Trending News | Jewish News https://jewishnewsva.org Southeastern Virginia: Chesapeake • Norfolk • Portsmouth • Suffolk • Virginia Beach Fri, 12 Jun 2026 15:14:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 A record year for the UJFT’s Community Campaign https://jewishnewsva.org/a-record-year-for-the-ujfts-community-campaign/ Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:32:25 +0000 https://jewishnewsva.org/?p=35623 As this article goes to press, the 2026 Community Campaign of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater has passed the $5.2 million mark for the very first time. It’s a major milestone, and the Federation is incredibly grateful to the donors and community members who have brought the campaign to this amazing total. With three weeks left of the campaign, the Federation hopes for additional pledges and donations at all levels.

“Reaching $5.2 million is certainly impressive, but what’s more impressive and more important is the additional work which can be done by the agencies and programs who receive funding from the campaign,” says Jason Hoffman, 2026 UJFT Campaign chair. “These are the frontline organizations that build and strengthen Jewish life – here at home and around the world.”

This increase comes at a time when additional funds are greatly needed. The costs of hardening and securing the community are real and growing. But UJFT’s commitment to enhancing Jewish life and celebrating the things that bind Jewish Tidewater as a people cannot suffer as a result. So, the Federation continues to work hard to balance the safety of the community with programs, events, and opportunities to bring people together in strength, celebration, and shared remembrance; in classes that bring everyone closer to Judaism; in gatherings which ensure the well-being of senior adults; and in many other ways.

The Tidewater Jewish community is truly special, and it is made so not by the size of the campaign, but by the dedication of community members ensuring its health and well-being. Doing so requires “time, talent, and treasure.”

So, through the lens of pure gratitude and appreciation, the Federation thanks its donors, its volunteers, and its lay and professional leaders for all that they have done and continue to do each year to make Jewish Tidewater the remarkable community that it is.
Working together, in service to the Jewish People… is there anything better?

If you’d like to help strengthen and secure the Jewish community with a gift to the 2026 UJFT Community Campaign, there is still time. Visit www.jewishva.org/donate, call Amy Zelenka, UJFT’s chief development officer, at 757-965-6139, or mail a check to the Federation with the note: “2026 UJFT Campaign” to 5000 Corporate Woods Drive, Suite 200, Virginia Beach, VA 23462.

Thank you in advance for your caring and support.

]]> Playground for Sandler Family Campus focuses on nature https://jewishnewsva.org/playground-for-sandler-family-campus-focuses-on-nature/ Fri, 12 Jun 2026 11:21:16 +0000 https://jewishnewsva.org/?p=35617 Naturally curious creatures, children interact with the world around them through play. This instinctive engagement becomes even more pronounced in natural environments, where exploration is open-ended and sensory-rich.

As one study by the National Wildlife Federation found, children who play in nature “do so with more vigor, engagement, imagination, and cooperation than in wholly artificial environments, and the symptoms of attention deficit and depression are reduced.”

This philosophy was central to the vision behind the new playground on the Sandler Family Campus, which resembles a small woodland city more than a traditional play area.

“We wanted something much more natural than a traditional playground,” says Joe Frissora, Sandler Family Campus facilities manager.

Primarily designed to be used by Camp JCC campers and Strelitz International Academy’s students, the playground is another component of the Sandler Family Campus’ array of outdoor features – including the pool, Gaga pit, miniature golf course, tennis courts, and Marty Einhorn Pavilion.
“We wanted a playground that really allowed children to take safe risks and kind of create their own play,” says Elyssa Brinn, Strelitz International Academy’s director of the early years program. “There is no set right way to do anything, which is exactly what we wanted.”

Natural playgrounds are designed to foster cognitive, physical, and emotional growth in children while also strengthening environmental awareness. As with traditional playgrounds, they offer opportunities to climb, slide, swing, and crawl, but they also surround children with natural elements that help calm the nervous system and create a sense of ease.

“It just feels good to be out there and look at,” says Veronica Samonte, SIA assistant director of the early years program. “There’s just a calm to it.”
This shift also reflects a broader move at Strelitz toward inquiry-based learning. “Our philosophy is child-oriented and child-centered, and the play goes in the direction that the children take it,” Brinn says. “We’re just facilitators of that learning.”

One look at the new playground makes its design clear. In some ways, the layout mirrors the old space, with a fence separating play areas by age. In the section for younger children, tree stumps are hollowed out into small playhouses topped with triangular wooden roofs. Logs are arranged in varied formations for climbing—some laid side by side, others set upright with monkey bars between them. Two small slides descend from a low hill, and additional stumps double as tables for toys. Nearby, children use bowls and spoons for sand play or build with wooden blocks from a self-serve storage cabinet.

On the other side of the playground, older children pile onto large woven green basket swings suspended from timber structures. Like the younger area, it includes large sand areas but also adds a water pump and more advanced climbing features. Chalkboards and music makers offer points of creative exploration. From the previous playground, only the paved pathways and tyke bikes remain, allowing children to move through the space as they would a small town.

Children use the variety of resources at their disposal to create worlds of play at their own discretion. “They have to problem-solve to move things around and make things work a different way, and they have to work together. It’s really, really cool to see,” Brinn says.

The open-ended nature of the new playground allows imagination to run freely. “I just like watching them use their brains to play,” says Carin Simon, SIA director of advancement. “The old school playground… it told you what to do. That’s what the structure was. With this one, they get to do what they want.”

Behind the design of the new playground was a complex construction process involving multiple contractors, site challenges, and long-term planning from campus leadership. According to Glenn Saucier, the former facilities director for the Sandler Family Campus, Bienenstock Natural Playgrounds was selected after reviewing several competing proposals.

What ultimately set Bienenstock apart was its clear understanding of early childhood development and the essential role of natural environments in shaping how children learn, explore, and make sense of the world around them.

Although the company was responsible for the design and installation of the play structures, the campus served as its own general contractor, coordinating multiple local teams to complete the project. “We got the landscapers, the concrete guys, the fence guys, and we coordinated all of that,” Saucier says.

From there, the project moved through design selection and into a phased construction process that stretched from early site preparation through final installation. Saucier estimates that the active build took place over roughly four months, though groundwork began earlier with excavation and soil preparation.

However, the project encountered significant infrastructure challenges, particularly related to a crack in the storm drain.

Rather than halt construction, the team adapted the design and repair strategy to keep the project moving.

Despite the challenges, Saucier describes the finished playground as a standout addition to the campus. “It’s probably the showcase around this area for a playground.”

What stands out most is not just the design of the space but the way children inhabit it. “The things that they are creating and doing… we’re surprised every single day when we go out there,” Brinn says.

Even features like the large woven swings were intentionally designed to support social development and encourage collaboration. “Not only is it allowing children to get the needs met that they need, but they also have to figure out how to work with four other children,” Brinn says.

The impact has extended beyond the children themselves. “I’ve noticed a new freedom, not just with our children, but our teachers as well,” Brinn says. “It’s really helped our teachers embrace the philosophy of watching the children and letting the children guide them rather than them guiding the children.”

Ultimately, the playground is exactly what it was designed to be: a place where imagination sets the boundaries and play is entirely their own.

]]> SIA celebrates the class of 2026 https://jewishnewsva.org/sia-celebrates-the-class-of-2026/ Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:48:32 +0000 https://jewishnewsva.org/?p=35595 Graduation is always a meaningful and emotional milestone at Strelitz International Academy. For the fifth-grade students, many of whom have been part of the SIA community since infancy, it is a time to reflect on their growth, celebrate their accomplishments, and prepare to spread their wings as they embark on their middle school journey.

On Wednesday, June 3, SIA hosted its annual graduation ceremony, celebrating the accomplishments of the Class of 2026. Head of School Heather Moore opened the program with reflections on the successes of the past year and shared future plans. The ceremony also marked leadership transition as Amy Weinstein presided over her final board of trustees meeting, welcomed new board members, and officially installed Steve Zuckerman as board president.

Ari Mulligan, Student Government Association president and Andrew Dodge, vice president, delivered a heartfelt tribute on behalf of their classmates. They spoke about their International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme Exhibition, which focused on technology, and expressed gratitude to the teachers, both past and present, who guided and supported them throughout their SIA years.

“We have had so many amazing memories from this year,” Andrew said. “Our class loved our time with Mrs. Bruns, all our field trips, and all of our extracurriculars at this school. This class has become like siblings. We have had such a great time at SIA, and even though we are splitting up, I hope we will remain in touch. We will continue to use what we have learned here in the future.”

This year’s Commencement Speaker was Shayna Friedman, a member of SIA’s Class of 2019 and a recent graduate of Kempsville High School Class of 2026. Shayna offered heartfelt wisdom and encouragement to the graduates, drawing on her own experiences and cherished memories of SIA.
“When I think about my elementary school years,” said Shayna, “a lot of memories come to mind. One that stands out is singing Hatikvah every morning. At the time, it just felt like part of the routine. But looking back now, I realize it was something much bigger. Hatikvah means hope. To me, it represents the hope people carry through their lives, especially when things feel uncertain. That is something I hope you all carry with you as you move forward into this next chapter. I hope you keep the ability to stay hopeful no matter the challenges you face.”

The graduation ceremony was a reminder of the lasting impact of an SIA education—one grounded in community, compassion, Jewish values, and a love of lifelong learning. As the Class of 2026 turns the page to its next chapter, the entire SIA community celebrates their achievements and looks forward to all they will accomplish in the years ahead.

Ally St. Pierre is admissions and marketing manager at Strelitz International Academy.

SIA Class of 2026: Honzi Hodicky, Levi Cohen, Andrew Dodge, Lena Aftel, Mia Pinto, Quinn Margulies, Harper Warranch, Avi Weinstein, Niv Rubin, Hadley Kaprielian, Avery Goldstein, Ella Gladstein, and Ari Mulligan.
SIA Class of 2026: Honzi Hodicky, Levi Cohen, Andrew Dodge, Lena Aftel, Mia Pinto, Quinn Margulies, Harper Warranch, Avi Weinstein, Niv Rubin, Hadley Kaprielian, Avery Goldstein, Ella Gladstein, and Ari Mulligan.

Graduation Award Winners

  • Abe and Anna Rudolph Award for Excellence in Mathematics – Lena Aftel
  • Rabbi Charles J. Mantel Memorial Award for Excellence in Judaic Studies – Niv Rubin
  • Harold and Jacqueline Spiro Goodman Award for Excellence in General Studies – Avi Weinstein
  • Hyman J. Stromberg Memorial Award for Academic Excellence – Ari Mulligan
  • I. James London Memorial Athlete of the Year Award – Levi Cohen
  • Lorna Legum Rising Star Award – Hadley Karpielian
  • Rabbi Philip Pincus Memorial Award for Excellence in Hebrew Studies – Harper Warranch
  • Shirley Helfant and Ruth Josephberg Award for Visual Arts – Ella Gladstein
  • SIA Inquirer IB Learner Profile Award – Lena Aftel
  • SIA Inquirer IB Learner Profile Award – Levi Cohen
  • SIA Reflective IB Learner Profile Award – Andrew Dodge
  • SIA Balanced IB Learner Profile Award – Ella Gladstein
  • SIA Caring IB Learner Profile Award – Avery Goldstein
  • SIA Risk-Taker IB Learner Profile Award – Honzi Hodicky
  • SIA Thinker IB Learner Profile Award – Hadley Kaprielian
  • SIA Communicator IB Learner Profile Award – Quinn Margulies
  • SIA Distinguished IB Scholar Award – Ari Mulligan
  • SIA Performing Arts Award – Avery Goldstein
  • SIA Risk-Taker IB Learner Profile Award – Mia Pinto
  • SIA Principled IB Learner Profile Award – Niv Rubin
  • SIA Open-Minded IB Learner Profile Award – Harper Warranch
  • SIA Knowledgeable IB Learner Profile Award – Avi Weinstein
]]> America at 250 Spotlight:Tidewater Jewish Hero Dorothy Salomonsky https://jewishnewsva.org/america-at-250-spotlighttidewater-jewish-hero-dorothy-salomonsky/ Thu, 28 May 2026 16:57:11 +0000 https://jewishnewsva.org/?p=35512 Dorothy Salomonsky never expected that an effort to help a few vulnerable community members would grow into one of Virginia’s leading public guardianship programs. But more than 30 years after helping launch the JFS Personal Affairs Management (PAM) program at Jewish Family Service of Tidewater, her work has touched thousands of lives. 

 In honor of America at 250, Salomonsky is being recognized by United Jewish Federation of Tidewater as an Outstanding Jewish American in Tidewater.

 In the mid-1990s, while Salomonsky was working part-time for the Jewish Community Center, Jewish Family Service of Tidewater received a grant for a part-time “bill payer” position to assist older adults who needed help managing finances. Salomonsky took the job. From that position, she began encountering people who required guardianship services, but there was no local model for how to assist them.

 “We had Jewish community members who needed guardianships, and nobody really knew how to do it,” Salomonsky recalls.

 Working alongside Harry Graber (then JFS CEO), and local attorneys, Salomonsky helped create a structure that would eventually shape public guardianship across Virginia. The model, in which an agency serves as guardian with oversight from an advisory committee, became the foundation for the state’s public guardian law.

 Today, JFS’s guardianship program serves more than 1,200 clients and employs approximately 75 staff across local and remote teams.

 “We knew from the beginning there was a need,” Salomonsky says. “In the late 90s, we had 10 clients. Then in 2005, we had 60. Now we keep a steady number over 1,000 clients year after year.”

 For Salomonsky, however, success is not measured in numbers. The heart of the work is dignity.

 “By the time someone comes into the guardianship program, they’ve already gone beyond their worst day,” she says. “The point is for them to still feel human. They need to feel seen.”

 That philosophy shapes the program’s approach to care. The guardian representative acts not just as a case manager, but as a friend.

 One story from the late 1990s remains with Salomonsky.

 A former Navy nurse with dementia had recently moved into a facility. When she turned 100, JFS staff attended a large celebration for her at the facility, complete with decorations, food, and entertainment. But throughout the party, the woman sat quietly, staring at her hands.

 Then, her guardian representative brought her an assortment of Hershey chocolate bars, and suddenly the woman lit up, spending the rest of the afternoon happily arranging and admiring them.

 “It taught me that the big party didn’t matter,” Salomonsky says. “What mattered was that someone knew her well enough to know she loved Hershey bars.”

 That same commitment to individualized care extends to clients living on the margins. Salomonsky describes one man who chooses to remain homeless, despite the program’s efforts to help him find housing.

 “But when he’s sick, or there’s a storm, he calls us,” she says. “He knows someone will be there for him.”

 Salomonsky’s sense of communal responsibility stretches back generations. Both her family and her husband’s family have deep roots in Tidewater – since the early 1900s. In fact, her grandfather was among the founders of Brith Sholom Lodge. 

Her great-grandfather, Abraham Silverman, owned a fish market in Norfolk and on Friday nights, he would often bring newly arrived Jewish immigrants home from the port to share Shabbat dinner with the family.

 “My great-grandmother would make huge trays of gefilte fish from the market,” Salomonsky says. “I grew up hearing those stories from my mother, and they taught me that you show up for your community. You welcome people in.”

That’s a way of way of life Salomonsky has lived with her husband, Edwin, and modeled for her four children and seven grandchildren. 

 Though she never initially planned to become a Jewish communal professional, Salomonsky says helping others through the Jewish community always felt natural.

 Now, decades after helping build a program that changed lives across the Commonwealth, Salomonsky remains focused on the same simple lesson she learned from her family and from the clients she has served: meaningful care starts with truly seeing another person.

 Her advice to future Jewish leaders is equally straightforward: “Get involved. And don’t be afraid to try something new.”

Interested in nominating someone to be recognized as an Outstanding Jewish American in Tidewater? Visit JewishVA.org/TidewaterHeroes or contact Sierra Lautman at SLautman@UJFT.org.

]]> Jewish Tidewater’s Graduates https://jewishnewsva.org/jewish-tidewaters-graduates-6/ Thu, 28 May 2026 16:38:55 +0000 https://jewishnewsva.org/?p=35460 Graduations are a time to recognize achievements, formally bid farewell to schools, prepare for the next steps along life’s journey, and of course, celebrate!

Jewish Tidewater has much to applaud with its graduates – the awards, impressive degrees, and outstanding plans are all worthy of celebrations.

Mazel Tov to all these graduates and their families!

Madeline “Maddie” Elyse Acosta 

Kempsville High School

Graduating with Highest Honors, Varsity Field Hockey All Region honorable mention

Next: Christopher Newport University majoring in Biology/Health Science

Maddie is the daughter of Alison and Bernard Acoste and granddaughter of Bonnie and Bob Rothschild.

Hayden Caplan

Cape Henry Collegiate 

Peer leader to the Class of 2029 at CHC; BBYO Regional Board Gizbor

Next: University of Arizona,
Eller College of Business 

Hayden is the son of Stacie and L.T. Caplan.

Avi B. Cardon

Tidewater Collegiate Academy 

Earned Advanced Diploma, along with Virginia Wesleyan University dual enrollment.

Next: Avi is staying local, excited to dive into the intersecting worlds of business and the creative trades

Avi is the son of Elyse and David Cardon.

Bella Rose Cardon

Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts   

Magna Cum Laude BFA 

Next: After some travel abroad, Bella will continue living in Richmond to expand her multi-disciplinary visual art practice while providing families lifestyle management support through expert home organization, personal assistance, and nannying

Bella is the daughter of Elyse and David Cardon. 

Brian Cohn

University of South Carolina

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with majors in Finance, Business Economics, Real Estate, and Risk Management – Insurance

University of South Carolina Outstanding Senior Award and graduated summa cum laude

Next: Brian will work as an advisor analyst at J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Palm Beach, Florida

Brian is the son of Lisa and Joel Cohn.

Jordan Cubitt

Kempsville High School
ATC Advanced Technology Center

Honor Roll

Next: JMU for Engineering

Jordan is the son of Dennis and Rochelle Cubitt.

Joshua Darrow

Washington and Lee University 

Phi Beta Kappa, Omicron Delta Epsilon, Honors in Economics, Johnson Scholarship for Leadership and Integrity, Reynolds Scholarship in Business Journalism, John McKenzie Gunn Economics Scholarship

Next: Two-year Research Assistantship at the Federal Reserve Board of Governors

Joshua is the son of Beth and David Darrow.

Graham Eilberg

Ursinus College 

Bachelor of Arts in Finance

Next: Assistant Basketball Coach at Ursinus College

Gram is the son of Donna and Seth Eilberg and grandson of Susan and Jim Eilberg. 

Lindsey Foer

James Madison University

College of Business-Accounting with Honors

Next: Working at the accounting firm, Stewart & Company in Virginia Beach 

Lindsey is the daughter of Tammi and Jerry Foer.

Dr. Ari Goldman

Auburn University

Ph.D. Aerospace Engineering

Next: Seeking a position designing and testing rocket propulsion systems

Ari is the son of Dean and Dr. Ilene Goldman.

Lainey Goldman

First Colonial High School 

Honor graduate

Next: James Madison University

Lainey is the daughter of Stacey and Todd Goldman.

Ella Goodove

Cape Henry Collegiate

Cum Laude Society, Karl Tewes Award Winner, First team TCIS lacrosse recipient

Next: University of Georgia

Ella is the daughter of Amy and Scott Goodove.

Charlie Gross

Frank W. Cox High School

Next: Loyola University New Orleans
to study Entrepreneurship in the College of Business. He was selected as a MAGIS Scholar and awarded Loyola’s merit-based Cardoner Opportunity Grant

 Charlie is the son of Kim and Michael Gross.

Samantha “Sammi” Jankell

Oscar F. Smith High School

International Baccalaureate, National Honors Society, National Science Honors Society, Mu Alpha Theta (National High School and Two-Year College Mathematics Honor Society), Section Leader for the Mighty Marching Tigers

Next: Virginia Tech Honors College on a Pamplin Leadership Scholarship

Sammi is the daughter of Shayna and Peter Jankell.

Brittany Johndrow

Baylor University-Doctorate of Pediatric Nursing

DNP project presented at
2024 NAPNAP Virtual Symposium

Next: Pursue position in pediatric primary care setting

Brittany is the daughter of Brian and Katherine McCann.

Carolena Johndrow

Western Branch High/Cosmetology at Chesapeake Career Center

Graduating with Honors

Next: University of Mary Washington-Biology major, Spanish minor

Carolena is the daughter of Steven and Brittany Johndrow. 

Ethan Kesser

Western Albemarle High School

Senior class president, member of National Honor Society, National English Honor Society officer, member of National Math Honor Society, National Science Honor Society, and National Social Studies Honor Society

Next: University of Virginia 

Ethan is the son of Bradley and Sonnia Kesser and grandson of Kay and Barry (of blessed memory) Kesser.

Martin Jackson Lemke

Frank W. Cox High School 

Next: University of Richmond as a D1 pitcher

Martin is the son of Shawn and Ashley Lemke.

Sam Levin

First Colonial High School

Next: Virginia Tech, majoring in Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Technology Management, Pamplin College of Business 

Sam is the son of Betty Ann and Scott Levin and grandson of Susan and Mayer Levy, Carol Levin, and Elaine and Herbert Levin (both of blessed memory).

Reese Longwater

Ocean Lakes High School

Math and Science Academy, Brock Center Environmental Studies Program, National Honor Society Publicity chair, and Bayfront Advisory Commission student member 

Next: Virginia Tech to study Agribusiness

Reese is the daughter of Karen and Adam Longwater. 

Kendall McKechnie

Bishop Montgomery High School, Torrance, California 

Next: University of Alabama  

Kendall is the daughter of Jim and Danielle McKechnie and granddaughter of Anne and Sandy Goldberg.

Anna Mirovski 

Touro College of Dental Medicine

Doctor of Dental Surgery

Next: Advanced Prosthodontics residency and Masters of Oral Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago

Anna is the daughter of Margaret Baumgarten and Max Mirovski. 

Sophia Mirovski

College of William and Mary

Bachelor of Arts in Psychological Sciences, Summa Cum Laude

Next: Master’s in counseling, University of Virginia School of Education and Human Development

Sophia is the daughter of Margaret Baumgarten and Max Mirovski.

Alyson Morrissey

Hebrew Union College

Executive Master of Arts in Jewish Education

Next: Continue serving as director of Lifelong Learning at Ohef Sholom Temple

Alyson is the daughter of Martha and David Javinsky. 

Elijah Morrissey

Granby High School

IB Graduate, Eagle Scout   

Next: Old Dominion University 

Elijah is the son of Alyson and Chris Morrissey.

Leia Morrissey

University of Virginia

Bachelor of Science in Architecture, minors in Architecture History and Global Sustainability, High Honors   

Next: Architectural Designer at Tymoff & Moss in Norfolk

Leia is the daughter of Alyson and Chris Morrissey.

Elijah Muhlendorf

The Hague School

International Baccalaureate diploma

Next: University of Virginia 

Elijah is the son of Alyssa and Jonathan Muhlendorf. 

Max Salomonsky

Cape Henry Collegiate 

National Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, Health and Medical Science Program Scholar, Senior Peer Leader, University of Maryland President’s Scholarship

Next: University of Maryland, majoring in Biology

Max is the son of Daniel and Jill Salomonsky. 

Helene Schulwolf

Tulane University

Major in Psychology and Linguistics, Summa Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa, Excellence in Linguistics Award, co-president of ACEing Autism, research assistant in lab, Dean’s List at eligible semesters

Next: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Master’s in Speech Language Pathology

Helene is the daughter of Lisa and Neal Schulwolf. 

Erin Wainger 

Norfolk Academy

Next: University of Maryland 

Erin is the daughter of Jill and Brian Wainger and granddaughter of Kathy and Jerry Kantor and Patti and Jules Wainger. 

Caroline Wainger 

Norfolk Academy

Next: Tulane University 

Erin is the daughter of Jill and Brian Wainger and granddaughter of Kathy and Jerry Kantor and Patti and Jules Wainger. 

Emily P. Weinberg

JMU Graduate Psychology Program, Applied Behavior Analysis Concentration

Master of Arts

Next: Board Certified Behavior Analyst for Augusta County Public Schools following the completion of her certification exam

Emily is the daughter of Lauren Lantz. 

Chloe Rose Zuckerman

First Colonial High School and Governor’s School for the Arts, Musical Theatre Department 

4-year Principal’s List graduate; GSA, Musical Theatre Department Graduation Speaker; numerous GSA and Virginia Musical Theatre productions

Next: Emerson College, BFA in Comedic Arts 

Chloe is the daughter of Megan and Steve Zuckerman and granddaughter of
Leslie and Larry Siegel and Phyllis and Bob Zuckerman. 

]]> A new judge for Virginia Beach: The Honorable Aaron Kass https://jewishnewsva.org/a-new-judge-for-virginia-beach-the-honorable-aaron-kass/ Thu, 28 May 2026 15:45:29 +0000 https://jewishnewsva.org/?p=35458 The Honorable Aaron F. Kass was sworn in on Friday, March 27 as a Judge of the Virginia Beach General District Court.

 “Outside of being Melissa’s husband, and Jonah, Micah, and Alexa’s father, there is no greater privilege than this role,” Judge Kass said at his formal investiture on Friday, May 1 at the City of Virginia Beach Judicial Center. Together, his family assisted him in putting on his robe, an act symbolizing their support.

 The opening invocation was led by Rabbi Jacob Herber of Congregation Beth El, and remarks were given by Joshua Baker of Waldo & Lyle, PC, David Lacy of Christian & Barton, LLP, and Matthew Foster of Bangel, Bangel & Bangel, LLP.

 Kass formerly worked as a personal injury lawyer for Kass Law Firm, P.L.C. He is a graduate of the Marshall-Wythe School of Law at the College of William and Mary, and he obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from Georgetown University.

 In his speech, Kass emphasized the importance of recognizing that attorneys face mental health struggles, such as anxiety and depression, at alarming rates, approximately 2-3 times greater than the general population.

 “I hope, that while I’m ensuring the parties on both sides, on some of the most stressful days of their lives, feel heard and achieve justice, that I never forget that those of you advocating on their behalf have stressors as well. As the saying goes, you never know what someone has going on,” he said.

 Kass extended his heartfelt thanks to his family, friends, and colleagues. “To say this is a team sport is an understatement, and you all are wonderful teammates,” he said, addressing the packed courtroom.

The Kass children, Jonah, Micah, and Alexa, assist their father in putting on his robe.
The Investiture program for the Honorable Aaron F. Kass.
Delegate Michael Feggans, Senator Aaron Rouse, Delegate Andrew Rice, and Judge Aaron Kass.

]]> Israeli Chef’s Table Experience brings community, culture, and cuisine together for Israel Fest https://jewishnewsva.org/israeli-chefs-table-experience-brings-community-culture-and-cuisine-together-for-israel-fest/ Fri, 15 May 2026 12:23:04 +0000 https://jewishnewsva.org/?p=35337 As part of this year’s Israel @ 78 celebration, United Jewish Federation of Tidewater hosted its signature Israeli Chef’s Table Experience, an evening that blended vibrant flavors, storytelling, and a deep sense of community connection.

Held at the Sandler Family Campus, the event featured celebrated chefs Ben and Zikki Siman-Tov, the rising culinary stars behind New York City’s Buba Bureka and authors of the acclaimed cookbook eat small plates, whose modern, shareable approach to Israeli cuisine reflects both tradition and innovation. Guests were treated to a thoughtfully curated kosher three-course meal inspired by authentic Israeli flavors, while the chefs shared personal stories highlighting the powerful ties between food, heritage, and identity.

More than just a meal, the evening emphasized the Israeli tradition of gathering around the table. The Siman-Tovs’ philosophy of “small plates” encourages diners to share, taste, and build connections, transforming food into a communal experience. That spirit was felt throughout the evening, as attendees lingered over each course, savoring both the dishes and the company.

“What a wonderful evening! If I could put the basil dip in a bucket and eat it with a spoon, I would—it was unbelievably good. Even more special was the chance to come together as a community and share time with one another; how fitting that we do it over a meal,” says Jason Hoffman.
“This was my first time attending the Israeli Chef’s Table Experience. The Federation put on a great event and the food was excellent,” says Jake Glasser. “I will definitely be attending next year.”

The Israeli Chef’s Table Experience continues to be a highlight of Tidewater’s Yom Ha’Atzmaut programming, offering not only a taste of Israel’s diverse culinary landscape but also an opportunity to strengthen community bonds. In a time when connection feels more important than ever, the evening served as a reminder that sometimes the most powerful way to come together is simply to sit, share, and enjoy a meal.

For more information on upcoming Israel-related programs, visit JewishVA.org or contact Nofar Trem at NTrem@UJFT.org.

Rachelle Karp, Mona Flax, and Laura Gross.
Rachelle Karp, Mona Flax, and Laura Gross.
Renee Strelitz, Shelly Simon, and Shari Friedman.
Renee Strelitz, Shelly Simon, and Shari Friedman.
Rabbi Gershon Litt, Janet Meyers, and Jim Guggenheim.
Rabbi Gershon Litt, Janet Meyers, and Jim Guggenheim.
Leah and Jonathan Glaser.
Leah and Jonathan Glaser.
Altmeyer Funeral Home table attendees.
Altmeyer Funeral Home table attendees.
Regent University table attendees.
Regent University table attendees.
Megan Zuckerman, L.T. and Stacie Caplan, and Steve Zuckerman
Megan Zuckerman, L.T. and Stacie Caplan, and Steve Zuckerman
Annie and Art Sandler.
Annie and Art Sandler.
Avidan Itzhak, Danny Rubin, and Aviv Faraj.
Avidan Itzhak, Danny Rubin, and Aviv Faraj.
Chef’s Ben and Zikki Simantov.
Chef’s Ben and Zikki Simantov.
Fred Gross and Andrew Cohen.
Fred Gross and Andrew Cohen.
]]> JFS’s 22nd Annual Run, Roll, Stroll: Races for fun and funds https://jewishnewsva.org/jfss-22nd-annual-run-roll-stroll-races-for-fun-and-funds/ Fri, 15 May 2026 12:13:57 +0000 https://jewishnewsva.org/?p=35330 Jewish Family Service of Tidewater raised vital funds for community services during its 22nd Annual Run, Roll, Stroll on Sunday, May 3, attracting nearly 300 participants to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront for a 5K and community walk.

Hundreds of community members, families, volunteers, and supporters arrived for a morning filled with fun, fellowship, and philanthropy. The event serves as JFS’s largest fundraiser of the year, helping ensure the agency can continue meeting the growing needs of the Hampton Roads community.

Run, Roll, Stroll offered something for everyone, from the 5K race to the 1-Mile Fun Run and community stroll. Participants also enjoyed a variety of family-friendly activities including fairy hair, bubbles, glitter tattoos, and a balloon twister, creating an energetic atmosphere along the oceanfront.

The event highlighted the strength and spirit of the community, with teams representing local organizations and congregations coming out in support of JFS. Strelitz International Academy won the trophy for the largest team with Team Tiger, while Ohef Sholom Temple had the second-largest team. Participation in the race continues to grow each year.

The money raised through race registration and sponsors is used to support JFS programs. JFS emphasizes that donations remain essential in sustaining the agency’s mission and services throughout the year.

“Run, Roll, Stroll would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors and community partners. The generous support we receive all goes back into the community — 86 cents of every dollar directly helps someone in need,” says Kelly Burroughs, CEO of JFS. “We use events like Run, Roll, Stroll to bring the community together for fun and fellowship, but also importantly to thank the hundreds of people in the community that make it possible.”

“The board members and volunteers play an integral part every year in making Run, Roll, Stroll a success and we are so thankful to have a board that is excited to come out and show their support,” says Brooke Rush, JFS director of development.

For more information about Jewish Family Service of Tidewater or to support its mission, visit JFSHamptonroads.org. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, contact Julie Kievit, Jewish Community Relations manager, at jkievit@jfshamptonroads.org.

Adam Leiderman and Ina Leiderman.
Adam Leiderman and Ina Leiderman.
Eliot and Dani Weinstein.
Eliot and Dani Weinstein.
Maya Ball.
Maya Ball.
Benjamin Tabakin, Leo Baker, Zachary Kingsland, and Shai Rubin.
Benjamin Tabakin, Leo Baker, Zachary Kingsland, and Shai Rubin.
Jamie Baker, Amy Weinstein, Adam Leiderman, Heather Moore, and Carin Simon.
Jamie Baker, Amy Weinstein, Adam Leiderman, Heather Moore, and Carin Simon.
Naomi Sedek, Helen Sissel, Charlotte Zito, Ari Zito, and Lawrence Steingold.
Naomi Sedek, Helen Sissel, Charlotte Zito, Ari Zito, and Lawrence Steingold.
Persaud family.
Persaud family.
Theo Trem and Ruby Kievit.
Theo Trem and Ruby Kievit.
Noah and Molly Weiner.
Noah and Molly Weiner.
The race is on!
The race is on!
]]> Memorial Day Commemoration https://jewishnewsva.org/memorial-day-commemoration-3/ Fri, 15 May 2026 11:53:46 +0000 https://jewishnewsva.org/?p=35322 Thursday, May 21, 8:30 am Jewish War Veterans Memorial Sandler Family Campus

Memorial Day began in the wake of the Civil War when a grieving nation came together to honor the fallen. What started as springtime tributes at newly established national cemeteries has grown into a solemn national observance recognizing all American service members who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Jewish Americans have been part of that story since the nation’s earliest days. This year, as America marks its 250th anniversary — a milestone to be celebrated on July 4, 2026 — it is a fitting moment to reflect on Jewish contributions to that very founding. At the time of the American Revolution, a small Jewish population—numbering only in the thousands—nonetheless showed deep patriotism, with many serving in the fight for independence. George Washington himself directly commanded 40 Jewish soldiers, and in Charleston, South Carolina, entire groups of Jewish men enlisted together in support of the cause.

According to the Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America, Jewish service members have consistently served in numbers far exceeding their proportion of the population—earning more than 52,000 military awards, including the Congressional Medal of Honor. From the Revolutionary War through the Civil War, where Jewish Americans fought on both sides, to modern conflicts, that commitment has remained unwavering.

Many of these stories—both well-known and largely unsung—are thoughtfully compiled in an article by Aish.com (We Jews: Memorial Day Edition) highlighting Jewish military service across American history. Readers are encouraged to explore it to gain a deeper appreciation for the breadth of contribution, sacrifice, and patriotism that continues to shape the community.

Behind these numbers are deeply personal stories of courage and sacrifice—young men and women who carried not only a sense of duty, but a profound awareness of what their service meant for those they loved and those they stood beside.

Their legacy demands more than remembrance. It asks Jewish Americans to live with intention, to safeguard the freedoms they defended, and to stand firmly against hatred, antisemitism, and injustice. Because of them, Jewish Americans can live openly and proudly—as Jews and as Americans. Honoring their memory means carrying that responsibility forward, not just on Memorial Day, but every day.

The Memorial Day commemoration at the Sandler Family Campus is presented by United Jewish Federation of Tidewater. For more information and to RSVP (required), visit JewishVA.org/memorialday26.

]]> Women’s Philanthropy celebrates at Spring Lunch https://jewishnewsva.org/womens-philanthropy-celebrates-at-spring-lunch/ Thu, 30 Apr 2026 17:32:34 +0000 https://jewishnewsva.org/?p=35217 United Jewish Federation of Tidewater’s Women’s Philanthropy gathered for its annual Spring Lunch at the Sandler Family Campus last month. The event served as both a celebration and thank you for a year defined by generosity, leadership, and community impact.

 Alicia London Friedman, Campaign chair, welcomed attendees and described the “wonderful and successful year” of events and fundraising. The luncheon honored volunteer campaign ambassadors (members of Women’s Philanthropy), as well as Lions of Judah—women contributing $5,000 or more annually.

 Friedman thanked Betty Ann Levin, executive vice president; Amy Zelenka, chief development officer; and Linda Ausch, Women’s Development director; and offered a touching tribute to her mother, Joan London, who was in attendance, acknowledging her as a lifelong source of inspiration.

 Mona Flax, UJFT president, shared an encouraging campaign update, noting that the 2026 Community Campaign has surpassed $5.1 million and is on track to hit or exceed its goal of $5.2 million, with the Women’s Division contributing an impressive $1.5 million from 417 donors—already exceeding last year’s total.

 Flax then called Annie Sandler, past Women’s Campaign chair and current president of the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, to install new Women’s Philanthropy members. Sandler gave a special shout out to retiring member Judy Rosenblatt for nine years of service and thanked Debra Aleck for agreeing to serve another term. She then welcomed new members: Rebecca Auerbach, Stacie Caplan, Amy Gladstein, Nichole Kushner, Laura Wingett, Nikki Shapiro Roth, Laura Goldstein, and Ellen Rosenblum.

 A special lunch inspired by the book, eat small plates, was next. Lunch was followed by a lively Q&A with cookbook authors Zikki and Ben Siman-Tov, moderated by Deb Segaloff. The discussion was entertaining and uplifting as Ben charmed the audience while holding the couple’s newborn daughter and Zikki spoke to the mechanics and details of the ingredients they love. Both agreed that food was not just important for its nutrition and caloric intake, but for bringing people together… whether from the same community or across divides.

 Betty Ann Levin closed the event with her own thanks to the women in the room and others not present – for caring and for doing the vital work of giving and asking others to give, so that together, all can continue to strengthen the Tidewater Jewish community.

Megan Zuckerman, Leslie Siegel, and Shaye Arluk.
Rachael Feigenbaum, Deb Segaloff, and Alicia London.
Laura Gross and Linda Spindell.
Lisa Roesen, Ellen Rosenblum, and Laura Goldstein.
Eliza Prince (JDC), Laura Wingett, Leora Drory, Alicia London Friedman, and Linda Ausch.
Alicia London Friedman, Betty Ann Levin, and Deb Segaloff.
Betsy Karotkin and Rachael Feigenbaum.
Eliza Prince (JDC), Laura Wingett, Leora Drory, Alicia London Friedman, and Linda Ausch.
Naomi Sedek, Judy Rosenblatt, Kim Fink, Martha Glasser, Laura Gross, Jodi Klebanoff, and Deb Segaloff.

Karen Jaffe and Betty Ann Levin.
Stephanie Calliott and Leora Drory.
Zikki and Ben Siman-Tov.
Annie Sandler, Deb Segaloff, and Arlene Soussan.
Rachel Abrams and Megan Zuckerman.
Susan Cohen and Rachelle Karp.
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