Tidewater’s Yom Ha’Atzmaut community celebration marking Israel’s 77th Independence Day, took place Sunday, May 4 at the Reba and Sam Sandler Family Campus.
Hosted by United Jewish Federation of Tidewater and Simon Family JCC, the afternoon was filled with engaging activities led by Camp JCC, UJFT’s ShinShinim, PJ Library in Tidewater, local synagogues, area Hillels, and more, showcasing Israeli heritage and culture. The campus transformed into a vibrant hub of music, culture, and community spirit, bringing together families and friends to honor Israel.
A commemoration of Israel’s independence, the event also served as a testament to the enduring connection between Tidewater and the State of Israel. “I enjoyed seeing the entire Tidewater community, the different synagogues, schools, organizations, and businesses that support the community, come together in unity and love for Israel and each other,” says Liba Eisenberg of B’nai Israel Congregation. “What a meaningful day of connection and strength. Am Yisrael Chai!”
“It’s always so nice to see so many of our community and friends converge on the Campus to celebrate Israel. Yom Ha’Atzmaut reminds us how fortunate we are that Israel exists. It was a wonderful afternoon,” says David Leon, UJFT president. “It is especially wonderful to see so many of our local, state, and federal elected officials in attendance” adds Leon. Visitors included US Representatives Jen Kiggans (VA2) and Bobby Scott (VA3), Delegate Michael Feggans, Virginia Beach City Council members Michael Berlucchi, Worth Remick, and Joash Schulman, and Virginia Beach City School Board members Sharon Felton and Melinda Rogers.
“Yom Ha’Atzmaut at the Reba and Sam Sandler Family Campus is a fun- filled and festival-like atmosphere that offers a chance for us to celebrate our shared connection to the State of Israel. Each year, I look forward to celebrating Israel with my family and deepening our connections with Tidewater’s Jewish community,” says Schulman.
To learn how to continue supporting Israel and know about all of UJFT’s year-round Israel programming, sign up for the Israel Action Update weekly newsletter, visit the Israel Resource Page at JewishVA.org/IsraelToday, or contact Nofar Trem, Israel Engagement manager, at NTrem@UJFT.org.
