Just a Nosh..Just Just a Nosh..Just Political and Economic Affairs

The Jewish Press Group of Tampa Bay, Inc. Jewish Press of Pinellas County PRESORTED 6416 Central Avenue STANDARD St. Petersburg, FL 33707 U.S. POSTAGE PAID The Jewish Press Group of Tampa Bay, Inc. Complied from JTA news service Complied from JTA PARIS – A secret network of Jews influences global secret network of Jews influences A – PARIS The same number also agreed with the statement The survey was presented by the Hungary-based Other findings: quarter of respondents agreed with the statement A • • More than a quarter concurred with the state- • More than a third agreed with the assertion that Holocaust revisionism and classic anti-Semitic In each of the countries polled, a representative hardline student group in Iran has threatened to A The Basij group in Hamadan province, where the The threat was first published in the Iranian Student The U.S. Commission on International Religious The building is believed to house the tombs of Es- Just a nosh..Just Just a nosh..Just political and economic affairs. That’s the feeling among That’s political and economic affairs. 20 percent of the 16,000 respondents to a survey among Europeans from 16 countries. own that “Jews exploit Holocaust victimhood for their needs.” Action and Protection League Feb. 24, at a conference about anti-Semitism organized in Paris by the Europe- conducted in December Association. It was an Jewish the Czech Republic, Austria, Belgium, and January in the United Kingdom and Poland, France, Germany, among other countries. make them understand why some policies that Israel’s people hate Jews. ment that “Israel is engaged in legitimate self-defense quarter of respondents dis- A against its enemies.” agreed and 46 percent did not express a position. II, people from our nation suffered War “During World as much as Jews.” stereotypes were more common in Eastern Europe, whereas anti-Israel sentiments, including anti-Semitic ones, were more common than in the west, according Action and Pro- to Rabbi Slomo Koves, chairman of the Budapest-based group is affiliated The tection League. main watchdog with the Hungarian Jewish community’s on anti-Semitism. sample of 1,000 adults was presented with 45 questions or statements in face-to-face interviews about survey has a margin of error of The Jews and Israel. 0.8 percent. of Esther and Mordechai in the north Tomb destroy the administration’s Trump of the country in revenge for the peace plan. tomb is located, earlier this month said it would tear down the historic building and replace it with a Palestin- ian consulate in revenge against Israel and Washington over the recently unveiled proposal. News Network. Freedom tweeted that it was “troubled by reported threats to the tomb of Esther and Mordechai in Hama- dan, Iran, and emphasizes the Iranian government’s responsibility to protect religious sites.” Pu- ther and Mordechai, the heroes of the Purim story. The tweet rim will be celebrated this year on March 10. noted that the burial site “has been a significant Jewish around the world.” landmark for Jews and history buffs Survey: 1 in 5 Europeans thinks secret Jewish cabal runs the world peace plan Iranian anger over Trump of Esther and Mordechai threatens Tomb Soon, you can check Menorah Manor’s SPY continued on PAGE 5 SPY continued on PAGE BALL continued on PAGE 5 BALL continued on PAGE “going to a ball” your bucket list. off 35-year gala, anniversary featuring theme “What’s on your the bucket list?” will held be on Sunday ning, eve- April 19, at Coliseum, the 535 Fourth Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Ave. - PARTY continued on PAGE 10 continued on PAGE PARTY In “The Spy Behind such as Morris “Moe” Berg and radio and early TV star Berg. Gertrude tells Kempner Plate,” Home the real story of Moe Berg, a Major League player Baseball turned was a spy. catcher in the major Berg Recht plays over 150 dates each year in The Bucket List Ball will celebrate the Gala Chairwoman Susie Berman explains Jewish rock musi- The musician will formance and workshop at The Connection,” a “Kesher: multi-generational cultural and educational series sponsored by the Gulf Coast. Jewish Federation of Florida’s Jewish senior healthcare community Marion – the and Bernard Assisted Living Weinman Center, Toby Resi- L. Samson and program rehabilitation Nursing You Renew dence, Adult Irv Weissman Day Center — and raise in seniors for care providing continue to funds the future. the significance of this year’s gala:five “Thirty years ago, a wonderful and group list,’ of people ‘bucket their on was that vision a had that was to create a loving and caring home Rock out with Rick Recht at party for Israel cian Rick Recht will headline a community concert on Sun- day, April 26 during a celebration of Isra- el’s 72nd birthday at Congregation B’nai Israel in St. Peters- burg. lead a musical per Susie Berman Menorah Manor to kick it with Bucket List Ball Serving the Jewish communities of PinellasServing County: the Jewish communities Largo, Seminole, Clearwater, Petersburg, St. Dunedin,the Beaches, Safety Harbor, East Lake… Springs, Tarpon Harbor, Palm Trinity... Richey, Port New County: Pasco Brooksville... Spring County: Hill, Hernando ADVERTISEMENT Kempner has been called Reel film and speakerseries Federa- Jewish the by on put Coast. Gulf Florida’s of tion The Lee.” Spike Jewish “the child of a Holocaust survi- officer, Army U.S. a and vor she has dedicated her to life spotlighting - underappre ciated Jewish-Americans 16 PAGES 2020 16 PAGES FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 12, A , Crescendo by Oscar nomi- FILM FESTIVAL continued on PAGE 14 continued on PAGE FILM FESTIVAL “The evolved festival is now dis- New to the venue roster is AMC “The week-long festival is packed Tampa Tampa JCCs & Federation Jewish and Federation the of Florida’s Coast. Gulf playing 29 showings across the Bay,” said committee Co- Chair Sara Scher. Woodland Square 20 in Oldsmar. Re- turning venues include AMC Sundial 20, St. Petersburg; Bryan Glazer Fam- ily JCC, Tampa; Studio Movie Grill, Seminole; and Villagio Tampa. Carrollwood, Cinemas at celebration,” merit truly that films with said Scher, starting with the opening night film, nated and Israeli-born director Shahalvi. Dror www.jewishpresspinellas.com - Award-winning filmmaker Award-winning The film and Kempner’s Aviva Aviva Kempner will speak following the screening of her documentary film, “The Spy Behind Home on March Plate,” Thursday, 19 at 7 in Grill Movie Studio at p.m. Seminole. visit are part of the Real to Filmmaker to speak about ballplayer ballplayer about speak to Filmmaker of documentary at showing spy turned , Crescendo . Photo Courtesy Irwin Berg Courtesy Photo

The 24th Annual Tampa The Bay Annual 24th Tampa Jewish In between there will be 16 other “This year’s powerhouse line-up is The festival is a production of the

In the closing film, basketball player Aulcie Perry Aulcie is recruited from Harlem to play for the basketball player film, In the closing then converts to Aulcie leads them to the European Championship, Aviv team. Tel Maccabi Judaism and becomes an Israeli citizen. boasts ‘powerhouse line-up’ March Sunday, begin will Festival Film 29 with a heart-pounder, April 5 with a heart- and close Sunday, Aulcie throbber, Fam- special a in three including films, ily Feature Film series (see related sto- page 15). ry, the most eclectic that we have seen in years,” says Festival Co-Chair Shelef. “The Loni films will delight movie goers with topics varying from stories of complex and discreet family situa- tions, love stories, heroic survival, Holocaust Jewish values and traditions and, of course, Jewish humor and ex- traordinary entertainment.” In the festival’s opening film “Crescendo,” Israeli and Palestinian musicians distrust one Israeli and “Crescendo,” opening film In the festival’s youth orchestra. another when a conductor attempts to form an Israeli-Palestinian Bay Jewish Film Festival Tampa VOL. 34, NO. 15 ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA PETERSBURG, 15 ST. NO. 34, VOL. Moe Berg as a major league catcher. catcher. Moe Berg as a major league PAGE 2 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 12, 2020

Real to Reel Federation Film & Speaker Series “The Spy Behind Home Plate”

March 19, 2020 - 7:00 PM- Studio Movie Grill 7718 113th St N, Seminole, FL

This documentary focuses on Morris Moe Berg, an enigmatic and brilliant Jewish baseball player turned spy. Berg caught and fielded in the major leagues during baseball’s Golden Age in the 1920s and 1930s, but very few people know that Berg also worked for the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), spying in Europe and playing a prominent role in America’s efforts to undermine the German atomic bomb program during WWII.

WITH GUEST SPEAKER: FILMMAKER AVIVA KEMPNER!

Celebrate Israel! To get tickets, visit www.JewishGulfCoast.org or go to Studio Movie Grill’s website. Having issues? Contact Featuring Rick Recht! Lucé at [email protected] or 727-530-3223. A community-wide learning Upcoming “Real to Reel” Films: series for adults, teens and kids. Meet people from around the area! MAY 21, 2020 Everyone is welcome. APRIL 23, 2020 “Complicit – The Untold Story “Welcome to Kutsher’s: of Why the Roosevelt Tickets are FREE for kids and The Last Catskills Resort” Administration Denied cost only $5 for adults. at Studio Movie Grill Safe Haven to Jewish 7718 113th St N, Seminole, FL 33772 Refugees Aboard the S.S. St. Louis” Get yours today at: TBD In Hernando County www.JewishGulfCoast.org/Kesher!

*Registration is required.*

April 26, One ticket Save the includes lunch Date: 2020 from Jo-El’s Kosher Deli!

At Congregation B’Nai Israel (St. Pete) at 10:00 AM

PublICatIOn & DeaDlIne DateS The Jewish Press of Pinellas County is a privately STAFF owned, community newspaper published in JIM DAWKINS cooperation with the Jewish Federation of Florida’s Publisher & Co-owner MAR. 13 Gulf Coast. The Federation underwrites home delivery KAREN DAWKINS of PINELLAS COUNTY • Established in 1986 to every identified Jewish household in Pinellas, West Managing editor & Co-owner Press Release ...... Feb 28 Pasco and Hernando Counties (approx.7,800), to Advertising Sales Advertising ...... Mar 3 An independent, bi-weekly newspaper owned by promote Jewish community cohesiveness and identity. GARY POLIN THE JEWISH PRESS GROUP of TAMPA BAY, INC. GALE TARNOFSKY-ABERCROMBIE THE FEDERATION MAINTAINs Staff Writer & Editor MAR. 27 Also publisher of the Jewish Press of Tampa THE MAIlINg lIsT FOR THE BOB FRYER passover edition www.jewishpresspinellas.com JEwIsH PREss. Ad Design & Graphics REY VILLALBA Press Release ...... Mar 13 6416 Central ave., St. PeterSburg, Fl 33707 To RECEIVE THE PAPER DAVID HERSHMAN Advertising ...... Mar 17 or for ADDRESS CHANGES, Social Columnist telephone: (727) 535-4400 • Fax: (727) 440-6037 ■ Call (727) 530-3223 JUDY LUDIN AMY SCHERZER e-mail: [email protected] ■ Go to [email protected] editorial Assistant APR. 10 The Jewish Press is mailed STANDARD CLASS. GAIL WISEBERG The Jewish Press assumes no responsibility for the opinions of columnists, Standard Class DoeS NoT include a speedy delivery The Jewish Press is a Press Release ...... Mar 27 letter writers, claims of advertisers, nor does the paper guarantee the guarantee. Date of delivery varies depending on your subscriber to JTA, individual post office. Advertising ...... Mar 31 kashruth of products & services advertised or mentioned otherwise. The Global Jewish News Source. Standard Class Postage Permit: taMPa PI #3763 FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 12, 2020 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 3 Special Shabbat program to feature Perspective Maxine Kaufman immigrant advocates, former refugee Interim Executive Director Three guest speakers will discuss refugee camp before he and his Jewish Federation of Florida’s Gulf Coast the current situation at America’s family got the opportunity in 2015 borders and the plight of refugees to come to the U.S., settling in St. premium wines. local prices. when Temple Beth-El in St. Pe- Petersburg. Hanukkah in March tersburg invites the community to The HIAS website notes, “The Organic, No Sulfite Added, participate in a National Refugee Jewish movement for refugees in Vegan, GF & Kosher Wines Webster’s dictionary defines the word Hanukkah to meandedication Shabbat at the temple on Friday, the U.S. has grown exponentially or consecration. March 20 from 7:30-10 p.m. since 2015, with thousands of in- Wine TasTings I am officially declaring myself re-dedicated to the Jewish commu- National Refugee Shabbat is a dividuals, hundreds of congrega- Every Thursday 5-8pm ~ 10% OFF WINES ~ nity of Florida’s Gulf Coast. Let me tell you a bit about my Jewish jour- project of HIAS, a Jewish Ameri- tions, and many organizations ney and why the Jewish Community means so much to me. can nonprofit organization offering advocating for, volunteering with, Private Wine Tastings for 4-50 I was born and grew up in the small town of York in southeastern humanitarian aid and assistance to and raising awareness about refu- Wine Club • Wine Accessories Pennsylvania. The Jewish community in the mid-1960s consisted of refugees since 1881. HIAS orga- gees and asylum seekers around Check us out! about 500 families. We had two Jewish houses of worship, Conserva- nized the first National Refugee the country and the world. The tive or Reform. Everyone I knew either belonged to the synagogue or Shabbat program last year as a involvement of our community has $500 OFF $1500 OFF the temple. moment for congregations, orga- made a difference.” $50 purchase $100 purchase The Jewish Community Center located in downtown, was a build- nizations, and individuals around The program at the temple is free Exp. 4/15/20 Exp. 4/15/20 ing that was previously the home of the YWCA. It was a glorious old the country to dedicate a Shabbat and open to all. The temple is at 400 327 11th Avenue North building complete with an indoor swimming pool, a full-size gymna- experience to refugees and asylum S. Pasadena Ave., St. Petersburg. St. Petersburg, FL 33703 sium, a dance studio, two kitchens (kosher and non-kosher), and many seekers. Last year the program No RSVP is needed. 727.400.3975 winding staircases and secret passageways. Most every Sunday I was drew participation from more than dropped off at the JCC for Sunday Funday. Art classes, drama classes, 300 congregations, and more are dance classes, or just hanging out in a safe environment with my expected to join in this year. friends, the JCC was the place to be. I suppose this is the basis for my Three guest speakers, two from connectedness to Jewish community. the Pinellas Coalition for Immi- My family was involved in the community. My siblings and I all gration Justice and another refu- went to Hebrew School, as they called it back then. My sister and I gee turned activist, will speak at were both active in the youth group, both locally and regionally. My Beth-El about what is happening brother played on the JCC basketball team. My dad, z’l, played paddle at America’s borders, and the refu- ball, took a shvitz, and enjoyed the company of his best friends – Henry, gee experience. Following their Aaron, Leo, Abe and Lenny - every Tuesday night that I can remember presentations there will be a ques- from 1963 to 1981 when I moved out of town. Most Friday nights you tion and answer session oneg with would find my family at the synagogue, if only for the Dixie cups of discussion opportunities moder- sweet wine and rainbow layered cake at the oneg Shabbat. My mom ated by Meryl Blackman, coalition was Sisterhood president and Ladies Auxiliary president for several member and program leader. terms. We did what we had to do to preserve our Jewish cultural identity. It seems that when you are in the minority of a small town, you Speakers Kate Pravera and need to do everything in your power to preserve and uphold the culture Wendy Snyder, both members of you hold so dearly. the Pinellas Coalition for Immigra- This passion followed me to Pittsburgh where I attended the Uni- tion Justice, have recently returned versity of Pittsburgh. I was excited to go to the “big city.” My desire from Matamoros, a Mexican town to branch out and interact with new and different people was strong. bordering Brownsville, TX, and However, I found myself searching for Jewish groups, sororities and will speak about what they saw • Critically acclaimed chef fraternities, Hillel, JCC, anywhere I could find to connect with others there. Pravera, a founder of the co- • Creative new American cuisine with a like me. Where I was comfortable being myself. It’s not unusual that I alition is also a volunteer organizer Mediterranean flair with Indivisible FL-13, a citizens ended up working at the JCC in Squirrel Hill as a youth advisor. • Casually elegant ambiance group supporting progressive It was in Pittsburgh that I met my former husband. We settled in a • Extensive selection of fine wines & spirits small suburb on the east side of the city and had our two beautiful chil- politics and candidates in the 13th dren. We joined a synagogue in Squirrel Hill and immediately became Congressional District. Snyder is a • Outdoor sidewalk café dining involved. (The Squirrel Hill neighborhood was the scene of the deadly retired attorney, board member of • “O to Go” gourmet carryout attack at the Tree of Life synagogue in October 2018. While I was not the Pinellas County chapter of the • Upscale martini bar a member there, I personally knew two of the victims through my work ACLU and principal member of • Champagne Sunday brunch at the JCC). the coalition. • Wine dinners & monthly Chef table The third speaker is Felicien Your Neighborhood Restaurant When my parents retired and moved from York to Boynton Beach in • Private dining room available (seats 50) 1995 I knew we would soon follow. So, in 1996 we drove from Pitts- Kokure, an African refugee turned & Martini Bar burgh to Boynton Beach in our loaded Subaru station wagon complete activist. He and his family struggled with two car seats. We made it to the Palm Beaches where I stayed for to move freely in several countries T he Experience makes you say “O” 20 years. in search of food and clean water During those 20 years I worked in the Jewish Community. From the and to escape wars and violence. • 6661 Central Avenue • Jewish Day School, the Arthur I. Meyer Jewish Academy, to the Jew- He spent more than 20 years in a • 727.381.1212 • ish Community Center of the Greater Palm Beaches, to the Executive Director of Palm Beach Synagogue, and then working in the Israel and overseas department of the Jewish Federation of Palm Beach County. I WE ARE YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR: was dedicated to the Jewish Community. And they, in turn, were committed to me. Through personal tragedy I saw my community unite and • Oil and Air Filter Changes comfort me. They lifted me up and guided me. • Air Conditioning Repair My daughter, Aimee, made aliya in 2013. She served in the IDF as a • Alternator or Battery Swap Lone Soldier and lived and worked on a kibbutz in the south of Israel. • Repair and Diagnostics It was the perfect time for a new beginning. I moved to St. Petersburg, • Tire Installs, Balancing and Rotations only knowing a handful of people, determined to start fresh and find my • Wheel Alignments community. For the first three months that I was here, I contacted Emilie Socash • Brakes at the Jewish Federation every week. I was determined to work at the • Transmission Service Federation. My tenacity paid off as I was hired in July of 2016 as the • Steering and Suspension Director of Arts, Culture, and Education. This position was created • Preventative Maintenance in part by a grant from the State of Florida for cultural arts. I will be and More! forever grateful to Emilie. She had the instinct to realize my passion for community and knew that I would be an integral part of the Jew- ish community of Gulf Coast. In time I would become the Director of Community Engagement. My pursuit in discovering the needs and desires of this community has been challenging and rewarding. I love meeting new people and learning their stories. And now, my re-dedication. I have a deep passion for Jewish community. As the Interim Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Florida’s Gulf Coast, I am grateful for this opportunity both personally FULL SERVICE GAS AT BOB LEE’S and professionally, and I so appreciate the warmth and encouragement I have received. I am dedicated to meeting with more members of our Did you know we pump your gas for you at no additional charge? Jewish community, whether a relative newcomer like me or some- Includes fluid check, inspection of tires, and windshield wash one who is a long-time resident of our community, plus everyone in between. I want to find out what you think the Federation is doing well and in what ways that we can improve. Creating these personal con- Bring your vehicle to someone you Know and Trust nections through shared conversation and perhaps a cup of coffee is so BobLeesTire.com • (727) 822-3981 important, as I believe building personal relationships is vital to com- 1631 4th Street N munity engagement and vital to the success of our Jewish Federation. Next to Sunken Gardens

Visit Bob Lee’s today for a wide selection of Please feel free to reach out to me at the Federation office, on social ® ® media, or email – [email protected]. MICHELIN and BFGOODRICH tires PAGE 4 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY fEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 12, 2020

RabbinicallyRabbinically Congregations Shabbat of the Shalom Hartman Institute will Candle SpeakingSpeaking Temple Beth-El present a series of programs on piv- St. Petersburg otal events in the history of Israel. The Lighting Exploring heritage: The SAGE programs will look at different ideas Times AIPAC vs Sanders (Seniors for Arts, Growth & Education) and values that shape the meaning of group will meet Monday, March 16 modern Israel, Zionism, and Jewish Mar. 6 • 6:16 pm By RABBI GARY KLEIN from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the all-purpose identity today. Ann Haendel leads the Temple Ahavat Shalom, Palm Harbor room for a program, “The Year Our class. Sessions have already begun and Mar. 13 • 7:20 pm As some of you know, I plan to retire on July 1st from Ancestors Came to America.” Each will continue on each Wednesday in Mar. 20 • 7:24 pm my position as Senior Rabbi of Temple Ahavat Shalom and person attending will be asked to share March at 6:45 p.m. Free for members Mar. 27 • 7:28 pm become Ahavat Shalom’s rabbi emeritus. I am 71 years old, where they came from and how their and $18 for the general community. A have some health concerns, wish to devote myself more families got here. This is another op- study guide is available for pre-order at Apr. 3 • 7:31 pm to friends and family, and wish to experience some special portunity to celebrate our similarities a cost of $5. RSVP at www.CBIStPete. time with my wife, Ilene. I am grateful to many members of and differences. org/event/iEngage. my congregation and of the larger Tampa Bay Jewish com- After lunch (bring your own), Can- Pi(e) Shabbat: Learn about the munity who have played an important role in making my tor Pamela Siskin will present “Ivdu connections between Judaism and Chabad of St. Petersburg rabbinate in our community a meaningful one for me these Adoni B’simcha – Sing to God with math and have a slice of pie on Satur- Roaring 20s Purim: Chabad of past 33 years. Gladness, A History of Klezmer Mu- day, March 14 at 9 a.m. a Pi(e) Shabbat St. Petersburg will present Jewish stand- I have included below, an open sic.” Klezmer originated in the shtetl Service. The monthly junior congrega- up comedian Robert Cait at a Roaring letter to Sen. Bernie Sanders, on and Jewish ghettos of Eastern Europe, tion and tot Shabbat service will follow 20s Purim celebration on Tuesday, which I am a signator. I have signed where itinerant Jewish troubadours at 10:30 a.m. March 10. He will perform in the Stav- this letter along with several hundred known as “klezmorim” performed at Jews and Brews: Talk Torah ros Great Room at the Paladium Theater, other rabbis, because Sanders has joyous events, particularly weddings, and drink beer on Thursday, March 19 253 Fifth Ave. N. Events begin with a a history of unfair and harsh criti- at 7 p.m. and discuss “What is Jew- megillah reading at 6 p.m., then dinner cism of Israel, and because he has since the early Middle Ages until the Holocaust. No RSVP is necessary. ish Math?” at Flying Boat Brewing and the show at 6:45 p.m. The cost is associated himself with people and Company, 1776 Eleventh Ave. N., St $25 for adults and $18 for children. For organizations who do not recognize Writing your Jewish history: Three workshop sessions will help Petersburg. We bring the materials to more information or to RSVP, go to Israel’s legitimate right to exist as a study over a beverage of your choosing people explore their journey of Jewish www.ChabadSP.com or call (727) 344- Jewish nation. Sanders has referred to Israel’s government (and purchasing). identification. The sessions will be held 4900. The event features a dinner, open as a “racist government.” Sanders has always boycotted Men’s Club Shabbat: Come on Thursdays, March 19 and 26 and bar, mocktails for the kids and music. AIPAC’s annual Policy Conference, and has recently com- honor Morry Bornstein, the 2020 April 2 from 2-4 p.m. Talking and writ- Cait is known as “George Carlin with mented that AIPAC, “provides a platform for leaders who Philip Redisch Man of the Year on ing about our Jewish journey helps to a kippah” with the exception that Cait express bigotry and oppose basic Palestinian rights.” He has Friday, March 20 at 6 p.m. at a Kab- clarify who we are and our values. The works “Kosher-clean.” said that he is determined to reduce U.S. aid to Israel, and balat Shabbat Service, followed by give it instead, to Gaza, which is run by Hamas. workshops provide an opportunity for a congregational dinner. The cost is Temple B’nai Israel I would be grateful if you would share with friends and folks to discuss and share their stories $22 for adults and free for children. family, some of the contents of the letter and of the message and will provide tools to write about RSVP online at CBIStPete.org/event/ Clearwater that I have shared in this column: them as a permanent keepsake. The MMCShabbat2020. Make prepaid Bible study: Rabbi Joshua Lo- “As strong supporters of the U.S.-Israel relationship facilitator will be Dr. Sharon Leder, reservations only by Friday, March 13. bel leads an interactive study of the and AIPAC’s role in advancing it, we reject Senator Bernie Professor Emerita of English, SUNY- There will be open seating and reserved Prophets, focusing on Isaiah, Jeremiah, Sanders’ outrageous comment accusing AIPAC of fostering Nassau Community College. She is tables may be arranged for parties of and Ezekiel. The group will examine bigotry. AIPAC’s mission is one that we and our congregants author of “The Fix: A Father’s Secrets, 8 or more. The Men’s Club will also their life story, symbolism behind care deeply about. Through AIPAC, we lobby Congress A Daughter’s Search.” RSVP by March conduct Shabbat morning service on their fiery words, and how their mes- to support our democratic ally and strengthen the long- 16 to [email protected]. Saturday, March 21 at 9 a.m. sage impacts people today. Classes are standing bipartisan support for a partnership that benefits Purim festivities: The con- both nations. AIPAC is one of the last remaining vehicles Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. This is free in American politics that proactively seeks to bring Ameri- Cong. B’nai Israel gregation will celebrate Purim at two for members and $36 per year for non- cans from across the political spectrum together to achieve events this year, the first on erev Purim members. There is a charge for books St. Petersburg on Monday, March 9 at 7:30 p.m. when needed with the study. Bibles are pro- a common goal. The AIPAC Policy Conference may be the Coffee talk with rabbi: Enjoy largest political gathering of Democrats and Republicans in there will be a Megillah reading and a vided in class for reading, but students coffee and conversation with Rabbi wine tasting. The Men’s Club will also can also bring their own. the entire country. We’ve seen presidents and prime minis- Philip Weintraub on Wednesday, ters, members of Congress and members of Knesset, policy be selling wine for Passover. Adult play time: Join seniors in March 11 at 9 a.m. at Café de Paris, The next day begins with a Purim the Friendship Club to play mah jongg, analysts and military experts, religious leaders and cultural 2300 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach. icons, from across the political spectrum address the confer- morning minyan and Megillah read- Mexican train dominoes or bridge on This Observant Life: Study ence. We embrace the opportunity to be challenged to think ing at 7:45 a.m. Later, an ’80s Purim Thursdays at 1 p.m. Coffee and dessert “The Observant Life: The Wisdom of constructively and appreciate that people on the other end themed event kicks off at 5 p.m. with will be served. Conservative Judaism for Contempo- of the political divide are doing this sacred work alongside a pasta diner. Folks can dress up in a For more information, contact Linda rary Jews” as Rabbi Weintraub leads us. I am proud of my congregants who attend the AIPAC costume booth and play carnival games an interactive year-long text journey White at [email protected]. conference. They are fulfilling their duty as Americans to until 6 p.m. when things get “totally Musical afternoon: in this monthly series. The next ses- The temple participate in the political process together with Democrats, rad” with a wine tasting and sale, cos- will kick off its music/education series Republicans, Jews, Christians, African Americans, His- sion is Wednesday, March 11 at noon tume parade for all ages, l’chaim table or Tuesday, March 17 at 6:30 p.m. The on Sunday, March 15 at 3 p.m. with panic Americans, Asian Americans, progressives, veterans, and shalach manot. The cost is $5 per soon-to-be cantor Danielle Rodnizki. classes are free and open to the commu- family for dinner and games and the Pu- students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and many A dessert reception will follow the pro- nity. The March 11 class includes a deli rim spiel is free. The youth group will others. There is truly no higher form of civic participation.” gram. The cost is $18 for adults and $9 lunch from Jo-El’s. RSVP by Tuesday, be selling boxes of mac & cheese for $2 During my retirement, I hope to devote even more time for youths 13-18 years old. Admission to pro-Israel activism, which I believe can be done most ef- March 10 at noon by calling the office to decorate and use for groggers. After- is free for those 12 and younger. RSVP fectively through AIPAC. Perhaps you will join me. with your lunch order. Payment will be ward, the boxes will be donated to the taken at the door. The session with the Gulf Coast Jewish Family and Com- to the temple by March 8. RSVP to the The Rabbinically Speaking column is provided as a public same lesson will be repeated on Tues- munity Services food pantry. RSVP temple by March 8. Tai Chi: service by the Jewish Press in cooperation with the Pinellas day, March 17 at 6:30 p.m. This is free for dinner at https://www.cbistpete. Weekly Tai Chi lessons County Board of Rabbis. Columns are assigned on a rotat- and open to the community. org/purimhappenings. This is open to are held on Wednesdays at 5:15 p.m. ing basis by the board. The views expressed in the column Studying Israel’s mile- the community. For more information, are those of the rabbi and do not necessarily reflect the stones: Through video lectures, text visit www.CBIStPete.org or call (727) • CONTINUED on NEXT PAGE views of the Jewish Press or the Board of Rabbis. study, and group discussion, the faculty 381-4900. Religious Directory PINELLAS COUNTY Congregation BETH SHOLOM — 1844 54th St. S., Gulfport, 33707 • Services: PASCO COUNTY Reform Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. • Telephone: (727) 321-3380 • Website: sholomgulf- Conservative port.org • Unaffiliated Temple AHAVAT SHALOM — 1575 Curlew Rd., Palm Harbor, 34683 • Rabbi BETH TEfILLAH/JCC Of WEST PASCO — 9841 Scenic Drive, Port Richey, Gary Klein • Cantorial soloist, Allison Rosoff • Services: Friday: 7:30 p.m., Congregation B’NAI ISRAEL — 300 58th St. N., St. Petersburg, 33710 • 34668 • Ron Becker and Elliot Shapiro, spiritual leaders • Services: Friday, First Friday: 6 p.m., Saturday: traditional service third week of the month. Rabbi Philip Weintraub • Cantor Jonathan Schultz • Services: Friday 7:30 p.m., Saturday, 9:30 a.m. • Telephone: (727) 847-3814 • website: 9 a.m., call for other service times • Telephone: (727) 785-8811 • Website: 6:30 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m., Mon. - Fri. 7:45 a.m., Sun. 9 a.m.; evening jccwestpascobethtefillah.net • Email at: Eileenhochstadt13005@gmail. www. ahavatshalom.org • Affiliated with Union for Reform Judaism minyan, 6:30 p.m. Sunday only at Toby Weinman ALF 6:00p.m.• Telephone: com • Unaffiliated (727) 381-4900 • Website: www.cbistpete.org.• Affiliated with United Orthodox Temple BETH-EL — 400 S. Pasadena Ave., St. Petersburg, 33707 • Rabbi Synagogue of Conservative Judaism CHABAD Of WEST PASCO — Rabbi Yossi Eber • 10733 Maple Creek Dr., Michael Torop • Services: Friday, 7:30 p.m. except First Friday 5:45 p.m., Suite 101, Trinity, 34655 • Services: Saturday, 9:30 a.m.; Kaballah class: Saturday, service and Torah study, 10 a.m. • Telephone: (727) 347-6136 Orthodox 10:15 a.m., • Telephone: (727) 376-3366 • Website:www.ChabadWP.org • • Website: www.templebeth-el.com • Affiliated with Union for Reform CHABAD of CLEARWATER — 2280 Belleair Road, Clearwater, 33764 • Rabbi email: [email protected] Judaism Levi Hodakov • Services: Call for information on Friday service times, Sunday, 9:30 a.m., men only • Telephone: (727) 265-2770 • Website: www. Temple B’NAI ISRAEL — 1685 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater, 33764 • Rabbi HERNANDO COUNTY JewishClearwater.com • email: [email protected] Reform Joshua Lobel • cantorial soloist, Laura Berkson • Services: Friday, 7:00 Temple BETH DAVID p.m. • Telephone: (727) 531-5829 • Website: www.TBIclearwater.org • CHABAD JEWISH CENTER Of GREATER ST. PETERSBURG — 4010 Park St. N., — 13158 Antelope St., Spring Hill, 34609 • Rabbi Affiliated with Union for Reform Judaism St. Petersburg 33709 • Rabbi Alter Korf • Services: Saturday, 9:30 a.m.; Paul Schreiber • Shabbat Serivces: Friday, 7:30 p.m., third Friday traditional service, 7:30 p.m. • Saturday, 10 a.m. • Telephone: (352) 686-7034 • Website: Conservative Shacharit, Mon.-Thurs., 7:15 a.m., Torah study at 10:30 a.m. on Sturday, Sun., 8 a.m.; • Telephone: (727) 344-4900 • Website: www.chabadsp.com www.tbdfl.org. • Livestreaming services Congregation BETH SHALOM — 1325 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater, 33764 • Orthodox CHABAD of PINELLAS COUNTY Rabbi David Weizman • Rabbi Danielle Upbin, associate • Services: Friday: — 3696 Fisher Road, Palm Harbor, 34683 • CHABAD SPRING HILL — 13576 Hunters Point St, Spring Hill, 34609 • Rabbi 6:30 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m., Sunday 9 a.m., Mon. & Thurs 8:30 a.m., • Tele- Rabbi Pinchas Adler • Services: Friday, 6:30 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m. and Chaim Lipszyc • Services: Monthly First Friday call for times Telephone: phone: (727) 531-1418 • Website: www.cbsclearwater.org • Livestreaming 15 minutes before sunset • Sunday, 8:30 a.m. • Telephone: (727) 789-0408 (352) 600-2779 • Website: chabadspringhill.com services • Affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism • Website: Yichabad.com fEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 12, 2020 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 5

BALL SPY • CONTINUED from fRONT PAGE • CONTINUED from fRONT PAGE for Jewish living for our seniors. This bucket list dream came leagues during baseball’s Golden true, thanks to their hard work, and the dedication of hundreds Age in the 1920s and 1930s. A gradu- of others in the community over the years.” ate of Princeton who could speak Doors open at 5 p.m. with both silent and live auctions, as seven languages, Berg also worked well as a special Bid from the Heart. Cocktails and a plated for the Office of Strategic Services, dinner will be served. Jason Alpert will be the emcee and spying in Europe and playing a auctioneer. prominent role in America’s efforts Aviva Kempner The planning committee put together silent auction items to undermine the German atomic by hand, using creativity and craftiness. Items include themed bomb program during World War II. As one interviewee says buckets filled with goodies, like a museum-themed bucket list in the documentary, “Brain and brawn, make Moe Berg the basket stuffed with passes to a number of local museums. There ultimate Jewish athlete.” Photo Courtesy Linda McCarthy will also be a theater-themed bucket, complete with tickets to Kempner also produced and directed a documentary about Moe Berg in Switzerland. When he wasn’t on the ballfield, he a variety of shows at American Stage, Ruth Eckerd Hall, the radio and early TV star Gertrude Berg. The film, “Yoo-Hoo, was covertly helping to undermine the Nazi’s atomic bomb program. Straz Center for the Performing Arts, and others. A sunset sail Mrs. Goldberg,” was subtitled, “The most famous woman bucket, crafting bucket, and even a Bubbe bucket, as well as you’ve never heard of.” That movie was shown as part of National Foundation for Jewish Culture, and the 2009 Free- others, will be auctioned off during the silent auction. the Real to Reel series last December. dom of Expression Award from the San Francisco Jewish The live auction will include opportunities to help you Perhaps Kempner’s most well-known documentary to- Film Festival, among others. check more things off your bucket list, like exclusive trips, date and most famous subject Detroit Tigers great Hank “We are excited to welcome Aviva Kempner to our com- tickets, and more. Greenberg, who famously sat our a game during the 1934 munity,” said Lucé Piccin, director of communications at the “This is a great opportunity for the community to get togeth- pennant race to observe Yom Kippur. The “Life and Times Federation. “She is an extremely talented writer, director er and celebrate this wonderful organization that takes care of Hank Greenberg” won numerous awards including a 2002 and producer and we are thankful to have her present at our of our Jewish elderly,” said Judy Ludin, chief development Peabody Award. film series event. One recurring theme present in her films officer of Menorah Manor, in a Jewish Press phone interview. To further her mission, Kempner founded the Ciesla has been telling the story of lesser-known Jewish heroes.” Tickets are $180 per person and sponsorships begin at Foundation in 1979 to create films that investigate non- Tickets for the film are $10, and admission includes a des- $1,800. Tickets or sponsorships can be purchased online at stereotypical images of Jews in history. sert. Tickets can be purchased through Studio Movie Grill or www.bucketlistball.org or by calling the Menorah Manor She also co-founded the Washington Jewish Film Festival by visiting the Federation’s website, www.jewishgulfcoast. Foundation at (727) 302-3888. in 1989 and has won numerous awards, including the 2001 org. The theater is located at 7718 113th St. N. in Seminole. For more information, call Ludin at (727) 302-3704 or send Women of Vision Award from the D.C.’s Women in Film The Real to Reel film and speaker series is made possible an email to [email protected]. and Video Chapter, the 2001 Media Arts Award from the by Sue Heyman and Mike White and Studio Move Grill.

Congregations March 9 at 6:30 p.m. with an “ice Adult education: Sunday • CONTINUED from PREVIOUS PAGE cream social” featuring many classes are under way at the flavors and toppings to go along synagogue. At 11 a.m. there is with the hamantashen and other an examination and better un- March 1. Rosh Chodesh: The temple’s traditional holiday goodies. Cos- derstanding of the 613 mitzvot, Cong. Beth Shalom For more information, email women’s group will gather to ex- tumes are encouraged. The social especially those that are still [email protected] or call (727) plore, learn, grow and move with Clearwater will be followed by the annual relevant today. At noon, an el- Lox & Learn: Rabbi David 265-2770. the Hebrew calendar, at the time Purim spiel led by congregants. ementary Hebrew language class Weizman explores treasures of Torah and Tea: Rebbetzin of the new moon. Each meeting is The reading of the Megillah will meets. All are invited to attend the weekly Torah portion every Miriam Hodakov has resumed hosted by different women and the follow and noisemakers will be and can join either class at any Thursday at 10 a.m. after minyan her Torah and Tea exclusively for next one will be on March 26. For provided. time. at 8:30 a.m. women on Wednesdays at 11:15 the time and place of the meeting, Talmud classes: On Mon- a.m. There is no charge to at- contact Nancy Schreiber at (305) days and Wednesdays, Dr. Pris- tend. RSVP to MiriamHodakov@ 439-7427 or email nancytbd@ cilla Nathanson leads a class gmail.com or (727) 265-2770. gmail.com. in the ancient legal tradition of the Talmud. Open to all levels of Chabad of Spring Hill Chabad of West Pasco knowledge. The class is held Mon- Torah studies: The com- days at 10 a.m. in the social hall and munity is invited to attend Torah Trinity Purim festival: Celebrate repeated on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. study classes on Wednesdays from Purim Israel-style on Tuesday, Jewish Spirituality Work- noon to 1 p.m. The classes, taught March 10 at 5:30 p.m. The evening shop: Rabbi Danielle Upbin con- by Rabbi Chaim Lipszyc, are not will include an Israeli-style buffet, tinues a series of classes for women sequential, so drop-ins are wel- Megillah reading, and entertain- on Thursday, March 19 at 12:30 p.m. come. Brunch and coffee will be ment. Cost is $15 for adults and Students will explore personal and served. The first class is free then $10 for children. spiritual growth through a variety $7 per class. For more information and to of guided meditation practices and For more information, call (352) RSVP, go to chabadwp.com . discussion of contemplative Jewish 600-2779. Try a BLT: Every Sunday from texts. RSVP to the synagogue office 9-10 a.m. try a BLT (Bagels, Lox at (727) 531-1418. Students do not Temple Ahavat Shalom and Tefillin) at the Chabad center. have to attend all sessions to benefit Don tefillin and enjoy hot bagels from the class. Palm Harbor The Prophets: The lunch and an assortment of smoked fish The Psalms: Study the Psalms and learn program is currently and spreads. with Johanna Bromberg. The studying author Robert Alter’s Women’s class: Take part in next class is on Wednesday, March book, “Ancient Israel: The Former an exploration and discussion of the 18 at 10 a.m. The classes will be Prophets – Joshua, Judges, Samuel book “Toward a Meaningful Life” enhanced by including the conflu- and Kings.” The class meets Thurs- by Simon Jacobson every Wednes- Bellissimo ences of the Psalms and the arts. All days, March 12 and 19 at noon in day from 7:30-8:30 p.m. This offers are welcome. the social hall. Bring a lunch or fresh perspectives on every aspect Purim festivities: The con- Italian Eateryt nosh. RSVP to Susi Segal at susi- of life- from birth to death, youth to gregation will celebrate Purim on

[email protected]. old age, marriage, love, intimacy, t & Banquet Hall Monday, March 9 at 6:30 p.m. with Get cosmic: Adult education and family. Chocolate babka and a sing-a-long, costume parade, Me- classes will continue its science and coffee will be served. 13220 S. Belcher Rd. • Largo • 727.223.3305 gillah reading and a Purim shpiel religion sessions, offering explana- titled “Purim on Broadway.” There tions of dark matter, dark energy Temple Beth David will also be Kahoots, hamantashen, and the expanding universe, as Shalach Manot and more. Spring Hill See What well as other topics. Professor Alan Jewish Food Festival: The The Critics Gorlick will lead the class, assisted temple’s 25th annual Jewish Food Are Saying… Chabad of Clearwater by Rabbi Gary Klein. The classes Out of this world Pu- Festival will be held on Sunday, are on Tuesdays, March 10 and 17 rim: Celebrate “Purim in Outer March 22 from noon to 4 p.m. Enjoy “AMAZING” at 11 a.m. Space” on Tuesday, March 10 at an afternoon of foods, local vendors, “Simply, For more information, call the the Chabad center. There will be music and activities for children. temple at (727) 785-8811. The Best” snacks for children at 4 p.m., a Me- Parking and admission are free and Jewish Women/ An Es- gillah reading at 4:30 p.m. and din- pre-ordering is available. ther’s Salon: ner from 5-6:30 p.m. There will be A discussion and For more information call (352) Be Our rocket ship car rides, moon bounces PowerPoint presentation on Jewish 686-7034. CATERING ON SITE: inflatables, music, “ha-moon-tash- Women/An Esther’s Salon will be Guest! • Weddings • Bar Mitzvahs en,” falafel, edible flying saucers held on Thursday, March 12 at 7 Cong. Beth Tefillah/ • Business Meetings • Birthday Parties and assorted salads. Participants p.m. Admission is free and all are Seating for up to 80 people are encouraged to come in costume. welcome to attend. RSVP online at JCC of West Pasco 10% OFF The cost for adults is $15 and for www.TASsisterhood.com. Port Richey Customize your own event! kids 2-12 is $12 if paid by March For more information, email Ar- Purim: The synagogue will Entire Check Southern Italian cooking or other 1; $20 and $15 respectively after lene Seigel at [email protected] celebrate Purim on Monday, With Coupon type of menus available PAGE 6 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 12, 2020 More than 50 JCCs nationwide receive emailed bomb threats NEW YORK (JTA) – More than Jewish community centers in New None of the emails, however, 50 Jewish community centers in 23 York, New Jersey, California, named the specific institutions in states have received emailed bomb Texas and elsewhere throughout question or contained anti-Semitic threats since Feb. 22. the country. language. None of the threats have been The Jewish Telegraphic Agency “Our goal has been – and we found to be credible, though local has learned from officials familiar seem to be succeeding – to go law enforcement agencies have with the threats that most of the about our day with as much nor- been notified. Officials do not know JCCs affected received identical malcy as possible,” said Martina who sent the threats. They targeted emails containing bomb threats. Hull, interim executive director of the Sidney Albert Albany JCC in New York, which received a threat Sunday, Feb. 23. “There was an indication of a threat and the Albany JCC was not mentioned specifically within that, but it was enough to raise A cocktail reception was held Wednesday, Jan. 29 at the home of Melissa and awareness.” David Bernstein in Oldsmar to support the Jewish Educational Loan Fund (JELF), which provides interest-free loans to college students. A loan recipient spoke According to Albany Police De- on the benefits of the program and JELF Board President Jane Arnoff attended. partment spokesman Steve Smith, Pictured above, the Bernsteins with Arnoff, center. the Albany JCC was evacuated for a couple of hours while officers did a sweep of the building. Smith said Bay area Jewish students can apply the JCC received a “generic email” that mentioned a bomb. soon for interest-free college loans The spate of threats recalls suc- The Jewish Educational Loan can also be used for such needs as cessive waves of bomb threats Fund (JELF) awarded interest-free travel, rent, food and books. made against JCCs and other Jew- college loans to 12 Tampa Bay Tamir Galili is one of the stu- ish institutions in 2017, (including area Jewish students last year and dents who benefited from the help in Tampa) many of which led to will begin taking applications from of JELF. As a child, he emigrated building evacuations. Most of the March 1 through April 30 for more from Israel with very little support. threats came from a 19-year-old student loans. When both he and his twin brother American-Israeli citizen, Michael The JELF program is offered decided to attend the University of Kadar. Last year, Kadar was sen- in the six Atlantic seaboard states Tampa, they first had to find the tenced to 10 years in prison. from Virginia to Florida. The orga- money. Federal loans, work study The JCC Association of North nization provides last dollar loans and scholarships helped, but Galili America, the umbrella group for to students in need of bridging the leaned on JELF for the rest. Today, the centers, said in a statement gap between their total financial he runs an assisted-living residence that it was working with the Se- resources and the cost of attending and is working toward owning his school. own facility. cure Community Network, which In the Tampa Bay area, JELF “I couldn’t have gotten here coordinates security for Jewish partners with Tampa Jewish Family without JELF’s help,” Galili said. institutions, in response to the Services (TJFS) in Hillsborough To qualify, students must be threats. County and with Gulf Coast Jewish permanent residents of Florida, “Having faced similar threats Family & Community Services in Georgia, South Carolina, North in 2017, our JCCs have protocols Pinellas and Pasco counties. Those Carolina, and Virginia (excluding in place to respond to such sce- seeking loans can contact the local the greater D.C. area), but can narios,” the JCC Association’s agency serving their area for ad- go to any U.S. accredited school. president, Doron Krakow, said in a ditional information. Qualifying students must also be statement. “We are grateful for the “This past year, JELF provided U.S. citizens or have lawful im- immediate and ongoing response more interest-free loans to more migration status, be able to provide from law enforcement across the undergrad, graduate and vocational a designated co-signer and be able country.” students than ever before,” said to demonstrate financial need with The Levin Jewish Community David Cohen, JELF’s director of a 2019 FAFSA application. Lastly, Center in Durham, NC, was also marketing. In its six-state service students must be enrolled full-time identified as one of the facilities area, JELF assisted 296 Jewish in a program leading to a degree or receiving a bomb threat. students with loans totaling nearly certificate and in good academic $1.3 million. standing. “These loans will save students Students and their families can thousands over the life of the loan apply for loans online at JELF.org and their life. This can set them For more information about up better for their career and post- JELF in Tampa, contact Cha- Do you have your tickets yet? education life,” Cohen said. nita Moore at (813) 960-1848 or JELF is the only Jewish organiza- [email protected]. For more in- tion in the U.S. focused exclusively formation about JELF in Pinellas on higher education. The organi- or Pasco, call Gail Allen of Gulf zation’s loans go beyond paying Coast at (727) 479-1806 or email for rising tuition cost. The loans [email protected].

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Product not available in all states. Includes the Participating Providers and Chair: Susie Berman Preventive Benefits Rider. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/ certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-888-799-4433 or For information about purchasing tickets or sponsorships, respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN). Rider kinds B438/B439. go to www.bucketlistball.org or call 727.302.3704 6154-0120 FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 12, 2020 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 7 Tampa woman supports son in Israel through JNF activism Jewish Press staff report tions about JNF on a regular basis, When Tampa mom Laura Salzer mostly in Florida, but also in At- learned her son Jake was moving lanta, Boston, New York and Min- to Israel to join the Israel Defense nesota. Additionally, she travels Forces, she did what any good Jew- to Israel two to four times a year ish mother would do – she flew to and is grateful that her financial Israel to support him. consulting business allows her such She did not plan to stay too a flexible schedule. long, but this was the summer of Salzer feels many people do not 2014 and when Israel came under know the full story about Israel, frequent rocket fire from the Gaza and how such a tiny nation has strip, she canceled her return flight achieved so much and continues to When her son Jake joined the Israel and began looking for ways to help. be a world leader in innovation and Defense Force, mom Laura Salzar went to Israel to support him. That is how she became involved problem solving. One example – all in a program for lone soldiers the things going on in Be’er Sheva, Salzer feels JNF offers the and became exposed to a host of an ancient city in southern Israel best “boots on the ground” aid to projects supported by the Jewish that for ages was a desert town with improving the everyday lives of Israelis. Laura Salzar with students from a Tel Aviv school who are participating in a National Fund (JNF). little to offer, but now is lush with rainwater harvesting project. Jake was assigned an IDF job that vegetation and is becoming the Salzer’s involvement in Women required a security clearance and next thriving city for technology. for Israel led to her becoming With education and engagement as organization in the country with Israeli citizenship, so both Jake and It has a world-renowned university that organization’s chairperson key priorities, JNF ensures young such an education plan for the next his mom soon became familiar with and has already attracted Google, for JNF’s Alexander Muss High people are knowledgeable, pride- generation of Jewish leaders,” the offerings Nefesh B’Nefesh, a Microsoft and Amazon to open School in Israel. Since 1972, the ful, and committed to Jewish life Salzer says. “Each mission to Is- JNF partnership program, which operations there. She says the city school has educated more than and Israel. From elementary school rael produces a new cadre of Israel promotes and facilitates those from is adding hotels and restaurants and 30,000 high school students, she to college and beyond, JNF’s edu- advocates. As a mentor, it is a gift North America making aliyah. its affordable housing attracts citi- says, and since merging with JNF cational programming – the Israel to be able to pass along the insights, Salzer’s extended stay in Israel zens from Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. in 2013, it has become the premier Continuum – is a game-changer, experiences, and information I also gave her a new and deeper per- She also points out that Israelis semester abroad college-prep pro- and the only organization commit- have gained from Jewish National spective on what Israel is really like use no pesticides in their country, gram for high school students. ted to this life process, she adds. Fund and the women’s campaign.” on a daily basis, an even stronger relying on natural solutions to cre- “Nowhere else do our chil- JNF offers opportunities and Salzer, who grew up in the Wash- affection for her Jewish homeland. ate a thriving agricultural industry. dren learn more than 4,000 years trips to Israel for college student ington, D.C. area and moved with “Until that point, I thought I She feels the nation’s resource- of Jewish and Israeli history at leaders to become more knowl- her husband to Tampa 12 years knew a lot about Israel,” she said. “I fulness and forward thinking spirit the place where it happened, edgeable about the country, helping ago, says her son is now back in was taught about the country in re- do not get as much notice from the all while enhancing their col- them respond to anti-Israel senti- America, attending Georgetown ligious school and visited and read outside world as its conflicts with lege applications, resumes, and ment on campus. University and enrolled in its about Israel over the years. Then, I Palestinians. general studies.” Salzer said. “There’s simply no other Zionist counter-terrorism program. joined Jewish National Fund, and my eyes were opened to all the in- novative projects the organization spearheads for all Israelis. I learned about the real Israel, the people, the land, the history, and our future. For me, being a part of JNF has felt like working toward a master’s degree in Israel studies: It’s such a trans- formative and fulfilling learning experience – one I feel compelled to tell others about and encourage to take on themselves.” Salzer joined JNF’s Women for Israel program and ever since has made it her mission “to support, educate, and mentor the next Tampa The Jewish Federation JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTERS OF FLORIDA’S GULF COAST generation about the importance of & FEDERATION Zionism and Israel.” To that end, she gives presenta- BACA annual concert to benefit cantorial student scholarships The Bay Area Cantorial Associa- tion (BACA) will host its 17th annual concert, B’Chol Libi: With All My Heart – Songs of Love, to raise scholarship money for cantorial students of Reform and Conserva- tive sacred music study. The concert will take place at Temple B’nai Israel, 1685 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater, on Monday, April 27 at 7 p.m. This year’s concert features liturgical, popular, stage, and film selections connected by the theme of love. Participants in the concert include Cantors Riselle Bain, Laura Berkson, Deborrah Cannizzaro, Tanya Greenblatt, Joy Katzen- Guthrie, Andres Kornworcel, Joel Reznick, Jodi Sered-Lever, Jonathan Schultz, and Marci Vitkus with accompanist Tara Swartzbaugh. This year’s concert is dedicated to BACA member Cantor Richard Berlin of Sarasota, who passed away last year. To date, BACA has raised more than $70,000 toward cantorial scholarships for students and has provided donations to new publi- cations of liturgical Jewish sheet music. Now, BACA is seeking donations toward its goal of establishing a named fund at Hebrew Union College. For more information, call Tem- ple B’nai Israel at (727) 531-5829. Tickets are available at the door for a suggested donation of $18 each. All donations will be accepted. PAGE 8 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 12, 2020

Tampa. 14041 Icot Blvd., Clearwater. Reg- Organizations Let’s go adult-ing: The istration is at 1:30 p.m. There is no 20s+30s Connection group will charge for members. Nonmembers hold an “adult-ing” program at must join or pay $25 per attendee Congregation Schaarai Zedek on or $35 per family. A printed booklet Hadassah Saturday, March 21 from noon to will be available for $10 and it is Anti-Semitism talk: The 1:30 p.m. with a discussion on the strongly urged that you reserve a Lylah Pinellas Chapter of Hadas- pros and cons of home buying. copy. sah will present “A Discussion On Adult-ing is an opportunity to talk To pre-register or for more in- Antisemitism” featuring Eliza- to a real live expert, instead of a formation, call Bruce Hadburg at beth Gelman, executive director relying on a Google search of vari- (727) 796-7981. of the Florida Holocaust Museum ous aspects of being an adult. For and Rabbi Gary Klein on Wednes- the March 21 program a realtor, a day, March 18 at 7 p.m. The meet- Job-Links mortgage broker, and a rabbi will Monday Morning Links: ing will be held at Temple Ahavat walk the group through the steps Free sessions of Monday Morning Shalom, 1575 Curlew Road, Palm of buying a house and then how to Links are offered in the new Job- Harbor. The community is encour- make that house a home. Join in Links office at the Westshore City aged to attend. Curing hunger...one meal at a time for 30+ years for lunch and bring your questions. Center, 1211 N. Westshore Blvd., For more information and to Suite 300, Tampa, from 10-11:30 RSVP, email lylahevents@gmail. a.m. The March 9 topic is “How to 2... 4... 6... 8... com. Genealogical Society Who do we appreciate? LENNY’S Finding Bubbe’s records: Tell Your Career Transition Story?” The Jewish Genealogical Society The March 16 topic is “10 Avoid- s for more than 3 decades! Lenny’ Young adults of Tampa Bay will offer the second able Mistakes that Job Seekers Purim party: The 20s+30s of a two-session seminar on “Why Commonly Make.” Best Breakfast Connection group, sponsored by you cannot find your bubbes’ natu- Job-search aids: The topic in Clearwater! Congregation Schaarai Zedek, will ralization records” on March 8, at for the March 19 Success work- Home of the almighty hold a Purim party on Thursday, 2 p.m. The course is designed to re- shop, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. March 12 from 6:30-8 p.m. at the duce the mystery and confusion and is “Writing High Impact Cover danish basket! temple. Break out your Doc Mar- improve the chances of a successful Letters” with guest speaker Patti Serving Breakfast & Lunch Anytime tins and your flannel for a night of search of naturalization records of Breckenridge of People Connec- 6am - 3pm ~ 7 days a week fun. Appetizers will be provided. ancestors. Dr. Emil H. Isaacson, tions of Florida as speaker. The All are welcome. RSVP at www. who has more than 35 years of sessions are free for Job-Links pro- Jewish-style 21220 U.S. 19 North zedek.org/RSVP or call the temple experience in genealogy, will lead gram participants; $15 for guests. deli & Just south of Drew St. and north of S.R. 60 office at (813) 876-2377. The the seminar at Gulf Coast Jewish Reservations required. To RSVP, much more! 727.799.0402 temple is at 3303 W. Swann Ave., Family and Community Services, contact Job-Links, (813) 344-0200, email [email protected]. Switching gears: An evening workshop series, “Switching Gears: A Roadmap for Career Tran- sition,” will conclude on Wednes- day, March 11 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. These sessions will focus on inter- viewing skills, cover letters, thank you notes and emails. Guest fee is $15. Dinner is provided. To register, call Tampa Bay Job-Links at (813) 344-0200 or visit TBJL.org. Special event: Local photographer Allie Serrano will take professional headshots for TampaBay- Job-Links candidates on Thursday, March 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This service is free for full-program participants and $15 for Job-Links alumni and guests. Appointments are required. Call (813) 344-0200 to schedule an appointment. JWV Members sought: Jewish War Veterans Post 409 is actively seeking veterans, male and female, to join the group to help other local veterans. Activities include hosting monthly bingo games at Bay Pines VA Hospital, support of the Fisher House for families of hospitalized veterans, visits to lonely veterans, as well as comradery shared at monthly breakfast meetings. For more information about what the post has to offer, call Post Co- Commander Stan Sabarsky at (727) 733-9005 Support groups Alzheimer’s caregivers: Menorah Manor offers a support group meeting in the Samson Nurs- ing Center at Menorah Manor, 255 59th St. N., St. Petersburg, on the first Thursday of the month from 3:30-5 p.m. For more information, call Rab- bi Aaron Lever at (727) 302-3720. Caregivers: On the first Thursday of the month a caregiver support group meets at Temple B’nai Israel, 1685 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater, from 10-11:30 a.m. This is an opportunity for caregivers to share their experiences and receive support. The meetings are sponsored by Empath Health. To register, call Kelly Siegel at (727) 735-8743 or email kel- [email protected] or Sandi Sunter at (727) 301-7884 or email Yiddishemama@tampabay. rr.com. FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 12, 2020 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 9 Daughter of Holocaust survivors uses experiences, Bat Mitzvah activism to inform ‘Never Again is Now’ film crew Evelyn Markus, daughter of Holocaust survivors, Mara Gamson grew up Amsterdam and once considered it “the Mara Gamson, daughter of Josh a row. For world’s most liberal city,” but as a cultural and politi- and Dani Gamson of Tampa, will be her mitzvah cal shift sweep over Europe she witnessed an alarming called to the Torah as a Bat Mitzvah project and rise in anti-Semitism. on Saturday, March 14 at Temple as part of When a pink Star of David was spray painted on her B’nai Israel in Clearwater. the Broad- front door, she became a political activist and eventu- A former student at Hillel Acad- way Bud- ally things got so bad that she and her partner Rosa emy, Mara is in the seventh grade dies pro- Zegers, moved to America. and is home schooled. Active at gram, Mara Now, through the lens of her perspective and experi- the Patel Conservatory, Mara has organized a field trip to take 30 ence she has helped direct “Never Again Is Now,” a performed in many stage shows and students from Pepin Academy and documentary film that investigates the rise and spread participated in the Florida Theater Patel Conservatory to the Clearwa- of anti-Semitism in Europe – a scourge that is also on Conference where she received the ter Marine Aquarium, and helped (L-R) Evelyn Markus and her partner Rosa Zeegers the rise in the United States and other parts of the globe All Star Actress Award two years in to raise donations for the aquarium. as well. The film will be shown at three locations in the statistics,” Markus said. Tampa Bay area next month. The showings are free and Details of the three showings locally are: include a question and answer session with Markus. • “Never Again is Now” will be shown on Monday, The Jewish Press welcomes Bar/Bat Mitzvah announcements. Forms may be Markus’ family had lived for centuries in the Nether- March 23 at 7 p.m. at USF Hillel, 13101 USF Syca- obtained at synagogue offices, online at jewishpresstampabay.com, by email at [email protected] or by calling (727) 535-4400. Forms should be lands and her mother, Josephine, was a young, vibrant more Drive, Tampa. Space is limited. RSVP by March returned approximately a month before the celebration and the announce- woman when she got engaged in 1940, then had her 18 to sylvie@usfhillel. org. ment is printed one to two weeks before the event, if possible. happiness shattered when Nazi Germany invaded • There will also be a screening on Tuesday, March her country and, in time, rounded up Jews and began 24 at 6:30 p.m. in the Miller Auditorium at Eckerd sending them to death camps. Josephine and her family College, 4200 54th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. Space were packed into a train bound for one of those camps is limited. RSVP by March 18 to thefhm.org/event/ when Americans liberated the train. Later Josephine neveragain or call the Florida Holocaust Museum at was reunited with her finacee and they married. (727) 820-0100, ext. 301. Elements of her parents’ experience and the rise of • The third showing will be on Wednesday, March anti-Semitism leading to World War II are included in 25 at 7 p.m., at Congregation Rodeph Sholom, 2713 the film, but it’s primary focus is on the re-emergence Bayshore Blvd., Tampa, followed by a reception. of the hatred that led to the Holocaust. In an interview Space is limited, RSVP by March 18 to info@rsholom. with Markus by the Jewish Journal in Los Angeles, she org or call (813) 837-1911. says “My parents assured me that the Holocaust was a The screenings are sponsored by a collaboration unique event in history that could never happen again. of the Florida Holocaust Museum, Tampa Bay area But 75 years later, here we are again.” synagogues, Hillels of the Florida Suncoast, and the Markus believes in order to stop a second Holocaust, Tampa and Pinellas Jewish federations. anti-Semitism needs to be confronted now, before it “We see white supremacists picking up their guns,” gains more momentum. Markus said. “We’ve heard classic anti-Jewish com- The film was created when producers who wanted to ments from members of Congress. Anti-Semitism has create a documentary about anti-Semitism in Europe all too often turned out to be an early sign of despotism. reached out to Markus, so they could tell the story Throughout human history, we have seen its rise in through her lens. different societies. Even after the Holocaust, we still “They wanted to have a personal story, not just haven’t found the answer to it.” FIBA selects 9 Israeli companies to launch into U.S. markets in 2020 The Florida-Israel Business Ac- the 2020 Launch Program are: generate predictions about when celerator (FIBA) has accepted nine • AEYE Health provides an waste will accumulate and when it Israeli companies to join its 2020 automated diagnostic screening needs to be picked up. Launch Program. Unlike prior solution that can revolutionize the • Skyline Robotics has auto- years, this year’s program focuses vision screening process and make mated all types of work at major on two industries that align with the it accessible for more than 1 billion heights, starting with window strengths of the Florida economy – people who need annual checks for cleaning. health and urban tech. diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, For more information, contact The FIBA Launch Program and age-related macular degen- FIBA at (813) 291-2300. is designed to help participating eration, among others that cause companies enter the U.S. market vision loss. and drive sales, as well as introduce • ArTack Medical develops a the businesses to potential inves- variety of tools for minimally in- tors and customers. FIBA will also vasive surgery. search for strategic partners to help • Milagro AI has reinvented the the Israeli companies hire and build way that artificial intelligence is their organizations in Florida. applied to predictive analytics in The nine companies were select- healthcare in order to address the ed out of a pool of 90 businesses. ongoing problems of hospital- The program began last month at acquired infections and readmis- FIBA’s Tampa headquarters in the sions. Bryan Glazer Family JCC. FIBA • Uniper-Care is a tech program is a project of the Tampa JCCs and that empowers older adults with Federation. an affordable means to remain The Tampa community will in their own home. Utilizing any have the opportunity to meet the television, the company offers a participating companies at FIBA’s daily schedule of interactive pro- With spacious private apartments, Connection to Innovation event at gramming and mental, social and the Glazer JCC on Tuesday, March physical sessions for seniors. Restaurant-style Kosher dining 10. The event will feature exclusive The urban tech companies are: discussions with Israeli entrepre- • ACiiST provides secure, high- & 24/7 personal care, neurs and local industry leaders performing data infrastructure for who will talk about innovation, “smart” cities and roads, without We’re here to cater to you! technology, and problem solving. typical disruption and prohibitive Food and drinks will be served. costs. The event will go from 6:30 to • Aura Smart Air LTD is an all- 8:30 p.m. at the 522 North Howard in-one indoor air purification and VISIT US ON THE WEB Ave., Tampa. Tickets are available quality control system that alerts WWW.WEINBERGVILLAGE.ORG for $25 at www.eventbrite.com/e/ you, identifies the problem’s origin, connection-to-innovation-march- offers solutions on how to rectify CALL US TODAY 10th-tickets-85125902867. it, and notifies if immediate action FIBA also is expanding its pro- or evacuation is required when 813.969.1818 gram beyond the Tampa Bay area hazards are detected. with the addition of a new road • Cemento is the first SaaS (soft- show that will take the companies ware as a service) tool focused across Florida. This initiative is in exclusively on the construction partnership with government, com- of multi-unit projects by utiliz- munity and corporate stakeholders ing military technology to enable in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Palm contractors to build higher qual- 13005 Community Campus Drive • Tampa, FL 33625 Beach, Orlando and Southwest ity buildings more efficiently. On the Maureen and Douglas Cohn Jewish Community Center Campus Florida. • GreenQ deploys cameras and AHCA LIC. # 08679 The health-related companies in sensors on garbage trucks that Kosher Facility - Diversity Welcome PAGE 10 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 12, 2020

The musician is also the national tramp, Three Dog Night and Gov- programs at ‘Kesher: The Con- ing, Middle East current events PARTY celebrity spokesman for PJ Li- ernment Mule (Allman Brothers). nection’ to welcome Rick, so stay discussion, and Israeli dancing. • CONTINUED from FRONT PAGE brary and the executive producer He returned to his Jewish roots with tuned.” Lunch catered by Jo-El’s Kosher the United States and abroad. He of PJ Library Radio and founder his debut Jewish album, “Tov,” in Prior to the 11:30 a.m. concert, Deli will follow Recht’s perfor- has worked to revolutionize the and executive director of Jewish the summer of 1999. His shift to the Kesher program will feature mance. genre of Jewish rock music as a Rock Radio, a 24/7 international Jewish music marked the birth of a Israel-related activities for chil- Tickets are on sale now, priced at tool for developing Jewish identity Jewish rock online radio station. blend of pop, radio-friendly music dren and adults. $5 for adults. Children are admit- in youth and adults across America. In addition, Recht is the executive with Hebrew, Jewish text, and so- There will be a PJ Library ted for free, though registration is “That’s the magic of Jewish director of Songleader Boot Camp, cial responsibility. birthday party for Israel and Israel- required at www.jewishgulfcoast. music. The interaction, the singing, a national song leader training pro- “We are so excited to have the themed activities and crafts for org/kesher. the dancing, and the powerful com- gram held in various cities around face of PJ Library come to Florida’s elementary school aged children. Congregation B’nai Israel is munity connection,” says Recht. the United States. Gulf Coast,” said Alex Sembler, For those in middle and high located at 300 58th St. N., St. Pe- “For me, it’s a dream come true to Recht has shared the stage with young family outreach and pro- school there will be an advocacy tersburg. Attendees are encouraged create and share in these powerful national acts such as the Guess gram coordinator at the Federation. toolbox program. Adult activities to bring a non-perishable food do- experiences.” Who, Chris Rock, America, Super- “PJ Library will be hosting special will include an Israeli film screen- nation for families in need.

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Calling all Menorah Manor volunteers! 35th Annual Jewish food festival ‘victim of own success’ Volunteer Recognition Luncheon By BOB FRYER One huge reason for the growing success is that Tuesday, March 24, 2020 Jewish Press organizers seem to have found that “sweet spot” for 11:30 AM – Appetizers • 12:00 PM – Lunch Anyone who has ever hosted a party and tried to guess picking festival dates. All four years the weather has how many friends will drop by, knows it’s tough to figure been picture-perfect and they have already picked Feb. Ida and Jules Lowengard Synagogue at the how much food to prepare. 28 for the 2021 festival. Marion and Bernard L. Samson Nursing Center It gets a lot tougher when more than 6,000 people Each year the menu seems to grow and organizers 255 59th Street North. St. Petersburg, FL 33710 show up – as was the case at the fourth annual Tampa are always looking for ways to improve. New this year Bay Jewish Food Festival at Temple B’nai Israel in was a separate tent for disabled folks, providing extra Clearwater on Feb. 23. room for those using walkers or wheelchairs while Music by Harpist Taylor Mills Krebs “We ran out of food at 1:30 p.m. (an hour before the volunteers made runs to get drinks for them. event was scheduled to end),” said Barbara Bloom, Aside from running out of food, Bloom says the RSVP by March 17 at 727.302.3710 one of three co-chairs of the event. The only food left festival this year went very smoothly and gave thanks or [email protected] over was a tray of stuffed cabbage that didn’t come to The Preserve at Clearwater for providing a shuttle out of the oven until most folks had gone home, and bus and to volunteers from the Sheriff’s Explorer unit Jo-El’s hot dogs – because owner Joel Goetz brought and Empath Health who helped with set-up and clean- 500 more kosher dogs than originally planned and still up tasks – earning community service credits. “Boiled & Baked nearly ran out. These were in addition to hundreds of temple volun- “We are a victim of our own success,” chimed in teers who each year have worked for days ahead of the the traditional way co-chair Sharon Finkelstein. event, as well as day of, to make it a success. Since its inception in 2017 when Largo Police esti- “We had about 25 people slicing meat the day before at the same location mated 3,000 to 3,500 showed up, the estimated turnout the festival,” Bloom said. for over 30 years!” has grown – to 4,000 in 2018, 4,500 in 2019 and 6,000- “For the [matzoh ball] soup and stuffed cabbage we plus this year. The first two years, they ran out of food had people of all generations working together prepar- Tues. – Fri. 6:00 am – Noon and each time upped the amount for the next event. ing the food,” Finkelstein said. “For a new member Sat. & Sun. 6:00 am – 1:00 pm Last year they had more leftovers than they wanted. of the temple it is the best way to meet new people. “We are still looking for the sweet spot, where we It is a real bonus – connecting people, having people 11 varieties of Bagels • 14 varieties of Cream Cheeses order enough not to run out, but not so much we have working next to one another and making friends.” lots of leftovers,” said Bloom. As retiring director of membership engagement, Smoked Salmon • Home-Made Rugelach While they may never get the amounts just right, they Bloom said she loves that. Coffee Fresh Roasted & Brewed on premises daily have hit on a formula for making it a fun community One tweak already planned for next year is to add event and a great fundraiser for the temple. Financially, pre-sales of pastrami and corned beef sandwiches to 1871 Gulf To Bay Blvd. (Clearwater) the 2020 festival was the best of the bunch. “We are so the list of what can be pre-ordered. ~ Next to Clearwater High School ~ grateful to our sponsors. What they provide covers all Bloom’s hope is the festival will grow into some- JP (727) 446-7631 the costs before the event, so the proceeds from sales thing even bigger. “There is so much more that can be go to the temple’s bottom line and helps keep the lights done in terms of bringing our community together and on.” Bloom said. I hope this is just a start.”

The signature offerings at the food festival were Carnegie Deli pastrami and corned beef. Temple volunteer Brett Finkelstein shows off the pastrami sandwich platter, with kosher pickle. Elijah Latham of Tampa, 4, gets a temporary spider tattoo applied to his hand. Elijah’s family are members of Temple B’nai Israel.

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4600 54th Ave S, St. Petersburg, FL 33711 Come see for yourself! Assisted Living Facility #6140 PAGE 12 A JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 12, 2020 Debate weighs in on Israel, Christian woman who lost son, dad when Netanyahu, embassy move gunman targeted Jews to speak in Tampa (JTA) – When the latest Demo- (He has previously said a move A Chris- At the Sisterhood Shabbat, Cor- promote dialogue for the betterment cratic debate turned to Israel, would not be “a first step” but tian woman poron will share her experience of the world through kindness, Sen. Bernie Sanders stood out by would be an option “if Israel whose life about how her and her family found faith, and healing. The foundation criticizing Israeli Prime Minister continues to take steps … that un- changed for- peace after the grief. engages a variety of communities, Benjamin Netanyahu. dermine the chances for a peace Mindy Corporon ever when two “The Sisterhood is proud to bring businesses, cities, and schools “I am very proud of being Jew- agreement.”) of her family members were killed Mindy to Tampa to share her story,” in SevenDays® Make a Ripple, ish,” Sanders said. “I actually lived Garrett then turned to Bloom- in an act of violence directed at said Sisterhood Co-President Diane Change the World, an experience in Israel for some months. But what berg, the other Jewish candidate Jews will speak at the Congregation Porat. “Anyone can be in the wrong which provides opportunities for I happen to believe, right now, on the stage. Bloomberg started out Schaarai Zedek Sisterhood Shabbat place at the wrong time. Her story is all people to increase kindness sadly, tragically, in Israel through by saying it was a mistake to move on Friday, April 3 to share her tragic meaningful to all of us. Each person through knowledge, mindset, and Bibi Netanyahu you have a reac- the embassy without “getting yet inspirational story. will come away inspired to make behaviors. tionary racist who is now running something back from the Israel SchaaraiiZedek is located at 3303 the world a better place through According to Corporon, “The that country.” government.” But, he added, “it W. Swann Ave. in Tampa. small things that can make a posi- killer wanted to rid the world of The Democratic front-runner was done, so you’re going to have Mindy Corporon’s life fell apart tive difference.” Jews, but what we’ve done is the was responding to CBS correspon- to leave it there.” on April 13, 2014, when an anti- A turning point in Corporon’s life complete opposite of that a hundred dent Major Garrett, who noted that Bloomberg also stressed the Semitic white nationalist gunman came eight months after the murders times, a thousand times, by bringing Sanders would be the first Jewish need for a two-state solution. opened fire in the parking lot of the when she was asked to speak at people together.” president and then asked the sena- “The real problem here is you Jewish Community Center in Over- a vigil for Abdisamad “Adam” * * * tor what he would say to American have two groups of people, both land Park, KS, killing her son, Reat Sheikh-Hussein, a 15-year-old The Sisterhood Shabbat will Jews who think he is not support- of whom think God gave them the Underwood and father, Dr. William Kansas City Muslim boy who begin with dinner on April 3 at ive enough of Israel. Garrett also same piece of land,” Bloomberg Corporon. The shooter also killed was run over and killed because 5:45 p.m., followed by the service asked: “Specifically, sir, would said. “And the answer is to obvi- Terri LaManno, a Catholic, one of his religion. This event led to at 7 p.m., where Corporon will you move the U.S. Embassy back ously split it up.” mile away at Village Shalom, a con- Corporon’s mission to encourage speak. The event is open to the to Tel Aviv?” Bloomberg also said the United tinuing care retirement community. understanding and kindness community, however, the dinner is Sanders’ condemnation of Ne- States should “push” Israel to “pull When arrested, the gunman’s first between people of different faiths. $10 per person and reservations are tanyahu came just two days after back” some “new communities,” words were, “How many Jews did She did this by establishing the required. Contact (813) 876-2377 the presidential candidate tweeted an apparent reference to Jewish I kill?” Faith Always Wins Foundation to or go online to zedek.org/calendar. that he would not be attending this settlements. year’s AIPAC conference over Sen. Elizabeth Warren also U.S. commercial airlines from landing in Israel dur- his concerns that the Israel lobby called for a two-state solution – ing heavy fighting between Israel and Hamas. The provides a “platform” for “leaders and said President Donald Trump Letter to the Editor next day Bloomberg flew to Israel on El Al. When who express bigotry and oppose had made it more difficult to Bloomberg appeared on CBS’s Face the Nation shortly basic Palestinian rights.” (As of achieve one. The Jewish Press welcomes Letters to the Editor. Letters are afterward, host Nora O’Donnell chastised Israel for press time, Democratic candidates “Donald Trump’s big mistake published on a space available basis with the paper reserving shooting a rocket into a hospital where children were confirming they would speak at is he keeps putting a thumb on the right to edit or reject letters for clarity, brevity, legalities or taste. Letters must be signed and bear the writer’s address and being treated. Bloomberg responded that Israel was AIPAC either in person or via the scale on just one side and that telephone number (which will not be published). The writer’s name targeting Hamas, not children; and that per their usual video message were former New moves the parties further away will be withheld on request. tactic, Hamas terrorists were in the hospital launching York Mayor Mike Bloomberg, from working out their own solu- rockets at Israeli homes. former Vice President Joe Biden tion here,” Warren said. The other Jewish candidate, Bernie Sanders, would and Sen. Amy Klobuchar.) On the question of moving back Is ‘yes’ a good thing? be the worst of the remaining candidates for American Sanders stressed that he be- the embassy, Warren said that “we Dear Editor: Jews and for Israel. Sanders is the preferred candidate lieved that “what our foreign should let the parties determine the Your February 14-27 issue asks in a headline above of Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib, congresswomen the masthead “Is 2020 really the year for our first Jewish policy in the Mideast should be capitals themselves.” who are frequently in the news for their anti-Semitic president?” I ask a follow-up question: Would a ‘yes’ about is absolutely protecting The Israel segment of the debate, remarks and tweets and their support for the BDS answer to the question you posed be a good thing? campaign against Israel. They campaign with and the independence and security which came near its conclusion, Shortly after Michael Bloomberg entered the race, I for Sanders. That’s all any Jew needs to know about of Israel.” But, he added, “you was one of the only moments registered as a Democrat so I could vote for him in the Bernie Sanders. cannot ignore the suffering of the where candidates took a break Florida primary. His philanthropy has given billions to With Sanders in the lead now, I wish I could be filled Palestinian people.” from attacking each other. The de- Jewish, medical and education causes and to efforts to with pride and thrilled with the prospect of a ‘Yes’ On the question of moving the bate was the last before the South stop the spread of assault weapons and illegal guns in answer to the question your headline poses. I’m not embassy back to Tel Aviv, Sand- Carolina Feb. 29 primary and America. feeling the Bern, however. Instead I’m feeling burned. ers said it was “something that we Super Tuesday on March 3, when Another of Michael Bloomberg’s virtues is his strong David Silverman would take into consideration.” 14 states hold nominating contests. support for Israel. In 2014, our FAA briefly banned Wesley Chapel CLASSIFIEDS ADS

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Advertise in Business & Professional Directory for as little as $40 per issue including web. For more information, call 535-4400 FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 12, 2020 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 13 600 people were expected in Italy Seder to celebrate for bar mitzvah – then coronavirus hit women’s journeys There will be a celebration of women’s snack time called “aperitivo.” By BEN SALES journey to freedom on Tuesday, March JTA news service The city’s Jews – who number about 10,000 – are facing the same challenges as everyone 24 at 6 p.m. when the 22nd annual Com- Ruben Golran had studied for a year and a munity Women’s Seder will be held at half in anticipation of this week, when 600 of else: Schools are closed, so people are scram- Congregation Beth Shalom, 1325 S. his relatives and friends were supposed to con- bling for childcare even as some of them still Belcher Road, Clearwater. verge on Milan to celebrate his bar mitzvah. go to work. The city is devoid of tourists, a Among those featured at the seder will First, he planned to have a ceremony Tues- mega-industry in Italy. There was a rush sev- day, Feb. 25, when he would put on tefillin, a eral days ago on grocery stores. The ban on be Beth Shalom’s spiritual leader, Rabbi Jewish ritual object, for the first time – a tra- large gatherings persists, and no one is sure Danielle Upbin; Rabbinical intern Lily ditional rite of passage. Then, a blowout party when things will return to normal. Lucey from Congregation Shomrei Emu- Thursday night, Feb. 27, catered by a local “We feel like everyone here in Milan be- nah in Montclair, NJ, and Cantorial Solo- kosher Israeli restaurant, and finally another cause it’s such a strange, unusual situation,” ists Laura Berkson from Temple B’nai ritual ceremony on Shabbat. said Claudia Bagnarelli, who co-founded the Israel of Clearwater and Joyce S. Liu Instead, Ruben’s parents found out Sunday, local Jewish day school. “Everyone is a little Photo courtesy of the Golran family from Temple Beth-El in St. Petersburg. Feb. 23, that everything would be cancelled. shocked. … Within [the space of] one day, Ruben Golran, a Milanese bar mitzvah boy, puts Musicians will include guitarist Eve Because of the rapid spread of coronavirus in they said the schools are closed and parents on tefillin for the first time. Most of his Bar Alman-Goldstein from Temple Ahavat northern Italy, regional officials prohibited have to deal with it.” Mitzvah festivities had to be curtailed due to the Shalom in Palm Harbor and violinist large gatherings. A day later, houses of wor- The community also has its share of unique coronavirus scare. Rebecca Zapen from Congregation B’nai ship were ordered closed. challenges: Despite the closure of houses of noon – more than 100 guests would expect to Israel and Temple Beth-El, both in St. Within a matter of hours, they called worship, people have tried to convene prayer dine on lasagna, ravioli and a delicious variety Petersburg. dozens of relatives across the globe, telling quorums in apartments, in case someone needs of Italian pastries. A specially prepared Community them to cancel their flights. On Tuesday, the to recite the mourner’s kaddish. Some students But at this bris, conducted by community Women’s Seder Haggadah will be used, tefillin ceremony included just Ruben’s close taking a gap year in Israel who returned home mohel Rabbi Shmuel Hezkia in a Milanese with readings and poems highlighting relatives and no friends – instead of the 400 for a short break are now stuck in Italy, barred synagogue, only a handful of families showed women’s contributions throughout the planned attendees. from returning to their programs. up – and there was no feast to be had. generations. There was no party Thursday night. Instead, Milan’s official Jewish community orga- Hezkia said the whole thing was over quickly. Sponsors for this event are Menorah nization has cancelled its regular classes and Ruben and his family dined at the Israeli res- Local officials have instructed Milan’s residents Manor, Lylah and North Pinellas chap- programs, including some celebrating the taurant that was supposed to cater the affair. to avoid public gatherings, and the last thing He- ters of Hadassah, Hadassah-St Peters- holiday of Purim, which is on March 10. They zkia wanted was to anger the local government As of presstime, they still were not sure what burg, Jewish Women International, and hope that things will return to normal before and provoke an investigation of the religious would happen on Shabbat. the Sisterhoods of Congregation Beth “He learned everything, he was ready, he the holiday comes. The community has also ceremony. set up a task force to assist people who live by “We thought of doing it in an apartment,” Shalom, Clearwater; Temple B’nai Is- was waiting for the whole family to come and rael, Clearwater; Temple Ahavat Shalom, then they said it isn’t happening, the synagogue themselves and need to get food and other ser- Hezkia said. “But because it was organized, Palm Harbor; Congregation B’nai Israel, is closed, you can go with your parents if you vices. The Jewish school is setting up classes and we had already sent invitations on St. Petersburg; and Temple Beth-El, St. want,” said Ruben’s mother, Nethaly Golran. via video chat. WhatsApp, we kept it as is.” “He made us very proud because, through all “A few people meet in apartments just to Hezkia has said that, except for the ban on Petersburg. of this, he was very mature. He never cried. He make the minyan but there are no people from gatherings, life has gone on pretty much as The seder is expected to draw about was sad, but he said, ‘It’s OK. It’s OK, mom. outside,” said Milo Hasbani, the president of normal. The thing he really notices is the lack 250 women and sells out fast. The cost It’ll be OK.’” Milan’s Jewish community. “These are the of tourism. is $35 per person. To RSVP, make check Jewish residents of Milan say this week felt kind of people who know each other.” “Italy and Milan live on tourism, people payable to Community Women’s Seder like the city, Italy’s economic capital, had shut Bar mitzvahs aren’t the only Jewish cer- who go out and spend, and unfortunately and mail to Congregation Beth Shalom, down: Soccer matches were cancelled, the emonies to be affected. A bris on Monday, that’s missing,” he said. “You can feel they’re 1325 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater, FL city’s Duomo – a major tourist attraction – was Feb. 24, also had to be scaled back. At a missing. We feel that this Shabbat there won’t 33764. Include your name and address, closed and restaurants were instructed to shut normal Milanese bris – which, unlike their be a kiddush, or guests to invite on Friday email address, phone number and names their doors before a national evening drink and American counterparts, are often held around night.” of attendees.

Pinellas County Schools for over 40 years. Survivors include her husband of 10 years Andre Benson; Michael and Sum- Obituaries mer Johnson, Andrew and William Benson, Victor and Genie ROBERT ANDELMAN, 59, of St. Petersburg, died Feb. Kleinfeld, Barbara Taks. The family suggests memorials to 24. He was born in Brooklyn and spent his youth in North the Pinellas County SPCA. (Curlew Hills Memory Gardens) Brunswick, NJ. After graduating from the University of Florida, GOLDIE LEVINSON, 98, of Tampa, died Feb. 26. She was he moved to Clearwater where he freelanced for many publica- born in St. Louis, where she raised her family. She was known tions, was the editor of the alternate publication, Tampa Bay for her cooking and enjoyed reading, playing mah jongg and Weekly and later created his own magazine, Jump Monthly. cards. Survivors include her son and daughter-in-law Howard He had a short stint as a music critic for the Tampa Tribune and and Sharon Levinson; daughter and son-in-law Jan and Mal worked in the Clearwater bureau of the St. Petersburg Times Segal; 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. The and covered pop music for the Times. He was the author or family suggests memorials be made to Covenant Place in co-author more than 15 books about business, culture and St. Louis. (David C. Gross Funeral Homes, St. Petersburg the arts, specializing in memoirs of CEOs for public or private Chapel) publication. He produced interviews in his long-running “Mr. Media” podcasts, featuring a variety of interviews of media and FLORENCE N. MEYER, 88, of Clearwater, and Richmond, entertainment figures including dozens involved in the comic VA, died Feb. 20. Born in Richmond, she was a graduate of 1750 Curlew Road • Palm Harbor • 727.789.2000 book industry. He coached girls’ soccer for the Shorecrest Thomas Jefferson High School. She worked as a financial CurlewHills.com • CurlewHillsPetCemetery.com Preparatory School middle school and Northeast Raiders. manager and administrator to several business and non- Survivors include his wife of 31 years, Mimi; son Charlie, his profits in Richmond. Survivors include her three daughters mother, Phyllis Andelman; sister and brother-in-law Lori and Al and sons-in-law; Karen and Ted Applestein, Anne Meyer Parsells; brother Ira, sister-in-law and brother-in law Cathy and and Phil Edwards, Stacy Meyer and Steven Pinchefsky; Rick Jackson. The family suggests memorials to the Comic five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, The family Book Legal Defense Fund. (David C. Gross Funeral Homes,. suggests memorials be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. (David C. Gross Funeral Homes, St. Petersburg Chapel) ELLEN MARION KLEINFELD BENSON, 72, of Safety Harbor, died Feb. 9. Born in New Rochelle, NY, she attended DOROTHY H. MILLER, 93, of St. Petersburg, died Feb. Mount Vernon High School before transferring to Boca Ciega 4. She was born in Philadelphia. Survivors include her son High School for her senior year. She was a graduate of the Hank Miller and her daughter Marlene Miller-Sherman; six University of South Florida with a master’s degree in special grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. (David C. Gross education. She worked as a teacher and administrator for the Funeral Homes, St. Petersburg Chapel) A Sacred Trust dwd tyb hrwbq tyb Our reputation for superior service and fair pricing has made us the area’s most often chosen Jewish funeral provider. Serving the Pinellas County Jewish Community since 1968

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General movie admission is $10, while took four years later again under his leader- Wednesday, April 1 at 7:15 p.m. at Carroll- FILM FESTIVAL costs vary for special programs. To purchase ship. His celebrity only grew after he fell in wood Villagio Cinemas • Continued from FRONT PAGE tickets or learn more about this year’s line-up love with an Israeli model. To the surprise of Tami is a 64-year old widow when she The March 29 event will begin with hors of films and events, visit tbjff.org. many, Perry converted to Judaism, adopted gets into a car accident with Beno, a 70-year- d’oeuvres and a cocktail hour at 5 p.m. at the The following are descriptions of the open- the Hebrew name Elisha Ben Avraham, and old sarcastic lone wolf widower. They are Bryan Glazer Family JCC, 522 N. Howard ing and closing films, as well as four others became an Israeli citizen. Despite all the both still suffering from the loss of their Ave., Tampa. The Patel Conservatory Or- which will be shown in the first three days of triumphs, though, there is a dark side to the loved ones when, in hopes of avoiding a chestra will perform throughout the evening. the festival. story, as Perry struggles with drug addiction. lawsuit, she invites Beno over to her place. Opening ceremonies will include presen- There are sharp differences in lifestyle and tation of the annual STARR Award, for those personality, but eventually they fall in love. who have helped make the film fest a success. Will the romance survive the scrutiny of This year’s recipients are Terri and Robert their children? Tankel and Bill Fleece, who represents the Herman Forbes Charitable Trust. “They have all been long term supporters of the festival, not only financially, but they all market the festival to outside groups,” said Brandy Gold, director of the film festival. “They are all true cheerleaders to the Tampa Bay Crescendo – Sunday, March 29 at 6:30 Saul & Ruby, To Life! – Monday, March 30 Jewish Film Festival and have created quite p.m. at Bryan Glazer Family JCC at 4 p.m. at Bryan Glazer Family JCC and a following when engaging in our events.” When world-famous conductor Eduard Tuesday, March 31 at1 p.m. at AMC Wood- The 2020 graduating class of the Hope Sporck (Peter Simonischek) accepts the job lands Square 20, Oldsmar Cohen Barnett Leadership Institute will also to create an Israeli-Palestinian youth orches- Saul, 94, a drummer, and Ruby, 90, ac- Picture Of His Life – Tuesday, March 31 be recognized during opening ceremonies. tra, he is quickly drawn into a tempest of cordion player, are both Holocaust survivors at 3 p.m. at AMC Woodlands Square 20 and Each year a screening committee selects sheer unsolvable problems. Having grown and musicians with an insatiable lust for life. Wednesday, April 1 at 3:30 p.m. at Carroll- the films for the festival. This year the com- up in a state of war, suppression or constant When filming began of the documentary, wood Villagio Cinemas. mittee, comprised of 30 film aficionados, risk of terrorist attacks, the young musicians they had just formed The Holocaust Survivor World renowned wildlife photographer was led by co-chairs Stewart Donnell and from both sides are far from able to form a Band, the first of its kind. Their dream was Amos Nachoum has swam with and photo- Roxana Levin. team. Lined up behind the two best violinists to one day perform their music in Poland, graphed anacondas, giant leopard seals, great A variety of activities have been planned – the emancipated Palestinian Layla and the their homeland where they endured unimagi- white sharks, orcas and crocodiles, all while in conjunction with this year’s film offerings: handsome Israeli Ron – they form two parties nable trauma. Their mission then, and now, unprotected. Now, at the age of 65, he is • After the showing of Hate Among Us who deeply mistrust each other, on and off- is to spread a message of world peace at a about to face his ultimate challenge: to swim, on Monday, March 30, there will be a panel stage alike. Will Sporck succeed and make time when anti-Semitism and prejudice are face to face with a polar bear while taking its discussion moderated by the Tampa Fed- the young people forget their hatred, at least growing throughout the world. Through the picture. Nachoum was the featured speaker at eration’s Jen Goldberg, executive director for the three weeks until the concert? With the sharing of their music and stories, they have the 2018 Bubbles and Bubbly gala fundraiser of Jewish Learning and Combatting Anti- first glimmer of hope, however, the political learned that they are also healing their own in Tampa for Hillels of the Florida Suncoast. Semitism. opponents of the orchestra show them how wounds while revealing their resilience. His interest in conservation brings attention • Following the showing of Indictment strong they are… Loosely inspired by Daniel to the most fragile regions of the underwater on Thursday, April 2, there will be a pre- Barenboim’s West-Eastern Divan Orchestra, realm, with preservation of the environment recorded Skype interview with Director Academy-Award nominated director Dror foremost in his mind. Yaron Zilberman. Zahavi (Alexander Penn, and Everything for * * * * * • Another pre-recorded Skype interview my Father) directs this gripping drama as a The rest of the film festival movies will be will be shown after the airing of I Was Not constantly growing “crescendo,” raising the profiled in the March 13 issue of the Jewish Born A Mistake on April 4 with transgender tension and conflicts until the last frame. A Press. They are: Yiscah Smith, who is the subject of the film. remarkable theatrical movie and contribution • God Of The Piano – Wednesday, April 1 • For three other films –God of the Piano, to the worldwide efforts toward understand- at 11:30 a.m. and Friday, April 3 at 4 p.m., King Bibi and Those Who Remained – there ing, humanity and peace. both at Carrollwood Villagio Cenemas will be “Conversation Café” discussions of Hate Among Us – Monday, March 30 at • Those Who Remained – Wednesday, the movies, moderated by Anat Schatzberger. 7 p.m. at Bryan Glazer Family JCC; panel April 1 at 1:30 p.m. and Friday, April 3 at 2 In addition, the film festival has two guest discussion to follow p.m., both at Carrollwood Villagio Cinemas speakers in its line-up, both on the final day This film depicts unique perspectives on • My Polish Honeymoon – Thursday, of the film fest, Sunday, April 5 at the Glazer anti-Semitism from young and old alike, April 2 at 2:15 p.m. at Carrollwood Villagio JCC: from Jew and non-Jew, from within his- Cinemas and Thursday, April 2 at 2:15 p.m. • Keren Ben-Horin is the historian, fashion toric Jewish neighborhoods in Europe, to at Studio Movie Grill in Seminole curator and author behind the movie Mrs. G, the streets of Charlottesville and Pittsburgh’s • Incitement – Thursday, April 2 at 7:15 which is about the famous Gottex empire. Tree of Life Synagogue massacre. This p.m. at Carrollwood Villagio Cinemas and She will speak following the documentary’s narrative connects real stories of current Thursday, April 2 at 7:15 p.m. at Studio screening at 2 p.m. survivors of violent anti-Semitism, to those Movie Grill, Seminole Aulcie – Sunday, April 5 at 3 p.m. at Bryan of the Holocaust. Hate Among Us illustrates • Dani Menken, director of two documen- • King Bibi – Thursday, April 2 at noonat Glazer Family JCC how renewed intolerance is taking root in taries being shown this year – The Picture of Carrollwood Villagio Cinemas and Thurs- Aulcie tells the inspiring story of Aulcie our communities, institutions and universi- My Life and Aulcie – will lead a Q&A fol- day, April 2 at noon at Studio Movie Grill, Perry, a basketball legend who led Maccabi ties, with far reaching consequences around lowing the 5 p.m. showing of the Jury Award- Seminole Tel Aviv to an upset win in the European the world. winning film Aulcie (See synopsis below). • Latter Day Jew – Friday, April 3 at Menken will chat with the audience and lead Championships. During the summer of 1976, Perry was spotted by a scout for Maccabi noon at Carrollwood Villagio Cinemas and a live auction for an autographed basketball Saturday, April 4 at 8 p.m. at AMC Sundial from the movie’s subject Aulcie Perry. Tel Aviv while playing at the Rucker courts in Harlem and was quickly signed to play 20, St. Pete Major sponsors of the 2020 Tampa Bay • I Was Not Born a Mistake – Saturday, Jewish Film Festival are the Florida Depart- for their fledgling team. The Israeli players immediately responded to Perry’s leadership April 4 at 9:45 p.m. at AMC Sundial 20, St. ment of State Division of Cultural Affairs, Pete Hillsborough County, Herman Forbes Chari- and that year they had what one Sports Illus- • Chewdaism, a Taste of Jewish Mon- table Trust, Film Tampa Bay and Sara and trated writer described as “the most extraor- treal – Sunday, April 5 at 1:30 p.m. at Bryan David Scher. To become a corporate spon- dinary season in its remarkable history” and Glazer Family JCC sor, patron of the Tampa Bay Jewish Film what Perry later called “the best nine months Festival, contact (813) 769-4725 or donate of my life.” In 1977, Perry helped the team to Love In Suspenders – Tuesday, March 31 • Mrs. G – Sunday, April 5 at noonat Bryan online at TBJFF.org. its first European Championship, a prize they at 7 p.m. at AMC Woodlands Square 20 and Glazer Family JCC Lawsuit: Israel app biased against Arab taxi drivers JERUSALEM (JTA) – An Israeli taxi service app is being sued by human rights lawyers in Jerusalem over its feature that allows riders to be almost sure they will not get an Arab driver. Gett riders can request the Mehadrin service, which provides a taxi that is not driven on the Jewish Sabbath. Since Arab drivers are Muslim or Christian, their cabs usually are driven on Saturdays. There is no such religious requirement that would prevent someone from riding in a car driven by someone else on Saturday. The class-action suit filed earlier this month in Jerusalem and first reported by The Guardian al- leges that the Mehadrin designation is a cover for discrimination against Arab drivers. “They give it a religious title. But, in fact, this is a proxy for a racist service that provides taxis with Jewish drivers,” Asaf Pink, a lawyer working on the case, told The Guardian. “Of course, they can’t just say ‘we don’t want Arabs.’” Gett counters that any driver can register to provide the Mehadrin service if they meet the requirements. Gett did not provide any documentation on how many, if any, Arab drivers were registered with the Mehadrin service. FEBRUARY 28 - MARCH 12, 2020 JEWISH PRESS of PINELLAS COUNTY A PAGE 15 Festival’s new Family Feature Films series serves up delightful trio New to the Tampa Bay Jewish Film Fes- Wednesday, April 1 at 5:15 p.m. at Carroll- shortly thereafter. What follows is a coura- buted at the 2019 Sundance Film Festival. tival this year is a Family Feature Films wood Villagio Cinemas geous adventure, as Anna and her family Noah Schnapp, who appears in Netflix’s series that includes the showings of three The Crossing tells the story of the adven- navigate unfamiliar lands and cope with the hit series Stranger Things, is a Brooklyn full-length family films, with the final film of turous 10-year-old Gerda and her brother challenges of being refugees. Anna has kid with an identity crisis hoping to unify the trio featuring professional cooking dem- Otto, whose parents are in the Norwegian to leave everything behind, including her his mixed-heritage family through food. onstrations and interactive family activities. resistance movement during World Wat II. beloved pink rabbit, and to face a new life Twelve-year-old Abe, son of an Israeli For the first time in over a decade, the film One day, just before Christmas in 1942, full of challenges. Oscar-winning filmmaker mother and Palestinian father, has been selection committee was easily able to select Gerda and Otto’s parents are arrested, leav- Caroline Link directs this adaptation of Ju- raised secularly, but the grandparents insist three films that would attract families. ing the siblings on their own. Following the dith Kerr’s semi-autobiographical bestsell- he choose being Jewish or Muslim. One side “The overall excitement of being able to arrest, they discover two Jewish children, ing children’s novel. This film is in German of the family prefers to call him “Avraham” share outstanding cinematography with a Sarah and Daniel, hidden in a secret cupboard with English subtitles and suggested for ages (in Hebrew), the other side “Ibrahim” (in Jewish lens with our youngest community in their basement. It is now up to Gerda and 10 and older. Arab), while his agnostic atheist parents call members is extremely rewarding. This has Otto to help Sarah and Daniel flee from the him “Abraham,” in English. But he prefers been a priority item for our committee for Nazis, cross the border to neutral Sweden Abe. While Middle East politics play out at many years,” said Brandy Gold, director of and reunite them with their parents. This is the dinner table, Abe escapes to explore his the film festival. a film about the confidence, uncompromis- culinary roots, meeting a Brazilian chef and When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit, The Cross- ing loyalty and great courage you can find food blogger who believes mixing flavors ing and Abe all encompass compassionate in even the youngest of children. This film can unite people. Learning his way around a stories involving children. The committee is in Norwegian with English subtitles and professional kitchen as an unpaid intern, Abe has grouped these three films together as a suggested for ages 10 and older. uses his newfound cooking skills to prepare a series and priced tickets at $5 per student Abe – Sunday, April 5 at 3:30 p.m. at Bryan Thanksgiving feast, hoping to finally bridge under the age of 18. Glazer Family JCC his family’s differences. This film is in Eng- Two of the films, Pink Rabbit and The Abe is a lighthearted dramedy, which de- lish and suggested for ages 8 and older. Crossing, are scheduled to run after school hours but not so late as to interfere with bedtimes. Those films will be shown in both Hillsborough and Pinellas counties. The third film, Abe, will be shown on a Sunday afternoon in Tampa with a professional cooking demonstration half an hour before the film and for half an hour after the film. In con- When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit – Thursday, junction with the festival’s closing film, the April 2 at 4:30 p.m. at Carrollwood Villagio basketball-themed Aulcie, will be shown that Cinemas and Thursday, April 2 at 4:30 p.m. same day. There will be basketball electronic at Studio Movie Grill, Seminole games and other basketball stations, which When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit is a gentle, families can participate in. beautifully rendered historical family drama. About the films: A German-Jewish girl takes her first steps into adulthood as world events intrude on her happy, carefree existence. Nine-year- old Anna is too busy with schoolwork and friends to notice Hitler’s face glaring from posters plastered all over 1933 Berlin. Then her life changes. To escape the Nazis, her father Arthur Kemper, a well-known Jewish journalist, has to flee to Zurich. The rest of The Crossing – Tuesday, March 31 at 5 p.m. the family – Anna, her 12-year-old brother at AMC Woodlands Square 20, Oldsmar, and Max and her mother Dorothea – follow him

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