Ryan Torok

1 week ago | jewishjournal.com | Ryan Torok

In honor of Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day), Holocaust Museum LA staged a stirring ceremony with survivors, city officials and religious leaders at Pan Pacific Park,on April 27. Open to the entire community, the program’s theme was “Beyond Liberation,” highlighting the 80 years that have passed since the end of Holocaust.

1 week ago | jewishjournal.com | Ryan Torok

As voting for the U.S. elections in the 39th World Zionist Congress nears conclusion—voting closes May 4—American Zionist Movement (AZM) Executive Director Herbert Block said there were few barriers of entry to voting in what Jewish leaders are describing as a consequential election. In fact, it costs just $5 per person to vote—essentially the cost of a cup of coffee, the AZM leader said during a recent Zoom interview.

2 weeks ago | jewishjournal.com | Ryan Torok

Anthropologist and UCLA professor Aomar Boum was inducted into the Academy of the Kingdom of Morocco, an educational institution in Rabat, Morocco. It was with touching eloquence that Rahma Bourkia, president of the higher council for education, recounted Boum’s exceptional journey, from his humble beginnings in the Draa Valley to his recognized expertise in Maghrebi and Oriental studies at UCLA. His courage and perseverance propelled him to the highest spheres.

3 weeks ago | jewishjournal.com | Ryan Torok

Leo David, founder of Friends of the Israel Defense Forces (FIDF) in Los Angeles, marked his 98th birthday with a lavish celebration at the Skirball Cultural Center. The event, held on April 6, was attended by friends and family who enjoyed a vibrant pre-reception featuring an array of gourmet sushi and live music, setting the tone for the festive evening.

3 weeks ago | jewishjournal.com | Ryan Torok

Musician John Ondrasik, who performs as “Five for Fighting,” has continued to show he is one of Israel’s most outspoken allies. Ondrasik, who isn’t Jewish, recently collaborated with Idit Ohel, the mother of current Israeli hostage Alon Ohel. Alon, 24, was abducted on Oct. 7, and he’s one of 24 hostages still believed to be alive in Gaza.