Teammates and Enemies Jewish Family Services Update

L’CHAYIM www.JewishFederationLCC.org Vol. 42, No. 6 n February 2020 / 5780 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Teammates and enemies 7 Our Community By Brian Simon, Federation President 12 Jewish Interest hen I was growing up in about the pick-up basketball games I with someone, if we’re tied together, Kansas City, we used to used to play here in Southwest Florida we might fight and argue, but there’s a 19 Israel & the Jewish World Wplay football in the fall al- (shout out to Jason Moon and Scott lot of pressure to keep it within bounds 20 Jewish Film Festival most every day after school. There was Lewin and Jeff Kleiman and Brian because we’re going to be together for a regular group of 6-8 boys who would Fox, et al). The teams were different a long time. That’s normal human re- 26 Commentary play. We knew each other’s strengths every time. The goal was to create fair lationships. On social media, it’s lots 28 From the Bimah and weaknesses. For example, I was games with competitive balance. of interactions with people you may short and slow I’ve been thinking about this in the never see again. Some of them don’t 32 Focus on Youth but pretty good at context of identification and our seem- even exist. A lot of them are using fake 34 Organizations catching passes, ingly fractured society. Social media names. There is no future. There are no and threw the ball seeks to make us take sides. It’s like bounds. And most dangerously, it’s not 36 Community Directory well enough to we’re constantly being asked to choose real communication.” play quarterback, a team. But with darker consequences. Haidt’s observations remind me 36 Temple News too. Each time we Jonathan Haidt is a social psy- of psychologist Robert Cialdini’s came out to play, chologist and author of The Righteous great insight from his book Influence. we made new Mind and, more recently, The Coddling Cialdini coined the term “social proof”  Brian teams. of the American Mind. He is sounding to describe the principle that we tend to Simon I played with alarm bells about the damage of social copy what others are doing, especially Michael Sullivan and Jeff Riffe as media to our democracy. when we are unsure. teammates one day. I got Paul Hem- “We’re really good at conflicting We are constantly bombarded with bree and my brother Danny the next and competing,” Haidt says, “but also information about complex issues – day. Your opponent today would be making up, forgiving and coming back international relations, trade, domes- 2 your teammate next time. together. We do this in our families tic policy. One could not possibly be PJ Library Family I could just as easily tell this story all the time. If you have a long future continued on next page Hanukkah Bash Jewish Family Services update By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach & Food Pantry Coordinator s you may know, the Federa- support the Federation know what we tion and ask, “Can you help me?” The tion provides food and emer- do and the impact that it has on the food that you bring in, the gift cards Agency assistance to people people in our community. People who that you donate, and your contribu- living in Lee and Charlotte counties, are hungry, who lack family or any tions to the Marcia Can Help Fund all 5 whether or not they are Jewish. (This kind of support, or who don’t have the make it possible for the Federation to Federation’s Senior Lunch will be on the quiz.) first clue about how to access available say “Yes.” Every single thing that you Bunch update I asked my father what he thought resources, walk in or call the Federa- continued on next page about my January L’CHAYIM article and he said it was long. When I asked about the actual quality of the article, Your Federation team forecasts he replied, “How come there’s always someone crying?” It was the same tone A PERFECT SEASON of voice that lawyer Reuben Warschof- of programming sky from the movie Norma Rae uses 18 when Norma Rae signs up to join the URJ Biennial hosts union. He looks at her signature and For more information 525 congregations says, “How come everyone down here visit Jewishfederationlcc.org has three names?” My knee-jerk response was to say, “What are you talking about? There Monthly Programming Forecast isn’t always someone crying!” Ongoing activities at the Federation: Mah Jongg * Jewish War Veterans * BBYO But then I thought more about his comment and the stories I share each month. What’s true is that when people February March April May 32 2020 2020 2020 2020 reach out to Jewish Family Services, Fort Myers BBYO update they often feel desperate, confused,

despairing and are in crisis. I talk with people when they are vulnerable, and 02 01 05 03 more often than not, many feelings sur- Opening Day Closing Day Film PJ Library IsraelFest face as they share the story of their cir- Film Fes�val Fes�val Passover Party 2020 Have an item you’d cumstances or ask for assistance. 03 ‐ 28 16 19 13 People also become emotional Jewish Film Lion of Judah Holocaust Annual like to share? Memorial Mee�ng when they learn that the Federation Fes�val Program is indeed able to help them. The feel- 25 Need to reach the 23 Skype the Author ing of relief is monumental for clients JFF at Bat Yam Out & About Films editor of L’CHAYIM? when they learn that their lights will be Witness Theater FSW, Punta Gorda

turned back on, their water will start Send an email to Israeli Folk Dancing running again, or they will be able to Monthly Sundays (Sept-Apr) buy their medication. Senior LChayim36@ The requests for emergency assis- LUNCH tance are increasing and the calls come BUNCH Jewishfedera�onlcc�org gmail.com. in daily. It’s important that those who

9701 Commerce Center Court POSTMASTER: NONPROFIT ORG Fort Myers, Florida 33908 DATED RELIGIOUS U.S. POSTAGE NEWS ITEMS. PAID VISIT THE FEDERATION ONLINE AT: TIME SENSITIVE– FT. MYERS, FL PLEASE EXPEDITE! PERMIT NO. 175

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social service philanthropy culture L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 2 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION

Program notes VE

To donate to By Debbie Sanford, Program Director SA & don’t have to tell you what a great time everyone or email me if you are interested in attending. The $ $ BUYING: INSTANT CASH CLIP had at the PJ Library Family Hanukkah Bash… response to sponsorships and ticket sales was over- the Federation’s you can see it in their faces in the photos accom- whelming. I’m so pleased and look forward to more $ $ I VE panying this article. Thanks to our host, Temple Ju- growth year after year! Please frequent the businesses dea, and the wonderful volunteers, the social hall was and enjoy the services of those corporations that have $ $ SA HIGHEST PRICES PAID! & Annual Campaign, filled with crafts, cookies to decorate, games and, of supported the Jewish Federation’s film festival. I hope

course, latkes. Thank you to all you enjoy it and I will see you at the movies. CLIP who came out. Keep an eye out

GIVE BRUCE KODNER GALLERIES THE VE call 239.481.4449 for our next PJ event in April. PJ Library sends free, SA & award-winning books that cel- OPPORTUNITY TO EXCEED YOUR EXPECTATIONS!! or visit ebrate Jewish values and cul- CLIP ture to families with children GOLD & SILVER COINS PAPER CURRENCY 14kt • 18kt • 22kt GOLD

6 months through 8 years old. rd VE JewishFederationLCC.org To get more information or to IMMEDIATE PAYMENT 3 Generation Expertise • Call Today SA &  Debbie sign-up to receive PJ books,

Sanford please visit www.pjlibrary.org. CLIP As you read this article we are getting ready for th the Opening Day event of our 24 Annual Jewish VE OUR MISSION

DIAMONDS • SAPPHIRES SA Film Festival. Unfortunately, the event is sold out, To strengthen and enrich the Jewish but there are a few tickets available for the screening &

Community by providing and supporting of Golda’s Balcony, The Film. There are just a few CLIP philanthropic, educational and social tickets left for our closing event on Sunday, March 1 RUBYS • EMERALDS

service programs locally, in Israel and VE and the filmFiddler: Miracle of Miracles. Please call Photos by Debbie Sanford

throughout the world. SA ALL DIAMOND JEWELRY • WATCHES &

OUR VISION CLIP A Jewish Community that is based on ANTIQUES • ART OBJECTS • OIL PAINTINGS Jewish values such as Tzedakah VE SA

(benevolence), Tikkun Olam (repairing & the world) and K’lal Yisrael (taking BUYING ALL HIGHWAYMEN OIL PAINTINGS: BEANIE responsibility for one another). BACKUS • HAROLD NEWTON • ALFRED HAIR • ETC CLIP VE SA

Rolex • Cartier • Patek Philippe • Tiffany • Bvlgari & all Wrist and Pocket Watches & Buccellati • Chimento • David Webb • David Yurman • Cartier • Tiffany • Harry Winston • John Hardy • Chopard Mid Century Furniture, Oil Paintings & Accessories: Andy Warhol • Calder • Miro • George Nelson • Lepho • Paul Evans CLIP

• Phillip Laverne • Nakashima • Dunbar • Frank Lloyd Wright • Vladimir Kagan • Dunbar • Charles Eams • Knoll VE

L’ SA & Jewish news published monthly by

Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties CLIP 9701 Commerce Center Court, Fort Myers, FL 33908 (239) 481-4449 • Fax: (239) 481-0139

Online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org VE  SA

February 2020 • Volume 42, Number 6 & 

President: Brian Simon CLIP Board: Paul Bartrop • Karen Fine • Carolyn Gora Jerry Greenfield • Andi Horowitz

Linda Idelson • Marsha Kistler • Sara Krivisky VE

Michele Laboda • Rozzi Osterman • Barbara Siegel Diamonds ROLEX Estate Jewelry Gold Coins Oil Paintings Sterling Silver SA

Sylvia Simko • Robert Thomas • Sherri Zucker & Executive Director: Alan Isaacs

Program Director: Debbie Sanford CLIP Executive Assistant: Lori Ramos Jewish Family Services: Jodi Cohen Brian Simon...continued from previous page

 informed enough to understand the nuances of each The way I see it, the world is a better place when VE Editor/Designer: Ted Epstein (239) 249-0699 situation – nor could the journalists providing the in- you recognize that your opponent today may be your SA Advertising: Jim Lewin (239) 634-6923 & Aliza Katz (913) 244-7247 formation. The modern answer to this issue is for the teammate tomorrow. I grew up distrusting Evangeli-

Ian Sanford (845) 649-9903 media to provide social cues for how to feel about it. cal Christians who, I was taught, only wanted to con- CLIP  Unfortunately, it appears that the more impassioned vert me. Today, American Evangelical Christians are L’CHAYIM invites correspondence on subjects of interest to Jewish people. Partisan political opinions will not be published, someone is about a particular issue, the more their some of the strongest allies of Israel. VE but opinions on subjects affecting the Jewish community are opinion seems to spread. Then, once we have chosen People are not purely good or evil. Unfortunate- SA & welcome. All inquiries regarding copy for L’CHAYIM should be sides, it becomes more difficult for cooler heads to ly, we’re being asked to believe that they are. More Patek Philippe Chihuly Glass Jade Statues Picasso Pottery Russian Enamel Peter Max directed to the editor. All news material must be very clearly printed or typed (not in all-capital letters) and double-spaced. prevail. specifically, we’re being asked to believe that our CLIP Electronic submissions encouraged. The editor reserves the As Haidt says, “The great majority of Americans “team” is good and the other “team” is evil. That’s right to edit for space and content. MID CENTURY FURNITURE & ACCESSORIES VE Photographs should be clear, black-and-white or color are really reasonable. But the dynamic has changed fine when you’re talking about real enemies who seek prints. If you wish a photograph returned, include a stamped, so that saying reasonable things can get you in big to do harm to America and Israel, like Hamas, Iran SA

STERLING SILVER, & self-addressed envelope of appropriate size. trouble.” and North Korea. It’s not healthy to talk about our KPM • SEVRES • MEISSEN ROYAL VIENNA The Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties disclaims responsibility or endorsement of the views expressed by the I am a white, male, Jewish political moderate domestic political opponents the same way. FLATWARE, & TEA SETS CLIP writers and claims by advertisers. who has lived in Missouri, Texas, Kansas and Florida. It would be obvious to say that we Americans all JUDAICA • SWAROVSKI • HERREND

I have friends on both sides of the political divide. are supposed to be on the same team, but that’s not GORHAM MARTELLE • GEORG JENSEN • CARTIER VE I identify with both sides of the political divide, de- the only point I’m trying to make. The point is, our TIFFANY • DAUM • GALLE • ARTGLASS SA MARCH ISSUE LALIQUE, WATERFORD, BACCARAT, DAUM, STEUBEN & pending on the particular issue. I’m sure you have as opponents today CAN be our teammates tomorrow, BOHEM • ROYAL DOULTON EDITORIAL DEADLINE: many or more potential “identifiers.” Each of us is but not if we turn them into enemies. LOUIS VUITTON • CHANEL CLIP Wednesday, February 5 complex. ROOKWOOD • B&G LIEBER • BIRKIN HANDBAGS VE Jewish Family Services...continued from previous page WELLER • DODIE THAYER SA & do to support the Federation makes a difference, and and she said, “Thank you. This means more to me and Grow your business for once, I’m not exaggerating. Every. Single. Thing. my family than you will ever know.” Another new ANTIQUE FURNITURE • TAPESTRIES • MOSAICS ORIENTAL RUGS • CHANDELIERS CLIP In December, Jewish Family Services was able food pantry client was speechless after I handed him

with L’CHAYIM. to help clients with local moving costs, storage fees, a gift card, and kept looking at the card and then back ANTIQUE CLOCKS • ART GLASS ORIENTAL FURNITURE VE phone and medical bills. at me several times. SA Reach 4,000 local Food pantry update Thank you to our loyal volunteers who keep ev- ALL MODERN & ANTIQUE OIL PAINTINGS ORIENTAL HARDSTONES & As you may know, pantry donations can be dropped erything moving along smoothly: Barbara Gribin, AMERICAN & EUROPEAN PAINTINGS OBJECTS D’ART • PIANOS CLIP Jewish residents off any time the Federation office is open, which is Donna Cotler, Mary Beth Mandelkorn, Suzanne Or- typically Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 kin, Laurie McConville, Randi and Payton Wolf. BRONZE & MARBLE STATUARY • PIANOS ERTE BRONZES & LITHOGRAPHS VE p.m. (This will also be on the quiz.) A special thank you to Pelican Preserve and SA through this paper. The Federation food pantry is small physically Paseo for asking community members to bring food RUSSIAN ENAMEL • OIL PAINTINGS • OBJECTS D’ART CHINESE FURNITURE • PORCELAIN • HARD STONE &

but mighty in spirit and the volume of food we get in pantry items, gift cards and cash donations to their CLIP For more information and give out. In December, we distributed food to 51 community Hanukkah parties. A special shout out to COPENHAGEN • HUMMELS BIRD & MUSIC BOXES • ORIENTAL RUGS

people from 14 households. I offered a Walmart gift Sandy Abrahams and Barbara Vinson for schlepping VE

card to a new food pantry client who had to wait 12 the food to the Federation post-party. We are grateful SA

or to place an ad, call Lori & days for her next month’s food stamps to be available for the outreach on behalf of the Federation.

at 239.481.4449 x5 BRUCE KODNER GALLERIES CLIP HOUSE CALLS AVAILABLE or send an email to For a continuously updated calendar of events, VE Serving SA rd Florida Toll Free: 1-800-356-3637 [email protected]. visit www.JewishFederationLCC.org. 3 Generation Indian River, & Expertise 24 Hour On Call: 1-800-920-0067 St Lucie, CLIP INSTANT PAYMENT Call Mr. Kodner: 1-561-822-7043 Martin, and VE

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PROOF O.K. BY: ______O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS BY:______

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE

ADVERTISER: BRUCE KODNER GALLERIES PROOF CREATED AT: 8/28/2019 11:43 AM SALES PERSON: Meredith Zajac-Leedham PROOF DUE: - NEXT RUN DATE: 09/27/19 PUBLICATION: SPEC ADS SIZE: 10 col X 20 in TR-SPAD0828111248. INDD L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 OUR FEDERATION Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 3

Program notes VE SA $ $ & BUYING: INSTANT CASH CLIP $ $ VE

$ $ SA HIGHEST PRICES PAID! & CLIP

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• Phillip Laverne • Nakashima • Dunbar • Frank Lloyd Wright • Vladimir Kagan • Dunbar • Charles Eams • Knoll VE SA & CLIP VE SA & CLIP

IN STANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • INSTANT CASH • N • S T H A S VE N A C T

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Visit us: www.BruceKodner.com CLIP TR-SPAD0828111248

PROOF O.K. BY: ______O.K. WITH CORRECTIONS BY:______

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY • SUBMIT CORRECTIONS ONLINE

ADVERTISER: BRUCE KODNER GALLERIES PROOF CREATED AT: 8/28/2019 11:43 AM SALES PERSON: Meredith Zajac-Leedham PROOF DUE: - NEXT RUN DATE: 09/27/19 PUBLICATION: SPEC ADS SIZE: 10 col X 20 in TR-SPAD0828111248. INDD L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 4 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION

The Jewish Federation Annual Campaign provides the resources to strengthen and enrich our Jewish community locally, in Israel and around the world. By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach & Food Pantry Coordinator

YOU MAKE IT HAPPEN

This year please consider making an additional campaign contribution in honor or memory of a loved one. Because kindness is contagious, we would like to highlight your generosity in L’CHAYIM and notify personally those whom you honor. You may choose how your generosity is noted and how we share your mitzvah with the community.

Stay in touch throughout the month. �� L�� C�� C�� S�� Sign up for the Federation’s e-blasts. Local �e�is� E�uca�on an� Culture Get the latest information Community‐wide Jewish Educa�on and Culture Programs for all ages including the Jewish Film Fes�val, Jewish Author on upcoming community Events, Israel Celebra�on, Jewish genealogy, Israeli folk dancing, social groups, etc. events and cultural L’CHAYIM published monthly to keep the Jewish community activities, breaking news, informed about local, na�onal and interna�onal Jewish issues. Community Rela�ons ac�vi�es include monitoring an�‐ updates from Israel and Semi�sm and issues of separa�on of church and state in the community. lots more. Israel Advocacy and Ini�a�ves to strengthen local Jewish community �es with Israel. Holocaust Educa�on through the Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida to middle and high Send an email to school students in the community.

Overseas [email protected] Funding to the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American Jewish Joint �istribu�on Commi�ee �J�C� for full spectrum social services to Israel and Jewish communi�es in �� countries around the world. Partnership ��ether rela�onship with the Hadera‐Eiron Region in Israel.

Local Seniors Services Holiday baskets and teen visits to seniors and senior facili�es for Rosh Hashanah, Hanukah and Passover. Seniors & Volunteers Lunch Program. Emerging and pressing needs related to senior housing, health and sociali�a�on.

Local Case Management Services Non‐sectarian, individual and family outreach, informa�on and referral services. Individual life coaching and support services. Photos courtesy of Helene Glocer

Local Emergency Services Food Pantry and Publix food cards.

Emergency ﬁnancial assistance grants. INDIGENT FUND PACESETTERS Educa�on and aid associated with natural disasters.

The Federation expresses special gratitude to our Indigent Local Community Services Support families of children with special needs. Fund Pacesetters for the example they set for the rest of us.

Addressing pressing community needs related to volunteerism, Anonymous ins�tu�onal coopera�on and community assessment and Jack Cohen - Marcia Can Help planning. Jackie & Alan Cadkin Naomi Bloom & Ron Wallace �e�is� Community �oun�a�on  Sherri & Ira Zucker An endowment that ensures the long‐term ﬁnancial base of Toni & Stuart Morgenstein charitable, social and educa�onal programs in our community. Needs‐based college scholarships and study scholarships in Karin Fine Israel. Shalom Dancers Projects and programs aimed at Jewish community enrichment. Barbara & Earl Magdovitz Mellow Mah Jongg

The Jewish Federation loves our GENEROUS DONORS

INDIGENT FUND The Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel Grant is available Israeli Folk Dancers Joseph & Sheila Cramer The Joseph Horowitz Israel Travel Grant is available Marty & Judy Freling Rozzi & John Osterman through the Community Foundation of the Jewish through the Community Foundation of the Jewish Paul & Sylvia Simko Robert & Carloyn Siegel Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. Robert & Bette Batson David & Jodi Gutstein Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. Bruce & Kathy Greenberg Sheila & Gerald Laboda Word of Life Ministries Gene & Andrea Sipe Dr. Michael & Catherine Raab Word of Life Ministries

The grant may be used for travel to Israel to participate inThe programs grant may that be are used volunteer for travel or toeducational Israel to participate in nature. FOOD PANTRY in programs that are volunteer or educational in nature. Temple Beth El Victor Gold OUR HOPE is that these THIS GRANT is for Jewish OUR HOPE is that these THIS GRANT is for Jewish Temple Judea The Kramer’s programs will enhance residents of either county programs will enhance residents of either county Israeli Folk Dancers Leo Capsuto Jewish knowledge and who are 25 years old or Jewish knowledge and who are 25 years old or Mellow Mah Jongg Norma Jean Singleton identity in preparation for younger and can demon- identity in preparation for younger and can demon- Sara & Brian Krivisky Arlene St. Clair participation in American strate a financial need. participation in American strate a financial need. Boni Raitt Pelican Preserve Jewish life. Academic standing and Jewish life. Academic standing and Judy Lefkowitz Osterman family community involvement community involvement The Komito’s Idelson family may also be considered. Ruth Lefberg Paeso Community may also be considered. Harry Cotton Lynda Adler Mindi & Brian Simon Shalom Life Center

For more information or an application, For more information or an application, visit our website at JewishFederationLCC.org. Jewishfederationlcc.org visit our website at JewishFederationLCC.org. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 OUR FEDERATION Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 5 Senior Lunch Bunch update By Jodi Cohen, Senior Outreach & Food Pantry Coordinator o end a year of fabulous free monthly senior luncheons, the TFederation’s December lunch was held for the first time at Calusa Harbour in Down- town Fort Myers. We were warmly welcomed by ev-

eryone at Calusa and had a deli- Sales & Use Tax Recovery, cious lunch that Audit �efense and Consul�ng included latkes, Ira H. Zlatkin,

in their dining lighted to include Calusa Harbour as a Contact Ira for a FREE review of CPA,MST,CFST

 Jodi Cohen room overlooking generous community partner. your Accounts Payable to see if 8916 Tropical Court the water. Right At Home home health you qualify for a tax refund. Fort Myers, FL 33908 �� L�� C�� C�� S�� care donated gift cards that were hand-

ed out as prizes during a raffle after the Fax: 239‐245‐8876 239-898-0332 lunch. As part of the Federation’s role Local �e�is� E�uca�on an� Culture Email: [email protected] Community‐wide Jewish Educa�on and Culture Programs for in providing information and resources The senior luncheon is a chance all ages including the Jewish Film Fes�val, Jewish Author for seniors, we appreciate the opportu- for Jewish seniors to gather, eat a little www.PegFin.com Events, Israel Celebra�on, Jewish genealogy, Israeli folk nity to hold the Senior Lunch Bunch something, learn a little something and dancing, social groups, etc. at various locations so people can see make friends. There is always room at L’CHAYIM published monthly to keep the Jewish community what is available. The Federation is de- the table for YOU. informed about local, na�onal and interna�onal Jewish issues. Community Rela�ons ac�vi�es include monitoring an�‐ Semi�sm and issues of separa�on of church and state in the NEXT SENIOR LUNCH BUNCH: community. Thursday, February 20 at 12:30 p.m. Israel Advocacy and Ini�a�ves to strengthen local Jewish community �es with Israel. Holocaust Educa�on through the American House, 14001 Metro Pkwy., Fort Myers Holocaust Museum of Southwest Florida to middle and high RSVP by Friday, February 14 to Jodi Cohen at school students in the community. 239.481.4449 x2 or [email protected] Overseas Funding to the Jewish Agency for Israel and the American The Jewish Federation would like to thank Jewish Joint �istribu�on Commi�ee �J�C� for full spectrum social services to Israel and Jewish communi�es in �� countries around the world. PELICAN PRESERVE & PASEO Partnership ��ether rela�onship with the Hadera‐Eiron Region in Israel. for inviting their residents to bring food pantry

Local Seniors Services donations to their community Hanukkah parties. Holiday baskets and teen visits to seniors and senior facili�es for Rosh Hashanah, Hanukah and Passover. Seniors & Volunteers Lunch Program. Emerging and pressing needs related to senior housing, health and sociali�a�on.

Local Emergency Services

Food Pantry and Publix food cards. Emergency ﬁnancial assistance grants. Educa�on and aid associated with natural disasters.

Local Community Services Support families of children with special needs. Addressing pressing community needs related to volunteerism, ins�tu�onal coopera�on and community assessment and planning.

�e�is� Community �oun�a�on An endowment that ensures the long‐term ﬁnancial base of charitable, social and educa�onal programs in our community. Needs‐based college scholarships and study scholarships in Israel. Projects and programs aimed at Jewish community enrichment.

Reina L. Schlager CPA/PFS,* RHU *Personal Financial Specialist

( Initial Medicaid Planning ( Life Insurance Audits Sundays, 2/9, 2/16 & 2/23 ( Tax Planning ( Long Term Care Insurance All ages & levels of dance experience are ( End of Life Planning No fee charged for a review ( Retirement Rollovers & welcome. Wear comfortable shoes, bring Retirement Income Planning We are our clients’ a water bottle AND A FRIEND! financial partner

Call Reina Today! 239-333-0490 Jewish Federation Community Room

SCHLAGER SCHLAGER & LEVIN (SS&L) provides tax advice & tax strategies services. Securities offered through JW Cole Financial, Inc (JWC), Member SIPC. Investment advisory services 9701 Commerce Center Ct., Fort Myers offered through JW Cole Advisors, Inc (JWCA). SS&L and JWC/JWCA are not affiliated entities. Neither JWC nor JWCA nor their representatives provide legal, tax or accounting advice. If advisors do provide such advice or tax strategies services, they do so in a capacity other than as a registered representative or investment advisor. *PFS designation is regulated by the AICPA, not a State or Federal agency. RSVP a MUST to Marsha Kistler

Congratulations to the Jewish Federation for another great [email protected] Jewish Film Festival! ~ Bob and Reina Schlager L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 6 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR FEDERATION

“Thank you” to the following supporters of L’CHAYIM for their contributions Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center update to help underwrite the cost of bringing news of the local, national By Susan Suarez, President & CEO and international Jewish community to your mailbox every month! MEDIA MOGULS: Shirley & Byron Frank Phyllis Lee Stephen Pilzer Jewel Faerber Rabbi Bruce Diamond Carol Price Jacob Rubin Michael & Lynda Rubenstein Lory Kirby Barry Cohen Israel Bajarlia Jill & Carlos Weil Mark Brennaman Linda Levine Betty & Jim Rubenstein David & Esta Berger E.C. & Carol Roark Lubov Ruvinskaya Stanford Levin Edwin L. Lyons Muriel Freedman Marianne Green Brill Naomi Bloom & Ron Wallace Doreen Kostel Charlotte Lefton Howard & Nancy Barrow Janice Nord Marty Freling Inna Kotlyar PUBLISHERS: Rosalyn Shraiar Joyce Bell Roy Kessluk Bert Kurland Norman G. Newman Irving Wolfe Howard & Debbie Baum Eileen Roth Charles Weisinger Robert & Bette Batson Gail Iris Richter Rhoda Miller Gail & Dick Foster Susan Ebbets Betty & Chuck Massie Robert & Dotti Ruberto Esther & Steve Wiener Jeffrey & Roberta Kushner George & Joyce Rosinger Carol Lovitch Lydia Gattanell Richard Olitsky Sharon & Irwin Bosworth Nannette Palumbo Suzi & Howard Imanuel Jeff Avon Gerald Razowsky Marvin & Lesley Porter Diane Langan H. Richard Hendler Tino Martinez Gary & Marlrna Maisel Ron & Lin Klein Barbara Siegel Rosa Benaim Prado Steve & Vicki Zellner Joan Decter Judith Spiegel Scott & Sonia Schwartz Jack & Norma Kohn Arnold & Debbie Most Daved & Paula Rubien Howard & Jane Gold Albert & Yana Smolyar Janice Rosenthal Rabbi & Mrs. Stephen Fuchs Shelly Grosky Robert & Reina Schlager Leonard & Renee Minsky Arthur & Johanna Willner Stephanie & Stuart Stern Stephanie Tokson & Alexander Farkash Herb Kupferschmid Martin & Betteann Sherman Faye Kirch Robin Kessler Daniel & Ellen Fox Shelly & Harvey Handler Gary & Mary Skogebo Ruth Lefberg Barry Roth Steve & Toni Goodman Gary & Alicia Starr Shelby & Beth Goldman Joel & Eve Aron Judith Lefkowitz Howard & Brenda Sheridan Harvey & Bobbi Goldberg Rheta Kanen Arnee R. & Walter A. Winshall Joyce & Richard Greenwald Rosalind Owitz Beverly Keen & Arnie Obstein Susan Glasser EDITORS: Phyliss Langberg Kimberly Kaufmann Julia Perry Stephen Wener Elizabeth & M. Charles Bakst Clive & Sunny Lubner Robert & Isabel Bernson Louis Kapp Larry & Bonnie Levoy Norma Rosenberg Beatrice Allen Neil & Barbara Henry Michael & Ellen Feingold Richard & Joan Davis Stephanie Levine Daniel & Lisa Bendetowitz L&C Guckenheimer Ludmila Goldenberg Jerry & Barbara Snyderman Arlene R. Foreman Mike & Ronnie Lamm Diana & Elliot Schwartz Joel Shapiro SUBSCRIBERS: Lionel & Marcia Schuman Barry & Cheryl Fulmer Stanley Smulyan Joel & Renee Sugar Ira & Ailene Stein Marsha Gray William & Roberta Osborn Michael & Tanya Hochschild Howard Silverman Irwin & Helen Rappaport Cindy Rogan Bruce & Kathy Greenberg Marvin & Judy Weiner Rita Peterson Robert & Jeanette Burke Gloria & David Parsons Harry & Bea Colter Steve & Annette Paine Herb Goldenberg Randi Wolf Ruth Segel Gail Bass Robert & Marilyn Harris Philip N. & Carla Sherwin Rich Bornfreund Richard & Pamela Simon Judith Leeder Jill Schreidell Doris Loigman Alan & Edina Lessack Harvey & Carol Brand Svetlana Vogel Alic Kier Andrew & Judith Wolff Ronny & Marie Taschner Herb & Jean Marks Stan & Joanne Targia Dr. Robert & Shelah Luber Judy & Irving Pennock Julie Phillips Jack & Ellen Esformes Sheila & Merlin Marquardt Melvin & Shelia Goldstein Phyllis & Bernard Aronson Morton & Dorothy Zabolotsky Judith Yevick Toby & Sandi Sauls REPORTERS: Harvey & Jodi Cohen Neil & Barbara Frank Beverly Meisel Francine Chester Ilya Zeldes Lorraine Robinson Dr. Daniel Porecki Paul & Jane Shaw Steve & Carol Cohen Roberto & Rachelle Luna Irving & Carol Friedman Martin Kawadler Sharon Berry Stanley & Rebecca Freeman Diane Shein Fran Waldman Sandi Falk Norman Rosenthal William Liverant David & Jodi Gutstein Joel Falik Sari Rutt Debbie Gutterson Bruce & Harriet Lupschutz Ira Grasgreen Chandler & Shirley Lucas John Kampner Maurice Kabili Diane Feik Linda C. Moon Arnold & Leslie Vollmer Robert Shapiro Janet Richardson Steven & Karol Karpf Shelly Goldenberg Claire Witkowsky Roberta Mitnick Candace Patton Max Liberles Richard Sobel Sheila Vihnanek Ruth Belkin Paul Conez Pauline Chusid & Jerry Williamson Acknowledgments will continue in Judith Mayer Paula Agranove Elizabeth Shevach Morton A. Goldberg subsequent issues for those contributions Barbara Carlin that arrive after this issue’s deadline. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 OUR COMMUNITY Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 7 Holocaust Museum & Cohen Education Center update By Susan Suarez, President & CEO e continue to have a full Born in Germany, she was an opportunities and Program advertising continues with two sessions this calendar so far in 2020, only child whose father was arrested are available. The Sponsor Reception month: February 6 – “All the News Wwith education programs on Kristallnacht. As Nazi violence will be held from 5:30 to 6:00 p.m., Unfit to Print,” and February 20 – at schools and the Museum, a new escalated, her mother and grandmother and the dinner will begin at 6:15 p.m. “The Other Triangles: The Pink, the exhibit, multiple group tours, and decided to send the 11-year-old Ruth Interest for this event is already high, Purple and the Brown.” Each lecture sponsored events. on a Kindertransport to safety in Swit- so don’t delay in getting your tickets! takes place at Hodges University in In addition, we zerland. She was placed in an orphan- If you haven’t seen our new ex- the White Community Room from have hosted age there for the duration of the war. At hibit in the Estelle and Stuart Price 10:00 a.m. to noon. Only a few tickets many new and the beginning, they maintained contact Gallery, we invite you to do so. “Art are left, and they must be purchased returning visitors. with her, but eventually their letters & Propaganda in Nazi-Occupied Hol- on at www.HMCEC.org prior to the Now through the stopped coming. She later found land” was created by the Anne Frank lecture. No tickets will be available at end of April, we out that her father had been killed in House in Amsterdam and is distributed the door. are offering ex- Auschwitz in 1942, but details about in North America by the Anne Frank For information on the many ways panded hours on her mother went no further than to say Center for Mutual Respect in New you can support the Museum’s mission  Susan Tuesdays through she “disappeared.” York (www.annefrank.com), which to teach the lessons of the Holocaust to Suarez Fridays from As an older teenager, Ruth emi- provided us with a variety of original inspire action against bigotry, hatred 12:30 to 5:00 p.m., with two docent- grated to the British Mandate of lithographs, woodcut prints and pro- and violence, please contact me at led tours at 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Palestine, where she was trained as a paganda posters. The exhibit will be 239.263.9200 or Susan@HMCEC. Weekend hours remain the same at scout and a sniper. She was wounded on display through Tuesday, March 31. org. I hope to see you at the Museum 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. with tours at 1:30 in action in the 1948 war. Following The Elliott Katz Lecture Series soon! p.m. her recovery, she moved to Paris, With all our programs and tours, our goal is to educate and inspire action against bigotry, hatred and violence. The support of our volunteers and donors make this important work REALTY GROUP possible. In the words of some of our visitors: “An intense couple of well- spent hours. Thank you.” “The tour taught my 11-year-old many impor- Frye Commercial Group tant things.” “My students’ eyes were COMMERCIAL & INVESTMENT REAL ESTATE opened to the importance of being an UpStander rather than a ByStander. SALES & LEASING Thank you!” Triumph 2020, our annual fund- Dr. Ruth Westheimer Hal Arkin raising event, is scheduled for Mon- where she continued her education and (239) 910-5363 cell • [email protected] day evening, March 2 at Grey Oaks became a professor of psychology. In Country Club in Naples. This year’s the mid-50s, she moved to the U.S. Direct (239) 689-2246 • Ofﬁ ce (239) 489-0444 special guest speaker is the famous and continued her career. 7910 Summerlin Lakes Drive, Fort Myers Dr. Ruth Westheimer. Not many Join us at Triumph 2020 to learn www.ftmyerscommercial.com people are aware that Dr. Ruth is a more about Dr. Ruth’s remarkable Holocaust survivor. Nor do they know life. Please visit www.HMCEC.org about her remarkable experiences fol- for more information. Tickets start Each Ofﬁ ce Independently Owned and Operated lowing the war. at $150. Event Sponsorships, Patron

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TRIBUTES BAR MITZVAH The board and staff of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties Mazel Tov to Jonah Francis Rioux, son of extend condolences to the Crane family on the passing of Mort Crane. Corey and Elizabeth Rioux and Nancy Allen, and big brother to Emma, who will be called to In memory of Mort Crane the Torah as a bar mitzvah on Saturday, Febru- from Rozzi & John Osterman ary 15. Jonah is a 7th grade honor roll student from Sheila & Gerald Laboda at Three Oaks Middle School. He enjoys being part of the school’s band, playing the steel In honor of Walter Raab drums. He is also on the school’s debate team. from Dr. Michael & Catherine Raab Jonah is an avid animal lover and has been a vegetarian for the past five years. He enjoys In memory of Judy Freling playing video games, reading and spending from Rozzi & John Osterman time with his family. Jonah is grateful to Rabbi Bruce Diamond of The Community Free Synagogue for his constant support In memory of Shirley Newman and commitment to teaching and studying with Jonah in preparation for his Jodi & David Gutstein upcoming Bar Mitzvah celebration. Each month, L’CHAYIM will list your Tributes. Please send them to Lori Ramos BABY NAMING Mazel Tov to Whitney and Lee Rabidue, at the Federation at [email protected]. who presented their daughter Sanibel Gabrielle to the people of The Community Free Syna- gogue during Sabbath Eve worship on January 3, when her Jewish name was announced to be Levanah Yohannah. She received a blessing from all those in attendance. Community Minyan at OBITUARY Morton J. Crane, 94, passed away in leadership, Crane’s affirmative action Fort Myers on Thursday, December 19, and equal employment opportunity after battling cancer for over 11 years. efforts were recognized by the U.S. Mort worked for the Chicago Mil- Equal Employment Opportunity Com- Monday-Thursday Evenings 5:45pm waukee Railroad on a Co-op program mission, the Chicago Urban League, through Northwestern, and after gradu- the United States Department of La- Sunday Mornings 9:30am ating he worked for Hollabird & Root bor, the Contractor’s Employment As- Architects in Chicago. In June 1946, sociation, the Builder’s Association of he formed Consolidated Construction Chicago and the Chicago Economic Company. In June 1947 he formed Development Corporation. Crane Construction Company, which After retiring to Fort Myers, Mort is still in existence today. In 1971, served on the boards of the Southwest Come and be counted Crane Construction was 172nd among Florida Symphony and the Lee County U.S. contractors based upon volume. Alliance of the Arts. By the late 1970s, Crane Construc- Mort was an avid tennis player. In tion employed more than 300 people, March 2005, he was honored by the Please call Tab in our office at 239-433-0201 erecting some of the most well-known Men’s 50 Plus Tennis League of Lee buildings in Chicago and other major County for over 15 years of service. or email [email protected] if you have cities across the country. In Chicago, During this time, Mort led this orga- among numerous buildings consid- nization from a small beginning to its any questions or would like to commit to a ered pacesetters in the construction in- membership of 1,000 players in 2005. dustry, Crane Construction built Lake Today it has 1,600 members. schedule or specific dates. Point Tower, Outer Drive East, Mid- Mort is survived by his wife Beth Continental Plaza and Ontario Place. (nee Hart) of 40 years, his son Jeffrey Outside of Chicago, he worked in De- (Debra) Crane and daughter Donna troit, New Orleans, Long Boat Key and (Mark) Chudacoff. He is further- sur Las Vegas, where he built the original vived by grandchildren Leslie (Brad) This month’s Caesars Palace. Hammerman, Carrie (Andrew) Block, During Mort’s career in the con- Michael (Jessica) Chudacoff, Jamie struction industry, he was instrumental Chudacoff and Scott Chudacoff, and advertisers in eliminating unfair hiring practices great grandchildren Ari and Noa Block This publication is brought to you each month thanks to the support within the United States Gypsum and and three nephews. He is also survived of our advertisers. Please be sure to use their products and services, Otis Elevator companies. In August by his mother-in-law Phyllis Hart, sis- and mention that you found them in L’CHAYIM. 1972, he was honored as Man of the ter-in-law Augusta Crane, and sister- Advanced Physical Therapy.....13 Higginson Tax & Accounting...31 Year on the cover of Engineering News in-law and brother-in-law Marcia and Record for his work in getting minori- Jeffrey Baker. Ajax Paving Industries...... 11 Irving Lewin, Music Lessons...31 ties into forbidden trades. In 1983, Beth wishes to give a special thank Alliance Financial Group...... 16 Israel Handyman Inc...... 30 Crane Construction Company received you to Dr. William N. Harwin and the Amavida...... 27 Jason’s Deli...... 19 the only award ever granted for the uti- staff at Florida Cancer Specialists for American House...... 29 Kushner & Kushner Attorneys..34 lization of minority business enterpris- their extraordinary care and kindness Hal Arkin, Realtor®...... 7 David Lovitch, Broker Assoc...31 es by the U.S. Housing and Urban De- during these many years. Art of Fashion and Moore...... 31 Michael Shapiro Photography..35 velopment (HUD). Also, under Mort’s ArtFest Fort Myers...... 11,17 Naples Jewish Congregation....14 Atrium at Liberty Park...... 7 Norman Love Confections...... 35 Each month, L’CHAYIM will list your Life Cycle events Gwen Baker, Realtor®...... 31 Paragon Pools...... 31 – births, B’nai Mitzvah, engagements, weddings, Howard N. Barrow, MD...... 31 PCC Tile...... 29 anniversaries and obituaries. For B’nai Mitzvah, Bat Yam Temple of the Islands.15 Pegasus Financial Consulting.....5 please include up to 150 words about your child. Bruce Kodner Galleries...... 3 Alan J. Rubinstein, Attorney.....31 Calusa Harbour...... 18 Reina L. Schlager, CPA/PFS...... 5 Submit your events to [email protected]. Cypress Cove...... 10 Seniors Helping Seniors...... 28 Photos are appreciated; please e-mail as JPGs at 300dpi. Harold Eskin, Attorney...... 31 Shell Point...... 9 FGCU...... 38 Shemtov Title...... 31 FineMark Natl. Bank & Trust...39 SK Lawyers...... 31 Florida Specialists in Urology..31 Snyderman’s Shoes...... 31 L’CHAYIM delivers! Gateway Accounting & Tax Svcs.19 Southwest Florida Symphony...14 Introduce your business to a POWERFUL ® Susan Glasser, Realtor ...... 29 Taschner Periodontics...... 35 demographic and reach 4,000 readers Gordon’s Pool & Spa Service...31 Temple Judea...... 8,25 Green Schoenfeld & Kyle, LLP.31 The Bagel Factory...... 31 each month for pennies per reader! Gulf Breeze Hair Studio...... 31 The Print Shop Ink...... 15 For ad rates and deadlines, Gulf Coast Orthodontics...... 13 The Terraces at Bonita Springs.12 Dr. David Heligman...... 30 Bob Vinikoor, Realtor®...... 19 contact Lori at 239.481.4449 x5 Henderson Franklin...... 31 Wilkes Weinstein Financial Grp.28 or [email protected]. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 OUR COMMUNITY Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 9

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EXPLORE TODAY! Call (239) 529-4749 or 1-800-780-1131 or visit www.shellpoint.org Shell Point is located in Fort Myers on the banks of the Caloosahatchee River just 2 miles from the Islands of Sanibel and Captiva. Shell Point is a nonprofit ministry of The Christian and Missionary Alliance Foundation, Inc. ©2020 Shell Point. All rights reserved. SLS-4076-20 L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 10 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties OUR COMMUNITY ArtFest Fort Myers – Let art elevate your everyday ArtFest Fort Myers is the place to be on February 1 and 2 with an Opening Night featuring 65 festival artists on Friday night, January 31. his exceptional fine art festi- design/display element to her pieces. we are doing to our “ val is a true community-based “My goal is to create future heirlooms planet. The more you Tevent that showcases over – timeless designs in precious materi- look, the more details 200 fabulous professional artists. It’s als that will withstand the test of time, you see. Each paint- a perfect blend of fine art, family ac- both physically and stylistically,” af- ing is a conversation tivities and unique art installations,” firms the artist. See all of Joan’s art- piece, elegantly ren- explains Judy Weiner, Board Chairman work on her website at joanmichlin. dered in brilliant color of ArtFest Fort Myers. “ArtFest Fort com. in a decidedly painter- Myers artists represent the best of the John Leben ly style. Enter his art best, and you won’t see more exciting Leben’s paintings use humor, fantasy fair booth and you’ll and diverse artwork anywhere else in and surrealistic imagery to offer off- be transformed into Southwest Florida!” beat solutions to problems like global another world, unlike Meet a few of the artists who make warming, endangered species and anything you’ve ever beautiful art and will be exhibiting at over-population. Each painting can seen before – a world right out of the For more information, please visit ArtFest Fort Myers the first weekend be enjoyed on many different levels. fertile imagination of this major artist. ArtFestFortMyers.com - Like Us on in February: They make you smile at first, but then, See all of Leben’s work on his website, Facebook - Follow Us on Instagram Joan Michlin they make you think about the damage LebenArt.com. - Tag us #artfestfm Joan Michlin is a prominent New York Your $125 per person Membership Fast Festival Facts: artist and goldsmith who has been cre- in the VIP Club means reserved week- WHAT: A juried fine arts festival fea- ating exciting and trendsetting gold end parking, admission to the Friday turing over 200 national artists, high jewelry for 20 years. Her one of a kind Night Opening VIP Club Tent with de- school art competition, high school wearable sculpture often perches upon licious food and drinks, plus unlimited sidewalk chalk competition, interac- an exquisite art box – adding another access to the VIP Club Tent with break- tive arts, children’s crafts, fine food fast treats, a delightful lunch & bever- and entertainment. ages all weekend long. WHEN: February 1 & 2, Saturday 10 Returning in 2020 We Are Over- am - 5 pm & Sunday 10 am - 4 pm; flowing increases awareness and chal- Opening Night, Friday January 31 5 – abbi Bruce Diamond, leader lenge behavior inspiring the recycle, 9 pm of The Community Free Syna- re-use, up-cycling movement and con- WHERE: Downtown Fort Myers on gogue, will teach Mishlay, the serving our natural resources. Be sure Edwards Drive in the River District R Book of Proverbs, each Thursday in to visit We Are Overflowing, a collec- COST: FREE admission February from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in tion of four professional sculptures cre- PARKING: Adjacent parking lots, the congregation’s Community Hall, ated from re-purposed and discarded street parking and City Garages are 10868 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers materials. It will spark your imagina- open. Look for the directional signs (The Southwest Florida Masonic Cen- tion and, perhaps, begin a conversation and flags. ter). about rethinking waste! Traditionally attributed to the wise King Solomon, the Book of Proverbs Read the current and recent issues is a repository of ancient practical wisdom and moral insights on topics ranging from married life and raising of L’CHAYIM online at children to government, commerce and society. www.JewishFederationLCC.org. Found in the Ketuvim, the “Writ- Explore More. Active Senior Lifestyle

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b yeearsars e l Art Talk e C in By Arlene Yedid he Collier/Lee Chapter of Ha- His fame largely results from his magi- dassah proudly invites you to a cal depictions of Jewish folk life of his ExperienceArtFest as aVIP Tspecial program on Thursday, native Russia. Chagall’s reputation also Receive VIP Perks & FREE ParkingALLweekend! February 27, when noted art historian rests on his magnificent stained-glass Joan Jacobs presents an Art Talk about windows commissioned for Hadassah the art and legacy of Marc Chagall. Hospital at Ein Karem, Chicago’s Art Joan Jacobs is recognized as a noted Institute and the UN. art historian whose Art Talk lectures Join us for this special Hadassah have attracted extensive national and program on Thursday, February 27 international audiences. Locally at from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m. at Vi at Bentley Artis—Naples, her annual Art Talk Village, East Clubhouse, 850 Retreat series attracts large audiences. Drive, Naples. Joan Jacobs’ handmade, custom- You are encouraged to make early For more information, please visit ized, museum-quality images bring her reservations as the event will be well at- ArtFestFortMyers.com - Like Us on presentations to life as she passionately tended by those who have been inspired Facebook - Follow Us on Instagram & delves into an artist’s techniques, includ- by Joan Jacobs’ Art Talks and Marc February 1 2 - Tag us #artfestfm ing using aspects of light, shadow and Chagall. Tickets are $18 in advance and Fast Festival Facts: OPENING NIGHT perspective that create artistic master- $25 at the door. For more information WHAT: A juried fine arts festival fea- pieces. or reservations, call Debbie Kaprove pm turing over 200 national artists, high January 31,6 Chagall is considered “the quintes- at 860.558.3331 or Dale Hackerman at school art competition, high school Edwards Drive & Hendry Street sential Jewish artist of the 20th century.” 609.828.3765. sidewalk chalk competition, interac- Downtown Fort Myers Riverfront tive arts, children’s crafts, fine food Support the arts in this gathering of art connoisseurs and entertainment. $ just like you as you enjoy all the benefits of being a VIP. WHEN: February 1 & 2, Saturday 10Rabbi Diamond to teach 125 per person am - 5 pm & Sunday 10 am - 4 pm; Don’t miss the biggest VIP Club Tent on Opening Night, Friday, January 31 Opening Night, Friday January 31 5 –the Book of Proverbs art event of the year! Overlooking the downtown waterfront and glorious sunset abbi Bruce Diamond, leader ings” that comprise the 3rd section of – Gourmet hors d'oeuvres from 8 fine restaurants 9 pm of The Community Free Syna- the Tanakh, the Masoretic canonical VIP Party is an outdoor – Wine and Beer / Music by Silver Sneakers Band WHERE: Downtown Fort Myers on tented event - rain or shine! gogue, will teach Mishlay, the Jewish scriptures, the Book of Prov- – 70 fabulous artists Edwards Drive in the River District R VIP Club Tent Saturday & Sunday, February 1 & 2 Book of Proverbs, each Thursday in erbs is not part of the annual liturgical COST: FREE admission February from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. in synagogue readings. Nevertheless, its Garden setting overlooking the downtown waterfront PARKING: Adjacent parking lots, the congregation’s Community Hall, influence on Jewish thought and prac- – Mimosas, coffee and scones to start your day street parking and City Garages are – Catered specialty lunch / Afternoon Snack Bar 10868 Metro Parkway, Fort Myers tice is pervasive. As an example, the open. Look for the directional signs – Wine, beer and more all day (The Southwest Florida Masonic Cen- famous tribute to the good wife, Eshet and flags. – 215 fabulous artists ter). Hayil (“A Woman of Valor”), Proverb’s Easy reserved VIP parking all weekend! Traditionally attributed to the wise final chapter, is traditionally recited by

King Solomon, the Book of Proverbs the husband to his wife before each and s s a l G is a repository of ancient practical every Sabbath Eve meal. , o t wisdom and moral insights on topics The class is free and open to all. o m i j u F

ranging from married life and raising Participants are encouraged to bring n o r

children to government, commerce and their own Bibles and to read the Book a h S

t Bucher Wealth Management society. of Proverbs before the first class on s i t Member FINRA, SIPC r Found in the Ketuvim, the “Writ- Thursday evening, February 6. A Temple Beth El and RESERVE YOUR TICKETS TODAY! ArtFestFortMyers.com Temple Judea partner in tikkun olam Senior Outreach Program By Barbara Gribin and Suzanne Orkin emple Judea’s Women’s Cha- Committee, and to date, we have dis- vurah has joined Cycle Forward tributed over 40,000 women’s products Tto help less fortunate women in to 15 food pantries in Lee County. Lee County receive sanitary products The entire organization has distrib- on a monthly basis. We wish to thank uted over 80,000 supplies including to Leni Sack and Jan Klein for organizing Haiti, India and England. their group, and donating to help move The need is great, especially in Come out for lunch, see familiar the Cycle Forward. Lee County. Food stamps will not pay faces and meet new friends at Temple Judea came to our rescue for any products. We accept donations our free monthly senior lunches. when we were running low on supplies from individuals, groups and any orga- Thursday, February 20th and money. nization that will help us. Please join us 12:30 PM In 2017, Sophie Draluck, then a in the practice of tikkun olam, which is American House 16-year-old Jewish high school student part of our Jewish tradition. 14001 Metro Pkwy from Highland Park, a Chicago suburb, Please add us to your list of chari- Fort Myers began collecting and distributing prod- table donations in 2020. (RSVP required by Fri., Feb. 14th) ucts to poor women. Thank you to all who have contrib- We joined Sophie and started Cy- uted. We couldn’t have done it without Thursday, March 19th cle Forward Florida in August 2018 at you! 12:30 PM Temple Beth El, through the Mitzvah Discovery Village 2619 Forum Blvd. Fort Myers (RSVP required by Fri., Mar. 13th)

Let us know if you will be driving or if you would like a volunteer to pick you up.

RSVP—Jodi Cohen 239-481-4449, ext. 2 or [email protected]

Please bring your non-perishable food donations for the Federation food pantry to the Senior Lunch Bunch. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 12 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST Aging Jewishly – What our traditions teach us about growing oldA Pulitzer-worthy investigation of escaped war criminals A dangerous combination: Drug abuse and older adultsBook review by Philip K. Jason, Special to L’CHAYIM By Rabbi Barbara Aiello t was touch and go but Sam survived older Americans who are prescribed Carmona highlights the dangers of drug do, it’s just too late to address addiction open heart surgery. Although he had Xanax or Valium to help them sleep or abuse among the elderly and notes that in any meaningful way. Jay goes on to Ijust turned 83, Sam was recover- quell anxiety become hooked.” Oz and apart from The New Jewish Home pro- say that, “Even if a doctor approaches ing well, and his sons Jake and Zack Roizen claim that these percentages gram, there are only two other in-house the issue, the older adult may simply were grateful and relieved. As they translate into an even more shocking elderly addiction recovery programs switch doctors or deny a problem ex- left the hospital, Zack reminded Sam statistic: more than two million seniors (Florida and Mississippi) in the entire ists.” The author points out that, “It is that they’d have are addicted to prescription drugs. Se- United States. usually the adult children who decide to make a stop. nior abuse of alcohol and prescription Which begs the question: What to take action and help motivate an “You only have medications is one of the fastest growing can be done? If our aging mother or older parent to accept treatment, through enough pain pills health problems in the United States. father seems to be self-medicating with either informal or formal intervention.” for three days,” Add ethnic issues into the mix a strong opioid, or if an elderly person Easier said than done, especially Zack said. “We and professionals find that drug abuse realizes that he is drug dependent, where when an addicted parent’s behavior is need to fill the among Jewish seniors is of particular can they turn for help? manipulative, erratic or abusive. Our prescription so concern. The New Jewish Home in Drs. Oz and Roizen suggest that Jewish traditions teach us to honor our you’ll have pills New York City reports that “There is a visit to a general physician is an im- parents, but as one Aish Rabbi empha- for the next two a pervasive myth that addiction is not portant first step, but even more impor- sized, “That does not require honoring Rabbi Barbara Aiello weeks.” a Jewish issue… The myth that Jews tant, seniors and their family members the sickness in them.” “No way,” Sam bellowed. “I’m not are somehow protected from addiction should emphasize to their doctor that Where substance abuse is con- taking that stuff. I know what happens. reinforces shame and isolation and can the problem is serious. They should cerned, the aging senior is suffering You want more and more. Listen, kids. inhibit Jewish seniors from seeking press for referrals to psychologists, ad- from a disease – often hidden and If I’m hurting, I’ll take some aspirin. needed help.” diction specialists and support groups unacknowledged. But if statistics are That way I won’t get hooked and turn For this reason, The New Jewish that are designed especially for older even moderately accurate, it’s a serious into a drug addict!” Home sprang into action, creating the adults, and choose a program that offers disease that needs understanding, atten- Jake and Zack rolled their eyes, Geriatric Substance Abuse Recovery psychological maintenance and relapse tion and prompt intervention. shook their heads, passed the phar- Program. Launched just three years ago, prevention. Above all, seniors should be For 10 years Rabbi Barbara Aiello macy and made for home. But both of it is the first nursing home-based, in- honest about how addiction is affecting served the Aviva Campus for Senior Sam’s sons were confident that in time patient substance abuse program in the their lives. Life as resident rabbi. She is rabbi of they could convince Dad to “take his United States. The goal of the program Author Debra Jay discusses the doc- the Reconstructionist synagogue, Ner medicine.” is a straightforward one: trained men- tor and elderly patient relationship in her Tamid del Sud in south Italy, and serves Not so many years ago, Sam’s re- tal health professionals and addiction book, Aging and Addiction. She writes as visiting rabbi in Rhodes, in the oldest luctance to take prescription pain killers specialists work with clients “to ensure that some physicians have internalized synagogue in Greece. Contact her at was seen as an overreaction. After all, that Jewish individuals and their fami- the myth that either old people do not [email protected]. drug addicts, according to the stereo- lies who are impacted by addiction find have drug problems, or that when they type, were street people, ne’er-do-wells support within the Jewish community and criminals. Seniors who needed pain and receive education and a safe space medication were in no danger of joining to receive support.” For a continuously updated that group. Maybe so, but Sam’s senti- Recently, similar programs have ment wasn’t so far off. surfaced, each one emphasizing that, According to Drs. Mehmet Oz and just as young children and adolescents calendar of events, visit Mike Roizen, “The United States has have psychological needs specific to 4.6% of the world’s population, but their age and stage, the same holds true consumes 80% of the world’s opioids, for drug-addicted seniors. Writing in www.JewishFederationLCC.org. (while) a recent study found 25% of the Pacific Standard, journalist Chelsea

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Assisted Living Facility License #12385 | COA: #08075 L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 13 Aging Jewishly – What our traditions teach us about growing oldA Pulitzer-worthy investigation of escaped war criminals Book review by Philip K. Jason, Special to L’CHAYIM A dangerous combination: Drug abuse and older adults Citizen 865: The Hunt for Hitler’s their efforts. other group of immigrants: Jews team at The Washing- Hidden Soldiers in America, To accomplish this, she provides who survived the Holocaust and ton Post, she has won capsule biographies of many key fig- migrated to the U.S. to build many major awards in do, it’s just too late to address addiction by Debbie Cenziper. Hachette Books. ures, illuminating their ambition, their new lives, perhaps shopping at print journalism, includ- in any meaningful way. Jay goes on to 320 pages. Hardcover $28.00. frustrations, their sacrifices, their home the same supermarkets as the ing the 2007 Pulitzer say that, “Even if a doctor approaches hen Adolf Hitler’s defeat in life, their intelligence and their courage. hidden SS functionaries and Prize. Cenziper is the the issue, the older adult may simply World War II was imminent, They are real people we get to know other mass murderers of the co-author of the critically switch doctors or deny a problem ex- a great number of Nazi func- and like. Third Reich. acclaimed Love Wins: ists.” The author points out that, “It isW tionaries made their way to the United The title of the book refers to Jakob Reimer might even have The Lovers and Lawyers usually the adult children who decide States and essentially hid in plain sight. Reimer, one of the monsters who did been a neighbor of Lucyna Who Fought the Land- to take action and help motivate an They moved into what he was told and helped slaughter and Feliks, whose saga fills mark Case for Marriage older parent to accept treatment, through American cities untold thousands of Jews in Trawniki, the beginning of the book. Toward the Equality. She was recently either informal or formal intervention.” and suburbs, took Poland, where, in the early 1940s, the end, we discover that the couple married named the Director of Investigative Easier said than done, especially on new identi- Nazis set up a “school” for committing in the Warsaw Ghetto, lived through Journalism at the Northwestern Univer- when an addicted parent’s behavior is ties, and success- mass murder. hell, made it to the U.S., raised a fam- sity Medill School of Journalism. manipulative, erratic or abusive. Our fully evaded any The book’s attention-getting open- ily, enjoyed grandchildren and realized This review first appeared inWash - Jewish traditions teach us to honor our responsibility or ing focuses on the story of 19-year-old most – if not all – of their dreams. ington Independent Review of Books and parents, but as one Aish Rabbi empha- punishment for Feliks Wojcik and Lucyna Stryjewska, Passionate, provocative and artis reprinted by permission. sized, “That does not require honoring their crimes. They a few years younger. It is a story of fully constructed, this fully engaging Philip K. Jason is Professor Emeri- the sickness in them.” obtained citizen- overwhelming threats to their lives work of deeply humanized scholarship tus of English from the United States Where substance abuse is con- Phil ship. and communities. These characters are is a fine addition to the literature of the Naval Academy. He reviews regularly cerned, the aging senior is suffering Jason Though at- vividly drawn individuals scrambling Holocaust and its aftermath. It could for Florida Weekly, Washington Inde- from a disease – often hidden and tempts were made to bring these war to survive the Nazi programs built to very well bring Debbie Cenziper her pendent Review of Books, Southern unacknowledged. But if statistics are criminals to justice, most cases failed. annihilate them. It is set in Lublin, a second Pulitzer. Literary Review, other publications and even moderately accurate, it’s a serious Many plausible leads were never Polish town rich in Jewish history and Debbie Cenziper is an investiga- the Jewish Book Council. Please visit disease that needs understanding, atten- pursued. However, the Department of institutions, but now without support for tive journalist, professor and author Phil’s website at www.philjason.word tion and prompt intervention. Justice’s Office of Special Investiga- Jewish survival. The horrors of Feliks based in Washington, D.C. A contrib- press.com. For 10 years Rabbi Barbara Aiello tions (OSI), in part by hiring capable and Lucyna’s experiences bring them uting reporter for the investigative served the Aviva Campus for Senior and committed historians, together, and readers are Life as resident rabbi. She is rabbi of as well as legal experts, temporarily left wondering the Reconstructionist synagogue, Ner slowly excavated the facts about their chances for a Tamid del Sud in south Italy, and serves needed to turn the tide future, allowing the author as visiting rabbi in Rhodes, in the oldest and bring such people to to paint a different section synagogue in Greece. Contact her at justice. of her broad canvas. [email protected]. In Citizen 865, author That includes bringing Debbie Cenziper provides into sharp focus Reimer’s stunning insights into these trial, a small masterpiece Nazi hunters’ skills, accom- within the larger one that plishments and dedication. is Citizen 865. Reimer’s She retraces their steps, Debbie Cenziper studied yet congenial na- giving us two layers of investigation. ture made him an excellent defendant, We learn how these professionals went but the facts presented by the OSI about their work, interpreted the law and finally revealed his true nature and prevailed in their cases. We also learn criminality. quite a bit about how Cenziper did her Like many other incognito former own investigation of the investigators, Nazis, Reimer lived in a neighborhood making the case for our appreciation of very much like those inhabited by an- ELIMINATE YOUR PAIN

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Rabbi Stephen Fuchs & his wife Vickie are both children of Holocaust survivors. The book delves into the history of their THE RESULTS YOU WANT. THE CARE YOU DESERVE. parents & the opportunities they have created to speak and teach about the Holocaust in Germany. Thomas S. Zeller, DPT & Associates www.YourBestTherapy.com Fort Myers 239-432-0556 Cape Coral 239-772-2363 L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 14 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST Stars of David Interested in Your By Nate Bloom, Contributing Columnist By Arlene Stolnitz Editor’s note: Persons in BOLD CAPS are deemed by Nate Bloom to Family’s History? be Jewish for the purpose of the column. Persons identified as Jewish have at least one Jewish parent and were not raised in a faith other than Nate Bloom (see column above) has become a family history expert in 10 Judaism – and don’t identify with a faith other than Judaism as an adult. Converts years of doing his celebrity column, and he has expert friends who can help to Judaism, of course, are also identified as Jewish. when called on. Most family history experts charge $1,000 or more to do a full family-tree search. However, Bloom knows that most people want to start Jewish Stars in New TV Shows – show, I tried and failed to find out more with a limited search of one family line. Catch-Up and Look Ahead about her background. Over time, fam- Starting on Friday, January 2 on ily history sites revealed that her father So here’s the deal: Fox (9PM) was Deputy. STEPHEN is Jewish and her mother is not. I don’t Write Bloom at [email protected] and enclose a phone number. DORFF, 48, plays Bill Hollister, a know more because Levy just doesn’t deputy who becomes the chief of the talk about her family background. Nate will then contact you about starting a limited search. If that huge Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Broadway actor SKYLER ASTIN, goes well, additional and more extensive searches are possible. Department when the elected Chief sud- 32, plays Max, who is Zoe’s best friend The first search fee is no more than $100. No upfront cost. Also, denly dies. Hollister is more an old West at work. Astin, who was born Skyler guy than a modern lawman. Dorff, who Lipstein, is best known to most people several of this newspaper’s readers have asked Bloom to locate identifies as Jewish, is a veteran action for playing Jesse Swanson in the films friends and family members from their past, and that’s worked out film actor. Dorff’s late mother wasn’t Pitch Perfect and Pitch Perfect 2. great for them. So contact him about this as well. Jewish. His Jewish father is STEVE Also starting on January 7 was FBI: Arlene Stolnitz DORFF, 70, a successful songwriter Most Wanted (CBS, 9PM). It’s a spin-off Gen role (“Data,” an android) in the star of The Nanny, the hit ’90s sit-com. who also writes film scores. of the CBS series, FBI, which began in new series. Last month, it was announced that BEX TAYLOR-KLAUS, 25, has 2018. The five co-stars include ROXY Starting Thursday, February 6 RACHEL My Crazy Ex-Girlfriend a supporting Deputy role as Breanna STERNBERG, 30. In 2016, she was (NBC, 9:30PM) is the comedy series BLOOM, 32, will work with Drescher Bishop, an investigator in the Sheriff’s profiled in the London Jewish Chronicle Indebted. Dave (ADAM PALLY, 37) to bring a musical version of The Nanny office. This is her first role as a network following her casting in Emerald City, and Rebecca (Abby Elliot) look for- to Broadway. A five-star team of song- series regular. She told the Windy City an NBC series that only lasted a couple ward to some “down time” after their writers, producers, etc., are attached to Times that “Bex” is short for Rebecca. of months. Sternberg is the daughter of main parenting duties are behind them. the project. When asked about her nationality, she a black and Jewish Ugandan mother and Then Dave’s parents Linda (FRAN Indebted was created by DAN replied, “Wow, that is difficult. My an English Jewish father. The Chronicle DRESCHER, 62) and Stew (STEVEN LEVY, 38, a stand-up comedian and TV family is from Spain, Cuba, Israel. The noted that when she is home in London, WEBER, 58) show up without warning comedy series writer/producer. His wife family is Jewish and from all over the she teaches Hebrew School classes at on Dave’s doorstep. They are broke and is RACHEL SPECTER, 39, an actress place.” her synagogue (she’s fluent in Hebrew). Dave has to take them in (he “owes” and comedy writer who has many cred- Starting on Tuesday, January 7 Avenue 5 is a comedic science fic- them). The two couples don’t get on that its. They wed before a rabbi in 2010 and (NBC, 10PM) was Zoey’s Extraordi- tion series, set in the future, that started well. You might best remember Weber have two children. Specter was born nary Playlist. JANE LEVY, 30, stars on HBO on Sunday, January 19 (10PM). as the younger of the two pilot brothers and raised in Tampa, and her mother as Zoe, a computer code writer who Avenue 5 is the name of the spaceship in the sit-com Wings. Pally has a host (at last report) taught fourth grade at the begins to hear the thoughts of people where most of the series scenes take of recent credits, including co-starring Tampa Hillel Day School. Her father is around her through popular songs. At place. JOSH GAD, 38, is a series roles in Happy Endings and The Mindy an associate dean at the Tampa-based first, she questions her sanity. Later, regular. He plays Herman Judd, the bil- Project. University of South Florida College of with the help of a friend, she comes to lionaire owner of Avenue 5. Everyone knows Drescher as the Medicine. realize that this power is a gift – she can Also in outer space is Captain connect better with everyone, including Picard, a CBS All-Access series that PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS her ailing father. began on Thursday, January 23. Patrick Levy’s first big role (2011) was as Stewart returns in the title role he cre- WHO SUPPORT OUR FEDERATION the co-star of the well-reviewed ABC se- ated in Star Trek: The Next Generation. ries Suburgatory. When she was in that BRENT SPINER, 70, reprises his Next & HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE.

YouTube a cappella sensation A REFORM JEWISH CONGREGATION SERVING SANIBEL, CAPTIVA, FORT MYERS & SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES LISTEN UP! Jewish Vocal Band

BatTemple of Yam the Islands invites you to the return of THREE CANTORS and a PASTOR A SANIBEL CELEBRATION CONCERT Songs, duets and ensembles from the Light Classics, Broadway, Pop and so much more Listen Up! Jewish Vocal Band recognizes Followed by a Meet the Soloists Reception with food and beverage the richness present within Jewish liturgy and music, then ampliﬁe s it with a Sunday, March 1 at 4:00pm contemporary twist. Along with their 2050 Periwinkle Way impressive vocal talents, the group brings multi-generational humor and a surprising repertoire to a fun, easygoing evening. Visit JewishSong.com. Thursday, February 20 at 7:00pm Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples $40 General Seating • $65 Benefactor Preferred Seating $20 Students (18 & Under) - Elegant wine & dessert reception to follow Order online at www.naplesjewishcongregation.org or mail your check made out to NJC, along with your email address and phone number, to: NJC, PO Box 111994, Naples, FL 34108, attn: Tickets Cantor Murray Simon Cantor Rachel Brook Cantor Elizabeth Shammash Rev. Dr. John Danner Tickets will be held at the door Sponsored Bat Yam Park Avenue Synagogue Tiferet Bet Israel Senior Pastor, Sanibel in part by Jewish Federation OF GREATER NAPLES Sanibel, Florida New York, New York Blue Bell, Pennsylvania Congregational UCC, Sanibel Admission is free and the program is open to the public at the campus shared by

NAPLES JEWISH CONGREGATION ERIC DIEFENBACH & J.K. BROWN Bat Yam – Temple of the Islands and Sanibel Congregational UCC – 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel JEFF CULL L.A.T. FOUNDATION Weekly Shabbat services are held at the & ELLA NAYOR ANONYMOUS territory Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 6340 Napa Woods Way, Naples More information at 239-431-3858 or www.naplesjewishcongregation.org TICKETS S T A R T A T J U S T $ WWW.SWFLSO.ORG | (239) 418-1500 WARM • REFORM • AFFORDABLE • ADULT 15! FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT BATYAM.ORG L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 15 Interested in Your “The Notorious RBG in Song” By Arlene Stolnitz Family’s History? December program at the Na- anecdotes contain material about RBG according to Ms. Michaels, Justice Ginsburg’s label, Cedille Records. tional Museum of American and her pot roast, after which she was Ginsburg was willing to share it for the Arlene Stolnitz, founder of the Sarasota A Jewish History (NMAJH) in banned from the kitchen forever. album. “My dearest Ruth, you are the Jewish Chorale, is a member of the Jew- Philadelphia featured a unique musical One selection, “Anita’s Story,” only person I have loved in my life…” ish Congregation of Venice. A retired performance by well-known University is based on letters written by Justice It is the first and only time Ruth Bader educator from Rochester, New York, of Chicago faculty soprano-composer Ginsburg’s husband Martin, which he Ginsburg was seen to cry. she has sung in choral groups for over Patrice Michaels, daughter-in-law had compiled for a book commemo- All songs are sung by Ms. Michaels 25 years and also sings in The Venice of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. The pro- rating her 50th birthday. The song tells with some collaboration by other com- Chorale. Her interest in the preservation gram was part of the experience of a typist, Anita, in posers. The album has been released of Jewish music of all kinds has led to a larger initiative Ginsburg’s office, who was influenced recently and is entitled “The Notorious this series of articles on Jewish Folk honoring Justice by legal briefs she was typing. At first, RBG in Song,” available on James Music in the Diaspora. Ginsburg. Other she was puzzled over the content of the events honoring briefs, not understanding what she was RBG included the typing. Later, when she did understand, “Only in Amer- she became a staunch feminist. ica” award and Another, entitled “Celia: An Imag- RBG’s induction ined Letter from 1949,” written by into the “Only in Michaels, recounts RBG’s memory of Arlene Stolnitz America Gallery/ her mother, who died of cancer the day star of The Nanny, the hit ’90s sit-com. Hall of Fame,” part of NMAJH’s tribute before the future Justice’s graduation Last month, it was announced that to Jews who have achieved extraordi- as valedictorian of her high school. Ac- RACHEL My Crazy Ex-Girlfriend nary accomplishments that possibly cording to Michaels, Justice Ginsburg BLOOM, 32, will work with Drescher have changed the world. If I lived closer, once said, “My mother told me to be to bring a musical version of The Nanny I would not have missed this event! a lady, and for her, that meant be your to Broadway. A five-star team of song- Ms. Michaels, married to James own person, be independent.” writers, producers, etc., are attached to Ginsburg, son of Justice Ginsburg, “The Elevator Thief,” one of the the project. has been composing, in secret, songs most amusing songs on the album, is Indebted was created by DAN based on letters in RBG’s possession about the shenanigans of RBG’s son, LEVY, 38, a stand-up comedian and TV written to and from family members Jim, at school. In an NPR interview, comedy series writer/producer. His wife and friends over many years. The cycle Ginsburg recounted her conversation is RACHEL SPECTER, 39, an actress of nine songs is sung by Michaels, and with the principal. “This child has two and comedy writer who has many cred- the album was produced by James, who parents. Please alternate calls.” The its. They wed before a rabbi in 2010 and realized what a treasure the songs were. headmaster did so, and Marty Ginsburg have two children. Specter was born The result is a collection of music, in went to school to find out what his son’s and raised in Tampa, and her mother operatic style (an RBG preference), offense was. When told “he had stolen (at last report) taught fourth grade at the saluting the life and achievements of the elevator,” Marty responded, “Well Tampa Hillel Day School. Her father is Justice Ginsburg as a legal pioneer in how far could he have taken it?” Ac- an associate dean at the Tampa-based celebration of her 25 years on the United cording to Jim (dubbed The Elevator University of South Florida College of States Supreme Court. Thief), his behavior did not improve, but Medicine. The 40-minute classical album the calls home did become less frequent contains moments from her law school when they had to consider bothering a PLEASE SUPPORT THE ADVERTISERS days, her early working life, and even a “man” for his son’s mischievous pranks. letter she received early on from Justice The text of the most poignant song WHO SUPPORT OUR FEDERATION Douglas asking for qualified women is from the last communication written who might apply for a position on the by Martin to his wife during the time & HELP MAKE L’CHAYIM POSSIBLE. Supreme Court. Interesting family of his terminal illness. Remarkably,

A REFORM JEWISH CONGREGATION SERVING SANIBEL, CAPTIVA, FORT MYERS & SURROUNDING COMMUNITIES

Cantor Murray Simon Cantor Rachel Brook Cantor Elizabeth Shammash Rev. Dr. John Danner Bat Yam Park Avenue Synagogue Tiferet Bet Israel Senior Pastor, Sanibel Sanibel, Florida New York, New York Blue Bell, Pennsylvania Congregational UCC, Sanibel Admission is free and the program is open to the public at the campus shared by

ERIC DIEFENBACH & J.K. BROWN Bat Yam – Temple of the Islands and Sanibel Congregational UCC – 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel JEFF CULL L.A.T. FOUNDATION & ELLA NAYOR ANONYMOUS territory

TICKETS S T A R T A T J U S T $15! WWW.SWFLSO.ORG | (239) 418-1500 FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT BATYAM.ORG L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 16 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST The decade of the avocado (hello avocado toast) – recipe by Chef Dalia Hemed vocado toast is really having a In Israel, avocados are an important gula, Zaatar, lemons and olive oil. It’s moment right now, and that’s crop with trees that produce beautiful, a flavorful dish, packed full of nutrients Ajust as true in Israel as it is in plump fruits. Israelis have cultivated and perfect for breakfast, lunch or even America. Rich, creamy, nutritious fruit their own methods of preparing and us- a light dinner. Zaatar is a spice blend loaded with healthy fat smashed on ing avocados, including avocado salad. of cumin, sumac, thyme, coriander and top of a thick slice of bread is a perfect Avocados are native to Mexico. The sesame seeds. It gives the food an earthy match, not to mention one of the most first avocado trees were brought to Israel tangy flavor while the lemon adds a desired dishes on cafe and restaurant by the monks of the Latrun monastery, zesty glaze. Together, it’s a delicious menus across the world. who grafted them in the monastery gar- combination. If you can’t find Zaatar, There have always been changes to den in 1908. It took until 1927 for these simply use a sprinkle of cumin. food trends. They come and go, while a trees to produce fruits. Upon seeing the Challah Bread Avocado Toast few stick around for the distant future. monks’ success, people started planting Ingredients: These days, people are much more avocados in their gardens. In the 1950s, • 1 ripe medium-large avocado health conscious and focused on the avocados were planted in commercial • 1 lemon - zest and juice environment. These trends definitely orchards for the first time. Today, most • 1 cup cherry tomato, sliced reflect that. of the avocados planted • 3 tablespoons olive oil - divided As you might in Israel are for export. • ¼ teaspoon salt imagine, avocados are Israelis have also grown • ¼ teaspoon pepper one of the biggest and to love them. • 2 slices challah bread most popular food One of the best • ½ cup baby arugula trend of the past de- things to happen for • ½ red onion chopped cade. Avocados aren’t breakfast, lunch or din- • 2 fried eggs, over easy Personal Chef Dalia Hemed new by any means. ner is an over-easy egg • pinch salt and pepper can be reached at Lately, avocados have on challah bread avo- • generous pinch Zaatar spice [email protected]. gone from being just cado toast. It is the ulti- • chili flakes (optional) another fruit to a cul- mate sandwich for any X Lightly butter a slice of challah half a lemon, 2 tablespoons oil, salt tural icon! occasion. It’s sumptu- bread and toast it under the broiler and pepper, and stir and mash with Avocados contain ous, full of flavor and until golden brown. a fork to combine. It does not need lots of healthy fats, fiber and vitamins, texture, and makes an impressive X Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a to be smooth. Taste. Adjust salt. and have been known to help with blood presentation on any brunch table. I small, non-stick pan over medium You want this to be slightly salty sugar, heart health and osteoarthritis. love using challah bread for its slightly heat. and lemony. Plus, they’re delicious and super versa- sweet, spongy and delicate texture, but X Crack an egg directly into the pan X Spread half of the smashed avocado tile! The options are endless! They can you could use brioche or even ciabatta and season generously with salt and on the toast. Top with a mound of be made into a spread or dip, used as a bread if you like. While this challah pepper. baby arugula, red onion and cherry topping, and in salads and sandwiches. bread avocado toast may look impres- X Cook for about two minutes, then tomato. Drizzle with olive oil, a In fact, avocados have been so trendy sive, it’s actually really easy to put to- use a spatula to flip the egg, being little lemon and salt. that people are putting them in every- gether. You can make it in a few minutes careful not to break the yolk. X Place the over-easy egg over the thing lately: brownies, salad dressing with very little cooking. It’s definitely a X For a runny yolk, turn off the heat dressed arugula, onion and cherry and even ice cream. messy sandwich, so serve it with a plate and let the egg sit for one minute. If tomato. Avocado toast is a type of open and fork and lots of napkins. I like my you prefer a slightly more cooked X Sprinkle the egg with salt, pepper sandwich or toast made with mashed eggs over easy so that the runny yolk yolk, turn the heat down to low and and a generous pinch of Zaatar avocado, salt, pepper and citrus juice just melts into the sandwich when you cook one to two minutes. Set aside. spice. on toast. Additional ingredients that take your first bite. But cook your eggs X Cut the avocado in half, remove the X Add chili flakes if you like. enhance the flavor are olive oil, red however you prefer. seed and scoop out the flesh into a X Drizzle the built dish with the extra pepper flakes, feta, tomato and many Here’s a simple recipe for avo- small bowl. virgin olive oil. other toppings. cado toast with over-easy eggs, aru- X Add 1 teaspoon zest, the juice from Winemakers care for the planet By The Wine Whisperer t shouldn’t be much of a surprise soil needed to be tended and nourished program, which was launched in 2008. aged in French Oak for 15 months, the to know that farmers – and espe- in special, often bizarre, ways. “What sets us apart,” she says, “is Old World earthy notes really come Icially grape growers – are deeply Organizations such as SIP (Sus- that our certification program is very through, supported by firm tannins. concerned about the land that provides tainability in Practice) are supported rigorous. We set a high bar for sus- Try it with hard cheeses like a crunchy their living. More by winemakers who go a bit further tainability, and for helping our grow- Gouda. WW 92 and more, wine- in their commitment. They believe in ers learn from each other.” Currently, Frank Family Chardonnay Car- makers, and the not only sustainable grape growing and the program has certified over 43,000 neros 2016 ($38) – The deep rich yel- people who grow winemaking, but also ethical treatment acres of vineyards, from Santa Barbara low color and aromas of butter and oak their grapes, have of their employees and the wellbeing to the North Coast. promise concentrated flavors to come. been moving to of their neighbors. “The goal of SIP,” she continues, The palate, however, offers surprise more sensible, sus- That last is especially interesting “is not just to help growers pursue wa- flavors of melon, vanilla and succulent tainable agricul- since I’ve heard winemakers express ter conservation and the integrity of tropical fruit. A winner. WW 93 tural practices. widely different views on how they the soil. We’re involved in issues like Long Meadow Ranch Sauvignon  Jerry There’s the should relate to their neighboring (and social responsibility, safe pest manage- Blanc Rutherford 2017 ($15) – Pleas- Greenfield organic move- competitive) colleagues. In Paso Ro- ment, wildlife support and alternative ant light lemon color and a nose of ment, and several agencies that will bles, for example, I was told by many energy.” The program requires mem- lemon blossoms and minerals. The certify wines made using certain tech- people that “what benefits one of us bers to offer employees competitive mouthfeel is soft, with mild acidity. niques and practices. There is also benefits all of us.” In other areas, it’s wages, medical insurance and other Maturation in stainless steel brings out the biodynamic approach professed everyone for himself. support, use beneficial insects in the graceful notes of lemon and a touch of by a man named Rudolf Steiner, who The organization itself is a part of vineyard, and work toward convert- pineapple. Very pleasing. WW 89 contended (among other things) that a company called The Vineyard Team, ing to energy sources like wind and Ask the Wine Whisperer certain activities such as planting and managed by Beth Vukmanic Lopez. solar. I’ve seen people open bottles of wine harvesting should be done only during With her degree in Agricultural Busi- Several SIP Certified wineries and sniff the cork before pouring. Why certain phases of the moon, and that the ness, she directs and promotes the SIP sometimes go delightfully off the reser- do they do that? vation in the grapes they choose to pro- – Sharon F., Atlanta mote. I received a set of sample bottles Opinions vary. Personally, I think that that included under-the-radar varietals smelling a wine cork will tell you that IsIs YourYour BusinessBusiness WorthWorth like Picpoul, Falanghina, Tannat and it smells like cork. Others maintain that Lagrein, among others. Here are some you can detect flaws in the wine early MoreMore ThanThan YouYou Think?Think? SIP wines we enjoyed, along with new with a quick sniff. The best thing to do discoveries. 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He is Creative Director of Green- impact across the board Financial Professional along with dimensions of lemon and field Media & Marketing, and Wine • Maximize your opportunities and the Alliance Financial Group value of your business 14021 Metropolis Avenue Fort apricot. WW 90 Director of the international Direct Myers, FL 33912 It’s insight you won’t find anywhere else. J. Wilkes Lagrein Paso Robles Cellars wine club. His new book, Ask 2016 ($30) – Another SIP Certified the Wine Whisperer, has just been pub- For your complimentary business valuation contact Brian Simon at discovery from Paso Robles, this un- lished. Read his other writings at www. (239) 246-8928 or [email protected] usual red varietal is bursting with ripe winewhisperer.com. Registered Representative of Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). OSJ: 14021 Metropolis Ave. Fort Myers FL, 33912 (239) 561-2900. Securities products offered through PAS, member FINRA, SIPC. Financial Representative of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian), New York, NY. PAS is an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Guardian. Alliance Financial Group is not an affiliate or subsidiary of PAS or Guardian. 2019-79040 Exp. 5/21 berry aromas and flavors. Since it was L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 JEWISH INTEREST Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 17 The decade of the avocado (hello avocado toast) The horror that was Gross-Rosen By Paul R. Bartrop, PhD – recipe by Chef Dalia Hemed n February 1945 – 75 years ago in January 1945 indicated that almost places of terror and death, liberated 75 Dr. Paul Bartrop is Professor of His- this month – Gross-Rosen, a large 26,000 women were also incarcerated years ago this month, was Gross-Rosen tory and the Director of the Center INazi concentration camp located there. This represented one of the largest – and there were a vast number of oth- for Judaic, Holocaust, and Genocide near the village of the same name (now aggregations of female prisoners in any ers throughout the German sphere that Studies at Florida Gulf Coast Univer- Rogoźnica, Poland), was liberated of the German concentration camps out- would share similar experiences in the sity. He can be reached at pbartrop@ by Soviet forces. We side of the women’s concentration camp coming months. fgcu.edu. tend to think of the at Ravensbrück and the massive Aus- Nazi concentration chwitz complex. The census revealed camps being liber- that most of the Jews at Gross-Rosen ated in April and had been relocated there from camps in May of 1945, but Poland and Hungary. Set to work under after Auschwitz at the close supervision of sadistic Nazi the end of January guards, they suffered under especially  Dr. Paul 1945, Gross-Rosen cruel working conditions. Bartrop was an early example As the war progressed and Ger- of the horror that was to confront Allied many’s demands began relying more forces later. and more on forced labor, the reach Located about 40 miles southwest of of the Gross-Rosen complex became Wrocław in modern-day Poland, Gross- one of the largest in all of Europe. At Rosen was at once a concentration and the end of 1943, transports of Jews to a forced labor camp. Built initially in Gross-Rosen and its sub-camps, lo- FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY cordially invites you to a special exhibit commemorating the 1940 as a sub-camp of Sachsenhausen, cated throughout Lower Silesia and the 75th anniversary of the liberation of the Nazi concentration camps. Personal Chef Dalia Hemed on May 1, 1941, it became independent. Sudetenland, intensified. Eventually, can be reached at Eventually, it would encompass some 97 prisoners worked throughout eastern [email protected]. sub-camps, where prisoners were put to Germany and western Poland for com- work in a nearby granite quarry. Here, panies like I.G. Farben, Daimler-Benz TO LIFE half a lemon, 2 tablespoons oil, saltlarge numbers died. and Krupp. Some of the sub-camps The Liberation of Ravensbrück and pepper, and stir and mash with In many of these sub-camps where focused on “special” Nazi projects deep a message of hope and belief in the human spirit prisoners were exploited as slave labor, underground. a fork to combine. It does not need This special exhibit depicts the story of the White Buses, a rescue operation undertaken to be smooth. Taste. Adjust salt.conditions were deplorable. Food was Brünnlitz, one of Gross-Rosen’s by the Swedish Red Cross that transported thousands of women and children You want this to be slightly salty meager and poor, sanitation primitive, sub-camps, became famous later. Ger- from Ravensbrück concentration camp to freedom at Malmö Harbor. and lemony. and medical care virtually nonexistent. man industrialist Oskar Schindler re- X Spread half of the smashed avocado Thousands fell victim to starvation and located his factory there. At Brünnlitz, Sweden’s Lund University and Malmö Museum have graciously loaned survivors’ personal items to the Bradshaw Library’s Archives and Special Collections. on the toast. Top with a mound of diseases, and large numbers were killed in unique circumstances, he managed baby arugula, red onion and cherryarbitrarily by guards through beatings to protect some 1,100 Jews working in tomato. Drizzle with olive oil, aand cruel punishments. Jews were not his factory, at the same time ensuring SAVE THE DATE little lemon and salt. allowed to receive medical care and that they did not suffer from the same OPENING RECEPTION X Place the over-easy egg over thewere forbidden from talking to other tortures inflicted elsewhere. He also dressed arugula, onion and cherryprisoners. All those sent into slave labor made sure that his factory did not pro- TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2020 | 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM conditions were severely overworked, duce anything of value for the German tomato. WILSON G. BRADSHAW LIBRARY X Sprinkle the egg with salt, pepperand many simply collapsed where they war effort. ARCHIVES & SPECIAL COLLECTIONS, 3RD FLOOR and a generous pinch of Zaatarstood. When Soviet troops began ap- spice. Hanna Granek Erlich was one of proaching the complex at the end of RSVP to [email protected] or call (239) 745-4472 X Add chili flakes if you like. these slave workers. She was sent to January 1945, camp officials began the For more information visit fgcu.edu/ToLife X Drizzle the built dish with the extraa factory sub-camp at Peterswaldau, process of closing Gross-Rosen and its virgin olive oil. where a weapons manufacturing plant sub-camps. Male prisoners were relo- was located. At night, she recalled, “we cated to the main camp from the external slept in a room with over 50 women. sites, while the women were forced onto We slept downstairs on bunks covered cruel death marches where many died. Winemakers care for the planet with straw, and over us, upstairs, the The destination of these marches was, men used to sleep.” Conditions, she re- for the most part, other camps deep membered, were dreadful. The hall was inside Germany. In total, up to 40,000 filthy, and the prisoners were full of lice. prisoners underwent this brutal trial, in Hanna worked seven days a week, from bitterly cold weather. morning to night, and “didn’t dare make The rest of the camp, and most of a mistake.” These were met by German those in the sub-camps, were evacuated g

guards who, she said, “would beat us or from the beginning of February 1945. n i t

even kill us.” Some of the remaining Jews were trans- a r

When Gross-Rosen was first ported to Bergen-Belsen, while others b yeearsars e l

opened, most prisoners were political were sent to Buchenwald, Flossenbürg, e

detainees, resistance fighters, or those Mauthausen and Dora-Mittelbau. The C in deemed “socially unacceptable” such few remaining prisoners still in the sub- as gay men or Roma. The number of camps, by the end of the war, were liber- prisoners in the camp rose steadily, ated by Soviet troops on May 8-9, 1945. however, from an initial 1,500 or so in In sum, it has been estimated that 10am-5pm 1941. In late 1943 and early 1944, Jews about one third of all those who passed February 1 & 2 began arriving at Gross-Rosen and its through Gross-Rosen died as a result Downtown Fort Myers Riverfront sub-camps in large numbers, until they of their experiences between 1940 and formed the biggest single group in the February 1945. When we think about Opening Night Festivities camp complex. It is estimated that at the horror of the Holocaust, it is worth least 125,000 prisoners passed through remembering that it was played out Friday Jan. 31 6pm Gross-Rosen between 1941 and 1945, in more places than Auschwitz or the Visit our website for VIP upgrades! and even in late 1944, just before the other extermination camps, or loca- camp’s liberation, Gross-Rosen and its tions in the villages of Russia, or the sub-camps held 76,728 prisoners. ghettos scattered throughout Poland A census of the camp population and elsewhere. One of the lesser-known

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For ad rates and deadlines, a s u contact Lori at 239.481.4449 x5 S A r t i s or [email protected]. ArtFestFortMyers.com L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 18 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties JEWISH INTEREST URJ Biennial hosts 525 congregations By Russ Bogen, TBE past president, and Laurie Morris, TBE board member have a voice, my voice is pow- with the 17-degree temperature outside kindness, community, healing, respect- today’s world, the Jewish community “ erful, my voice can change the the warm spiritual bubble maintained ing the dignity of the individual, jus- is threatened, frightened and attacked I world.” within the 2.6 million square feet of tice, wholeness and hope. This is what with increasing frequency. The outside So sang thousands of voices at McCormick Place. And let’s not forget Biennial was about: tikkun olam. world had not changed during those the URJ (Union for Reform Judaism) the shopping: the exhibition hall was Each day the essence of unity few days in Chicago. But those inside Biennial in Chicago in December. stuffed with goodies to buy, be it To- among this diverse group grew ex- McCormick Place, experiencing the And we were among them. Biennial, rah covers for a synagogue, a gift for ponentially. Inspiring worship, Torah short-lived euphoria of Biennial, are the largest gathering of Jews in North your spouse, or books for your fam- study, learning sessions and Jewish now better prepared to help heal and America, hosted 525 congregations ily. Sightseeing options were provided music embraced everyone, cresting repair our broken planet and its inhab- from 54 states and 75 international the first morning of the convention for with the celebration of Shabbat on both itants. congregations. those brave enough to step outside into Friday evening and Saturday morning. Worship and camaraderie, dis- Five thousand Reform Jewish the cold and the lightly falling snow. Services featured a large choir made course and dialogue. All ages, from el- leaders joined together in learning, Obdurate divisiveness, uncompro- up of cantors. You have not lived un- derly folks using walkers or scooters, leadership development, worship, fel- mising hostility and violence saturate til you have attended Shabbat services to infants in their parents’ arms. Inspi- lowship and entertainment. URJ lead- our world, our country and even our with 5,000 other members of the tribe rational music, both liturgical and pop- ers energized attendees with uplift- faith communities. But those things who are singing, clapping and dancing ular, infused with Jewish soul. Rousing ing speeches during plenary sessions. were left outside the convention for the hora around the cavernous meet- or soft, emotional or rock style. Josh Clergy, educators, lay and youth lead- five marvelous days. Jewish values ing hall. Josh Nelson, one of the most Nelson, one of the most popular per- ers collectively learned, prayed, shared were the prevailing theme. A simple popular performers and composers in formers and composers in modern Jew- ideas, schmoozed, networked and cel- catchphrase distills the nature of the as- modern Jewish music, plus many other ish music, earned raucous applause, as ebrated in the safety and warmth of a sembly: “Use our strength to do good.” musicians – each one more amazing did Rick Recht, a top touring musician communal environment. Contrast that Repairing the world, acts of loving- than the last – shared their musical in Jewish music. A concert by cantors. messages and inspired joy. Members of the Second City comedy While learning to lead a syna- troupe performed uproarious Jewish- gogue, educate children and adults, and themed skits and improv. So many attempting to make sense of a world experiences, blending to fashion a whose humans have gone off the ethi- modern Reform Jewish ethos which is cal rails, the effects of prayer, rhythm, nourished in a monumental way, every song, dancing and community seemed two years. From strength to strength. to create a temporary shield surround- Save the date: URJ Biennial is in D.C., ing the Biennial within which we could December 8-11, 2021. #urjbiennial bond and grow stronger together. In

Russ Bogen and Laurie Morris locate Temple Beth El’s leaf on one of four huge tree of life-themed URJ Biennial murals

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For daily news stories related to Israel & the Jewish world, visit the home page on the Federation’s website at www.JewishFederationLCC.org. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 19 Quirky design house lets customers also be designers Quirky Israeli brand Peleg Design offers customers a chance to send ideas online. But that’s only one source of Shahar Peleg’s inspiration. By Lauren Izso, ISRAEL21c rom optical illusion flower vases The product that kicked off the shaped eggholder makes it easy to re- to playful elephant-shaped cut- company’s success was a vase Peleg move hot hard-boiled eggs from boiling Flery drainers, Shahar Peleg wants designed for his own wedding in 2005. water and store them in the fridge – and his products to bring his customers joy, These “floating” vases are anchored by also makes the eggs much cuter. but first and foremost to fulfill a need. magnetic bases hidden underneath the How does he figure out what those tablecloth. needs are? “In many ways,” the designer and founder of the brand tells ISRAEL21c. One of those ways is from his customers. “Some of the ideas came to us while Peleg Design’s gravity-defying wine-bottle holder daydreaming, some in the shower, some Egguins, one of Peleg Design’s in two or three stores in Tel Aviv,” Peleg we woke up with and some just came to cute and functional creations tells ISRAEL21c. “It’s now become us by email,” reads Peleg Design web- One comment on Peleg Design’s both my passion and my profession.” site’s “Suggest an Idea” section. Instagram page calls the item “the best Peleg Design has expanded to more People from all over the world reach thing since sliced bread.” than 30 countries including the United out, he says. Peleg Design’s Magnetic Vase is a best seller Many of Peleg’s products are made States, Japan, Peru, France and South “Once in a while we get a great idea, To this day, the Magnetic Vase set from plastic but they are meant to last. Korea. Some designs can even be found and we pay royalties to the designers or is one of Peleg Design’s best sellers. “It Sensitive to environmental issues, he at the gift shop of the Louvre Museum in inventors. It’s really amazing because a was a huge hit,” he says. “That’s what explains that he wants his customers to Paris and the Museum of Modern Art’s lot of people have a lot of ideas,” Peleg really began to generate business.” develop an emotional connection to the gift shop in New York City. The Mag- says. Another universal problem Peleg items and use them for as long as pos- netic Vase is one of its bestselling items. For example, the Bag Bunny, a wanted to solve was grime building up sible before throwing them away. Peleg explains that his products magnetic bunny-shaped tool for easily at the bottom of a cutlery drainer. His Passion and profession are available in most major economies, opening plastic packaging, was inspired answer was Jumbo, an elephant-shaped Growing up, Peleg dreamed of being excluding those that have no political by a customer suggestion. an astronaut, but he would eventually relations with Israel. He hopes one day find his passion in a different form of that will change, and he says so to the exploration: design. businessmen he meets from countries “It started off as a one man show,” like Iran and Kuwait. he says. Every now and then, Peleg receives Peleg studied interior design at the an email from an Israeli customer, with a Holon Institute of Design. A class proj- photo of his Magnetic Vase on a shelf in ect made him realize he had an eye for the MOMA gift shop. They are so happy Bag Bunny was inspired by a customer’s creating quirky but useful knick-knacks. to see an Israeli designer’s product suggestion (photos courtesy of Peleg Design) Jumbo, a cutlery holder that drains into the sink He had made a wine-bottle holder that among some of the world’s best. “That Founded in 2005 and based in Tel cutlery holder that drains water out of seemed to defy gravity. He was able to makes me proud,” he says. Aviv, Peleg Design’s online store offers its trunk, directly into the sink. sell a few even before graduating. For more information, visit https:// around 100 unique products that stem Peleg says function is key, and “It started from selling one product peleg-design.com/. from everyday needs, each with quirks, design is secondary to usefulness. But twists or optical illusions that Peleg still, he hopes his customers will fall in Read the current and recent issues of L’CHAYIM describes as “magical.” love with his “cute” designs. Nothing, he says, is really what it His newest item, the Egguins, is online at www.JewishFederationLCC.org. seems. a great example of that. The penguin-

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It’s a family thing.TM Fort Myers / 13550 Reflections Pkwy. / 239-590-9994 16451 Corporate Commerce Way / 239-466-3354 Port Charlotte / US Hwy. 41 & 776 / 941-235-3354 Sarasota / 5231 University Pkwy. / 941-351-5999 Cape Coral / 2311 Santa Barbara Blvd. / 239-458-8700 Naples / 2700 Immokalee Rd. / 239-593-9499 239-258-110 2 [email protected] jasonsdeli.com The Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties The Jewish Federation of Wed., February 12 at 2:00pm thanks the members of the 2020 Jewish Film Festival Beneath the Ink Committee for their help in reviewing and selecting lms: Sara Krivisky, Chair horts “Bring me your mistakes” is the invitation Ohio tattoo Lee and Charlotte Counties artist Billy Joe White makes. A timely look at racism in Carolyn Gora, Co-Chair ay contemporary America, Beneath the Ink reveals the Andi Horowitz, Event Chair th possibility for change in one Appalachian community. Karin Fine, Claire Goldhagen, Helene Glocer, Elisa Grossman, Short Documentary Jan Klein, Carol Lovitch, Leni Sack, Lynn Talone Presents the 24 Annual Language: Enlish Running Time: 13 min. Across the Line ananel, a oun reliious Jew, is hurrin hoe for Jewish Film Festival Shabbat. An unexpected encounter with Mundir, an unwanted and stubborn Palestinian hitchhiker, leads Hananel on a series of mix-ups that eventually teach- of Southwest Florida es him a lesson in communication, friendship and love. Short Comedy Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles Running Time: 29 min. Dear God INDIVIDUAL TICKET Films will be screened at the Regal Belltower Stadium 20* A poetic Jerusalem told through the eyes of Aaron, a simple Wailing Wall guard that follows a mysterious beautiful woman’s notes in the holy stones of the wall. ORDER FORM Open seating at all lms for general admission tickets Short Drama Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles Regal Belltower Stadium 20 Theaters Running Time: 12 min. *OPEN SEATING AT ALL FILMS ickets will be aailable or icku one hour An Average Story *Reserved seating for some levels of sponsorship. Avi Cohen has just been informed that he is the most average man who ever lived. Overnight, he reluctantly beore screening inside the theater on the day o the show becomes a national icon and celebrity. With his wife’s TOTAL #______INDIVIDUAL EVENING TICKETS @ $13 enthusiastic urging, they translate the situation into a TOTAL #______INDIVIDUAL MATINEE TICKETS @ $10 business venture that goes awry. Short Comedy February 2 eent takes lace at at Yam emle o the Islands on anibel Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles TOTAL #______OPENING DAY EVENT TICKETS: @ $25 Running Time: 18 min. TOTAL #______CLOSING DAY EVENT TICKETS: @ $25 TOTAL # ______FESTIVAL PASSES (evenings only): @ $117 TOTAL # ______FESTIVAL PASSES (evenings & matinees) @ $135 Sunday, February 2 at 3:00pm Thursday, February 13 at 7:15pm Tuesday, February 25 at 7:15pm *Passes include 1 ticket to each film—event tickets sold separately Golda’s Balcony, The Film (2019) Love in Suspenders Tel Aviv on Fire Golda’s Balcony Sunday, February 2 3:00 P.M. Based on the awardwinnin pla and lonest run The encounter between two people with such diff erent Salam, an inexperienced young Palestinian man, be- Followed by: Dessert Reception with the Producer nin onewoan show in Broadwa histor, Golda’s personalities, such as Tammy and Beno, has to result comes a writer on a popular soap opera after a chance at Society. Event ticket required. Event starts at: Balcony, the fi lm transcends both cinema and stage in a nightmare…but love has its own rules. From their meeting with an Israeli soldier. His creative career is *Sponsored by Norman Love Confections 5:00 P.M. in this genre-bending emotional experience. Written fi rst unfortunate encounter, when Tammy hits Beno on the rise until the soldier and the show’s fi nancial by William Gibson (The Miracle Worker, the stor of with her car, Tammy and Beno experience all sorts of backers disagree about how the show should end, The Light of Hope Tuesday, February 4 Golda Meir’s rise from Russian schoolgirl to American emotional, funny struggles. They get closer, break up, and Salam is caught in the middle. The fi lm is a satire 7:15 P.M. schoolteacher to the fourth Prime Minister of Israel is get back together and fi ght again, until ultimately their that highlights the awful absurdity of war, and proves *Sponsored by Sylvia & Paul Simko revealed intimately and often humorously by the cap- love wins out. Comedy it’s possible to fi nd humor in the midst of cultural con- Thursday, February 6 tivating Tovah Feldshuh. Recently discovered footage Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles fl ict. Comedy/Satire Picture of His Life 7:15 P.M. from the play’s original run gives viewers the oppor- Running Time: 1 hr. 38 min. Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles *Sponsored by Sara & Brian Krivisky tunity to witness Tovah’s incredible performance up 1 hr. 40 min. Running Time: Tuesday, February 11 close and personal. Documentary From Slavery To Freedom Language: Enlish Running Time: 1 hr. 26 min. 7:15 P.M. Shorts Day Matinee Wednesday, February 12 Tuesday, February 4 at 7:15pm Tuesday, February 18 at 7:15pm Wed., February 26 at 2:00pm An Average Story ~ Across the Line ~ 2:00 P.M. Beneath the Ink ~ Dear God The Light of Hope Unorthodox The Other Story *Sponsored by American House In 1942, after three years of bringing back dignity to The year is 1983, and Yaakov Cohen, the owner of Anat is a rebellious young woman who wants to fl ee Love in Suspenders Thursday, February 13 mothers interned in refugee camps and saving the a Jerusalem printing press, is tired of being pushed the chaos of secular hedonism for the disciplined 7:15 P.M. lives of their babies, the Maternity of Elna has been around. It seems that he was born on the wrong comforts of faith. Sari is a young woman who wants *Sponsored by Cypress Cove at HealthPark FL. ordered to close its doors by French authorities. Its side, with the wrong family name, and in a moment’s to leave behind her oppressive religious upbringing Tuesday, February 18 director, Elisabeth Eidenbenz, the mothers and their decision he decides to establish a Sephardic-ultra- for sexual and spiritual freedom. When Anat and Sari Unorthodox collaborators who have helped to make everything Orthodox list that will run to the Jerusalem mu- cross paths in Jerusalem, it soon changes both of their *Sponsored by DLS Construction, Inc. 7:15 P.M. possible, will try to prevent it. The fi lm is based on the nicipality. He gathers two friends, and together they lives in startling and unexpected ways. Drama true story of Elisabeth Eidenbenz (1913-2011) and her improvise a campaign – no means, no connections, Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles The Spy Behind Home Plate Thursday, February 20 female co-workers who saved the lives of almost 600 no money, but with much rage, passion and a sense Running Time: 1 hr. 57 min. *Sponsored by Fort Myers Miracle Baseball 7:15 P.M. infants in World War II. Historical Period Drama of justice. Comedy, Drama, History Language: Spanish & French with English Subtitles Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles My Polish Honeymoon -JFF at Sunday, February 23 Running Time: 1 hr. 36 min. Running Time: 1 hr. 32 min. 2:00 P.M. Bat Yam Temple of the Islands

Tel Aviv on Fire Tuesday, February 25 Thursday, February 6 at 7:15pm Thursday, February 20 at 7:15pm Thursday, February 27 at 7:15pm *Sponsored by Gulf Coast Orthodontics, Dr. Michele Laboda 7:15 P.M. Picture of his Life The Spy Behind Home Plate The Bird Catcher The Other Story Matinee Wednesday, February 26 2:00 P.M. World-renowned wildlife photographer Amos Nachoum Morris “Moe” Berg was an enigmatic and brilliant On her attempt to fl ee the Nazi round-up in Nor- has one fi nal photographic dream remaining – to Jewish baseball player turned spy. Berg caught and way, Esther fi nds herself alone, on an occupied farm Thursday, February 27 photograph a polar bear underwater while swimming fi elded in the Major Leagues during baseball’s Gold- forced to conceal her identity, leading to a series of The Bird Catcher alongside it. The fi lm follows Amos in the Canadian en Age in the 1920s and 1930s, but very few people choices and consequences which shift the paths of *Sponsored by Kushner & Kushner Attorneys 7:15 P.M. Arctic as he prepares for his ultimate challenge. As know that Berg also worked for the Offi ce of Strate- those around her. This story uncovers a hidden slice the journe unfolds, so does an intiate and painful gic Services (OSS), spying in Europe and playing a of histor that rips at the heart and inspires us all at Fiddler: A Miracle of Miracles Sunday, March 1 story of dedication, sacrifi ce and personal redemption. prominent role in America’s eff orts to undermine the the deepest level. Drama/Mystery 3:00 P.M. Documentary German atomic bomb program during WWII. Language: Enlish Followed by: Reception & music at Society Event starts at: Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles Documentary Running Time: 1 hr. 40 min. Event ticket required. Running Time: 1 hr. 12 min. Language: Enlish *Sponsored by Andi & Bill Horowitz 5:00 P.M. Running Time: 1 hr. 41 min.

Total Due: ______Name______Tuesday, February 11 at 7:15pm Sunday, February 23 at 2:00pm Sunday, March 1 at 3:00pm Address______City______ST____ Zip______Phone______From Slavery to Freedom My Polish Honeymoon Fiddler: Miracle of Miracles Email______The fi lm portrays the story of Soviet “Refuseniks” Anna and Adam, a young Parisian couple with Jewish When Fiddler on the Roof opened on Broadwa in through the prism of Natan Sharansky’s biography. In origins, are about to travel to Poland for the fi rst time. 1964, it explored themes of tradition, religion and anti- Charge my: __Visa/Mastercard __Amex __Discover 1977, Sharansky, a human rights activist, was arrested They are just married and this will be their honeymoon. Semitism against a modern backdrop of radical social Credit Card#______on charges of spying for the U.S., treason and anti-So- They will attend a ceremony in memory of the Jewish change that addressed gender roles, sexuality and Exp. Date______viet agitation. The fi lm takes you back to a Soviet era community in the village of Adam’s grandfather, which race. Rare archival footage and interviews with musi- where there was an overwhelin sense of fear and was destroyed 75 years ago. Adam is not enthusiastic, cal luminaries explore the legacy of this long-running, Purchase your tickets online at: www.jewishfederationlcc.org/JFF2020 insecurity. No single person symbolizes the era more but sees it as an occasion to spend some quality time award-winning musical. Documentary Or mail this form with a check or credit card to: than Sharansky, who defi ed the entire Soviet system with his wife. Anna is both anxious and excited about Language: Enlish in his fi ght for freedom and national identifi cation. After the trip to her grandmother’s country. She is hoping to Running Time: 1 hr. 32 min. Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties spendin ears in prison, he won the strule, pavin reconnect with her roots and discover more about her the way for all of Soviet Jewry. Documentary own family’s history. Comedy/Drama Language: Russian with English Subtitles Language: French with English Subtitles 9701 Commerce Center Ct * Fort Myers, FL 33908 Running Time: 1 hr. 24 min. Running Time: 1 hr. 28 min. Questions? Call 239.481.4449 x4 or email [email protected] The Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties The Jewish Federation of Wed., February 12 at 2:00pm thanks the members of the 2020 Jewish Film Festival Beneath the Ink Committee for their help in reviewing and selecting lms: Sara Krivisky, Chair horts “Bring me your mistakes” is the invitation Ohio tattoo Lee and Charlotte Counties artist Billy Joe White makes. A timely look at racism in Carolyn Gora, Co-Chair ay contemporary America, Beneath the Ink reveals the Andi Horowitz, Event Chair th possibility for change in one Appalachian community. Karin Fine, Claire Goldhagen, Helene Glocer, Elisa Grossman, Short Documentary Jan Klein, Carol Lovitch, Leni Sack, Lynn Talone Presents the 24 Annual Language: Enlish Running Time: 13 min. Across the Line ananel, a oun reliious Jew, is hurrin hoe for Jewish Film Festival Shabbat. An unexpected encounter with Mundir, an unwanted and stubborn Palestinian hitchhiker, leads Hananel on a series of mix-ups that eventually teach- of Southwest Florida es him a lesson in communication, friendship and love. Short Comedy Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles Running Time: 29 min. Dear God INDIVIDUAL TICKET Films will be screened at the Regal Belltower Stadium 20* A poetic Jerusalem told through the eyes of Aaron, a simple Wailing Wall guard that follows a mysterious beautiful woman’s notes in the holy stones of the wall. ORDER FORM Open seating at all lms for general admission tickets Short Drama Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles Regal Belltower Stadium 20 Theaters Running Time: 12 min. *OPEN SEATING AT ALL FILMS ickets will be aailable or icku one hour An Average Story *Reserved seating for some levels of sponsorship. Avi Cohen has just been informed that he is the most average man who ever lived. Overnight, he reluctantly beore screening inside the theater on the day o the show becomes a national icon and celebrity. With his wife’s TOTAL #______INDIVIDUAL EVENING TICKETS @ $13 enthusiastic urging, they translate the situation into a TOTAL #______INDIVIDUAL MATINEE TICKETS @ $10 business venture that goes awry. Short Comedy February 2 eent takes lace at at Yam emle o the Islands on anibel Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles TOTAL #______OPENING DAY EVENT TICKETS: @ $25 Running Time: 18 min. TOTAL #______CLOSING DAY EVENT TICKETS: @ $25 TOTAL # ______FESTIVAL PASSES (evenings only): @ $117 TOTAL # ______FESTIVAL PASSES (evenings & matinees) @ $135 Sunday, February 2 at 3:00pm Thursday, February 13 at 7:15pm Tuesday, February 25 at 7:15pm *Passes include 1 ticket to each film—event tickets sold separately Golda’s Balcony, The Film (2019) Love in Suspenders Tel Aviv on Fire Golda’s Balcony Sunday, February 2 3:00 P.M. Based on the awardwinnin pla and lonest run The encounter between two people with such diff erent Salam, an inexperienced young Palestinian man, be- Followed by: Dessert Reception with the Producer nin onewoan show in Broadwa histor, Golda’s personalities, such as Tammy and Beno, has to result comes a writer on a popular soap opera after a chance at Society. Event ticket required. Event starts at: Balcony, the fi lm transcends both cinema and stage in a nightmare…but love has its own rules. From their meeting with an Israeli soldier. His creative career is *Sponsored by Norman Love Confections 5:00 P.M. in this genre-bending emotional experience. Written fi rst unfortunate encounter, when Tammy hits Beno on the rise until the soldier and the show’s fi nancial by William Gibson (The Miracle Worker, the stor of with her car, Tammy and Beno experience all sorts of backers disagree about how the show should end, The Light of Hope Tuesday, February 4 Golda Meir’s rise from Russian schoolgirl to American emotional, funny struggles. They get closer, break up, and Salam is caught in the middle. The fi lm is a satire 7:15 P.M. schoolteacher to the fourth Prime Minister of Israel is get back together and fi ght again, until ultimately their that highlights the awful absurdity of war, and proves *Sponsored by Sylvia & Paul Simko revealed intimately and often humorously by the cap- love wins out. Comedy it’s possible to fi nd humor in the midst of cultural con- Thursday, February 6 tivating Tovah Feldshuh. Recently discovered footage Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles fl ict. Comedy/Satire Picture of His Life 7:15 P.M. from the play’s original run gives viewers the oppor- Running Time: 1 hr. 38 min. Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles *Sponsored by Sara & Brian Krivisky tunity to witness Tovah’s incredible performance up 1 hr. 40 min. Running Time: Tuesday, February 11 close and personal. Documentary From Slavery To Freedom Language: Enlish Running Time: 1 hr. 26 min. 7:15 P.M. Shorts Day Matinee Wednesday, February 12 Tuesday, February 4 at 7:15pm Tuesday, February 18 at 7:15pm Wed., February 26 at 2:00pm An Average Story ~ Across the Line ~ 2:00 P.M. Beneath the Ink ~ Dear God The Light of Hope Unorthodox The Other Story *Sponsored by American House In 1942, after three years of bringing back dignity to The year is 1983, and Yaakov Cohen, the owner of Anat is a rebellious young woman who wants to fl ee Love in Suspenders Thursday, February 13 mothers interned in refugee camps and saving the a Jerusalem printing press, is tired of being pushed the chaos of secular hedonism for the disciplined 7:15 P.M. lives of their babies, the Maternity of Elna has been around. It seems that he was born on the wrong comforts of faith. Sari is a young woman who wants *Sponsored by Cypress Cove at HealthPark FL. ordered to close its doors by French authorities. Its side, with the wrong family name, and in a moment’s to leave behind her oppressive religious upbringing Tuesday, February 18 director, Elisabeth Eidenbenz, the mothers and their decision he decides to establish a Sephardic-ultra- for sexual and spiritual freedom. When Anat and Sari Unorthodox collaborators who have helped to make everything Orthodox list that will run to the Jerusalem mu- cross paths in Jerusalem, it soon changes both of their *Sponsored by DLS Construction, Inc. 7:15 P.M. possible, will try to prevent it. The fi lm is based on the nicipality. He gathers two friends, and together they lives in startling and unexpected ways. Drama true story of Elisabeth Eidenbenz (1913-2011) and her improvise a campaign – no means, no connections, Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles The Spy Behind Home Plate Thursday, February 20 female co-workers who saved the lives of almost 600 no money, but with much rage, passion and a sense Running Time: 1 hr. 57 min. *Sponsored by Fort Myers Miracle Baseball 7:15 P.M. infants in World War II. Historical Period Drama of justice. Comedy, Drama, History Language: Spanish & French with English Subtitles Language: Hebrew with English Subtitles My Polish Honeymoon -JFF at Sunday, February 23 Running Time: 1 hr. 36 min. Running Time: 1 hr. 32 min. 2:00 P.M. Bat Yam Temple of the Islands

THANKTHANK YOUYOU TO TO OUR OUR

LindaLinda & &Charles Charles Idelson Idelson Brian Simon Brian Simon L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 23

FILM FESTIVAL SPONSORS THANK YOU TO OUR FILM FESTIVAL SPONSORS

Andi & Bill Horowitz Sara & Brian Krivisky Andi & Bill Horowitz Sara & Brian Krivisky Magdovitz Family Foundation Sylvia & Paul Simko Magdovitz Family Foundation Sylvia & Paul Simko

Jody & Joel Altschule Elizabeth & Russell Bogen Jody & Joel Altschule Elizabeth & Russell Bogen Jack Cohen & Marsha Weiner Richard H & Judi Davis Jack Cohen & Marsha Weiner Richard H & Judi Davis Barbara & Barry Epstein Karin Fine Barbara & Barry Epstein Karin Fine

Carol & Irwin Friedman Lynn Jaffe & Peter Goldberg Carol & Irwin Friedman Lynn Jaffe & Peter Goldberg

H. H. Michael Michael & & Cheryl Cheryl Goldstein Goldstein GutsteinGutstein & & Correnti Correnti Families Families

Lin Lin & &Ron Ron Klein Klein James James & & JoAnn JoAnn Lewin Lewin

Leni Leni & &Rabbi Rabbi Marc Marc Sack Sack Reeva Reeva & & Ian Ian Shaffer Shaffer Barbara Barbara Siegel Siegel CPA CPA LLC LLC Jill Jill & & Carlos Carlos Weil Weil Zelda Zelda Dubin Dubin Fund Fund

AnonymousAnonymous Phyllis Phyllis & & Berny Berny Aronson Aronson

FranFran & &Andrew Andrew Chernow Chernow Oran Oran Daniel Daniel Fox Fox Shirley & Byron Frank Diane & Bob Goldstein Linda & Charles Shirley & Byron Frank Diane & Bob Goldstein Mel & Sheila Goldstein Carolyn Gora Idelson Mel & Sheila Goldstein Carolyn Gora Jan & Mitchell Hoffman Marsha & Mike Kistler Brian Simon Jan & Mitchell Hoffman Marsha & Mike Kistler Irwin Kroskin & Nancy Kanter Rachel Maves Irwin Kroskin & Nancy Kanter Rachel Maves Sofia & Howard Parish Julia Perry Sofia & Howard Parish Julia Perry Marlene & Ron SchwartzEhrens Gary & Mary Skogebo Marlene & Ron SchwartzEhrens Gary & Mary Skogebo Bernie Perlstein & Jerry Wadro Judith Yevick Bernie Perlstein & Jerry Wadro Judith Yevick Avner Yonai Vicki & Steve Zellner Avner Yonai Vicki & Steve Zellner Anonymous in honor of Sara Krivisky Anonymous in honor of Sara Krivisky

L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 24 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD BRIEFS BRIEFS 250,000 IMMIGRANTS TO population a century ago to just 5%. In Iran. Gold, who heads the Jerusalem tween Israel and Hamas. continued from previous page ISRAEL IN PAST DECADE the Palestinian territories, the Christian Center for Public Affairs think-tank, Yusri Darwish, from the group or- The Foreign Ministry’s Arabic- More than 250,000 immigrants reached population has dropped below 1.5%. said, “The name of the game is how ganizing the protests, said that whenlanguage Facebook pages, Twitter Israel from 150 countries in the past (Jerusalem Post) to find joint interests that don’t cre- the demonstrations resume on Marchand Instagram accounts, and YouTube decade, the Jewish Agency reported, ate a big stir. In any case, if you did 30, they will take place monthly ratherchannel collectively draw 10 million with 34,000 coming in 2019. ISRAELI PUBLIC NAME public opinion surveys, you’d find that than weekly. viewers and followers each week. Over the past decade, 130,000 NEW PLANET “ALEF” throughout most of the Gulf there’s a “Thursday’s announcement is an(Ruth Eglash, Washington Post) came from the countries of the former The Israel Ministry of Science, Tech- kind of understanding that Israel’s part admission of failure,” a Palestinian Soviet Union; 55,000 came from other nology and Space announced recently of the region.” (AFP - France 24) journalist in Gaza said. “The protestsISRAEL’S LEVIATHAN European countries, including 38,000 that it will name a planet after the He- failed to achieve their two declaredOFFSHORE NATURAL JEWISH-ARAB from France; 32,000 came from the brew letter Alef, the first letter of the goals: ending the blockade on GazaGAS FIELD BEGINS U.S. and 3,800 from Canada; 13,420 alphabet. COOPERATION SEEN IN and achieving the right of return for The name was chosen in an online Palestinian refugees to their formerPRODUCTION came from Latin America, including ISRAEL’S MIXED CITIES Gas began flowing from the Leviathan poll of 20,000 participants conducted In Israel’s mixed Jewish-Arab cities homes inside Israel.” 4,320 from Brazil and 3,150 from Ar- offshore natural gas field on Tuesday, by the Israel Space Agency. in the last municipal elections, Arabs A Palestinian human rights ac- gentina; 10,500 came from Ethiopia December 30, the largest energy proj- On the occasion of its 100th anni- running on national party lists or as in- tivist in Gaza said “fatigue” was also and 2,560 from South Africa; 1,950 ect in Israel’s history. versary, the International Astronomical dependent candidates were elected to behind the decision. “People are tired, came from Australia and New Zea- Yossi Abu, CEO of Delek Drill- Association offered dozens of countries city councils, and they all, without ex- and the organizers know that very well. land; 1,180 came from India; 3,040 ing LP, said, “For the first time since the chance to name a planet and a star ception, joined the municipal coalition In recent months we’ve seen a signifi- immigrants came from Middle East- its establishment, Israel is now an en- in solar systems outside of the Milky governments. cant decrease in the number of people ern countries with which Israel has no ergy powerhouse, able to supply all its Way. (Itamar Eichner, Ynet News) In every mixed-population city, participating in the Friday demonstra- diplomatic relations. 60% of the immi- energy needs and gaining energy inde- one finds close cooperation between tions.” (Khaled Abu Toameh, Jerusa- grants were younger than 45. (Globes) pendence. At the same time, we will be ISRAEL EYES DUBAI EXPO Jews and Arabs at every level of mu- lem Post) exporting natural gas to Israel’s neigh- AS PORTAL TO ARAB nicipal activity. JERUSALEM RANKED bors [Egypt and Jordan], thus strength- A study by Dr. Hisham Jubran ISRAEL IS USING DIGITAL WORLD’S FASTEST WORLD ening Israel’s position in the region.” With the Dubai Expo 2020 trade fair found that 81% of Jewish residents of DIPLOMACY TO REACH GROWING TOURIST Located in the Mediterranean Sea opening later this year, the Israeli pa- mixed cities described relations with DESTINATION OUT TO THE ARAB WORLD 125 km. (77 miles) west of Haifa, the vilion will present a unique opportu- Arab residents as good, and 89% of the Linda Menuhin, born in Baghdad, is Jerusalem is the world’s fastest grow- nity to speed up the “normalization” of Arab residents described relations with the moderator of the Arabic-language ing tourist destination, UK business relations and reach out to Arab peoples, Jewish residents as good. Facebook pages and social media plat- intelligence company Euromonitor In- officials say. Arabs – especially young couples forms run by Israel’s Ministry of For- ternational reports. Dore Gold, former director-general and members of the middle class – are eign Affairs. Interacting daily with res- The city saw 3.93 million overseas of the Israeli Foreign Ministry, said the moving from Arab communities into idents of Arab countries and providing tourists in 2018, up 12% from 2017, “quasi-diplomatic presence” of the pa- mixed cities to improve their quality information about Israel, Judaism and and is expected to enjoy 38% growth vilion is one of several developments of life and enjoy better municipal ser- the Jews who once lived among them, in 2019 to 4.8 million. (Globes) with “a cumulative effect.” He cited vices. (Jalal Bana, Israel Hayom) Menuhin said her goal is to show “the THE ONLY PLACE IN sporting competitions and the 2015 common values we share and the simi- GAZA BORDER PROTESTS THE MIDDLE EAST opening in Abu Dhabi of an Israeli larities between us.” mission to the International Renewable SUSPENDED FOR THREE Uzi Rabi, director of the Moshe WHERE CHRISTIANS Energy Agency, which is based there. MONTHS Dayan Center for Middle Eastern and ARE THRIVING IS THE “It’s not normalization, but it’s an en- The organizers of the Great March of African Studies at Tel Aviv Univer- JEWISH STATE hanced presence,” he said. Return demonstrations near the border sity, said the region was in a “transi- There are 177,000 Christians in Israel, While the Gulf Arab states have with Israel on Thursday, December 26, tory phase,” including “a growing por- up 1.5% from last year; 78% are Arabs. not lost interest in the Palestinian is- suspended the protests until the end of tion of young Arabs who are no longer A British report in July found that sue, “these countries are looking after March 2020. Palestinian political ana- afraid to talk to Israelis.... Today, most the number of Christians in the Middle themselves,” including enhancing se- lysts said the decision was linked to people know that Israel is not the prob- East has dwindled from 20% of the curity cooperation with Israel against lem.” ceasefire understandings reached be- continued on next page

Marcia Can Help MARCIA CAN HELP, a fund of the Jewish Federation and Jewish Family Services, provides for emergency nutritional needs through our Food Pantry, gift card distribution, and crisis grants to prevent utility cut-offs, evictions, loss of transportation and other essential services without which none of us can live. Inspired by the recognition that these needs must be addressed in our community, and as a tribute to Marcia Cohen, a long-time resident of Sanibel and social activist, her husband Jack established the MARCIA CAN HELP fund in 2017.

Marcia Can Help

Help us meet these pressing needs by contributing to the MARCIA CAN HELP fund. For further information please contact Alan Isaacs at (239) 481-4449 or [email protected]. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 25

Leviathan field holds some 22 trillion winding through the Judean hills. The Yitzhak Navon railway station cubic feet of recoverable natural gas. The new 56-km. route includes an in Jerusalem is 80 meters underground, BRIEFS The gas supply will enable Israel to 11.6-km. tunnel, the longest in Israel; a the deepest railway station in Israel phase out expensive and polluting im- 1.25-km. bridge, the longest in Israel; and one of the deepest in the world. continued from previous page ported coal for generating electricity. and a 90-meter high bridge, the highest (Globes) The Foreign Ministry’s Arabic- (Shoshanna Solomon, Times of Israel) in Israel. language Facebook pages, Twitter and Instagram accounts, and YouTube ISRAEL WELCOMES channel collectively draw 10 million RECORD 4.55 MILLION Israel’s Eurovision show viewers and followers each week. TOURISTS IN 2019 (Ruth Eglash, Washington Post) In 2019, 4.55 million tourists visited voted best of decade Israel, the Tourism Ministry announced ISRAEL’S LEVIATHAN By Abigail Klein Leichman, ISRAEL21c recently. Tourist entries increased by urovision fans voted “Dare to Eurovision show of the 2010s based OFFSHORE NATURAL 10% compared to 4,120,800 in 2018. Dream,” the 64th Eurovision on four categories: stage, songs, vot- GAS FIELD BEGINS The leading sources for tour- Song Contest in Tel Aviv, the ing sequence and overall production PRODUCTION ism were the U.S. (890,000), France E best Eurovision production of the de- value. Gas began flowing from the Leviathan (338,200), Russia (296,000), Germa- cade. The result helps take the sting out offshore natural gas field on Tuesday, ny (268,900) and Britain (218,700); Israel had won the privilege of of the fact that Israel’s contestant, Kobi December 30, the largest energy proj- 144,400 visitors arrived from China, up hosting the 2019 Eurovision contest Marimi, placed a disappointing 23rd ect in Israel’s history. 51%. (Eytan Halon, Jerusalem Post) by virtue of Netta Barzilai winning the in the 2019 contest. The winner was Yossi Abu, CEO of Delek Drill- 2018 contest held in Lisbon. Duncan Laurence of The Netherlands. ing LP, said, “For the first time since JERUSALEM-TEL AVIV An estimated 182 million people Accordingly, the 65th contest will take its establishment, Israel is now an en- FAST TRAIN BEGINS watched the three-day production last place next May in Rotterdam. ergy powerhouse, able to supply all its OPERATIONS May, produced by Israeli public broad- Over 64 years, the Eurovision energy needs and gaining energy inde- The new high-speed electrified railway casting company Kan. It was broadcast Song Contest has grown to become the pendence. At the same time, we will be between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv was live from Tel Aviv to the 41 participating world’s biggest live music event. Israel exporting natural gas to Israel’s neigh- inaugurated on Saturday night, Decem- countries and across the rest of the world has participated 41 times, won first place bors [Egypt and Jordan], thus strength- ber 21. via YouTube. four times (1978, 1979, 1998, 2018) and ening Israel’s position in the region.” Travel time on the new route is 30 The European Broadcasting Union, hosted the contest three times (1979, Located in the Mediterranean Sea minutes, compared with 90 minutes on operator of the contest, asked social- 1999 and 2019). 125 km. (77 miles) west of Haifa, the the old Jerusalem-Tel Aviv railway line media followers to vote for their favorite

Marcia Can Help

Help us meet these pressing needs by contributing to the MARCIA CAN HELP fund. For further information please contact Alan Isaacs at (239) 481-4449 or [email protected]. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 26 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties COMMENTARY

Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. The myth of Palestinian land How to respond to the anti-Semitic attack in Monsey By Jerrold L. Sobel, ZOA of SWFL President, December 22, 2019 By Nita Lowey and David Harris, December 30, 2019 n response to a recent essay I had exile throughout the world, one theme Jerusalem becoming part of the southern As Roman oppression reached a written, the following letter was has remained constant: the dream of re- kingdom of Judea, and 10 tribes in the boiling point 66 years following the Isent to me by one of my readers. turning to their homeland, Eretz Yisrael, north constituting the northern region, sacking of the Second Temple, the This is a common theme amongst two to rebuild and restore her to the glory of Samaria. This proved disastrous for the Romans once again were faced with sets of people supporting the Palestinian old. Throughout the millennia, Diaspora Jewish people, as a succession of inva- a Jewish rebellion. This one was mas- cause: those with unmistakable animus Jews to this day face toward Jerusalem sions spanning millennia soon befell the sively repressed in 132 CE, resulting toward Israel and Jews, and others just during prayers. once-United Kingdom. in the slaughter of 600,000 Jews. As misinformed by consistent, unremitting As early as 1209 BCE, Merneptah, The northern region, Samaria, be- further punishment, the Romans sought propaganda (a category I place this the son of Ramses II, following a great came known as Israel. It continued to to blot out Jewish connection to this writer in). victory over Libyan and seafaring exist as an independent kingdom until land (sound familiar?) by renaming it “I am 100 percent in favor of freez- armies invading Egypt, made mention its conquest in 722 BCE by the Assyr- after what was up to then Israel’s worst ing settlements. What settlers are doing of Israel and the Jewish people. To ians. Judah remained independent until enemy: “Philistia.” The name became there is the same as what my European commemorate his military successes, 586 BCE, when this region, containing bastardized, and hence the entire area ancestors did to my Native American he ordered the carving of four large Jerusalem, was deemed the capital of became known as Syria Palaestina, the ancestors. Stealing land. It should stop. stones, one of which became known the Jewish people by Solomon’s fa- egregious locution ascribed to this Jew- My inclination is to want Israel to go as the Merneptah Stela or Israel Stela. ther, King David. It was razed by the ish land in modern times. back to the 1967 borders, but I admit that This engraved stone made reference to Babylonians under the kingship of Ne- Taken in context of this histori- I do not have the historical knowledge a revolt by Jews in Israel which Merne- buchadnezzar. Following the conquest cal record and the timeline herein, it to understand the wars that increased the ptah massively repressed. It is the earli- by the Babylonians, tens of thousands exceeds credulity to accept the Islamic boundaries. So I’m not firm on that. But est non-biblical reference to Jews as a of Jews were deported to Babylonia, narrative claiming Judea/Samaria as the further expansion of borders is very socio-ethnic unity, powerful enough to where they remained until freed and al- Muslim land. Islam and its conquest of wrong, in my opinion. So you might be mentioned along with other major lowed to return thanks to the largess of “Palestine” did not begin until 633 CE, want to stop e-mailing me. Or tell me city-states that were also neutralized Cyrus the Great. Reinvigorated by their 1,800 years after the Jewish recognition what right settlers have to take Palestin- by Merneptah. return to Jerusalem, the Jews began to in Merneptah Stela, 1,600 years past ians’ land. ‘Cause I just don’t get it.” By 1000 BCE, the Israelite king- reconstruct the Second Temple, which the grandeur of the United Monarchy My reply: Thanks for allowing me dom, also known as the United Monar- was completed in 516 BCE. of Kings David and Solomon, and 500 the opportunity to explain to you why chy under David and Solomon, reached Despite incessant propaganda by years subsequent to the sacking of the this is not Palestinian land and never its greatest extent (1004-928 BCE). the Palestinians, Muslim Arabs and Second Temple. was. If you approach what I will reveal Solomon’s Temple, also known as the their leftist supporters, it is important Post-conquest, Jews remaining in with an open mind, I think you’ll rec- First Temple, was, according to the to recognize that the United Kingdom their homeland of 1,300 years were ognize that the Palestinian argument Torah and the Bible, the first Jewish comprised two separate Jewish entities: powerless. Forced into second-class is at best disingenuous and at worst an Temple in Jerusalem. It functioned as Judea in the south, and Samaria in the citizenship, using a term by famed outright lie. both a religious site and a focal point northern hills. Only after thousands of author Bat Ye’or, they lived in dhimm- From an historical standpoint, Jews of worship. It was completed in the 10th years was this area west of the Jordan itude, had no rights, and were made to have lived in the land of Israel for nearly century BCE. River renamed the West Bank by the suffer dearly. Despite being conquered 4,000 years, going back to the period of Grievously, as is often in the case Jordanians following their illegal oc- and ruled by no fewer than 10 empires, the biblical patriarchs (c. 1900 BCE). throughout history, successors to great cupation subsequent to Israel’s War of governments and dynasties which con- The story of the Jewish people, Israel, leaders lack the vision of their forefa- Independence in 1948. trolled the Holy land prior to the British its capital Jerusalem, and the Jewish thers. Such was the case of Rehoboam, As mentioned, the Second Temple Mandate, Jews have always inhabited Temple, has been one of exile, destruc- Solomon’s son, ascending to the throne was built in 516 BCE only to be de- this land. Despite massacres, pogroms, tion and rebirth. In its 3,000 years of in 930 BCE. stroyed in 66 CE by yet another invader, expulsions and forced conversions, Jews history, Jerusalem has been destroyed Due to Rehoboam’s harsh ad- the Romans. It was carried out by their have dwelled in their capital, Jerusalem, 17 times and 18 times reborn. During ministration of the northern tribes procurator, Florius, in response to a as well as surrounding cities and towns these periods of disbursement, there and preferential treatment of his own, Jewish revolt against bitter treatment. such as Hebron, Nablus and Jericho has always remained a constant Jewish following Solomon’s death, civil war Since the sacking the Second Temple, since time immemorial. All of these cit- presence in the land of Israel and in between Judea and Samaria broke out. the Western Wall, the last vestige of this ies comprise ancient Jewish land that the Jerusalem. For those Jews forced into The United Monarchy split apart, with holy shrine, stands on the spot where it Palestinians impertinently deem their was built in East Jerusalem. Jerusalem own. To consider Jewish construction, remains the most holy site in the most “settlements,” in any part of this land Like us on Facebook! holy city of the Jewish religion, vener- constitutes contempt of historical fact. ated by Jews throughout the world, and By perpetuating the canard of an is mentioned no fewer than 825 times in ancient Palestinian Arab connection to the Jewish liturgy. Other than Muham- the Holy land, the Islamists have duped ConneCt mad’s alleged ascension to heaven from a good part of the world into believing with your Jewish Community that city in a dream, there is no other one of the greatest hoaxes in history. mention of it in the Qur’an. Yet despite To state that Jews are “stealing” Pal- overwhelming historical credence, Is- estinian land only reinforces a maxim www.facebook.com/ rael’s sworn enemies (Mahmoud Abbas made prominent by the infamous Nazi facebook.com/jfedsrq chief among them), falsely espouse that propaganda minister, Joseph Goebbels: JewishFederationLCC they cannot understand Jewish claims “If you tell a lie long enough, people will to this land. begin to believe it.”

SAVE THE DATE Yom Hashoah

Holocaust Remembrance Program Sunday, April 19, 2020 3:00 P.M.

Temple Beth El, 16225 Winkler Rd. Fort Myers

The Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties will commemorate Yom HaShoah with a Holocaust Remembrance program. A candle lighting ceremony in memory of the six million will be held. For more information, contact Debbie Sanford at 239.481.4449 x4. Free & open to the community. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 COMMENTARY Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 27

Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. How to respond to the anti-Semitic attack in Monsey By Nita Lowey and David Harris, December 30, 2019 n the wake of the horrific knife ating confidence in liberal democracy and attacks on Americans because of their their windows. The message was clear: tack on Saturday during a Hanukkah its core value of pluralism. Our nation religious or ethnic identities are now Anti-Semitism and racism had no place Icelebration in Monsey, New York, has made considerable progress in the an expected part of our everyday lives. there. and following a recent spate of other social inclusion of minority groups. But No, they are not. These attacks violate In a survey of American Jews by the anti-Semitic assaults in New York City that progress also poses a threat to those everything that Americans should hold American Jewish Committee, released and elsewhere in the United States, we who are bewildered or angered by these dear. An attack on any American group in October, 31 percent of respondents must ask and answer two key questions: social changes and who prefer mutual is a threat to the pluralistic fabric of said that they had taken steps to hide “Why now?” and “What can be done to rancor to mutual respect. our nation. their Jewish identity in public, while 25 stop such incidents?” There’s also the “copycat” phenom- Fourth, despite the efforts of many percent said they now avoided Jewish Let’s start with “Why now?” Why, enon – when someone else’s hateful elected officials and law-enforcement sites. And this survey was conducted when American Jews have felt un- actions, and the publicity they engen- agencies to keep us safe, more needs before the recent attacks in Jersey City matched levels of inclusion and equality, der, spur others who seek notoriety and to be done – including enhanced infor- and Monsey. and when, unlike in previous genera- attention. This includes offenses like mation-gathering, tougher prosecution This is unacceptable. It is not our tions, Jews can be found in every sphere scrawling swastikas or ugly slogans and sentencing and increased public America. We call on all Americans of of American society, is anti-Semitism on synagogue walls; assaulting people education – to respond to anti-Semitic good will to ask ourselves how each of making a comeback? on the street in Brooklyn and Manhat- attacks in our communities. us can defend our inclusive vision for It is important to remember that tan who are “identifiably” Jewish; and One model for community engage- this country. anti-Semitism has been called the murdering them, as with the synagogue ment is what happened in Billings, Mon- Nita Lowey is a United States congress- world’s oldest social disease. It dates shootings in Pittsburgh last year and tana, in 1993, after a year of racist and woman whose district includes Monsey. back millenniums. It has taken many in Poway, California, in April, and the anti-Semitic incitements that culminated David Harris is the chief executive of forms – religious and racial, political kosher supermarket shooting this month with the throwing of a brick through the American Jewish Committee. and social. Its durability and ability to in Jersey City, New Jersey. bedroom window of a young child in reinvent itself should never be underes- Which brings us to the second of our a Jewish home that had a menorah on The AJC West Coast timated. Even here in the United States, two questions: How to respond? display. The reaction of Billings was it never entirely vanished. First, we need to recognize the swift and decisive. Under the leader- Florida office, located in The resurgence of anti-Semitism problem for what it is: an epidemic. We ship of the police chief and a newspaper could be a result, in part, of the van- are no longer talking about isolated, oc- editor, paper cutouts of a menorah were Sarasota, can be reached ishing legacy of the Holocaust. Re- casional actions – bad enough as those made widely available. Thousands of cent surveys reveal abysmal levels of are – but a regular phenomenon. Like an households in Billings put them in at 941.365.4955. knowledge among young people about epidemic, it must be treated comprehen- what happened to the Jewish people in sively, addressing root causes. the Second World War. There is far too Second, we must acknowledge little understanding about the slippery that there are multiple ideological Changing your address? slope from the Nazi dehumanization of sources feeding this paroxysm of hate; the Jews in 1933 to the Final Solution it is not a result of a single political nine years later. outlook. Some critics wish to exploit Keep L’CHAYIM coming Social media may also be playing the issue to undermine their political a role. In the past, anti-Semites lived in opponents. That is no way to deal with small ideological circles with limited anti-Semitism. There is no one-size-fits- to your home. Email reach. Now the internet amplifies the all profile for the perpetrators of these voices and influence of these otherwise attacks. marginal groups. Third, we cannot allow this situa- [email protected]. Another factor could be the declin- tion to become the “new normal,” as if SIGN A LEASE BY FEBRUARY 29th... RECEIVE SPECIAL PRICING ON SELECT APARTMENTS!

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CALL 239.237.0501 FOR A TOUR + COMPLIMENTARY LUNCH! Temple Beth El, 16225 Winkler Rd. Fort Myers 2019 GOLD AWARD 2019 GOLD AWARD 2019 SILVER AWARD The Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties will commemorate Yom HaShoah with a BEST OF FORT MYERS BEST OF FORT MYERS BEST OF FORT MYERS SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITY ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY Holocaust Remembrance program. A candle lighting ceremony in memory of the six million will be held.

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Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. Connecting the dots Bishop on the bimah esolutions, anyone? This is the do not put our whole selves into them. n the very first Shabbat of Pages upon pages have been writ- season for New Year’s resolu- As Toni Sorenson writes, “Weight loss 2020, the Presiding Bishop ten about who is the “us” God refers Rtions, so if any of you are still doesn’t begin in the gym with a dumb Oof the Evangelical Lutheran to, but one suggestion is that God is pursuing them at this late date, this col- bell; it starts in your head with a deci- Church in America, the Rev. Elizabeth talking to humanity itself. God created umn is for you. For sion.” And maybe it starts in our hearts, Eaton, came to Temple Beth El in Fort individuals. It is up to us to create com- conversation’s sake, too. Myers and spoke out against anti-Sem- munity. It is up to us to create a com- let’s say you have re- But what if we wanted to grow our itism from the bimah. munity of mutual respect, decency and solved to lose a few Jewish spirituality? I bet any of our lo- Bishop Eaton was in Fort My- unity. It is up to us to create a commu- pounds and get into cal rabbis would welcome such a phone ers for a conference nity where we recognize our similari- better shape. You call and opportunity to discuss the is- and reached out to ties and celebrate our differences. It is might start by visit- sues involved. You could also search Temple Beth El in up to us to create a community of soli- ing your local nu- the internet for the various websites solidarity after the darity and support.  Rabbi tritionist to discuss which cater to your preferences. But multiple anti-Semitic In her statement against anti-Sem- Michael J. changes in your diet. reading about spirituality, about dieting attacks in New York itism, Bishop Eaton wrote, “This will Schorin Of course, you could and getting in shape is not sufficient. over Hanukkah, in- require more of us than repeated state- also surf the web and look for a diet At some point, you need to switch from cluding the stabbing ments. It will require building bridges that appeals to you. being passive to being active. And, in  Rabbi in Monsey. of inter-religious understanding in our In terms of getting into better Judaism, the practice of raising our spir- Nicole Local Lutheran communities. It will require reaching shape, you might want to arrange a vis- ituality begins with performing mitz- Luna pastors also joined out to our Jewish neighbors to offer our it with a trainer. Of course, you could voth. Before we eat, we say a blessing. her for Shabbat. It was the beginning care, support, love and protection. It also search the web for the best exercis- As we light candles on Erev Shabbat, of the year and once again the Jew- will require our persistence in address- es that you should be doing. But there’s we say a blessing over them. In fact, ish community was facing the age-old ing the root causes of anti-Semitism just one small problem: commitment. the rabbis say that we should recite 100 plague of anti-Semitism, mourning yet and its menacing companions of white Jillian Michaels, the famous trainer, blessings every single day! another tragedy against the Jews, feel- supremacy and xenophobia.” once said, “Get comfortable with being Is 100 blessings a day any more dif- ing caught in the next cycle of the ris- Let 2020 be the year we all take on uncomfortable!” How many of us can ficult than doing 100 crunches or 100 ing tide against us. this task. If we do this, if we create a stand the uncomfortable position of push-ups? None of these is easy, but Bishop Eaton’s visit allowed us community of care and justice for all, saying no to dessert, becoming familiar they shouldn’t be impossible, either. to imagine a year filled not with more then we pray that God will look upon with new machines in the gym or, even Why this many? Every time we say a hate and violence, but a year of solidar- our creation as God did Genesis, va’ya worse, getting up early to work out? blessing, and every time we do a mitz- ity and peace. How can we create such a Elohim ki-tov, “and God saw that this Charles Schulz, the creator of Peanuts, vah, we become a little more aware and year together? How can we create such was good.” once wrote, “Exercise is a dirty word. awake, a little more conscious and a lit- a world? We look to the words God said Rabbi Nicole Luna serves at Temple Every time I hear it, I wash my mouth tle holier. Every mitzvah is a training in when God created us. God said, “Let us Beth El in Fort Myers. out with chocolate.” If it were easy, we love. In the words of Rabbi Abraham make human beings.” (Genesis 1:26) would all be doing it. We would all be Joshua Heschel, we are commanded fit, watching what we eat, and working to “take a leap of action, rather than out regularly. With the high proportion a leap of faith.” Come to think of it, of obesity in our country, it is obvious that’s true of our dieting and exercising we are not all doing these things. as well. May we all decrease in weight, Why not? It would seem that we increase in fitness and be increasingly have all heard the stories in the media blessed in our spirituality. about the wisdom of taking better care Rabbi Dr. Michael J. Schorin, MAPC, of ourselves. And it would also seem BCC is a Chaplain in Lee Health’s that we have all been motivated at some Department of Spiritual Services, and point to make a resolution in that direc- ministers at the Gulf Coast Medical tion. Resolutions are weak because we Center.

Rabbi Nicole Luna, Bishop Elizabeth Eaton, and local Lutheran pastors and friends Providing exceptional care that makes senior’s lives better and happier! The tree of life elebrating Tu B’Shevat teaches Trees teach us that, in the end, it’s our Homemaker/Companion Services us that we have so much in actions that matter most. Personally Matched Caregivers, Prepare Meals, Light common with trees, and there Our Gimelut Chasadim, acts of House Tasks, Laundry & Linens, Shopping & Errands, C are many lessons that we can learn loving kindness, are like seeds that we Take to Appointments/Events, Social Interaction, Advocate Service, From a Few Hours to 24-Hour Care & More! when we look beyond that with which plant so that future generations will en- we can only see. joy their fruit. Personal Care & Nurse Services Trees don’t ask In the Talmud, there is a wonderful for things. They ap- story: An old man was planting a tree. Post Surgery or Hospital Stay Care, Mobility Help, ADL’s, Baths, Dressing, Personal Hygiene, Special Needs Care, preciate the basic A young person passed by and asked, Medication Management, Up to 24-Hour Care, Much More! necessities of sun- what are you planting? A carob tree, light, food and water, the old man replied. What a waste of AS SEEN and they don’t make your time, said the young man. Don’t ON TV promises that they you know that it takes 70 years for a can’t keep. Trees carob tree to bear fruit? That’s okay,  Rabbi DO give us air, food, said the old man. Just as others planted Lawrence shelter, shade, and for me, I plant for future generations. Dermer Free Consultation. It’s easy … wood for fuel and The seeds we plant today ensure Call us at (239) 243-8555 building. Trees don’t speak with their that future generations will thrive and SeniorcareSouthwestFlorida.com words, but they do with their actions! survive. The message of Tu B’Shevat

©2019 Each office is independently owned and operated. License HCS #232083, HHA # 299994663 In Pirkei Avot we are taught: Who- is that we can either let ourselves with- ever has more wisdom than deeds is er, fade away and disappear, or we can like a tree with many branches but few strengthen and renew our Jewish iden- roots, and the wind shall tear him from tity as we’ve done for more than 3,000 the ground... Whoever has more deeds years. than wisdom is like a tree with more The choice has always been ours. roots than branches, and no hurricane Whether to continue to be or become “Our greatest marker of success is will uproot him from the spot. nothing more than a memory on the the client’s wholehearted trust Even our Torah compares us to pages of history. As we struggle with and conﬁ dence in us.” trees: A person is like the tree of a a world filled with so much ignorance, Weinstein Wilkes Financial Group Raymond James Financial field... (Deut. 20:19); For as the days of fear and hate, we plant the seeds for a Services, Inc. a tree shall be the days of my people. new world filled with love, tolerance (Isaiah 65:22); He will be like a tree and peace for all humanity with every planted near water... (Jeremiah 17:8). prayer, good word, thought and deed. Why do we celebrate Tu B’Shevat We’re reminded that our Jewish in the winter when most trees are bare? survival, the continuation of our Eitz Although many trees appear to be dead, Chayim is not only in G-d’s hands, the winter is when they’re actually the but ours as well. May our roots remain most alive. We can’t see underground, strong, nourished by the life-giving wa- but it’s under the earth’s surface that ters of our Torah that allow us to flour- new life is being created. ish and grow stronger in every genera- Sometimes the result of a mitzvah tion. “It is a tree of life to those who 13720 Six Mile Cypress Parkway #1, Fort Myers, FL 33912 is not immediately seen. But our good hold fast to it, and all of its supporters 239-768-1490 • 888-768-1490 • raymondjames.com/weinsteinwilkes deeds are recognized by G-d, even if are happy. Its ways are ways of pleas- Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, we can’t see the immediate results of antness, and all its paths are peace!” Inc. Weinstein Wilkes Financial Group is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of our actions. Our deeds and not our Rabbi Lawrence Dermer serves at Raymond James Financial Services. words are how we’ll be remembered. Shalom Life Center in Fort Myers. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 FROM THE BIMAH Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 29

Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. For Jews, Earth Day is We Jews are (at least) 1,800 years old far from powerless fter Chanukah, the next special of destroying or polluting this earth be- n his review of Bari Weiss’ excel- 2% of the population, we have made occasion in the Jewish year is cause it is the only one we shall have. “ lent book, How to Fight Anti-Sem- our voice very important in American ATu B’Shevat, the birthday of In the late 1980s, when I served Iitism, Seth Mandel of the Wash- politics. the trees. Trees are vital to the arability as Rabbi in Nashville, the then Sena- ington Examiner quotes Menachem (We have a long tradition of being of the land of Israel. It is first and fore- tor from Tennessee, Albert Gore, be- Begin. In 1982, an American senator politically active. The biblical figures most a holiday to remind us of our re- gan doing research and convening was twisting Begin’s arm on a matter of Joseph, Mordecai and Esther, and sponsibility to care of the environment. seminars which led to his books and of policy when the prime minister said the medieval Spanish Shmuel HaNagid In the United movie about the environment, which to him, “Senator, I were prominent figures in the courts of States we began cel- eventually won him the Nobel Prize for am not a Jew with non-Jewish monarchs.) ebrating something Peace. At the first of these occasions trembling knees.” The State of Israel has also shown called “Earth Day” held in Nashville, Senator Gore asked While we Jews must us that we can and will take care of 50 years ago in 1970. me to share a closing homily that con- keep our eyes open ourselves. Not only is Israel a military Earth Day responded cretized this concern. On that occasion and protect our insti- force, it has become one of the most to a need to recog- I shared the following story: tutions, we need not innovative and powerful economies of nize and take cogni- Once upon a time, long ago, there be Jews with trem- the world. The Organization for Eco-  Rabbi zance of our human was a goat with horns so long that  Rabbi bling knees. nomic Co-operation and Development Stephen responsibility to pro- when he stretched his neck they grazed Marc We Jews are far (OECD) of which Israel is a leading Fuchs tect our environment. the sky and caused the stars to sing Sack from powerless. Af- member, says this: “Israel’s economy More recently, young Greta Thun- the most beautiful melody anyone had ter the Shoah, our people formed or continues to register remarkable mac- berg has become internationally known ever heard. One day a man was walk- reinforced a variety of Jewish organi- roeconomic and fiscal performance. and named TIME magazine’s Person of ing through the forest thinking of buy- zations that represent the interests of Growth is strong, and unemploy- the Year for focusing the world’s atten- ing a gift for his wife’s birthday when Jews, in Israel and their home coun- ment low and falling, according to the tion on our neglect of the environment. he encountered the goat. Seeing the tries, before the governments of the OECD’s latest Economic Survey of Our festival of environmental beautiful horns, he thought to cut a world. AIPAC (American Israel Pub- Israel.” awareness, Tu B’Shevat, is first men- small piece off of one to make a jew- lic Affairs Committee) is best known. For reasons we don’t fully under- tioned in the Mishnah, which was com- elry box for his wife. He asked the goat The Anti-Defamation League monitors stand, there has been a dramatic in- piled between 200 BCE and 200 CE. if he could do so, and the goat, being anti-Semitic activity in the U.S. and crease in anti-Semitic attacks in the That means we Jews began observing a friendly sort, agreed. When friends abroad. MEMRI (Middle East Media U.S. We have all taken steps to protect our “Earth Day” and focusing on en- saw the lovely jewelry box, everyone Research Institute) monitors foreign our institutions. This is a time for liv- vironmental awareness at least 1,800 wanted one. Then many people each language newspapers for their reporting with our eyes open, for taking noth- years ago. took just a little bit of the goat’s pre- ing about Israel and Jews. CAMERA ing for granted. It is not a time for be- It gives me pride as a Jew to real- cious horns for his or her own use. As a (Committee for Accuracy in Middle ing afraid. We can and will take care ize that our people institutionalized the result, the stars no longer sing. East Reporting and Analysis) does the of ourselves. Thank God, the State of sense of responsibility for our environ- For me, this story conveys the es- same for American publications. Israel and the United States of America ment at least 1,800 years before the sential message of Tu B’Shevat. So Most importantly, we are politi- give us the freedom and ability to do modern world concretized that concern thank you, “Earth Day” and thank you cally active. Regardless of political af- that. into a day of national observance. Greta Thunberg for reinforcing the an- filiation, American Jews donate money Rabbi Marc Sack serves at Temple In chapter seven of the Midrash cient lesson of Tu B’Shevat. We are and are involved in politics on local Judea in Fort Myers. Kohelet Rabbah, we read, “After the in charge of, and responsible for, this and national levels. And, we vote. At creation of the world, God addressed earth. If we destroy it, we shall never the first couple, Adam and Eve, and have another one. told them to take care of this world Rabbi Stephen Lewis Fuchs serves at and all of its beauty and abundance. Bat Yam Temple of the Islands on Sani- Beware, though, God reminded them, bel Island. Mention you saw us in L’Chayim or show your military veteran ID for an extra Trees teach us that, in the end, it’s our 5% OFF! actions that matter most. Our Gimelut Chasadim, acts of DIRECT IMPORTERS • LARGE IN-STOCK INVENTORY • GREAT PRICES loving kindness, are like seeds that we plant so that future generations will enjoy their fruit. In the Talmud, there is a wonderful story: An old man was planting a tree. A young person passed by and asked, what are you planting? A carob tree, the old man replied. What a waste of your time, said the young man. Don’t you know that it takes 70 years for a It Matters to Us... carob tree to bear fruit? 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The choice has always been ours. Whether to continue to be or become nothing more than a memory on the Stop in or call to schedule your tour today! pages of history. As we struggle with a world filled with so much ignorance, fear and hate, we plant the seeds for a (844) 215-0662 new world filled with love, tolerance and peace for all humanity with every prayer, good word, thought and deed. Here to help YOU anywhere in We’re reminded that our Jewish survival, the continuation of our Eitz Southwest Florida! Chayim is not only in G-d’s hands, but ours as well. May our roots remain strong, nourished by the life-giving wa- ters of our Torah that allow us to flourish and grow stronger in every genera- Susan Glasser, Realtor® tion. “It is a tree of life to those who Fort Myers Resident for Nearly 30 Years hold fast to it, and all of its supporters [email protected] Fort Myers are happy. Its ways are ways of pleas- 239-281-3105 antness, and all its paths are peace!” John R. Wood Properties Assisted Living | Memory Care AmericanHouse.com Rabbi Lawrence Dermer serves at 15065 McGregor Blvd. Ft. Myers, FL 33908 19-FTM-4749 Shalom Life Center in Fort Myers. ALF# 13171 L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 30 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties FROM THE BIMAH

Opinions and letters printed in L’CHAYIM do not necessarily reflect the views of the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties, its Board of Directors or staff, or its advertisers. True joy is a way of being Up a tree (a Tu B’Shevat n artist cannot be continuously can experience quality of joyfulness wielding his brush. He must when you help others who are in need thought) Astop at times in his painting of your compassion, but you cannot group of American Jewish This incident expresses concern, to freshen his vision of the subject, the pursue joy as an end in itself or you young people was visiting Is- care, protection and the willingness to meaning of which he will miss the flight. Joy comes from rael. They gathered on a Ju- defend one’s own property and people. wishes to express on thoughts, feelings and actions. The ac- A dean hill on the edge of Jerusalem in Whether in danger or in peace, we must his canvas. tion that succeeds is bringing joy to a section called Sanhedria to plant always protect what is ours. Living is also others. trees. Each took a sapling in hand, par- In Israel, our brothers and sisters an art. There are Happy New Year. It is the New ticipated in a short must be upheld until they are fully moments when we Year of the Trees, Tu B’Shevat. ceremony, recited a free from threat and able to handle the pause, trying to get Life is beautiful despite the diffi- prayer, and then be- burdens of new immigrants who come a grasp of life. There culties, struggles and sorrows that are gan to plant the trees with only the clothes on their backs.  Rabbi is no joy without part of it. Taste the Tree of Life. It is with his own hands. In the wider world we must help Devora sorrow. In fact, it is good to be alive. Have joy and good After one youngster our fellow Jews to live in dignity, pro- Buchen the pain, the suffer- health. planted his tree, he tected from the pressure of the anti- ing, that allows us to experience and Rabbi Devora Buchen serves at Temple stepped back to ad- Semite, and to have the same opportu- appreciate joy. True joy is a way of Beth Shalom in Cape Coral.  Rabbi mire his handiwork. nity for the things we take for granted. being, it is not a passing emotion. You Solomon By chance, he almost We American Jews must reaffirm our Agin stepped on the sap- cultural heritage as Jews and reconsti- ling of a girl who was in the process tute ourselves by turning to the tradi- ISRAEL HANDYMAN INC. of watering her new plant. She looked tions that are uniquely ours. That be- Fort Myers FL 33919 up, turned his foot aside and shouted, long to us and us alone. “Hey, be careful! Don’t you dare touch Rabbi Solomon Agin serves at Temple Israel Bajarlia my tree! Don’t you dare touch my Shalom in Port Charlotte. Ph: 239-770-1138 tree!” Email: [email protected] *Carpet Installation, Cleaning, Stretching Candle lighting times: and Repair. *Upholstery cleaning February 7: 5:56 *House Cleaning *Handyman Repairs February 14: 6:01 **Call or Email for a free Estimate** February 21: 6:06

Different fortable Com ish February 28: 6:10 Syl Moore n and ashio Art of F The Art of Fashion and Moore (in the Arcade in historic Trees and fruit downtown Ft. Myers) e’s a real fruitcake.” “You’re assuring Jewish continuity. Teri Moore, Owner (239) 204-9759 “ the apple of my eye.” “Such Tu B’Shevat (the 15th of the He- 2267 1st. St., Suite 12 [email protected] Ha nut case!” “It’s like com- brew month of Shevat, corresponding Ft. Myers, FL 33901 www.artoffashionandmoore.com paring apples and oranges.” Fruit to February 10 this year) is the New comes up a lot in our conversations. Year for Trees. On this day it is cus- And why not? It’s healthy, natural, de- tomary to eat one or more of the fruits licious and a mitzva! for which the Land of Israel is praised. Actually, eating These fruits are grapes, dates, pome- fruit isn’t a mitzva, granates, olives and figs. (Wheat and but it is likened to a barley are the two special grains which, mitzva. together with the five fruit, comprise To clarify, the the “Seven Species.”) Torah likens a per- Prior to eating food or partaking son to a tree. And of a drink, Jewish teachings explain Specializing in just as all trees bear that we should acknowledge G-d’s part outpatient hip and  Rabbi fruit of some sort in sustaining us by reciting a blessing knee replacement Yitzchok (even if the “fruit” beforehand. After eating the fruit, we Minkowicz is nothing more than thank G-d once again with a bless- seed pods), so too are we expected to ing. A special “after blessing” is said produce “fruit.” The fruit we produce following the eating of the five fruits are the mitzvot we perform, the good mentioned above. deeds we do, the Torah we study. In this blessing, we appeal to G-d The fruit that a tree bears is part of to have pity on His people and to re- its self-perpetuation. New trees grow build the Holy Temple in Jerusalem. from the seeds in the fruit, and them- Then, when we are all united in the selves produce fruit with seeds, ad infi- Land of Israel, we will rejoice together nitum. That’s how trees regenerate. It’s as one. like “Tree Continuity.” Thus, eating the special fruit of Similarly, when we “produce fruit” the Land of Israel, especially on Tu – perform mitzvot, do good deeds or B’Shevat, reminds us that every time study Torah – our fruit should be able we learn Torah or do mitzvot, we to sow the seeds for more new fruit. bring closer the climax of creation – And in Jewish tree-terminology, new mankind’s future – the ideal world in fruit means more Jewish living – in which there is no jealousy nor animos- our own lives and in the lives of others. ity among individuals and nations, but Our mitzvot and good deeds should be only peace, justice and benevolence done in a way that inspires others to under One G-d. grow as Jews, digging for their roots in Celebrate Tu B’Shevat. Eat fruit, Judaism and planting themselves in the “make fruit,” plant seeds. warm, rich soil of Torah study. This is Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz serves at how Jews regenerate. It’s our way of Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida. What do you think? L’CHAYIM wants to know! Send your letters & comments to [email protected] Letters Policy Letters must include the writer’s full name, full address and daytime phone. Letters should be no longer than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit for length and/ or accuracy. Letters do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of L’CHAYIM nor its advertisers. We cannot acknowledge or publish every letter received. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 MARKETPLACE Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 31

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Different fortable Com ish Syl Moore Higginson Tax & Accounting, LLC n and ashio Art of F The Art of Fashion and Moore Tax Preparation • Planning • Audit Representation (in the Arcade in historic downtown Ft. Myers) Eric Higginson Certified Public Accountant assuring Jewish continuity. Teri Moore, Owner (239) 204-9759 Tu B’Shevat (the 15th of the He- 2267 1st. St., Suite 12 [email protected] 239.935.6950 brew month of Shevat, corresponding Ft. Myers, FL 33901 www.artoffashionandmoore.com to February 10 this year) is the New www.higginsontax.com Year for Trees. On this day it is cus- tomary to eat one or more of the fruits for which the Land of Israel is praised. These fruits are grapes, dates, pome- granates, olives and figs. (Wheat and barley are the two special grains which, together with the five fruit, comprise the “Seven Species.”) Prior to eating food or partaking of a drink, Jewish teachings explain that we should acknowledge G-d’s part in sustaining us by reciting a blessing beforehand. After eating the fruit, we thank G-d once again with a blessing. A special “after blessing” is said following the eating of the five fruits mentioned above. In this blessing, we appeal to G-d  to have pity on His people and to re-  David E. Lovitch build the Holy Temple in Jerusalem.  Broker Associate  813.447.9002 Office Then, when we are all united in the  727.619.6900 Office Land of Israel, we will rejoice together 845.629.7804 Mobile 3571 Del Prado Blvd North • North Cape Coral 543-2075 as one. [email protected] 8841 College Parkway • Ft. Myers 433-2245 est.1995 David.LovitchRealty.com Thus, eating the special fruit of the Land of Israel, especially on Tu  B’Shevat, reminds us that every time we learn Torah or do mitzvot, we PATTERSON, ESKIN & BALL bring closer the climax of creation – mankind’s future – the ideal world in HAROLD S. ESKIN, P.A. which there is no jealousy nor animos- ATTORNEY AND COUNSELOR AT LAW CERTIFIED FAMILY LAW MEDIATOR ity among individuals and nations, but CERTIFIED CIVIL LAW MEDIATOR only peace, justice and benevolence Repairs • Salt Chlorine Generators • Heat Pumps under One G-d. 1420 S.E. 47TH STREET, CAPE CORAL Lake Suzy Celebrate Tu B’Shevat. Eat fruit, (941) 627-2001 (239) 549-5551 • FAX (239) 549-4834 Florida “make fruit,” plant seeds. E-mail: [email protected] Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz serves at E-mail: [email protected] Chabad Lubavitch of Southwest Florida.

Business & Divorce, Wills, Trusts Tax Planning Marital & & Estates sklawyers, pllc Attorneys at Law Guy E. Family Law Eric Gurgold Whitesman Jennifer FFloridalorida BarBar is pleased to announce FFloridalorida BarBar Siegal-Miller BBoardoard CertifiCertifi eedd BBoardoard CertifiCertifi eedd WWills,ills, TTrustrust andand Nadine Hope Goodman, Esq. EEstatestate AttorneyAttorney TTaxax AttorneyAttorney has joined the firm, specializing in ESTATE PLANNING & PROBATE FAMILY LAW • BUSINESS • REAL ESTATE 239-772-1993 henlaw.com • 239. 344.1100 [email protected] • www.sklawyers.net L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 32 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties FOCUS ON YOUTH

BBYO happenings Chabad at FGCU TEMPLE JUDEA SCHOOLS By Jessica Zimmerman, Associate Regional Dir., North Florida Region niversity students have jumped To get involved, contact Rabbi Gor- Fort Myers n December, Fort Myers BBYO Myers co-hosting J-Serve, BBYO’s in- into another semester of Jewish don at [email protected] or participated in numerous fun and ternational day of service. Naples and Upromise at Florida Gulf Coast 347.452.0489. engaging programs. The first was Ft. Myers BBYO will be taking part University. Chabad at FGCU, the heart Even on campus grounds, the I of Jewish life on campus, offers a smor- Chabad table is one of laughter, lively an all-boys sleepover that encompassed in the Touchdown Run 5k. We will be AZAA sports pro- running to raise awareness for the Chil- gasbord of activities catering to every conversation and tefillin-wrapping. “I gramming, time in dren’s Miracle Network, BBYO North segment of Jewish student life. Torah feel proud to walk on campus as a Jew,” the pool, games of Florida Region’s standup cause for classes, challah-bakes, weekly Shabbat says Lexy Frenchko, a junior studying all kinds and quite 2019-20. Join us on Sunday, February dinners, women’s discussion groups, biology. a bit of pizza. The 2 at 6:15 a.m. at North Collier Region- and social gatherings for fraternities Perhaps a large aspect of Chabad at following day at al Park in Naples. You can register in and sororities make up a fraction of the FGCU is exposing students to the rich Temple Shalom advance by going to bit.ly/touchdown vibrant Jewish life on campus. Through beauty of the Jewish home and Jewish in Naples, BBYO bbyo. it all, attests Evan Neveloff, a public life. Students come often just to talk to hosted a Latke For middle schoolers, on Sunday, relations major, “Chabad helps us stay Shternie. They’ll ask her about Judaism, Jessica Zimmerman Cookoff event open February 23, we enjoy a Spring Train- in touch with our Judaism.” and also about relationships, shopping to kids and teens in grades 6-12. Twen- ing baseball game at Hammond Field. Jewish life on campus has grown and whatever else is on their minds. ty children/teens had a blast. You can find all the details and a regis- tremendously with the arrival of its first Know a student at FGCU? Help In early December, Or Shemesh tration link at bit.ly/connectbball. full-time Rabbi and Rebbetzin this past them discover friendship, inspiration, BBYO hosted elections. Six teens now To be added to our email list and year. Motivated by a profound love for learning and a true “home away from make up our Spring Term Or Shemesh receive updates about BBYO program- every Jew, and the motto from the Baal home.” Board. Mazal Tov to those elected! All ming, email me at jesszimmerman@ Shem Tov, “A soul comes down in all, December was a great month for bbyo.org. I hope to hear from you and to this world just to do a favor for Fort Myers BBYO. welcome you to Fort Myers BBYO. another.” This month, you will find Fort Rabbi Mendel Gordon and his wife Shternie are here to be a support to every Jewish student in their journey. The Jewish people are a family, and every family needs a home. Chabad at FGCU provides that home for every Jew- ish student. Upcoming in February, in addition to regular weekly programming, is the fastest Hebrew reading course, a grand challah Introducing our Spring Term 2020 Or Shemesh BBYO Board: Ben Schoenfeld, President; Tom Shlomi, S’gan; Ron Shlomi, Moreh; Miranda Shein, Mazkirah; bake, and involvement in the Ronni Rosenbaum, Gizborit; Jalen Goodman, Shliach “Liberation of Ravensbruck” exhibit at the FGCU Library. FGCU student Lewis with a lulav and etrog during Sukkot

Teens gathered for our BBYO Latke Cookoff at Temple Shalom in Naples on December 8

ConneCt FGCU students at a challah bake with your Jewish Community www.facebook.com/ PJ LIBRARY RADIO LIVE! facebook.com/jfedsrqJewishFederationLCC PJ LIBRARY RADIO LIVE!

High School Students: Earn CAS Credits! The Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties is Now PJ library families can listen to Jewish kids Now PJ library families can listen to Jewish kids interested in hearing from music — anytime, anywhere. teenagers in high school music — anytime, anywhere. Introducing PJLibraryRadio.com, an online who might like to earn CAS Introducing PJLibraryRadio.com, an online credits though various work streaming radio station with more than 2,000 songs streaming radio station with more than 2,000 songs in the Jewish community. from hundreds of artists across the globe. from hundreds of artists across the globe. Music is available 24/7 with special music blocks If you are interested, Music is available 24/7 with special music blocks for Shabbat, Holiday and Bedtime. please send the following for Shabbat, Holiday and Bedtime.

information to [email protected]: • Listen to the music online • Listen to the music online Name • Download the free app on ITunes, Google Play • Download the free app on ITunes, Google Play Address or Tune In Radio Phone # or Tune In Radio Age Grade School Preferred volunteer hours (e.g. 2 - 5P.M. Sundays) L’CHAYIM is a monthly nonprofit newspaper supported by generous readers, committed advertisers and the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 FOCUS ON YOUTH Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 33

schools. Most of all, we will be taking a group of TEMPLE JUDEA SCHOOLS saw a consistent push of TEMPLE BETH EL SCHOOLS the high school students To get involved, contact Rabbi Gor- Fort Myers English and STEM sub- Fort Myers to Washington, D.C., to don at [email protected] or jects while embracing attend the L’Taken So- 347.452.0489. Temple Judea Religious School creativity as the way to be competitive Temple Beth El Religious School cial Justice Seminar. Students will be Even on campus grounds, theTab Scribner, in a global society. We did not see stan- Temple Beth El Religious School was exposed to a variety of public policy Chabad table is one of laughter, livelyDirector of Congregational Learning dardized testing. busy in December with Hanukkah hap- issues and explore the Jewish values conversation and tefillin-wrapping. “IDecember was a very exciting month For part of our trip we stayed with penings. On Sunday, December 15, we that inform the Reform Movement’s feel proud to walk on campus as a Jew,” for me. At Temple Judea Religious host families. I absolutely adore my held a Hanukkah luncheon at the end advocacy around these issues. Students says Lexy Frenchko, a junior studyingSchool we wound down the year with hosts. The family of six live in Bin- of Religious School with latkes, apple- will be provided the knowledge and biology. a Religious School Shabbat program yamina, a smaller community close to sauce and donuts. Scott Schwartz co- tools to write an effective, persuasive Perhaps a large aspect of Chabad atand a Chanukah Celebration with PJ Hadera. What I found most interest- ordinated our “guys in the kitchen” to and passionate speech on the topic of FGCU is exposing students to the richLibrary. Then, I went to Israel. ing is that they were raised as secular cook the delicious latkes. The children their choice to present when they visit beauty of the Jewish home and Jewish With it being my first trip to Israel, Israelis, but when they started their loved all the treats, and especially en- the offices of their Senators and Rep- life. Students come often just to talk toI tried to go with no real expectations. family, they decided that they needed joyed playing dreidel for prizes! resentatives on the Monday of the pro- Shternie. They’ll ask her about Judaism, I listened to advice from others on how religion. They attend Friday night ser- The following Friday, December gram. Students will also participate in and also about relationships, shopping to pack, which meant I severely over- vices together as a family before re- 20, was our second Community Shab- deep and meaningful activities such as and whatever else is on their minds. packed. Then I made my way to the turning home for Shabbat dinner. In bat Family Dinner and Service with a Havdalah at the Jefferson Memorial Know a student at FGCU? Helpairport. the morning, a kiddush is prepared at Hanukkah theme. Neena Kushner co- and visiting the United States Holo- them discover friendship, inspiration, Despite some hiccups, I eventually home for friends after the morning ser- ordinated this evening, including cook- caust Memorial Museum. learning and a true “home away fromlanded in Tel Aviv, and a few days later, vice. In my host home, they turn off all ing brisket for 180 attendees! In addi- Important upcoming dates: home.” my luggage arrived. On a positive note, the electronics and make the day about tion to all the generous sponsorships to Sunday, February 2: Extended Day it gave me an opportunity to do some family. The children taught me a few help defray the costs for the dinner, we Camp TBE - Getting ready for Tu clothes shopping in Israel. Little did I games and we completed a jigsaw puz- had a DJ sponsor who got both young B’Shevat know the mall in Tel Aviv is no differ- zle together. Between games, the par- and old on to the dance floor for some Sunday, March 8: Purim Carnival ent than the mall in the United States: ents traded off with their four children, after-dinner dancing. at TBE with Temple Judea American Eagle, Foot Locker, Nike… reading books, singing songs and snug- Our confirmation students traveled Friday, March 27: Shabbat Family Honestly, I was a little disappoint- gling with them on the couch. For me, to ECHO Farm in December to learn Dinner and Service ed. I had no idea how international- I got to snuggle with their dog, Acha. about how the farm uses innovative Sunday, April 5: Religious School ized Tel Aviv was. I was hoping to find After Shabbat I was serenaded with agriculture technology and sustainable Passover Seder stores I had never heard of. I had been a clarinet recital by their eldest daugh- practices to further its mission of re- For more information, call the warned, but was still a little shocked at ter. No vacation is complete without ducing world hunger. Temple Beth El office at 239.433.0018 how expensive everything was as well. the music from Star Wars. It was really On Friday, February 7, Rabbi Luna or email [email protected]. The trip was designed for Jewish quite fitting. I taught band for 10 years, educators from the U.S. to interact with so she and I could have a real conversa- our counterparts in Israel, and to learn tion about clarinet playing and music. more about education in Israel. In ad- Most of our time was spent in the dition to some popular tourist desti- Hadera community, but we also took nations, we also toured a science and a day to go to Jerusalem and another FGCU student Lewis with a lulav and etrog during Sukkot technology center and several schools. day to Qasir to visit a school. During It became very clear to me that the trip we met with elementary, high in many ways, the U.S. educational school and college students and some system has lost its way. We observed of their teachers. There wasn’t enough children at recess, playing with each time for all the things we wanted to do. other, and not on cell phones. We saw Next time, I’ll leave my schedule open classroom pets (even a goat), a prac- for a few more days for adventure. tice no longer allowed in many U.S.

Mora Tursky with students at the Hanukkah luncheon

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children as they grow with Results of PJ Library books. a recent Funded by the national SIGN UP TODAY! Roth Family survey of 25,000 Enrollment is open to Foundation families Jewish families with conducted by children between the PJ Library ages of six months to More information, contact Debbie Sanford eight years 239.481.4449 ext. 3 Parents in Lee PJ Library is living in [email protected] and Charlotte Lee & Charlotte Counties. counties whose making a children are difference in the enrolled in lives of families PJ Library raising Jewish participated in Families can sign up for PJ Library at pjlibrary.org the survey. children..

L’CHAYIM is a monthly nonprofit newspaper supported by generous readers, committed advertisers and the Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties. L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 34 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties ORGANIZATIONS

for a cause. In many cas- tism, resolve to live a Jewish life now amendment on the November 2020 HADASSAH es, financial donations more than ever, in and through our ballot banning assault weapons. Collier/Lee Chapter are prized by the recipi- houses of worship and Jewish organi- There are many ways to make the (732) 539-4011 ent, but also appreciated zations. Hadassah does this working world a better place and reach beyond are demonstrated caring through the organization’s Govern- ourselves to make it so. That is a wor- Thinking about New Year’s for those who are in need, ment Relations Office. We are “on the thy resolution! Find your passion to resolutions? regardless of their situation or status. hill” in Washington, D.C., in support do better in the world. It’s in our Jew- Diane Schwartz You can see it in their faces and hear it of bi-partisan legislation to fund Ho- ish genes (tikkun olam) and it’s in our Well, it’s that time of year again when in their words. locaust education in schools across the hearts and our pockets (tzedakah). we make New Year’s resolutions. Sure, Hadassah feels this way also and country. Collier/Lee Hadassah mem- It’s never too late to make a resolu- it’s great to plan to better our lives, created and supports the Hadassah bers are donating needed items to a tion and never too late to change one improve relationships and even lose Medical Organization (HMO) with woman’s shelter, for both women and life through our actions. weight. But is that all we should con- its two hospitals in Israel. This is all children. Recently, Collier/Lee joined For more information about Ha- sider? part of a rich history built during its Hadassah chapters across Florida in a dassah, contact me at 732.539.4011 or According to people who study 107 years of work which laid the cor- petition drive to place a constitutional [email protected]. these things and a recent survey, the 10 nerstone for Israel’s health system. most common New Year’s resolutions Hadassah also supports the Hadassah- Save the Date: are: 1. Exercise more; 2. Lose weight; Hebrew University Henrietta Szold X Monday, February 3: Annual Mahjong, Card & Game Day – for reservations, 3. Get organized; 4. Learn a new skill School of Nursing. Our hospitals treat contact Carol Weisberg at [email protected] or hobby; 5. Live life to the fullest; 6. one million patients per year regardless X Tuesday, February 27: Hadassah Presents…ART TALK/Marc Chagall Save more money/spend less; 7. Quit of race, religion and nationality. HMO, with Joan Jacobs – contact Debbie Kaprove at [email protected] smoking; 8. Spend more time with through these world-class research or 860.558.3331, or Dale Hackerman at [email protected] or family and friends; 9. Travel more; 10. hospitals, cooperates and collaborates 609.828.3766 Read more. with more than 50 university and re- X Friday, March 6: Hadassah Shabbat Zachor, 7:30 p.m., Temple Shalom It’s an interesting list. However, search centers across the United States – contact Susan Bellows at [email protected] or 732.610.8419 something else could be added, which and around the world. X Monday, March 16: Spring Luncheon featuring That’s Entertainment with may not be the most popular item, but Also, we care for at-risk children vocalist Carolann Sanita – contact Elyse Morande at [email protected] it is suggested because it has the po- in Israel through our Youth Aliyah pro- or 239.498.0623 tential to be the most significant, wide- gram, and strive to invest in the future X Thursday, April 2: Chai Society Luncheon – contact Luba Rotzstain ranging and most fulfilling. through Hadassah’s Young Judea pro- at [email protected] or 239.514.8605 Missing are the acts of human kind- gram. X Friday, April 17: Knowledge & Nosh featuring Wisdom of the Orchid ness which we can all do and cannot be In the United States, we care about Whisperer presented by Gayle Dorio – contact Elyse Morande discounted. Don’t we all feel better if women’s health and wellness and the at [email protected] or 239.498.0623 we help someone in a positive way? It many aspects of women’s lives around could mean writing a donation check; this issue. Make a resolution to save establishing a foundation to support a December 1, 2020, for Hadassah’s project or area of work. We can volun- Women’s Health and Wellness Sympo- GENERATIONS OF THE SHOAH on Tuesday, February 11 teer with a large group of people who sium. at 7:00 p.m. at Beth Tik- need our assistance; we can volunteer In the wake of rising Anti-Semi- SOUTHWEST FLORIDA vah. For information and (239) 963-9347 to RSVP, email gensho [email protected]. Film and special second-generation The annual opportunity for sharing program scheduled stories for Second Generation (2gs) Ida Margolis only, will take place on Sunday, Feb- Appearing at the Jewish Film Festival of Cheating Hitler: Surviving the Holo- ruary 9 at 2:00 p.m. This year, those Southwest Florida caust, a highly recommended docu- sharing stories will be asked to do so Thursday, February 20 mentary, has been added to the out- in a new format which will be called standing programs presented this “The Butterfly,” modeled after the sto- 6:15-7:15 P.M. season by GenShoah SWFL and the rytelling format known as “The Moth.”  Give-Aways Holocaust Museum & Cohen Educa- Each 2g is to relate a 3- to 4-minute  Raffles tion Center as part of the Butterflies of story about what it was like growing Hope and Remembrance project.This up as a child of survivors. And, if pos-  Photos & Autographs Newberger Feature film is not the usual sible, the story should contain some

Holocaust film, but it’s an ideal addi- bit of humor. If you would like more Regal Belltower Theater - 13499 Bell Tower Dr. Fort Myers tion to the programming commemorat- information about the format, email The Fort Myers Mighty Mussels are the proud sponsor of the film The Spy Behind Home Plate ing the 75th anniversary of the end of Betsy at [email protected]. This is WWII and the Liberation of the Nazi an ideal time to meet and relate with Concentration Camps. other 2gs. This program will be held at The film is about how three Cana- a member’s home. Space is limited and dian Holocaust survivors with unan- reservations must be made at rene@ swered questions from their past, jour- geistgroup.com. ney back to hometowns, killing sites For information about GenShoah and hiding places in search of clues. SWFL, upcoming programs in March Some tissues may be needed when the and April, and to receive the Gen- survivors connect with people who Shoah newsletter, email genshoahswfl saved them. This film will be presented @gmail.com.

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2121 West First Street Interested? Contact Fort Myers, Florida 33901 WHEN THINKING SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY...THINK KUSHNER & KUSHNER [email protected] L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 ORGANIZATIONS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 35 amendment on the November 2020 The ongoing Telly versary Celebration with Naples May- Membership in The Jewish His- ballot banning assault weapons. JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY Award-winning origi- or Bill Barnett. torical Society of Southwest Florida is There are many ways to make the OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA nal series, appropriately JHSSWF is proud to be in the open to anyone who is interested in our world a better place and reach beyond (239) 566-1771 named “Southwest Flor- position to produce and present these mission of local Jewish history preser- ourselves to make it so. That is a wor- ida Jewish Pioneers,” is invaluable documentary films to the vation. thy resolution! Find your passion toSouthwest Florida locally produced by the Jewish Histori- community where our local heroes re- The Jewish Historical Society do better in the world. It’s in our Jew-Jewish Heritage Trail cal Society of Southwest Florida. Films side, and to the world, by making them of Southwest Florida ish genes (tikkun olam) and it’s in our Marina Berkovich 11 and 12 – Irving Berzon, Engineer- available through our Virtual Museum 8805 Tamiami Trail North, hearts and our pockets (tzedakah). The Jewish history of Southwest Flor- ing the Future and Florence Hertzman, efforts. There is no better time than Suite # 255, Naples FL 34108 It’s never too late to make a resolu-ida is rich in successes, prosperity, and By the Pier – will premiere at Temple now to purchase or renew your mem- 833.547.7935 (833.JHS.SWFL) tion and never too late to change one substantial monetary and intellectual Shalom, a long-time religious home of bership in the Society. www.jhsswf.org life through our actions. legacies that memorialize the givers both families. Irv Berzon made Collier To pre-order tickets to JHSSWF’s [email protected] For more information about Ha-and set high standards for molding the County flourish by literally engineer- 10th Anniversary Celebration with Na- Virtual Museum of SWFL dassah, contact me at 732.539.4011 orcharacter of Jewish and non-Jewish ing its future. Florence Hertzman has ples Mayor Bill Barnett, email office@ Jewish History http:// [email protected]. Southwest Florida. These outstand- wintered by the famous Naples Pier jhsswf.org. jewishhistorysouthwestflorida.org/ ing achievements and contributions for decades, and to this day lights up Save the Date: are built upon a trail of prejudice and everything around her with her smile. X Monday, February 3: Annual Mahjong, Card & Game Day – for reservations, discrimination – the obstacles many Their generation is a formidable force contact Carol Weisberg at [email protected] Southwest Jewish Floridians have to reckon with. The screenings will X Tuesday, February 27: Hadassah Presents…ART TALK/Marc Chagall struggled against for decades. take place on Thursday, February 6 with Joan Jacobs – contact Debbie Kaprove at [email protected] Since the earliest days of Jews set- from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. The entire com- or 860.558.3331, or Dale Hackerman at [email protected] or tling in SWFL, they joined organiza- munity is invited to this free event, but 609.828.3766 tions that met the educational, social, please register online at https://jhsswf- X Friday, March 6: Hadassah Shabbat Zachor, 7:30 p.m., Temple Shalom health and recreational needs of their berzonhertzman.eventbrite.com. Bar / Bat Mitzvah Specialist – contact Susan Bellows at [email protected] or 732.610.8419 communities. Early on they started For the past quarter of a century, Choosing the right photographer is an important decision. X Monday, March 16: Spring Luncheon featuring That’s Entertainment with and funded organizations helping im- Naples has flourished from what used vocalist Carolann Sanita – contact Elyse Morande at [email protected] migrants settle. Such expertise became to be hidden as a small fishing village Michael Shapiro has more than 30 years experience in media or 239.498.0623 especially appropriate after World War into a rapidly growing metropolitan and journalism. He is able to capture images that are unique, X Thursday, April 2: Chai Society Luncheon – contact Luba Rotzstain II, when European Jews made their community. Since the ’70s, the City unexpected and spontaneous. at [email protected] or 239.514.8605 way to points south of Sarasota. If no of Naples has expanded from 18,000 X Friday, April 17: Knowledge & Nosh featuring Wisdom of the Orchid organization existed to fill the need, a to nearly 22,000 residents, while the Whisperer presented by Gayle Dorio – contact Elyse Morande group of like-minded folks got togeth- Greater Naples area exceeded the at [email protected] or 239.498.0623 er to form it, and as it grew and gained 200,000 mark. Naples Mayor Bill Bar- support, it thrived. nett earned due respect and credit for I know, there is truth in the belief his achievements in serving the city, as that Jews make everything flourish. well as for his good-natured responses Like the dessert of Israel, Southwest to many in the county who assume that Florida is blooming where swamps he is their mayor, too. once were. In many ways it is due to Mayor with a Heart is the SWFL the efforts of its Southwest Florida Jewish Pioneers film lucky number 13. Jewish Pioneers, often disregarding It tells the story of an American Jewish adversity, against the ill will of some boy whose legacy is inseparable from neighbors and despite the envy of their Naples. It will premiere on Monday, nemeses. March 23 at the JHSSWF’s 10th Anni- Other Services: Weddings / Family Portraits / Events 239.770.6860 Stay in touch throughout [email protected] the month. Sign up for the www.shapiro-photography.com Federation’s e-blasts. Get the latest information on upcoming community events and cultural activities, breaking news items, updates from Israel and lots more. with Send an email to LOVE [email protected] Every occasion is brighter with gourmet desserts and ultra-premium chocolate gifts by Norman Love Confections! Ultra-premium Chocolates • Decadent Desserts Fresh Made Bakery Items • Gelato • Gifts • and More!

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Jennifer Taschner DDS MMSc Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology

1645 Medical Lane, Fort Myers, FL NormanLoveConfections.com 239-561-7215 Phone 239-936-0635 FORT MYERS, FORT MYERS, FORT MYERS, NAPLES ESTERO, NAPLES, Visit Our Website www.taschnerperio.com DANIELS MCGREGOR WHOLE FOODS MIROMAR OUTLETS TAMIAMI TRAIL L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 36 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties TEMPLE NEWS

year’s honorees – Dr. and afford them. The products are given out ways a fun activity included with the TEMPLE JUDEA Mrs. Sandy Cohen. The by food pantries, including the Jewish musical and entertaining services de- Fort Myers festivities will be held at Federation food pantry. We encourage signed for toddlers and preschoolers. (239) 433-0201 The Heitman House in all TJ members (and visitors) to bring Regular Shabbat evening services be- downtown Fort Myers. products to donate each time they come gin at 6:30 p.m. as usual. www.tjswfl.org The celebration includes to the synagogue for a service or event. A new series of Adult Education delicious hors d’oeuvres, There is a wicker basket in the lobby classes will begin on Monday evening, Temple Judea sends a hearty Mazel a delectable buffet dinner, exquisite for these donations. March 2. More information about the Tov to Dr. Irit Hemed and Ilan Dahan desserts, an open bar, lively music, a HAZAK, Temple Judea’s 55+ classes will be in next month’s column. on the Bar Mitzvah of their son Gabri- great silent auction and an exciting raf- group is headed to the Holocaust Mu- Rabbi Sack’s monthly Torah Study el, and to Elizabeth and Jason Moon, fle. This is an event not to be missed! seum in Naples on Tuesday, February will be on Thursday, February 6. The on the Bar Mitzvah of their son Dylan. Call the synagogue office to RSVP for 11. Those interested can carpool from class is held at the offices of Myers & Both young men did a great job and this fun and festive occasion. the Temple Judea parking lot at 9:15 Brettholz. There is no cost to attend made their families, friends and Tem- Along with its Rosh Chodesh a.m. or meet at the museum at 10:00 and all levels of Jewish background are ple Judea congregants proud. and “Lattes and Learning” programs, a.m. Lunch at Bravo will follow the welcome. Temple Judea continues its eve- Chaverot has also scheduled a night museum visit. If you plan to attend, Regular scheduled events: ning minyans, every Monday through at the ballpark on Sunday, April 19. RSVP to [email protected]. • Friday evening Shabbat services Thursday at 5:45 p.m. If you are say- Chaverot has reserved a suite at Ham- HAZAK Shabbat is scheduled at 6:30 p.m., preceded each week ing Kaddish, observing a Yahrzeit or mond Stadium at the CenturyLink for Saturday, February 22. HAZAK with a wine and cheese reception just want to support those who are, Sports Complex to watch the newly members will lead and participate in starting at 6:15 p.m. you are invited to attend. The service named Fort Myers Mighty Mussels the service which begins at 9:30 a.m. • Saturday morning Shabbat servic- lasts about 15 minutes and is open to (formerly the Fort Myers Miracle) play Tab Scribner, the synagogue’s educa- es at 9:30 a.m. followed by a Kid- the community. The weekly Monday the Florida Fire Frogs. Call the syna- tion director, will be the guest speaker dush luncheon morning minyan at 9:00 a.m. continues gogue office for information about pur- discussing Israel’s relationship to wa- • Morning minyan every Monday at as usual. chasing tickets. ter. A kiddush luncheon will follow the 9:00 a.m. On Sunday, February 23 at 4:30 Chaverot continues its mitzvah service. No reservations are necessary. • Evening minyan every Monday p.m., the synagogue will hold its an- project to provide feminine hygiene Come to Tot Shabbat on Friday, through Thursday at 5:45 p.m. nual fundraiser and recognize this products to women who often can’t February 14 at 5:00 p.m. There is al-

a part of the Jewish com- On Friday, February 21, the temple The Lunch and Learn Series will TEMPLE SHALOM munity. will observe Jewish Music Month with continue on Tuesday, February 25 from Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands Friday, February 7 the assistance of Dr. David Katz. Ser- 12:30 to 2:00 p.m. It is limited to 15 (941) 625-2116 has been designated as vices start at 7:30 p.m. and be prepared participants. Kindly call the temple “New Member Sabbath.” to sing. office at 941.625.2116 to RSVP. This www.templeshalomfl.com This is the time that we On Sunday, February 23 at 5:00 series is sponsored by the Lesleigh and formally “welcome” those p.m. there will be a special concert by Sylvia Hershkowitz Fund. Temple Shalom continues to be the who have affiliated. A special Oneg the Youth Orchestra of the Southwest Center for Jewish Life in Charlotte Shabbat will follow. Symphony. This event is sponsored Country. The temple encourages the The Jewish Film Session continues by the Lesleigh & Sylvia Hershkowitz unaffiliated to partake and to become on Tuesday, February 11 at 3:00 p.m. Fund. There is no charge to attend. Send updates and changes to the Directory below to [email protected].

TEMPLE BETH EL CHABAD OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY REFORM ORTHODOX 16225 Winkler Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 204 E Mckenzie St Unit B, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 Rabbi Nicole Luna Rabbi Simon Jacobson E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 941-833-3381 Preschool director: Jesyca Virnig E-mail: [email protected] President: Governance Committee IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES Web site: www.chabadofcharlottecounty.com Email: [email protected] Services: Saturday at 10 a.m. followed by Phone: 239-433-0018 • Fax: 239-433-3235 a kiddush Web site: www.templebethel.com Torah study: Wednesday at 8 p.m. Shabbat services: 7:30 p.m. Friday; Torah study COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE 9:00 a.m. Saturday; B’nai Mitzah 10:30 a.m. Saturday REFORM CHABAD LUBAVITCH Religious & Hebrew School: 9:00 a.m.-12:30 Sunday 10868 Metro Parkway, South Fort Myers OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA Judaica Gift Gallery (The Southwest Florida Masonic Center) ORTHODOX Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism P.O. Box 07144, Fort Myers, FL 33919 5620 Winkler Road Rabbi Bruce Diamond Fort Myers, FL 33919 TEMPLE BETH SHALOM ([email protected]) Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz REFORM Coordinator: Natalie Fulton Phone: 239-433-7708 • Fax: 481-9109 702 S.E. 24th Ave., Cape Coral, FL 33990 Phone: 239-466-6671 E-mail: [email protected] Rabbi Devora Buchen E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.chabadswf.org President: Peter Simenauer Web site: www.fortmyerssynagogue.com Services: Friday 5:15 p.m.; Saturday Kabbalah Phone: 239-772-4555 • Fax: 239-772-4625 Community Sabbath eve dinner each Friday class 9 a.m.; Shacharit 10 a.m.; Kiddush at noon E-mail: [email protected] at 6:30 p.m. Minyan: Monday & Thursday 7:00 a.m. Web site: www.templebethshalomcc.org Sabbath eve worship every Friday at 7:30 p.m. Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday Light breakfast and Torah study with the rabbi CHABAD JEWISH CENTER Religious School: Wednesday 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. every Saturday morning from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. OF CAPE CORAL Torah study with Rabbi Buchen: Shabbat 10:30 a.m. ORTHODOX Organizations: Brotherhood, Sisterhood, TEMPLE JUDEA 1716 Cape Coral Pkwy. W., Cape Coral, FL 33914 Family Service (1st Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m.) CONSERVATIVE Rabbi Yossi Labkowski 14486 A&W Bulb Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 Phone: 239-963-4770 BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS Rabbi Marc Sack E-mail: [email protected] REFORM E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.chabadcape.com Meets at Sanibel Congregational Church President: Dan Fox Services: Friday Evening 7:30 p.m. 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island Director of Congregational Learning: Saturday morning 9:30 a.m. followed by Rabbi Stephen L. Fuchs Tab Scribner Kiddush luncheon President: Barry Fulmer Preschool Director: Joann Goldman Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. Phone: 732-780-2016 [email protected] Monday-Friday morning 7:00 a.m. Email: [email protected] Phone: 239-433-0201 • Fax: 239-433-3371 JLI Courses: Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. E-mail: [email protected] Cantor: Murray Simon Weekly Torah Study: Tuesday evening 7:30 p.m. Web site: www.batyam.org Web site: www.tjswfl.org Hebrew School: Sunday 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday (Oct-Apr) Services: 6:15 p.m. Friday and 9:30 a.m. Saturday Minyan: 9:00 a.m. Monday Jgirls: Tuesday 6:00-7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. Friday (May-Sept) Adult Education: Religious School: Sun. 9:30 a.m.-noon; Saturday, 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. (Nov-Apr) Wed. 4:30-6 p.m. COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS Jewish Current Events: Saturday, 11:30 a.m. Early childhood education:  Shalom Life Center to 12:15 p.m. (Nov-Apr) Preschool, M-F, ages 18 months-5 years; Lawrence Dermer, Spiritual Leader - 218-3433 Write: P.O. Box 84, Sanibel, FL 33957 “Mommy & Me,” 12 months-2 years • AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee): Jacki Waksman - 954-653-9053 Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism Affiliated: United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism • AJC (American Jewish Committee): Brian Lipton - 941-365-4955 TEMPLE SHALOM CHARLOTTE • Anti-Defamation League: 561-988-2900 HARBOR AND THE GULF ISLANDS SHALOM LIFE CENTER • B’Nai B’rith International: 941-302-4500 REFORM TRANS DENOMINATIONAL • Chevra Kadisha: 23190 Utica Ave., P.O. Box 494675 19691 Cypress View Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33967 Gene Sipe - 239-841-4615 Rabbi Lawrence Dermer • Generations of the Shoah SWFL: 963-9347 Port Charlotte, FL 33949-4675 • Hadassah - Collier/Lee Chapter: Rabbi Solomon Agin Phone: 239-218-3433 E-mail: [email protected] Diane Schwartz - 732-539-4011 President: Judith Migdol • Hadassah - Sharon Chapter (Charlotte County): Phone: 941-625-2116 Web site: www.shalomlifecenter.org Odette Port - 941-505-1409 E-mail: [email protected] Shabbat Evening Services 7:30 p.m. (Oct-Apr) • Hazak 55+ Chapter: Web site: templeshalomfl.com 7:00 p.m. (May-Sept) Joyce Rosinger - 239-437-1566 Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday Saturday Torah & Kabbalah Study 10:00 a.m. • Israel Bonds: Regional Headquarters: 800-622-8017 Religious school: Sunday 10 a.m. • Jewish Community Services: 239-481-4449 Beginning Hebrew: Tuesday 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. CHABAD OF BONITA SPRINGS/ • Jewish National Fund: Advanced Hebrew: Thursday 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. Joshua Mellits, Director, Western Florida Organizations: Sisterhood ESTERO 941-462-1330 ext. 865 Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism ORTHODOX Memorial Tree Planting in Israel - 1-800-542-8733 24850 Old 41 Road, Suite 20 (in the Bernwood • Jewish War Veterans: Centre) Bonita Springs, FL 34135-7024 Post 400: Commander Harvey Charter - 239-246-3151 Rabbi Mendy Greenberg • Mikvah Bashka of Southwest Florida: Phone: 239-949-6900 Nechamie Minkowicz - 239-822-2784 Web site: www.JewishBonita.com Services: Saturday at 10 a.m., followed by a Kiddush

L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 TEMPLE NEWS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 37

7:30 p.m., we experience SHALOM LIFE CENTER an uplifting, musical and Fort Myers meaningful Shabbat ser- (239) 218-3433 vice followed by an always spectacular Oneg. www.shalomlifecenter.org Every Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m., SLC offers Shalom Life Center is Southwest Flor- a delicious bagel & lox breakfast fol- ida’s warm and welcoming home for lowed by an interactive and participa- contemporary Jewish life with a pas- tory Torah and Kabbalah study led by sionate commitment to community and Rabbi Lawrence Dermer with a focus spiritual growth where everyone is al- on the relevance of our timeless tradi- ways welcome! tions and bringing the ancient wisdom Shalom Life Center is moving! of Torah and Kabbalah into our daily Beginning on Friday, January 24, all lives. our services, classes, clubs and special SLC also has a dynamic Women’s events will be held at 19691 Cypress Circle that meets the second Monday View Dr., Fort Myers, FL 33967. of the month for soup, salad and soul, We’re very excited for our first led by Rebbitzen Robin Dermer with major concert event of the season on an emphasis on women’s spirituality Please contact: Saturday, February 15 at 7:30 p.m. and personal growth. Please join us for “Broadway and Be- Our Men’s Group enjoys monthly [email protected] or yond,” an incomparable evening of dinner meetings and special outings story and song featuring the world’s and is currently involved in a holiday 239.481.4449 x4 greatest show tunes of yesterday and toy drive to benefit the Golisano Chil- today. Come and enjoy the music of dren’s hospital Fiddler on the Roof, West Side Story, Our Yiddish Culture Club gathers Les Miserables, West Side Story, Cats, the fourth Monday of the month for Hamilton and much more. For more laughter, learning and lunch. information and to RSVP, email us Our Exodus study group meets at [email protected] or call for monthly discussions exploring ach uesday afternoon, an open session of Mah Jongg 239.218.3433. the themes and interpretation of Exo- is held at the Jeish Federation. On Friday, February 21 at 6:30 dus chapter by chapter using the book p.m. we’ll continue the tradition of Exodus G-d, Slavery and Freedom by Players must e at least advanced eginners, as no our annual “NY Deli Shabbat Dinner.” Dennis Prager. lessons are given. Everyone is welcome to join us for all SLC also offers a Book Club, Mah- our favorite kosher treats, which we jong, Canasta, Choir, religious learn- Y uesdays, 1230330 P.M. F 1 per ee bring in from the east coast. Get ready ing and Bar/Bat Mitzvah preparation to enjoy an authentic NY Deli experi- as well as many other opportunities to ence with lots of corned beef, pastrami, enhance your Jewish life and learning, real Jewish rye bread, cole slaw, pick- and further your involvement in com- les and all the trimmings right here at munity service while making friends in home with your SLC family! RSVP a warm and welcoming community. at [email protected] or call For more information on all our 239.218.3433. inspiring services, classes, great activi- In addition to our February spe- ties, concerts and other upcoming spe-

cial events, SLC offers many exciting cial events, visit www.shalomlifecen TEMPLE BETH EL CHABAD OF CHARLOTTE COUNTY and wonderful services, classes and ter.org, email info@shalomlifecenter. REFORM ORTHODOX special events. Every Friday night at org or call 239.218.3433 for more information call 16225 Winkler Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 204 E Mckenzie St Unit B, Punta Gorda, FL 33950 the Federation at 239.81.9 - Rabbi Nicole Luna Rabbi Simon Jacobson E-mail: [email protected] Phone: 941-833-3381 Preschool director: Jesyca Virnig E-mail: [email protected] February 3 at 2:00 p.m. President: Governance Committee IN LEE & CHARLOTTE COUNTIES Web site: www.chabadofcharlottecounty.com TEMPLE BETH SHALOM Email: [email protected] Services: Saturday at 10 a.m. followed by at Cafe You, 1423 SE Phone: 239-433-0018 • Fax: 239-433-3235 a kiddush Cape Coral 10th St., Cape Coral. No Web site: www.templebethel.com Torah study: Wednesday at 8 p.m. reservations are needed; Shabbat services: 7:30 p.m. Friday; Torah study (239) 772-4555 COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE just show up. Guests are 9:00 a.m. Saturday; B’nai Mitzah 10:30 a.m. Saturday REFORM CHABAD LUBAVITCH www.templebethshalomcc.org Religious & Hebrew School: 9:00 a.m.-12:30 Sunday 10868 Metro Parkway, South Fort Myers OF SOUTHWEST FLORIDA always welcome. Judaica Gift Gallery (The Southwest Florida Masonic Center) ORTHODOX Congregants are also Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism P.O. Box 07144, Fort Myers, FL 33919 5620 Winkler Road February is probably the most beauti- planning to go as a group to the final Rabbi Bruce Diamond Fort Myers, FL 33919 TEMPLE BETH SHALOM ([email protected]) Rabbi Yitzchok Minkowicz ful month in Southwest Florida and movie of the Federation’s Jewish Film REFORM Coordinator: Natalie Fulton Phone: 239-433-7708 • Fax: 481-9109 Temple Beth Shalom is looking for- Festival. The movie is Fiddler on the 702 S.E. 24th Ave., Cape Coral, FL 33990 Phone: 239-466-6671 E-mail: [email protected] Rabbi Devora Buchen E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.chabadswf.org ward to having some fun. We will start Roof at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March President: Peter Simenauer Web site: www.fortmyerssynagogue.com Services: Friday 5:15 p.m.; Saturday Kabbalah out on Saturday, February 8 with Bin- 3. Contact Maxine Morris at maxim- Phone: 239-772-4555 • Fax: 239-772-4625 Community Sabbath eve dinner each Friday class 9 a.m.; Shacharit 10 a.m.; Kiddush at noon go & Hot Dog Nite. For a $20 non-re- [email protected] to join the crowd. E-mail: [email protected] at 6:30 p.m. Minyan: Monday & Thursday 7:00 a.m. Web site: www.templebethshalomcc.org Sabbath eve worship every Friday at 7:30 p.m. fundable admission you will get dinner Want to play Mah Jongg? Come Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday Light breakfast and Torah study with the rabbi CHABAD JEWISH CENTER and 10 games of Bingo with six cards and join us at Temple Beth Shalom ev- Religious School: Wednesday 4:30 - 6:00 p.m. every Saturday morning from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. OF CAPE CORAL per game. With our crowd, the evening ery Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 Torah study with Rabbi Buchen: Shabbat 10:30 a.m. ORTHODOX Organizations: Brotherhood, Sisterhood, TEMPLE JUDEA 1716 Cape Coral Pkwy. W., Cape Coral, FL 33914 is sure to be tons of fun. Tickets must p.m. Snacks are served. We always have Family Service (1st Friday of the month at 7:30 p.m.) CONSERVATIVE Rabbi Yossi Labkowski be purchased by Tuesday, February 4. a great time. For more information, call 14486 A&W Bulb Road, Fort Myers, FL 33908 Phone: 239-963-4770 Contact Peri at 239.800.3217 or Fern Audrey Sands at 239.246.1577. BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS Rabbi Marc Sack E-mail: [email protected] REFORM E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.chabadcape.com at 239.357.4703. Temple Beth Shalom is not just fun Meets at Sanibel Congregational Church President: Dan Fox Services: Friday Evening 7:30 p.m. TBS is launching a new book and games. We welcome everyone to 2050 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island Director of Congregational Learning: Saturday morning 9:30 a.m. followed by club called “Books and Coffee.” You our Kabbalat Shabbat services, Torah Rabbi Stephen L. Fuchs Tab Scribner Kiddush luncheon President: Barry Fulmer Preschool Director: Joann Goldman Sunday morning 8:00 a.m. guessed it. We all read a book then studies and Brown Bag lunches. Come Phone: 732-780-2016 [email protected] Monday-Friday morning 7:00 a.m. meet for coffee and discussion. For our check us out. We guarantee a warm Email: [email protected] Phone: 239-433-0201 • Fax: 239-433-3371 JLI Courses: Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. E-mail: [email protected] first book we chose The Only Woman reception and an inspiring service or Cantor: Murray Simon Weekly Torah Study: Tuesday evening 7:30 p.m. Web site: www.batyam.org Web site: www.tjswfl.org Hebrew School: Sunday 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in the Room by Marie Benedict. It is a discussion. For days and times or more Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday (Oct-Apr) Services: 6:15 p.m. Friday and 9:30 a.m. Saturday Minyan: 9:00 a.m. Monday Jgirls: Tuesday 6:00-7:00 p.m. novel based on the extraordinary life of information, please call the temple of- 7:00 p.m. Friday (May-Sept) Adult Education: Religious School: Sun. 9:30 a.m.-noon; Jewish film star/scientist Hedy Lamar. fice at 239.772.4555. Saturday, 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. (Nov-Apr) Wed. 4:30-6 p.m. COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS We will meet to discuss it on Monday, Jewish Current Events: Saturday, 11:30 a.m. Early childhood education:  Shalom Life Center to 12:15 p.m. (Nov-Apr) Preschool, M-F, ages 18 months-5 years; Lawrence Dermer, Spiritual Leader - 218-3433 Write: P.O. Box 84, Sanibel, FL 33957 “Mommy & Me,” 12 months-2 years • AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee): Jacki Waksman - 954-653-9053 Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism Affiliated: United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism • AJC (American Jewish Committee): Brian Lipton - 941-365-4955 L’CHAYIM delivers! TEMPLE SHALOM CHARLOTTE • Anti-Defamation League: 561-988-2900 HARBOR AND THE GULF ISLANDS SHALOM LIFE CENTER • B’Nai B’rith International: 941-302-4500 REFORM TRANS DENOMINATIONAL • Chevra Kadisha: 23190 Utica Ave., P.O. Box 494675 19691 Cypress View Drive, Fort Myers, FL 33967 Gene Sipe - 239-841-4615 Introduce your business to a Rabbi Lawrence Dermer • Generations of the Shoah SWFL: 963-9347 Port Charlotte, FL 33949-4675 • Hadassah - Collier/Lee Chapter: Rabbi Solomon Agin Phone: 239-218-3433 E-mail: [email protected] Diane Schwartz - 732-539-4011 POWERFUL demographic and President: Judith Migdol • Hadassah - Sharon Chapter (Charlotte County): Phone: 941-625-2116 Web site: www.shalomlifecenter.org Odette Port - 941-505-1409 E-mail: [email protected] Shabbat Evening Services 7:30 p.m. (Oct-Apr) • Hazak 55+ Chapter: reach 4,000 readers each month Web site: templeshalomfl.com 7:00 p.m. (May-Sept) Joyce Rosinger - 239-437-1566 Services: 7:30 p.m. Friday Saturday Torah & Kabbalah Study 10:00 a.m. • Israel Bonds: Regional Headquarters: 800-622-8017 Religious school: Sunday 10 a.m. • Jewish Community Services: 239-481-4449 for pennies per reader! Beginning Hebrew: Tuesday 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. CHABAD OF BONITA SPRINGS/ • Jewish National Fund: Advanced Hebrew: Thursday 4:15 - 5:15 p.m. Joshua Mellits, Director, Western Florida Organizations: Sisterhood ESTERO 941-462-1330 ext. 865 Affiliated: Union for Reform Judaism ORTHODOX Memorial Tree Planting in Israel - 1-800-542-8733 24850 Old 41 Road, Suite 20 (in the Bernwood • Jewish War Veterans: For ad rates and deadlines, Centre) Bonita Springs, FL 34135-7024 Post 400: Commander Harvey Charter - 239-246-3151 Rabbi Mendy Greenberg • Mikvah Bashka of Southwest Florida: Phone: 239-949-6900 Nechamie Minkowicz - 239-822-2784 contact Lori at 239.481.4449 x5 Web site: www.JewishBonita.com Services: Saturday at 10 a.m., followed by a Kiddush or [email protected].

L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 38 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties TEMPLE NEWS

month. The Jewish Fran- is a gala commemoration of TBE’s 65th go to Temple Beth El. TEMPLE BETH EL cophone group meets the anniversary. The past, present and fu- Why would two Floridians willing- BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS Fort Myers second Wednesday of ture of TBE will be celebrated with a ly exchange sunshine and warmth for a Sanibel (239) 433-0018 each month. Both groups catered dinner, dancing, silent auction, few days of bitter cold? URJ Biennial, (732) 780-2016 meet at noon. and live entertainment featuring Frank of course. The Union for Reform Juda- www.templebethel.com Book club upcoming Torino, a local singer and DJ. ism, of which TBE is a member, helps www.batyam.org titles and dates are: The On Friday, March 6, the same night build communities and reimagine Jew- Gerry Ziedenberg’s highly regarded Kabbalah Master by Perle Besserman, as Tot Shabbat (6:00 p.m.), the second ish life, helping congregations stayJust as the Hebrew lunar calendar re- Jewish world history seminars contin- February 5; Wherever There Is Light by installment of the 2020 Leslie Luzar adept and agile in today’s world. URJ quires adjustments to keep it in sync ue on Mondays at 7:30 p.m. You won’t Peter Golden, March 4. The TBE Book Memorial Cantorial Series presents hosts the largest gathering of Jews in with the sun, the year 2020 is a leap want to miss the last session, March Club meets the first Wednesday of each guest cantor Marshall Portnoy. At Erev North America every two years. 2019’s year and has an extra day, February 29, 9, as our favorite historian and author month at 2:45 p.m. Join us for friendly Shabbat services (7:30 p.m.), Cantor Biennial was in December in Chicago,to compensate. No matter, February presents “Six Days in June.” The semi- discussions, even if you haven’t read Portnoy joins Rabbi Luna on the where it was a bone-chilling 17 de-remains the shortest month but with nars are free and open to the public, the book. bimah. This series of visiting cantors is grees and snowing the first morning ofplenty to do at Bat Yam and in South- and no reservations are needed. If the 24/7 news cycle has your generously underwritten by the family the convention. Undeterred, Russ Bo-west Florida. Sylvia Simko speaks about “The head spinning, TBE’s Current Events of our dear member Leslie Luzar, z”l. gen took the sightseeing trip to Wrig- The next Grief Support meeting is Jews of Argentina” on Wednesday, Group meets every Thursday at 10:00 Sisterhood’s sold-out mah jongg ley Field. Laurie Morris stayed warmWednesday, February 5 at 7:00 p.m., February 19 at 11:00 a.m. Unlike the a.m. to help you sort things out. tournament put the fun in fundrais- inside McCormick Place’s West Build-to be held in the library (second floor) Jewish Hispanophone Group’s ongo- The Jewish 12-Step Recovery ing. Monies raised at this event are ing, all 470,000 square feet of it. of the Sanibel Congregational UCC. It ing monthly gatherings, this talk will Group meets each Saturday at 11:00 earmarked to support TBE committees Thousands of Jews from acrossis a safe space to discuss feelings from be in English. All are welcome, and it’s a.m. Email [email protected] and activities, of which Sisterhood’s fi- North America and around the worldloss and is open to the community. free. The Jewish Hispanophone Group for more information. nancial support is vital. Todah rabah to gathered to learn, pray, share ideas,Questions may be addressed to Dr. meets the third Wednesday of the This month’s Sapphire Celebration all who participated. dance, sing, hear inspiring speakers,Ellen Feingold at 302.345.7187. New members, fear not the Ides of reunite with old friends and create new On Saturday mornings, Rabbi Ste- March. Save the date, Sunday, March connections. (What were the chancesphen Fuchs teaches Hebrew reading Center for Judaic, Holocaust, 15, for the new member luncheon. De- of running into two schoolmates offrom 9:00 to 9:30 a.m. From 9:30 to tails to follow. Rabbi Luna’s? It happened.) Attend-10:30 a.m., Rabbi Fuchs offers com- and Genocide Studies What would Purim be without ing Shabbat services along with 5,000mentary on the Bible. At 10:30 a.m., a Dedicated to educating all sectors of society about our gift bag fundraiser? It’s coming in other Jews is an experience that’s hardcongregant or guest presents on a topic March. Carolyn Gora and her team, in- to describe, with friendly people, fabu-of interest. On February 1, Kay Sa- Jewish civilization, the Holocaust, and genocide through: cluding Sylvia Simko and Isaac Osin’s lous music and palpable joy. Save the dighi will talk about DNA and ancient • scholarship Hamentashen Helpers, will create date: the next URJ Biennial is Decem-migrations. No classes on February 15. • outreach goodies and goodie bags. All proceeds ber 8-11, 2021, in Washington, D.C. Don Breiter and Debbie Gurman will • inquiry continue their family histories on Feb- ruary 22. On February 29, Irene Skol- • sharing knowledge Our new Sabbathnick will present on some of the beau- • preserving the record COMMUNITY FREE SYNAGOGUE Minhah/Ma’ariv prayertiful synagogues in the world. Jewish • helping teachers Fort Myers booklet has been addedcurrent events begins at 11:30 a.m. led • encouraging students (239) 466-6671 to our website and is free by Leonard Minsky. Vickie Fuchs is for downloading alongcoordinator of programming for Adult www.fortmyerssynagogue.com with the C.F.S. Mahzor,Education. Sabbath and Festival The collection of paper and per- Mazel Tov to Whitney and Lee Rabi- Siddur, booklet for the Shiva home, the sonal care products for F.I.S.H., the so- due, who presented their daughter San- C.F.S. Haggadah, Sabbath Eve tablecial service agency on Sanibel, contin- ibel Gabrielle to our congregation dur- pamphlet, and two lovely Ketubot. Weues thanks to Garry Weiss, chair of the ing Sabbath Eve worship on January 3, have created all this public domain ma-Social Action Committee. Please bring Visit www.fgcu.edu/hc/ when her Jewish name was announced terial as a free valuable Jewish liturgi-your contribution the first weekend of to be Levanah Yohannah. She received cal resource for individuals, familieseach month. Dr. Paul Bartrop, Director a blessing from all those in attendance. and congregations. Bat Yam’s Rabbi James Rudin will Jonah Rioux will be called to the Each Friday at 6:30 p.m., Thebe lecturing at Big Arts on Sanibel Torah for the first time as a Bar Mitz- Community Free Synagogue serveson February 4 about 1968, a defining vah during the Sabbath morning ser- a traditional Sabbath dinner. It is freeyear in American history; on February vice starting at 10:00 a.m. on February and reservations are never required.5, 12 and 19 about three women who 15. A Qiddush luncheon follows wor- At 7:30 p.m., the Sabbath is welcomed changed the U.S.; and March 4, 11 and ship. with prayer and song. A coffee hour18 about the American, French and We welcome Aurora and Morrigan follows worship. Russian Revolutions. Brown, daughters of Shayne and Sha- Every Saturday at 9:30 a.m., The beila Brown, who began their Hebrew Community Free Synagogue offers Have an item you’d like to share? and religious education with Rabbi a light breakfast followed by a lively Bruce Diamond in December. discussion of the week’s Torah portion Need to reach the editor of The Rabbi will teach the Book of with the Rabbi until 11:30 a.m., when Proverbs class from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. the Mourner’s Qaddish is recited. L’CHAYIM? Send an email to each Thursday evening in February. Please note that there will be a Sabbath Consult the article in this edition for de- morning worship service on February [email protected]. tails. The class is free and open to all. 15 in place of Torah Study.

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JN S for coffee, bagels and the simple satisfaction that comes from meeting and making friends with other volunteers, as we help keep thousands of local readers informed about local, national and international Jewish news.

Call Debbie Sanford 481.4449 ext. 4 to add your name to the phone list. Each month we will call to confirm the mailing date and you can let us know if you are available to help label L’CHAYIM. ime 930 .M. Monday, February 24, 2020 Monday, March 23, 2020 L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 TEMPLE NEWS Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties 39

The birthday for BAT YAM TEMPLE OF THE ISLANDS fruit and nut trees, Tu Sanibel B’Shevat, falls on Feb- (732) 780-2016 ruary 10. This minor holiday has become a re- www.batyam.org minder to plant trees and care for the environment. Just as the Hebrew lunar calendar re- As occurred last year, the Jew-

quires adjustments to keep it in sync ish Federation of Lee and Charlotte with the sun, the year 2020 is a leap Counties will show one of this year’s

year and has an extra day, February 29, Jewish Film Festival of SWFL selec-

to compensate. No matter, February tions at Bat Yam. Join us on Sunday, 239.481.4449 x4 or [email protected]

remains the shortest month but with February 23 at 2:00 p.m. for a screen-

plenty to do at Bat Yam and in South- ing of My Polish Honeymoon. The film To join and for more information call Debbie Sanford west Florida. is about a young Parisian couple with The next Grief Support meeting is Jewish roots who travel to Poland. It is Wednesday, February 5 at 7:00 p.m., in French with English subtitles. Tick-

to be held in the library (second floor) ets are $10 and can be purchased in ad-

of the Sanibel Congregational UCC. It vance at jewishfederationlcc.org or at  is a safe space to discuss feelings from the door.

loss and is open to the community. Save the date of Sunday, March 1 What is a Women’s Giving Circle?

Questions may be addressed to Dr. at 4:00 p.m. because there will be an- What is a Women s Giving Circle?

Ellen Feingold at 302.345.7187. other spectacular “Three Cantors and a What is a Women’s Giving Circle?

On Saturday mornings, Rabbi Ste- Pastor” concert featuring a joyous mu-  phen Fuchs teaches Hebrew reading sical variety by our own local clergy

from 9:00 to 9:30 a.m. From 9:30 to and their world-renowned guests. Join-

10:30 a.m., Rabbi Fuchs offers coming Cantor Murray Simon and the Rev.  mentary on the Bible. At 10:30 a.m., a Dr. John Danner, Senior Pastor of the congregant or guest presents on a topic Sanibel Congregational UCC, will be of interest. On February 1, Kay Sa- Cantor Rachel Brook from New York  dighi will talk about DNA and ancient City’s Park Avenue Synagogue and  migrations. No classes on February 15. Cantor Elizabeth Shammash from Blue  Don Breiter and Debbie Gurman will Bell, Pennsylvania, back by popular  continue their family histories on Feb- demand. The event will again be held 

ruary 22. On February 29, Irene Skol- in the sanctuary of the Sanibel Congre- 

  nick will present on some of the beau- gational UCC with a meet-the-artists ’ What is a Women s Giving Circle? tiful synagogues in the world. Jewish reception to follow. There will be an W  current events begins at 11:30 a.m. led opportunity for preferred seating. For   by Leonard Minsky. Vickie Fuchs is details, check the Bat Yam website at coordinator of programming for Adult www.batyam.org.   Education. Rabbi Fuchs will be the featured The collection of paper and per- author at the Jewish Federation on sonal care products for F.I.S.H., the so- Wednesday, March 25 from 6:00 p.m. To join and for more information call Debbie Sanford cial service agency on Sanibel, contin- to 7:30 p.m. ues thanks to Garry Weiss, chair of the More wishes for a healthy and To join239.481.4449 and for more x4 or information [email protected] call Debbie Sanford Social Action Committee. Please bring peaceful 2020 to all of our Bat Yam your contribution the first weekend of family and friends whether in SWFL 239.481.4449 x4 or [email protected] each month. or elsewhere. 239.481.4449 x4 or [email protected] Bat Yam’s Rabbi James Rudin will Bat Yam services in February are

be lecturing at Big Arts on Sanibel in the sanctuary (second floor – stairs on February 4 about 1968, a defining or elevator) on the campus of the Sani- year in American history; on February bel Congregational UCC at 2050 Peri- 5, 12 and 19 about three women who winkle Way on Sanibel. Members of changed the U.S.; and March 4, 11 and the community, guests and visitors are 18 about the American, French and always welcome to join with congre- Russian Revolutions. gants. Have an item you’d like to share? Need to reach the editor of L’CHAYIM? Send an email to [email protected]. FINEMARK NATIONAL BANK & TRUST IS PROUD TO CONSISTENTLY EARN A 5-STAR RATING

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Charlotte Counties is a wonderful way to recognize a simcha NEEDED TO LABEL ’CHAYIM (happythrough occasion) a tribute orgift remember to the Jewish a loved Family one. NotServices only doesof Lee your & giftCharlotte show yourCounties family is anda wonderful friends that way you to care,recognize it goes a tosimcha work JN S for coffee, bagels and the simple satisfaction helping(happy occasion)Jews in need or remember and build inga loved vibrant one. communities Not only does locally, your that comes from meeting and making friends with ingift Israel show and your around family the and world. friends that you care, it goes to work other volunteers, as we help keep thousands of local helping Jews in need and building vibrant communities locally, in Israel and around the world. readers informed about local, national and interna-  Bar/Bat Mitzvahs  Loss of a loved one tional Jewish news.  Births  New homes  ConfirmationsBar/Bat Mitzvahs  WeddingsLoss of a loved one  Births  New homes Call Debbie Sanford 481.4449 ext. 4 to add Get well wishes and much more  JobConfirmations promotions  Weddings your name to the phone list. Each month we  Get well wishes  and much more will call to confirm the mailing date and you  Job promotions A personalized Jewish Federation of Lee & Charlotte Counties can let us know if you are available to help tribute card will be sent to the honoree or bereaved on your label L’CHAYIM. behalf,A personalized reflecting Jewish a personal Federation message of Leeif you & wish. Charlotte Counties ime 930 .M. tribute card will be sent to the honoree or bereaved on your behalf, reflecting a personal message if you wish. Monday, February 24, 2020 MAKE A TRIBUTE GIFT

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L'CHAYIM FEBRUARY 2020 40 Jewish Federation of Lee and Charlotte Counties

Aron is 88 years old, Eazek is 94 and Claudine is 89. Over seventy years ago, although they lost their entire families, they survived the holocaust and resettled in New York City. Now they are sharing their stories in a unique program led by a drama therapist with highschool students in Brooklyn. The hope is that this sharing will sensitize the students and give some closure to the adult survivors after all these years. The Witness Theater workshop they participate in culminates in the performance of a play based on Survivor stories.

As the last generation of Holocaust survivors lives out their final years, the number of individuals who are physically and mentally able to “bear witness” dwindles and the question of what happens to their stories and their experience remains.

Tuesday, March 31 at 1:00 P.M. Florida SouthWestern State College 26300 Airport Road, Punta Gorda, 33950 NO CHARGE For more information & to register for tickets please visit: www.jewishfederationlcc.org/out&about or call 239.481.4449 x4