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President (and Immediate Past President) Benjamin kicked off today’s meeting at Westwood Transitional Village (WTV) with a warm smile and a cheerful ring of a Salvation Army bell. He shared that the Rotary theme for 2025–2026 is “Unite for Good.”
President Benjamin reminded members to silence their phones, warning that any unexpected ringtones would come with a fine. Sure enough, John O’Keefe’s phone rang—and President Benjamin issued a $25 fine.
Today’s greeter was Dave Stover, assisted by Jim Crane and Janet Schwartz. Christine Clayburg led us in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by PP Ed Gauld, who wore an impressively quirky hat while leading a spirited rendition of “God Bless America.”
Chuck McCreary offered the Thought of the Day, sharing a heartfelt poem about friendship. He reflected on its building blocks—trust, kindness, and presence—and reminded us that through friendship, we offer our truest selves. Chuck concluded with gratitude for the friendships he’s formed as a member of The Friendly Rotary Club of Westwood Village.
Alongside our guest speaker, Rabbi Erez Sherman, we were also joined by Patti O’Keefe, who came to hear Rabbi Sherman’s presentation.
Next, PP Diane encouraged participation in the backpack project for the schoolchildren of Westwood Transitional Village. Members are invited to help present the backpacks after next week’s meeting. A special $25 assessment per member will cover the cost of the backpacks and school supplies.
President Benjamin wrapped up with announcements about upcoming Rotary District 5280 events. For details, please check The Windmill newsletter.
President Benjamin invited John O’Keefe to introduce our guest speaker, Rabbi Erez Sherman. John shared that Rabbi Sherman serves as the Senior Rabbi at Sinai Temple and would be speaking on Antisemitism in America and Los Angeles.
Rabbi Sherman began with stories drawn from his life and his work both within the Jewish community and beyond. These experiences, he noted, illustrate the importance of understanding and the need for open, respectful conversations—even when we come from different beliefs and traditions and when we disagree.
He expressed deep concern over the growing wave of antisemitism around the world, across the U.S., and here in Los Angeles — before and after the tragic events of October 7, 2023. Reflecting on the past 22 months of violence in Israel and Gaza, Rabbi Sherman extremely concerned for the Israeli and Palestinian children affected by the conflict.
Social media, he cautioned, has become a platform for amplifying antisemitism from across the political spectrum. Rabbi Sherman is especially concerned about the rise of antisemitism on many college campuses. He also voiced serious concerns about the future impact of artificial intelligence in spreading antisemitism and other hate-based narratives.
Rabbi Sherman emphasized the need for respectful dialogue and cross-cultural understanding. He believes combating hate begins with listening and learning from those of differing faiths and beliefs. To promote this mission, he launched a podcast dedicated to bringing people of diverse backgrounds together for meaningful, open conversations.
President Benjamin thanked Rabbi Sherman for his powerful, thought-provoking presentation and closed the meeting by ringing the bell.
Writer’s Note: Next week’s meeting will be held at Hillel at UCLA.
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