Inside Opening Meetings with Christian Prayers

Published by the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation PRSRT STD Klingenstein Jewish Center, 580 S. McIntosh Rd., Sarasota, FL 34232 U.S. POSTAGE PAID MANASOTA FL PERMIT 167

VOLUME 33, NUMBER 10, JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004

Federation to feed starving Ethiopians In swift response to the critical needs of donor to the North American Conference Falas Mura families in Ethiopia, a group on Ethiopian Jewry (NACOEJ). In 2001, of North American Jewish Federations after an epidemic of child deaths, the – including the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish donor, Lloyd Rigler, began the feeding Federation – will provide daily meals program with a grant for one meal a day, and take-home provisions to 3000 Jewish six days a week. In November 2002, the children under age 6 and 550 nursing and foundation added funding for a second pregnant women at risk of malnutrition, meal six days a week and a 900-gram bag disease, and even death. of beans to go home each day, so that The secret practice of Mikvah In May, Federation’s Board of Directors families would have a modest supper. approved $20,000 to help feed Ethiopian Total funding for this expanded program See page 4 Jewish women and children in Addis was $750,000 annually. Ababa and Gondar who are waiting to Following Mr. Rigler’s death, his Falas Mura children holding a take-home make aliyah to Israel. Feeding programs foundation was only able to grant $200,000 bag of beans at compounds in Addis Ababa and Gondar in 2004-2005 for the Feeding Centers, provide virtually all of the nutrition and which barely covers the cost of one meal Chief Operating Officer and Director of bulk that these women and children a day. Public Affairs for NACOEJ. “You acted receive each day. Notified of the impending disaster, a swiftly and decisively. Thousands of The crisis was caused by a significant number of large city Federations formed a hungry Ethiopian Jews may never know loss of funding due to the death of a major coalition, providing emergency allocations your names, but because of your sense of of nearly $250,000 to be sent to NACOEJ communal responsibility, they will survive through the American Joint Distribution to arrive in Israel and further strengthen Committee. The grants by participating our collective homeland.” Federations cover the cost of a second meal a day, six days a week. This is critical, For more information about this as the second meal enables children who program, please call Howard Tevlowitz at are very small and lethargic to become Federation: 371.4546, ext. 101. energetic, near normal size, playful and curious. Evander Holyfield supports The Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation’s $20,000 grant is nearly 10 Holocaust education percent of the total amount needed to Excerpts from continue sending beans home for this See page 11 vulnerable population. The Federation Board approved the grant unanimously. ‘Radio Rabbi’ “All of us at NACOEJ are deeply grateful to the Sarasota-Manatee Federation for recognizing the urgent interview with Dr. need of this most destitute of Jewish Typical living conditions for a Falas Mura family communities,” said Ricki Lieberman, Roger Dearing, Federation awards overseas grants Superintendent of What are older Jews thinking? The Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation’s Board of Directors has approved Manatee County grants for overseas Safety Net and Jewish Continuity needs. The Board reviewed See page 16 recommendations made by the Overseas Granting Committee – headed by Lois Stulberg – and the grants approved at meetings in May and early June. schools Nearly $180,000 in overseas grants was approved for the year 2004-2005. It is On Monday, May 10, the Manatee important to note that it is your support that makes Federation support of these County School Board agreed to settle a programs possible. lawsuit regarding its long-term practice of Inside opening meetings with Christian prayers. THIS ISSUE What follows are the programs your donations help to make possible: The settlement reiterates guidelines set Dateline Israel ...... 2 by the School Board last August; once this CHILDREN’S INITIATIVE/SOS EMERGENCY TEL MOND/SARASOTA PARTNERSHIP: $25,000 Federation dollars at work ...... 2 settlement is approved by a federal court, Melton registration now open ...... 2 ASSISTANCE IN FSU: $10,000 These funds will be used to formally the School Board would be accountable Doris Loevner Memorial Fund ...... 3 The economic and social hardships establish a partnership relationship for any violations. Letters to the editor ...... 3 confronting children in the Former between Tel Mond, Israel and Sarasota. The School Board agreed to open future Agency directory ...... 4 Soviet Union impact their healthy Sarasota has had a long-term relationship meetings with a non-sectarian invocation, These we honor ...... 6 Dictor wins patriotic competition ...... 6 development and well-being. The SOS with Tel Mond, helping to create the delivered by various members of the local Ongoing programs/education ...... 7 program, administered through the Joint thriving community it is today. clergy. Although the guidelines set in August Organization directory ...... 8 Distribution Committee (JDC), addresses Volunteer opportunities ...... 8 of 2003 clearly indicated that invocations urgent short-term needs of Jewish children, BEIT DANIEL/SARASOTA PARTNERSHIP: $10,000 Jewish happenings ...... 9 should be non-sectarian, clergy provided These funds will be used to create a Community focus ...... 10 i.e. medical services, home repairs and by Manatee Religious Services often lasting partnership relationship between From the bimah ...... 13 emergency winter relief. included Christian references. Temple directory ...... 13 Beit Daniel and Sarasota. Beit Daniel is a The lawsuit was brought against the Welcome to Rabbi Koplin ...... 14 Progressive Synagogue/community center NORTH AMERICAN CONFERENCE ON School Board early this year by a Jewish News in brief ...... 15 in Tel Aviv, Israel. ORT showcases students ...... 15 ETHIOPIAN JEWRY: $20,000 Manatee County couple, Steven and Carol Conversion controversial in Israel ...... 16 These funds will help to feed starving Rosenauer, who were upset at the use of HUNGER IN SIBERIA: $10,000 the Lord’s Prayer to open meetings. The Rabbi cards find their niche ...... 17 Falas Mura in Addis Ababa and Gondar. Life cycle ...... 18 Funds will be sent, through the JDC, couple felt the use of Christian prayers See story above for details on NACOEJ Classifieds ...... 19 to help fight hunger in Birobidzhan, violated their rights. feeding program. Siberia. Services provided include: food On Sunday, May 16, Manatee County Superintendent Roger Dearing appeared packages, hot meals served in communal JOIN THE WELFARE IN ARGENTINA: $15,000 on the radio show of the “Radio Rabbi,” dining rooms, home care assistance, a day Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation Funds will be sent, through the JDC, for Rabbi Barbara Aiello of Bradenton, to club for the elderly and loans of medical ONLINE! continued welfare assistance, employment discuss the settlement. What follows are equipment. excerpts from the interview. Check out our website: initiatives, summer/winter camps and www.smjf.org community holiday programs. Continued on page 6 Continued on page 5 2 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 FEDERATION NEWS Dateline Israel Did you know? By Joel D. Fedder I wanted to travel to Israel in November of 2003, when thousands of Americans attended the United Jewish Communities General Assembly but was concerned about Federation funding – with your safety. Having many and varied responsibilities, I needed to consider the probability of returning, as well as going. Not a frivolous thought process. I opted not to go. I was aggravated at myself when I saw support – helps Jews throughout 6,000 of our colleagues marching shoulder to shoulder down the Champs Elysee of Jerusalem in utter defiance of all those who the world wish us evil. Jews from all over the world With your support, Federation programs help to feed the hungry, provide educational said to the naysayers like me, “Come and opportunities and offer counseling services to those in need. Read below some examples visit Israel, the water is just fine.” And visit I did in May. of how your dollars translate into better lives for our worldwide Jewish community. Safety is not an issue. In fact, it is a non- • Thirty-one percent of all 17-year-olds in the Caucasus (Kavkazi) community in issue for all Israelis. We went everywhere, on Israel dropped out of school in 1997. By 2003, this number was reduced to 18 percent, back country roads at night, on the highways according to a Brookdale Institute study. The drop was due in great part to Federation- and byways along the so-called “Wall” supported education, after-school and intervention programs. Though the improvement is (which is mostly a barbed wire fence). From impressive, it’s not enough in a country where the overall dropout rate is 10 percent. With the Golan and the Sea of Galilee to the busy our continued support, more Kavkazi youth will be able to finish high school. streets of Tel Aviv. No bad guys to menace • In the Former Soviet Union, JDC provides food packages, meals-on-wheels, us or to give us pause – none. homecare, winter relief and medicine to 240,000 elderly Jews – half of them rely on What a privilege it was to spend 10 days Federation dollars for their subsistence. Due to limited funds, our services have been in Eretz Israel going like a nut, almost 24/7. significantly cut back. In some cases, financial support has been reduced from $20 a month We were in Israel and we were going to see to $10, which means people once eligible for five soup kitchen meals a week now receive it all, by gosh. An officer in the Israeli Border Patrol stands What a wonderful time it was meeting guard; the border dividing the West Bank and just one food package every month. More money is needed to help these elderly Jews live and becoming instant friends with Israel Israel is in the background out their lives in dignity. and its extraordinary people. I can’t wait to • Every year 1.7 million Americans take part in a Federation-supported counseling tell you all about the exciting trip, especially program. For example: 8,000 participate in programs for victims of abuse; 100,000 in drug its effect on my personal transformation counseling programs; and 15,000 in programs for the developmentally disabled. from a Jew who cared a great deal about • Of the nearly 122,000 Holocaust survivors in the United States, one in four is living my fellow Jews but in a somewhat remote below the poverty line. The Federation system currently provides an array of services way, to a passionate one in the cause of including in-home care, transportation, case management and emergency financial Israel’s survival as a Nation State and our assistance. To meet the growing needs of this aging and extremely frail population, more own American Jewish survival as a vibrant body politic. funds would ensure that these vital programs are expanded. • Seventy years ago Henrietta Szold and Recha Freier founded Youth Aliyah, which Read more about Fedder’s experiences in has since helped 300,000 Israeli youngsters reclaim their lives and futures. Today, the Israeli flags are a common sight the July 21 Jewish News. Photos by Joel D. Fedder Jewish Agency, through the assistance of Federation, Hadassah and a worldwide network of supporters, operates five Youth Aliyah villages. Every year, the program rescues hundreds of Israel’s most disadvantaged from the cycle of poverty, giving them a second chance to become a productive part of Israeli society. • In the United States, approximately 350,000 children and adults in Jewish households �� live below the poverty line and close to 500,000 Jews live in low-income homes. Federation dollars help provide emergency cash assistance, food programs, low-income housing and �� job placement assistance. ��

�� BARBARA KATZ BUYING? �� SELLING? �� DOES IT ALL! LOCAL? �� Let me be your LONG DISTANCE? �� “KOSHER CONNECTION” �� “I’ll treat you like family, because you are! ” Barbara Katz

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�� JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS 3 FEDERATION NEWS

Doris Loevner Memorial Fund THE JEWISH NEWS WANTS YOU ... To give your opinion on the news of the day, articles you’ve read in the honors her memory, Jewish News and Jewish life in our community. Please send letters to: recognizes future leaders LETTERS TO THE EDITOR By Mail: Letters Editor Doris Loevner, a community leader and cherished friend, passed away just over a year Sarasota-Manatee Jewish News ago. Loevner was the first woman president of the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation, Klingenstein Jewish Center – she served for three terms – and helped to develop Federation’s Women’s Division. She 580 South McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 was chairman of the Jewish Community Capital Campaign Fund, which raised funds to help families, children and the elderly by funding the Anchin Pavilion and the Sarasota By E-mail: [email protected] (Attn. Letters Editor) Jewish Community Center. Last year, Federation memorialized Loevner and her good works by creating the Doris Letters Policy Loevner Memorial Fund to promote leadership within the Jewish community in Sarasota Letters must have the writer’s signature and typed (or printed) name, full address and Manatee Counties. In 2003-2004, Federation received 149 gifts totaling more than and daytime phone. Letters should be no longer than 300 words; we reserve the right $18,000 to perpetuate Loevner’s memory. to edit for length and/or accuracy. Letters do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of The Doris Loevner Memorial Leadership Award will be given annually to the person the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish News or its advertisers. We can not acknowledge or who best exemplifies the ideals set by Doris herself: love of community, integrity and publish every letter received. leadership. The first recipient of this distinguished award is Joshua Leuchter, who will receive a $1,000 stipend to be used toward attending either the United Jewish Communities Building Jewish General Assembly, a UJC mission to Israel or UJC’s Community Washington Conference, which occurs every other year. If not �� utilized, the stipend goes back in the fund’s corpus, which will continue to grow. Federation leadership hopes to No More Tweezing, Waxing, Bleaching or Shaving recognize two future leaders with the Doris Loevner Memorial Electrolysis . . . Leadership Award in 2005, The Only Permanent Hair Removal Method for Face & Body but we can’t do it without your support. You can help us to keep Rachael P. Coshak Loevner’s memory alive: please Licensed/Board Certified - 20 years experience consider a gift of $100 to the Complimentary Consultation Doris Loevner Memorial Fund. 1921 Baywood Drive, Sarasota, FL 34231 926-0063 For more information, please call Kim Mullins at Federation: 371.4546, ext. 103.

Doris Loevner

�� Correction �� Thanks to reader Miriam “Mimi” Edlin for pointing out that Pups for Peace founder Glenn Yago appeared at Temple Beth Israel on February 20, 2003, not April of 2003 �� Please join us for as previously reported [“Federation supports Pups for Peace,” April 28-May 18]. Yago �� appeared at Temple Beth Israel under the auspices of Edlin’s foundation-funded “Joseph �� our 10:30am J. Edlin Memorial Lecture Series”; her daughter, Jamie, served as the coordinator and �� Thursday morning PR contact for Pups for Peace at the time. We apologize for the error. �� storytime.

�� • Clothing (infant to size 14 boys and girls) �� • Party Presents • Banks �� • Toys / Dolls • Books �� • Puzzles • Baby Shower Gifts �� 4 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 LOCAL NEWS The secret practice of ‘Mikvah’ goes public A new exhibit, “The Mikvah Project and interpretations of the mikvah. Rubin’s History of the Mikvah in Florida,” featured underwater photographs of women at the Jewish Museum of Florida in Miami immersing in a mikvah, combined with Beach, documents the resurgence of the oral histories, create a multifaceted 3,000 year-old Jewish ritual of immersion. picture of contemporary mikvah practice A mikvah is a body of water that has a as told by the women themselves. Given designated connection to natural water, the highly private nature of the practice, such as fresh spring water or rainwater. the photographs are simulated, using “The Mikvah Project,” which runs models. through July 25, is a traveling exhibit Mikvah is a very personal and even created by photographer Janice Rubin and sacred ritual that has rarely been discussed writer Leah Lax. A unique compilation in public, only quietly passed on through of anonymous portraits and collected generations of women. Today, mikvah interviews from women in the United observance gives women access to an States depicts women’s experiences and intimate form of prayer, a connection One of the featured photographs at the Jewish Museum of Florida’s “Mikvah Project” exhibit to their cultural roots and spiritual renewal. Married Jewish women and for cleansing new dishes and utensils synagogue,” Rabbi Steinmetz explained. traditionally immerse before use. Separate mikvaot (plural for “Jewish law teaches us that a community after their monthly cycle mikvah) are designated for women, men that cannot afford to build a mikvah should before the resumption of and utensils sell their Torah Scroll – even if it’s the only marital relations. About- There are 28 mikvaot located in the one they own – to build a mikvah. When we to-be-married Jewish state of Florida today; the first known was purchased a permanent property, we had to women immerse before built in Jacksonville in 1921. Chabad of first build a mikvah and only then could we their weddings. Men Sarasota has the only mikvah in the local build a synagogue.” also customarily immerse area; it serves women from the entire West When the mikvah was nearly complete, at sacred times such as Coast of Florida between Tallahassee and Chabad consulted with Rabbi Avraham Yom Kippur or on their Naples. This mikvah, built in response to Korf, the head Rabbi and leader of Chabad wedding day. In addition, the arrival of more young and observant of Florida, who inspected all the aspects mikvah immersion is families, was funded almost entirely by the of the mikvah prior to filling it with water. The mikvah at Chabad of Sarasota used for conversion local community. Rabbi Korf recommended some changes, “A mikvah is a very expensive project,” which Chabad complied with. explained Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz of It is not only the congregation of Chabad Chabad. “What makes a mikvah so unique that gets to utilize the facility. “Today, is the fact that the water inside the pool there are about 40 people that benefit from Agency directory is pure rain water that arrives without the the Mikvah: approximately 25 percent FLANZER JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER touch of a human hand. To achieve this we are visitors and the rest are from the is a partner agency of the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation use clay pipes and other techniques.” local community,” Rabbi Steinmetz said. 582 S. McIntosh Rd., Sarasota, FL 34232 Phone: 378.5568 Fax: 378.1681 “The mikvah serves an www.flanzerjcc.org President/CEO: Marshall Klein / Chair of the Board: Jerry Levin educational purpose as Mission statement: To be a common meeting place for Jewish people. The Center is well: there are many local committed to strengthening Jewish family life, contributing to the general welfare of the groups that visit and learn total community and serving as a resource for Israel. about this mitzvah.” JEWISH FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SERVICE Many temple is a partner agency of the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation confirmation classes 2688 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota, FL 34237 Phone: 366.2224 Fax: 366.2982 have visited Chabad’s www.jfcs-cares.org President/CEO: Rose Chapman / Chair of the Board: Barbara Brizdle mikvah, as well as Mission statement: Based on Jewish values, JFCS provides educational, preventive and the Flanzer Jewish counseling services to help individuals and families successfully confront life’s challenges. Community Center’s JEWISH HOUSING COUNCIL Elderhostel program. is a partner agency of the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation Rabbi Steinmetz says Kobernick House-Anchin Pavilion that different chapters of 1951 N. Honore Ave., Sarasota, FL 34235 Phone: 377.0781 Fax: 377.1893 www.kobernickanchin.org ORT and Hadasah have Executive Director: Darlene Arbeit / President of the Board: Kenneth Stock visited the facility, as well Mission statement: To meet the requirements of the elderly of the Jewish community of Rabbi Steinmetz and Rabbi Avraham Korf, the head Rabbi and leader as private individuals who Sarasota and Manatee counties who desire a supportive environment that provides for of Chabad of Florida, who inspected all the aspects of the mikvah prior are interested in learning their residential, social, health, safety and religious needs, and to participate with other to filling with water more about the practice. community efforts in serving the elderly. “The use of the mikvah The cost for the construction of the grows constantly,” Rabbi Sarasota mikvah was $250,000. Steinmetz said. “It is offered to the entire Rabbi Steinmetz explained that the community, regardless of their affiliation; Need a great tax deduction? upkeep of the facility, making sure the indeed it is used by women of other water is crystal clear and that the entire temples.” building is always clean, is also quite costly. Chabad of Sarasota was required to build The Jewish Museum of Florida (301 the mikvah before construction could begin Washington Ave., South Beach) is open on their synagogue, which is located at 7700 daily 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except CARSVANSCARSVANSCARS Beneva Road in Sarasota. Mondays and Jewish holidays. For “In Jewish law, the construction of a information, call 305.672.5044 or go to We turn donated vehicles into services mikvah comes before the building of a www.jewishmuseum.com. for families and seniors in our community �� The hassle-free way to donate a vehicle �� We do the work & you get the tax deduction �� Call Jewish Family & Children's Service �� 366-2224 �� JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS 5 LOCAL NEWS

Radio Rabbi continued from page 1 mediation. And so the attorneys for the time who it is and it’s on the agenda. So tremendously ... it’s School Board and the attorneys for the you’ll see ... no proselytizing, no preaching, one of the fastest Rabbi Barbara: We’re going to take family ... have negotiated back and forth on no one trying to convert anyone for any growing school our entire segment here to talk a little bit a proposed settlement of decree: what does particular reason and so forth. districts. And, of about the Manatee County School Board this word mean, what does it mean in this The issue here is maybe the individuals course, Florida is invocation issue. Maybe Dr. Dearing can sentence and those types of things. We’ve who are invited to do the invocation when it the fourth largest give us a little bit of background on the had a series of five or six executive sessions says you can’t preach or proselytize, maybe state in the nation lawsuit that happened and the settlement ... Both sides have agreed to the wording of they felt like, “Well, that means I can’t now in terms of total that is pending and what it means to the decree that was approved at the special come up and invite people to be a member human population. Manatee County. School Board meeting on May 10. of the Methodist church, or I can’t come up So a lot of changes Dr. Roger Dearing Dr. Dearing: For 40 years the Manatee But it is never final until a judge gets the and convert people to the Baptist church,” have come about in County School Board has opened its Board wording, reads through it, and the judge do you follow what I’m saying? And really Manatee County. meetings with the Lord’s Prayer. I am one understands what’s meant by both sides it’s a little bit more broad-based than And, like I said earlier ... we need to who stands a lot on tradition and values, and what are the terms of the decree – the that. It means you can’t convert people to celebrate that diversity. We need to bind and I think that our children ought to have settlement – and the judge, of course, could Christianity or make the invitation to come the strengths of diversity together. To values and morals instilled within them change it. The judge could decide that, no, forward to accept Jesus Christ as your make us even a stronger community. This while they are attending schools. But for this goes against case law, or doesn’t quite savior, those types of things. That’s not [situation] maybe is one of those things that a long time, courts have held that boards agree with case law ... It must be finalized the purpose of a public governmental body brought that to light ... do have the right to have an invocation but by the courts before either party adheres to meeting. And that’s certainly shouldn’t be Rabbi Barbara: Well, you know, in the there are basically four principles to that it. But the good news is that, in principal, the purpose of the invocation. That belongs Jewish tradition we say, “Out of every right to hold an invocation that the School the School Board and the family have in the church or the synagogue or wherever source, out of every trouble, one must look Board must follow. reached an agreement, reached a meeting you participate, celebrate your G-d. for the blessing.” So it could be that out of The first one is that the Board cannot of the minds. Rabbi Barbara: I do know that as a this trouble comes the blessing of being be the person or persons who select the I think it was in everybody’s best interest. Rabbi, my job is to lead prayers in the able to acknowledge and, as you said, not individuals who do an invocation. Secondly, You know, whenever you go to court, it’s synagogue ... But I do know that even only to tolerate diversity in a kind of “OK, whoever does present the invocation expensive. The school system probably though I have the right in terms of free if you’re here I guess I have to deal with cannot endorse any particular sect or spent about $25,000 so far in attorney fees. speech to pray in Hebrew, when I’m invited you” [way], but to celebrate and appreciate religion. Third, participation by those who There’s been a lot made of that in the paper; as a representative of the community, it’s life differences that make our county such are attending this public meeting has to be I want to say something about that. I would my job as clergy to be inclusive rather than a wonderful place to be. voluntary on their part – you can’t force say a school system the size of Manatee exclusive. And praying in Hebrew, although Dr. Dearing: Well, I just want to say them to participate in any invocation and County probably gets sued 30, 35 times a it is my right, it doesn’t make sense to do it. that I think you put the words exactly exercise. And the fourth thing is that it year. Some of them frivolous, some of them That belongs, I believe ... in the synagogues before the audience and before the people should be advertised on the agenda as a not. Most of them much more expensive or in my personal prayer moments. But as that this was a challenge and became an time certain so anyone who would want than $25,000. So $25,000 is a lot of money, a representative of the clergy of Manatee opportunity to help bring this community, to miss that portion of the agenda knows I don’t want to make light of that. But in County, my job is to be inclusive. I think I think, closer together. To celebrate exactly when it’s going to happen and can line of other settlements, this has been very that with the position that the School Board what we have in common instead of those bypass that if they choose to. They can opt inexpensive to reach a mediated agreement has taken, with the help of the Rosenauer things we have [that are] different from to attend or opt not to attend. If they do compared to those that I’ve faced as family, it allows us to celebrate the diversity one another. And that we need to look at attend, they can opt to participate or not. Superintendent in other counties for 10 that now characterizes Manatee County. this as an opportunity to serve all of the So there have been a number of court years. To settle a federal suit in mediation As Superintendent, what kinds of changes people of Manatee County and to make cases, hundreds throughout the nation basically three months into the process ... are you seeing? What kinds of kids are we sure that we reflect what our community that in the different areas of jurisdiction is phenomenal. First of all, federal suits seeing in school [now]? is all about. That’s what the school system have been the main four precedents that drag on for years, normally. And of course Dr. Dearing: Well, like you said, we are should be doing. And, again, it gives have been established. And, of course, the the legal expense gets into the hundreds of getting a lot more Asian children, a lot me the opportunity to go back and start Board standing up in unison and doing the thousands of dollars ... more Muslim children, many, many more focusing on education and improving the Lord’s Prayer themselves didn’t meet the This was not an expensive settlement Hispanic children than we used to have. academic program in a safe environment first criteria. The Board cannot do it, nor by any means in terms of length of time So Florida and Manatee County both have of our schools. I’m happy to be here. It’s a can they choose the person who would or dollars spent. It’s a good settlement, I changed dramatically during the last 10 or wonderful community. lead the invocation. And so even though think, for the family, it’s a good settlement 12 years. The background and the culture it’s been a 40-year tradition, and traditions for the school system. Basically, it takes us of all those people who are now coming Listen to the Radio Rabbi on WLSS AM are hard to break, I think that was the first back to the original agreement ... It actually to the melting pot of Manatee County, 930 on Sunday mornings from 7:30- challenge that I had to overcome as a new gives the board, in some instances, more it’s growing. Manatee County is growing 9:00 a.m. Superintendent because many of these freedom than current case law. So we just Board members, some of them second or have to wait to see what the court decides. third term Board members, many of them Rabbi Barbara: And assuming that the ... grew up in this school system and have courts will go along with what the School seen that done since 1964. And, of course, Board and the Rosenauer family have since 1964 the community of Manatee agreed to in principal, what can we expect, County has changed tremendously, more as citizens of Manatee County, when we or less the state, as well. either watch on television or come in I think the main thing that we have to person to a School Board meeting? realize [is that] diversity in our community Dr. Dearing: Well, I think that once, if and diversity in our schools is not this is finalized, if there is no changing by something to be tolerated, it’s something the judicial system, basically ... we will get a to be celebrated. I mean, if everybody committee together to select the individuals out there [had] blond hair, blue eyes, fair who will be doing the invocations at the skin, you would not appreciate some of Board meetings one year in advance. those values in people. So you have to do Also, [we will] ask that the people who a comparison and contrast and I think it’s are going to do that participate in about the multiculturalism of our community a one or two-hour training session on the and the diversity of our community where sensitivity of diversity ... A copy of [the] you can compare and contrast and learn agreement has to be given to anyone who the strengths and benefits of each of those is invited to do the invocation prior to their particular either religions or communities. delivering that invocation at the Board That’s what makes America strong and meeting. So we will have predetermined that’s what makes Manatee County great. people who will be doing the invocation. It You have a community, many of whom will be broad-based. They will have a copy rely on tradition, and you have a community of the settlement, know what the terms and that sees that doing [away with] the Lord’s conditions are. Of course, until someone Prayer is an erosion of community values gets up there and starts speaking, you can’t and morals. And so those are the hurdles guarantee anything. You can’t guarantee that we had to overcome to make sure that that it won’t be violated. But if it is violated, the Board was in compliance with case law [we] have agreed that we will enforce it, on this issue. that person will never be invited back ... Rabbi Barbara: I understand that The fact [is] that we’re removing the although both parties have agreed [to a selection process of who gives the invocation settlement], it’s not a done deal. Could you from the Board members altogether … The tell us a little more about that? Board members will not be in concert with Dr. Dearing: Sure, this was a suit that the people who are doing the invocation was filed in federal court. And so before because they won’t be selecting them and you go to court, there’s a court ordered they won’t know until two weeks ahead of 6 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 LOCAL NEWS

These we honor Flanzer JCC staff member wins Federation Annual Campaign College Scholarship Fund state patriotic competition To Grace M. Goldstein, In honor of your To Richard Jones, In honor of your Benjamin Dictor, a Booker High School special birthday. years of service to the community. junior and part-time staff member at the From Karen & David Stutz From Max J. Frank Flanzer JCC, recently placed first in Florida in the Veterans of Foreign Wars’ Voice of Doris Loevner Memorial Democracy competition. The competition To Joan Feder, In honor of your Leadership Fund is a combination essay and public speaking special birthday. Love, contest, designed to foster patriotism by From Rhea Hughes To Claire & Richard Levin, Thank you for a lovely evening. giving high school students the opportunity From Ruth & Eric Orne to voice their opinion about their personal To Leah Barker, In memory of Julian, obligations as Americans. a wonderful gentleman who will be sorely Israel Emergency Fund Dictor got involved last year when his missed. With love, Public Affairs teacher made the essay a To Claire Levin, For a wonderful evening, To Rhea Hughes, In honor of your Presidency. mandatory assignment. He was first selected we thank you. From Bernice G. Stern to represent the school, then the county, and finally the state. Finishing in second From Helene & Roy Bargebuhr To Arlene & Kenny Bornstein, Our deepest place at last year’s State competition, the sympathy on the loss of your beloved father, perfectionist Dictor vowed to do better in Ben Dictor To Rhea Hughes, Best wishes for your Joseph Schwartz. this year’s contest – and did. administration. I’m sure you can do it To Mrs. Charlotte Laven, Our deepest As the 2004 state champion, Dictor went wonderfully. condolences on the loss of your husband, Jack. on to represent Florida at the national From Cecelia Fink From Roddy & Don Samuels competition in Washington, DC. Of 70,000 Dictor’s father (and hero), Wayne, first original entries, he placed 13th in the brought him to the JCC to play soccer when Jane and Bernard Isaacs Family nation. Ben was 4 years old. In middle school, he To Mr. Hank Leshner, In memory of Philanthropic Fund Betty Jane Leshner. “I was proud to represent our state, but and friends Michael Walach and Amanda it really didn’t hit me until we arrived in and Jennifer Gluchlick made the JCC their From Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Bruno To Bernard Isaacs, In memory of my mother. Washington what an incredible honor this second home, even before the new Teen From Patti, Bruce and Saralyn Winston really was,” he said. “The VFW treated us Center was completed. They were the first In honor of Lucille Pierce. Orr Shalom Fund like royalty, with gifts, cash prizes, fancy members of Young Judaea locally. Once From Ann Weiskirch dinners and special tours of the city’s he entered high school, Dictor thought his To Claire & Richard Levin, Thank you for a monuments. We even had an audience with days of spending time at the JCC were over, To Mr. Harry Meier, For a speedy recovery. delicious evening. the President. No matter what your politics but even at his young age, he talked his way From Debbie & Steve Kleinman From Bobbie & Jay Saphier are, meeting the leader of the free world into a job at the front desk, answering the is an almost surreal experience. President phone and eventually giving tours and Bush shook each of our hands and signed recruiting new members. NOTE: To be publicly acknowledged in the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish News, Honor Cards require a minimum $10 contribution autographs on the White House lawn. He “The JCC is a great working environment per listing. Unpublished Honor Cards will still be sent to honorees with a minimum $5 donation. Purchasers of Honor Cards may direct their contribution to any of the following funds: The UJA/Federation Annual Campaign, Israel Emergency Fund, told us that he was proud of us and our and the people here have been like a the SKIP (Send a Kid to Israel Program) Fund, the Holocaust Education Fund, the College Scholarship Fund, the Hebrew Free values.” second family,” Dictor said. “They treat me Loan Fund, Capital Campaign, Tel Mond Children’s Fund and the Doris Loevner Memorial Leadership Fund. But Dictor was most impressed by the like an adult, holding me to the same high other state champions that he met. “These standard as everyone else on staff. Working were some of the most interesting and at the ‘J’ has given me valuable skills and intellectual kids I’ve ever met,” he said. lessons in how to deal with people, and Overseas grants continued from page 1 alienation. “Follow Me” (the Paratrooper “They are our future leaders. I could really helped me with public speaking, which will motto) is a one-year program focusing on have an in-depth conversation about what’s be very important in my career.” individual development of personal skills, going on in the world, which, unfortunately, A future politician, Dictor now volunteers POVERTY/ELDERLY SERVICES IN KIRYAT GAT, is not too common with many kids my age. with the Sarasota Democratic Party and is strength, general studies and motivation. ISRAEL: $25,000 We weren’t all in agreement – there were a member of Forum 2004, a local think Federation will “adopt” 12 students. Through the JDC’s Besevah Tovah arguments from the left and the right tank. Dictor would like to attend college (Aging with Dignity) program, launched – but we all respected each other and got at Georgetown or American University in ISRAEL CIVIL GUARD – AFULA along really well. I keep in touch over the Washington and then intern with a Senator in May 2003, the President’s (of Israel) COMPREHENSIVE HIGH SCHOOL: $13,320 Internet and this summer, many of us are or Congressman. From there he plans to Initiative is a pilot project to assist elderly The World ORT Afula Comprehensive going to try to meet at Valley Forge to enter politics, hoping to change the world Jews mired in poverty. Besevah Tovah continue our conversations. Speaking and for the better. High School has 854 students. The Civil enables poverty-stricken elderly in Kiryat communication can solve world problems, When asked about his ultimate goal, Guard Project trains senior students in Gat to receive services including: subsidized and we’ve got to keep trying.” Dictor responded, “Well, ‘President’ the skills and responsibilities of monitoring medicines, dental treatment, hearing aids The Dictor family has had a JCC doesn’t sound bad.” Given his track record security in their local community. The and eyeglasses; improved living conditions; membership for many years. His parents of accomplishing exactly what he sets out to volunteers perform security duties in their enjoy the music programs. Dictor’s sister do, Dictor is the one who may be shaking and employment training and placement. own schools as well as local primary schools plays basketball and his brother makes the the hands of future Voice of Democracy and pre-schools. Federation will sponsor most of the Teen Center. winners on the White House lawn. FUND FOR IMMIGRANT SOLDIERS ALONE IN this three-year program. ISRAEL: $12,000 Federation will “adopt” five soldiers, recent immigrants to Israel, to aid in their successful integration into Israeli society. A working partnership with the Jewish Agency for Israel, IDF and Ministry of Absorption, the Fund is designed to answer urgent and immediate needs of the soldiers.

FUND TO PREVENT IMMIGRANT YOUTH DROPPING OUT IN ISRAEL: $14,400 Currently, more than 15 percent of new Ethiopian students immigrant high school students drop out Photo by Joel Fishman, UJC of school each year, compared with just 4 percent of Israel-born children. A working partnership between the Jewish Agency for SCHOLARSHIPS FOR ETHIOPIAN GRADUATE Israel, the Ministry of Absorption and the STUDENTS: $12,500 Ministry of Education, the Fund provides Through the American Friends of Keren crucial intervention for youngsters-at- Hanan Aynor, funds will provide financial risk to improve Hebrew language skills, support for promising Ethiopian graduate strengthen learning skills and provide basic students who will have immediate impact school supplies. Federation will “adopt” as they assume financial and leadership eight students. responsibilities within the Ethiopian Jewish community. This is critical as this FOLLOW ME – ISRAEL: $12,000 community is without Western-educated Every year, some 2,500 young men and leadership that can relay the needs of the women fail to meet the standard IDF community to the Israeli establishment, recruitment requirements as a result of provide guidance to the community and behavioral problems, delinquency or social serve as role models for its at-risk youth. JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS 7 LOCAL NEWS

TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM (1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, 955.8121) Ongoing programs/educational opportunities The Rabbi’s Tish: Philosophy, God and Observance HABAD OF ARASOTA EWISH LCOHOLICS HEMICALLY EPENDENT education and social activities. Medicare C S J A , C D Tuesdays, 8:30-9:30 a.m. ERSONS AND IGNIFICANT THERS assignment accepted. Transportation and (7700 S. Beneva Rd., Sarasota, 925.0770) P S O This is an ongoing discussion of the lunch is provided by JFCS. Call Beverly Jewish Mysticism – Kabbalah Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. complex world of Jewish thought and Mishkin, LCSW or Steve Steiner, LCSW Wednesdays, 10:15-11:15 a.m. All Jewish persons with a desire to get help philosophy. This year’s sessions will focus (366.2224). Study the inner essence of Judaism. Enjoy with their own addiction or with a loved on the writings of Heschel, Soloveitchik, a thought-provoking and stimulating one’s addiction are welcome to attend. Safe, Agus and others. This summer the Zohar morning studying Chasidic philosophy and secure, anonymous and private. Meetings will be taught. Source material is provided; mystical depth of the Torah. Class led by take place every Wednesday evening at Senior Social Club Thursday, July 1, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. no prior knowledge is required. Instructor: Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz. Text fee: $12. the Flanzer JCC (582 S. McIntosh Rd., Rabbi Joel S. Mishkin. Reservations required. Sarasota). For more information, call Mark This group provides a social outlet for individuals to share positive experience (302.4500). Entering Jewish Prayer and Torah Study Code of Jewish Law with others. Takes place at the Ackerman House at JFCS the first Thursday of every Saturdays, 8:45-9:50 a.m. Wednesdays, 11:15-11:45 a.m. JEWISH FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SERVICE month. Call Bob Martin (955.3516). Rabbi Mishkin and Rabbi Goldsmith Enjoy discussion of Jewish law and (2688 Fruitville Rd., Sarasota, 366.2224) facilitate a study and discussion session its application to our day-to-day life. Anger Management for Teens on Torah and Tefillah to help participants Class led by Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz. Thursdays through July 15 Strengthening Families Program deepen their relationship to prayer. Text fee: $36. Reservations required. 4:00-5:00 p.m. Thursdays, 6:00-8:00 p.m. This special summer program is for teens, The program is geared to parents and TEMPLE EMANU-EL Weekly Torah Portion - The Chasidic 11-15 years old, who want to identify what children, ages 10-14 years, who want to (151 S. McIntosh Rd., Sarasota, 371.2788) Dimension triggers their anger and learn appropriate strengthen their relationship. Dealing with Understanding the Bible Thursdays, 9:30-10:15 a.m. ways to respond. Cost: $20/session or frustrations, setting limits, building self- Thursdays, 10:00 a.m. Discover hidden codes and teachings $99/series. Call Fran Potts, MSW esteem, conflict resolution and resisting Study the Bible for a better understanding based on the Kabbalah and Chasidic (366.2224). negative peer pressure are just a few of of its meaning through spirited discussion interpretation of the Torah. Class the topics covered. Call David Williams, and the sharing of thoughts and ideas. led by Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz. Text Bereavement Support Group LCSW/ACSW (366.2224). Moderator: Dr. Ruth Simon. fee: $35. Reservations required. Tuesdays, 1:00-2:30 p.m. Grief is a universal and natural response to Chavurah Learning Group loss that is often accompanied by feelings Every first and third Thursday of anger and loneliness. This program is 7:30-9:00 p.m. offered at no cost as part of the Jewish Digestive and Home of Ruth & Ron Hyatt, University Park Healing Program at JFCS. Call Beverly Liver Disorders Join a friendship group for Torah study. Mishkin, LCSW (366.2224). Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Class led by Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz. & Reservations required; call the Hyatts Mediation ELLIOT M. LIVSTONE, M.D., P.A. (360.9332). By appointment only DIPLOMATE AMERICAN BOARD OF INTERNAL MEDICINE Mediation is a much less expensive way DIPLOMATE SUBSPECIALTY BOARD OF GASTROENTEROLOGY FLANZER JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER to dissolve a marriage. David Williams, (582 S. McIntosh Rd., Sarasota, 378.5568) LCSW/ACSW of JFCS is a Certified (941) 955-0000 Hecht School of Music Lessons Family Court Mediator (CFM). Mediation 1515 SOUTH OSPREY AVE., STE. C-11, SARASOTA, FL 34239 ~ EARLY EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE FOR NEW PATIENTS Various days, times is not counseling or therapy; providing Lessons are available for students of all ages families in conflict with a better way to on piano, woodwinds, percussion, recorder, resolve issues is the primary goal. For �� guitar, violin and voice. Cost per 1⁄2-hour more information, contact David Williams, lesson: $17.50/members, $20/public. Call LCSW/ACSW/CFM (366.2224). �� Jane Hoffman (378.8528). �� Respite Care for Caregivers and Their Kabbalah Loved Ones �� Tuesday, June 22, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Thursdays, 10:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. �� Delve into the universal truths of this Are you responsible for the care of a �� ancient philosophy with author, Kabbalist senior family member or friend? Join the �� and lecturer Bob Waxman. This program Caregiver Time Out Group, which offers �� takes place the fourth Tuesday of each group support and discussion. Program month; free. Call 378.5568, or go to is free; lunch is provided. This program www.kabalist.com. is funded through a grant with Senior Solutions of Southwest Florida. Contact Michael Saunders & Company, Licensed Real Estate Broker SeniorNet Sarasota Wendy Kulscar (366.2224). 440 Gulf of Mexico Drive, Longboat Key, FL 34228, (941) 383-7591 Various days, times SeniorNet is a national nonprofit Senior Outreach Services SUZETTE AND JAY SEIGEL, ESQ. organization with more than 230 learning Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Two Generations, One Commitment centers across the country. Seniors ages (Temple Beth Israel, 567 Bay Isles Rd., “A mother-and-son team, Suzette Seigel and Jay Seigel, Esq., are 50+ are encouraged to learn how to use Longboat Key) genuinely enthusiastic about Real Estate. Whether you are considering and enjoy computers. For course schedules, Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m (JFCS) buying or selling, put this team of professionals to work for you.” visit www.seniornetsarasota.org. Cost: Homebound older adults can maintain $40/year for membership and their independence and enhance their THE SEIGEL TEAM, BROKER ASSOCIATES approximately $60/course. Call 377.9124 involvement with friends and community, 941.228.5298 FAX 941.383-5860 for more information. and enhance their mental health through [email protected]  [email protected] WWW.MICHAELSSAUNDERS.COM If your property is currently listed with another Broker, please do not consider this a solicitation.

SEAFOOD MARKET & RESTAURANT “The Real Fish House” The Freshest, Finest Seafood Available �� Serving Lunch 11 AM - 3 PM, Mon.-Sat. / Serving Dinner 4:30 PM, Mon.-Sat. Fresh New England Fish - Grouper, Snapper, Tuna �� Seafood Deli, etc ~ Sensational Salad Bar ~ Homemade Soups Beer & Wine Available ~ Retail Fish Market Open 9AM-9PM Mon.-Sat. We Clean Your House Like Our Own. Smoked Salmon ~ Smoked Whitefish ~ Chubs ~ Herring Salad ~ Kippered Salmon ~ Matjes Herring We Scrub Floors! 8441 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 351-4492 Voted Best Seafood Restaurant in Sarasota Herald-Tribune’s “Where The Locals Really Eat” (May 29, 1997) & Best Seafood Marc Dratler (H) 941.729.5631 (C) 941.224.8195 Restaurant (Finalist) ‘96, ‘97, ‘98, & ‘99 Reader’s Choice Awards & Best Fish Market (Finalist) ‘97, ‘98 & ‘99 Reader’s Choice Awards 1999/2000 Zagat Rated Excellent/Best Seafood in Sarasota 8 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 LOCAL NEWS

Volunteer opportunities Organization directory

B’NAI B’RITH GULF COAST LODGE NO. 2004 AMERICAN FRIENDS OF THE HEBREW UNIVERSITY B’nai B’rith of Sarasota County and Manatee County is calling for volunteers to plan and 7280 W. Palmetto Park Rd., Ste. 202, Boca Raton, FL 33433 • (561) 750.8585 or (800) 899.2348 implement activities for the coming year. Those who are interested should meet at Manhattan President: Harry Kartoz / Chair: Selma Klingenstein Bagel (935 Beneva Rd. N., Sarasota) on Thursday, June 24 at 8:30 a.m., or call Bob Martin www.afhu.org (957.1056). AMERICAN JEWISH COMMITTEE, WEST COAST FLORIDA CHAPTER 2055 Wood St., Ste. 218, Sarasota, FL 34237 • 365.4955 HADASSAH – SABRA CHAPTER President: Dr. Joseph Mendels / Executive Director: Ruth F. Young Help area students succeed. Please help with science or math tutoring – call Stella Lipp www.ajc.org (924.6230) or Evie Plait (923.8550). AMERICAN TECHNION SOCIETY, GULF COAST CHAPTER Volunteer at the area’s coolest place to shop: the SaBra Hadassah Resale Shop (3750 Osprey President: Robert H. Rosenthal / Chairman of the Board: Milton Richter Ave. S., Sarasota). Volunteers are needed to help with inventory, store upkeep and as cashiers. Contacts: Naomi Wertheimer, 366.3662 / Rosalie Krone, 383.4523 Call Sandi Kligman (351.0703) or Harriet Polejes (751.3615). www.ats.org AMERICANS FOR PEACE NOW JEWISH FAMILY & CHILDREN’S SERVICE President: Barbara Grauer, 847.432.4478 If you have just one hour a week to serve as a positive role model, consider participating in JFCS’s Mentors and Tutors for the Safe Alternative to Out-of-School Suspension Program ASSOCIATION OF JEWISH COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION PROFESSIONALS (SATOSS) working with middle school students at McIntosh, Laurel Nokomis, and Heron Creek Membership: (561) 795.4853 in North Port. President: Daniel R. Allen / Executive Director: Louis B. Solomon The JFCS Resale Furniture and More store needs your help pricing, marketing, selling and www.ajcop.org assisting customers at the store. Profits from the sale of “seasoned” possessions are used to B’NAI B’RITH GULF COAST LODGE #2004 support the programs and services of the agency. 957.1056 Retired social workers, psychologists, guidance counselors and other mental health Contact: Bob Martin professionals are needed for the Intake Service. Time commitment is once a week, two-four hours, either mornings or afternoons. Dynamic colleagues; supportive learning environment. BRANDEIS UNIVERSITY NATIONAL WOMEN’S COMMITTEE Call Lee Berkowitz (366.2224). Co-presidents: Carole Singer / Helen Spindler, 929.7422 www.brandeis.edu/bunwc For more information, please call Caroline Zucker (366.2224). HADASSAH, SABRA CHAPTER SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH HOUSING COUNCIL GUILD President: Sandi Kligman, 351.0703 / Membership VP: Marilyn Wagner, 360.9246 Numerous volunteer opportunities are currently available. Volunteers are needed to teach www.hadassah.org Yiddish classes, sit with residents, for reading programs, gardening and more. For more HADASSAH, VENICE CHAPTER information, call Corrine Garber at (925.7073). Program VP: Vicki Solomon, 492.5043 www.hadassah.org WOMEN’S AMERICAN ORT ISRAEL BONDS, FLORIDA WEST COAST The Greater Sarasota Area Council of Women’s American ORT will wrap gifts during 13191 Starkey Rd.; Ste. 7, Largo, FL 33773 • (727) 539.6445 or (800) 622.8017 more than just the holiday season in 2004: ORT will wrap the weekends of Valentine’s Day, Sarasota/Manatee Chairman: Bernard Isaacs / Executive Director: Sheryl Weitman Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day at both Westfield Shoppingtown Southgate and Westfield www.israelbonds.com Shoppingtown Sarasota. This fundraiser benefits ORT students and schools around the world, JEWISH ALCOHOLICS, CHEMICALLY DEPENDENT PERSONS and raises awareness of ORT’s mission. With ORT’s expanded gift wrap schedule this year, more AND SIGNIFICANT OTHERS volunteers are needed. Call the ORT office (927.6678). Contact: Mark, 302.4500

To publicize your volunteer needs, please fax 378.2947, attn. “Volunteers,” or e-mail JEWISH GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA President: Kim Sheintal, 921.1433 [email protected]. E-mail: [email protected]

JEWISH WAR VETERANS OF SARASOTA COUNTY POST 172 Sr. Vice Commander: Mike Zimmer, 921.4740 �� NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN (NCJW), SARASOTA-MANATEE SECTION �� Co-presidents: Debbie Engleson, 927.8290 / Marion Goldsmith, 371.5800 �� www.ncjw.org �� P’NAI (Parents of North American Israelis) �� A support and friendship group for people who have family living in Israel �� President: Claire Fox, 921.3765 [email protected]

PRIME TIMERS President: Leonard Rothman, 371.1187 SARASOTA JEWISH CHORALE Conductor: Martha Kesler / Chief Organizer: Arlene Stolnitz, 492.6944 R E N T A L SARASOTA-MANATEE ARCH FAMILY HOLOCAUST EDUCATION CENTER 578 S. McIntosh Road, Sarasota, FL 34232 • 378.8837 A P A R T M E N T S Director: Richard Bergman / VP Development: Estelle Crawford www.flholocaustmuseum.org

 SYNAGOGUE COUNCIL OF SARASOTA-MANATEE COUNTIES, INC. Rent from $475.00 - $635.00 per month President: Paula Spitalny, 927.2734  Next to Shopping Center WOMEN’S AMERICAN ORT/WORLD ORT  Wide Selection 4370 S. Tamiami Trail, Ste. 239, Sarasota, FL 34231 • 927.6678 President: Marilyn Royfe  Yearly Lease www.waort.org and www.ort.org  No Pets ORT, GREATER SARASOTA AREA COUNCIL 927.6678 President: Marilyn Royfe

ORT, GULFWIND CHAPTER President: Joyce Kravitz, 924.3327 ORT, ISLANDSIDE CHAPTER Co-Presidents: Nancy Mills, 966.8008 / Edris Weis, 922.8786 ORT, PALM CHAPTER Co-Presidents: Joan Goodman, 358.7096 / Ruth Mendelevitz, 351.6455 / Gladys Parker, 358.3050

ORT, SARA-MANA EVENING CHAPTER Co-Presidents: Jamie Grollman, 907.2093 / Gail Shane, 355.3939 JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS 9 Jewish Happenings

Monday, June 21

Celebrate Israeli culture and enjoy some exercise during Israeli Folk Dance. This program meets every Monday from 7:30-9:00 p.m. at the Colonial Oaks Park Community Center (5300 Colonial Oaks Blvd., Sarasota). Cost: $6/class or four classes for $20. For more information, Thursday, June 17 call Mary Finegold (727.5109).

Don’t miss the Jewish Museum of Florida’s (301 Washington Ave., South Beach) exhibit, The Mikvah Project and History of the Mikvah in Florida. [See related story on Wednesday, June 23 page 4.] This exhibit is a unique compilation of anonymous portraits and collected A new group, Jewish Alcoholics, Chemically Dependent Persons interviews from women in America, and Significant Others, is available for all Jewish persons with a desire documenting the resurgence and expanded to get help with their own addiction or with a loved one’s addiction. practice of the ancient Jewish ritual bath. These meetings are safe, secure, anonymous and private. Take place This exhibit continues through July 25. Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. at the Flanzer JCC (582 S. McIntosh The Museum is open daily from 10:00 a.m. Rd., Sarasota). For more information, call Mark (302.4500). to 5:00 p.m. (except Mondays and Jewish holidays). Admission: adults/$5; seniors/$4; families/$10; members and children under 6/free; Saturdays/free. Call (305) 672.5044, or go to www.jewishmuseum.com. Thursday, June 24

B’nai B’rith of Sarasota County and Manatee County, Gulf Coast Lodge No. 2004, is calling for volunteers to plan and implement activities for the coming year. Meet at Manhattan Bagel (935 Beneva Friday, June 18 Rd. N., Sarasota) at 8:30 a.m., or call Bob Martin (957.1056).

Temple Beth Israel (567 Bay Isles Rd., Longboat Key) will open its summer Friday night services at 5:30 p.m. followed by a special Shabbat Dinner at 6:30 p.m. Cost: $20/members, $25/public. Reservations are required and may be made by mailing a check to the Temple or by Friday, June 25 contacting the Temple office (383.3428). Rabbi Michael Eisenstat will lead the services. Temple Beth Sholom (1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota) presents its 4th Annual TOT Shabbat Family Dinner from 6:00-7:30 p.m. This great family event, which takes place in the Madeline L. Sainer Social Hall, will feature a special show by “Puppet Tales,” followed by a yummy To submit your event to Jewish Happenings, please fax to 378.2947, dairy buffet dinner. The evening will be suitable for families with attn. “Jewish Happenings” or e-mail [email protected]. children in preschool through second grade. Grandparents and older Events must be submitted on a Jewish Happenings form; siblings are also welcome. Cost: $10 per family. RSVP to the Temple call 371.4546 to receive a copy. office (955.8121). Submissions must be received at least four weeks before event date.

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�� 10 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 COMMUNITY FOCUS Celebration of Imagination Students graduate from

fundraiser Michaels Learning Center On April 24, the schools of Temple Lee Wiesner Early Childhood Center and Pre-K students from the Flanzer JCC’s Michaels Learning Center marched to “Pomp Beth Sholom – the Justin Lee Wiesner the Goldie Feldman Academy, and the and Circumstance” in the Beatrice Friedman Theater as 35 students graduated on May Early Childhood Learning Center and the entire staff of both schools. 21. “Grandma” Geet Jacobson came out of retirement to guide the students down the Goldie Feldman Academy – held its annual The event was chaired by Rachel aisle to their places on stage. The group was welcomed by MLC Director Pam Roux and fundraiser, Celebration of Imagination. Silverman; Tammy Karp served as the Vice by Betsy Schwartz, in one of her last public appearances as Interim Executive Director The event, which was held at the Madeline Chair. Major sponsors were the Mabry of the JCC. The graduates sang five songs, including an original composition by Dr. Jane Sainer Social Hall of Temple Beth Sholom, Carlton Ranch, Inc., the Glauser family, Hoffman, Director of the Hecht School of Music. Teachers Eileen Small, Liz Jahnke, raised $114,000. the Bregg family, the Manatee/Sarasota Carmen Michael, Brandy Scott and Samantha Gulsby recited “Apologies to None,” a Highlights included an extensive silent Eye Clinic and Laser Center, and the poem traditional to the graduation ceremony, sentimentally and humorously touting the auction and an incredible live auction. Turosienski family. pleasures of being a preschool teacher. The Graduation Committee decorated the theater Items up for grabs included with a balloon archway and balloon centerpieces, made in part by the children. Led by prime parking spots in the Chair Eileen Small, the committee consisted of Melissa Alexander, Beth Allison, Stacey school lot, a quilt with photos Jacobson, Liz Jahnke, Stacy Mayper and Julie Odenweller. The occasion concluded with of the winner’s child and his/her a slide show and lunch. classmates, and the opportunity for several children to be named “Director for the Day” for next school year. People were willing to spend outrageous amounts because they know it was for a great cause: their children. In attendance were Sarasota Mayor Lou Ann Palmer, Art Project Chairs Christine and Bill Fenner, Tammy and Richard Karp, Lewis and Sandra Hanan, Paul Leichter and Brenda Hibbeln, Neil Malamud, Lisa (From l-r) Christine Fenner, Art Projects Chair; Kavita Vasil, The graduating class of 2004 and Philip Skirball, Anushka and JLWECLC and GFA Director; Rachel Silverman, Event Chair; Peter Turosienski, Kavita Vasil, Richard Karp, Auctioneer; and David Berkowitz, Auctioneer who is the Director of the Justin Photo by Rachel Silverman

Sarasota-Manatee Section of Beatrice Michaels NCJW holds its end-of-year luncheon. NCJW had its Annual Installation/Scholarship Award Luncheon on May 5 at the Prestancia Country Club. The new slate of officers, headed by co-presidents Debbie Engleson and Marion Goldsmith, was installed by past-president Laurice Fishman. The Sarasota-Manatee Section of NCJW presented five young women with the Section’s annual scholarship award for the non-traditional student. This year’s recipients were Jewel Buettner, Janel D. Sanchez, Tracy Bacon, Latorie M. Phillips and Chantay C. Sterling. An address by Laurel Lynch, Executive Director of the Hope Family Center in Bradenton, concluded the afternoon’s events. Teachers from Michaels Learning Center; MLC Director Pam Roux is fourth from left

Photos by Christopher Alexander SaBra Hadassah installs new

(From l-r) Front row: Cecile Alexander, Esther Apple, Debbie Engleson, Marion Goldsmith and Alice Birnbaum; back row: Cookie Bloom, Ruth Gutmaker, Harriet Borgeda, Mimi Berman and Bobbie officers Cornell (Not pictured: Judy Abroms, Judy Hornblow, Lois Kertman and Mary Rosen) On May 13, SaBra Chapter of Hadassah held its annual Installation Luncheon at the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation. Sheila Bellamy was honored as SaBra’s Sheila Bellamy (left), SaBra Chapter of Hadassah’s 2004 “Woman of the Year,” 2004 “Woman of the Year”; President presented by Sandi Kligman Sandi Kligman made the presentation. This award is given annually to a member, chosen by her peers, who has made exceptional contributions to the Chapter that year. Sheila, a Past President of SaBra, is a Resale Shop Manager, chaired the Study Group and SaBra Officers for 2004-2005 (from l-r): Bonnie Elkins, Sheila Radman, Nominating Committee Sandi Kligman, Jackie Gilden, Sheila Bellamy, Cec Grodner, Marilyn (From l-r) Co-chair Lil Merriam, co-chair, Tracy Bacon, Jewel Buettner, Janel D. Sanchez, Chantay C. for 2004 and was installed Wagner, Ronnie Garcia, Ruth Cohen and Natlie Brush (Not pictured: Sterling, Latorie M. Phillips and co-chair Debbie Morrison as Treasurer. Barbara Schur, Nikki Feldman and Elaine Sandler) JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS 11 COMMUNITY FOCUS Evander Holyfied visits Holocaust Holocaust Education Center Education Center presents ‘Lunch with Loftus’

Evander Holyfield, the only four-time heavyweight champion of the world, The Sarasota-Manatee Arch Family Holocaust Education Center of the Florida arrived in Sarasota on April 28 to support the Teaching Trunk Program and other Holocaust Museum presented “Lunch with Loftus” at the Bijou Restaurant April 27. efforts of the Sarasota-Manatee Arch Family Holocaust Education Center of the Loftus, a former Justice Department prosecutor, Nazi hunter and CIA investigator, Florida Holocaust Museum. Accompanied by Ken Schick, Manager of HBO Sports, gave a fascinating update on the war in Iraq and the situation in Israel today. Dr. Mr. Holyfield addressed hundreds of school children in Sarasota and Bradenton Helen Fagin, an educator, lecturer on the lessons of the Holocaust and anti-Semitism, including Johnson Middle School, Wings Academy, Booker High School, and both and a member of the Advisory Council the Wetherington and McBean Boys & Girls Clubs. During Holyfield’s visit, a cocktail and Planning Committee in Sarasota, was party was sponsored by Christine and Bill Isaac, who opened their home to 130 people. honored at this luncheon for her outstanding Many of the guests had their photo taken with Evander Holyfield and listened while contributions over the past two decades to he spoke of his experiences growing the U.S. Holocaust Museum and her lifetime up, his devotion to his mother, the commitment to Holocaust education. Boys Club, and how the Holocaust Museum helps to fight prejudice.

(From l-r) Sylvia Cohodas, Lois Cohodas, Barbara Geldbart and Bill Cohodas Richard Bergman, Director of the Sarasota- Manatee Arch Family Holocaust Education Bonnie and Skip Silverman with Center, with Evander Holyfield Evander Holyfield Dr. Helen Fagin, who was honored at the event

‘Wizard of Oz’ visits Chug Ivri celebrates Yom Temple Beth Sholom Ha’atzma’ut The first performance of the Goldie Feldman Academy Drama Club was given on May On Israel Independence Day, April 28, members of the Flanzer Jewish Community 7 in the Madeline L. Sainer Social Hall. Kathryn Schultz Miller’s adaptation of L. Frank Center’s “Chug Ivri” intermediate level Hebrew group celebrated with a festive evening Baum’s classic, The Wizard of Oz, was enjoyed by the entire GFA student body, parents, of Israeli food, music and guests. Kaitlyn Cristiani was a charming Dorothy, and Violette Levy bounced around and dance. They also as a perky Toto, despite an injured paw. Stephanie Mandelblum and Jenna Froug teamed commemorated major up as the lovable, brainless Scarecrow and heart-seeking Tin Man, while Jeremy Dictor events and accomplishments gave a memorable interpretation of the Cowardly Lion. The play was directed and of Israel on the occasion produced by GFA faculty members, Kimberly Klein and Heather Miller. of its 56th birthday. The celebration was held at the home of Cheryl Cohen. The Chug Ivri Hebrew group meets every Thursday at the Flanzer JCC (582 S. (From l-r) Claire and Donald Fox, Cheryl Cohen, Esther and McIntosh Rd., Sarasota) Rabbi Herb Rose, Dori Rosen, Shirley and Isaac Neiger, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and Don Marshall (From l-r) Nicholas Gambardella (Uncle Henry), Violette Levy (Toto), Kaitlyn Cristiani (Dorothy) and Anna Packer (Aunt Em) Bradenton couple spends Yom Ha’atzma’ut in Israel What better place to celebrate Yom HaZicharon and Yom Ha’atzma’ut than Israel? Thirty-five Hadassah members and associates recently returned from the organization’s 10th Renaissance Mission, where they toured Jerusalem, the Erez Junction Army Base, (From l-r) Jeremy Dictor (Cowardly Lion), and ongoing Hadassah projects. To celebrate the holidays, they participated in an official Jenna Froug (Tin Man) and Stephanie Memorial Day ceremony on Mount Herzl and an Independence Day celebration on Mount Mandelblum (Scarecrow) Scopus. Intended to show support, boost tourism and help the economy, Hadassah’s R e n a i s s a n c e program has sent more than 500 people to Israel since its inception in October 2002.

Pictured here on Independence Day are (seated) Sara Kirshner, Lexi Pulice-Farrow and Willie and Alex Zalkin played Munchkins and the Norman Walter Flying Monkeys of Bradenton with their family, the Greens, who live in Ma’ale Adumim in Israel 12 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 COMMUNITY FOCUS

Locals attend Society for Humanistic Feast of Abraham celebration Temple Emanu-El, The Islamic Community of Southwest Florida and St. Martha’s Judaism Conference in Toronto Catholic Church enjoyed the Feast of Abraham on April 22. This annual event was hosted by St. Martha’s. The Feast of Abraham, which was created by Father Fausto Stampiglia Arlene J. Pearlman, Sarasota, the newly elected President of the Congregation for four years ago, promotes friendship and cooperation through a better understanding of Humanistic Judaism of Sarasota/Bradenton and Lou Altman, Bradenton, Vice President Christianity, Islam and Judaism. These religions share a common ancestor in the faith for Humanistic Judaism in Michigan, recently returned from Toronto where they in Abraham. After a short interfaith service, in which Mr. Hasan Hammami of Islamic attended the 2004 Conference of the Society. The theme of the conference was “Balancing Community of Southwest Florida, Rabbi Howard Simon of Temple Emanu-El, and Creativity and Continuity.” Reverand Fausto Stampligia of St. Martha’s Catholic Church signed a pledge to support each other in times of trouble, the members of the three congregations shared an evening of dinner and fellowship.

(From l-r) Congregation for Humanistic Judaism founder Rabbi Sherwin Wine, Sarasota’s Arlene J. Pearlman and Bradenton’s Lou Altman

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Israelites had practiced. When they have Yes, there would be consequences if she who dehumanized these prisoners even From the Bimah performed this ritual, Jacob’s sons come in were injured or abused, but the damages realized it, they managed to hit the By Rabbi Joel Mishkin and murder Shechem and his family when would be paid, not to the woman, but to worst possible collective nerve, in the Temple Beth Sholom they are at their most vulnerable. the men responsible for her. That is why Arab world - “the removal of modesty “Dinah’s Story” A close reading of this story, both from Greenberg states unequivocally, “the among their men and women.” As Ms. its ancient context and from its medieval rape of a woman was a crime between Charam adds, “Modesty in their women There is a disturbing story that is explications, starkly demonstrates the men.” Furthermore in medieval times, is something that they will defend to the found in the first book of the Bible and it position of the woman in ancient Israel. the rabbis wanted to find the woman death. Modesty in men is prized as well. concerns a woman named Dinah. We read Rabbi Steven Greenberg articulates this responsible for her fate in some way or To strip them naked and force them to the following words: position in his new book, Wrestling with another. That is why they find fault with pantomime sex acts is to deny them their “Now Dinah, the daughter whom Leah God and Men. Dinah. They assume that she must have most precious possession, their dignity.” had borne to Jacob, went out to visit the “In the Bible, the rape of a single woman, been promiscuous and therefore she was Such pronouncements should make daughters of the land. Shechem, son of as in the case of Dinah, was an act of tribal partially to blame for her misfortune. all of us wonder how with all of the Hamor the Hivite, chief of the country, violence to be avenged by brothers. As In other words, the ancient and modern intelligence that has been absorbed by the saw her, and took her, and lay with her strange as it sounds to contemporary ears, near-eastern world, for that matter, looks men and women, not fighting this war, but by force. Being strongly drawn to Dinah, the rape of a woman was a crime between at women in a much different way than we leading and directing the fighting of this daughter of Jacob, and in love with the men. In biblical tort, the rape of a single in the western world do today. war - why on earth were these photographs maiden, he spoke to the maiden tenderly. This particular text teaches us how and depictions of humiliation not taken So Shechem said to his father Hamor, woman demanded that the rapist pay a vital it is that we understand this kind more seriously from the time that they ‘Get me this girl as a wife.’ Jacob heard fine to the father for the lost bride price. of particular attitude when we try to were discovered in mid-January? that he had defiled his daughter Dinah: If she were physically harmed, the attacker comprehend the degree of humiliation To state the painfully obvious, how but since his sons were in the field with the would have to pay for damages, but the cattle, Jacob kept silent until they came. rape of a woman with no male protectors is experienced by the Iraqi prisoners whose could the Secretary of Defense, who had Then Shechem’s father, Hamor came ordinary assault and battery. Not so out of photographs were displayed to the world known about this since mid-January, not out to Jacob to speak to him. Meanwhile sync with the medieval association of rape this past week. reacted more swiftly to manage this crisis? Jacob’s sons, having heard the news, came with romance, the law in Deuteronomy To quote columnist Mona Charen, How could the President of the United in from the field. The men were distressed required the rapist to marry the violated “Today’s picture on the front page of the States of America first see these pictures and very angry, because he had committed woman and to be forever deprived of his newspaper shows a naked Iraqi prisoner when they were first broadcast on CBS on an outrage in Israel by lying with Jacob’s power to divorce her. The absence of an on the floor. A leash is tied around April 28? Somebody did not understand daughter, a thing not to be done.” accounting of rape from the vantage point his neck. Holding the leash is a female the full gravity of this humiliation or its It is indeed disturbing and its conclusion of a woman screams out from these texts, American soldier. This is a disaster. These potential impact on the world. is even less gratifying. The story ends but is sadly not surprising. Male aggression photographs are a dagger in the heart of Please do not misunderstand my point. through deception and vengeance. Jacob’s is considered so normative that the sages our hopes for Iraq and the wider Middle This is not about politics. This is about sons trick Shechem, Hamor and their find Dinah at fault for simply wandering East. It isn’t clear whether the damage morality. In Judaism we have the concept kinsmen. They tell them that Shechem out into the fields where Shechem rapes is reversible, but first let’s be clear about of kiddush-Hashem, a sanctification of can have Dinah, but he and his people her.” what the damage is. Many have been at God’s name. That means that if we have must agree to stay with the Israelites Rabbi Greenberg makes the point that pains to object that what we have seen so a message that we believe should resonate and become kinsmen, just like them. in the ancient near-eastern world, a woman far does not amount to torture. True. This throughout the world, that message must Therefore, all of the men must undergo was not treated so much as a human is not pulling out fingernails. And yet, of be conveyed in such a way as to bring the rite of circumcision, something that the being as she was a piece of property. all things to do to Arab men, to humiliate honor to our people. The same must be them sexually, particularly before female expected of this great nation, the United soldiers, is among the worst.” States of America and it is the obligation The point is, whether or not the soldiers of the citizenry of this nation, to make Temple directory certain that happens. CHABAD OF SARASOTA (Traditional) 7700 S. Beneva Rd., Sarasota, FL 34238, Phone: 925.0770 Barry Stein, President / Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz SARASOTA �� Fri. 7:00 p.m. / Sat. 9:30 a.m. CATARACT & LASER Shabbat afternoon at sunset / Weekday Minyan, Sun.-Fri. 8:00 a.m. INSTITUTE �� www.chabadofsarasota.com CONGREGATION FOR HUMANISTIC JUDAISM HARRY B. GRABOW, M.D. �� 4370 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231, Phone: 929.7771 Cataract & Refractive Surgery �� Arlene J. Pearlman, President �� www.jewish-sarasota.org/humanistic 3920 BEE RIDGE ROAD, BUILDING F - STE. A �� JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER OF VENICE (Non-affiliated) SARASOTA, FL 34233-1282 • USA 600 Auburn Rd., Venice, FL 34292, Phone: 484.2022 �� Dr. Joel Kreiss, President / Irving Lyon, Religious Chair / Marci Vitkus, Cantor 941-921-7744 800-727-2020 �� FAX: 941-921-3783 Weekly services, Fri. 7:30 p.m. / Oneg Shabbat follows services www.sarasotacataract.com �� www.jccv.org TEMPLE BETH EL - Bradenton (Non-affiliated) 2209 75th Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, Phone: 792.0870 �� Dr. Eli Lerner, President / Rabbi Aaron Koplin Fri. 7:30 p.m., Modern Services / Sat. 10:00 a.m., Traditional Services �� [email protected] TEMPLE BETH EL - North Port (Conservative) �� 3840 Biscayne Drive / Correspondence to: P.O. Box 7195, North Port, FL 34287 Phone: 423.0300 or 497.5514 Marc S. Cohen, President / Avi Golub, Ritual �� Fri. 8:00 p.m. / Sat. 9:30 a.m. �� e-mail: [email protected] �� TEMPLE BETH ISRAEL (Reform) 567 Bay Isles Rd., Longboat Key, FL 34228, Phone: 383.3428 �� Milton Lucow, President / Rabbi Michael B. Eisenstat �� Fri. 5:30 p.m. / Sat. 10:00 a.m. www.tbi-lbk.org �� TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM (Conservative) 1050 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34237, Phone: 955.8121 Judith Bronstein, President / Rabbi Joel Mishkin / Hazzan Diane Nathanson / �� Assistant Rabbi Michelle L. Goldsmith �� Daily Minyanim Sun.-Fri. 8:00 a.m./ Fri. 8:30 a.m. Parashat Hashavuah �� Fri. 7:45 p.m. / Sat. 9:00 a.m. www.templebeth.org TEMPLE EMANU-EL (Reform) �� 151 S. McIntosh Rd., Sarasota, FL 34232, Phone: 371.2788 �� Isaac Azerad, President / Rabbi Howard Simon �� Family Service 1st Fri. of the month 6:00 p.m. through August 31 �� www.templeemanuelsarasota.org TEMPLE SINAI (Reform) �� 1802 Kenilworth St., Sarasota, FL 34231, Phone: 924.1802 �� Gwen Baseman, President / Rabbi Geoffrey Huntting �� Fri. wine and cheese gathering at 5:15 p.m. and Erev Shabbat Service at 6:00 p.m. �� Sat. 10:00 a.m. �� www.templesinai-sarasota.org �� 14 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 TEMPLE NEWS

about the past battles and am free from having to think Rabbi fills the gap at politically about my future position. Thus, this complex and uncertain situation offers Temple Beth El, Bradenton me the opportunity to be a vehicle for this congregation Rabbi Aaron Koplin recently joined financial crisis that apparently made many to find itself so that it can Temple Beth El, Bradenton as its interim people feel that the congregation would know who it is, where it Rabbi. He will serve in that capacity for ‘go broke’ and maybe even dissolve. Also, wants to go and what type the balance of the year. the resignation of the previous spiritual of rabbi it really needs and The temple has been without a spiritual leader left many divisions and legitimate deserves.” leader since the retirement of Rabbi concerns.” Rabbi Koplin graduated Barbara Aiello in March. Rabbi Koplin For the rest of the year, at least, the with a B.A. from Yale then happened to be in the area with his wife, congregation can feel confident that received his ordination from Joan, to visit family and friends. While their spiritual needs will be met. And the Hebrew Union College in here, he underwent a successful hip financial issues are on the mend, as well. Cincinnati, Ohio. For several replacement surgery, which extended his “Fortunately, as one would expect from a years after his ordination, stay longer than anticipated. group that has a strong core, a substantive he worked in the area of “While I was recovering, an acquaintance history and sincere commitment by many social action; initially with an of ours brought the situation at Temple of its members, the financial situation has interfaith organization and Beth El to my attention and wondered if been faced, a responsible structure has then with the JCRC (Jewish I would be at all interested in helping the been instituted, monies have been raised Community Relations congregation through what was clearly and the crisis overcome,” Rabbi Koplin Rabbi Koplin Council) in Philadelphia. going to be a challenging transition asserted. “Already, overcoming these Rabbi Koplin and his wife period,” Rabbi Koplin explained. “The concerns has begun to restore confidence. uncertainties of the last year. “There first came to Sarasota in prospect of being of assistance and using The additional building, which is now is a necessity for airing of complaints, the early ‘70s. He went into business as my experience to help a congregation being renovated, allows the synagogue to frustrations and even hostility so that the well as teaching as an adjunct professor reunite and learn how to be with each expand the religious school programming past can be overcome,” Rabbi Koplin said. in Jewish Studies at New College. His other as they explore and expand their and this opportunity is generating a lot of “We may not ever forget, but we can go first full-time rabbinical position was in Jewish identities was appealing.” enthusiasm. With continued responsible beyond the hurts and disappointments. Richmond, Va. In 1991 he became the Getting the temple fully back on its feet oversight the congregation will continue Since I was not here during the times of first rabbi of Temple Sinai in Sarasota. will not be an easy task, Rabbi Koplin to grow.” change and disruption, and since I have at He has previously taken rabbinic realizes. “TBE has faced several problems More time will be necessary for the this time no desire to take on a permanent positions in Hilton Head, S.C. and a recently,” he said. “There was a grave congregation to move forward from the full-time rabbinic position, I am neutral suburban congregation in Portland, Ore.

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�� JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS 15 NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS Kniberg in Brooklyn and learned his trade News in brief from Milton Berle. He said that he didn’t want to slow down in his later years. “You ORT showcases students in effort to Powell presses Arabs on Berg only live once,” he once said, “except response for Shirley MacLaine.” The Alan King (JTA) Colin Powell criticized the Award in American Jewish Humor is given raise its profile mild Arab reaction to the beheading of annually by the National Foundation for Nicholas Berg. Interviewed from Jordan, Jewish Culture. By Rachel Pomerance the U.S. Secretary of State said the Arabs’ condemnation of the killing of Berg, an Sniffer dog laid to rest NEW YORK (JTA) From a podium American Jew, fell far short of their attacks (JTA) The Israeli army laid a bomb- in front of hundreds of people, Svetlana on the United States for mistreatment of sniffing dog to rest with a full military Dzanashvili recounts her personal journey Iraqi detainees at Baghdad’s Abu Ghraib funeral. The funeral in May was for Toska, toward rehabilitation. Prison. a 3-year-old sniffer dog, who was killed As a second-semester high school senior, on the Lebanese border in an attack that the young Russian American Jew stopped JDC turns 90 killed one Israeli soldier and wounded attending classes and started hanging (JTA) The American Jewish Joint eight others. Toska, a Malinois dog out with the wrong crowd. She failed to Distribution Committee is celebrating – a type of Belgian shepherd – was part graduate. its 90th birthday. The JDC celebrated of the Federation-funded Pups for Peace But the New York-based Bramson ORT the occasion with a ceremony May 18 at program, an American-Israeli initiative College gave her “a second chance.” First, Gracie Mansion, the official residence of that trains 90 dogs to detect explosives and she earned her G.E.D., and then she got a budget, is not better known is because of New York City’s mayor, who addressed the identify bombers in Israel. college degree, which she says enabled her the deal it made in 1947 with the North group. The JDC was founded in 1914 in to get “back on track.” New York City to send funds from North American Federation system, the central You go, girl Dzanashvili’s is one of many stories American Jews to their brethren in Europe (JTA) The Hadassah Foundation told by former and current students at fund-raising organization of North and Palestine during World War I. Today, and Women’s Sports Foundation will a gathering in early May of the World American Jewry. The deal provided ORT the JDC is the North American Federation train female coaches to work in Jewish Organization for Rehabilitation through with funds through the system’s overseas system’s overseas agency, providing relief Community Centers across America. relief and welfare arm, the American and welfare to needy Jews around the Training, better known as World ORT. Hadassah will provide more than And it’s a message that the London- Jewish Joint Distribution Committee, world. $41,000 in grants for the Women’s Sports based group, celebrating 125 years, wants to precluding it from fund-raising directly. Foundation’s GoGirlGo! program, get out to raise its profile – and fundraising But the group decided that the $2 million To blow up or not to blow up … which provides sports opportunities for potential – among today’s American Jews. it continued to receive each year from According to a report by AP/Washington adolescent girls. The Women’s Sports The organization’s vast network of the JDC was not sufficient to support its Post, a Palestinian teenager who decided Foundation also is contributing more than programs. against blowing himself up in Jerusalem $22,000 for the program. The Hadassah Jewish schools and colleges, along with nonsectarian humanitarian programs, So in the last overseas allocation process caused panic at a Ramallah security grants go to 21 local JCCs across America of the Federation system, last July, ORT office when he went for help to disarm largely takes place beyond America’s to increase the number of female coaches separated itself from JDC and sought its the explosives, officials said Monday. shores and is supported by overseas funds and educate girls about the importance of own share of Federation dollars. Palestinian security officials said the young athletics. from the Federation system. man, 18, appeared at their office late last With a long history, from educating The move reaped $3.6 million for ORT week and stripped off his jacket – revealing Black-Jewish rocker making movie Russian Jews at the turn of the century to over a two-year period – this from a total of an explosives vest with a detonation switch (JTA) Rock star Lenny Kravitz is training Jews in postwar displaced persons an estimated $230 million of overseas funds at his neck. He said he was sent by Islamic making a semi- camps, ORT now operates in more than from the Federation system. Jihad in Jenin to blow himself up in autobiographical 100 countries, primarily Israel, Argentina While Singer told JTA that his is a Jerusalem. On the way, he had second feature film about his and the Former Soviet Union. “nonpolitical” organization that is “not thoughts. “I kept thinking of myself, of my black-Jewish roots. Underscoring its drive for the attention willing to fight” the JDC and Jewish family, and to be honest, I don’t want to Kravitz, the son of a of American Jews, World ORT held Agency, he told his General Assembly that die,” he was quoted as saying. Jewish TV producer its General Assembly – the group’s ORT’s “fair share” of the dollars is between and actress Roxie quadrennial stocktaking and agenda- $40 million and $45 million. Wigging out over ‘idolatrous’ hair Roker, told MTV.com setting event – in the United States for the But this isn’t just about money. Singer (JTA) Anxious fervently Orthodox he is making his first time. wants Americans to become involved women are concerned about whether their cinematic debut in The May 1-3 conference was held in in or at least familiar with ORT’s work wigs are “kosher”: many are replacing Barbecues and Bar New York “to make a statement to the and legacy. Toward that end, the group expensive wigs with kerchiefs, snoods and Mitzvahs, a dramatic comedy about a American Jewish community,” said Robert reopened an office in New York in 2002, synthetic-hair substitutes; Jews in Israel musician searching for love and happiness. Singer, the group’s Director-General. for the first time since 1949. and New York have even burned their The film is about “growing up between two Though the organization was well known World ORT has continued its American wigs. The controversy reached fever pitch cultures,” he said. “It’s like Annie Hall or among earlier generations of American presence through a handful of colleges and in mid-May when Rabbi Shalom Elyashiv, Manhattan.” Jews, Singer said that today “the American two affiliate organizations, American ORT one of Israel’s pre-eminent authorities on Jewish community has a hidden asset that and Women’s American ORT. Jewish law, or halachah, instituted a ban on Sisterhood runs deep they don’t know about.” The group derives 85 percent of its wigs made from Indian hair out of concern (JTA) One Hadassah board member gave With a network of 272,000 students and budget from government contracts around that the hair’s original owners had used her kidney to another. At a board meeting a staff of 16,000, ORT bills itself as the the world, including the U.S. Agency for their hair for idolatrous Hindu religious of the women’s Zionist organization largest Jewish educational organization in International Development. ceremonies. Jewish rabbinic authorities in January, Hadassah President June the world, servicing students mostly from In addition to its emphasis on science are divided over whether the hair itself is Walker announced that Belle Simon low- to middle-income backgrounds who, and technology, the school tries to instill used in idolatrous worship or whether the was in desperate need of a kidney. Katie in most countries, pay nothing or next to it social values. haircut is what is ceremonially significant, Edelstein, 55, president of Hadassah’s for an ORT education. Israeli art student Ortal Daniel, 18, and whether the hair is then forbidden Pacific Northwest Region, offered hers. Its focus is on science and technology, according to Jewish law. A successful surgery took place May 11 said in an interview while attending the preparing students to join the workforce. conference that ORT “gave us moral at Mt. Sinai Medical Center in New York. In addition, its International Cooperation Torahs join the army Thrilled for the opportunity to be a living values” first, and “then we can be good project, which provides nonsectarian students.” (JTA) A group of U.S. rabbis recently donor, Edelstein said, “How many times in programs to Third World and war-torn donated 10 Torahs for use by Israeli life do you have an opportunity to make an Those who attend ORT schools also areas, earns good grades around the world. praise what they call a warm, supportive soldiers. One Torah brought over by the impact on someone else’s life like this?” One such program in Senegal provides rabbis from the National Council of Young Simon, 66, had expected to wait five years environment. mother-child care assistance and nutrition One example is Modibi Terens Selowa, Israel is less than 12 inches high and will be for a donor transplant. programs. 23, whose dark face is practically hidden used on an Israeli submarine. During the With 156 schools in Israel alone, one in past three years, the group has sent 100 beneath a cone-shaped straw hat. The Average suicide bomber rational, every eight Israeli students attends an ORT Torahs to the Israel Defense Forces. The non-Jewish Selowa grew up in a rural part educated and prosperous school, officials say. More than 40 percent Torahs were donated by U.S. individuals of South Africa, where he was raised by (JTA) An article by Deborah Smith of of Israel’s hi-tech work force was trained at and synagogues. a single mother, a domestic worker who the Sydney Morning Herald (Australia) an ORT Israel school, they added. reports that research on the social and provided for four children. Comic Alan King dead at 76 More than 80 percent, or more than psychological background of terrorists 7,100, of Jewish children in Argentina Through the ORT school, Selowa learned (JTA) Alan King, an heir to the Borscht show they tend to be more prosperous attend ORT schools. An emergency computer science and the tools to manage Belt tradition who was known for his one- and better educated than most in their campaign that raised about $3.75 million money in a land of deep impoverishment liners, died April 9 of lung cancer at age societies, and no more religious or and unemployment. 76. King was known for his appearances on irrational than the average person. A kept the program afloat during the country’s economic crisis. “I am who I am now because of ORT,” “The Ed Sullivan Show” in the 1950s and study of Hamas and Palestinian Islamic he said. 1960s, and for his guest-host appearances Jihad suicide terrorists from the late With a program entitled “Regeneration 2000,” ORT returned to its roots, the Indeed, people like Selowa may offer on “The Tonight Show Starring Johnny 1980s to 2003 found only 13 percent were ORT its best chance of educating the Carson.” He also appeared on film and Former Soviet Union, to create 11 schools from a poor background, compared with public about its mission. stage, produced Broadway plays and for some 27,000 students, including 32 percent of the Palestinian population “Educating people, as important as it is, wrote five books. in general, according to a New Scientist adults in after-school computer training doesn’t grab people’s heartstrings,” World His collection of report. Suicide bombers were also three programs. reminiscences, times more likely to have gone on to higher Citing the many sequels to the hit film ORT President Richard Goldstone told Matzo Balls for education than the general population, Rocky, Jewish philanthropist Milton JTA. “It’s an organization that appeals to Breakfast and Claude Berrebi, an economist at Princeton Gralla announced the launch of Women’s the head much more than the heart.” Other Memories of University, found. Ariel Merare, a American ORT’s “Regeneration 2004” to Still, he said, “the biggest selling point is Growing Up Jewish, psychologist at Tel Aviv University, said plan an additional four schools. the number of people who we’re rescuing will be published he changed his view that most suicide “When you have a hit, you don’t put it to from squalor and poverty, and we’re next year by Simon bombers were mentally ill after studying sleep. You revitalize it,” Gralla said. giving them tools to become productive, & Schuster. King the background of every suicide bomber in ORT officials say a major reason the successful members of the society in which was born Irwin Alan the Middle East since 1983. organization, which runs on a $340 million they live.” 16 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NEWS

they heard he was active in a Conservative synagogue they refused to accept him as a Conversion still a divisive issue in Israel student, he said. Klebansky’s next stop was the joint By Dina Kraft and ordained Reform rabbi who works for a drop in the ocean.” He and others say institute, but he said he was informed by the movement’s lobbying arm, said of the there’s a backlog at the rabbinical courts the rabbinate that to be converted he would TEL AVIV (JTA) As Jews around the Russian immigrants. for students from the institute. Critics also need to bring a letter from the rabbi of an world prepared for Shavuot and its reading Prevented from converting, the claim that those who study in Orthodox- Orthodox synagogue testifying that he had of the Book of Ruth – which features the immigrants’ level of identification with run conversion classes have an easier time been praying there regularly, and would Moabite woman’s famous conversion with the Jewish state eventually goes down, he being converted by the rabbinical courts. have to register his daughters in a religious the words, “Your people shall be my people said. “They feel less Israeli, less Jewish, Ben-Dahan denied those assertions. nursery school. and your God my God” – Israel continued and this is a problem in Israel – this lack of Among those who studied at the institute He complied and ultimately was to grapple with the highly charged subject accessibility to Judaism,” he said. was Yigal Klebansky, 34, who immigrated converted. He says he doesn’t mind praying of conversion. Kariv cites statistics from the Jewish to Israel from the former Soviet republic of at an Orthodox synagogue and giving his Long a battleground between Israel’s Agency for Israel showing that close to Georgia in 1999. Klebansky’s grandfather daughters the Jewish education he never Orthodox establishment and the half of the non-Jewish immigrants when was Jewish, which allowed him to immigrate had growing up, but he’s disappointed with Conservative and Reform movements, the asked before they moved to Israel said they under Israel’s Law of Return, but Yigal is the system. issue took on urgency with the mass wave wanted to convert. Asked after their move not Jewish according to halachah. “It was somewhat frustrating,” Klebansky of immigration from the former Soviet to Israel, only 10 percent to 20 percent said Klebansky first approached an Orthodox told JTA, but “they create a situation where Union in the 1990s. they still wanted to convert. center for conversion classes, but when you’re given no other choice.” “I think Ruth and her conversion should Rabbi Chaim Druckman, who served in indeed set the model for the current the Knesset as a member of the National challenge of converting the Russians who Religious Party, has just taken up a new live among us,” said Rabbi Ehud Bandel, post as Director of Conversion Affairs in president of the Masorti-Conservative the Prime Minister’s Office. The position Survey shows older Jews’ concerns: movement in Israel. “Once they identify was established largely to deal with with Israel and the Jewish people and society immigrants who may have Jewish ancestry and accept the Jewish faith, they must be but are not Jewish according to Jewish Holocaust, anti-Semitism and money embraced exactly as Naomi embraced law, which accepts as Jews only those with Ruth, who became the grandmother of Jewish mothers. By Joe Berkofsky King David.” “Those who want to convert need to be PHILADELPHIA (JTA) What are older • Half lived alone, up from 37 percent Bandel and others claim that Israel’s helped,” Druckman told JTA. “We need to Jews thinking? in 1990. chief rabbinate makes conversion especially help these people and let them know we do According to the National Jewish • 36 percent said they were in “poor” difficult for those they suspect may not lead want them.” Population Survey 2000-01, which found or “fair” health, while 32 percent said they an Orthodox lifestyle. In 1998, a government commission that 19 percent of America’s 5.2 million relied on home care on limited funds. “The real challenge is that unfortunately, on conversion, headed by then-Finance Jews are 65 or older, the most important The study found that the Jewish attitudes the Orthodox establishment does not Minister Ya’acov Ne’eman, issued Jewish priority is “remembering the and practices of those aged 65 and older convert for Judaism but for Orthodoxy,” recommendations to the government. Holocaust,” followed by “living an revealed a liberal community that does not Bandel said. The rabbinate is “reluctant They included the establishment of a ethical and moral life” and “fighting anti- cling to tradition: to open its arms to Russian converts joint institute for conversion taught by a Semitism.” • 54 percent said they were politically because everyone knows they will not be combination of Orthodox, Conservative, This growing segment of older Jews liberal, up from 49 percent in 1990. Orthodox.” and Reform rabbis. The liberal streams – up 2 percent since the last survey, in 1990 • 46 percent affiliated with the Rabbi Eliyahu Ben-Dahan, General agreed that those wishing to convert would – also rank a rich spiritual life, Jewish law Conservative movement, 30 percent with the Reform movement, 15 percent Director of the Rabbinical Court of Israel then go to a Beit Din, or Jewish law court, and synagogue among their top Jewish concerns. with Orthodoxy and 2 percent with the – which oversees conversions – says there for an Orthodox ceremony that would be But the Jewish community at large isn’t Reconstructionist movement. can be no shortcuts when it comes to universally recognized. likely to know that: younger Jews often • 14 percent said they believe the Torah following halachah, or Jewish law, with Orthodox representatives did not sign ignore their parents and grandparents, was revealed by God at Mount Sinai. regard to conversions. on to the final recommendation, but the experts at a Jewish aging Orthodox authorities say Jewish law conversion institute has been established forum said in May. requires that converts undergo traditional since, with branches across the country. “Why are we so obsessed ritual conversion and commit to adhering to Currently, it serves 2,500 students and with how they die but really all the precepts of Jewish law, or halachah. is funded by the Jewish Agency and the don’t know how they live?” Non-Orthodox streams contend that these government. said Allen Glicksman, authorities inevitably interpret halachah as Catering to immigrants, most classes Director of Research Orthodox observance. are run in Russian. Some are conducted in and Evaluation at the “If they think we will give up on halachah, Spanish for South American immigrants. Philadelphia Corporation then of course we cannot,” Ben-Dahan The institute’s executive director, for Aging. said. “At the end of the day, the ones who Nehemia Citroen, said he thinks the Glicksman was among want to convert, do convert,” he said. “We government realizes how critical it is to the experts on Jewish aging who attended a one-day are doing all we can do.” facilitate the conversion process for new seminar in Philadelphia on As many as 300,000 of the nearly 1 immigrants. the graying of the Jewish million immigrants who came to Israel in “I believe the leadership here in this community and America. the 1990s from the former Soviet Union country in all realms understands the The conference, “Aging and • 11 percent called themselves “very are not considered Jews under Jewish law. enormity of the problem, understands the the 21st Century Synagogue,” aimed to religious” and 8 percent “very observant;” They pay taxes and serve in the army, but situation by which hundreds of thousands raise the profile of older Jews and get them 10 percent said they kept a kosher home. can’t marry Jews in Israel or be buried in of immigrants are brought here and told more involved in communal Jewish life. • 52 percent said they were “comfortable” Jewish cemeteries. they are not Jewish,” he said. “All those Much of the ignorance stems from fear of with the Reform movement. On their Israeli identity cards, the in leadership positions, including religious death, since younger people often associate The survey found that financial concerns category for religion is left blank. It’s a positions, have to see the reality of the aging with sickness and the end of life yet also ranked high for older Jews. void that activists from the non-Orthodox situation today and allow for answers.” remain in denial of their own mortality, • Some 35 percent of senior households streams of Judaism are trying to fill In the four years since the institute was experts at the conference said. earned less than $25,000 annually, though by lobbying for broader acceptance in founded, 3,256 people have finished their Rabbi Dayle Friedman, director of 18 percent earned more than $100,000 conversion processes. conversion studies and 1,367 have been “Hiddur: the Center for Aging & Judaism” annually. at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College “They live as Jews but are not converted. • 26 percent said they “can’t make ends in Wyncote, Pa., and a leading advocate on considered Jews,” Gilad Kariv, a lawyer But Bandel bemoaned the figure as “just meet” or were “just managing financially.” Jewish aging and pastoral care, said that • 20 percent said costs had prevented view must change. them from joining a synagogue in the “We need to get over being terrified of past year, while 18 percent said financial the age wave, and think of it as the save concerns had prevented them from wave,” she said. synagogue membership in the past five The United Jewish Communities, the years. Jewish Federation system’s umbrella • 14 percent said money woes kept them organization, funded and produced the $6 from joining a Jewish community center in million study. the past year. PURMORT & MARTIN The study revealed a great deal of detail Rabbi Richard Address, director of the about Jewish seniors. Their median age Union for Reform Judaism’s Department INSURANCE AGENCY, LLC had risen to 75, from 71 when the last study of Jewish Family Concerns and its Sacred was done 1990, which Glicksman called a 2301 Ringling Blvd. Phone: 941-366-7070 Aging project, said the conference in Sarasota, FL 34237 Fax: 941-953-4901 “significant” jump. Philadelphia signaled that the community In addition, of those aged 65 and older, is changing its attitude toward the elderly. the study found: “What we’re seeing now represents an Quality Insurance at Reasonable Rates • 60 percent were women, a rise of 11 overwhelming opportunity for creativity percent from 1990. and new thought,” Address said. JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS 17 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

themes explored on the back. The newest series, distributed by the Rabbi cards have found their niche Jewish candy company Paskesz, shows rabbis performing traditional mitzvahs, By Amir Efrati or commandments. They range from the usual – eating matzah on Passover – to IOWA CITY (JTA) In a 1991 episode the unusual – chasing away a mother bird of NBC’s game show “To Tell the Truth,” before taking eggs from her nest. a bearded Orthodox Jew named Arthur Getting the rabbis’ mug shots for the (Chonan) Shugarman had the show’s cards has not been as simple as pointing celebrity panel stumped: Was his job to and clicking. help people get rid of their New York “The living rabbis do not want accents, or was he the nation’s only maker this honor,” Shugarman said. “They of rabbi trading cards? hesitatingly go along because of the value Back then, few had heard of the cards to the children.” – glossies that depicted Orthodox rabbis, Ed Bernstein, 60, a Denver photographer both dead and alive, and had statistics who has taken more portraits of gedolim, printed on the back, just like baseball 275, than anyone else, and who has sold cards. Shugarman photos for the cards, said So it was no surprise that everybody on shooting a rebbe roll is no easy task. the panel incorrectly pegged Shugarman “This isn’t Hollywood; we’re not dealing Rav Scheinberg, one of the featured rabbis as the American version of Professor with models,” he said. “It’s very atypical Henry Higgins, the George Bernard Shaw for a rosh yeshiva,” the head rabbi of the “If they came and asked me to be on one character who teaches a poor woman how school, “to stop what he’s doing and pose of those [cards], I would say, ‘Absolutely to speak with a proper British accent in his Arthur “Chonon” Shugarman for a photo.” not.’” play “Pygmalion.” One rabbi made Bernstein promise to As for excluding non-Orthodox rabbis “The idea that people would really In the rabbi card “rankings,” a Feinstein take a widow from his congregation out on collect rabbi cards sounded too fake to card is worth more than, say, a Rabbi a date before he agreed to pose. from his cards, Shugarman said, “A real them,” said Shugarman, now a 49-year-old Nachum Mordechai Perlow (deceased, In an unscientific survey of New York rabbi knows and lives the laws as handed accountant in Baltimore. from Brooklyn), just as a baseball card of rabbis spanning the more mainstream down through the generations, beginning The cards first came out in 1988, and 16 Dodgers outfielder Shawn Green is more Jewish denominations, none of them took with Moses.” years later, Shugarman has sold more than valuable than a card of Red Sox platoon real issue with rabbi cards, though some And for how long does Shugarman plan 2.5 million cards in five continents through player Gabe Kapler (both Jewish). expressed distaste; others just laughed. to continue making the cards? his nonprofit, Torah Personalities Inc. The At 5-foot-5, Shugarman, who’s been an Most rabbis agreed that the cards “As long as the kids want more cards and cards, Shugarman said, serve as a “medium accountant for 27 years, is soft-spoken and typified the “authoritarian structure” of I’m not losing too much money, I’d like to that we, the ultra-Orthodox community, succinct. He wears glasses, has a salt-and- fervent Orthodoxy. keep it up,” he said. can use” to unify Orthodox Jews. pepper beard, and also goes by his Hebrew Rabbi Paul Menitoff, Executive Vice April marked the birth of Torah name, Chonon. He lives with his wife, President of the Central Conference of The cards are available by writing Personalities’ sixth series, a colorful set Marsha, and his four children. American Rabbis, the Reform rabbinical of 80 cards that took Shugarman and his Laibel, 45, a mortgage broker, works group, said Orthodox Jews put their rabbis Torah Personalities, Inc., P.O. Box 32514, younger brother, Laibel, four years and out of Arthur’s apartment. Both brothers “in a less reachable position.” He added: Baltimore, Md. 21282. $40,000 to make. They come in packs of were raised in a Reform-Jewish home five cards and sell for about $1 in Jewish in Baltimore but as adults converted to groceries and book stores. Orthodox. Honoring, even lionizing gedolim – or Between 1964 and 1980, Shugarman great rabbis, from the Hebrew word for says he became one of Maryland’s top card “big” – who interpret the Torah and collectors, amassing more than 100,000 determine Jewish law, is a fundamental trading cards, mostly baseball, that filled an component of Orthodox Judaism. entire room in his apartment. He sold the Torah Personalities is the marriage collection in 1982 for $10,000. of that tradition with the card-collecting The idea for the rabbi cards is logical, impulse of American culture. he says – a way to tie his love for card- Like the batting average and home collecting and for gedolim. After all, 20 run totals printed on the backs of Topps photos of rabbis hang on his living room and Upper Deck baseball cards, the first wall. and second rabbi card series, though Shugarman says he just made rabbi cards substantially larger in size than their sports “official and organized” here in the United counterparts, had their own “stats,” both in States: the Israelis have had their own rabbi English and Hebrew: birthplace, schooling, trading-card industry since at least the mid- denomination, location of yeshiva, and 80s. Indeed, yeshiva students in Jerusalem Jewish date of their death, if applicable. created a minor hubbub in 2002 when they “There is no question that baseball cards were found collecting rabbi cards in lieu of make baseball more popular with the Torah study. kids,” said Shugarman, who was a longtime And for years, small photographs of collector of baseball cards. “Rabbi cards are rabbis without identification or stats on meant to do the same thing” for Judaism. the back had been sold in New York for But, and Shugarman stresses this part, $2-3 apiece. Shugarman also said black- the heroes of the Torah are meant to pick and-white rabbi cards were given as prizes up where he says today’s heroes of sports to studious yeshiva students in the 1970s. falter: generosity, integrity and virtue. Today, yeshivas are a significant buyer of “When I was growing up, we had players Shugarman’s cards. like Sandy Koufax, Brooks Robinson.” After Shugarman’s appearance on “To They were “really nice people, who gave to Tell the Truth,” which prompted mention the fans and used to feel something good of Torah Personalities in Time and Sports about signing autographs,” he said. Illustrated, the cards returned to obscurity Whereas the emphasis in baseball – although they continued to be a common card-collecting today is on mint condition item in Jewish stores in North America, as and monetary value, the concept of the well as in England, South Africa, Australia rabbi cards is old-fashioned: to see and and Israel. appreciate the person on the card. Then, in 2000, the hit comedy film That’s not to say that all rabbi cards are Keeping the Faith, the story of a friendship equal. Back on “To Tell the Truth,” as the between a rabbi and priest in New York, show’s celebrity panel grilled Shugarman, plunged the cards back into popular culture he was asked to name the most prolific by showcasing fictional, 1980s-era “Heroes rabbi. of the Torah” cards collected by the rabbi “Moshe Feinstein,” he said, instinctively. – played by actor Ben Stiller – as a child. Nobody on the panel had heard of the Series by series, the cards have evolved revered dead rabbi, one of the century’s from dark, postcard-size photos into most influential authorities on Jewish law. sleeker, smaller-framed sets with specific 18 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004 LIFE CYCLE

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He was an Army veteran of Please insert my classified in____editions World War II, retiring as a Major. Nathan Lipson, 78, Longboat Key, died My check for $25 per edition (25 words) April 30, 2004. Wexler was a co-founder of All Faiths Nettie Cohen is enclosed. TOTAL $ ______Nettie Cohen, 87, formerly of Sarasota, He was born Feb. 7, 1926 in New Food Bank in Sarasota and Temple Beth died April 25, 2004, in Bethesda, Md. York City. He was an attorney and a Israel on Longboat Key, member of the ______She was born in St. Louis, Mo. and came labor arbitrator who graduated from the American Jewish Committee, Phi Beta Kappa, Alpha Epsilon Delta and Vice ______to Sarasota in 1980 from New York City. Duquesne School of Law and served in President of the Longboat Key Beach She retired as a nurse, a nursing home the Merchant Marines during World ______Preservation Association. At age 87 he administrator, and a nursing and public War II. He is the founder of the Zionist published his first book, Heart Friendly Name______health instructor. She graduated from Organization of America, Sarasota Exercise. Bellevue School of Nursing and received Chapter, and was a member of the Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Phone______a master’s degree in public health from National Board of ZOA. Ruth L.; sons Dr. Bruce of Hamden, Conn., Brooklyn College. She was a member of Address ______Survivors include his wife of 52 years, Dr. Richard of Cape Elizabeth, Maine, and Temple Beth Sholom, Brandeis Women Eleanor; a daughter, Mindy Aisen; a son, Steven of Sarasota; sisters Rose Caplan of City ______and the New York City Municipal Retirees Terry Allen; and four grandchildren. Fort Lauderdale, Fla. and Manya Furman State ______Zip ______of Florida. Her volunteer work included Palms Funeral Home, Sarasota, was in of Newton, Mass.; a brother, Max, of mending books at the Gulf Gate Library for charge. Newton; and five grandchildren. Mail to: Sarasota-Manatee Jewish 15 years, knitting for the DAV, conducting Toale Brothers Funeral Home, Colonial News, 580 S. McIntosh Road, vision testing at the public schools and Lucille Pierce Chapel, was in charge. Sarasota, FL 34232 work for the Red Cross. Lucille Pierce, 100, Sarasota, died Survivors include daughters Judith May 5, 2004. Cohen-Araya of Altadena, Calif., Rima She was born Jan. 2, 1904, in Chicago, Ill. Selius of Youngstown, Ohio; Cynthia of and came to Sarasota from there 34 years �� Potomac, Md., and Joyce of Pacifica, Calif.; ago. She was a homemaker and a member �� and a sister, Mindel Siegel of Largo. of Temple Beth Israel, the Sarasota- Services were held in Potomac, Md. Manatee Jewish Federation, Technion and �� Hadassah. Ruth Corwin Survivors include daughters Joan �� Ruth Corwin, 80, Sarasota, died May 11, Kalow of Sarasota and Ellen Hofman of �� 2004. Glenview, IL; six grandchildren and 13 �� She was born Jan. 29, 1924, in New York great-grandchildren. City and came to Sarasota in 1986 from Toale Brothers Funeral Home, Colonial Lakewood, N.J. She retired as a social Chapel, was in charge. �� worker for Ocean County, N.J., and was Memorial donations may be made to �� a member of the American Association the Sarasota-Manatee Jewish Federation, �� of University Women. She received a Klingenstein Jewish Center, 580 S. bachelor’s degree in statistics from Hunter McIntosh Rd, Sarasota, FL 34232. College in New York. Survivors include her husband of 53 Jack Wexler years, Jordan J.; a daughter, Doris Brewer Dr. Jack Wexler, 91, Sarasota, died of Sarasota; a son, Henry of Sarasota; and May 13, 2004. �� four grandchildren. He was born April 15, 1913, in Russia The Good Earth Crematory, Bradenton, and came to Sarasota in 1975 from was in charge. Baltimore, Md. He attended the University of West Virginia and graduated from the Chester Kaplan Medical College of Virginia. He was a Chester Kaplan, 85, Sarasota and physician specializing in cardiology and �� Highland Park, Ill., died May 16, 2004. had been on the clinical faculty of Johns He was born Feb. 26, 1919 in Staten Hopkins University School of Medicine Island, N.Y., and wintered in Sarasota. He and Sinai Hospital. He was a consultant owned a sporting goods business and was to the Veteran’s Administration and an Army veteran of World War II. He was a Bethlehem Steel Company. He was Chief �� member of Congregation Solel in Highland Resident at Boston City Hospital, Mass., Park. Chief of Clinical Research at Fort Devons, Survivors include his wife of 62 years, Mass., and CEO at Edgewood Arsenal in Betty (Dicker); daughters Dorothy Zoller and Barbara Slutsky; a sister, Dorothy �� Fleshner; a brother, William; four grandchildren; and a great-grandchild. Chicago Jewish Funerals, Buffalo Grove, �� was in charge. �� Jack F. Laven �� Jack F. Laven, 82, Longboat Key, and �� Hull, Mass., died May 2, 2004. �� He was born in Somerville, Mass., and �� was a retailer for Slesinger’s in Boston. He �� was a meteorologist in the Coast Guard �� Artillery Unit in Newport, R.I., during World War II. �� Survivors include his wife of 58 years, Charlotte (Slesinger); sons Michael of ��

�� London and Charles of New York City; a �� sister, Barbara Goldberg of Sacramento, ��

Calif.; a brother, Lawrence of West �� Newton, Mass.; and two grandchildren. �� Levine Chapel Inc., Brookline, was in charge. �� 20 SARASOTA-MANATEE JEWISH NEWS JUNE 16 - JULY 20, 2004

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