2nd Annual Tour De Mensch participants: Samuel Leibovici, Sholom Mostovsky, David Jancewicz, Adam Goldberg, Craig Schranz, Steve Alperin, Chuck Werchado, Richard Popkin and Joanna Schranz.
The Mens Club of Congregation Beth El teamed up with the Tidewater, Post 158, of the Jewish War Veterans of the United States to help organize the Second Annual Tour De Mensch Bike Ride followed by a community brunch on Sunday, Nov. 3.
The Tour De Mensch is a 15-mile bike ride from Congregation Beth El in Ghent to West Ocean View Ave. and back. It helps bring awareness to the often under recognized role that the American Jewish community has played in our nation’s defense. Each of the nine participants rode in honor of a Jewish veteran.
Lt. Cdr. Craig Schranz, active duty Navy, currently stationed at Portsmouth Naval Hospital, started the Tour last year. “I wanted a chance for people to come out and do something active, break down barriers throughout our community and recognize the contributions that Jews have made to military service. Last year we just did the bike ride, but we wanted to expand this year to include a brunch for those unable to ride and see if we could raise some funds for a noble cause,” says Scharanz.
With the help of Congregation B’nai Israel member, Adam Goldberg, who recently revived the local Jewish War Veterans of the USA’s Post 158 and is serving as the current Post Commander, they were able to expand the event this year and raise more than $400 for the JWV of the USA.
Capt. Marty Snyder, who recently retired from 25 years of active service with both the Army and Navy, was the honored speaker. A veteran of both Gulf Wars, Katrina Relief and Operation Unified Response; Haiti’s international earthquake relief, shared his insight on the Navy’s important new mission for both foreign and domestic Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief.
Joanna Schranz, a two-time “Menschette” and owner of moisture wicking clothing retailer, CoolclothingUSA. com, sponsored the brunch. This was organized and administered by Norman Soroko and Ron Gladstone, who among many others, made the event a success.
The Jewish War Veterans Post 158, Norfolk still seeks support to help sustain the post and preserve the heritage of Jewish Americans’ service. Donations are welcome and can be sent to Jewish War Veterans of the USA, 420 Spotswood Ave, Norfolk, VA, 23517.