Hillel Kuttler

Hillel Kuttler’s feature stories have appeared in the N.Y. Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, Smithsonian Magazine, People, the magazines of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and of the National Football League and scores more publications. He’s interviewed an American president, an Israeli prime minister, diplomats, authors, athletes, musicians, a felon, Red Auerbach and even his own sons. Hillel also has edited books, newspapers and magazines. Above all, he’s a diehard fan of the New York Mets.

Mel Brooks, the 2,000-year-old Man, Turns 100

The comedic writer-director-actor from Brooklyn has made some of America’s zaniest films. A Jewish sensibility stars in his movies, too.

Recognizing Israel: Harry Truman’s Historic Decision

President Truman’s call in May of 1948 could have gone another way, with most of his top advisors objecting to recognition of the Jewish State. Today, the National Library of Israel houses several historic artifacts from the momentous occasion.

An Illustrated Song: The Tale of a Book

The Song of Songs is meaningful on multiple levels. For the author, who came across a unique copy of the famous biblical text, it represents a formative experience of youth, one that extended into adulthood and continues to hold meaning today.

Arthur Szyk: Illuminating Zionism and Jewish History

The Polish-born artist used his brush to battle Hitler, champion Zionism, and celebrate Jewish pride. Today, his work is enjoying a remarkable revival.

Abe Foxman: A Life Fighting Hate and Shaping Jewish Leadership

Foxman, who passed away on May 10, recently deposited his archive at the National Library of Israel. He was a defining voice in the struggle against antisemitism.

They Called Him “Mr. Warmth”: Remembering Don Rickles

Beyond the barbs and bravado stood an iconic comedian whose identity was grounded in family, memory, and a distinctly Jewish sense of humor

“We Were on Very Good Terms”: A Look Back at Iran-Israel Relations

Retired Israeli diplomat Aryeh Levin has many fond memories from his years serving in Iran more than a half-century ago. As to the ongoing war between the countries, he says: “This is a crazy time we’re living in.”

Survivor, Olympian, Scientist: Shaul Ladany’s Long Walk

He survived the Holocaust and the massacre of Israeli athletes at the Munich Olympics, broke world records, published books and still walks daily at 90.

Soldier, Professor, Politician: The Many Lives of Yigael Yadin

Yigael Yadin was all of the above, and then some. Those who studied under the trailblazing archaeologist remember him for encompassing attributes that were positive and less so.

“Hey, Jerry!” – Remembering Jerry Lewis

The Jewish-American comedian directed and acted in numerous films starring zany characters. A century after his birth, fans and scholars recall the performer whose manic energy, inventive filmmaking, and decades of philanthropy left an indelible mark on popular culture.