by themselves, flower by flower, with a special device to pollinate them. Today, thanks to the helpful cooperation of bees and innovative researchers, farmers are able to increase their yield by 60 percent.

And today, farms in the Arava are responsible for producing more than half of all of Israel’s produce.

Farmers and experts alike agree, it all comes down to cooperation. Whether it be the way bees work together with each other and with the farmers or the way that JNF-USA invests in communities in the Arava, cooperation is key. To attract 500,000 new residents to Israel’s south as part of the organization’s Blueprint Negev initiative, JNF-USA has invested in a range of projects that create local jobs and opportunities. Accordingly, JNF-USA has invested in R&D facilities, built parks and playgrounds, created medical centers, and supported agriculture schools.

And, as JNF-USA continues to support research facilities in the Arava, leading scientists are continuing to make breakthroughs that support global agriculture.

As Kanan points out, “Without bees there is no world, and this is something scientists everywhere are working on.” Communities in other countries, like Nepal, are catching on and adopting the methods that they saw being used in Israel. It modernizes the way food is being grown, helps with economic security, and ultimately has a ripple effect throughout society. It’s what farmers like Zer call, “the bee effect.” By helping Israel’s desert bloom, these little bees, with the help of local farmers and JNF-USA, are making a big impact. And that’s something that is pretty sweet and worth celebrating this year! (JTA)

UPFRONT

JEWISH NEWS jewishnewsva.org

World Jewish population rises slightly to 15.2 million Cnaan Liphshiz

(JTA)—The world population of those who self-identify as Jews stands at about 15.2 million—an increase of 100,000 over last year—with the number in the U.S. differing measurably from this year’s Pew survey.

Israel has 6.9 million Jews and the United States has “about 6 million,” according to the estimate by the Jewish Agency for Israel based on work by Sergio Della Pergola, a demographer from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. The Pew survey on Jewish Americans had estimated the figure at 7.5 million.

The researchers for the Jewish Agency consulted the Pew survey, the Jewish Agency said in a statement. The statement did not provide a reason for the difference.

“When also including those who are eligible for Israeli citizenship under the Law of Return, the world total rises to 25.3 million people, of which 7.3 million are in Israel and 18 million live outside Israel,” the statement said.

France has the world’s third largest Jewish community with 446,000 people, according to the report, followed by Canada at 393,000 and the United Kingdom with 292,000.

Ukraine was listed as having 43,000 Jews—a major difference with the 360,000 number provided by the European Jewish Congress and the Jewish Confederation of Ukraine.

That would make that country the world’s fifth largest Jewish community.

In Israel, some 6.94 million Jews constitute 74% of a population of 9.39 million, according to a separate statement by the Central Bureau of Statistics. Nearly 2 million Arabs account for 21% of the Israeli population.

That’s an increase of 1.5% percent in the general population in Israel and a similar rise in the Jewish population over last year. The Arab population of Israel has also seen a similar increase to about 1.98 million.

CONTENTS

ADL CEO: We ‘apologize without caveat’ for opposing Islamic center near Ground Zero Philissa Cramer

(JTA)—Eleven years ago, the Anti-Defamation League surprised many by opposing an Islamic center planned for Lower Manhattan, blocks from the World Trade Center site of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, even as its leader denounced anti-Muslim bigotry.

Now, the ADL’s CEO says the position, taken four years before he joined the civil rights organization, was a mistake.

“We were wrong, plain and simple,” Jonathan Greenblatt wrote in an op-ed published on CNN. Greenblatt said the group had tried to offer a compromise by supporting the ideas behind Cordoba House, described by its leaders as a prayer space that would facilitate healing and cross-cultural understanding, but recommending that it not be located near Ground Zero. But that compromise hurt Muslims, he said, and ultimately contributed to the project yielding a condo building with little from the original proposal in place.

The apology came days before the 20th anniversary of the 2001 attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania. It also came in the days before Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, holidays that ask Jews to take stock of their misdeeds and commit to improved behavior.

Greenblatt noted the timing in his piece, which he said he wrote in a spirit of teshuvah, or repentance, and also linked it to what he said was a rising tide of Islamophobia in the United States.

“We can’t change the past,” he wrote. “But we accept responsibility for our unwise stance on Cordoba House, apologize without caveat and commit to doing our utmost going forward to use our expertise to fight anti-Muslim bias as allies.”

Greenblatt’s apology is notable because he has largely refrained from undercutting his predecessor, longtime ADL chief Abraham Foxman. It is not the first time, though, that he has openly criticized a choice Foxman made: Earlier this year, he said he would not give an award to Rupert Murdoch, the media magnate who owns Fox News, because he said that network has given a platform to far-right ideas.

About the cover: Stephen Fried to visit Tidewater.

Bees in the desert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Upfront . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Briefs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Abraham Accords: one year later . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Super Sunday: raises funds, builds community.6 Simon Family Passport to Israel with Nathan Prince. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 2021 Elie Wiesel Competition winners online. . 8

The Rosenblatt family: generations of involvement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Special Section: Legal Matters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 33rd Annual SIA Golf Tournament. . . . . . . . . . 23 Sunday Fun Days continue. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 What’s Happening. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Come From Away returns to stage and screen. . 30

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BRIEFS IN A YOM KIPPUR SPEECH, JON OSSOFF CONDEMNED ANTISEMITISM AT GEORGIA HIGH SCHOOLS Jon Ossoff spoke at an Atlanta synagogue on Yom Kippur to denounce two incidents of antisemitic graffiti at local high schools.

At the onset of the holy day on Wednesday, Sept. 15, a high school in Cobb County, next to Atlanta, reported that someone had graffitied a swastika and “Heil Hitler” on a bathroom door, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Similar graffiti was found at another nearby high school just days earlier.

The school district did not condemn either incident as antisemitism, instead calling it “hateful graffiti” or “hate speech.”

Ossoff, 34, the freshman Democratic senator from Georgia, told worshippers at the Reform Temple Emanu-El on Yom Kippur that his reaction to the graffiti was informed by the memory of the Holocaust.

Ossoff said his generation was raised “with the words ‘Never Forget’ pressed into our minds.

“So, when at Pope High School in Marietta, Georgia, a swastika and a tribute to Adolf Hitler are scrawled on school walls…it must inflame in us the same passion for the survival of our people that burned in the hearts of the generation that emerged from the Shoah and built a future for the Jewish people here in America, around the world, and the Land of Israel,” he said. (JTA) RYAN BRAUN, ALL-TIME JEWISH HOME RUN HITTER, RETIRES FROM MLB Ryan Braun, the Milwaukee Brewers outfielder who slugged more home runs than any Jewish player in baseball history and won a Most Valuable Player award, announced his retirement from Major League Baseball on Tuesday, Sept. 14, ending a 14-year career that was not without controversy.

“While it’s impossible to summarize my emotions right now, what I feel most is one, simple thing: gratitude,” Braun said in his video announcement, which was shared on the Brewers’ social media.

The 37-year-old California native was drafted fifth overall by Milwaukee in the 2005 Major League Baseball draft, making

his debut two years later. He won the National League Rookie of the Year in 2007 and the league’s MVP in 2011.

Braun, a six-time All-Star who played his entire career in Milwaukee, finished as a .296 hitter with 352 home runs, the most by a Jewish player, and 1,154 runs batted in. He has not played in 2021.

His accolades do, however, come with an asterisk. Following his 2011 MVP performance, Braun tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs, reportedly lied about it and served a 65-game suspension in 2013. The slugger’s reputation was tarnished, especially among Jewish fans.

Occasionally known as the “Hebrew Hammer,” Braun is the son of an Israeli father and has said he is proud of his Jewish heritage, but does not observe the faith.

“I do consider myself definitely Jewish,” Braun told USA Today in 2010. “And I’m extremely proud to be a role model for young Jewish kids.”

The Brewers planned to honor Braun with a pregame ceremony on Sept. 26 prior to a game against the New York Mets. (JTA)

ISRAELI PHILANTHROPISTS HELP DOZENS FLEE AFGHANISTAN FOR UAE Several Israeli philanthropists have helped bring to Abu Dhabi dozens of asylum seekers, including female athletes, fleeing Taliban rule in Afghanistan.

The rescue operation led by Aaron G. Frenkel, an aviation professional who had helped airlift thousands of Jews out of the Soviet Union, ended on Sept. 6, as 41 asylum seekers from Afghanistan reached Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.

Frenkel, who is the chairman of the Congress, teamed up with the group’s honorary president, Alexander Machkevich, and the Canadian-Israeli billionaire Sylvan Adams to extract the passengers from Afghanistan to neighboring Tajikistan.

Adams provided the funds for chartering a private jet from Tajikistan to Abu Dhabi, carrying on board members of Afghanistan’s former women’s cycling team, human rights activists, and members of a robotics team, including women. All were deemed at risk of reprisals from the Taliban, the statement said.

The Israeli international humanitarian agency IsraAID and officials from several

4 | JEWISH NEWS | September 27, 2021 | jewishnewsva.org

governments also were involved in the rescue operation.

When troubling events such as the current situation in Afghanistan occur in the world, we have an obligation to act as leaders,” Frenkel said.

In the 1980s, Frenkel used his connections in the aviation industry to help the Jewish Agency airlift Jews out of Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union prior to its collapse. Frenkel had served as Boeing’s representative in Eastern Europe and later established his own aviation group. (JTA)

THIEVES CAUGHT TRYING TO TAKE OVER 200 JEWISH HEADSTONES AT ARGENTINE JEWISH CEMETERY Local Jewish leaders are fuming about repeated security breaches at a large Jewish cemetery in the Buenos Aires area.

Just before Yom Kippur, three vandals were caught trying to make off with 223 of the cemetery’s gravestones—the third such robbery in the past month. More than 100 headstones were smashed at the Tablada cemetery the previous week.

One of the recent vandals was caught while two others escaped. An investigation is ongoing.

“We are very concerned about the lack of action by Argentine authorities to protect the Jewish cemetery,” Eliahu Hamra, secretary-general of BUR, the Orthodox bloc that rules the AMIA Jewish group, says.

No antisemitic graffiti has been found in the cemetery after the repeated incidents, but Jewish groups still raised a high alarm. They also praised cemetery workers, who stepped in to stop the robbery without police help.

According to AMIA, the Tablada cemetery is the largest Jewish one in Latin America. Inaugurated in 1936, it covers nearly 100 acres and contains more than 130,000 graves. It is located 13 miles east of Buenos Aires. (JTA) MARK ZUCKERBERG AND PRISCILLA CHAN GIVE $1.3 MILLION TO JEWISH CAUSES Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla Chan are contributing $1.3 million to 11 Jewish groups, eJewish

Philanthropy reported, citing a spokesperson for the couple.

News of Zuckerberg and Chan’s donations comes as the couple has gradually emphasized its Jewish identity in public in recent years. Privately, Zuckerberg and Chan have also been meeting with rabbis and scholars to discuss Judaism and the Jewish community, according to eJewish Philanthropy.

“Mark and Priscilla have made some personal commitments in the past, but these new grants reinforce their interest in learning and deepening their connections with the community,” a spokesperson was quoted.

Two of the grantees are national organizations: OneTable, which supports Shabbat dinners hosted by young Jews, and PJ Library, which distributes Jewish children’s books and music for free.

But the rest primarily serve local needs in the San Francisco Bay Area. Three educational institutions received funding: Contra Costa Jewish Day School in Lafayette, Gideon Hausner Jewish Day School in Palo Alto and the Jewish Community High School of the Bay. Three summer camps in California, URJ Camp Newman, Camp Ramah in Northern California and Camp Tawonga, also were beneficiaries.

The Oshman Jewish Community Center in Palo Alto and the local Jewish Family and Children’s Services are also receiving funding to boost their local offerings. Meanwhile, a grant to the Jewish Community Relations Council will pay for a new social media campaign to educate the public on antisemitism.

“Mark and Priscilla are proud to support the important work each of these organizations does in building communities, education, celebrating traditions and faith, and giving people a voice— especially in fighting antisemitism,” the spokesperson told eJewish Philanthropy.

The couple that controls much of Facebook became a major philanthropic power in 2015 when it launched the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, pledging to donate 99% of their Facebook fortune to charity.

The recent spate of Jewish donations was made out of the couple’s family office, separately from the initiative, according to eJewish Philanthropy. (JTA)

ISRAEL

On Abraham Accords anniversary, there is accord on calling it ‘Abraham’ Ron Kampeas

WASHINGTON (JTA)—Wrapping up the feel-good-fest that marked the first anniversary of the Abraham Accords, the normalization agreements between Israel and four Arabs states, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken gave a shout-out to the big guy who started it all.

No, not Donald Trump, but Abraham himself.

“Abraham, in our Bible, had the temerity to engage God, to argue with God, to ask why, and maybe more important, to ask why not,” Blinken said at the virtual get-together Friday, Sept. 17 that marked the Sept. 15, 2020, anniversary (a day or so late, but Yom Kippur got in the way).

“And I think each of you and each of your countries asked, ‘Why not?’ And the answer now we see before us with the accords, with normalization, and with the manifest benefits that it’s bringing to people not just in the countries concerned, but I think increasingly more broadly.”

By invoking Abraham, Blinken put to rest any concerns that President Joe Biden was anything less than fully committed to the accords, despite the fact that they happened under Trump.

The friendly back-and-forth between Blinken, who is Jewish; the foreign ministers of Israel and Morocco; the former holder of that post in the United Arab Emirates; and the Bahraini ambassador to the United States covered what has become familiar territory: Praising the gains already made and pledging to expand the agreements.

But it was the tone that stood out, down to Blinken not just saying Abraham’s name, but in his assigning a quasi-religious significance to the accords by noting the shared Jewish and Muslim investment in the original founding father. Blinken and the Arab diplomats also made sure to wish Israeli Foreign Minister Yair Lapid, in attendance, a happy new year.

This was a shift from how the Biden administration has discussed the accords to date. Previously, Biden officials appeared

to hesitate even to use the term “Abraham Accords,” which has rankled the deals’ architects under Trump. Insiders told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency that Biden’s team had been hesitant to bring religion into any diplomatic brokering.

The Trump administration’s architects of the Abraham Accords had been worried, given Democratic revulsion for all things Trump, that Biden would scupper the deals altogether, even though he had made clear while campaigning that normalizing ties between Israel and its Arab neighbors was a rare point of agreement between himself and Trump.

Those worries receded as Biden pledged to uphold the incentives for the accords: the sale of F-35 stealth combat jets to the UAE, the recognition of Morocco’s claim to the Western Sahara and the repeal of terrorist designations that have inhibited relations between Sudan and the international community.

Sept. 17 was also the 43rd anniversary of the Egypt-Israel Camp David peace agreement brokered by President Jimmy Carter, a Democrat who was not shy about mixing religion and diplomacy.

Blinken noted the coincidence and said that part of the Biden administration’s agenda would be to deepen the existing peace treaties between Israel, Egypt and Jordan.

“We’ll work to deepen Israel’s longstanding relationships with Egypt and Jordan—partners critical to the United States, Israel and Palestinians alike,” Blinken said. He noted that Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett this month traveled to Cairo to meet Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, the first such visit between Israeli and Egyptian heads of state in a decade.

“The negotiations between Israel and Jordan around new agreements on water and trade show how these relationships continue to build on the trailblazing agreements signed decades ago.”

While those agreements are decades older than the Abraham Accords, what’s missing from Israel-Egypt and IsraelJordan relations are the people-to-people

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interactions—the normalization—that has flourished since the Abraham Accords signing. Blinken detailed the gains so far of normalization and its opportunities.

“The United Arab Emirates has pursued significant investments in strategic

sectors in Israel, including energy, medicine, technology, healthcare,” he said.

“Private firms across your countries are working together on everything from desalinization to stem cell therapies.”

(JTA)

jewishnewsva.org | September 27, 2021 | JEWISH NEWS | 5

Bill’s Legacy Lives Forever Norfolk business owner Bill Goldback valued good health and great arts performances.

SUPER SUNDAY

Super Sunday raises funds and builds community for Jewish Tidewater Matthew Kramer-Morning

S Before he died in 2007, Bill arranged for a Hampton Roads Community Foundation bequest to provide grants for performing arts and medicine in Hampton Roads.

Goldback grants are helping Chesapeake Care, Hampton Roads Community Health Center, Todd Rosenlieb Dance and Young Audiences of Virginia do excellent work.

Thanks to Bill’s generosity he will forever help people in his home region.

Connect your passions to the future by ordering a free bequest guide. Learn how easy it is to leave a gift for charity.

uper Sunday was truly a great community day, and a success by every measure. On Sunday, September 12, dozens of volunteers—members of Tidewater’s Jewish community—came together at the Sandler Family Campus to welcome friends, neighbors, and fellow community members into the excitement surrounding Federation’s 2022 Community Campaign.

Thanks to the generosity of community members, volunteers raised more than $209,000 from more than 229 individual donors. These dollars will join the pool of funds collected throughout the Community Campaign to support the agencies, programs, and services that meet the needs of Jews at home and around the world.

Those who didn’t receive a call on Super Sunday, but are still interested in how to support the community, may donate online at www.

Jewishva.org/donate or call the federation to discuss a gift with a staff member at 757-965-6100.

T i d e w a t e r Mortgage Services was this year’s Super Sunday generous sponsor.

Matt Kramer-Morning checks the total.

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TIDEWATER JEWISH FOUNDATION FIRST PERSON

Simon Family Passport to Israel recipient Nathan Prince soaks in the Israel experience

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he Israel trip was an experience of a lifetime!

A couple of reasons why I chose to be a part of the Journey 5 trip to Israel include making new connections and experiencing historical and culturally important areas in my homeland.

Growing up Jewish was not easy. In some places in America, they say you should tuck your chain in with the Jewish star, hamza, and chai. I don’t believe in people tucking their chains in, so I feel like, in Israel, Jews should feel connected to their ancestors and have a sense of well-being.

I tried to get more of the guys to untuck Nathan Prince floats in the Dead Sea. their chains because they should never be afraid of who they are.

The trip, although three short weeks, was enough time to make close connections with other like-minded people. One of my favorite days was when all of us went on the jeep tour.

This meant a lot to me because our tour guide was very passionate about the history of the Nathan Prince (center) with friends at the Western Wall. route. I was also in the coolest jeep that went first both ways, and we of my best friends got his first chain and learned about the Syrians and the differpendant while we were in Israel. ent types of mines the IDF uses.

I would recommend this trip to rising I loved the Israeli food and how short juniors and seniors. driving everywhere was. Besides drivers going on sidewalks and ones that honk Nathan Prince traveled to Israel with fundless than a second after the light turns ing from the Tidewater Jewish Foundation’s green, Israel was a pretty interesting place.

Simon Family Passport to Israel Program. The We spent a couple of nights in Netanya next round of applications opens October 1, and the beach was so nice and had the 2021. perfect lighting for pictures during golden hour. Another place that I thoroughly For more information, visit bit.ly/tjf-passport, enjoyed inside and out was visiting the contact Ann Swindell, TJF Donor Relations Old City of Jerusalem. I got to try my first and Grant manager, at aswindell@ujft.org or genuine falafel (it was amazing) and one 757-965-6106.

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jewishnewsva.org | September 27, 2021 | JEWISH NEWS | 7

JEWISH TIDEWATER

Elie Wiesel Competition’s 2021 winners now online www.holocaustcommission.jewishva.org Elena Barr Baum

I

Senior Visual Arts, Chairs’ Choice: Yujie Yang, Cape Henry Collegiate.

t took 25 years and a coronavirus to push the Elie Wiesel student competitions (art and writing) to their new online format.

Since most public and many private school students spent their year in remote learning, the Holocaust Commission reached out online to educators across Tidewater, as well as throughout Virginia, and set up a system by which students could enter the competitions with their teachers’ guidance, online from home. The results were heartening under the circumstances, as about two-thirds of the average number of entries were submitted.

Nearly 1,000 total entries were submitted, including from seven states around the country—from Pennsylvania to Arizona, from North Carolina and California. Even

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the judging was done online, with the judges, accomplished writing and education professionals from the community, meeting via Zoom to pick the winners.

The multimedia entries also lent themselves to be judged virtually. The visual art competition underwent the most changes, as students uploaded photographs of their works, along with their artist statements, for a first round of judging. At its end, 100 pieces were brought to the Sandler Family Campus, where they were set up for judges to come in-person to make their final decisions.

Competition chairs and judges were impressed by the depth, creativity, and passion that spoke volumes in the submissions. As always, choosing the winners and art show pieces was incredibly difficult.

Since there could still be no traditional art show and gathering of students and their families in the Sandler Family Campus Cardo for the second competition in a row, the Commission created a Virtual Art Show, including the winners and other notable pieces, which can be found on the Holocaust Commission website.

For the safety of the survivors, students, their families and friends, and the community, the Commission’s annual Yom Hashoah commemoration event in the spring was virtual. While unable to celebrate the students’ remarkable work and achievements in-person, view the winners’ work on the Commission’s website. Please take the time to read the winning essays and poems, and peruse the excellent multimedia and visual art pieces created by these honored students.

The winning pieces—including essay, poetry, art, and multimedia—are posted online at https://holocaustcommission.jewishva.org/home-page/elie-wiesel.

The Holocaust Commission has spent the past year adapting programs for virtual learning. For more information about Holocaust Commission programs, visit www.holocaustcommission.org, call 965-6100, or email info@ holocaustcommission.org.

JEWISH TIDEWATER

The Rosenblatt family tree roots itself in giving back Lisa Richmon

I

n the 1950s and 60s, two Norfolk streets where Wexford Terrace turn into Colony Point, served as an enclave for Jewish business leaders and community builders raising families. Close to Wards Corner and the Norfolk Naval Base, the legacy location attracted many Jewish families who formed a tight-knit community tethered to the Jewish Community Center.

Their offspring’s commitment to Jewish values today can be traced to what was absorbed in this small, but mighty Hebrew hotspot.

Community engagement was high among most members of these families, and particularly active for a group of guys who left Ghent synagogues to fund and found Temple Israel on Granby Street.

The Jewish Community Center followed when it moved to Newport Avenue in the mid-1960s.

The slice of hamish heaven was home to Trudy and Sam Rosenblatt, and their three children: Judge Alan Rosenblatt, builder/developer Chuck Rosenblatt, and Judy Rosenblatt, an attorney in private practice.

Rabbi Joseph Goldman led Temple Israel’s congregation for the first 30 years of its existence. Sam Rosenblatt was a founding member who also served as the third president.

“Rabbi Goldman’s wife taught me to read. She was my kindergarten teacher.

Amy, Chuck, Nancy, and Barbara Rosenblatt.

I’m looking at the book she inscribed for my birthday. I remember memorizing Now We are Six word for word,” says Judy.

There were times back then when being Jewish was hard, Judy recalls, referring to deed restrictions against Jews and Blacks. “There have been times in my life where it’s hard to say outwardly ‘we’re Jewish,’” she says.

As a teen, Judy was president of Virginia Council BBG, as a young adult, she chaired United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Young Adult Division, and today she is actively involved in UJFT’s Women’s Cabinet.

“The Yom Kippur War in 1973 affected us all,” says Judy. During those worrisome weeks and while she was BBG president, she attended community rallies and ran errands to help raise funds for Israel. In 1974, Judy participated in the Summer Institute for Jewish Living, spending a month in Israel with area teens—a trip that included time spent at a Gadna Camp, on a kibbutz, and touring throughout the Jewish state.

Four years later, Judy travelled again to Israel, but this time on a Federation Mission with her parents and Chuck and his wife, Nancy. “My mom was the bus captain on that trip and I think that solidified our commitment to Israel and Jewish causes,” she says.

In 1974, Sam became president of the Jewish Community Center. In 1984, Chuck took a turn at the job.

“When I became president of the JCC it was truly the beginning of the next generation stepping into a leadership position. Prior to me, all of the presidents had been my father’s generation.

I began the next generation of JCC leaders and I was followed by my peers, Linda Samuels, Marshal Bonnie, Jeff Kramer, Cheryl Sloane, and others,” says Chuck.

Asked about accomplishments during his tenure, Chuck recalls one

of the biggest as presenting Itzkah Perlman to a soldout concert at Chrysler Hall. “As a little antidote, Mr. Perlman was supposed to attend a reception for our sponsors after the concert. He decided he didn’t want to,” says Chuck.

“So, I asked the JCC executive director where the check was for Mr. Seated: Trudy and Sam Rosenblatt and Judy Rosenblatt.

Perlman and he told Standing: Alan and Barbara Rosenblatt and Chuck and Nancy Rosenblatt. me he had already given the check to him, where upon I together. My grandparents lived close told the exec the check was no good as to us growing up. It was very normal to it required my signature as president for see them on a regular basis. I always felt that amount of money. My exec had to go extra fortunate for that. My cousins on my tell Mr. Perlman the check was no good mom’s side didn’t get to see their grandand Mr. Perlman could find me at the parents that often. I knew all of mine well reception for my signature. Of course, Mr. into my adulthood.”

Perlman had a change of heart and came Amy is engaged to be married in 2022 to the reception and was very cordial and in South Florida where Nancy and Chuck gracious during the event.” now live year-round. “It’s important to Chuck Rosenblatt and Nancy Rosen my fiancé and me that we’re married by lived two houses apart on Millbrook Road a rabbi who knows us,” she says. “For in Wexford Terrace. Married for 47 years, us that was non-negotiable. We’re very they raised daughters Amy and Barbara happy that Rabbi Panitz is able to come in a traditional Jewish home, with both to Florida to be with us for the wedding.” sets of grandparents, and several close Rosenblatts are tough and strong—and relatives nearby. tender.

“Family is everything to my father,” “We get it from both sets of our says Amy Rosenblatt. “No matter the sitgrandparents, says Barbara. “They were uation, he does whatever is needed to be all strong in their own way, but how they done. There is nobody I want on my side showed caring was different.” more than my dad.”

Judy and Barbara are attorneys who Growing up, Nancy and Chuck were practice very different areas of law. immersed in tzedakah culture in their “Barbara and Judy have so many similarirespective homes. In the Rosenblatt ties,” says Amy. “They both fight for what house, lessons on giving back were modthey’re passionate about. I’ve always been eled early and often. It was a lifestyle impressed by that. practice, like health and wellness, not a “The joke was we get together and the one-and-done diet kind of deal. topic would turn to law and politics. As Amy and Barbara both went to Hebrew young kids, ages eight and five, there was Academy of Tidewater. “We grew up nothing we could do about it. My uncle Jewish,” says Amy. “I always loved the idea was a judge; my father and grandparents continued on page 10 that holidays were about family getting jewishnewsva.org | September 27, 2021 | JEWISH NEWS | 9

JEWISH TIDEWATER continued from page 9

had strong convictions. Barbara would say, ‘can we talk about anything but law and politics? Now, she spouts her legalese, but always takes the time to explain and translate. I’ve learned a little over time, it’s not my arena.”

Find something you’re passionate about is the Rosenblatt rule for giving back.

Barbara worked for 10 years in an emotionally charged field of law as a public defender. Winning a case can be disarming when faced with an understandably hysterical family whose son was killed. Now his alleged murderer is set free.

A North Star, rooted in justice, guides Barbara through this fragile terrain.

“My supervisor took me out to lunch one day and helped me realize that the system will take advantage of people without someone doing what I do to make sure checks and balances are in place. I needed to be one of the people who kept the system in check.”

“Our upbringing taught us tzedakah,” says Chuck. “As a family, we’re heavily involved in Jewish and non-Jewish causes that help the disadvantaged, particularly causes focused on children’s needs and children with special needs such as Sweet Dream Makers and various other foundations.”

“My parents had a summer home in the mountains near Appalachian State University where they saw a need for Holocaust education,” says Nancy Rosen Rosenblatt. The Martin and Doris Rosen Summer Symposium at Appalachian State University is a Center for Judaic, Holocaust, and Peace Studies. Nancy’s parents founded it in 2002 to develop new educational opportunities for students, teachers, and the community. The center originally was meant to “teach teachers in North Carolina’s public school system how to teach their students about the Holocaust,” says Nancy. “The program has grown and now extends beyond North

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Carolina.” She and Chuck have continued and expanded this and other related programs.

Branching out in multiple directions, the Rosenblatt Family Foundation finds infinite value in funding medical research.

“Tzedakah was such a big part of our life growing up,” says Barbara. “Now, in addition to giving to the Jewish community, we have expanded to other areas including supporting specific interests that might impact our family members’ medical issues.”

For years, Lancome has joined the fight against cancer with their support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

When Amy was a sales trainer for the cosmetic powerhouse, she became a sort of powerhouse herself, discovering her talent for fundraising. “I hated hospitals.

Never wanted to go to one. But I was raising money for St. Jude’s for work and said, ‘I’m going to raise a lot of money.’”

Meeting her goal put her in the top 30 and placed her on a tour of the hospital.

“It was the most unbelievable place I’ve ever been. Bright and cheery. So bizarre to think about. The children, parents, doctors, and families were all smiling. There are no words to describe it, but I get chills every time I think about it. What they do is unbelievable and how they go about it is unreal. I can’t imagine not supporting it.”

“Kids have all kinds of options today.

But, Nancy and I grew up in the JCC, which was very tight knit in a location densely populated with Jews,” says Chuck.

Barbara now lives in Richmond. “I’m always looking for that opportunity to get involved in a day-to-day leadership role. I have not found it yet,” she says.

Accustomed to assuming leadership commitments, Barbara held several leadership positions during her teen years in Tidewater, serving as her BBG chapter’s Nisah (president) and as MIT (Member in Training) Mom for the entire Virginia Council. “It was one of my favorite jobs… introducing new ninth graders to BBYO and showing them how they could get in touch with Judaism and meet new friends.”

Barbara even ran MIT/AIT conventions.

Judy welcomes her bothers, their wives, and her nieces into her Virginia Beach home for Passover and Rosh Hashanah.

Chuck Rosenblatt at Super Sunday in mid-1980s.

Barbara and Amy make it a point to drive in from Richmond and Charlotte.

“Both of my girls feel their Judaism,” says Chuck. “That identity shaped them into the people they are today.”

“Family has always been important to me. It’s the tradition that I like,” says Amy. “It started with my grandparents. We’d go to their house after services at Temple Israel. When my grandparents moved to Florida, my mother took over the responsibilities of the Jewish holidays and now that my parents have moved to Florida, my Aunt Judy has taken on this responsibility. Different ages and locations, but the tradition is the same.”

“It’s really important to be with our family and celebrate the holidays,” says Barbara, mentioning their tradition of having certain parts of the Haggadah automatically assigned to the same person each year. “For the past two years, we did a Zoom Seder—we couldn’t miss celebrating together.”

“I overdosed on Jewish activities as a teenager,” says Judy, “In college, I didn’t go near a Hillel. But I reconnected after law school. I’ve been fortunate in my professional career and want to give back and acknowledge that I’m Jewish, especially now. I feel very proud as a Jew that we have never accepted racism as a reality and fought against it. When I walk into the Sandler Family Campus, I always feel like I’m home.”

This is part of a series on generations of families in Jewish Tidewater.

LEGAL MATTERS IN THE JEWISH COMMUNITY Supplement to Jewish News September 27, 2021 jewishnewsva.org | September 27, 2021 | Legal | JEWISH NEWS | 11

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LEGAL MAT TERS

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LEGAL MAT TERS

Local attorneys rise to the top Lisa Richmon

P

racticing law can be like baking a cake. Both require precise timing and ingredients in exact measure. A dash of restraint goes a long way, too. Just ask attorney Neal Schulwolf who knows the power of pause when a new client reveals his search for a Jewish lawyer.

Lawyers who rise to the top demonstrate a mix of judicious creativity, charisma, emotional intelligence, and expertise. That would be the case for Kaleo founder and lawyer Brian Wainger.

Lawyers also make good memes. (But that’s another story.) Jewish lawyers make good copy.

NEAL SCHULWOLF ATTORNEY, KALFUS & NACHMAN

Neal Schulwolf.

Jewish News: How does being Jewish or living Jewishly make life richer and/or more challenging?

Neal Schulwolf: As an attorney

who focuses on helping people who have been injured, I always want to know how my client found me or chose me to represent them in their legal matter.

Over my 30 plus years of practicing law, I’ve received numerous responses, including ‘my next-door neighbor referred me;’ ‘I saw your name on the internet;’ ‘another lawyer gave me your name;’ ‘the guy I bought my car from told me to call you.’

The response that sticks, however, is “I chose you because I thought you were a Jewish lawyer.” Huh? This is where the joy and angst of being Jewish collide.

So many thoughts go through my head when I hear this response. Are Jewish lawyers different than Christian, agnostic, or Muslim lawyers? Does this person think all Jewish lawyers are smart? Ok. I can probably live with that mindset. Or does this person think all Jewish lawyers are slick? Do they expect me to work the system and get them more money? I’m never quite sure how to respond because I’m afraid that if they openly say ‘Jews know how to get the money,’ it will create a bias on my part and affect how I represent them. I’m not prepared to respond to an answer couched in an anti-Semitic trope.

I do realize that I could also hear something that makes me feel proud of my Jewish heritage, but I always choose the path of least controversy and move on to the next legal issue connected to their case so I can help them.

In this line of work, it’s sometimes better to not know something about your client than it is to know something.

As an American Jewish lawyer, I’m very proud of the brilliant Jewish minds and scholars, and their valuable contributions.

Being a lawyer is good. Being a Jewish lawyer is even better.”

BRIAN WAINGER KALEO LEGAL In the early aughts, going remote meant flying to Hawaii for a month with limited computer access to or from home and work. Thirteen years and one pandemic later, remote is a mainstream and essential work lifestyle that connects people 24/7,

Brian Wainger.

continued on page 14

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In 2008, before laptops were available to the masses, and an essential tool for lawyers, Brian Wainger saw remote work as a partial antidote to the traditional staid practice of law. His idea to go largely virtual and diverge from the universally practiced flawed billable hour fee structure resonated with Tina McRae and Billy Poynter, two successful attorneys who shared his entrepreneurial spirit. Together the three ‘big law’ attorneys conceived and welcomed a new form of legal delivery called Kaleo.

JN: What sparked your innovation? What problem in the legal and business world does Kaleo exist to improve/solve?

Brian Wainger: In 2008, I had just finished serving as a General Counsel for a small public company. Before that I worked at McGuireWoods, one of the 100 biggest firms in the world. I had to decide whether to go back as in-house counsel for a new company or join another large firm. While I enjoyed aspects of both jobs, I didn’t like either option and felt that I could forge a more enjoyable career for myself. In particular, I felt that expensive overhead and hourly billing skewed the incentives of the attorney-client relationship, creating unnecessary professional pressures.

Rather than aligning incentives for clients and attorneys, hourly billing does the opposite. Kaleo was conceived in favor of a more relaxed and productive relationship. Offering a fixed or floating monthly subscription structure based on reduced overhead and virtual work when appropriate, gave it wings.

JN: In what ways has Kaleo Legal been successful in the mission to make legal services a more equitable option? What’s the secret weapon?

BW: Our mission is to make legal services more equitable, predictable and value-based. When you have a monthly subscription, you can budget for it. Like a buffet, you pay a fee and get everything you want. No upcharge. No nickel and diming. This allows our clients to reach out for more interaction without fear

of being charged for the “extra’ work.

Relationships build naturally and reliably.

Kaleo was a neat idea, but Billy and Tina brought it to life and turned it into something interesting. Lawyers and unicorns don’t usually go together, but that’s our theme. Tina and Billy got the concept right away and have grown it in ways I could never have imagined. They are both extraordinary people with vision and capabilities that are the key to Kaleo’s growth.

JN What kind of clients benefit from Kaleo? Any big surprises?

BW: We represent small startups and public and private multi-billion dollar companies—and everything in between.

Our roles vary for each company. A typical mom and pop may need substantial business and legal advice. Larger companies call us for our particular expertise, or for additional bandwidth to add to their internal team. Regardless the size of the company, we are a full business firm that handles typical corporate and commercial issues that arise in the business world, but with a heavy focus on corporate, commercial intellectual property, alcohol regulatory work, and employment. In the early years, we simply managed litigation for our clients, but have now grown to a team of eight seasoned litigators, all of whom previously worked at large traditional firms.

The biggest surprise for me is how all this resonated with our clients. Clients love the subscription arrangement where we act as their counsel, as if we’re sitting next to them like a traditional in-house counsel, but at a fraction of the cost of a fulltime attorney and without variable hourly fees charged by most attorneys.

Our work is on par with the most sophisticated firms, but because of lower overhead and virtual remote work, we are able to charge less.

We now have approximately 20 attorneys who previously served at large firms, or as in-house counsel for Fortune 400 Companies, who chose the Kaleo alternative because it’s personal and flexible —and less formal. These are the most extraordinary and talented lawyers I’ve ever met. A combination of a flexible

LEGAL MAT TERS practice model with quality of people is what makes it great.

JN: How did your parents react to such an unconventional career twist?

BW: My parents are very conservative and traditional. They had no idea what to think! When we started Kaleo, I had three little ones. Our twins just turned one and Julia was three.

It’s fair to say we went in a direction that was an unproven method of practicing law. We were early in a world of virtual and remote counsel work at a time

when lawyers just went to the office. We didn’t have the software we have today that securely stores and transfers files with great efficiency. Computers weren’t very mobile with slow and clunky laptops that made remote work a grind.

Although I think they’re a bit less concerned today about whether this idea can put food on the table, it’s fair to say they’re still not sure what to think of Kaleo, particularly what my partners and I have managed to create together without compromising our values or families.

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LEGAL MAT TERS

Couple turns from law to art Valerie and Matt White Lisa Richmon

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Valerie built an impressive immigration practice as a young attorney and partner at Vandeventer Black before joining her husband at Samuel I. White, P.C. where she got the idea for real estate investing. Along the way, she also developed a lifelong passion for yoga.

Valerie and Matthew started painting together soon after she retired from active law practice, and he was winding down from decades of managing the family law firm. Painting was a fun hobby to enjoy together. Couple chill time.

He painted in private.

Valerie took her work public.

Valerie approached art with her typical vigor entering art shows and submitting work to charity auctions and community events. After a full bout of COVID isolation, Valerie convinced Matt to show his work.

They applied to share a booth at the Chesapeake Spring Arts Festival.

“Matt sold a few pieces, but more importantly,” says Valerie, “he watched hundreds of people experience and enjoy his art.”

The hustler in her convinced him to submit three pieces to the “Abstractly Speaking” show at the Virginia Beach Art Center. All of his pieces were accepted; some of Valerie’s were too … but not all.

“In the past, Matt went to opening receptions to support me and my work, but this time he was there as an artist himself,” Valerie says, “and I am thrilled to cheer him on.”

Matt and Valerie White participate in the Chesapeake Spring Art Festival together (June 2021).

Matt White with two of his three pieces in the Virginia Beach Art Center show “Abstractly Speaking” (July 2021).

LEGAL MAT TERS

National Museum of American Jewish History emerges from bankruptcy Asaf Shalev

( JTA)—The National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia will come out of bankruptcy in the coming weeks after a former trustee stepped in to buy the museum building and lease it back for a nominal monthly rent of $1,000.

Mitchell Morgan, a The National Museum of American Jewish History in Philadelphia. local real estate CEO, will pay the museum about $10 million “The initiative Mitch and his family for its downtown property as part of a have shown brings stability to this plan approved by a federal judge.

Philadelphia institution and preserves a The plan also settles a debt with bondbeautiful treasure for the Jewish commuholders, including Morgan, who agreed nity, for the City of Philadelphia, and for to accept $14 million less than what they our nation,” Galperin said in a statement. were owed.

“We’re living in a time that requires us to reflect on our values, and a time when our country needs institutions like the National Museum of American Jewish History that represent freedom and inclusivity,” Morgan said in a statement.

The deal allows the museum to buy its building back after 42 months for the $10.1 million sale price plus 4%, Bloomberg Law reported.

The museum filed for bankruptcy protection in March 2020 because it could not afford the debt from the construction of its new building, which opened on Independence Mall in 2010.

The following month, the pandemic and bankruptcy process led the museum to furlough two-thirds of its staff, with the bankruptcy making the institution ineligible for federal relief under the Paycheck Protection Program.

The museum was closed to visitors for public health reasons and since has operated virtually. A reopening date is forthcoming, the museum said in an update posted in July.

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OPINION

Shmita is Judaism’s sabbatical year. It can be a model for tackling climate change and inequality.

Sen. Meghan Kallman, Rabbi Lex Rofeberg

(JTA)—We are in an era of multiple interlocking crises. From record-breaking heat waves to wildfires to water shortages, from rising authoritarianism to a pandemic rampaging across the world, it is clear that, to survive, human beings will need to make urgent, major changes to how we live.

Bold policy proposals already exist to address these problems, both nationally and in different states. Additionally, we— one of us a politician, the other a rabbi, and both progressives—want to suggest another possibility, gleaned from Jewish tradition: the ancient idea of shmita, the sabbatical year, which can guide our work in this urgent moment when everything we do matters.

Both of us are millennials, and therefore have come of age under the worst inequality since the Gilded Age—exacerbated and symbolized by a student and healthcare debt crisis. The disastrous effects of climate crisis, extinctions, displacement and environmental degradation are threatening to turn life into a nightmare for most on the planet. These problems can be traced to a global obsession with unending growth.

Our only chance to avoid that is to drastically re-envision our society and its priorities.

Both of us are also, in particular, Jewish millennials. We have, in different ways and at different points in our lives, felt called to participate in Jewish communities of learning, prayer and communal gathering. Despite our involvement in those spaces however, neither one of us learned of shmita’s existence until adulthood. It is time for our Jewish spaces, around the world, to re-prioritize this sacred ritual, and apply its wisdom in concrete ways to our own times.

The word “shmita” is observed every seven years. The shmita year began on

Rosh Hashanah. “Sabbatical” tends to refer to respite from work, typically in a university context. But the shmita year is slightly different. It is a collective sabbatical, a radical recalibration of society as a whole, in order to align it with principles of justice and equity for human beings and for the lands we inhabit. Shmita offers a framework for how we might enshrine seemingly individual choices as social values.

The shmita year has two major components. The first is that it serves as a rest for land: Just as humans get to observe a sabbath once every seven days, the land

Shmita’s other major component is that debts are forgiven.

that we inhabit gets a sabbath, too. In biblical times, it meant that the land should lay fallow for a year, and the gleanings left for the needy and even animals. Through shmita, our relationship to land can shift from one of control and domination to one of appreciation and interdependence.

Clearly, such lessons are applicable to this moment as well.

Shmita’s other major component is that debts are forgiven. This is done to address financial inequities that grow over time, and to enable everyone to

LEGAL MAT TERS have the opportunity training for formerly to thrive. Debt forgiveincarcerated people, Every ness every seven years rethinking financial disrupts wealth-hoardsystems, and experimenting, and provides relief ing with basic income. to those struggling to Communities and legmeet their basic needs. islatures are mobilizing Shmita approaches justice around these issues, but years Shmita expansively. we need more action, is observed These ideas can be, faster, and at every level. and should be, used in The choices we make practice — not just in now will determine our ancient texts, and not the survival of millions just aspirationally. For instance: we could within the next few decades. We must forgive debts, and change the systems that seek out every strategy available to us as cause such terrible indebtedness. Twowe take on the challenges that threaten thirds of contemporary U.S. bankruptcies the inhabitants of our country, other are over medical issues and medical debt; countries, and our planet. That includes we must make healthcare free and unistrategies anchored in ancient wisdom, versal to solve this problem over the long like the shmita year. We need to act colterm. Collectively, U.S. college students lectively, for everyone’s health. Because owe nearly $1.6 trillion in student loan a society that takes care of itself and debt; President Biden could and should forgive up to $50,000 per borrower in federal student debt through executive action. Over the medium term, we must make public colleges and universities free, to avoid re-creating the same problem— something that our home state of Rhode Island is already on its way to doing. This year, its General Assembly permanently enacted RI Promise, the free tuition program at the Community College of Rhode Island.

The idea of shmita can also guide us in acting to avoid the most catastrophic effects of climate change. Shmita proposes that for a year, humans must avoid treating land simply as a means to our ends; we must not think in terms of limitless expansion, but rather in terms of sustainability and rest. Leaving the land fallow rejects the notion that our planet, and its resources, exist only to serve us.

Our state’s Act on Climate bill sets legally binding targets for emissions reductions; now we must act urgently to meet them. Measures like mandating net-zero emissions in energy generation, a its most vulnerable is one that is, quite critical move that passed only the Senate simply, the only moral option. this session, are crucial first steps. We need to rebuild our food systems, and The views and opinions expressed in this expand public transit and clean energy article are those of the author and do not necproduction. Neighborhoods are buildessarily reflect the views of JTA or its parent ing community gardens while offering company, 70 Faces Media.

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jewishnewsva.org | September 27, 2021 | Legal | JEWISH NEWS | 19

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LEGAL MAT TERS

Meet the Jewish mustard maven who founded a museum for his favorite condiment This adjunct professor of food law at the University of Wisconsin Law School is passionate about mustard Rachel Román

( JTA)—The 16th-century kabbalist Moshe Cordovero and the Jewish philosopher Nachmanides both compared the universe to the size of a mustard seed. The biblical commentator Rashi—who lived 100 miles from Dijon, France—believed that Abraham served tongue with mustard to the three angels who visit him in the 18th chapter of Genesis.

Long before there were Jewish delis, mustard apparently was important to Jews—but not just Jews.

“Mustard is in almost every religion and every culture,” says Barry Levenson, the founder, curator, and CMO (chief mustard officer) of the National Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin.

“There’s a passage in the New Testament about the 1 ⁄8 -inch of a mustard seed.

There’s also something in the Quran about how the balance of your future could be determined by a mustard seed.

Mustard is universal, not only as a condiment but in terms of its legends.”

Founded in 1992, the mustard museum is often listed as one of the most unusual museums in the United States, typically drawing around 35,000 visitors a year. But last year it closed for six weeks due to COVID-19. Both the museum’s revenue and Levenson’s mental health took a hit.

“It was devastating,” Levenson said.

“We have a donation box because we don’t charge

admission at the museum, so the donations totally stopped. It was very hard, but we’re recovering.”

To distract himself, he focused on his part-time teaching position as an adjunct professor of food law at the University of Wisconsin Law School, where he has taught for seven years.

Fortunately, the museum is recovering. Since May, it’s had a steady stream of visitors, and Levenson is relieved to welcome back the crowds. He describes the museum and its visitors as his “congregation.”

Levenson first started collecting mustards after his favorite baseball team, the Boston Red Sox, lost in the 1986 World Series. Despondent, he went grocery shopping after the game and was drawn to the bottles of mustard.

“It was just something about the mustards,” he says. “I heard a voice coming from them, ‘Collect us and they will come.’”

Today, the nonprofit museum contains some 6,090 mustards from over 70 countries along with a gift shop and exhibits about mustard’s history. Levenson also

National Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin.

20 | JEWISH NEWS | Legal | September 27, 2021 | jewishnewsva.org

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is one of the best ways to show your hosts the annual World-Wide Mustard Competition, which judges the condiment in 17 categories.

Levenson loves mustard on everything, even doughnuts and ice cream. He suggests a sweet variety—like cranberry and raspberry—for desserts and says that pecan-flavored mustard is delicious on ice cream.

“There are other uses besides putting it on a sandwich,” he says. “It’s good in sauces and dressings. Mustard is really versatile.”

Levenson has created his own concoctions, too. His most recent experiment was a mustard pudding, and he’s working up to a crème brulee.

“I’ve tried just about everything, different ingredients, flavors and spices,” he said. “I’m kind of a mustard mad scientist.”

But Levenson is a purist when it comes to deli sandwiches, only using brown mustard. Ten years ago, he did an informal survey of several New York delis about what makes a good mustard. Some said it needed to have horseradish, while others preferred garlic. In Levenson’s opinion, a really good brown mustard will have a horseradish bite because both contain the compound allyl isothiocyanate, which provides the pungent flavor in both brown mustard seeds and horseradish

root. Many delis serve both brown and yellow mustard to appease varying tastes.

The delicatessen originated in Germany in 1700 as a shop that sold exotic items, like bananas, mangos and plums. When Ashkenazi Jews immigrated to America, they brought the deli with them. Katz’s Delicatessen in New York—one of the world’s most famous—is credited as the first in the U.S., established in 1888. Around that time, delis expanded into offering lunch, creating a lunch break staple of sandwiches filled with corned beef or peppery pastrami.

Those fatty meats may not be healthy, but mustard is. It has few calories and contains antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients, akin to broccoli and brussels sprouts, which are members of the same plant family. It can even help with respiratory and muscular pain. Fun fact: Runners sometimes carry packets of yellow mustard to relieve leg cramps.

Mustard wasn’t always on the menu for Levenson, a native of Worcester, Massachusetts, who was accepted to rabbinical school but “chickened out” before attending and shifted to law. Before opening the museum, he worked as a lawyer for 15 years, including a stint as the assistant attorney general for Wisconsin.

While he never became a rabbi, Levenson is active in the Jewish

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“It’s not a very large Jewish community, but we do what we can here in Madison,” he says.

Even though he doesn’t keep kosher, carrying kosher mustard was important to Levenson, who insisted on selling dozens of kosher varieties in the museum gift shop. Some are premium offerings, like Silver Spring Foods’ Deli-Style Mustard, which was crowned grand champion and

won several other awards at the WorldWide Mustard Competition in 2008. It’s a brand that Levenson uses himself, which is high praise in the condiment world.

The only thing Levenson dislikes about mustard is its relationship with ketchup. The popular, royal red condiment is much younger than mustard and sometimes steals its spotlight.

This seeming slight on his favorite ingredient is blasphemy to Levenson: “You never hear anything about ketchup in the Torah, right? No, nothing!”

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Former prosecutor Naomi Adler named CEO of Hadassah

H

adassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America (HWZOA), announced that Naomi Adler, a distinguished leader in the nonprofit and Jewish communal sectors, has been named the organization’s new CEO. She will lead the country’s largest Jewish women’s organization, with nearly 300,000 members, donors, and supporters, and a professional staff of 200.

Adler assumed her new role on September 1, 2021, succeeding Janice Weinman, who retired June 30.

A former prosecutor and a community advocate, Adler served six years as president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia and for 13 years lead two United Way organizations in New York.

“We are thrilled to welcome Naomi Adler as Hadassah’s new CEO. A proven nonprofit leader with deep expertise in Jewish communal work and an impressive track record of community engagement, fundraising, and advocacy, she is the ideal person to build on Hadassah’s past achievements, increase its global impact and take Hadassah into the next phase of its growth,” says Rhoda Smolow, president of Hadassah.

“Hadassah’s ability to assemble and engage a diverse membership is second to none. Whether it’s advancing Zionism, fighting antisemitism, fostering Jewish youth development, advocating for improved access to medical care or supporting the exceptional work done

by Hadassah Medical Organization, Hadassah’s accomplishments are more essential than ever,” says Adler. “I am honored to have been chosen to partner with Hadassah’s unique network of strong female leaders and other supporters to further the organization’s critical work in

the United States, Israel and around the world.”

As president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, which serves the sixth-largest Jewish population in the United States, in addition to raising significant funds on behalf of the community, Adler elevated Federation’s reputation on both the national and international stage, created innovative local initiatives that improved the community’s security, enhanced services for its most vulnerable, and expanded professional development opportunities for Jewish communal professionals.

Among Adler’s accomplishments as president and CEO of two United Way organizations are expanding a 2-1-1 crisis call center, initiating programs to effectively combat poverty and leading the non-governmental disaster planning and recovery efforts in the wake of 9/11 and several natural disasters.

Adler has testified as an expert on charitable giving, antisemitism, and global public health in local and national legislative forums, including the Ways and Means Committee of the United States Congress. She was recognized by President Obama for her efforts during Hurricane Sandy and by FEMA for her service to the community during Hurricanes Irene and Lee. A native of Rochester, Adler graduated from Mount Holyoke College and SUNY Buffalo School of Law before returning to her hometown to work first in private practice and then as Assistant District Attorney for Monroe County. Her reputation as a successful prosecutor in cases of violence against women and children, and later as a community advocate for families living in poverty, earned Adler several honors.

IT’S A WRAP 33rd Annual Strelitz International Academy Golf Tournament Carly Glikman

O

n the perfectly sunny morning of September 14, Strelitz International Academy’s 33rd Annual Golf Tournament, affectionately known as the Bob Josephberg Classic, took place on the Bayville Golf Club course.

The Bob Josephberg Classic is SIA’s biggest fundraiser. This year, with the help of 99 sponsors, the tournament raised more than $152,000. The funds go directly towards the future of Jewish education and community leadership in Tidewater by providing finanWinning Team: Brian Miller, Jay Rickles, Donnie Simms, cial sustainability and broader and Paul Hughs. access to SIA for all families.

Following opening remarks by David to enjoy the day, but also to support Cardon, SIA board president, the playSIA. Our entire SIA community thanks ers teed off in a Florida best ball style everyone who participated in making our tournament. A brand new Maserati and a largest fundraising event such a resoundMercedes from Charles Barker Automotive ing success,” says Cardon. for the hole in one competition sponsored The tournament was also SIA’s first

by Charles Barker and Towne Insurance, in-person event since the school became could be seen from the fairways. the first International Baccalaureate World While many events have pivoted from School for the Primary Years in Tidewater. in-person to virtual since the beginning “After two years of candidacy, the of the pandemic in March 2020, golf Strelitz International Academy (SIA) has remained a safe and effective way has just received full authorization as for people to gather. The Bob Josephberg an International Baccalaureate® World Classic saw an outstanding 120 golfers School Primary Years Program. We are and 25 volunteers turn out to support proud to be the first IB® Primary Years SIA. Program World School in Tidewater! This Jason Hoffman, who participated as is the culmination of years of planning, both a player and a sponsor, says, “All of development and implementation,” says the staff and volunteers did a great job. It Heather Moore, head of school. “I am was a beautiful day, well run, safe, and so exceptionally proud of SIA. I want to much fun.” thank all of our donors for their support The day was reminiscent of preduring this journey to authorization. We COVID-19 tournaments with the return would not be able to provide such an of the much anticipated after-play recepexceptional education for our students tion (which was canceled the previous without our wonderful donors!” year due to safety concerns), catered by Congratulations to the tournament’s The Cardo Cafe. The complete set of big 1st flight winners: Brian Miller, Jay team scores and winners were announced Rickles, Donnie Simms, and Paul Hughs during the dinner, where players mingled from the Celia K. Krichman team, and and relaxed after a great day on the links. to all of the other winners. SIA thanks “It was truly spectacular to witness all sponsors, players, and volunteers, for the power of participation at this year’s the day’s support. “We also want to espetournament from the players, sponsors, cially thank Ilana and Nathan Benson for volunteers, and staff. Everyone was there their exceptional work as event co-chairs.

Evan Kalfus and John Strelitz.

Steve Zuckerman, Larry Siegal, and David Abraham.

Babbi Bangel, Amy Weinstein, and David Leon.

Although they will be stepping down from their position, their participation has made a lasting impression,” says Cardon.

Mark calendars for next year’s tournament on Monday, September 19, 2022 at the Cavalier Golf & Yacht Club.

For more information, contact Carly Glikman, SIA director of development, at 757-424‑4327, or email cglikman@strelitzacademy.org.

jewishnewsva.org | September 27, 2021 | JEWISH NEWS | 23

IT’S A WRAP

WHAT’S HAPPENING Healing of the soul, healing of the body

Sunday Fun Day moves into fall

Stephen Fried with area clergy Sunday, October 3, 5:30 pm

Nofar Trem

Stephen Fried with area professionals Monday, October 4, 7 pm

T

he new tradition of Sunday Fun Day continued this fall as PJ Library in Tidewater welcomed families to the Reba and Sam Sandler Family Campus of the Tidewater Jewish Community on September 12 for an afternoon of field games, music, and ice cream.

Families with children of all ages gathered and made friends, while the children played mini golf, created chalk masterpieces, and giggled through a game of sharks and minnows with Camp JCC counselor, Zachary Sissel.

“Sunday Fun Days are a great way for kids and parents to connect and build community,” says Shikma Rubin, who regularly attends these monthly events with her two sons, age two and six.

Sunday Fun Days are free and open to JCC members, synagogue and YAD members, SIA families, and Camp JCC families.

The next two Sunday Fun Days will take place on October 10 and November 14 at

Families get competitive on the mini golf course.

2 pm, with a variety of activities and crafts for the entire family.

Sierra Lautman and Alene Jo Kaufman

To learn more about PJ Library in Tidewater or register for upcoming events, visit JewishVA. org/PJLibrary or contact Nofar Trem, PJ Library program coordinator, at NTrem@UJFT.org.

Reception for revered artist and matriarch turns into a virtual delight

by Jill Grossman

C

ollectors, family, friends, and mentors gathered from across the country—and globe— to honor artist Lorraine Fink during a reception celebrating Then, Now, & Looking Forward: Lorraine Fink Retrospective.

The reception was held via Zoom on Sunday, Sept. 12.

As a special surprise to Fink, tribute videos were collected and compiled into one video. Conservators of her art shared stories and paid homage to the long-time artist. In addition, a virtual guided tour, which included Fink offering commentary, was shown. Attendees spoke about Fink’s vast and varied collection of watercolors, sculptures, abstract canvases, and

Stephen Fried.

more; and expressed gratitude for her friendship, kindness, and generosity.

Going virtual did not stop the togetherness.

Guests chatted with the artist, and each other, and shared stories about their art and connection to Fink and her family.

Then, Now, & Looking Forward: Lorraine Fink Retrospective is on display in the Leon Family Gallery and throughout the Simon Family JCC through October 31. Watch the tribute videos and take the guided tour with Lorraine Fink by visiting JewishVA.org/ Gallery.

For questions, or purchase inquiries, contact Jill Grossman, director, Arts + Ideas, at jgrossman@ujft.org, or 757-965-6137.

24 | JEWISH NEWS | September 27, 2021 | jewishnewsva.org

I

f someone were to ask what’s in your pillbox, you may answer blood pressure medication, cholesterol medication, immunosuppressants, something needed to keep diabetes under control, etc. Would you tell them about your anti-depressants? Would you let them know about the medicine you take for anxiety, OCD, or depression?

These are the diseases only discussed in a whisper. Societal beliefs have led to the shame that many feel when talking about their mental wellbeing and brain health. When these illnesses are taken out of hiding, people can support one another.

As it says in the Talmud, kol yisrael arevim zeh bazeh, which translates to “All of Israel are responsible for one another.”

How can this be extended to issues of mental health? This year, the Tidewater Jewish community is going to begin to address this challenge.

Author and award-winning investigative journalist, Stephen Fried, is coming to Tidewater as a part of the Milton “Mickey” Kramer Scholar in Residence Fund of the Congregation Beth El Foundation’s Tidewater Together series. This part of Tidewater Together consists of two programs over two days, and is in partnership with Jewish Family Service of Tidewater.

In the first program, on October 3, Fried will be joined by local Jewish clergy including Rabbi Michael Panitz, Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg, Rabbi Ron Koas, Cantor Wendi Fried, and Cantor Jennifer Rueben, to discuss why brain health and mental well-being matter to the Jewish people and what can be done as a Jewish community to bring these topics out of the shadows.

The second program, on October 4, will feature representatives from local organizations: Jewish Family Service of Tidewater, National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI), Virginia Beach Police Department’s Crisis Intervention Team, I Need a Lighthouse, and VB Strong Center. In conversation with Fried, these professionals will explore what work is currently being done locally to address the mental well-being of the community, what work still needs to be done, and how to help.

The Mi Shebeirach, the traditional healing prayer, asks for a refuat hanefesh— healing of the soul—refuat haguf—and healing of the body. Bodily health and mental/spiritual well-being are knotted together. Without both, the healing is not considered to be complete. The issue of mental health and well-being is deeply embedded in Jewish tradition and values.

It is time that mental health is openly discussed.

These free and open to the community programs offer in-person and virtual tickets. Pre-registration is required for both.

With something to offer to everyone, The Milton “Mickey” Kramer Scholarin-Residence Fund’s Tidewater Together series will continue this spring with visiting authors, podcasters, and artists. To learn more, or to register, visit JewishVA. org/TidewaterTogether or contact Sierra Lautman, director of Jewish Innovation, at United Jewish Federation of Tidewater at 757-965-6107 or SLautman@UJFT.org.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Dara Horn explores today’s antisemitism at ODU Workshop Unpacking Antisemitism: An Action Based Workshop Sunday, October 17, 1 pm

ISRAEL, SOCIAL MEDIA, AND THE BATTLE FOR THE TRUTH

Israel Today series kicks off 11th year with Noa Tishby Wednesday, October 13, 7:30 pm

FREE, OPEN TO COMMUNITY, LIMITED SPACE, PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED JEWISHVA.ORG/UNPACKINGANTISEMITISM

A

Elka Mednick

U

nited Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Jewish Community Relations Council and Konikoff Center for Learning in partnership with the Old Dominion University Institute for Jewish Studies and Interfaith Understanding, presents an afternoon workshop: Unpacking Antisemitism: An Action Based Workshop featuring author and scholar Dara Horn. The workshop intends to explore latent antisemitism.

Horn has written about Jewish life and culture since she was a teenager, becoming a go-to for many major publications.

In recent years, those assignments have increasingly been in response to antisemitic incidents that were often deadly.

From that, Horn had a troubling realization; she was too often writing about dead Jews, rather than living ones.

Recognizing the unease she felt at the myriad of requests, Horn set out to explore Jewish history as it stands in the popular imagination in her new book, People Love Dead Jews. In a series of insightful and informative essays, Horn delves into Shakespeare’s Shylock, Anne Frank, and Jewish communities in all corners of the world. Horn suggests in her examination of attacks on Jewish life and culture that the public piety surrounding the Jewish past is a subtle means to dehumanize Jews living

Elka Mednick

Dara Horn.

in the present.

Open to the community, “the day promises to be engaging, enlightening, and thought provoking,” says Amy Milligan, director of the Institute for Jewish Studies and Interfaith Understanding at ODU. Free and open to the community, the workshop offers in-person and online participation, but registration is required for both. Additional speakers and workshop facilitators will represent organizations including the Anti-Defamation League, FBI, Robert Nusbaum Center at Virginia Wesleyan University, and Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities.

To register, visit www.JewishVA.org/ UnpackingAntisemitism. Questions about the workshop may be directed to Elka Mednick at emednick@ujft.org.

Visit us on the web jewishnewsva.org

noxious new wave of social media antisemitism is spreading. How can it be fought? How can the truth about Israel be shared across digital networks? To answer these questions, Noa Tishby will visit Tidewater to kick off the 11th annual Israel Today series presented by the Jewish Community Relations Council of the Noa Tishby.

United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, Simon Family JCC, and Community Partners. Also kicking off the UJFT and Simon Family JCC’s 2021–2022 Lee and Bernard Jaffe Family Jewish Book Festival, Tishby will speak about her new book, Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth.

Tishby is at the forefront of the battle of ideas on social media. As an Israeli household name and top television actress, she’s used her star power to become one of the country’s leading voices against hatred of Israelis and Jews.

This great-granddaughter of Zionist pioneers founded the first Israel-focused online advocacy and rapid response organization, Act For Israel, and with it, became a powerful voice for Israel and the Middle East.

In 2014, Tishby initiated a partnership between The Schusterman Foundation and Summit Series and co-created Reality Israel, a series of leadership trips to Israel for Jews and non-Jews. To date, Reality Israel has brought thousands of professionals in tech, music, food, sports, and the arts and

sciences to Israel. Recognized as one of the 50 Most Powerful Jews in the World, TIshby was also on Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Power list of international executives.

As a producer, Tishby made history with the sale of In Treatment to HBO; the first Israeli television show to become an American series. She co-produced the 14 Emmy and Golden Globe-nominated, and Peabody Award-winning series with Mark Wahlberg and Stephen Levinson.

Tishby has spoken at the United Nations General Assembly, where she has discussed everything from BDS to Israeli innovation.

She is a contributor to The Huffington Post, Jerusalem Post, The Jewish Journal, Tablet and Ynet, where she writes about policy, culture, and international relations.

Join the community for this important and timely event on what can be done to counter the surge of online hatred.

Free and open to the community, RSVP (required) at JewishVA.org/IsraelToday or contact Elka Mednick, assistant JCRC director, at 757-965-6112.

Follow us on Facebook JewishNewsVA jewishnewsva.org | September 27, 2021 | JEWISH NEWS | 25

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Lady Day at Emerson’s recalls Billie Holiday October 29–31, Attucks Theater

S

et in 1959 in a seedy bar in Philadelphia, Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill is a re-creation of one of Billie Holiday’s last performances, featuring more than a dozen musical numbers—including such classics as Strange Fruit, God Bless the Child, Tain’t Nobody’s Business If I Do—interlaced with reminiscences to project a riveting portrait of the lady and her music, and her struggle with racism, abuse, and addiction.

In-collaboration by Virginia Arts Festival and Norfolk State University Theatre Company, at Norfolk’s Attucks Theatre (where Holiday herself performed in the theatre’s heyday.

Tickets at vafest. org.

The Jewish Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, invites the community to these events with the Robert Nusbaum Center at Virginia Wesleyan University. For more information visit https://www. vwu.edu/academics/robert-nusbaum-center/.

NEXUS INTERFAITH DIALOGUE Exodus in America: Exploring Coastal Virginia’s Racial Legacy of Place and Displacement Monday, September 27, 7–8:30 pm Jane P. Batten Student Center, Pearce Suite Intense issues in the community’s history relate to race and displacement. How can such issues be approached thoughtfully and creatively? This evening is part of an open play-making process, which shows how the arts can be effective in reflecting on the history of social challenges and exploring their connections to today. The In[HEIR]itance Project (I[H]P) is a national arts organization that creates space for communities to navigate challenging civic conversations through collaborative theater projects inspired by sacred texts. Participants in Coastal Virginia will be co-creators in a play that explores the racial dynamics of the region’s legacy of place and displacement in relationship to themes from the Book of Exodus. The finished play premieres at the 2022 Virginia Arts Festival. This evening’s interactive salon – facilitated by I[H]P Co-founders Chantal Pavageaux, Jon Adam Ross, and Ariel – is the first step in this process.

Sponsored in partnership with the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities and Hands United Building Bridges, an interfaith, interracial network of clergy, congregations, and community leaders in Coastal Virginia. This program is made possible, in part, by the Hampton Roads Community Foundation and Virginia Humanities.

26 | JEWISH NEWS | September 27, 2021 | jewishnewsva.org

Local Relationships Matter

CALENDAR OCTOBER 3, SUNDAY Brain Health and Faith with Stephen Fried. Presented by The Milton “Mickey” Kramer Scholar-in-Residence Fund of the Congregation Beth El Foundation, this timely discussion with investigative journalist, Stephen Fried, and local Jewish clergy, Rabbi Rosalin Mandelberg, Rabbi Michael Panitz, Rabbi Ron Koas, Cantor Jennifer Rueben, and Cantor Wendi Fried, will focus on why brain health and mental well-being matter to the Jewish people, and what can be done as a Jewish community to bring these topics out of the shadows. Dinner begins at 5:30 pm, followed by panel discussion. FREE and open to the community. For more information or to RSVP (required) visit JewishVA.org/KCL or contact Sierra Lautman, director of Jewish Innovation, at 757-965-6107 or SLautman@ujft.org. See page 24.

OCTOBER 4, MONDAY

MEET:

Mental Health Awareness in Tidewater with Stephen Fried. Learn about the important work being done locally to address the mental well-being of the community, what work still needs to be done, and how to help in this panel discussion featuring representatives from the National Alliance of Mental Health, the Virginia Beach Crisis Intervention Team, I Need A Lighthouse, and the VB Strong Center. Presented by The Milton “Mickey” Kramer Scholar-in-Residence Fund of the Congregation Beth El Foundation, in partnership with Jewish Family Service. Free and open to the community. 7:30 pm. For more information or to RSVP (required) visit JewishVA.org/KCL or contact Sierra Lautman, director of Jewish Innovation, at 757-965-6107 or SLautman@ujft.org.

See page 24.

Paul R. Hernandez

“This area is our home and we are committed to supporting it. Our lawyers are actively involved by donating their time to programs that help the community, especially in the schools with young drivers. I am very involved with End Distracted Driving, spending 20 days a year in the schools educating students about the dangers of using a cell phone while driving. The other major program we work on is Every 15 Minutes which highlights how every 15 minutes someone dies in a car crash and helps teens understand the consequences of drinking and driving.”

OCTOBER 7–NOVEMBER 18, TUESDAYS The Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning presents Soul’s Cycles: A Ride Through the Chapters of Life. Ready to flex those spiritual muscles? This six-week course taught by Miriam Brunn Ruberg will lead participants through a focused, high-intensity journey through the Jewish perspective on some of life’s milestones: birth, marriage, divorce, mikvah, conversion—a fascinating ride that will deepen an understanding for when these moments happen personally, to family and to friends. 12–1:30 pm. For more information or to register, visit JewishVA.org/KCL or contact Sierra Lautman, director of Jewish Innovation, at slautman@ujft.org or 757-965-6107.

OCTOBER 12, TUESDAY Antisemitism: A Bipartisan Problem that Demands a Nonpartisan Solution, presented by the ADL mid-Atlantic/Midwest and the Jewish Community Relations Council, the first of two in a speaker series featuring leaders who have courageously and powerfully challenged anti-Jewish bigotry from their own political allies. 7 pm. Free and open to the community, registration for this virtual event is required. For more information contact Elka Mednick, assistant director, JCRC, at emednick@ujft.org or 757-965-6112.

OCTOBER 13, WEDNESDAY The Jewish Community Relations Council of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, Simon Family JCC, & Community Partners’ 11th Annual Israel Today & Simon Family JCC’s Lee & Bernard Jaffe Family Jewish Book Festival kicks off with Israeli American actress, activist, and author Noa Tishby, who will share her insights of utilizing twitter and other social media platforms to advocate for Israel. Israel Today is free and open to the community, RSVP required. 7:30 pm. For more information, or to RSVP (required) visit JewishVA.org/IsraelToday or contact Elka Mednick at emednick@ ujft.org or 757-965-6112. See page 25.

OCTOBER 17, SUNDAY Unpacking Antisemitism: An Action Based Workshop, in partnership with ODU’s Institute for Jewish Studies & Interfaith Understanding, the JCRC present a workshop to understand and combat modern antisemitism, with keynote address from author Dara Horn. Workshop begins at 1 pm. For more information, or to RSVP (required), visit www.JewishVA.org/unpackingantisemitism or contact Elka Mednick at emednick@ujft.org or 757-965-6112. See page 25.

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NOVEMBER 18, THURSDAY Antisemitism: A Bipartisan Problem that Demands a Nonpartisan Solution, presented by the ADL mid-Atlantic/Midwest and the Jewish Community Relations Council, the second of two in a speaker series featuring leaders who have courageously and powerfully challenged anti-Jewish bigotry from their own political allies. 7 pm. Free and open to the community, registration for this virtual event is required. For more information contact Elka Mednick, assistant director, JCRC, at emednick@ujft.org or 757-965-6112.

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.

jewishnewsva.org | September 27, 2021 | JEWISH NEWS | 27

OBITUARIES HARRIET GAIL DICKMAN VIRGINIA BEACH—Harriet Gail Dickman, 82, of Virginia Beach, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 10, 2021.

She was from Roanoke Rapids, N.C. and the daughter of Harold and Ray Kruger Bloom.

She was the wife of Stanwood Dickman for 60 wonderful years. Mother to Ray Alyssa Rothman, Barry Dickman, and Bruce Dickman. Sister to Joan Benas (Al Benas). She was the proud Nana of Julia, Rachel, Teddy, Sammy, and Becca.

Harriet graduated from Boston University where she received a bachelor degree in speech pathology and master’s degree in speech pathology from Montclair State University. She maintained a private speech pathology practice for almost 40 years and built an established reputation for private school speech and hearing testing across Hampton Roads.

Harriet was loved by many and she will be deeply missed. She was a shining example of courage, caring, love, optimism, and joy of life. She was a member of Temple Israel and took part in every life event with her family. Her legacies will continue through her husband, children, and grandchildren.

A graveside service was held at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Norfolk. The service was live streamed at https://www.facebook.com/hdoliverfuneralapts.

Memorial donations may be made to Hadassah, Temple Israel, Jewish Family Service of Tidewater or a charity of your choice. H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts. Online condolences may be sent to the family through www.hdoliver.com.

WILLIAM HIRSCH KITTNER NORFOLK—William Hirsch Kittner passed away peacefully at his home on September 3, 2021.

Bill was born January 19, 1930 in Weldon N.C. He was the son of the late Louis and Rose Kittner and the baby brother to Joe, Dave, Dot and Harry of blessed memories, and sister Lucille. Bill was a resident of Weldon, North Carolina for 71 years. He graduated from Weldon High School and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He served in the

United States Army during the Korean War, 1951–1953. Bill joined his family’s business, L. Kittner’s Department Store in 1955, which was owned and operated by him and his brother Harry, Bill was an active member of numerous civic organizations including the Weldon Business Bureau, Roanoke Valley Chamber of Commerce, Roanoke Valley Red Cross, American Legion, Weldon Jaycees, and the Weldon Rotary Club. Bill was also a daily member of the Weldon Coffee Club where he and his fellow businessmen would discuss world and local events. Bill received many awards for serving his community while living in Weldon, including Small Businessman of the Year by the Roanoke Valley Chamber of Commerce, Boy Scout Citizen of the Year, and the Diversity Advocate Award from Halifax Community College.

Bill was an integral part of Temple Emanu-El in Weldon. He served in various roles including president, lay leader, caretaker, and also performed any other duties that were necessary for the operation of the congregation. He was instrumental in helping arrange the donation of the Temple Emanu-El Torah and memorial plaques to Temple Beth Charverim, in addition to stained glass windows and other religious memorabilia to Beth Sholom Chapel and the Chapel Hill Kehillah. Upon moving to Norfolk in 2001, Bill joined Congregation Beth El. He became an active member of Brith Sholom and volunteered with Jewish Family Service of Tidewater’s PAM program.

Bill was a one-of-a-kind man with a beautiful heart, a passion for life, and a wonderful sense of humor. He was respected and admired by everyone he met. Bill was a true Tarheel who stood by his team whether they won or lost. While shopping, customers would often find Bill pacing the floor while listening to Carolina sports on Saturday afternoons.

Most important to Bill was his family.

He was fortunate to have a large, caring, immediate and extended family. Bill is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 64 years, Ida Kroll Kittner. He is also survived by his children: Jody and David Laibstain, Lisa and Billy Latham, Rhoda and Bill Verhosek; his grandchildren:

28 | JEWISH NEWS | September 27, 2021 | jewishnewsva.org

Hillary, Claire, Julia, Edward, and Dasha; his sister: Lucille (Chippy) Frank; and his sisters-in-law: Connie Kittner and Sarah Kittner. Additionally, Bill is survived by numerous devoted nieces, nephews, and their families.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude and thanks to Jewish Family Service of Tidewater and the Freida H. Gordon Hospice and Palliative Care for their support and care during Bill’s illness.

Funeral Services were held at Congregation Beth El. A private burial followed at Forest Lawn Cemetery.

Donations in Bill’s memory can be made to Congregation Beth El, Jewish Family Service of Tidewater, Freda H. Gordon Hospice and Palliative Care, or the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be offered to the family at hdoliver.com.

FRANK SHEFFER VIRGINIA BEACH—Frank Sheffer, 97, passed away on Thursday, September 2, 2021.

Frank was born in Lancaster, Pa. on March 10, 1924 to Emma and Isidore Sheffer. Later they moved to Suffolk, Va. He grew up as the youngest of four children. He learned bookkeeping from his uncle and later studied accounting at William and Mary extension in Norfolk.

He attended Columbia University in New York to take classes in auditing. He joined the AICPA in 1950 and started a large accounting firm in Suffolk with more than 20 employees. At one time, he was the oldest practicing CPA in Virginia.

He was active in the Suffolk Rotary Club and held offices in it. He was an officer in the Suffolk synagogue, Adgudah Achim congregation, and helped with the merger with Congregation Beth El in Norfolk.

He was a resident at the Memory Center in Virginia Beach for the last eight years.

He was predeceased by his mother, Emma Sheffer; sister, Helen Weintrob; and brothers, Aubrey and Sylvan. He is survived by his nephew, Joseph Weintrob (Irene); niece, Marjorie Lieberman (Alex), and a multitude of great and grand nieces and nephews, and cousins.

A graveside service was held at Holly

Lawn Cemetery in Suffolk with Rabbi Michael Panitz officiating. Condolences may be registered online at RWBakerFH.com.

HARVEY WARREN STEEN VIRGINIA BEACH—Harvey Warren Steen, 90, passed away on August 30, 2021 after a brief illness.

He was born on January 2, 1931 in Bronx, N.Y. to the late Emanuel and Mary (Schmookler) Steen. His family moved to River Edge, N.J. where he excelled as a student and graduated high school with a ROTC scholarship. He attended Cornell University and joined the Tau Epsilon Phi fraternity, graduating with a five-year degree in chemical engineering. He also played in Cornell’s Big Red marching band. Harvey soon married his red-haired beloved, Phyllis Wallach, on June 1, 1952, and the couple moved to Biloxi, Miss. to begin his military service. He was stationed in Japan with the United States Air Force where he served as a lieutenant in the communications unit, providing ground support to paratroopers on air-sea rescue missions during the Korean Conflict. After completing his service at the rank of captain, he returned to New Jersey to begin his career in the young field of plastics, helping to develop new products and serving as technical director for major companies in Ohio and Massachusetts. After their children had left home, he and Phyllis moved to Virginia Beach where he became vice president of a business brokerage firm, from which he later retired.

Harvey had a lifelong love of music.

In addition to playing trombone, he had a beautiful singing voice and loved to play records reflecting his broad musical tastes.

He would often play trombone duets with his wife and daughter on piano, and performed with various groups culminating with the local Tidewater Community Band. He also served as president of Temple Emanuel, in Lowell, Mass. Harvey discovered tennis in his 40s and continued playing until a bad knee stopped him in his 80s. He enjoyed watching televised sports and amusing others with his quirky sense of humor. He was able to fix almost anything and was often called upon to keep household appliances and

OBITUARIES toys operational. Harvey had an inquisitive, incisive mind and used his Tivo to compile programs reflecting a wide range of interests.

Harvey was preceded in death by his parents; his younger sister, Myrna Steen (age 1); his cousin, Lawrence Levine; and his sister-in-law, Doris (Wallach) Gutentag. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Phyllis (Wallach) Steen; their three children and spouses: John and D. Elizabeth (Steen) Meyers; Alan Smith and Patricia Steen; Jonathan and Carole Steen; his brother and sister-in-law, Paul and Donna Steen; his brother-in-law, Jack Gutentag; his cousins, Damien and Carol Steen; and his six grandchildren: Nicholas West; Tory Zakarian; and Solomon, Edmund, Timothy, and Emily Steen.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. Cremation Society of Virginia.

Condolences and memories may be posted to www.vacremationsociety.com.

ANNE LYNN FLEDER VERNER BOCA RATON, FLA.—Anne Lynn Fleder Verner passed away on August 30, 2021 after a hard fought four-month battle with stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Anne was 61 years old.

Anne was a brilliant, hilariously funny, wonderful and beautiful woman who was married to her best friend, soul mate, and life love, Andrew Verner. They met freshman year at Emory University and became close friends, later best friends, but were not romantic until their second year at University of Miami Law School. They were married and madly in love every day for over 33 years.

Andrew survives her with their sheepdog Ferris Bueller in Boca Raton, Fla. Anne is also survived by her adopted in-law family Irene, Dan, Meryle, June, Aaron, Melissa, Benny, Adam, Cassandra, Joshua, Athena, Kaia, Ayla, Indie, Jules, Jennifer and Pat. She is also survived by her Aunt Ellen and her brother Gary, Zoe, Xander and Jasmin.

Anne always lit up the room and no matter the mood, the party started when Anne arrived. Anne touched so many lives, had so many friends and was loved by so many. Anne will be missed by everyone so much.

SHEILA BROMBERG, JEWISH HARPIST WHO WAS FIRST WOMAN TO PLAY ON A BEATLES ALBUM (JTA)—Sheila Bromberg kept busy as an in-demand harpist in London in the 1960s, but when she got a request for a gig at EMI’s Abbey Road studio, 9 pm to midnight, she felt she couldn’t turn it down: She was, after all, a single mother.

Yet it wasn’t until the Jewish harpist heard a male with a Liverpudlian accent behind her that she realized she was about to make history.

“Well, what you got on the dots?” she recalled Paul McCartney asking her that night early in 1967. McCartney, who could not read music, wanted to hear her play the score he had dictated to Mike Leander, a music arranger.

Bromberg, who died at 92 on Aug. 17 at a hospice in Aylesbury, England, was about to become the first woman to perform on a Beatles album. She played the harp accompaniment on She’s Leaving

Home, the agonizing snapshot of the void between parents and a daughter, on the Beatles’ music-changing album, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band When the album came out, she realized McCartney had gone with her first take, but dubbed it so it had a doubling effect. “That’s what he was after,” she recalled herself thinking. “Yes! Clever!”

Bromberg was born in London. Her paternal grandfather was a noted Jewish musician in Ukraine before fleeing because of pogroms, and her father and son also were orchestral musicians.

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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT

Come From Away returns to stage and screen, with Jewish values at its center Jacob Gurvis

(JTA)—When U.S. airspace closed as a result of the attacks on the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001, 38 planes were grounded in Gander, Newfoundland, stranding nearly 7,000 international travelers “on the northeast tip of North America.”

So begins the story of Come From Away, the Tony Award-winning Canadian musical chronicling the real experiences of those “plane people,” and of the goodhearted locals who took them in.

With a filmed version now on Apple TV+ to commemorate the 20th anniversary of 9/11, and the musical back on Broadway after suspending its run last year due to COVID-19, more audiences than ever are being exposed to the show’s unique brand of warmhearted hospitality—and to its fundamentally Jewish

roots.

David Hein, half of the Canadian Jewish couple who wrote the show, explains that Come From Away draws from both Jewish and Newfoundland traditions.

“There’s a line in our show of, ‘If a stranger ends up at your door, you welcome them in,’” Hein says. “That’s important in communities that have defined themselves as willing to help one another.”

Hein and his wife and writing partner Irene Sankoff got their start in theater with a much more explicitly Jewish show: the autobiographical, My Mother’s Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding. That musical, which had a successful tour in Canada in 2009, tells the story of how Hein’s mother rediscovered her Judaism when she came out to her family and met her now ex-wife.

“I think for a long time it was a

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surprise for me that suddenly my mom was learning Hebrew and that she was singing at temple,” says Hein, who grew up non-practicing. “It’s been really wonderful to explore those traditions with her, and every year we celebrate Hanukkah and Passover with her, and whenever we come down we have seders.”

Sankoff grew up in an interfaith family—her father is Jewish—and also celebrated Passover and Hanukkah growing up. She points to both her and Hein’s families’ experiences escaping “countries that no longer exist” as a formative aspect of their Jewish identities.

“You just say, in a different situation this was me, and this was my people. And you look out for people as best as you can,” she says.

That theme is clear from the opening number of Come From Away.

The story is ultimately one about human kindness and pulling together in the face of tragedy. It is a show not directly about the events of 9/11, but rather its ripple effects around the world, and about the people who responded to help those in need.

In other words, Come From Away is about welcoming the stranger—those who physically “come from away.” And the inherent Jewishness of that message is no coincidence.

The show begins by introducing the small, tight-knit community of Gander: the mayor, the police constable, a teacher, a rookie television reporter, among others.

It’s the morning of Sept. 11, and the townsfolk barely have time to grasp what has happened before they are forced to prepare for unexpected guests.

“With thousands of passengers arriving at any minute, the town is asking for help with—well, anything you can do,” the reporter says during one of the opening numbers.

Gander locals don’t hesitate. They begin gathering everything from food and blankets to toilet paper, diapers, and tampons. As the ensemble sings later in the same song, “If a stranger ends up at your door, you get on the horn.” The telephone, that is.

The idea of welcoming the stranger is deeply Jewish. The Torah mentions the concept no fewer than 36 times, and there are reminders throughout Jewish text and tradition that “you know the feelings of a stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” (Exodus 23:9).

Come From Away is about welcoming the stranger—those who physically “come from away.”

And the inherent Jewishness of that message is no coincidence.

It’s also a Newfoundland tradition, Hein explains. As a large island, Newfoundland often faces harsh winters that can make food production difficult. “When you know what it’s like to not have enough, you are more inclined to share,” he says.

To research the show, Hein and Sankoff traveled to Gander for the 10th anniversary of 9/11 in 2011, interviewing as many people as possible, and distilling many of their stories into the musical that has now performed worldwide. Including the 9,000 local Newfoundlanders and 7,000 unplanned visitors, the pair jokes that they were telling 16,000 stories.

“But it really felt that way,” Hein says.

“Every story was better than the next.”

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT One such story was that of Rabbi Leivi Sudak, a British Chabad rabbi who was traveling from London to New York to visit the grave of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson.

In the show, the audience meets Rabbi Sudak when Beulah, an organizer of the emergency efforts, is listing some of the options the guests had to eat. Someone points out a kippah-wearing man who hasn’t eaten anything.

“Turns out he’s an Orthodox Jewish rabbi, and he only eats kosher food,” Beulah explains to the audience (the show doesn’t so much break the fourth wall as reject its existence outright).

Newfoundland is home to many faiths, Beulah says, but not many Jews.

The rabbi is given space to create a kosher kitchen, where he helps provide food for Jewish passengers as well as a handful of Hindus, Muslims, and vegetarians.

Though Hein and Sankoff never met Sudak while writing the show, the rabbi told the New York Jewish Week that the depiction is an accurate one.

The story sets up the show’s emotional climax: a moving medley that overlays three different religious prayers for peace, including Oseh Shalom. In the midst of the prayer, Ed, an old man from Gander, seeks out Rabbi Sudak to share something he hasn’t even told his wife: he’s Jewish.

He was born in Poland, and his parents sent him away before the war.

As the men sing together, the rabbi hands Ed a kippah.

The “Prayer” scene encapsulates not only the diversity of the strangers sent to Gander, but also the radical openness of the community that was created amongst the islanders and the visitors (alternately referred to in the show as “plane people” and “come from aways”).

“Telling that story instantly resonated with us,” says Hein. “It was one of the many, many stories that we were like, ‘This needs to be in here, this is a very special point.’”

In real life, not only did Sudak give Ed a kippah—he also kept in touch with the man, and later gifted him a Jewish prayer book and tallit. Years later, Ed’s son told Sudak that his father was buried wearing the kippah and tallit.

One minor tidbit about Sudak is not mentioned in the play. His return flight to London was scheduled for a Saturday, which posed a challenge for the Shabbatobservant rabbi. If he missed that flight, he would still be in Gander on Rosh Hashanah.

His new friends stepped up yet again: they drove Sudak and two other observant passengers 500 miles to an airport.

“And thanks to them I walked into my in-laws’ home in Brooklyn seven minutes before candle lighting on Erev Rosh Hashanah,” Sudak told the Jewish Week.

This year, the Broadway return of Come From Away and its debut on Apple TV+—filmed for an audience of 9/11 survivors and first responders—also intersected with the High Holidays. But its creators were in Gander, where a ceremony commemorating the events of the show took place.

“You know, we’ve been so busy we haven’t even thought about that coincidence,” Hein says. “It’s going to be hard to not be with our family, but at the same time we’re going to be with our family in Gander, and going to be celebrating them and breaking bread with them.”

Hein and Sankoff add that the message and production of their show only gains meaning during the Jewish new year.

“We are renewing,” says Sankoff.

“We’re going back to Broadway, but we’re hopefully going back stronger, going back more inclusive, with more diversity, with more compassion for one another.

“Hopefully, the concept of a new year [provides] the opportunities to change and remember what we can be,” says Hein. “That we can be better, that we can come together in more ways than we can possibly imagine.”

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