Ryan Torok

“Why am I a Jew?” Rosner said from the bimah. “Three minutes aren't nearly enough to lay out all the reasons, but here is one: not to betray our human potential to create a better world.”

A Festschrift — a celebration of the intellectual achievements of a senior scholar in the form of essays by colleagues, students and mentees — marks a momentous moment of recognition.

How does the Exodus story, Judaism's foundational narrative of freedom, speak to the present? We asked local leaders, including rabbis, educators and podcasters, to weigh in.

The April 1 pop-up, coinciding with the first night of Passover, drew notable attendees including Princess Superstar, a Jewish rapper, singer and DJ; New York City-based Rabbi Arielle Stein; and Yiddish singer Riki Rose.

The report revealed that nearly three-quarters, 74%, of Jewish young adults (ages 18-28) worldwide and two-thirds, 67%, of young adults in Israel believe they can positively influence the future of their communities.

It's not just a momentous occasion for the congregation but is significant for the larger Palisades community as well, as it helps restore a sense of faith that the community will reemerge stronger than ever.

The summit’s emotional center remained the lobbying itself: ordinary Californians leaving hotel conference rooms behind to walk directly into the offices where state policy is shaped.

Whether backing long-shot candidates, weighing strategic votes or sitting races out altogether, many said they were still searching for leaders who reflected both their values and their concerns.

Through communal living, arts, music, discussion, outdoor experiences and Jewish learning, the program has long sought to help young adults explore both Judaism and themselves.

Published by Simon & Schuster, the book, which was published in March, encourages young readers to embrace new experiences, even when they seem a little scary at first.