As Shabbat arrives following our nation’s Independence Day, I am filled with a profound sense of community and patriotic spirit. The recent festivities have been a heartfelt affirmation of the values that unite us.
In Bexley, the July 4th parade was a beautiful display of Jewish Americana. Our community members’ active participation in various roles—both within the Jewish community and beyond—highlights the rich tapestry of our heritage within the broader American story.
This sense was exemplified by JewishColumbus Board Member Josh Barkan participating in the parade and Bexley City Councilwoman Lori Ann Feibel, showcasing the broad contributions of Jews to the community. Additionally, the participation of students, parents, staff, and alumni from our day schools—CJDS and CTA—added to the event’s warmth, showcasing our community’s unity and vibrancy.
One of my favorite parts of the parade was seeing my late grandfather Charlie’s good friend, 93-year-old Bernie Hirsch. Bernie is a Jewish man, a member of the local Columbus Jewish War Veterans, a Korean War veteran and Marine who has proudly walked in the parade with this group for 30 years. He shared with me that he will always be a proud Jewish Marine, someone truly proud of both identities. Bernie and the other Marines and war veterans are a testament to the enduring spirit of freedom that we hold dear.
This year, Bernie was accompanied by our friend Bexley Police Chief Lewis. JewishColumbus and Chief Lewis work closely together with police chiefs throughout Columbus to provide security strategies and training for the entire community.
While this weekend I celebrated our freedoms with my Bexley community, I am proud to know that from Worthington to Gahanna to New Albany Jewish community members engaged in celebration, weaving their unique experiences into our collective narrative.
Our Jewish heritage offers us a distinctive lens through which to view freedom. Our history is marked by oppression and resilience, teaching us to value freedom not just as a right but as a duty to ourselves and others—a freedom we strive to honor daily.
As we pause this Shabbat, let’s reflect on the blessings we have to live freely, safely and securely and pay tribute to those who have served and continue safeguarding these freedoms for everyone.
May you and your loved ones find peace and meaning in this Shabbat.
Shabbat Shalom,
