Surrounding Erica with love were her cherished grandchildren: Liza Woodward and her boyfriend, Austin Ferguson; Leo Woodward and his wife, Erika Woodward; Blake Laibstain and his fiancée, Mattee Long; and Raven Laibstain. Bonnie’s husband, Jeff Laibstain, and Erica’s treasured great-grandchildren—Wells Edison Woodward, Bridget Jolie Woodward, and Barett Roy Woodward—whose laughter and smiles were a beautiful reminder of the generations she has nurtured, all added to the celebration.

 Adding to the emotion of the evening, the room was lovingly decorated with photographs of Erica and her beloved husband, Eddie, from years past, alongside more recent images displayed on a contin-
uous loop capturing cherished memories. These moments—spanning decades of love, partnership, and family—served as a quiet, beautiful tribute to a life richly lived and deeply shared.

 The room was filled with stories, laughter, and deep gratitude for 90 years of love, resilience, and unwavering devotion to family and friends. Surrounded by multiple generations and lifelong relationships, the celebration was a moving tribute to a remarkable woman whose legacy is not only measured in years, but in the countless lives she has touched with her warmth, strength, and love. Her beloved husband, Eddie, was felt in every smile and every memory, and there is no doubt he would be so proud of the extraordinary life Erica continues to lead and the beautiful family they built together.

 The Fleder Multipurpose Room at the Sandler Family Campus was transformed into a magical fall garden of pumpkins, gourds, and colorful leaves, as Alicia London Friedman, UJFT Women’s Philanthropy chair, opened the program. In welcoming all, Friedman also thanked the luncheon’s sponsor, Maimonides Health Center of Virginia Beach, represented by Tasha Salyers, MHC’s head of sales and business development. A special shout-out went to Jodi Klebanoff and Shelley Simon, the luncheon’s co-chairs.

 An encouraging campaign report followed, and Friedman thanked the women for giving so generously, as well as for inviting others to join in giving and in getting involved.

 Recently back from an emotional trip to Israel, Klebanoff shared stories and images of what she had experienced and what a meaningful time it was to be in the country. “At one point,” she said, “our driver pulled off the road – literally lined with people – to allow a procession to pass through which included a returned survivor, finally heading home from his post-release stay in hospital.”

 Klebanoff encouraged everyone to stay connected and engaged and to understand the challenges that Israel now faces (a collective sadness, trauma, and pain unlike any experienced since the Holocaust). “And” she added: “if we’re fortunate enough to put together an Israel Mission in the coming year, I encourage you all to participate.”

 Pivoting to a different mission, Klebanoff mentioned the March 2026 Women’s Mission to Argentina, “where together we’ll celebrate Purim with the Buenos Aires Jewish community. Led by Annie Sandler and myself, this mission will be our first to Argentina in over 10 years… and our first group mission anywhere since October of 2023. If you are interested in this women’s-only mission, please contact Amy Zelenka (azelenka@ujft.org). She can send updates as trip details unfold.”

 In recognizing the newest milestone donors in the UJFT Women’s Division, Klebanoff announced the following: Since last year’s Lion–Tikva–Chai Luncheon, the Women’s Campaign has welcomed: One new Amethyst Lion ($36,000+); One new Sapphire Lion ($18,000+); Two new Ruby Lions ($10,000+); Three new Israel@75 Lions ($7,500+); Six brand new Lions of Judah ($5,000); and eight New Chai Society Members ($1,800+)

 The community also welcomed four new Endowed Lions of Judah (LOJEs) — women whose generosity and vision ensure a strong Jewish future for generations to come. Tidewater’s newest LOJE’s are Roslyn Barney, Joan London, Alicia London Friedman, and Susan Alper.

 No Lion-Tikva-Chai Lunch would be complete without recalling the Endowed Lions of blessed memory. Each year, as their names are recited, these women are remembered– each one a true Eshet Chayil (woman of valor). And each year, inspiration is drawn from their enduring generosity, leadership, and love for Jewish Tidewater.

 As the agenda turned to the speaker portion of the afternoon, Laura Gross, past UJFT president, introduced the guest speaker, Rabbi Shira Stutman. In a series of moderated questions and answers, Rabbi Shira, senior rabbi at the Aspen Jewish Congregation (after serving for many years at the historic 6th & I Synagogue in Washington, DC), discussed her debut book and kept the crowd engaged with humorous stories and anecdotes – some from the book and others from the life she’s led so far. 

 Stutman’s book – divided into 10 chapters – speaks to the sometimes “very Jewish,” and other times “completely universal” aspects of life: from love and sex… to mourning and money. Her wisdom applies to Jewish and non-Jewish readers, alike. Rabbi Stutman came to Tidewater courtesy of the national Jewish Book Council and was also a featured author in the Lee & Bernard Jaffe Family Jewish Book Festival.

 In closing the event, Friedman said, “Thank you all for coming out today. Thank you for caring so much about the Jewish people and the Jewish community. And thank you for doing what needs to be done. Am Yisroel Chai.”

For more information about UJFT Women’s Campaign or to become a milestone giver in the Women’s Division, contact Linda Ausch, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Women’s Development director, at Lausch@ujft.org.

 Next Gen Meet-Up for Mah Jongg held its first lesson on Sunday, Oct. 26, where a small group of would-be devotees came together to learn the game. Next Gen women (ages 25 – 40ish) in the Jewish community (Jewish women and women who are members of Jewish households), are invited to learn, play, and connect.

 Levy and Calliott hope their newly-minted players will find a game or two to play regularly — to continue sharpening their skills, share a few laughs, and perhaps most importantly, to build new friendships. With every tile played, Tidewater’s growing Mah Jongg community continues to connect players in the spirit of fun and friendship.

 Whether a seasoned player, a beginner, or just curious to understand what all the excitement is about, there’s room at the table. 

 Mahjongg Mondays are held every Monday afternoon, 1 – 4 pm at the Sandler Family Campus, except the first Monday of the month. Join the game — and see why Mah Jongg is fast becoming one of the best people-connectors around. 

For more information about Jewish/Mahjongg Mondays of Next Gen Meet Up for Mah Jongg, call or email Linda Ausch at 757-965-6105 or Lausch@ujft.org.

 The evening began in the sukkah with appetizers and wine, providing a cozy space for everyone to mingle, reconnect, and savor the spirit of the holiday. As darkness fell and the stars appeared, everyone moved to the beautifully lit Marty Einhorn Pavilion to continue the celebration in its warm, inviting glow.

 Alicia London Friedman, Women’s Philanthropy chair, welcomed the women, sharing hopeful news about the possible release of hostages in the coming days. Her words set a meaningful tone for the evening — one of gratitude, reflection, and unity.

 The evening was made even more special with a few distinguished guests. Yarden Lahan, one of the community’s ShinShinim, mingled with attendees, sharing stories and learning about connections to the Jewish community. Betty Ann Levin, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s executive vice president, and Naomi Limor Sedek, Tidewater Jewish Foundation’s president, spent the evening engaging with guests, expressing appreciation for their participation, and highlighting the importance of community gatherings such as this one.

 The women were then treated to a cooking demonstration by Deb Segaloff, who showcased her creativity with a selection of delicious, harvest-inspired dishes. The menu included Butternut Squash Panko and Apple Soup, Deb’s famous Farm Stand Salad, Jeweled Rice, and Panko Herbed Salmon, ending with a delicious apple-topped cake. The aroma of fresh ingredients filled the pavilion, and laughter and conversation flowed as everyone enjoyed tasting her creations and learning new recipes.

 While dinner was served, the women continued to connect and celebrate friendships — old and new. The evening embodied the spirit of Sukkot: coming together in joy, hospitality, and community.

Linda Ausch is United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Women’s development director.

Mah Jongg Mondays are going strong.

Stephanie Calliott and Amy Levy have presented and entertained at some fantastic teaching sessions—with more to follow. Nearly 30 enthusiastic women have joined in to learn the game, and the energy has been nothing short of fun, dynamic, and contagious.

Those who weren’t available for the summer sessions might have another opportunity, as there’s talk of evening classes in the fall.
The dynamic duo—Calliott and Levy—have been guiding their students through the game one step at a time, including teaching The Charleston like pros. It’s been laughs, learning, and the occasional case of Mah Jonggnesia (that moment when you forget what tile was just picked up).

In addition to the teaching group, more than 100 women are signed up for open play—109, to be exact!

Jokers are flying, tiles are clicking, and someone may or may not have hit the Joker Jackpot (you know who you are).

The concept of Mah Jongg Mondays started a couple of months ago with an idea from Amy Levy—and thanks to her spark, it’s blossomed into exciting and successful gatherings at the Sandler Family Campus. Every week, more players are pulling up a chair.

The word is out—Mah Jongg Mondays is the place to be.

Got Maj envy and want to join on the fun?

1. Sign up on the TEAM REACH App (it’s a red square with a T in the center)
2. Enter the group code “BamCrack2025” and click “join.”
3. Click on the “JCC Mahj Group” to open the page and you’re in.
4. Click the “settings” icon in the top right corner (looks like a spiked wheel) and enter your experience level in the “role/also known as section: seasoned, intermediate, beginner).
5. Then, click the “calendar” icon to select the lessons (available in the fall) and games you’re interested in. RSVP (yes, no, maybe) when you’re available. You may change your response at any time. You may also view the other participants by clicking on the “people” icon.
   EASY as that.

For additional information, contact Amy Levy at momofjnsb@cox.net, Stephanie Calliott at sacinva@aol.com, or Linda Ausch lausch@ujft.org.

This year’s lunch was particularly special, as it featured the food and stories of Chef Moshe Basson of the iconic Eucalyptus Restaurant in Jerusalem.

Betty Ann Levin, UJFT’s executive vice president, opened the lunch by welcoming the women, thanking Betsy Karotkin for her service as Women’s Philanthropy chair and Alica London Friedman for stepping into the role.

Karotkin then extended her welcome, explaining that the lunch was meant to celebrate the success of the Women’s Division campaign, thank serving members, and to welcome and install new members of the Women’s Philanthropy. She also noted that it had been 572 days since the awful and horrific attack on Israel – 572 days of captivity for those still held hostage in Gaza; 572 days of worry and stress for the families of those hostages.

“We long for the day,” said Karotkin, “When all of the hostages are returned to Israel and to their families. But even while we wait, wonder, and worry, we know we must move forward with the important work we are doing in building and strengthening our community.” Karotkin thanked everyone for caring, giving, and for asking others to give, reporting two exceptionally successful years of fundraising: “Even though I’m sorry to say that much of it is tied to the events of October 7th and afterward.”

The 2025 Campaign appears ready to surpass the success of 2024, at a current total exceeding $5 million, Karotkin told the group. The Women’s Division alone, she said, has topped $1.5 million from 416 donors.

Karotkin thanked and installed the 23 women whose terms of service were ending, but who’d agreed to serve another three-year term on Women’s Philanthropy: Debra Aleck, Susan Alper, Carol Brum, Debbie Casey, Susan Cohen, Leora Drory, Kim Fink, Alicia London Friedman, Randi Gordon, Kim Gross, Ellen Rostov Hundley, Betsy Karotkin, Cindy Kramer, Sierra Lautman, Amy Lefcoe, Ina Levy, Robin Mancoll, Stacie Hofheimer Moss, Judi Rosenblatt, Sara Jo Rubin, Carin Simon, Renee Strelitz, and Ellen Wagner.

In addition, five Women’s Philanthropy past chairs will move to honorary positions: Barbara Dudley, Mona Flax, Laura Gross, Amy Levy, and Janet Mercadante.

Finally, and with the kind of pride and pleasure that comes from watching a leader grow up and into her new role, Karotkin installed Alicia London Friedman as the new Women’s Philanthropy chair, saying, “Because our work is so vital, we need great leaders. And we can all be assured that under our new leadership with Alicia London Friedman, we [Women’s Philanthropy] will stay relevant and strong. We look forward to a bright, invigorated future.”

In her first official act as chair, Friedman installed eight new and two returning Women’s Philanthropy members: Rachel Abrams, Elyse Cardon, Ellen Coley, Rachael Feigenbaum, Barb Gelb, Debbie Mandell, Lisa Roesen, Dylan Sandler, Deb Segaloff, and Megan Zuckerman.

The ladies then enjoyed a buffet lunch prepared by Chef Moshe Basson himself, after which Friedman presented her vision, thanking Betsy Karotkin for her mentorship, stewardship, and leadership of the Women’s Philanthropy. “Together, we are amazing. Together we bring so much to the table. And I couldn’t be more excited about the next two years!” she concluded.

Janet Mercadante then interviewed Chef Basson, asking him to talk about the amazing meal they’d just experienced. He discussed the meaning behind several of the dishes (including a grain dish enjoyed by King David).

All left the room feeling the spark of “something special” – perhaps it was as simple as the coming together of strong, smart, caring Jewish women.

The Women’s Philanthropy is a volunteer fundraising committee of the Annual Campaign of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater. To make a gift or become involved with the Women’s Philanthropy, contact Linda Ausch at 757-965-6105 or LAusch@ujft.org.

The opening plenary and overall theme of the conference was “Proud to be!” A highlight from that session was the presentation of the very first Ruth Bader Ginsburg award to Israel’s first lady, Michal Herzog, who eloquently expressed her gratitude. “I am deeply moved by this unique honor,” she said. “I accept it on behalf of the brave and resilient women of Israel, who – since October 7th – have demonstrated their strength on all fronts: as mothers, daughters, sisters, fighters, caregivers, and as voices for victims who cannot speak for themselves; and especially, their tireless struggle to bring the hostages home.” In response, the crowd of 1,700 women in the plenary hall began the chant, “BRING THEM HOME! BRING THEM HOME!”

The conference was made even richer by the inclusion of a house band, The Shuk Music Group, which played throughout various plenaries each day. Israeli superstar, and 2024 Israeli Eurovision representative Eden Golan, opened the conference performing her song, Hurricane.
Monday morning’s plenary was “Proud to be a Zionist.” Among others, this session featured Rachel Goldberg, whose son Hersch Goldberg-Polin was murdered in the tunnels of Gaza in August 2024. Goldberg’s remarks were gut-wrenching and inspiring, all at once. And with her, an overarching theme of resiliency began weaving itself throughout the conference (especially in the sessions relating to October 7). To talk about resilience, one must talk about the events that precede its necessity. And so, 1,700 women pulled out their Kleenex and would reach for them again and again for the next two days.

Amos Hochstein, then senior advisor to the US President for Energy and Investment, had been a pivotal actor in the Middle East, serving as chief negotiator of the Israel-Lebanon ceasefire and leading negotiations for the US across the region. He spoke with Liz Shrayer, president and CEO of the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, about the status of negotiations and thoughts on if or how the presidential transition may impact those negotiations. Hochstein explained how negotiations were being done and about the various outcomes, noting that nothing was certain (including the then-impending ceasefire that was being “pre-announced.”) Along with other speakers, Hochstein was hopeful, but cautious about “getting his hopes up too high.” Hope, however, was another overarching theme throughout the conference.

At a breakout session, “The Nova Festival Survivors and Families: Building a Network of support,” Natalie Sanandaji, a Nova Festival survivor, spoke of her harrowing experience that day and of how she narrowly survived the festival massacre. Her traumatic experience led her to transform her life – she switched career paths and now works for Jewish advocacy and fighting antisemitism. Also in this session was Sigal Manzuri, a mother of three. On October 7, her world changed forever, as Hamas terrorists murdered her two beautiful daughters, Norelle and Roya, along with Norelle’s fiancée, Amit Cohen, at the Nova music festival. Sigal endured the notification of her daughters’ deaths 48 hours apart. Since that day, she and her husband Menashe and their 15-year-old son, Shai, have been advocating for all the victims and to honor the memories of Norelle, Roya, and Amit, who she described as “three rare flowers who grew and blossomed with endless love and devotion of their parents and their family and friends around them.”

A similarly powerful conversation with families of hostages and a returned captive, Aviva Siegel, were featured at another session. Siegel was held hostage for 51 days, while her husband Keith (an American Israeli), was still being held in Gaza at the time of the conference. (He was released on Feb. 1 (See page 9) “It was the worst thing any human could go through,” she said. “They tortured my Keith, and they tortured the young girls with us. I saw fear in their faces.” The entire panel, including Siegel, agreed that it was important to share their loved ones’ stories to make sure that the world hears about what took place.

About hearing from these families, Jodi Klebanoff, a Tidewater Lion, says, “The courage, strength, and resiliency demonstrated by these families is unlike anything I have ever witnessed in my lifetime. They have traveled the world tirelessly for months, under the most excruciating circumstances, in their fight to bring the remaining hostages home.”

In addition to Israel, other places of Jewish struggle were not forgotten at the conference. UJFT’s overseas partner, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC) has been addressing the needs of Israelis from its very founding, and has revved up its support since October 7. Still, it also continues to operate around-the-clock in the Jewish communities of Ukraine, now in its third winter of war. Inna Vdovychenko, a member of JDC’s Ukraine Crisis Team, addressed a breakout session sharing some of the coping techniques that she and her colleagues employ as the war drags on. Hearing her story, alongside those of fellow-professionals Talia Levanon, CEO of the Israel Trauma Coalition (ITC); and Yael Raz, director of the Fund for the Victims of Terror of the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI), brought an extra appreciation for the work taking place in the field – the sacrifices the professionals are making (self, family, friends, etc.) and the vital work they are doing.

On the final day of the conference, eyes puffy from shedding endless tears and still a bit overwhelmed by the stories and testimonies heard, it must be said that the group also felt tremendous empowerment and pride.

A plenary session, “Proud to be a Lion,” highlighted Federation’s impact on communities that are local, in Israel, in Ukraine, and around the world. Having heard throughout the conference from individuals whose lives have been transformed by Federation’s support, and reflecting on the horrific, unimaginable firsthand accounts and testimonies from hostage family members whose loved ones were murdered on October 7, and learning from experts what might be expected in the coming days, weeks, months, and years… the group’s brains and hearts were full to bursting.

The closing plenary – “Proud to be Jewish” – brought everyone together for a final time to hear from inspiring philanthropists and brave allies of the Jewish people. Anila Ali, a native of Pakistan, Muslim activist, and women’s rights activist, spoke passionately about her rejection of hatred in general, and Hamas in particular, and of her support for Israel. Actress and social activist, Patricia Heaton, spoke about using her visibility to support causes close to her heart. She is a celebrity Ambassador for World Vision and founder of the October 7th Coalition (O7C) – a Christian movement aimed at supporting and protecting the Jewish community. Both women have been targeted, bullied online and in person, and have withstood tremendous pressure from their respective communities to sit down and be quiet. And yet they will not. Both subscribe to the belief that only love can conquer hate. And both risk their well-being and livelihoods to fight for what is right. Amazing women.

Mona Flax, a Tidewater Lion, says that it’s truly amazing how “collectively and individually, we do the work and get the job done.”
Klebanoff adds “that it never ceases to amaze me, how ordinary people can do the most extraordinary things to make a difference.”
We are PROUD. Bring them HOME. Am Israel CHAI.

Linda Ausch is United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Women’s Development director. She may be reached at lausch@ujft.org.

This annual lunch is a thank you for all women donors at the $1,800+ level of giving, as well as for all women serving on the Women’s Philanthropy committee. Mona Flax, UJFT Annual Campaign chair and past Women’s Philanthropy chair, opened the lunch asking: “Who would have predicted where we would be a year from the last Lion Tikva Chai lunch?” citing October 7th, the hostages, and antisemitism – just a few of the horrific events taking place. “I think we can all agree these are anything but normal times and they haven’t been normal for over a year,” she said. 

After pausing for a moment of reflection—in support and solidarity with Israel – Flax announced the campaign totals, which (as of November 12) stood at just more than $4.1million from 644 individual donors – an impressive increase of 5.7% from the same group of donors in last year’s campaign.

 Jodi Klebanoff, also a past chair of UJFT’s Women’s Philanthropy, celebrated the milestone givers in the Women’s Campaign, which included: 

• 2 new Emerald Lions of Judah (women giving $25,000+)

• 2 new Ruby Lions of Judah (women giving $10,000+)

• 2 new Israel@75 Level Lions of Judah (women giving $7,500+)

• 10 new Lions of Judah (women giving $5,000+)

• 2 new Tikvas (women giving $3,600+)

• 6 new Chai Society Donors (women giving $1,800+)

 The names of the community’s Endowed Lions of Judah (LOJE’s) of blessed memory, were then recited – a tradition at this event. 

After calling the names of the LOJE’s of blessed memory, women who many in the room knew and loved, Klebanoff declared each of them an Eshet Chayil – a woman of valor, whose memories “remain a blessing for our community and for each of us.”

Betty Ann Levin, UJFT executive vice president, then presented a special award to Karen Jaffe. The Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award (named for Lion of Judah founders Norma Kipnis-Wilson and Toby Friedland, of blessed memory) recognizes extraordinary women who’ve set a high standard for philanthropy and volunteerism in their communities. Jaffe will “officially” be recognized for this award in January at the International Lion of Judah conference in Atlanta, alongside women from other Jewish communities across North America.

A role model and an inspiration for all who support and work on behalf of the Federation and its campaigns, Jaffe received plenty hearty “Mazel Tovs!” on this  well deserved recognition.

Alicia London Friedman introduced the event speaker, Naama Sheffi, author of The Jewish Holiday Table and founder of the Jewish Food Society – a New York-based non-profit which preserves and celebrates Jewish culinary heritage through a digital recipe archive. 

In addition to the Jewish Food Society, Sheffi launched a partner organization in Tel Aviv called Asif: The Culinary Institute of Israel, whose mission is to explore the diverse and creative food culture of Israel. 

When Friedman asked Sheffi during their moderated discussion, “What was the event or particular moment in your life that inspired your career in food?” Sheffi immediately knew the answer. She recalled when her then-boyfriend (now husband) brought her home to meet his family. His “Nona” (grandmother) prepared the entire meal, somehow (as if by magic) fitting 18 family members around a table in a tiny Tel Aviv apartment, to enjoy a special Shabbat dinner. When Sheffi (who was raised on a kibbutz, and was not accustomed to delicious food) asked about the recipes, Nona explained they were all inside her head – nothing was written. For Sheffi to learn to prepare them, Nona demonstrated. Over the years, Sheffi wrote down as many recipes as she could. The result was her landing in the culinary field as both a chef and an archivist.

The women enjoyed a terrific sampling of Sheffi’s recipes – pulled from her cookbook and catered by the Cardo Café (Sheila Swartwood assisted by Chad Eichelberger). Everyone chatted about how unique the flavors were and which dishes they liked best. 

The event was another example of Jewish Tidewater’s generousity, warmth,  enthusiasism, and passion about the work it does to build and strengthen the Jewish people. Even Naama Sheffi acknowledged the warm, hospitable feeling she got as soon as she arrived on the Sandler Family Campus. 

Linda Ausch is UJFT Women’s Campaign director.

Sandler thanked Betsy Karotkin, Women’s Philanthropy chair, and Mona Flax, UJFT General Campaign chair, for all of their hard work and years of dedication on behalf of the community, as well as the UJFT professional staff. “I would like to point out,” she said, “that our entire Federation Development Team is now made up of women! So, you know it is going to work well.” And to prove her point, Sandler reminded all that last year’s 2024 Campaign raised more than $5 million; the community’s Israel Emergency Campaign raised nearly another $5 million; and non-Annual Campaign fundraising (Red Rose, White Rose, Patron of the Arts, grants, and sponsorships across all areas of programming) brought in nearly another $1 million.

David Makovsky was the evening’s featured speaker. A noted Middle East scholar, author, and lecturer (with an incredible network of highly placed contacts and co-authors around the world), Makovsky briefed the women about events and dynamics which had marked recent days in the Middle East and about those that might be expected in the days to come. He addressed Israel’s relationships with the United States, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and other Arab nations. He even mentioned a possible role for China in the currently unfolding geopolitical events. Makovsky spoke to the possibilities and probabilities of a cease-fire/hostage agreement (not particularly hopeful) as well as the broader picture of normalization between Israel and its Arab neighbors (much more optimistic), led by efforts from Saudi Arabia. He also addressed the issues of protests, encampments, and marches taking place on college campuses across the country and his 170+ visits to these campuses, since October 7.

Following an intense Q & A, the evening wrapped up with remarks from Sandler and a reminder that this is the start of the 2025 campaign. She encouraged the women to think about their giving and the great and growing needs of the Jewish world.

As the sun set on this year’s Ruby Lion event, participants left with what may best be described as a sense of extremely cautious optimism, but with the universal hope for better days ahead.